50 NFL Observations
We are big into the “take” world in sports media these days. You have shows such as First Take, First Things First. You HAD Undisputed until that got cancelled. Its just the way of the world. With Week 9 officially over, the season is halfway done. Now while we aren’t into the “take” industry, it is ok to make smart observations about what we’ve seen so far during the year. Each season has their surprises and disappointments, and this season is like no other. The worst to first is alive and well in multiple scenarios. The MVP conversation is hot. So much to discuss. In no particular order, here we go…
We are big into the “take” world in sports media these days. You have shows such as First Take, First Things First. You HAD Undisputed until that got cancelled. Its just the way of the world. With Week 9 officially over, the season is halfway done. Now while we aren’t into the “take” industry, it is ok to make smart observations about what we’ve seen so far during the year. Each season has their surprises and disappointments, and this season is like no other. The worst to first is alive and well in multiple scenarios. The MVP conversation is hot. So much to discuss. In no particular order, here we go…
Getting Rid of Stefon Diggs was the perfect medicine for the Buffalo Bills - Who knew that getting rid of a guy who demanded the football would lead to Josh Allen having the fewest turnovers since he’s been in the NFL?
Turns out Coaching Matters for Rookie QBs - the proof is in pudding. Look at Jayden Daniels. Then look at Caleb Williams. Bo Nix has had more “moments” so far in the NFL than Williams. The difference is clear. Matt Eberflus is a waste of space while Quinn and Payton know what they’re doing.
The Kansas City Chiefs three-peat will run through their defense - It truly doesn’t matter that the Chiefs got Hopkins. It doesn’t matter that Pacheco is coming back. Unless your blind, you will understand that the Chiefs offense is missing something. And I don’t think the fix is coming this season. And that’s ok. Their defense has been their rock this year. And that’s after losing Sneed.
The Arizona Cardinals are dangerous - This is the team that can come up from behind and knock teams off the horse. The Cardinals were expected to be awful this year, and they are currently in the NFC West lead through nine weeks. Who saw that coming? The best part. The offense hasn’t lit the world on fire yet. Kyler hasn’t been amazing, and MHJ is still finding his way. Wait for December…
Jayden Daniels is more Lamar Jackson than RG3 - Yes. You are watching Lamar lite in Washington. Daniels has been electric from Week 2 on, and the Commanders are 7-2! He made another brilliant pass to ice the game against the Giants last week. I can’t wait for this team to play Philadelphia. Speaking of…
The Eagles record is good, but something is missing - Yes, they’ve won 4 in a row now. Hurts has been way better the last 4 games than the first four games. But if you watch this team consistently, they just don’t have the it factor that some of these other teams have. Don’t be surprised if the Eagles make a splash at the trade deadline.
Zac Taylor is on the hot seat - No one is talking about it. Not yet anyway. But the Bengals are 4-5. This is a make or break year for them. Joe Burrow is having his best season since their Super Bowl year. If Cincinnati doesn’t capitalize on this, Taylor might be the surprise fire at the end of the season.
The Atlanta Falcons are the second best team in the NFC - Have you noticed the Falcons are 6-3? Many people may not have. They just got done dismantling the Cowboys and are in firm position in the NFC South with two wins over Tampa Bay already. Kirk Cousins has remedied the offense. Bijan is being used properly. London has taken a step. After Detroit, there is a mosh pit for the best challengers are. Don’t look now but…
Don’t let TNF fool you; The New York Jets season is over - does anyone really believe the Jets are going to run the table with an interim head coach? Their remaining schedule includes Arizona, Miami (2x), the LA Rams and Buffalo. You’re telling me you don’t see two losses there. Sure, Miami is 2-6, but they just took Buffalo to the final seconds in Buffalo. The Rams are healthy, Arizona is good. I didn’t mention Indy and Seattle who can screw around and decide they wanna be good on a Sunday. Its not happening folks.
The Texans are only 6-3 because of the division they play in - Look at the numbers. Houston has not played up to snuff this year. This team was exciting and fun last year. They seem very tight this year. The AFC South is a dumpster fire. They’re taking advantage of it. They are 3-0 in the division and haven’t played Tennessee yet! I wouldn’t be surprised if they got walloped in the Wild Card Round this year.
Zero Offensive Creativity is getting Coaches Fired - Look what’s happened already; Robert Saleh and Dennis Allen have been let go. Two of the lamest offenses in the NFL. The Raiders fired their offensive staff. Lame. Who else runs some truly pathetic offensive schemes. The Jaguars, for one. Bears another. And the Dallas Cowboys. Thus, to my next point…
Mike McCarthy has lost the Cowboy locker room - This isn’t hard to tell. Dak Prescott was caught saying “we suck” Sunday in Atlanta. The clock is ticking, but make no mistake; McCarthy will be fired at seasons end. Are we taking bets on how much money Jerry throws Belichick’s way?
Drafting Project Rookies in Round 1 of the NFL Draft continues to be a heinous decision - The latest culprit - Anthony Richardson. He was recently benched in favor of Joe Flacco. Other project QBs who have flamed out include Trey Lance, Kenny Pickett, and soon to be Daniel Jones. Will Levis was taken at the top of the second round and has already been benched. When will these GMs learn?
Sam Darnold has started the regression - Darnold lit the world on fire. And everyone is rooting for him. But, the poor decision making is starting to creep back up. Now the Vikings won’t turn anywhere else (they’re 6-2), but there where early conversations in Minnesota about what to do next season if this continued. There is no discussion. Go to JJ.
The discourse around Mike Tomlin needs to end - I don’t care that Pittsburgh hasn’t won a playoff game in half a decade or so. This man has never had a losing season. He continues to take middling rosters and put them in contention every year. He knew exactly what he was doing when he traded for Russ. When everyone was screaming at him for benching Fields (except for me of course), Russ came in and the offense was noticeably better. The Steelers are the dark horse in the AFC.
Derrick Henry will challenge the rushing touchdown record - I said it before the season began as a bold prediction. Right now, Henry has 11. If he gets one every game the rest of the year that’s 19. But you know that Henry will have one monster game where he goes for 4 scores. He won’t beat the record, but him finishing with 21-23 is absolutely in play.
Jacksonville loves hiding behind the mask of their NFL counterpart - If it wasn’t for the Panthers and David Tepper, the spotlight would be on how horribly run the Jaguars are. Trent Baalke and Doug Peterson have gone from 9-8 (and were 2-6 at one point that season) to 9-8 again (no improvement) and now 2-7 through 9 games. The players brought in this offseason haven’t contributed at all (Gabe Davis, Ronald Darby, Darnell Savage, Erik Armstead) amongst others. Shad Khan said this was the “best Jaguars team ever assembled.” Go figure.
There’s nothing wrong with Patrick Mahomes - It doesn’t matter that he isn’t throwing TD passes. He will make amazing plays in December and January and we will forget.
This Baker Mayfield is here to stay - what else needs to be said? Baker is laser focused and before his two stud receivers got hurt, he was playing at a top five level. The Bucs found a hidden gem and the Bake show will live on in Tampa for some time.
Seattle is wasting time with Geno - I’m penciling in the Seahawks to cash in their remaining chips from the Russ trade this off-season to get into the top 5 of the NFL Draft. Geno was a nice story, but its run its course. The INT in the end zone Sunday was horrendous. Seattle isn’t going anywhere with him. Watch out for them this off-season.
The Dolphins need to be blown the F*** up - This team isn’t going anywhere currently constructed. They just aren’t. Miami is just playing house NFL style right now. This team was supposed to challenge not only Buffalo, but KC for an AFC crown. Even with Tua back, they lost to Arizona at home and Buffalo AGAIN. Massive, sweeping changes need to be done in Miami if they want to truly compete.
Lamar becomes a Top 10 All-Time QB with a 3rd MVP - Do you know how many people have won the MVP award three times? Do you? I’ll tell you. Four. Those names? Jim Brown, Johnny Unitas, Brett Favre and Tom Brady. That’s it. That’s the list. Jackson would go into uncharted waters with a 3rd MVP, which is COMPLETELY in play.
Dan Campbell might be a unanimous COTY winner - We do understand what the DETROIT LIONS are doing is amazing right? They’ve scored 28 touchdowns the last six weeks and have 24 incompletions. Let that sink in. They run, they pass, they sack, they create turnovers. They go for it on 4th down. Unanimous.
NFL Officiating continues to be a disaster - Nothing really needs to be said here. Every week its something else.
The NY Giants are officially in “QB Away” territory - The pieces are there. Nabers is a stud. Tracy is very good. The defensive line is a problem. If the Giants can get a QB and fix their secondary, I think they may be the next team to come up.
The Titans are in the worst position of any team in the NFL - They put their bags into Will Levis and that failed. The offensive line is dreadful. Their prized acquisition of the off-season L’Jarius Sneed has been a disaster. Calvin Ridley has been…not good. Hopkins is gone. The offensive is still a mess. They’re going to be starting over again next season. Not good at all.
The Rams can run the table - When healthy, the Rams are still a good team. The defense is super underrated, and they can strike at any time on offense. The spark from the Super Bowl team is still there…
I haven’t mentioned the 49ers yet - And there’s a reason. They haven’t been good. They haven’t been bad. Are they that reliant on CMC? We will find out.
TJ Watt is in the conversation for the best player in the sport - Is there a player more valuable? Seriously. This dude is just it. Wrecks every game and does what’s needed to win. He should be in the top 3 when the NFL releases their Top 100 next offseason.
