Tag Archive for: Buffalo Bills

2022 NFL Draft Rumors

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It’s the largest smokescreens NFL teams put out year after year. Many NFL Teams moves are a mystery as news is intentionally leaked out by the organizations themselves, truth or not.

The odds and news have changed dramatically over the last days as this years NFL Draft is truly the most unpredictable in years.

Here are some of the 2022 NFL Draft rumors and notes:

Deebo Samuel

League source confirms Deebo Samuel is not being traded at this time, which means a draft day move is unlikely for many teams hoping to get an electric player.

Top 10 news

Jacksonville Jaguars

Georgia EDGE rusher Travon Walker is garnering a lot of hype lately and the oddsmakers are betting on the Bulldog product to be taken first overall to the Jacksonville Jaguars.

I’ve had Aidan Hutchinson in several mock drafts to Jacksonville, but with rumors coming out, it may not be far fetched.

Schematically, it favors Walker than Hutchinson as Walker can play outside linebacker, standup EDGE and as an interior lineman. This help out K’Lavon Chaisson and Foye Olukun, compared to Hutchinson who is a hand in the dirt rusher.

Detroit Lions

A Malik Willis pairing in Detroit is all about the future. Willis can learn behind Goff as he needs the most development of any quarterback in this years 2022 NFL Draft class.

General Manager Brad Holmes is “looking” at the quarterback position and it might not be with the second overall pick.

It may come down to Aidan Hutchinson or Travon Walker to beef up the defensive trenches.

However, how much longer does Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers have left to play, the same may be said about Kirk Cousins.

The Chicago Bears still need some pieces and Justin Fields is still developing, drafting Willis may pay off in the future.

Houston Texans

Derek Stingley Jr. and the Texans have had connections for a while due to his former DB coach part of the Texans Coaching staff.

If Houston is all in on Davis Mills, building the trenches would be a better option with the third overall pick in the NFL Draft. In the latest mocks and with some news coming out, the Texans do have two offensive tackles in mind: Evan Neal and Ikem Ekonwu.

It’s a deep defensive class towards the backend of the draft, especially for defenders. The 2022 NFL Draft rumors have the trading back from the 13th overall pick.

New York Jets

I’ve heard that Robert Saleh is not a big Travon Walker fan. Also, Kyle Hamilton fourth overall would not fit with what the Jets defense is looking to build.

Ikem Ekonwu is a favorite of Jets General Manager Joe Douglas. Having another offensive lineman fortifies the the line for Zach Wilson and we may see shades of his BYU playing days.

Gang green will look to load up on offense by pairing Wilson arm with a big body wide receiver in the likes of Drake London. Jameson Williams is a possibility with the tenth overall selection.

Head Coach Robert Saleh may want to get better in the trenches on defense. If Kayvon Thibodeaux falls, it may be a tossup between him and Jermaine Johnson.

New York Giants

The 2022 NFL Draft rumor mill has it that the Giants may look to trade back a few spots to gain more value.

While General Manager Joe Schoen has hinted that the offensive line is a priority, they may forgo passing on a lineman for more pressing needs. An EDGE rusher, a deep class overall, is very much in play. Especially the top three in Thibodeaux, Walker, and Johnson.

If the Giants are comfortable at fifth and seventh overall Evan Neal and Charles Cross are targets. Big Blue has a big decision to make after the draft if they want to keep Daniel Jones for a fifth year, which does not seem likely.

Carolina Panthers

Carolina is a weird team this year. Considering the fact that they are heavily interested in a quarterback this year, Sam Darnold is still “the guy”.

They have the sixth pick and their next is in the fourth round. I highgly expect Carolina to select a quarterback with the physical tools of Matt Corral. Kenny Pickett seems like the logical choice– have Matt Rhule and co. made a logical decision recently?

Atlanta Falcons

Expect Terry Fontenet and the Falcons to after several EDGE rushers hard. I’ve heard Kayvon Thibodeaux is a favorite but Jermaine Johnsons skillset is very hard to pass up on.

Atlanta could be a dark horse for Malik Willis if he were to fall to the eighth pick, even if Kayvon Thibodeaux is on the board.

Seattle Seahawks

Seattle just seems so perfect for Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner.

They’ll have to re-build their defense and Sauce brings the moxie and physical play style Carroll wants in his defense.

However, recent draft history has shown that the Seahawks routinely trade back to garner more picks later on to fill needs. Offensive line is another deep position group in this years class.

Notes

Philadelphia Eagles

Philadelphia is on the market for cornerbacks and Trent McDuffie has been mocked routinely. The 2022 NFL Draft rumor mill has Kaiir Elam as the third or fourth corner picked, I would not be shocked if Kaiir Elam is picked up by the Eagles with their second first round pick.

The Eagles are also on the marke for an EDGE rusher, George Karlaftis has been a mainstay in several recent mock drafts. Although, another wide receiver for Jalen Hurts would not hurt, a potential trade up for Jameson Williams may be in play. Garrett Wilson could also be on the board.

