The Miami Dolphins host the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday night, renewing a non-division rivalry that has had some good games, some absolute blowouts, and has become a lopsided affair in the recent years. In the last 12 meetings, dating back to the 2008 regular season and including the playoff game that postseason, the Ravens have […] The Miami Dolphins host the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday night, renewing a non-division rivalry that has had some good games, some absolute blowouts, and has become a lopsided affair in the recent years. In the last 12 meetings, dating back to the 2008 regular season and including the playoff game that postseason, the Ravens have won nine games. The Dolphins have started making a comeback however, with two of the Dolphins’ wins coming in the last three meetings. Baltimore and Miami seem to find a way to land on each others’ schedules about every other year – either through the standard rotation of divisions in the schedule making or through finishing in the same place within their respective divisions. The teams see each other alot, but it has been almost two years since their last showdown. Who are the Ravens now? What should Miami expect to see from Baltimore on Thursday night? I had a chance no this short week to talk with Nikhil Mehta, the managing editor of SB Nation’s Ravens team site, Baltimore Beatdown, and his team to discuss the Ravens’ in 2025. The Ravens are 2-5 on the season and have not looked like the Ravens everyone expected them to be this year. While losing Lamar Jackson for the past three games is part of the issue, even when he was playing earlier this season, something has seemed off in Baltimore. Are there bigger issues with the team than just not having Jackson on the field? BALTIMORE, MD – JANUARY 11: Nnamdi Madubuike #92 of the Baltimore Ravens runs out of the tunnel prior to an NFL football wild card playoff game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at M&T Bank Stadium on January 11, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images)Getty Images The biggest issue with the Ravens this season might be the loss of Nnamdi Madubuike. Not only is he one of Baltimore’s best players, he’s also one of their most expensive. The pass rush was a glaring weakness heading into the season and the Ravens lost their most consistent rusher two games into the season. With the bye week to recover, the Ravens have potentially found their footing again and are ready to try and make a magical run for the division title. With Jackson returning, a mostly healthy roster, and a more manageable schedule down the stretch, things in Baltimore should start looking like they did in the past two seasons. (Zach Canter, Mark Myers) Something I never thought I would see is a Baltimore defense that is struggling to stop anyone. Dolphins fans are frustrated with Miami’s defense, which is allowing 344.4 yards and 26.9 points per game , but they are still ahead of the 379.6 yards and 30.0 points per game the Ravens are giving up. What is happening with the defense and how can Miami attack it? BALTIMORE, MD – SEPTEMBER 22: Kyle Hamilton #14 of the Baltimore Ravens lines up before the snap during an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions at M&T Bank Stadium on September 22, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images)Getty Images The Ravens’ defense has looked much improved over the last two games. However, they remain vulnerable against the run with a lack of star power and depth on the defensive line. Their inability to generate pressure on the quarterback has also been a constant issue and they’re razor thin at edge rusher. Additionally, communication issues over the middle of the field and in the secondary have been persistent at times, too. Injuries across the front seven and in the secondary have made it tougher, but the past two weeks, when the Ravens have allowed 16.5 points per game against the Rams and Bears, show signs of improvement. Make no mistake, this defense can still be attacked. Jaylen Waddle can attack the intermediate zones, making a living off of catches 10-20 yards down the field, while De’Von Achane can be a dangerous presence catching passes out of the backfield. Kyle Hamilton has started playing closer to the line of scrimmage in the last two games, so if Achane can avoid him and catch the ball in space, the Dolphins offense can have a big day. (Frank Platko, Mark Myers) BALTIMORE, MARYLAND – AUGUST 07: Quarterback Lamar Jackson #8 and head coach John Harbaugh of the Baltimore Ravens look on before playing against the Indianapolis Colts during an NFL Preseason 2025 game between Indianapolis Colts and Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on August 7, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)Getty Images It’s amazing what a win can do to wipe away off-field drama. Once the Ravens defeated the Bears on Sunday, many seemed to forget about last week’s debacle. That will remain the case unless