On this special Thanksgiving episode, Liam gets bad intel on whose currently kicking for the Arizona Cardinals, I declare that a certain bolo tie wearing QB's career is over and we finally get to pay off a long-running bit by reviewing Knives Out. Listen below and be sure to tell all of your distant relatives about the finest Rian Johnson fanboy/fantasy football podcast in the land.
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/get-your-knives-out-eof112/id1478573845?i=1000458075582
Earful of Dirt: https://www.earfulofdirt.com/2019/11/get-your-knives-out-eof112.html
Thursday, November 28, 2019
Wednesday, November 27, 2019
Pop Culture Crush Podcast
Earful of Fantasy producer Corey and his wife Jessica have just launched a new podcast entitled Pop Culture Crush. The show is released 3 times weekly and covers top 5 lists on a wide variety of entertainment topics including top guilty pleasure musical acts, Leonardo DiCaprio movies and TV shows gone too soon. Earlier this week, they were kind enough to have me on as a guest to discuss my 5 favorite Jason Statham movies. I had a blast doing it and look forward to going on again sometime in the near future. You can check out my appearance and the rest of the episodes at the links below.
"All Things Statham": https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/all-things-statham-pcc115/id1485178779?i=1000457751728
All Episodes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pop-culture-crush/id1485178779
"All Things Statham": https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/all-things-statham-pcc115/id1485178779?i=1000457751728
All Episodes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pop-culture-crush/id1485178779
Tuesday, November 26, 2019
Week 12 Fantasy Football Winners and Losers: 2019 Edition
Quarterback
MVP: Lamar Jackson (Ravens)
Jackson's wizardry was on full display last night as he torched a pretty damn good Rams defense throwing for 169 YDS and 5 TD's while gaining an additional 95 YDS on the ground. The top MVP candidate will face one of his stiffest tests of 2019 thus far when the 49ers elite D heads into Baltimore this Sunday for a potentially epic showdown.
Honorable Mentions: Ryan Tannehill (Titans), Sam Darnold (Jets), Jameis Winston (Buccaneers)
LVP: Matt Ryan (Falcons)
Just when it looked like Ryan and the Falcons were starting to get on a roll, they put up a genuinely stunning stinker out of nowhere. Ryan was abysmal (271 YDS/0 TD/1 INT/1 FUM Lost) in a prime home tilt against the Buccaneers hopeless pass D and eventually got yanked for Matt F'n Schaub in the 4th quarter of this ugly loss for the NFC's most underperforming team. Ryan will be a borderline QB1 this week versus a slumping Saints defense.
Dishonorable Mentions: Dak Prescott (Cowboys), Russell Wilson (Seahawks), Aaron Rodgers (Packers)
Running Back
MVP: Leonard Fournette (Jaguars)
Garbage time is a magnificent thing. Fournette took advantage of this especially extensive formality period in the Jags comical blowout loss to the Titans-registering 159 scrimmage YDS and a pair of rushing scores on 31 touches. Fournette has been pretty much the lone stable contributor on a Jaguars offense that seems to fluctuate in effectiveness on a week-to-week basis and as long as Nick Foles continues to struggle, he'll have to keep serving as the focal point of John DeFilippo's attack.
MVP: Lamar Jackson (Ravens)
Jackson's wizardry was on full display last night as he torched a pretty damn good Rams defense throwing for 169 YDS and 5 TD's while gaining an additional 95 YDS on the ground. The top MVP candidate will face one of his stiffest tests of 2019 thus far when the 49ers elite D heads into Baltimore this Sunday for a potentially epic showdown.
Honorable Mentions: Ryan Tannehill (Titans), Sam Darnold (Jets), Jameis Winston (Buccaneers)
LVP: Matt Ryan (Falcons)
Just when it looked like Ryan and the Falcons were starting to get on a roll, they put up a genuinely stunning stinker out of nowhere. Ryan was abysmal (271 YDS/0 TD/1 INT/1 FUM Lost) in a prime home tilt against the Buccaneers hopeless pass D and eventually got yanked for Matt F'n Schaub in the 4th quarter of this ugly loss for the NFC's most underperforming team. Ryan will be a borderline QB1 this week versus a slumping Saints defense.
Dishonorable Mentions: Dak Prescott (Cowboys), Russell Wilson (Seahawks), Aaron Rodgers (Packers)
Running Back
MVP: Leonard Fournette (Jaguars)
Garbage time is a magnificent thing. Fournette took advantage of this especially extensive formality period in the Jags comical blowout loss to the Titans-registering 159 scrimmage YDS and a pair of rushing scores on 31 touches. Fournette has been pretty much the lone stable contributor on a Jaguars offense that seems to fluctuate in effectiveness on a week-to-week basis and as long as Nick Foles continues to struggle, he'll have to keep serving as the focal point of John DeFilippo's attack.
Honorable Mentions: Derrick Henry (Titans), Christian McCaffery (Panthers), Mark Ingram (Ravens)
LVP: Todd Gurley (Rams)
With the Ravens putting the Rams in a coffin by the time the 1st quarter was over, poor Gurley didn't even have a shot to contribute. The Rams top back finished the night with a disheartening 19 YDS on 9 touches. He'll likely fare significantly better against a so-so Cardinals rush defense in Week 13.
With the Ravens putting the Rams in a coffin by the time the 1st quarter was over, poor Gurley didn't even have a shot to contribute. The Rams top back finished the night with a disheartening 19 YDS on 9 touches. He'll likely fare significantly better against a so-so Cardinals rush defense in Week 13.
Dishonorable Mentions: Josh Jacobs (Raiders), Aaron Jones (Packers), David Montgomery (Bears)
Wide Receiver
MVP: Chris Godwin (Buccaneers)
These Buccaneers receivers sure do know how to bust out of a slump in the most spectacular way possible. Godwin was blowing by the Falcons corners all game long and ended up posting an absurd 7 REC/184 YDS/2 TD statline when the day was done. With 70 receptions, 1,071 YDS and a league-leading 9 TD's through 11 games, Godwin is currently in the most valuable fantasy wideout conversation.
These Buccaneers receivers sure do know how to bust out of a slump in the most spectacular way possible. Godwin was blowing by the Falcons corners all game long and ended up posting an absurd 7 REC/184 YDS/2 TD statline when the day was done. With 70 receptions, 1,071 YDS and a league-leading 9 TD's through 11 games, Godwin is currently in the most valuable fantasy wideout conversation.
Honorable Mentions: Jarvis Landry (Browns), DJ Moore (Panthers), DeAndre Hopkins (Texans)
LVP: Amari Cooper (Cowboys)
God awful weather conditions and a matchup with the great Stephon Gilmore rendered Cooper completely useless on Sunday against the Patriots as he failed to haul in either of his targets. His cold streak seems likely to continue in Week 13 as he draws another tough matchup against a stingy Bills secondary that has only allowed 4 TD's to WR's this season.
God awful weather conditions and a matchup with the great Stephon Gilmore rendered Cooper completely useless on Sunday against the Patriots as he failed to haul in either of his targets. His cold streak seems likely to continue in Week 13 as he draws another tough matchup against a stingy Bills secondary that has only allowed 4 TD's to WR's this season.
Dishonorable Mentions: Tyler Lockett (Seahawks), Courtland Sutton (Broncos), T.Y. Hilton (Colts)
Tight End
MVP: George Kittle (49ers)
A hobbled Kittle, who is playing through a broken bone in his ankle, feasted on the Packers porous secondary-securing 6 catches for 129 YDS and a TD. Unless his ankle manages to slow him down, Kittle will remain a top 3 TE1 option down the stretch.
Honorable Mentions: Jared Cook (Saints), Zach Ertz (Eagles), Ryan Griffin (Jets)
A hobbled Kittle, who is playing through a broken bone in his ankle, feasted on the Packers porous secondary-securing 6 catches for 129 YDS and a TD. Unless his ankle manages to slow him down, Kittle will remain a top 3 TE1 option down the stretch.
Honorable Mentions: Jared Cook (Saints), Zach Ertz (Eagles), Ryan Griffin (Jets)
LVP: Vance McDonald (Steelers)
Not even the absence of JuJu Smith-Schuster and James Conner opened up opportunities for McDonald in the passing game. The Steelers tight end caught his only target for 1 YD against the lowly Bengals on Sunday afternoon. Even in a dire time for the TE position in fantasy, McDonald simply isn't startable.
Not even the absence of JuJu Smith-Schuster and James Conner opened up opportunities for McDonald in the passing game. The Steelers tight end caught his only target for 1 YD against the lowly Bengals on Sunday afternoon. Even in a dire time for the TE position in fantasy, McDonald simply isn't startable.
Dishonorable Mentions: Darren Fells (Texans), Dallas Goedert (Eagles), Jacob Hollister (Seahawks)
Defense/Special Teams
MVP: Seahawks
What a vintage performance from the Seahawks this week. The physicality, speed and disruptiveness that they displayed against the Eagles was reminiscent of the Legion of the Boom and it made Carson Wentz and co. very uncomfortable, forcing 5 turnovers and registering 3 sacks in a hard-fought 17-9 victory. This group has looked a lot stronger over the past few games and will be in starting consideration most weeks if they continue to be a takeaway machine that allows under 20 points a game.
What a vintage performance from the Seahawks this week. The physicality, speed and disruptiveness that they displayed against the Eagles was reminiscent of the Legion of the Boom and it made Carson Wentz and co. very uncomfortable, forcing 5 turnovers and registering 3 sacks in a hard-fought 17-9 victory. This group has looked a lot stronger over the past few games and will be in starting consideration most weeks if they continue to be a takeaway machine that allows under 20 points a game.
Honorable Mentions: Bills, Ravens, Steelers
LVP: Jaguars
What a difference 2 months makes. After dominating the Titans (9 sacks/FUM REC/9 points allowed) in their 1st matchup, the Jaguars defense got absolutely destroyed in their 2nd meeting, surrendering 42 points while only registering a sack and a pair of fumble recoveries to offset the stink of their garbage performance. Todd Wash's group is playing their worst football of the year over the past 3 weeks (33.0 PPG allowed) and will be a risky start on Sunday against the Buccaneers turnover-happy yet often explosive offense.
Dishonorable Mentions: Rams, Bears, Saints
What a difference 2 months makes. After dominating the Titans (9 sacks/FUM REC/9 points allowed) in their 1st matchup, the Jaguars defense got absolutely destroyed in their 2nd meeting, surrendering 42 points while only registering a sack and a pair of fumble recoveries to offset the stink of their garbage performance. Todd Wash's group is playing their worst football of the year over the past 3 weeks (33.0 PPG allowed) and will be a risky start on Sunday against the Buccaneers turnover-happy yet often explosive offense.