Kyle Hamilton

Hamilton seems to be one of the most polarizing players in this draft cycle as he can do it all on the defensive side of the ball.

The range he showed on tape didn’t match the speed he showed in workouts; shockingly, to NFL teams it may matter. However, teams within the top 10 have other pressing needs than a safety.

The Washington Commanders and Houston Texans have been heavily linked to Kyle Hamilton in the 2022 NFL Draft rumors.

Running back in Round 1?

A new saying goes that you do not ever take a running back in the first round, there are differing opinions.

There’s been a recent trend of running backs devalued in the first round; however, it is situationally based.

The 2022 NFL Draft rumors has the Buffalo Bills circling around Iowa State’s Breece Hall as the first running back taken off the board. Pair with a lethal aerial attack in Orchard Park, the Bills may well be on their way back to the AFC Championship game.

Miami Dolphins

It’s quiet in south beach, a bit too quiet. It’s been an aggressive off-season for the Miami Dolphins and General Manager Chris Grier.

Grier talked about finding the right time to be aggressive in the off-season and the NFL Draft is a part of it.

With Miami only having four picks in this years draft a move up to grab a player they really like is a good possibility to complete a piece on either side of the ball.

 

Hussam Patel is a Miami Dolphins contributor and Lead NFL Draft analyst at Five Reasons Sports Network, Director of Scouting at PhinManiacs and Editor at Dolphins ATB. Follow him on Twitter at @HussamPatel

 

Use code “FIVE” to receive a matching $100 bonus on Prizepicks

 

Goldie’s Week 10 Best Bets: Steelers, Bucs Roll

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Goldie:

All Time Record: 205-103          

Vs. Spread: 148-156-1

 

21-22 Season:  79-48               

Vs. Spread: 59-67-1

 

Week 9 Record : 7-6                 

Vs. Spread: 4-9

 

Guarantee All Time: 13-10       

21-22 Season: 4-5

 

Upset All Time: 12-10              

21-22 Season: 3-6

 

Crazy Uncle Jeff 

All Time: 29-7              

21-22 Season: 13-6       

Week 9: 0-2

 

Goldie’s Guarantee

Los Angeles Rams (7-2) @ San Francisco 49ers (3-5)

Vegas Picks: LAR -3.5

Goldie’s Take: Rams Win 34-21

The Rams were stunned on home field last week by a Derrick Henry-less Titans team. The Titans defense gave them all kinds of fits, as it was Stafford’s worst game as a Ram so far. On the other side, the Niners have been all kinds of bad this season, losing five out of their last six, the Niners have no continuity and no team identity. San Francisco is floundering and they don’t even own their first round pick. Things go from bad to worse for the Niners as the Rams should come into their home and steamroll them. Rams bounce back and coast to 8-2 in the Bay, while Niners continue to search for answers. I GuaRAMtee it!

 

Goldie’s UPSET of the Week

Cleveland Browns (5-4) @ New England Patriots (5-4)

Vegas Picks: NE -2.5

Goldie’s Take: Browns Win 24-23

Cleveland’s defense is finally healthy, and that’s the sole reason I’m picking them in this one. Yes, the Pats have kind of found their groove of late winning 3 out of their last 4, but they haven’t faced a defense as strong as Cleveland’s. Myles Garrett and that dangerous Cleveland front seven should make for a long and difficult day for Rookie Mac Jones. Also, Baker looked great last week in his first game post-OBJ. I’m a little concerned about the Browns without star Nick Chubb, but I still expect their defense to do enough to get them the UPSET in Foxboro. 

 

Crazy Uncle Jeff’s Lock of the Week: PIT -7.5

Detroit Lions (0-8) @ Pittsburgh Steelers (5-3)

Vegas Picks: PIT -7.5

Goldie’s Take: Steelers Win 27-20

After Jeffy’s first ever winless weekend, he looks to bounce back as he’s locking in his Pittsburgh -7.5 pick!  Oh the poor poor Lions. The more I look at the rest of their schedule the less faith I have in them to get a win. The bottom line is, this team just isn’t good at anything. There is no one positional unit where the Lions have a consistent advantage. When that’s the case it doesn’t matter how many kneecaps they plan to bite off, it doesn’t result in wins. Pitt gets their fifth straight win at home against the lowly Lions. LOCK IT IN!

 

Rest of Week 10:

 

New Orleans Saints (5-3) @ Tennessee Titans (7-2)

Vegas Picks: TEN -3

Goldie’s Take: Titans Win 24-17

Last week’s upset of the Rams proves that the Titans are capable of winning without Derrick Henry, and I only expect their offense to get better as they continue to adjust to life without Henry. However, the big story in that SNF game last week was actually the Titans defense. They held a high powered Rams offense to just 16 points (including a TD in garbage time). The Winston-less Saints are going to have a tough time moving the football on a stingy Tennessee D. Titans stay hot with another win. 

