Pittsburgh Steelers: Some Former Steelers Not Happy With Mike McCarthy Hire
After the Steelers announcedan agreement with Mike McCarthyto become their next head coach on Saturday, reaction was mixed among media, fans, and former players.
The 62-year-old McCarthy won a Super Bowl with the Green Bay Packers in the 2010 season. He has also built a strong reputation for working with quarterbacks a list that includes Joe Montana, Aaron Rodgers, and Dak Prescott.
However, former Steelers and Ravens running back Le’Veon Bell was not optimistic about McCarthy having success.
Josh Yobe of The Athletic thought McCarthy’s background as someone who was born and raised in Pittsburgh carried too much weight.
Many Steelers fans on social media were not happy with the choice, but President Arthur Rooney II said McCarthy’s experience with quarterbacks was a major factor. As for the negative reaction among Steelers fans, Rooney said he was not concerned.
“We’re really not worried about winning the initial press conference. It’s about picking the coach we believe will help us win games,” Rooney saidvia Bob Labriola of the teams website. “Social media really doesn’t enter into it. And none of that will matter once we’re starting to play games.”
McCarthy and Rodgers were together for 13 seasons in Green Bay (2006-18) and won a Super Bowl. That long relationship could entice Rodgers to return for another season in Pittsburgh, but Rooney said McCarthy’s career stands on its own merit. He has a 174-112-2 record over 18 seasons with the Packers and Dallas Cowboys.
“We decided to bring Mike on because we believe that he’s the right coach for us at this point to help lead us to a championship,” Rooney said. “We don’t know what Aaron’s plans are right now, and that did not weigh heavily in the decision.
“We’ll see where Aaron is, and we’ve left the door open, but obviously we all have to sit down and see if that makes sense. So that’ll happen sometime in the next month or so. But the decision was made based on Mike being the coach we want, and it really had very little to do with whether Aaron is going to be back or not.”
Cleveland Browns: Will Browns Hire Nate Scheeleese After Monday Meeting?
Are the Browns close to naming their next head coach?
Dianna Russini of The Athletic reported that the Browns were meeting with Los Angeles Rams Pass Game Coordinator Nate Sheelhaase Monday in Los Angeles.
Cleveland’s list of candidates could be narrowing. According to multiple reports, Jacksonville Jaguars Offensive Coordinator Grant Udinskiwithdrew his name from considerationon Monday after signing a new deal. Udinski had interviewed twice with the Browns and was thought to be a finalist.
The 35-year-oldScheelhaase has been one of the hottest nameson this year’s coaching carousel. The Ravens were one of several teams to interview him for their head coach opening.
With the Rams losing to the Seattle Seahawks in Sunday’s NFC Championship game, the Browns quickly pivoted to meet with Scheelhaase. The Browns have cast a wide search and announced thatAnthony Lynn was the 10th candidate to interviewon Sunday.
Cincinnati Bengals: Orlando Brown Jr. Loves Playing for Zac Taylor
With Mike Tomlin, John Harbaugh, and Kevin Stefanski no longer coaching in the AFC North, Zac Taylor of the Bengals has the longest tenure in the division, entering his seventh season.
Bengals left tackle Orlando Brown Jr., who began his career with the Ravens, is glad Cincinnati has stuck with Taylor.
“I’ve said this before. I’d kill for Zac,” Brown saidvia Geoff Hobson of the Bengals website. “It’s taken for granted from the outside world when it comes to Zac and its noise. I’m very thankful that ownership and everybody has been able to come together on the same page and proceed to stick together and work as one.”
The Bengals have missed the playoffs the past three seasons, but Brown views the division as wide-open next season, especially if the Bengals stay reasonably healthy.
“We’re close, though,” Brown said. “I think in all reality, our division knows that.”
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THIS BLOG CONTAINS LINKS FROM WHICH WE MAY EARN A COMMISSION. Credit: Bruce Emmerling-Pixabay
Since the creation of the NFL team, the Philadelphia Eagles, one fact that their fans are quite familiar with is the emotion that surrounds their support.
