Series wins for Warriors and Bucks in
Ferguson Jenkins Jersey the NBA Playoffs, the 2022 NFL Draft gets underway, and its all over for Vegas as the Dallas Stars take NHL wild card.Building on the award-winning journalism of The Sporting News, youll get all you need to know in one handy, bite-sized podcast
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Taylor Guerrieri Jersey talking points in sports, and you can find it on,or wherever you get your podcasts.Here are the seven stories you'll hear about on Thursday, April 28, 2022:NBA: Steph
Adolis García Jersey Curry inspires Golden State to series win against DenverNBA: Bucks rout Bulls in Game 5 to make the Eastern Conference semifinalsNFL: as NFL: Cardinals agree to contract extension with quarterback Kyler MurrayMLB: NHL
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San Francisco and Los Angeles square off for a divisional rivalry in what is arguably the NFL's best division with playoff ramifications on the line.The 49ers (4-6) probably don't stand much of a chance of making the playoffs this season, and have lost three games in a row by at least 10 points, but they alreadybeat the Rams in Week 6. While San Francisco is fresh off a bye week, it has only won one game in the past seven seasons immediately after a bye. Rookie wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk has been one of the few offensive bright spots as his five touchdowns are the fifth most among rookies. The offense could receive a needed boost in the form of Raheem Mostert and Deebo Samuel who both mi sed the 49ers' last three games.Los Angeles (7-3) is in first place of the NFC West by way of a
JT Riddle Jersey head-to-head tiebreaker over Seattle. The Rams have the No. 1 defense, allowing 291.9 yards a game but will be without leading tackler Micah Kiser and also safety Sean Rapp. Aaron Donald also hasn't had a tackle in the last two games, a frist for his career. Jared Goff has pa sed for 300 yards in three straight games, and hasn't reached that mark four consecutive times since the Rams' 2018 Super Bowl season.The Rams are let to lose a game in their new SoFi Stadium. Kyle Shanahan is 4-0 against
Cameron Maybin Jersey the Rams withJimmy Garoppolostarting at quarterback but0-3 with anyone else. Nick Mullens will start for San Francisco.Here's everything you need to know to watch the 49ers vs. Rams game on Sunday, including kickoff time, TV channels and a full Week 12NFL schedule.MORE: What channel is 49ers vs. Rams on today?TV channel (national): FoxTV channel (San Francisco):KTVUTV channel (Los Angeles):KTTVLive stream:Fox Sports app,Chris Myers and Brock Huard will call the game in the booth with Jennifer Hale reporting from the sidelines. Former NFL Vice President of OfficiatingDean Blandino is the rules analyst.For those looking for radio information, the Rams broadcast can be heard on SiriusXM channel 227, or the 49ers broadcast can be heard on SiriusXM channel 380.In Canada, viewers can watch 49ers vs. Rams on DAZN, .49ers vs. Rams start timeDate:Sunday, Nov. 29Kickoff: 4:05p.m. ET49ers vs. Rams is scheduled to
Kyle Barraclough Jersey start at 4:05p.m. ET,one of two regional late games on Fox. Most of the California and parts of Nevada will have acce s to the game on Fox. The rest of the country will have acce s to Saints at Broncos.MORE: NFL schedule Week 12Thursday, Nov. 16GameTime (ET)TV channelTexans at Lions12:30 p.m.CBS, Washington at Cowboys4:30 p.m.Fox, Sunday, Nov. 29GameTime (ET)TV channelRaiders at Falcons1 p.m.CBS, Chargers at Bills1 p.m.CBS, Giants at Bengals1 p.m.Fox, Titans at Colts1 p.m.CBS, Browns at Jaguars1 p.m.CBS, Panthers at Vikings1 p.m.Fox, Cardinals at Patriots1 p.m.Fox, Dolphins at Jets1 p.m.CBS, Saints at Broncos4:05 p.m.Fox, 49ers at Rams4:05 p.m.Fox, Chiefs at Buccaneers4:25 p.m.CBS, Bears at Packers8:20 p.m.NBC, Monday, Nov. 30GameTime (ET)TV channelSeahawks at Eagles8:15 p.m.ESPN, Tuesday, Dec. 1GameTime (ET)TV channelRavens at Steelers8