Brian Thomas Jr. is the next big WR - Talk about always open? I didn’t see this coming, and I don’t think anyone else did either. BTJ is fast, runs great routes, and catches damn near everything. Jags got a star on their hands.
And Quinyon Mitchell is the next Jalen Ramsey - Mitchell was highly touted out of Toledo. He’s been everything and then some since been drafted. He gets put on the top receivers every week and just does damage. Excellent rookie.
DeShaun Watson may never play again - And he really doesn’t deserve too, but color me shocked if at some point in the off-season the Browns and Watson mutually agree to part ways and void most of the contract and maybe pay it under the table. Cleveland doesn’t want him back. And the NFL always gets their way.
The Green Bay Packers are overrated - Yes, I said it. The Pack are severely overrated. They had an opportunity Sunday to tell the Lions that they weren’t all that. At home. In bad weather. In Detroits first non-dome game. And they got stomped. Jordan Love hasn’t been good this season. Bad turnovers. They may miss the playoffs entirely.
Jim Harbaugh - Yes, Jim Harbaugh. Just ask yourself one question. Have the Chargers “Chargered” once this season?
The Commanders are an EDGE rusher away - I expect Washington to be active come deadline time. They need another pass rusher. You can’t squander opportunities when they come. There’s a realistic possibility this team can make a run to the NFC title game. Need to pounce.
Alvin Kamara should be traded, but won’t be - This is the easiest thing to decipher. Kamara has no business being in NOLA this year. The Saints are non competitive and Kamara is playing at a high level. They just fired Dennis Allen. But Kamara is the face of the Saints. If they really want to pursue the overhaul, they would trade him. But they won’t.
There may be up to 10 HC openings come “Black Monday” in January - We already have the Jets and the Saints. Add in the following guarantees; Jaguars, Bears, Raiders, Cowboys. That’s six. I can also see the following team moving on if things don’t swing their way: Bengals, Eagles, Browns and Patriots. I think Mayo and Pierce have downright horrible this year.
There will be six new playoff team this season - Mark em down: Bengals (yup!), Chargers, Commanders, Vikings, Falcons and Cardinals!
The 49ers will miss the playoffs - This will be the shocker of 2024.
Josh Allen will lead the Bills to the Number 1 seed and get his first MVP - it is written.
The NFL has had a decrease in quality this year - its ok to say it. The play this year in the league has been subpar. And they need to figure it out. The lack of practices in July and August, coupled with no one playing int he preseason has brought this on. The product isn’t as good. Listen to Tom Brady.
And the ratings in the Playoffs will reflect that - Call this a hunch.
The AFC Playoff teams will be: (1) Bills, (2) Chiefs, (3) Ravens, (4) Texans, (5) Steelers, (6) Chargers, (7) Bengals
The NFC Playoff Teams will be: (1) Lions, (2) Falcons, (3) Eagles, (4) Rams, (5) Commanders, (6) Vikings, (7) Cardinals
Going into the Playoffs, the Lions will be the consensus favorites to win the Super Bowl - I never thought I’d type those words when I was 18.
Cincinnati will be the hottest team going into the playoffs and take out the Chiefs on wild card weekend; which sets up a Burrow and Allen showdown in Buffalo - We need some fresh blood in the AFC. Lets talk it into existence!
AFC Title Game: (3) Ravens @ (1) Bills - The top two QBs in the MVP conversation will square off. It will be both Allen and Jackson’s second time in the title game, with both of their losses the first time coming from Mahomes.
NFC Title Game: (2) Falcons @ (1) Lions - I think these two teams are pound for pound the best in the NFC. I almost put Philly here, but they have too much inconsistency for me.
Super Bowl 59 will feature two franchises that have never hoisted a Lombardi Trophy - As good as the Falcons are, the Lions are the clear favorites in the NFC. Hell they might even coast to the Super Bowl. Detroit learns from their mistakes in last years title game, and this one is at home. In the AFC, you need to be able to withstand four quarters. I don’t think Baltimore did enough in the off-season, and their defense has been suspect. Allen and the Bills have been a complete team this year. And the fact they got embarrassed by Baltimore in the regular season is in the back of their heads. Bills and Lions Super Bowl!
The long, long wait is over…for the Lions.
2024 NFL Predictions
After seven grueling months, we finally made it back. All the way back. The NFL season starts in two days. I can almost shed a tear. Everyone’s a fan - and they are looking for reasons to believe. It’s just natural. Just like players, fans will find whatever they need to motivate them. “People don’t believe in us.” “This player wasn’t in the Top 100.” You know the drill. So the one thing that everyone looks forward to this time of year is the predictions. Everyone looks for that one TV personality who says your team is going to do it. They’re gonna make their move. It’s the only validation we need.
After seven grueling months, we finally made it back. All the way back. The NFL season starts in two days. I can almost shed a tear. Everyone’s a fan - and they are looking for reasons to believe. It’s just natural. Just like players, fans will find whatever they need to motivate them. “People don’t believe in us.” “This player wasn’t in the Top 100.” You know the drill. So the one thing that everyone looks forward to this time of year is the predictions. Everyone looks for that one TV personality who says your team is going to do it. They’re gonna make their move. It’s the only validation we need.
Last season, the guys at PSP did a pretty ok job at predicting the season. Richie correctly predicted the Super Bowl, only to pick the wrong winner. I predicted the Bengals/49ers, so I will give myself an incomplete. And John, we knows - we know he was wrong though. I think he picked the Jaguars and the Eagles…what a mush. But here we are, at it again. Prediction time. We each picked everything. We know you’ll love it.
**Denotes Playoff Teams
Joe’s Predictions
AFC
East
Jets (11-6)**
Bills (10-7)**
Dolphins (9-8)
Patriots (3-14)
North
Bengals (13-4)**
Ravens (11-6)**
Browns (7-10)
Steelers (6-11)
South
Jaguars (10-7)**
Texans (10-7)**
Colts (9-8)
Titans (6-11)
West
Chiefs (12-5)**
Chargers (7-10)
Broncos (6-11)
Raiders (4-13)
NFC
East
Commanders (10-7)**
Eagles (10-7)**
Cowboys (8-9)
Giants (4-13)
North
Lions (12-5)**
Bears (9-8)
Packers (8-9)
Vikings (6-11)
South
Falcons (10-7)**
Bucs (9-8)
Panthers (5-12)
Saints (4-13)
West
Rams (11-6)**
49ers (11-6)**
Cardinals (9-8)**
Seahawks (5-12)
PLAYOFFS
Conference Championships
AFC - Chiefs defeat Bengals
NFC - Falcons defeat Lions
Super Bowl
Chiefs defeat Falcons
First 3-Peat EVER!
John’s Predictions
AFC
East
Bills (11-6)**
Jets (11-6)**
Dolphins (7-10)
Patriots (4-13)
North
Ravens (13-4)**
Bengals (11-6)**
Browns (9-8)
Steelers (3-14)
South
Jaguars (11-6)**
Texans (11-6)**
Colts (8-9)
Titans (3-14)
West
Chiefs (13-4)**
Broncos (10-7)
Chargers (6-11)
Raiders (5-12)
NFC
East
Eagles (12-5)**
Commanders (10-7)**
Cowboys (9-8)
Giants (4-13)
North
Packers (13-4)**
Lions (11-6)**
Bears (10-7)**
Vikings (5-12)
South
Falcons (13-4)**
Panthers (9-8)
Bucs (5-12)
Saints (3-14)
West
49ers (12-5)**
Rams (10-7)
Cardinals (8-9)
Seahawks (3-14)
PLAYOFFS
Conference Championships
AFC - Chiefs defeat Ravens
NFC - Packers defeat 49ers
Super Bowl
Packers defeat Chiefs
Richie’s Predictions
AFC
East
Jets (12-5)**
Bills (10-7)
Dolphins (7-10)
Patriots (1-16)
North
Ravens (14-3)**
Bengals (13-4)**
Browns (12-5)**
Steelers (6-11)
South
Texans (12-5)**
Jaguars (11-6)**
Colts (7-10)
Titans (4-13)
West
Chiefs (15-2)**
Raiders (7-10)
Chargers (5-12)
Broncos (3-14)
NFC
East
Eagles (14-3)**
Cowboys (10-7)**
Giants (5-12)
Commanders (4-13)
North
Lions (11-6)**
Packers (11-6)**
Bears (10-7)
Vikings (2-15)
South
Falcons (13-4)**
Bucs (8-9)
Saints (8-9)
Panthers (3-14)
West
49ers (15-2)**
Rams (11-6)**
Cardinals (9-8)
Seahawks (4-13)
PLAYOFFS
Conference Championships
AFC - Chiefs defeat Texans
NFC - Falcons defeat 49ers
Super Bowl
Chiefs defeat Falcons
2024 Awards Season
MVP
Joe Burrow
Josh Allen
OPOY
Bijan Robinson
Amon-Ra St.Brown
DPOY
Josh Hines-Allen
Derek Stingley Jr.
OROY
Caleb Williams
Marvin Harrison Jr.
DROY
Jared Verse
Jonah Elliss
COTY
Dan Quinn
DeMeco Ryans
Week 7 Power Rankings
We are firmly not entrenched in the meat of the NFL season. Last week we talked about teams finding their identities, but now it seems teams are starting to separate themselves from the pack. There were some big time performances last week including the Browns and Jets amongst others, but teams we thought we were out on, we might need to reconsider. The public has spoken and the overwhelming majority enjoyed the format last week, so we roll on putting teams in tiers. Lets get to it!
