Tag Archives: NFL

NFL Free Agency & Offseason News Roundup

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By Rodolfo Garcia

As soon as the Kansas City Chiefs won Super Bowl LVII, teams got to work on building a winner for next season. Here is a round-up of some of the biggest moves of the NFL offseason so far.

•Saints Get Derek Carr after his release from the Raiders

Michael C. Hebert / New Orleans Saints

The former Raiders QB Derek Carr had two visits with the New York Jets and the New Orleans Saints this offseason after his release from Las Vegas. Eventually, the Saints picked up Carr, who had a great visit with the team.

It really made sense due to the fact that this team needed a QB. Now they pick him up and have the best QB in their division. Carr has been reunited with his former coach Dennis Allen, who drafted Derek Carr in 2014 in the second round. These really great ties and connections will be helpful with a similar face and game system.

Opinion: This was not shocking at all due to the fact that Carr had two teams interested in him really quickly and just needed a fresh start in his career with a different team. In the NFC South, the Saints have their best QB in Derek Carr. This team has a lot of explosive players from WR to defense.

•Raiders Sign Jimmy Garoppolo  

Ethan Miller / Getty Images

After losing Carr, the Las Vegas Raiders signed Jimmy Garoppolo away from San Francisco to a 3-year, $67.05 million contract, including $34 million guaranteed. This free agency pick-up makes sense due to the fact that Jimmy Garoppolo was head coach Mike McDaniels’ backup during his time with the Patriots. The Raiders were a team that was in need after releasing Derek Carr. Jimmy Garoppolo has a history of injuries throughout his career but hopefully will stay healthy throughout the new season. Jimmy will throw balls to one of the best wide receivers and route runners in Devante Adams, newly signed former Patriots wide receiver Jakobe Myers, and Hunter Renfrow. This team can really succeed with a couple of more needed positions. 

Opinion: I was really surprised and shocked with this pickup due to the fact that Jimmy Garoppolo has a history of injuries throughout his career. Also, he still hasn’t proven to be a quality starting QB. I believe the Raiders were all in on Jimmy after failing to trade for the number 1 overall pick in this year’s draft.

•Big Money Re-sign: Daniel Jones (NY Giants) 

Vincent Carchietta / USA TODAY Sports

The New York Giants have re-signed QB Daniel Jones with a huge contract through the 2027 season. After proving to himself that he is a first-round player, he showed the Giants exactly what they expected out of him when they drafted him.

Jones had many ups and downs throughout his career. In the NFL world, some fans were calling him a bust. The Giants were expected to be one of the worst teams last season but the team and Daniel Jones, along with new head coach Brian Doboll, proved that they were a great team going to the playoffs.

Opinion: This is a huge contract reward for one great season. I and NFL fans dislike the contract due to the fact that he didn’t do much in his career and proved himself for 1 season and got a huge contract.

•Franchised Tagged: Saquon Barkley

Photo by David Berding / Getty Images

The New York Giants gave the franchise tag to Saquon Barkley, earning him $15 million this upcoming season. He is a franchised player for the team but couldn’t get through with a long-term contract. He had one of his best seasons coming off a torn ACL with a career high 1,312 yards, averaging 4.4 yards per carry.

Opinion: I believe Saquon does not want to play with a tagged season and wants a contract before the season starts. He’s a really great pick up. NFL fans dislike that tag choice, and NY should have freed Saquon to play for another team with a huge contract. He is a really explosive player in every carry with few long yard plays. 

•Chuck Clark traded to the New York Jets from the Baltimore Ravens

The Baltimore Ravens are trading safety Chuck Clark to the New York Jets for a 2024 7th round pick. Chuck Clark is a really underrated safety, a hard and explosive player all around, and a class act who was a starter for 4 years. It is a shocking move but makes sense due to the fact that the Ravens drafted Kyle Hamilton from Notre Dame in the first round last year.

Opinion: Clark is a class act and a veteran who is a great player and likable player on the field and off the field. Overall a great person and great player on the field. The Jets did well with this trade.

Broncos Adding and Subtracting

•Ben Power

The Denver Broncos signed former Baltimore Ravens OL Ben Power. The Denver Broncos gave him a 4 year, $52 million deal with $28 million guaranteed. It is a really great pick up for Denver after having the worst offensive line for many years.

Opinion: Power is a great addition to the line with his ability to be great in the run game. He will be a key factor in the run game making huge holes for the backs to gain key yards. Also, he is having an amazing career so far with zero sacks allowed–he is really great on the pass game blocking.

•Mike McGlinchey

The Denver Broncos also signed former 49ers RT Mike McGlinchey to a 5-year deal worth $87.5 million, with over $50 million guaranteed. He is another great addition and badly needed for Denver’s poor O-line in 2022. He brings to the table the ability to make big holes on the run game and a straight menace when running to defend and pancaking his opponents. Watching his film, however, I was shocked at how bad he is in the passing game. The only film I saw that was really good was him locking up Maxx Crosby. He needs to improve a lot on his skill set on the passing game and going one-on-one. He looks scared and his foot work has to be worked on; also when he puts his hands up he looks scared to put his hands on his opponents. When his opponents shift he is too slow and reacts slowly. He has a history of injuries but hopefully for the Broncos he can have another healthy season.

Opinion: I’m really shocked by this pickup. The Broncos really overpaid. I guess Denver will have a run game plan and newly-acquired Samaje Perine will have to carry a big load in the offensive plan.