Dishonorable Mentions: Rams, Bears, Saints
2019 NFL Power Rankings: Week 13
()=previous ranking
1.(1) Baltimore Ravens (9-2) Week 13 opponent: San Francisco 49ers
2.(2) New England Patriots (10-1) Week 13 opponent: Houston Texans
3.(3) San Francisco 49ers (10-1) Week 13 opponent: Baltimore Ravens
4.(4) Seattle Seahawks (9-2) Week 13 opponent: Minnesota Vikings
5.(5) New Orleans Saints (9-2) Week 13 opponent: Atlanta Falcons
6.(7) Minnesota Vikings (8-3) Week 13 opponent: Seattle Seahawks
7.(8) Kansas City Chiefs (7-4) Week 13 opponent: Oakland Raiders
8.(9) Buffalo Bills (8-3) Week 13 opponent: Dallas Cowboys
9.(6) Green Bay Packers (8-3) Week 13 opponent: New York Giants
10.(10) Houston Texans (7-4) Week 13 opponent: New England Patriots
11.(11) Dallas Cowboys (6-5) Week 13 opponent: Buffalo Bills
12.(17) Tennessee Titans (6-5) Week 13 opponent: Indianapolis Colts
13.(13) Indianapolis Colts (6-5) Week 13 opponent: Tennessee Titans
14.(18) Pittsburgh Steelers (6-5) Week 13 opponent: Cleveland Browns
15.(12) Oakland Raiders (6-5) Week 13 opponent: Kansas City Chiefs
16.(14) Los Angeles Rams (6-5) Week 13 opponent: Arizona Cardinals
17.(16) Carolina Panthers (5-6) Week 13 opponent: Washington Redskins
18.(19) Cleveland Browns (5-6) Week 13 opponent: Pittsburgh Steelers
19.(15) Philadelphia Eagles (5-6) Week 13 opponent: Miami Dolphins
20.(21) Chicago Bears (5-6) Week 13 opponent: Detroit Lions
21.(25) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-7) Week 13 opponent: Jacksonville Jaguars
22.(27) New York Jets (4-7) Week 13 opponent: Cincinnati Bengals
23.(23) Los Angeles Chargers (4-7) Week 13 opponent: Denver Broncos
24.(20) Jacksonville Jaguars (4-7) Week 13 opponent: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
25.(22) Atlanta Falcons (3-8) Week 13 opponent: New Orleans Saints
26.(24) Detroit Lions (3-7-1) Week 13 opponent: Chicago Bears
27.(26) Denver Broncos (3-8) Week 13 opponent: Los Angeles Chargers
28.(28) Arizona Cardinals (3-7-1) Week 13 opponent: Los Angeles Rams
29.(31) Washington Redskins (2-9) Week 13 opponent: Carolina Panthers
30.(30) New York Giants (2-9) Week 13 opponent: Green Bay Packers
31.(29) Miami Dolphins (2-9) Week 13 opponent: Philadelphia Eagles
32.(32) Cincinnati Bengals (0-11) Week 13 opponent: New York Jets
1.(1) Baltimore Ravens (9-2) Week 13 opponent: San Francisco 49ers
2.(2) New England Patriots (10-1) Week 13 opponent: Houston Texans
3.(3) San Francisco 49ers (10-1) Week 13 opponent: Baltimore Ravens
4.(4) Seattle Seahawks (9-2) Week 13 opponent: Minnesota Vikings
5.(5) New Orleans Saints (9-2) Week 13 opponent: Atlanta Falcons
6.(7) Minnesota Vikings (8-3) Week 13 opponent: Seattle Seahawks
7.(8) Kansas City Chiefs (7-4) Week 13 opponent: Oakland Raiders
8.(9) Buffalo Bills (8-3) Week 13 opponent: Dallas Cowboys
9.(6) Green Bay Packers (8-3) Week 13 opponent: New York Giants
10.(10) Houston Texans (7-4) Week 13 opponent: New England Patriots
11.(11) Dallas Cowboys (6-5) Week 13 opponent: Buffalo Bills
12.(17) Tennessee Titans (6-5) Week 13 opponent: Indianapolis Colts
13.(13) Indianapolis Colts (6-5) Week 13 opponent: Tennessee Titans
14.(18) Pittsburgh Steelers (6-5) Week 13 opponent: Cleveland Browns
15.(12) Oakland Raiders (6-5) Week 13 opponent: Kansas City Chiefs
16.(14) Los Angeles Rams (6-5) Week 13 opponent: Arizona Cardinals
17.(16) Carolina Panthers (5-6) Week 13 opponent: Washington Redskins
18.(19) Cleveland Browns (5-6) Week 13 opponent: Pittsburgh Steelers
19.(15) Philadelphia Eagles (5-6) Week 13 opponent: Miami Dolphins
20.(21) Chicago Bears (5-6) Week 13 opponent: Detroit Lions
21.(25) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-7) Week 13 opponent: Jacksonville Jaguars
22.(27) New York Jets (4-7) Week 13 opponent: Cincinnati Bengals
23.(23) Los Angeles Chargers (4-7) Week 13 opponent: Denver Broncos
24.(20) Jacksonville Jaguars (4-7) Week 13 opponent: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
25.(22) Atlanta Falcons (3-8) Week 13 opponent: New Orleans Saints
26.(24) Detroit Lions (3-7-1) Week 13 opponent: Chicago Bears
27.(26) Denver Broncos (3-8) Week 13 opponent: Los Angeles Chargers
28.(28) Arizona Cardinals (3-7-1) Week 13 opponent: Los Angeles Rams
29.(31) Washington Redskins (2-9) Week 13 opponent: Carolina Panthers
30.(30) New York Giants (2-9) Week 13 opponent: Green Bay Packers
31.(29) Miami Dolphins (2-9) Week 13 opponent: Philadelphia Eagles
32.(32) Cincinnati Bengals (0-11) Week 13 opponent: New York Jets
Monday, November 25, 2019
The Best and Worst of Michael Shannon
“The Best and Worst of” series chronicles the career
highlights and lowlights of an actor starring in one of the week's
new theatrical releases. This week, I take a look at the filmography
of “Knives Out” star Michael Shannon.
Films starring Michael Shannon that I've seen:
Groundhog Day
Pearl Harbor
8 Mile
Kangaroo Jack
Bad Boys II
Let's Go to Prison
Revolutionary Road
Jonah Hex
Machine Gun Preacher
Mud
Premium Rush
Man of Steel
They Came Together
99 Homes
The Night Before
Midnight Special
Nocturnal Animals
The Shape of Water
Best Performance: 99 Homes (2015)
This is such an unheralded performance from one of the most underrated actors working today. As the owner of a central Florida eviction business, Shannon manages to be an equally reprehensible and magnetic sleazeball that is riveting to watch.
Worst Performance: Man of Steel (2013)
Shannon's comically over-the-top performance may have added some energy to the otherwise sleepy Man of Steel, but that doesn't disqualify General Zod from being an all time bad superhero villain. His constant yelling and violent gesturing turned this supposedly imposing destroyer of worlds into a loopy cartoon character that was impossible to take seriously.
Best Film: The Night Before (2015)
In a filmography loaded with acclaimed projects including a Best Picture winner (The Shape of Water), my favorite movie of Shannon's is a stoner Christmas comedy. The Night Before is a damn near perfect holiday film featuring a thoroughly convincing buddy rapport between its three leads (Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Seth Rogen, Anthony Mackie), no shortage of huge laughs and a tremendously heartwarming conclusion.
Worst Film: Pearl Harbor (2001)
Pearl Harbor is one of the most bizarre miscalculations I've ever come across in the world of cinema. Using one of the most horrific moments in American history as the basis for a sappy romantic drama isn't just in questionable taste, it makes absolutely no god damn sense from a creative standpoint. It also doesn't help that the acting is near-universally wretched and that by the time Michael Bay gets to do what he does best (stage huge, loud action sequences) at the very end of this three hour slog, overwhelming fatigue from this cornball overload had already set in.
Thank you for reading this week's edition of “The Best and Worst of”. The next victim of my praise and ire will be “Playmobil: The Movie” star Daniel Radcliffe.
Films starring Michael Shannon that I've seen:
Groundhog Day
Pearl Harbor
8 Mile
Kangaroo Jack
Bad Boys II
Let's Go to Prison
Revolutionary Road
Jonah Hex
Machine Gun Preacher
Mud
Premium Rush
Man of Steel
They Came Together
99 Homes
The Night Before
Midnight Special
Nocturnal Animals
The Shape of Water
Best Performance: 99 Homes (2015)
This is such an unheralded performance from one of the most underrated actors working today. As the owner of a central Florida eviction business, Shannon manages to be an equally reprehensible and magnetic sleazeball that is riveting to watch.
Worst Performance: Man of Steel (2013)
Shannon's comically over-the-top performance may have added some energy to the otherwise sleepy Man of Steel, but that doesn't disqualify General Zod from being an all time bad superhero villain. His constant yelling and violent gesturing turned this supposedly imposing destroyer of worlds into a loopy cartoon character that was impossible to take seriously.
Best Film: The Night Before (2015)
In a filmography loaded with acclaimed projects including a Best Picture winner (The Shape of Water), my favorite movie of Shannon's is a stoner Christmas comedy. The Night Before is a damn near perfect holiday film featuring a thoroughly convincing buddy rapport between its three leads (Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Seth Rogen, Anthony Mackie), no shortage of huge laughs and a tremendously heartwarming conclusion.
Worst Film: Pearl Harbor (2001)
Pearl Harbor is one of the most bizarre miscalculations I've ever come across in the world of cinema. Using one of the most horrific moments in American history as the basis for a sappy romantic drama isn't just in questionable taste, it makes absolutely no god damn sense from a creative standpoint. It also doesn't help that the acting is near-universally wretched and that by the time Michael Bay gets to do what he does best (stage huge, loud action sequences) at the very end of this three hour slog, overwhelming fatigue from this cornball overload had already set in.
Thank you for reading this week's edition of “The Best and Worst of”. The next victim of my praise and ire will be “Playmobil: The Movie” star Daniel Radcliffe.
Sunday, November 24, 2019
Movie Review: Charlie's Angels
.png)
Box office detectives have been working overtime all week long to try and get to the bottom of the failure of the Charlie's Angels reboot. So far, a poor marketing campaign from Sony, lack of "bankability" of the lead actors and an unwillingness for audiences to accept female-led action movies have emerged as the top theories as to why the 2019 Angels got their wings clipped. My two center on the matter: it was just another IP that people stopped caring about for whatever reason. Trying to figure out what hit titles from yesteryear can find success once again in the present day will largely remain an uncrackable code-especially for franchises that don't have the luxury of basking in the infallible, money-printing aura of Disney. For every Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, Halloween and Ocean's Eight, there's going to be a Men in Black: International, The Mummy and King Arthur: Legend of the Sword. Since massive hit franchises play such a pivotal role in achieving success in the industry, studios are going to have to continue engaging in this high-risk practice to try and stay afloat in this ultracompetitive era where every financial miscalculation has potentially dire consequences.
As for the actual on-screen product, the only sin Charlie's Angels commits is that nothing really stands out about it. While the solid chemistry between the Angels (Kristen Stewart, Naomi Scott, Ella Balinska) along with the joy writer/director/star Elizabeth Banks displays in putting a modern spin on this iconic franchise allow it to be a pretty breezy ride, that isn't enough to shake the "been there, done that" feeling that lurks in the background of this globe-trotting actioner. The "tech company secretly mines dangerous weapon" plot offers up literally no surprises, the paper thin villains (Sam Claflin, Nat Faxon, third person I can't disclose with providing spoilers) feel more like narrative formalities than actual threats to the protagonists and despite being pretty well-choregraphed, the action sequences are bizarrely small in scale for a mid-budgeted studio movie. General competency in most areas is enough for a genre obsessive like myself to have a good time, but you're going to need to do better than that to please people that don't belong in that camp and no amount of good intentions or enthusiasm for the Charlie's Angels brand can cover up the lack of truly electrifying action spectacle this film has.
Ultimately, it kind of sucks that this revamped Charlie's Angels is going to be laid to rest before it got a chance to hit its stride. With its well-matched leads and a writer/director that was visibly invested in the world she was creating, there was a lot of potential for a nice little franchise to emerge. A lot of its faults could've been corrected by simply adding more elaborate action sequences and getting seasoned comedic performer Banks to add some more humor to the proceedings, but alas the people have spoken and now we're left to wonder what could've been in a less volatile time at the box office.
As for the actual on-screen product, the only sin Charlie's Angels commits is that nothing really stands out about it. While the solid chemistry between the Angels (Kristen Stewart, Naomi Scott, Ella Balinska) along with the joy writer/director/star Elizabeth Banks displays in putting a modern spin on this iconic franchise allow it to be a pretty breezy ride, that isn't enough to shake the "been there, done that" feeling that lurks in the background of this globe-trotting actioner. The "tech company secretly mines dangerous weapon" plot offers up literally no surprises, the paper thin villains (Sam Claflin, Nat Faxon, third person I can't disclose with providing spoilers) feel more like narrative formalities than actual threats to the protagonists and despite being pretty well-choregraphed, the action sequences are bizarrely small in scale for a mid-budgeted studio movie. General competency in most areas is enough for a genre obsessive like myself to have a good time, but you're going to need to do better than that to please people that don't belong in that camp and no amount of good intentions or enthusiasm for the Charlie's Angels brand can cover up the lack of truly electrifying action spectacle this film has.
Ultimately, it kind of sucks that this revamped Charlie's Angels is going to be laid to rest before it got a chance to hit its stride. With its well-matched leads and a writer/director that was visibly invested in the world she was creating, there was a lot of potential for a nice little franchise to emerge. A lot of its faults could've been corrected by simply adding more elaborate action sequences and getting seasoned comedic performer Banks to add some more humor to the proceedings, but alas the people have spoken and now we're left to wonder what could've been in a less volatile time at the box office.
Grade: B
Thursday, November 21, 2019
Earful of Fantasy Episode #11
On this week's episode, we address a harmful false take Liam posted on social media over the weekend, discuss the meteoric rise of Ryan Griffin and do a little bit of trivia. Listen at any of the links below and be sure to subscribe at whatever podcast provider you fancy.
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fantasy-football-trivia-night-eof111/id1478573845?i=1000457400660
Earful of Dirt: https://www.earfulofdirt.com/2019/11/fantasy-football-trivia-night-eof111.html
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fantasy-football-trivia-night-eof111/id1478573845?i=1000457400660
Earful of Dirt: https://www.earfulofdirt.com/2019/11/fantasy-football-trivia-night-eof111.html
Wednesday, November 20, 2019
The Best and Worst of Keith David
“The Best and Worst of” series chronicles the career
highlights and lowlights of an actor starring in one of the week's
new theatrical releases. This week, I take a look at the filmography
of “21 Bridges” star Keith David.
Films starring Keith David that I've seen:
Platoon
They Live
Road House
Reality Bites
Dead Presidents
The Hunchback of Notre Dame
Volcano
Hercules
Armageddon
There's Something About Mary
Pitch Black
The Replacements
Requiem for a Dream
Barbershop
Agent Cody Banks
Head of State
The Chronicles of Riddick
Crash
Mr. & Mrs. Smith
Transporter 2
ATL
First Sunday
Gamer
Death at a Funeral
The Nice Guys
Night School
Best Performance: They Live (1988)
David is a hilarious and imminently likable presence in John Carpenter's fantastic anti-capitalist satire whose performance kicks into high gear once he becomes aware of the alien invasion his friend (Roddy Piper) accidently stumbles upon after discovering a pair of magic sunglasses in a rundown church. Also, I'd be lying if I didn't say that his involvement in one of the most gloriously excessive fight scenes ever put on film didn't help push this to the top of the list.
Worst Performance: Night School (2018)
It had been a little bit since David had done comedy, so I'm going to chalk up his failure in Night School to rust. The lazy hardass routine he does as the father of Kevin Hart's character was one of the most consistently unfunny elements of this largely up-and-down affair.
