Tag: Fantasy Football Game Reviews

Taking a quick rundown of the Sunday NFL games with a fantasy perspective.

WAS 34, ATL 30
Washington scored two touchdowns in the final four minutes to steal this win from the Falcons. Taylor Heinicke threw for 290 yards and three touchdowns, but the biggest chunk came late in the game. Terry McLaurin (6-123, TD) led the team as always, and J.D. McKissic (5-44, TD) was the only other receiver with more than 24 yards, thanks to his 30-yard touchdown catch and run that proved the game-winner with 33 seconds left to play. Logan Thomas was lost to a hamstring injury.  Antonio Gibson scored once on his 14 rushes for 63 yards and added two catches for 12 yards, but Heinicke won this game. The 2-2 Football Team host the Saints in Week 5.

The Falcons came close, but the defense couldn’t stop  Washington when it counted the most. Matt Ryan cranked out 283 passing yards and four touchdowns which all went to running backs Cordarrelle Patterson (5-82, 3 TD) and Mike Davis (2-12, TD).  Patterson ran for 34 yards on six rushes while Davis only gained 14 yards on 13 runs. Calvin Ridley (7-80) and Kyle Pitts (4-50) couldn’t find the endzone and the rookie still waits for his first big game. Patterson continues to surprise as he breaks out at the age of 30. The 1-3 Falcons host the Jets this week.

HOU 0, BUF 40
That’s going to leave a mark. Rookie quarterbacks are not faring well, and Davis Mills was the worst of the day. He only completed 11-of-21 for 87 yards  and four interceptions, with Brandin Cooks still as the primary receiver but with only 47 yards on five catches because the Bills were unwilling to give up any trash time yards. The offense wisely mixed all three running backs in equal proportions to total up 15 rushes for 44 yards.  This loss was disheartening on a team that already is winless. Nothing worked, and the Bills never let up. The 1-4 Texans slink back home to face the Patriots on Sunday.

The Bills didn’t mail in the win, but they played conservatively throughout. Josh Allen passed for 248 yards and two touchdowns and ran for 41 yards on six rushes. Stefon Diggs (7-114) and Emmanuel Sanders (5-74) turned in solid stats, while Dawson Knox (5-37, 2 TD) turned in both receiving scores. Devin Singletary (14-79) and Zach Moss (14-61, TD) split the carries but did nothing as receivers. It was an easy win, and the Texans were never really in this one.  The Bills scored three touchdowns in the fourth quarter as they showed how to close a game properly. The 4-1 Bills play in Kansas City for Week 5.

DET 14, CHI 24

The Lions stumbled their way through the first half and fell behind 21-0. They outscored the Bears 14-3 in the second half, but it was too little, too late. Jared Goff ended with 299 passing yards and two scores that went to Kalif Raymond (3-46, 2 TD). Quintez Cephus (4-83) and the rookie Amon St. Brown (6-70) led the receivers. D’Andre Swift was held to just 16 yards on eight rushes and four receptions for 33 yards. Jamaal Williams (14-66) was the more productive runner. The 0-4 Lions play at the Vikings for Week 5.

Justin Fields was much better than he was in Week 3. He only ran for nine yards on three rushes, but he passed for 209 yards and just one interception. Darnell Mooney broke out for the year with 125 yards on five receptions, while Allen Robinson was limited to three receptions for 63 yards. David Montgomery (23-106, 2 TD) had a great performance but left with a knee injury. Damien Williams (8-55, TD) also left injured but returned. The Bears’ defense held the Lions in check in the first half, and that was enough thanks to the rookie Fields playing well again. The 2-2 Bears head to Las Vegas this weekend.

CAR 28, DAL 36
The Panthers came in with the No. 1 defense thanks to a cakewalk schedule to open the year. It didn’t play out nearly so well this week.  Sam Darnold threw for 301 yards and two scores and ran in two more touchdowns for a great fantasy showing. DJ Moore (8-113, 2 TD) was the only notable Panther receiver. Robby Anderson (5-46) still lags last year. Chuba Hubbard replaced Christian McCaffrey and ran for 57 yards on 13 carries and added two receptions for 14 yards. The Panthers’ offense remains solid, but their defense couldn’t handle all the weaponry of the Cowboys. The first loss for the Panthers sends them  back home to face the Eagles on Sunday.

The Cowboys mostly relied on Ezekiel Elliott (20-143, TD) and Tony Pollard (10-67) the keep the sticks moving. Dak Prescott only passed for 188 yards but notched four touchdowns among four different receivers. Amari Cooper (3-69, TD) and Dalton Schultz (6-58, TD) were the top receivers, while CeeDee Lamb was finally limited to only two catches for 13 yards. The offense played a well-balanced game with almost everyone contributing. The 3-1 Cowboys host the Giants for Week 5.

IND 27, MIA 17
The Colts logged their first win behind the rushing of Jonathan Taylor (16-103, TD). Carson Wentz threw for 228 yards and two scores that both ended up with tight end Mo Alie-Cox (3-42 2 TD), while Michael Pittman (6-59) and Zach Pascal (4-44) were the top receivers.  Marlon  Mack (10-22) did little to sell himself if he hopes to be traded to another team. The 1-3 Colts try to find their next win in Baltimore this week.

The Dolphins didn’t reach the endzone until the fourth quarter but lodged two scores to make the score respectable. Jacoby Brissett ended with 199 passing yards and two touchdowns, but it all came too late to matter. DeVante Parker (4-77, TD) and Mike Gesicki (5-57, TD) handled the scoring, while Jaylen Waddle (3-33) turned in his worst performance so far. The running game was all but nonexistent, with a total of just 32 yards on 13 carries between three different running backs. Brissett hasn’t been able to get the offense on track to start the games. The 1-3 Dolphins head to Tampa Bay for Week 5.

CLE 14, MIN 7
What a disappointment, though more for the Vikings. Nick Chubb (21-100) and Kareem Hunt (14-69, TD) did most of the damage since Baker Mayfield was limited to only 155 yards and no touchdowns. Odell Beckham (2-27) and Rashard Higgins (4-63) didn’t do much as the leading receivers. The Browns defense got the job done and the offense was afforded 35 rushes to kill the clock. The 3-1 Browns play at the Chargers this week.

Dalvin Cook (9-34) was not 100% healthy, and Alexander Mattison (10-20) shared the workload. Kirk Cousins only threw for 203 yards and one score to Justin Jefferson (6-83, TD), while Adam Thielen (3-46) was held in check. The Vikings were unable to into gear other than a few passes to Jefferson. The loss drops the Vikings to 1-3, and they host the Lions for Week 5.

NYG 27, NO 21 OT
You have to put an opponent away for good. The Saints led 21-10 in the fourth quarter but allowed the Giants to score on a 54-yard catch by Saquon Barkley, with a two-point conversion,  and then kick a field goal with 31 seconds left to tie the game. In overtime, the Giants drove the field from their 25-yard line and scored a touchdown to win on the first series after regulation play was over.  Barkley ran for 52 yards and a score and caught five passes for 74 yards and a second touchdown. Daniel Jones passed for 402 yards and two scores between John Ross (3-77, TD) and Barkley. Kenny Golladay (6-116) was very effective versus a normally much better Saints secondary. Even Kadarius Toney (6-78) ended with his best game. The 1-3 Giants head to Dallas for Week 5.

The Saints  led this and then let the Giants get back into the game, bring it into overtime, and drive the field for the win. Taysom Hill ran for two touchdowns which only denied them to Alvin Kamara (26-120), who inexplicably had zero targets. Jameis Winston threw for 226 yards and one score, but the only notable receiver was Marquez Callaway (2-74), who left injured. It’s hard to believe that this was the first time that the Saints passed for more than 200 yards. All of the fantasy value is stripped from the offense other than Kamara who failed to be thrown a pass for the first time in his career. He had a game without a catch in 2020, but never one where he wasn’t thrown a pass. The Saints already look like a team that needs rebuilding. They bring their 2-2 record to Washington on Sunday.

TEN 24, NYJ 27 OT
There were plenty of upsets this week, and this may have been the biggest.  The Titans led 17-10 in the fourth quarter, but Zach Wilson threw for two scores over a three-minute span to get the lead that the Titans matched with 16 seconds left in regulation.  But the Jets kicked a field goal on the first possession of overtime, and the Titans missed their 49-yard attempt to force the game to end in a tie.

Derrick Henry ran for 157 yards and a touchdown, plus caught two passes for 20 yards. Ryan Tannehill threw for 298 yards and a score, but the Titans were without A.J. Brown and Julio Jones. It made a difference. Running back Jeremy McNichols (8-74) was pressed into duty as a receiver, and Chester Rogers (5-63) also helped. This was the debut for Josh Reynolds (6-59), but when the Titans had to throw, they couldn’t compensate for the difference that Brown and Jones make. The 2-2 Titans play at the Jaguars this week and hope they don’t give yet another team their first win.

ARI 37, LAR 20
Just when the Rams seem unbeatable, they get whooped. At home, in a divisional matchup, no less. Kyler Murray was effective and efficient when he passed for 268 yards and two touchdowns, plus he ran for 39 yards. A.J. Green (5-67, TD) and DeAndre Hopkins (4-67) were the top receivers against the Rams’ great secondary. Chase Edmonds ran for 120 yards on 12 carries thanks to a 54-yard gain, and he added four receptions for 19 yards. James Conner ran 18 yards for just 50 yards but took both short-yardage touchdowns. The Cardinals just plain looked better than the Rams on both sides of the ball. They take their 4-0 record back home to host the 49ers for Week 5.

The Rams could not keep up. Matt Stafford threw for 280 yards and two scores, with Van Jefferson (6-90, TD) as the top receiver and Cooper Kupp (5-64) finally held in check.  Robert Woods only caught four passes for 48 yards but scored once. Darrell Henderson returned after missing last week and rushed for 89 yards on 14 carries, plus caught five passes for 27 yards.  The Cardinals are the first opponent that was able to shut down Kupp, and that made a difference. The 3-1 Rams  have no time to regroup since they travel to Seattle on Thursday for yet another big divisional matchup.

SEA 28, SF 21
The Seahawks stopped their two-game losing streak at an opportune time. Chris Carson only gained 30 yards on 13 rushes, but Alex Collins replaced Rashaad Penny and gained 44 yards and a touchdown on his ten carries. He also caught two passes for 34 yards as the second-best receiver.  Russell Wilson ran in a touchdown and passed for two more but with only 149 passing yards. The Seahawks led 21-7 near the end of the third quarter and then relied on the run to kill the clock. DK Metcalf (4-65, TD) was the best receiver, but Tyler Lockett only managed four receptions for 24 yards. The win lifts the Seahawks to 2-2, and they host the Rams on Thursday  for a chance to crawl back into contention.

The 49ers lost Jimmy Garoppolo for the second half, and Trey Lance saw his first significant playing time. Over the second half, the rookie completed 9-of-18 for 157 yards and two scores, plus ran for 41 yards on seven rushes. That made Deebo Samuel (8-156, 2 TD) the top receiver, and both touchdowns were thrown by Lance. George Kittle settled for four catches for 40 yards. Trey Sermon ran for 89 yards but never had a pass. Losing their quarterback at halftime wasn’t the problem since Lance threw for almost the  same as Russell Wilson in half as much playing time. The 2-2 49ers play in Arizona this week.

BAL 23, DEN 7
The Broncos  started the scoring, but the Ravens took over for the rest of the game. Ty’Son Williams was inactive so that Le’Veon Bell could run for 11 yards on four carries and fail to catch his only pass. Latavius Murray gained 59 yards on 18 rushes with one score. Lamar Jackson only ran for 28 yards on seven runs but passed for 316 yards and one score. Marquise Brown (4-91, TD) bounced back from last week, and Mark Andrews (5-67) was also involved. The Ravens defense did the work, and the offense took their opportunities where they could. It was a solid win on the road against a very good defense. Plus, knocking the Denver quarterback out of the game also helped. The 3-1 Ravens  host the Colts this week.

The Broncos lost Teddy Bridgewater to a concussion, and Drew Lock finished the game. But no receiver was better than Courtland Sutton (3-47) or Noah Fant (6-46, TD). The backfield split between Melvin Gordon (9-56) and Javonte Williams (7-48) left two mediocre fantasy backs instead of just one with fantasy value. The offense was already struggling under Bridgewater, and Lock was little better when he played. The first loss by the 3-1 Broncos sends them to Pittsburgh for Week 5.

PIT 17, GB 27
The Steelers opened the game with a 45-yard touchdown catch by Diontae Johnson but did little else, and their final touchdown came deep in the fourth quarter. Ben Roethlisberger threw for 232 yards and one touchdown, which was almost entirely short passes other than the touchdown. Johnson (9-92, TD) and James Washington (4-69) were the best receivers, while JuJu Smith-Schuster gained only 11 yards on two catches. Chase Claypool was inactive. Najee Harris rushed for 62 yards and a touchdown on his 15 carries, and he added six receptions for 29 more yards. The 1-3 Steelers couldn’t sustain drives and host the Broncos this week.

The Packers didn’t have any big performances, and nor did they need any. Aaron Rodgers passed for 248 yards and two scores while running in a touchdown as well. Randall Cobb (5-69, 2 TD) had his best game in years while helping to replace Marquez Valdes-Scantling, who was placed on injured reserve. Davante Adams (6-64) had a relatively modest game, but they didn’t need much from him to get the win. Aaron Jones ran for 48 yards and added 51 yards on three catches. AJ  Dillon (15-81) helped burn the clock later in the game. The 3-1 Packers travel to the Bengals in Week 5.

TB 19, NE 17

Well. The Patriot fans got to see a Tom Brady experience from the other side, complete with the fortuitous “doink” of the Pats’ final field goal attempt.  They played in the driving rain that only worsened, and Tom Brady passed for 269 yards and no touchdowns. Mike Evans (7-75), Antonio Brown (7-63), and Chris Godwin (3-55) were the top receivers and while Leonard Fournette ran for 91 yards and caught three passes for 47 yards, they let Ronald Jones rush for the only touchdown. The 3-1 Buccaneers squeaked past the Patriots by the matter of about six inches on that final kick. They host the Dolphins this week.

The Patriots lost in the rain by the smallest of margin. But they played far better than expected. Mac Jones threw for 275 yards and two touchdowns and had a higher QB rating (101.6) than Tom Brady (70.8). Jakobi Meyers (8-70) and Kendrick Bourne (5-58) were the top receivers, and Jones did an impressive job spreading the passes around. Six different receivers had five or more targets. The backfield combined for a net four-yard loss on six rushes, so the Buccaneers rush defense ranking will only go higher. The 1-3 Patriots head to Houston this week for a chance to tuck that final field goal inside the goalposts.

 

The Game-o-the-Week

KC 42, PHI 30

This was the game that fantasy football needed this week.  Patrick Mahomes threw for 278 yards and five touchdowns, and that relied heavily on Tyreek Hill’s 11 catches for 186 yards and three touchdowns. Travis Kelce only managed four catches for 23 yards, and no other receiver topped 20 yards. Clyde Edwards-Helaire ran for 102 yards on 14 rushes, with  two receptions for 12 yards and a touchdown. Even Darrell Williams scored on his ten carries for 42 yards. Kelce had the rare down game, but everyone else blew up. The 2-2 Chiefs no longer have a losing record and host the Bills for a shootout this week.

Jalen Hurts passed for 387  yards and two scores, plus was the leading rusher with 47 yards on eight runs. DeVonta Smith (7-122) and Zach Ertz (6-60) led the receivers though Dallas Goedert (5-56, TD) ended with a score. Miles Sanders was only given seven carries to gain 13 yards and added 34 yards on his three receptions. Kenneth Gainwell (3-31, TD) was given the short rushing score. Hurts did a credible job moving the offense but the lack of any rushing support places all everything on Hurts to stay in the game. The loss drops the Eagles to 1-4 and they play in Carolina on Sunday.

Taking a quick rundown of the Sunday NFL games with a fantasy perspective.

WAS 21, BUF 43

This game was never in doubt. Antonio Gibson turned in plenty of fantasy points thanks to his only catch for a 73-yard touchdown. He only ran for 31 yards on 12 carries, but the one catch salvaged an otherwise dismal day. Taylor Heinicke passed for 212 yards and two scores although the second happened at the end of the game. He also threw two interceptions  and ran in a score. Terry McLaurin (4-62) and Logan Thomas (4-42, TD) were the top receivers,  but Washington was never in this one. The 1-2 Football Team heads to Atlanta for Week 4.

Everything worked for the Bills this week, and Josh Allen was near-perfect when he threw for 358 yards and four touchdowns. Cole Beasley (11-98), Emmanuel Sanders (5-94, 2 TD), and Stefon Diggs (6-62) all shared in the bounty. Just when Devin Singletary seems to be coming around, he only totals 27 yards on 12 touches while Zack Moss ran for 60 yards, caught three passes for 31 yards, and scored once. So no use getting comfortable with anything about the Bills backfield. The 2-1 Bills host the Texans for some fun in Week 4.

CHI 6, CLE 26

Well. He’s going to get better. Justin Fields debut consisted of 12 rushing yards and 6-of-20 for 68 passing yards. He had no turnovers, which surprised  since he was sacked nine times. David Montgomery was held to only 34 rushing yards and two catches for 21 yards. His fantasy value took a hit with the rookie quarterback. Allen Robinson was held to only two catches for 28 yards but was the leading receiver. While Fields looked good in the preseason, it’s all different in the regular season. The 1-2 Bears host the heart-broken Lions this week.

The Browns were without Jarvis Landry but had Odell Beckham (5-77) back for his 2021 debut. Baker Mayfield threw for  246 yards and one score while also rushing for 31 yards. Kareem Hunt enjoyed a big day, rushing for 81 yards and a touchdown on ten carries while added six receptions for 74 yards. Nick Chubb gained 84 yards on 22 rushes but had no receptions or scores. All combined, the Browns rushed for 216 yards. Beckham was the leading receiver, but Hunt was the only other player that mattered as a receiver. The 2-1 Browns head to Minnesota for Week 4.

ARI 31, JAC 19
The Jaguars led this 19-10 near the end of the third quarter. Trevor Lawrence ended with 219 passing yards and one score but two interceptions. Marvin Jones (6-62) and DJ Chark (3-49, TD) were the top receivers. James Robinson started the game slowly but ran for 88 yards and a score on 15 rushes, plus caught six passes for 46 yards for his best showing of the young year. The Jaguars were competitive throughout, and Lawrence threw a fourth-quarter interception that was returned for a back-breaking score. The 0-3 Jaguars head to Cincinnati this week looking for their first win since September of 2020.