Credit: Bruce Emmerling-Pixabay
Especially with the playoffs, which are usually filled with heartbreak, loyalty, and belief. However, they have come out on top in some victories that will be etched in the minds of every Eagles fan and will be continually remembered.
In today’s world of sport, brands are also leveraging this emotional investment. We have seen how global brands — including the best crypto casinos — are sponsoring teams, broadcast partnerships, and fan engagement campaigns. This move adds another layer to how fans interact with the sport.
So, what are these moments that fans have set aside as “religious” dates for the Philadelphia Eagles? What playoff wins have validated that the city and fans breathe football?
This post will look at some endearing moments to remember and why it means to wear green.
4 Iconic Eagles’ Playoff Moments That Would Never Be Forgotten
Here are some of the top moments etched in the hearts of every Eagles fan:
1) 1960 NFL Championship: Ending Lombardi’s Reign
Before the Super Bowl became the thing, the Eagles stunned the football world by clinching their most historic win in a match against the Green Bay Packers in the 1960 NFL Championship game. Led by the legendary Buck Shaw, the team went up against the power-packed Packers, who were dominating the league at the time.
However, with a combination of a great strategy, a strong defense, and a lethal attack led by Ted Dean, they were able to seal a late victory by a score of 17-13. And that was the first NFL title that the team won.
2) 1980 NFC Championship: Knocking Off Dallas
In 1980, the Philadelphia Eagles decided it was time to decorate their trophy room, and what better way to do that than against their bitter rivals, the Dallas Cowboys. In the 1980 NFC Championship game that ended 20-7, the Eagles went on to ease to victory.
This win means so much more because it was against the Cowboys, who had dominated the NFC throughout the 1970s. And it was an added bonus because they were able to prevent the team from reaching another Super Bowl final.
3) 2003 Divisional Round: “4th and 26”
Every hardcore Eagles fan would always remember the historic “4th and 26th” game that set a precedent for the team. In the 2003 NFC Divisional round, the Eagles had to claw out a win against the Green Bay Packers in the brutal cold. A match that most already tipped in the opponents’ favor, the Eagles were visibly behind in the fourth quarter.
Then they faced fourth-and-26 from their 25-yard line before the magic happened when Donovan McNabb found Freddie Mitchell on a crossing route for 28 yards. This helped them win in overtime with a score line of 20-17.
As NBC Sports Philadelphia’s Ray Didinger put it:
“He will always be remembered for the 4th-and-26. A lot of better players came to Philadelphia and played for the Eagles, and won’t be remembered as vividly as Freddie Mitchell will be remembered for that one play.”
4) Super Bowl LII: The Ultimate Victory
The final topping on the cake came at Super Bowl LII, and cemented the result as the greatest win in Eagles’ history. As the underdogs in a match against the Patriots, who had names like Tom Brady and Bill Belichick on their roster, they even expected them to lose.
However, in a shock of the decade, Nick Foles decided to drop an A-class performance that saw him get three touchdowns and throw for 373 yards. He even went on to catch a touchdown on the famous Philly Special. And this helped the Eagles earn their first-ever Super Bowl title in over 50 years.
As Doug Pederson, Eagles’ coach said after the Super Bowl victory:
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Amazon Prime Video is the exclusive home for the NFL’s Thursday Night Football games, including this week’s game. On top of Amazon Prime Video, an Amazon Prime subscription includes free shipping, exclusive deals, access to the Prime Day sales events, Amazon Music, a year of free GrubHub+ and more.
A standard Amazon Prime subscription is $15 monthly or $139 annually, but discounts are available for students and those on qualified government assistance. You can try Amazon Prime free for 30 days. You can also just subscribe directly to Prime Video and forego all the other Prime Benefits. A Prime Video subscription costs $9 monthly.