the team loses a draft pick as a result of their mistake. Fans won’t care about a fine, but they will rightfully be angry if this has a tangible impact on the team’s future. It will also further hurt Harbaugh’s reputation with a frustrated fan base. They feel like every word that comes from his mouth either lacks conviction or is misleading. That has long been the case, but as mentioned above, winning lets a lot of things slide. (Mark Myers, Nikhil Mehta) Is John Harbaugh’s job in jeopardy if Baltimore does not turn this season around? BALTIMORE, MARYLAND – OCTOBER 26: Head coach John Harbaugh of the Baltimore Ravens reacts in the second quarter of the game against the Chicago Bears at M&T Bank Stadium on October 26, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images)Getty Images It feels unlikely that John Harbaugh’s
Ravens vs. Dolphins Week 9 preview: Getting an inside look at Baltimore
Ravens vs Dolphins Week 9 2025: Thursday Night Football stream, odds, start time, more
The Miami Dolphins host the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday Night Football to kick off Week 9 of the 2025 NFL season. Both teams are coming off just their second victories of the season, with Miami improving to 2-6 while Baltimore, which has already had its bye week, is now 2-5 on the year. One team […] The Miami Dolphins host the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday Night Football to kick off Week 9 of the 2025 NFL season. Both teams are coming off just their second victories of the season, with Miami improving to 2-6 while Baltimore, which has already had its bye week, is now 2-5 on the year. One team will walk out of Thursday night with back-to-back wins and feeling like they have turned the corner this year, while the other will head back into the misery of a lost season. For the Ravens, the game will also feature the return of quarterback Lamar Jackson, who missed the last three games with a hamstring injury. The two-time NFL MVP returning to Baltimore’s offense could be the spark the team needs to move back into playoff contention, even attempting to chase down the Pittsburgh Steelers atop the AFC North standings. The Dolphins are hoping whatever ailed them through the first seven weeks of the year, but appeared to be remedied last week against the Atlanta Falcons, is permanently fixed. The team played with conviction and efficiency throughout the game, with the play calling and on-field execution finally coming together for a convincing win. Both teams are hopeful, despite miserable starts to the season. They both will be looking to make a statement in front of the nation on Thursday. We have everything you need to know for the Ravens at Dolphins game right here: Baltimore Ravens (2-5) at (2-6) Miami DolphinsWeek 9 What time is kickoff? 8:15 p.m. Eastern, Thursday, October 30 Where is the game? Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida How can I stream the game? Amazon Prime Video NFL+ (replay available after game ends) Who is the broadcast team? Al Michaels, Kirk Herbstreit, Kaylee Hartung Is the game available on local TV? In Miami, CBS will air the game. In Baltimore, WMAR Channel 2 will air the game. How can I listen to the game on radio? National Radio Coverage: Westwood One National Radio Broadcast Team: Jason Horowitz, Derek Rackley Local Radio Coverage: iHeart Radio Network – WINZ 940-AM/WBGG 105.9 FM Miami/Ft. Lauderdale; iHeart Radio WTZU 94.9 FM Mami/Ft. Lauderdale (Spanish broadcast); WFSX 92.5 FM/105.9 FM Ft. Myers; WUUB 106.3 FM West Palm Beach; WEFL 760 AM West Palm Beach (Spanish broadcast); WAVK 97.7 FM Key West; WCZR 101.7 FM/WAVW 92.7 FM Port St. Lucie Dolphins Radio Broadcast Team: Jimmy Cefalo, Joe Rose; Spanish broadcast: Roly Martin, Eduardo Martell SiriusXM Channels: 88 (National) | 226 (Ravens) | 225 (Dolphins) What are the FanDuel sportsbook betting odds for the game? Spread: Ravens -7.5Point total: 50.5Moneyline: Ravens -430 | Dolphins +340 Who are the referees? Scott Novak (Referee) Terry Killens, Jr. (Umpire) Brian Sakowski (Down Judge) Mark Stewart (Line Judge) Terry Brown (Field Judge) Don Willard (Side Judge) Tony Josselyn (Back Judge) Matt Sumstine (Replay Official) Brian Davies (Replay Assistant) What is each team’s injury report? Ravens injury report Player Injury Status Teddye Buchanan, LB Calf — Lamar Jackson, QB Hamstring — Ronnie Stanley, T Ankle — T.J. Tampa, Jr., CB Shoulder — Nate Wiggins, CB Groin — Dolphins injury report Player Injury Status Julian Hill, TE Ankle Out Ashtyn Davis, S Quadriceps Doubtful Bradley Chubb, LB Shoulder / Foot Questionable Dee Eskridge, WR Shoulder Questionable Jason Marshall, Jr., CB Hamstring Questionable Ifeatu Melifonwu, S Thumb Questionable Elijah Campbell, DB Quadriceps — Minkah Fitzpatrick, S Thumb — Alec Ingold, FB Neck — Tua Tagovailoa, QB Left thumb / Illness — Dante Trader, Jr., S Shoulder — Malik Washington, WR Knee — Ravens To be announced Dolphins To be announced Miami elevation tracker 2025: Riley Patterson, kicker – 3 elevations (Week 