Quarterback
MVP: Matt Ryan (Falcons)
Matt Ryan continued to make his case for 2016 fantasy MVP in Week 9 against the Buccaneers. Ryan shredded the Bucs weak secondary for 344 YDS and 4 TD in one of the most impressive performances of his stellar 2016 campaign. Ryan has another solid matchup this week against the Eagles, who just allowed 4 TD to Eli Manning.
Honorable Mention: Marcus Mariota (Titans), Aaron Rodgers (Packers), Tyrod Taylor (Bills)
LVP: Derek Carr (Raiders)
As expected, Derek Carr followed-up his career-best performance in Tampa Bay with a pretty average one against the Broncos tough secondary. Carr was conservative through the air in this brutal matchup, completing 20 of his 31 passes for 184 YDS and 0 TD, as the Raiders rode their running game to a huge victory over the defending Super Bowl champs. Carr has a nice stretch of opponents following his Week 10 bye (Bills, Panthers, Chargers) and should be able to return to the top-tier QB1 form he's displayed for a majority of this season.
Dishonorable Mentions: Carson Wentz (Eagles), Andrew Luck (Colts), Cam Newton (Panthers)
Running Back
MVP: Melvin Gordon (Chargers)
The Melvin Gordon fantasy explosion reached a whole new level in Week 9. Gordon was borderline unstoppable all day, picking up 261 total yards (196 rushing, 65 receiving) and a TD on 36 touches as the Chargers eeked out a victory over the Titans in a ridiculous 43-35 shootout. Gordon's success this season has rendered me speechless and there are only a handful of guys in the league (David Johnson, Le'Veon Bell, Ezekiel Elliott, DeMarco Murray, LeSean McCoy) I'd rather have as my RB1 right now.
Honorable Mentions: Latavius Murray (Raiders), Mark Ingram (Saints), Ezekiel Elliott (Cowboys)
LVP: Terrence West (Ravens)
A prime matchup against a struggling Steelers run defense wasn't enough to re-energize Terrence West. West was once again DOA, picking up a sorry 27 total yards (21 rushing, 6 receiving) on 16 touches. The Ravens running game hasn't gotten any better under new offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg and that continued ineptness makes it really hard to justify starting West moving forward.
Honorable Mentions: Devonate Booker (Broncos), Jonathan Stewart (Panthers), Rashad Jennings (Giants)
Wide Receiver
MVP: Mike Evans (Buccaneers)
On a rough night for the Buccaneers, Mike Evans still managed to be sensational. The 3rd year wideout conquered every coverage strategy the Falcons threw at him, finishing the game with 150 YDS and 2 TD on 11 receptions. Evans has bounced back beautifully after a rough 2015 season and he'll be a contender for the top overall fantasy receiver as the playoff race starts to heat up over the next couple of weeks.
Honorable Mentions: Michael Thomas (Saints), Mike Wallace (Ravens), Julio Jones (Falcons)
LVP: Dez Bryant (Cowboys)
Dez Bryant was pretty much the only player on the Cowboys that didn't have a huge game on Sunday against the Browns. Bryant was targeted just 4 times and hauled in just 1 catch for 19 yards against a Browns defense that has allowed the 7th most fantasy points to WR's this season. Bryant has an excellent shot of redeeming himself in Week 10 against a Steelers secondary that is ranked 24th against the pass.
Dishonorable Mentions: DeVante Parker (Dolphins), Emmanuel Sanders (Broncos), Jarvis Landry (Dolphins)
Tight End
MVP: Jimmy Graham (Seahawks)
Jimmy Graham made up for his Week 9 New Orleans homecoming debacle with an absolute gem this week. Graham was the catalyst for the Seahawks offensive explosion against the Bills, picking up 103 yards and 2 TD's on 8 receptions. Graham has made one hell of a comeback from the brutal patellar tendon injury that ended his 2015 season and can once again be counted as an elite weekly TE1 option.
Honorable Mentions: Jason Witten (Cowboys), Antonio Gates (Chargers), Greg Olsen (Panthers)
LVP: Gary Barnidge (Browns)
The up-and-down season for Gary Barnidge continued this week with another underwhelming performance against the Cowboys. Barnidge reeled in all 3 of his targets for just 23 yards on another stagnant afternoon for the Browns offense. Barnidge is still on the TE1 radar, but he's susceptible to putting up stinkers like this as the young Browns offense continues to go through growing pains.
Dishonorable Mentions: Dennis Pitta (Ravens), Julius Thomas (Jaguars), Coby Fleener (Saints)
Defense
MVP: San Diego Chargers
The Chargers became the 2nd defense (the Eagles were the other) of 2016 to earn a fantasy defensive MVP in unconventional fashion. Despite allowing 35 points and not getting a single sack against the Titans, the Chargers were the top fantasy defense thanks to 3 takeaways (2 INT's and a fumble recovery) and 2 touchdowns. The Chargers have come on strong over the past month and are an excellent option for anyone that's currently looking for a defense on the waiver wire in deeper leagues.
Honorable Mentions: Baltimore Ravens, Miami Dolphins, Kansas City Chiefs
LVP: Denver Broncos
Even juggernauts like the Broncos D have their off-days. The Broncos had no answers for the Raiders powerhouse offense, allowing 30 points, failing to get a takeaway and picking up just 2 sacks against their stout offensive line. Week 10 will serve as another tall order for the Broncos D as they have to travel to New Orleans to take on the Saints elite offense.