Kyler Murray passed for 316 yards but no passing touchdowns. He ran in one score, of course, but only gained 19 yards on seven runs. A.J. Green (5-112) and Christian Kirk (7-104) both broke the century mark while the gimpy DeAndre Hopkins (3-21) turned in the rare fantasy dud. Chase Edmonds ran for 26 yards and caught seven passes for 49 yards, while James Conner gained 43 yards and ran in two touchdowns. The 3-0 Cardinals played like they knew they could win but needed a bigger fourth quarter to get the job done. The 3-0 Cardinals get their biggest challenge of the year playing at the Rams for Week 4.

LAC 30, KC 24
The Chargers pulled an upset and handed the Chiefs their first losing record since 2015. Justin Herbert threw for 281 yards and four touchdowns that went directly to fantasy studs. Mike Williams (7-122, 2 TD), Austin Ekeler (6-52, TD), and Keenan Allen 8-50, TD) were all productive. Ekeler also ran for 55 yards on 11 runs, but the backfield did little this week. The difference-maker was that the Chargers had no turnovers while the Chiefs lost the ball four times. The win sends the 2-1 Bolts home to host the Raiders.

This is new territory for a Patrick Mahomes team. And the loss was to a divisional rival. He threw for 260 yards and three scores but threw two interceptions. Travis Kelce (7-104) and Tyreek Hill (5-56) were the top receivers but Hill lost a fumble. Clyde Edwards-Helaire had one of his best games with 100 yards on 17 carries and two catches for nine yards and a touchdown – and he lost a fumble. There are no alarm bells to sound yet, but there is concern with the defense. Andy Reid was brought to the hospital after the game because of an illness. The 1-2 (gasp) Chiefs play in Philadelphia for Week 4.

NO 28, NE 13
There were very few notable performances in this matchup. Alvin Kamara came back  to life with 89 yards on 24 rushes, and he added three catches for 29 yards and a touchdown. But Jameis Winston passed for just 128 yards and two touchdowns. Marquez Callaway was the top receiver with only four catches for 41 yards and one score. Taysom Hill ran in a score on his six rushes for 31 yards. But aside from Kamara, nothing much from the rest. But at least Kamara showed up. The 2-1 Saints  host the Giants this week.

Mac Jones ended with 270 yards and one score, but he started slowly and threw three interceptions including a pick-six.  Kendrick Bourne (6-96, TD) and Jakobi Meyers (9-94) were the top receivers, and that’s encouraging that he didn’t resort to throwing short to running backs and tight ends. The rushing effort was anemic, with only 21 yards on 11 carries spread over four different running backs. The 1-2 Patriots have their monster matchup next week when they host the Tom Brady Buccaneers.

ATL 17, NYG 14
Two struggling franchises still struggled.  Matt Ryan threw for 243 yards and two scores though few fantasy leaguers relied on Olamide Zaccheaus (3-32, TD) or No. 4 tight end Lee Smith (3-7, TD). Calvin Ridley (8-61) was busy, and Cordarrelle Patterson again made a difference with 20 rushing yards and six receptions for 82 yards. Mike Davis ran for 50 and added four receptions for 20 yards. The offense is still being installed and sputters but finally recorded their first win. The 1-2 Falcons return home to face Washington this week.

The Giants are still searching for that first win, and the visiting Falcons was their weakest opponent maybe all season. Saquon Barkley ran for 51 yards and a score on 16 carries, plus caught six passes for 43 yards. He was sidelined temporarily but finished the game. Daniel Jones threw for 266 yards but no scores. Kenny Golladay was expected to be limited with a bad hip but led the team with four receptions for 64 yards. Sterling Shepard left the game injured  and was replaced by Collin Johnson (5-51). The 0-3 Giants head to New Orleans for Week 4.

CIN 24, PIT 10
These are divisional rivals that are heading in different directions. Joe Mixon rushed for 90 yards on 18 carries. Joe Burrow threw for 172 yards and three touchdowns. Missing Tee Higgins didn’t matter. Ja’Marr Chase (4-65, 2 TD) and Tyler Boyd (4-36, TD) did a lot with just a few receptions versus the normally stout Steeler secondary. The success of Mixon combined with the play of the Bengals defense was more than the Steelers could handle. The 2-1 Bengals host the Jaguars this week.

The Steelers rolled up 318 passing yards and one score, but Ben Roethlisberger threw 58 passes, two interceptions and was sacked four times. Chase Claypool (9-96) helped replace Diontae Johnson, but JuJu Smith-Schuster (3-25) didn’t help much.  The rookie Pat Freiermuth caught three passes for 22 yards and a score. The poor blocking caused Najee Harris to only gain 40 yards on 14 rushes but he led the team with 19 targets for 14 catches and 102 yards. The rookie needs the ball, and if he cannot get the running lanes, he’s great as a receiver. The 1-2 Steelers play in Green Bay for Week 4.

IND 16, TEN 25
Carson Wentz was able to play despite sprained ankles, but he didn’t make much difference with 194 passing yards and no scores. Michael Pittman (6-68) was the top receiver, but Nyheim Hines (5-54) was the only other receiver with more than 31 yards. He also ran in a touchdown on his 25 yards on six rushes, if only to ruin the day for Jonathan Taylor gained 64 yards on just ten carries. This was a lighter matchup and the struggles that the Colts had moving the ball is a bad sign for the season. The 0-3 Colts look to right the ship in Miami for Week 4.

Derrick Henry at home usually runs well and he gained 113 yards plus caught three passes for 31 yards in his new-ish role as a receiver. Ryan Tannehill threw for 197 yards and three touchdowns but had two interceptions. AJ Brown left injured, and the best receivers were Nick Westbrook-Ikhine (4-53, TD) and Julio Jones (3-47). This was a very close game until the fourth quarter, when the Titans pulled away. The 2-1 Titans travel to face the Jets this week.

NYJ 0, DEN 26
The Jets are off to yet another rough start, and the new coaching regime experienced their first shut out. Zach Wilson only threw for 160 yards and two interceptions. Corey Davis (5-41) was the top receiver and Keelan Cole (2-30) is active for games now. Michael Carter ran nine times for 24 yards while Ty Johnson only gained 17 yards on his three carries. There’s still a lack of any offensive punch and the blocking is still poor. Wilson was sacked another five times. The 0-3 Jets host the Titans this week.

The Broncos didn’t have to do much to secure this win. Teddy Bridgewater passed for 235 yards but only threw 25 passes. The top receivers were Tim Patrick (5-98) and Courtland Sutton (5-37). Melvin Gordon (18-61, TD) and Javonte Williams (12-29, TD) split the backfield, and Gordon added a 21-yard catch while Williams netted three receptions for 33 yards. No Bronco had a big performance because none of them needed it in this shut-out win. The 3-0 Broncos host the Ravens for Week 4.

MIA 28, LV 31 OT
The Dolphins may have missed Tua Tagovailoa, but they gave the Raiders plenty to handle making up an 11-point fourth-quarter deficit to send the game into overtime and then matching the Raiders’ field goal with their own to tie the score yet again. Jacoby Brissett passed for 215 yards and ran for 37 yards and a score on seven rushes. Mike Gesicki (10-86) and Jaylen Waddle (12-58) didn’t gain many yards but totaled 22 receptions between them.  Myles Gaskin ran for 65 yards but only nine yards on three catches.  The Fins stayed in the game by their defense and absence of turnovers. The 1-2 Dolphins host the Colts this weekend.

The Raiders are undefeated by the slimmest of weekly margins. Three weeks in, and they already had two overtimes. Josh Jacobs was out, but Peyton Barber ran for 111 yards and a touchdown on 23 rushes and caught three passes for 31 yards.  Kenyan Drake ran eight times for 24 yards and also caught three passes for 34 yards.  Derek Carr passed for 386 yards and two touchdowns while his season continues to burn brightly.  Bryan Edwards (3-89) keeps improving and showing up just when they need him most. Henry Ruggs (4-78) and Hunter Renfrow (5-77, TD) were both more productive than Darren Waller (5-54).  The 3-0 Raiders look to continue their impressive start playing at the Chargers in Week 4.

TB 24, LAR 34
The Buccaneers experienced their first loss since last November, but they had plenty of success passing, just not scoring. Tom Brady passed for 432 yards and one score, and there were plenty of fantasy points to spread around. Mike Evans (8-106), Chris Godwin (6-74, TD), Tyler Johnson (3-63), Rob Gronkowski (4-55), and Giovani Bernard (9-51, TD) were all involved. Brady also ran in a score, and his 14 yards on three rushes led the team. The backfield only totaled 19 yards on nine runs. The 1-2 Buccaneers head to New England this week, where the media will likely have their heads explode at the prospect of Tom Brady playing as the opponent against his old team.

The Rams were without Darrell Henderson and relied on Sony Michel (20-67) for all but one carry in the backfield.  Matt Stafford proved his worth when he passed for 343 yards and four touchdowns with no turnovers. DeSean Jackson (3-120, TD) scored from 75 yards out, Cooper Kupp (9-96, 2 TD) continues to have tremendous chemistry with Stafford, and Tyler Higbee (5-40, TD) were all bigger factors than Robert Woods (3-33). The Buccaneers have a great rush defense, but Stafford carved up their secondary. The 3-0 Rams host the Cardinals in an important divisional matchup this weekend.

SEA 17, MIN 30
The Seahawks haven’t had the hot start to the season as they normally do. Russell Wilson threw for 298 yards but only one touchdown. He found DK Metcalf (6-107, TD) again but lost Tyler Lockett (4-31) for the week. Gerald Everett (5-54) and Will Dissly (1-39) are producing better than past tight ends but still not making a difference. Chris Carson ran for 80 yards, and a score on just 12 carries but the offense under new offensive coordinator Shane Waldron’s offense isn’t producing nearly enough touchdowns. The 1-2 Seahawks try to get back on track while playing at the 49ers for Week 4.

The Vikings were without Dalvin Cook, but Alexander Mattison (26-112) ran well and caught six passes for 59 yards. Kirk Cousins threw for 323 yards and three touchdowns in one of his better performances. Justin Jefferson (9-118, TD), Tyler Conklin (7-70, TD), and Adam Thielen (6-50, TD) took care of the scoring while K.J. Osborn (2-26) finally realized that he was just a No. 3 wide receiver. The 1-2 Vikings finally get their first win and host the Browns on Sunday.

BAL 19, DET 17
Sure, the scoring wasn’t much, and a few fantasy starters flopped. But hey, what about that Justin Tucker? The Ravens gave up ten points in the fourth quarter and trailed 16-17 on their 16-yard line with 26 seconds left on fourth down and 19 yards to go. But Lamar Jackson completed a 36-yard pass to Sammy Watkins to reach the Lions 48-yard line with six seconds. He threw an incompletion and Justin Tucker came on to try a 66-yard field goal as time expired. He walked off a winner when it hit the cross bar, bounced up, and fell behind.

Jackson ran for 58 yards and passed for 287 yards and one score. Marquise Brown (3-53) dropped three passes, two of which would have been touchdowns, if not all three. Mark Andrews (5-109) was the leading receiver, while the rushing effort only contained 12 carries for 40 yards. Jackson threw better than usual, even if Brown was interested in catching very many. The 2-1 Ravens head to Denver for Week 4.

The Lions cannot catch a break. Jared Goff threw for 217 yards and no scores, while Kalif Raymond (6-68) was the top receiver, and T.J. Hockenson was limited to only two catches for ten yards. Jamaal Williams ran for 42 yards and a score and caught two passes for 25 yards. D’Andre Swift only gained 47 yards on 14 carries but scored once and caught seven passes for 60 yards for one of his better performances. The 0-3 Lions lost to a 66-yard field goal. That says all you need to know about how their luck is going. They play in Chicago for Week 4.

The Game-o-the-Week

GB 30, SF 28
That’s the way to end a great day of NFL football! The Packers led 17-0 in the second quarter, but the 49ers kept coming back and still trailed 14-24 in the fourth quarter when they drew to within three points, 21-24 with seven minutes left to play. But the Packers kicked a field goal with just 2:39 left to play for a 27-21 lead. Jimmy Garoppolo drove the field and threw a touchdown to Kyle Juszczyk with only 43 seconds left to play. And the Packers had no time-outs. But they had Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams.

Rodgers connected with Adams for 25 yards to reach midfield with 21 seconds left. After an incompletion to Adams, he threw to Adams (notice the pattern)for a 17-yard gain to the SF 33-yard line with four seconds left, and Mason Crosby nailed the 51-yard winning kick.

Rodgers finished with 261 yards and two scores between Adams (12-132, TD) and Marquez Valdes-Scantling (3-59, TD). Aaron Jones ran for 82 yards on 19 rushes with one touchdown but only two catches for 14 yards. The win sends the 2-1 Packers back home host the Steelers.

Jimmy Garoppolo threw for 257 yards and one score, and George Kittle (7-92) finally had his big performance. Deebo Samuel (5-52) and Brandon Aiyuk (4-37, TD) were both marginally involved but four catches was a big step up for Aiyuk. Trey Sermon finally started and gained 31 yards and a touchdown on ten carries, plus caught two short passes. The homefield 2-1 49ers lost a heartbreaker and host the Seahawks for Week 4.

 

Taking a quick rundown of the Week 1 Sunday NFL games with a fantasy perspective.

PHI 32, ATL 6
The question that comes out of this game is whether the Eagles are this good, the Falcons are that bad, or are both true? Jalen Hurts not only passed for 264 yards and three scores, but he added 62 yards on seven runs. Miles Sanders starts the year with 15 runs for 74 yards and four catches for 39 yards. The rookie Kenneth Gainwell debuted to 37 yards and a score on eight carries and two receptions for six yards.  This was a solid win where everything worked. The touchdown passes went to DeVonta Smith (6-71, TD), Jalen Reagor (6-49, TD), and Dallas Goedert (4-42, TD).  The rookie Smith already looks like the real deal. The Eagles get a stiffer challenge next week versus the 49ers.

The Falcons first game under HC Arthur Smith couldn’t have been much worse. Matt Ryan passed for only 164 yards and no scores. Calvin Ridley led the team with only five catches for 51 yards. Russell Gage failed to catch either of his targets. Worst yet, the all-universe rookie tight end ended with only four catches for 31 yards and most of that happened late in the  already decided game. Mike Davis was mediocre with only 49 yards on 15 runs and shared with Cordarrelle Patterson (7-54). This is just the first game of the year under the new coaching regime, but there was almost nothing positive to take from this matchup. Now the Falcons have to head to Tampa Bay to face the reigning NFL champs.

PIT 23, BUF 16
This pairing was a defensive battle when they met last year. The Bills led 10-0 at halftime, but the Steelers were the only team that made adjustments at halftime. There were no offensive stars for the Steelers. Rookie Najee Harris debuted with only 45 yards on 16 rushes and added just one catch for four yards. JuJu  Smith-Schuster was the leading receiver with only four receptions for 52 yards and Diontae Johnson (5-36) scored the lone Steeler touchdown. The defense is as good or better as it was last year, but the offense sputtered. That should change this week while hosting the Raiders.

The Bills made Zack Moss a surprise healthy scratch leaving Devin Singletary (11-72) to lead the backfield. Josh Allen was held to 270 passing yards and one score but added 44 rushing yards. Matt Breida was the No. 2 back with four yards on four carries, so perhaps Moss can get out of whatever doghouse he seems to have landed. Stefon Diggs (9-69) and Cole Beasley (6-60) were a disappointment since the Steelers took all the deep routes away. The Bills had the game in tenuous control but the Steelers came to life just enough to take the win away. The Bills open against perhaps their toughest defensive opponent and should be better this week in Miami.

NYJ 14, CAR 19
Two of the worst teams from 2020 met, and the result was predictably mediocre in scoring. The Jets under HC Robert Saleh still have a scoring problem but at least the rookie Zach Wilson debuted with 259 yards and two scores with only one interception.  Both touchdowns went to Corey Davis (5-97, 2 TD) in his first start as a Jet. No other wideout mattered and Braxton Berrios (5-51) surprised while Jamison Crowder was inactive. The backfield was the expected mess with Tevin Coleman (9-24), Ty Johnson (4-15), and Michael Carter (4-6) combining for the same lackluster result we’ve come to expect from the Jets for the last several years. The rookie quarterback started slowly but warmed up in the second half, so will take some time to get this offense on track. The Jets host the Patriots this week.

The Christian McCaffrey difference was on display in Week 1, with 21 runs for 98 yards and nine catches for 89 yards. Sam Darnold faced his old team and threw for 279 yards and one score, plus ran in a touchdown as well.  Darnold used McCaffrey, of course, but also his wideouts with DJ Moore (6-80), Robbie Anderson (1-57, TD), and Terrace Marshall (3-26), accounting for almost all other passes. The second year of HC Matt Rhule and OC Joe Brady starts out with their softest matchup of the year and only scored 19 points. It gets more challenging this week hosting the Saints.

MIN 24, CIN 27 OT
This was a great game to watch, more so for the hometown Bengals. Dalvin Cook only gained 61 yards on 20 rushes but ran in a touchdown and added six receptions for 43 yards.  The Vikings trailed 21-7 at the end of the  third quarter and battled back with Kirk Cousins passing for 351 yards and two touchdowns that both went to Adam Thielen (9-92, 2 TD). Justin Jefferson settled for 71 yards on five catches while K.J. Osborn surprised with 76 yards on seven receptions. The offense didn’t rush well but still passed for big yardage to the wideouts. The Vikes could have won this but Cook lost a first-down fumble  on the CIN-38 and the Bengals used the final 1:48 to kick their game-winning field goal. The defense – still a problem. That’s not going to improve playing in Arizona this week.

Joe Burrow returned from his severe knee injury of 2020, and while he only ran once, he threw for 261 yards and two touchdowns with a solid 128.8 QB rating. He is back. The rookie Ja’Marr Chase was plagued with drops in the preseason, but he hung onto five passes for 101 yards and a score in his debut. Tee Higgins (4-58, TD) scored to salvage his fantasy value but Tyler Boyd (3-32) was the odd man out with Chase playing. Joe Mixon roared back to life in Week 1 after a disastrous season. He ran for 127 yards and a score plus added four catches for 27 yards. The Bengals let the Vikings mount a comeback to tie the game in regulation and then got lucky with the fumble recovery that led to the winning field goal. They head to Chicago this week to face a better defense.

JAC 21, HOU 37
 There’s just no good way to spin this for the Jaguars that faced the woeful Texans and made them look like a top NFL team. The critics of HC Urban Meyer were rewarded with plenty of ammo to use. The Jags trailed 34-7 at the end of the third quarter to the Texans. James Robinson (5-25) was a star last year but journeyman running back Carlos Hyde (9-44) was used more often. Trevor Lawrence’s first game ended well enough with 332 yards and three touchdowns, but most of that came from late-game gimmees. D.J. Chark (3-86, TD), Marvin Jones (5-77, TD), and Laviska Shenault (7-50) were the leading receivers, so Lawrence threw downfield instead of dumping the ball off. But that was likely the softest matchup of the year and it was not remotely close. This week, the Jags host the Broncos.