1-3) Quinton Bell, linebacker – 2 elevations (Week 6-7) Kendall Sheffield, cornerback – 2 elevations (Week 7-8) Jeff Wilson, Jr., running back – 2 elevations (Week 1-2) Jordan Colbert, safety – 1 elevation (Week 3) Isaiah Johnson, cornerback – 1 elevation (Week 6) Hayen Rucci, tight end – 1 elevation (Week 8) Up to two players per week may be elevated from the practice squad to be eligible for the team’s game-day active roster. An individual player may be elevated up to three times in the season. Any further desire by the team to have the player available on game day will require the team to sign the player to the 53-man roster. Note: The Dolphins signed Patterson to the active roster ahead of Week 4. What is the weather forecast at game time? 73°F, Clear What jerseys are the teams wearing? What is the history between the teams? Head-to-Head (Regular Season): Ravens 8-9 Most Recent Game Results: 2023 Week 17 (Dec. 31, 2023) – Ravens 56-19 at Baltimore Most Recent Game Results at site: 2021 Week 10 (Nov. 11, 2021) – Dolphins 22-10 at Miami How can I get more Ravens news? SB Nation Team Site: Baltimore BeatdownX: @BMoreBeatdown AFC East Standings New England Patriots (6-2) Buffalo Bills (5-2) Miami Dolphins (2-6) New York Jets (1-7) What is the Dolphins’ 2025 schedule? Week Opponent Date/Time (All times ET) Broadcast Results Record 1 @ Indianapolis Colts 9/7, 1 p.m. CBS L, 8-33 0-1 2 New England Patriots 9/14, 1 p.m. CBS L, 27-33 0-2 3 @ Buffalo Bills 9/18, 8:15 p.m. Prime Video L, 21-31 0-3 4 New York Jets 9/29, 7:15 p.m. ESPN W, 27-21 1-3 5 @ Carolina Panthers 10/5, 1 p.m. FOX L, 24-27 1-4 6 Los Angeles Chargers 10/12, 1 p.m. CBS L, 27-29 1-5 7 @ Cleveland Browns 10/19, 1 p.m. CBS L, 6-31 1-6 8 @ Atlanta Falcons 10/26, 1 p.m. CBS W, 34-10 2-6 9 Baltimore Ravens 10/30, 8:15 p.m. Prime Video — — 10 Buffalo Bills 11/9, 1 p.m.
Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings preview: Before the Roar podcast
With the bye week now in the rearview mirror, the Detroit Lions are back in action in Week 9, hosting the Minnesota Vikings for the first of their two games this season. To break things down ahead of Sunday, Meko and Morgan (me) are back with another episode of “Before the Roar,” where we discuss […] With the bye week now in the rearview mirror, the Detroit Lions are back in action in Week 9, hosting the Minnesota Vikings for the first of their two games this season. To break things down ahead of Sunday, Meko and Morgan (me) are back with another episode of “Before the Roar,” where we discuss each aspect of the upcoming game against Minnesota. To kick things off, we recap how the Vikings got to their 3-4 record, including the tough Week 8 loss at the hands of the Los Angeles Chargers. Chances are you have already heard about some of the fallout from that game, including the news that Vikings quarterback Carson Wentz is out with a shoulder injury, with second-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy expected to start under center against the Lions. After diving into the injury reports from either team, we get into how the Lions’ offense could potentially get rolling against a Vikings’ defense that has been pushed around at times in 2025. And despite some of their issues, the Vikings are still really aggressive under defensive coordinator Brian Flores. Will he continue that approach against an explosive Detroit offense? On the other side of the ball, we breakdown McCarthy’s performances from earlier in the season before the ankle injury, and how we believe Lions defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard will attack an inexperienced quarterback playing in what should be a pretty hostile environment inside of Ford Field. You can listen to the full episode right here. Please be sure to like and if you haven’t already, subscribe to the Pride of Detroit YouTube page. As always, thank you for your continued support. See More:
Lions Week 9 preview: Breaking down Vikings’ offensive, defensive schemes
The Detroit Lions (5-2) and Minnesota Vikings (3-4) will square off in a Week 9 NFC North battle. These rivals are very familiar with one another, and while the Lions are working with two new coordinators, the Vikings have had the same key staff members in place for the past three seasons. Here’s what Lions […] The Detroit Lions (5-2) and Minnesota Vikings (3-4) will square off in a Week 9 NFC North battle. These rivals are very familiar with one another, and while the Lions are working with two new coordinators, the Vikings have had the same key staff members in place for the past three seasons. Here’s what Lions coach Dan Campbell had to say about the Vikings: “The Vikings, good divisional opponent. Got a lot of respect for what KOC [Vikings Head Coach Kevin O’Connell] has done out there and that staff and that team. They’ve had a lot of success, have always found a way to win and be competitive in this league, in this division, certainly. Good players […] This’ll be a big test for us at our place, but once again, we’re looking forward