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McAuliffe 2.0: Full First Round Mock Draft (With Trades)

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32 (Patriots)
A.J. Brown
WR
Mississippi

Patriots have really made it no secret that they are searching for a top of the line receiver. AJ Brown has made it no secret he wants to be a Patriot. AJ could be this year’s most complete receiver, and he would provide an interesting and exciting twist to the slot position. A bigger slot receiver makes a lot of sense after Belichick recently eluded to bigger receivers becoming more valuable in this league. Cornerbacks are starting to get smaller. Playing AJ Brown in the slot position would create some mismatches in man coverage. A receiving group of AJ Brown, Julian Edelman, Josh Gordon, Philip Dorsett and Demaryius Thomas would be a very solid one.

31 (Cowboys) *Originally LAR
Johnathan Abram
S
Mississippi State

Trade details: Cowboys trade 58th, 165th and next year’s second round pick for Rams 31st

Rams want draft picks. They don’t have many. Cowboys do not have a first round pick and although rumors are not swirling that they want to trade up, it makes sense. Jerry Jones loves first round draft picks. In fact, tell me what sounds more Jerry Jones than making a huge splash by trading into the first round, to grab a player that could be the best at his position, in which the Cowboys have a need for. Abram would immediately start for the Cowboys, serving as a linebacker at the safety position. Abram’s coverage skills may have it’s questions but he can hit hard, make tackles real well, and use his ball skills to get Dak Prescott and the offense on the field as much as possible. Abram to Dallas makes perfect sense.

30 (Packers)

Noah Fant
TE
Iowa

Packers miss out on T.J Hockenson but they still land Noah Fant. This news will make Aaron Rodgers happy. Fant is probably the best receiver out of the trio of Hockenson, Smith, and himself. Fant could learn a few things from Jimmy Graham and pair up with him to make Rodger’s life a whole lot easier. If the Packers pick Fant, Rodger’s fantasy value gets a huge boost.

29 (Chiefs)

Amani Oruwariye
CB
Penn State

Amani Oruwariye. This guy will be hated by three groups of people. He will be hated by quarterbacks for his ability, offensive coordinators for the same reason, and commentators for being forced to pronounce that name of his. Chiefs will love him though. Chiefs need corners. Patriot fans know how bad the Chiefs secondary was last year. Amani Oruwariye will help change that. Amani has no problem helping in run support and can cover some of the bigger receivers in the NFL. Look for him to cover Josh Gordon or Demayrius Thomas in the AFC Championship.

28 (Patriots) *Originally LAC

T.J. Hockenson
TE
Iowa

Trade details: Patriots trade 56th, 73rd and next year’s 3rd round pick to Chargers for 28th

SPLASH! Hockenson will fall farther than most people think. Primarily due to the Packers decision to wait, he slides all the way to #28 where the Patriots leapfrog the Packers second pick to get him. Hockenson is a unique talent that does not come around to often at the tight end position. Forget Irv Smith, forget Noah Fant, forget everyone else. Do this thing right, go get the tight end of the future Bill! Go ahead and call me crazy, Hockenson will be a surprise faller in the draft, much like Derwin James and Tremaine Edmunds last year.

27 (Raiders)

Joshua Jacobs
RB
Alabama

This remodeled Raiders team still misses a three-down runningback. This extremely weak runningback class might have just one great back in it. Joshua Jacobs might not be available come the Raiders second round pick. It might be safer to grab the guy now and sure up that backfield.

26 (Colts)

Christian Wilkins
IDL
Clemson

By disregarding the tight end position, Christian Wilkins is the best remaining player on the board. Wilkins can be the leader of this defensive line and defense all together. One year removed from landing both Quentin Nelson and Darius Leonard, these drafts would be considered back to back bangs for the Colts by now picking Christian Wilkins. Wilkins, a Massachusetts native would provide not just leadership but also versatility and a very high motor.

25 (Eagles)

Nasir Adderley
S
Delaware

Nasir or Abram could both easily go here. Adderley might be a better fit in the City of Love. Nasir gets knocked for playing in a small-school program. Small-school programs are not a problem in Philly. Just ask their part-time quarterback Carson Wentz. Jim Schwartz likes his defensive backs with cornerback experience, which Adderley has a lot. In fact, Philly makes the most sense for this talented, small-school prospect.

24 (Raiders)

DeAndre Baker
CB
Georgia

Raiders fill another position of need here, taking DeAndre Baker. A very solid player with a starting grade on him. Baker will fit in well and be an anchor at one of the corner spots in Oakland.