 

Buffalo Bills (5-3) @ New York Jets (2-6)

Vegas Picks: BUF -12.5

Goldie’s Take: Bills Win 33-20

Week 9 was one of the wackiest weeks that the NFL has seen in a long time, and the Bills losing to the Jags was a perfect example of that. Before last week’s anomaly, Josh Allen was playing at an elite MVP-like level. I believe things come back down to earth in this divisional matchup. Bills get back to their winning ways and cruise past the Mike White led Jets.

 

Jacksonville Jaguars (2-6) @ Indianapolis Colts (4-5) 

Vegas Picks: IND -10

Goldie’s Take: Colts Win 34-28

Say what you want about Carson Wentz and the Colts, but they have scored 30+ points in four straight contests. The Colts defense has stepped up big time with seven INTs in their past four games. Speaking of defenses stepping up… the Jags defense held the mighty Buffalo Bills to just six points last week. SIX! And the Bills had had the highest scoring offense in the league heading into last week. Who in the world saw that coming??? I don’t think the Jags defense can perform consistently like that, however expect T-Law and the Jags to keep this one close. Colts get the divisional win in a venue call!

 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-2) @ Washington Football Team (2-6)

Vegas Picks: TB -9.5

Goldie’s Take: Buccaneers Win 34-20

What happened to the so-called great defense Washington was supposed to have? After all of the offseason hype that they received, the No Names rank in the bottom five of the league in points allowed and passing yards allowed. Not to mention their offense has been a disaster this season. Now this week they’re challenged with facing a rested GOAT? (The Bucs had their bye last week.) Bucs cruise to victory in the nation’s capital. 

 

Atlanta Falcons (4-4) @ Dallas Cowboys (6-2)

Vegas Picks: DAL -8

Goldie’s Take: Cowboys Win 28-23

Expecting the Cowboys to put that ugly terrible performance they had last week behind them. I mean what was that?? After six consecutive weeks of high level football, they find themselves down 30-0 to an average Denver Broncos team. It was fluke. On the other side, Atlanta enters this one after a nice road upset in New Orleans. I think Atlanta is better than most give them credit but I still don’t expect them to pull off two road upsets in a row. Dallas takes care of business at home, How ‘Bout Dem Cowboys!

 

Carolina Panthers (4-5) @ Arizona Cardinals (8-1)

Vegas Picks: ARI -10.5

Goldie’s Take: Cardinals Win 38-27

We will have to wait at least one more week to see the return of Cam Newton in a Panthers uniform, until then backup QB PJ Walker will get the start. Too bad it’s against arguably the best team in football this season. It doesn’t matter what the league has thrown at them, the Cardinals have just found ways to win. Bottom line, they win games. This week at home against a backup QB led Panthers, expect that trend to continue. Arizona sails past big Cats to improve to 9-1. 

 

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Seattle Seahawks (3-5) @ Green Bay Packers (7-2)

Vegas Picks: GB -3.5

Goldie’s Take: Packers Win 31-30

Both of these squads get back their superstar quarterback’s this week in what has been widely considered the game of the week. Upset of the week committee took a long gander at this one, but in the end couldn’t pull the trigger to bet against Aaron at home. That being said, Russell and the Seahawks do their best work when the pressure is at its highest, and sitting at 3-5 they can definitely start to feel the heat. An upset wouldn’t shock me, but safer play is to pick Pack to win a tight one in Lambeau. 

 

Minnesota Vikings (3-5) @ Los Angeles Chargers (5-3)

Vegas Picks: LAC -3

Goldie’s Take: Chargers Win 32-24

Once again Kirk Cousins failed to perform under the bright lights as he was a non-factor in their overtime period against the Ravens last week. On the other hand, the Chargers finally got back to their winning ways with a hard fought win against the Eagles. Justin Herbert should have a field day against this subpar Minnesota defense, plus give me LA with the venue call!

 

Philadelphia Eagles (3-6) @ Denver Broncos (5-4)

Vegas Picks: DEN -1.5

Goldie’s Take: Eagles Win 27-23

The Broncos destroyed the Cowboys last week which nobody saw coming. However, trading their franchise cornerstone Von Miller shows where this team’s direction is truly headed. The Eagles, on the other hand, have bought into Jalen Hurts and are giving him the whole season to get better. The situation for Hurts and the Eagles is perfect. They’re allowing their team to get better and develop together, knowing that they have a slew of draft picks to help improve this team in the offseason. Eagles UPSET the Broncos in the mile high. 