The Texans were in an unusual situation on Sunday when both their defense and offense worked well. Tyrod Taylor passed for 291 yards and two scores, while Brandon Cooks (5-132) started the year with a bang. Tight end Pharaoh Brown (4-67) followed up on his impressive preseason as the next best receiver. Newly signed Danny Amendola (5-34, TD) scored as did demoted David Johnson (3-18, TD). The backfield enjoyed surprising success with Mark Ingram (26-85, TD), while even Phillip Lindsay (8-25, TD) managed a touchdown. The takeaways are that Ingram and Brown are the two surprises, but the Texans home opener went against an opponent that did not seem prepared. This week, the Texans travel to Cleveland where it won’t go nearly so well.

SEA 28, IND 16
The Colts offense looked no better than last year. Carson Wentz threw for 251 yards and two scores but most passes went to Jonathan Taylor (6-60) and Nyheim Hines (6-48). Zack Pascal was the top wideout with two touchdowns on only four receptions for 43 yards. The Seahawks secondary prevented Wentz from going deep which was the one aspect that the Colts hoped he could bring to the offense. Taylor ran for 56 yards on 17 runs while Hines gained 34 yards on nine carries. But the offense moved the ball mostly on the backfield either running or receiving the ball.  That’s not going to help this week when the Rams visit with an even better defense. It’s also troublesome that the Colts’ defense looked much worse than expected in this home game.

The Seahawks were in midseason form. Russell Wilson did almost anything that he wanted, completing 18 of 23 passes for 254 yards and four touchdowns with a 152.3 QB rating. Tyler Lockett (4-100, 2 TD) and DK Metcalf (4-60, TD) remained the most-used outlets. New tight ends Gerald Everett (2-20, TD) used his height in the end zone for his score. Chris Carson ran for 91 yards on 16 runs and added three receptions for 26 yards while taking all but three carries for the backfield. The Seahawks looked very polished on the road against one of the better defenses of last year. They host the Titans this week, which should be even less challenging.

ARI 38, TEN 13
The Cardinals looked scary good. And they were on the road versus a team that made the playoffs last year. Kyler Murray passed for 289 yards and four touchdowns, and ran in a score as well. DeAndre Hopkins (6-83, 2 TD) and Christian Kirk (5-70, 2 TD) led the receivers while the rookie Ronald Moore debuted with 68 yards on four catches. The backfield workload was split between Chase Edmonds (12-63) and James Conner (16-53), and both were  effective. Edmonds added four catches for 43 yards. This is just one game against a bad defense, but the Cardinals offense couldn’t look much better than it did. And Murray was just unstoppable. The Cards host the weak Vikings defense this week, so expect more of the same.

This is yet another game that begs the question – are the Titans this bad or the Cardinals that good? Derrick Henry at home was held to only 58 yards on 17 carries. Ryan Tannehill has upgraded targets and yet only passed for 212 yards and one score. A.J. Brown (4-49, TD) and Julio Jones (3-29) actually trailed  Chester Rogers (4-62). There was just nothing happening in the passing game and Brown’s lone touchdown salvaged an otherwise dismal day for the entire offense. The Titans have little time to figure out what went wrong since they play in Seattle this week.

LAC 20, WAS 16
This was a close-fought, low-scoring game, and the Chargers likely won thanks to Washington losing their quarterback at the start of the game. Justin Herbert threw for 337 yards and one score and saw surprising success with his wideouts. Keenan Allen (9-100) and Mike Williams (8-82, TD) both turned in big performances and new tight end Jared Cook (5-56) already became a factor. Austin Ekeler  never caught a pass but scored on his 15 runs for 57 yards. Larry Rountree handled the No. 2 back duties but that only meant 27 yards on eight carries. But it is a positive that they clearly settled on which back is next behind Ekeler. The Bolts host the  Cowboys this week, so the passing offense should continue to move their offense.

Washington lost Ryan Fitzpatrick in the first quarter and that thrust Taylor Heinicke into the starting role. He only threw for 122 yards and one touchdown, but completed 11 of 15 passes for a 119.3 QB rating. The competition between the two quarterbacks was real this summer and there is minimal drop-off with Heinicke if Fitzpatrick’s injury causes him to miss future games.  Terry McLaurin led the team with four receptions for 62 yards while Logan Thomas (3-30, TD) scored the lone touchdown. Antonio Gibson ran for 90 yards and added three catches for 18 yards. The quarterback upgrade to Fitzpatrick didn’t last long and the offense looked no better than it did last year.

CLE 29, KC 33
What a great game that checked all the fantasy football boxes. The Chiefs fell behind 10-22 at the half but reeled off 33 second-half points just like expected.  The Browns were in this until a final-minute interception by Baker Mayfield ended their chance. He passed for 321 yards playing without Odell Beckham but used ten different receivers. David Njoku (3-76), Jarvis Landry (5-71), and the rookie Anthony Schwartz (3-69) led the receivers. Nick Chubb scored twice on his 15 rushes for 83 yards and added two catches for 18 yards.  Kareem Hunt (6-33, TD) also scored and the Browns’ offense looks formidable if they can rely on the run. Hosting the Texans this week should be very profitable for both Chubb and Hunt.

The Chiefs fell behind, but that’s rarely a reason to worry. The Browns defense held Clyde Edwards-Helaire to only 43 yards on 14 rushes but he owned all but one carry for the backfield. He also added three catches for 29 yards to help salvage his fantasy value. Patrick Mahomes has his standard game, mounting an impressive comeback and finishing with 337 yards and three touchdowns passing, and of course, the additional rushing score as well. NFL defenses still haven’t noticed that all he uses are Tyreek Hill (11-197, TD) and Travis Kelce (6-76, 2 TD). The Chiefs head to Baltimore this week where they will probably fall behind, mount a comeback, and then win the game.

MIA 17, NE 16
The Patriots should have won this game, but lost two fumbles by their running backs. Rhamondre Stevenson lost his after a first quarter catch and was never seen again. Damien Harris lost his on the MIA-11 yard line with three minutes left and the Patriots offense never saw the ball again. Harris was effective with 100 yards on 23 carries and two catches for 17 yards. Mac Jones debut produced 281 passing yards and one score, with no turnovers. He was never sacked, so overall it was a solid opening against a good defense. Nelson Agholor (5-72, TD) was the top receiver and Jakobi Meyers (6-44) had a team high nine targets but lacked the success than he had in the preseason. The new tight ends also showed up with Jonnu Smith (5-42) and Hunter Henry (3-31). Playing at the Jets this week should help everything look better.

The Dolphins won more by their defense, and there wasn’t any offensive star other than maybe the rookie Jaylen Waddle who posted four catches for 61 yards and a touchdown, while DeVante Parker ended with four receptions for 81 yards and no score. The duo were the only receivers with more than 30 yards and Tua Tagovailoa only passed for 202 yards and one touchdown.  He also ran in a score as well. Myles Gaskin (9-49) shared the backfield with Malcolm Brown (5-16) and Salvon Ahmed (3-4), which will limit him each week. The Dolphins were fortunate to kill the Patriots’ final drive with a fumble recovery. They’ll need to be better this week when they host a wounded Bills team.

GB 3, NO 38
I’m sorry, what did you say? The Packers won in New Orleans 37-30 last year, so this was a bit of a surprise because the team formerly known as the Packers just never showed up. Aaron  Rodgers passed for 133 yards and two interceptions. Davante Adams led the team with five catches for 56 yards. Aaron Jones gained nine yards on his five carries. Every team has a trash game each season (or more). But it is unusual when it is a Super Bowl contender in their first game. The Packers host the Lions this week, so it will should look better. But this was just an embarrassment.

The Saints won by 35 points and the defense never scored. But the win was much more about a Saints defense that shut down the Packers. Jameis Winston threw for five touchdowns, but only 148 yards. Alvin Kamara ran for 83 yards but only caught three passes for eight yards and a score. Deonte Harris (2-72, TD) ended the game with a 55-yard touchdown catch. Juwan Johnson turned three catches into 21 yards and two touchdowns. Tony Jones (11-50) took his first run at being the No. 2 back with success.  The defense was dominating and if they can continue, then the offense doesn’t need to do much. This week in Carolina, chances are the defense again rules the game.

DEN 27, NYG 13
The Broncos’ offense all worked together in their first game with Teddy Bridgewater as the starter. Facing the Giants did not hurt. The backfield did split carries with Javonte Williams (14-45) and Melvin Gordon (11-101, TD) taking turns. Gordon’s 70-yard touchdown run with four minutes left pumped up his stats but so far, there’s no reason to expect either back to become a clear primary rusher. Bridgewater threw for 264 yards and two scores but no receivers did much. Jerry Jeudy (6-72) was the best but left with what is thought to be a high ankle sprain. Noah Fant (6-62) was also involved. The Broncos start to the season has a light schedule and they’ll head to Jacksonville this week before hosting the Jets.

The Giants start 2021 with an effort that was just as bad as any of last year. Daniel Jones threw for 267 yards and a score thanks to Sterling Shepard (7-113, TD) as the only notable receiver. Saquon Barkley returned and the Giants were completely transparent when they said their star running back would be eased back into playing. Barkley only gained 26 yards on ten runs and caught one pass for one yard. But Devontae Booker (4-7) was no better. This week in Washington doesn’t promise to be any better.

CHI 14, LA 34
Benching Justin Fields made sense for this opening day buzz-saw that was never going to end well. And it did not. Andy Dalton threw for only 206 yards and one interception despite trailing for the entire game. No receiver totaled more than 45 yards and Allen Robinson was held to only 35 yards on six catches. David Montgomery was the lone bright spot with 108 yards and a score on 16 rushes. But the Bears just experienced their worst venue of the season, and should see more success hosting the Bengals this week.

The debut of Matt Stafford went very well. He threw for 321 yards and three scores that included scores of 67 and 56 yards against a good Bears defense. Darrell Henderson was effective rushing for 70 yards and a score on 16 runs and he added a 17-yard catch. Cooper Kupp (7-108, TD) and Van Jefferson (2-80, TD) both scored on bombs while Robert Woods drew the most coverage. He ended with only three catches for 27 yards but scored the final touchdown. Tyler Higbee (5-68) was the second most targeted receiver though that reflected the Bears secondary.  It was a solid win and everything worked well. This week, the Rams visit the Colts who had trouble finding their defense last week.

The Game-o-the-Week

SF 41, DET 33

The game totaled 74 total points. Who cares how or why?

This was a beatdown until the 49ers quit trying when they reached 38-10 in the middle of the third quarter. Jimmy Garoppolo passed for 314 yards and one score but also watched Trey Lance throw one pass for a touchdown. The rookie was used on only three plays, but still impacted Garoppolo. Deebo Samuel blew up for a career-high nine catches for 189 yards and a touchdown. Brandon Aiyuk was active but shockingly never drew a target and was at times replaced by Trent Sherfield (2-23, TD). HC Mike Shanahan later said that Aiyuk’s whiff was due to a lingering hamstring issue and that Sherfield earned the playing time. Odd way to treat the No. 1 receiver of 2020. Raheem Mostert injured his knee on his second carry and left the game. But the 49ers had Trey Sermon inactive and ended up using Elijah Mitchell (19-104, TD) which throws the backfield into an even less clear situation.  The 49ers travel to Philadelphia this week.

Jared Goff threw for 338 yards and three scores which mostly came late when the 49ers were already packing up to leave.  T.J. Hockenson (8-97, TD) led the receivers, but running backs  D’Andre Swift (8-65, TD), and Jamaal Williams (8-56)  were proof that the Lions wideouts are going to struggle to matter this year. No wide receiver gained more than 23 yards in a game where they trailed badly from the second quarter onward. The backfield was the expected split with Williams (9-54, TD) and Swift (11-39) combining for mediocre production. The Lions travel to Green Bay where the Packers won’t be as generous with trash time production.

Taking a quick rundown of the Sunday NFL games with a fantasy perspective.

MIA 26, BUF 56
The Dolphins needed to win this and get help to reach the playoffs and neither of those happened. This game not only said that the Bills were the best team in the AFC East but also that is likely to continue for a few more years. Tua Tagovailoa threw 58 passes for 361 yards and a score, but also three interceptions. Devante Parker (7-116) was the only notable wideout which was true the entire year. Mike Gesicki (5-47) and Lynn Bowden (8-44) contributed. Myles Gaskin (7-20, TD) and Salvon Ahmed (6-29, TD) never had enough carries to matter. The 10-6 Dolphins miss the playoffs, but greatly exceeded expectations in the process.

Josh Allen threw for 224 yards and three scores and eventually let Matt Barkley pass for 164 yards and a touchdown.  Gabriel Davis (2-107, TD) and Stefon Diggs (7-76) led the group while John Brown added four catches for 72 yards and a touchdown. Isaiah McKenzie (6-65, 2 TD) added an 84-yard punt return for a score that totaled three touchdowns during a seven-minute stretch of the second quarter. Antonio “who? Williams ran for a team high 63 yards and two touchdowns on 12 carries in the fourth quarter. The 13-3 Bills own the No. 2 seed and host the Colts this week in the Wild Card Round.

BAL 38, CIN 3

This really wasn’t as close as the score suggested. The Ravens scored in all sorts of ways, but mostly it was Lamar Jackson throwing for only 113 yards but three touchdowns, and he gained 97 yards on 11 rushes. Marquise Brown (5-41, 2 TD) and Miles  Boykin (1-43, TD) did  better than when you dared to start either this season. J.K. Dobbins blew up for 160 yards and two scores on just 13 carries while Gus Edwards gained 60 yards on his 12 carries. Even Mark Ingram (9-39) was allowed to play. The Ravens head to Tennessee for the Wildcard Round.

In a sign that things should change, the Bengals’ Brian Allen completed 6-of-21 for 48 yards and two interceptions, ending with the ultra-rare 0.0 QB rating. Trayveon Williams ran for 74 yards on four carries thanks to a 55-yard carry. HC Zac Taylor’s second season ends with his team going into hiding in a home game. It appeared that most of the Bengals’ players ended the game while stuck in traffic a few miles away from the stadium.

PIT 22, CLE 24
The Browns had to win this home game and nearly didn’t with the Steelers scoring two touchdowns over the final six minutes and missing on a two-point play that could have tied the game with a minute left.  Mason Rudolph threw for 315 yards and two scores with Chase Claypool (5-101, TD) and Diontae Johnson (3-96), and JuJu Smith-Schuster (6-65, TD) as the top receivers. James Conner (9-37) and Benny Snell (3-10) continue to astound the fantasy world with such bad rushing behind a good offensive line. The 12-4 Steelers already won the AFC North.

Baker Mayfield passed for 196 yards and one score but Rashard Higgins (2-55) and Jarvis Landry (5-51) were the best receivers, and Landry added a three-yard touchdown run. Austin Hooper caught the lone passing score on his four catches for 37 yards. Nick Chubb was the difference-maker with 108 yards and a score on 14 carries while Kareem Hunt was limited to 37 yards on ten runs and only caught one pass for four yards. The win gets the 11-5 Browns a wild card.

MIN 37, DET 35
The Vikings won their final meaningless game but the Lions put up a great fight in their meaningless game. Kirk Cousins passed for 405 yards and three touchdowns and ran in a fourth score. Justin Jefferson (9-133) became the best rookie wideout ever but Adam Thielen was held to only 57 yards on four catches. With Dalvin Cook out, Alexander Mattison did a fine imitation by running for 95 yards and one score plus he caught three passes for 50 yards and a second touchdown. The 7-9 Vikings end like they started – a potent offense and a missing defense.

Matt Stafford was banged up, and maybe he’s gone by next year, but he threw for 293 yards and three touchdowns that were divided between Marvin Jones (8-180, 2 TD) and Quintez Cephus (2-51, TD). D’Andre Swift finished his rookie season with 12 rushes for 54 yards and one score, plud three catches for 16 yards. And yet they still gave Adrian Peterson seven carries to gain 63 yards and one score in what may have been his final season.  The 5-11 Lions enter into a postseason on the lookout for a new set of coaches.

NYJ 14, NE 28
The Jets wind down their bad season with Josh Adams (11-47, TD) and Ty Johnson (11-45) sharing the rushing load. Sam Darnold ends the year with 266 yards and one score, but with two interceptions. Breshad Perriman (3-84) and Chris Herndon (7-63, TD) were the best receivers and Jamison Crowder (4-31) ends with a whimper. Herndon caught a touchdown in the last two games after a season of being ignored. The Jets finish 2-14 on the season and get ready to clean house for the next set of disappointing coaches to come on board.

Cam Newton looked like a real quarterback again, throwing for 242 yards and three touchdowns and rushing for 79 yards as well. Jakobi Meyers (6-68) and rookie tight end Devin Asiasi (2-39, TD) were top receivers while Sony Michael ran for 79 yards on 11 carries and caught three passes for 60 yards and a touchdown.  James White (4-31, TD) also scored as a receiver. The Patriots end up 7-9 on the season with a chance to see what civilian life in January is all about.

DAL 19, NYG 23
The Cowboys’ season mercifully ends with a whimper when Andy Dalton threw an intercepted lob into the endzone with only 1:24 left to play to secure the loss. The team was led by Dalton Schultz (7-70) and Michael Gallup (4-49) as the top receivers and that alone says they had no business in the playoffs. Ezekiel Elliott only gained 42 yards on 14 rushes but scored once and caught three passes for 19 yards. Andy Dalton led in rushing with seven runs for 48 yards which is another way to say that the Cowboys have no business in the playoffs.

Daniel Jones threw for just 229 yards and two scores with one interception. Sterling Shepard caught eight passes for 112 yards and one score and ran in a touchdown as well. Unfortunately, he just used up all of his good-luck points. Dante Pettis (2-43, TD) was credited with the other touchdown though it wasn’t clear that he actually caught it but it was never challenged. Wayne Gallman ran for 65 yards on 11 carries and was oddly not used much. The Giants end 6-10 and now get to be uset for the next seven months that the Eagles threw their game to deny the Giants the division.

ATL 27, TB 44

This was actually a close game until the final  eight minutes when the Buccaneers scored two touchdowns.  Tom Brady ended with 399 yards and four touchdowns between Antonio Brown (11-138, 2 TD) and Chris Godwin (5-133, 2 TD). Mike Evans (3-46) suffered a hamstring injury and left the game early. Ronald Jones (12-78, TD) did not seem hampered by his finger surgery. The Buccaneers end 11-5 and receive that valuable No. 5 seed that will face the NFC East winner.

The Falcons end their nightmare 2020 season without a head coach and a 4-12 record. Matt Ryan passed for 265 yards and two scores with Russell Gage (9-91, TD) and Calvin Ridley (8-52) as the top receivers. Brian Hill ran for 94 yards on nine carries thanks to a 62-yard jaunt while Todd Gurley only managed 18 yards on his nine rushes.  The Falcons hung in until the fourth quarter but they missed Julio Jones yet again and the offense was never quite good enough to keep up with what their defense gave away – and that’s how they started the season.

