Going Back In Time

By Mike Rifkin

March 10th 2023, a day Carolina Panthers fans will remember for a long time. It was the day the Panthers acquired the first overall pick in the 2023 NFL draft from the Chicago Bears and right now that trade gets worse and worse. The Panthers acquired the first overall pick for Receiver DJ Moore, 2023 first round pick (Darnell Wright – OT), 2023 second round pick (Tyrique Stevenson), 2024 first round pick (Caleb Williams), and a 2025 second round pick. With the first overall pick the Panthers selected Alabama QB Bryce Young. Reportedly there was a bit of a disagreement over Young, as owner David Tepper wanted Young, while then Head Coach Frank Reich wanted Ohio ST. QB CJ Stroud. Ultimately Tepper won out and the Panthers took Young, and Reich was fired after 11 games into his first season. 

The Panthers offense was at the bottom of most categories last season. Things were so bad that as a part of the trade they sent the Bears their first overall pick , which happened to be first overall again. This offseason the Panthers hired Bucs OC Dave Canales to help Bryce Young’s development. Well through two games things haven’t improved and now Bryce Young is getting benched for Andy Dalton. 

In Sunday’s 26-3 loss to the Chargers, Young threw for 84 yards, the fourth fewest in franchise history. Through two games Young has a 55.4 completion percentage, 231 yards, zero touchdowns and three interceptions, and has been sacked six times. Now, Dave Canales has announced that Young will be benched in favor of Andy Dalton. 

The Bears made out like bandits in this deal, not just based on what they acquired in the deal. But for this reason, the Panthers just said Bryce Young won’t be their starter in 2025, and potentially might never play for the organization again. Because you cannot bench him in favor of a guy like Andy Dalton, Dalton is a veteran who has been around, but if you had that little faith in Young then Dalton should’ve started from the beginning. But because the Panthers are going this route,one has to imagine the Panthers are back in the quarterback market in 2025. Unless Dalton sustains an injury the Panthers should even consider demoting Young to the emergency QB, because yo-yoing him will do nothing for his confidence. But one has to wonder would the Panthers make this deal again if they go back in time, or would they select Stroud like Frank Reich wanted?

SIN BLITZERS WEEK 2 PREVIEW

Texas Two Step : TEXANS/COWBOYS WEEK 2

“Keep your Saddle oiled and your gun greased” (Texas slang for be prepared)

         The Cowboys demolished the Browns last week. They thoroughly decimated the Browns on both sides of the ball. Dak got his contract that he wanted and hopes to take the Cowboys to the promised land known as the Super Bowl. The Browns Defense was in the top five in the NFL last year. Dak picked them apart on each drive with most of them leading to points on the board. Dallas won and now they have their home opener this Sunday against the New Orleans Saints that looked impressive against the Panthers during week 1. Now there are high school teams who can give the Panthers a good challenge. The Cowboys take on a formidable team in the Saints. The offense is loaded with weapons from Kamara to Olave and if either one of them get going the Saints are hard to stop. Now with the Saints playing the Panthers the Offense and Defense were as scary as Wile E Coyote with any of his many devices. The Saints chewed up the Panthers pretty much the same way the Cowboys did to the Browns. 

      Derrick Carr played well last week throwing for 200 yards and 3 TD’s and Kamara 15/83/1 and Rashid Shaheed lead all receivers 3/72/1. The biggest surprise was Olave only has 2/11 on the day. First things first is the Saints defense was perfect week 1 but could but find them up against a very scary team. This is a game where we could see each and every offensive major talent shut down by this top three Defense in the NFL. Look for the Cowboys to do the same things on defense as they did to the Browns in the first week and that is to swarm Derek Carr. Carr is an above average Quarterback and has a plethora of weapons to use. Carr and the Saints were up against probably the worst team in the NFL today. The Cowboys will control this game from the first drive until the final gun. MY predictions for this game are dak will throw for more than 300 yards with 4 td’s. The running game does exactly what it did in week one and that creates shorter 2nd downs and 3rd downs. The longer drives go the more the opposition has to keep changing its game plan. Look for the Cowboys to obliterate the Saints by at least two scores and the Defense comes away with a pick six as well and Kevonte Turpin to drive special teams wild. The Cowboy’s will be victorious and win 42-17.

     Now on the other side of the dance floor we have the Houston Texans and the Dallas Cowboys putting up notice of their plays as they fight for the best NFL team in Texas. The Texans take on the Chicago Bears from the NFC North. The Chicago Bears are a completely rebuilt offense. Chicago wasn’t passing up on the chance to be able to draft Caleb Williams (the NFL version of Lebron James and thanks Panthers) arguably the best player in the draft that took place back in April of this year and Chicago was one of the teams who were considered to have had one of the best drafts according to ESPN and Sports Illustrated. The Bears came out and this offense that everyone and their mother has been talking about could not get into the endzone. Call it first game jitters, maybe the offense wasn’t fully in sync or call it whatever but the Bears (mind you they played the panthers) offense came out and contributed nothing for the first game. The Bears Defense and Special Teams scored all the points. If the Bears think they are going to be able to do this against Houston and come out with a win then they are dreaming. Houston is a complete team at every level and we saw that on week 1 as Stroud got everyone involved in the victory. 

    This Game is the primetime Sunday night game and I am truly looking forward to seeing these young QB’s play at their best and maybe see some real explosive plays. Look for the Texans to score early and the Defense shuts down the young rookie to a score of 31-20. 