Andre Dawson Jersey p.m.NBC, 49ers schedule 2020Week Date Opponent Kickoff time TV 1Sept. 13Cardinals4:25 p.m.FOX2Sept. 20@Jets1 p.m.FOX3Sept. 27@Giants1 p.m.FOX4Oct. 4Eagles8:20 p.m.NBC5Oct. 11Dolphins4:05 p.m.FOX6Oct. 18Rams8:20 p.m.NBC7Oct. 25@Patriots4:25 p.m.CBS8Nov. 1@Seahawks4:25 p.m.FOX9Nov. 5Packers8:20 p.m.NFL Network10Nov. 15@Saints4:25 p.m.FOX11-BYE--12Nov. 29@Rams4:05 p.m.FOX13Dec. 7Bills4:25 p.m.FOX14Dec. 13Redskins4:25 p.m.FOX15Dec. 20@Cowboys8:20 p.m.NBC16Dec. 26 or Dec. 27@CardinalsTBDTBD17Jan. 3Seahawks4:25 p.m.FOXRams schedule 2020WeekDateOpponentTime (ET)TV1Sept. 13vs. Dallas Cowboys8:20 p.m.NBC2Sept. 20at Philadelphia Eagles1 p.m.Fox3Sept. 27at Buffalo Bills1 p.m.Fox4Oct. 4vs. New York Giants4:05 p.m.Fox5Oct. 11at Washington Redskins1 p.m.Fox6Oct. 18at San Francisco 49ers8:20 p.m.NBC7Oct. 26vs. Chicago Bears8:15 p.m.ESPN8Nov. 1at Miami Dolphins1 p.m.Fox9Bye10Nov. 15vs. Seattle Seahawks4:25 p.m., Fox11Nov. 23at Tampa Bay Buccaneers8:15 p.m.ESPN12Nov. 29vs. San Francisco 49ers4:05 p.m.Fox13Dec. 6at Arizona Cardinals4:05 p.m.Fox14Dec. 10vs. New England Patriots8:20 p.m.Fox15Dec. 19 or 20vs. New York
Caleb Smith Jersey JetsTBD16Dec. 27at Seattle Seahawks4:05 p.m.CBS17Jan. 3vs. Arizona Cardinals4:25 p.m.Fox
Leading up to a crucial Week 15 game inthe
JB Shuck Jersey AFC playoff race with the Raiders on Saturday at 4:30 p.m. ET,Baker Mayfield's availability is in question. He was placed on the reserve/COVID list earlier this week, and we know several players have been inactive over the past two seasons -- especially lately -- after being placed on the list. So, will Mayfield play in Week 15? We have the latest updates below, as well as how start, 'em, sit 'em decisions could be affected by his absence. (Update: Cleveland's game against the Raiders has been moved to Monday at 4 p.m. ET.)For all the latest fantasy updates, follow us on Twitter .Is Baker Mayfield playing in Week 15?UPDATE:Cleveland's game against Vegas has been moved to Monday at 4 p.m. ET, giving Mayfield -- and other key Browns players -- a better chance at suiting up. However, given the timing of the game and lack of viable pivots if Mayfield remains out, he's not a recommended fantasy play this week.UPDATE 2:On Sunday, Mayfield said on social media that he's asymptomatic and hoping for a negative test on Monday morning, implying he will be able to play if he tests
Elias Diaz Jersey negative.UPDATE 3: Mayfield did not clear COVID protocols and will be OUT in Week 15. Nick Mullens will start, as Case Keenum is also on the reserve/COVID list.Mayfield reportedly , and tobe available for Week 15,he must have two negative tests 24 hours apart leading up to kickoff. As we are just two days away from Saturday, time is running out, but we can't know for sure what his status will be (although it's not looking great). Ultimately, no one in single-QB leagues is starting Mayfield to begin with, so this will have more of an impact on two-QB/superflex leagues
Jacob Stallings Jersey and single-game DFS gurus. Chances are, we'll know Mayfield'sstatus well before kickoff, so this shouldn't come down to the wire.VIKINGS-BEARS MNF: | What we can do is figure out how his absence would affect other players. Unfortunately, Jarvis Landry and Austin Hooper also ended up on the reserve/COVID-19 list, as well as head coach Kevin Stefanski. All that said, it's tough to really love anyone in the Browns pa sing game. Mayfield and his pa s-catchers haven't been strong fantasy options anyway, so even if one or all three play, it's not as if they are must-starts. Obviously, Nick Chubb can't
Lonnie Chisenhall Jersey be benched regardle s, especially since Kareem Hunt (ankle) is almost certainly going to be out.WEEK 15 MONDAY/TUESDAY UPDATES: | | If Baker does play, you can consider playing
Richard Rodriguez Jersey Hooper or Landry (especially Hooper since TE is thin and this is a great TE matchup), but again, they aren't sure things. Realistically, you're not playing any Browns' pa s-catcher if Baker is out, but at least considering one or more of them if he plays.Mayfield's direct backup is Case Keenum, but again, neither should be started in single-QB formats. We rank if he plays, but his floor is much lower given the uncertainty surrounding his team.
