This is the Broncos last stand of the 2019 season. If they lose at home to the Jaguars, then they will fall to 0-4 and this season will be lost before we get to October. I still think they can somehow turn this season around, but they have to win this game at home. The Jags come in at 1-2, but they have some life with the play of QB Gardner Minshew, subbing for injured Nick Foles. They are also dealing with the Jalen Ramsey drama as he continues to demand a trade. I know it is dicey to pick the Broncos but I have to think they can win this game at home to get to 1-3
Prediction: DENVER (-3) over Jacksonville
Final Score: Broncos-20 Jags-16
Last Week's Record: 6-9-1
Overall Record: 20-25-3
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
HOUSTON (-4) over Carolina: The Texans are 2-1 with all three of their games very close. The Panthers are 1-2 and QB Kyle Allen looked really good last week in relief of the injured Cam Newton. This game will be close again, but I think the Texans will win by a late touchdown.
Cleveland (+7) over BALTIMORE: The Ravens are 2-1 and gave the Chiefs everything they could in Arrowhead last Sunday. I know the Browns are 1-2 and everyone is killing them, but I have a sneaky feeling that they go into Baltimore on Sunday and pull off the upset.
NY GIANTS (-3) over Washington: How about that debut for Daniel Jones last week to give the Giants their first win of the season over Tampa Bay? At 1-2, they now host the 0-3 Redskins, who are a mess of a franchise right now. I still can't trust the Giants defense, and with Saquon Barkley out, you get a little nervous, but the G-Men should get to 2-2.
Oakland (+7) over INDY: The Raiders are 1-2 after getting killed in Minnesota last week. They now head back to the midwest for an early game at Indy. I know everyone is picking the Colts at home here and they may win, but I think the Raiders cover the seven points.
Kansas City (-6) over DETROIT: I don't care if the Lions are 2-0-1 and at home this week. I'm taking KC and the unstoppable Pat Mahomes every week.
New England (-7) over BUFFALO: Everyone in Buffalo is pumped up for this matchup of two 3-0 teams, but I think the Pats will take care of business and win easily.
ATLANTA (-3) over Tennessee: Two 1-2 teams battle in Atlanta in a must-win game for both teams. The Falcons are a weird team, and I'm trying to figure out if Matt Ryan is still good. I also think that Marcus Mariota is on borrowed time for the Titans as their QB. I'll take Atlanta at home.
LA RAMS (-9) over Tampa Bay: The Bucs are 1-2 and they lost an absolutely awful game to the Giants last week at home. Now, they head out to LA to take on the 3-0 Rams. I think the Rams get to 4-0 with a dominating win at home.
Seattle (-5) over ARIZONA: Seattle laid an egg at home in a loss to the Saints last week. At 2-1, I think they will get back on track and get an easy win in Arizona.
Minnesota (+3) over CHICAGO: This is the marquee game in the late afternoon window on Sunday. The 2-1 Vikings head to Soldier Field to take on the 2-1 Bears. I think the Vikings are the better team at this point, and you still have to worry about Mitch Trubisky, so I'll take the Vikes on the road.
Dallas (-2) over NEW ORLEANS: I like how the Cowboys and their offense have looked so far in their 3-0 start. Dak Prescott has been awesome in the first three games, and I think this will be a very close game, but I give the Cowboys the edge and win to get to 4-0.
PITTSBURGH (-4) over Cincy: What a rough game on Monday Night Football as the 0-3 Steelers, without Big Ben, take on the 0-3 Bengals. I'll take the Steelers to get to 1-3.
Thursday, September 26, 2019
Monday, September 23, 2019
Broncos Lose at Lambeau to the Packers 27-16, Drop to 0-3
Another football Sunday and another loss for the Broncos. Denver fell 27-16 at Lambeau Field yesterday afternoon to the Packers. The loss puts the Broncos at 0-3 for the first time since 1999. This game boiled down to the turnovers the Broncos had and it eventually cost them the game. Here are my thoughts and observations on the game....
1) The outcome of this game comes down to three parts. Part 1 is when Joe Flacco got sacked and fumbled near the end of the first half deep in his own end. This turnover set up a Green Bay rushing touchdown to make it 17-10 at the half.
2) Part 2 was when the third quarter started, and Noah Fant caught a pass from Flacco and fumbled in Denver territory and the Packers recovered. This turnover led to another Packers touchdown and a 24-10 early in the second half. A 10-10 game turned on two turnovers that closed the half and started the half.