NO 33, CAR 7

Missing Michael Thomas and Alvin Kamara don’t matter – as long as you are playing the Panthers.  Ty Montgomery ran for 105 yards on 18 carries while Drew Brees passed for 201 yards and three scores.  Emmanuel Sanders (9-63, TD) and Jared Cook (4-43, TD) were the top receivers and Taysom Hill ran for 41 yards and a score on his seven carries.  The Panthers scored in the first quarter and then never again.  The 12-4 Saints lock down the No. 2 seed and will host the Bears.

The Panthers never got going.  With both Christian McCaffery and Mike Davis out, Rodney Smith took the start and gained 40 yards and a touchdown on ten carries. Teddy Bridgewater and P.J. Walker combined for 271 yards and an impressive five interceptions. Curtis Samuel (7-118) and D.J. Moore (5-101) were the top receivers but this game was over by the second quarter. HC Matt Rhule’s first season ends  at 5-11 but next year – Christian McCaffery!

GB 35, CHI 16
The Packers had little trouble nailing down the No. 1 seed since the Bears only kicked three field goals after the first quarter. Aaron Rodgers passed for 240 yards and four touchdowns but the top receivers Marquez Valdes-Scantling (2-87, TD) and Davante Adams (6-46, TD) were only moderately successful. Aaron Jones only ran for 42 yards and a touchdown on his 11 carries.  The Packers secured their Round one bye.

Mitchell Trubisky was held to 252 yards and one interception.  Darnell Mooney (11-93) was the best receiver since the Packers’ cornerbacks blanketed Allen Robinson (2-37) and Anthony Miller (2-13). Montgomery ran for 69 yards and a score on 22 rushes and caught nine passes for 63 yards. The Bears have to hit the road and play at the Saints this week.

LV 32, DEN 31
This was an entertaining and hard-fought game that went down to the final seconds. The Raiders trailed 24-31 until they scored a touchdown with only 27 seconds left to play and then went for two points and succeeded on a pass to Darren Waller. The Broncos completed a 25-yard pass to Jerry Jeudy with defensive delay of game also enforced to reach the LV-45 yard line where their 63-yard kick with nine seconds left was blocked.

Derek Carr passed for 371 yards and two scores with two interceptions. Darren Waller (9-117, TD) was about all that mattered. Nelson Agholor (1-57) caught one long pass and the rookie Bryan Edwards (2-51, TD) finally caught his first NFL touchdown. Josh Jacobs (15-89, 2 TD) never caught a pass.  The Raiders squeaked out a win and at 8-8 avoided a losing season.

Drew Lock threw for 339 yards and two scores, but Jerry Jeudy (5-140, TD) was the only receiver with more than 50 yards and his 92-yard touchdown catch in the fourth quarter accounted for a huge chunk of the offense. Melvin Gordon (6-93, TD) ended with four catches for 17 yards. The Broncos finish their 5-11 season with a heartbreaker despite more points and yardage than they usually produced.

TEN 41, HOU 38
Great game and another heartbreaker for the Texans. Ryan Tannehill passed for 216 yards and one score to A.J. Browm (10-151, TD) as the only receiver with more than 39 yards. Derrick Henry ran for 250 yards on 34 rushes with two touchdowns as he became the eighth NFL player to rush for over 2,000 yards in a season. The win secured the AFC South title with an 11-5 record and the Titans will host the Ravens this week.

The Texans may be only 4-12 but Deshaun Watson played yet another outstanding game, making do with whatever he had. He passed for 365 yards and three touchdowns with Brandin Cooks (11-166, 2 TD) and Keke Coutee (6-90) as the top receivers. David Johnson ran for 84 yards and a score on his 14 carries and he caught three passes for 36 yards. The Texans could be one of the top-seeded teams if they could just play their own defense every week.

JAC 14, IND 28
The Jaguars made this feel like a real game. Mike Glennon passed for 261 yards and two scores to Laviska Shenault (6-68, 2 TD) while Chris Conley (7-87) took his turn as the top receiver in the always-changing rotation. Dare Ogunbowale (14-50) didn’t add much but caught four passes for 22 yards. The Jaguars ended with a 1-15 record and can help Trevor Lawrence find an apartment just as soon as they get a new batch of coaches.

Remember Marlon Mack? No one else does. Jonathan Taylor ran for 253 yards and two scores on 30 carries like he was back at Wisconsin. Philip Rivers threw for only 164 yards and one score to T.Y. Hilton (3-27, TD) but Nyheim Hines (6-50) was the top receiver.  The Colts cruised to this win behind the rushing of Taylor but won’t be facing the No. 29 ranked defense versus running backs in the playoffs. They head to Buffalo for the Wild Card Round.

LAC 38, KC 21
Have to like any meaningless game that cranks out 59 total points. Justin Herbert used the fact that most of the Chiefs were not playing to throw for 302 yards and three scores even without Keenan Allen around. Mike Williams (6-108, TD) was the only wideout with more than one catch. The backfield was a three-way mess between Justin Jackson (9-72), Kalen Ballage (13-36, TD), and Austin Ekeler (7-18) but at least Ekeler added six catches for 33 yards and one score. Herbert should be a lock for the Offensive Rookie of the Year and this game did nothing to hurt his chances. The Chargers end 7-9 on the season.

Chad Henne threw for 218 yards and two scores in this Chiefs-Lite version of the offense that was without their star players. Darwin Thompson used the occasion to run for a career-best 45 yards and a score on 14 carries plus was the leading receiver with seven receptions for 65 yards and a second touchdown. The Chiefs opted to rest all of the running backs other than Thompson. The Chiefs end 14-2 and take this week off as well.

ARI 7, LAR 18
The Cardinals were bounced out of the playoffs with this loss but losing Kyler Murray for most of the game made it impossible against the Rams defense. All combined, the Cards passed for 192 yards and one score with one interception. Dan Arnold (3-46) and DeAndre Hopkins (4-35) were as good as it got, despite Hopkins fielding ten targets. Kenyan Drake (10-36) did little with his minor role as the offense sputtered even when Murray was healthy to start the game. They end 8-8 but lost tie breakers to the 8-8 Bears for the No. 7 seed.

The Rams played without Jared Goff and John Wolford threw for only 231 yards and no scores with one interception. He added 56 yards on six runs as the leading rusher. Cam Akers played through his high-ankle sprain but only gained 34 yards on 21 carries plus was the leading receiver with 52 yards on four catches. The 10-6 Rams end with the No. 6 seed that plays at the Seahawks this week.

SEA 26, SF 23
The Seahawks held off the 49ers for this close win and trailed 16-6 in the fourth quarter. Russell Wilson only threw for 181 yards and two scores to Tyler Lockett (12-90, 2 TD) while DK Metcalf was held to only 21 yards on three catches. Both scores were thrown in the fourth quarter when Wilson finally came to life. Chris Carson ran for 44 yards on 11 carries and caught two passes for 39 yards in this defensive matchup. The win secured the NFC West and the Seahawks host the Rams on Saturday.

C.J. Beathard threw for 273 yards and one score while Kendrick Bourn (5-76) and George Kittle (7-68)  were the top receivers with Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuels out. Jeff Wilson (20-76, TD) made a case for more work next season and added three catches for 12 yards and a second touchdown as well. The 6-10 49ers wind down a season that saw their roster decimated by injury from the start and their season results exceeded expectations,

WAS 20, PHI 14
That will be a memorable game for Washington, and maybe the Eagles, but definitely the Giants who watched the game knowing that if the Eagles won, the Giants took the division and host a playoff game. But the defensive matchup saw the Eagles go for it on fourth-and-four at the Washington four-yard line. Instead of kick a tying field goal. And they were unsuccessful. But then, with 12:35 left to play, they got the ball back and benched Jalen Hurts and sent in Nate Sudfeld so he could end the game with five-of-twelve completions for 32 yards and one interception. And a lost fumble. And they looked like HC Doug Pederson figured “screw the Giants, I’m throwing this.”

Hurts was not much better, but  he ran for 34 yards on eight rushes with both touchdowns scored by the Eagles. Boston Scott ran for 65 yards on 15 rushes but none of the receivers had any success. Pederson said that he still wanted to win but wanted to get Pederson some playing time when, you know, they were still close and a No. 3 quarterback might be just the thing the game needed. Very odd way to end the 2020 regular season but maybe that is appropriate.

Alex Smith only threw for 162 yards and two scores with two interceptions. Terry McLaurin (7-40, TD) and Logan Thomas (3-37, TD) did the scoring because there isn’t anyone else on the Washington roster that ever merits getting targets. Antonio Gibson ran for 75 yards on 19 carries but only caught one short pass. The Washington Football Team host the Buccaneers on Saturday.

 

 

Taking a quick rundown of the weekend NFL games with a fantasy perspective.

SF 20, ARI 12
This was just the start of teams that needed to win but did not. And teams with nothing to win became spoilers. C.J. Beathard passed for 182 yards and three touchdowns with running backs Jeff Wilson (1-21, TD) and Kyle Juszczyk (2-10, 2 TD) catching the scores. George Kittle was active and though he was expected to play a minimal role, he ended as the leading receiver with four catches for 92 yards. Wilson had a career day (easily) when he ran for 183 yards on 22 carries. More than that, the 49ers’ defense played a tremendous game.

Kyle Murray was held to only 247 passing yards and one interception with 75 yards on eight runs. Christian Kirk (7-76) and DeAndre Johnson (8-48) were the primary receivers but a disappointment facing a secondary that was without key players. Kenyan Drake ran for 45 yards and a score on 18 carries and added just five yards on two catches. The Cardinals played flat and couldn’t sustain drives. The 6-9 49ers end up hosting the Seahawks while the 8-7 Cardinals try to reach a winning season in Las Vegas.

TB 47, DET 7
This game was one of the most lopsided in the NFL this year. The Buccaneers already led 34-0 in the second quarter. Tom Brady passed for 348 yards and four scores before sitting out the second half, while Blaine Gabbert passed for 143 yards and two more scores.  Mike Evans (10-181, 2 TD), Chris Godwin (5-84, TD), Rob Gronkowski (2-58, 2 TD), and Antonio Brown (4-35, TD) all scored  and fantasy owners couldn’t find a potential starter that didn’t go off. Leonard Fournette ran for 34 yards and a score with three catches for 32 yards before he gave way to Ke’Shawn Vaughn (15-62). This one was a laugher from the first play.

Matt Stafford only lasted for three passes, then they tried Chase Daniels and eventually David Bough. The Lions never had a chanceand no receiver gained more than 37 yards.  The only score was from a punt return touchdown. D’Andre Swift ran for 45 yards on ten carries and added four catches for 25 but the game went immediately and irretrievably south from the start. The 10-5 Buccaneers finish up hosting the Falcons and the 5-10 Lions face the Vikings.

MIN 33, NO 52
This Christmas Day game was only a treat for the Alvin Kamara owner in every league. He rushed for 155 yards on 22 carries and ran in six touchdowns while adding three catches for 17 yards. Drew Brees was back and threw for 311 yards and two interceptions. Emmanuel Sanders (4-83) and Jared Cook (3-82) were the top receivers but this game was all about Kamara who could have had seven had they not allowed Taysom Hill to run in a touchdown. Kamara tied the NFL record but could have set a new one.

Kirk Cousins passed for 291 yards and three scores between Adam Thielen (8-97, TD) and Irv Smith (6-53, 2 TD). Justin Jefferson turned in six catches for 85 yards. Dalvin Cook (15-73, TD) added just two receptions for 12 yards and the Vikings even allowed Mike Boone to run in a short score instead of Cook. The loss sends the 6-9 Vikings to Detroit this week while the 11-4 Saints finish up with a trip to Carolina.

NYG 13, BAL 27
This game was never close and the Ravens led 27-6 in the fourth quarter. Daniel Jones passed for 252 yards and one score to Sterling Shepard (9-77, TD) which came in the fourth quarter trash time. Evan Engram ended with seven receptions for 65 yards but no other receiver gained more than 33 yards. Wayne Gallman only ran for 27 yards on six runs and caught two passes for 26 yards.  The Ravens had no problem controlling the Giants from the start.

Lamar Jackson threw for 183 yards and two touchdowns and rushed for 80 yards on 13 runs. Mark Andrews (6-76) led the receivers while Marquise Brown (4-25, TD) scored. Dez Bryant (1-8, TD) also scored on his only catch in the game. J.K. Dobbins ran for 80 yards on 13 runs and Gus Edwards gained 85 yards on his 15 rushes.  The rushing offense handled this touch the split meant no individual rusher did that much. The 5-10 Giants  host the Cowboys to end the year while the 10-5 Ravens  head to Cincinnati.

CIN 37, HOU 31
Go figure. The Texans’ defense is nothing special, but the Bengals were down to mostly second-string players. Brandon Allen threw for 371 yards and two scores with Tee Higgins (6-99, TD) and Alex Erickson (6-88) as the top receivers while Samaje Perrine ran for 95 yards and two scores on just 13 carries and Giovani Bernard gained 65 yards on his 16 runs with seven catches for 66 yards. Bengals trailed 27-31  remaining but scored ten points in the final two minutes to take the win.

Deshaun Watson passed for 324 yards and three scores with Brandin Cooks (7-141, TD) and Keke Coutee (5-54) as the top receivers. David Johnson had a big day with 128 yards and a score on just 12 carries and three catches for 11 yards and another touchdown. Watson injured his arm at the end of the game and it looked significant. The 4-10-1 Bengals end by hosting the Ravens and the 4-11 Texans  face the visiting Titans.

CHI 41, JAC 17

The Bears happily accepted their free win but it could have been worse than it was. Mitchell Trubisky passed for 265 yards and two scores with one interception  and he ran in a score a well. Allen Robinson (10-103) and Jimmy Graham (4-69, 2 TD) did most of their damage earlier in the game. David Montgomery ran for 95 yards and a score on 23 carries and added 26 yards on two catches. Artavis Pierce came in for two carries and scored a touchdown and Ryan Nall also had two runs.

Mike Glennon threw for 211 yards and two scores but also had two interceptions. DJ Chark (4-62, TD) and Laviska Shenault (5-48, TD) were the only receivers with more than 27 yards. With James Robinson out, Dare Ogunbowale gained 71 yards on 14 rushes and added three catches for seven yards but this was tied in the second quarter 10-10 and then became all about the Bears. The 1-14 Jaguars finish at the Colts while the 8-7 Bears  host the Bears.

ATL 14, KC 17
Hard to say what is worse? That the Chiefs always play down to the level of their opponent or that they get away with it every time? Patrick Mahomes passed for 278 yards and two scores and ran for 21 yards against one of the worst defenses in the NFL. Travis Kelce (7-98, TD) and Tyreek Hill 4-65) were the top receivers as usual and Demarcus Robinson (2-29, TD) had his rare touchdown. With Clyde Edwards-Helaire on the sideline, Le’Veon Bell only ran for 30 yards on seven rushes while Darrell Williams gained 46 yards on ten runs. This game was tied 7-7 in the fourth quarter and the Chiefs won it with a touchdown pass with under two minutes to play.

Matt Ryan threw for 300 yards and two scores with Calvin Ridley (5-130) and Hayden Hurst (5-47, TD) as the top receivers. Todd Gurley ran for only 16 yards on four carries but gained 34 yards on his three receptions. Ito Smith was the lead back with just 46 yards on ten rushes. The 4-11 Falcons finish up at the Buccaneers and the 14-1 Chiefs host the Chargers.

CLE 16, NYJ 23
Amazing. The Jets took a 7-3 lead in the first quarter and never gave it up. They’ve won two games in a row and the Jaguars are free to win a game now that they have wrapped up the No. 1 overall draft pick.  Sam Darnold threw for 175 yards and two scores and Jamison Crowder not only caught seven passes for 92 yards and a score, he also threw a 43-yard touchdown to Braxton Berrios. Even Chris Herndon caught a score on his four receptions for 34 yards. Frank Gore ran for only 48 yards on 14 carries but remains the primary back.

Baker Mayfield’s hot streak ended with only 285 yards and no scores after 53 passes. Austin Hooper (7-71) and Ja’marcus Bradley (5-60) were the top receivers since all of the starters were on the COVID list as of Sunday morning. The Jets held Nick Chubb to only 28 yards on 11 runs though he and Kareem Hunt (4-11, TD) both ran in a touchdown. The Browns trailed 20-3 in the third quarter and could not manufacture a comeback. The loss sends the 10-5 Browns home to host the Steelers and the 2-13 Jets look for the hat trick at the Patriots.

IND 24, PIT 28
The Steelers pulled this out after trailing 24-7 in the third quarter. Philip Rivers passed for 270 yards and one touchdown to Zach Pascal (3-64, TD). T.Y. Hilton ended with 60 yards on three catches and Jack Doyle caught four passes for 50 yards. Jonathan Taylor ran for 74 yards and two scores on his 18 carries while Nyheim Hines gained 44 yards on eight runs and caught five passes for 20 yards. The Colts had this one won but the Steelers got hot in the fourth quarter.

Ben Roethlisberger threw for 342 yards and three touchdowns. JuJu Smith-Schuster (9-96, TD), Diontae Johnson (8-75, TD), and Eric Ebron (5-47, TD) all scored in the fourth quarter in an otherwise lackluster offensive showing for three quarters. James Conner only ran for 20 yards on his five rushes but scored once. He also added five receptions for 45 yards. The 10-5 Colts host the Jaguars this week while the 12-3 Steelers head to Cleveland.

DEN 16, LAC 19
Not exactly a shootout. Drew Lock threw for 264 yards and two interceptions, but he ran in the only touchdown for the Broncos. DaeSean Hamilton (5-77) and Noah Fant (6-65) led the receivers while Jerry Jeudy (6-61) was thrown a team-high 15 targets but dropped most of them. Melvin Gordon ran for 79 yards on 16 carries but had no catches. The Broncos tied the score 16-16 with under three minutes left but the Chargers kicked a 37-yard field goal to win with 41 seconds left.

Justin Herbert passed for 253 yards and one score to Austin Ekeler (3-23) who ran for 45 yards on two carries. Mike Williams was the best receiver with only four catches for 54 yards with Keenan Allen out. This was just a low-energy game and nothing like the fireworks that usually happen when Herbert plays. The 5-10 Broncos  return home to face the Raiders and the 6-9 Chargers  head to Kansas City where they hope the Chiefs are resting their entire team.

CAR 20, WAS 13
Go figure. The Panthers didn’t do much, but the Washington Football Team lost the ball four times and changed quarterbacks. Plus, Terry McLaurin was out. Dwayne Haskins was benched after two interceptions and a 36.9 QB rating on his 28 passes. Taylor Heinicke finished the game and they combined for 291 yards and one score. Antonio Gibson ran for 61 yards on ten rushes and added eight yards on three catches. J.D. McKissic ran for 15 yards and led the team on  eight catches for 77 yards and the one touchdown. Logan Thomas also turned in 63 yards on seven catches but adding Haskins and taking away McLaurin is not a winning combo.