We are firmly not entrenched in the meat of the NFL season. Last week we talked about teams finding their identities, but now it seems teams are starting to separate themselves from the pack. There were some big time performances last week including the Browns and Jets amongst others, but teams we thought we were out on, we might need to reconsider. The public has spoken and the overwhelming majority enjoyed the format last week, so we roll on putting teams in tiers. Lets get to it!
POWER RANKINGS - WEEK 6 (October 12th-October 16th)
Eyes on the Prize!
Detroit Lions (+3) For the first time in a while, we have a new number one. Both 5-0 teams went down this week, but the Lions (!) are the model of consistency in the NFL. Another test passed as they went into Tampa Bay and dropped the Bucs on cremesicle day.
San Francisco 49ers (-1) Drop the Niners one spot with their shocking loss to Cleveland with PJ Walker under center. The Browns do flaunt the best defense in the league, and they made Brock Purdy look like a human being. The injuries to CMC, Deebo and Trent Williams are concerning.
Kansas City Chiefs (+2) The only game they’ve lost this year is without their two best players not named Mahomes, and it was by one point. Everyone knows this team hasn’t fully clicked on offense yet, and they haven’t skipped a beat. The Chiefs are the new Patriots.
Miami Dolphins (-1) They drop due to no fault of their own. They continue to wear teams down with their offensive explosions every week. A small scare from Tyreek Hill, but he came back quickly. Jalen Ramsey’s 21 day window is officially open to help a defense that has struggled at times this season.
Knocking On the Door
5. Philadelphia Eagles (-3) Yup, I dropped the Eagles out of the first tier. This team has been flirting with getting away with bad play all year, and it finally bit them on Sunday. Another subpar performance from Jalen Hurts, who now has 7 INTs on the year, and the Eagles don’t seem like a team that SHOULD be 5-1. They have an absolutely monumental game against Miami next week on SNF at home.
6. Jacksonville Jaguars (+1) This team went to London for 10 days and beat two teams who had winning records. They come back to Jacksonville and beat another team with a winning record. They are starting to find themselves. A trip to the Big Easy on a short week (and their 3rd city in 12 days) will be a big test with T-Law questionable to play.
7. Dallas Cowboys (+3) It’s not surprising that the Cowboys came out after a big loss and won a game on the road against a tough opponent. It’s how they will respond coming off that big win.
8. Buffalo Bills (-) For the second week in a row, the offense struggled mightily. This week it was against the lowly Giants at home on the national stage. Buffalo went through a small rut last year. Is this that rut?
WHAT ARE YOU - AFC NORTH EDITION
9. Baltimore Ravens (+3) We all watched that game Sunday morning. The Ravens are the exact same team as last year. You can’t convince me otherwise. For all the hype Todd Monken got over the off-season, this team’s play calling in the red zone was abysmal. It needs to be better.
10. Cleveland Browns (+6) This defense is unreal. They took the key out of the machine that is the 49ers and made them look like kids playing at a park. They did JUST enough offensively to squeak out a win. If the offense can be good consistently, look out.
11. Cincinnati Bengals (+7) After all the talk about how bad the Bengals were, and they were that bad early on, they go into their bye week one game out of first place. Un-frickin-believable.
I SEE YOU FAM !
12. Los Angeles Rams (+8) The Rams take a major step this week as they win a game they were supposed to win. Cooper Kupp is officially back and the Rams will be in this thing in December.
13. Seattle Seahawks (-7) This was a measuring stick game for the Seahawks, and they failed. They couldn’t protect Geno and only mustered 13 points against a struggling Bengals team. The defense continues to impress and Devon Witherspoon is now the clear front runner for the DROY.
14. Houston Texans (+5) DeMeco Ryans has this team grinding every week. These guys feel like they are never out of a game and always punch their opponent in the mouth - that’s a dangerous combination.
15. New York Jets (+6) Everyone wrote the Jets off, but they continue to show that their roster was more than A-Rod. A big, big win at home against the Eagles (for the first time) has them riding high into the bye. Their next 3 games (Giants, Chargers, Raiders) gives them a huge opportunity to put themselves in fantastic position. Time for Zach Wilson to put on his big boy pants.
PRETENDER TERRITORY
16. New Orleans Saints (-5) This team has an all world defense but has nothing to offer on offense. And it’s mind boggling with so many good players. I wouldn’t be shocked if they beat Jacksonville Thursday or got blown out. I know one thing - this teams inconsistency will hold them back.
17. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-8) Unfortunately, this is an unserious football team. They had two big tests this year (Eagles, Lions) and failed both miserably as they were outscored 45-17 in both contests. Its a cute story, but the Bucs aren’t a serious threat in the NFC.
18. Pittsburgh Steelers (-3) The drop here has to do with teams that are clearly better than them (Rams, Texans, Jets). They can prove me wrong this week by beating said Rams on the road.
19. Los Angeles Chargers (-2) Another big loss for this football team. Conversations need to be had about this offense and Justin Herbert. I don’t care that he’s second in the NFL in game winning drives since his arrival. How many big wins does this team have since he’s been there?
THE ABYSS
20. Washington Commanders (+2) As up and down a team as you will see. If things check out, they will lose to the Giants this week. I don’t know what this team needs.
21. Atlanta Falcons (-7) I am officially out on Atlanta. Desmond Ridder suffered his first home loss and was pathetic on Sunday. The clock is ticking on him, officially.
22. Minnesota Vikings (+4) The Vikings have won two games in a row and after an 0-4 start, they find themselves one game out of a wild card spot. They also have the 49ers on deck. I believe their season is on the line Monday.
23. Las Vegas Raiders (-) Out of any team in the NFL, the Raiders have an opportunity to make a big splash here. They now sit at 3-3, but their schedule is extremely favorable. Jimmy G being hurt isn’t great, but Brian Hoyer isn’t the worst backup in the world. I will say, Hoyer vs. Bagent Sunday is riveting TV.
24. Green Bay Packers (+1) They were on bye this past week and hopefully got healthy. If they want a playoff spot, beat the Broncos on the road.
BACK TO REALITY
25. Indianapolis Colts (-12) With AR probably out for the season now, we got a glimpse of what life with Gardner Minshew is like. Not great Bob. The sad reality is that this team would’ve been a threat with a growing AR, but it looks like it will have to wait another year.
26. Tennessee Titans (-2) As long as this team refuses to come into this decade, they will be what they are. And right now, they have become the worst team in the AFC South.
WILL YOU GIVE CALEB WILLIAMS A STOCK IN OWNERSHIP?
27. Chicago Bears (-) Remember when the Justin Fields hype was going on for like 10 days? Me too. That ended Sunday as well his time being on the field with an injury. Tyson Bagent time!
28. New York Giants (+2) For the first time in a month they looked like they didn’t belong in the California Penal League.
29. Arizona Cardinals (-) Without James Conner and Budda Baker give me one reason to watch the Cardinals.
30. Denver Broncos (-2) The firesale is coming. Pre-Order your tickets at www.denverbroncos.com
31. New England Patriots (-) You guys think Mac Jones is cross-eyed?
32. Carolina Panthers (-) At least Bryce Young likes Spider-Man.
Week 5 Power Rankings
Yes, we skipped a week. Very, very busy time for the guys over at PSP. However, we are back at it and we are ready to reveal our new and improved power rankings for the beginning of October. Things are coming into focus now. Teams can be crossed off and we have raised our eyebrows at some other teams. The month of October is a true test though that separates the men from the boys.
Yes, we skipped a week. Very, very busy time for the guys over at PSP. However, we are back at it and we are ready to reveal our new and improved power rankings for the beginning of October. Things are coming into focus now. Teams can be crossed off and we have raised our eyebrows at some other teams. The month of October is a true test though that separates the men from the boys.
POWER RANKINGS - WEEK 4 (SEPTEMBER 28TH-OCTOBER 2ND
San Francisco 49ers (-) Through 4 weeks, the Niners are the most complete team in the sport. Brock Purdy has yet to lose a game and they haven’t played a game where they were in serious danger of losing. A big date with the Cowboys is on deck for Sunday Night.
Philadelphia Eagles (+2) People keep complaining the Eagles don’t look as good as last year. Why don’t you go back and look how Super Bowl losers do the following seasons. The list aint pretty.
Buffalo Bills (+5) The Bills are hammering opponents. A 37-3 drubbing of the Commanders and then dropping 48 on the Dolphins. This team is clicking after their week one hiccup. They travel to London to take on the Jags next.
Kansas City Chiefs (+2) Now these are the Chiefs that we know. After blowing out Chicago, they may have gotten bailed out by some shotty officiating at MetLife on Sunday. This is the best defense that Mahomes has ever had.
Dallas Cowboys (-3) The Cowboys take a small dip cause of their loss to Arizona, but they righted the ship when they handed Bill Belichick his worst career defeat. Their kryptonite is up next in San Francisco.
Miami Dolphins (-3) So they drop 70(!!!) on Denver, then give up 48 to Buffalo. The offense showed it can be tamed, but the defense needs to step up. Vic Fangio needs to earn his reputation. A get right game against the lowly Giants is up next.
Detroit Lions (+2) The NFC North goes through Detroit. That was proven emphatically in Green Bay last Thursday.
Baltimore Ravens (-3) After a weird loss to Indianapolis at home in Week 3, they shut down DTR and the Browns offense in a 27-3 wallop. Their rivalry with Pittsburgh continues in Week 5.