 

Kansas City Chiefs (5-4) @ Las Vegas Raiders (5-3)

Vegas Picks: KC -2.5

Goldie’s Take: Raiders Win 31-28

The AFC West has not gone as everyone has expected through nine weeks, with the Chargers/Raiders at the top and the Chiefs sitting tied for last. However, things have changed and the Chiefs aren’t as high and mighty as they have been in recent memory. They’ve struggled everywhere this season, and a Primetime road date with the Raiders should be no easy task. On the flipside, amidst all of the chaos surrounding the Raiders this year, they have still found ways to win games. Derek Carr has been great, and their defense has been in the top half of the league. Give me Derek Carr and the Raiders in a venue call, and in an UPSET. Al Davis said it best, “Just Win Baby”

 

Goldie’s Best Bets for Week 8: Bills Romp, Cowboys Survive

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Goldie:

All Time Record: 191-90          

Vs. Spread: 140-137-1

 

21-22 Season:  65-35               

Vs. Spread: 51-48-1

 

Week 7 Record : 7-5                 

Vs. Spread: 8-4

 

Guarantee All Time: 13-8       

21-22 Season: 4-3

 

Upset All Time: 12-8              

21-22 Season: 3-4

 

Crazy Uncle Jeff 

All Time: 28-5              

21-22 Season: 12-4       

Week 7: 1-1

 

Goldie’s Guarantee

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-1) @ New Orleans Saints (4-2)

Vegas Picks: TB -4.5

Goldie’s Take: Buccaneers Win 32-21

Jameis and the Saints had trouble putting away the Geno Smith led Seahawks last week, and now they’re supposed to go stop Tom Brady? I don’t think so. Brady and the Bucs dropped 38 points on the Bears last week, and another 30+ point performance could be coming again this Sunday. Not to mention the Bucs defense should give the Saints a really hard time too after forcing 5 turnovers and 4 sacks last week against Chicago. Bucs are firing on all cylinders right now, while the Saints are no more than a middle of the pack team. It is worth noting that WR Antonio Brown will be out, but it shouldn’t really make a difference when you have the literal GOAT at quarterback. TOMpa Bay takes full control of the NFC South with a road win this Sunday. I GUARANTEE IT!

 

Goldie’s UPSET of the Week

Philadelphia Eagles (2-5) @ Detroit Lions (0-7)

Vegas Picks: PHI -3.5

Goldie’s Take: Lions Win 30-27

Detroit has lost two games 19-17, they’ve played the Rams and 49ers tough, and just haven’t been able to put together a win yet. I believe this is the week. They’re at home against a below average Philadelphia Eagles team. Plus the Eagles will be without starting RB Miles Sanders. The final unbeaten went down Thursday night, and I think it’s time the final winless team finally gets out of the gutter. Lions win! UPSET!

 

Crazy Uncle Jeff’s Lock of the Week: DAL -1

Dallas Cowboys (5-1) @ Minnesota Vikings (3-3)

Vegas Picks: DAL -1

Goldie’s Take: Cowboys Win 28-22

I received a string of texts from Jeffy Wednesday afternoon, and it read, 

“The Boys! Cowboys, bet the house on them”

“And condo”

“And Rolex”

LOCK IT IN!

 

Rest of Week 8:

 

Carolina Panthers (3-4) @ Atlanta Falcons (3-3)

Vegas Picks: ATL -3

Goldie’s Take: Falcons Win 24-20

Big mistake picking the Panthers as my guarantee last week. Without Christian McCaffrey this team cannot be trusted. Carolina is 3-0 this season with CMC, but 0-4 without him. He’ll be out again this week as he can’t come off IR until week nine. Plus Dirty Birds enter this one feeling themselves a bit, winners of 3 out of their last 4. Falcons stay hot and get the win at home. 

 

Tennessee Titans (5-2) @ Indianapolis Colts (3-4)

Vegas Picks: IND -2.5

Goldie’s Take: Titans Win 27-23

Not understanding Vegas’s logic with this point spread. They have the Colts favored in this one after the Titans are coming off back to back wins against the Bills and Chiefs. Also, Derrick Henry has far and away been the best RB in the league this season, and I don’t see the Colts having an answer for him. T’s take firm control of the AFC South with a road win in Indy. UPSET! (though it doesn’t really feel like one)

 

Miami Dolphins (1-6) @ Buffalo Bills (4-2)

Vegas Picks: BUF -13.5

Goldie’s Take: Bills WIn 37-0

Miami’s in for a long day this Sunday as they head to Buffalo. The ‘Fins have been an absolute mess so far this season. Sitting at 1-6, the morale in the locker room is probably at an all time low, especially considering all of the Deshaun/Tua trade rumors flying around. The team has no identity right now. Also, the Bills have owned the Dolphins in recent memory, winning six straight matchups against their division rival. Buffalo, coming off a tough loss to the Titans two weeks ago, are going to unleash hell on this frail Dolphins team. Not to mention Buffalo has had an extra week to prepare for this one as they’re coming off their bye. Buffalo circles the wagons and cruises to a home win this Sunday, meanwhile, Dolphins fans can’t wait for this season to end.

