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Why and How the Patriots Should Trade for Antonio Brown

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The crisis surrounding Antonio Brown and the Pittsburgh Steelers seems to evolve every day. We have now reached the point where the Steelers are willing to part ways with their star receiver. Not only that but they have asked his agent to help facilitate finding a trade. Currently there are apparently three teams who have enquired about a trade. Given the Steelers statement about not trading Brown to certain place it is unlikely the New England Patriots are one of those teams. However, they should be interested because there is a way they could get Brown on their roster.

A Wonderful Talent

How good Brown is at the wide receiver position has been somewhat lost in the uproar over his behaviour. The 30-year old receiver has been in the league now for nine seasons, and has been selected to the Pro Bowl in seven of those seasons. The only two seasons he was not selected, were his rookie season and his third season. In those two seasons he only played in a combined 22 games. In every other season of his career he has played in at least 15 games.

What he has done when on the field is incredible. Over his entire career Brown averaged 86.2 yards per game with an average of 6.4 receptions per game and 13.4 yards per reception. In addition, Brown averages 0.56 touchdowns per game, and has scored double digit touchdowns in four seasons.

Brown’s not slowing down either, despite being 30. Last season he was targeted 168 times, for 1297 yards and a league leading 15 receiving touchdowns. His receptions per game were slightly down on the previous five seasons, but he still registered a 62% catch rate.

Needs Outweigh the Risks

There is no denying the Patriots need a receiver. They gambled on Josh Gordon in 2018, but he could not shake his history. That means that the Patriots still need an answer on the outside. They have struggled to draft a receiver, so trading for one seems like the correct answer.

The issue with trading for Brown is slightly different, but no less complex. Brown’s outbursts have been an on and off distraction for the Steelers, and the Patriots will need a structure for dealing with it. The positive is that the Patriots only real stars are Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski. Both will likely to be happy to share the spotlight with Brown. Additionally, he is unlikely to be called out by either of them the way he feels he has been in Pittsburgh.

The Patriots have shown the willingness to gamble on character risks in the past. Some have worked out, such as Randy Moss, and some have not, Albert Haynesworth and Josh Gordon. In the past those risk have largely been on character only. This risk would also be financial. In year one the burden of the cap would be on the Steelers, but after that Brown is still due a total of $37 million on the cap. Ultimately I think it is worth the risk, but it is a bigger risk that they have taken before.

The How

The Steelers have made it pretty clear they will not trade Brown to their main rivals. That absolutely includes the Patriots. Therefore, the Patriots need to be creative if they are to have a chance at Brown. One option would be to make the Steelers an offer so good they would struggle to refuse. However, that will likely still not work if the Steelers stick to their principles.

The second option involves taking a leaf from the baseball and basketball worlds. In those sports three team trades are common, but football it is not. The slight difference here is that the Patriots need to do it without the Steelers knowing they are involved. Instead what they would need is to offer an incentive to another team to first trade for Brown, and then trade him onto the Patriots. The Patriots would have to offer to return the value the team paid for Brown and give them something extra.

That might just be a pick upgrade. Such as if a team traded a pick in the top 10 of the second round, the Patriots could offer their #1 and a lower compensatory pick to sweeten the deal. Another option would be if the other team wanted one of the Patriots upcoming free agents. It is not entirely honorable, but they could try signing him to an extension before free agency and then send him to the other team.

Would it Work?

The Patriots would need to make such a good offer the middle team could not refuse. That team is likely to take a lot of stick for helping the Patriots acquire a player of Brown’s talent. That negative press may be too much for any team to risk, but it is worth picking up the phone.

The delicate balancing act is that the Patriots need to enquire without any of those teams telling the Steelers. If the Steelers get a whiff of what the Patriots are doing they may try and insert a clause into the trade. I am not sure of the legality of doing that, but it is definitely a consideration.

What matters most here is that Brown is a wonderful, if somewhat troubled, talent. The chance to get a talent like that does not come around often, and the Patriots should absolutely consider it.

Featured image courtesy of NBC Sports

Best Wide Receiver targets for New England

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In 2019 free agency, the wide receiver position is going to see a lot of turnover in New England. Chris Hogan, Phillip Dorsett, Cordarrelle Patterson, and technically Josh Gordon are all free agents. It is reasonable to think that the Patriots can bring back two of these players, including Josh Gordon.