Parents teach their kids which teams to love and which ones to despise.
A man who can’t stand the Cowboys will make sure his son feels the same way, even if that boy has never watched a single game.
These rivalries become family traditions and turn ordinary games into personal wars.
Bears and Packers: The Original Hate
Chicago and Green Bay have fought each other since 1921 in the longest-running feud in professional football. They’ve met 208 times with Green Bay ahead by just a few games, but the narrow margin doesn’t capture how much these fan bases truly loathe each other. Bears supporters would rather beat the Packers twice and finish 2-15 than win ten games without defeating their northern neighbors.
PHOTO: creativeart/Freepik
George Which spent forty years coaching Chicago and built the franchise around one core belief: destroy Green Bay whenever possible. Vince Lombardi took over a tiny Wisconsin town and turned it into a football factory that dominated the 1960s. Both coaches knew that division victories mattered more than regular wins because they decided who owned the region for an entire year.
Aaron Rodgers tortured Bears fans for over a decade with performances that seemed almost personal. The quarterback would tear apart Chicago’s defense and then spend his postgame interviews talking about how much he enjoyed playing at Soldier Field. He started calling himself the Bears’ “owner” after particularly brutal games, a taunt that stung because it contained enough truth to hurt.
Smart bettors love this rivalry because both fan bases bet with pure emotion instead of logic. When offshore betting sites (online sportsbooks operating from countries with looser gambling regulations) post lines for Bears-Packers games, money floods in from supporters who care more about family pride than actual football analysis. Professional gamblers make fortunes by betting against the emotional public action from fans who can’t think straight about their most hated opponents.
Cowboys vs Eagles: Rich Against Poor
Dallas and Philadelphia represent two completely different versions of America. The Cowboys represent corporate success, expensive uniforms, and carefully managed public relations. Philadelphia takes pride in its working-class roots and doesn’t try to hide its rough edges. Their games become proxy wars between different economic classes and social philosophies.
Jimmy Johnson and Buddy Ryan turned their personal hatred into organizational warfare during the late 1980s. Both coaches openly accused each other of encouraging dirty play and trying to injure opposing players. The infamous “Bounty Bowls” of 1989 featured actual allegations of illegal payments for big hits, accusations that both sides denied but nobody really believed.
Philadelphia fans have built their reputation on behavior that would embarrass other cities. They booed Santa Claus, cheered when Michael Irvin got hurt, and pelted opposing players with batteries. Dallas supporters responded by mocking everything about Philadelphia, from its history to its food to the way people talk. The mutual contempt goes far beyond football into genuine dislike for what each city represents.
Giants vs Eagles: Neighborhood Enemies
New York and Philadelphia sit close enough that their fans work in the same office buildings and attend the same social events. This proximity makes their football rivalry particularly brutal because there’s no escape from opposing supporters after losses. Giants fans must face Eagles supporters at work every Monday morning, turning defeats into week-long torture sessions.
The 1978 “Miracle at the Meadowlands” created this rivalry’s most famous moment. New York led by five points with seconds left and just had to kneel down to win. Instead, they botched the snap, Herman Edwards picked up the loose ball, and ran twenty-six yards for a touchdown that crushed Giants fans. The play became legendary because New York had thrown away a sure victory.
DeSean Jackson topped that moment thirty-two years later when Philadelphia trailed by twenty-one points in the fourth quarter but somehow tied the game with minutes remaining. Jackson then returned a punt sixty-five yards for the winning score as time expired, completing one of the most impossible comebacks in NFL history while Giants fans who had started leaving early watched their season die from the parking lot.
Ravens vs Steelers: Legal Brutality
Baltimore and Pittsburgh treat football like war. Both teams build their rosters around tough defenses and powerful running attacks. When they meet, the hits are harder and the play gets more physical than most NFL games.
Ray Lewis and Troy Polamalu made this rivalry personal during their careers. Both players approached Ravens-Steelers games with unusual intensity. They hit harder, talked more trash, and seemed to save their best shots for these specific matchups.