Seattle Seahawks (+9) The Week 1 one loss was an anomaly. This team is very, very good. They just get off playing Tecmo Bowl against the Giants on Monday Night.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (+1) Are the Bucs for real? It sure seems so. They are the best team in the NFC South right now by a wide margin. And if Baker plays like this, they may run away with that division.
Houston Texans (+18) This is obviously from the last two weeks, but what looked like a fluke win in Jacksonville was backed up by an ass kicking at home against the Steelers on JJ Watt day. CJ Stroud looks like the real deal.
Washington Commanders (-5) After getting beaten to a pulp by Buffalo at home, they showed up in Philadelphia taking the Eagles to OT. I believe in Sam Howell. Tomorrow night at home vs. Chicago should serve them well.
Jacksonville Jaguars (-3) The Jags got right in London after getting blown out at home by Houston. What looked like a cakewalk of a division now seems like a dogfight. The Jags defense is legit, but a huge test awaits them in Tottenham against the Bills.
Los Angeles Rams (+2) They blew a 23 point lead on the road, but super hero Puka Nacua saved the day. The thought of him and Kupp together is agonizing.
Cleveland Browns (-1) The Browns are going to be “that” team this year. When you have them pegged, they will surprise you - for better or worse. Even without Watson, you woulda thought this team would show up at home against Baltimore. Think again.
Tennessee Titans (+3) They already are “that” team. After getting blown out in Cleveland, they give their own ass kicking to Cincinnati with the same score. Just asking for consistency!
Los Angeles Chargers (-1) Khalil Mack had an outer world experience Sunday, and Justin Herbert may be playing the best ball of his career, but for the second week in a row the talent on this team bailed out a Brandon Staley moronic decision.
Green Bay Packers (-1) The vibes were good around this team after Week 3. They failed their first test miserably, and now firmly planted in the “wtf” of the NFL.
Indianapolis Colts (+2) A surprising win over Baltimore behind Gardner Minshew was cute. Anthony Richardson returned and has been great as a runner, but he’s also been exactly what we expect as a passer.
New Orleans Saints (-8) Back to back losses and an offense stuck in the mud is not exactly what you want. This problem was supposed to be corrected with Derek Carr. However, it seems like his sub-par play carried over from Vegas to Nola.
Atlanta Falcons (-8) Desmond Ridder and this passing offense may be the worst tin the league. Rumblings are starting whether Ridder is the guy or not.
Minnesota Vikings (+3) What a difference a year makes. After starting 0-3, they struggled to get a win in Carolina, but got it done. Things may get worse before they get better though as they travel to KC this week. Is a firesale coming?
New York Jets (-3) Zach Wilson just outperformed Patrick Mahomes. That is a fact. If we can get that Wilson again, glory be to the father. But the Jets need WINS. They can get one this Sunday at Denver.
Pittsburgh Steelers (+2) Kenny Pickett needs to take a hard look in the mirror. There’s a conversation to be had he’s been the worst QB in the league this year. The Steelers offense was supposed to be fun, and its been anything but.
Cincinnati Bengals (-10) It’s time to push the panic button here. The Bengals look lifeless. Burrow is clearly hurt, and Ja’Marr Chase is now speaking out publicly against the offense. They statistically have the two worst safeties in the sport.
New England Patriots (+1) Add Mac Jones to the list of QBs who may lose their job in 2023. But Bill Belichick is not without blame here. This team is his construction and they seem lightyears behind all three teams in their division.
Las Vegas Raiders (-5) The players join the movement in wanting Josh McDaniels fired. Its getting ugly in Vegas.
Denver Broncos (-) After getting a 70 burger dropped on them, the Broncos responded with a come from behind win against the worst team in the sport! Hallelujah. Now picture this - this team can be 2-3 if they beat the Jets at home Sunday.
New York Giants (-6) 2022 was a mirage. The offensive line is at a college level. Seriously. And Daniel Jones has regressed back to the Joe Judge days. Its hard pressed to see how this team isn’t 1-5 after games against Miami and Buffalo.
Arizona Cardinals (+2) The Cards have been competitive in all 4 games they’ve played this year, which is more than we can say for last year’s group. Josh Dobbs has proven to be a more than capable backup in the league. They wont give up and no team should take them lightly. Just ask Dallas.
Carolina Panthers (-1) Woo boy. It’s gonna be a long, long season in Carolina. Can’t block. Can’t catch. Can’t run. Can’t do a lot of things.
Chicago Bears (-1) The dumpster fire is on fire. Add Chase Claypool to the list of pathetic things that has happened to this franchise in a month.
2023 NFL Predictions!
The time is now. The 2023 NFL season starts tonight, where it will all begin in Arrowhead between the Lions and the defending champion Chiefs. Andy Reid. Patrick Mahomes. Dan Campbell. Amon-Ra St. Brown. Two high powered offenses. We really, really can’t wait. There is still time though to make our Perfect Spiral 2023 NFL predictions this season. We have broken down each division and how we think it will play out along with our playoff predictions and our Super Bowl champion! Each member of the Perfect Spiral Team were assigned different divisions, which you will see next to each division name. We know that each and every one of you will wholeheartedly agree with every single take we have, so this should be rather easy…right?
The time is now. The 2023 NFL season starts tonight, where it will all begin in Arrowhead between the Lions and the defending champion Chiefs. Andy Reid. Patrick Mahomes. Dan Campbell. Amon-Ra St. Brown. Two high powered offenses. We really, really can’t wait. There is still time though to make our Perfect Spiral 2023 NFL predictions this season. We have broken down each division and how we think it will play out along with our playoff predictions plus who we think will hoist the Lombardi. Each member of the Perfect Spiral Team were assigned different divisions, which you will see next to each one. We know that each and every one of you will wholeheartedly agree with every single take we have, so this should be rather easy…right?
AFC EAST - Joe Miglio
Miami Dolphins (11-6) LY 9-8
I will not go into these predictions thinking of injuries. I will not go into these predictions thinking of injuries. Ok, I let it out. Here’s the thing. When the Dolphins were healthy last year, they were the 2nd best team in the AFC. That is a fact. Tua was leading all quarterbacks in many offensive categories and the combination of Tyreek Hill/Jaylen Waddle was giving teams fits. Well, Miami goes into this season with mainly the same offensive unit as last season. They added De’Von Achane to the backfield, and he will absolutely help, but this team has a chance to do special things on offense. It’s’ the defensive side I want to focus on though. Bradley Chubb is now there for a full season. The Fins may have the most improved player on defense on their roster: Jaelan Phillips. This guy is just waiting to explode. And with Christian Wilkins also there, this defensive front has the chance to be really dominant. Their secondary scares me especially without Jalen Ramsey. But if this team can weather the storm, I think they can weather the rest of the AFC East.
2. New York Jets (11-6) LY 7-10
I have the Jets losing a tiebreaker here to the Dolphins based off division record, but that shouldn’t stray you away from this team. The Jets are going to be good. Very good. Put this into perspective. The Jets won 7 games with Zach Wilson as their quarterback. SEVEN. In steps Aaron Rodgers and the team is immediately better. Garrett Wilson is on the verge of superstardom and with the addition of Dalvin Cook, they may have the best 1-2 punch in the league at the running back room. Their defense was elite last year, and they are a year older now and in the system another year. Sauce Gardner and DJ Reed are the best CB tandem in the NFL while Quinnen Williams blossomed into a star last year. The defensive front all of the sudden has depth to it as well. This defense will be a force, and is still the alpha of this team. The defining factor of the Jets season will be its offensive line. At the tackle positions, the team a 38 year old at the left and a former first round pick who has played one game since 2020. That is not ideal. And Rodgers isn’t really a young pup anymore. If the Jets can get adequate play from their o-line, I stand by this prediction. The start to their season is absolutely brutal, but if they can come out of their first 6 games 3-3, this team can go on a serious run in the latter half of the year.
3. Buffalo Bills (10-7) LY 12-4
Oh, the Bills. Count me amongst the people who think their best days are behind them. Folks, this defense is old. The offense is in flux. Stefon Diggs isn’t happy. Last year, we were told Gabe Davis and Isaiah McKenzie would be possible stars - they weren’t. Josh Allen had the most collective turnovers in the league last year. He was also hurt. They got embarrassed at home in the playoffs. And yet, I have them at 10-7. Why? Because they have Josh Allen. And he’s one of the five best quarterbacks in the NFL. He will give the Bills a fighting chance every week. The 10-7 has a lot to do with two things. The first place schedule and the improved AFC East. This is a gauntlet for the Bills to take through. Can I see the Bills going 13-4 and being a Super Bowl threat? Yes. Can I also see them going 7-10 and missing the playoffs completely? Also, yes. SO I have them right in the middle.
4. New England Patriots (6-11) LY 8-9
The storyline this year will be Bill Belichick and whether or not he will want to come back for 2024. This team is simply not good. Mac Jones is not good. The receiving core is not good. Rhamondre is! And the defense will keep them in games. But they play the AFC West and the NFC East this season, and there is an argument to be made that they are the worst team out of all 12. Bill O’Brien is there to help Mac Jones after a dismal 2023, but that may even be a tall task. The schedule doesn’t do them any favors, and the Pats will struggle week in and week out to win games. Bill will always have them prepared, but the heyday of the Pats if officially done.