However, New England will need to retool the receiver position with new faces regardless of who stays and goes. In years past, it hasn’t been as necessary to bring in dynamic weapons due to Tom Brady being Tom Brady. As TB12 nears age 42 though, the playmakers around him will need to be better than ever before.

With this in mind, let’s take a look at some of the most intriguing options at wide receiver for New England this offseason:

Adam Humphries, UFA

Perhaps one of the most sought after free agents this year, Adam Humphries is a perfect fit for New England. Setting aside the small, white slot receiver narrative, Humphries would slide right into Josh McDaniels’ offense. He’s mainly worked out of the slot during his time in Tampa Bay, racking up nearly 900 yards and five touchdowns this past season. Although, he’s able to work other receiver positions as well, similar to what Danny Amendola did for five years.

This style of receiver complements Julian Edelman extremely well, but Humphries won’t be an easy get. He has a multitude of suitors due to his playmaking and catching ability, and could be overpaid this offseason. The Browns and Colts are two teams that have been linked to him, and they have double the cap space New England does. Humphries is perhaps the best fit out of all the available receivers, but will have a hefty price tag.

Golden Tate, UFA

Patriots fans have been coveting someone like Golden Tate for years, and the opportunity has arrived to make it happen. Tate had a decent 2018 campaign, going for nearly 800 yards and four TD’s. Although his ability to be a “do-it-all” type receiver is much more attractive than stats.

Tate mainly plays out of the slot, but is quick enough that he can be a solid deep threat. Like Humphries, the former Lions standout complements Julian Edelman perfectly, and is a natural fit for what the Patriots do on offense.

It’s been reported that Tate would like to stay in Philadephia, but the Eagles aren’t expected to pursue him. When the 2019 season starts, Tate will be 31, but has shown that he still has some gas left in the tank. His market won’t be nearly as competitive as Humphries’ will, and the price tag will be significantly less.

Jermaine Kearse, UFA

A former Seahawk, Kearse has been one of the most underappreciated wideouts in football for years. His stats are always competitive, even when he was with the bumbling Jets, and he is a playmaking machine (see the 2014 Super Bowl). Unlike Humphries and Tate, Kearse plays on the outside a majority of the time, and would likely take over Chris Hogan’s position if he’s signed.

There is a definitely a need for someone like Kearse, who would most likely come on a relatively cheap deal. Chris Hogan was unable to get separation a lot of the time on the outside, and Kearse is very well known for his ability to get a step on cornerbacks. His history of dropped passes is a little concerning, but that’s why he would come on a team-friendly deal. It’s worth looking into, but there are certainly better options on the market.

Cole Beasley, UFA

Another receiver linked to the Patriots due to his race and position, Beasley made it very clear he wants out of Dallas. New England is going to sign or draft a slot receiver this offseason, it’s inevitable. There was a clear need for a Danny Amendola type player in 2018 to match up alongside Edelman, and Beasley fits the bill.

He has a very similar play style to Edelman, as he plays hard and racks up a ton of yards after the catch. Even with the dysfunction in Dallas, he garnered 672 yards and three touchdowns in 2018. Between Beasley, Humphries, and Tate, Beasley could be the best overall option. His price tag won’t be significantly high, he’s a tad younger than Tate, and of course is a bona fide fit. It is likely that this is who the Patriots will ultimately sign for the slot unless Tate comes cheaper.

Demaryius Thomas, UFA

Thomas had a rough 2018 season, posting his worst numbers since 2011, and tearing his Achilles late in the year. He won’t be ready to play until the end of summer and is the oldest receiver on this list at age 31. Even with all of this, New England should try to take a flier on Thomas.

It wouldn’t be anything more than a one or two year deal, but we all know the Patriots’ success with veteran wideouts. Bill Belichick has seen plenty of Thomas from his time with Denver, and knows how good of a receiver he is. Even if it is just for preseason depth, there is very little risk to bring Thomas in to see how much he can still contribute. It’s also worth noting that if Josh Gordon can’t get reinstated, the former Bronco would slide nicely into Gordon’s position.