DETROIT LIONS VS TAMPA BAY

  The Lions picked up right where they left off last season by beating the Rams in overtime in week one. The Lions took the same attitude as they did in game one this season as they did in the NFC Title game last year. Goff hasn’t lost a step and the combo of Montgomery and Gibbs. Montgomery got the bulk of the carries with 17 while Gibbs had 11 rushing attempts but Gibbs Chipped in 4 receptions as well. Even though Montgomery got 8 more carries if you watched the game you could clearly see that Montgomery is the 1st down back and then it’s by committee. I said in my earlier articles the more complete Running Back back will lead the way by week 7. When I say complete that rush and receive out of the back field. Gibbs and Montgomery can and have proven they could do it but in the NFL now teams have to be balanced at not only offense but defense as well.

     We also got to watch Baker cook for us in Tampa where he threw 4 touchdowns against the Washington Commanders 37-20. Baker picked up where he left off last season finding Mike Evans for 2 touchdowns and Chris Godwin for 83 yards and a score as well. The Lions gave up a lot of yards to Stafford. This is a rematch of the NFC Divisional playoffs last season that saw the Lions win 31-23. Goff threw for 287 yards and two touchdowns. The Lions defense had four sacks and forced two Mayfield interceptions.

 I think the Lions and Cowboys are the most complete teams in the NFL. If you’re a weaker team and try to push past the “Pride” that is Detroit. You are going to be the ones going home with their pride hurt. This will be a close game but watch for the Detroit Lions to edge out the Bucs 24-21 – Mark Halpern 

          BENGALS VS CHIEFS

After getting over a disappointing week one loss against the New England Patriots by a score of 16-10,the Cincinnati Bengals are facing off against the defending champion Kansas City Chiefs. The Chiefs are coming off their week one win against the Baltimore Ravens by a score of 27-20. Last week The Bengals struggled with Joe Burrow having an abysmal performance and Tee Higgins missing last week with a hamstring injury . Higgins will most likely miss this week as well, but he’s not the only one who could possibly be out on Sunday , tight end Tanner Hudson is now on limited practice due to knee injury and so is linebacker Logan Wilson .

Keys To Victory 

Bengals Offense: The key to victory on the Bengals offense is going to be two things , one Burrow will have to be more mobile and they will have to give the ball to Zack Moss . The reason for that is because the pass defense for Kansas City is absolutely superb holding Lamar Jackson to only 122 yds . Zack Moss did a good job last week for the Bengals running 44 yards and a touchdown in his first game replacing Bengals running back Joe Mixon who is now in Houston. This would also take pressure off of Ja’marr Chase with Tee Higgins possibly being out .

Defense: The key for the Bengals defense would be the combination of Trey Hendrickson and Sam Hubbard on the pass defense .Last week this duo helped contain Jacoby Brissett to only 122 yards. The pass defense didn’t allow any Patriots receiver to have more than 35 yards. Whoever suits up for the defense will have to realize quickly that they aren’t playing the Patriots, they’re playing the best quarterback in the NFL , Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs. 

Chiefs

Offense: The Chiefs offensive key to victory would be rookie wide receiver Xavier Worthy. Worthy should now be seen as Mahomes new  favorite target , last week he rushed for 21 yards and ran for 47 yards and scored two touchdowns. Worthy can also be seen as a worthy replacement as Marquesie “ Hollywood “ Brown who was placed  on the injured reserve list .

Defense : Cornerback Trent McDuffie would be the defensive key of victory to the Kansas City Chiefs . Last week McDuffe contained Raven receiver Zay Flowers , now this week he is going to take on Ja’Marr Chase . With Higgins being doubtful this could make things easier for McDuffe because he would have a lighter load. There is a chance though that McDuffe would need help from the rest of the defense in covering him . 

Prediction Chiefs 28 Bengals 17 – Bill Murphy

BROWNS AT JAGS

Both of these teams are coming off of disappointing week one losses. The Jags blew a 17-7 lead to the Dolphins. The Jags offense was shutout in the second half in the 20-17 loss. Trevor Lawrence was 12-21 for 162 yards and a touchdown. One interesting note was Travis Etienne and Tank Bigsby both had 12 carries each. Now whether that has to do with Etienne fumbling or not we don’t know, but Bigsby outgained the former first round pick 73-44. Gabe Davis and Brian Thomas Jr. had good debuts with their new team combining for 7 catches for 109 yards and a touchdown.  

On the Other side the Browns are coming off a 33-17 thrashing at the hands of the Cowboys (20-3 at halftime). Deshaun Watson really struggled. He was 24-45 for 169 yards with a touchdown and two interceptions, and was sacked six times. Watson struggled throwing the ball down the field. In seven games against Jacksonville Watson has nine touchdowns and three interceptions with a 93.4 passer rating. Watson will not have tight end David Njoku, who will miss  the game with an ankle injury. The Browns defense will also need to be better than they were against the Cowboys. Two teams that can’t afford to start 0-2 go head to head in Jacksonville.

Prediction

Browns : 24 Jags : 21 – Mike Rifkin

Nightmare Scenario

By Mike Rifkin

There was a lot of pressure on the Miami Dolphins Thursday night to change the narrative and finally beat their division rival Buffalo Bills. Instead Thursday was a worst case scenario for the Dolphins. They got beat by the Bills 31-10 and on top of that quarterback Tua Tagovailoa got hurt in the third quarter with a concussion. The game becomes secondary, because everyone hopes Tua is okay, but after what occurred during the 2022 season, one has to wonder if we have seen the last of Tua? 

