Zac Taylor | Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images Failures persist in all three phases. Sorry, Zac, but I’m just not buying it. “We’re a good football team,” Cincinnati Bengals coach Zac Taylor said after another disappointing, heart-breaking, last-minute loss, this time to the Los Angeles Chargers Sunday night. This is not a good football team. Maybe it still can be, but as of right now, it is not. A good football team excels in all three areas — offense, defense and special teams. The Bengals excel in none of those areas, the most obvious of which is the defense. The latest meltdown came against the Chargers. After Cincinnati had clawed back into the game from 21 points down and tied the score at 27-27, the defense allowed three straight explosive plays of 20, 27 and 29 yards. Game over. The Bengals have lost twice to the Baltimore Ravens. Both times it was big plays that did them in. In the first game, Derrick Henry’s 51-yard run led to the winning field goal. In the second game, a Cam Taylor-Britt interception was overturned by replay, and the Ravens marched right down the field for a touchdown that extended their lead to 35-28. The big plays in that drive were a 19-yard and a 16-yard completion to Zay Flowers. Cincinnati did manage to score the potential game-tying touchdown minutes later, but it missed on the two-point conversion that would have won the game. Defense has been the weakest part of the trifecta all season. The Bengals sit at No. 24 in overall team defense, are 30th in points surrendered, 24th against the run, 26th against the pass, and 27th in total yards given up. Definitely not good. Special teams have let Cincinnati down as well. The normally dependable Evan McPherson missed two field goals against the Chargers, field goals that could have made the difference in the game. The Bengals drove to the Los Angeles 43-yard-line with three seconds left, which would have put McPherson in position for a 60-yard field goal attempt to win the game. But, his earlier two misses made that possibility moot. McPherson has made 9-of-9 field goals from inside 40 yards, but he is just 3-for-5 between 40 and 49 yards. Worse yet, he has hit on only 3-of-7 attempts outside of 50 yards. Money Mac is no longer so money – more like “Missing Mac.” Lineups.com has Cincinnati’s special teams ranked at No. 25, largely due to McPherson’s struggles. And, the Bengals would be ranked even lower if not for the 100-yard kickoff return by Charlie Jones earlier in the season. And, as good as the Bengals’ offense has looked at times, there have been plenty of flaws in that unit as well. Sunday night’s loss is a good example. Cincinnati scored the tying touchdown with 12:21 left in the fourth quarter, then went missed field goal, missed field goal, and four-and-out before the Chargers took the lead for good. The Bengals drove into Los Angeles territory the first three times they had the ball and got all the way down to the Chargers’ 3-yard-line on their second possession. Yet all they had to show for it was a pair of field goals. Cincinnati scored only 10 points in a season-opening loss to the New England Patriots and managed just 17 points against the Giants (a win) and the Eagles (a loss). In the first meeting with the Ravens, the Bengals owned a 10-point lead with 8:54 left in the fourth quarter but came up empty the rest of the way. Quarterback Joe Burrow summed it up this way: “Just got to make the plays,” he said. “Just got to make the plays. We have it down stretch and we’re not a good enough team to – our margin of error is slim, so we got to make those plays. I got to make those plays. We all got to make those plays.” So no, Zac, this is not a good football team. As my former mother-in-law used to say, “you can cover the sun with one hand, but it’s still there.”
No, Zac, the Bengals are not a good team right now
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25746536/lions_pass_o.PNG?w=1200&resize=1200,0&ssl=1 "Detroit Lions vs. Indianapolis Colts preview, prediction: On Paper")
Detroit Lions vs. Indianapolis Colts preview, prediction: On Paper
The Detroit Lions are on a roll, and they’re going to need to keep rolling if they want to earn the NFC’s top seed. At 9-1, they hold the top spot, but both the Vikings (8-2) and Eagles (8-2) are on their tails. They can’t afford a slip-up against the 5-6 Indianapolis Colts this week—a team they’re clearly better than. Let’s take a closer look at the Week 12 matchup, then make a prediction in our Lions vs. Colts On Paper preview. Lions pass offense (9th in DVOA) vs. Colts pass defense (19th) Jared Goff bounced back from his five-interception performance with arguably his best performance in a Lions uniform. For the season, the Lions have been lighting opponents’ defenses on fire. They’ve not only finished with a 100+ passer rating in seven of 10 games, but over 120 in five of 10. With all due respect to the DVOA ranking, I think this is a top-five passing attack in the league, not just top-10. Some other notable statistics: 9.2 yards per attempt (first) 113.8 passer rating (second) 73.0 completion percentage (first) 0.259 dropback EPA (third) 53.0% dropback success rate (first) Goff, in particular, has been outstanding since struggling out of the gate. Take away the first two games of