Antonio Brown, Trade

This name is on this list simply because it has to be. Is there any chance the Steelers trade away their perennial All-Pro to the Pats? Of course not. Do the Patriots have the capital to make it happen though? Absolutely.

Brown comes with his own set of challenges, with his recent diva act being quite the cause for concern. However, there was another All-Pro receiver that had similar problems in 2006 and was traded away to the Pats for nothing in 2007. Ring any bells?

However, Oakland trading Randy Moss to New England wasn’t doing Oakland any harm. The two teams rarely play and the Raiders weren’t going anywhere in the playoffs. The Steelers on the other hand, see the Patriots once, sometimes twice a year. Which means if they did deal Brown to New England, they would most likely watch their former star dismantle Pittsburgh’s zone defense at least once every season.

There are very few scenarios in which Brown puts on a Patriot jersey. The 49ers are the most probable destination. Although, the asking price for Brown may be too high for some teams because of his recent quitting act. In this scenario, there is a chance the Patriots package a couple of higher draft picks to land the receiver.

Odell Beckham Jr., Trade

While at first this might seem like another Antonio Brown type pipe dream, it’s not as crazy as the previous trade scenario. Odell Beckham Jr. can be the most dynamic player in football when healthy. He can also be the league’s most dramatic prima donna when things don’t go his way.

Unlike Brown, Beckham is more affordable and a more likely trade target. The Giants wouldn’t necessarily mind trading with the Patriots, and they probably wouldn’t ask for the farm either. A high draft pick, second or third round, packaged with another young player could make the deal work.

The only question is would the Giants be willing to part ways with the wideout. It depends on which way New York is leaning in regards to their rebuild. They have a bright future with Saquon Barkley and the sixth draft pick in 2019, which will be used on a quarterback. The rest of the team though, is abysmal to say the least. The Giants won’t be competitive for a couple of years, and with OBJ’s injury history and hefty five year contract, the timing could be right.

Here is why Josh Gordon was on the sideline on final play

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New England has lost its second game in December, the first time since 2002.  The Patriots decided to take Josh Gordon out for the final play of the game.  McDaniels answered questions, and Josh Gordon’s absence on that play was a hot topic.

Josh Gordon Should’ve been on the field on Sunday

4th and Goal

Where was Josh Gordon

The Patriots loss didn’t come down to one single play, but again player personnel was an issue.  After the game Bill Belichick was asked about Gordon’s absence.  The head coach said they opted for Cordarrelle Patterson instead, which didn’t answer anything really.

Patterson is another big, athletic, jump ball receiver.  The answer from Belichick didn’t cut it for me, because having Gordon and Patterson in for the play would’ve made sense.  But that wasn’t the case, Gordon who played 58 snaps compared to Patterson’s 4 were swapped for the biggest play of the game.

McDaniels Explains Gordon’s Absence

The Patriots found themselves in position to tie the game after driving down the field.  The game looked like every other Patriots comeback, until the holding call on second down.  That penalty on second down moved the offense from the 11 yard line, back to the 21 yard line and loss of a down.  The Steelers took a timeout before Tom Brady’s final attempt to win.  Gordon ran to the sideline during the time out and left many scratching their head.

McDaniels wanted fresh legs for the final play?

Via SI.com

Josh Gordon wasn’t made available to the media after the game.  McDaniels said that “the offense had run quite a few plays in a row.”  He Seems to be indicating Gordon was tired.  He went on to say Patterson was sent in as a “fresh guy” to try and make a play.  He stated there is no ulterior motive behind the decision.

Josh Gordon Gives The Patriots the Best Chance to Win

The whole situation is strange, and Tom Brady could have used Gordon’s big catch radius and play-making ability on 4th down.  New England needs to win the final two games of the year, and Gordon needs to be on the field.  Josh Gordon is the teams leading receiver, tied for most TDs, and had quickly become Brady’s go to guy.  The Patriots need to play better on the field, but the play calling and coaching also need to be better moving forward.

 

Pittsburgh Steelers: Rest In Peace

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I have a confession to make. I take joy in other people’s pain. I’m not particularly proud of the fact, but I don’t think I’m alone.

