Week 6 Review:
By Kyle Balfour
It's back! Once again, your NFL review will be handled by me! So let's hope I have a much easier time with formatting the article this time around...
Another glorious week of football has drawn to a close, and by god was it a terrible week for not only usual fantasy football winning suspects, but for predictions. I believe I have hit the lowest personal prediction tally to date.
Now with the formalities out of the way, let's get to the review!
Predictions wise, Stuart begins to push out in front with 44-33 as I begin to lose gain at 42-35. Shame I already spoiled that I lost this week too...
Carolina Panthers vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, North Carolina
Actual Result: Panthers 23-28 Eagles
Kyle Said: Panthers (0-1)
Stuart Said: Eagles (1-0)
Well that was a close one. Just as the Eagles began to take the lead, the Panthers responded and fought back to keep it competitive. Sadly, Cam Newton couldn't maintain the momentum. A badly timed turnover and some downright terrible throwing lead to the game going to the Eagles. Despite the Eagles living up to their more infamous reputation and playing rather dirty. Penalties were handed to the Eagles like pick n' mix, and that's just the ones the refs managed to point out.
Baltimore Ravens vs. Chicago Bears
M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, Maryland
Actual Result: Ravens 24-27 Bears
Kyle Said: Ravens (0-2)
Stuart Said: Ravens (1-1)
It's raining pick 6's! Regular interceptions are one thing, the occasional pick 6 is pretty entertaining (See the Ravens game winning pick 6 off a field goal attempt against the Browns a few seasons ago), but a bunch of them within one game by both teams, I wouldn't know whether to laugh or to cry.
Despite nearly two thirds of their points being the result of pick 6's, the Ravens still manage to bottle it against a struggling Bears squad. They made Trubisky look semi-decent, as terrible offence managed to allow the Bears to stay in the game, and take the overtime. The car is still needing repairs, it seems...
Minnesota Vikings vs. Green Bay Packers
U.S. Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, Minnesota
Actual Result: Vikings 23-10 Packers
Kyle Said: Packers (0-3)
Stuart Said: Packers (1-2)
So the great Mufasa that is Aaron Rodgers is down with a broken collarbone...
"...fuck!" - Entire state of Wisconsin
The replacement? The still young Simba that is Brett Hundley, who played...not so great. Costly interceptions led to the Packers being picked apart by the Vikings, thanks in large to Jerick McKinnon being able to pick up the slack on the ground game that Dalvin Cook left wide open after his injury. Not to mention the Vikings have the very strong possibility that Teddy Bridgewater will return soon. There is hope for Minnesota. As for Green Bay...better get Hundley up to scratch, fast!
Washington Redskins vs. San Francisco 49ers
FedExField, Landover, Maryland
Actual Result: Redskins 26-24 49ers
Kyle Said: Redskins (1-3)
Stuart Said: Redskins (2-2)
Too close, Redskins...WAY too close. You had this game won just as half time was about to roll around, yet Carlos Hyde kept the Niners in it. You ain't winning the NFC East with performances like that. You had this game won in all aspects: first downs, pass yards, even your ground game got slightly more yardage than the Niners did. You can say "A win's a win" all you want, but the fact that you didn't shut the door entirely, and let your competition make a near comeback towards the end speaks much louder.
New Orleans Saints vs. Detroit Lions
Mercedes-Benz Superdome, New Orleans, Louisiana
Actual Result: Saints 52-38 Lions
Kyle Said: Lions (1-4)
Stuart Said: Saints (3-2)
To think that I chose late game comeback voodoo magic over the offensive powerhouse that is the Saints. While both were prevalent, the Saints were just too much for the Lions. When your opponent is that far out in front, a comeback can only get you so far (unless the other team decides to fall asleep *cough* Falcons *cough*). By the way, some of those pick 6's were just hilarious!
In any case, what a game! A strong win for the Saints, and the Lions, despite losing, come out looking like they've got something up their sleeve as they head into their bye week and prepare to face the Steelers in Week 8.
Atlanta Falcons vs Miami Dolphins
Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia
Actual Result: Falcons 17-20 Dolphins
Kyle Said: Falcons (1-5)
Stuart Said: Falcons (3-3)
Say it with me:
YOU BLEW IT!
Good fucking grief, Falcons! The gift that keeps on giving, it seems. Another glorious collapse after near enough blowing the other team the fuck out of the water. You were on track to go through the Dolphins the same way Christ Foerster goes through cocaine.
Pathetic.
Houston Texans vs. Cleveland Browns
NRG Stadium, Houston, Texas
Actual Result: Texans 33-17 Browns
Kyle Said: Texans (2-5)
Stuart Said: Texans (4-3)
Well this went exactly as expected. The Texans pummelled the Browns, and the AFC South remains competitive in its own special way (trust me, the NFC East is just the same...).