the season, and Goff’s numbers have been outstanding: Pass protection has been a minor issue, ranking 14th in PFF pass blocking grade, ninth in pass block win rate, and 16th in pressure rate allowed. But that obviously hasn’t slowed the passing attack much. It hasn’t been a great year for the Colts’ pass defense, but it hasn’t been all bad. Though they’ve allowed six of 11 opponents to eclipse a passer rating of 100, they’ve also held four below 90. Still, teams are regularly eclipsing their averages against this unit. Here’s a look at their raw statistics: 7.6 yards per attempt (26th) 97.3 passer rating (20th) 69.5 completion percentage (29th) 0.056 dropback EPA (13th) 46.1% dropback success rate (15th) It’s hard to exactly pin down why the Colts are struggling. They have capable pass rushers, but only rank 18th in pressure percentage, t-15th in sacks, 18th in PFF pass rush grade, and 21st in pass rush win rate. In terms of coverage, they rank ninth in PFF grade, and have one of the best nickel defenders in Kenny Moore II. Outside cornerback Jaylon Jones is also tied for fifth in pass breakups, so Lions receivers will have a challenge this week. That said, the Colts rank 26th in DVOA against tight ends, and with Sam LaPorta expected back this week, we could see a big game from him. Player to watch: Amon-Ra St. Brown vs. Kenny Moore II. Per PFF, Moore II has not allowed a single touchdown in coverage this year, while also notching five passes defended and an interception. His 80.6 PFF coverage grade is seventh in the NFL. Meanwhile, St. Brown is coming off his best career game and ranks seventh in PFF grade. A true strength vs. strength matchup Advantage: Lions +2.5 The Lions’ passing attack looks nearly unstoppable right now, and while the Colts have an okay defense, they aren’t particularly great at anything. Lions run offense (1st) vs. Colts run defense (16th) No team has yet to hold the Lions under 100 rushing yards, and they’ve now eclipsed 160 yards in five of 10 games. The only team to really hold them in check was the Texans, and by the end of the game, the Lions had worn them down, too. The Lions are nearly atop the league in just about every category when it comes to running the ball: 4.7 yards per carry (eighth) 152.2 yards per game (third) 0.042 rush EPA (second) 45.2% success rate (second) 13.6% stuffed percentage (fifth) The offensive line is arguably the best run blocking unit in football, ranking third in PFF run blocking grade (76.7), nine in run block win rate (73%), and first in adjusted line yards (5.11). The Colts run defense has been all over the place this season, but there’s been more bad than good. They started out horribly, recovered a bit, but have at least been acceptable the last month. Some of that lines up with the return of defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, who played in Weeks 1 and 2, but missed the next five games with an injury. Since returning against the Texans, they’ve done an okay job, but they’re certainly not a dominant unit. For the season, they rank 13th in yards per carry allowed (4.4), 13th in rush EPA (-0.119), 22nd in adjusted line yards (4.56) and 12th in success rate (38.1%). That said, they are tied for the most 10+ yard rushes allowed, and the Lions just so happen to rank sixth in that category on offense. Player to watch: DeForest Buckner. Buckner has an 11.2% run stop rate per PFF, which ranks fifth among all defensive tackles with at least 52 run defense snaps. He’ll have his work cut out for him, though, as he’s usually lined up against the right side of the offensive line. Right guard Kevin Zeitler (86.8 PFF grade, third) and right tackle Penei Sewell (90.2, first) are two of the best run blockers in football. Advantage: Lions +2. This is a little tighter than the passing matchup, but there are very few defenses that can hold Detroit’s run game in check. Compared to the Texans run defense (second in DVOA) that saw some success a few weeks ago, this Colts team doesn’t measure up. Colts pass offense (19th) vs. Lions pass defense (2nd) *Joe Flacco starts**Anthony Richardson and Joe Flacco I’m not entirely sure what to make of the Colts passing offense. There are a lot of terrible games in this chart, but they’re intermixed with a couple of really good performances, including last week’s game against a very respectable Jets defense. The benching of Anthony Richardson and subsequent re-starting throws another wrench into the predictability of this game. He certainly looked
The Honolulu Blueprint: 10 keys to a Lions victory over the Colts
Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports 10 keys to a Detroit Lions victory over the Indianapolis Colts. It’s the Honolulu Blueprint! The Detroit Lions (9-1) are back on the road for a Week 12 matchup with the Indianapolis Colts (5-6). If the Lions want to continue their hot streak, they’ll need to follow the keys to victory laid out in this week’s Honolulu Blueprint. Colts offensive and defensive schemes For a detailed look at the opposing scheme, make sure you check out our complementary breakdown piece: Lions Week 12 Preview: Breaking down Colts’ offensive and defensive schemes. Key 1: Establish the run On paper, this looks like one of Detroit’s biggest advantages. The Colts, on average, allow 143.1 rushing yards per game (28th in the NFL), 3.22 yards after contact (28th), and have given up the most 10+ yard rushes in the NFL, with 48 allowed this season. Now, some of that can be attributed to injuries on the interior of their defensive line, but their wide-9 approach to using their defensive ends leaves them vulnerable to offensive lines that can execute Gap and Duo blocking schemes, which the Lions do at an elite level. Heading into this game, the Lions are producing, on average, 152.2 rushing yards per game (third-most in the NFL), 1.92 yards after contact per rush (fifth most), and have produced 40 rushes of 10+ yards (sixth most). Additionally, they’re the only team in NFL history to rush for 100+ and score a touchdown in each of the first 10 games. Their rushing touchdown streak actually dates back 24 consecutive games (including the playoffs), which is the longest streak in NFL history. Look for the Lions to follow their rushing pattern of attacking the ground game early in the game with Montgomery, shifting to Jahmyr Gibbs in the middle quarters, and then finishing them off with Montgomery in the final quarter. Key 2: Offensive line needs to reach 2nd level of defense In order for the rushing attack to work properly, the Lions’ offensive linemen will need to make sure they’re reaching the second level with their blocks. Running Gap concepts and executing Duo blocks should allow them to accomplish this in a manner in which they have thrived in the past. By running adjacent to the Colts’ interior—instead of attacking it—and then knocking the linebackers off their spots, the Lions back should have open running lanes to get into the secondary. Key 3: Play-action all day long The Colts are in zone coverage roughly 80% of the time, running a bend-don’t-break style of coverage where they keep everything in front of them. The Colts attack the run downhill and can get caught overpursuing with their aggressiveness. Here’s where the Lions’ use of play-action can manipulate the defenders into vacating the passing zone that Detroit wishes to attack. It’s a simple task but the Lions are one of the best play-action teams in the NFL and if Detroit can establish the run and then move the back-seven off their spots, Jared Goff’s accuracy can slice them up. Key 4: Take advantage of matchups The Colts have arguably the best cover nickel corner in the game in Kenny Moore, and when he is covering Amon-Ra St. Brown, it’ll be a challenging task to get the elite weapon the ball—though there are ways to scheme him open. In addition to using play-action, the Lions can also put St. Brown in motion pre-snap, and run crossing routes away from Moore’s zone, among other manipulative tasks. Beyond St. Brown, the Colts zone will also put them in situations where their linebackers will be tasked with covering running backs and tight ends out of the backfield, which can also present as an advantage for the Lions. The key will be to identify the Colts’ coverage and matchups, and then take advantage. Key 5: Prioritize stopping the run, win at the point of attack As we highlighted in our breakdown of the Colts’ schemes, Indianapolis’ new offensive identity appears to rest in establishing the run. Last week, the Colts ran the ball 35 times as a way of keeping their offense in rhythm and aiding quarterback Anthony Richardson’s confidence. While the Colts want to run the ball, they’re still not very good at it just yet. Against the Jets’ No. 24 DVOA run defense, the Colts only managed 91 yards on 35 rushing attempts. Things get harder for them this week when the Lions’ No. 5 DVOA run defense comes to town. Detroit is currently averaging just 94.8 rushing yards per game (fifth best in the NFL), and are coming off games where they only allowed 41 (Jaguars) and 56 (Houston) rushing yards. The key will be stopping the run at the point of attack and that begins with Alim McNeill disrupting the middle of the offensive line. Key 6: Stay disciplined, hold your gaps On the outside, the Lions will need to be disciplined in setting the edge and watching for cutback lanes. If they can play contain, and maintain their gaps, they’ll limit the Colts’ ability to establish the run through traditional methods. In addition to standard runs, the Colts like to create eye candy with pre- and post-snap movement to try and fool the linebackers. One of the more unique ways the Colts disguise intentions is by pulling an interior offensive lineman in one direction and then running the play in the opposite direction. Furthermore, the Colts use a lot of RPO (run-pass option), PRO (quarterback power run option), and zone read concepts to further push for advantages, and the Lions’ linebackers will need to stay disciplined in their assignment and execute their roles. A subtle advantage the Lions have with RPO, PRO, and zone reads is that assistant head coach and running backs coach Scottie Montgomery is well-known in the coaching profession as being a master of these concepts. The Lions’ defense surely tapped into Montgomery’s knowledge in these areas and will enter the game with a firm understanding
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25745302/Screenshot_2024_11_20_at_5.06.26_PM.png?w=1200&resize=1200,0&ssl=1 "Is Tommy DeVito actually a good quarterback?")
Is Tommy DeVito actually a good quarterback?