The biggest story was the Bills defense. They forced three Tua interceptions including a pick six. The Bills defense also didn’t allow Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle to beat them, the two combined for seven catches for 65 yards. 

Offensively the Bills got three touchdowns from James Cook (two rush, one receiving) and 95 total yards. Josh Allen was only 13-19 for 139 yards and a touchdown, but that was enough. But if you read my pregame for this game, I said the Dolphins defense had to watch out for Allen’s legs, and Allen made quite a few plays with his legs, not by running the ball but by extending plays that lengthened Bills’ drives. The Dolphins’ defense couldn’t lay a hand on Allen. 

For the Bills they have won 11 of the last 12 over the Dolphins and remain the favorite in the AFC East. But the biggest story is what happens next with Tua. I think it’s safe to say he’ll miss next week’s game in Seattle, but who knows what the future holds. But the Dolphins are going to look at getting help at the quarterback position. The Dolphins go to Seattle and the Bills will host the Jaguars on Monday night.

Change The Narrative

By Mike Rifkin

The narrative surrounding the Miami Dolphins is that they haven’t been able to win the big game. Well, they can start to change that narrative on Thursday night when they host the Buffalo Bills.  In week 18 of the 2023 season the two teams battled to see who would win the AFC East and the Bills prevailed 21-14. A major key was the Bills possessed the ball for almost 40 minutes, while the Dolphins had it for slightly under 22 minutes. 

Keys To the game : Bills

  • Will someone on the outside step up? Last week against the Cardinals, Bills receivers stats were very balanced. This is the first meeting between the two teams since the trade of Stefon Diggs, who was a Dolphin killer. Diggs had 670 yards and six touchdowns in eight games against the Dolphins. Khalil Shakir did have 100 yards in week 18 last season.
  • Make The Dolphins one dimensional : Everything the Dolphins do on offense is about one thing: speed. If the Bills can stop the run, and make the Dolphins one dimensional they can sit back and not allow Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle beat them. 

Keys to the game : Dolphins

  • David Long and Jordyn Brooks – Let’s be honest Josh Allen has owned the Dolphins over his career with 33 touchdowns and seven interceptions in his career. But why are the two inside linebackers a key? The Dolphins cannot allow Allen’s legs to beat them, he will do damage with his arm, but his legs were a massive weapon in week 18 last season so containing his running ability is a massive key. 
  • Run the Ball – What’s another way to beat Josh Allen let him hangout on the sideline and run the ball. The Dolphins struggled against the Jags to get the run going. The Cardinals had 124 rushing yards and averaged 5.0 yards per carry in week one, if the Dolphins can take a page out of that book that’d be beneficial. 

The Bills have won eight of the last nine meetings, and if the Dolphins truly want to change this narrative this is as much of a must win in week two that there will be. 

Prediction

Bills – 24 – Dolphins : 21

BLITZER RECAP : WEEK 1

BY SIN BLITZERS

PATRIOTS 16 – BENGALS 10 : The Patriots started the Jerod Mayo era with a win over the Bengals. The Bengals were not great on Sunday, Joe Burrow was 21-29 but only for 164 yards and averaged 5.7 yards per completion. The Bengals offense only ran 48 plays, and the Patriots had the ball for 34 minutes. The Bengals didn’t have Tee Higgins, who was out with a hamstring injury. Ja’Marr Chase, despite his contract talks stalling, had six catches for 62 yards. Tanner Hudson had a massive fumble in the red zone too that was massive. Then there’s the defense that allowed the Patriots to run for 170 yards including 120 from Rhamondre Stevenson. The Bengals will look to bounce back against the Chiefs, while the Patriots will host the Seahawks. – Bill Murphy

Dolphins 20 – Jags 17 : The Dolphins trailed 17-7 at halftime and outscored the Jags 13-0 in the second half. Tyreek Hill, who had an eventful Sunday on and off the field, caught an 80 yard touchdown, and had seven catches for 130 yards and a touchdown. Jaylen Waddle also had 109 yards on five catches. The Dolphins struggled to run the ball, only had 81 yards and averaged three yards per carry. Jevon Holland made the biggest play defensively, forcing a Travis Etienne fumble, on his way to the endzone and the Dolphins recovered in the endzone. Jason Sanders made the 52 yard game winning Field Goal, was two out of three on the day. The Dolphins have a big game on Thursday against the Bills, while the Jags host the Browns.  – Mike Rifkin

TEXAS TWO STEP

BY MARK HALPERN

BOTH TEXAS TEAM 1-0

“Texas is a blend of valor and swagger” – Carl Sandburg

This past weekend the Texans took on the Colts which was a battle ofSophomore Quarterbacks CJ Stroud and Anthony Richardson. Neither quarterback disappointed and this game came down to the wire. Stroud had 234yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions. Veteran Wide receiver Stefon Diggs was the recipient of both touchdowns to go along with 33 yards. Nico Collins and Tank Dell made their presence known throughout the day but it was Collins with the big day with 117 yards. The main problem for the Texans last year was their running game. Well they were able to mix in the running game, Joe Mixon ran for 159 yards and a touchdown on 30 carries, which feels like a lot for week one. But as a team the Texans ran for 213 yards and ran for over five yards a carry.  If the Texans want to go where a lot of people think they can go, the defense has to be better. They gave up 303 yards of total offense, and gave up seven yards per play. They did get two sacks and an interception. Now the Texans will get ready for the spotlight of Sunday Night Football where they play Caleb Williams and the Bears. 