Best Film: The Nice Guys (2016)
The Nice Guys represents writer/director Shane Black operating at the peak of his warped powers. The dialogue is clever as hell, the '70s noir atmosphere is intoxicating and pairing Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe as the leads in a darkly comedic buddy cop movie proves to be an unexpected stroke of genius. I'm glad that this has gone on to find somewhat of a cult following after massively flopping at the box office.
Worst Film: First Sunday (2008)
There are instances where talented actors can lift up otherwise questionable projects just by being there, but there are others where those problems simply exceed the grasp of their gifts. Exhibit A of this phenomenon: First Sunday. No amount of funny people (Ice Cube, Tracy Morgan, Katt Williams, David, Regina Hall, Chi McBride) on screen could cover up the stench of weak jokes and obnoxious preachiness that lingered over every frame of this aggravating disaster.
Thank you for reading this week's edition of “The Best and Worst of”. The next victim of my praise and ire will be “Knives Out” star Michael Shannon.
Films starring Keith David that I've seen:
Platoon
They Live
Road House
Reality Bites
Dead Presidents
The Hunchback of Notre Dame
Volcano
Hercules
Armageddon
There's Something About Mary
Pitch Black
The Replacements
Requiem for a Dream
Barbershop
Agent Cody Banks
Head of State
The Chronicles of Riddick
Crash
Mr. & Mrs. Smith
Transporter 2
ATL
First Sunday
Gamer
Death at a Funeral
The Nice Guys
Night School
Best Performance: They Live (1988)
David is a hilarious and imminently likable presence in John Carpenter's fantastic anti-capitalist satire whose performance kicks into high gear once he becomes aware of the alien invasion his friend (Roddy Piper) accidently stumbles upon after discovering a pair of magic sunglasses in a rundown church. Also, I'd be lying if I didn't say that his involvement in one of the most gloriously excessive fight scenes ever put on film didn't help push this to the top of the list.
Worst Performance: Night School (2018)
It had been a little bit since David had done comedy, so I'm going to chalk up his failure in Night School to rust. The lazy hardass routine he does as the father of Kevin Hart's character was one of the most consistently unfunny elements of this largely up-and-down affair.
Best Film: The Nice Guys (2016)
The Nice Guys represents writer/director Shane Black operating at the peak of his warped powers. The dialogue is clever as hell, the '70s noir atmosphere is intoxicating and pairing Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe as the leads in a darkly comedic buddy cop movie proves to be an unexpected stroke of genius. I'm glad that this has gone on to find somewhat of a cult following after massively flopping at the box office.
Worst Film: First Sunday (2008)
There are instances where talented actors can lift up otherwise questionable projects just by being there, but there are others where those problems simply exceed the grasp of their gifts. Exhibit A of this phenomenon: First Sunday. No amount of funny people (Ice Cube, Tracy Morgan, Katt Williams, David, Regina Hall, Chi McBride) on screen could cover up the stench of weak jokes and obnoxious preachiness that lingered over every frame of this aggravating disaster.
Thank you for reading this week's edition of “The Best and Worst of”. The next victim of my praise and ire will be “Knives Out” star Michael Shannon.
Tuesday, November 19, 2019
Week 11 Fantasy Football Winners and Losers: 2019 Edition
Quarterback
MVP: Josh Allen (Bills)
Fantasy owners had been waiting for an explosive performance from Allen all season and they finally got in Week 11 against the Dolphins. The athletic gunslinger showed off his big arm and mobility all game long-picking up 256 passing YDS, 56 rushing YDS and 4 TD's (3 passing, 1 rushing) in an easy 37-20 victory for the 7-3 Bills. Allen will return to his typical QB2 role when the Broncos stingy pass D heads to New Era Field this Sunday.
Honorable Mentions: Lamar Jackson (Ravens), Jimmy Garoppolo (49ers), Dak Prescott (Cowboys)
LVP: Deshaun Watson (Texans)
Whatever shootout potential existed in the Texans/Ravens game went up in smoke as a result of Watson's stunning no show. Porous offensive line play, a strong showing by the Ravens defense and a few uncharacteristically poor decisions resulted in Watson having one of the worst games (169 YDS, 0 TD, 1 INT, FUM Lost) of his young career so far. He'll look to continue his streak of gracefully bouncing back after a dud against the Colts banged-up secondary on Thursday night.
Dishonorable Mentions: Tom Brady (Patriots), Jared Goff (Rams), Kyle Allen (Panthers)
Running Back
MVP: Mark Ingram (Ravens)
In a week where the other top performers either failed to score (McCaffery) or lost a fumble (Gurley, Elliott), a pair of highlight reel TD catches helped elevate Ingram, who mustered a merely decent 85 scrimmage YDS (48 rushing, 37 receiving) on 16 touches, to the top of the RB hierarchy. While his yardage totals haven't been great of late (under 90 YDS in 6 of the last 7 games), Ingram's prominent role (particularly in the redzone) in the league's top rush offense will keep him on the higher end of the RB2 spectrum.
Honorable Mentions: Christian McCaffery (Panthers), Ezekiel Elliot (Cowboys), Todd Gurley (Rams)
LVP: Brian Hill (Falcons)
Not everybody on the suddenly revitalized Falcons offense showed up to play on Sunday. Devonta Freeman's injury replacement got stuffed by a poor Panthers front-finishing the afternoon with just 30 YDs on 15 carries and a single catch for 8 YDS. With Freeman expected to be out once again, Hill won't be a viable FLEX play against the Buccaneers stout rushing D in Week 12.
Dishonorable Mentions: David Montgomery (Bears), Miles Sanders (Eagles), Ronald Jones (Buccaneers)
Wide Receiver
MVP: John Brown (Bills)
Brown continues to feast on lowly AFC East competition. The veteran burner put together his best game to date in a Bills uniform, torching the Dolphins lowly secondary for 137 YDS and 2 TD's on 9 receptions. While there hasn't been as many double digit explosions as anticipated in a Bills offense that is reliant on the deep passing game, Brown has had a surprisingly high weekly floor (he's yet to get less than 51 YDS in a game) and should continue to be a nice WR3 that has legit WR2 upside in non-brutal matchups.
Honorable Mentions: DJ Chark Jr. (Jaguars), Calvin Ridley (Falcons), Stefon Diggs (Vikings)
LVP: Amari Cooper (Cowboys)
Dak Prescott was having a ball carving up the Lions through the air, but Cooper wasn't invited to the party. Michael Gallup and Randall Cobb both went over 100 yards while the normal top dog was reduced to a supporting role (3 REC/38 YDS) for the NFC East leaders. Don't expect much better results when America's Team travels to Foxboro to take on the Patriots top-ranked pass defense.
Dishonorable Mentions: Kenny Golladay (Lions), Allen Robinson (Bears), Emmanuel Sanders (49ers)
Tight End
MVP: Travis Kelce (Chiefs
After a slow start by his lofty standards, Kelce strung together his 3rd excellent performance in the last 4 weeks by burning the Chargers for 92 YDS and a TD on 7 catches in an ugly win for the Chiefs in Mexico City last night. The league's best tight end will look to overcome a brutal schedule for pass-catchers that includes dates with the Patriots, Broncos and Bears, and continue this roll into the fantasy playoffs when the Chiefs return from bye a week from Sunday.
Honorable Mentions: Mark Andrews (Ravens), Kyle Rudolph (Vikings), Zach Ertz (Eagles)
LVP: O.J. Howard (Buccaneers)
"The O.J. Howard is finally back!" train derailed after just 1 week. Howard got benched after he dropped his only target against the Saints and his backup Cameron Brate played pretty damn well (10 REC/73 YDS) in his absence. Howard has been arguably the single biggest flop in all of fantasy football this season and shouldn't be trusted moving forward-regardless of his standing as a starter.
Dishonorable Mentions: Darren Fells (Texans), Gerald Everett (Rams), Jack Doyle (Colts)
Defense/Special Teams
MVP: Saints
After getting embarrassed by the Falcons in Week 10, the Saints were rewarded with a visit from peak implosion Jameis Winston this past Sunday. Dennis Allen's group picked off Crab Legs 4 times and sacked him twice on their way to an easy 34-17 win. A matchup with the similarly jittery Kyle Allen-led, who just threw 4 picks against the aforementioned Falcons, Panthers is up next.
Honorable Mentions: Browns, Ravens, 49ers
LVP: Steelers
A surprising hiccup in the Steelers D recent reign of terror occurred last Thursday versus the Browns. The short week seemed to drain them of all of their explosive playmaking ability as they picked up 0 takeaways and only 1 sack in a 21-7 loss. Redemption will be on their minds this Sunday when they face off against a porous Bengals offense that has committed 5 turnovers and allowed 7 sacks in Ryan Finley's 2 games under center.
Dishonorable Mentions: Vikings, Panthers, Cowboys
MVP: Josh Allen (Bills)
Fantasy owners had been waiting for an explosive performance from Allen all season and they finally got in Week 11 against the Dolphins. The athletic gunslinger showed off his big arm and mobility all game long-picking up 256 passing YDS, 56 rushing YDS and 4 TD's (3 passing, 1 rushing) in an easy 37-20 victory for the 7-3 Bills. Allen will return to his typical QB2 role when the Broncos stingy pass D heads to New Era Field this Sunday.
Honorable Mentions: Lamar Jackson (Ravens), Jimmy Garoppolo (49ers), Dak Prescott (Cowboys)
LVP: Deshaun Watson (Texans)
Whatever shootout potential existed in the Texans/Ravens game went up in smoke as a result of Watson's stunning no show. Porous offensive line play, a strong showing by the Ravens defense and a few uncharacteristically poor decisions resulted in Watson having one of the worst games (169 YDS, 0 TD, 1 INT, FUM Lost) of his young career so far. He'll look to continue his streak of gracefully bouncing back after a dud against the Colts banged-up secondary on Thursday night.
Dishonorable Mentions: Tom Brady (Patriots), Jared Goff (Rams), Kyle Allen (Panthers)
Running Back
MVP: Mark Ingram (Ravens)
In a week where the other top performers either failed to score (McCaffery) or lost a fumble (Gurley, Elliott), a pair of highlight reel TD catches helped elevate Ingram, who mustered a merely decent 85 scrimmage YDS (48 rushing, 37 receiving) on 16 touches, to the top of the RB hierarchy. While his yardage totals haven't been great of late (under 90 YDS in 6 of the last 7 games), Ingram's prominent role (particularly in the redzone) in the league's top rush offense will keep him on the higher end of the RB2 spectrum.
Honorable Mentions: Christian McCaffery (Panthers), Ezekiel Elliot (Cowboys), Todd Gurley (Rams)
LVP: Brian Hill (Falcons)
Not everybody on the suddenly revitalized Falcons offense showed up to play on Sunday. Devonta Freeman's injury replacement got stuffed by a poor Panthers front-finishing the afternoon with just 30 YDs on 15 carries and a single catch for 8 YDS. With Freeman expected to be out once again, Hill won't be a viable FLEX play against the Buccaneers stout rushing D in Week 12.
Dishonorable Mentions: David Montgomery (Bears), Miles Sanders (Eagles), Ronald Jones (Buccaneers)
Wide Receiver
MVP: John Brown (Bills)
Brown continues to feast on lowly AFC East competition. The veteran burner put together his best game to date in a Bills uniform, torching the Dolphins lowly secondary for 137 YDS and 2 TD's on 9 receptions. While there hasn't been as many double digit explosions as anticipated in a Bills offense that is reliant on the deep passing game, Brown has had a surprisingly high weekly floor (he's yet to get less than 51 YDS in a game) and should continue to be a nice WR3 that has legit WR2 upside in non-brutal matchups.
Honorable Mentions: DJ Chark Jr. (Jaguars), Calvin Ridley (Falcons), Stefon Diggs (Vikings)
LVP: Amari Cooper (Cowboys)
Dak Prescott was having a ball carving up the Lions through the air, but Cooper wasn't invited to the party. Michael Gallup and Randall Cobb both went over 100 yards while the normal top dog was reduced to a supporting role (3 REC/38 YDS) for the NFC East leaders. Don't expect much better results when America's Team travels to Foxboro to take on the Patriots top-ranked pass defense.
Dishonorable Mentions: Kenny Golladay (Lions), Allen Robinson (Bears), Emmanuel Sanders (49ers)
Tight End
MVP: Travis Kelce (Chiefs
After a slow start by his lofty standards, Kelce strung together his 3rd excellent performance in the last 4 weeks by burning the Chargers for 92 YDS and a TD on 7 catches in an ugly win for the Chiefs in Mexico City last night. The league's best tight end will look to overcome a brutal schedule for pass-catchers that includes dates with the Patriots, Broncos and Bears, and continue this roll into the fantasy playoffs when the Chiefs return from bye a week from Sunday.
Honorable Mentions: Mark Andrews (Ravens), Kyle Rudolph (Vikings), Zach Ertz (Eagles)
LVP: O.J. Howard (Buccaneers)
"The O.J. Howard is finally back!" train derailed after just 1 week. Howard got benched after he dropped his only target against the Saints and his backup Cameron Brate played pretty damn well (10 REC/73 YDS) in his absence. Howard has been arguably the single biggest flop in all of fantasy football this season and shouldn't be trusted moving forward-regardless of his standing as a starter.