3) Part 3 was when Denver was driving down 24-16 late in the third quarter and Flacco was intercepted in Green Bay territory. It was a killer interception and no one was even around the ball. It was the third turnover that put the game out of reach for the Broncos. Flacco then pulled a classic Flacco move when he checked the ball down to Royce Freeman on 3rd and long for a gain of four yards and Denver had to punt. There was your ballgame right there.
4) There really isn't anything else to write or say. The Broncos are 0-3 for the first time since 1999. They have lost seven games in a row going back to last season. They are 4-13 in their last 17 games. They have not scored over 17 points in the past seven games, and their defense has no sacks and no turnovers the first three games this season.
5) I thought the Josh McDaniels/Kyle Orton era was bad in Denver, but this is starting to get to that level. 2017 was awful. 2018 wasn't much better, but 2019 looks like it might get worse. The Broncos have become an irrelevant franchise in the NFL. They are boring to watch and I expect them to lose every week. It is really disappointing and their season could be over by the beginning of October. They host the 1-2 Jaguars next week, but I don't have any confidence that they will win the game. Its' that bad in Denver right now.
1) The outcome of this game comes down to three parts. Part 1 is when Joe Flacco got sacked and fumbled near the end of the first half deep in his own end. This turnover set up a Green Bay rushing touchdown to make it 17-10 at the half.
2) Part 2 was when the third quarter started, and Noah Fant caught a pass from Flacco and fumbled in Denver territory and the Packers recovered. This turnover led to another Packers touchdown and a 24-10 early in the second half. A 10-10 game turned on two turnovers that closed the half and started the half.
3) Part 3 was when Denver was driving down 24-16 late in the third quarter and Flacco was intercepted in Green Bay territory. It was a killer interception and no one was even around the ball. It was the third turnover that put the game out of reach for the Broncos. Flacco then pulled a classic Flacco move when he checked the ball down to Royce Freeman on 3rd and long for a gain of four yards and Denver had to punt. There was your ballgame right there.
4) There really isn't anything else to write or say. The Broncos are 0-3 for the first time since 1999. They have lost seven games in a row going back to last season. They are 4-13 in their last 17 games. They have not scored over 17 points in the past seven games, and their defense has no sacks and no turnovers the first three games this season.
5) I thought the Josh McDaniels/Kyle Orton era was bad in Denver, but this is starting to get to that level. 2017 was awful. 2018 wasn't much better, but 2019 looks like it might get worse. The Broncos have become an irrelevant franchise in the NFL. They are boring to watch and I expect them to lose every week. It is really disappointing and their season could be over by the beginning of October. They host the 1-2 Jaguars next week, but I don't have any confidence that they will win the game. Its' that bad in Denver right now.
Friday, September 20, 2019
Broncos-Packers and Week 3 Picks
The Broncos lost an absolute heartbreaker last week at home to the Bears 16-14 on a 52 yard field goal by Eddy Piniero as time expired. Now, they have the tough task of heading to Lambeau Field to take on the 2-0 Packers. 0-2 and on the road against Aaron Rodgers is not the way to start your season. Teams can come back from 0-2, but they won't come back from 0-3. This will be tough and it's hard to make a case for the Broncos to win the game, but I could see them playing hard and keeping it somewhat close for awhile. The Packers haven't looked that great the first two games anyway and maybe they are overlooking Denver and have the Eagles on their mind for Thursday night.
Prediction: Denver (+8) over GREEN BAY
Final Score: Packers-24 Denver-17
Now, onto the quick picks for Week 3.....
Last Week's Record: 9-7
Overall Record: 14-16-2
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
Detroit (+7) over PHILLY
KANSAS CITY (-6) over Baltimore
Cincy (+7) over BUFFALO:
Atlanta (+3) over INDY:
Oakland (+8) over MINNESOTA:
NEW ENGLAND (-18) over NY Jets:
Miami (+21) over DALLAS:
TAMPA BAY (-6) over NY Giants:
ARIZONA (+3) over Carolina:
SEATTLE (-4) over New Orleans:
LA CHARGERS (-3) over Houston:
Pittsburgh (+7) over SAN FRANCISCO:
LA Rams (-2) over CLEVELAND:
WASHINGTON (+4) over Chicago:
Prediction: Denver (+8) over GREEN BAY
Final Score: Packers-24 Denver-17
Now, onto the quick picks for Week 3.....
