Currently sitting at the midseason point of the 2021 NFL season, the playoff positions are already starting to shape up in some sections of the league, despite the fact that we are entering week 10 at the time of writing.

With the season extended to 18 weeks this season as teams play 17 regular season games for the first time, there is a lot more football available to play, thus giving fans and teams alike the opportunity to enjoy more action. Punters will have the ability to place additional online sports bets on who they believe could reach the playoffs this season, whilst teams will have an additional game to play in order to make those aspirations happen.

With the Super Bowl LVI playoffs not set to take place until the middle of January 2022, with three Wild Card games scheduled to take place in each conference across January 15-17, making it the first time that three days are used. Two games will be played on Saturday, with a further three on Sunday and one on Monday night (the first since 1988).

The Divisional Round will take place on the following weekend (January 22-23), whilst the Conference Championships has been scheduled for January 30. Super Bowl LVI will take place on February 13.

Nonetheless, with so much football still to be played, here are just some of our predictions about which teams can expect to be playing in the postseason in the new year. We have split it by Conference and Division to make it easier to read.

AFC East

Expect the Buffalo Bills to win this division having managed to go 5-3 as we head into Week 10 as they have an easier schedule, based on strength compared to others in the AFC East. Although, with that being said, the New England Patriots are right on their tails at the moment with their 5-4 record thus far and with both teams still required to play each other twice, there is every reason to see both of them in the playoffs this season.

AFC North

The Baltimore Ravens should be a lock to go to the playoffs this season, with the team currently 6-2 and being the strongest of each of the teams based in the division. Each team comes with a number of flaws, although the Ravens seem to have the most glue when it comes to keeping things together as much as possible. Could the Cleveland Browns challenge? Possibly.

AFC South

They might be without Derrick Henry for the rest of the season with a broken foot, but the Tennessee Titans have already amassed a 7-2 record, showing they can win without him when they demolished the Los Angeles Rams in convincing fashion in Week 9.

AFC West

A division that could end up looking in a variety of ways given how close things are in Week 10, the Los Angeles Chargers look best positioned to enter the playoffs, whilst the Kansas City Chiefs could look to obtain a wildcard place if things improve for them on the field quickly.

NFC East

There is no point looking at any team other than the Dallas Cowboys when looking at the NFC East. “America’s Team” are currently 6-2 and will have been disappointed with their loss to the Denver Broncos in Week 9, but with the New York Giants, Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Football Team struggling badly, you should not expect either of these three to join the Cowboys in the playoffs.

NFC North

Again, the Green Bay Packers should be the only team to consider making the playoffs from the NFC North. A 7-2 record and a prime Aaron Rodgers makes the team a favourite and one that will have too much for the Minnesota Vikings, Chicago Bears and the Detroit Lions.

NFC South

Standing at 6-2, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are a lock for the NFC playoffs this season, although the NFC South could see one of the three Wild Card slots be taken up by the New Orleans Saints. The team is currently 5-3 and whilst Jameis Winston is out for the year, the team should have more than enough to secure a playoff berth.

NFC West

Whilst the Arizona Cardinals appear set to head into the NFC playoffs as a favourite with a record of 8-1, two of the Wild Card spots could be handed out to two of the other teams involved in the Division. The Los Angeles Rams are one (7-2) and the Seattle Seahawks (3-5) could both potentially secure a berth, although the Seahawks may have a harder time of it.

Getting and staying healthy isn’t as complicated as everyone makes it out to be. In fact, there are so many simple ways out there to jump-start your personal healthcare journey. If you’re ready to take better care of yourself but you just don’t know where to begin in making your goals a reality, then take a closer look at four simple things you can do to work on your healthy living checklist.