•Samaje Perine

The Denver Broncos are signing former Bengals RB Samaje Perine to a 2-year, $7.5 million contract that includes $1 million in undisclosed incentives. This is an underrated signing to pick up for the offense until Javonte Williams comes back healthy after tearing his ACL, LCL, and posterolateral corner last season. Perine is a really productive player, going from a backup last year to now taking advantage of his opportunities. Perine averaged 4 yards per carry. He is not a flashy player, but he runs straight to you and uses his physical strength and never gives up, moving his feet while getting tackled. There is an advantage to using him on the backfield and outside of the ball as just a pinch and run player and a great running back. Finally, Perine is a great run blocker who shuts rotational defense of ends and carries a load on the blitzing. 

Opinion: I really like this addition to the Denver Broncos. Perine is an underrated player who doesn’t get much recognition. I believe this is the most underrated signing in free agency this year. After the Broncos picked up two O-line players in Ben Powers and Mike McGlinchey–who both are great running-game protection players–they will help Samaje Perine this year make holes and huge runs.

•Zach Allen

The Denver Broncos signed former Arizona Cardinal Zach Allen to a 3-year, $45.75 million contract that includes a $32.5 million guarantee. This is a move that makes sense in picking up a young rising star. Allen had a ton of success under new Broncos Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph and improved year after year. Zach Allen brings a lot of juice and game play in his skills from looking at his film with the Arizona Cardinals. He brings pass rush ability and was one of the best against the run game last season. Allen is expected to be a core and franchise player moving forward in the defense alongside Jones, Gregory, and Baron Browning.

Opinion: I like the pickup with Zack Allen and his ability to stop the run game. The Denver Broncos also filled a needed position when they nabbed Allen. He is a big help to the defense upfront for a team that also struggled in that spot.

Cincinnati Bengals Make Big Moves

•Germaine Pratt

The Cincinnati Bengals are resigning LB Germain Pratt to a 3-year, $20 million deal. 

It is a really great pickup bringing back Germaine Pratt. I’m not a fan of the Bengals, but my brother is a Bengals fan so we always watch the Broncos and Bengals games; and let me tell you, I believe he is the most underrated linebacker in the league. His skill set is really off the charts. He is a really sticky glue player one-on-one with tight ends and with any one in front of him, and really has great vision on where the QB is throwing–always keeping his eyes on the QB while still being a good run stopper. At worst, he is a top 3 LB, in my opinion. Pratt is a cheat code on this defense–it really shows how much film he watches, and he knows what he is doing. Congratulations, Germaine Pratt.

Opinion: I’m really surprised by his contract. I believe he could have, and deserved, more. But you have to respect the man–loyalty is everything to the team who drafted Pratt in the 3rd round of the 2019 draft.

•Orlando Brown

The Cincinnati Bengals are signing former Kansas City Chiefs LT Orlando Brown to a 4-year, $64 million contract. This was a shocking move, although I’m not surprised due to the fact that the Bengals are in need of a left tackle. The best left tackle in the league in Brown gets a contract that he deserves on a team that has succeeded, and he will make this O-line more explosive. His presence will keep Joe Burrow in the pocket more and not let him scramble too much. There will be many fewer sacks allowed in the upcoming Bengals’ season.

Opinion: I really like this pick up for Cincy. Orlando Brown always succeeded throughout his career, and finally, he gets a contract he deserves. One of the best tackles in the league going to a successful team like the Bengals makes sense.

Carolina Panthers Are Busy

•Von Bell 

The Carolina Panthers are signing former Bengals safety Von Bell to a 3-year, $22.5 million contract that includes $13 million guaranteed. Bell is a really underrated S that plays the inside, and he’s a run stopper from the back field. His technique and great ethics are all-around great. Carolina is doing great things during free agency, making key additions to this team that will be helping the defensive line in this year’s franchise players for their team for years to come, especially with defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero (who was really great last year with the Denver Broncos having a top 2 or 3 defense).

•Deshaun Williams

The Carolina Panthers signed former Denver Broncos DT Deshaun Williams. This is an underrated signing since Williams didn’t get much playing time throughout his career. He had ups and downs throughout his career with the Denver Broncos, who signed him to the practice squad then released him. Finally, he got an opportunity to play for the Broncos, who offered him a one-year deal. He was believed to be a starter but didn’t get much opportunity to play as a starter. He got a huge opportunity with the Carolina Panthers, joining his former defensive end coach Ejiro Evero who will help with the defensive ends. Williams’ skillset is really great, he just needs to improve consistently to be successful in the league by making holes to separate the O- line and help his teammates get to the QB.

Opinion: I really like this signing of an underrated player who didn’t get much recognition throughout his career with the Broncos. I wish him a great, successful and healthy season.

JGHS Welcomes New Head Football Coach

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Interview & Photos by Stany Hernandez | Press Release courtesy Dr. Padilla

Updated 3/27/23 @ 3:56pm

Eagles,

It’s official. Please join us in welcoming our new Eagles Varsity Head Football Coach, Elijhaa Penny!

As a graduate of NLMUSD, Penny has returned from his college and NFL career to Norwalk to give back to the community that he is passionate about. We are thrilled to welcome him into the Eagle family and look forward to the skill, experience, and energy that he will bring to our program!

The school welcomed him officially at lunch on Friday 3/24/23 in the quad. Students, teachers, and media were on hand to stop by and say, “Welcome!”