Last Week's Record: 9-7
Overall Record: 14-16-2
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
Detroit (+7) over PHILLY
KANSAS CITY (-6) over Baltimore
Cincy (+7) over BUFFALO:
Atlanta (+3) over INDY:
Oakland (+8) over MINNESOTA:
NEW ENGLAND (-18) over NY Jets:
Miami (+21) over DALLAS:
TAMPA BAY (-6) over NY Giants:
ARIZONA (+3) over Carolina:
SEATTLE (-4) over New Orleans:
LA CHARGERS (-3) over Houston:
Pittsburgh (+7) over SAN FRANCISCO:
LA Rams (-2) over CLEVELAND:
WASHINGTON (+4) over Chicago:
Thursday, September 19, 2019
Wednesday, September 18, 2019
Broncos Lose a Heartbreaker to the Bears, Fall to 0-2
The Broncos fell to 0-2 on Sunday with a crushing home loss at the hands of the Bears 16-14. Eddy Piniero hit a 52 yard field goal as time expired to give the Bears the win. Denver took the lead on a Joe Flacco to Emmanuel Sanders two-point conversion try to take 14-13 lead with 32 seconds left. It was a thrilling ending to the game, but this was a tough loss for the Broncos and it could derail their season very early on. Here are my thoughts and observations about the game....
1) The Broncos shut down Mitch Trubisky and the Bears offense for most of the game. They had one drive in which they gave up a touchdown but that came after a reverse by Corradelle Patterson that put the Bears deep into Denver territory. The Broncos defense played well, although they didn't get any sacks or any takeaways. As expected, the Bears defense played well and held Denver to only a field goal until the final drive for the Broncos.
2) Joe Flacco played pretty well. He threw a bad pick with about four minutes to go in the game deep in Chicago territory down 13-6, but he did lead Denver down the field late in the game and converted a few 4th downs to keep the drive alive. He hit Sanders for the touchdown to make it 13-12 and then hit Sanders again for the two-pointer to make it 14-13. Flacco wasn't the problem on Sunday.
3) Garrett Bolles continues to kill the Broncos with the holding penalties. His penalties negated some big plays and it bogged down the offense for the second and third quarter. It is at the point where Bolles should be benched, and it looks like he is not going to have a future in Denver.
4) This game was pretty mundane throughout but the 4th quarter was pretty wild. Denver was down 13-3 but rallied to make it 13-6, then Flacco hit Sanders for the touchdown. Vic Fangio signaled to go for two, but a delay of game knocked the Broncos back and they settled for the extra point. Brandon McManus missed it wide, but the Bears were offside. Denver then took the penalty and decided to go for two again. Flacco hit Sanders and the Broncos took an improbable 14-13 with only 32 seconds left. At that point, I was feeling pretty good as a Broncos fan but the game turned rather quickly.
5) Bradley Chubb's roughing the passer on Trubisky was a really, really bad call. He hit him as he was throwing it. It was so bad, and it gave the Bears life, 15 yards, and a first down. Trubisky then hit a big throw down the middle and the Bears got a timeout with one second left to set up the 52 yard field goal. I think the timeout was generous by the referees, and I wished it was at least reviewed by the booth but it wasn't. In any event, how the hell did that receiver get so wide open down the middle of the field like that? Where was Von Miller and Chubb on that play?
6) This was about as brutal of a loss as you can have for a team, and now the Broncos find themselves at 0-2 for the first time since 1999. They also lost their home opener for the first time since 2011. It is a shame because this could have been one of those wins that you look back on as a game that propelled your season, but now it is a loss that could really put this team into a tailspin. The Broncos are now faced with the task of heading to Green Bay to take on the 2-0 Packers in Lambeau Field. I feel like this team can come back from 0-2 and have a good season, but 0-3 would be too much to ask.
1) The Broncos shut down Mitch Trubisky and the Bears offense for most of the game. They had one drive in which they gave up a touchdown but that came after a reverse by Corradelle Patterson that put the Bears deep into Denver territory. The Broncos defense played well, although they didn't get any sacks or any takeaways. As expected, the Bears defense played well and held Denver to only a field goal until the final drive for the Broncos.
2) Joe Flacco played pretty well. He threw a bad pick with about four minutes to go in the game deep in Chicago territory down 13-6, but he did lead Denver down the field late in the game and converted a few 4th downs to keep the drive alive. He hit Sanders for the touchdown to make it 13-12 and then hit Sanders again for the two-pointer to make it 14-13. Flacco wasn't the problem on Sunday.
3) Garrett Bolles continues to kill the Broncos with the holding penalties. His penalties negated some big plays and it bogged down the offense for the second and third quarter. It is at the point where Bolles should be benched, and it looks like he is not going to have a future in Denver.