Dishonorable Mentions: New York Jets, Minnesota Vikings, Philadelphia Eagles
Tuesday, November 8, 2016
Week 10 NFL Power Rankings
=last week's ranking
1. (1) New England Patriots (7-1) Week 10 opponent: Seattle Seahawks
2. (2) Dallas Cowboys (7-1) Week 10 opponent: Pittsburgh Steelers
3. (4) Kansas City Chiefs (6-2) Week 10 opponent: Carolina Panthers
4. (5) Seattle Seahawks (5-2-1) Week 10 opponent: New England Patriots
5. (6) Oakland Raiders (7-2) Week 10 opponent: Bye Week
6. (7) Atlanta Falcons (6-3) Week 10 opponent: Philadelphia Eagles
7. (3) Denver Broncos (6-3) Week 10 opponent: New Orleans Saints
8. (16) New York Giants (5-3) Week 10 opponent: Cincinnati Bengals
9. (14) Detroit Lions (5-4) Week 10 opponent: Bye Week
10. (8) Philadelphia Eagles (4-4) Week 10 opponent: Atlanta Falcons
11. (9) Minnesota Vikings (5-3) Week 10 opponent: Washington Redskins
12. (12) Houston Texans (5-3) Week 10 opponent: Jacksonville Jaguars
13. (13) Washington Redskins (4-3-1) Week 10 opponent: Minnesota Vikings
14. (11) Pittsburgh Steelers (4-4) Week 10 opponent: Dallas Cowboys
15. (10) Green Bay Packers (4-4) Week 10 opponent: Tennessee Titans
16. (20) New Orleans Saints (4-4) Week 10 opponent: Denver Broncos
17. (16) Buffalo Bills (4-5) Week 10 opponent: Bye Week
18. (18) Cincinnati Bengals (3-4-1) Week 10 opponent: New York Giants
19. (19) Arizona Cardinals (3-4-1) Week 10 opponent: San Francisco 49ers
20. (21) Baltimore Ravens (4-4) Week 10 opponent: Cleveland Browns
21. (23) San Diego Chargers (4-5) Week 10 opponent: Miami Dolphins
22. (17) Tennessee Titans (4-5) Week 10 opponent: Green Bay Packers
23. (25) Miami Dolphins (4-4) Week 10 opponent: San Diego Chargers
24. (26) Indianapolis Colts (4-5) Week 10 opponent: Bye Week
25. (28) Carolina Panthers (3-5) Week 10 opponent: Kansas City Chiefs
26. (24) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-5) Week 10 opponent: Chicago Bears
27. (22) Los Angeles Rams (3-5) Week 10 opponent: New York Jets
28. (27) New York Jets (3-6) Week 10 opponent: Los Angeles Rams
29. (29) Chicago Bears (2-6) Week 10 opponent: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
30. (30) Jacksonville Jaguars (2-6) Week 10 opponent: Houston Texans
31. (31) San Francisco 49ers (1-7) Week 10 opponent: Arizona Cardinals
32. (32) Cleveland Browns (0-9) Week 10 opponent: Baltimore Ravens
1. (1) New England Patriots (7-1) Week 10 opponent: Seattle Seahawks
2. (2) Dallas Cowboys (7-1) Week 10 opponent: Pittsburgh Steelers
3. (4) Kansas City Chiefs (6-2) Week 10 opponent: Carolina Panthers
4. (5) Seattle Seahawks (5-2-1) Week 10 opponent: New England Patriots
5. (6) Oakland Raiders (7-2) Week 10 opponent: Bye Week
6. (7) Atlanta Falcons (6-3) Week 10 opponent: Philadelphia Eagles
7. (3) Denver Broncos (6-3) Week 10 opponent: New Orleans Saints
8. (16) New York Giants (5-3) Week 10 opponent: Cincinnati Bengals
9. (14) Detroit Lions (5-4) Week 10 opponent: Bye Week
10. (8) Philadelphia Eagles (4-4) Week 10 opponent: Atlanta Falcons
11. (9) Minnesota Vikings (5-3) Week 10 opponent: Washington Redskins
12. (12) Houston Texans (5-3) Week 10 opponent: Jacksonville Jaguars
13. (13) Washington Redskins (4-3-1) Week 10 opponent: Minnesota Vikings
14. (11) Pittsburgh Steelers (4-4) Week 10 opponent: Dallas Cowboys
15. (10) Green Bay Packers (4-4) Week 10 opponent: Tennessee Titans
16. (20) New Orleans Saints (4-4) Week 10 opponent: Denver Broncos
17. (16) Buffalo Bills (4-5) Week 10 opponent: Bye Week
18. (18) Cincinnati Bengals (3-4-1) Week 10 opponent: New York Giants
19. (19) Arizona Cardinals (3-4-1) Week 10 opponent: San Francisco 49ers
20. (21) Baltimore Ravens (4-4) Week 10 opponent: Cleveland Browns
21. (23) San Diego Chargers (4-5) Week 10 opponent: Miami Dolphins
22. (17) Tennessee Titans (4-5) Week 10 opponent: Green Bay Packers
23. (25) Miami Dolphins (4-4) Week 10 opponent: San Diego Chargers
24. (26) Indianapolis Colts (4-5) Week 10 opponent: Bye Week
25. (28) Carolina Panthers (3-5) Week 10 opponent: Kansas City Chiefs
26. (24) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-5) Week 10 opponent: Chicago Bears
27. (22) Los Angeles Rams (3-5) Week 10 opponent: New York Jets
28. (27) New York Jets (3-6) Week 10 opponent: Los Angeles Rams
29. (29) Chicago Bears (2-6) Week 10 opponent: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
30. (30) Jacksonville Jaguars (2-6) Week 10 opponent: Houston Texans
31. (31) San Francisco 49ers (1-7) Week 10 opponent: Arizona Cardinals
32. (32) Cleveland Browns (0-9) Week 10 opponent: Baltimore Ravens
Monday, November 7, 2016
Movie Review: Moonlight
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Moonlight tells the story of a Miami-bred gay man named Chiron (Alex Hibbert, Ashton Sanders, Trevante Rhodes in childhood, teenage years and adulthood respectively) over three periods of his life. Facing constant torment from his peers over his sexuality and living with a crack-addicted mother (Naomie Harris) that neglects and emotionally-abuses him, Chiron fears being his true self and chooses to live a life of solitude to mask his internal pain. Chiron's lone source of comfort comes in the form of Kevin (Jaden Piner, Jharrell Jarome, Andre Holland), a classmate who shares his fear of exposing his true self to others. When Kevin betrays him during high school, Chiron goes into a downward spiral that results in him becoming a drug dealer in Atlanta. Several years later, Chiron begins to question his life choices once Kevin suddenly re-enters his life again as an adult.
For a film that is centered around a topic that hasn't been explored in modern American film, Moonlight feels oddly familiar. Aside from the protagonist being a gay male, there's nothing even remotely unique about Moonlight. Anyone that's seen films like Boyz n The Hood or Juice will be able to telegraph every move of Chiron's story well before it happens and that level of predictability prevents a majority of the film's emotional moments from having their desired impact.