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Cincinnati Bengals (5-2) @ New York Jets (1-5)

Vegas Picks: CIN -10.5

Goldie’s Take: Bengals Win 32-17

Joe Burrow has this Bengals team ROLLING through 7 weeks and they are starting to seem like the real deal. On the flipside, the one-win Jets are starting Mike White at quarterback this weekend as rookie QB Zach Wilson is out with injury. Not much to think about here, the Bengals have the edge across the board, and I’m fully expecting them to sail right past the Jets. 

 

Pittsburgh Steelers (3-3) @ Cleveland Browns (4-3)

Vegas Picks: CLE -3.5

Goldie’s Take: Browns Win 30-23

Big time AFC North showdown in Cleveland this Sunday. Pittsburgh, coming off a bye, will look to avenge that ugly loss they suffered at the hands of the Browns in last January’s WIld Card weekend. Meanwhile, the Browns are supposed to get a much needed boost from players coming back from injury. Both QB Baker Mayfield and RB Nick Chubb are set to return after missing last Thursday’s matchup versus Denver. Picking the Browns in this one for a variety of reasons: I don’t trust the ancient arm of Big Ben, Cleveland is finally getting healthier, and the Browns are at home. Venue call!

 

Los Angeles Rams (6-1) @ Houston Texans (1-6)

Vegas Picks: LAR -14.5

Goldie’s Take: Rams Win 34-10

The Texans have combined for a total of 8 points in their past two games (2 of which came on a defensive safety), so naturally I don’t have much faith in their offense going against Aaron Donald and Jalen Ramsey. The Rams being one of the best two way football teams in the league, should go into Houston and steamroll the Texans. 

 

San Francisco 49ers (2-4) @ Chicago Bears (3-4)

Vegas Picks: SF -3.5

Goldie’s Take: Bears Win 20-19

With Niners losers of four in a row and Bears losers of two in a row, neither squad enters this one with any sort of momentum. Both teams also have huge question marks at the quarterback position. Both Justin Fields and Jimmy G are coming off of their worst game of the season. For Fields, a game where the Bucs D showed the rookie no mercy, forcing five turnovers. For Jimmy G, a three turnover night in a home loss on MNF. I have little to no faith in either one of these teams, but give me stingy Bears D and home field advantage to give Chicago the UPSET in this one. DA BEARS!

 

New England Patriots (3-4) @ Los Angeles Chargers (4-2)

Vegas Picks: LAC -4.5

Goldie’s Take: Chargers Win 28-21

Picking the Chargers with heavy caution in this one, after the 45-0 beatdown the Pats put on them last season. BUT I think this is a different Chargers team. Herbert and the offense are only getting better, and they’ve had extra time to prepare for this one as they’re coming off a bye. Plus I don’t see Mac Jones repeating a 50+ point performance. Chargers roll to 5-2 with a home win. 

 

Jacksonville Jaguars (1-5) @ Seattle Seahawks (2-5)

Vegas Picks: SEA -3.5

Goldie’s Take: Seahawks Win 23-20

Can’t believe I’m really picking the Lions and Jaguars in the same week, but I believe in both Big Cats this weekend. Jags are coming off a bye, while ‘Hawks played Monday night. So the preparation edge definitely favors Jacksonville. Plus Seattle’s “12th man” hasn’t been as strong this year as Seahawks are 0-3 at home. Geno Smith is a major downgrade from Russell Wilson, and the offense has had an extremely hard time adjusting (mustering just 10 points at home on MNF last week). Well rested Jags pick up second win in a row in an UPSET in Seattle. 

 

Washington Football Team (2-5) @ Denver Broncos (3-4)

Vegas Picks: DEN -3.5

Goldie’s Take: Broncos Win 27-24

After Denver’s 3-0 start, they have completely flopped, following it up with four consecutive losses. However, those three wins were thanks to a cupcake schedule to start the season. They’ve proven they can beat subpar teams, and that’s exactly what they’re facing in their matchup with Washington. The No Names defense has allowed the most points in the league so far this season, so Teddy Bridgewater should be able to get the Broncos offense moving. Denver gets back to .500 with a win in the Mile High. 

 

New York Giants (2-5) @ Kansas City Chiefs (3-4)

Vegas Picks: KC -9.5

Goldie’s Take: Chiefs Win 30-20

Okay, what the hell is going on with Kansas City. After years of total domination, the league just suddenly figured them out? We know they have great weapons surrounding arguably the league’s best quarterback. So what’s the problem? Personally I don’t think it’s the Chiefs getting worse, but the rest of the league catching up to them. Whatever it is, I still trust them to take care of business at home on Monday Night against a shaky Giants team. 