AFC NORTH - Richie Jones
Pittsburgh Steelers (14-3) Last Year (LY) 9-8
Starting off this division with a bang. In what will the biggest surprise out of any of the divisions covered, the Steelers have the chance to shock everyone. They bring with them the best coach in the division - Mike Tomlin, who has never had a losing season while rocking the black and gold. Obviously, we are expecting a massive, massive jump from Kenny Pickett. He had a rough go of it in his limited time last season, but he has had an entire off-season to make improvements to his game. Pittsburgh quietly has one of the better skill groups in the entire league. They boast a running back tandem of Najee Harris and Jaylen along with pass catchers Diontae Johnson, George Pickens and Pat Freiermuth. Expect Harris to have a bounce back season as the improvements to the quarterback, offensive line and skill group may impact him the most as he will not be asked to do everything that he might’ve during his short career thus far. And don’t forget about the defense. TJ Watt is a top 5 defensive player in the NFL when healthy. They have incredible front seven depth led by Cam Heyward, but also with players such as Alex Highsmith and Larry Ogunjobi. They also addressed the back end by drafting Joey Porter Jr. in Round 2 of the NFL draft whereas a lot of analysts and draft experts had him as a first round talent. Their schedule isn’t overly difficult either as they play the AFC South and NFC West. There is an argument to be made that Pittsburgh can pull together as good as an 7-1/6-2 record in those contests. The division is tough yes, but if everything we spoke about here hits, then the Steelers can have both a Top 10 offense and Top 10 defense.
2. Cincinnati Bengals (12-5) LY 12-4
The defending champs of the North have a legitimate chance at a Super Bowl this upcoming season. And that’s because of Joe Burrow - the best QB in the division. He is an easy top three quarterback in the entire NFL. For years now, the Bengals have been heavily criticized for Burrow’s lack of protection up front. It was apparent in the AFC Championship game last year against Kansas City. So one of the first things the Bengals did was go and poach KC’s left tackle from them and stick him on their line to protect Burrow. Cincy has an array of talent with Joe Mixon, Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase amongst others. They spent their first round selection of the draft on EDGE Myles Murphy out of Clemson to aid their pass rush against elite level QB play in the daunting AFC. There are some questions in the secondary, especially with the loss of both safeties, but the return of Chidobe Awuzie should lighten that a bit. Also look out for rookie Jordan Battle who was drafted on day two. But I would pay attention to that secondary this year as the Bengals play a first place schedule are going against the likes of Patrick Mahomes, Trevor Lawrence and Josh Allen as well as Lamar Jackson and DeShaun Watson. An easier schedule to start should bode well for them and get them into a groove early, but make no mistake - this team will be playing deep into January and even maybe February.
3. Baltimore Ravens (10-7) LY 10-7
Unlike previous Ravens off-seasons, Baltimore garnered a ton of headlines during the summer months due to the standstill they had with the Lamar Jackson contract negotiations. Thankfully, both sides struck a record deal (at the time) and all that seems to be behind them. Baltimore wasn’t done though, as they have assembled the best Wide Receiver group they have had since Jackson has been under center. Odell Beckham has arrived along with Zay Flowers. And with Rashod Bateman coming off injury and Mark Andrews returning, the Ravens have the tools to throw the ball all over the yard. The addition of Todd Monkey as OC should see Lamar’s passing numbers go up as well, potentially making the Ravens more two dimensional than they have been in years past. The issue here is on the defensive side of the football though. Baltimore felt a need to upgrade their pass rush, and did so by adding….Jadaveon Clowney. Clowney is ok, but at this point of his career he is more of a rotational piece than anything else. The injury to Marlon Humphrey will hurt as well. It also seems like they whiffed on the Patrick Queen selection a few years back. This team has not been able to find consistent EDGE play for some time now, and with the types of QBs in the AFC North, that could be a big problem. Talent along here will net them 6-7 wins, but will 10 wins be enough to secure a playoff spot in the AFC this year?
4. Cleveland Browns (9-8) LY 7-10
Out of all the teams in the AFC North, the Browns probably have the biggest upside and downside of any team. For the first time since 2020, DeShaun Watson has had a full off-season program. The Browns do have the best offensive line in this division, highlighted by Nick Chubb racking up rushing yards year in and year out. The line is led by Joel Bitonio and Jack Conklin, but also has guys such as Wyatt Teller and Jedrick Wills Jr. Speaking of Chubb, there is no Kareem Hunt anymore, so we should see Chubb on the field much more, which is a good thing. They also traded for Elijah Moore, who should garner the “Deebo Samuel” role for Cleveland. So, offense isn’t a problem. The EDGE rushers aren’t either, as Myles Garrett and newly acquired Za’Darius Smith should be a top ten tandem in the league. It’s really everything else defensively. Yes, Denzel Ward is there - but what else? The secondary is rounded out by Grant Delpit, Juan Thornhill and Greg Newsome - which is average. JOK and Anthony Walker are the linebackers. Ok? I’m not wowed. It’s not bad. It’s not stellar either. The thing that benefits the Browns the most is that they are playing a last place schedule. But the inconsistency from the team in years past has me thinking another .500 season is on the horizon.
AFC SOUTH - John McCarthy
Jacksonville Jaguars (13-4) LY 9-8
Folks, it’s time we just say it. The Jacksonville Jaguars have arrived. This team has come together from the turmoil that was Urban Meyer to the leaders that are Trevor Lawrence and Doug Peterson. This team started off slow last season but showed flashes before they ran off 5 straight wins to end the season and 7/8. They pulled off an improbable comeback over the Chargers and had the Chiefs on the ropes until Jamal Agnew fumbled a goal line play to put the game on ice. The addition of Calvin Ridley gives Trevor a clear number one guy who, last time we saw him, was one of the best in the game. The Jags have an impressive set of skill players and an ascending defense with guys such as Travon Walker, Tyson Campbell and Andre Cisco. They play in a really weak AFC South and play an even weaker NFC South this year. This is the year for Trevor Lawrence. A lot of quarterbacks break through in Year 3 - and I expect Trevor to take this team to unexpected heights.
Tennessee Titans (8-9) LY 7-10
Truly, I wanted to like the Titans more than I have them here. The schedule is light, Mike Vrabel is a hell of a coach, but this team just has the feel of being old. Derrick Henry, although successful again last year, quite possibly has the worst offensive line blocking for him in his career. DeAndre Hopkins was having issues even when healthy last year. Ryan Tannehill is just kind of existing also. The Titans spent two drafts in a row on quarterbacks - a third round pick in 2022 on Malik Willis and a second round pick in this past draft on Will Levis. I believe we will see possibly both, but definitely Levis this year. Tennessee will always be in games because of Vrabel and how well he prepares. And some games you will look at Tennessee and say “how did they win that game?” But, they are weeks where you will also say “how did they lose that game!” I think they will be in it until Thanksgiving until things start to go sideways.
3. Houston Texans (5-12) LY 3-13-1
It finally feels like Houston is headed in the right direction after years of turmoil. Demeco Ryans as the new coach seems like the right hire and a guy who is going to bring stability to the organization. They made a big move in this years draft; taking CJ Stroud second and then Will Anderson third overall. Houston potentially got two cornerstone pieces in the same draft. The complete antithesis to the Titans, this team is extremely young. There will be growing pains - and many of them. But one thing about being young is the fact that the team can grow together. Out of all the team not named the Jaguars in this division, the Texans have the best chance to climb the ladder quickly. They may win some surprising games this year. But the future is finally bright in Houston.
4. Indianapolis Colts (5-12) LY 4-12-1
Another young roster who doesn’t have a player over 30 on it. However, we are long gone from the days of Tony Dungy, Peyton Manning and Andrew Luck. This team has had drama all off-season; most notably with Jonathan Taylor. Taylor has an outstanding trade demand and is starting the season on the PUP list. Personally, we don’t think he plays another down in Indy. Jim Irsay has become the new Dan Snyder as the owner who can’t stay out of his own way. It was just a few short years ago this team was considered “close” to getting back to a Super Bowl, and now here we are. The Colts should have started rebuilding years ago, but instead they tried to band-aid the QB position for far too long with names like Philip Rivers and Matt Ryan who were way past their prime. Because of that, the roster suffered and now they are starting from square one. They do have one thing going for them though - Anthony Richardson. While we don’t agree that he should be starting right away, he will have highlight reel plays throughout the year, and he may be the best QB of the current class if everything breaks right. It’s going to be a little while before Indianapolis is competitive again though. And it sure won’t be in 2023.
AFC WEST - Joe Miglio
Kansas City Chiefs (13-4) LY 14-3
The mainstay of the division. As long as Patrick Mahomes is the QB of this division, this prediction will never change. There really isn’t much else needed to be said. We thought Tyreek Hill would nosedive this team. Nope. Remember a couple of years ago when people thought the league figured out Mahomes? That didn’t work. Hell, the script writers in the NFL office even put Mahomes on one ankle for the playoffs last year. He still won the damn thing. Chris Jones can hold out. Juju Smith-Schuster can go play in New England. Eric Bieniemy can call plays in Washington. Come January, Kansas City will be in the playoffs and looking for their 3rd title in six years.