The New York Giants have turned the page to Tommy DeVito after their 2-8 start. The undrafted second-year player out of Illinois sparked interest last season when the local kid led the Giants on a three-game winning streak. DeVito was ultimately benched at halftime against the Eagles on Christmas in favor of Tyrod Taylor, who finished the season as the starting quarterback. Nevertheless, the DeVito energy had the NFL world raving about an agent in unique suits, chicken cutlets, and the Cornicello. He finished his rookie season with 1,101 passing yards on 178 attempts (64% completion rate), with eight touchdowns and three interceptions. He indeed progressed through the season but stagnated near the end. Why was DeVito benched? Starting quarterback Daniel Jones tore his ACL in Week 9 against the Las Vegas Raiders. Jones pinched a nerve in his neck against the Dolphins in Week 5, which led to three Taylor starts against the Bills, Commanders, and Jets. Taylor suffered a rib injury against the Jets (Week 8) and landed on Injured Reserve before he was activated during the Giants’ Week 13 BYE. DeVito won two games before the BYE week and had a primetime matchup against the Green Bay Packers ahead. Brian Daboll opted to keep DeVito as the starter over the veteran Taylor and didn’t bench DeVito until Week 16. I reiterate all of this to state the obvious — DeVito was primarily benched because Tyrod Taylor is a much better quarterback. Daboll wanted to ride the hot hand, but the hand quickly cooled. When DeVito was benched, the Giants were down 20-3 at halftime against the Eagles. In Week 15, they were blown out 24-6 in New Orleans. However, DeVito did lead them to an improbable victory against the Green Bay Packers in Week 14. The Giants had a plus offensiveEPA) in just two of DeVito’s starts: Washington (+0.33) and Green Bay (+2.39). DeVito’s game has several impressive aspects, especially considering his path to the NFL, but we should not misremember the negatives. DeVito was sacked 37 times on 237 dropbacks. He had the highest pressure-to-sack ratio of any quarterback in the NFL (that played at least 20% of their team’s snaps). DeVito tied for the lowest average depth of target (aDot) in the NFL, and his yards per attempt were sixth-lowest. DeVito had the second-lowest *big-time-throw percentage (BTT%) in the NFL (2.2%), just ahead of Jimmy Garoppolo of the Raiders and just behind Daniel Jones (2.4%), who ranked third worst in the NFL. Ironically, Taylor was number one in BTT% (8.9%). The next closest was Matthew Stafford, at 6.3%. *(BTT% PFF: a pass with excellent ball location and timing, generally thrown further down the field and/or into a tighter window) DeVito had several instances of struggle against the Eagles and Saints: The Giants ran 3×1 slants with free access to the boundary in the first quarter against Philadelphia on third-and-seven. The Eagles go in Cover-1 hole, and DeVito liked his matchup for Darren Waller (12). Although this is a catchable pass, there’s little margin for error with the hole defender’s location and the presence of Daniel Bellinger (82) so close to the inside. The defender also shades to Waller’s inside, making this throw more difficult. At the top of the screen, Darius Slayton (86) did a fantastic job winning inside on his slant before DeVito decided to throw to Waller. I hate screen-shot evaluation, but I included this—along with the other factors mentioned—to highlight Slayton’s win and DeVito’s predetermined decision to target Waller against James Bradberry (24). Is this a terrible mistake — No. But this was a staple play for the Giants in third-and-manageable, and they failed both times when other options were available: Here’s a third-and-7 later in the half. DeVito hit his back foot, and Slayton was wide open for the first down. He unnecessarily bailed the pocket and took the check down. Then this happened on the subsequent drive: The Giants found themselves in a third-and-5 on the subsequent drive. DeVito dealt with interior pressure, but the Giants had a far-hash corner route for Waller dialed up against a Cover-2 defense. The flat defender stayed inside the numbers, and Waller was about 12 yards ahead of Reed Blankenship (32). The ball had to be thrown with anticipation and touch to the open space, but DeVito tried to evade the pressure and found no solutions. He was benched after the next drive. He also had a few slightly underthrown passes against the Saints, as we see below: DeVito threw one touchdown pass after the BYE week. He only eclipsed 200 passing yards once, in Week 11 against the Washington Commanders. He finished the season with four big-time throws; two were against the Patriots. Taylor finished the season with 616 passing yards in the final two games. He threw for 319 yards against the Los Angeles Rams in Week 17 and 297 yards in Week 18 against the Eagles, with a pair of touchdowns and interceptions spread between the two contests. That’s why DeVito was benched — Taylor was on the roster. Apparently, there is no such option in 2024. Drew Lock replaced Taylor and remains as the second-string quarterback. If the Giants had ANY confidence that Lock would succeed, they’d likely give him a trial run in hopes of a possible cheap extension or to alleviate the heat underneath the rear ends of Daboll and Joe Schoen. Instead, DeVito is starting and auditioning for the backup role moving forward. Difference between Jones and DeVito Daniel Jones is bigger, stronger, faster, and has a slightly better arm than DeVito. Still, the Giants are 2-8, and Jones has significantly struggled. He should be relieved of the starting position, especially with next year’s injury guarantee hovering in the balance. Still, that doesn’t necessarily mean DeVito is a better option for winning, but something had to change. Jones is also just a year and three months older than DeVito. The primary contradistinction between Jones and DeVito