1. Look for supplements to help you achieve a better quality of life.

Adding supplements to your routine can make it easier for you to hit your mental and physical health goals. For example, if you’re looking to achieve a greater sense of ease after a long day or during high periods of stress, you may want to try something like cannabidiol (CBD). CBD is a chemical known as a cannabinoid that’s found in the hemp plant and believed to share similar characteristics to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), with the exception being that CBD doesn’t have any psychoactive properties. Once you have your own CBD products (gummies and other edibles, vapes, tinctures, oils, etc.), all you have to do is figure out what your ideal CBD dosage would be so that you can try it for yourself and attempt to receive the desired effects. CBD dosing guidelines are often based on factors like your weight, your age, and the type of product you’re using.

Before you purchase any products from well-known CBD brands, make sure you consult your primary care doctor to learn more about what CBD is and whether or not it’s right for you.

2. Schedule regular checkups and address any concerning symptoms.

Most people don’t go to their doctors regularly, which means it can be easy to miss out on symptoms that could have been treated prior to a major event. For example, let’s imagine that you’ve ignored preventive care and have started to show signs of cardiovascular disease like chest pain, shortness of breath, pain in your arms or legs (or weakness or numbness around these blood vessels), and pain throughout other areas of the body. Left untreated, this can lead to a major heart attack without the care of a proper specialist. Taking care of your heart health now and avoiding issues like heart disease means looking for the right heart doctor that offers the best care in your area. For example, if you live in Southern California (Orange County, Los Angeles, San Diego), you can easily find a cardiologist in California that has years of experience offering heart care and can intervene before it becomes an issue. With the right cardiologist and support to avoid vascular disease by reducing your high cholesterol and improving your overall health, you’re on the path to better health.

3. Make a stronger effort to incorporate more movement into your day.

Speaking of cardiology and avoiding diseases of the heart, investing more time into your day-to-day movement is crucial to your mental and physical health. Creating an at-home workout, taking a walk every day, and squeezing in small exercises during your break is more than enough to keep you fit and help you reap the benefits that exercise has to offer. You may even want to join a gym or find a personal trainer if you’re looking to take your fitness to the next level.

4. Reach out to a professional if you’re struggling with mental health.

Mental health is another overlooked aspect of our health that can get worse over time if it goes untreated. If you’re having a difficult time, you can ask for a referral from your doctor to a nearby therapist. If you can’t find a place that offers therapy on an outpatient basis or meets your search criteria, you could always try teletherapy as well. Online therapists still have their medical degree from a legitimate medical school and can support you no matter what zip code you live in. Along with attending therapy, look for self-care activities that can help you feel happier and more fulfilled in your daily life.

No matter how busy you are, your health doesn’t have to fall to the wayside. If you’re ready to start living a healthier, happier life, you can use the four tips above to focus on the most important areas in your physical and mental health.

(Feature image from bostonglobe.com)

It has been a great year across the US for online sportsbooks as states have started to introduce new legislation and passing new bills to get online sports betting and online gambling options made more readily available at a very rapid rate, and the same was looking true for MA too as back in July a similar bill had been put through to allow sports betting in the state following some difficulties having anything move forward in previous years. It had already been pushed back last year as it was considered not to be a priority during the COVID-19 pandemic, and it seems delays and push-backs will be business as usual for MA sports betting as it has been deemed as a non-priority and is seemingly on hold, meaning it’s unlikely any change will be made for 2021. 

There have been calls to push this as a matter of urgency – Gov. Charlie Barker had even tweeted about this by saying “Great to see the @Patriots back! We filed a bill in 2019 and again this year to legalize sports betting in MA – it’s time to act and get this done. MA is losing out to many of our neighbours on this one.” and it’s certainly something that has become more visible lately – stories emerging of residents particularly closer to state lines simply driving to a neighbouring state, having a coffee, placing a bet, and then driving home – it’s a considerable amount of money being lost by the state through tax revenue, and something very frustrating for would be players too as the lack of availability means resorting to methods like these simply to enjoy sports betting.