2. Denver Broncos (9-8) LY 5-12
This prediction should tell you what I think of the arrival of Sean Payton. Payton is a great offensive mind. And he’s in Denver to do one thing: Fix Russell Wilson. The Broncos were struck by Murphy’s law last season where everything that could go wrong…went wrong. Wilson became the most unlikeable character in the entire NFL. From the “Dangerwich” to the cringy Tik Tok videos, even to the kid doing the bathrooms to touchdown ratio. It was just bad, bad, bad. And then, on top of that - injuries. Javonte Williams went down with an ACL. Tim Patrick got hurt. Jerry Jeudy got hurt. Bradley Chubb was shipped off to Miami. Just a bunch of things. Now, Payton is ruling the roost and it seems like things are off to a much better start. However, I think the 5-12 record last year was an indicator of how far this team has to come to be relevant again. A four game increase is a massive, massive jump. The Broncos secondary is solid, but their linebacker core is something to be desired. They are hurt again at the WR position as Marvin Mims is set to be WR2 in Week 1. I think a lot of things have to go right for this team to be a playoff team in 2023, but going 9-8 in Payton’s first full season is a really good step.
3. Los Angeles Chargers (7-10) LY 10-7
This was a tough one to make a call on. But with so many good teams in the AFC, a couple of teams will have to go sideways. Unfortunately, I think that’s the Chargers this year. There are good things going on here. Justin Herbert is 1A. He is a top flight quarterback and just got a massive extension to be there for the foreseeable future. They also found a gem in Asante Samuel Jr. and have a really good secondary. But there were issues with Austin Ekeler in the off-season with the trade demand, then the reneg of the trade demand. I’m not in love with their pass rush. Bosa is very good, yes. But Mack is another year older. Kenneth Murray hasn’t been the show stopper he was in college. Eric Kendricks was in Minnesota last season (that tells you all you need to know). And then worst of all is Brandon Staley. This guy should’ve been on the hot seat when he fumbled the bag in Week 17 of 2021. He got a pass for that. Then his team blew a 27-0 lead in the playoffs last year. Got a pass for that. This year, Staley will be the first Head Coach fired during the season. I can see it happening. When that happens, consider me back in on the Chargers. For now, I’m out.
4. Las Vegas Raiders (5-12) LY 6-11
When I initially did this, I wrote the Raiders in second place. And then I deleted it and put them in 4th. There are way too many question marks with this team. While Josh Jacobs is back and ready to roll, there is now an issue with Chandler Jones. There is something brewing with the happiness of Davante Adams. Darren Waller is gone and was replaced with Austin Hooper and Michael Mayer. On paper, the Raiders have good skill players - Jacobs, Adams, Meyers, Renfrow. But the offensive line is not good, and someone tell me the last time Jimmy G played a full season? On the defensive side of the football, Maxx Crosby is an absolute stud, but there is not much else there. Marcus Peters signed up in the off-season, and while he’s really always been feast or famine, there was a reason Baltimore didn’t re-sign him. And then much like LAC, the Head Coach is a problem. Josh McDaniels was not great in Denver, hoodwinked the Colts, and has now been a massive disappointment in Las Vegas. He is also on the hot seat going into the season. And if things go awry and the Raiders do in fact trade Davante Adams, they will also be looking for a new coach in 2024.
NFC EAST - John McCarthy
Philadelphia Eagles (12-5) LY 14-3
Many times when a team goes to a Super Bowl (win or lose), it is very difficult for a team to retain a lot of the talent they had the year before. And the Eagles did loose players - such as Miles Sanders (Panthers), Javon Hargrave (49ers), TJ Edwards (Bears) and CJ Gardner-Johnson (Lions). However, there is excitement in Philly as Howie Roseman may have actually improved the roster year over year. Roseman drafted Jalen Carter to replace Hargrave, Nolan Smith to replace TJ Edwards and traded for D’Andre Swift to replace Miles Sanders. This is a team that, on paper, is the best team in the NFL. The reason for the two game dip is due to the improvement of the New York Giants and the Washington Commanders. Although the Eagles went 4-2 in the division last year, the game they lost to Dallas was with Gardner Minshew playing QB. The Eagles will be one of the best teams in football and will be playing deep into the postseason.
2. New York Giants (10-7) LY 9-7-1
Pound for pound, the Giants may be one of the most improved teams in the NFL. A playoff team that added Darren Waller, Isiah Simmons and Bobby Okereke doesn’t really get worse. Daniel Jones is back on a 4 year deal while Saquon agreed to a one year contract to keep him in New York for at least another season. The Giants have better weapons than they did in 2022, and that includes rookie receiver Jalin Hyatt. The offensive line should be better, but it’s the defense that can take the real step forward. Another year of Kayon Thibodeaux, Leonard Williams, Dexter Lawrence and Azeez Ojulari as part of a front seven can be dangerous. The only thing that scares me here is that they are starting two rookie corners (Deonte Banks and Tre Hawkins) on the outside, and with teams like the Eagles and Cowboys boasting two very good 1-2 punches at receivers, there might be growing pains on the back end. Don’t get it twisted though, the Giants are improved from 2022.
3. Dallas Cowboys (8-9) LY 12-5
Time is running out in Big D. For the first time in a while, the roster in Dallas is not great. Gone are people like Ezekiel Elliott, Amari Cooper and Dalton Schultz from this offense. Brandin Cooks steps in. Tony Pollard is now ready for a full time role at running back. But the offensive line is significantly older, especially where Tyron Smith sits. He is seemingly injured every season now, and guys like Tyler Biadiasz and Terrence Steele aren’t the show stoppers Zack Martin is and Travis Frederick was. On defense, the line is as good as it gets with Micah Parson and Demarcus Lawrence. However, I am not so sold on what is going on with the rest of the defense. Leighton Vander Esch has chronic injury issues, and Trevon Diggs may be the most overrated player in the entire league. And then the big question: Dak Prescott. What is he? Is he the QB who threw 16 interceptions last year in less than a full season? Or is he 201 Dak and throwing the ball all over the field. There is definitely pressure there as Kellen Moore moved on to LA and Mike McCarthy took over play calling. Add McCarthy to the list of candidates on the hot seat. Winning a playoff game last year against a putrid Bucs team ain’t gonna cut it. And let’s not forget the Cowboys did trade for Trey Lance a couple of weeks back. Things could get interesting in Dallas.
4. Washington Commanders (7-10) LY 8-8-1
The biggest thing going into this season for Washington is the fact that Daniel Snyder is no longer the owner. The group led by Josh Harris now owns the team in DC, and the for the first time in a long time, there is hope in Washington. People forget this team 8-8-1 last year and finished a game out of the playoffs with Carson Wentz and Taylor Heinicke playing musical chairs all year. Now, it is Sam Howell’s team. Howell was drafted last season out of UNC on day three of the 2022 NFL Draft and will now get an opportunity to show the brass what he is. There are a couple of pieces on this offense. We know about Terry McLaurin, but how about Jahan Dotson? And Brian Robinson Jr.? Not to mention the defensive front, which stars Jonathan Allen and Montez Sweat accompanied by budding star Chase Young and reliable Da’Ron Payne. This team has pieces. But I’m putting the microscope on Ron Rivera. Riverboat Ron has had a go of it since his arrival in Washington, but I think this year is put up or shut up. With the hiring of Eric Bieniemy from Kansas City, I feel like Rivera has to watch his back. I don’t think the Commanders have to make the postseason, but I do think they need to show improvement. They will be frisky for sure, but ultimately may come up short because of the tough division.
NFC North - Richie Jones
Detroit Lions (11-6) LY 9-8
I think the Lions are here to stay folks. A team who two years ago gave away Matthew Stafford for Jared Goff is now talking about extending that very same QB. The Lions were exciting last year - on offense at least. They put up points all year. Amon-Ra St. Brown became a household name. The offensive line finally got recognized for being a top three unit. Jamaal Williams had 18 rushing touchdowns. The Lions get flexed into SNF on the last week of the season, and even though they were eliminated before the game played, they beat the Green Bay Packers in Lambeau to send Aaron Rodgers packing. It was a marvelous season; so much so that the NFL decided to make the Detroit Lions the first game of the 2023 NFL season. The aforementioned Jamaal Williams is now in New Orleans and D’Andre Swift is in Philadelphia. But they signed David Montgomery and spent their first (of two) round draft picks on Jahmyr Gibbs. The offense got better. They drafted Sam LaPorta to play tight end. The offense got better. They used their other first round pick on Jack Campbell. The defense got better. They plucked CJ Gardner-Johnson from the Eagles. The defense got better. They also drafted Brian Branch and signed Cam Sutton from Pittsburgh to play corner. The defense got better. See the theme? The Lions are better everywhere. And in a division where there is uncertainty around the three other teams, the only team that seems to know what and who they are…is the Lions.
2. Minnesota Vikings (10-7) LY 13-4
This may be the easiest prediction to make. A team that went 9-0 in one score games last year and had a -3 scoring differential will suffer a regression. The team improved offensively - if you can believe it, by drafting Jordan Addison to replace an aging Adam Thielen. They also decided to move on from Dalvin Cook and gave the keys to Alexander Mattison. Mattison had more explosion than Cook the past two seasons, but doesn’t have the knack to catch the ball like Dalvin did. Minnesota should still put up points offensively. But anyone with a pulse knows that the Vikings issues came from the defensive side of the ball. Yes, they re-signed Danielle Hunter. But they lost two of their better defensive players last year in Eric Kendricks (Chargers) and Patrick Peterson (Steelers). The biggest “addition” to this defense was the hiring of Brian Flores as the DC. Flores will bring an energy to the team they haven’t seen in some time, but we may be a year away before he can really inject his serum into this defense. Minnesota will still win games because they are just too talented on offense, but their defense will cost them games again. It’s also ridiculous to assume they will go undefeated again in one score games. I almost went a whole paragraph without mentioning Justin Jefferson - yea, he’s still really really good.