Teddy Bridgewater only threw for 197 yards and one score to Robby Anderson (7-39, TD) while Curtis Samuel (5-106) and D.J. Moore (5-37) accounted for almost all of the other receptions. Mike Davis ran for just 28 yards on 14 carries but scored once and had no catches. Samuel also ran seven times for 52 yards as the leading rusher and receiver. The 5-10 Panthers host the Saints this week while the  6-9 Football Team plays in Philadelphia.

PHI 17, DAL 37
 The Cowboys passing game looked great again and the magic that Jalen Hurts brought to the Eagles was overshadowed by two interceptions and a lost fumble. Hurts passed for 342 yards and one score plus he ran for 69 yards on nine runs. Miles Sanders scored on his 15 carries for 57 yards and he added four receptions for 27 yards. DeSean Jackson was active and his lone catch went for an 81-yard touchdown. But the Eagles stopped scoring in the second quarter while the Cowboys racked up 24 more points.

Andy Dalton threw for 377 yards and three touchdowns and looked better than ever. Michael Gallup (6-121, 2 TD) and Amari Cooper (4-121) led the receivers and CeeDee Lamb (3-65, TD) scored as a receiver and ran in a second touchdown on a 19-yar4d play. Ezekiel Elliott started slowly but ended with 105 yards on 19 carries and caught four passes for 34 yards. It all worked in this home version of the annual series with the Eagles. The 6-9 Cowboys  head to New York to play the Giants and the 4-10-1 Eagles  host the Football Team hoping to be a spoiler.

LAR 9, SEA 20
This was everything that the Rams did not need. Jared Goff threw for 234 yards and one interception while injuring his throwing thumb.  Cooper Kupp (8-66), Josh Reynolds (6-65), and Robert Woods (4-48) show how much the Seahawks secondary has improved. Cam Akers is out with a high-ankle sprain and Darrell Henderson gained 62 yards on 17 runs before leaving with his own ankle injury. If Goff, Henderson, and Akers are out, fold up the tents and make plans for next year.

The Seahawks didn’t have much success either though they had no turnovers. Russell Wilson managed 225 passing yards and one score plus he rushed in a touchdown as well. DK Metcalf (6-59) and Tyler Lockett (3-44) were the best receivers, Chris Carson gained 69 yards on 16 carries and caught three passes for 10 yards but the offense was just good enough to get this needed win. The 9-6 Rams end up hosting the Cardinals and the 11-4 Seahawks  finish the season at the 49ers.

TEN 14, GB 40
The Titans came within 14-19 in the third quarter but the Packers pulled away permanently behind Davante Adams and AJ Dillon.  Aaron Jones ran for 94 yards on ten carries but Dillon replaced Jamaal Williams and became the primary back with 21 rushes for 124 yards and two scores. Aaron Rodgers looked like he was playing sandlot football with younger kids when he completed 21-of-25 for 231 yards and four touchdowns. Davante Adams (11-142, 3 TD) was mostly unstoppable, and Equanimeous Brown (1-21, TD) handled the receiving touchdowns. The Packers were terrifyingly good at home where they’ll be throughout the conference playoffs.

Derrick Henry (23-98) never broke a run longer than 10 yards. Ryan Tannehill passed for 121 yards and one score with two interceptions like a good quarterback that did not want to play in snowy and cold Green Bay. A.J. Brown (4-43) and Jonnu Smith (3-30, TD) were the top receivers. The 10-5 Titans head to Houston this week while the 12-3 Packers  play in Chicago. 

 

The Game-o-the-Week

MIA , 26, LV 25
Such a heart-breaker for the Raiders.The low-scoring, back-and-forth matchup that was tied 16-16 with only four minutes left to play. Then Nelson Agholor caught an 85-yard touchdown with a missed extra point. 42 seconds later, Myles Gaskin caught a 59-yard touchdown. The Raiders kicked a field goal with only 19 seconds left to play for a 25-23 lead. The Dolphins took over on their own 25-yard line and Ryan Fitzpatrick connected with Mack Hollins for 34-yards on the first play and the Raiders had a roughing the passer penalty that brought the ball to the LV-26 yard line  where Jason Sanders kicked the game winning 44-yard field goal as time expired and Jon Gruden’s head exploded.

Tua Tagovailoa was benched in the second half and Ryan Fitzpatrick stepped in with a nearly-flawless performance. Myles Gaskin ran for 87 yards on 14 carries and also was the lead receiver with five catches for 82 yards and two scores. Mike Gesicki (4-54) was the best of the rest but Devante Parker did not play.

Derek Carr threw for 336 yards and a score to Agholor (5-155, TD) while Darren Waller (5-112) also came up big though no other wideout gained more than 34 yards. Josh Jacobs ran for 69 yards on 13 carries and failed to catch either pass thrown to him. The Raiders should have won that game but Fitzpatrick was magic when they needed him the most. The 10-5 Dolphins travel to Buffalo this week while the 7-8 Raiders  finish up in Denver.

Taking a quick rundown of the Sunday NFL games with a fantasy perspective.

BUF 48, DEN 19
The Bills have not looked this good in decades. Josh Allen threw for 359 yards and two scores and added two more touchdowns via three rushes for 33 yards. Zack Moss (13-81) and Devin Singletary (8-68, TD) handled the rushing while Singletary added three catches for 16 yards. Stefon Diggs (11-147) and Cole Beasley (8-112) both turned in high yardage though Diggs left injured near the end of the game. This was a thorough beatdown and the Bills led 21-13 at the half and then owned the second half.

Drew Lock was held to only 132 yards and one score to Noah Fant (8-68, TD). No other receiver gained more than 20 yards. Melvin Gordon rushed for 61 yards and two scores on 11 carries and added four catches for 20 yards. Phillip Lindsay also ran 11 times but only covered 38 yards. The 11-3 Bills now own the AFC East for the first time since before World War I and play at the Patriots this week. The 5-9 Broncos end up at the Chargers.

CAR 16, GB 24
Rather surprisingly lackluster game. Teddy Bridgewater passed for 258 yards but no scores and D.J. Moore (6-131) enjoyed letting Robby Anderson (2-21) draw the shutdown corner this week. Mike Davis ran for 59 yards on 14 carries but only added two catches for two yards. The only touchdown came on a run by Bridgewater and the Panthers trailed 21-3 at the half when the Packers stopped caring and the Panthers could only come up with field goals.

Aaron Rodgers threw for only 143 yards and one score – there’s a sign of how the Packers never had to shift into second gear to win this. Rodgers did run in one score. Alan Lazard (5-56) led the receivers while Davante Adams (7-42) was given the week off. Aaron Jones ran for 145 yards and one score and added three catches for 13 yards. The 4-10 Panthers  play in Washington and maybe, just maybe you can actually use Christian McCaffrey if you somehow reached the league championship without your first overall draft pick. The 11-3 Packers  host the Titans this week.

TB 31, ATL 27
Great game with high points. The Buccaneers trailed 7-24 in the third quarter and the passing game for Tom Brady finally kicked in just in the nick of time. He ended with 390 yards and two scores with Mike Evans (6-110), Antonio Brown (5-93, TD), and Chris Godwin (4-36, TD) all delivering fantasy-relevant performances even if Rob Gronkowski (3-29) did not. Leonard Fournette replaced Ronald Jones and ran for 49 yards and two touchdowns on his 14 rushes. It ended well enough, but the Buccaneers offense took almost three quarters to wake up and their defense never did.

Matt Ryan was in top form even without Julio Jones. He threw for 356 yards and three touchdowns without a shred of rushing support. The backfield only totaled 21 rushing yards and that was with Ito Smith gaining 24 yards on six runs. Todd Gurley lost a yard on his only rush and Brian Hill lost two yards over his five carries. Calvin Ridley caught ten passes for 163 yards and one score while Russell Gage (5-68, TD) did a solid job replacing Julio Jones. Hayden Hurst also scored on his four catches for 21 yards.  The Falcons had this won and then the Buccaneers just took it away. The 4-10 Falcons travel to the Chiefs this week and the 9-5 Buccaneers  pay in Detroit.

JAC 14, BAL 40
Since the Ravens couldn’t afford a trap game, they put forth a full effort which was plenty in this matchup where they led 40-7 until the final two minutes. Gardner Minshew passed for 226 yards and two scores but no receiver gained more than D.J. Chark (4-53). James Robinson only ran for 35 yards on 16 carries but added three catches for 18 yards and a touchdown. There was just nothing happening in this offense that started the game giving up a safety.

Lamar Jackson turned in a predictably great performance with 243 yards and three touchdowns as a  passer and 35 yards and another score as a rusher. Marquise Brown (6-98) and Mark Andrews (5-66, TD) were the only notable receivers other than Dez Bryant scoring a touchdown on his only catch in the game. Mark Ingram was inactive and a lock to be elsewhere next year. J.K. Dobbins ran for 64 yards and a score on 14 carries and added a 17-yard catch. Gus Edwards ran for 42 yards and added two receptions for 36 yards.  The loss plummets the Jaguars to only 1-13 and they host the Bears this week. The 9-5 Ravens  keep their playoff hopes alive and host the Giants.

SF 33, DAL 41
This was a surprise. The Cowboys never trailed but also never led by much until the end of the game. Nick Mullens passed for 219 yards and two scores as a disappointment, and Brandon Aiyuk (9-73, TD) and Kendrick Bourne (4-86, TD) were the only notable receivers. Bourne caught a 49-yard Hail Mary pass on the final play to boost the passing stats here and prevent Mullens from a shockingly low-production game versus the Cowboys secondary. Raheem Mostert ran for 68 yards on 14 carries but left injured. Jeff Wilson (16-60, TD) had the bulk of his production after Mostert left.

Ezekiel Elliott was inactive and Tony Pollard ran for 69 yards and two touchdowns on just 12 carries and added six catches for 63 yards as the only Cowboy with a truly productive performance. CeeDee Lamb (5-85) also ran back an onside kick attempt by the 49ers at the end of the game but Michael Gallup (3-26, TD) and Dalton Schultz (2-14, TD) handled the receiving scores. The 5-9 49ers stumble to Arizona this week while the 5-9 Cowboys somehow remain in contention for the NFC East and  host the Eagles.

HOU 20, IND 27
The Colts had a bit of trouble winning this game that was tied 20-20 until the final two minutes of the fourth quarter. Deshaun Watson passed for 373 yards and two touchdowns. David Johnson was the top receiver with 11 catches for 106 yards while Chad Hansen (2-55, TD) and Keke Coutee (5-53, TD) both scored and Brandin Cooks (6-59) helped out. But Johnson only ran for 27 yards on eight rushes and that was with Duke Johnson out this week. The Colts seemed to play this one with less intensity than expected and let the Texans stay in the game until late.

Philip Rivers passed for 228 yards and two scores that both went to Zach Pascal (5-79, 2 TD) while T.Y. Hilton settled for four receptions for 71 yards. No other receivers gained more than 19 yards on the Texans. Jonathan Taylor ran for 83 yards and one score on 16 carries which was about half of what the potential haul could have been. He added four catches for 12 yards to help but a homefield matchup with the No. 32 defense should have been far more productive. Nyheim Hines only ran five times for 43 yards while this game should have held at least 30 total carries. The 4-9 Texans return home for their final two games that include the Bengals this week. The 10-4 Colts  head to Pittsburgh

NE 12, MIA 22
The Patriots are now officially out of the playoffs for the first time since the invention of grass. Cam Newton passed for 209 yards and ran for 38 yards but the Pats never produced a touchdown and only four field goals made up the score. Sony Michel (10-74) replaced Damien Harris and was effective but little used. Jakobi Meyers ended with seven catches for 111 yards and James White caught four passes for 52 yards to make up the bulk of the receiving production. They can was always close and in reach but the punchless Patriots couldn’t find the end zone.

Tua Tagovailoa passed for 145 yards and added three runs for nine yards that scored two touchdowns. No receivers gained more than 40 yards. Salvon Ahmed was active and ran for 122 yards and a score on 23 carries while Matt Breida added 86 yards on 12 rushes. The Patriots couldn’t sustain drives and the Dolphins were able to run the ball 42 times in all The 6-8 Patriots return home to face the Bills and the 9-5 Dolphins  head to Las Vegas.

CHI 33, MIN 27
As an admitted critic of the usage of David Montgomery since he was drafted last year, it is wildly-confirming to see what he accomplished for the last month when they used him as a true full-time player. Montgomery ran for 146 yards and two scores on 32 rushes. Mitchell Trubisky passed for 202 yards and one score to Darnell Mooney (4-49, TD) while Allen Robinson gained a team-high 83 yards on his four receptions. The passing was down with only 21 balls thrown but feeding Montgomery the ball was enough to win this. What a concept.

Dalvin Cook ran for 132 yards and a score on 24 carries and added five receptions for  27 yards. Kirk Cousins passed for 271 yards and two scores between Tyler Conklin (3-57, TD) and Adam Thielen (2-11, TD). Justin Jefferson led the team with eight catches for 104 yards in the losing effort. The Vikings rallied from being down 20-10 but fell just short. The 7-7 Bears head to Jacksonville this week and the 6-8 Vikings travel to New Orleans.

DET 25, TEN 46
No surprises here other than Derrick Henry “only” rushing for 147 yards and one score. Darrynton Evans ran eight times for 30 yards that could have belonged to the chronically-overworked Henry. Ryan Tannehill threw for 273 yards and three touchdowns between Corey Davis (4-110, TD), A.J. Brown (5-44, TD), and Evans (2-27, TD). The Titans pulled away with three touchdowns in the fourth quarter.

Matt Stafford threw for 252 yards and one score to Marvin Jones (10-112, TD) but no other receiver gained more than 41 yards for the Lions. D’Andre Swift ran for 67 yards and two touchdowns on 15 carries and added four catches for 15 yards. The Lions were in this game for three quarters before their defense shrugged their shoulders and left in the fourth quarter. Henry’s potential chase for 2,000 yards isn’t likely if they dial him back and let the rookie backup take eight carries in the game. It is prudent not to overwork Henry, and he’s a lock to end up as the leading NFL rusher for the second season in a row. The 5-9 Lions return home to host the Buccaneers while the 10-4 Titans head to Green Bay for a very stout challenge.

SEA 20, WAS 15
Not a lot of offensive in this matchup that saw the Seahawks leading 20-3 heading into the fourth quarter. Russell Wilson only passed for 121 yards and one score, but he ran for 52 yards on six carries.  DK Metcalf was limited to only 43 yards on five receptions as the lead receiver and the lone touchdown was caught by Jacob Hollister (2-17, TD). Chris Carson (15-63) and Carlos Hyde (2-55) handled the rushing duties in this low-key defensive matchup.

Dwayne Haskins passed for 295 yards and one score but had two interceptions. Logan Thomas (13-101) was the top receiver along with Terry McLaurin (7-77).  J.D. McKissic was the primary rusher with 51 yards on 13 carries and nine receptions for 56 yards and one score as a receiver.  Haskins threw 55 passes in the game but only Thomas and McLaurin mattered. Which is true in most weeks. The 10-4 Seahawks return to Seattle for their final home game and host the Rams. The Football Team also conducts their final home game with the Panthers visiting.

PHI 26, ARI 33
Thanks, Carson. It was almost great while it lasted. The rookie Jalen Hurts lost the game, but he passed for 338 yards and three touchdowns with no interceptions, plus ran for 63 yards and a score on his 11 rushes. And he did not lean heavily on any single receiver. Zach Ertz (2-69), Alshon Jeffery (2-63), Jalen Reagor  (5-49), and Quez Watkins (3-40, TD) were the top receivers. Greg Ward only caught four passes for 15 yards but scored twice. Mile Sanders gained 64 yards on 17 carries but has the same problem all running backs do when they play with a running quarterback who can score with his legs.

Kyler Murray threw for 406 yards and three touchdowns with DeAndre Hopkins (9-169, TD) about three times better than any other Cardinals wideout. Dan Arnold (3-54) was the next best receiver while the Cardinals continue to use their tight end. Kenyan Drake ran for just 26 yards on ten carries while Chase Edmonds gained 47 yards on 11 runs and he added three catches for 19 yards and a touchdown. That was above expectations for a player that missed two days of practice and was questionable to play. The 4-9-1 Eagles head to Dallas this week while the 8-6 Cardinals host the 49ers in their home finale.

KC 32, NO 29
Great game and GOTW contender. Maybe a preview of Super Bowl LV? The Chiefs took a 29-15 lead in the fourth quarter but Drew Brees finally got hot after looking very rusty for the entire first half. Patrick Mahomes ended with 254 yards and three touchdowns that benefitted Travis Kelce (8-68, TD), Sammy Watkins (4-60), Tyreek Hill (6-53), and Mecole Hardman (3-22, TD). Clyde Edwards-Helaire ran for 79 yards on 14 runs but left with a knee injury. Le’Veon Bell took over and gained 62 yards and a touchdown on his 15 carries. There were no monster performances here but all players managed a moderately good game.

Drew Brees passed for 234 yards and three touchdowns playing without Michael Thomas. Emmanuel Sanders (4-76), Alvin Kamara (3-40, TD) and Lil’ Jordan  Humphrey (2-29, TD) were the top receivers. Kamara added 54 yards on 11 rushes. The Saints made a valiant comeback bid but just fell short. The 13-1 Chiefs  host the Falcons while the 10-4 Saints host the Vikings this week.

CLE 20, NYG 6
 This late Sunday game didn’t give much reason to stay up. Scoring was at a minimum and the Giants never logged a touchdown. Baker Mayfield threw for 297 yards and two scores but took it easy in the second half when everyone realized that the Giants were never going to find the endzone. Rashard Higgins (4-76) and Jarvis Landry (7-61, TD) were the top receivers  but the rushing effort was a disappointment. Nick Chubb scored once, but only gained 50 yards on 15 carries and added 16 yards on two catches. Kareem Hunt only turned in 21 yards on seven rushes and caught three passes for seven yards.  It was like a trap game, only without the other side doing anything to trap you.

Colt McCoy passed for 221 yards and no scores. Darrius Slayton (4-74) and Sterling Shepard (4-51) were the top receivers for the Giants. Wayne Gallman only managed 29 yards on nine runs and Alfred Morris led the backfield with 39 yards on seven catches. The Giants without Daniel Jones were unable to generate much offense and the Browns’ defense was good enough to strip all fantasy value from their offense. The 10-4 Browns play at the Jets this week and the 5-9 Giants head to Baltimore where it will not get any better.

 

The Game-o-the-Week

NYJ 23, LAR 20

I’m sorry, what?

Come again? It sounded like you said that the Jets won at the Rams.