While the cliched script and missed opportunities at making power emotional statements left me cold, the terrific acting was enough to keep me engaged. All three actors that portray Chiron and Kevin are believable, natural fits for the role. Jenkins has stated in multiple interviews that he didn't allow any of the actors to meet each other until after production had wrapped and that decision allows each actor to bring their personal touch to their portion of the story without breaking from the true soul of the character.
The collective of actors that play Chiron and Kevin deserve a lot of credit for pulling off such a complex role, but it's Harris' turn as Chiron's mother that serves as the film's clear standout element. Every one of the handful of emotional moments that land in this film can be attributed to Harris' raw delivery and magnetic yet terrifying presence. This is the type of powerhouse performance that commands the attention of the Academy and I wouldn't be shocked if she ultimately took home Best Supporting Actress in February.
Moonlight is a beautifully-shot, impressively-acted film that is completely respectable yet almost never exceptional. This film's subject matter and storytelling approach will undoubtedly connect with a large number of audiences, I just felt like it didn't offer up any serious or interesting insight on what its like to be a black gay man growing up in America. I plan on revisiting Moonlight later in awards season to see if a second viewing will change my feelings, but for now I can't help but be disappointed by its reliance on cliches and lack of emotional punch.
3.5/5 Stars
Thursday, November 3, 2016
2016 NFL Mid-Season Awards
MVP: Derek Carr, quarterback (Raiders)
Tom Brady has made a strong case for this award with his play over the past month, but a 4 game sample size isn't enough to name some mid-season MVP. With Brady out of the equation, the crown has to go to Derek Carr. Carr has overcome a shaky defense (31st in yards allowed, 23rd in points allowed) and team-wide lack of discipline (they're averaging 10.8 penalties per game, which is almost 1.5 more than anyone else in the league) to lead the Raiders to a 6-2 record, and a legitimate shot at clinching their first playoff berth since 2002.
Honorable Mentions: Matt Ryan (Falcons), Tom Brady (Patriots), Drew Brees (Saints)
Top Offensive Player: David Johnson, running back (Cardinals)
2016's running back headlines have been dominated by Ezekiel Elliott's breakout rookie campaign and DeMarco Murray's unexpected return to form, but David Johnson has quietly been the most dominant running back in football this season. Johnson has picked a league-leading 1,112 all-purpose yards (705 rushing, 407 receiving) behind an injury-riddled offensive line and is the primary reason the Cardinals offense has been able to stay afloat during their disappointing 3-4-1 start.
Honorable Mentions: Julio Jones (Falcons), Ezekiel Elliott (Cowboys), Rob Gronkowski (Patriots)
Top Defensive Player: Von Miller (Broncos)
A huge new contract has not changed Von Miller in the slightest. The NFL's highest-paid defensive player has once again proven why he's the best outside linebacker of his generation by consistently flashing his rare combination of run-stuffing (26 run stops, 4th most in the NFL among edge defenders) and pass-rushing prowess (45 quarterback pressures and 8.5 sacks, most and 2nd most in the league respectively) during the first 8 games of the season.
Honorable Mentions: Aaron Donald (Rams), Linval Joseph (Vikings), Patrick Peterson (Cardinals)
Top Offensive Rookie: Ezekiel Elliott, running back (Cowboys)
In one of this season's least shocking developments, Ezekiel Elliott has found instant success in the NFL. After a merely average first 2 games, the Cowboys running back been a nearly unstoppable wrecking ball, carving up defenses at will with his punishing rushing style. With a favorable second-half schedule and an elite offensive line blocking for him, it seems like a safe bet to assume Elliott will hold onto the league-lead in rushing yards for the rest of the season and cruise to an Offensive Rookie of the Year win.
Honorable Mentions: Dak Prescott (Cowboys), Carson Wentz (Eagles), Jack Conklin (Titans)
Top Defensive Rookie: Joey Bosa, outside linebacker (Chargers)
The 1st defensive player selected in this year's draft got off to a late start to the season after engaging in an inexplicable contract dispute and missing the first 4 games of the year with a hamstring injury, but he has more than managed to make up for his lengthy absence since he stepped on the field for the 1st time in early October. Bosa has been every bit of the edge-rushing force he was touted to be coming out of Ohio State, racking up 26 quarterback pressures, 13 tackles and 4 sacks in just 4 games. Bosa is the clear king of the defensive rookies and it would be a massive shock if anyone was able to match or exceed his level of play in the 2nd half of the season.
Honorable Mentions: Keanu Neal (Falcons), Karl Joseph (Raiders), Michael Pierce (Ravens)
Top Comeback Player: Terrelle Pryor Sr. (Browns)
You could easily give this award to DeMarco Murray, but his comeback from a down season with the Eagles isn't nearly as impressive as what Terrelle Pryor Sr. has done this season. Pryor has been out of the league for almost 2 full seasons (he appeared in 1 game for the Browns last year) and is still honing his skill set as a wide receiver after playing as a quarterback for the first 3 years of his NFL career yet has still managed to emerge as one of the few reliable contributors on a talent-barren Browns squad with 532 yards (18th most in the league, more than DeAndre Hopkins, Jeremy Maclin and Jordy Nelson) and 3 TD's (tied for 21st in the league, more than Amari Cooper, Alshon Jeffrey and Brandon Marshall). While those aren't Pro Bowl/All-Pro caliber numbers, it's still wildly impressive for a newly-converted wideout that has been forced to catch passes from 5 different quarterbacks this year.
Honorable Mentions: DeMarco Murray (Titans), Terrance West (Ravens), Morris Claiborne (Cowboys)
Top Coach: Jack Del Rio (Raiders)
What Jack Del Rio has done with the Raiders this season is nothing short of incredible. Del Rio's resilience and dice-rolling mentality has helped the Raiders overcome a slew of obstacles (porous defense, league-leading number of penalties, revolving door at running back), and put them on the right track to end their nearly 15-year playoff drought.