College Football Playoff: Teams that control their own destiny entering Week 13
Max Chadwick details the College Football Playoff teams that control their own destiny in Week 13. College Football Playoff: Teams that control their own destiny entering Week 13 2T2WTAM Oregon wide receiver Tez Johnson (15) celebrates after a long gain against Washington State during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 21, 2023, in Eugene, Ore. (AP Photo/Andy Nelson) By Max Chadwick Posted Nov 22, 2024 5:45 am EST Oregon is the first to clinch a spot into the 12-team field: As the No. 1 team in the country with an 11-0 record, the Ducks are all but guaranteed a spot even if they lose their two remaining games. Ohio State–Indiana is massive for the bracket: Not only will Saturday’s showdown between the Buckeyes and Hoosiers likely determine who will make the Big Ten title game, but it would nearly assure the winner a spot into the playoff. Unlock your edge with a PFF+ subscription: Get full access to all of our in-season fantasy tools, including weekly rankings, WR/CB matchup charts, weekly projections, the Start-Sit Optimizer and more. Sign up now! Estimated reading time: 22 minutes A fortnight separates us from conference championship weekend in college football. Even with only two weeks remaining in the regular season, there are still plenty of schools that should feel good about their chances to make the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff. Here are the 16 teams who are still in control of their own destiny entering Week 13, and what it would take for them to be included in the final bracket. Clinched: Oregon As the top-ranked team in the country with an 11-0 record, it’s safe to assume that Oregon is the first team to clinch a spot in the College Football Playoff. Even if the Ducks lose to Washington and in the Big Ten Championship Game, it’s hard to imagine they wouldn’t receive one of the seven at-large spots with an 11-2 record and wins over two other likely playoff teams in Ohio State and Boise State. Might be able to survive another loss: Ohio State, Texas, Indiana It’s possible that these three schools can survive with another loss for the rest of the season, but nothing is guaranteed. The winner of this weekend’s colossal showdown between second-ranked Ohio State and No. 5 Indiana pretty much guarantees the winner a spot in both the Big Ten title game and a spot in the College Football Playoff. While the stakes are incredibly high, the loser isn’t necessarily out of the playoff race altogether, as long as it isn’t a blowout. The Buckeyes would need to beat Michigan in the season finale to finish with a 10-2 record. Then, Ohio State would be lumped into the grouping of two-loss SEC schools but would have a great road win over No. 4 Penn State and two close losses to Oregon and Indiana to fall back on. The Hoosiers would be in a much more precarious position even though it’d be 11-1 (assuming it beats Purdue next week). Indiana’s best wins would be over Michigan and Washington, two schools that will likely finish at 6-6. If the Hoosiers can at least keep it close to the Buckeyes, that would make their case much stronger. Like Indiana, third-ranked Texas doesn’t have too many marquee victories. At 9-1, the Longhorns’ best wins came over Vanderbilt and Florida, two schools currently outside the top 25. If Texas finishes 10-2, it might fall from No. 3 to outside the playoff altogether with the other 10-2 SEC teams fighting for spots. Win out in the regular season: Penn State, Notre Dame, Alabama, Ole Miss, Georgia These five schools can’t afford a loss in either of the next two weekends. Fourth-ranked Penn State (9-1) will likely host a first-round game as long as it takes care of business against Minnesota and Maryland. If the Nittany Lions lose either of those two games, they’re at serious risk of missing the playoff since their best win came over No. 25 Illinois. No. 6 Notre Dame (9-1) doesn’t have a conference championship game to fall back on, so it only has two games remaining before the playoff. If the Fighting Irish lose to either Army or USC, they’ll probably drop out of the 12-team field. There’s a logjam of two-loss SEC schools fighting for the final playoff spots. If No. 7 Alabama, No. 9 Ole Miss or No. 10 Georgia lose another game, it’s hard to imagine the committee putting a 9-3 SEC team into the field. If the Crimson Tide beat Oklahoma and Auburn, they’ll most likely be playing in the SEC Championship Game. Even if they lose that, the committee likely wouldn’t punish a 10-3 Alabama for playing in the conference championship. Win out: Miami (FL), Boise State, SMU, BYU, Texas A&M, Colorado, Army These schools likely have to avoid a loss in the final two weeks and win their respective conferences to get into the playoff. The Big 12 was effectively guaranteed to be just a one-bid league after No. 14 BYU suffered its first loss of the season this past weekend. The Cougars (9-1) and No. 16 Colorado (8-2) control their own destiny in the conference but have teams like No. 21 Arizona State (8-2) and No. 22 Iowa State (8-2) ready to pounce if either slip up in the regular season. The ACC is in a similar boat with No. 8 Miami (9-1) and No. 13 SMU (9-1). It’s very hard to imagine a two-loss ACC team making the field, so the Hurricanes and Mustangs must win out. And if either loses in the next two weeks, No. 17 Clemson (8-2) could steal their spot in the title game. No. 15 Texas A&M (8-2) is one of the five SEC schools with two losses on the season, but the Aggies might not be able to make it into the playoff without winning the SEC. To do that, Texas A&M must beat Auburn and Texas to
Bengals News (11/22): Another Looming Ja’Marr Chase contract holdout?
Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images The Bengals are facing another offseason of paying their star wide receiver—will they step up? Bengals News NFL insider warns Bengals of the inevitable if Ja’Marr Chase contract extension drama continues next year The last thing the Cincinnati Bengals should want is another offseason of Ja’Marr Chase being dissatisfied. Bengals’ Record Book Under Construction; Higgins Also Getting Teed Up In Slot; Joe Burrow’s Offseason Pays Off In Pocket | QUICK HITS Heading into Thursday Night Football, Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase is not only leading the Triple Crown categories, he’s on pace to dismantle the Bengals’ single-season record book with 1,632 yards, 113 catches, and 19 touchdowns. Stat of the Jay: Bengals’ Lack of Pass Rush Behind Trey Hendrickson Approaching NFL Record Trey Hendrickson leads the NFL with 11.5 sacks and is on pace for 18 sacks, which would be his career high. NFL insider explains why the Bengals won’t fire Zac Taylor despite lackluster season While Cincinnati Bengals fans might hope that the front office fires Zac Taylor amid a disappointing 4-7 season, Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated explained why he doesn’t think that’ll happen. Bengals star guarantees win over Steelers in Week 13 The Cincinnati Bengals might be on a bye week, but linebacker Germaine Pratt isn’t taking a break from trying to motivate his guys. NFL News NFL warns teams, players of ‘organized and skilled’ criminals targeting athletes’ homes The NFL has alerted team security directors and the players union about criminals targeting professional athletes’ homes, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. Steelers-Browns on ‘Thursday Night Football’: What We Learned from Cleveland’s 24-19 win Winston finished off snowy thriller but not without late scares. Will Brinson’s NFL Week 12 picks, best bets: Send Aaron Rodgers to the Vikings, sneaky Over in AFC East battle Best bets from Week 12 of the 2024 NFL season Browns’ Myles Garrett sends message to Steelers and T.J. Watt with 3 first-half sacks Myles Garrett showed T.J. Watt why he’s the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year. Surprise NFL Teams That Could Miss 2024 Playoffs With seven weeks remaining in the 2024 regular season, we’re on track to have six new playoff participants among the 14 teams that will qualify for the postseason.
Week 12 Thursday Night Football: Browns vs. Steelers
Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images Big rivalry game tonight to kick off the week And we are off for Week 12 as the Cleveland Browns (+ 152) host the Pittsburgh Steelers (- 180). The Steelers have been one of the biggest surprises this season as I don’t think even the most optimistic fan expected to be sitting at 8-2 at this point in the season (they did lose to us though). The Browns, at 2-8, at staring down another rebuild, this one even tougher as the implications of the Deshaun Watson trade still hurt them. The visiting team is currently favoured by 3.5-points while the OU is at 36.5. The Browns were blown out by the Saints last week as Taysom Hill got three rushing touchdowns, absolutely torching my fantasy team in the process. Jameis did all he could, but three 4th quarter touchdowns ended up sealing the game and now at 2-8 the Browns are looking at yet another losing season. The Steelers had their best win of the season so far, beating the Ravens at home after a failed two-point conversion attempt. Their offense did not score a single touchdown, but their stingy defense and Boswell’s leg were enough to get the job done. Despite their 8-2 record, they have a brutal schedule remaining so if they want to lock that playoff spot they need to be beating the Browns. Overall, I think the spread is a bit too generous for the Browns, but it’s not like the Steelers are blowing teams out of the water. It will be a fun game to watch though, and I’ll be tuning in.
Bills rooting-interest guide during the bye week
Bills rooting-interest guide during the bye week Bills rooting-interest guide during the bye week Nick Wojton The Buffalo Bills will not be on your television screen in the coming days. The team, sitting at a 9-2 record, has their well deserved bye week. While the Bills will not get after it this weekend, that doesn’t mean football will stop. Plenty of games will be played across the NFL and that means Buffalo will still have rooting interest. With that, here is a rooting-interest guide for Bills fans during the bye week: Steelers at Browns (Thursday) USAT Rooting interest: Browns. The Browns are down in the dumps at 2-8. Their season is over. However, Buffalo will hope they have some pride against the Steelers in an AFC North clash. The Steelers, at 8-2, are right behind the Bills in the conference standings in third place. Chiefs at Panthers (1 p.m.) USAT Rooting interest: Panthers. Clearly, root against the Chiefs. The only team ahead of the second-place Bills in the AFC. It’s a longshot, though. The Panthers are… not good. Titans at Texans (1 p.m.) USAT Rooting interest: Titans. Pretty cut-and-paste from Steelers-Browns, except the Texans (7-4) are in fourth place in the conference. But the Titans share a lowly 2-8 record with the Browns. Lions at Colts (1 p.m.) USAT Rooting interest: Lions. The Bills hold the head-to-head with the Colts already, but with the Lions being an NFC team and the Colts (5-6) still in the playoff picture in the AFC… might as well root for more distant between Indy and Buffalo. Patriots at Dolphins (1 p.m.) Imagn Rooting interest: Patriots. The Bills are way ahead in the AFC East. But for those curious, the Dolphins are in second and with a Patriots win, that gap would get even bigger for the Bills. Broncos at Raiders (4 p.m.) Imagn Rooting interest: Raiders. Likewise to a few others already listed, the Raiders (2-8) are out of it but their opponent is a divisional rival still in the playoff picture. The Broncos (6-5) are the last team currently in the wild card, might as well welcome further distance from the Bills with a Raiders win. Read all the best Bills coverage at the Democrat and Chronicle and Bills Wire.