The Dallas Cowboys were all over the news right before the game started with the announcement of Dak Prescott’s mammoth extension of 4 years at $60 million per year with $231 million guaranteed. Making Dak the highest paid player in the NFL (until the next guy beats it). Dak Prescott is a leader and knows how to get certain things out of his players. Dak got the fight back in the running game from Zeke  Elliott who only rushed for 40 yards but, you can see the excitement not only in Elliott but the rest of his team when he scored. Elliot said “he Finally feels like he is home” The Dallas offense was balanced throughout the game. Prescott threw for 179 yards and a touchdown, but most importantly didn’t turn the ball over. Cee Dee Lamb was all over the place with 86 total yards (25 rush, 61 receiving)  and Bradin Cooks showed that with him healthy and in sync with Dak on the 20-yard TD he was the recipient of. As for the Defense, I have to admit I was really worried with the departure of Dan Quinn who did a great job with Defense. Well Mike Zimmer came in and didn’t change much.Why change something that works. You might tweak it a little to fix the holes but this Dallas defense held the Browns to a measly 262 yards on the day and Watson seemed limp like some of his throws resulting in two interceptions for the Dallas defense. The Browns did manage to score once on a pass to Jeudy and then a garbage time rushing TD forJerome Ford. The Dallas Defense picked up where it left off last season with 6 sacks and 2 interceptions. This wasn’t against a bad team either. Yes, they were missing Nick Chubb still but the Cowboys came in and flushed the Browns. The Cowboys matchup next week against the Saints who had an impressive week 1 but against the Panthers. Stay tuned for my Texas Fans previews for this week very soon.

COULDN’T HAVE ASKED FOR A BETTER GAME

We expected nothing less than how this game played out. The question Was the flip flop trade of Stafford for Goff really going to pay off? Well, anyone who says that either team made a mistake in this trade you are wrong. Both teams have benefited from not just excellence but, from experience. Goff had 217 yards 1td and 1 int on what I would say was a lackluster performance from this team. David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs picked up where they left off and these two headed running back monsters rushed for a combined 132 yards and a touchdown for each of them (mind you Montgomery’s TD was the winning one in OT). Goff moved the ball around plenty but it was Jameson Williams who had the most impressive day with 121 yards and a touchdown. The Lions defense still hasn’t figured it out completely from last season. The secondary let Cooper Kupp run wild for the tune of 14 receptions for 110 yards and a TD. Kupp,  yes is one of the best Wide Receivers in the game but you have to contain him, especially with the news on Puka Nakua, who injured his right knee and will most likely now miss more than the four games originally stated for an IR stint.  The Lions will face off against Tampa Bay next Sunday. We all saw how Baker did and if the Lions defense allows him to do it to them it will be a long day in Detroit.

Any Regrets?

By Mike Rifkin

Coming into the 2024 NFL season the quarterback under the most scrutiny was Deshaun Watson, and after his week one performance that scrutiny will get louder.  In the Browns’ 33-17 loss to the Cowboys, Watson was not good. Watson was 24-45 for 169 yards with a touchdown and two interceptions. Watson averaged 3.8 yards per completion in the loss, he was 0-10 on passes more than 15 air yards. In the first half he was 0-7 on passes more than five yards. But Sunday was just another scoop on the disaster Sundae that has been Deshaun Watson since he’s gone to Cleveland and got 230 million dollars guaranteed. 

Browns fans have waited a long time to have a franchise quarterback and were hopeful Watson would be that guy. If you include Sunday’s game Watson has 15 touchdowns and 11 interceptions in 13 games. Joe Flacco was able to lead this same Browns team to the playoffs last season after Watson was injured. 

But while the Browns and their fanbase rejoiced thinking they upgraded the quarterback position, Baker Mayfield, the number one pick of the Browns in 2018 has become a steady quarterback. In four years with the Browns Mayfield threw 92 touchdowns and 52 interceptions. Mayfield also had a revolving door of coaches and coordinators in his time in Cleveland. After spending 2022 with the Panthers and Rams, Baker found himself a home in Tampa Bay. In 2023 Baker had 64.3 completion percentage, 4,044 yards, 28 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. In Sunday’s season opening win over the Commanders Baker was 24-30 for 289 yards and four touchdowns. 

Now we can talk about all the different philosophies behind why the Browns traded for Watson while still having Baker on the roster. But Baker isn’t the only thing the Watson trade revitalized. The Houston Texans, who traded Watson to Cleveland are a team people are watching in the AFC. In that trade for Watson the Texans acquired picks that became massive pieces of their franchise including receiver Tank Dell and defensive end Will Anderson. We’ll see what happens, but right now I think a fair question to ask is do the Browns regret what they did? For me, yes because you had to deal with Watson during his legal issues and on top of giving him 230 million dollars fully guaranteed. And yes while Baker may not have been my answer at quarterback, although his numbers were fine there, one has to wonder what the Browns, Baker and the Texans look like without that trade? But right now we can put that as one of the worst trades in league history, Deshaun Watson needs to play better to change that narrative, and the pressure is on.

IT’S LIKE A NECESSARY EVIL

(AN ARTICLE INSPIRED BY BILL MURPHY)

BY MARK HALPERN

The most gut wrenching move during this past Offseason was the Eagles acquired ex-Giant Running back Saquon Barkley.  Saquon has a lot of talent and is filled on an offense that is built to destroy opposing defenses as the Eagles did against the Packers Friday night in Brazil. Barkley ran for 109 yards and 2 touchdowns and caught 2 balls for 23 yards and another touchdown. I was hoping that Barkley would go somewhere where my Cowboys wouldn’t have to deal with him twice a season still. 