4) This game was pretty mundane throughout but the 4th quarter was pretty wild. Denver was down 13-3 but rallied to make it 13-6, then Flacco hit Sanders for the touchdown. Vic Fangio signaled to go for two, but a delay of game knocked the Broncos back and they settled for the extra point. Brandon McManus missed it wide, but the Bears were offside. Denver then took the penalty and decided to go for two again. Flacco hit Sanders and the Broncos took an improbable 14-13 with only 32 seconds left. At that point, I was feeling pretty good as a Broncos fan but the game turned rather quickly.
5) Bradley Chubb's roughing the passer on Trubisky was a really, really bad call. He hit him as he was throwing it. It was so bad, and it gave the Bears life, 15 yards, and a first down. Trubisky then hit a big throw down the middle and the Bears got a timeout with one second left to set up the 52 yard field goal. I think the timeout was generous by the referees, and I wished it was at least reviewed by the booth but it wasn't. In any event, how the hell did that receiver get so wide open down the middle of the field like that? Where was Von Miller and Chubb on that play?
6) This was about as brutal of a loss as you can have for a team, and now the Broncos find themselves at 0-2 for the first time since 1999. They also lost their home opener for the first time since 2011. It is a shame because this could have been one of those wins that you look back on as a game that propelled your season, but now it is a loss that could really put this team into a tailspin. The Broncos are now faced with the task of heading to Green Bay to take on the 2-0 Packers in Lambeau Field. I feel like this team can come back from 0-2 and have a good season, but 0-3 would be too much to ask.
Thursday, September 12, 2019
Broncos-Bears and Week 2 Picks
The Broncos return to the newly named Empower Field at Mile High for their home opener against the Chicago Bears on Sunday. Both teams come into the game at 0-1. The Bears were shutdown by the Packers at home last Thursday night, and the Broncos got run over by the Raiders on Monday Night Football. I have seen a lot of people picking the Bears this weekend, but I think the Broncos could be very dangerous as a home underdog. The crowd in Denver will be fired up, and they will be a factor. Plus, you have Vic Fangio game-planning against his former team. Do you really trust Mitch Trubisky on the road in Denver? I know I might get burned here, but I like the Broncos chances.
Prediction: DENVER (+3) over Chicago
Final Score: Broncos-22 Bears-21
Now, onto the picks for Week 2.............
Last Week's Record: 5-9-2
Overall Record: 5-9-2
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
TENNESSEE (-3) over Indy: I liked what I saw out of the Titans last week in Cleveland. I think the Colts were valiant but look for Tennessee to get to 2-0
DETROIT (+3) over LA Chargers: I never rust the Chargers in early games in other time zones. I think Detroit comes out and plays hard and wins the game outright.
NY GIANTS (+2) over Buffalo: I have no feel for this game other than the fact that the Giants looked awful in their Week 1 loss to the Cowboys, and the Bills barely escaped in a win over the Jets. Who knows how this one plays out.
Arizona (+14) over BALTIMORE: Lamar Jackson vs. Kyler Murray. This could be a very fun game to watch. I think the Ravens will win, but look for the Cards to keep it close and entertaining.
New England (-18) over MIAMI: The Pats will roll and it won't be close at all. Miami is in full tank mode.
WASHINGTON (+6) over Dallas: I think the Cowboys will win the game, but I can see this coming down to the final minutes. I think the Skins will give Dallas everything they can in this game, but they will fall short.
Jacksonville (+9) over HOUSTON: Houston wins the game and gets to 1-1 after that crazy loss to the Saints on Monday night, but I think Gardner Minshew plays well enough for the Jags to keep it close.
PITTSBURGH (-3) over Seattle: The Steelers will bounce back and get back on track at home against the Seahawks. Look for a big day from Big Ben in what is the best early game of the day.
CINCY (-1) over San Francisco: I have a sneaky suspicion that the Bengals find a way to win this game at home on Sunday. They should have won at Seattle in Week 1.
Minnesota (+3) over GREEN BAY: The second best early game on Sunday features two division rivals going at it in Lambeau. I think the Vikings will play well, and Kirk Cousins will win the game late for the Vikes.
Kansas City (-7) over OAKLAND: Even after the Raiders win over Denver on MNF, I'm still not buying the Raiders. I'll take the Chiefs to roll over them as they seemed to have picked up where they left off last year on offense.
LA RAMS (-3) over New Orleans: In a rematch of the NFC Championship Game, I think the Rams will take care of the Saints at home. I think this is a back and forth game, but look for LA to take it.
ATLANTA (+2) over Philly: I like the Falcons here as a home underdog. I think Philly is the team to beat in the NFC, but I think the Falcons will play inspired since they are 0-1 and returning home.