It’s something that’s proven to be extremely effective in economic recovery across many states that have recently introduced these options, Colorado has become somewhat of a poster child after two very successful years throughout the pandemic period showing the huge demand if done correctly, with some suggestions that sports gaming as a whole is up by 650% since 2019 across the US and sports betting in particular making up 13% of total revenues showing just how much has changed in a very short period of time. 

With the current priorities for MA already being outlined for a focus on the American Rescue Plan Act funding, election reforms, mental and behavioural health parity, and redrawing political district lines whilst focussing on closing the books for the 2021 fiscal year, not including sports betting and all of the tax revenue that it brings will seem like a strange choice for many onlookers – the hope will be that change can be implemented early in 2022, but with all of the set backs seen recently, it’s also difficult to really know what to expect.

A weekend on a yacht sounds fabulous, but at a glance it seems very complicated to organize.
But it is not true ! Nowadays renting a yacht is really easy. 

Traveling due to the COVID19 pandemic has changed. People are looking for desolated places that provide comfort, privacy and above all safety. A cruise is an option that combines all these things and at the same time provides an unforgettable experience.

YACHTIC.com

How it works? This is a very intuitive search engine. If you can handle booking.com you can obviously handle YACHTIC.com. You can choose from a number of criteria which will allow you to select a yacht that meets your expectations. What kind of yachts can you rent? The choice is really wide from sailing boats, motor yachts to catamarans. It is updated regularly, so all the information you see on the website is up to date. You can also find additional services such as hiring a skipper if you are not qualified and buying insurance. The charterer has full control over the online booking of the yacht which is very convenient.

First time charter

Wondering how to arrange a yacht charter? The most important is the type of yacht, its size, location and price. If you are not sure which yacht to charter take a look at YACHTIC.com’s blog and Youtube channel, which also offers advice for first time charterers.

For whom? 

This is a good option for everyone. A weekend away with friends, family or a special event. I wish I had known about this option earlier when I was in the Caribbean because I would have definitely taken advantage of it. This is a great option to explore such places on your own, it is certainly an unforgettable adventure.

Locations

YACHTIC.com is a global brand, on the website you can check if there are vessels available in the places you are interested in. Customers can feel safe and have full control over their yacht booking online. One of the most popular destinations at the moment is the Mediterranean. Easy connections to Poland, beautiful views of some of the world’s most beautiful beaches are attractive for tourists.

Price

The cost of a yacht charter depends on many factors. The total amount consists of: rent of the yacht, marina fees, food and transportation and in the case of a motor yacht also fuel. The average price for fuel and fees in marinas and on piers is between 250 and 500€ per week depending on the size of the yacht. Expenses are very individual, certainly one of the key issues is whether you eat in tavernas or prepare your own meals. Both have their own unique atmosphere so it’s worth combining once having your morning coffee on the sea and once in the marina.

For more information visit https://www.yachtic.com/ 

(Feature Image from patriotledger.com)

States around the US have been introducing new bills and legislation for online gambling and sports betting at record pace as there seems to be a race to be the latest to accept sports betting as an accepted practice – some states are even recording record betting numbers and pulling in huge revenue after having made the change over the past two years with Colorado certainly being a poster child and a blue print for success – whilst there are ways around restrictions as you can find a list of websites that are proving popular for players looking to get around restrictions, there’s certainly a growing eagerness to see sports betting as a whole legalised and have the practice grow within Massachusetts. 

The Governor of Massachusetts, Charlie Barker, has even tweeted out support for this change by saying “We filed a bill in 2019 and again this year to legalize sports betting MA – it’s time to act and get this done. MA is losing out to many of our neighbours on this.” And this is something that is being seen from the activity of sporting fans too – there have been interviews with fans that live right on the border for neighbouring states that have said when it comes to sports betting, they’re able to take a quick five minute drive across the state line, have a coffee, place a bet, and then head back home – it’s a lot of tax revenue being lost out on by the state and something that has been seen across the US through other states that have yet to implement any change and lose out on players travelling across state lines where it’s feasible to do so. 