 

Goldie’s Week 3 Picks: Betting on Josh Allen, Russell Wilson… and Jacoby Brissett

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Goldie:

All Time Record: 144-67          Vs. Spread: 104-104

21-22 Season:  18-12                Vs. Spread: 15-15

Week 2 Record : 9-6                 Vs. Spread: 6-9

Guarantee All Time: 10-6         21-22 Season: 1-1

Upset All Time: 10-5                 21-22 Season: 1-1

 

Crazy Uncle Jeff 

All Time: 19-2              21-22 Season: 3-1       Week 2: 2-0

 

Goldie’s Guarantee

Seattle Seahawks (1-1) @ Minnesota Vikings (0-2)

Vegas Picks: SEA -1.5

Goldie’s Take: Seahawks Win 31-20

Although the Vikings are desperate for a win and at home, I’m still not comfortable betting against Russell Wilson. Especially considering Seattle is coming off a heartbreaking loss to Tennessee. Russ and the ‘Hawks bounce back and get a win in Minnesota… I GUARANTEE IT!

 

Upset of the Week

Crazy Uncle Jeff’s Lock of the Week: GB +3

Green Bay Packers (1-1) @ San Francisco 49ers (2-0)

Vegas Picks: SF -3

Goldie’s Take: Packers Win 30-24

For the third consecutive week Crazy Uncle is riding with the Packers. Rodgers has never been one to fold in primetime games, plus he’s still salty about the Niners passing on him in the draft years ago. Rodgers makes the Niners pay in an offensive showdown! UPSET!

 

Crazy Uncle Jeff’s Lock of the Week: BUF -7

Washington Football Team (1-1) @ Buffalo Bills (1-1)

Vegas Picks: BUF -7

Goldie’s Take: Bills Win 24-13

Along with not having a team name, Washington also decides its best not to have a quarterback. Heinicke is going to have a very tough time against a defense that just last week held the Dolphins to a goose egg. Bills stay hot and “circle the wagons” at home this Sunday

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Arizona Cardinals (2-0) @ Jacksonville Jaguars (0-2)

Vegas Picks: ARI -7.5

Goldie’s Take: Cardinals Win 36-21

Sorry to say it, but it’s going to be another long season for Jags fans. Kyler and the Cards are going to have a field day on this poor Jags D. ‘Zona stays undefeated with a beatdown in Jacksonville. 

 

Baltimore Ravens (1-1) @ Detroit Lions (0-2)

Vegas Picks:

Goldie’s Take: Ravens Win 31-17

Although I do admire the fight of this feisty Lions team, there’s no way they beat the Ravens this week. Baltimore is riding high after a momentous win against KC last week. Expect that momentum to carry right on into this one for a ‘Birds win. 

 

Indianapolis Colts (0-2) @ Tennessee Titans (1-1)

Vegas Picks: TEN -5

Goldie’s Take: Titans Win 28-24

The Titans looked a lot more like the Titans last week, feeding King Henry 35 carries for 182 yards and a TD. This guy is a monster. Expect a similar game plan this weekend against a desperate Colts team. Titans win a close divisional matchup at home. 

 

New Orleans Saints (1-1) @ New England Patriots (1-1)

Vegas Picks: NE -2.5

Goldie’s Take: Patriots Win 23-20

Jamies and the Saints came way back down to earth last week after obliterating the Packers in week 1. Usually I would take the Saints in a game like this, but they’ve been living out of a hotel for a few weeks now due to the hurricane that struck their hometown. Plus the Pats are at home. Safe play is the pats in this one, although I do expect Saints to keep it close. Venue call.

 

Los Angeles Chargers (1-1) @ Kansas City Chiefs (1-1)

Vegas Picks: KC -6.5

Goldie’s Take: Chiefs Win 40-27

Can you name a more unlucky professional sports franchise other than the LA Chargers? Last week a bad call cost them a win against the ‘Boys, and now they have to go into Kansas City to play an angry Chiefs team. Good luck. Patty and the Chiefs put on a show and get a divisional win for the home fans. 

 

Atlanta Falcons (0-2) @ New York Giants (0-2)

Vegas Picks: NYG -2.5

Goldie’s Take: Falcons Win 28-26

Only 0-2 vs 0-2 battle going on this weekend, and once again I’m puzzled on who to pick for the Atlanta game. This one seems like a pick ’em for me, so I’m going with the more experienced QB. Give me Matty ice and the Birds to pull off a road UPSET this weekend. 

 

Chicago Bears (1-1) @ Cleveland Browns (1-1)

Vegas Picks: CLE -7

Goldie’s Take: Browns Win 31-20

Rookie QB making his first career start against one of the best defenses in the league, AND it’s on the road in the DAWG POUND? The kid is going to struggle. Once again I say the Browns are legit this season. Brownies cruise to a victory at home

 

Cincinnati Bengals (1-1) @ Pittsburgh Steelers (1-1)

Vegas Picks: PIT -3

Goldie’s Take: Bengals Win 24-23

Here I go again picking the Bengals to upset for the second consecutive week. I see promise in this Cincy team, the offense has proven they can really move the ball in spurts. They just need to put it all together. Plus Big Ben and TJ Watt both iffy to play… could be just enough to put the Bengals over the hump for a road UPSET!