New York Jets vs. New England Patriots
MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey
Actual Result: Jets 17-24 Patriots
Kyle said: Patriots (3-5)
Stuart said: Patriots (5-3)
Jesus Christ...Where to begin with this one?
Say what you will about people being preemptive in their write-off of the Patriots, the fact that this was a close game in the first place should be evidence enough. The Jets out duelled the Patriots entirely in the first half. Stats wise, you'd think Tom Brady and Josh McCown swapped bodies Freaky Friday style. Stat wise overall, the Jets held their own with the Patriots. Hell, the Jets bested the Patriots pass wise by over 70 yards! What is this?!
What are the Jets even? This team was near fully imploded during the off season, yet sat at a definite above any expectation 3-2 - the same as the Patriots. It's because I jinxed the entire AFC East during my overall season preview, isn't it?
Either way, the long term effect of this season will not end well for the Jets. So what if they continue this trend? They may (and there isn't enough bold font in the world to convey how strongly that possibility is) make a wildcard spot, or they'll have to settle for third place. Why? Because both the Bills and Patriots are highly competitive this season. Hell, I can legit see the Bills making a strong case for the wildcard, snapping their playoff futility this current century. If this does occur, the Jets will have to settle for third place. Meaning that their draft options will be limited in terms of talent levels; and believe me, I have no faith whatsoever in the Jets ability to draft (go and browse some of them if you so wish. Special mention goes to the time the Jets drafted Mike Nugent with the 47th overall pick in the second round).
Now let's get to the really controversial part of this game: was it a touchdown? Austin Sefarian-Jenkinstouchdown run into the end zone is reviewed, and is overturned. Was it a touchdown? I think it was, yes. However, the fact that he fumbled preemptively prior to crossing the pylon would give raise for concern; and as much as I hate to admit it, the rule for the referee is to rule when it is conclusive. If it's not 100%, do not call it. Become one with your inner sith and deal in absolutes. Did this cost the Jets the game? I don't think so. I would say even if they did score, and the touchdown was given, the mentality of the Patriots would have shifted, and they would have responded. Call the Jets robbed if you so wish, and trust me, I wish the Jets did win. The memes would have been endless.
Arizona Cardinals vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
University of Phoenix Stadium, Glendale, Arizona
Actual Result: Cardinals 38-33 Buccaneers
Kyle Said: Buccaneers (3-6)
Stuart Said: Bucaneers (5-4)
So, it seems Adrian Peterson still has some fight left in him. The Cardinals dominated the first half, but the Bucs responded and mounted one hell of a comeback attempt, marred slightly by their own badly timed turnovers, and getting cocky by gambling for 2 pointers, scoring 1 out of 4... What? Were you afraid Patrick Murray would curse you?
In any case, the Cards get a much needed win, and the Bucs still look competitive. Also it seems Ryan Fitzpatrick might not be too bad a replacement for the Bucs should Jameis Winston not be ready for the Bills this Sunday.
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Los Angeles Rams
EverBank Field, Jacksonville, Florida
Actual Result: Jaguars 17-27 Rams
Kyle Said: Rams (4-6)
Stadium Said: Rams (6-4)
Well that was fun. Barely 30 seconds into game time, and both teams already scored running touchdowns. Leonard Fournette may have had to come off due to injury, but it seems that he'll be fine against the Colts. Also in Jags news, Jason Myers may have cost you a game, so you've gone with former Chargers kicker Josh Lambo ('member him?). Though the Jaguars were the better team, the Rams played best when it mattered. Keep this up, Rams, and the division is rightfully yours.
Oakland Raiders vs. Los Angeles Chargers
Oakland Alameda Coliseum, Oakland, California
Actual Result: Raiders 16-17 Chargers
Kyle Said: Raiders (4-7)
Stuart Said: Raiders (6-5)
All right then, let's get out the Chargers check-list:
Keep the game competitive? Check.
Downplay to keep the other team invested? Check.
Rely heavily on special teams? Check.
Blow the game on said teams? Che-wait, what? They nailed a last play field goal, winning the game? oh, no! My narrative is collapsing!
Raiders, you're in one hell of a slump right now. 4 straight losses, and you've got the Chiefs up next...crap.
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri
Actual Result: Chiefs 13-19 Steelers
Kyle Said: Chiefs (4-8)
Stuart Said: Chiefs (6-6)
Starting the scoring on a safety? And that's the waaaaay the news goes...