It's win-or-go-home time (or win-and-get-a-better-playoff-seed time) in fantasy football leagues, and if you need streamers from the waiver wire
Darren O'Day Jersey , now's the time to go all-out for pickups. There's no reason to hold back your FAAB bids or high waiver claims, and heading into Week 13, there are several interesting players worth adding, including potential starting RBs Devontae Booker, Frank Gore,and Cam Akers, breakout WRs Michael Pittman Jr., Nelson Agholor, and Breshad Perriman, streamer TE Trey Burton, and sleeper QB Kirk Cousins.Aswe do every week, let'sbreak down the top pickups and project how much of yourFAABbudget you should bid on them. Again, if you have exce s money and are in desperate need at a certain position (especially if you're on the playoff bubble), you should be willing to go over the projected bid amounts.DOMINATE YOUR LEAGUE: ! Week 13 Fantasy Football FAAB targets: Waiver wire QB pickupsRyan Fitzpatrick(MIA). Fitzpatrick is an obvious waiver pickup this week going against the Bengals. He didnt light it up by any means against the Jets, but he got 19 points in four-point per pa sing touchdown leagues. Thats serviceable. Give him a full week of practice with the first-team offense to prep for a bad defense and hell be fine once again this week. The ceiling may not be there if the Dolphins opt to run a little more, but many fantasy owners will be looking to stream Fitz, especially if they haveTom BradyorTeddy Bridgewateron bye. Proj. FAAB Bid: 7-8%Kirk Cousins(MIN). Hes on a heater right now. He has at least 290 pa sing yards in three straight games with 11 touchdowns and just one interception in his past four outings. The matchup this week against Jacksonville hasDalvin Cooks name written all over it, but so did last weeks game and Cook got a little beat up and Cousins was part of the ma sive comeback win.The Jags have allowed five straight quarterbacks to
Anthony Santander Jersey throw for multiple touchdowns against them. I fully expect Cousins to continue that trend on Sunday. Proj. FAAB Bid: 6-7%WEEK 13 PPR RANKINGS: | | | | | Week 13Fantasy Football FAAB targets: Waiver wire RB pickupsCam Akers(LAR).It pains me to say this because Ive been aDarrell Hendersontruther all year, but its starting to feel like the tide is shifting in Akers favor. He found the end zone for the second straight game (after yours truly predicted he wouldnt find the end zone at all in 2020) and had nine carries for 84 yards. Its worth mentioning that 61 of those yards came on one carry, so on the other eight carries he averaged fewer than three yards per carry, but it was still far better than what Henderson did. Sean McVay has said he expects more from Akers as the season comes to an end, so hes definitely worth stashing and po sibly worth starting at the flex in deeper leagues. Proj. FAAB Bid: 14-15%Benny Snell(PIT).Hes available in about 75 percent of leagues, and hes the presumed lead back for the Steelers against the Ravens on Wednesday afternoon (which I know doesnt pertain to Week 13s scoring). While its believed that Snell is the lead back for this game, Im not completely sold. I do think theres a chance we see moreAnthony McFarland, but Snell is probably the safer option based on opportunity. You cant use either in Week 12 if they
Dan Straily Jersey re on waivers, but if Conner is forced to mi s Week 13s game against Washington (now scheduled for Monday), then Snell could be a nice addition off waivers. Proj. FAAB Bid: 8-10% (but see how this duo shakes out on Wednesday)Frank Gore(NYJ).Oddly enough, in terms of opportunity the rest of the season it feels like Gore might be our safest option. The ceiling is minimal. However, if hes getting double-digit carries and a few catches per game, then he can return 10-to-13 points in PPR formats, and if he miraculously finds the end zone, then we shouldnt have no quandaries with that. Adam Gase is enamored with Gore, so in deeper leagues, Im not ruling out the agele s wonder. Proj. FAAB Bid: 7-8%Brian Hill(ATL).Just two weeks ago the Saints held the Falcons to just 52 rushing yards, and Hills coming off a pretty weak performance this past Sunday. He only collected 55 rushing yards on 13 carries, but 13 carries are still flex-worthy. Weve seen Hill in smash spots before and knew this was a risk. Hell carry even more risk this week against New Orleans, but the opportunity will still be there. Atlantas 4-2 since firing Dan Quinn so hopefully we see a different offense on Sunday and keep your fingers cro sed thatJulio Jones (hamstring) is active for Atlanta. Proj. FAAB Bid: 6-7%Devontae Booker(LV).Admittedly, Ive been off the Booker Bandwagon, but I have seen his name pop up in previous waiver questions Ive fielded. It wasnt so much the talent I didnt like as much as it was the opportunity.Josh Jacobshas seemingly proven that he cant handle a lions share of the carries, as hes now nursing an ankle injury. Jacobs still has a decent shot at playing next week against the Jets. However, if youre a Jacobs owner, it certainly doesnt hurt to give his handcuff a look on waivers. Proj. FAAB Bid: 6-7%Jordan Wilkins(IND).Nyheim Hineshad
Jonathan Schoop Jersey a much better day and more carries on Sunday than Wilkins did, but Im not writing off Wilkins just yet. Of courser, this all depends on ifJonathan Taylor (COVID) has to mi s this weeks game against Houston, as well. Its a great matchup for both Hines and Wilkins, as the Texans allow 154.7 rushing yards per game (second worst in the league). Hines might still be out there, and if he is then hes the preferred target. But Wilkins still touched the ball nine times last week, so if Taylors inactive, then this is a good spot for Wilkins to get extra work. Proj. FAAB Bid: 5-6%DeAndre Washington (MIA). This iscontingent on whetherMyles Gaskin (knee) andSalvon Ahmed (shoulder) are active this week. Against the Jets last week,Patrick LairdandMatt Breidaboth put the ball on the ground, and after that Washington handled most of the carries. Sure, they mostly came with the game in hand, but ball security is job security. Its a gamble, but the Dolphins have a great matchup this week against one of the worst defenses in the NFL in Cincinnati.Matt Breidais also worth a look, but you may have to pay a little more for him. Proj. FAAB Bid: 3-5%WEEK 13 STANDARD RANKINGS: | | | | | Week 13 Fantasy Football FAAB targets: Waiver wire WR pickupsMichael Pittman(IND).If were go
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Antonio Brown is stirring up more drama for the Buccaneers.Midway through the third quarter, Brown removed his shoulder pads and jersey against the urgings of teammates, according to the Fox broadcast andran to the locker room shirtle s, seemingly removing himself from the game
Colorado Rockies Jersey .In the proce s, Brown threw articles of his gear into the stands and threw up the peace sign to fans.MORE:Antonio Brown just kinda left Rivers McCown (@riversmccown) Antonio Brown just took jersey and gear off and threw it into crowd. Celebrating and ran to the locker room. No idea what is going on. Jake Brown (@JakeBrownRadio) Brown wasn't being checked for an injury, nor was he seemingly benched in the matchup. Fox reporter Jen Hale said there was some sort of kerfuffle surrounding Brown, but nothing out of the ordinary. The Buccaneers did not provide an
David Dahl Jersey explanation about Brown's abrupt exit until after the game, when Bruce Arians addre sed the situation:"He (Antonio Brown) is no longer a Buc," Arians said. "That's the end of the story. Let's talk about the guys that went out there and won the game."He is no longer a Buc, thats the end of the storyBruce Arians on AB: The Action Network (@ActionNetworkHQ) Bucs have no official word on why Antonio Brown pulled off his jersey and shirt and ran into the locker room
Daniel Murphy Jersey during the game.