Dishonorable Mentions: Darren Fells (Texans), Gerald Everett (Rams), Jack Doyle (Colts)
Defense/Special Teams
MVP: Saints
After getting embarrassed by the Falcons in Week 10, the Saints were rewarded with a visit from peak implosion Jameis Winston this past Sunday. Dennis Allen's group picked off Crab Legs 4 times and sacked him twice on their way to an easy 34-17 win. A matchup with the similarly jittery Kyle Allen-led, who just threw 4 picks against the aforementioned Falcons, Panthers is up next.
Honorable Mentions: Browns, Ravens, 49ers
LVP: Steelers
A surprising hiccup in the Steelers D recent reign of terror occurred last Thursday versus the Browns. The short week seemed to drain them of all of their explosive playmaking ability as they picked up 0 takeaways and only 1 sack in a 21-7 loss. Redemption will be on their minds this Sunday when they face off against a porous Bengals offense that has committed 5 turnovers and allowed 7 sacks in Ryan Finley's 2 games under center.
Dishonorable Mentions: Vikings, Panthers, Cowboys
2019 NFL Power Rankings: Week 12
()=previous ranking
1.(1) Baltimore Ravens (8-2) Week 12 opponent: Los Angeles Rams
2.(2) New England Patriots (9-1) Week 12 opponent: Dallas Cowboys
3.(3) San Francisco 49ers (9-1) Week 12 opponent: Green Bay Packers
4.(4) Seattle Seahawks (8-2) Week 12 opponent: Philadelphia Eagles
5.(5) New Orleans Saints (8-2) Week 12 opponent: Carolina Panthers
6.(6) Green Bay Packers (8-2) Week 12 opponent: San Francisco 49ers
7.(7) Minnesota Vikings (7-3) Week 12 opponent: Bye Week
8.(9) Kansas City Chiefs (6-4) Week 12 opponent: Bye Week
9.(10) Buffalo Bills (7-3) Week 12 opponent: Denver Broncos
10.(8) Houston Texans (6-4) Week 12 opponent: Indianapolis Colts
11.(14) Dallas Cowboys (6-4) Week 12 opponent: New England Patriots
12.(12) Oakland Raiders (6-4) Week 12 opponent: New York Jets
13.(16) Indianapolis Colts (6-4) Week 12 opponent: Houston Texans
14.(17) Los Angeles Rams (6-4) Week 12 opponent: Baltimore Ravens
15.(15) Philadelphia Eagles (5-5) Week 12 opponent: Seattle Seahawks
16.(11) Carolina Panthers (5-5) Week 12 opponent: New Orleans Saints
17.(18) Tennessee Titans (5-5) Week 12 opponent: Jacksonville Jaguars
18.(13) Pittsburgh Steelers (5-5) Week 12 opponent: Cincinnati Bengals
19.(25) Cleveland Browns (4-6) Week 12 opponent: Miami Dolphins
20.(19) Jacksonville Jaguars (4-6) Week 12 opponent: Tennessee Titans
21.(20) Chicago Bears (4-6) Week 12 opponent: New York Giants
22.(27) Atlanta Falcons (3-7) Week 12 opponent: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
23.(21) Los Angeles Chargers (4-7) Week 12 opponent: Bye Week
24.(22) Detroit Lions (3-6-1) Week 12 opponent: Washington Redskins
25.(23) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-7) Week 12 opponent: Atlanta Falcons
26.(24) Denver Broncos (3-7) Week 12 opponent: Buffalo Bills
27.(29) New York Jets (3-7) Week 12 opponent: Oakland Raiders
28.(26) Arizona Cardinals (3-7-1) Week 12 opponent: Bye Week
29.(28) Miami Dolphins (2-8) Week 12 opponent: Cleveland Browns
30.(30) New York Giants (2-8) Week 12 opponent: Chicago Bears
31.(31) Washington Redskins (1-9) Week 12 opponent: Detroit Lions
32.(32) Cincinnati Bengals (0-10) Week 12 opponent: Pittsburgh Steelers
1.(1) Baltimore Ravens (8-2) Week 12 opponent: Los Angeles Rams
2.(2) New England Patriots (9-1) Week 12 opponent: Dallas Cowboys
3.(3) San Francisco 49ers (9-1) Week 12 opponent: Green Bay Packers
4.(4) Seattle Seahawks (8-2) Week 12 opponent: Philadelphia Eagles
5.(5) New Orleans Saints (8-2) Week 12 opponent: Carolina Panthers
6.(6) Green Bay Packers (8-2) Week 12 opponent: San Francisco 49ers
7.(7) Minnesota Vikings (7-3) Week 12 opponent: Bye Week
8.(9) Kansas City Chiefs (6-4) Week 12 opponent: Bye Week
9.(10) Buffalo Bills (7-3) Week 12 opponent: Denver Broncos
10.(8) Houston Texans (6-4) Week 12 opponent: Indianapolis Colts
11.(14) Dallas Cowboys (6-4) Week 12 opponent: New England Patriots
12.(12) Oakland Raiders (6-4) Week 12 opponent: New York Jets
13.(16) Indianapolis Colts (6-4) Week 12 opponent: Houston Texans
14.(17) Los Angeles Rams (6-4) Week 12 opponent: Baltimore Ravens
15.(15) Philadelphia Eagles (5-5) Week 12 opponent: Seattle Seahawks
16.(11) Carolina Panthers (5-5) Week 12 opponent: New Orleans Saints
17.(18) Tennessee Titans (5-5) Week 12 opponent: Jacksonville Jaguars
18.(13) Pittsburgh Steelers (5-5) Week 12 opponent: Cincinnati Bengals
19.(25) Cleveland Browns (4-6) Week 12 opponent: Miami Dolphins
20.(19) Jacksonville Jaguars (4-6) Week 12 opponent: Tennessee Titans
21.(20) Chicago Bears (4-6) Week 12 opponent: New York Giants
22.(27) Atlanta Falcons (3-7) Week 12 opponent: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
23.(21) Los Angeles Chargers (4-7) Week 12 opponent: Bye Week
24.(22) Detroit Lions (3-6-1) Week 12 opponent: Washington Redskins
25.(23) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-7) Week 12 opponent: Atlanta Falcons
26.(24) Denver Broncos (3-7) Week 12 opponent: Buffalo Bills
27.(29) New York Jets (3-7) Week 12 opponent: Oakland Raiders
28.(26) Arizona Cardinals (3-7-1) Week 12 opponent: Bye Week
29.(28) Miami Dolphins (2-8) Week 12 opponent: Cleveland Browns
30.(30) New York Giants (2-8) Week 12 opponent: Chicago Bears
31.(31) Washington Redskins (1-9) Week 12 opponent: Detroit Lions
32.(32) Cincinnati Bengals (0-10) Week 12 opponent: Pittsburgh Steelers
Monday, November 18, 2019
Movie Review: Ford v Ferrari
.png)
2019 awards season has just received a heavy dose of good ol' fashioned rousing American cinema. Ford v Ferrari is the ultimate underdog story that brings all of the cheers, smiles and warmth that the best films in the genre tend to deliver. Is the adversity-filled, establishment-challenging journey that rebellious "outsiders" Caroll Shelby (Matt Damon) and Ken Miles (Christian Bale) embark on as they try to bring glory to the long-suffering racing division of the Ford Motor Company that's gotten embarrassed by Ferrari year after year at the 24 Hours of Le Mans Grand Prix radically different from the countless other sports biopics out there? Not particularly, but the sheer intensity of the racing sequences, sturdiness of James Mangold's direction and commanding power of its central performances allow it to be a very compelling everyman epic where the eventual triumph of the protagonists feels well-earned. Especially during a portion of the calendar where over-the-top artistic theatrics often take center stage, the simple, effective showmanship of Ford v Ferrari is more than worthy of admiration.
Grade: B+
Saturday, November 16, 2019
Earful of Fantasy Episode #10
On this week's episode, Liam and I squabble about the results of our long-awaited fantasy showdown, entertain participating in an absurd 4-team league next year and tease a debate about the Myles Garrett/Mason Rudolph helmet hitting incident that never gets fully fleshed out. Tune in at any of the links below for your weekly dose of manic fantasy football talk.
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/too-soon-for-weaponized-helmet-jokes-eof110/id1478573845?i=1000456952733
Earful of Dirt: https://www.earfulofdirt.com/2019/11/too-soon-for-weaponized-helmet-jokes.html
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/too-soon-for-weaponized-helmet-jokes-eof110/id1478573845?i=1000456952733
Earful of Dirt: https://www.earfulofdirt.com/2019/11/too-soon-for-weaponized-helmet-jokes.html
Thursday, November 14, 2019
The Best and Worst of Matt Damon (2019)
“The Best and Worst of” series chronicles the career
highlights and lowlights of an actor starring in one of the week's
new theatrical releases. This week, I take a look at the filmography
of “Ford v. Ferrari” star Matt Damon.
Films starring Matt Damon that I've seen:
Chasing Amy
Good Will Hunting
Rounders
Saving Private Ryan
Dogma
Titan A.E.
The Legend of Bagger Vance
Ocean's Eleven
The Bourne Identity
Stuck on You
The Bourne Supremacy
Ocean's Twelve
The Departed
Ocean's Thirteen
The Bourne Ultimatum
The Informant!
Green Zone
True Grit
The Adjustment Bureau
Contagion
We Bought a Zoo
Elysium
The Monuments Men
Interstellar
The Martian
Jason Bourne
The Great Wall
Best Performance: Good Will Hunting (1997)
As cliché as it to be a Massachusetts resident and pick one of Damon's Bostonian characters as his best performance, I can't ignore how highly I regard his performance in Good Will Hunting. Hot headed MIT janitor/incognito mathematical genius Will Hunting is the perfect showcase of the raw emotional edge, smartass snark and irresistible magnetism that has made Damon one of the finest actors to enter the industry over the last 25 years.
Worst Performance: Jason Bourne (2016)
Damon had walked away from playing this pretty famous character for nine years before returning for Jason Bourne. Considering the visible lack of effort he displayed here, he should've stayed retired. Even when he's engaged in one of the franchise's famous shaky cam-aided fight scenes, Damon looks disinterested and borderline ashamed to be back playing the globe-trotting, genetically-enhanced spy.
Best Film: The Departed (2006)
Thanks to the buzz surrounding Martin Scorsese's The Irishman, I've been thinking a lot about The Departed lately. Perfection is something that I feel is damn near impossible to achieve in art yet The Departed makes it look like the easiest thing in the world. The story is packed with detail without ever becoming confusing, the characters are vivid, the acting is astounding and the payoff of this complex crime saga hits like a god damn jackhammer. Even in a filmography that is as packed with timeless gems as Scorsese's, this remains my clear favorite work of his.
Worst Film: Ocean's Twelve (2004)
While Ocean's Eleven is lightyears ahead of the rest of the installments, there's a sense of breezy fun that sits at the core of every entry in this heist franchise. Absolutely none of that lighthearted entertainment made into Ocean's Twelve. This labored, staggeringly dull caper flick felt like a kid having a temper tantrum in the latter stages of a great birthday party and subsequently sucking up whatever joy had been in the room prior to that unexpected outburst.
Thank you for reading this week's edition of “The Best and Worst of”. The next victim of my praise and ire will be “21 Bridges” star Keith David.
Films starring Matt Damon that I've seen:
Chasing Amy
Good Will Hunting
Rounders
Saving Private Ryan
Dogma
Titan A.E.
The Legend of Bagger Vance
Ocean's Eleven
The Bourne Identity
Stuck on You
The Bourne Supremacy
Ocean's Twelve
The Departed
Ocean's Thirteen
The Bourne Ultimatum
The Informant!
Green Zone
True Grit
The Adjustment Bureau
Contagion
We Bought a Zoo
Elysium
The Monuments Men
Interstellar
The Martian
Jason Bourne
The Great Wall
Best Performance: Good Will Hunting (1997)
As cliché as it to be a Massachusetts resident and pick one of Damon's Bostonian characters as his best performance, I can't ignore how highly I regard his performance in Good Will Hunting. Hot headed MIT janitor/incognito mathematical genius Will Hunting is the perfect showcase of the raw emotional edge, smartass snark and irresistible magnetism that has made Damon one of the finest actors to enter the industry over the last 25 years.
Worst Performance: Jason Bourne (2016)
Damon had walked away from playing this pretty famous character for nine years before returning for Jason Bourne. Considering the visible lack of effort he displayed here, he should've stayed retired. Even when he's engaged in one of the franchise's famous shaky cam-aided fight scenes, Damon looks disinterested and borderline ashamed to be back playing the globe-trotting, genetically-enhanced spy.
Best Film: The Departed (2006)
Thanks to the buzz surrounding Martin Scorsese's The Irishman, I've been thinking a lot about The Departed lately. Perfection is something that I feel is damn near impossible to achieve in art yet The Departed makes it look like the easiest thing in the world. The story is packed with detail without ever becoming confusing, the characters are vivid, the acting is astounding and the payoff of this complex crime saga hits like a god damn jackhammer. Even in a filmography that is as packed with timeless gems as Scorsese's, this remains my clear favorite work of his.