      Now on the other side of the coin we have fantasy football and I texted Bill “Corpus Crispi” Murphy (a member of the SIN team) and said “are you as gut wrenched as I am about Saquon numbers?” Bill responded “It’s kind of bittersweet cause I have him in fantasy football so, it’s like necessary evil.” I sat there and thought about it and realized I also do have Saquon on 3 out of my 4 teams so I told Bill I guess I am in the same boat. Barkley had an excellent debut with the Eagles. He is now part of such a dynamic offense, something the Giants never really provided him with. Now Saquon is on an Eagle team that has one goal in mind and that is the Super Bowl.

   Yes, we have teams and players we dislike, but when it comes to fantasy football there’s no such thing (unless you play against the player). So, the moral of the story is a time where you can be two-faced about a player and not feel too guilty.

Superbowl 59 Halftime Show-Allison’s Pick To Perform

With the NFL regular season starting this week, it’s also the start to consider how we will celebrate the annual Superbowl. Last year, we had a nostalgic performance from Usher who headlined the Superbowl Halftime show with Alicia Keys, Jermaine Dupri, H.E.R., will.i.am, Lil Jon, Ludacris, and Sonic Boom of the South. When it comes to this year, do we continue on the nostalgic route, bring a popular artist like Rihanna, Lady Gaga; or go back to a rock era. Here is my list of artists and bands who deserve to perform at this year’s Superbowl Halftime Show

*Taylor Swift- I have been pleading for this since Superbowl 51. This is unlikely due to her relationship with Kansas City Chiefs Tight End Travis Kelce.

*Green Day- Going into the 90s/2000s nostalgia and rock era, Green Day is a perfect pick to perform at the Superbowl 59 Halftime Show. They could also bring artists similar to them such as Weezer and the Red Hot Chili Peppers again.

*Nicki Minaj- With over a decade of music, Nicki Minaj only guest appeared at a Superbowl Halftime show with Madonna headlining the event. It would be interesting to see how she would do performing all of her hits such as Superbass, Anaconda, and Starships

*Ariana Grande- Another popular artist that the younger audience would recognize and someone who hits the charts every time she releases a song. Another unlikely pick as she would be focusing on her role as Glinda in the two-part movie Wicked. So to that I say thank you…. next

*Miley Cyrus and Dolly Parton- This Godmother/Daughter duo would make an interesting pick for the Superbowl halftime show. Dolly has done everything except perform at a Superbowl Halftime show. If this happens, she would be the oldest artist to perform at a Superbowl. When it comes to Miley, her music ranges from country to pop rock.

*Harry Styles/One Direction- This would be the ultimate reunion for One Direction if they decide to all perform again at the Superbowl Halftime Show. Just like the last performance in New Orleans with Beyonce and Destiny’s Child, Harry Styles would be the one to take the lead with the rest coming in to end it with songs such as What Makes You Beautiful, Drag Me Down, and Best Song Ever.

*Lil Wayne/Drake featuring Birdman- This would be a homecoming for Lil Wayne as he was born and raised in New Orleans for everything he worked hard for to get the career he deserved. Since he worked with artists such as Drake and his mentor, Birdman, they should be given credit as a part of this epic performance. For Drake, this would be a comeback he would need to get his career back on the floor. I haven’t heard any new music from him in years.

Week One Preview

By SIN Blitzers

TEXAS TWO STEP : “Hey slick in your time we ever do the Texas Two Step?”

“Yes Sir.” Will Smith and Josh Brolin Men in Black 3 

Mark Halpern

Both the Texans and Cowboys enter the season with Super Bowl aspirations. Let’s start with the Texans, a team that had a phenomenal season last season. CJ Stroud had an amazing rookie season. The emergence of Tank Dell and Nico Collins was huge, but now they add Joe Mixon and Stefon Diggs to the mix, and this offense should be fun to watch. Defensively young stars like Will Anderson and Derek Stingley lead the way. Jonathan Greenard led the team with 12.5 sacks, but he’s now in Minnesota and ironically was replaced by Danielle Hunter, who had 16.5 sacks last season. 

The Texans take on the team they beat to win the division last season in the Indianapolis Colts. The Colts will have Anthony Richardson back behind center, after missing the bulk of last season with a shoulder injury. But the key to stopping the Colts will be to stop Johnathan Taylor, who in his career has 811 yards and eight touchdowns in six games against Houston. 

Prediction : Texans 31 Colts 17

As for the other Texas team, the Cowboys travel to Cleveland to play the Browns. Our last image of both of these teams was getting their rear ends kicked during wild card weekend, the Browns at the hands of the Texans and the Cowboys at the hands of the Packers. But it’s a new year, which means expectations are high. For Cleveland to be successful this season, they need Deshaun Watson to revert back to what he was in Houston, because last season (I know he got hurt) but Joe Flacco outplayed him and led the Browns to the playoffs.Without Nick Chubb though this Browns offense will look a little different. The Trevon Diggs vs Amari Cooper matchup is one I am looking forward to, but the key guy for me is David Njoku, that’s the guy the Cowboys have to stop, he had 882 yards and six touchdowns.