to this.” Let’s take a closer look at the Vikings’ coaching staff, the scheme that they run, and some scouting notes from previously viewed games. NFL seasons as a quarterback: 4 seasons, including spending five days in 2009 with the Detroit LionsNFL coaching seasons: 11 seasons, including 3 as OC (Washington 2019, Rams 2020-21)Head coaching seasons: 4 seasons, Vikings 2022-presentInfluences: Sean McVay, Jay Gruden, Bill Callahan, Matt Cavanaugh, John DeFlippoPlaycaller: Yes (Offense) Offensive coordinator: Wes Phillips NFL coaching seasons: 19 seasonsOffensive coordinator seasons: 4 seasons, Vikings 2022-presentInfluences: Kevin O’Connell, Sean McVay, Jay Gruden, Bill Callahan, Matt Cavanaugh, Jason GarrettNFL Bloodlines: Dad is Wade PhillipsKey Staff: Josh McCown, QB coach; Curtis Modkins, RB coach Offensive scheme Passing game: McVay/KOC West CoastRunning scheme: Shanahan zoneStaples of scheme: Personnel: 11 (72%, 6th), 12 (22.8%, 16th), 13 (2%, 23rd), 21 (3.3%, 13th) Pre-snap movement Play-action (33% when J.J. McCarthy is starting, 8th most in NFL) End-arounds and screens to get the ball out quickly and into their playmaker’s hands Condensed formations (declining in 2025, 34.5%, lowest rate under KOC) Outside-zone run concepts Strives for balance between pass and run games Will give up on the run game when it’s not working (A contrast from 2024, but comparable to 2023) This season, they have attempted 219 passes and run the ball 153 times (Fewest attempts in the NFL) O’Connell adapts to personnel as well as any coach in the NFL (See McCarthy notes below) Scouting notes With J.J. McCarthy likely returning to the starting role, we’ll likely see adjustments to the offense Look for them to lean on the running game, keep tight ends in to block, and set up quick/easy check-downs McCarthy is also capable of running, and while KOC will want to use that to help him settle in, leaning on it too much risks the QB re-injuring his ankle Their rushing attack is struggling—a team total of 11 attempts for 34 rushing yards in Week 8 On the season, Vikings EPA per rushing attempt is -0.17 (31st in NFL) Lack of success is even more surprising considering they face the fewest stacked boxes in the NFL (11.8%) While both offensive tackles could return this week, their interior offensive line is getting pushed around Sacks allowed (28, 29th) and sack rate allowed (11.3%, 31st) are among the worst in the NFL T.J. Hockenson isn’t much help in the blocking game; TE2 Josh Oliver has already been ruled OUT Third down offense is inconsistent (33.33%, 27th in NFL) Dan Campbell on the Vikings’ offense: “[WR Justin] Jefferson, starts with him. He’s outstanding. Quarterback [McCarthy] is talented. Young guy, but he is mobile. He’s got a big arm, and he is accurate. We’ve got a big test there with those guys. Obviously [WR Jordan] Addison, [TE T.J. Hockenson] Hock, I mean, they’ve got weapons.” Dan Campbell on the Vikings’ QB J.J. McCarthy: “I know what the talent is, I’ve seen it. So, they’re going to do what they need to do to help him out and try to reduce the stress. Take as much off his plate, but yet, allow him to do things he does well. [Jefferson] 18 is a catalyst, 18’s a catalyst. [RB Aaron] Jones is a hell of a back. They’re going to find ways. They want to try to establish the run, screen game, get it to 18, get this kid on the move. They’re going to do a hell of a job. They’ll have a good plan ready, and so will we.” Defensive coordinator: Brian Flores NFL coaching seasons: 18 seasonsDefensive coordinator seasons: 3 seasons, Vikings 2023-presentHead Coach seasons: 3 seasons, Dolphins 2019-21Influences: Bill Belichick, Pat Narduzzi, Dean Pees, Mike Tomlin, Pepper Johnson, Matt Patricia, Teryl AustinKey Staff: Mike Pettine, Assistant head coach (previously outside linebackers coach) Defensive scheme Base: 34 hybridCoverage: Zone heavy (75% of defensive snaps)Staples of scheme: The most creative and complex defense in the NFL Live in extremes: Utilizing both Max pressure (loaded box) and Max coverage (drop 8 into coverage) Aggressive in nature Pressure-diverse scheme (38.4% pressure rate, sixth in NFL) Blitz at a very high rate (41.6%, second most in the NFL in 2025) Blitzes are creative and come from anywhere Bait and trap: Anticipate and cover hot routes off blitzes Stack the box (35.7% of the time, third most in NFL) Overload the line of scrimmage to gain a numbers advantage — leads to one-on-ones Heavy lean of Zone (75%) vs. Man coverage (21%) Multiple variations of zone: Cover-2 (30%, most in NFL), Cover-3 (20%), Cover-4 (10%), Cover-6 (15%) Disguise pre-snap coverages Zone coverage leads to fewer YAC allowed (675 yards over seven games, fifth-fewest yards allowed) Scouting notes Offseason free agents have disappointed: DL Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave, as well as CB Jeff Okudah and Isaiah Rodgers (save his one perfect game) Youth hasn’t developed: Dallas Turner has failed
Discussion: Which Detroit Lions player should get the next contract extension?