Jon Gray Jersey Won't be addre sed by the team until postgame. Greg Auman (@gregauman) Here's a sideline view of what happened with Antonio Brown. Looks like Mike Evans was trying to calm him down but nothing was going to help. AB took everything off and left.(video via ) Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) In the game, Brown had three catches for 26 yards. The Jets had a 17-10 halftime lead over the Buccaneers, and extended it to 24-10 in the third quarter. Tom Brady and the Bucs would come back and win the game 28-24.At the time of Brown's exit, the Buccaneers were marching down the
Ian Desmond Jersey field and eventually scored a touchdown to tighten the score to 24-17.Brown is no stranger to controversies. In 2021, the league suspended Brown for misrepresenting his vaccination status. The Buccaneers, who were reportedly mulling releasing Brown, opted to keep him but apparently, not for long.
Austen Williams Jersey Let's hope you didn't sleep on the potential of impact players being taken on the final day of the . Although most of the picks from Round 4 through Round 7 are made by teams with the idea of improving their roster depth, some come away with prospects who have star potential.This year, there are11late-round selectionsthat stood out as great values on underrate games. Here's a look at what teams got the biggest steals:MORE 2021 NFL DRAFT: | | Chargers: Chris Rumph II, EDGE, Duke (fourth round, No. 118 overall)Los Angeles needed a smart, productive pa s rusher to boost its3-4 under Brandon Staley and Rumph, once a first-round consideration, can be highly effective in the scheme. He's also underrated against the run and can develop better coverage skills. He is solid support behind Joey Bosa as the team tries to replace Melvin Ingram.Ravens: Tylan Wallace, WR, Oklahoma State (fourth round, No. 131 overall)Baltimore made it a point to get more technically sound with stronger, steadier more reliable po se sion receivers for Lamar Jackson. After using its first first-rounder on Minnesota wideout Rashod Bateman, it landed a slightly different style of target, as Wallace has a little big-play burst with the capacity to help well wth quickne s and toughne s in the slot.Texans: Brevin Jordan, TE, Miami (fifth round, No. 147 overall)The Texans had a rough entry into the draft with third-round QB Davis Mills but rebounded well to gain needed a sets for the pa sing game. Following up big po se sion receiver Nico Collins from Michigan, Houston landed Jordan, an athletic target who should have gone sometime in the second round. For whoever's starting at QB, the Texans would be smart to deply Jordan as wideout hybrid more son than a blocker, given he has rare speed and quickne s with which to stretch the field from his position.MORE:Patriots: Cameron McGrone, LB, Michigan (fifth round, No. 177 overall)New England has been great at recognizing the ideal Swi s Army knives for Bill Belichick's defense over the years. McGrone, from the same program as Chase Winovich, will contribute right away as an active run stopper in their second-level rotation. At the same time, the Patriots will groom McGrone
Hunter Strickland Jersey behind Dont'a Hightower with rapid development of his immense potential as a pa s rusher and cover man.49ers: Talanoa Hufanga, S, USC (fifth round, No. 180 overall)The 49ers got cornerback/safety hybrid Ambry Thomas late on Day 2 as a backup and contingency plan for long-time first-round starter Jimmie Ward. They were smart to also think about the future of the position manned by Jaquiski Tartt, in e sence strong
Daniel Hudson Jersey safety. Hard-hitting safety turned GM John Lynch couldn't ignore Hufanga this late. Hufanga flies upfield against the run and keeps getting better as a blitzer. He also has the effort, smarts and instincts to grow into an a set in coverage.Jets: Hamsah Nasirlideen, S, Florida State (sixth round, No. 186 overall)The Jetsslow-played it with options at safety on Day 3 to help replace the lingering production void of Jamal Adams next to Marcus Maye. Their previous two picks related to the position were underwhelming, but Nasirildeen, who should have gone on Day 2,changes all of that. He is a thumping clean-up man against the run in the Kam Chancellor mode and he can also use his size and strength well in coverage, where has nice room to improve.BIGGEST NFL DRAFT STEALS:|||Vikings: Jaylen Twyman, DT, Pittsburgh (sixth round, No. 199 overall)The Vikings made a great pick with Twyman's linemate, ideal 4-3 defensive end Patrick Jones, on Day 2. Tapping into Pitt's front four again on Day 3 was another coup for GM Rick Spielman. Twyman has a quick twitch and nimblefeet for a 301-pound frame. He also uses his hands and strength well. He can turn into a very disruptive interior pa s rusher.Steelers: Quincy Roche, EDGE, Miami (sixthround, No. 216 overall)Roche lasted way too long on the board after his Hurricanes first-roundpa s-rushing teammates, Jaelan Phillips (Dolphins) and Gregory Rou seau (Bills). Roche tore it up for Temple with 13 sacks in 2019 before cooling off for Miami. The Steelers, who lost Bud Dupree opposite T.J. Watt, got a valuable situational rusher