Cleveland (-2) over NY JETS: Sam Darnold is out for this game with Mono. The Jets lost a brutal game at the hands of the Bills last Sunday, so Jets fans are already besides themselves. Trevor Siemian gets the start. The Browns are 0-1, but I think they come into the Meadowlands and get the much-needed win on Monday Night Football
Prediction: DENVER (+3) over Chicago
Final Score: Broncos-22 Bears-21
Now, onto the picks for Week 2.............
Last Week's Record: 5-9-2
Overall Record: 5-9-2
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
TENNESSEE (-3) over Indy: I liked what I saw out of the Titans last week in Cleveland. I think the Colts were valiant but look for Tennessee to get to 2-0
DETROIT (+3) over LA Chargers: I never rust the Chargers in early games in other time zones. I think Detroit comes out and plays hard and wins the game outright.
NY GIANTS (+2) over Buffalo: I have no feel for this game other than the fact that the Giants looked awful in their Week 1 loss to the Cowboys, and the Bills barely escaped in a win over the Jets. Who knows how this one plays out.
Arizona (+14) over BALTIMORE: Lamar Jackson vs. Kyler Murray. This could be a very fun game to watch. I think the Ravens will win, but look for the Cards to keep it close and entertaining.
New England (-18) over MIAMI: The Pats will roll and it won't be close at all. Miami is in full tank mode.
WASHINGTON (+6) over Dallas: I think the Cowboys will win the game, but I can see this coming down to the final minutes. I think the Skins will give Dallas everything they can in this game, but they will fall short.
Jacksonville (+9) over HOUSTON: Houston wins the game and gets to 1-1 after that crazy loss to the Saints on Monday night, but I think Gardner Minshew plays well enough for the Jags to keep it close.
PITTSBURGH (-3) over Seattle: The Steelers will bounce back and get back on track at home against the Seahawks. Look for a big day from Big Ben in what is the best early game of the day.
CINCY (-1) over San Francisco: I have a sneaky suspicion that the Bengals find a way to win this game at home on Sunday. They should have won at Seattle in Week 1.
Minnesota (+3) over GREEN BAY: The second best early game on Sunday features two division rivals going at it in Lambeau. I think the Vikings will play well, and Kirk Cousins will win the game late for the Vikes.
Kansas City (-7) over OAKLAND: Even after the Raiders win over Denver on MNF, I'm still not buying the Raiders. I'll take the Chiefs to roll over them as they seemed to have picked up where they left off last year on offense.
LA RAMS (-3) over New Orleans: In a rematch of the NFC Championship Game, I think the Rams will take care of the Saints at home. I think this is a back and forth game, but look for LA to take it.
ATLANTA (+2) over Philly: I like the Falcons here as a home underdog. I think Philly is the team to beat in the NFC, but I think the Falcons will play inspired since they are 0-1 and returning home.
Cleveland (-2) over NY JETS: Sam Darnold is out for this game with Mono. The Jets lost a brutal game at the hands of the Bills last Sunday, so Jets fans are already besides themselves. Trevor Siemian gets the start. The Browns are 0-1, but I think they come into the Meadowlands and get the much-needed win on Monday Night Football
Wednesday, September 11, 2019
Broncos Lose Opener at Oakland 24-16
The Broncos went into Oakland on Monday Night Football for the season opener and promptly got stomped by the Raiders 24-16 to start the 2019 season. It wasn't the night we all hoped for and expected, and it certainly was not the way you want to start the season. Here are my thoughts and observations from the game....
1) The Raiders came out and scored on their first possession and completely controlled the game from there. Derek Carr sliced the Broncos with quick passes and rookie RB Josh Jacobs ran well and hard all night long. The Broncos defense had no answer for the Raiders gameplan. There was no pass rush and they had trouble getting the Raiders off the field on third downs.
2) Give Jon Gruden credit because he had his team ready to play and completely outcoached Vic Fangio on this night. The quick passing game made it very difficult for Von Miller or Bradley Chubb to get to Carr. He was basically untouched the whole game.
3) I'm not going to kill Joe Flacco in this game because I don't think he played bad at all. The problem was the Broncos were down 14-0 early in the game, and they were on the road with a shaky offensive line. Flacco didn't have time in some key situations, and he isn't mobile so that is what caused some sacks on those key downs in the first half.
4) Once the Broncos finally got going and cut the lead to 14-3 in the third quarter, Flacco hit DaeSean Hamilton with a perfect pass in the endzone on 3rd and goal, and Hamilton flat-out dropped the ball and the Broncos had to settle for a FG to make it 14-6. That was a killer moment for the Broncos.
5) Even when Denver cut the lead to 24-16 late in the 4th quarter, I never felt comfortable that they were going to get the ball back. The Raiders picked up a first down and ran out the clock to secure the win. The game never felt in doubt for the Raiders all night long.