23 (Texans)

Andre Dillard
OT
Washington State

Texans have no compliments about this pick here. Some scouts like Dillard better than they like Ford or Williams, primarily because he will be a pure tackle in the NFL. Texans need to protect DeShaun Watson badly. Dillard can be plugged right in to the starting lineup and alleviate some of the issues with this offensive line.

22 (Ravens)

Marquise Brown
WR
Oklahoma

When making this pick, the Ravens have to be conscious of Lamar Jackson’s less than mediocre throwing ability. None the less, Marquise Brown has the potential to be a Pro Bowl receiver. He frequently draws comparisons to DeSean Jackson. A better comp might be someone who just left Baltimore, John Brown. Marquise Brown, Antonio Brown’s cousin (too many Browns here), will thrive in a role much like John Brown’s was. Pencil in Marquise Brown, Antonio Brown’s cousin, to fill the absence of John Brown and make teams like the Browns have headaches.

21 (Browns) *Originally SEA

Chauncey Gardner-Johnson
S
Florida

Trade details: Browns trade 49th, 119th and next year’s second round pick to Seattle for 21st and next year’s sixth round pick

Browns are rumored to be actively looking to trade back into the first round. The Seahawks are looking to trade down. Browns have both needs at cornerback and safety. Gardner-Johnson can play both. While he will probably play safety at the next level, the flexibility really helps his case to go to Cleveland. Gardner-Johnson will bode well in Cleveland’s secondary that has been famished for good safeties.

20 (Steelers)

Devin Bush Jr.
LB
Michigan

NO BRAINER. The Steelers and Devin Bush have been linked to each other ever since this whole evaluation process started. Devin Bush at 20 would be a steal for anyone but for a team so desperate for linebackers like the Steelers, it would be an act of god. The tackle machine would bring a big boost to a team that has been crippled by the unfortunate long term injury of Ryan Shazier.

19 (Titans)

D.K. Metcalf
WR
Mississippi

Oh boy! How can someone pass up a talent like DK Metcalf at 19? Even more, think of how happy Marcus Mariota would be to have Metcalf and Corey Davis paired together. For those who don’t know DK Metcalf, he is 6’3, 230 pounds. He has 34 7/8” arms and 9 7/8” hands. He ran a 4.33
40 yard dash, had 27 reps of 225 pounds, and had a 40.5″ vertical leap. He is an absolute freakish human who could probably even play tight end. He may not be the most complete, true receiver, but he will make good as the Titans’ number two receiver and make Marcus Mariota very happy.


18 (Vikings)

Garrett Bradbury
IOL
NC State

This pick makes a lot of sense. Bradbury stands as the clear top inside lineman prospect. He can play both center and guard in the NFL. With Pat Elflein struggling at center last year, all signs would point to shifting him to guard and moving Bradbury inside. This would bode well for Dalvin Cook and the Vikings zone run scheme. The Bradbury pick would give the Vikings a lot of options and flexibility on that terrible offensive line.

17 (Giants)

Dwayne Haskins
QB
Ohio State

Dwayne Haskins makes a lot of sense here at 17. He may not be the most talented in the group but he will hold down the fort in New York. The best comparison around for Haskins has to be Drew Bledsoe. In the right offense, Haskins will thrive and serve as a fabulous game-manager. The Giants’ offense would run through Saqoun Barkley. Haskins would manage the passing game with success and compliment Saqoun nicely.


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16 (Panthers)

Cody Ford
OT
Oklahoma

So, it is true that the Jets could have picked Cody Ford, but the need at corner and the talent of Byron Murphy is a lot to pass up. Instead, the Panthers have an absolute no brainer pick here and take Cody Ford. Panthers desperately need some help on that line. Cam Newton and Christian McCaffery need some help here. Newton needs time to wait for Chris Hogan to get open. Cody Ford will be the guy in Carolina. Ford like Williams might slip inside to guard in the NFL but as of late, that theory has kind of been squashed. Pencil in Ford as a starting tackle for the Carolina Panthers.

15 (Jets) *Originally WAS

Byron Murphy
CB
Washington

So after trading down, the Jets hoped to draft an edge rusher or offensive tackle. The prospects that they would have hoped to land at this spot are gone however there is no reason to cry about it. Byron Murphy has a lot of scouts really excited. Put Byron Murphy in the same secondary as Jamal Adams and Tramaine Johnson, a hard defense to throw against there.

14 (Falcons)

Jerry Tillery
IDL
Notre Dame

Another more surprising pick, Jerry Tillery to Atlanta. The frequently underrated defensive line prospect out of Notre Dame continues to be overlooked in this draft process. A combo of Jerry Tillery and Grady Garrett will make opposing offensive coordinators wish their mother never had them. It will be the “Nightmare on Peachtree Street”. Clogging inside holes, stopping the run, and getting to the quarterback. Missing out on Ed Oliver will quickly become not so big of a deal for Atlanta.