Roenis Elias Jersey with Alex Highsmith promoted to a regular role. Don't be surprised if Roche should producewell immediately on third downs.Bears: Dazz Newsome, WR, North Carolina (sixth round, No. 221 overall)The Bears got a strong second- or third-round value here, taking care of their need for an upgrade at slot receiver. They have been disappointed in Anthony Miller, and Newsome provides them with another big-play element for rookie QB Justin Fields to complement Allen Robinson and Darnell Mooney. Newsome doesn't get the job done with traditional speed, but rather quickne s, smarts and
Anthony Rendon Jersey burst in space after the catch.Chiefs: Trey Smith, G, Tenne see(sixth round, No. 226 overall)The Chiefs capped off an impre sive offseason rebuild of their offseason. After landing left guard Joe Thuney in free agency and left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. in a trade, Smith is an impre sive interior follow up to fellow rookie Creed Humphrey. Smith should have gone in the second round and will at first be a valuable swing backup with a chance to start at right guard down the line.Eagles: Patrick Johnson, OLB, Tulane(seventh round, No. 234overall)The Eagles got a good versatile playmaker made for their new-look defense with Jonathan Gannon. Johnson combines natural size and strength with high effort to go with his agility. He can handle tight ends in coverage and also get upfield quickly as a pa s suher.
Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson insisted he was always returning to the field after emerging from the locker room late in the fourth quarter to lead a dramatic comeback against
Gregor Blanco Jersey the Cleveland Browns.Jackson fueled the Ravens, who rallied past the Browns 47-42 in a see-sawing contest on Monday that boosted Baltimore's NFL playoff hopes.Justin Tucker converted a 55-yard field goal with two seconds remaining after star team-mate Jackson who mi sed most of the final quarter having exited the field due to cramps inspired the drive during the closing stages.The Ravens (8-5) surrendered their lead in Jackson's absence, going from 34-20 ahead to
Keon Broxton Jersey 35-34 down before a nail-biting conclusion against the Browns.MORE:"I was still coming out no matter what," the reigning MVPreplied when asked if he would have returned had backup quarterback Trade McSorley not been injured. "It was crunch time. It's win or go home for us right now.""And here comes Lamar Jackson!"A moment we'll all remember. Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) "I was trying to come back," Jackson said. "I was stretching I was getting ticked off cause I seen it wasn't going our way . . . then I seen my guy Trace McSorley go down. I was ready to come back on the field, I got ticked off, and there it
Yoenis Cespedes Jersey was.""I had everything in me," Jackson, who was 11-of-17 pa sing for 163 yards and a touchdown, while he rushed for 124 yards and two TDs on nine carries, said. "I got back to myself. I was cramping. I got that right."I was cramping, and I had to get some IVs in me. I didn't pull a Paul Pierce. I was cramping.""I didn't pull a Paul Pierce. I was cramping." Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) Jackson was referring to the former Celtics star's legendary "Wheelchair Game" in Game 1of the 2008 NBA Finals, when he had to be carried off the court before returning to lead Boston's comeback victory over the Lakers.Baltimore's five rushing touchdowns
Noah Syndergaard Jersey and Cleveland's four combined for the equal most in a single game in league history, according to NFL Research. The only other two games with nine combined rushing touchdowns happened in 1922.It marked the first game in
Jay Bruce Jersey NFL history in which both teams rushed for four-plus touchdowns, per Stats Perform.AUTOMATUCKTune in: Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) On Tucker's last-gasp heroics, Jackson added: "Making my job a lot easier and the offense's job a lot easier. We don't have to score a touchdown."Some coaches don't trust their kickers, we put all our faith in ours. We just had to get him in position to kick the field goal and then automatic Tuck -- he did the rest."