Honorable Mentions: Mike Zimmer (Vikings), Doug Pederson (Eagles), Dan Quinn (Falcons)
Top 3 Surprise Teams:
1.Eagles
2.Falcons
3.Titans
Top 3 Disappointments:
1.Panthers
2.Cardinals
3.Bengals
Revised Playoff Picks:
AFC:
1.Patriots
2.Broncos
3.Steelers
4.Texans
5.Chiefs
6.Raiders
Wild Card:
Steelers over Raiders
Chiefs over Texans
Divisional Round:
Patriots over Chiefs
Steelers over Broncos
AFC Championship:
Patriots over Steelers
NFC:
1.Cowboys
2.Seahawks
3.Vikings
4.Falcons
5.Packers
6.Redskins
Wild Card:
Vikings over Redskins
Packers over Falcons
Divisional Round:
Cowboys over Packers
Vikings over Seahawks
NFC Championship:
Cowboys over Vikings
Super Bowl:
Patriots over Cowboys
Tom Brady has made a strong case for this award with his play over the past month, but a 4 game sample size isn't enough to name some mid-season MVP. With Brady out of the equation, the crown has to go to Derek Carr. Carr has overcome a shaky defense (31st in yards allowed, 23rd in points allowed) and team-wide lack of discipline (they're averaging 10.8 penalties per game, which is almost 1.5 more than anyone else in the league) to lead the Raiders to a 6-2 record, and a legitimate shot at clinching their first playoff berth since 2002.
Honorable Mentions: Matt Ryan (Falcons), Tom Brady (Patriots), Drew Brees (Saints)
Top Offensive Player: David Johnson, running back (Cardinals)
2016's running back headlines have been dominated by Ezekiel Elliott's breakout rookie campaign and DeMarco Murray's unexpected return to form, but David Johnson has quietly been the most dominant running back in football this season. Johnson has picked a league-leading 1,112 all-purpose yards (705 rushing, 407 receiving) behind an injury-riddled offensive line and is the primary reason the Cardinals offense has been able to stay afloat during their disappointing 3-4-1 start.
Honorable Mentions: Julio Jones (Falcons), Ezekiel Elliott (Cowboys), Rob Gronkowski (Patriots)
Top Defensive Player: Von Miller (Broncos)
A huge new contract has not changed Von Miller in the slightest. The NFL's highest-paid defensive player has once again proven why he's the best outside linebacker of his generation by consistently flashing his rare combination of run-stuffing (26 run stops, 4th most in the NFL among edge defenders) and pass-rushing prowess (45 quarterback pressures and 8.5 sacks, most and 2nd most in the league respectively) during the first 8 games of the season.
Honorable Mentions: Aaron Donald (Rams), Linval Joseph (Vikings), Patrick Peterson (Cardinals)
Top Offensive Rookie: Ezekiel Elliott, running back (Cowboys)
In one of this season's least shocking developments, Ezekiel Elliott has found instant success in the NFL. After a merely average first 2 games, the Cowboys running back been a nearly unstoppable wrecking ball, carving up defenses at will with his punishing rushing style. With a favorable second-half schedule and an elite offensive line blocking for him, it seems like a safe bet to assume Elliott will hold onto the league-lead in rushing yards for the rest of the season and cruise to an Offensive Rookie of the Year win.
Honorable Mentions: Dak Prescott (Cowboys), Carson Wentz (Eagles), Jack Conklin (Titans)
Top Defensive Rookie: Joey Bosa, outside linebacker (Chargers)
The 1st defensive player selected in this year's draft got off to a late start to the season after engaging in an inexplicable contract dispute and missing the first 4 games of the year with a hamstring injury, but he has more than managed to make up for his lengthy absence since he stepped on the field for the 1st time in early October. Bosa has been every bit of the edge-rushing force he was touted to be coming out of Ohio State, racking up 26 quarterback pressures, 13 tackles and 4 sacks in just 4 games. Bosa is the clear king of the defensive rookies and it would be a massive shock if anyone was able to match or exceed his level of play in the 2nd half of the season.
Honorable Mentions: Keanu Neal (Falcons), Karl Joseph (Raiders), Michael Pierce (Ravens)
Top Comeback Player: Terrelle Pryor Sr. (Browns)
You could easily give this award to DeMarco Murray, but his comeback from a down season with the Eagles isn't nearly as impressive as what Terrelle Pryor Sr. has done this season. Pryor has been out of the league for almost 2 full seasons (he appeared in 1 game for the Browns last year) and is still honing his skill set as a wide receiver after playing as a quarterback for the first 3 years of his NFL career yet has still managed to emerge as one of the few reliable contributors on a talent-barren Browns squad with 532 yards (18th most in the league, more than DeAndre Hopkins, Jeremy Maclin and Jordy Nelson) and 3 TD's (tied for 21st in the league, more than Amari Cooper, Alshon Jeffrey and Brandon Marshall). While those aren't Pro Bowl/All-Pro caliber numbers, it's still wildly impressive for a newly-converted wideout that has been forced to catch passes from 5 different quarterbacks this year.
Honorable Mentions: DeMarco Murray (Titans), Terrance West (Ravens), Morris Claiborne (Cowboys)
Top Coach: Jack Del Rio (Raiders)
What Jack Del Rio has done with the Raiders this season is nothing short of incredible. Del Rio's resilience and dice-rolling mentality has helped the Raiders overcome a slew of obstacles (porous defense, league-leading number of penalties, revolving door at running back), and put them on the right track to end their nearly 15-year playoff drought.