 Now for the Cowboys quarterback, I believe Dak should be paid and we’re still waiting for that but Ceedee got his and he’ll play on Sunday. The quartet of Ceedee, Jalen Tolbert, Brandin Cooks along with Jake Ferguson will have to come up big this season, as we don’t know what to make of the running game.The question is going to be how will the Cowboys offensive line handle Myles Garrett? Defensively for the Cowboys it’s no longer Dan Quinn in the box, he’s now coaching Washington, Da’ron Bland (Mr. pick six) is out and how will Trevon Diggs look in his first game action since tearing his ACL? We know the Cowboys Defensive line should play well led by Micah Parsons. 

Prediction : Cowboys 24 Browns 14

Battle Of Florida

By Mike Rifkin

The NFL season opens up with a lot of intriguing matchups, none might not be more intriguing than the Dolphins going to Jacksonville to play the Jaguars. There are a lot of similarities between the two teams, for one both teams collapsed at the end of last season and allowed a division title to slip away (although the Dolphins were still a wild card), both teams hired new defensive coordinators, and both teams invested a lot of money in their franchise Quarterbacks. 

Trevor Lawrence signed a five year 275 million dollar contract with 55 million dollars guaranteed. Tua Tagovailoa signed a four year 212.5 million dollar contract with 53.1 million dollars guaranteed. These two quarterbacked their respective colleges in the 2019 National Championship game. A game that saw Lawrence’s Clemson Tigers beat Tua’s Alabama Crimson TIde 44-16. Lawrence threw for 347 yards and three touchdowns, while Tua threw for 295 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. Now with both guys signing long term deals the pressure is on both of them to perform at a high level. 

Keys to the game

Jags

  1. Stop the run – last year Miami was sixth in the NFL averaging 135.8 yards per game rushing, while the Jags gave up 103 yards per game. 
  2. Keep Trevor Lawrence up – Lawrence was sacked 35 times last season, and Miami was third in the NFL with 56 sacks. They might not have Bradley Chubb, but Jaelan Phillips potential return could bolster the Dolphin pass rush. 

Dolphins

  1. Containing Travis Ettiene – Ettiene had over 1,000 rushing yards last year and added almost 500 yards receiving. It’ll be on Jordyn Brooks and David Long to contain Ettiene.
  2. Young Corners : Yes, the Dolphins let go of long time corner Xavien Howard during the offseason. They signed Kendall Fuller to go opposite Jalen Ramsey, but Ramsey has had a hamstring issue which might mean more playing time for Ethan Bonner and Storm Duck. 

Prediction

Dolphins 27 Jags 17

New Direction

Mike Rifkin

The Titans and Bears both had very aggressive offseasons, but for the same reason. The Bears for the second consecutive season had the number one overall pick (thanks Panthers) and took Caleb Williams to hopefully be their franchise quarterback. The Bears spent the offseason spending around Caleb bringing in D’andre Swift, Keenan Allen and drafting Rome Odunze to go on an offense with DJ Moore and Cole Kmet. And defensively re-signed Montez Sweat after acquiring him from Washington. 

As for the Titans they fired Mike Vrabel after last season and hired Bengals Offensive Coordinator Brian Callahan to coach. The Titans also lost franchise icon Derrick Henry in free agency and replaced him with Tony Pollard. Pollard along with second year back Tyjae Spears will split the load in the backfield. Through free agency the Titans brought in Tyler Boyd, who played for Callahan in Cincy and signed Calvin Ridley from the Jags. All of this to help second year Quarterback Will Levis, if Levis plays well the Titans may have found their franchise quarterback. 

In a battle of two teams wondering if they have their franchise QB, only one can come out on top. 

Prediction Bears 33 Titans 20

Bengals vs Patriots Preview 

By Bill  Murphy 

Well, folks it is once again time for Bengals Football.  Last year the Bengals had a roller coaster of a season finishing 9-8 and last place in the AFC North . The Bengals’ issues consisted of the wrist injury to quarterback Joe Burrow . Now going into this  season , the Bengals lost some pieces over the offseason such as Offensive Coordinator Brian Callahan who took the head coaching job in Tennessee, followed by Tyler Boyd.  A new season has begun In CIncy and they will be facing off against the New England Patriots in their first game with a New Coach , Jerod Mayo and QB Jacoby Brisett .

Keys To The Game

Bengals :

Offense :  Burrows pass game taking advantage of the Patriots depleted pass rush . 

Joe Burrow despite being injured last year threw for 2,309 yards . Burrow has a full arsenal of weapons aside from Ja’marr Chase and Tee Higgins , he also has running back Chase Brown, wide receiver Andrei Iosivas , wide receiver Jermaine Burton and tight end Mike Gesicki .  This going to have to take advantage of the Patriots pass rush which is depleted from last year with Christian Baramore being out due to a blood clot and Matt Judon being traded to the Falcons in the offseason . 

Defense :  Linebackers

The key for the Bengals defense are linebackers Logan Wilson and Germaine Pratt .  Wilson came off a year with 78 solo tackles and 57 assisted tackles,  two forced fumbles and four interceptions . Pratt  came up with two sacks , two interceptions and two force fumbles . This duo will have to play a major role against New England’s best offensive options Hunter Henry and Rhamondre Stevenson. 

Patriots :

Offense: Offensive line containing Trey Hendrickson 

Trey Hendrickson had a very solid defensive year last year with 18 sacks tied for second behind TJ Watt.  The Patriots added  free agent left tackle  Chukwuma Okorafor and moved  Mike Onwenu to  tackle .  Containing Trey Hendrickson and Sam Hubbard will be a  huge thing for this offensive line . 