 

Miami Dolphins (1-1) @ Las Vegas Raiders (2-0)

Vegas Picks: LV -3.5

Goldie’s Take: Dolphins Win 21-19

Miami bias may be kicking in a bit on this pick, but hear me out. Yes, Tua is out, but how much of a downgrade really is Brissett from Tua. Brissett has proven he can win games in this league, plus he’ll be far more prepared for this one after taking first team reps all week in practice. I think the Raiders get knocked off their high horse this weekend as the ‘Fins D looks to steal them one on the road. UPSET!

 

New York Jets (0-2) @ Denver Broncos (2-0)

Vegas Picks: DEN -10

Goldie’s Take: Broncos Win 26-13

Denver has been gift wrapped the easiest first 3 games of any NFL team this season. Both New York teams and rebuilding Jacksonville. Broncos will get the win at home and improve to 3-0, but I can’t regard them as “legitimate” until they beat a good team. 

 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-0) @ Los Angeles Rams (2-0)

Vegas Picks: TB -1.5

Goldie’s Take: Rams Win 30-28

Heavyweight bout on SNF includes the only 2-0 vs 2-0 matchup this week. Both of these teams have come out the gates ROLLIN. This very well could be an early season preview of the NFC championship. I think Matt Stafford is anxious to perform on the big stage after all of those years wasting away in Detroit. Plus, the home field advantage should play a factor in this one. Rams win a close one on Sunday night. 

 

Philadelphia Eagles (1-1) @ Dallas Cowboys (1-1)

Vegas Picks: DAL -3.5

Goldie’s Take: Cowboys Win 38-27

Interesting stat in this one: ‘Boys have lost 7 consecutive primetime games, whereas the Eagles are 4-1 in their past 5 Monday nights. I expect this game to serve as a trend breaker as I predict the Cowboys offense to score early and score often in this one. Cowboys win in a Monday night shootout. HOW ‘BOUT DEM COWBOYS!

 

Know Your Enemy: Overview of the 2020 Buffalo Bills

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The 2020 Buffalo Bills could emerge as the new favorites in the AFC East

A lot has changed in the AFC East in the offseason.

This could finally be the year where a changing of the guard also takes place.

In the first installment of our series “Know Your Enemy”, we take a look at the Buffalo Bills.

Buffalo finished the 2019 regular season at 10-6 before an exit in the Wildcard Round versus Houston.

They added several pieces on both sides of the football, particularly on defense – while also parting ways with some established veterans.

Sean McDermott enters his fourth year (25-23, 0-2) calling the shots in Buffalo, having made the playoffs twice over his first three seasons.

Expectations will be high for the Bills in the new look AFC East, their overall profile is on the rise.

They caught some breaks in 2019, such as avoiding voluminous injuries as the Bills had a league-low 57 different players see action.

Taking all that into account, Buffalo is a sexy pick to make a significant run into the postseason.

Key Departures:

DT Jordan Phillips

EDGE Shaq Lawson

Key Arrivals: 

WR Stefon Diggs

OLB Mario Addison

CB Josh Norman

DT Vernon Butler

OLB A.J. Klein

OT Daryl Williams

 

Bills Keep Depth on Defense

The Bills added a lot of depth to an already superb defense.

Buffalo finished second in the NFL surrendering just 16.2 points per game in 2019, and third in yards allowed at just 298.2.

The Bills were a middle of the pack defense in terms of sacks, finishing 12th with 44 on the year.

Jordan Phillips is a big loss as he cashed in on a career high 9.5 sacks at the right time, signing a 3-year 30M deal in Arizona.

To replace him the Bills brought in Vernon Butler, who at age 25 is coming off his best year.

Bulter had six sacks in 2019 for Carolina after just 1.5 in his first three years combined.

Outside linebackers Mario Addison and A.J. Klein are nice additions to a young linebacker group that lost Shaq Lawson to Miami.

Lawson is also coming off a career year as he finished with 6.5 sacks.

Phillips and Jordan accounted for over a third of Buffalo’s sacks last season, the new players will have to make up a lot of ground.

On the outside the Buffalo Bills secondary is one of the better groups in the NFL.

Tre’Davious White tied for the league high with six interceptions and has emerged as one of the top corners in the game.

While they may not be full of household names, the Bills’ defense has solid depth and talent at all three levels.

Much Needed Help Arrives Outside

Stefon Diggs is the highest profile free agent signing and gives Buffalo a true No. 1 receiver.

Pairing Diggs with speedster John Brown will give opposing secondaries a lot to think about at all levels.

Brown tied for the team lead with six touchdowns and led the team with 72 receptions and 1060 yards.

While Diggs is joining Buffalo after his second consecutive 1000-yard season, he had a career high 1130 yards and 17.9 yards per reception last year.

Cole Beasley was surprisingly effective, joining Brown with six scores and finishing second with 778 yards.