Worst Film: Ocean's Twelve (2004)
While Ocean's Eleven is lightyears ahead of the rest of the installments, there's a sense of breezy fun that sits at the core of every entry in this heist franchise. Absolutely none of that lighthearted entertainment made into Ocean's Twelve. This labored, staggeringly dull caper flick felt like a kid having a temper tantrum in the latter stages of a great birthday party and subsequently sucking up whatever joy had been in the room prior to that unexpected outburst.
Thank you for reading this week's edition of “The Best and Worst of”. The next victim of my praise and ire will be “21 Bridges” star Keith David.
Wednesday, November 13, 2019
Week 10 Fantasy Football Winners and Losers: 2019 Edition
Quarterback
MVP: Lamar Jackson (Ravens)
Jackson's MVP campaign received another huge boost this weekend as he absolutely eviscerated the Bengals sad defense for 223 YDS and 3 TD's through the air and another 65 YDS and a TD on the ground. A potentially incredible young QB duel with fellow MVP candidate Deshaun Watson is up next for the Ravens electric playmaker.
Honorable Mentions: Daniel Jones (Giants), Patrick Mahomes (Chiefs), Kyler Murray (Cardinals)
LVP: Drew Brees (Saints)
Brees put together an inexplicably pedestrian game (287 YDS/0 TD/0 turnovers) against the Falcons dumpster fire of a defense as the Saints somehow managed to get smoked at home to a team that hadn't won since Week 2. He'll look to redeem himself this Sunday against a similarly terrible Bucs pass D.
Dishonorable Mentions: Aaron Rodgers (Packers), Jared Goff (Rams), Jimmy Garoppolo (49ers)
Running Back
MVP: Derrick Henry (Titans)
By bullying the Chiefs soft run D for 188 YDS and 2 TD's on 23 carries, Mr. Henry played a key part in allowing the Titans to pull off a huge upset win. Henry has managed to be a top 5 fantasy running back despite his general lack of contributions in the passing game, which is a truly remarkable feat in the modern NFL where throwback bellcows typically only serve as respectable RB2 options at best. He'll look to finish strong against a pretty tough slate (Saints, Jaguars, Texans, Raiders, Colts) once the Titans return from bye in Week 12.
Honorable Mentions: Aaron Jones (Packers), Dalvin Cook (Vikings), Christian McCaffery (Panthers)
LVP: Saquon Barkley (Giants)
Pat Shurmur confirmed the obvious postgame: Barkley was playing hurt against the Jets on Sunday. The sophomore back looked stiff and slow all afternoon as he racked up a paltry 31 YDS (1 rushing, 30 receiving) on 18 touches. With the Giants season all but officially over as they enter their Week 11 bye at 2-8, there's a distinct possibility that they end up shutting him down for the year.
Dishonorable Mentions: David Johnson (Cardinals), Devin Singletary (Bills), Jaylen Samuels (Steelers)
Wide Receiver
MVP: Christian Kirk (Cardinals)
Leave it to the Buccaneers secondary to remind fantasy players of Kirk's ridiculous potential. The Texas A&M speedster was making huge plays all over Raymond James Stadium on Sunday, registering 138 YDS and 3 TD's on just 6 receptions. He'll likely come back down to earth when the Cardinals square off against the 49ers tough secondary for the 2nd time in 3 weeks, but he'll be an intriguing WR3/FLEX play during the stretch run.
Honorable Mentions: Tyreek Hill (Chiefs), Amari Cooper (Cowboys), Golden Tate (Giants)
LVP: Cooper Kupp (Rams)
Kupp was due to stumble at some point after such an unbelievable 1st half of the season. However, putting up a donut in a game where Brandin Cooks was inactive is a true shock. While I'm still legitimately baffled by how the hell this happened, I think Kupp will mimic Mike Evans and make up for this unexpected disappearing act with a fireworks show against the Bears this Sunday night.
Dishonorable Mentions: Tyler Lockett (Seahawks), Tyrell Williams (Raiders), Robby Anderson (Jets)
Tight End
MVP: Mark Andrews (Ravens)
There are few better "get right" spots as a skill position player than a matchup with the Bengals and Andrews took advantage of that golden opportunity to bust his mini-slump by hanging 53 YDS and 2 TD's on the league's last remaining winless team. Andrews has another plus matchup against the Texans below average passing defense in Week 11.
Honorable Mentions: Kyle Rudolph (Vikings), Travis Kelce (Chiefs), O.J. Howard (Buccaneers)
LVP: Vance McDonald (Steelers)
Despite Mason Rudolph putting together a respectable performance against a tough Rams defense, McDonald struggled to contribute-managing just 3 receptions for 11 YDS and 1 carry for 2 YDS on the day. McDonald will remain a volatile play with a game manager like Rudolph under center, but his decent weekly ceiling makes him worth rostering, if not starting in deeper leagues.
Dishonorable Mentions: Jason Witten (Cowboys), Mike Gesicki (Dolphins), Jonnu Smith (Titans)
Defense/Special Teams
MVP: Steelers
The hype the Patriots and 49ers defenses have generated has unfairly forced the Steelers dominance to fly under the radar. Their latest excellent performance, which helped them earn their 4th straight victory and move into the #6 seed in the AFC, against the Rams (4 points allowed, 4 sacks, 3 INT, FUM REC, TD) might've been their most impressive performance to date as they made life miserable for Jared Goff and co. on just about every snap. They have another appetizing matchup against the Browns turnover-prone offense in Week 11.
Honorable Mentions: Ravens, Rams, 49ers
LVP: Saints
Very little of the strong, explosive play that had defined the Saints D since Week 3 was on display last Sunday as they racked up just 1 sack and an INT in a 26-9 loss against the Falcons. While they're not likely to post back-to-back duds, I'm a lot leerier about their chances of crushing the Bucs than I'd normally be.
Dishonorable Mentions: Browns, Giants, Bills
MVP: Lamar Jackson (Ravens)
Jackson's MVP campaign received another huge boost this weekend as he absolutely eviscerated the Bengals sad defense for 223 YDS and 3 TD's through the air and another 65 YDS and a TD on the ground. A potentially incredible young QB duel with fellow MVP candidate Deshaun Watson is up next for the Ravens electric playmaker.
Honorable Mentions: Daniel Jones (Giants), Patrick Mahomes (Chiefs), Kyler Murray (Cardinals)
LVP: Drew Brees (Saints)
Brees put together an inexplicably pedestrian game (287 YDS/0 TD/0 turnovers) against the Falcons dumpster fire of a defense as the Saints somehow managed to get smoked at home to a team that hadn't won since Week 2. He'll look to redeem himself this Sunday against a similarly terrible Bucs pass D.
Dishonorable Mentions: Aaron Rodgers (Packers), Jared Goff (Rams), Jimmy Garoppolo (49ers)
Running Back
MVP: Derrick Henry (Titans)
By bullying the Chiefs soft run D for 188 YDS and 2 TD's on 23 carries, Mr. Henry played a key part in allowing the Titans to pull off a huge upset win. Henry has managed to be a top 5 fantasy running back despite his general lack of contributions in the passing game, which is a truly remarkable feat in the modern NFL where throwback bellcows typically only serve as respectable RB2 options at best. He'll look to finish strong against a pretty tough slate (Saints, Jaguars, Texans, Raiders, Colts) once the Titans return from bye in Week 12.
Honorable Mentions: Aaron Jones (Packers), Dalvin Cook (Vikings), Christian McCaffery (Panthers)
LVP: Saquon Barkley (Giants)
Pat Shurmur confirmed the obvious postgame: Barkley was playing hurt against the Jets on Sunday. The sophomore back looked stiff and slow all afternoon as he racked up a paltry 31 YDS (1 rushing, 30 receiving) on 18 touches. With the Giants season all but officially over as they enter their Week 11 bye at 2-8, there's a distinct possibility that they end up shutting him down for the year.
Dishonorable Mentions: David Johnson (Cardinals), Devin Singletary (Bills), Jaylen Samuels (Steelers)
Wide Receiver
MVP: Christian Kirk (Cardinals)
Leave it to the Buccaneers secondary to remind fantasy players of Kirk's ridiculous potential. The Texas A&M speedster was making huge plays all over Raymond James Stadium on Sunday, registering 138 YDS and 3 TD's on just 6 receptions. He'll likely come back down to earth when the Cardinals square off against the 49ers tough secondary for the 2nd time in 3 weeks, but he'll be an intriguing WR3/FLEX play during the stretch run.
Honorable Mentions: Tyreek Hill (Chiefs), Amari Cooper (Cowboys), Golden Tate (Giants)
LVP: Cooper Kupp (Rams)
Kupp was due to stumble at some point after such an unbelievable 1st half of the season. However, putting up a donut in a game where Brandin Cooks was inactive is a true shock. While I'm still legitimately baffled by how the hell this happened, I think Kupp will mimic Mike Evans and make up for this unexpected disappearing act with a fireworks show against the Bears this Sunday night.
Dishonorable Mentions: Tyler Lockett (Seahawks), Tyrell Williams (Raiders), Robby Anderson (Jets)
Tight End
MVP: Mark Andrews (Ravens)
There are few better "get right" spots as a skill position player than a matchup with the Bengals and Andrews took advantage of that golden opportunity to bust his mini-slump by hanging 53 YDS and 2 TD's on the league's last remaining winless team. Andrews has another plus matchup against the Texans below average passing defense in Week 11.
Honorable Mentions: Kyle Rudolph (Vikings), Travis Kelce (Chiefs), O.J. Howard (Buccaneers)
LVP: Vance McDonald (Steelers)
Despite Mason Rudolph putting together a respectable performance against a tough Rams defense, McDonald struggled to contribute-managing just 3 receptions for 11 YDS and 1 carry for 2 YDS on the day. McDonald will remain a volatile play with a game manager like Rudolph under center, but his decent weekly ceiling makes him worth rostering, if not starting in deeper leagues.
Dishonorable Mentions: Jason Witten (Cowboys), Mike Gesicki (Dolphins), Jonnu Smith (Titans)
Defense/Special Teams
MVP: Steelers
The hype the Patriots and 49ers defenses have generated has unfairly forced the Steelers dominance to fly under the radar. Their latest excellent performance, which helped them earn their 4th straight victory and move into the #6 seed in the AFC, against the Rams (4 points allowed, 4 sacks, 3 INT, FUM REC, TD) might've been their most impressive performance to date as they made life miserable for Jared Goff and co. on just about every snap. They have another appetizing matchup against the Browns turnover-prone offense in Week 11.
Honorable Mentions: Ravens, Rams, 49ers
LVP: Saints
Very little of the strong, explosive play that had defined the Saints D since Week 3 was on display last Sunday as they racked up just 1 sack and an INT in a 26-9 loss against the Falcons. While they're not likely to post back-to-back duds, I'm a lot leerier about their chances of crushing the Bucs than I'd normally be.