Defense : Secondary must contain Higgins and Chase

All five of the defensive  backs for New England will be back this year.  They had 36 sacks last year which made  them a real pain for quarterbacks .  Another player that needs to be watched out for New England is corner back  Christian Gonzalez .  Coming off a season ending injury last year he had one interception and one sack . Gonzalez  is going to be covering  Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins trying to contain them both. 

Prediction : Bengals 28 Patriots 10 

Rematch

We’re ending Sunday with a rematch from the NFC Wild Card round and one of the best games of the playoffs. The storylines write themselves as Matthew Stafford and the Rams go to Detroit to play Jared Goff and the Lions. The Lions are coming off their most exciting season in decades, they were a few plays away from going to the Super Bowl and now they have expectations. They have an elite offense with Goff, Amon-ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams (hopefully a full season), Jahmyr Gibbs, and Sam Laporta. The Lions secondary was their weak spot last season, but after adding Carlton Davis, Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw that position was bolstered. And they’ll be tested right away against Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua. 

Just like the playoff game, I expect this to be high scoring. Goff can throw for over 300 yards and two touchdowns, Stafford might do the same. 

Prediction :Lions 38 Rams 31

2024 Blitzer Questionnaire 

BY SIN BLITZERS

Ladies and Gentlemen football season is back and so is the Sports Insanity Network’s coverage. We will still have our regular pre/postgame articles (in a different format) as well as Thursday Night Gridiron and Sunday Sideline Report. But before the season kicks off some of our guys weighed in on some big topics on the upcoming season. 

  1. Who are the biggest threats to the Chiefs and 49ers in their respective conferences?

1A) Bill Murphy : For the Chiefs I think the biggest threat are the Baltimore Ravens. After last season, Lamar Jackson will extra motivated, and the signing of Derrick Henry adds a different element to the offense. 

2A) Mike Rifkin : : Cincinnati Bengals: Who is the biggest threat to Patrick Mahomes? Well how about the only quarterback outside of Tom Brady to go into KC and win a playoff game. If Joe Burrow is healthy the Bengals are the biggest threat in the AFC. Yes, Tee Higgins and Trey Hendrickson requested trades, but they’re both still there. Oh and Ja’Marr Chase is also pretty good. 

3A) Mark Halpern : I agree with Mike, I think the Bengals are the biggest threat to the Chiefs. A healthy Joe Burrow, who is chomping at the bit to come back. I think the Bengals are on a mission. 

1B) Bill Murphy : I’m going to say the Dallas Cowboys. Dak Prescott and Mike Mccarthy are each playing/coaching for their jobs here. If the Cowboys aren’t playing in an NFC Championship game big changes are coming. 

2B) Mark Halpern : It’s hard for me to pick one team. The Cowboys, Eagles, and Lions are all teams to watch in the NFC and can all be a major threat to San Fran. 

3B) Mike Rifkin : They were so close to beating the Niners in the NFC Title game, but a plethora of mistakes cost them in the second half. They improved the secondary bringing in Carlton Davis from the Bucs and drafting Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. They also went to Jared’s for their quarterback by extending Jared Goff. The Lions are on the prowl in the NFC.

  1. COACH (OR TEAM) WITH THE MOST TO PROVE AND WHY ?

Mark Halpern : Bill alluded to it above, it’s Mike McCarthy and the Cowboys. As a fan I am tired of all the talk and have been ready for some action. The only thing Jerry Jones has given me over the years, is rightfully putting Jimmy Johnson in the ring of honor. If McCarthy doesn’t reach the NFC title game he’s going to be a footnote in Cowboys history.

Bill Murphy : Robert Salah of the Jets. He’s had the excuse of not having a quarterback throughout his years as Jets coach, well now all the eggs are in the basket of 41 year old Aaron Rodgers, if Salah doesn’t succeed this season, he’s out of a job. 

Mike Rifkin: Jets, Robert Salah – It’s time for the Jets to put up or shut up. Every year under Salah the fans can say he hasn’t had a quarterback, well now Aaron Rodgers is healthy, and anything short of an AFC title game appearance should be unacceptable. If the Jets continue the longest active playoff drought in the NFL Salah, Joe Douglass and Rodgers might be looking for employment elsewhere. 

  1. PLAYER WITH THE MOST TO PROVE AND WHY

Mike Rifkin: Deshaun Watson- Browns : Watson got a fully guaranteed contract after being acquired by the Browns, Watson has 14 touchdowns and nine interceptions in 12 games. Joe Flacco played well enough to get the Browns to the playoffs, now it’s time for the 230 million dollar man to show up. 

Mark Halpern : Aaron Rodgers only played four snaps last season after that the Jets season spiraled down. Now they’re banking on the 41 year old to end the longest playoff drought in sports (current). 

Bill Murphy : Russell Wilson : He flopped in Denver and is looking to get back on the horse with the Steelers. He was named the starter beating out Justin Fields, even though some don’t think it was much of a competition. If Russ doesn’t play well, he might not just lose his job, his career could be in jeopardy. 

  1. WHO WILL BE THE FIRST COACH FIRED? (IF ANY) 

Bill : Dennis Allen (Saints) – The Saints thought after Sean Payton retired, they could just name a guy off of his staff to have the same success. Well, Dennis Allen hasn’t had the same success. 

Mark : Brian Daboll (Giants) : The Giants won 11 games miraculously a few seasons ago, they took a massive step back last season. But if Daniel Jones struggles again, Daboll might not be the guy who can lead the Giants back to prominence.

