The Sports Insanity Network

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

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.
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

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.
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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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!!!

Leon Breaks The Bank

By Mike Rifkin

The Edmonton Oilers have been busy since losing in game seven of the Stanley Cup Final. The Oilers have been busy adding to their roster, and are now keeping one of their core members. Leon Draisaitl and the Oilers have agreed to an eight year 112 million dollar contract, which is an AAV of 14 million dollars per season, which is the highest in the league. Draisaitl was eligible to be a free agent after the season.

Draisaitl finished seventh in the NHL with 106 points (41 goals and 65 assists) in 81 regular season games. Draisaitl added 31 points in 25 playoff games (10 goals 21 assists). Draisaitl, the third pick in 2017 has 850 points (347 goals 503 assists) in 719 regular season games. Draisaitl has won an Art Ross, Hart and Ted Lindsay awards in 2019-20.

With Draisaitl now locked up long term, the attention turns to Oilers captain Connor McDavid, who will be eligible for an extension next summer. The Oilers are in a win now situation, and didn’t let Draisaitl’s contract be over their heads entering training camp.

What A Difference A Year Makes

By Mike Rifkin

Last year Florida State went undefeated, won the ACC (Regular season and Championship) but were still excluded from the College Football Playoff. Mainly because of an injury sustained to Quarterback Jordan Travis, who finished fifth in the Heisman Trophy voting. So while FSU fans had a right to be upset at being left out of the Playoff, it was short sighted based on how 2024 season has started.

Travis was among the many Florida State players who were drafted to the NFL in April. Florida State hit the transfer portal for their new quarterback, and they brought back an ACC talent in DJ Uiagalelei, who had played three seasons at Clemson, before playing last season at Oregon State. Uiagalelei, had a pretty solid season for the Beavers, after struggling getting out of the shadow of Deshaun Watson and Trevor Lawrence. But Florida State, who had high expectations are now 0-2 on the young season with losses to Georgia Tech and Boston College. Uiagalelei, has struggled in both games, he threw for 272 yards a touchdown and an interception on Monday night. Florida State’s schedule doesn’t get any easier with Memphis coming to town on Saturday, but still with games against Clemson and road games against Miami and Notre Dame, the Seminoles need to turn this around soon.

The hits keep coming for Florida State, according to reports the Seminoles will open the 2025 season against the Alabama Crimson Tide. Florida State had a great 2023, but they need to turn things around soon.

Johnny Hockey

By Mike Rifkin

The hockey world was crushed on Friday morning to learn that Columbus Blue Jackets winger Johnny Gaudreau, along with his brother Matthew, tragically passed away. Johnny played his college hockey at Boston College where, in three seasons, he scored 78 goals and 176 points in 119 games. Gaudreau twice was named a finalist for the Hobey Baker award, winning it in 2014. Gaudreau also helped B.C. win the National Championship in 2012.

Gaudreau was selected by the Calgary Flames in the fourth round (104th overall) of the 2011 NHL Draft. He scored a goal in his only game during the 2013-14 season.

During the 2014-15 campaign, Gaudreau scored 24 goals and 64 points, and finished third in Calder Trophy voting. In 2018-19, he put up 36 goals and 99 points, and finished fourth in the Hart Trophy voting. Gaudreau posted his only 40 goal and 100 point season during the 2021-22 season. As a result, he once again finished fourth in Hart Trophy voting. In 42 career playoff games, Gaudreau had 11 goals and 33 points. One of his biggest goals came in the first round of the 2022 playoffs. In game seven against the Dallas Stars, he was able to snipe one past goalie Jake Oettinger to win the series for the Flames. Gaudreau shocked the hockey world in July of 2022, when he signed a seven-year, $69 million contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets. In his two seasons in Columbus, he scored 33 goals and 134 points.

Johnny wasn’t the biggest guy on the ice, but he had the heart and played the game with joy. As I continued to watch Johnny’s career, there was one name that I could compare him to. That is Hockey Hall of Fame forward Marty St. Louis. Neither Gaudreau nor St. Louis were the biggest guys, but they had a lot of fun playing the game, and they had the skill to match it. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Gaudreau family, friends, the Columbus Blue Jackets organization, and the rest of the hockey community.

What To Do?

By Mark Halpern and Mike Rifkin

When Steve Cohen bought the New York Mets, fans everywhere rejoiced not just because it meant the Wilpons didn’t own the team, but because of Steve Cohen’s bank account. Cohen’s takeover started with a bang by acquiring Francisco Lindor, and signing him to a 10 year contract. Cohen’s checkbook also helped the Mets get out of deals with future Hall of Famers Justin Verlander and Max Scherzer; he would pay a hefty sum of their contracts to acquire better prospects. After a disastrous 2023 the Mets hired David Stearns to be the President Of Baseball Operations. And Stearns, even with Cohen’s checkbook, was not very aggressive during the winter, signing players to one year contracts, and didn’t go after the top of the market. After this season both Verlander and Scherzer will be free agents, which means they’ll both be off the Mets books, so will Cohen and Stearns be more aggressive this winter?

Last winter, the Mets saw their crosstown rivals steal the headlines when the Yankees emptied the farm to acquire Juan Soto from the Padres. Soto has had a sensational season in New York already hitting a career high 37 homers. In 2022 Soto turned down a 15 year 440 million dollar contract extension with the Nationals, which led him to be moved to San Diego. For most, turning down a luxury offer like that would be insane, but Soto will turn 26 in October, and is primed for a massive payday and most experts believe for the first time a bidding war between Steve Cohen and the Yankees will take place.

While Soto is the marquee free agent, he also provides a dilemma for the Mets. Now the two may not coincide with one another, one has to imagine signing Soto would probably end the Mets career of Pete Alonso. Alonso, who on Tuesday night hit his 220th career home run, which ties him with Mike Piazza for third most in franchise history. Alonso, since his rookie season where he set a record with 53 homers. Alonso, has really yet to catch fire this season and you can tell the contract is weighing on him. Alonso and Soto are both represented by Scott Boras.

Outside of Soto and Alonso, the Mets also have a massive need in their rotation. Kodai Senga has pitched just five innings this season, Luis Severino, who the Mets took a flier on this season has been really good, but he’s a free agent at season’s end. Sean Manaea, who you can argue has been the Mets best starter, has a player option after the season. So if Manaea opts out and Severino goes elsewhere the Mets rotation would be Senga, David Peterson and Christian Scott if he’s healthy. So, what does the free agent pitching market look like? Well, the best pitcher on the market is someone familiar with Stearns and that is Corbin Burnes of the Orioles. Burnes pitched for Stearns in Milwaukee and won a CY Young, and he started the All Star Game for the American League this season. Blake Snell, another Boras client has an opt out in his contract with the Giants, after having to wait until Spring Training to sign. Who knows what Snell does? Then there’s a really interesting option and it might affect what happens with Soto, and that is Yankees ace Gerrit Cole has an opt out in his contract, if he exercises that option, would that change the Yankees plans with Soto? Shane Bieber will be coming off of Tommy John Surgery, and Walker Buehler has struggled in his recovery, if the Dodgers don’t give him a qualifying offer, Walker can be the most wanted Buehler after Ferris. Jordan Montgomery, like Snell had to wait a long time to sign, has a vesting option as does Nathan Eovaldi. Both of which slot into the middle of the rotation, but both have had playoff success.