Perhaps the biggest question surrounding Buffalo is how quarterback Josh Allen progresses in a key third season.

 

Allen has been much maligned for his accuracy as shown by his 56.3% completion rate, however he did show significant growth from his rookie season.

His ability outside the pocket makes him ever-dangerous, just ask any fan of the Miami Dolphins.

Allen has three of his four highest quarterback ratings against Miami and gashed the Dolphins’ defense for a career high 135 yards rushing in 2018.

Couple that with his 11 touchdowns and just two interceptions in four games against Miami, Allen seems to save his best for the Dolphins

He can make all the throws necessary and with the addition of Diggs, Allen has someone who runs crisp routes and can get separation which will help the erratic signal caller.

That being said, teams will still try to force Allen beat them more often than not.

FAU grad Devin Singletary looks to build off a solid rookie season and expand his role both on the ground and in the passing game.

 

Singletary finished 2019 with 151 carries for 775 yards and two touchdowns. His 5.1 yards-per-carry ranked seventh in the NFL last year.

So far Frank Gore remains a free agent and a return to Buffalo seems unlikely. T.J Yeldon will likely see some reps as a change of pace, but Buffalo may be one team that utilizes a feature back. Allen was second on the team in 2019 with 510 rushing yards, he could exceed that total this season.

Singletary can stay on the field on all downs and is a great option out of the backfield. He caught 29 passes for 194 yards last year but did struggle at times with drops. Singletary seems to always be moving in the right direction, his 2.7 yards-before-contact was a top-10 mark last year.

Buffalo will need to find a way to bolster an offense that ranked 23rd in the NFL scoring 19.6PPG last year, a mark just .5 points better than the Dolphins.

The addition of Diggs will surely help an offense that finished 26th in yards-per-game (201.8), and if Allen can get his completion percentage over 60% the passing game could become serviceable.

With McDermott at the helm you know the formula will be to control the ball on offense with the run game and play sound defense.

Buffalo is a team with few glaring weaknesses but also few marquee names, a lot of analysis is based on potential.

Time will tell and fans of the Dolphins will get their annual double dose of the Bills, who have won five of their last six games against Miami.

Subscribe to the 3 Yards per Carry podcast here for the latest Miami Dolphins news and follow them on Twitter @3YardsPerCarry.

 

Nik Needham shining in his second stint with the Miami Dolphins

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Nik Needham spent his college playing career at the University of Texas at El Paso developing his football skills. The cornerback finished with 213 tackles, 13.5 tackles for a loss and three interceptions. He added a school record of 33 passes broken up in 41 career games.

However, that wasn’t enough to land a spot on Miami’s 53-man roster as the Dolphins waived him on Aug. 31, the final day of roster cuts.

“He came in here, worked hard, got cut – we knew the work ethic was there but got cut,” defensive coordinator Patrick Graham said. ” [Josh Boyer, cornerbacks coach, told him] you’re going to have to transform your body. You’re going to have to – in terms of just how important it is to you, that’s a decision you’re going to have make.”

Needham signed to join the practice squad the following day. He earned a spot n the 53-man roster right before Miami’s game against Washington. Since then, the rookie has made the most out his opportunity.

He tallied a team-high nine tackles in Miami’s win over New York. One of those tackles was a sack of quarterback Sam Darnold, the first of Needham’s career. In Sunday’s win over the Colts he added his first-career interception.

Not only did Needham listen to Graham’s advice, but it is quickly paying off.

“He’s starting to see really the fruits of his labor in terms of the success on the field and he knows he still has a long way to go,” Graham said. “This week [against Buffalo] is going to be a huge challenge with the receivers we’re going to see when they play down here from Buffalo. He’s making steps in the right direction.”

Needham has started four of the last five games for the Miami Dolphins. On Sunday he contributed three passes defended against the Colts.

“Nik played well [against the Colts],” coach Brian Flores said on Monday. “We brought him in as a free agent and he did some good things in OTAs and had some struggles like most rookies do in the preseason and wasn’t quite ready, so we put him on the practice squad. It’s part of their journey, I should say. He spent a few weeks on the practice squad. I think getting released and going through that process took him through a little bit of the reality of what the National Football League could be. He’s turned some things around and he’s still got a long way to go, but all of those things play a role in kind of how we performed yesterday and hopefully he continues to do that.”

Needham’s stock has grown over the last few weeks, but his goal is to help the team.

“It just felt good to contribute to the old guys and help get a win,” Needham said. “That is all I am really worried about – I just want to win. It felt great.”

The Dolphins are working to build on a perfect 2-0 record in November.

“I think over the weeks we are just building chemistry and really play for each other,” Needham said. “Game changing plays happen out there and we don’t back down or give up we just go back out there and fight. That’s the main goal every week.”

Miami will look to make it three-straight wins this Sunday. The Dolphins have a divisional match against the Buffalo Bills at Hard Rock Stadium.