Honorable Mentions: Mike Zimmer (Vikings), Doug Pederson (Eagles), Dan Quinn (Falcons)
Top 3 Surprise Teams:
1.Eagles
2.Falcons
3.Titans
Top 3 Disappointments:
1.Panthers
2.Cardinals
3.Bengals
Revised Playoff Picks:
AFC:
1.Patriots
2.Broncos
3.Steelers
4.Texans
5.Chiefs
6.Raiders
Wild Card:
Steelers over Raiders
Chiefs over Texans
Divisional Round:
Patriots over Chiefs
Steelers over Broncos
AFC Championship:
Patriots over Steelers
NFC:
1.Cowboys
2.Seahawks
3.Vikings
4.Falcons
5.Packers
6.Redskins
Wild Card:
Vikings over Redskins
Packers over Falcons
Divisional Round:
Cowboys over Packers
Vikings over Seahawks
NFC Championship:
Cowboys over Vikings
Super Bowl:
Patriots over Cowboys
Wednesday, November 2, 2016
Quick Album Reviews: Korn-The Serenity of Suffering, Tove Lo-Lady Wood, Serpentine Dominion-Serpentine Dominion, Gucci Mane-Woptober, Dance Gavin Dance-Mothership
Korn-The Serenity of Suffering: In a plot twist so shocking that M. Night Shymalan couldn't have scripted it, nu-metal icons Korn have managed to release a worthwhile album in 2016. After a decade of churning out lazy alt-metal records and ill-advised collaborations with various trendy dubstep artists, Korn has suddenly rediscovered their creative flame with The Serenity of Suffering. The Serenity of Suffering is a nostalgia bomb full of the massive bass grooves and raw aggression that made them a relatable voice of rage for angst-ridden suburban white kids in the 90's and 2000's. It was so refreshing to listen to a Korn record that was consistently fun, heavy and catchy after watching them waste away as they put out stagnant horseshit for the past 13 years. The Serenity of Suffering isn't anywhere near as good as Korn's signature releases (s/t, Issues, Follow the Leader) but it's still a shocking return to form for a group that long appeared to be DOA.
3.5/5 Stars
Standout Tracks: 1.Die Yet Another Night 2.The Hating 3.Next in Line
Tove Lo-Lady Wood: Tove Lo isn't your average pop star. She hails from Sweden, utilizes a style of production that is heavily rooted in European techno/house music and has autobiographical lyrics that sting with brutal honesty. Her second LP, Lady Wood, further establishes that pop outsider formula with a collection of consistently strong songs that serve as a natural progression from her 2014 debut Queen of the Clouds. The general structure and tone of the material is very much in line with her previous work, but the more dynamic production and greatly-improved vocals make Lady Wood a clear improvement over its predecessor.
3.5/5 Stars
Standout Tracks: 1.Don't Talk About It 2.Flashes 3.True Disaster
Serpentine Dominion-Serpentine Dominion: The long-awaited release from the George "Corpsegrinder" Fisher (Cannibal Corpse)/Adam Dutkiewicz (Killswitch Engage)/Shannon Lucas (ex-The Black Dahlia Murder/All That Remains) supergroup does not disappoint. Serpentine Dominion's unique combination of old-school death metal ferocity with metalcore undertones makes this is a breezy, riff-driven release (it clocks in at just under 27 minutes) with a ton of replay value. While it's not likely going to go down as one of 2016's most important metal releases, Serpentine Dominion is still a blistering gutpunch of a release that is guaranteed to please the people that had been patiently waiting for this project to come out.
4/5 Stars
Standout Tracks: 1.Vanquished Onto Thee 2.Jagged Crossed Legions 3.The Vengeance in Me
Gucci Mane-Woptober: The post-prison/sober Gucci Mane-era is quickly shaping up to be one of the finest of his storied career. Woptober-Guwop's second LP since being released from jail in May-blows the doors off of his excellent July release Everybody Looking with a set of certified club bangers and infectious street anthems that are almost all instant classics. The production handled by a team of heavy-hitters including Metro Boomin, Zaytoven and London on Da Track is absolutely majestic and sobriety has made Gucci's rapping much tighter without losing of the bite behind his signature gritty delivery. It's been a long time since Gucci has been this strong on the mic and I hope that the fire that he's had since getting out of jail doesn't fizzle out anytime soon.
4/5 Stars
Standout Tracks: 1.Wop 2.Right on Time 3.Aggressive
Dance Gavin Dance-Mothership: Veteran post-hardcore outfit Dance Gavin Dance has followed-up their brilliant 2015 release Instant Gratification with a slightly less infectious yet still very impressive release in Mothership. The more melodic sound allows Tilian Pearson's staggering falsetto vocals and the band's soul influences to take center stage, which makes for a nice contrast from the near-constant chaos that was found on Instant Gratification. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't hoped for more of guitarist Will Swan's signature sweep pick spazzouts and soaring hooks from Pearson, but those petty complaints aren't nearly enough to take away from Mothership's awe-inspiring musicianship and eccentric charm.
4/5 Stars
Standout Tracks: 1.Chucky vs. the Giant Tortoise 2.Young Robot 3.Frozen One
3.5/5 Stars
Standout Tracks: 1.Die Yet Another Night 2.The Hating 3.Next in Line
Tove Lo-Lady Wood: Tove Lo isn't your average pop star. She hails from Sweden, utilizes a style of production that is heavily rooted in European techno/house music and has autobiographical lyrics that sting with brutal honesty. Her second LP, Lady Wood, further establishes that pop outsider formula with a collection of consistently strong songs that serve as a natural progression from her 2014 debut Queen of the Clouds. The general structure and tone of the material is very much in line with her previous work, but the more dynamic production and greatly-improved vocals make Lady Wood a clear improvement over its predecessor.
3.5/5 Stars
Standout Tracks: 1.Don't Talk About It 2.Flashes 3.True Disaster
Serpentine Dominion-Serpentine Dominion: The long-awaited release from the George "Corpsegrinder" Fisher (Cannibal Corpse)/Adam Dutkiewicz (Killswitch Engage)/Shannon Lucas (ex-The Black Dahlia Murder/All That Remains) supergroup does not disappoint. Serpentine Dominion's unique combination of old-school death metal ferocity with metalcore undertones makes this is a breezy, riff-driven release (it clocks in at just under 27 minutes) with a ton of replay value. While it's not likely going to go down as one of 2016's most important metal releases, Serpentine Dominion is still a blistering gutpunch of a release that is guaranteed to please the people that had been patiently waiting for this project to come out.
4/5 Stars
Standout Tracks: 1.Vanquished Onto Thee 2.Jagged Crossed Legions 3.The Vengeance in Me
Gucci Mane-Woptober: The post-prison/sober Gucci Mane-era is quickly shaping up to be one of the finest of his storied career. Woptober-Guwop's second LP since being released from jail in May-blows the doors off of his excellent July release Everybody Looking with a set of certified club bangers and infectious street anthems that are almost all instant classics. The production handled by a team of heavy-hitters including Metro Boomin, Zaytoven and London on Da Track is absolutely majestic and sobriety has made Gucci's rapping much tighter without losing of the bite behind his signature gritty delivery. It's been a long time since Gucci has been this strong on the mic and I hope that the fire that he's had since getting out of jail doesn't fizzle out anytime soon.