13 (Dolphins)

Jonah Williams
OT
Alabama

The Dolphins have needs all over the offensive line. For a team headed for a rebuilding year, the smart move would be to build up the line and draft a quarterback next year. That class will be a whole lot stronger and the Dolphins draft choice will probably be a whole lot closer to number one. Pick Jonah Williams. This guy will be an absolute stud at the next level. His future will probably be at guard with his footwork and arms indicating so. However, don’t rule out Williams playing tackle. He played tackle in college and played really well. The Dolphins and Williams are perfect for each other because of the flexibility he possesses.

12 (Packers)

Clelin Ferrell
EDGE
Clemson

Well, this would raise a lot of eyebrows. There are always eyebrow-raisers in the draft. First round last year, Rashaad Penny, Baker Mayfield first overall, the Saints trading for Marcus Davenport, Derwin James and Tremaine Edmunds falling. Point being, the draft is an unpredictable animal. A lot of people think the Packers will go tight end here. Well, they have two first round picks and literally no defensive ends. Defensive ends are now limited and the last remaining one with no big question marks is Clelin Ferrell. They will be able to pick from at least two of the top three tight ends in this draft at #30. They will have much less selection if they wait on pass rusher. The Packers are clamping down on defense this year, focusing on improving that side of the ball. Clelin Ferrell will be the pick here at #12.

11 (Bengals)

Jawaan Taylor
OT
Florida

Jawaan Taylor just met with the Bengals yesterday. This pick would make a lot of sense. Some of the players who the Bengals could have picked are off the board. This guy here might just be the best tackle in the draft. Bengals have a huge hole at the tackle spot, waiting to be filled. Taylor would at least help the running game. Not quite sure Andy Dalton can possibly be helped at this point. Andy Dalton needs a lot more than help to succeed. Expect Bengals to at least look at quarterback in round two.

10 (Broncos)

Ed Oliver
IDL
Houston

Half of this pick would be because of Ed Oliver and the other half would be that the Broncos do not appear sold on this quarterback class. This QB class truly is a bad one. The Broncos have Joe Flacco, who can still preform to an okay level. They wait a year, take a player at a position they have a need for, and put Ed Oliver on a line with Von Miller and Bradley Chubb. Very, very dangerous alignment there.

9 (Bills)

Montez Sweat
EDGE
Mississippi State

Bills draft an edge defender for the same reason the 49ers do. How do you attack quarterbacks like Sam Darnold, Tom Brady, and … Ryan Fitzpatrick (eew gross)? You rush the passer. Montez Sweat can do that real quickly. Sweat set a record in Indianapolis for the fastest defense lineman in combine history. Running a 4.41 at 6’6, 260 pounds is insane. Sweat reminds many of Dee Ford. He would wreak havoc on the AFC East.

8 (Lions)

Greedy Williams
CB
LSU

A lot of people think the Lions will go tight end here. Cornerback makes the most sense. A combo of Darius Slay and Greedy Williams will be a hard one to throw against. Going tight end would not be smart for a team that for some reason appears to be shaping up for a championship instead of rebuilding. After spending big money on Jesse James, drafting a tight end would put their tight end spending near the top of the league. If they want any shot at a championship, draft a corner to help defend against a pass-happy league.

7 (Jaguars)

Brian Burns
EDGE
Florida State

Just like the Giants, former Giants coach and current GM of the Jaguars, Tom Coughlin values pass-rushers as well. Brian Burns will be a special talent at the next level. The speed, smarts, and effort are top notch. Burns is a dominant pass-rusher and tremendous athlete. The only drawback, his weight. A few fast food trips will help.

6 (Giants)

Rashan Gary
EDGE
Michigan

Gary undoubtedly presents some risk at six for the Giants, however, the talent might be too much to pass up. Gary is a talented, elite athlete and plays a position that the Giants have always valued. This move makes sense for New York.

5 (Buccaneers)

Devin White
LB
LSU

Undoubtedly the best linebacker in this draft provides the most value here at five for the Buccaneers. With Kwon Alexander leaving for San Fran and Kendell Beckwith’s health concerns, it makes sense to draft a linebacker. Not to mention, LaVonte David will be 30 years old soon and could use a very capable, young blood that can be his tackle machine buddy while his career does nothing but wind down. Plus, once White and Bush are gone in round one, the position sees a steep drop off. Better to address that issue now.