During the March 24 interview in the Quad, Coach Penny described his position here as preparing players to be higher-level athletes and to excel outside of high school. He reported having connections with NFL coaches and college coaches to help students he deems with potential to play at a university or have the commitment for it.

If there are any of our dear readers teetering the edge of playing football or not, Coach Penny says, “You can’t do that with football. It’s almost like a position where you have to be 100% committed. If you have a burning desire, just come out and try it. Other than that, I feel like football is one of those sports where you’re either 100% committed or you’re out.”

His goals for the season include winning the coveted Mayor’s Cup, stating, “I wanna win the Mayor’s Cup trophy, so we’re definitely going for that.” He continues to reflect on the community saying, “It’s definitely good for the city. Our kids are considered to be low-level talented kids but I want to make the best out of the city–whether that’s Norwalk or John Glenn, I don’t look at it any different (when it comes to the community).”

For our football players next fall, be ready to work for Coach Penny! Go Eagles!

ed. note: Coach Penny attended the University of Idaho, and then signed as an undrafted free agent with the Arizona Cardinals, for whom he played from 2016-2018; he then played, most notably, for the New York Giants for four seasons from 2018-2021. The fullback retired from the NFL on November 28, 2022.

NFL 2023 Championship Game Predictions

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It is time to make our picks for the NFL Conference Championships. In the NFC Divisional Round last week, the 49ers advanced by beating the Cowboys in a close one, 19-12, while the Eagles easily took care of business against the Giants, beating them 38-7.
In the AFC, the favored Chiefs just squeaked by the Jaguars, 27-20, and the Bengals continued to surprise, winning in Buffalo by a score of 27-10, setting up a rematch of last year’s AFC Conference Championship.

In our picks last week, Richard Sanchez went a perfect 4-0 in his picks; Mr. Higgins went 3-1 (incorrectly picking the Bills to beat Cincy); while Rodolfo Garcia and Carlos Lopez each went 2-2.
Joining our sports editor Carlos Lopez and Mr. Higgins this week are reporters Stany Hernandez and Evelyn Magaña. Let’s get to the Championship games, both on this fun-filled Sunday, January 29.

NFC Championship Game: 49ers @ Eagles | Noon, FOX

Mr. Higgins49ers
CarlosEagles
Stany49ers
Evelyn49ers

Carlos is the only one picking Philly, and the reason he picks the Eagles is because, “They’ve been on a roll all season. A lot of people are picking against Philly because they want to root for the underdog. I think the inexperience of Brock Purdy will cost the Niners the game.”

AFC Championship Game: Bengals @ Chiefs | 3:30, CBS

Mr. HigginsBengals
CarlosBengals
StanyBengals
EvelynBengals

So why is everyone picking the Bengals? The injury to Patrick Mahomes is concerning, and, as Mr. Higgins said, “I’m just tired of the Bengals proving me wrong!” Cincy obviously has a very complete team, and we see them repeating as AFC champs and moving on to Super Bowl LVII on Sunday, February 12.

2023 NFL Divisional Round Playoff Predictions

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Last week, we made our picks for the wild card round. Let’s recap how we did. We all incorrectly predicted a Vikings win over the Giants; otherwise, our NFL correspondent Rodolfo Garcia was perfect in his other predictions.

  • Rodolfo Garcia | 5-1
  • Mr. Higgins | 4-2
  • Richard Sanchez | 3-3
  • Michael Rodriguez | 3-3

It is now time to move on to round two of the NFL playoffs, otherwise known as the Divisional Round. The top-seeded Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs now join the fight, hosting the lowest remaining seeds in these Divisional Round games.
*For this round of predictions, our sports editor Carlos Lopez replaces Michael to make picks.

NFC:

Giants @ Eagles | Saturday, 5:15pm on FOX

Mr. HigginsEagles
Rodolfo GarciaEagles
Richard SanchezEagles
Carlos LopezGiants

Cowboys @ Niners | Sunday, 3:30pm on FOX

Mr. Higgins49ers
Rodolfo GarciaCowboys
Richard Sanchez49ers
Carlos Lopez49ers

AFC:

Jaguars @ Chiefs | Saturday, 1:30pm on NBC

Mr. HigginsChiefs
Rodolfo GarciaJaguars
Richard SanchezChiefs
Carlos LopezChiefs

Bengals @ Bills | Sunday, 12:00 noon on CBS

Mr. HigginsBills
Rodolfo GarciaBengals
Richard SanchezBengals
Carlos LopezBills

Check in with us next week when we wrap up these predictions and get down to the final four teams playing for the Conference Championships and a chance to go to the Super Bowl.

2023 NFL Wild Card Predictions

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Before the big games this weekend, Shoemaker Bugle sportswriters and editors give their quick predictions for the 2023 NFL Wild Card round.