I love that Roger Goodell’s NFL is dying in the ratings. The 2017-18 regular season marked the second consecutive significant decline. Last week’s divisional playoffs were down eleven percent nationally. Good.

And I love that ESPN continues to be a dumpster fire. From tanking ratings, to widespread sexual harassment by on-air personalities, and President Jon Skipper resigning over substance abuse issues, I have enjoyed every minute of their demise. I hope everyone on that network has to dive through Taco Bell dumpsters just to feed their families. Ok, maybe that was too much. I hope their families leave them before that happens.

But, as much as I hate Goodell and his mouthpieces in Bristol, I hate our enemies on the field even more. That’s why I’m taking almost obscene pleasure in the current state of affairs in Pittsburgh. You know, the team we were destined to play in the AFC Championship game this weekend.

The Symptoms of Disaster

How on earth did the Pittsburgh Steelers lose a home playoff game to the Jacksonville Jaguars? The answer is simple: they are not the New England Patriots. Pittsburgh is loaded with talent, yes. But, they are poorly coached, undisciplined, and childish. They are the anti-Patriots.

From the final whistle of their annual loss to New England in Week 15, Steelers players, coaches, and fans spent the better part of a month talking about their inevitable rematch in the AFC Championship Game. Hell, even a month before that December game, Mike Tomlin predicted the match-up in a ridiculous interview with NBC’s Tony Dungy.

But after Week 15 the chorus from the Tin City – sorry, steel is hard, you’re not – was loud and confident. Not only were they going to play the Pats in the AFC Championship game, they were going to win. They were the better team. According to Safety Mike Mitchell, it didn’t matter if the game were in hell, Haiti, or Foxborough.

The problem is, of course, that Pittsburgh has all the swagger and none of the game. New England was so in their heads that they forgot the cardinal rule of the NFL – on any given Sunday, anyone can beat you. Bill Belichick’s Patriots would never look past an opponent, certainly not in the playoffs.

Other symptoms of Pittsburgh’s season-long lack of discipline and focus include:

  • Le’Veon Bell threatening to retire in the off-season if the Steelers franchise tag him rather than sign him to a long-term deal.
  • Offensive coordinator Todd Haley shattering his pelvis after being involved in a “situation” outside a Pittsburgh bar that he and his wife had just been thrown out of.
  • Ben Roethlisberger throwing every possible coach under the bus all season long when things didn’t go their way.

The Wrong Overreaction

Pittsburgh’s response to their division-round loss to Jacksonville was typical of many bad franchises. They drew the wrong lessons and overreacted.

Rather than listen to the finally rising chorus calling from Tomlin’s ouster, they fired offensive coordinator Todd Haley. Okay, technically he wasn’t fired, they just didn’t renew his contract. But, he was fired. So, the team that put up 42 points against the Jags didn’t have enough offense? Interesting assessment.

Haley had been the offensive coordinator since 2012, and in the last four seasons had guided the Steelers to no worse than the 7th best offense in the league.  This season, Pittsburgh finished as the third best offense behind only (you guessed it) the Patriots and the Saints. Offense isn’t Pittsburgh’s problem. Leadership and culture are.

As if to double down on their poor decision, Tomlin not only didn’t get rid of anyone on the defensive side of the coaching tree, he gave them a vote of confidence. This, of course, is a group that allowed Blake Bortles to hang 38 points on them.

As commonplace as it’s become for idiots like the CHB to claim New England plays in a division full of tomato cans, it’s ridiculous how Pittsburgh gets a pass for the quality of the AFC North. Tomlin is an awful coach. His teams have simply benefited from playing Cleveland and Cincinnati twice a year – who unlike Miami and Buffalo have neither a defense nor an offense.

Poor management of undisciplined and unfocused players is a recipe for disaster in the NFL. As Patriots fans, we should be thankful that the Pittsburgh Steelers are too dumb to recognize their flaws.

2018 NFL Playoffs: AFC Preview

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When the NFL playoffs kick off on January 6th each team will battle to book a ticket to Super Bowl 52. Although everyone has the same goal in mind, not every team is created equally. Let’s take a look at the AFC playoff team’s keys to success and realistic expectations in this year’s playoffs.