4 (Raiders)

Josh Allen
EDGE
Kentucky

This guy aspires to be Khalil Mack. The Raiders did not pay Khalil Mack top dollar. This guy would not need top dollar money until roughly his fourth year in the league. Raiders take a poor man’s Khalil Mack, or a Mack lite, and find a long-term solution to such a big problem last year. Maybe this guy can become a monster and they can trade him away too.

3 (Redskins) *Originally NYJ

Kyler Murray
QB
Oklahoma

Trade details: Jets trade 3rd overall, 68th overall, 196th overall, 217th overall and next year’s sixth round pick to Washington for 15th overall, 46th overall, 227th overall and next year’s first round pick.

Rumor on the block is that the Jets want desperately to trade back. Redskins desperately need a quarterback and to make a splash. Redskins give up a lot of capital to make this move, but get the guy who could be the best quarterback in the draft. A move like this would be eerily similar to the trade up to get Robert Griffin III a few years back, but would most likely be more successful. The Redskins could do some of the same things they did with RG3 with Kyler. A quarterback of Kyler’s ability would work out a lot better in this system than RG3 did.

2 (49ers)

Nick Bosa
EDGE
Ohio State

How do you shutdown quarterbacks like Jared Goff? Josh Rosen? And how do you disrupt Russell Wilson’s rhythm? You rush the passer. How better to attack your division rivals than add Dee Ford and Nick Bosa to your team? Those three teams also have spectacular run games. 49ers bulk up their defensive line to assemble one of the more deadly pass-rushing cores in the league.

1 (Cardinals)

Quinnen Williams
IDL
Alabama

So, a lot of thought went into this pick. Here is what it boils down to, Cardinals have a quarterback, his name is Josh Rosen. Cardinals pass on their absurd idea to put him up on the auction block for chump change and decide to build a stronger defense. Quinnen is a prospect teams cannot afford to pass up. Cardinals take a position they need to improve on and insert the best player in this draft class into that spot.

Bortles

Bortles Is Definitely Not Trash at Quarterback

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Blake Bortles does not have a great reputation as a starting quarterback in the NFL. For example, Houston Texans’ defensive end Jadeveon Clowney famously called Bortles “trash”. Tennessee Titans’ defensive tackle Jurrell Casey claimed that Bortles “chokes under pressure”. Even Seattle Seahawks’ safety Earl Thomas labeled Bortles as “subpar”.

Does Bortles really deserve all this derision? Perhaps he did coming into the 2017 season. His career record was a dismal 11-34 as he threw 51 interceptions in just 45 starts. In fact, head coach Doug Marrone did not name Bortles as his starter until he won the competition over Chad Henne during preseason.

Bortles Stepped up His Game

However, Bortles has not played like “trash” in 2017. He has actually played very well when matched up against some of the game’s best. While he is not in the same category as Ben Roethlisberger and Russell Wilson, his solid play when up against teams like the Seahawks and Pittsburgh Steelers helped his squad win those ball games. Instead of a liability, he has been a contributor.

Jacksonville crushed the Baltimore Ravens 44-7 early in the season. This is a Ravens team that finished the season with three shutouts. Late in the season, Jacksonville proved they were for real with a 30-24 win over Seattle. Bortles passed for 275 yards, two touchdowns, and most importantly no interceptions. He made Thomas and the Seahawks’ defense look “subpar.” Those wins enabled the Jaguars to improve from 3-13 in 2016 to a third seed in the AFC playoffs.

In the Wild Card round Bortles struggled in the passing game against the Buffalo Bills. Yet, he won that game for his team by rushing for 88 yards. In the Divisional round, Bortles was outstanding. He flawlessly executed the offensive game plan and consistently made wise decisions with the ball.

Brady Always Has the Advantage

To be fair, Blake Bortles will not be facing Tom Brady. He will be opposing the New England Patriots’ defense. The Patriots almost seem offended when it’s insinuated that Bortles is a poor quarterback. Certainly, there are several “elite” quarterbacks that wish they were headed to Foxborough for the AFC championship game this Sunday. If Bortles wins this game over Bill Belichick, Tom Brady, and the vaunted Patriots, he will likely shed his draft bust label once and for all.

Brady rarely has a bad day at the office. His career mark speaks for itself. Teams have gotten to him like the New York Giants in the 2008 Super Bowl and the Denver Broncos in the AFC championship game from two seasons ago. But, those situations are few and far between.

The 2015 Super Bowl was the last time Brady faced a top two ranked scoring defense in the playoffs. We remember how well he played that evening against the Seahawks.

In this match-up the Patriots should be able to win because of their running game. Dion Lewis is having a career year. Rex Burkhead and James White are the kind of multi-faceted players that Belichick loves. Bortles should have a strong game, but it probably won’t be enough to dethrone the champions.