Let’s get right to our picks:

Seattle Seahawks @ San Francisco 49ers

Saturday, Jan. 14, 1:30pm on FOX

Mr. HigginsRichard SanchezMichael RodriguezRodolfo Garcia
49ers49ers49ers49ers

Los Angeles Chargers @ Jacksonville Jaguars

Saturday, Jan. 14, 5:15pm on NBC

Mr. HigginsRichard SanchezMichael RodriguezRodolfo Garcia
JaguarsChargersChargersJaguars

Miami Dolphins @ Buffalo Bills

Sunday, Jan. 15, 10:00am on CBS

Mr. HigginsRichard SanchezMichael RodriguezRodolfo Garcia
BillsBillsBillsBills

New York Giants @ Minnesota Vikings

Sunday, Jan. 15, 1:30pm on FOX

Mr. HigginsRichard SanchezMichael RodriguezRodolfo Garcia
VikingsVikingsVikingsVikings

Baltimore Ravens @ Cincinnati Bengals

Sunday, Jan. 15, 5:15pm on NBC

Mr. HigginsRichard SanchezMichael RodriguezRodolfo Garcia
BengalsBengalsBengalsBengals

Dallas Cowboys @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Monday, Jan. 16, 5:15 on ESPN

Mr. HigginsRichard SanchezMichael RodriguezRodolfo Garcia
BucsBucsBucsCowboys

Check in with us next week to see how our predictions turned out, and we will also preview the Divisional Round of the playoffs.

2022 NFL Playoff Prediction

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By Rodolfo Garcia

What a 2022 NFL season.

With upsetting moments and happy moments, this season had many exciting games. Many upset fans whose NFL teams were projected to be a playoff contender sadly failed and missed the playoffs once again; but many seemingly bad or average teams shockingly improved this season.

Through Week 13 in the NFL, it’s time to take a look at playoff predictions.

NFC PLAYOFF PREDICTION:

In the NFC the Bears, Rams, Saints, and Cardinals are all out. But thanks to a bad NFC South, the Carolina Panthers and Atlanta Falcons are still in the hunt to try to make the playoffs; and the Seattle Seahawks, Detroit Lions, and Green Bay Packers have a very slim chance at a wild card spot. But my prediction will be that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will win the South and that all the NFC East teams will make it in as wild cards behind the Eagles, including the Cowboys, Commanders, and Giants.

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES (1ST NFC EAST–already clinched) 

DALLAS COWBOYS (2ND NFC EAST) 

 NY GIANTS (3RD NFC EAST)  

 WASHINGTON COMMANDERS (4TH NFC EAST) 

 MINNESOTA VIKINGS (1ST NFC NORTH)

 SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS (1ST NFC WEST)

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS (1ST NFC SOUTH)   

AFC PLAYOFF PREDICTION:

In the AFC the Jags, Raiders, Browns, Steelers, Colts, Broncos, and Texans are all out. The Jets, Chargers, and Patriots are battling for the find Wild Card spot for the final wild card spot (#7 seed) which puts them in the hunt. I predict that the New England Patriots and New York Jets will sadly be out of the hunt and not make the playoffs, leaving the Chargers as the 7 seed.

BUFFALO BILLS (1ST AFC EAST) 

MIAMI DOLPHINS (2ND AFC EAST)                                           

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (1ST AFC WEST) 

LOS ANGELES CHARGERS (2nd AFC WEST)

CINCINNATI BENGALS (1ST AFC NORTH)

BALTIMORE RAVENS (2ND AFC NORTH)

TENNESSEE TITANS (1ST AFC SOUTH) 

Here are some teams I want to highlight who can go deep into the playoffs.

AFC

Kansas City Chiefs

One team that is not surprising to make it to the final stages of the NFL playoff runs is the Kansas City Chiefs. Many NFL fans were really concerned after trading their top wide receiver Tyreek Hill. But the Kansas City Chiefs were not worried about it and did what they knew coming to a current 10-3 record.

The Chiefs success continued this year because they made really great draft pick ups in the 2022 NFL Draft. One of the most underrated running backs, coming from Rutgers and getting picked up in the 7th round (pick 110) is Isiah Pacheco. I am not surprised by how he is playing this season. I knew this football player had so much potential with his speed and shiftiness to be a starter in the NFL, which he did with a really great RB room and knocked out Clyde Edwards Helaire to become a starter. A 1st round 2020 draft pick coming out of LSU, Helaire hasn’t had much of a chance because of injuries.

This team also has a really great offensive line. Also, two great LB that are making huge plays in Nick Bolton and Willie Gay both play really physical and aggressive on every play.

Travis Kelce, of course, carries a load for this team, making big plays along with Pacheco. These two players will be key factors to winning playoff games.

Not to mention Patrick Mahomes, the quarterback having a great season so far with not many key targets in the wide receiver spot. But Mahomes is what he is and manages to make huge plays this year. Players to look at in the playoffs are Patrick Mahomes, Isaiah Pacheco, Travis Kelce, Kadarius Toney, Trent Mcduffie, Skyy Moore, Marquez Valdes Scantling, Willie Gay, Chris Jones, Frank Clark, Nick Bolton, and Orlando Brown Jr.

Cincinnati Bengals

After a rough start to the season, NFL fans were bashing the Bengals for having a slow start (0-2 record). This team never gave up and picked things up to become a playoff contender. After two straight losses they picked up the rhythm. Beginning in Week 9, this team won five straight through Week 13. Ja’Marr Chase does what Ja’Marr does and Joe Burrow is having a fun season so far. Joe Mixon who is doing a great job picking up where he left off last year, is a physical runner and a catcher in the back end, and on the go route he is explosive.

The Bengals defense surprised NFL fans with a top 5 defense this year by only allowing around 14 points in the second half. With so many underrated LB like Germain Pratt and Logan Wilson and defensive ends such as DJ Reader and BJ Hill who are the best run block stoppers. Also, when getting a shot to play, I think Dax Hill will have a key defensive role in the playoffs. Eli Apple who got re-signed to a 1-year deal is having a great season so far. Apple has a lot of hate throughout his career, but I believe he is the most underrated CB this year. Finally, rookie CB Cam Taylor Britt who is having a great season so far in his rookie year looks like a CB 1 for the Cincinnati Bengals.