Dishonorable Mentions: Browns, Giants, Bills
Tuesday, November 12, 2019
2019 NFL Power Rankings: Week 11
()=previous ranking
1.(4) Baltimore Ravens (7-2) Week 11 opponent: Houston Texans
2.(3) New England Patriots (8-1) Week 11 opponent: Philadelphia Eagles
3.(2) San Francisco 49ers (8-1) Week 11 opponent: Arizona Cardinals
4.(5) Seattle Seahawks (8-2) Week 11 opponent: Bye Week
5.(1) New Orleans Saints (7-2) Week 11 opponent: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
6.(6) Green Bay Packers (8-2) Week 11 opponent: Bye Week
7.(8) Minnesota Vikings (7-3) Week 11 opponent: Denver Broncos
8.(10) Houston Texans (6-3) Week 11 opponent: Baltimore Ravens
9.(7) Kansas City Chiefs (6-4) Week 11 opponent: Los Angeles Chargers
10.(9) Buffalo Bills (6-3) Week 11 opponent: Miami Dolphins
11.(11) Carolina Panthers (5-4) Week 11 opponent: Atlanta Falcons
12.(16) Oakland Raiders (5-4) Week 11 opponent: Cincinnati Bengals
13.(20) Pittsburgh Steelers (5-4) Week 11 opponent: Cleveland Browns
14.(13) Dallas Cowboys (5-4) Week 11 opponent: Detroit Lions
15.(15) Philadelphia Eagles (5-4) Week 11 opponent: New England Patriots
16.(12) Indianapolis Colts (5-4) Week 11 opponent: Jacksonville Jaguars
17.(14) Los Angeles Rams (5-4) Week 11 opponent: Chicago Bears
18.(21) Tennessee Titans (5-5) Week 11 opponent: Bye Week
19.(19) Jacksonville Jaguars (4-5) Week 11 opponent: Indianapolis Colts
20.(24) Chicago Bears (4-5) Week 11 opponent: Los Angeles Rams
21.(17) Los Angeles Chargers (4-6) Week 11 opponent: Kansas City Chiefs
22.(18) Detroit Lions (3-5-1) Week 11 opponent: Dallas Cowboys
23.(25) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-6) Week 11 opponent: New Orleans Saints
24.(23) Denver Broncos (3-6) Week 11 opponent: Minnesota Vikings
25.(26) Cleveland Browns (3-6) Week 11 opponent: Pittsburgh Steelers
26.(22) Arizona Cardinals (3-6-1) Week 11 opponent: San Francisco 49ers
27.(28) Atlanta Falcons (2-7) Week 11 opponent: New Orleans Saints
28.(29) Miami Dolphins (2-7) Week 11 opponent: Buffalo Bills
29.(30) New York Jets (2-7) Week 11 opponent: Washington Redskins
30.(27) New York Giants (2-8) Week 11 opponent: Bye Week
31.(31) Washington Redskins (1-8) Week 11 opponent: New York Jets
32.(32) Cincinnati Bengals (0-9) Week 11 opponent: Oakland Raiders
1.(4) Baltimore Ravens (7-2) Week 11 opponent: Houston Texans
2.(3) New England Patriots (8-1) Week 11 opponent: Philadelphia Eagles
3.(2) San Francisco 49ers (8-1) Week 11 opponent: Arizona Cardinals
4.(5) Seattle Seahawks (8-2) Week 11 opponent: Bye Week
5.(1) New Orleans Saints (7-2) Week 11 opponent: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
6.(6) Green Bay Packers (8-2) Week 11 opponent: Bye Week
7.(8) Minnesota Vikings (7-3) Week 11 opponent: Denver Broncos
8.(10) Houston Texans (6-3) Week 11 opponent: Baltimore Ravens
9.(7) Kansas City Chiefs (6-4) Week 11 opponent: Los Angeles Chargers
10.(9) Buffalo Bills (6-3) Week 11 opponent: Miami Dolphins
11.(11) Carolina Panthers (5-4) Week 11 opponent: Atlanta Falcons
12.(16) Oakland Raiders (5-4) Week 11 opponent: Cincinnati Bengals
13.(20) Pittsburgh Steelers (5-4) Week 11 opponent: Cleveland Browns
14.(13) Dallas Cowboys (5-4) Week 11 opponent: Detroit Lions
15.(15) Philadelphia Eagles (5-4) Week 11 opponent: New England Patriots
16.(12) Indianapolis Colts (5-4) Week 11 opponent: Jacksonville Jaguars
17.(14) Los Angeles Rams (5-4) Week 11 opponent: Chicago Bears
18.(21) Tennessee Titans (5-5) Week 11 opponent: Bye Week
19.(19) Jacksonville Jaguars (4-5) Week 11 opponent: Indianapolis Colts
20.(24) Chicago Bears (4-5) Week 11 opponent: Los Angeles Rams
21.(17) Los Angeles Chargers (4-6) Week 11 opponent: Kansas City Chiefs
22.(18) Detroit Lions (3-5-1) Week 11 opponent: Dallas Cowboys
23.(25) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-6) Week 11 opponent: New Orleans Saints
24.(23) Denver Broncos (3-6) Week 11 opponent: Minnesota Vikings
25.(26) Cleveland Browns (3-6) Week 11 opponent: Pittsburgh Steelers
26.(22) Arizona Cardinals (3-6-1) Week 11 opponent: San Francisco 49ers
27.(28) Atlanta Falcons (2-7) Week 11 opponent: New Orleans Saints
28.(29) Miami Dolphins (2-7) Week 11 opponent: Buffalo Bills
29.(30) New York Jets (2-7) Week 11 opponent: Washington Redskins
30.(27) New York Giants (2-8) Week 11 opponent: Bye Week
31.(31) Washington Redskins (1-8) Week 11 opponent: New York Jets
32.(32) Cincinnati Bengals (0-9) Week 11 opponent: Oakland Raiders
Thursday, November 7, 2019
Earful of Fantasy Episode #9
On this week's episode, Liam and I discuss long-term keepers, Laquon Treadwell's career and anoint Mike Gesicki the savior of the Miami Dolphins. This particularly lively hour can be heard at any of the links below.
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/five-year-keeper-eof109/id1478573845?i=1000456115870
Earful of Dirt: https://www.earfulofdirt.com/2019/11/five-year-keeper-eof109.html
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/five-year-keeper-eof109/id1478573845?i=1000456115870
Earful of Dirt: https://www.earfulofdirt.com/2019/11/five-year-keeper-eof109.html
Wednesday, November 6, 2019
The Best and Worst of Rebecca Ferguson
“The Best and Worst of” series chronicles the career
highlights and lowlights of an actor starring in one of the week's
new theatrical releases. This week, I take a look at the filmography
of “Doctor Sleep” star Rebecca Ferguson.
Films starring Rebecca Ferguson that I've seen:
Hercules
Mission-Impossible: Rogue Nation
Florence Foster Jenkins
The Girl on the Train
Life
Mission-Impossible: Fallout
The Kid Who Would Be King
Men in Black: International
Best Performance: The Girl on the Train (2016)
Ferguson was still relatively unknown to me prior to 2016. She was solid enough in Mission-Impossible: Rogue Nation, but the acting in those movies are secondary to the remarkable stuntwork/action sequences. That all changed after I watched The Girl on the Train. The quiet intensity and depth she brought to her role as Anna, a real estate agent who becomes a central figure in the missing person investigation that drives this psychological mystery thriller, established her as an intriguing talent to watch. Ferguson has since gone on to establish herself as a versatile actor that tends to be among the strongest elements of every project she stars in.
Worst Performance: Life (2017)
A sparse, generic plot about a hyperintelligent alien lifeform wreaking havoc on the crew of an international space station prevented anyone from Life's stellar cast (Jake Gyllenhaal, Ferguson, Ryan Reynolds) from giving a performance that was up to par. As the captain of the vessel, Ferguson's character basically just tells everybody to calm down until she realizes (far too late) that this intergalactic entity is going to kill everyone and starts screaming in a frenzied manner until the movie reaches its mediocre doomsday conclusion.
Best Film: Mission-Impossible: Fallout (2018)
While I'm not quite on board with the "its one of the greatest action movies ever made!" take, Mission-Impossible: Fallout is a great movie that is deserving of the constant high praise its received since it was released last summer. Tom Cruise and Christopher McQuarrie made an exciting, often jaw-dropping blockbuster spectacle that managed to raise the bar even higher for a franchise that continues to deify the odds by getting better as time goes on.
Worst Film: Florence Foster Jenkins (2016)
To be completely fair, Florence Foster Jenkins isn't a bad movie at all. It's a competently made and acted biopic about a dying New York socialite (Meryl Streep) that pursues a career as an opera singer despite her distinct lack of singing ability. The problems I have with Florence Foster Jenkins entirely lie with my lack of interest in the subject matter. Opera is a niche genre of music that has always grated on me and despite the pretty accessible way its approached here, that lack of appreciation prevented me from connecting with Florence's story.
Thank you for reading this week's edition of “The Best and Worst of”. The next victim of my praise and ire will be “Ford v. Ferrari” star Matt Damon.
Films starring Rebecca Ferguson that I've seen:
Hercules
Mission-Impossible: Rogue Nation
Florence Foster Jenkins
The Girl on the Train
Life
Mission-Impossible: Fallout
The Kid Who Would Be King
Men in Black: International
Best Performance: The Girl on the Train (2016)
Ferguson was still relatively unknown to me prior to 2016. She was solid enough in Mission-Impossible: Rogue Nation, but the acting in those movies are secondary to the remarkable stuntwork/action sequences. That all changed after I watched The Girl on the Train. The quiet intensity and depth she brought to her role as Anna, a real estate agent who becomes a central figure in the missing person investigation that drives this psychological mystery thriller, established her as an intriguing talent to watch. Ferguson has since gone on to establish herself as a versatile actor that tends to be among the strongest elements of every project she stars in.
Worst Performance: Life (2017)
A sparse, generic plot about a hyperintelligent alien lifeform wreaking havoc on the crew of an international space station prevented anyone from Life's stellar cast (Jake Gyllenhaal, Ferguson, Ryan Reynolds) from giving a performance that was up to par. As the captain of the vessel, Ferguson's character basically just tells everybody to calm down until she realizes (far too late) that this intergalactic entity is going to kill everyone and starts screaming in a frenzied manner until the movie reaches its mediocre doomsday conclusion.
Best Film: Mission-Impossible: Fallout (2018)
While I'm not quite on board with the "its one of the greatest action movies ever made!" take, Mission-Impossible: Fallout is a great movie that is deserving of the constant high praise its received since it was released last summer. Tom Cruise and Christopher McQuarrie made an exciting, often jaw-dropping blockbuster spectacle that managed to raise the bar even higher for a franchise that continues to deify the odds by getting better as time goes on.
Worst Film: Florence Foster Jenkins (2016)
To be completely fair, Florence Foster Jenkins isn't a bad movie at all. It's a competently made and acted biopic about a dying New York socialite (Meryl Streep) that pursues a career as an opera singer despite her distinct lack of singing ability. The problems I have with Florence Foster Jenkins entirely lie with my lack of interest in the subject matter. Opera is a niche genre of music that has always grated on me and despite the pretty accessible way its approached here, that lack of appreciation prevented me from connecting with Florence's story.
Thank you for reading this week's edition of “The Best and Worst of”. The next victim of my praise and ire will be “Ford v. Ferrari” star Matt Damon.
Tuesday, November 5, 2019
Week 9 Fantasy Football Winners and Losers: 2019 Edition
Quarterback
MVP: Russell Wilson (Seahawks)
The current MVP favorite kept rolling in Week 9. Wilson went deep into his bag of tricks (378 passing YDS/5 TD/21 rushing YDS/1 2-PT CNV) to help the Seahawks secure an ugly, but ultimately well-earned OT victory over the Buccaneers. Russ will face arguably his stiffest test of 2019 so far when the Seahawks travel down to Santa Clara to take on the undefeated 49ers next Monday night.
Honorable Mentions: Jimmy Garoppolo (49ers), Lamar Jackson (Ravens), Matthew Stafford (Lions)
LVP: Gardner Minshew (Jaguars)
The rookie QB put together the messiest performance of his young career to-date, scoring 0 TD's and turning the ball over 4 times (2 INT's, 2 lost fumbles) while mustering 343 hollow YDS (309 passing, 34 rushing) in a horrible division loss against the Texans. Minshew Mania has been put on hold for the time being, as Doug Marrone announced today that Nick Foles will be under center when they take the field again in Week 11 against the Colts. Regardless of whether or not he plays again in 2019, Minshew showed enough grit and raw playmaking ability during his 8 starts to prove he deserves a shot to become a full-time starter in this league.
Dishonorable Mentions: Aaron Rodgers (Packers), Tom Brady (Patriots), Phillip Rivers (Chargers)
Running Back
MVP: Christian McCaffery (Panthers)
McCaffery was awfully generous to fantasy owners yet again in Week 9. The stud back registered 166 scrimmage YDS (146 rushing, 20 receiving) and 3 TD's (2 rushing, 1 receiving) on 27 touches in a victory over the Titans. We're in the process of witnessing a special season (1,244 scrimmage YDS and 13 TD's in 8 games) and hopefully the football gods will be able to keep him healthy down the stretch so he can get the chance to chase history.
Honorable Mentions: Kenyan Drake (Cardinals), Josh Jacobs (Raiders), Melvin Gordon (Chargrs)
LVP: Aaron Jones (Packers)
The Jones roller coaster hits its first bump in the road in a while on Sunday afternoon against the Chargers. To be fair, this was more of a game script issue than a reflection of Jones' play as the Chargers went up big on the Packers before halftime and never looked back-which limited Jones to just 9 touches for 29 YDS (30 rushing, -1 receiving). He'll look to get back on track against a Panthers defense that has surrendered the 5th most fantasy points to running backs in standard leagues this season.
Dishonorable Mentions: Sony Michel (Patriots), Tevin Coleman (49ers), Ty Johnson (Lions)
Wide Receiver
MVP: Tyler Lockett (Seahawks)
Both Lockett and rookie DK Metcalf were able to feast on the Buccaneers terrible pass defense in this Week 9 shootout, but the veteran ended up having the better afternoon-reeling in a ridiculous 13 catches for 152 YDS and 2 TD's. Thanks to his precise route-running, top-flight speed and terrific chemistry with Russell Wilson, Lockett has seamlessly transitioned to the top wideout role vacated by the retired Doug Baldwin. He should be viewed as a borderline WR1 the rest of the way.
Honorable Mentions: Mike Evans (Buccaneers), DK Metcalf (Seahawks), Tyreek Hill (Chiefs)
LVP: Allen Robinson (Bears)
Playing in the worst offense in the NFL has finally caught up with Robinson as he mustered just 1 reception for 6 YDS against the Eagles porous secondary. While he's certainly volatile given how bad the Bears quarterback play has been, he's done a masterful job of making the most out of the flurry of hospital balls he receives from Mitch Trubisky on a weekly basis (producing 47 REC/532 YDS/3 TD through 8 games in a passing attack this limp should put him in the MVP conversation)-which is enough to make him a solid WR3 option most weeks.
Dishonorable Mentions: JuJu Smith-Schuster (Steelers), Stefon Diggs (Vikings), D.J. Chark (Jaguars)
Tight End
MVP: Zach Ertz (Eagles)
Welcome back to the land of the productive Mr. Ertz!!!! The Eagles veteran tight end reminded fantasy owners of the dominance he's capable of by posting 103 YD and a TD on 9 receptions against the Bears last Sunday, which marked his 1st 100+ YD performance of 2019 and 1st trip to the endzone since Week 2. Ertz will likely struggle to replicate this explosion against the Patriots tough secondary in Week 11.