A disappointing turnout for the Chiefs, and a frustrating victory for the Steelers. The two headed giant that is Le'Veon Bell and Antonio Brown showed up and got you a much needed win to keep you in the hot seat for your division. As for the Chiefs, they were smashed upon, as the once deadly running game was completely silenced by the Steelers defence. Better learn a few new tricks as you head to Oakland.
Denver Broncos vs. New York Giants
Sports Authority Field at Mile High, Denver, Colorado
Actual Result: Broncos 10-23 Giants
Kyle Said: Broncos (4-9)
Stuart Said: Broncos (6-7)
The Giants...won? Huh? How?
Well I'll tell you how. It's the one thing the Giants don't have a problem with (one that I defended in my meltdown article), and that's issues at quarterback. Trevor Siemian regressed back into rookie's first football game, delivering game costing interceptions (thanks, Janoris Jenkins!), questionable play making, and eating sacks for breakfast. Plus an injury for him paved way for the return of the prodigal son: Brock Osweiler. Who went 9/18 on completions, no touchdowns, no interceptions. *shurgs* Meh.
You're going against one of the best pass rushers in Von Miller. How do you respond? Run the ball, of course! Orleans Darkwa broke out with an admirable career high 117 yards. Hopefully this can continue, because the air game sure as hell ain't getting better.
So the Giants got a definitely long needed and strongly deserved victory, stunning the Broncos, and maybe delivering some hope as they face the Legion of Boom that is the Seattle Seahawks next week.
Tennessee Titans vs. Indianapolis Colts
Nissan Stadium, Nashville, Tenessee
Actual Result: Titans 36-22 Colts
Kyle Said: Colts (6-9)
Stuart Said: Colts (9-6)
Ahh, an AFC South showdown. One that will begin to shape both teams seasonal outlook. Despite holding the lead for the first 3 quarters, including a pick 6 and limiting the Titans to only score by field goals, the Colts were completely steamrolled in the fourth as the Titans rained down touchdown after touchdown, sealing the game. Despite Mariota being limited mobility wise, a solid running game carried the team to victory. Hopefully he is rested and ready to take on the Browns. No one wants to be the team that loses to the Browns...
In other doom and gloom, Andrew Luck suffers a setback in his rehabilitation, and is unlikely to play at all this year...
Fire up the tank!
And there you have it! Week 6 wrapped up nicely. Let’s have a look at the final prediction results for this week:
Kyle: 4-10 (welp)
Stuart: 6-8
After six weeks, here are the current standings:
Kyle: 46-45
Stuart: 50-41
We look onward to Week 7, hopefully containing some lovely tanking from both the Colts and the Giants.
...Go team...
By Kyle Balfour
It's back! Once again, your NFL review will be handled by me! So let's hope I have a much easier time with formatting the article this time around...
Another glorious week of football has drawn to a close, and by god was it a terrible week for not only usual fantasy football winning suspects, but for predictions. I believe I have hit the lowest personal prediction tally to date.
Now with the formalities out of the way, let's get to the review!
Predictions wise, Stuart begins to push out in front with 44-33 as I begin to lose gain at 42-35. Shame I already spoiled that I lost this week too...
Carolina Panthers vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, North Carolina
Actual Result: Panthers 23-28 Eagles
Kyle Said: Panthers (0-1)
Stuart Said: Eagles (1-0)
Well that was a close one. Just as the Eagles began to take the lead, the Panthers responded and fought back to keep it competitive. Sadly, Cam Newton couldn't maintain the momentum. A badly timed turnover and some downright terrible throwing lead to the game going to the Eagles. Despite the Eagles living up to their more infamous reputation and playing rather dirty. Penalties were handed to the Eagles like pick n' mix, and that's just the ones the refs managed to point out.
Baltimore Ravens vs. Chicago Bears
M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, Maryland
Actual Result: Ravens 24-27 Bears
Kyle Said: Ravens (0-2)
Stuart Said: Ravens (1-1)
It's raining pick 6's! Regular interceptions are one thing, the occasional pick 6 is pretty entertaining (See the Ravens game winning pick 6 off a field goal attempt against the Browns a few seasons ago), but a bunch of them within one game by both teams, I wouldn't know whether to laugh or to cry.
Despite nearly two thirds of their points being the result of pick 6's, the Ravens still manage to bottle it against a struggling Bears squad. They made Trubisky look semi-decent, as terrible offence managed to allow the Bears to stay in the game, and take the overtime. The car is still needing repairs, it seems...
Minnesota Vikings vs. Green Bay Packers
U.S. Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, Minnesota
Actual Result: Vikings 23-10 Packers
Kyle Said: Packers (0-3)
Stuart Said: Packers (1-2)
So the great Mufasa that is Aaron Rodgers is down with a broken collarbone...