New England Patriots (13-3)

Bill Belichick and Tom Brady once again sit atop the AFC ensuring all roads go through New England. Health has proved to be a big issue for the Patriots, especially in their linebacking core. New England has become prone to giving up big chunks of yards on outside runs going back to their bye week. Since the bye week, the Pats have only held one playoff team to under 100 yards rushing. That was in Week 16, a contest that saw LeSean McCoy leave with an injury. If the Patriots can limit the run and keep Brady and the offense on the field then they will continue their historic dominance. Brady must also limit interceptions. It’s fair to say Brady’s short-comings towards the end of the year were over stated, but he’ll need to make better decisions in the playoffs. If the Patriots play perfect football there isn’t a team in the league that can dethrone them. If New England can avoid beating themselves then they should find themselves in Minnesota come February.

New England should be considered the team to beat for this year’s Super Bowl. However, without a succession plan for Brady in place and his play diminishing over the last half of the season, the Patriots may soon be in limbo. Every Super Bowl may be Brady’s last at this point so they must take advantage of the lack of talent in the AFC now while they remain the top dog.

Pittsburgh Steelers (13-3)

In Week 15, Pittsburgh showcased two realities. One in which they could temper the Patriots offense and cause issues with man coverage. The other is that even with their best effort they still find themselves playing little brother to Bill and Brady. Before they face off against New England again, barring a Patriots meltdown, Pittsburgh will need to be healthy.

With Antonio Brown injured, the Steelers’ receiving core looks pretty pedestrian. If Brown is healthy then the Killer B’s have the capability of going to Big Ben’s third Super Bowl. If they find themselves there and get healthy, they have the offense to keep up with anyone in the NFL. Their biggest question will remain whether their defense can make a big stop.

With Ben Roethlisberger’s health deteriorating every year, it is unclear when he will call it quits. When the day comes, a new regime will take over in Pittsburgh and their may be tough times. Roethlisberger and Mike Tomlin will surely look to get the monkey off their back that is the Patriots prior to their departure. This may be the best year to do so with an exposed New England defense and injuries on both sides of the ball. Pittsburgh fans should accept nothing less than a conference championship game after this regular season.

Jacksonville Jaguars (10-6)

If the Jaguars want to succeed this post-season they will need to do so behind their ferocious defensive front. The Jaguars house four pro-bowlers on their roster, all of which can be found on defense. If DE Calais Campbell and DT Malik Johnson can continue to terrorize opposing quarterbacks it’s possible the Jaguars can make some noise out of the three seed. Bortles will also need to limit mistakes in the opportunities his defense gives him. The fewer interceptions Bortles produces, the higher the likelihood Jaguars make it to the Super Bowl.

A team like Jacksonville carries a disappointing stigma for being a mediocre organization. Winning a playoff game or two would set a standard for the future of the Jaguars. With such a young roster, the Jags will gain experience regardless of their final outcome. In Jacksonville’s first playoff appearance in 10 years, expectations are low. But with their talent the team has a chance to make great strides going forward.

Kansas City Chiefs (10-6)

Kansas City has all the talent necessary to reach the Super Bowl. It is a similar roster to the one that won their division last year. Similarly to last year, the Chief’s success will rely on a few individual performances. Alex Smith will need to be as efficient as he was when defeating New England all the way back in week one. Beyond that, Travis Kelce will need to be a force in the red zone and avoid personal fouls. And finally, Andy Reid must defeat that dreaded game clock that has bested him so often in the past.

This is an important off-season for the Chiefs. Andy Reid’s team has been inconsistent at best in recent years. He may soon find himself on the chopping block if the Chiefs once again go one-and-done these playoffs. Expect them to get to New England, but don’t expect them leave with a win.

Tennessee Titans (9-7)

Tennessee has been unable to score 25-plus points since the month of September. If that stat didn’t kill the Titan’s playoff hopes in the regular season, then recent news certainly has. DeMarco Murray will likely be inactive for their Wild Card game on Saturday. The saying ‘any given Sunday’ is not foreign to me. I know its unfair to rule out a team before they even play. Tennessee would need to play out of their mind to win. With an average defense and Marcus Mariota’s 13-15 TD-INT ratio, Derrick Henry will need to be uber-effective in Murray’s absence. Mariota will also have to be better than he has been all season if they want to win a game.