3. Green Bay Packers (8-9) LY 8-9
A lot of change this season in Titletown. Out is Aaron Rodgers and in is Jordan Love. The Packers have undergone and embraced a full youth movement with this team. Consider me skeptical on the Jordan Love hype train. The skill group is young, and I am not sure either Christian Watson or Romeo Doubs have “number one wide receiver” potential in them. Watson can’t take over a game like Davonte Adams used to do, or even a Jordy Nelson used to do . Their best offensive player is Aaron Jones, who they willingly split carries with. The offensive line has good for a while now, but David Bhaktiari is a man who has trade speculation swirling around him, especially to join Rodgers in New York if things go sour quick in Green Bay. With all these new pieces on offense coming together, it may be difficult for them to gel right away. And as a result, they may struggle this season. Very similar to the Houston Texans, the Packers future actually seems like it could go somewhere, but growing pains will happen. The defense will keep them in games, but the offenses inability to put up consistent points will hamper this team in 2023.
4. Chicago Bears (7-10) LY 3-14
We are expecting some improvement from Chicago this season. Bears fans are excited for Justin Fields upcoming third season - mainly because of his new toy, DJ Moore. Moore came over in a trade with the Panthers to be the new number one. The front office for Chicago is hoping that Moore can do for Fields with AJ Brown and Stefon Diggs did for Jalen Hurts and Josh Allen, respectively. They addressed the offensive line woes by drafting Darnell Wright in the first round at pick 10, but not really much else there. On the defensive side of the ball, the Bears signed Tremaine Edmunds and TJ Edwards to play linebacker while signing Yannick Ngakoue to be their premier pass rusher. The Bears will be improved on offense and defense, but the two things that question me is their secondary and the fact that they may be the worst pass defense in the league. And then, of course, the Justin Fields accuracy issues. We all know Fields can run, and he can escape pressure. But for Fields, it’s about being consistently accurate. There were way too many games last year where Fields was unable to be effective as a passer. That needs to change. And they are hoping that DJ Moore can have that effect on Fields.
NFC SOUTH - Joe Miglio
Atlanta Falcons (10-7) LY 7-10
Let me start off by saying this. There is always a team that goes from worst to first every season. Last year, it was Jacksonville. This year, it will be Atlanta. This team is oozing with talent. For years now, they have been ramping up this offense. First Kyle Pitts, then Drake London, and now Bijan Robinson. All three of those guys were top ten picks. The offensive line is a unit led by Chris Lindstrom. This is a team that ran the ball really, really well last year with Tyler Allgeier and Cordarelle Patterson. Their defense is sneaky as it’s led by Grady Jarrett and AJ Terrell. The signing of Jesse Bates III will absolutely help the back end. The reason Atlanta didn’t make the playoffs last year was because of sub-par quarterback play. I was clamoring for Atlanta to make a move for Lamar Jackson when he asked for a trade, but alas, that didn’t happen. Desmond Ridder was good at Cincinnati, even taking them to the CFP two years ago. But Ridder wasn’t good in his four game audition last season. That will need to change. All Ridder needs to do this season is be adequate in order for the Falcons to make a three game swing and be a 10 win team. 10 wins will be enough to get a division crown this year.
2. New Orleans Saints (8-9) LY 7-10
I really wanted to make the Saints win this division. But what I saw last year from Derek Carr was frightening. He looked like a guy that just lost it. It got masked because everyone was poking fun at Russell Wilson and Zach Wilson all year long, but Carr was not good. He gets a fresh start in New Orleans where the QB position has been a black hole since Drew Brees retired. They are without Alvin Kamara for their first three games where they play Tennessee, Carolina and Green Bay. None of those games are gimmes. The budding star on this team is Chris Olave. Last year, I had him as my number one ranked receiver (ahead of Garrett Wilson) and much like Wilson, Olave had a very good year with really lousy QB play. Carr is better than what the Saints had last year, so Olave should improve. I liked this defense a lot in years past, but I think it’s starting to get worn a bit. Cam Jordan seems like he’s been there since the Patriots dynasty, and Marshon Lattimore’s name has been in the news more than it has been on the field. They still have Demario Davis and Marcus Maye, but I’m not sure this team has enough energy and moxey to keep up with Atlanta. Their coach also doesn’t have any redeeming qualities. A bad season in New Orleans could mean a coaching change is coming.
3. Carolina Panthers (5-12) LY 7-10
The two game dip here comes at the expense of Atlanta and New Orleans being slightly better. Carolina has a lot of issues on their team right now. The offensive line is a mess, their WR group is already banged up, and I don’t trust their running game. Bryce Young was getting pummeled in the pre-season against second team defenses. Their defense is young and has some ballers on it, but this is a group that will be worse before they get better. I think them and Atlanta will be good in a couple of years. But right now, they aren’t there yet. Frank Reich is the right guy for Bryce Young though. Will be an interesting watch.
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-13) LY 8-9
If this team didn’t have the defense it had, it could actually go 1-16. With an aging Tom Brady last year, this team went 8-9 and were “crowned” NFC South champs. They got dismantled against Dallas in the playoffs, and it left a sour taste in everyones mouth. Fast forward a year, and Baker Mayfield is heading the ship now. Playoff Lenny is gone as well as Rob Gronkowski. The offense still has Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, but there is already talk about the Bucs shipping out Mike Evans for the right price. The defense is still good. Lavonte David, Jamel Dean, Antoine Winfield, JTS, Devin White, etc. can all ball. That will keep them in games. But I really think this team is going to struggle and can be shipping off players all year. And don’t get me started with Todd Bowles. He is the worst coach in the NFL. It’s not really close either. If Brandon Staley isn’t canned first during the season, Bowles is next in line.
NFC WEST - John McCarthy
San Francisco 49ers (13-4) LY 13-4
The creme dela creme of the NFL in terms of team building. After a run to the NFC title game, the 49ers brought back nearly everyone and added Javon Hargrave to the mix. As of this article, Nick Bosa is now the highest paid defensive player in NFL history as well, so he will be back for the season. This team is absolutely legit, and there is no real threat to them in their division. The only question mark is Brock Purdy. Mr. Irrelevant came in towards the latter half of last season and still hasn’t lost a game he both started and finished. He is already back from his partially torn UCL, but that will be something to monitor as the year goes on. San Francisco should be in it from beginning to end this year.
2. Seattle Seahawks (9-8) LY 9-8
A team that many people (including us) to be one of the worst teams in football last year shocked everyone when they ended up playing in January. We can’t dismiss the job that Pete Carroll has done in Seattle. After bringing a Super Bowl there, we saw the Legion of Boom dismantle, Russell Wilson cook and then uncook, trade Wilson to Denver and still be relevant. It’s a truly remarkable job. This is one of the deepest rosters in the league, and it’s a shame they play in the same division as San Francisco. Adding Jaxon Smith-Njigba to an already good receiver group of DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett really gives teams like the Bengals and Dolphins a run for their money for “best WR core”. But let’s not forget about the other first round pick - Devon Witherspoon. The corner out of Illinois is the most polished corner that came out of the draft with great length and speed to be a perfect future lockdown guy. He will man the secondary with Tariq Woolen. Bobby Wagner is back after a vacation in LA as well. Lastly, Geno Smith had an insane season last year - throwing 30 touchdown passes and completion over 70% of his passes. It was just remarkable. Even if Geno regresses a bit, the roster is deep enough to pick him up and find themselves playing in January again.
3. Los Angeles Rams (4-13) LY 5-12
Let’s do a quick exercise. Take out Aaron Donald, Cooper Kupp, Matthew Stafford and Cam Akers. How many of you can name three more Rams players on their roster? That’s how quick a team can be broken down. Now, the “f them picks” strategy did net the Rams a Super Bowl, so it’s not a failure. But these are the repercussions you now have to pay. This is a bad football team. And with Cooper Kupp already ruled out for Week 1 (and a possible IR stint) there is actually no positive thing going on with LA this season. Their defense is young and raw with Donald being the only guy teams need to worry about. The Rams are officially on Caleb Williams watch.
4. Arizona Cardinals (2-15) LY 4-13
This is the worst roster in football - bar none. It’s really an abysmal roster from top to bottom. The Cardinals cut DeAndre Hopkins. They gave away Isiah Simmons. Kyler Murray may not play this year. It was recently reported that Josh Dobbs is going to start Week 1 against Washington. Dobbs has been with the team less than a month. The three guys on this team are James Conner, Hollywood Brown and Budda Baker. Conner is a crazy fantasy value, but in terms of real NFL, he’s running behind a weak offensive line and will need loaded boxes every game. Baker will be traded at some point. To where, I don’t know. But he will be. He’s too good to keep on this team. It will be interesting to see what happens if this team ends up with the number one pick and gave Kyler all that money. Doesn’t Jonathan Gannon give you Adam Gase vibes?