Micah Parsons is headed to the Green Bay Packers after a blockbuster trade, leaving the Dallas Cowboys following a lengthy contract dispute.File video above: Highlights from Micah Parsons’ high school football careerA person with knowledge of the details said Parsons and the Packers have agreed on a record-setting $188 million, four-year contract that includes $136 million guaranteed. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the trade hasn’t been announced.Parsons, a two-time All-Pro edge rusher, becomes the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history.“I never wanted this chapter to end, but not everything was in my control,” Parsons wrote in a statement he posted on X. “My heart has always been here, and still is. Through it all, I never made any demands. I never asked for anything more than fairness. I only asked that the person I trust to negotiate my contract be part of the process.”Cowboys owner Jerry Jones declined to discuss Parsons’ deal with agent David Mulugheta. Instead, Jones spoke directly to Parsons and insisted they had agreed on the parameters of a new contract.The Cowboys are receiving two first-round picks and veteran defensive tackle Kenny Clark for Parsons, a person with knowledge of the trade told the AP. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the teams haven’t released the terms. This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
DALLAS —
Micah Parsons is headed to the Green Bay Packers after a blockbuster trade, leaving the Dallas Cowboys following a lengthy contract dispute.
File video above: Highlights from Micah Parsons’ high school football career
A person with knowledge of the details said Parsons and the Packers have agreed on a record-setting $188 million, four-year contract that includes $136 million guaranteed. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the trade hasn’t been announced.
Parsons, a two-time All-Pro edge rusher, becomes the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history.
“I never wanted this chapter to end, but not everything was in my control,” Parsons wrote in a statement he posted on X. “My heart has always been here, and still is. Through it all, I never made any demands. I never asked for anything more than fairness. I only asked that the person I trust to negotiate my contract be part of the process.”
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones declined to discuss Parsons’ deal with agent David Mulugheta. Instead, Jones spoke directly to Parsons and insisted they had agreed on the parameters of a new contract.
The Cowboys are receiving two first-round picks and veteran defensive tackle Kenny Clark for Parsons, a person with knowledge of the trade told the AP. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the teams haven’t released the terms.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Physical Matchups Are Like Second Nature When the Eagles Meet the Packers.
PHOTO: Kirby Lee/Imagn Images
In the waning moments of the Eagles and Packers Game on Friday night, with Green Bay’s offense down 34–29 and needing a touchdown late in the fourth quarter and desperately trying to get into range for one last-gasp hail mary — Green Bay quarterback Jordan Love was sacked by Jalen Carter.
Writhing in pain on the night Brazilian Turf—Love was taken off of the field and replaced by Malik Willis — who was also then sacked to secure the first Philadelphia win in a season where the Eagles are considered a top contender in the NFC for the Super Bowl.
In another season when the Eagles were a Super Bowl contender, the 1991 season they opened with Philadelphia playing at Lambeau Field against the Green Bay Packers. The Eagles began the season with perhaps the franchise’s best defense in team history, coupled with one of the NFL’s most dynamic quarterbacks in Randall Cunningham. In the second quarter, Packers linebacker Bryce Paup landed on Randall Cunningham’s knee — tearing his ACL — an injury that would sideline him for the rest of the 1991 season.
That 1991 team did give us some amazing moments. The defense was number 1 against the pass, the run, and total yards. During an away game at Houston in a stadium designated as the House of Pain — the Eagles obliterated Warren Moon and the Houston Oilers’ Shoot Offense. In week 3, the Eagles sacked Dallas Quarterback Troy Aikman eleven times in a 24–3 romp at Texas Stadium. Against the Cleveland Browns in Week 10, the Eagles would return from a 24–0 deficit to win 32–30.
Unfortunately, without Cunningham and an injured two-time Super Bowl Champion in Jim McMahon — the Eagles had to rely on a carousel of signal callers like veteran Jeff Kemp — and would miss the playoffs with a 10–6 record.