Honorable Mentions: George Kittle (49ers), Vance McDonald (Steelers), Hunter Henry (Chargers)
LVP: Eric Ebron (Colts)
T.Y. Hilton's absence didn't help Ebron in the slightest. The famously erratic tight end all but completely disappeared against the Steelers, finishing the contest with only 2 catches for 16 YDS. He'll be a boom-or-bust play regardless of whose under center on Sunday afternoon when the Colts take on the Dolphins.
Dishonorable Mentions: Mark Andrews (Ravens), Jimmy Graham (Packers), Jonnu Smith (Titans)
Defense/Special Teams
MVP: Steelers
The Steelers D were able to take advantage of the chaos that ensued following the injury to Jacoby Brissett as well as Brian Hoyer's general crappiness, picking up 5 sacks, an INT, 2 FUM REC, a blocked field goal and a TD in a 26-24 win over the Colts. While they're susceptible to allowing points, the Steelers strong pass rush and takeaway ability has made them a top 5 fantasy defense over the past month.
Honorable Mentions: Texans, Cowboys, Ravens
LVP: 49ers
The short week had a noticeable effect on the 49ers defense. They allowed chunk plays all game long, failed to create any takeaways and only got to Kyler Murray 3 times in a surprisingly close 28-25 game against the Cardinals last Thursday. This group will face another difficult test against the Seahawks on Monday night.
Dishonorable Mentions: Patriots, Bears, Jaguars
MVP: Russell Wilson (Seahawks)
The current MVP favorite kept rolling in Week 9. Wilson went deep into his bag of tricks (378 passing YDS/5 TD/21 rushing YDS/1 2-PT CNV) to help the Seahawks secure an ugly, but ultimately well-earned OT victory over the Buccaneers. Russ will face arguably his stiffest test of 2019 so far when the Seahawks travel down to Santa Clara to take on the undefeated 49ers next Monday night.
Honorable Mentions: Jimmy Garoppolo (49ers), Lamar Jackson (Ravens), Matthew Stafford (Lions)
LVP: Gardner Minshew (Jaguars)
The rookie QB put together the messiest performance of his young career to-date, scoring 0 TD's and turning the ball over 4 times (2 INT's, 2 lost fumbles) while mustering 343 hollow YDS (309 passing, 34 rushing) in a horrible division loss against the Texans. Minshew Mania has been put on hold for the time being, as Doug Marrone announced today that Nick Foles will be under center when they take the field again in Week 11 against the Colts. Regardless of whether or not he plays again in 2019, Minshew showed enough grit and raw playmaking ability during his 8 starts to prove he deserves a shot to become a full-time starter in this league.
Dishonorable Mentions: Aaron Rodgers (Packers), Tom Brady (Patriots), Phillip Rivers (Chargers)
Running Back
MVP: Christian McCaffery (Panthers)
McCaffery was awfully generous to fantasy owners yet again in Week 9. The stud back registered 166 scrimmage YDS (146 rushing, 20 receiving) and 3 TD's (2 rushing, 1 receiving) on 27 touches in a victory over the Titans. We're in the process of witnessing a special season (1,244 scrimmage YDS and 13 TD's in 8 games) and hopefully the football gods will be able to keep him healthy down the stretch so he can get the chance to chase history.
Honorable Mentions: Kenyan Drake (Cardinals), Josh Jacobs (Raiders), Melvin Gordon (Chargrs)
LVP: Aaron Jones (Packers)
The Jones roller coaster hits its first bump in the road in a while on Sunday afternoon against the Chargers. To be fair, this was more of a game script issue than a reflection of Jones' play as the Chargers went up big on the Packers before halftime and never looked back-which limited Jones to just 9 touches for 29 YDS (30 rushing, -1 receiving). He'll look to get back on track against a Panthers defense that has surrendered the 5th most fantasy points to running backs in standard leagues this season.
Dishonorable Mentions: Sony Michel (Patriots), Tevin Coleman (49ers), Ty Johnson (Lions)
Wide Receiver
MVP: Tyler Lockett (Seahawks)
Both Lockett and rookie DK Metcalf were able to feast on the Buccaneers terrible pass defense in this Week 9 shootout, but the veteran ended up having the better afternoon-reeling in a ridiculous 13 catches for 152 YDS and 2 TD's. Thanks to his precise route-running, top-flight speed and terrific chemistry with Russell Wilson, Lockett has seamlessly transitioned to the top wideout role vacated by the retired Doug Baldwin. He should be viewed as a borderline WR1 the rest of the way.
Honorable Mentions: Mike Evans (Buccaneers), DK Metcalf (Seahawks), Tyreek Hill (Chiefs)
LVP: Allen Robinson (Bears)
Playing in the worst offense in the NFL has finally caught up with Robinson as he mustered just 1 reception for 6 YDS against the Eagles porous secondary. While he's certainly volatile given how bad the Bears quarterback play has been, he's done a masterful job of making the most out of the flurry of hospital balls he receives from Mitch Trubisky on a weekly basis (producing 47 REC/532 YDS/3 TD through 8 games in a passing attack this limp should put him in the MVP conversation)-which is enough to make him a solid WR3 option most weeks.
Dishonorable Mentions: JuJu Smith-Schuster (Steelers), Stefon Diggs (Vikings), D.J. Chark (Jaguars)
Tight End
MVP: Zach Ertz (Eagles)
Welcome back to the land of the productive Mr. Ertz!!!! The Eagles veteran tight end reminded fantasy owners of the dominance he's capable of by posting 103 YD and a TD on 9 receptions against the Bears last Sunday, which marked his 1st 100+ YD performance of 2019 and 1st trip to the endzone since Week 2. Ertz will likely struggle to replicate this explosion against the Patriots tough secondary in Week 11.
Honorable Mentions: George Kittle (49ers), Vance McDonald (Steelers), Hunter Henry (Chargers)
LVP: Eric Ebron (Colts)
T.Y. Hilton's absence didn't help Ebron in the slightest. The famously erratic tight end all but completely disappeared against the Steelers, finishing the contest with only 2 catches for 16 YDS. He'll be a boom-or-bust play regardless of whose under center on Sunday afternoon when the Colts take on the Dolphins.
Dishonorable Mentions: Mark Andrews (Ravens), Jimmy Graham (Packers), Jonnu Smith (Titans)
Defense/Special Teams
MVP: Steelers
The Steelers D were able to take advantage of the chaos that ensued following the injury to Jacoby Brissett as well as Brian Hoyer's general crappiness, picking up 5 sacks, an INT, 2 FUM REC, a blocked field goal and a TD in a 26-24 win over the Colts. While they're susceptible to allowing points, the Steelers strong pass rush and takeaway ability has made them a top 5 fantasy defense over the past month.
Honorable Mentions: Texans, Cowboys, Ravens
LVP: 49ers
The short week had a noticeable effect on the 49ers defense. They allowed chunk plays all game long, failed to create any takeaways and only got to Kyler Murray 3 times in a surprisingly close 28-25 game against the Cardinals last Thursday. This group will face another difficult test against the Seahawks on Monday night.
Dishonorable Mentions: Patriots, Bears, Jaguars
2019 NFL Power Rankings: Week 10
()=previous ranking
1.(2) New Orleans Saints (7-1) Week 10 opponent: Atlanta Falcons
2.(3) San Francisco 49ers (8-0) Week 10 opponent: Seattle Seahawks
3.(1) New England Patriots (8-1) Week 10 opponent: Bye Week
4.(5) Baltimore Ravens (6-2) Week 10 opponent: Cincinnati Bengals
5.(6) Seattle Seahawks (7-2) Week 10 opponent: San Francisco 49ers
6.(4) Green Bay Packers (7-2) Week 10 opponent: Carolina Panthers
7.(8) Kansas City Chiefs (6-3) Week 10 opponent: Tennessee Titans
8.(7) Minnesota Vikings (6-3) Week 10 opponent: Dallas Cowboys
9.(9) Buffalo Bills (6-2) Week 10 opponent: Cleveland Browns
10.(11) Houston Texans (6-3) Week 10 opponent: Bye Week
11.(12) Carolina Panthers (5-3) Week 10 opponent: Green Bay Packers
12.(10) Indianapolis Colts (5-3) Week 10 opponent: Miami Dolphins
13.(13) Dallas Cowboys (5-3) Week 10 opponent: Minnesota Vikings
14.(14) Los Angeles Rams (5-3) Week 10 opponent: Pittsburgh Steelers
15.(15) Philadelphia Eagles (5-4) Week 10 opponent: Bye Week
16.(18) Oakland Raiders (4-4) Week 10 opponent: Los Angeles Chargers
17.(24) Los Angeles Chargers (4-5) Week 10 opponent: Oakland Raiders
18.(17) Detroit Lions (3-4-1) Week 10 opponent: Chicago Bears
19.(16) Jacksonville Jaguars (4-5) Week 10 opponent: Bye Week
20.(21) Pittsburgh Steelers (4-4) Week 10 opponent: Los Angeles Rams
21.(20) Tennessee Titans (4-5) Week 10 opponent: Kansas City Chiefs
22.(22) Arizona Cardinals (3-5-1) Week 10 opponent: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
23.(26) Denver Broncos (3-6) Week 10 opponent: Bye Week
24.(19) Chicago Bears (3-5) Week 10 opponent: Detroit Lions
25.(23) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-6) Week 10 opponent: Arizona Cardinals
26.(25) Cleveland Browns (2-6) Week 10 opponent: Buffalo Bills
27.(27) New York Giants (2-7) Week 10 opponent: New York Jets
28.(28) Atlanta Falcons (1-7) Week 10 opponent: New Orleans Saints
29.(32) Miami Dolphins (1-7) Week 10 opponent: Indianapolis Colts
30.(29) New York Jets (1-7) Week 10 opponent: New York Giants
31.(30) Washington Redskins (1-8) Week 10 opponent: Bye Week
32.(31) Cincinnati Bengals (0-8) Week 10 opponent: Baltimore Ravens
1.(2) New Orleans Saints (7-1) Week 10 opponent: Atlanta Falcons
2.(3) San Francisco 49ers (8-0) Week 10 opponent: Seattle Seahawks
3.(1) New England Patriots (8-1) Week 10 opponent: Bye Week
4.(5) Baltimore Ravens (6-2) Week 10 opponent: Cincinnati Bengals
5.(6) Seattle Seahawks (7-2) Week 10 opponent: San Francisco 49ers
6.(4) Green Bay Packers (7-2) Week 10 opponent: Carolina Panthers
7.(8) Kansas City Chiefs (6-3) Week 10 opponent: Tennessee Titans
8.(7) Minnesota Vikings (6-3) Week 10 opponent: Dallas Cowboys
9.(9) Buffalo Bills (6-2) Week 10 opponent: Cleveland Browns
10.(11) Houston Texans (6-3) Week 10 opponent: Bye Week
11.(12) Carolina Panthers (5-3) Week 10 opponent: Green Bay Packers
12.(10) Indianapolis Colts (5-3) Week 10 opponent: Miami Dolphins
13.(13) Dallas Cowboys (5-3) Week 10 opponent: Minnesota Vikings
14.(14) Los Angeles Rams (5-3) Week 10 opponent: Pittsburgh Steelers
15.(15) Philadelphia Eagles (5-4) Week 10 opponent: Bye Week
16.(18) Oakland Raiders (4-4) Week 10 opponent: Los Angeles Chargers
17.(24) Los Angeles Chargers (4-5) Week 10 opponent: Oakland Raiders
18.(17) Detroit Lions (3-4-1) Week 10 opponent: Chicago Bears
19.(16) Jacksonville Jaguars (4-5) Week 10 opponent: Bye Week
20.(21) Pittsburgh Steelers (4-4) Week 10 opponent: Los Angeles Rams
21.(20) Tennessee Titans (4-5) Week 10 opponent: Kansas City Chiefs
22.(22) Arizona Cardinals (3-5-1) Week 10 opponent: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
23.(26) Denver Broncos (3-6) Week 10 opponent: Bye Week
24.(19) Chicago Bears (3-5) Week 10 opponent: Detroit Lions
25.(23) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-6) Week 10 opponent: Arizona Cardinals
26.(25) Cleveland Browns (2-6) Week 10 opponent: Buffalo Bills
27.(27) New York Giants (2-7) Week 10 opponent: New York Jets
28.(28) Atlanta Falcons (1-7) Week 10 opponent: New Orleans Saints
29.(32) Miami Dolphins (1-7) Week 10 opponent: Indianapolis Colts
30.(29) New York Jets (1-7) Week 10 opponent: New York Giants
31.(30) Washington Redskins (1-8) Week 10 opponent: Bye Week
32.(31) Cincinnati Bengals (0-8) Week 10 opponent: Baltimore Ravens
Monday, November 4, 2019
2019 NFL Mid-Season Awards and Updated Playoff Predictions
MVP: Russell Wilson (Seahawks) (2,505 YDS, 22 TD, 1 INT, 203 Rushing YDS, 3 TD)
Wilson's 2019 campaign has been damn near perfect thus far. He's played largely mistake-free football while routinely taking over games, making highlight-worthy plays and bailing the Seahawks out of tricky predicaments during their excellent 7-2 start.