With Wednesday’s contract extension for Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, the team has locked up yet another foundational piece of the organization. The following stars are now signed through the 2028 season: Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Penei Sewell, Jameson Williams, Aidan Hutchinson, Alim McNeill, and Kerby Joseph. But the Lions’ core of strong […] With Wednesday’s contract extension for Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, the team has locked up yet another foundational piece of the organization. The following stars are now signed through the 2028 season: Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Penei Sewell, Jameson Williams, Aidan Hutchinson, Alim McNeill, and Kerby Joseph. But the Lions’ core of strong players runs much deeper than that. Detroit’s incredible 2023 draft class is eligible for extensions next offseason, and there are a few other players acquired via free agency (ie: D.J. Reader, Marcus Davenport, Amik Robertson, Alex Anzalone) who are on contracts that expire at the end of the season. So today’s Question of the Day is: Which Lions player should get the next contract extension? My answer: Unfortunately for those up for free agency next year, I think it’s very possible that none of the four listed are back in 2026. The downside of having so many young, talented pieces is that you have to pay them all near the top of the market deals. To offset that, your free agency pieces often have to come from the bargain bin, and players like Robertson and Anzalone have likely priced themselves out. So the conversation must turn to the 2023 NFL Draft class. Detroit’s top four picks that year should all get serious consideration for an extension, and there’s a good chance the Lions give them all a new deal before their contracts expire in 2027. But what is the order of prioritization between Jahmyr Gibbs, Jack Campbell, Sam LaPorta, and Brian Branch? It’s a hard question to answer. Gibbs is the centerpiece of Detroit’s foundational run game. Campbell is the heart and voice of the defense. Branch may be the most talented player of the four, and his versatility makes him a moving chess piece. LaPorta is the rare combination of lethal weapon in the passing game and above-average blocking skills as an in-line tight end. Ultimately, I think Campbell may be the most important piece for them to lock up, followed by Gibbs and Branch. LaPorta is an important piece, don’t get me wrong, but with so many mouths to feed on offense, I think he is the lowest priority of the four. Who do you think should get the next, big Lions extension? Share your thoughts in the comment section at the bottom of the page.
Eagles News: Quinyon Mitchell has been one of the NFL’s very best cornerbacks this season
Let’s get to the Philadelphia Eagles news and links … Ranking the top 10 shutdown cornerbacks of the 2025 NFL season so far – NFL.com3) QUINYON MITCHELL. From the moment Mitchell stepped onto an NFL field, the Eagles have trusted him against top receivers. Mitchell has matched up with the opposition’s No. 1 wideout on […] Let’s get to the Philadelphia Eagles news and links … Ranking the top 10 shutdown cornerbacks of the 2025 NFL season so far – NFL.com 3) QUINYON MITCHELL. From the moment Mitchell stepped onto an NFL field, the Eagles have trusted him against top receivers. Mitchell has matched up with the opposition’s No. 1 wideout on 234 snaps (second-most in NFL) since the start of 2024, including a league-high 103 this season. He held CeeDee Lamb to one reception for 13 yards on nine routes, and Justin Jefferson to one catch for 10 yards on 20 routes. Mitchell has allowed 24 completions on 49 targets this season and is one of just nine cornerbacks with 20+ targets to allow a completion percentage below 50%. He has been a weapon in man coverage for Philadelphia, allowing just 3.7 yards per target and forcing an NFL-high 14 tight windows. He is not afraid to cover receivers downfield, as he did on his first two career interceptions during last year’s postseason, and has fared well in press coverage in 2025, ceding just six completions for 54 yards on 16 targets. [BLG Note: Mitchell only ranks behind Patrick Surtain II and Trent McDuffie.] Eagles numbers to know during the Bye Week – PE.com Quinyon Mitchell continues to lock down receivers. Of the 126 players who have been targeted at least 25 times, Quinyon Mitchell ranks No. 6 in completion percentage allowed (45.3%), according to Pro Football Focus. Mitchell was targeted only once against the Giants, and he is one of two players with five passes defended in a game this season, which helped him earn NFC Defensive Player of the Week honors. Mitchell has been a lockdown corner for Philadelphia, traveling with the team’s top wide receiver on occasion. He brings a steady presence to the secondary with the position opposite of him rotating. Eagles-Jets trade: Philadelphia acquires Michael Carter II – BGN One would think the Eagles could experiment with starting MC2 in the slot to free up Cooper DeJean to play on the outside. CB2 has been a weakness for the Eagles all season long with neither Adoree’ Jackson, nor Jakorian Bennett, nor Kelee Ringo stepping up to really lock down that starting job. It’s possible that the Eagles could give MC2 a look on the outside. Or maybe he just ends up being a good depth player to have behind DeJean, which wouldn’t be crazy considering the low cost it took to acquire Carter. Howie Finds a Nickel – Iggles Blitz There might not be a definitive plan for Carter. Fangio can have him as the backup initially and get a better feel for Carter and how to use him as he practices with the team. No matter how you slice it, this was a good move. Metchie wasn’t needed at WR. The Eagles have