It doesn’t look like the change will be coming any time soon, the bill is now before the senate, but it has been stated by senate president Karen Spilka that looking at this bill isn’t high on the priority, and it may not be until next year where any change can be seen, and whilst the wait may seem quite short, with the first bill being introduced back in 2019 it is still a long wait for any change to be made. 

There are a growing number of good examples for what other states have done well and for what change should be avoided too, so if the bill is passed then with any luck, it will be relatively smooth sailing for sportsbooks and casinos alike to get something up and running relatively quickly and it wouldn’t at all surprise to see the framework already existing and just waiting for the go ahead before starting to move forward, and deal with the almost inevitable initial wave of success.

The football industry has grown into a multi-billion dollar market where the stakeholders in that industry can afford the best of everything – little wonder the player’s remuneration comes in millions of dollars. This industry has been established to be worth over $28.9 billion and has a huge propensity to be worth even more in the future.

One of the luxuries of the football industry is their pitch: the football field – the stadium. The football stadium has grown to become the most expensive sports arena in the world, and this article is meant to list them by ranking. Below, they are listed thus:

1. 
   

   The Wembley Stadium

This is the UK-based 90,000 capacity football stadium that was reopened in 2007 after it was originally built by an Australian firm Multiplex in 1923. This stadium is iconic to the entire football community and has hosted hundreds of football matches since its reopening. It has one of the most electrically wired atmospheres in the world and costs £798 million (approximately £1.2 billion today) to build.

2. 
   

   The Allianz Arena

This German-based football stadium is the home to the famous German football teams: Bayern Munich and 1860 Munich. This stadium is designed in such a way that it changes color to represent which of the team is playing; red for Bayern Munich while blue is for the 1860 Munich. This stadium was officially opened in 2005 and costs €340 million.

3. 
   

   Old Trafford

This 75,000 capacity football stadium is another United Kingdom-based football stadium that has attracted a lot of attention because of its nickname: “The Theatre of Dreams.” This magnificent stadium was opened to the public in 1910 and is home to the famous “Red Devils” team. It even assumed a better magnificent outlook after its 2006 renovation and is presently ranked England’s largest stadium. It is said to cost £90,000 in 1909.

4. 
   

   Camp Nou

Camp Nou is located in Spain, and it has been named the largest football stadium in Europe with a capacity of 98,757 people. Camp Nou is home to the world’s biggest football team: the Barcelona football club. Originally, the capacity of this football club was 120,000 in 1982, but because of some changes in the rules as per standing in the stadium, it was reduced to 98,757.

5. 
   

   The Azteca Stadium

It is located in Mexico’s Estadio Azteca and can accommodate 104,000 people.  It has a pretty good electronic atmosphere, and will ever be remembered as the only stadium in the country that has hosted the World Cup finals twice. This stadium will also be remembered as the venue for Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” goal.

Conclusion

You will even find a more magnificent-looking football stadium out there if you visit websites like liontips.com, but the ones we just mentioned are regarded as the top 5 according to official ranking. Finally, the football industry will always go down the history lane as one of the greatest sports industries that have ever lived.

The NFL has always been an essential part of history, with the power to make or break careers. Throughout the timeline of the Super Bowl, players and coaches alike have made their way into headlines, record books, and become household names in some cases. These are eight NFL icons that we think will live on forever, because of their reputation, track record, and place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in some cases. For more information and accurate betting predictions, check out this week’s NFL lines. 

Vince Lombardi

Firstly, Vince Lombardi is widely considered an iconic coach who made the Green Bay Packers the team that they are today. With 136 career wins, it’s no wonder why Lombardi has such an impressive reputation. A shining contribution to the NFL and working hard to continue to raise the bar for future players and coaches alike. Having left an impression, the NFL’s greatest trophy is actually named after Lombardi. This is definitely a member of the Super Bowl that will live on forever, known by many for his successes. 