 

Brandon Fazzolari is a Super Bowl expert…@spot_Bills

NFL Championship Sunday Preview and Predictions

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The stage has been set for some of the most talented teams in football to compete in the Conference Championship. They devoted over 1,500 hours, or six days a week from August to January, to train for a shot at an appearance in Super Bowl LII. The postseason isn’t just an extension of the regular season, it’s what teams grind for all season. In the playoffs fans and players are shrouded by the fear that there might not be another week to play. One mistake could end a season. It’s go big or go home. Fans and their teams mesh together to create an electric atmosphere, all equally knowing what is at stake. Regular season stats are thrown out of the window. When faced with a win or go home situation adrenaline takes over, causing players to dig deeper than ever.

We have seen a multitude of spectacular moments already in the first two rounds of the playoffs. The Patriots will appear in their seventh consecutive AFC Championship game and are searching for their sixth Super Bowl ring. Their opponents, the Jacksonville Jaguars, have shocked the league by steamrolling their way deep into the playoffs after several failed seasons. In the NFC the Vikings and Eagles will square off after both securing late fourth quarter wins last weekend. Unfortunately, two teams must go home after this Sunday. This guide includes tips for betting on this weekend’s NFL championship games. These are the match-ups that we will be talking about all week:

AFC Championship: Jacksonville Jaguars at New England Patriots

For the past five seasons the Jaguars were a laughing stock in the NFL. From 2012 to 2016 they failed to eclipse five wins on the season. However this year the Jaguars were on a mission. They finished with a winning record for the first time since 2007; coincidentally the last time the team appeared in the playoffs. In a low-scoring affair the Jags were able to survive the Bills, winning 10-3 in the Wild Card round. Critics scoffed at the idea that they would surpass the Divisional game in Pittsburgh. Their low offensive output in the first round of the playoffs was deemed futile against one of the AFC’s premier squads.

Everyone doubted the Jaguars except for themselves. The Steelers spent the week preparing for the Patriots rather than their current opponent. They seemed to forget that the Jaguars’ defense had a field day on Ben Roethlisberger back in Week Five, where he was picked five times. Last weekend “Sacksonville” was able to secure a 45-42 upset victory over the Steelers behind their running back corps’ four scores. The Jags’ defensive nightmare that they create for offenses is always something to worry about.

The Patriots played exemplary football so far in the postseason. They are held to high expectations because they are always able to ascertain them. It’s always hard to figure out what the Patriots are planning going into each match-up. They have the offensive weapons to pick apart any defense. Interestingly enough Tom Brady is the only quarterback left in the playoffs who has won a Super Bowl ring. The Patriots have the poise and experience to make another deep playoff run.

What is the most admirable about them is that Bill Belichick can remove a vital player on the opposing team from the game. Consequently this always makes the opponent squirm and eventually sputter out as the Pats skirt on by for a win. That was the case for their Divisional game last weekend against the Titans. Running the football is the basis of the Titans’ offense, and without Demarco Murray the running back corps was slim. Play after play Derrick Henry slammed into a wall of defenders and was only able to pick up twenty-eight yards against the Patriots. On the other side of the field Tom Brady outplayed Titans defenders through the air. The Patriots sailed to an easy 35-14 victory.

The Patriots will have their work cut out for them against Jacksonville’s stingy defense. The key to keep them afloat is for their offensive line to have a repeat of last weekend. Against the Titans the o-line didn’t allow Brady to be sacked once. On the other side Blake Bortles is always unpredictable and Leornard Fournette has been a huge cog for the Jags’ offense. They must strike early and keep Brady off the field as often as possible to pull out a win. The first defense to break down will dictate who will win the AFC Championship.

Prediction: 27-17 Patriots

NFC Championship: Minnesota Vikings at Philadelphia Eagles

The Vikings quietly had one of the best seasons in the league this year. Their defense was phenomenal behind Pro Bowlers Everson Griffen, Xavier Rhodes, and Anthony Barr. Also, despite all odds and injuries suffered on offense the Vikes were able to get to where they are today. The loss of rookie Dalvin Cook caused the run game to take a hit, but since then balanced out. Teddy Bridgewater, the team’s original starter, sat out with a brutal knee injury for one and a half seasons. His place was taken over by the man with the hot hand: Case Keenum. Keenum went from the bench in Los Angeles at the end of last season to a strong MVP candidate in Minnesota. Teams wrote him off but his leadership brought the Vikings to the conference championship for the first time since 2009.

In an insane chain of events the Vikings came out on top over the Saints 29-24 on the final play of the Divisional game. A last play touchdown by Stefon Diggs is now regarded as the Minneapolis Miracle.