4/5 Stars
Standout Tracks: 1.Wop 2.Right on Time 3.Aggressive
Dance Gavin Dance-Mothership: Veteran post-hardcore outfit Dance Gavin Dance has followed-up their brilliant 2015 release Instant Gratification with a slightly less infectious yet still very impressive release in Mothership. The more melodic sound allows Tilian Pearson's staggering falsetto vocals and the band's soul influences to take center stage, which makes for a nice contrast from the near-constant chaos that was found on Instant Gratification. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't hoped for more of guitarist Will Swan's signature sweep pick spazzouts and soaring hooks from Pearson, but those petty complaints aren't nearly enough to take away from Mothership's awe-inspiring musicianship and eccentric charm.
4/5 Stars
Standout Tracks: 1.Chucky vs. the Giant Tortoise 2.Young Robot 3.Frozen One
Tuesday, November 1, 2016
Week 8 Fantasy Football Winners and Losers
Quarterback
MVP: Derek Carr (Raiders)
The game Derek Carr put together in Tampa Bay this past Sunday simply boggles the mind. Carr put together one of the most brilliant performances of 2016 so far (513 YDS/4 TD/13 rushing YDS) to help his Raiders overcome an NFL-record 23 penalties and pick up an overtime victory over the Buccaneers. Carr has had a phenomenal season thus far (Matt Ryan, Andrew Luck and Drew Brees are the only QB's with more fantasy points), but he'll be a risky start in Week 9 as he faces the stout Broncos D at home.
Honorable Mentions: Aaron Rodgers (Packers), Tom Brady (Patriots), Blake Bortles (Jaguars)
LVP: Russell Wilson (Seahawks)
Russell Wilson's recent dry spell was stretched to 3 weeks with yet another underwhelming performance in Week 8. Wilson couldn't get anything going against the Saints horrendous defense, finishing with just 264 total yards (253 passing, 11 rushing) an INT and 0 TD on the day. The knee and pectoral ailments Wilson is playing through at the moment are clearly hurting his production, but his upside is far too high to move on from him right now. Wilson has a decent chance of ending his cold streak in Week 9 as the Seahawks return home to face a Bills pass defense that is unreliable at best.
Dishonorable Mentions: Cam Newton (Panthers), Matthew Stafford (Lions), Carson Wentz (Eagles)
Running Back
MVP: Jordan Howard (Bears)
The small number of people that actually started Jordan Howard last night were handsomely rewarded for their faith. The rookie rusher overcame a brutal matchup against the Vikings 4th-ranked rush defense to put together the best game of his young career to-date, picking up 202 total yards (153 rushing, 49 receiving) and a touchdown on 30 touches as he played a pivotal role in leading the Bears to an upset victory over the NFC North's current top dogs. Howard has cemented himself as the uncontested starting running back for the Bears and he should continue to be a solid fantasy option when he returns from bye in Week 10.
Honorable Mentions: Jonathan Stewart (Panthers), Matt Forte (Jets), Theo Riddick (Lions)
LVP: Mark Ingram (Saints)
Mark Ingram decided to get an early start on Halloween by doing his best Casper impression on Sunday afternoon against the Seahawks. The Saints starting running back mustered just 5 yards on 3 carries and was promptly benched by head coach Sean Payton after losing a fumble that led to a defensive score for the Seahawks in the 1st quarter. Ingram has a tantalizing matchup against the 49ers porous run D this week, but the question mark surrounding his role in the offense make him hard to trust.
Dishonorable Mentions: James White (Patriots), Latavius Murray (Raiders), Chris Thompson (Redskins)
Wide Receiver
MVP: Amari Cooper (Raiders)
Amari Cooper was the primary beneficiary of Derek Carr's ridiculous performance in Week 8. Cooper turned his team-high 15 targets into 173 yards and a TD on 12 receptions as Vernon Hargreaves III and the rest of the Buccaneers secondary had no answers for the 2nd-year receiver on Sunday. Like Carr, Cooper has a strong chance of being limited by the Broncos excellent pass defense in Week 9, making him a low-end WR3 at best.
Honorable Mentions: Dez Bryant (Cowboys), Jamison Crowder (Redskins), Allen Hurns (Jaguars)
LVP: Julio Jones (Falcons)
Julio Jones put his 2nd stinker against a weak pass defense of the 2016 season in Week 8. Jones played a strangely small role in the Falcons come-from-behind victory against the Packers, finishing the afternoon with just 29 yards and 3 receptions on 5 targets. Jones has a tremendous shot of returning to his dominant form against the Buccaneers shaky secondary in Week 9.
Dishonorable Mentions: T.Y. Hilton (Colts), DeAndre Hopkins (Texans), Marvin Jones Jr. (Lions)
Tight End
MVP: Rob Gronkowski (Patriots)
I'm running out of ways to describe Rob Gronkowski's recent string of dominance. The Patriots tight end torched the Bills for 109 yards and 5 receptions as his team coasted to yet another easy win. Gronkowski is a cyborg and I don't think any other tight end will ever be able to match his absurd fantasy production.
Honorable Mentions: Tyler Eifert (Bengals), Travis Kelce (Chiefs), Jordan Reed (Redskins)
LVP: Jimmy Graham (Seahawks)
Jimmy Graham's return to the Mercedes-Benz Superdome wasn't the bloodbath his fantasy owners hoped it would be. Graham was held to just 3 reception for 34 yards on a rough day for the Seahawks offense against the Saints notoriously inept defense. Even with Russell Wilson's recent struggles, Graham remains one of the strongest TE1 options out there and should continue to be started in all formats.
Dishonorable Mentions: Greg Olsen (Panthers), Zach Ertz (Eagles), Hunter Henry (Chargers)
Defense
MVP: Denver Broncos
After 2 straight middling performances, the Broncos defense returned to dominant form in Week 8. The Broncos eviscerated the Chargers offense, picking up 4 sacks, 3 INT, a blocked field goal and a touchdown while allowing just 13 points. The Broncos defense isn't quite the powerhouse they were last season, but they're still a reliable fantasy option with an elite ceiling.