John Elway

With two Super Bowl wins under his belt, this quarterback has been an asset to the Denver Broncos throughout his professional career. In 1987, Elway was named the league MVP and continues to be a household name for the Broncos to strive towards. Elway was even immortalized through his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2004. 

Jerry Rice

Jerry Rice is another icon within the NFL, holding three Super Bowl rings and numerous receiving records. The wide receiver has broken many records during his NFL career and is widely considered one of the greatest players in history. 

Tim Tebow

This is a household name across the country because of his reputation and beliefs. Tebow was the first sophomore to win the Heisman trophy during his early career and was the primary starter for the Broncos in 2011. This led them to victory that year and saw the quarterback grow in popularity. The player is also known as a cultural phenomenon, known for his outspoken Christian faith. Tebow had a tradition of kneeling on fields as if in prayer. The ritual then became known as “Tebowing”. 

Jerry Jones

One of the most outspoken and vocal owners within the NFL is Jerry Jones. Having made several TV appearances, Jones’ close association with the Dallas Cowboys is unique and unmatched. His reputation exceeds him, with the million-dollar enormous training ground in Texas, known by the Cowboys as “Jerry Land”. 

William Perry

Nicknamed “The fridge” for his imposing size, this defensive lineman is considered an NFL icon for never letting anything stand in his way. Perry set the record for the heaviest player to score a touchdown in the Super Bowl and has made headlines for the Chicago Bears. Perry even has the largest Super Bowl ring at an impressive size 25. 

Jim Brown

A glowing player and valuable addition to NFL records is Jim Brown who is considered one of the greatest players in NFL history. The fullback for the Cleveland Browns has been named MVP three times, not to mention the dedicated shrine in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. With many awards under his belt, Brown was honored at the 2020 College Football Playoff Championship as the greatest college football player of all time. 

Joe Montana

Joe Montana played as a quarterback for 16 seasons, winning four Super Bowls. Holding multiple records, including the all-time highest passer rating, Montana was the first player to be named Super Bowl MVP three times. In 1999 ESPN named Montana the 25th greatest athlete of the 20th century.  Sports Illustrated rated him the number one clutch quarterback of all-time in 2006. Montana has an impressive record with a glowing reputation. 

To summarize, the NFL has made some impressive careers, with players continuing to break records and set new ones. Stay tuned to see more icons coming into their own in the next season. 

The best esports competitors in the world train for hours each day. For these elite gamers, dexterity, flexibility, and strength are essential to the game they want to put out on the stage at matches, tournaments, and even in practice with their teams. Esports has come a long way in just a few short years, with new and exciting games making their way into the lineup of competitive gaming each and every month and year. The best gamers out there are creative in their approach to the field of play and exciting to watch—and the viewership of these events has skyrocketed as a result.

Esports is changing the world of competition.

sports stars face the same types of mental and physical rigors that any other athlete might have to overcome. While a gamer who excels in Minecraft hosting might not have to run as a part of their craft, the mental fortitude and hand dexterity required to maintain the level of gameplay for competitiveness is no joke. Minecraft is a fantastic example of the effort and stamina required of esports athletes. Minecraft is an extremely fun pastime for millions, yet the top players are asked for so much more. Building worlds, hosting events, and maintaining a top-quality avatar are all in a day’s work for these digital celebrities.

A soccer player might run 10 miles over the course of a match, but a racecar driver—who doesn’t run at all—must maintain intense focus and alertness for hours on end. The same sort of approach is required of esports superstars, and the competition often takes its toll, just like in other arenas.

CBD might just provide the answer.

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a hemp plant product that departs significantly from the commonly known cannabinoid THC. Unlike THC, CBD products offer all the same great benefits that cannabis users have been touting for many years while eliminating the “high” that prevents the constant focus that many people require for daily activities and schedules.