The Eagles were the team to beat for the majority of the regular season. Their year was going perfectly up until when the injury bug took away their star quarterback (and probable MVP) Carson Wentz. Since then there has been a little turbulence for the Eagles since Nick Foles took the helm. The Eagles locked up the number one seed in the NFC despite losing Wentz, yet things felt different. The once dangerous offense the Eagles possessed became mundane. Those strikes down the middle of the field for huge gains became less common. Nick Foles has done what’s in his power to lead the Eagles through the playoffs, but their offense is not as dangerous as they once were weeks ago. Home field advantage has been a saving grace for the team.

The Eagles’ Divisional match up against the Falcons was a physical defensive bout. Though the Eagles failed to score a touchdown against the Falcons they snuck by with a 15-10 win. All credit for the victory goes to the defense, who shut down Devonta Freeman and Julio Jones.

The Eagles’ defense will be a huge test for Case Keenum and the Vikings. On the flip-side, the Eagles will have to put their running game into high gear to jump-start the offense. The key for this match-up will lie in the trenches. Foles will need a scapegoat to open up his passing game. Jay Ajayi also has to be a prime performer to make a dent in the Vikings’ defense. However Minnesota is one win away from being the first team to play in a Super Bowl that they are hosting, and they are going to fire on all cylinders.

Prediction: 20-14 Vikings

 

Follow Mike Clement on Twitter @MClementMedia

Cover photo courtesy of Todd Rosenberg/NFL.

NFL Wild Card Round Preview and Predictions

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The 2017 NFL Postseason is finally upon us. This weekend teams will take their first crucial step on their journey to Super Bowl LII. These past seventeen weeks have earned these teams the right to play in January, while the rest clean out their lockers early. In this year’s playoffs there are a few familiar faces but mostly new contenders. The Patriots, Steelers, Falcons, and Chiefs are the only four teams making it back to the postseason after appearing last year. On the flip-side, the Rams, Bills, Jaguars, and Saints are all teams that had losing records last season and are now in the playoffs. This will surely be a dramatic postseason this year, starting with these eight teams that will face off in the Wild Card round this weekend:

Tennessee Titans at Kansas City Chiefs

The Titans had a quiet season but clinched the fifth seed in the waning moments of Week 17. At 9-7, they snuck into the playoffs for the first time since 2008. Their path to the postseason was almost squashed towards the end of the season as they dropped three of their last four games. However, a Week 17 win against their division rival Jaguars was all they needed to secure a spot to play in January.

The Titans are one of the few teams in the league that base their offensive solely on running the ball. Their running back committee of DeMarco Murray and Derrick Henry carried the offense throughout the season as Marcus Mariota had a rather mundane year. With DeMarco Murray suffering a Grade 3 MCL tear in Week 16, Henry became a workhorse for the Titans against the Jaguars yesterday. Murray’s status seems bleak to make a return for the Wild Card, so coach Mike Mularkey will need to reconfigure his offensive scheme.

At the beginning of the season the Chiefs seemed to be the most dominant team in the league. They trounced the Patriots in Foxborough on opening night in September and went on to have a blaring 5-0 start. However they learned quickly that a NFL season is a marathon, not a sprint. From Weeks 6 to 13 the Chiefs only won a single game. They were able to hold on afterwards by winning out their final four games to secure a 10-6 record and a AFC West title. Their only trouble in the division came from the Chargers, who finished the season looming one game behind.

The Chiefs are without a doubt the fastest team in the league. Their offense consists of the speedy Tyreek Hill, rookie sensation Kareem Hunt, and widely overlooked quarterback Alex Smith. On the opposite end of the field they have talent with Marcus Peters, Reggie Ragland, Justin Houston, and the list goes on and on.

In the playoffs which Chiefs team will we see? The team that stomped New England or the one that had a meltdown in the fourth quarter to set up an ugly loss against the Jets? Andy Reid and the Chiefs’ coaching staff control their team’s future in January. The Titans might be the underdog in this game coming into Arrowhead, but if they can silence the crowd early they have a chance to pull an upset. Their run defense can stop Kareem Hunt at the line of scrimmage, but they do not have an answer for Kansas City’s air attack.

Prediction: 24-16 Chiefs

Atlanta Falcons at Los Angeles Rams

The Falcons secured the sixth seed in the NFC through their win-and-in scenario in Week 17. They had an inconsistent season to say the least. The highlight of their season came in Week 2 when they were able to stomp the Packers in the Georgia Dome’s inaugural game. However two weeks later they began to slide, losing three consecutive games in their trip through the AFC East. The Falcons were lost in their prime-time Super Bowl rematch against the Patriots.

