()=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
Tuesday, November 12, 2019
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
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