Honorable Mentions: Carolina Panthers, Kansas City Chiefs, Seattle Seahawks
LVP: Minnesota Vikings
Outside of Julio Jones, there wasn't a more unexpected disappointment in Week 8 than the Vikings defense. The Vikings D failed to take advantage of the return of turnover-prone quarterback Jay Cutler and a banged-up offensive line as they mustered just 1 sack and failed to get a takeaway in their shocking 20-10 loss to the lowly Bears on Monday night. The Vikings defense has cooled off considerably in the last few weeks, but given their highly favorable schedule down the stretch, owners should ride out this current rough patch.
Dishonorable Mentions: New England Patriots, Tennessee Titans, Arizona Cardinals
MVP: Derek Carr (Raiders)
The game Derek Carr put together in Tampa Bay this past Sunday simply boggles the mind. Carr put together one of the most brilliant performances of 2016 so far (513 YDS/4 TD/13 rushing YDS) to help his Raiders overcome an NFL-record 23 penalties and pick up an overtime victory over the Buccaneers. Carr has had a phenomenal season thus far (Matt Ryan, Andrew Luck and Drew Brees are the only QB's with more fantasy points), but he'll be a risky start in Week 9 as he faces the stout Broncos D at home.
Honorable Mentions: Aaron Rodgers (Packers), Tom Brady (Patriots), Blake Bortles (Jaguars)
LVP: Russell Wilson (Seahawks)
Russell Wilson's recent dry spell was stretched to 3 weeks with yet another underwhelming performance in Week 8. Wilson couldn't get anything going against the Saints horrendous defense, finishing with just 264 total yards (253 passing, 11 rushing) an INT and 0 TD on the day. The knee and pectoral ailments Wilson is playing through at the moment are clearly hurting his production, but his upside is far too high to move on from him right now. Wilson has a decent chance of ending his cold streak in Week 9 as the Seahawks return home to face a Bills pass defense that is unreliable at best.
Dishonorable Mentions: Cam Newton (Panthers), Matthew Stafford (Lions), Carson Wentz (Eagles)
Running Back
MVP: Jordan Howard (Bears)
The small number of people that actually started Jordan Howard last night were handsomely rewarded for their faith. The rookie rusher overcame a brutal matchup against the Vikings 4th-ranked rush defense to put together the best game of his young career to-date, picking up 202 total yards (153 rushing, 49 receiving) and a touchdown on 30 touches as he played a pivotal role in leading the Bears to an upset victory over the NFC North's current top dogs. Howard has cemented himself as the uncontested starting running back for the Bears and he should continue to be a solid fantasy option when he returns from bye in Week 10.
Honorable Mentions: Jonathan Stewart (Panthers), Matt Forte (Jets), Theo Riddick (Lions)
LVP: Mark Ingram (Saints)
Mark Ingram decided to get an early start on Halloween by doing his best Casper impression on Sunday afternoon against the Seahawks. The Saints starting running back mustered just 5 yards on 3 carries and was promptly benched by head coach Sean Payton after losing a fumble that led to a defensive score for the Seahawks in the 1st quarter. Ingram has a tantalizing matchup against the 49ers porous run D this week, but the question mark surrounding his role in the offense make him hard to trust.
Dishonorable Mentions: James White (Patriots), Latavius Murray (Raiders), Chris Thompson (Redskins)
Wide Receiver
MVP: Amari Cooper (Raiders)
Amari Cooper was the primary beneficiary of Derek Carr's ridiculous performance in Week 8. Cooper turned his team-high 15 targets into 173 yards and a TD on 12 receptions as Vernon Hargreaves III and the rest of the Buccaneers secondary had no answers for the 2nd-year receiver on Sunday. Like Carr, Cooper has a strong chance of being limited by the Broncos excellent pass defense in Week 9, making him a low-end WR3 at best.
Honorable Mentions: Dez Bryant (Cowboys), Jamison Crowder (Redskins), Allen Hurns (Jaguars)
LVP: Julio Jones (Falcons)
Julio Jones put his 2nd stinker against a weak pass defense of the 2016 season in Week 8. Jones played a strangely small role in the Falcons come-from-behind victory against the Packers, finishing the afternoon with just 29 yards and 3 receptions on 5 targets. Jones has a tremendous shot of returning to his dominant form against the Buccaneers shaky secondary in Week 9.
Dishonorable Mentions: T.Y. Hilton (Colts), DeAndre Hopkins (Texans), Marvin Jones Jr. (Lions)
Tight End
MVP: Rob Gronkowski (Patriots)
I'm running out of ways to describe Rob Gronkowski's recent string of dominance. The Patriots tight end torched the Bills for 109 yards and 5 receptions as his team coasted to yet another easy win. Gronkowski is a cyborg and I don't think any other tight end will ever be able to match his absurd fantasy production.
Honorable Mentions: Tyler Eifert (Bengals), Travis Kelce (Chiefs), Jordan Reed (Redskins)
LVP: Jimmy Graham (Seahawks)
Jimmy Graham's return to the Mercedes-Benz Superdome wasn't the bloodbath his fantasy owners hoped it would be. Graham was held to just 3 reception for 34 yards on a rough day for the Seahawks offense against the Saints notoriously inept defense. Even with Russell Wilson's recent struggles, Graham remains one of the strongest TE1 options out there and should continue to be started in all formats.
Dishonorable Mentions: Greg Olsen (Panthers), Zach Ertz (Eagles), Hunter Henry (Chargers)
Defense
MVP: Denver Broncos
After 2 straight middling performances, the Broncos defense returned to dominant form in Week 8. The Broncos eviscerated the Chargers offense, picking up 4 sacks, 3 INT, a blocked field goal and a touchdown while allowing just 13 points. The Broncos defense isn't quite the powerhouse they were last season, but they're still a reliable fantasy option with an elite ceiling.