At 10-6, they are certainly not the team that went for its first Super Bowl trophy almost a year ago. That doesn’t mean that they can’t play like the team that they were. Matt Ryan will have some slack to pick up with his offense to get things done. Their defense, ranked 23rd in the regular season, will be the focal point in order to succeed in the playoffs.

The Rams have had the one of the most dramatic transitions from last season to today. Their metamorphosis from a 4-12 joke last season to 11-5 NFC West champion now can be accredited to their new coach Sean McVay. The team’s identity lies within their striking offense that consists of MVP candidate Todd Gurley and legitimate franchise quarterback Jared Goff. Wade Phillips has also helped the team’s defense become top five in the league. The team aims to get their first playoff win since 2004.

This match-up will in no way be a blowout on either end. The Falcons might be held to harsh comparisons with their Super Bowl-aspiring selves from last year, but they still know how to get a win. Their offense might not be as electrifying as it was with Kyle Shanahan as their coordinator, but they still have the three-headed dragon of Matt Ryan, Devonta Freeman, and Julio Jones. This game will come down to which defense will let up first, and ranking-wise all signs point to Atlanta’s. Expect this game to be a shootout.

Prediction: 31-21 Rams

Buffalo Bills at Jacksonville Jaguars

The New Year’s celebration started earlier than most for the Bills. A late touchdown from Andy Dalton and the Bengals was enough to knock the Ravens out of the playoffs. The Bills  ended the longest playoff drought in American sports, not making the playoffs since 1999. They will also aim to win a playoff game for the first time since 1995.

After a 9-7 season, the Bills deserved a playoff spot. Coach Sean McDermott reshaped the team into playoff contenders after his failed experiment with starting Nathan Peterman. The team’s success comes from LeSean McCoy, who suffered an ankle injury in Week 17. Being without him will hurt, but the Bills’ synergy can hold the team together.

The Jaguars are another team that have had a mammoth reshaping to make them a playoff squad. On a side note, not to brag or anything but I called it back in August that they’d clinch. Without Allen Robinson and Allen Hurns, the offense was able to run on the shoulders of rookie Leonard Fournette. The Jaguars’ defense has been the staple of the team, dubbing their city as Sacksonville. They are one of the most dangerous defenses to face this season. Blake Bortles, though inconsistent, was able to put together an admirable finishing push to the season to achieve the AFC South title and the third seed. The last time the team finished with a 10 win season was in 2007, coincidentally the last time they appeared in the playoffs.

Though the Bills slipped into the playoffs this game certainly won’t be easy for the Jags. Both teams have strong defenses and rather weak offenses. The key to this game is how Leonard Fournette performs for the Jaguars. The Bills’ rushing defense had a nightmare game against the Saints, but since then has improved. If Blake Bortles is forced to go to the air then the Jaguars’ chances to win almost deplete. If there is going to be an upset in the Wild Card round, it’d be here.

Prediction: 17-15 Bills

Carolina Panthers at New Orleans Saints

The Panthers had a solid bounce-back season from last year’s nightmare. Finishing 11-5, they very well have the power to make a run. This is another case of a two-faced team, however. The Panthers came up big when they needed to, and a prime example of this is bullying the Packers at home. However, there were games this season where they looked lost. If Cam Newton is rolling, then the defense follows in suit. Christian McCaffrey has helped Cam’s game open up this season, whereas compared to last season he had no chance to be mobile. A good mobile quarterback must be accompanied by a viable running back to keep the defense guessing. That’s something that the Panthers lacked last season.

The Saints’ season started out ugly early on. Their offense was erratic and while having the parts to succeed simply couldn’t. Moving Adrian Peterson was the Saints’ defining move this season. Quickly afterwards the running back committee shortened to focus on Mark Ingram and rookie Alvin Kamara. From there the duo hasn’t stopped shining, and in turn opened up Drew Brees’s passing game. The Saints have one of the best offenses in the league, and were able to build a solid defense after trading Brandin Cooks for assets to do so. The Saints also finished 11-5, but clinched the division after the Panthers fell to the Falcons in Week 17.

This game will be perfect to watch for anyone who loves offense. The defining factor is that the Panthers lost to the Saints twice already this season. In both of those games the Saints scored more than thirty points. The Panthers need to stay at that scoring pace or their defense will have to play like they did against Aaron Rodgers a few weeks ago.