The Bengals will run it back to the playoffs. This team is explosive on both ends offense and defense with many key players on this roster who will make a great impact including Joe Burrow, Joe Mixon, Jamar Chase, Tee Higgins, Tyler Boyd Jessie Bates, Samaje Perine, Cam Taylor Britt, DJ Reader, Trey Hendrickson, Logan Wilson, Germaine Pratt, Sam Hubbard, Jonah Williams, Hayden Hurst, Vonn Bell, Mike Hilton, BJ Hill.

Miami Dolphins

Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)

What a shocking and surprising team for NFL fans, who did not expect the Dolphins making it to the playoffs this year. With a great offseason hiring former 49ers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel has become in their head coach. 

Tyreek Hill paid a lot during the season and is having a great season this year with his QB Tua Tagovailoa also having one of his best seasons. Tua (who was called a bust through his rookie year and expected to not be good this year) proved his haters wrong due to the fact that he doesn’t have a long arm meaning he is not an explosive thrower and not a deep threat. It also helps having the best wide receiver duos in Hill and Jaylen Waddle, who both are passing 1,000 yards this year with their nasty routes, speed, and shiftiness with many explosive plays making their opponents double team Hill and Waddle.

Also picking up one of the best offensive lines is Terron Armstead who is having one of his best seasons this year as one of the best left tackles in this league, looking phenomenal; and looks like it is paying off for the Miami Dolphins. This Dolphins team is having a great offense and makes a huge gain of plays. They are an exciting team to watch. Also, having great key players on both offense and defense. Finally, they traded for Bradley Chubb from the Denver Broncos during the season and is having one of his best seasons so far in his career (mostly due to injuries).

Players to watch through the season and the playoffs: Tua, Jaylen Waddle, Tyreek Hill, Terron Armstead, Bradley Chubb, Raheem Mostert, Jeff Wilson, Xavier Howard, Christian Wilkins, Jaelan Phillips.    

NFC

Philadelphia Eagles    

What a season the Philadelphia Eagles are having after being the first team to clinch and make it to the playoffs. They made huge splashes and shocking trades this offseason and also having one of the best draft picks this year and picking up many defensive players that made a huge impact on this defense this year. Trading for AJ Brown (Swole Batman) impacted the offense with DeVonta Smith (Skinny Batman) on the other side forming one of the best wide receiver duos this year, as both guys are making huge and exciting plays. AJ Brown who is doing great so far having these stats: 1,020 yards with 65 receptions and 10 touchdowns and with 15.7 yards averaging per catch. QB Jalen Hurts shocked the NFL world and fans as he had a lot of pressure on his hands, proving that he could be a MVP candidate. The stats this year says it all for him: 3,157 passing yards, 22 TD, only 3 INT, and finally a QBR of 70.4. Not many NFL fans are giving credit to a special player that is really impacting this playoff run.

I also believe that the running game on this team has one of the most underrated running backs in the league in Miles Sanders (ATT 204, 1,068 Yards, 11 TD, Avg per carry 5.2). Another key player to watch in the playoffs for this team is Quez Watkins with his deep threat and speed and finally with his shiftiness.

This defense is a top 5 this year with many key players who are really impacting this team this year making their offensive opponents struggle with really great underrated CB, DE, ED, LB, and especially their safeties. Trading for safety Chauncey Gardner Johnson was a shocking move this offseason for this team and fans due to the fact that they had Anthony Harris (who got released before the trade went public), but it has worked out well for Philly.

Players to watch in the playoffs are Jalen Hurts, Devonta Smith, Jordan Davis, AJ Brown, Miles Sanders, Darius Slay, Brandon Graham, Fletch Fox, Jordan Mailata, and finally Lane Johnson, and James Bradberry.

Minnesota Vikings

The Vikings are also shocking the NFL world by having one of their best seasons, with many exciting and surprising moments in the season. Quarterback Kirk Cousins had a great season with many huge and impacted plays in the line. With his #1 wide receiver Justin Jefferson, what can NFL fans say more about this stud and exciting player? Man, his stats: 99 receptions, 1,500 yards, 6 TD and finally averaging 15.2 yards per carry, and his film speaks for itself. I believe he is the number one WR in this league this year. What makes him special is his special talent such as hands, his speed, his routes are filthy, and his shiftness. He has impacted this team and is carrying a load on his back to make a run to the playoffs. These two special players are keys to watch in the playoffs.

This Vikings defense is special with many great talents around them. Patrick Peterson, still having his juice, is making huge interceptions on the line with many games such as the Bills game. Give credit to the Vikings for re-signing him because it took a few until someone picked him up cause he is too old and everybody wants a young player on their team.

Key players to watch in the playoffs are Kirk Cousins, Justin Jefferson, Dalvin Cook, Danielle Hunter, Brian O’Neill, and Harrison Smith.

San Francisco 49ers 

What a season the 49ers are having. It is a great, and really, roller-coaster-of-a season at the same time, with two of their QBs out with injuries: Trey Lance, who was predicted to have a good season with what all NFL fans saw last year and how he played with a couple of opportunities, and also Jimmy Garoppolo, who had some great games with his time. Now it’s Mr. Irrelevant, the last pick in the draft, QB Brock Purdy’s opportunity to make something huge this season. So far with his opportunity he is starting on fire with the NFL world shocked and keeping an eye on Mr. Irrelevant, who has had two straight wins as a starter so far.