6) The Broncos entered as favorites due to the Antonio Brown drama the Raiders dealt with in the week leading up to the game, but they came out fired up and Gruden had them ready to go. They used the Brown saga as a rallying point and they were the better team on this night.
7) The Broncos are sent licking their wounds as they dropped Vic Fangio's debut as a head coach. The part that was disappointing the most was the fact that their defense got run over by the Raiders and had no answers for the Oakland offense all night. We knew the Broncos offense wasn't going to light it up on the road, but I expected the defense to play well and they didn't.
8) This game made me feel like nothing has changed from the last two years. Bad offensive football, poor defense, no adjustments, and the feeling that the Broncos are used to getting outcoached and outplayed. The Broncos are used to losing the last two years, and this game was the exact mirror of those two years. It is only one game, and the Broncos started 3-1 and 2-0 the last two years only to have miserable seasons, but you always want to win the first game, and it was disappointing how it played out.
9) The Broncos return home to Mile High and host the 0-1 Bears next Sunday. Vic Fangio gets to go against his old team, and it will be interesting to see how this team plays at home instead of on the road.
1) The Raiders came out and scored on their first possession and completely controlled the game from there. Derek Carr sliced the Broncos with quick passes and rookie RB Josh Jacobs ran well and hard all night long. The Broncos defense had no answer for the Raiders gameplan. There was no pass rush and they had trouble getting the Raiders off the field on third downs.
2) Give Jon Gruden credit because he had his team ready to play and completely outcoached Vic Fangio on this night. The quick passing game made it very difficult for Von Miller or Bradley Chubb to get to Carr. He was basically untouched the whole game.
3) I'm not going to kill Joe Flacco in this game because I don't think he played bad at all. The problem was the Broncos were down 14-0 early in the game, and they were on the road with a shaky offensive line. Flacco didn't have time in some key situations, and he isn't mobile so that is what caused some sacks on those key downs in the first half.
4) Once the Broncos finally got going and cut the lead to 14-3 in the third quarter, Flacco hit DaeSean Hamilton with a perfect pass in the endzone on 3rd and goal, and Hamilton flat-out dropped the ball and the Broncos had to settle for a FG to make it 14-6. That was a killer moment for the Broncos.
5) Even when Denver cut the lead to 24-16 late in the 4th quarter, I never felt comfortable that they were going to get the ball back. The Raiders picked up a first down and ran out the clock to secure the win. The game never felt in doubt for the Raiders all night long.
6) The Broncos entered as favorites due to the Antonio Brown drama the Raiders dealt with in the week leading up to the game, but they came out fired up and Gruden had them ready to go. They used the Brown saga as a rallying point and they were the better team on this night.
7) The Broncos are sent licking their wounds as they dropped Vic Fangio's debut as a head coach. The part that was disappointing the most was the fact that their defense got run over by the Raiders and had no answers for the Oakland offense all night. We knew the Broncos offense wasn't going to light it up on the road, but I expected the defense to play well and they didn't.
8) This game made me feel like nothing has changed from the last two years. Bad offensive football, poor defense, no adjustments, and the feeling that the Broncos are used to getting outcoached and outplayed. The Broncos are used to losing the last two years, and this game was the exact mirror of those two years. It is only one game, and the Broncos started 3-1 and 2-0 the last two years only to have miserable seasons, but you always want to win the first game, and it was disappointing how it played out.
9) The Broncos return home to Mile High and host the 0-1 Bears next Sunday. Vic Fangio gets to go against his old team, and it will be interesting to see how this team plays at home instead of on the road.
Friday, September 6, 2019
Broncos-Raiders Week 1 Preview and Prediction
What a bunch of storylines heading into the season opener for the Broncos at Oakland in the Black Hole on Monday Night Football! The debut of Joe Flacco for Denver, the head coaching debut of Vic Fangio, and the last regular season meeting between the Broncos and Raiders in Oakland are all on the table in this Week One matchup. Also, the Raiders dealt with the Antonio Brown saga and all the craziness involved with him, Jon Gruden, and GM Mike Mayock. It led to the release of Brown on Saturday. There is plenty to talk about regarding this game. To me, I can see the Broncos defense doing a great job on Derek Carr and that Raiders offense for 3+ quarters, but I can see them running out of gas and not being able to hold off the Raiders late. I'm also worried about Joe Flacco on the road in his debut as a Bronco. I think it all adds up to a very frustrating loss for the Broncos at the hands of the Raiders.