Whoa. Wrap your head around that.

The Jets led this 20-3 in the third quarter which was kind of funny in that way that you know will never last. But it did. Just a good thing that season ticket holders in Los Angeles were not in attendance.

The Rams scored a touchdown to make it 20-10 and you knew the comeback was on. Then the Jets kicked a field goal to lead 23-10.

In the fourth quarter, Tyler Higbee caught a 3-yard touchdown to make it 23-17. No problem. One more touchdown and a win, and there was still 13:47 left to play in the fourth quarter. The Jets obliged by going four-and-out. The Rams took over on their 31-yard line with 11:48 left to play. They drove the field and  with 7:42 left to play, Cam Akers ran in an 18-yard touchdown for the go-ahead sco… oh.. offensive holding. They ended up kicking a 42-yard field goal since there was still 6:40 left to play with the score 23-20.

And the Jets obliged, again, by going four-and-out.

All they needed was a field goal to tie.

On second down and six from the Jets 39-yard line, Cam Akers ran for a 22-yard gain to set up the…oh… Illegal block above the waist. On fourth and four at the NYJ 37-yard line, they opted to go for it rather than kick a 54-yard field goal. Incomplete. The Jets took over with 3:54 on their own 37-yard line and THEY RAN OUT THE CLOCK. On third-and-six on the LA 48-yard line with everything on the line, they threw a pass for six yards to Frank Gore for a first and then started kneeling.

Sam Darnold only passed for 207 yards and one score. Jamison Crowder was the top receiver with only 66 yards on six catches. Frank Gore ran for only 59 yards on 23 carries but rushed in a score. The Jets took off in the first half like whenever a great team faces a bad team and just doesn’t care to prepare.

Jared Goff passed for 209 yards and two scores with one interception. Tyler Higbee (4-67, TD) and Robert Woods (6-56, TD) were the top receivers. Cam Akers ran for 63 yards on 15 carries and really 40 yards more and a touchdown but they were called back.

And now the Jets are no longer undefeated. They no longer own the first pick in the draft, the 1-13 Jaguars do.

And somewhere in America. Trevor Lawrence stood to start a slow clap that progressively got louder and more energetic until he was “whooping” and waving his shirt over his head.

Then he did an internet search on “Tampa Bay realtors.”

Reviewing the Week 14 games from a fantasy perspective.

HOU 7, CHI 36
The Bears  gave up a big lead last week but that wasn’t a problem here since the Texans were playing without David Johnson and Brandin Cooks. Deshaun Watson only passed for 219 yards and a score to Keke Coutee (3-24, TD). Chad Hansen (7-56)  and Duke Johnson (2-53) were the top receivers, and Johnson also ran for 38 yards on seven carries. The Texans could never get much going and their lack of defense meant the Bears ate up the clock and controlled the ball.

Matt Trubisky threw for 267 yards and three scores with Allen Robinson (9-123, TD) as the only receiver with more than 42 yards. Both Jimmy Graham (4-23, TD) and Darnell Mooney (2-22, TD) scored. David Montgomery broke an 80-yard touchdown but was only given 11 carries in the game to gain 113 yards. As usual, the Bears wasted six runs on Cordarrelle Patterson for no apparent reason other than keeping Montgomery from hitting production marks where bonuses would be triggered. The Bears lead throughout and only gave their highly productive running back 11 carries. The 4-9 Texans head to Indianapolis this week, while the 6-7 Bears end their six-game losing streak and play in Minnesota.

DEN 32, CAR 27
Christian McCaffrey continues to be a no-show this year.  Mike Davis ran for 51 yards and two scores on 11 carries and added five receptions for 42 yards. Teddy Bridgewater passed for 283 yards and no scores. Robby Anderson (8-84) and Curtis Samuel (7-68) were the most productive receivers but almost all of the passes were short. They trailed 25-10 at halftime and fell short in their comeback attempt.

Drew Lock passed for 280 yards and four touchdowns. The rookie KJ Hamler (2-86, 2 TD) led the Bronco receivers, and Jerry Jeudy (2-42) and Tim Patrick (3-36, TD) did a lot with just a few catches. Melvin Gordon ran for 68 yards on 13 rushes while Philip Lindsay gained 24 yards on his 11 runs. Drew Lock was the difference-maker here, completing 21-of-27 passes and keeping the Broncos in the lead. Now the 4-9 Panthers head to Green Bay and the 5-8 Broncos host the Bills.

TEN 31, JAG 10
Nothing new here. Derrick Henry cruised for 215 yards and two scores on 27 carries and added two receptions for seven yards. Ryan Tannehill only bothered to pass for 212 yards and two scores between A.J. Brown (7-112, TD) and Geoff Swaim (3-34, TD), while Corey Davis settled for three receptions for 34 yards. The Titans never trailed and the Jaguars’ only touchdown came in the late third quarter.

The disastrous year continues unabated for the Jaguars who ended up benching Mike Glennon and going back to Gardner Minshew. Keelan Cole (7-67, TD) and Laviska Shenault (6-49) were the lead receivers but all the passing was short from both quarterbacks. James Robinson ran for 67 yards on 12 carries and added four receptions for 16 yards. The Jags looked worse than usual but the Titans were playing a divisional rival and needed the win. The 9-4 Titans  host the Lions in the final home game while the 1-12 Jaguars head to Baltimore where nothing gets any better.

KC 33, MIA 27
The Dolphins put up a good fight despite trailing 30-10 at the end of the fourth quarter. They brought the score to 30-24 with four minutes to play but the Chiefs managed to hold them off. Patrick Mahomes threw for 393 yards and two scores but had a shocking three interceptions. Travis Kelce (8-136, TD) continues to be in a class all by himself while Tyreek Hill (3-79, TD) also added a 32-yard run for a second score. Clyde Edwards-Helaire ran for 32 yards on 16 rushes and added five receptions for 59 yards. The Chiefs added a 67-yard punt return for a score by Mecole Hardman and also recorded a safety.

Tua Tagovailoa passed for 316 yards and two scores since he was trying to catch up from the second quarter onward. Mike Gesicki (5-65, 2 TD) continues to show chemistry with the rookie quarterback while Devante Parker left injured without a catch. Lynn Bowdon (7-82)  and Mack Hollins (5-66) were much more productive than usual. DeAndre Washington (13-35) didn’t add much but was the primary rusher with Myles Gaskin out. The impressive part was Tagovailoa throwing to eleven different receivers. The 12-1 Chiefs  play at the Saints this week while the 8-5 Dolphins  host the Patriots.

ARI 26, NYG 7
The Giants were never remotely in this game and their only score came with they were already down 20-0 in the third quarter. As a team, they only passed for 145 yards with no receivers gaining more than 39 yards or scoring. Wayne Gallman gained 57 yards on 12 carries and added three catches for 16 yards as the only Giant with a shred of fantasy value. The Cardinals defense is below average in every fantasy category this year and it looked like the Giants were playing a Top-5 defense.

Kyler Murray threw for 214 yards and one score while adding 47 yards on 13 rushes. DeAndre Hopkins caught nine passes for 136 yards but no other receiver topped 27 yards in the game. Dan Arnold caught the only score. Kenyan Drake (23-80, TD) only added a 10-yard catch in this dull, spark-less game. The 7-6 Cardinals return home to host the Eagles while the 5-8 Giants ended their four-game winning streak in a decidedly disappointing manner. They  host the Browns this week.

MIN 14, TB 26
The surprise here is that the Buccaneers are ranked No. 27 versus wide receivers, but Justin Jefferson (4-39) and Adam Thielen (3-39) were ineffective and Kirk Cousins only passed for 225 yards and one score despite trailing from the second quarter. Irv Smith (4-63, TD) was the only decent fantasy play for receivers. Dalvin Cook ran for 102 yards and a score on 22 rushes and added two catches for eight yards. But this wasn’t the fireworks that were expected with the Buccaneers’ weak secondary and the  Vikings featuring one of the top pairs in the NFL.

Tom Brady also faced a weak secondary and yet only threw for 196 yards and two scores. Mike Evans (3-56), Antonio Brown (5-49), and Chris Godwin (2-25) only water each other down while Scott Miller (1-48, TD) and Rob Gronkowski (1-2, TD) handled the scoring. Leonard Fournette was a healthy scratch and Ronald Jones ran for 80 yards and a score on 18 carries but only caught one four-yard pass. The Vikings gained more yardage than the Buccaneers but were sacked six times and lost a fumble. Brady was never sacked and had no turnovers. The 6-7 Vikings have their final home game against the Bears this week while the 8-5 Buccaneers play in Atlanta.

DAL 30, CIN 7
The Cowboys controlled the entire game and the Bengals lost three fumbles.  Brandon Allen was unable to take advantage of one of the weaker defenses. He passed for 217 yards and one score to A.J. Green (6-62, TD) who led the team while Tee Higgins (5-49) and Tyler Boyd (5-43) were held in check. The running game was handled by three different running backs and Trayveon Williams (12-49) was the most effective. The Bengals were at home against a weak defense and yet still looked like they did not belong on the field.

Andy Dalton had a chance to stick it to his old team but only passed for 185 yards and two scores. Amari Cooper (4-51, TD) and CeeDee Lamb (2-46) were the top receivers from the meager passing. Ezekiel Elliott played with a sore calf and only gained 48 yards on 12 carries while Tony Pollard ended with 11 runs for 39 yards and a seven-yard touchdown catch. The 4-9 Cowboys host the 49ers this week while the 2-10-1 Bengals hope to trap the visiting Steelers.

IND 44, LV 27
The Raiders led 14-10 in the second quarter but the Colts  scored 17 points in the fourth quarter, including a 50-yard interception-return for a touchdown. The Raiders managed a touchdown in the final minute to make the score look closer than it really was. Philip Rivers passed for 244 yards and two scores to T.Y. Hilton (5-86, 2 TD) but no other receivers gained more than 44 yards or scored. Jonathan Taylor had his first monster game with 150 yards and two touchdowns on 20 carries that included a 62-yard scoring run. Even Nyheim Hines ran for 58 yards on seven runs with the Raiders’ rushing defense almost nonexistent.

David Carr threw for 316 yards and two scores with two interceptions and  ran in a touchdown. Josh Jacobs posted a sure-to-be-infamous Instagram post saying he would be active but not be used.  He ran for 49 yards on 13 carries and added three catches for 25 yards. Nelson Agholor (5-100, TD) and Darren Waller (7-75) were the top receivers though Foster Moreau caught a 47-yard touchdown on his only reception. Despite the loss, the 7-6 Raiders are still in contention for a wildcard even if it looks like they won’t go far in the playoffs. They host the Chargers this week and the 9-4 Colts host the Texans.

NYJ 3, SEA 40
And that is what the white flag looks like. The Jets actually scored first in this game, and then headed for the tunnel. Sam Darnold faced the worst secondary in the NFL and only bothered to throw for 132 yards and no scores. Braxton Berrios (3-49) and Breshad Perriman (3-26) were the top receivers. The backfield welcomed back Frank Gore (8-23) and then still went to the bother of a three-man rotation that included Josh Adams (6-27) and Ty Johnson (8-16).  The only thing that you can hope for in a Jets matchup is that their opponent has a reason to not mail in their effort.

Field position was rarely a problem so the yardage was lower than the score would usually suggest. Russell Wilson threw for 206 yards and four touchdowns. DK Metcalf (6-61, TD), Tyler Lockett (5-52), and Will Dissly (2-23, TD) were the top receivers. Chris Carson (12-76, TD) and Carlos Hyde (15-66) ran at will and Carson added three catches for 22 yards.  Plenty of touchdowns to share but almost the entire game happened in Jets territory. The 0-13 Jets hurdle towards infamy and  face the Rams while the 9-4 Seahawks  get to figure out how Washington wins games without any players. Might have to do with their defense.

GB 31, DET 24
This was more competitive than expected, but since the Lions dumped HC Matt Patricia, they look undeniably better. The Packers led 28-14 with six minutes left to play and had to hold off the surging Lions. Aaron Rodgers passed for 290 yards and three touchdowns between Davante Adams (7-115, TD), Marquez Valdes-Scantling (6-85, TD), and Robert Tonyan (5-36, TD). Aaron Jones rushed for 69 yards on 15 carries but only caught two passes for six yards. The Packers though they had it won and lightened up almost too much in the fourth quarter.

Matt Stafford threw for  244 yards and one score but left with injured ribs late in the game. Danny Amendola (6-66), Marvin Jones (4-48), and T.J. Hockenson (6-43, TD) were the best receivers. D’Andre Swift started but only ran seven times for 24 yards and one score since they fell behind and threw 40 passes. Swift added 26 yards on four receptions but the Packers’ normally paper-soft rush defense was adequate and the Lions only attempted 13 rushes. The Lions lost, but they looked competitive. The 10-3 Packers host the Panthers this weekend while the 5-8 Lions head to Tennessee.

ATL 17, LAC 20 
Not a lot of scores or even passing in this matchup and that was a bitter disappointment. Matt Ryan’s decline looked steep when he only threw for 224 yards and one score with three interceptions versus the Chargers. Calvin Ridley ended with 124 yards on eight catches with one score thrown by Russell Gage on a trick play. Gage also caught five passes for 82 yards replacing Julio Jones but no one else gained more than 12 yards as a receiver. Todd Gurley only ran for 19 yards on six rushes, and Ito Smith led the team with 11 runs for 42 yards. The Falcons are starting to look like a car that didn’t make it to the gas station in time.

Justin Herbert only threw for 243 yards and two scores. Austin Ekeler (9-67) and Tyron Johnson (6-55, TD) led the receivers but Keenan Allen was the most targeted catching 9-of-11 for 52 yards and a touchdown. Ekeler also rushed for 79 yards on 15 carries. Two bad teams met and it wasn’t a case of both teams taking advantage of the other inferior defense. It was just a low-key offensive effort by both franchises. Now the 4-9 Falcons host the Buccaneers and the 4-9 Chargers travel to play the Raiders.

WAS 23, SF 15
And another upset. No matter that the Football Team did not have their star running back Antonio Gibson, and they lost their starting quarterback. Or that they only passed for 108 yards and one interception. Washington won this game because they returned both a fumble and an interception for touchdowns. Logan Thomas led the team with six receptions for 43 yards and no other receiver gained more than 24 yards. Alex Smith injured his leg and Dwayne Haskins took over with the same lackluster results that saw him benched in the first place. But the defense recorded four sacks, an interception and returned two turnovers for scores.

Nick Mullens passed for 260 yards and one touchdown but Brandon Aiyuk (10-119) had 16 targets. Deebo Samuel left injured  before he had a catch and no other receiver managed more than 42 yards. Raheem Mostert gained 65 yards on 14 carries but only gained five yards on two catches. Jeffery Wilson scored on his 11 runs for 31 yards and added a 13-yard catch. The Football Team was opportunistic on defense and and would have lost were it not for the two defensive scores. The win sends the 6-7 Football Team home to host the Seahawks while the 5-8 49ers head to Dallas.

PIT 15, BUF 26
The Steelers opened the scoring but then stayed off the scoreboard until the fourth quarter. Ben Roethlisberger only threw for 187 yards and two touchdowns, along with two interceptions. As usual, even the meager passing yardage was split up between the five usual receivers and JuJu Smith-Schuster (6-55, TD) and James Washington (3-29, TD)  caught the scores. Diontae Johnson (4-40) and Chase Claypool (3-15) disappointed. James Conner was back as the primary back but only gained 18 yards on ten carries. The Steelers offense couldn’t generate long drives, much less score many points.

Josh Allen passed for 238 yards and two scores, though only Stefon Diggs (10-130, TD) offered any fantasy value among the receivers. Cole Beasley was next best with just 41 yards on five catches. The Bills didn’t get much from their rushing offense as well. Zack Moss (13-43) and Devin Singletary (7-32) failed to score or catch more than one short pass. But Diggs was the difference-maker and the defense held the Steelers wideouts to just marginal production. The 11-2 Steelers  head to Cincinnati looking to end their two-game losing streak while the 10-3 Bills travel to Denver.

 

The Game-o-the-Week

NO 21, PHI 24 
Welcome to “any given Sunday.”

The Saints fell to a 3-8-1 team that no one had ever faced since Jalen Hurts was given his first NFL start. He passed for 167 yards and one score to Alshon Jeffery on his only catch. Jalen Reagor (2-46) and Dallas Goedert (4-43) were the top receivers. The Eagles won the game mostly because Jalen Hurts running for 106 yards on 18 rushes and Miles Sanders gaining 115 yards and two touchdowns on 14 carries, plus he added four catches for 21 yards. Hurts lost a fumble but threw no interceptions and was never sacked.

Taysom Hill only ran for 33 yards and threw for 291 yards and two scores with one interception.  He was also sacked five times and lost a fumble. Michael Thomas (8-84) and Tre’Quan Smith (3-60) were the leading receivers but Emmanuel Sanders (3-48, TD) and Jared Cook (3-37, TD) caught the touchdowns. Alvin Kamara ran for 50 yards and a score, and added seven receptions for  44 yards while finally being used as a receiver by Hill.  The Eagles led 17-0 at halftime and then held off the Saints thanks to a rushing offense that consumed the clock. The 10-3 Saints  host the Chiefs this week while the 4-8-1 Eagles  head to Arizona.

A quick rundown of the Sunday NFL games from a fantasy perspective.

NO 21, ATL 16
Close game but the Saints always led.  Each team scored just one touchdown after the 14-6 halftime score. Taysom Hill passed for 232 yards and two touchdowns – the first of his career. He also ran for 83 yards on 14 rushes. Michael Thomas (9-105) still had a good fantasy showing though all passes were short. Tre’Quan Smith (3-42, TD) and Jared Cook (3-28, TD) split the receiving touchdowns. The best part of the game was Alvin Kamara who was decimated in fantasy terms with the change in quarterbacks. He still only caught two passes for nine yards, but he ran 15 times for 88 yards and a touchdown. There were a lot of short passes, but only three targeted Kamara.

The Falcons had almost no rushing offense, and Matt Ryan passed for 273 yards but only one score. Calvin Ridley (5-108) and Julio Jones (6-94) dominated the passes while Russell Gage (4-51, TD) ended up with the touchdown. Todd Gurley was clearly not 100% when he ran for only 16 yards on eight carries. The 10-2 Saints head to Philadelphia this week while the 4-8 Falcons travel to meet the Chargers.

DET 34, CHI 30
This is not a resume builder for the Bears head coach Matt Nagy, and maybe he should start thinking about his next job after six straight losses. David Montgomery ran for 72 yards and two touchdowns on 17 carries and added 39 yards on four catches. But Mitchell Trubisky only passed for 267 yards and one score. Allen Robinson (6-75) and Anthony Miller (5-56) were their top receivers, and at least the rookie Cole Kmet (5-37, TD) caught the lone touchdown pass. The Bears have gone from leading their division to now sharing the cellar with the Lions.