Making a huge splash during the season by trading for Christian McCaffrey who already impacted the running game, was really the missing piece for this offense who was struggling and only had a couple of pieces.

This defense is special, arguably top 2 or 3 in the league, with many talented players from LB, CB, DE, and safeties.

Players to look at the playoffs are Brock Purdy, Christian McCaffrey, Brandon Ayuik, Deebo Samuel, Nick Bosa, Jimmie Ward, Trent Williams, Dre Greenlaw, Talanoa Hufanga, Fred Warner, Arik Armstead, Javon Kinlaw, and Azeez Al-Shaair.

NFL Predictions: The AFC

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By Rodolfo Garcia

NFL Football is back after a long exciting offseason with surprising cuts and trades. Fans couldn’t wait for this offseason to be over for the season to finally start after fans saw exciting trades and picks of their NFL teams.

AFC NORTHAFC SOUTHAFC EASTAFC WEST
1. Bengals
2. Ravens
3. Browns
4. Steelers		1. Jaguars
2. Titans
3. Colts 
4. Texans		1. Bills
2. Dolphins*
3. Patriots
4. Jets		1. Chiefs
2. Broncos*
3. Chargers*
4. Raiders
* = Wild Card Team

I am predicting that the Dolphins, Bills, Broncos, Bengals, Jaguars, and Chargers will be all in this year. Other notable teams to watch after a long offseason in the AFC (American Football Conference) are the Baltimore Ravens and Las Vegas Raiders.

BUFFALO BILLS

Predicted Record (14-3) What more can NFL fans say about the Buffalo Bills? The Bills are a talented team with a great organization and one of the best fan bases in the league. We all see what the Bills can do to any team in this league. The Buffalo Bills is a guaranteed or bust team to run it back, make it to the playoffs, and win the Super Bowl this year. Buffalo is locked and pinned as the favorite (+600) to win Super Bowl 57. The Bills are the common and familiar team to win it all this year, according to BET MGM. Man, what can we say more about this team? NFL fans saw how special this team was last year. And I do not doubt that they will do great this season.

The addition of outside linebacker and future Hall-of-Famer Von Miller, who had a great season last year with the Los Angeles Rams, will only help the Bills. Von Miller can cause damage to any O-Line with Gregory Rousseau on the other side of the ball. This team is explosive on both sides of the ball, offense and defense, and makes their opponents break down.

Last year Bill’s defense was in the top 5 with all-around great and talented players on defense: tackles, linebackers, and cornerbacks. The Bills have the 2 best LBs in this league Tremaine Edmunds and Matt Milano. Josh Allen, a MVP candidate this year, is a talented and special player who can do it all and be physical when running the ball.

This offense is full of studs with one of the top route runners in this league Stefon Diggs. Gabe Davis who had a great career game vs the Kansas City Chiefs in the playoffs last year. The Bills have one of the most underrated slots WR, speedy receiver Isaiah McKenzie, and Jamison Crowder, who got picked up in free agency. Having one of the most underrated safeties in Jordan Poyer and top CB Tre’davious White.

The Buffalo Bills and NFL fans are not forgetting the noticeable coin flip in OT in the playoff game last season against the Kansas City Chiefs. Sadly, for Buffalo, the Chiefs won the toss that made them the AFC Champion and did not give the Bills a chance. Many people believed if the Bills won that game the Buffalo Bills would be the defending Super Bowl Champion. 

MIAMI DOLPHINS

Predicted Record (11-6). The Miami Dolphins are a sneaky and devious team to make the playoffs this year and letting NFL teams and fans know that they are not playing around this year after a shocking and surprising trade from the Chiefs giving away one of their star players, a six-time Pro Bowler, wide receiver Tyreek Hill for a 2022 first-round pick (No. 29 overall), and a second-round pick (No. 50).

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND – SEPTEMBER 18: Wide receiver Tyreek Hill #10 of the Miami Dolphins celebrates while scoring his second pass touchdown against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on September 18, 2022 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)

This trade will make the Dolphins and QB Tua Tagovailoa improve with two speedy receivers to connect with Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. Noticeable players to look at on this roster are the names of: Tua Tagovailoa, Jaylen Waddle, Tyreek Hill, Xavier Howard, Christian Wilkins, Jaelon Phillips, Terron Armstead, Mike Gesicki, and Jevon Hollands.

The Dolphins are really good on both sides of the ball with offense and defense, a talented and raw roster to do something great this season.  

LOS ANGELES CHARGERS

Predicted Record (11-6). The Chargers and Los Angeles fans are having an exciting offseason this year. This Los Angeles Chargers team should be a team to not shock NFL Fans to make the Playoffs this year. After picking up one of the Top Free Agents CB J.C. Jackson after the New England Patriots were not willing to pay him to become one of the highest paid CB (Contract Details: 5 years $82.5 million and $25 million signing bonus and $40 million guarantees). This trade makes sense due to poor defense last year this will also help 3rd-year CB Asante Samuel. This defense can be something serious if it goes their way and will make the defense better if not one of the top defenses this year.

They also picked up one of the top player six time pro bowler OLB Khali Mack after the Chicago Bears traded Khalil to the Chargers (Bears receive a 2022 second-round pick–No.48 overall–and a 2023 sixth-round selection).