Prediction: OAKLAND (-1.5) over Denver
Final Score: Raiders-27 Broncos-20
Prediction: OAKLAND (-1.5) over Denver
Final Score: Raiders-27 Broncos-20
Bears-Packers Season Opener Pick and Week 1 Picks!
The NFL is back for its' 100th season, and the league decided to celebrate the 100th anniversary by having the Packers and the Bears start the season on the opening Thursday night. The NFL's oldest rivalry takes center stage before giving way to the Pats hosting the Steelers on Sunday night to celebrate their Super Bowl title. Here are previews and the rest of the picks for Week 1 (Can you believe it?) of the 2019 season.....
HOME TEAM IN CAPS
Green Bay (+3) over CHICAGO: I think the Packers will come out flying and take this critical Week 1 matchup over the Bears. The Bears are a team that I think takes a step back this year.
MINNESOTA (-3) over Atlanta: Very interesting game for Week 1, and I love the Vikings at home in this one. I think both teams will make the playoffs in the NFC, but look for the Vikes to get the win in a very good game.
PHILLY (-7) over Washington: The Eagles are my Super Bowl pick, and I think they start off the season red-hot with a blowout win over the Redskins.
NY JETS (-3) over Buffalo: The Jets look to be that surprise team under new head coach Adam Gase and Sam Darnold's sophomore campaign. I think the Jets jump all over the Bills at home in Week 1.
MIAMI (+5) over Baltimore: Miami is tanking in 2019 but I think that they could surprise the Ravens in the heat and humidity in South Florida. There is always a wild surprise in Week 1, and this might be it.
Kansas City (-4) over JACKSONVILLE: Pat Mahomes and the Chiefs offense will continue where they left off in 2018 as they steamroll the Jags in Jacksonville.
CLEVELAND (-5) over Tennessee: The Browns will live up to the hype for Week 1 at least as they get off to a good start with a home win over the Titans.
LA RAMS (-3) over CAROLINA: Here is a sneaky good early game in Week 1. I like the Rams on the road in Carolina, but I think it will be close and the Rams will escape with the win.
Detroit (-2) over ARIZONA: Kyler Murray and Kliff Kingsbury debut at home against the Lions. Both of these teams could be in for a rough year, but I like the Lions to win it on the road.
San Francisco (+2) over TAMPA BAY: Look for a big day out of Jimmy G and the Niners as they go into Tampa and spoil Bruce Arians head coaching debut for the Bucs.
SEATTLE (-8) over Cincy: The Bengals might be vying for the #1 pick in the draft come April, and I think they are walking into a buzzsaw at Seattle in Week 1.
LA CHARGERS (-6) over Indy: This would have been a must watch game for Week 1 until Andrew Luck retired on the Colts. I think the Colts will have trouble recovering from that and the Chargers will roll at home.
NY Giants (+7) over DALLAS: I think the Cowboys will win the game, but I can see the Giants keeping this game close. This is the late window game on FOX and it should do a massive Week 1 rating.
Pittsburgh (+7) over NEW ENGLAND: The Pats open at home on Sunday night as they hoist the Super Bowl banner. The Steelers come in after missing the playoffs last year and moving on from the Antonio Brown and Le'veon Bell distractions. I think the Pats will win, but the Steelers will keep it close.
NEW ORLEANS (-6) over Houston: I like both of these teams to make the playoffs this year, but look for the Saints to get the win over the Texans in the Superdome in the first half of Monday Night Football doubleheader.
HOME TEAM IN CAPS
Green Bay (+3) over CHICAGO: I think the Packers will come out flying and take this critical Week 1 matchup over the Bears. The Bears are a team that I think takes a step back this year.
MINNESOTA (-3) over Atlanta: Very interesting game for Week 1, and I love the Vikings at home in this one. I think both teams will make the playoffs in the NFC, but look for the Vikes to get the win in a very good game.
PHILLY (-7) over Washington: The Eagles are my Super Bowl pick, and I think they start off the season red-hot with a blowout win over the Redskins.
NY JETS (-3) over Buffalo: The Jets look to be that surprise team under new head coach Adam Gase and Sam Darnold's sophomore campaign. I think the Jets jump all over the Bills at home in Week 1.
MIAMI (+5) over Baltimore: Miami is tanking in 2019 but I think that they could surprise the Ravens in the heat and humidity in South Florida. There is always a wild surprise in Week 1, and this might be it.
Kansas City (-4) over JACKSONVILLE: Pat Mahomes and the Chiefs offense will continue where they left off in 2018 as they steamroll the Jags in Jacksonville.
CLEVELAND (-5) over Tennessee: The Browns will live up to the hype for Week 1 at least as they get off to a good start with a home win over the Titans.