Honorable Mentions: Carolina Panthers, Kansas City Chiefs, Seattle Seahawks
LVP: Minnesota Vikings
Outside of Julio Jones, there wasn't a more unexpected disappointment in Week 8 than the Vikings defense. The Vikings D failed to take advantage of the return of turnover-prone quarterback Jay Cutler and a banged-up offensive line as they mustered just 1 sack and failed to get a takeaway in their shocking 20-10 loss to the lowly Bears on Monday night. The Vikings defense has cooled off considerably in the last few weeks, but given their highly favorable schedule down the stretch, owners should ride out this current rough patch.
Dishonorable Mentions: New England Patriots, Tennessee Titans, Arizona Cardinals
Week 9 NFL Power Rankings
()=last week's ranking
1. (1) New England Patriots (7-1) Week 9 opponent: Bye Week
2. (2) Dallas Cowboys (6-1) Week 9 opponent: Cleveland Browns
3. (5) Denver Broncos (6-2) Week 9 opponent: Oakland Raiders
4. (7) Kansas City Chiefs (5-2) Week 9 opponent: Jacksonville Jaguars
5. (4) Seattle Seahawks (4-2-1) Week 9 opponent: Buffalo Bills
6. (9) Oakland Raiders (6-2) Week 9 opponent: Denver Broncos
7. (10) Atlanta Falcons (5-3) Week 9 opponent: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
8. (6) Philadelphia Eagles (4-3) Week 9 opponent: New York Giants
9. (3) Minnesota Vikings (5-2) Week 9 opponent: Detroit Lions
10. (8) Green Bay Packers (4-3) Week 9 opponent: Indianapolis Colts
11. (11) Pittsburgh Steelers (4-3) Week 9 opponent: Baltimore Ravens
12. (17) Houston Texans (5-3) Week 9 opponent: Bye Week
13. (14) Washington Redskins (4-3-1) Week 9 opponent: Bye Week
14. (13) Detroit Lions (4-4) Week 9 opponent: Minnesota Vikings
15. (12) Buffalo Bills (4-4) Week 9 opponent: Seattle Seahawks
16. (16) New York Giants (4-3) Week 9 opponent: Philadelphia Eagles
17. (25) Tennessee Titans (4-4) Week 9 opponent: San Diego Chargers
18. (19) Cincinnati Bengals (3-4-1) Week 9 opponent: Bye Week
19. (15) Arizona Cardinals (3-4-1) Week 9 opponent: Bye Week
20. (26) New Orleans Saints (3-4) Week 9 opponent: San Francisco 49ers
21. (20) Baltimore Ravens (3-4) Week 9 opponent: Pittsburgh Steelers
22. (21) Los Angeles Rams (3-4) Week 9 opponent: Carolina Panthers
23. (18) San Diego Chargers (3-5) Week 9 opponent: Tennessee Titans
24. (22) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-4) Week 9 opponent: Atlanta Falcons
25. (24) Miami Dolphins (3-4) Week 9 opponent: New York Jets
26. (23) Indianapolis Colts (3-5) Week 9 opponent: Green Bay Packers
27. (27) New York Jets (3-5) Week 9 opponent: Miami Dolphins
28. (28) Carolina Panthers (2-5) Week 9 opponent: Los Angeles Rams
29. (30) Chicago Bears (2-6) Week 9 opponent: Bye Week
30. (29) Jacksonville Jaguars (2-5) Week 9 opponent: Jacksonville Jaguars
31. (31) San Francisco 49ers (1-6) Week 9 opponent: New Orleans Saints
32. (32) Cleveland Browns (0-8) Week 9 opponent: Dallas Cowboys
1. (1) New England Patriots (7-1) Week 9 opponent: Bye Week
2. (2) Dallas Cowboys (6-1) Week 9 opponent: Cleveland Browns
3. (5) Denver Broncos (6-2) Week 9 opponent: Oakland Raiders
4. (7) Kansas City Chiefs (5-2) Week 9 opponent: Jacksonville Jaguars
5. (4) Seattle Seahawks (4-2-1) Week 9 opponent: Buffalo Bills
6. (9) Oakland Raiders (6-2) Week 9 opponent: Denver Broncos
7. (10) Atlanta Falcons (5-3) Week 9 opponent: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
8. (6) Philadelphia Eagles (4-3) Week 9 opponent: New York Giants
9. (3) Minnesota Vikings (5-2) Week 9 opponent: Detroit Lions
10. (8) Green Bay Packers (4-3) Week 9 opponent: Indianapolis Colts
11. (11) Pittsburgh Steelers (4-3) Week 9 opponent: Baltimore Ravens
12. (17) Houston Texans (5-3) Week 9 opponent: Bye Week
13. (14) Washington Redskins (4-3-1) Week 9 opponent: Bye Week
14. (13) Detroit Lions (4-4) Week 9 opponent: Minnesota Vikings
15. (12) Buffalo Bills (4-4) Week 9 opponent: Seattle Seahawks
16. (16) New York Giants (4-3) Week 9 opponent: Philadelphia Eagles
17. (25) Tennessee Titans (4-4) Week 9 opponent: San Diego Chargers
18. (19) Cincinnati Bengals (3-4-1) Week 9 opponent: Bye Week
19. (15) Arizona Cardinals (3-4-1) Week 9 opponent: Bye Week
20. (26) New Orleans Saints (3-4) Week 9 opponent: San Francisco 49ers
21. (20) Baltimore Ravens (3-4) Week 9 opponent: Pittsburgh Steelers
22. (21) Los Angeles Rams (3-4) Week 9 opponent: Carolina Panthers
23. (18) San Diego Chargers (3-5) Week 9 opponent: Tennessee Titans
24. (22) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-4) Week 9 opponent: Atlanta Falcons
25. (24) Miami Dolphins (3-4) Week 9 opponent: New York Jets
26. (23) Indianapolis Colts (3-5) Week 9 opponent: Green Bay Packers
27. (27) New York Jets (3-5) Week 9 opponent: Miami Dolphins
28. (28) Carolina Panthers (2-5) Week 9 opponent: Los Angeles Rams
29. (30) Chicago Bears (2-6) Week 9 opponent: Bye Week
30. (29) Jacksonville Jaguars (2-5) Week 9 opponent: Jacksonville Jaguars
31. (31) San Francisco 49ers (1-6) Week 9 opponent: New Orleans Saints
32. (32) Cleveland Browns (0-8) Week 9 opponent: Dallas Cowboys
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