Week 6 was the first NFL week with byes during the 2021 season and also a rather good week of picks and predictions both against the spread and straight up. That doesn't mean much unle s it's followed up by a strong Week 7.With the number of bye teams going up to six the Bills, Cowboys, Vikings, Steelers, Chargers and Jaguars it's a smaller slate of only 13 games. That lighter schedule still features three ma sive double-digit favorites, balancedbyfour games where the spread is set at four or fewer points.So this week, it's mostly either navigating a lopsided matchup or figuring out who's a slightly better bet in a close one. Here's our latest shot at picking against the numbers, from another thirsty Thursday to another manic Monday:(Game odds courtesy of ) NFL POWER RANKINGS:Raiders, Steelers rise again; Browns, Bears, Seahawks slide for Week 7 NFL picks against the spread for Week 7Game of the Week: Bengals at Ravens (-6.5, 46.5 o/u)Sunday 1 p.m. ET, CBS The Bengals' offense is clicking everywhere around Joe Burrow. The Ravens also can move the ball in more ways with Lamar Jackson. Last week, there was no worthy Jackson duelagainst the Chargers, but that comes vs. another second-year
Randy Johnson Jersey first-round QB counterpart. The Bengals won't mind throwing often on Baltimore's D and Cincinnati cannot slow down the Ravens' best downfield targets. This game comes down to a key drive in the fourth quarter with Jackson coming through at home.Pick: Ravens win 27-23 but fail to cover the spread.Game of Midweek: Broncos at Browns (-4.5, 42.5 o/u)Thursday 8:20 p.m. ET, Fox, NFL Network, Amazon Prime Video The Browns have become an injury me s, from quarterback, running back, offensive line, wide receiver to defense. After being forced
Tim Beckham Jersey to deviate from their rushing offense and complementary pa s defense ways, they can get back on track vs. a Denver D that's starting to struggle in many areas under Vic Fangio. The Broncos will hang around with more steady play by Teddy Bridgewater, but in the end backup Case Keenum, a former Broncos starter, delivers a much-needed gritty win to push Cleveland back above .500 at home.Pick: Browns win 23-20 but fail to cover the spread.Result: Browns win 17-14 but fail to cover the spread.Lock of the Week: Rams (-16.5, 50.5 o/u) over LionsSunday 4:05 p.m. ET, FoxMatthew Stafford's revengegame will look like a lot of revenge games, except the sacrificial lambs are the visitingLions. Detroit hit a wall against Cincinnati at home last week, simply breaking down from winle s frustration after several previous closegames. The Rams are relentle s in smashing bad teams, something they proved against the Giants. They will treat Honolulu Blue like Big Blue, with their defense prepared to keep things rough on former QB Jared Goff.Pick: Rams win 38-14and cover the spread. Upset of the Week: Eagles (+2.5, 50.5 o/u) overRaidersSunday 4:05 p.m. ET, FoxThe Eagles came through as our Week 5 upset special. The Raiders did the same in Week 6. So it's only natural to involve both of the teams here in this space this week. You can bet Philly fans will storm Las Vegas and make it feel like a home game for Jalen Hurts. The Raiders will continue to playliberated, inspiring ball without Jon Gruden, but the Eagles' defensive looks won't help Derek Carr, who will face plenty of interior pre sure. The Raiders will struggle with Hurts' mobility and his diverse weapons in the ideal pa s-happy attack against them.Pick: Eagles win 27-21.Panthers (-3, 42.5 o/u)at GiantsSunday 1 p.m.ET, FoxThe Panthers can make things look bleaker in New York for their former GM, Dave Gettleman, by showing that former Giants a sistantMatt Rhule can also outcoach the overmatched Joe Judge. Daniel Jones with a shaky offensive line, no Saquon Barkley
Seattle Mariners Jersey and limited healthy wide receivers is a bad combination against an aggre sive Carolina pa s-rushing defense that goes hard after turnovers. Sam Darnold won't provide much pretty on the other side, but the Giants are shorter on playmakers beyond former Panthers cornerback James Bradberry.Pick: Panthers win 20-16 and cover the spread.Washington Football Team at Packers(-11.5, 47o/u)Sunday 1 p.m. ET, FoxWFT hung around with the Chiefs early thanks to a couple fluky takeaways, but the Chiefs still pulled away in a second-half laugher. The Packers have been rolling since their annual meltdown game in Week 1 and there's nothing to suggest Washington's underachieving defense will slow down anything Aaron Rodgers wants to do. Taylor Heinicke is now in over his head and won't do nearly enough in catchup mode.Pick: Packers win 34-17and cover the spread. Chiefs (-4, 57.5) at TitansSunday 1 p.m. ET, CBS The Chiefs' offense cleaned up those big mistakes and went big play all over Washington in the second half of last week's game, with Patrick Mahomes finding perfect harmony between Tyreek Hill, Travis Kelce,
J.P. Crawford Jersey Mecole Hardman and the running game. The Titans are coming off having their hands full against the Bills on a short week but they can have much more succe s running with Derrick Henry this week, therefore opening up the pa sing game well for Ryan Tannehill. Mahomes outduels Tannehill, but the latter plays well enough to tighten up the margin by the end.Pick: Chiefs win 31-27 but fail to cover the spread.Falcons(-2.5, 47o/u) at DolphinsSunday 1 p.m. ET, FoxThe Falcons went to London and won in Week 5. The Dolphins went to London and lost in Week 6, and didn't even get a bye. Look for Atlanta to have figured out more offensively under Matt Ryan coming out of needed early rest and taking it to a Dolphins' defense in which the weakne ses far outweighthe strengths for Brian Flores. Miami has more short-to-intermediate pa sing succe s with Tua Tagovailoa to Jaylen Waddle and Mike Gesicki, but Ryan has better answers with Calvin Ridley and Kyle Pitts.Pick: Falcons win 23-20 and cover the spread.Jets at Patriots (-7, 42.5 o/u)Sunday 1 p.m. ET, CBSThe Jets lost to the Patriots at home 25-9 in Week 2 so their goal will be looking more respectable on the road after a post-London Week 6 bye. The Patriots had another tough home lo s vs. the Cowboys after a similar walk-off result against the Buccaneers in Week 4. It's shocking to see that 0-4 record for New England in Foxborough after only six weeks. The Patriots regroup well defensively and Mac Jones shows more confidence
Mike Marjama Jersey opposite Zach Wilson.Pick: Patriots win 20-10 and cover the spread. Texans at Cardinals (-18, 47.5 o/u)Sunday 4:25 p.m. ET, CBSDo you think this game means something to J.J. Watt and DeAndre Hopkins? Without their former leader Deshaun Watson suiting up for the Texans, here's their lone chance to beat the Lone Star team they probably expected to never leave in their caree