Darius Cooper and Xavier Gipson outside of the big three. They are fine at WR. DB was an area of need. You would love to trade for a good outside corner, but I’m not sure how many of those guys are available right now. Carter didn’t cost a key player or pick and makes the Eagles deeper and more versatile. His presence gives Fangio the option to keep DeJean in the slot or move him outside. The Eagles could try Carter outside, but he’s barely played there in his NFL career. Carter is meant for the slot. Eagles midterm grades by position at the bye week in 2025 – NBCSP It’s no surprise that in the Eagles’ two losses of the season, Jalen Hurts didn’t play very well. But when you take a step back and look at his season so far, he has played very clean and efficient football. He’s completing over 70% of his passes with a 15-1 TD-to-INT ratio. The highest passer rating Hurts has ever had in a season came in 2024 when he put up a 103.7, so he’s well above that through eight games. And he followed his worst games of the season with two stellar performances against the Vikings and Giants. If Hurts keeps this up, he is going to put himself in the MVP race. Jalen Hurts MVP candidate, where to play Cooper DeJean, post-bye success: Eight Eagles Thoughts – The Athletic One other part of this trade worth mentioning is the implicit endorsement of Darius Cooper, an undrafted rookie who excelled this summer and earned a spot on the 53-man roster. Cooper played more snaps than Metchie during the first three weeks of the season before a stint on injured reserve, so it’s not news that he’s ahead of the more pedigreed Metchie. It stood out to me that the Eagles started Cooper’s practice window last Thursday when it appeared A.J. Brown’s playing status was in question. That move was made to have Cooper ready to play, which he did. Cooper does not yet have a catch in the regular season, but he’s now the Eagles’ clear No. 4 wide receiver. And if Brown, DeVonta Smith, or Jahan Dotson misses time, Cooper would be a starter. Not bad for an undrafted rookie from Tarleton State. The Ringer’s 2025 NFL Midseason All-Rookie Team – The Ringer Inside Linebacker. Jihaad Campbell, Philadelphia Eagles; Carson Schwesinger, Cleveland Browns. In the modern NFL, you’re more likely to notice linebackers because of the mistakes they make rather than the opportunities they create. This is especially true for younger players. The 2025 class has broken that mold, led by Campbell and Schwesinger. These were the first two off-ball linebackers taken in the draft, and both have had surprising starts to their NFL careers relative to their
PFF Advanced Coverage Grade: Ranking the best defenders in the NFL ahead of Week 9
Advanced coverage grade uses machine learning to map the separation allowed on a play to the expected PFF coverage grade the player would have earned had they been targeted. This system also takes into account the difficulty of the assignment and the situation when making that assessment. Premium Content Sign Up PFF Advanced Coverage Grade: Ranking the best defenders in the NFL ahead of Week 9 By PFF.com Posted Oct 30, 2025 8:45 am EDT Unlock your edge with PFF+: Access Premium Stats, dominate fantasy with in-season tools and projections and make smarter bets with the new PFF Player Prop Tool. It’s never too early to start preparing for next season, and for PFF, that means looking at ways to improve PFF Premium Stats. Last season, we presented a metric called “Advanced Coverage Grade,” which adds even more context to PFF’s traditional coverage grade. What is Advanced Coverage Grade? Advanced coverage grade uses machine learning to map the separation allowed on a play to the expected PFF coverage grade the player would have earned had they been targeted. This system also takes into account the difficulty of the assignment and the situation when making that assessment. The variables considered for assignment and situation include play position, player assignment within coverage, overall coverage scheme, safety rotation, press coverage, route depth and play action. Going old school, this is a +/- grading system, though 0 doesn’t necessarily represent expected or average results.
Giants NFL trade rumors: Is 49ers WR Jauan Jennings a target?
Rumors regarding the 2025 NFL trade deadline are all the rage. It certainly helps that we’ve already seen a remarkably active trade market in the month leading up to the trade deadline on Tuesday, November 4th. There has been quite a bit of conversation around the New York Giants and a potential trade for a wide receiver. The Giants’ receiving corps was acceptable to start the year, with Malik Nabers as the WR1 and Wan’Dale Robinson and Darius Slayton rounding out their 11-personnel package. But it was thin, with an unproven Jalen Hyatt and then a collection of special teams players rounding out the depth chart. Ben Solak of ESPN has added San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Jauan Jennings to the pile of potential targets for the Giants. Solak says: 49ers wide receiver Jauan Jennings. The Giants’ receiver room is built for speed and quickness, so adding a bruising force in Jennings makes sense in the short and long term. Dart likes throwing 50-50 balls but targeting Lil’Jordan Humphrey on such routes has taken the team only so far. Jennings would get volume and make a strong case for the big extension he’s seeking this offseason. — Solak Raptor’s thoughts Okay, first off… I’ll push back on the analysis that Dart “loves to throw up 50/50 balls”. Dart has been above league average in turnover worthy plays, despite also being among the league-leaders in Big Time Throws. Dart’s risky throws typically only come when he feels the need to try and will the offense to success. And another reliable target besides