LA RAMS (-3) over CAROLINA: Here is a sneaky good early game in Week 1. I like the Rams on the road in Carolina, but I think it will be close and the Rams will escape with the win.
Detroit (-2) over ARIZONA: Kyler Murray and Kliff Kingsbury debut at home against the Lions. Both of these teams could be in for a rough year, but I like the Lions to win it on the road.
San Francisco (+2) over TAMPA BAY: Look for a big day out of Jimmy G and the Niners as they go into Tampa and spoil Bruce Arians head coaching debut for the Bucs.
SEATTLE (-8) over Cincy: The Bengals might be vying for the #1 pick in the draft come April, and I think they are walking into a buzzsaw at Seattle in Week 1.
LA CHARGERS (-6) over Indy: This would have been a must watch game for Week 1 until Andrew Luck retired on the Colts. I think the Colts will have trouble recovering from that and the Chargers will roll at home.
NY Giants (+7) over DALLAS: I think the Cowboys will win the game, but I can see the Giants keeping this game close. This is the late window game on FOX and it should do a massive Week 1 rating.
Pittsburgh (+7) over NEW ENGLAND: The Pats open at home on Sunday night as they hoist the Super Bowl banner. The Steelers come in after missing the playoffs last year and moving on from the Antonio Brown and Le'veon Bell distractions. I think the Pats will win, but the Steelers will keep it close.
NEW ORLEANS (-6) over Houston: I like both of these teams to make the playoffs this year, but look for the Saints to get the win over the Texans in the Superdome in the first half of Monday Night Football doubleheader.
Monday, September 2, 2019
Your 2019 Denver Broncos
Ladies and Gentlemen, here are your 2019 Denver Broncos....
QBs:
Joe Flacco, Brandon Allen, Drew Lock (IR-Designated for Return)
RBs:
Philip Lindsay, Royce Freeman, Devontae Booker, Andy Janovich, Theo Riddick (IR-Designated for Return)
WRs:
Emmanuel Sanders, Courtland Sutton, DaeSean Hamilton, Tim Patrick, Juwann Winfree, Diontae Spencer
TEs:
Jeff Heuerman, Noah Fant, Trou Fumagalli, Andrew Beck, Jake Butt (IR-Designated for Return)
OL:
Garret Bolles, Dalton Risner, Connor McGovern, Ron Leary, Ja'Wuan James, Elijah Wilkinson, Austin Schlottmann, Corey Levin
DL:
Derek Wolfe, Adam Gotsis, Shelby Harris, DeMarcus Walker, Dre'Mont Jones, Mike Purcell
OLBS:
Von Miller, Bradley Chubb, Malik Reed, Justin Hollins
ILBs:
Todd Davis, Josey Jewell, Corey Nelson, Joe Jones, Alexander Johnson, Keishawn Bierria
CBs:
Chris Harris, Bryce Callahan, Isaac Yiadom, De'Vante Bausby, Duke Dawson, Davontae Harris
Safety:
Kareem Jackson, Justin Simmons, Will Parks, Trey Marshall
K: Brandon McManus
P: Colby Wadman
LS: Casey Kreiter
QBs:
Joe Flacco, Brandon Allen, Drew Lock (IR-Designated for Return)
RBs:
Philip Lindsay, Royce Freeman, Devontae Booker, Andy Janovich, Theo Riddick (IR-Designated for Return)
WRs:
Emmanuel Sanders, Courtland Sutton, DaeSean Hamilton, Tim Patrick, Juwann Winfree, Diontae Spencer
TEs:
Jeff Heuerman, Noah Fant, Trou Fumagalli, Andrew Beck, Jake Butt (IR-Designated for Return)
OL:
Garret Bolles, Dalton Risner, Connor McGovern, Ron Leary, Ja'Wuan James, Elijah Wilkinson, Austin Schlottmann, Corey Levin
DL:
Derek Wolfe, Adam Gotsis, Shelby Harris, DeMarcus Walker, Dre'Mont Jones, Mike Purcell
OLBS:
Von Miller, Bradley Chubb, Malik Reed, Justin Hollins
ILBs:
Todd Davis, Josey Jewell, Corey Nelson, Joe Jones, Alexander Johnson, Keishawn Bierria
CBs:
Chris Harris, Bryce Callahan, Isaac Yiadom, De'Vante Bausby, Duke Dawson, Davontae Harris
Safety:
Kareem Jackson, Justin Simmons, Will Parks, Trey Marshall
K: Brandon McManus
P: Colby Wadman
LS: Casey Kreiter
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