PLAYOFF PREDICTIONS
AFC
Pittsburgh Steelers
Kansas City Chiefs
Jacksonville Jaguars
Miami Dolphins
Cincinnati Bengals
New York Jets
Buffalo Bills
NFC
San Francisco 49ers
Philadelphia Eagles
Detroit Lions
Atlanta Falcons
New York Giants
Minnesota Vikings
Seattle Seahawks
Wild Card Round
Chiefs defeat Bills
Jaguars defeat Jets
Bengals defeat Dolphins
Eagles defeat Seahawks
Lions defeat Vikings
Giants defeat Falcons
Divisional Round
Jaguars defeat Chiefs
Bengals defeat Steelers
Eagles defeat Lions
49ers defeat Giants
Championship Round
Eagles defeat 49ers
Jaguars defeat Bengals
SUPER BOWL
EAGLES defeat Jaguars 26-20
To be clear, Joe did not pick the Jaguars to go to the Super Bowl. He picked the Bengals. But John and Richie felt so strongly about Jacksonville beating a hypothetical Bengals team that majority won over. However, in the Super Bowl, John and Richie were split, so it was down to Joe to pick who won the Super Bowl. Ultimately, he chose to take the “Maurice Jones-Drew” approach. If you aren’t familiar with that, MJD chose the opposition down the stretch last year against the Jaguars every time to bring the Jags good luck - and it was perfect until the Chiefs playoff game. So Joe decided to take that route and took the Eagles. But in all seriousness, the Eagles are probably the most complete team on paper going into the NFL season. In this hypothetical scenario, Jacksonville would struggle with Philadelphia’s defensive line rotations and Hurts ability to run. But Lawrence going to the Super Bowl in his third season would put him in the elite of elite with Mahomes, Burrow and Hurts. He would be ahead of Allen, Jackson and Herbert. We hope you all enjoyed this as much as we did. Football starts TOMORROW! GET HYPED!
Why Giving the Jacksonville Jaguars a new Stadium is Great for the NFL
We have roughly had this website for three months and I have yet to write any story about my beloved Jaguars. You can all thank the city of Jacksonville for that, as the release of that new stadium design got the juices flowing again. The initial reaction was one of hope, shock and awe by those who are “in the know” and saw the designs. And like with any Jaguars post, it was also met with jokes and venom of people who mention “that’s not London” or “for your twelve fans”.
Those people are ignorant, and just have absolutely no idea what’s going on farther than they can see. As NFL fans, we see how constantly the shift is from being good to bad and vice versa. Other than Hockey, Football has the biggest year to year turnover, which is great for the league. It’s not often that players or coaches come along that can stabilize a franchise for years to come. Those types of things don’t happen everyday. In today’s NFL, the names that come to mind are Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, Jalen Hurts, Josh Allen - all those players have stabilized their teams into being perennial playoff and Super Bowl contenders. As of a couple of weeks ago, the Buffalo Bills broke ground on their new NFL stadium, which will make its debut in 2026. And we typically love watching all these players play.
Photo via The Athletic
We have roughly had this website for three months and I have yet to write any story about my beloved Jaguars. You can all thank the city of Jacksonville for that, as the release of that new stadium design got the juices flowing again. The initial reaction was one of hope, shock and awe by those who are “in the know” and saw the designs. And like with any Jaguars post, it was also met with jokes and venom of people who mention “that’s not London” or “for your twelve fans”.
Those people are ignorant, and just have absolutely no idea what’s going on farther than they can see. As NFL fans, we see how constantly the shift is from being good to bad and vice versa. Other than Hockey, Football has the biggest year to year turnover, which is great for the league. It’s not often that players or coaches come along that can stabilize a franchise for years to come. Those types of things don’t happen everyday. In today’s NFL, the names that come to mind are Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, Jalen Hurts, Josh Allen - all those players have stabilized their teams into being perennial playoff and Super Bowl contenders. As of a couple of weeks ago, the Buffalo Bills broke ground on their new NFL stadium, which will make its debut in 2026. And we typically love watching all these players play.
But the Jaguars? They aren’t allowed to be good. They aren’t allowed to be great. They are the butt of every joke, so if we can’t make fun of them, then who will we, as a collective fan base make fun of? The Lions, Browns and Jets all have playoff aspirations this year. The perennial bottom feeders aren’t “fun” anymore because they can actually complete. So we are supposed to make fun of who…The Patriots, Colts, Raiders, Packers? teams with rich histories and Hall of Fame players in the rafters. No, that’s not allowed. The bad teams always need to be bad to maintain the status quo.
So why is it “great” for the NFL for the Jaguars to get a new stadium? What does that mean for their long term future in Jacksonville? I’m glad you asked. Let’s switch sports for a second. I wanna travel to the NBA for a second. Back in time to 2009 and 2013 - when the Warriors and Bucks respectively drafted Stephen Curry and Giannis Antetokoumpo. The Warriors were playing in Oakland, and the Bucks in Milwaukee - and neither team was taken seriously. Small market teams with little no chance every year because no one wanted to play in those cities. They didn’t have the bright lights of New York or Los Angeles; or the beaches of sun that Miami has; or the undying loyalty that cities like Boston, Philadelphia and Houston have. Milwaukee…Oakland. No one cared. But players come along and transform the game. No one has more than Steph since Michael Jordan.
We fast forward to today and the Golden State Warriors franchise is now one of the top organizations in NBA history. They also got a new arena - now closer to San Francisco, and they are a top attraction in the league for players and fans alike. Steph did that. Over in Milwaukee, Giannis led the Bucks to the title just two years ago and the small city of Milwaukee is now revered as one of, not if the toughest place to play in all of the NBA. Players want to go play there. Giannis did that.
Parity is good for a league. Players wanting to go to small cities is good for the sport. It keeps teams, fans and cities engaged. It gives other cities hope that it can one day happen to their city. Their team. Their player. If the cities of Milwaukee and Oakland can achieve greatness, then there is no reason that Jacksonville can as well. The plans for this new stadium comes on the heels of the Jags going from 4-7 to winning the division at 9-8 and pulling off one of the top three comebacks in NFL postseason history. It wasn’t a coincidence that the city released the plans after this season.
The NFL needs a new “New England Patriots”. It needs a new “Kansas City Chiefs”. Teams that had little to no history of success before those iconic players got there. We as a society thrive on seeing new teams rise up and take the mantle. We want the engine that never could to take down the Mad Titans. But we only want them to do it for a few years and then hand it off for another team. As the famous Harvey Dent said:
“You either die a hero, or live long enough to see yourself become the villain.”
Jaguars fans have been waiting since 1996 to find a franchise quarterback. A guy that can put the team on his back and go win a game if every one of his teammates was subpar that day. We liked Mark Brunell, but we fell in love with people who would never be considered franchise guys; David Garrard, Byron Leftwich, Blake Bortles - all three of these have mild success with this franchise and the fanbase thought they were the second coming because they just had a taste of it. And the same thing has happened this off-season. Trevor Lawrence rose from the dead last season after fans had given up on him, analysts and experts gave up on him. And like a phoenix he rose from the ashes after his return from London and led the Jags to the playoffs. He just clocked in at number six on Chris Simms QB rankings for this season (if you’re into that sort of thing). This was the same “expert” who ranked Zach Wilson ahead of Lawrence when the 2021 NFL Draft was coming up. Stood by it and shouted it to the rafters after their rookie seasons. Wilson wasn’t on Simms 2023 Top 40, for those wondering.
This one seems like it’s gonna stick though because of the talent and the drive this kid house. He has the right coach as well, as Doug Pederson has transformed a franchise who was thought of as the gum on your shoe after the Urban Meyer debacle, into a well-respected franchise who even has made Trent Baalke look good. This is a franchise where its fans wore clown outfits to the last game of the 2021 season in protest to the owner, and now the GM has a clown toy on his desk to remind him and where he was before (courtesy of The Hunt on Youtube).
It seems like a truly phenomenal turnaround, almost too good to be true. And time will tell if the Jaguars are for real and will become perennial playoff contenders. But this new stadium signifies that the NFL is ready for the Jaguars to have a seat at the table. The lowly Jaguars getting their opportunity. Everyone who's a fan of the NFL should be rooting for the Jags, because it is truly a symbol that any team can overcome the highest of adversities. If the same franchises won consistently, then what’s the point? Where is the return on the investment? That’s where all the “this is rigged” comes from. We want the little engine that could to get to the top. This stadium proposal seems like a doorway for Jacksonville - and if they are able to walk through it, then good things will happen for this franchise.
And they absolutely deserve it. Every single fanbase deserves to climb the mountain and experience what it’s like to be on top. Personally, I never have. Between the Mets, Knicks and Jaguars, it seems like I may be doomed forever. But there is a hope that comes with a new stadium. A hope that you belong and that something, even if it seems insignificant, is aligned for once. We all see what’s going on in MLB with the Oakland Athletics. It’s not something that any commissioner, fan or player want to be a part of. It’s hard to watch and it’s a disgraceful scene to be completely honest. But I do feel that’s what is on the horizon for the city of Jacksonville if this plan doesn’t get approved. This is it. This is the moment where the tide can turn, and the city of Jacksonville has the fate of the Jaguars in their hands.
Trevor Lawrence, Doug Pederson, Calvin Ridley, Tyson Campbell, Christian Kirk, Travis Etienne, Josh Allen, Travon Walker - those are a few names of a young core that is ready to thrive. And these players are excited about this. Do yourself a favor and go check out the Jaguars Twitter retweets from the announcement video, and you will see what they players think. Those guys want to be in Jacksonville. They want to be a part of something special. The same way that the players in Golden State and Milwaukee did. Those teams built for a few years before they broke through. And now…well, I don’t think those franchises will have any problems for a long time, even post Steph and Giannis. The Jaguars have that opportunity in front of them now. Trevor Lawrence, Doug Pederson and Shad Khan have that opportunity in front of them right now. The city of Jacksonville has that opportunity in front of them right now…
They just need to go and take it.
Video created by Jacksonville Jaguars