Robinson would limit the number of risky throws that Dart feels as though he needs to attempt. Okay, now some real talk: I wouldn’t be surprised if the Giants trade for Jennings. Not because of any scheme fit, price point, or anything like that… Nope, pure cynicism on my part. Jennings is on my Fantasy roster. So when I saw his name pop up as a potential target for the Giants I immediately assumed the deal would be made, probably after a good (but not overly productive) day against the Giants’ defense. Of course, I would also expect him to get hurt — again, he’s on my roster and that’s usually the kiss of death. Look, there’s a reason why I don’t write our Fantasy Advice pieces. All that aside, Jennings would probably be a solid addition for the Giants. He has good size at 6-foot-3, 212 pounds, and plenty of experience in a sophisticated offense that demands good timing. He’s a smart and sophisticated route runner which allows him to play much faster than his 4.7-second 40 time. Jennings is the type of player who could be a primary target for the Giants this year, a good pair for Wan’Dale Robinson, and a dynamic partner for Malik Nabers for the next three to five years. Will it happen? Who knows. But it’s a (potentially) reasonable deal that could make sense. I’ll just make sure to drop him from my squad if there’s any heat to the smoke. See More: New York Giants rumors
Giants news, 10/30: Dexter Lawrence fires back at Carl Banks, Brian Burns, Tyrone Tracy, more headlines
Good morning, New York Giants fans! From Big Blue View Other Giant observations The historic obstacle standing in way of Brian Burns’ hardware dream | New York Post NFL sacks co-leader Brian Burns is bidding to win Defensive Player of the Year, which ‘would mean a lot.’ It won’t be easy. The last 18 winners have been from winning teams. Standing in his way? The Giants records and history of players on losing teams getting passed over. “The way you formed that question is true — sadly. At least I know I’ll have no regrets at the end of the season.” Tyrone Tracy on handling a bigger role Best Rookie Pass Rusher: Abdul Carter, New York Giants. Carter is in a tier of his own when it comes to rookie pass-rushing production through the first eight weeks of the season. The No. 3 overall pick in this year’s draft leads all rookies in PFF pass-rush grade (76.4), total pressures (32) and win rate (13.5%). 2025 NFL midseason All-Rookie Team | CBSSports.com Quarterback: Jaxson Dart. The choice came down to Titans quarterback Cam Ward and Jaxson Dart. There are some intriguing moments with Ward, but then he has also made reckless decisions with the football. Neither quarterback has done enough to earn long-term confidence, but there is no question Dart has provided a spark to that offense and has shown improvement as a passer. He obviously brings a level of toughness to the field and is able to turn a broken-down play into chunk yardage with his legs. Edge rushers: Abdul Carter. Abdul Carter was the easy selection. He leads all rookies in pressures (32) and has produced more game-altering plays than any other. There is room for him to improve as a run defender, but Carter has shown an ability to win in a variety of ways. Jaxson Dart on Eli Manning’s son dressing as him for Halloween 2025 NFL Trade Block Big Board Entering Week 9 | Bleacher Report There’s no guarantee New York views pass-rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux as a core contributor long-term. He was a first-round pick in 2022 and is under contract through 2026, but the Giants have also invested heavily in pass-rushers Brian Burns and Abdul Carter. Is New York really about to give lucrative long-term deals to three edge-rushers when it has other needs on the roster? Probably not. We’re not pulling him off our board with a week to go, even if the price to acquire him is high. Potential Suitors: San Francisco 49ers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The complaints have continued through the middle of the week with the latest being that Baun was guilty of a hip-drop tackle on the play that ended Skattebo’s season midway through the second quarter. Google “Zack Baun hip-drop tackle” and you can take your pick of complaints and nasty comments about what Baun did. To be fair, some Giants fans did defend Baun. The “classic example” — if there is such a thing — typically takes place when a runner has the football and is either being chased from behind or on an angle like on the plays in this video. Baun’s tackle of Skattebo doesn’t come close to looking like any of these and it’s disturbing that some would suggest otherwise because it insinuates it was a cheap shot. This week’s opponent Kyle Shanahan on Brock Purdy’s toe injury: ‘It’s not as black and white as you guys want it to be’ | Niners Nation Kyle Shanahan said Purdy will take reps today. He wouldn’t say whether it’d be with the first or second team, but Purdy will practice in some capacity. Purdy needs to show the team that he’s confident and ready to suit up this Sunday: That he’s confident and ready to go, based off how his toe feels. He’s going to look that way most likely, when he’s out there. If he gets out there and he’s hobbling around and stuff, he won’t be out there. He’s got to go out there and go through the practices and stuff and really let us know how good he feels, because it’s hard to know what’s going on with the toe. They’re really iffy things. Last time, we felt like he was feeling pretty good in practice. And then in the game, one hit set him back five, or six weeks. Whatever this has been. Four weeks. So, it’s kind of a sensitive situation. Hopefully, getting some reps in practice will give him some confidence that it was better than last time. The Patriots agreed to trade defensive end