Giants news, 11/22: Daniel Jones speaks, Tommy DeVito, Malik Nabers, more headlines
Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images New York Giants news for Friday Good morning, New York Giants fans! From Big Blue View Emotional Daniel Jones ‘still trying to process’ benching by New York Giants The opportunity to start ‘means a lot’ to Tommy DeVito Drew Lock ‘definitely disappointed’ to be bypassed by New York Giants Giants trade up for QB Shedeur Sanders in Matt Miller mock draft Giants-Buccaneers Week 12: Can the Giants slow down the Buccaneers’ offense? Explosive runs have continued to plague the New York Giants’ defense 5 Giants-Bucs questions: Sterling Shepard’s role, how to beat Tampa Bay, more New York Giants-Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2024, Week 12: Everything you need to know Other Giant observations The full Daniel Jones press conference ‘You never know’: Tommy DeVito stayed ready for another opportunity | Giants.com DeVito is confident that he is better than he was a year ago. “A lot mentally,” he said. “Trying to avoid more negative plays than I was. Sometimes taking some sacks where I could have found a way to get the ball out or just make a better decision. So really just the growth from year one to year two of watching a lot more film of myself, of other people and just getting some more ideas for when I’m out there.” Schlereth: The move to DeVito stinks Stink GOES OFF on the Giants’ decision to bench Daniel Jones and start Tommy Devito “This is why the Giants suck.”— @markschlereth pic.twitter.com/IKahh39ubw — Breakfast Ball (@BrkfstBallOnFS1) November 19, 2024 Roundtable: Tommy DeVito’s Potential | Footballguys Joseph Haggan: DeVito is a competent quarterback but not overly impressive. He can make a positive impact with the Giants by not turning the ball over, as he did last season. The good thing for DeVito is that there are limited expectations. At this point, the season is over. The Giants would welcome a higher draft pick, so they would likely welcome Devito to take chances and push the ball. Malik Nabers should benefit the most from DeVito. There is no argument that Nabers was peppered with targets, but they were timid targets. Daniel Jones was so worried about losing his job this year that he made it a self-fulfilling prophecy. New Giants starter Tommy DeVito trying to avoid ‘fun and games’ | ESPN.com “Last year was a good story and all, how it happened,” DeVito said. “All the fun and games outside, it was fun. That was last year. I’m sticking to football now. Not that I wasn’t before. The external stuff will be on pause. I already had talks with everybody around me, my inner circle. Want it to stay very tight and make sure that everything is about production on Sunday.” Tiki Barber wants to see Giants try Trevor Lawrence trade | WFAN.com Tiki says there is one that could become available in the form of a former No. 1 overall pick in Trevor Lawrence. “The only way this works is if the Jaguars decide they are moving on from Doug Pederson and are gonna strip everything down,” Tiki said. “They may want to start over at quarterback. The guys running the Giants need to consider that as an option. Figure out the package it’s going to take, and trade for Trevor Lawrence. He’s only 25 years old. He has the talent…he hasn’t had consistency in his coaching staff. If you’re worried about the turnovers, what was Brian Daboll’s greatest accomplishment with Daniel Jones? It gives them a chance to find success quicker. They need success. they can’t keep throwing losing records on their resume.” The Giants are in the middle of a youth movement Giants second youngest team and youngest defense. https://t.co/1MNcGe969n — John Schmeelk (@Schmeelk) November 21, 2024 Brian Daboll is fooling himself if he thinks Giants definitely will rally around Tommy DeVito this time | NJ.com The Giants’ next two games — winnable matchups with the Buccaneers and Cowboys, in a five-day stretch — could sink coach Brian Daboll, in his hot-seat third season. And Daboll — who is 2-8 this year after going 6-11 last year — is fooling himself if he thinks his locker room definitely will rally around third-string quarterback Tommy DeVito this time. Trust eroding in Giants’ locker room as pressure builds on Joe Schoen, Brian Daboll | New York Daily News The Giants’ players still believe in Daniel Jones: “We have at least two more wins if we just do our job & be a better supporting cast. It’s impossible to sit up here and say it’s one man.“ Sources say Brian Daboll and the coaching staff are ratcheting up pressure & frustration with the defense (despite having the lowest-scoring offense in the league). Saquon Barkley is missed not just because of his talent but because his role here was “bigger than football.” Dan Orlovsky: Eli a lock for Canton .@danorlovsky7 says it’s a “total lock” for Eli Manning to be a first-ballot Hall of Famer pic.twitter.com/QX4XEqv7ii — First Take (@FirstTake) November 21, 2024 NFL Week 12 Preview: Schedule, storylines and matchups to watch | PFF Matchups to watch: Giants RT Evan Neal vs. Bucs ED Yaya Diaby. Evan Neal was a mixed bag in his lone start this season in Week 10, coming away with an impressive 93.4 run blocking grade — by far the best of his career — but also only putting together a troubling 49.4 pass-blocking grade. That may pose a problem with Diaby teeing off on him in the passing game. The second-year pass-rusher has produced the 17th-highest PFF pass rush grade (79.3) at the position, powered by 38 total pressures and a 20.6% pass-rush win rate. This week’s opponent Mike Evans up to full practice on Thursday | Pro Football Talk Evans has missed the last three games with a hamstring injury, but he was able to practice on Monday and Wednesday. Wednesday’s practice was a limited one and Evans moved up to full participation on Thursday. Former Giants guard Ben Bredeson (shoulder), cornerback Jamel Dean