For a rising star in the esports world, THC products may provide the boost required to get over a slump or bring their game to the next level, but the intoxicating effect will likely take away from this progress over the long term as THC is well-known as a relaxing yet distracting recreational product. CBD is different, as it’s derived from a different part of the plant entirely, and often cultivated in hemp plants with particularly low THC levels in order to allow the cannabidiol and other cannabinoids to shine in the growing process. The best CBD oil for pain can offer a fantastic boost to any esports player’s game and give them the focus and relaxation effects that they’re looking for in a good, well-rounded supplement.

CBD is prized for its natural calming and dexterity traits, perfect for the needs of a serious competitor in the esports world. Of course, it’s essential to consult with your doctor and FDA guidelines for the best in professional medical advice before adding any supplement to your routine. CBD might provide the answer to your carpal tunnel symptoms, but speaking with your doctor about the inclusion of a CBD oil, CBD gummy, or other CBD product, as well as dosage guidance, will help you make this determination for yourself.

CBD may just be the supplement you’re looking for as an esports superstar. Speak with your doctor about any benefits this natural hemp plant supplement may provide in order to gain a fuller understanding of what’s available to you and your ongoing health needs. Carpal tunnel syndrome can act as a major setback for someone who works with their hands all day, and a CBD oil may just provide the relief you need.

People have become aware of the reality of leather cricket balls made from the skins of cows and bulls after they have been subjected to unspeakable cruelty. People are realizing playing cricket isn’t fun for these creatures; it’s a slow, horrific death for them. Not only are animals subjected to pain, but human hands (tannery employees) in the shady leather products business are exposed to elevated risks of lung diseases and cancer on a daily basis. Furthermore, tanneries pollute the environment significantly.

Non-leather cricket balls are not only conceivable but also readily available in practically every sports shop in the world.

As a vegan, purchasing baseball balls is difficult. Many sporting products, in fact, are a little difficult to come by in this regard. As a vegan, it’s very difficult to find baseballs. Is it because the majority of people think that real leather is the best? 

Unfortunately, that’s true for any sport, not just baseball.

Non-vegan balls are everywhere and this needs to change

The majority of sports activities, such as soccer, basketball, baseball, and volleyball, are excellent ways to be active and keep fit. And don’t you think that there’s simply no reason why having fun with sports needs to mean putting animals in danger? Veganism has made its way into the sports business as it has evolved in every aspect of our lives, from diets to stylish apparel. We all know how closely vegan diet and sports are linked, therefore it’s only natural that they’d be included in the things people use for sports.

More companies are becoming environmentally conscious

Many businesses must share the same level of responsibilities with regard to conserving the earth in order to compete in the market. That means going vegan encompasses not just vegan food and lifestyle, but also the manufacturing of sports goods, such as clothing, footwear, and equipment, which are among the most essential items in any activity. With the introduction of new inventive ways and technology, sports manufacturers are now developing leather alternatives that can achieve the same or equivalent results while causing no environmental harm. Using vegan leather rather than genuine leather could be the first move toward becoming more environmentally conscious.

Can you find vegan sports goods on the market?

Yes.  In fact, the list is quite long. 

Have you heard of eco basketball? As we already said before, animal skin is not environmentally friendly, and it is recommended that sports companies use vegan materials. Vegan leather is unquestionably the best option. Vegan leather composed of natural materials should be used for all basketballs. You can now find a vegan basketball ball that comes in a variety of sizes, thanks to the growing popularity of eco-friendly sports equipment on the market.

Leather was initially chosen as one of the elements of a basketball ball because it’s high-quality and can survive the game. Otherwise, it won’t provide the best results for the teams. Did you know that eco basketball provides safer approaches and alternatives? Vegan leather is one of the most dominant materials, and it appears that it has already established itself as an environmentally safe material that will undoubtedly save millions of animals.

Eco volleyball is not falling behind either. What’s more, this activity includes two alternative models both for inside or outside play accordingly. Aren’t you happy that these vegan balls are becoming more and more available to everyone?