Keion White to the 49ers, according to multiple reports. New England will receive a 2026 sixth-round pick for a 2026 seventh-rounder and White. White, a second-round pick of the Patriots in 2023, has played five games with one start. He has seen action on 123 defensive snaps and 43 on special teams. He was a healthy scratch on Sunday. The San Francisco 49ers today announced they have waived OL Drew Moss and signed DL Clelin Ferrell to the team’s practice squad. Ferrell (6-4, 265) was originally drafted by the Las Vegas Raiders as the fourth overall pick of the 2019 NFL Draft. Throughout his seven-year NFL career with the Raiders (2019-22), 49ers (2023), Washington Commanders (2024) and Los Angeles Chargers (2025), he has appeared in 90 games (57 starts) and registered 157 tackles, 12 passes defensed, 17.0 sacks, four forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. Around the league Commanders WR Terry McLaurin re-injured quad, won’t play in Week 9 game vs. Seahawks | NFL.com Hot Schotts: Brian Schottenheimer is letting the Cowboys down in one major way | Blogging the Boys Jets will trade CB Michael Carter to Eagles for WR John Metchie | Pro Football Talk Saints turn to Tyler Shough as starting QB, Spencer Rattler moves to bench for New Orleans | CBSSports.com Broncos signing 41-year-old TE Marcedes Lewis to practice squad: Source | The Athletic BBV mailbag Have a Giants-related question? E-mail
Ravens-Dolphins Thursday Night Football Week 9 Preview: Odds, lines, best bets
Despite the Dolphins’ general struggles, Tua Tagovailoa has excelled against man coverage, setting the stage for him to go over his passing props. Ravens-Dolphins Thursday Night Football Week 9 Preview: Odds, lines, best bets By Mason Cameron Posted Oct 30, 2025 6:00 am EDT Available exclusively to PFF+ subscribers in the PFF app, the PFF Player Prop Tool harnesses the power of predictive analytics and matchup data to help you make smarter, faster and more confident picks. Download the PFF app now — available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Baltimore Ravens (-7.5) vs. Miami Dolphins [Total: 50.5] Game Overview The marquee storyline of this matchup is the health and status of quarterback Lamar Jackson. The two-time MVP was expected back this past week against the Bears, with that spread settling around 6.5 points. Controversy ensued when Jackson was ultimately ruled out, raising questions about the validity of the Ravens’ injury reporting process. Markets quickly adjusted the line to -1.5, a mark Baltimore cleared handily. Jackson is again expected to make his return this week — a welcome boost for a team that has struggled to generate offense in his absence. With Jackson in the lineup, Baltimore’s offense ranks in the top 10 in EPA per play (0.068, 10th), successful play rate (37.2%, eighth) and touchdown drive rate (35.9%, second). Without him, the unit places in the bottom five in each metric. However, the question remains if Baltimore can cover as a heavy favorite on the road. While the Ravens have covered once at home this season as 12.5-point favorites, they hold an overall 2-3 record against the spread as a favorite, including two outright losses on the road. On the other sideline, the Dolphins are coming off an emphatic road win as seven-point underdogs in Atlanta. With that win, Miami moves to a 2-0 record against the spread as touchdown underdogs. The Dolphins now head back to Miami for a four-game homestand, where they hold a 2-1 against-the-spread record. While Miami’s offense has shown flashes this season, the team’s defensive inefficiency has created significant deficits. Before Week 8, the Dolphins ranked 32nd in EPA per play allowed. Against the Falcons, they showed massive improvements, allowing the fifth-best EPA per play mark in the NFL last week. Their success this week will hinge on tapping into that level of play again. Given the offensive potential of both teams, matched with some porous defensive play — both units rank at the bottom of the NFL in scoring drive rate allowed — there will likely be movement around the game total leading up to kickoff. As things stand, the percentage of bets on each side hovers around an even split, while the total percentage of the handle leans heavily toward the over. Explore Top Player Props QB Tua Tagovailoa, Miami Dolphins: Over 1.5 passing TDs (+123) Click here to explore the PFF Player Prop Tool! Despite waves of criticism and open speculation about Mike McDaniel’s and Tua Tagovailoa’s futures, the Dolphins’ offense was clicking this past week. Tagovailoa tossed a season-best four touchdown passes, his fifth multi-touchdown game of the year. While Baltimore has made some improvements in coverage in recent outings, this unit has struggled mightily overall. The Ravens’ defense ranks 27th in passing touchdowns allowed, with nine scores coming in just their past four games. That could spell trouble, as Tagovailoa has thrown for eight touchdowns in his two career matchups against the Ravens. Click here to explore the PFF Player Prop Tool! Stylistically, this matchup frames as favorable for Tagovailoa’s passing overs. The Ravens run man coverage at the third-highest rate (39.9%) in the NFL, a coverage look against which Tagovailoa traditionally excels. His man-zone PFF passing grade splits emphasize that, with his 90.1 mark against man ranking third best in the NFL this season, highlighted by a seven-to-zero touchdown-to-interception ratio. The Dolphins’ quarterback also operates much more effectively from a clean pocket. His 74.0 PFF passing grade when left clean is nearly 30 points higher on the grading scale than his PFF passing grade when under pressure. The Ravens’ defense has struggled to rush the passer this season, ranking 29th in pressure rate (28.5%).