The Cowboys were outplayed by the 49ers in their frustrating 23-17 home NFC wild-card playoff lo s Sunday. But Dallas didn't do itself any favors, either, with a sloppy performance that went against all its strengths from a 12-5 regular season.While the No. 6-seed 49ers advanced to play the No. 1-seed
Frank Thomas Jersey Packers in the divisional round, the Cowboys will wonder for a long time why they fell short of the Super Bowl for a 26th consecutive year, this time under coach Mike McCarthy.MORE: There were high expectationsthat Dallascould challenge Tampa Bay and Green Bay for the conference championship this year. Instead, the team will have to settle for winning the weak NFC East and havingnothing else to show for it.The biggest disappointment was the fact that quarterback Dak Prescott and the defense didn't provide enough of the big plays that were frequent in 2021. After leading the league in enforced penalties against them (127, more than sevenper game) in the regular season, the Cowboys doubled down on their lack of discipline in the playoffs, with the 49ers accepting 14 penalties for 89 yards.MORE: Here's a look at how it all went wrong for the Cowboys, one key element at a time:Dak Prescott: Under pre sure and pre singThe Cowboys stay on point when they aggre sively spread the ball around in the pa sing game, but Prescott needs get into a rhythm with all of his receivers. Top wideouts Amari Cooper, CeeDee Lamb and Cedrick Wilson were targeted a combined 25 times against the 49ers; only 12 turned into receptions. Lamb was a non-factor in the pa sing game with only one catch as the 49ers' coverage focused on him most.Prescott did get going in the second half as threw a lot totight
Joe Crede Jersey end Dalton Schultz, but that was a sign the 49ers' cornerbacks were winning their tough matchups. Dallas didn't hit on any ofthe downfield shots it needed to complete.MORE: The offensive line was pushed around and Prescott had to rush throws or buy time out of the pocket. Left guard Conor Williams remained a liability and led the penalty onslaught. Right tackle La'el Collins didn't get a break until 49ers end Nick Bosa (concu sion) was knocked out of the game. Prescott was sacked five times as his team consistently operated behind the chains. He felt like he needed to do too much and was all over the place with some pa ses.Dallas is getting long in the tooth at its best positions on the front five see left tackle Tyron Smith and right guard Zack Martin and it needs to focus on upgrading from Collins and Williams (who is a pending free agent). The unit has also struggled to open holes in the running game, which, in turn, has put a greater onus on Prescott to be sharp with his pa sing and do a lot of the rushing dirty work.Prescott's arm and athleticism place him in special company, but he still needs personnel help and greater balance in play-calling to be at his best. The Cowboys didn't adjust well enough to what the 49ers were doing until it was too late. Being so one-dimensional and predictable vs. such a versatile and multiple opponent doesn't turn out well in the playoffs.The defense: Losing up frontWhile Prescott took those five sacks, running backs Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard combined for only 45 yards rushing on 16 carries. In contrast, the Cowboys didn't drop Jimmy Garoppolo once with linebacker Micah Parsons and the rest of their pa s-rushers. They also allowed the 49ers to rush for 169 yards and two touchdowns. Garoppolo needed to pa sfor just 3 more yards than that to win.Defensive coordinator Dan Quinn got a lot out of a deep line rotation in the regular season, but whoever was in the Cowboys' front four Sunday got manhandled. The unit also mixed in rare penalties such as defensive holding on
Michael Kopech Jersey a run play and illegal use of hands to the face. Demarcus Lawrence and Randy Gregory had good seasons on the edge, but the top three tackles Neville Gallimore, Carlos Watkins and Osa Odighizuwa were weak points and the 49erssmashed them with their interior blockers.NFL DRAFT 2022: The Cowboys are built to play complementary defense, to pin their ears back and
Luis Robert Jersey go after the quarterback from many lookswith Parsons leading the way from the second level. Cornerback Trevon Diggs has a nose for takeaways, but he was also burned plenty this season as he needed to cover for too long. Dallas was 16th in rushing yards allowed per game, but the 4.5 yards per carry allowed was tied for eighth-highest.When it comes to pa sing, pa s-rushing and pa s coverage, and the Cowboys are in good spots. But those a sets don't mean much when the basics of "run the ball" and "stop the run" are not even in play. The defensive side of the trenches also needs upgrades, with Watkins and Gregory also unsigned for 2022.Parsons and Diggs were such dominant game-changers, it was easy to forget that their flash covered up many of the Cowboys' substantial personnel i sues at other key positions.The discipline: Yellow and white flagsThe Cowboys put together a dominant tuneup performance in Week 18 with Prescott starting against the Eagles. They seemed ready, in the sweet spot between rest and rust, to turn in a complete, methodical effort against the 49ers. They delivered the opposite of that.Racking up penalties is the surest sign of being unprepared for a game. There were a lot more mental and physical mistakes in key situations. That's on Quinn, offensive coordinator Kellen Moore and, of course, McCarthy, who suddenly went from secure at the end of Year 2 to wondering a little for Year 3.Kyle Shanahan's 49ers were several stepsahead; they anticipated the Cowboys' game plan and did everything to rip holes in it. The Cowboys got caught in countermeasures. They got more tentative, and there were shocking breakdowns on the smallest of plays.MORE: The worst moments, the onesthat cost the Cowboys a comeback, were back-to-back plays late in the third quarterwhen Dallas trailed only 16-7. Prescott threw a questionable, desperate pa s into coverage on second-and
Blank Jersey -28 that turned into an easy interception for 49ers cornerback K'Waun Williams. One play later, wide receiver Deebo Samuel weaved untouched through the Cowboys' defense for a 26-yard TD run.That sequence summed up the afternoon.Prescott was stuck in a unfavorable situation after a wide receiver's penalty for anillegal low block and a subsequent sack. Trying to slow Samuel, theCowboys were blown off the ball up front and got lost and out of position in the back seven.Was it Prescott? The defense? The penalties? A weak resume inside the division? The play-calling? McCarthy?Yes to all of that. Therewere several reasons for the Cowboys failing and falling a touchdown short. They have a lotmore work to do and manykey decisions to make in the offseasonto come back stronger and get over the divisional playoff hump.