"...fuck!" - Entire state of Wisconsin
The replacement? The still young Simba that is Brett Hundley, who played...not so great. Costly interceptions led to the Packers being picked apart by the Vikings, thanks in large to Jerick McKinnon being able to pick up the slack on the ground game that Dalvin Cook left wide open after his injury. Not to mention the Vikings have the very strong possibility that Teddy Bridgewater will return soon. There is hope for Minnesota. As for Green Bay...better get Hundley up to scratch, fast!
Washington Redskins vs. San Francisco 49ers
FedExField, Landover, Maryland
Actual Result: Redskins 26-24 49ers
Kyle Said: Redskins (1-3)
Stuart Said: Redskins (2-2)
Too close, Redskins...WAY too close. You had this game won just as half time was about to roll around, yet Carlos Hyde kept the Niners in it. You ain't winning the NFC East with performances like that. You had this game won in all aspects: first downs, pass yards, even your ground game got slightly more yardage than the Niners did. You can say "A win's a win" all you want, but the fact that you didn't shut the door entirely, and let your competition make a near comeback towards the end speaks much louder.
New Orleans Saints vs. Detroit Lions
Mercedes-Benz Superdome, New Orleans, Louisiana
Actual Result: Saints 52-38 Lions
Kyle Said: Lions (1-4)
Stuart Said: Saints (3-2)
To think that I chose late game comeback voodoo magic over the offensive powerhouse that is the Saints. While both were prevalent, the Saints were just too much for the Lions. When your opponent is that far out in front, a comeback can only get you so far (unless the other team decides to fall asleep *cough* Falcons *cough*). By the way, some of those pick 6's were just hilarious!
In any case, what a game! A strong win for the Saints, and the Lions, despite losing, come out looking like they've got something up their sleeve as they head into their bye week and prepare to face the Steelers in Week 8.
Atlanta Falcons vs Miami Dolphins
Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia
Actual Result: Falcons 17-20 Dolphins
Kyle Said: Falcons (1-5)
Stuart Said: Falcons (3-3)
Say it with me:
YOU BLEW IT!
Good fucking grief, Falcons! The gift that keeps on giving, it seems. Another glorious collapse after near enough blowing the other team the fuck out of the water. You were on track to go through the Dolphins the same way Christ Foerster goes through cocaine.
Pathetic.
Houston Texans vs. Cleveland Browns
NRG Stadium, Houston, Texas
Actual Result: Texans 33-17 Browns
Kyle Said: Texans (2-5)
Stuart Said: Texans (4-3)
Well this went exactly as expected. The Texans pummelled the Browns, and the AFC South remains competitive in its own special way (trust me, the NFC East is just the same...).
New York Jets vs. New England Patriots
MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey
Actual Result: Jets 17-24 Patriots
Kyle said: Patriots (3-5)
Stuart said: Patriots (5-3)
Jesus Christ...Where to begin with this one?
Say what you will about people being preemptive in their write-off of the Patriots, the fact that this was a close game in the first place should be evidence enough. The Jets out duelled the Patriots entirely in the first half. Stats wise, you'd think Tom Brady and Josh McCown swapped bodies Freaky Friday style. Stat wise overall, the Jets held their own with the Patriots. Hell, the Jets bested the Patriots pass wise by over 70 yards! What is this?!
What are the Jets even? This team was near fully imploded during the off season, yet sat at a definite above any expectation 3-2 - the same as the Patriots. It's because I jinxed the entire AFC East during my overall season preview, isn't it?
Either way, the long term effect of this season will not end well for the Jets. So what if they continue this trend? They may (and there isn't enough bold font in the world to convey how strongly that possibility is) make a wildcard spot, or they'll have to settle for third place. Why? Because both the Bills and Patriots are highly competitive this season. Hell, I can legit see the Bills making a strong case for the wildcard, snapping their playoff futility this current century. If this does occur, the Jets will have to settle for third place. Meaning that their draft options will be limited in terms of talent levels; and believe me, I have no faith whatsoever in the Jets ability to draft (go and browse some of them if you so wish. Special mention goes to the time the Jets drafted Mike Nugent with the 47th overall pick in the second round).
Now let's get to the really controversial part of this game: was it a touchdown? Austin Sefarian-Jenkins
Arizona Cardinals vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
University of Phoenix Stadium, Glendale, Arizona
Actual Result: Cardinals 38-33 Buccaneers
Kyle Said: Buccaneers (3-6)
Stuart Said: Bucaneers (5-4)
So, it seems Adrian Peterson still has some fight left in him. The Cardinals dominated the first half, but the Bucs responded and mounted one hell of a comeback attempt, marred slightly by their own badly timed turnovers, and getting cocky by gambling for 2 pointers, scoring 1 out of 4... What? Were you afraid Patrick Murray would curse you?