Finally, the Chargers picked up one of the most underrated slot CB in the NFL and top free agent CB Bryce Callahan, after the Broncos let him go due to past injuries in his career. Los Angeles can be something this year with 3-year player and Pro Bowler QB Justin Herbert. Finally, players to watch in this great roster are Justin Herbert, Nick Bosa, Rashawn Slater, JC Jackson, Khalil Mack, Kenneth Murray, Keelen Alan, Mike Williams Josh Palmer, Deandre Carter, Asante Samuel, and Bryce Callahan.  

CINCINNATI BENGALS

Predicted Record (11-6). WHO DEY?! The Cincinnati Bengals will run it back and will make the playoffs this year. It is a team that should make teams struggle throughout the end of the game having a fantastic season last year.

Last season, the Bengals were mind-blowing–the NFL world was still talking about how bad this team would be even with Joe Burrow coming back from a torn ACL and going 0-17.

The Cincinnati Bengals had a great offseason picking up some of the best and top free agents Offensive Linemen named Alexa Cappa (4 years $35 million including $9 mill signing bonus and $11 mill guaranteed), Ted Karras (3 years $18 million $3 million signing bonus $5 million guaranteed), and La’el Collins (3 years $21 million, $5 million signing bonus, $5 million guaranteed). After the offensive line got exposed last year in the Super Bowl and led the team with the most sacks in the NFL, Bengals fans and Joe Burrow should be happy and excited after getting key players to run it back this year for the playoffs. Finally, Joe Burrow will have plenty of time to throw the ball and not scramble much and stay more in the pocket this year.

Both sides of the ball offense and defense are special and have great players and are special for the future. Noticeable players in this talented roster to watch this year are Joe Burrow, Jamar Chase, BJ Hill, DJ Reader, Von Bell, Daxton Hill, Jessie Bates, Tee Higgins (pictured), Tyler Boyd, Joe Mixon, Cam Taylor Britt, and the entire OL.

DENVER BRONCOS 

Predicted Record (10-7) WOW! How is Broncos Country feeling right now? The Denver Broncos and fans had one of the most exciting and surprising offseason this year. They made a lot of huge moves from this organization, and there is a fresh start to this Denver team from owner to head coach to coaching staff. The Denver Broncos will finally make the playoffs this year.

The Broncos found their missing piece to make a run to the playoffs, by trading for legend and future Hall-of-Fame QB Russell Wilson, who then signed a new deal worth $245 million that will keep him in Denver through the 2028 season that will also include $165 million guaranteed. This trade will make this whole team and organization better and on this struggling offense last year. This Denver team should utilize Russell Wilson more on scrambling the ball to be successful in this league with many great pass rushers in divisional games; also, they should utilize him with his feet with his great speed.

Denver also signed free agent DE Randy Gregory after his agent found out of issues with the language in his contract a stated clause that said, “A player could lose bonuses or guaranteed bonuses if a player is fined or suspended with the Dallas Cowboys.”

The Denver Broncos’ running game is one of the best in this league with the “2 power punch.” Bringing back Melvin Gordon III will help more with this running game. Denver defense will be Top 5 this year due to bringing back some key players. This team has the most underrated CB in the league with CB Patrick Surtain and Ronald Darby. Patrick Surtain with no doubt will be a top 3 cornerback after having a standout season his rookie year.

This roster is the most underrated roster from the practice squad, with active players, and a 53-man roster. A lot of talent and studs are on this roster. Notable players to watch this year include Russell Wilson, Javonte Williams, Melvin Gordan, KJ Hamler, Courtland Sutton, Jerry Jeudy, Cam Fleming, Kendall Hinton, Michael Ojemudia, Essang Bassey, Calvin Anderson, Billy Turner, Quinn Meinerz, Dalton Risner, DJ Jones, Patrick Surtain, Justin Simmons, Caden Sterns, PJ Locke, Ronald Darby, Josey Jewell, Kareem Jackson, Jonas Griffith, K’waun Williams, Garret Bolles, Damarri Mathis, Baron Browning, Jonathan Cooper, Alex Singleton, Nik Bonitto, and Montrell Washington. “BRONCOS COUNTRY LET’S RIDE.”

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS 

Predicted Record (9-8). The Jacksonville Jaguars will make a run to the playoffs. After a really good offseason with many pickups, the Jaguars can be a legitimate team with many explosive players on this team’s roster. There were many changes in the organization such as a new head coach and players. Jacksonville made plenty of good moves and spent the most money in free agency this year out of every team.

The Jaguars picked up one of the top free agents in speedy WR Christian Kirk (pictured, below), making him one of the highest paid WR in the NFL (4 years, $72 Million contract with $37 million guaranteed. The NFL world was shocked with him being the highest paid WR in the league, but will shock and surprise many people with his skills such as routes and how he is a deep threat. These moves will help QB Trevor Lawrence with explosive deep-threat ball throws.

Aug 20, 2022; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Christian Kirk (13) makes a catch during the first half against the Pittsburgh Steelers at TIAA Bank Field. (Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-USA TODAY Sports)

Also, the Jags picked up WR Zay Jones ( 3 years $24 million, and $14 million guaranteed) after having a great season last year, really an explosive contested catch player and somewhat a deep threat. They drafted great key players to help them make a run to the playoffs such as DE Trevon Walker (No 1. overall). This team can be special with this explosive offense and defense.

NFL Season Predictions: The NFC

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NFC Predictions

By Richard Sanchez

With the recent wins and upsetting losses with the current NFL season as of September 24 2022, this my NFL NFC conference prediction.