The big news circulating Tennessee is Mike Mularkey’s future with the team. Should they win Saturday, Mularkey will certainly return for another year. If they do fall to Kansas City, though, it is reported that Mularkey’s job will be in jeopardy. In the case of a loss, potential head coaching candidates will likely determine Mularkey’s future.

Buffalo Bills (9-7)

After 17 long, cold, unforgiving seasons Buffalo faithful finally returns to the postseason. If they want this magical season to continue they will need some help. Most importantly, RB LeSean McCoy will need to be healthy. Tyrod Taylor has proven to be a capable game manager, but his abilities lack those of a great quarterback. Buffalo’s defensive front will need to get to the quarterback and force Bortles to make mistakes if they want to make it out of wild card weekend. If the Bills can pressure quarterbacks during the playoffs they can succeed. Even if Taylor plays his best football, it all boils down to McCoy in the end. The only way Buffalo takes down he Jaguars will be if Shady is at his best.

By making the playoffs, Buffalo may already consider this season a success. This may have secured head coach Sean McDermott’s job for another year, but the Bills have a long way to go. The Bills will be able to use any experience and success they get from this unlikely playoff run in the future. For now Buffalo should just enjoy the moment and hope for miracles to happen.

Sources

Featured picture by Associated Press/Times Free Press
Statistics by pro-football-reference.com

NFL Week 13 Key Match-Ups: Which AFC North Team Must Win to Keep Playoff Hopes Alive

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Pittsburgh Steelers at Cincinnati Bengals

Week 13 features one of the best rivalries in football. The Bengals and Steelers have had a few chippy match-ups over the past few years. The most memorable was their 2015 wildcard game. That game was all but over and it looked like Cincinnati was about to notch their first playoff win since 1991. Not so fast though. With the lead and the ball and under two minutes remaining after a Landry Jones interception, Cincy coughed it right back up thanks to a Jeremy Hill fumble. Then stupid penalties by Vontaze Burfict and Adam Jones allowed Pittsburgh to move deep into Cincy territory and kick a game-winning 35-yard field goal. Yeah, we all remember that one.

Anyways, this game is an absolute must win for the Bengals. They are very quietly still in playoff contention after back to back wins to improve to 5-6. I think many people have forgotten about the Bengals due to their poor start, but they are the same team that has been rather consistent in recent history. Cincy has finished with at least ten wins four out of the last five seasons. If you take a look, their roster looks very similar to the team that went 12-4 just two years ago. They still have their core players on both sides of the ball such as Carlos Dunlap, Adam Jones, Vontaze Burfict, Andy Dalton and AJ Green as well as head coach Marvin Lewis. Their unlikely run at the playoffs will begin with a big win at home vs Pittsburgh. Unfortunately, I think Cincy will play a decent game, but come up short: 23-20 Pittsburgh.

Minnesota Vikings at Atlanta Falcons

You have to love this match up. Arguably the best defense in the league travels south to visit one of the league’s hottest offenses. Minnesota has allowed 19 points or less in eight of their eleven games this season. Atlanta’s offense is returning to 2016 form after a slow start, averaging about 32 points over their last three games. Something will have to give this week. Minnesota is likely in position to win the division, but a big road win in Atlanta would make it nearly impossible for Detroit to catch them. The stakes are much higher for Atlanta (7-4). The Falcons are a game back from New Orleans and Carolina, who play each other this week. If they do not pull off the win this week, winning the NFC South will become a very tall task. Not feeling overly confident in choosing a winner in this one but I think Matty Ice will do just enough to pull off a close win: 24-23 Atlanta.

Image result for vikings falcons

Carolina Panthers at New Orleans Saints

Intriguing game here, divisional foes with identical 8-3 records are facing off. Tied at the top of what has been the best division in football this year. New Orleans and Carolina already played once this year in a game that Drew Brees and company embarrassed Carolina at home, handing them a 34-13 beat down. That was back when Alvin Kamara had a much smaller role and was not running haywire on every defense in his way. I think New Orleans will come out on top and sweep the season series: 27-17 Saints.