In any case, the Cards get a much needed win, and the Bucs still look competitive. Also it seems Ryan Fitzpatrick might not be too bad a replacement for the Bucs should Jameis Winston not be ready for the Bills this Sunday.
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Los Angeles Rams
EverBank Field, Jacksonville, Florida
Actual Result: Jaguars 17-27 Rams
Kyle Said: Rams (4-6)
Stadium Said: Rams (6-4)
Well that was fun. Barely 30 seconds into game time, and both teams already scored running touchdowns. Leonard Fournette may have had to come off due to injury, but it seems that he'll be fine against the Colts. Also in Jags news, Jason Myers may have cost you a game, so you've gone with former Chargers kicker Josh Lambo ('member him?). Though the Jaguars were the better team, the Rams played best when it mattered. Keep this up, Rams, and the division is rightfully yours.
Oakland Raiders vs. Los Angeles Chargers
Oakland Alameda Coliseum, Oakland, California
Actual Result: Raiders 16-17 Chargers
Kyle Said: Raiders (4-7)
Stuart Said: Raiders (6-5)
All right then, let's get out the Chargers check-list:
Keep the game competitive? Check.
Downplay to keep the other team invested? Check.
Rely heavily on special teams? Check.
Blow the game on said teams? Che-wait, what? They nailed a last play field goal, winning the game? oh, no! My narrative is collapsing!
Raiders, you're in one hell of a slump right now. 4 straight losses, and you've got the Chiefs up next...crap.
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri
Actual Result: Chiefs 13-19 Steelers
Kyle Said: Chiefs (4-8)
Stuart Said: Chiefs (6-6)
Starting the scoring on a safety? And that's the waaaaay the news goes...
A disappointing turnout for the Chiefs, and a frustrating victory for the Steelers. The two headed giant that is Le'Veon Bell and Antonio Brown showed up and got you a much needed win to keep you in the hot seat for your division. As for the Chiefs, they were smashed upon, as the once deadly running game was completely silenced by the Steelers defence. Better learn a few new tricks as you head to Oakland.
Denver Broncos vs. New York Giants
Sports Authority Field at Mile High, Denver, Colorado
Actual Result: Broncos 10-23 Giants
Kyle Said: Broncos (4-9)
Stuart Said: Broncos (6-7)
The Giants...won? Huh? How?
Well I'll tell you how. It's the one thing the Giants don't have a problem with (one that I defended in my meltdown article), and that's issues at quarterback. Trevor Siemian regressed back into rookie's first football game, delivering game costing interceptions (thanks, Janoris Jenkins!), questionable play making, and eating sacks for breakfast. Plus an injury for him paved way for the return of the prodigal son: Brock Osweiler. Who went 9/18 on completions, no touchdowns, no interceptions. *shurgs* Meh.
You're going against one of the best pass rushers in Von Miller. How do you respond? Run the ball, of course! Orleans Darkwa broke out with an admirable career high 117 yards. Hopefully this can continue, because the air game sure as hell ain't getting better.
So the Giants got a definitely long needed and strongly deserved victory, stunning the Broncos, and maybe delivering some hope as they face the Legion of Boom that is the Seattle Seahawks next week.
Tennessee Titans vs. Indianapolis Colts
Nissan Stadium, Nashville, Tenessee
Actual Result: Titans 36-22 Colts
Kyle Said: Colts (6-9)
Stuart Said: Colts (9-6)
Ahh, an AFC South showdown. One that will begin to shape both teams seasonal outlook. Despite holding the lead for the first 3 quarters, including a pick 6 and limiting the Titans to only score by field goals, the Colts were completely steamrolled in the fourth as the Titans rained down touchdown after touchdown, sealing the game. Despite Mariota being limited mobility wise, a solid running game carried the team to victory. Hopefully he is rested and ready to take on the Browns. No one wants to be the team that loses to the Browns...
In other doom and gloom, Andrew Luck suffers a setback in his rehabilitation, and is unlikely to play at all this year...
Fire up the tank!
And there you have it! Week 6 wrapped up nicely. Let’s have a look at the final prediction results for this week:
Kyle: 4-10 (welp)
Stuart: 6-8
After six weeks, here are the current standings:
Kyle: 46-45
Stuart: 50-41
We look onward to Week 7, hopefully containing some lovely tanking from both the Colts and the Giants.
...Go team...
Comments
Post a Comment