Tom Brady has been all serious busine s in getting the Buccaneers into the playoffs for the first time in 13 years as their starting quarterback in 2020. But you can bet he's thoroughly enjoying the fact the Bucs have a chance to win Super Bowl 55 while his former team, the Patriots,
Blank Jersey have been eliminated from the playoffs for the first time since 2008It might be easier to think Brady is having a chuckle over his current fruitful situation in Tampa Bay vs. how bad Bill Belichick had it in NewEngland without him thanks to his long-time go-to tight end Rob Gronkowski being by his side. Brady convinced Gronkowski to come out of brief retirement and go along for what's been afun ride playing in the NFL again.You might remember the story Gronkowski sharedduring his time as FoxNFL studio analyst. There was a point that Belichick and the Patriots were about to trade Gronkowski to the Lions. Gronkowski explained he avoided the trade by saying he was retired before he actually was.MORE: After Gronk shared the story, he let out the most infectious laugh, proud of how he pulled one over on the Patriots. There should be plenty of "ha ha has" in how he's also enjoyed proving, along with the Brady, that he was nothing close to worn down or washed up from his last days in New EnglandSince Gronkowski retired, the Patriots have had an absolute
Gary Sanchez Jersey void at receiving tight end for two seasons. Since Brady and Belichick broke up, they botched up QB to the point of being defiant in avoiding the most important position in NFL free agency and the draft. They strung along Jarrett Stidham as the offseason starter, only to end up with a broken-down Cam Newton.Belichick needed one of his best seasons as a general manager to overcome losing the intangibles of Brady, who lifted up the Patriots through a variety of offensive problems near the end. That didn't happen. He spent the offseason investing heavily on versatile defensive players young and old, at the same seeing stalwarts such as Dont'a Hightower and Patrick Chung opt out and healthy veterans show their age.Other than Jakobi Meyers, once Julian Edelman went down, the Patriots were operating with a remedial receiving corps for Newton. Their backfield and
Luis Severino Jersey offensive line were wrought with injuries, and there were not enough suitable replacements. And somuch for the genius of Belichick and Josh McDaniels suddenly transforming recycled, weary Newton into lost gold.MORE:Brady, meanwhile, saw the red and pewter carpet rolled out for him in Tampa Bay. Jason Licht is a strong candidate for executive of the year, but really, Brady also was a pretty good GM, much better than Belichick in 2020. His needs for a new right tackle andmore running back depth were met. Even with the Bucs' strengths at tight end and wide receiver, he convinced them that both Gronkowski and Antonio Brown were nece sary additions, which has been proved fortuitous.Brady's arrival put in motion a Super-lookingteam, while Belichick ended upoperating with a shell of a team, especially offensively. With completely new surroundings with his first new coach
Mariano Rivera Jersey , Bruce Arians and his first new offense with Byron Leftwich, getting Gronkowski was critical. He had someone with whom he could re-create his Patriots' offensive glory days, to ease the transition without the burden of sometimes limiting "Patriot Way."Brady and Gronk, who didn't need any of what the Buccaneers were paying them to be set for life financially,are two rare can't-hang-it-up superstars who do it for the love the game and the love of competing on the highest level. The Patriots near the end didn't give them that opportunity, and once they grinded together to victory in Super Bowl 53 over the Rams, it was clear they needed to go elsewhere to get that winning feeling
Masahiro Tanaka Jersey again.They also needed to have fun playing the game again. The Bucs are reaching their potential of a video-game offense backed by a well-rounded defense,just in time for the playoffs. There also are some young and hungry personalities around them, which have been ideal for rejuvenating Brady and Gronkowski.Brady and Gronkowski won't be resting until their team gets another crack at Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs. But enjoying their succe s so far has to be a little sweeter knowing they did it their own way away from Belichick and the fast-fadingPatriots. Imagine how much they would laugh if they earn a ring without the Patriots, too.