Adrian Peterson rushed for 57 yards and two scores on just 16 carries while Matt Stafford threw for 402 yards and three scores on the Bears defense in Chicago. Marvin Jones (8-116, TD) and T.J. Hockenson (7-84) were the lead receivers and Quintez Cephus (2-63, TD) made the most of his increased playing time. The Lions shouldn’t have been this good and the Bears shouldn’t have been that bad. The 5-7 Lions host the Packers this week while the Bears host the Texans and keep checking to see if Nagy is collecting empty boxes.

IND 26, HOU 20
These divisional rivals played it close for the entire game and the only score in the second half was a safety by Deshaun Watson in the fourth quarter. Jonathan Taylor ran for 91 yards on 13 rushes and added three catches for 44 yards and one score. Nyheim Hines (6-10, TD) ran for one score and caught three passes for 22 yards. T.Y. Hilton is finally connecting with Philip Rivers and ended with a team-high eight catches for 110 yards and a touchdown. Rivers used ten different receivers and had a QB rating of 119.3 but was playing the Texans.

Deshaun Watson passed for 341 yards but no touchdowns. He ran for 38 yards and one score while David Johnson gained 44 yards and a touchdown on his ten rushes. Keke Coutee (8-141) was the surprise top receiver and previous free agent Chad Hansen (5-101) more than doubled the stats from his three-year career. Brandon Cooks (5-65) left for a time to be checked for a concussion. The win sends the 8-4 Colts to Vegas this week while the 4-8 Texans head to Chicago.

CIN 7, MIA 19
The Bengals started the scoring with a touchdown to Tyler Boyd (1-72, TD) before he was later ejected for throwing a punch. Brandon Allen only passed for 153 yards and one score before leaving the game with a chest injury. Tee Higgins (5-56) was the other top receiver and Giovani Bernard gained 30 yards on 12 runs. Good thing Boyd caught the long touchdown or this would have been a shutout.

Tua Tagovailoa was able to play and passed for 296 yards and one score to Mike Gesicki (9-88, TD), but Devante Parker (4-35) suffers with Ryan Fitzpatrick on the sideline. Myles Gaskins was activated from injured reserve and ran for 90 yards on 21 rushes and  caught two passes for 51 yards thanks to a 35-yard catch and run. The Dolphins beat the woeful Bengals but the drop in offensive spark is notable when the rookie is under center. This was an easy opponent at home, but the Fins only posted one touchdown. The 2-9-1 Bengals  host the Cowboys this week while the 8-4 Dolphins play in Tampa Bay.

JAC 24, MIN 27
This was much closer than it should have been. The Jaguars tied the score 24-24 with a minute left to send it into overtime. The Vikings drove the field and kicked the game-winning field goal from the Jaguars’ 5-yard line.

Mike Glennon passed for 280 yards and one score while doing a great job spreading the ball around which meant that there were no decent fantasy plays. Collin Johnson (4-66) was their top receiver and no one else gained more than 45 yards including DJ Chark (2-41). Laviska Shenault (3-38, TD) scored thanks to a pass that caromed off a defenders’ helmet. James Robinson ran for 78 yards and a touchdown and added 30 yards on six catches.

Kirk Cousins passed for 305 yards and three touchdowns with both Justin Jefferson (9-121, TD) and Adam Thielen (8-75, TD) turning in high production. Dalvin Cook gained 120 yards on 32 rushes and caught six passes for 59 yards. No other players gained more than 18 yards. At least the three main fantasy starters all shined, even if the Vikings almost let this one get away from them. The 1-11 Jaguars host the Titans this week while the 6-6 Vikings head to Tampa Bay.

LV 31, NYJ 28

The collective “WHEW” from Las Vegas probably changed their weather pattern. This was a Game-o-the-Week contender with the Raiders almost becoming the 2020 version of “it” in this trap game that oh-so nearly happened. The Raiders led until five minutes left after the Jets scored two fourth-quarter touchdowns. It looked like it was over for the Raiders when they failed to convert a fourth-and-three at the NYJ-9 yard line with 1:42 left. But – these are the Jets. They went four-and-out and punted. With 35 seconds left at the LV-39 yard line, Carr was blitzed and he hit the single-covered Henry Ruggs for a 46-yard touchdown with four seconds left to play.

The Jets.

Derek Carr ended with 381 yards and three touchdowns with Darren Waller (13-200, 2 TD) turning in a career-best day. Henry Ruggs (3-84, TD) was the only other receiver with more than 50 yards or a score. Devontae Booker (16-50) replaced Josh Jacobs but this game was mostly about Waller, with a final touchdown throw to Ruggs.

Sam Darnold passed for 186 yards and two scores plus ran in a touchdown. Jamison Crowder showed up again with five catches for 47 yards and two touchdowns but no other receiver topped 40 yards. Ty Johnson (22-104, TD) replaced the injured Frank Gore and had a career-day in the process. Josh Adams (8-74) also surprised. In the end, so close, yet so far. The 7-5 Raiders  host the Colts this weekend while the 0-12 Jets head to Seattle in their march on infamy.

LA  38, ARI 28
This was a Game-o-the-Week contender with 66 combined points. Jared Goff passed for 351 yards and one score to Tyler Higbee (4-24, TD) while the top receivers were Robert Woods (10-85) and Cooper Kupp (8-73). Cam Akers (21-72, TD) was allowed an actual full-time workload and added a 22-yard catch. Darrell Henderson (3-49, TD) ran in a 38-yard score in the fourth quarter to put it out of reach.

Kyler Murray threw for 173 yards and three touchdowns between Dan Arnold (2-61, 2 TD) and DeAndre Hopkins (8-52, TD) but no other receivers gained more than 27 yards. Kenyan Drake ran for 49 yards on ten carries and scored once.  Murray was held to only 15 yards as a rusher. The Rams won this because they were able to cover the wide receivers and that throws everything off for the Cardinals. Murray shifted to throwing two scores to his tight end but the offense sputtered against the Rams. That leaves the 6-6 Cardinals  heading to play the Giants this week while the 8-4 Rams host the Patriots.

NYG 17, SEA 12
Welcome to “Any Given Sunday.” Did someone forget to practice this week? Thought maybe a homefield mail-in effort was enough? The Seahawks fall back into a tie with the Rams for the NFC West and can forget any chance of a first-round bye.

Wayne Gallman ran for 135 yards on 16 carries thanks in part to a 60-yard run. Alfred Morris gained 39 yards and a touchdown on eight carries by trotting in while Gallman was tired from his long run. Morris scored a second touchdown in his six-yard catch as well. Colt McCoy won his first start ever, and it only needed 105 yards and one score. No Giants’ receiver gained more than 32 yards.

Russell Wilson’s day off saw him limited to 263 yards and one score to Chris Carson (3-45), while DK Metcalf (5-80) and Tyler Lockett (6-63) fell below expectations. Carson ran for 65 yards on 13 rushes while Wilson gained 45 yards on his seven rushes. When Colt McCoy records his first career win as a visitor against a division leader, it is safe to define this as a “mind-warping trap game.” The 5-7 Giants won their last four games – and not just NFC East matchups – and host the Cardinals while the 8-4 Seahawks host the Jets with a chance to double down on unimaginable trap games.

PHI 16 , GB 30
The only notable part of this loss by the Eagles was swapping over to Jalen Hurts (5-12-109, TD) in the middle of the game and seeing him look better than Carson Wentz (6-15-79). Dallas Goedert (5-66) and Greg Ward (3-57, TD) were the best receivers and Zach Ertz (2-31) returned after missing five games. Miles Sanders (10-31) still doesn’t look back to form. The only reason that this game looks remotely competitive was because the Eagles scored two touchdowns late in the fourth quarter, including a punt return.

Aaron Rodgers threw for 295 yards and three scores with Davante Adams (10-121, 2 TD) predictably dominating the game. Alan Lazard (3-50) and Robert Tonyan (4-39, TD) were the next best receivers but Adams alone was enough to win the game. Aaron Jones ran for 130 yards that included a 77-yard touchdown run at the end of the game. The only interesting part of this entire game was that the Eagles allowed Hurts to do more than throw the final pass in a loss. The 3-8-1 Eagles host the Saints on Sunday while the 9-3 Packers head to Detroit.

NE 45, LAC 0

The Chargers were favored. It all went bad from the start and never got any better. The Patriots only passed for 130 yards and two scores with no receiver gaining more than 38 yards. The only receiver with more than two catches was James White (3-1). Damien Harris (16-80) and Sony Michel (10-35) shared the backfield while Cam Newton gained 48 yards and two touchdowns in his 14 runs. The Pats added scores via a 70-yard punt return and the return of a blocked field goal. The Chargers had a trash game of epic proportions.

Justin Hebert only threw for 209 yards and two interceptions. Keenan Allen (5-48) and Mike Williams (4-43) consumed 20 targets with minimal production. Austin Ekeler only ran for 36 yards on eight rushes and caught only four passes for 32 yards. This was a beat down from the first series that just never got any better. The Pats already led 28-0 at halftime. The 3-9 Chargers host the Falcons this week while the 5-6 Patriots  travel to Los Angeles to play the Rams.

DEN 16, KC 22
Strange how the Chiefs decimate everyone unless they face a team in their own division, then they squeak past. Drew Lock passed for 151 yards and two scores with two interceptions at the Chiefs. Noah Fant (4-57) and Tim Patrick (4-44, 2 TD) did most of the damage in the passing game. Melvin Gordon ran for 131 yards on 15 carries with a 65-yard gain thrown in as a stat booster. Phillip Lindsay also rushed 14 times but only gained 26 yards. The game wasn’t close thanks to the offensive success of the Broncos. It was because the Chiefs settled for field goals or failed on fourth-down attempts.

Patrick Mahomes threw for 318 yards and just one touchdown to Travis Kelce (8-136, TD). Tyreek Hill (6-58) was the only other receiver with more than 39 yards. Clyde Edwards-Helaire was active yet unused, but Le’Veon Bell only gained 40 yards on 11 rushes and added two receptions for 15 yards. The Chiefs mostly played down to the Broncos as was common throughout the league this week. The 4-8 Broncos play in Carolina this week while the 11-1 Chiefs  head to Miami. 

The Game-o-the-Week

CLE 41, TEN 35

Speaking of surprises…

The Browns previously unknown passing attack not only led 38-7 at halftime, but Baker Mayfield had already thrown for 290 yards and four touchdowns. The Browns would only kick one field goal in the second half while they tried to run the clock out before the Titans could catch up. Both teams spewed fantasy points only it was all Browns in the first half and all Titans in the second half.

Mayfield ended with 334 yards and four touchdowns, Rashard Higgins (6-95, TD), Donovan Peoples-Jones (2-92, TD), and Jarvis Landry (8-62) did most of the damage. Nick Chubb ran for 80 yards and one score on 18 carries and added a 26-yard catch. Kareem Hunt gained 33 yards on 14 rushes and added three catches for 24 yards. The best fantasy players were Higgins and Peoples-Jones who likely no one started.

Derrick Henry only ran for 60 yards on 15 carries since the Titans never had the luxury of just rushing the ball.  Ryan Tannehill ended with 389 yards and three touchdowns. Corey Davis (11-182, TD) had a career day while A.J. Brown was held to 87 yards on four catches. Tannehill did a great job mixing his receivers but it was too little, too late after trailing by 31 points at the start of the second half.  The 9-3 Browns  host the Ravens this week in a big NFC North matchup while the 8-4 Titans play in Jacksonville,

A quick rundown of the Sunday NFL games from a fantasy perspective.

LV 6, ATL 43

The wheels fell off the Raiders wagon and the same team that beat the Chiefs once and almost twice was never remotely in this beat down. Derek Carr passed for 215 yards and one interception while Hunter Renfrow (7-73) and Henry Ruggs (3-56) were the top receivers. Josh Jacobs only ran seven times for 27 yards. The Raiders looked like their loss to the Chiefs last week just took it out of them and they mailed this in. Carr lost three fumbles and Jacobs fumbled once as well.

The Falcons were already without Todd Gurley and Julio Jones, but no matter. Ito Smith (12-65, TD) and Brian Hill (13-55) both had no trouble running the ball. Matt Ryan only needed to throw for 185 yards and two scores with Calvin Ridley (6-50, TD) and Hayden Hurst (4-48) were the top receivers. The Falcons even ran in an interception for a touchdown alone with Younghoe Koo kicking five field goals. The 6-5 Raiders travel to play the Jets this week, while the 4-7 Falcons host the Saints.

LAC 17, BUF 27

The Bills led throughout this matchup and ruined the return of Austin Ekeler, who was not limited in any way. He ran for 44 yards on 14 carries and was the leading receiver with 11 receptions for 85 yards. Justin Herbert passed for 316 yards and one score to Keenan Allen (4-40, TD) but most of the yardage was late in the game. Hunter Henry (7-67) and Tyron Johnson (2-63) both turned in better-than-average production and Johnson hauled in a 55-yard Hail Mary pass that came up a few yards short. Josh Kelley ran in the touchdown on his seven rushes for 35 yards, but broke a 33-yard run to pump up his stats.

Josh Allen threw for just 157 yards and one score while Cole Beasley also tossed a 20-yard touchdown to Gabriel Davis (3-79, TD) who was a great replacement for John Brown.  Stefon Diggs (7-39) was the next best receiver but the Bills ran the ball 30 times. Devin Singletary (11-82) and Zack Moss (9-59) were both effective but Allen (9-31, TD) ran in the only rushing score. The 3-8 Chargers host the Patriots this week while the 8-3 Bills head to San Francisco.

NYG 19, CIN 17

This matchup was every bit as unexciting as expected. By the end, it was a duel between Brandon Allen vs. Colt McCoy with all the firewords that suggests. Wayne Gallman (24-94, TD) turned in a nice day rushing and Evan Engram (6-129) even gained 53 yards on one catch. There were no passing scores and Graham Gano kicked four field goals to take the win.

Brandon Allen only passed for 136 yards but included a touchdown to Tee Higgins (5-44, TD) with two minutes left to bring the score closer. Life without the rookie Joe Burrows does not look to be very productive. Giovani Bernard ran for 32 yards on eight carries and no Bengals player gained more than the 49 total yards by Bernard. On the plus – opponents will play down to the Bengals. On the minus – still won’t matter. The 4-7 Giants head to Seattle this week while the 2-8-1 Bengals travel to Miami.

TEN 45, IND 26

This was 14-14 in the second quarter before it all broke open for the Titans. Derrick Henry once again had a monster performance with 178 yards on 27 carries and three touchdowns. Ryan Tannehill passed for 221 yards and one score to AJ Brown (4-98) that included a 69-yard catch and score. Brown even turned in a 42-yard touchdown on a kickoff return when the Colts were attempting an onside kick.  This was just a romp by the Titans that took advantage of defensive absences of the Colts.

Philip Rivers passed for 295 yards and two scores including T.Y. Hilton leading the team with 81 yards on four catches along with his first touchdown of the season. Since Jonathan Taylor was out, Nyhem Hines ran for 29 yards on ten carries and caught eight passes for 66 yards. No other Colt receiver gained more than 42 yards.  This was just another game where Henry ran over their opponent who could not stop him. The win sends the 8-3 Titans  home to face the Browns while the 7-4 Colts head to Houston.

CLE 27, JAC 25

This was closer than their records in the standings would have suggested. Baker Mayfield passed for 258 yards and two scores while Jarvis Landry finally had a big game with eight catches for 143 yards and a score but no other receivers topped three catches or 32 yards.  Nick Chubb predictably ran for 144 yards and a score on 19 carries plus added 32 yards on three catches while Kareem Hunt gained 62 yards on ten rushes. The Browns trailed 17-19 in the third quarter before mounting a late comeback to win.

Mike Glennon’s first start produced 235 passing yards and two scores with the rookie Collin Johnson (4-96, TD) led the team while replacing DJ Chark. No other receiver gained over 44 yards. James Robinson ran for 128 yards and a score on 22 carries and added 31 yards on five catches while cementing his wing in the Undrafted Rookie Running Back Hall of Fame. The 8-3 Browns enjoy their first non-losing season in 12 years and  head to Tennessee. The 1-10 Jaguars play at the Vikings this week.

ARI 17, NE 20
Not a lot of offense on either side in this one. Kyler Murray only passed for 170 yards and one interception while rushing for 31 yards on five runs. DeAndre Hopkins was held to five catches for 55 yards while no other receiver gained more than 33 yards. Kenyan Drake scored twice on his 22 rushes for 78 yards but this was nothing like the electric offense we’ve seen this year. The Cardinals took a 10-0 lead in the first quarter but did not score again until the middle of the fourth quarter when they tied the score, 17-17.

The Patriots were little better. Cam Newton only threw for 84 yards and two interceptions and ran for 46 yards on nine rushes. Jakobi Meyers (5-52) and Damiere Byrd (3-33) consumed all of the passing other than James White losing a yard on his only catch. Damien Harris (14-47) and White (5-18, 2 TD) were the only running backs and they allowed White to take the two touchdown runs. The Cardinals missed a 45-yard field goal attempt with 1:52 left to play and the Patriots got into field goal range mostly thanks to an unneccessary roughness call after Newton ran for 14 yards. Nick Folk kicked the 50-yard field goal for the win.

MIA 20, NYJ 3
Thank goodness HC Adam Gase took the play-calling duties back. Sam Darnold passed for 197 yards and two interceptions with a QB rating of 51.0. Breshad Perriman (4-79), Denzel Mims (4-67), and Jamison Crowder (3-31) took care of the receiving-but-not-scoring chores. Frank Gore ran for 74 yards on 18 carries. The Jets’ lone field goal came in the first six minutes of the game. Then 54 minutes of the Jets not scoring, but with a different play caller not calling scoring plays.

Ryan Fitzpatrick replaced the injured Tua Tagovailoa and threw for 257 yards and two scores. Devante Parker (8-119) was the only receiver with more than 35 yards but both Mike Gesicki (2-35, TD) and Adam Shaheen (1-7, TD) handled the touchdowns. With Salvon Ahmed out, DeAndre Washington (13-49) and Matt Breida (8-36) handled the backfield duties. This was a yawner chock-full of replacement players. The 7-4 Dolphins  host the Bengals this weekend while the 0-11 Jets host the winning Raiders.