Prediction: 41-28 Saints

 

Media Credit

www.panthers.com

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www.hollywoodreporter.com

 

Week 17: Games to Watch

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Week 17 has finally arrived. Certainly every football fan’s favorite week of the regular season. Although by the end of the day, many of those fans are less-than happy with their team’s result. This year, there will certainly be some broken hearts as there are six teams fighting for the final three playoff spots. In the AFC we have Baltimore, Tennessee, Buffalo and the Chargers fighting for the two wild card spots. In the NFC, just one spot remains, which will be battled for by the Falcons and Seahawks. Below are the week 17 games which hold the strongest playoff implications.

CAROLINA PANTHERS AT ATLANTA FALCONS

This clash of NFC South powerhouses is probably the biggest game of the week. For Carolina, it is an opportunity to win the division. However, this will be a tall task. Carolina has lost both games to New Orleans this year, so they will have to win in Atlanta and the Saints would have to lose in Tampa. Pretty unlikely but hey, we have seen crazier things. Carolina has already clinched a playoff spot and will likely be playing either the Rams or the Saints in the first round.

There is even more on the line for the Falcons in this game. At 9-6, a win or a Seahawks loss will give the last remaining seed in the NFC to Atlanta. It is impossible to know what to expect from this game as the Panthers tend to play like either a Super Bowl team or a division 3 high school team. It is difficult to know what to expect from them heading into this week. However, I do like Atlanta’s chances because they are at home. I also think Matty Ice and Julio Jones may be able to pick apart the Panthers secondary, which ranks 19th in the league in pass yards allowed per game.

CINCINNATI BENGALS AT BALTIMORE RAVENS

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lockedonbengals.com

Cincinnati is playing for nothing but pride this weekend as their dreadful season has them eliminated from the playoffs. However, I do expect Cincinnati to give it a valiant effort this week as they would love to help eliminate their division rival from the playoffs. For Baltimore, all they have to do is win to make the playoffs, as they have a one game advantage on the rest of the teams fighting to get in. The Ravens could lose and still make the playoffs as they have own the tie breaker with the Chargers. If the Ravens, Bills, and Titans all finish 9-7 then they would be eliminated because Tennessee and Buffalo both own the tie breaker over Baltimore.

BUFFALO BILLS AT MIAMI DOLPHINS

The Bills have probably the slimmest chances to snag an AFC wild card spot. They do hold a tie breaker over the Ravens if both teams finish 9-7. This will be pretty unlikely as the Baltimore has a very winnable home game vs Cincy. If the Ravens win then Buffalo will need both Tennessee and the Chargers to lose. On paper, this looks like a pretty winnable game. However, much like the Panthers, both of these teams are rather inconsistent. It is hard to know what to expect in this match-up. I do believe that Buffalo is the superior team and that they will be able to win this game.

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS AT TENNESSEE TITANS

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atozsportsnashville.com

Jacksonville does not have much to worry about in this game as they will likely be AFC’s three seed. However, this is a huge game for the Titans. Luckily they own a tie breaker over all three of the other teams fighting to get in. A win would guarantee a playoff spot. If they lose, the Ravens win AND Buffalo or the Chargers win then the Titans would be eliminated. So they really need to win in order to avoid any risks. A win will be a tall task despite being the home team. Jacksonville’s defense is probably the best in the league. I expect starting corners AJ Bouye and Jalen Ramsey to completely shut down the passing game. It will be up to Demarco Murray and Derrick Henry to lead the Titans to this week 17 win

OAKLAND RAIDERS AT LOS ANGELES CHARGERS

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raiderswire.usatoday.com

The Raiders will be playing to spoil this weekend. As arguably the league’s biggest disappointment, Oakland has to be itching for next season. If it makes them feel better, they can drastically decrease their division rival’s chances of making the playoffs with a win. A win will not guarantee a spot in the playoffs for the Chargers. They will need a loss from the Titans as well because Tennessee own the tie breaker. However, if they end up with the same record as the Bills then they will have the tie breaker and earn the 6th seed. LA should win this game rather easily as Oakland has struggled on both sides of the ball this year. I do not think Oakland has the ability to stop Rivers, Melvin Gordon and Keenan Allen on the road. Advantage LA.

ARIZONA CARDINALS AT SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

Weird to imagine the Seahawks not in the playoffs. For Seattle to make it in, they will need to win and need Atlanta to lose against Carolina. Both things could happen of course, but the chances are not that high. Seattle cannot control what happens down in Atlanta this week, but they can help themselves by earning a win. At home I do expect Russell Wilson and company to get the win. But Arizona has quietly been playing some pretty solid football as of late. Even though I expect them to win, I also expect Atlanta to win which would eliminate Seattle due to a head to head tie breaker in Atlanta’s favor.

 

*Questions or comments? Find me on twitter @MLBfromNH (Kevin Civiello)*

*Feature pic credit goes to panthers.com*