Some will blame the turf at Corinthians Stadium or the Eagles defense for Love’s injury in Brazil. Everyone must expect a physical matchup for two of the oldest franchises in NFL history. In Brazil, that’s exactly what we have.
After the 1991 win in Houston against the Oilers, Eagles Defensive Tackle Jerome Brown said, “They brought the house. WE brought the pain.”
Saquon Barkley scored three touchdowns in his debut for Philadelphia, leading the Eagles past the Green Bay Packers 34-29 on Friday night in the first NFL game in South America.Packers quarterback Jordan Love limped off the field with assistance after getting injured with 6 seconds left. Backup Malik Willis was sacked by Zack Baun on the final play of the game, preventing him from launching a Hail Mary from the Philadelphia 47.Video above: Packers fans from Milwaukee paint Sao Paulo green and goldBarkley rushed for 109 yards and scored on an 18-yard catch and runs of 11 and 2 yards. Barkley spent six seasons with the New York Giants before Philadelphia signed him to a three-year, $37.75 million deal with $26 million guaranteed.He became the first player to score three touchdowns in his Eagles debut since Terrell Owens in 2004.Jalen Hurts was 20 of 34 for 278 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions for the Eagles. A.J. Brown caught five passes for 119 yards, including a 67-yard touchdown.Green Bay’s Jayden Reed scored on a 33-yard jet sweep and a 70-yard reception, which was the longest touchdown completion of Love’s career. Reed caught Love’s pass inside Philadelphia’s 40 and made a move at around the 30 that sent safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson sprawling.Reed became the first player to have a touchdown catch of 30-plus yards and a touchdown run of 30-plus yards in a season opener since Hall of Famer Jim Brown of the Cleveland Browns against Washington in 1963.Reed also had an apparent 38-yard touchdown reception on the opening drive get wiped out because both teams had 12 men on the field. He finished with four catches for 138 yards.Love went 17 of 34 for 260 yards with two touchdowns and an interception.Barkley’s third touchdown put the Eagles ahead 31-26 with 4:26 left in the third quarter. Reed Blankenship set up that score with an interception that gave Philadelphia the ball at Green Bay’s 25.The Eagles still led 31-26 when Jaire Alexander intercepted Hurts in the end zone early in the fourth quarter. Green Bay drove into the red zone but settled for a 26-yard field goal by rookie Brayden Narveson, who went 3 for 4 on his attempts.Philadelphia then controlled possession until Jake Elliott kicked a 21-yard field goal with 27 seconds left.Some Eagles players had expressed reluctance earlier this week about traveling to Brazil, which cost them the opportunity to play their season opener in front of a friendly crowd at Lincoln Financial Field. The crowd at NeoQuimica Arena instead was balanced among Packers fans, Eagles fans and spectators who just cheered any positive development.Players from both teams were slipping on the playing surface throughout the first half. A Brazilian soccer league game was played in the stadium five days earlier.NeoQuimica Arena’s field is often praised by soccer players as Brazil’s best, but it had never hosted an American football game. The hybrid field includes both grass and synthetic fiber.The slippery surface may have contributed to a sloppy start.Philadelphia committed turnovers on each of its first two series, enabling Green Bay to start back-to-back drives in the red zone, but the Packers settled for field goals both times.Then, the offenses took over. Six of the next seven possessions resulted in touchdowns.Once the game began, it became clear there were three groups in attendance: Eagles supporters, Packers fans and those who were happy to cheer for either team. Local authorities estimated that roughly 20% of the expected crowd of 42,000 was from the United States.Game officials, though, didn’t get any sympathy. Insults in Portuguese chanted every weekend for soccer referees rang out whenever a divisive decision was made. Fans also gasped when Packers quarterback Jordan Love limped off the field with assistance after getting injured with 6 seconds left.Before the game, Packers fan and schoolteacher Cody Armstrong, 32, told The Associated Press he spent much of the money he made over the summer to travel from Oakland, California, with three friends, including two Eagles fans. They were all dressed in green as they waited for their orders at a fast-food restaurant next to the stadium.