NO 31, DEN 3
It was everything we expected. This should be the game of the week if only because when has a practice squad wide receiver been given a chance to start a game as the quarterback? Kendall Hinton maybe a record holder now that he started an entire game and yet threw more interceptions (2) than he had completions (1). Noah Fant (1-9) was the leading receiver. Royce Freeman (8-50), Melvin Gordon (12-31) and Phillip Lindsay (9-20) shared the rushing workload but this game was over when someone for the Broncos said, “Hey, I know! There’s a guy on the practice squad…”

Taysom Hill only passed for 78 yards and one interception though he rushed for 44 yards and two touchdowns. Michael Thomas (4-50) was the only receiver with more than one reception. Latavius Murray ran for 124 yards and two scores on 19 carries while Alvin Kamara fantasy owners got back only 54 rushing yards on 11 runs and he now has one career catch from  Hill for a new of a one-yard loss. The 9-2 Saints head to Atlanta this week while the 4-7 Broncos head to Kansas City. Hopefully with a new (or used) quarterback that can throw more completions than interceptions. But – kinda fun to watch. A game with one completion? In good weather?

SF 23, LAR 20
The NFL is hard enough to forecast without this sort of game. The Rams had everything to win and were at home. The 49ers did get Raheem Mostert, Jeff Wilson, and Deebo Samuels back. Their offense didn’t do that much with Nick Mullens passing for 252 yards and one interception, and Samuel (11-133) as the only receiver with more than 34 yards. Mostert ran for 43 yards on 16 carries with one score while Wilson gained 43 yards on 12 rushes. Each side had a defensive touchdown.

Jared Goff only passed for 198 yards and two interceptions. Robert Woods (7-80) and Cooper Kupp (2-41) lead the Rams, while the only spark came from Cam Akers (9-84, TD) because he broke a 61-yard run in the fourth quarter and they allowed him to punch in the touchdown. Darrell Henderson (10-19) and Malcolm Brown (3-4) also contributed and next week, they’ll go back to the same coin-flip rotation in the backfield. The 5-6 49ers  were supposed to host the Bills this week but are in search of a new place to play for a few weeks since San Jose shut down all college and pro sports for at least two weeks. The 7-4 Rams have to play in Arizona this week.

KC 27, TB 24
Game-o-the-Week contender. The Chiefs led 27-10 entering the fourth quarter but the Buccaneers turned to Mike Evans for two touchdowns and a 27-24 deficit with four minutes left to play but never got the ball back. Tom Brady passed for 345 yards and three touchdowns with two interceptions. Rob Gronkowski (6-106), Chris Godwin (8-97), and Mike Evans (3-50, 2 TD) all rewarded fantasy owners. Ronald Jones ran for 66 yards on nine carries and added a 37-yard touchdown catch. The two interceptions were costly since both were on the Chiefs’ side of the field.

Patrick Mahomes passed for 462 yards and three touchdowns that all ended up with Tyreek Hill (13-269, 3 TD). Travis Kelce caught eight passes for 82 yards but no other Chiefs’ receiver gained more than 38 yards. Clyde Edwards-Helaire ran for just 37 yards on 11carries while Le’Veon Bell was limited to 22 yards on five rushes. It doesn’t matter that the Chiefs rely so heavily on two players when no one can stop them. The 10-1 Chiefs  host the Broncos while the 7-5 Buccaneers go onto their bye.

CHI 25, GB 41 

The final game of the day was never close. The Packers jumped out to a 27-3 lead in the second quarter and then coasted their way to the win. David Montgomery broke off a 57-yard run and ended with 103 yards on 11 carries, plus five receptions for 40 yards and a touchdown for his best fantasy showing of the year. Mitchell Trubisky returned as the starter and passed for 242 yards and three touchdowns with two interceptions but most of that was in the second half when the Packers no longer cared as much. Allen Robinson caught eight passes for 74 yards and two touchdowns but no other receiver gained more than 34 yards. The Bears’ defense is typically better so opponents don’t get so far ahead that they give up that much trash time production.

Aaron Jones ran for 90 yards on 17 carries while Jamaal Williams gained 73 yards on 17 rushes with one touchdown. Aaron Rodgers was in top form, completing 21-of-29 passes for 211 yards and four touchdowns. Robert Tonyan (5-67, TD) and Davante Adams (6-61, TD) were the only Packers with more than 39 yards. It gave the 5-6 Bears their fifth-straight loss but they host the Lions this week. The 8-3 Packers welcome the Eagles to Green Bay.

The Game-o-the-Week

CAR 27, MIN 28
The Panthers led this 24-13 in the fourth quarter but the Vikings drove the field and Kirk Cousins found Justin Jefferson for a 10-yard touchdown  plus a two-point conversion to Obisi Johnson to make it 24-21. The Panthers reached the MIN-9 yard line with 2:10 left to play but had to settle for a 21-yard field goal and a 27-21 lead. The Vikings had the ball with 1:51 left to play on their own 35-yard line. Cousins threw five straight completions to reach the CAR-10 yard line with 1:03 left to play. After one incompletion, he hit Chad Beebe for a touchdown and the 28-27 lead. The Panthers ended with a 54-yard field goal attempt that as no good.

Teddy Bridgewater passed for 267 yards and one score to Robby Anderson (4-94, TD). Curtis Samuel (5-72) and D.J. Moore (4-61) were big contributors though Moore left injured. Mike Davis ran for 55 yards on 15 rushes and added three receptions for 24 yards. The only reason the Panthers were in this was thanks to rookie linebacker Jeremy Chinn returning two fumbles for touchdowns on successive plays.

Dalvin Cook ran for 61 yards on 18 carries and added four catches for 21 yards. Kirk Cousins passed for 307 yards and three scores split between Justin Jefferson (7-70, 2 TD)  and Chad Beebe (7-63, TD). Obisi Johnson (7-74) and Kyle Rudolph (7-68) also contributed with a total of five different receivers catching exactly seven passes.  Cousins won this game while Cook was ineffective and banged up. The 4-8 Panthers go onto their bye while the 5-6 Vikings  host the Jaguars.

Taking a quick rundown of the Sunday NFL games with a fantasy perspective.

TEN 30, BAL 24 OT

This is the second time the Titans left Baltimore as a winner though less painful than the playoffs last January. The Ravens led 21-13 entering the fourth quarter but gave up a field goal and touchdown to trail 21-24 with 2:18 left to play. The Ravens couldn’t score with three plays from the TEN-15 yard line and kicked the field goal for overtime. After a three-and-out by the Ravens in overtime, the Titans drove the field and scored a touchdown when Derrick Henry broke a 29-yard run for the winning score.

Ryan Tannehill passed for 259 yards and two touchdowns between A.J. Brown (4-62, TD) and Jonnu Smith (4-20, TD). Corey Davis led the team with 113 yards on five receptions. Henry finished with 133 yards and the score on 28 rushes. As is usually the case, most of Henry’s production came late in the game when the Ravens defense were just tired of trying to stop him.

Lamar Jackson threw for 186 yards and one score to Mark Andrews (5-96, TD) while no other receivers gained more than 28 yards. The normal three-man rotation in the backfield became mostly just J.K. Dobbins (15-70, TD) who added two catches for 15 yards. Gus Edwards (3-6) and Mark Ingram (2-2) were ineffective. The 7-3 Titans head to Indianapolis this week while the 6-4 Ravens try to salvage their season by playing the Steelers in Pittsburgh.

DET 0, CAR 20
Ugly. Matt Stafford played with a bad thumb and only threw for 178 yards and no touchdowns. T.J. Hockenson (4-68) and Marvin Jones (4-51) were the top receivers and Jones had a long touchdown called back on a penalty. Without D’Andre Swift, the Lions proved that neither Adrian Peterson (7-18) not Kerryon Johnson (6-17) were the answer at running back. The Lions haven’t looked this bad this season and the absence of Swift coupled with the inefficient passing from Stafford doomed their offense.

P.J. Walker replaced Teddy Bridgewater after initially being active for the game but the Panthers changed their minds an hour before kickoff. P.J. Walker’s first start resulted in 258 passing yards and one score with two interceptions. But he hit his wideouts surprisingly well with D.J. Moore (7-127). Curtis Samuel (8-70, TD), and Robbie Anderson (7-46) all contributing. Mark Davis rushed for 64 yards and a touchdown and he added two catches for 15 yards. The 4-6 Lions host the Texans this week still looking for points while the 4-7 Panthers head to Minnesota.

PHI 17, CLE 22
Close game played in what seems to be perpetual bad weather in Cleveland each week. The Eagles offense sputtered as usual and Carson Wentz threw for 235 yards and two scores but also two interceptions. Dallas Goedert caught  a team high five passes for 77 yards and a score while Richard Rodgers (2-48, TD) took care of the other touchdown. Jalen Reagor (4-52) was the top wideout but it was a rainy game with depressed passing stats for both teams.

Baker Mayfield only managed 204 passing yards but had no interceptions. Khadarel Hodge (3-73) and Rashard Higgins (3-65) led the Browns only because each one caught a 40-yard pass. Nick Chubb rushed for 114 yards but did not score or have a pass target. Kareem Hunt ran in a touchdown but only gained 11 yards on 13 carries. This was a sloppy game, but the Eagles were just a bit more sloppy. The 3-6-1 Eagles host the Seahawks hoping for a trap game while the 7-3 Browns head to Jacksonville.

NE 20, HOU 27
This was a surprising game on all counts. The Patriots normally formidable rushing offense struggled versus the Texans No. 29 ranked defense versus running backs. Damien Harris (11-43, TD), James White (5-19), and Rex Burkhead (4-7) found little running room and Burkhead appeared to have a serious injury. But Cam Newton passed for 365 yards and one score to Damiere Byrd (6-132, TD) while Jakobi Meyer’s 3-38) hot streak ended. James White (6-64) even came back to life as a receiver.

Deshaun Watson threw for 344 yards and two scores while adding 36 yards and a touchdown as a rusher. Duke Johnson only managed 15 yards on ten carries. For all the passing, there were no big games by a receiver. Brandin Cooks (4-85), Jodan Akins (5-83), and Will Fuller (6-80) were all good without scoring. It was a reverse game for the Pats who usually are great versus the pass and then weak versus the run. That matched the Texans defense suddenly being great against the run but let Newton pass for 365 yards. The 4-6 Patriots host the Cardinals this weekend and the 3-7 Texans head for Detroit.

PIT 27, JAC 3
The Jaguars were never remotely competitive in this matchup while the unbeaten Steelers looked even better than usual. Ben Roethlisberger passed for 267 yards and two touchdowns with Diontae Johnson (12-111) and Chase Claypool (4-59, TD) leading the receivers. James Conner gained 89 yards on 13 carries and once again, the Steelers let Benny Snell (7-15, TD)  take the short touchdown plunge. The beauty of the Steelers offense is that so many different players can score and contribute significant yardage and yet their individual inconsistencies makes it all hard to defend.

Jake Luton  is just getting worse. He completed just 16-of-37 for 151 yards, four interceptions and a QB rating of 15.5. D.J. Chark (4-41) was as good as it got for the Jaguars receivers. James Robinson ran for 73 yards on 17 carries and added two catches for 21 yards as the only fantasy play from this offense. The 10-0 Steelers host the Ravens in a divisional matchup that doesn’t seem as big or as important with the Steelers already four games ahead of them and having won their first meeting. The 1-9 Jaguars host the Browns.

ATL 9, NO 24
The Saints really did start Taysom Hill at quarterback and won the game – so he’s the new fixture under center. Hill ran for 51 yards and two scores while passing for 233 yards with no interceptions. Alvin Kamara (13-45, TD) never caught a pass and Hill seems a lock to depress with Kamara does. And so far – significantly. Latavius Murray used 12 runs to gain 49 yards but he had more usage late in the game once the Saints took over after trailing 3-9 in the second quarter. Michael Thomas (9-104) and Emmanuel Sanders (4-66) led the receivers and didn’t lose anything with the switch from Brees to Hill, at least not while facing the No. 31 defense versus quarterbacks.

Matt Ryan had all of his receivers back but only passed for 232 yards and two interceptions, even with Marshon Lattimore out. Calvin Ridley (5-90) and Russell Gage (7-58) were the top receivers with Julio Jones only thrown two passes that were both caught for only 39 yards. Todd Gurley ran for only 26 yards on eight carries. The Saints defense looked like the same one that crushed the Buccaneers back in Week 9. The 3-7 Falcons  host the Raiders this week while the 8-2 Saints head to Denver.

CIN 9, WAS 20
This was as dull as the score suggests, and then made tragic with the season-ending injury to Joe Burrow. With Joe Mixon also on injured reserve, Samaje Perine led the team with five carries for 19 yards, while Giovani Bernard only managed 18 yards on nine runs and added four catches for 37 yards. Tyler Boyd (9-85) and even A.J. Green (4-41, TD) were the top receivers but that all goes out the window with a change in quarterback.

Alex Smith only passed for 166 yards and one score. The only notable receiver (ever) was Terry McLaurin (5-84) while Steven Sims (3-13, TD) caught the only touchdown. Antonio Gibson ran for 94 yards and a score on 16 carries and J.D. McKissic totaled 69 yards with his three catches factored in. The Football Team won thanks to their defense. They held the Bengals scoreless in the second half while posting 13 points. The 2-7-1 Bengals host the Giants this week while the 3-7 Football Team travels to Dallas for an NFC East showdown.

MIA 13, DEN 20
The Dolphins’ string of five consecutive wins went to the wayside against the Denver defense. Tua Tagovailoa only completed 11-of-20 passes for 83 yards and a score before being benched for Ryan Fitzpatrick. HC Brian Flores already said that the rookie remains the starting quarterback. Salvon Ahmed only gained 43 yards on 12 carries as the starter but added five receptions for 31 yards. Devante Parker (6-61, TD) and Mike Gesicki (4-43) were the top receivers in this sluggish matchup.

The Broncos won thanks to Melvin Gordon rushing in two touchdowns on his 15 carries for 84 yards. Phillip Lindsay also added 82 yards on 16 runs. Drew Lock ended with 270 yards and one interception. Tim Patrick (5-119) and Noah Fant (4-55) were the only receivers with more than 40 yards. The Broncos’ offense was much more efficient than the Dolphins who looked much more like the 2019 version. The 6-4 Dolphins  play at the Jets this week while the 4-6 Broncos  host the Saints.

NYJ 28, LAC 34
The Chargers tried to give this game away, but the Jets wouldn’t accept the gift that almost every opponent gets. Joe Flacco had one of the better days for a Jets arterback when he passed for 205 yards and two scores with only one interception. Breshad Perriman (2-54, TD) and Chris Herndon (2-32, TD) both scored and Denzel Mims led the team with 71 yards on three catches. Since Jamison Crowder is the only Jet with any fantasy value, he ended with just one catch for 16 yards. Frank Gore ran for 61 yards and a score while La’Mical Perine gained 33 yards and a touchdown.  That’s four touchdowns by the Jets in one game. And it still wasn’t good enough.

Justin Herbert threw for 366 yards and three touchdowns that involved Keenan Allen (16-145, TD), Mike Williams (4-72, TD), and Hunter Henry (4-48, TD). Kalen Ballage was held to 44 yards on 18 carries but added seven catches for 27 yards. The Bolts ended their three-game losing streak and all it took was hosting the only 0-10 team. The Chargers led 31-13 in the third quarter when the Jets got hot and the curse of the Chargers almost held true giving up two late touchdowns to make it a game. The Jets  host the Dolphins this week while the 3-7 Chargers  head to Buffalo.

DAL 31, MIN 28
The Cowboys ended a four-game losing streak looking a lot like they did in the first two weeks. Ezekiel Elliott ran for his first 100- yard effort of the year when he gained  103 yards on 21 rushes and added two catches for 11 yards and one touchdown. Andy Dalton passed for 203 yards and three scores with Amari Cooper (6-81) as the lead receiver and no other players had more than 35 yards. CeeDee Lamb (4-34, TD) and Dalton Schultz (4-25, TD) handled the other touchdowns. There were fewer mistakes and more effective passing from Dalton this time.

Kirk Cousins threw for 314 yards and two scores with Adam Thielen (8-132, 2 TD) as the top receiver and Justin Jefferson (3-86, TD) snaring the 39-yard score in the fourth quarter. Dalton Cook ran for 115 yards and a touchdown on 27 rushes and added five catches for 45 yards. The Vikings offense played well enough to win but lost two fumbles and the Vikings defense did what no other had done before – made the Dallas offense look good without Dak Shepard. The 3-7 Cowboys host the Football Team this week while the 4-6 Vikings host the Panthers.

KC 35, LV 31
Game-o-the-Week contender, to be sure. If the Raiders scored with 28 seconds left, it would have been a potential Game-o-the-Year. The game played out in perfect order as both teams took turns scoring. The Chiefs had one more touchdown when the Raiders only had a field goal but they took turns every score. That reverses the damage from losing in Kansas City for the Chiefs.

Patrick Mahomes threw for 348 yards and two scores that included driving the field with 1:43 left to play and ending with a 22-yard touchdown pass to Travis Kelce with only 40 seconds left to play. Kelce finished with a team-high 127 yards on eight catches with one score while Tyreek Hill turned in 11 catches for 102 yards and the other touchdown. Clyde Edwards-Helaire ran 14 times for 69 yards and two touchdowns while Le’Veon Bell added 25 yards and a score on his seven carries.

Derek Carr passed for 275 yards and three touchdowns with one interception on a desperation throw at the end of the game. Darren Waller (7-88, TD) and Nelson Agholor (6-88, TD) led the receivers with no one else gaining more than 37 yards. Josh Jacobs ran for 55 yards on 17 carries and one score but only added a nine-yard catch. The win sends the 9-1 Chiefs  to face the Buccaneers while the 6-4 Raiders play in Atlanta this week.

The Game-o-the-Week

GB 31, IND 34 OT
Big game that ended in overtime – what’s not to love? The Packers led 28-14 at halftime but then watched the Colts reel off three field goals and a touchdown with a two-point conversion to lead 31-28 in the fourth quarter.  The Packers took over at their 6-yard line with only 1:25 left to play and drove the field to the IND-15 yard line with 43 seconds left. After three plays that could have won the game, they kicked a 26-yard field goal to send it into overtime.

The Packers won the toss and started at their 22-yard line. On second down, Aaron Rodgers hit Marquez Valdes-Scantling who fumbled the ball away and the Colts recovered at the Packers’ 30-yard line. Three carries by Jonathan Taylor and the Colts kicked the 39-yard winning field goal.

Aaron Rodgers passed for 311 yards and three touchdowns with Davante Adams (7-106, TD) and Robert Tonyan (5-44, TD) as the only good fantasy plays. Aaron Jones ran for 41 yards and a score on 10 rushes and added four catches for 30 yards. Other than one field goal to tie the game, the Packers’ offense stopped scoring in the second quarter.

Philip Rivers passed for 283 yards and three touchdowns in the win. Michael Pittman (3-66, TD) and Zach Pascal (3-54) were the top receivers but Rivers connected with 11 different players.  Nyheim Hines big Week 10 performance was quickly forgotten since he only gained two yards on six rushes and added 31 yards on three catches. Jonathan Taylor (22-90) was back as the primary back and even Jordan Wilkins had four carries for 21 yards. The loss sends the 7-3 Packers home to face the Bears while the 7-3 Colts host the Titans.