Is Chris Grier on the hot seat – The Splash Zone 11/22/24
Jasen Vinlove-Imagn Images Welcome to the Splash Zone, the quickest way to get your day started off right. We bring you a rundown of Miami Dolphins news from the last 24 hours. The New York Jets fired their general manager, Joe Douglas, on Tuesday as they are in a terrible position thanks in part to all of the decisions that the team made over the past year. The Miami Dolphins find themselves in a tough spot after falling flat for the first half of the season, but have found new life with the return of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. The Dolphins are hoping they can make a miracle run to claim a playoff spot but if they don’t, fingers will begin to point and they already have been pointing. Fans have been judgmental of Dolphins general manager, Chris Grier, over the many decisions he has made since taking the GM title in 2016. Owner Stephen Ross seems to be in Grier’s corner, but could a disappointing season put Grier on the hot seat? You can check out that story here, and the rest of the day’s round-up below. Is Miami Dolphins GM Chris Grier on the Hot Seat?Grier has been the Miami Dolphins’ general manager since 2016 Dolphins Offense Explaining the transformation of the Dolphins’ offense – ESPNRealizing the offense was a bit boom or bust, the Dolphins made some philosophical changes that have worked. Dolphins Running Backs Miami Dolphins’ Alec Ingold expects to be another game-time decision vs. Patriots – Yahoo SportsMiami Dolphins Pro Bowl fullback Alec Ingold gives an update on his calf injury heading into a busy stretch of two games in five days. Dolphins Linebackers Miami Dolphins LB Anthony Walker Jr. Has Made Difference for DefenseVeteran linebacker Anthony Walker, Jr. has provided an upgraded since he moved into the starting lineup. Dolphins Secondary Miami Dolphins CB Kendall Fuller Likely to Miss Third Consecutive GameFuller has been out with a concussion. Dolphins 2024 Season Miami Dolphins 2024 Playoff Picture Through Week 11The Miami Dolphins remain one game out of the last playoff spot regarding the loss column. Phinsider News You May Have Missed Where do Dolphins rank heading into week 12 – Miami Dolphins News 11/19/24 – The PhinsiderWelcome to the Splash Zone, the quickest way to get your day started off right. We bring you a rundown of Miami Dolphins news from the last 24 hours. Miami Dolphins’ Most Valuable Player | Week Eleven | Newcomer in receiving corp earns honors – The PhinsiderThe Miami Dolphins have their first winning streak of the 2024 NFL season after defeating the visiting Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday by a score of 34-19 to bring the squad’s record to 4-6 on the… Former Miami Dolphins linebacker David Long Jr. lands with NFC North Contender – The PhinsiderThe Detroit Lions signed David Long Jr. to their practice squad on Monday. Phinsider Question Of The Day: Newcomers That Should Return Edition – The PhinsiderWe ask Miami Dolphins fans which 2024 “newcomers” should return for 2025. Raiders vs Dolphins review: What the players and coaches said following Miami’s win – The PhinsiderThe Miami Dolphins beat the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday. Miami Dolphins fan confidence poll: Will they make the playoffs? – The PhinsiderThe Miami Dolphins beat the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday to keep their playoff hopes alive. How are you feeling about the Dolphins and will they make the playoffs? Five Things I Think I Think About the Miami Dolphins – Week 11 2024 – The Phinsidereupeptic (adj) – having or showing a good mood or disposition NFL roundup: Giants benching Daniel Jones – The PhinsiderAfter being drafted in the first round of the 2019 draft, Daniel Jones has not lived up to expectations. Glass Half Full: What is the Miami Dolphins ceiling? – The PhinsiderWith the offense humming and the defense coming around, the Dolphins might be a force to be reckoned with. Dolphins’ OT Richmon Webb named Pro Football Hall of Fame semifinalist – The PhinsiderCould Dan Marino’s blindside protector be the latest Miami Dolphins player to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame? NFL Power Rankings – Week 12: Time to Streak? – The PhinsiderThe Dolphins have won back to back games, and are starting to shoot up the rankings. Predictions For New England Patriots @ Miami Dolphins – The PhinsiderWe ask Miami Dolphins fans for their predictions for the upcoming game against the New England Patriots. NFL Week 12 winners picks: Browns vs Steelers Thursday night predictions, odds – The PhinsiderThe Washington Commanders visit their NFC East rivals the Philadelphia Eagles on Week 11’s Thursday Night Football.