Honorable Mentions: Christian McCaffery (Panthers), Deshaun Watson (Texans), Lamar Jackson (Ravens)
Top Offensive Player: Christian McCaffery (Panthers) (165 CAR, 881 YDS, 10 TD, 42 REC, 363 YDS, 3 TD)
No none-QB has meant more to their team in the opening portion of the 2019 season than McCaffery. By making navigating through stacked boxes behind a mediocre offensive line look as easy running in the open field, not dropping a single pass and displaying a strong nose for the endzone, he's been exactly the consistently explosive playmaking presence this offense needed to make Kyle Allen's unexpected transition to the starting QB role as seamless as possible.
Honorable Mentions: Michael Thomas (Saints), Dalvin Cook (Vikings), Quenton Nelson (Colts)
Top Defensive Player: Aaron Donald (Rams) (25 tackles, 5 sacks, 11 TFL's, 9 QB hits, 2 forced fumbles, 1 FUM REC)
There are several players with better raw stats (Nick Bosa, Calias Campbell, Myles Garrett) and he's not racking up quite as many as sacks as he usually does, but Donald is still pressuring QB's and blowing up plays at the line of scrimmage more than any other player in the league. It would be a true shock if his year-end numbers don't provide a more accurate depiction of his down-by-down dominance.
Honorable Mentions: Calias Campbell (Jaguars), T.J. Watt (Steelers), Eric Kendricks (Vikings)
Top Offensive Rookie: Josh Jacobs (Raiders) (152 CAR, 740 YDS, 6 TD, 11 REC, 102 YDS)
Jon Gruden has called on Jacobs to be a bellcow back despite his modest workload at Alabama and so far, the 21 year old has responded remarkably well to that challenge. His strong, physical rushing style has made him a key cog in the Raiders surprisingly solid offense and allowed to him rank within the top 10 in the league in total rushing YDS (740, 6th overall), rushing YDS per game (92.5-4th) and rushing TD's (6-tied for 5th).
Honorable Mentions: DK Metcalf (Seahawks), Terry McLaurin (Redskins), Gardner Minshew (Jaguars)
Top Defensive Rookie: Nick Bosa (49ers) (21 tackles, 7 sacks, 13 QB hits, 11 TFL's 1 INT)
Thanks to a wide arsenal of pass-rushing moves combined with an explosive first step and beautiful technique, Bosa has immediately emerged as a top-tier edge disruptor in the pros. Like his brother Joey in 2016, the extensive amount of time he missed in the offseason battling various injuries make this incredible start to his rookie year that much more impressive.
Honorable Mentions: Devin Bush (Steelers), Josh Allen (Jaguars), Brian Burns (Panthers)
Comeback Player of the Year: Cooper Kupp (Rams) (58 REC, 792 YDS, 5 TD)
The fact that Kupp appears to be putting together his best NFL season less than 12 months after suffering an ACL tear is truly astonishing. On a Rams offense that hasn't been nearly as dynamic as it was a year ago for a variety of reasons (wretched offensive line play, weaker rushing game, erratic play from Jared Goff), Kupp has been the lone source of splash plays as well as a much-needed safety net for Goff.
Honorable Mentions: Teddy Bridgewater (Saints), Leonard Fournette (Jaguars), Matthew Stafford (Lions)
Coach of the Year: Kyle Shanahan (49ers)
About 2 months ago, I predicted that Shanahan was a strong bet to get fired this season. Like a lot of the takes I threw out during my preseason preview series, it ended up being comically wrong. Shanahan's creative playcalling paired with the sudden emergence of their defense as an elite unit has the 49ers off to an 8-0 start and on track to make their 1st playoff appearance since 2013.
Honorable Mentions: Matt LaFleur (Packers), Sean Payton (Saints), Frank Reich (Colts)
AFC:
1.Patriots
2.Chiefs
3.Ravens
4.Texans
5.Bills
6.Colts
Wild Card:
Ravens over Colts
Texans over Bills
Divisional Round:
Patriots over Texans
Chiefs over Ravens
Conference Championship:
Patriots over Chiefs
NFC:
1.Saints
2.49ers
3.Packers
4.Cowboys
5.Seahawks
6.Rams
Wild Card:
Rams over Packers
Seahawks over Cowboys
Divisional Round:
Saints over Rams
Seahawks over 49ers
Conference Championship:
Saints over Seahawks
Super Bowl:
Patriots over Saints
Wilson's 2019 campaign has been damn near perfect thus far. He's played largely mistake-free football while routinely taking over games, making highlight-worthy plays and bailing the Seahawks out of tricky predicaments during their excellent 7-2 start.
Honorable Mentions: Christian McCaffery (Panthers), Deshaun Watson (Texans), Lamar Jackson (Ravens)
Top Offensive Player: Christian McCaffery (Panthers) (165 CAR, 881 YDS, 10 TD, 42 REC, 363 YDS, 3 TD)
No none-QB has meant more to their team in the opening portion of the 2019 season than McCaffery. By making navigating through stacked boxes behind a mediocre offensive line look as easy running in the open field, not dropping a single pass and displaying a strong nose for the endzone, he's been exactly the consistently explosive playmaking presence this offense needed to make Kyle Allen's unexpected transition to the starting QB role as seamless as possible.
Honorable Mentions: Michael Thomas (Saints), Dalvin Cook (Vikings), Quenton Nelson (Colts)
Top Defensive Player: Aaron Donald (Rams) (25 tackles, 5 sacks, 11 TFL's, 9 QB hits, 2 forced fumbles, 1 FUM REC)
There are several players with better raw stats (Nick Bosa, Calias Campbell, Myles Garrett) and he's not racking up quite as many as sacks as he usually does, but Donald is still pressuring QB's and blowing up plays at the line of scrimmage more than any other player in the league. It would be a true shock if his year-end numbers don't provide a more accurate depiction of his down-by-down dominance.
Honorable Mentions: Calias Campbell (Jaguars), T.J. Watt (Steelers), Eric Kendricks (Vikings)
Top Offensive Rookie: Josh Jacobs (Raiders) (152 CAR, 740 YDS, 6 TD, 11 REC, 102 YDS)
Jon Gruden has called on Jacobs to be a bellcow back despite his modest workload at Alabama and so far, the 21 year old has responded remarkably well to that challenge. His strong, physical rushing style has made him a key cog in the Raiders surprisingly solid offense and allowed to him rank within the top 10 in the league in total rushing YDS (740, 6th overall), rushing YDS per game (92.5-4th) and rushing TD's (6-tied for 5th).
Honorable Mentions: DK Metcalf (Seahawks), Terry McLaurin (Redskins), Gardner Minshew (Jaguars)
Top Defensive Rookie: Nick Bosa (49ers) (21 tackles, 7 sacks, 13 QB hits, 11 TFL's 1 INT)
Thanks to a wide arsenal of pass-rushing moves combined with an explosive first step and beautiful technique, Bosa has immediately emerged as a top-tier edge disruptor in the pros. Like his brother Joey in 2016, the extensive amount of time he missed in the offseason battling various injuries make this incredible start to his rookie year that much more impressive.
Honorable Mentions: Devin Bush (Steelers), Josh Allen (Jaguars), Brian Burns (Panthers)
Comeback Player of the Year: Cooper Kupp (Rams) (58 REC, 792 YDS, 5 TD)
The fact that Kupp appears to be putting together his best NFL season less than 12 months after suffering an ACL tear is truly astonishing. On a Rams offense that hasn't been nearly as dynamic as it was a year ago for a variety of reasons (wretched offensive line play, weaker rushing game, erratic play from Jared Goff), Kupp has been the lone source of splash plays as well as a much-needed safety net for Goff.
Honorable Mentions: Teddy Bridgewater (Saints), Leonard Fournette (Jaguars), Matthew Stafford (Lions)
Coach of the Year: Kyle Shanahan (49ers)
About 2 months ago, I predicted that Shanahan was a strong bet to get fired this season. Like a lot of the takes I threw out during my preseason preview series, it ended up being comically wrong. Shanahan's creative playcalling paired with the sudden emergence of their defense as an elite unit has the 49ers off to an 8-0 start and on track to make their 1st playoff appearance since 2013.
Honorable Mentions: Matt LaFleur (Packers), Sean Payton (Saints), Frank Reich (Colts)
AFC:
1.Patriots
2.Chiefs
3.Ravens
4.Texans
5.Bills
6.Colts
Wild Card:
Ravens over Colts
Texans over Bills
Divisional Round:
Patriots over Texans
Chiefs over Ravens
Conference Championship:
Patriots over Chiefs
NFC:
1.Saints
2.49ers
3.Packers
4.Cowboys
5.Seahawks
6.Rams
Wild Card:
Rams over Packers
Seahawks over Cowboys
Divisional Round:
Saints over Rams
Seahawks over 49ers
Conference Championship:
Saints over Seahawks
Super Bowl:
Patriots over Saints
Saturday, November 2, 2019
Quick Movie Reviews: Parasite, Jojo Rabbit, Dolemite is My Name
Parasite: 2019's most buzzed about movie has finally made its way to the United States five months after its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival and boy oh boy does it live up to the hype. Parasite bobs and weaves through a cornucopia of genres (dark comedy, family drama, thriller) to tell a deeply absorbing story about class division. The smart, layered script does an excellent job of not completely vilifying or glorifying the characters on either side of the social hierarchy and outside of a somewhat over-the-top climatic sequence where all of the plot threads come together in chaotic fashion, co-writer/director Bong Joon-Ho (Snowpiercer, Memories of Murder) does a tremendous job of organically shifting between genres as this tale about an impoverished family scamming their way into securing employment at the home of a tech mogul embarks on several unexpected detours. While the primary cast will likely get shut out in what appears to be an incredibly competitive field in all four acting categories, I wouldn't be surprised if this became the first South Korean film to gain widespread recognition on the international awards circuit.
Grade: A-
Jojo Rabbit: In a filmography full of unique, daring films, Jojo Rabbit could very well be Taika Waititi's crowning achievement. He takes on the societal menace that is prejudice here in the only way he knows how: With fearless sincerity, heartfelt emotion and a whole lot of laughs. Gracefully poking fun at the absurdity of bigotry while also effectively conveying a vitally important message about how actually getting to know someone from a group that you've been trained to fear can help put an end to hate is a remarkable accomplishment that only a filmmaker with a complete command over their material could pull off. Further aiding Waititi's vision is its cast full of versatile actors (Thomasin McKenzie, Scarlett Johannsson, Roman Scott Davis, Sam Rockwell, Rebel Wilson, himself) that were able to flawlessly balance the delicate comedy/tragedy balancing act this film engages in throughout. Going from zany quips to dealing with the pain of an unimaginable loss a few minutes later isn't an easy task as an actor, but every single member of this cast pulls it off convincingly. Jojo Rabbit is an important, hysterical and beautiful movie that will undoubtedly finish among my favorites of 2019.
Grade: A
Dolemite is My Name: Bringing Rudy Ray Moore's fascinating, inspiring journey from failed singer/dancer turned successful DIY comedian/cult movie star to the big screen provided three of the industry's finest talents (Eddie Murphy, Wesley Snipes, Craig Brewer) with the perfect comeback vehicle. Snipes dusts off his long-hidden comedy chops for a hilarious turn as the smug Dolemite director D'urville Martin, Brewer injects the proceedings with his signature energy and warmth and Murphy is in his wildly charismatic element as a loveable hustler who finally finds his niche in the notoriously unforgiving entertainment industry playing a boundary-pushing character that slowly morphed into an Blaxploitation icon after decades of failure. Hopefully this gifted trio brings the exact same laser focus and passion for the material to whatever projects they work on next because it was an absolute joy to watch these guys operate at the top of their game after such a long reprieve.
Grade: A
Grade: A-
Jojo Rabbit: In a filmography full of unique, daring films, Jojo Rabbit could very well be Taika Waititi's crowning achievement. He takes on the societal menace that is prejudice here in the only way he knows how: With fearless sincerity, heartfelt emotion and a whole lot of laughs. Gracefully poking fun at the absurdity of bigotry while also effectively conveying a vitally important message about how actually getting to know someone from a group that you've been trained to fear can help put an end to hate is a remarkable accomplishment that only a filmmaker with a complete command over their material could pull off. Further aiding Waititi's vision is its cast full of versatile actors (Thomasin McKenzie, Scarlett Johannsson, Roman Scott Davis, Sam Rockwell, Rebel Wilson, himself) that were able to flawlessly balance the delicate comedy/tragedy balancing act this film engages in throughout. Going from zany quips to dealing with the pain of an unimaginable loss a few minutes later isn't an easy task as an actor, but every single member of this cast pulls it off convincingly. Jojo Rabbit is an important, hysterical and beautiful movie that will undoubtedly finish among my favorites of 2019.
Grade: A
Dolemite is My Name: Bringing Rudy Ray Moore's fascinating, inspiring journey from failed singer/dancer turned successful DIY comedian/cult movie star to the big screen provided three of the industry's finest talents (Eddie Murphy, Wesley Snipes, Craig Brewer) with the perfect comeback vehicle. Snipes dusts off his long-hidden comedy chops for a hilarious turn as the smug Dolemite director D'urville Martin, Brewer injects the proceedings with his signature energy and warmth and Murphy is in his wildly charismatic element as a loveable hustler who finally finds his niche in the notoriously unforgiving entertainment industry playing a boundary-pushing character that slowly morphed into an Blaxploitation icon after decades of failure. Hopefully this gifted trio brings the exact same laser focus and passion for the material to whatever projects they work on next because it was an absolute joy to watch these guys operate at the top of their game after such a long reprieve.
Grade: A
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)