Mike : Dennis Allen – Saints : If the Saints struggle this season, it might be time to pull the plug on a lot of things and start this thing over. They felt keeping Allen, who was on the staff when Sean Payton “retired” was the right call, but the Saints have a lot of veterans and it might be time to start things over

  1. FAVORITE/LEAST FAVORITE OFFSEASON MOVES 

5A) MARK/ BILL : The Texans added a 1,000 yard rusher and receiver this offseason with Joe Mixon and Stefon Diggs. Getting more weapons for CJ Stroud and make a run at this thing now. They also upgraded on defense with Danielle Hunter

Mike : Derrick Henry / Ravens, Saquon Barkley / Eagles : How do you improve two of the best mobile QB’S in the league, you give them elite running backs. Henry will provide that punch to the Ravens offense, to go with Lamar’s speed. Barkley brings Philly the zone read that was so successful two seasons ago. Both should have extraordinary seasons. 

5B) Bill Murphy : Diontae Johnson – Panthers : The Panthers moved an arm and a leg to get Bryce Young (btw they could’ve gotten Caleb Williams) and so far the two big receivers they got were Adam Thielen and Johnson. Johnson isn’t bad but he’s had issues with drops.

Mike Rifkin :  Steelers QB situation : There’s an old saying in football if you have two quarterbacks you have none. Well the Pittsburgh Steelers decided to start fresh with two new quarterbacks, they signed Russell Wilson and traded for Justin Fields. The question is why, if you go for one that’s alright, but going for both is dumb and arrogant on the part of the organization. At least just having Fields you might have your long term answer, who knows what you’re getting from Russ. 

  1. WHICH FIRST YEAR HEAD COACH WINS THE MOST GAMES?

Bill : Mike Macdonald – Seahawks : The Seahawks might be a fringe playoff team and we know how hard it is to play in Seattle. If Macdonald’s defense along with the offensive firepower coexist the Seahawks can play in January.

Mike : Raheem Morris – Falcons – Well it doesn’t hurt he plays the Panthers twice. The Falcons have a ton of talent on both sides of the ball and we’ve waited for them to get into the QB market and they brought in Kirk Cousins. The Falcons should compete for the NFC South title. 

  1. WHAT PLAYOFF TEAM FROM LAST SEASON WILL MISS THIS SEASON AND WHY ( 1 PER CONFERENCE)

AFC : – STEELERS – Yes all three of us have the Steelers missing the playoffs this season. After their week nine bye the Steelers will play all six division games plus an instate battle with the Eagles and a Christmas showdown with the Chiefs. Who knows how long the leash is on Russell Wilson, and who knows what you get from him. It’s hard to doubt Mike Tomlin, but this might be the year he goes under .500 for the first time.

NFC : 

MARK/BILL – PACKERS : This is more about wanting to see more from Jordan Love and those young receivers more than anything else. If they don’t play well it could be a long year for the cheeseheads. 

Mike : Tampa Bay Buccaneers : Predicting the NFC South every year is like finding something to eat at a place you don’t like, nothing really appetizing but you have to pick something. This is more about the depth of the NFC, the South gets only one bid and I am not sure if Baker produces like he did last season. 

  1. WHAT NON PLAYOFF TEAM MAKES PLAYOFFS THIS SEASON AND WHY (1 PER CONFERENCE) 

NFC 

BILL – BEARS : They were extremely active this offseason. They grabbed their franchise QB (hopefully) in Caleb Williams. And they got weapons in Keenan Allen and Rome Odunze to compliment DJ Moore, they also brought in D’Andre Swift to help the running game.

Mike –  Falcons – Yeah, I’m keeping this simple I think the Falcons win the NFC South and Kirk Cousins finds his way into the playoffs. And yes Kirk the people of Atlanta will like that. 

AFC

Mike/Bill : Bengals – Well if you say the Bengals are the biggest threat to the Chiefs, they have to make the playoffs. The Bengals were competitive for a bit even after the Burrow injury, but at full strength they get in and they will be a force in the playoffs.

  1. AWARD PREDICTIONS 

Bill : Marvin Harrison Jr (OROY)

Dallas Turner (DROY)

Christian McCaffrey (OPOY)

TJ Watt (DPOY)

Aaron Rodgers (Comeback player)

Dan Campbell (Coach of the year)

 Lamar Jackson (MVP)

Mark : (OROY) Marvin Harrison Jr.

 Micah Parsons (DPOY)

Ceedee Lamb (MVP)

Mike : (OROY) Malik Nabers

(DROY) Terrion Arnold

(OPOY) Saquon Barkley

(DPOY) Danielle Hunter

(Comeback) Aaron Rodgers

(Coach) Demeco Ryans

(MVP) Josh Allen

  1. Division Winners

AFC

East : Mike/Bill : Bills/ Mark: Dolphins

North : Mike/Bill/Mark : Ravens

South : All : Texans

West : All : Chiefs

NFC 

East : Mark/Bill – Cowboys/ Mike Eagles

North : Lions

South : Mike/Bill – Falcons

West : Mike/Bill – 49ers/ Mark : Rams

  1. Conference title games

Mark : (NFC) Cowboys vs Rams. (AFC) : Dolphins vs Chiefs

Bill : (NFC) 49ERS VS Cowboys. (AFC) Chiefs vs Ravens

Mike : (NFC) 49ers vs Rams. (AFC) Chiefs vs Ravens

  1. SB PREDICTION

Mark : Cowboys def Dolphins

Bill : Ravens def 49ers

Mike : 49ers def Bengals

EVERYONE ENJOY FOOTBALL SEASON AND STAY TUNED TO SIN’S COVERAGE OF THE NFL SEASON!!!