NFC NORTHNFC SOUTHNFC EASTNFC WEST
1. Packers
2. Lions*
3. Vikings
4. Bears		1. Buccaneers
2. Falcons
3. Saints
4. Panthers		1. Eagles
2. Cowboys*
3. Giants
4. Commanders		1. Rams
2. 49ers*
3. Seahawks
4. Cardinals
* Wild Card Teams

Teams to Watch:

First on the list in no particular order are the Green Bay Packers. Aaron Rodgers has had a difficult start to the season so far but it is still possible for him to bring the Packers to a possible NFC championship the record predicted for this season is 13 wins and 4 loses. 

Philadelphia’s own Eagles are next up with an amazing start to the season and not showing any stop to their win streak. Don’t get too cocky Eagles fans, there is always the possibility of injury; but with reviewing the previous season records, the Eagles are an average-to-above-average team with a good set up. The Philadelphia Eagles are predicted to be at 9 wins and 8 loses with a playoff appearance.

WHOSE HOUSE?! … RAMS HOUSE. The L.A. Rams are up next and I predict them carrying out the west with a 15 and 2 record with a heavy battle between them and the Packers. With their past Super Bowl win it’s very possible they go back, but they could get eliminated sometime mid to late playoffs. Players to look out for during their games are Aaron Donald, Jalen Ramsey, Cooper Kupp, and Matthew Stafford.

Could Brady and the Bucs win another one? Tom Brady is without a doubt the GOAT of quarterbacks; but could he take the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to another Super Bowl is the real question? The record for this season hopefully will be 14 and 3. Buccaneers playoffs don’t look very bright with only having Mike Evans as their reliable wide receiver.

These are my NFC predictions and let’s see who comes out on top, good luck to every team out there and I hope for the best.

Stay safe out there people.

Super Bowl LVI Prediction

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By NFL Correspondent D.Higgins

We have come to my final NFL predictions article — it’s Super Bowl time!

Two weeks ago, I shared my predictions for the NFC and AFC championship games. Let’s see how I did:

Prediction: Chiefs 35 – Bengals 24

Actual Score: Bengals 27 – Chiefs 24 (OT)

Comments: The Chiefs took their foot off the gas and blew a 21-3 lead, shockingly dropping a home playoff game against the underdog Bengals. Cincinnati, who won just 6 games combined from 2019-2020, now has a trip to the Super Bowl for the first time since 1988, when they lost to the Montana & Rice 49ers.

* * * *

Prediction: Rams 31 – Niners 24

Actual Score: Rams 20 – Niners 17

Comments: In a great defensive battle, the Rams prevailed, coming from behind to win the NFC and host Super Bowl LVI thanks to a 13-point comeback after falling behind 17-7 as the fourth quarter began. QB Matthew Stafford threw for 337 yards on 31-for-45 passing. In a 17-17 tie with about 6:30 to go, the Rams marched down field for Matt Gay to kick the eventual game-winning 30-yard field goal.

In the Championship Round, I went 1-1, and overall, my playoff predictions sit at an even 6-and-6. I guess Super Bowl LVI is the tiebreaker! Let’s get to my pick.

Super Bowl LVI

Prediction: Rams 27 – Bengals 24

The Super Bowl returns to Los Angeles where it all began, and for the first time since 1993’s game at The Rose Bowl.

I think this one is going to be a tight game and a classic. The Rams have the Los Angeles home crowd on their side and the better postseason experience. Joe Burrow and the Bengals had a great season and should be proud of how quickly they turned into an AFC powerhouse, but it is the Rams’ time. I think head coach Sean McVay makes all the right calls, and Von Miller, Aaron Donald, and the Rams defense makes the perfect stops at the perfect times.

Of course, in all honesty, I wouldn’t be sad one bit if the Bengals pull through and win this game. It’s hard to root against either team. I’m a Dodgers fan first and foremost, so I always love to root for the Los Angeles teams. But with a young and exciting Joe Burrow at quarterback, a wide receiver named Tee Higgins (my distant cousin, perhaps?), and memories of the Ickey Shuffle, one can’t help but load up on some Skyline Chili and holler “Who dey?” every time the Bengals score.

Still, it feels like the Rams’ time, who have never won a Super Bowl in Los Angeles (the St. Louis Rams beat the Titans in 1999 in Super Bowl XXXIV, and L.A. won a pre-Super Bowl Championship in 1951 over the Browns).

Crank up the Randy Newman, fire up some street dogs, and get ready to party, L.A., because the Rams will be the Super Bowl Champions. 

Farewell John Madden

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By Isaiah Almanza 

On December 28, 2021 John Madden, famous NFL coach for the then Oakland Raiders, passed away. As a coach, Madden is famous for his Super Bowl XI win with the Raiders against the Minnesota Vikings (32-14) on January 9, 1977. Madden coached for the Raiders for 10 seasons, finishing with 103 wins, 32 losses and 7 ties. 

He is also famous for his yearly NFL video games which bear his name. The first entry was John Madden Football (1988), and now with its latest release with a shorter name Madden 22 (2021).

Madden was also a great broadcaster, providing commentary for NFL games from 1979 to 2009, earning 16 Sports Emmy Awards along the way.

On January 9, 2022 before the Los Angeles Chargers and Las Vegas Raiders game Virginia Madden honored her late husband by lighting the Allegiant torch.

John Madden’s legacy will continue to live on through his wife, Virginia, 2 kids and 5 grandchildren.

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