Image result for saints panthers

Philadelphia Eagles at Seattle Seahawks

Absolute gem of a Sunday night game. Philly travels out west as they will try to snatch the NFC torch from Seattle. Seattle has reigned in the NFC over the past five years but it appears Wentzylvania has seen enough. Despite a plethora of injuries for Seattle this will still be a true test for the Eagles. If there is a team in the league that just will not quit, it is the Seahawks. Do not think a few key injuries are going to influence them to throw in the towel on the season. They will show up to play and try to prove to the rest of the league that the NFC is still ruled by the legion of boom, even if the legion of boom is currently in a body cast. Also, Seahawk pride aside, Seattle is right in the mix of the playoff race. They are currently in 7th in the NFC but with the two teams currently one game ahead of Seattle facing one another this weekend, Seattle knows a win could situate them into one of those two spots and also allow them to stay within striking distance of the Rams. Unfortunately for Seattle, I think their banged-up secondary will not be strong enough to contain Wentz and company: 27-20 Eagles.

Image result for eagles seahawks

 

Follow me on Twitter: @MLBfromNH

Other Key Games This Week in the AFC

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We’ll be locked in on New England at Buffalo, but let’s take a peak at some other intriguing games from the AFC this week.

Pittsburgh at Cincinnati

Monday night is a pivotal game for the Bengals’ playoff hopes as they host their arch-rivals. The Steelers come into Cincinnati rolling right along on a six-game winning streak. They won the previous meeting 29-14 in Pittsburgh back in October.

The Bengals are 5-6, a game behind Baltimore and Buffalo in the wild card race. A loss will put their playoff hopes on life support. Last week in a win against the hapless Brown, Cincy finally got their running game going as rookie Joe Mixon recorded 114 yards.

They will need more of that in order to sustain drives keeping Pittsburgh’s powerful offense off the field. They also will look to exploit Pittsburgh’s inability to prevent big plays. Week after week, the Steelers have been sneaky bad on defense. Even quarterbacks like Jacoby Brissett and Brett Hundley have hit on multiple deep passes against Pittsburgh. Where the Steelers have been strong is in short yardage situations and against the run in general.

Where Pittsburgh is not struggling is obvious. Le’Veon Bell may be the best running back in the NFL; Antonio Brown may be the best player in the NFL. The Bengals are tough to run on, but have been beaten through the air. Good luck with #84.

Houston at Tennessee

Who scored the most points in one game this season? Houston. The first time the Texans and the Titans played seems like a lifetime ago. Deshaun Watson was a tremendous story early in the season, no doubt on pace to be rookie-of-the-year. But Watson tore his ACL. Enter Tom Savage and a rash of other injuries and this season has become a nightmare for Bill O’Brien and the Texans.

Tennessee is 7-4 but does not have the look of a team that can compete for anything more than a division championship this season. Marcus Mariota has been throwing an increasing number of interceptions and the Titans barely scraped out wins over the likes of Cleveland and Indianapolis. Still, with a favorable schedule ahead of them and a season-ending home game vs. Jacksonville, the Titans have it all in front of them.

Look for the Titans to ride their running game against the banged-up Houston defense.

Kansas City at New York

Anyone who saw these teams in September would have told you that their December meeting would be a lopsided conquest for KC. But a season in the NFL is a long haul.

The Chiefs have lost five out of their last six games. Their offense has played with anemia. In the last two weeks they’ve especially faltered as they’ve scored just one touchdown and a combined 19 points against the Giants and Bills. They obviously have to get back to establishing Kareem Hunt on the ground early and often. In fact, that is when Alex Smith is at his best – when he is not relied on to make the big plays. When Hunt is gaining yards in chunks, it allows Smith to get comfortable and find Travis Kelce his favorite target.

The Jets are just 4-7 but have actually exceeded expectations in their effort and performance. Other than an early season debacle at Oakland, the Jets have been in every game. The fact is, however, Josh McCown is Josh McCown and his fourth quarter play has cost the Jets multiple times this season.

Expect another very competitive game this week unless the “playoff” Chiefs get their mojo back. On paper, this should be one-sided. In reality, it likely won’t be.

 

Brandon Fazzolari is a Super Bowl expert…@spot_Bills