“Is it true that they don’t like green here?” Armstrong said. “Well … they will have to bear with us.”Also dressed in green, the friends watched Kansas City’s season-opening victory over Baltimore on Thursday night at a Sao Paulo bar, and they were excited to see so many locals enthusiastic about American football. Marketing experts have estimated there are 38 million fans of the sport in soccer-mad Brazil.Bruno Silva, 37, bought an unofficial black Eagles jersey, which was being sold for about 50 Brazilian reals ($10) in a subway station near the stadium. A Corinthians fan, he said he would support Philadelphia — designated as the home team in Brazil — because it declined to wear green.“This is our home,” said Silva, who started following the NFL five years ago. “We support who supports us.”William Camargo, 39, also a Corinthians fan, showed up wearing a green Packers jersey, which many supporters of the soccer club would consider to be heresy.“We like to say that Corinthians is owned by its fans. Green Bay is the same thing,” Camargo said of the community-owned franchise.He said he became a fan of the Packers because of their former quarterback, Aaron Rodgers — whose jersey was a popular choice among fans in the stadium Friday night.Other fans wore jerseys of other NFL teams, including New England, San Francisco, Buffalo and Baltimore.Some were dressed out for a night out. Wearing a long blue dress, Narrima Oliveira, 34, attended with her boyfriend and was most interested in the halftime performance of Brazilian pop star Anitta.“This feels like a party. We are going out to dance after this, too. I am not a football fan, but I can feel the joy that you guys have by watching it. It is a big celebration,” she said.Local fans didn’t appear too excited about listening to Anitta singing in English and Spanish.The party could have been less rowdy if the Sao Paulo state government had not made a special authorization for in-stadium beer sales. Brazil rarely authorizes the sale of alcoholic beverages inside sporting venues to avoid violence among fans.Russell Okung, who played for four teams over 11 NFL seasons, was among the attractions off the field Friday night. He joined other Brazilian practitioners of capoeira, an African-Brazilian martial art disguised as a dance, to perform in front of applauding fans at various spots outside the stadium.“I love Brazil,” Okung told reporters before one of his several capoeira performances. “So glad the NFL made it here.”Before kickoff, several Brazilian Olympic athletes saluted the crowd, including gymnast Rebeca Andrade and skateboarder Rayssa Leal, both Corinthians fans and medalists at the Paris Games.Neither wore green.
SÃO PAULO, SP —
Saquon Barkley scored three touchdowns in his debut for Philadelphia, leading the Eagles past the Green Bay Packers 34-29 on Friday night in the first NFL game in South America.
Packers quarterback Jordan Love limped off the field with assistance after getting injured with 6 seconds left. Backup Malik Willis was sacked by Zack Baun on the final play of the game, preventing him from launching a Hail Mary from the Philadelphia 47.
Video above: Packers fans from Milwaukee paint Sao Paulo green and gold
Barkley rushed for 109 yards and scored on an 18-yard catch and runs of 11 and 2 yards. Barkley spent six seasons with the New York Giants before Philadelphia signed him to a three-year, $37.75 million deal with $26 million guaranteed.
He became the first player to score three touchdowns in his Eagles debut since Terrell Owens in 2004.
Jalen Hurts was 20 of 34 for 278 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions for the Eagles. A.J. Brown caught five passes for 119 yards, including a 67-yard touchdown.
Green Bay’s Jayden Reed scored on a 33-yard jet sweep and a 70-yard reception, which was the longest touchdown completion of Love’s career. Reed caught Love’s pass inside Philadelphia’s 40 and made a move at around the 30 that sent safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson sprawling.
Reed became the first player to have a touchdown catch of 30-plus yards and a touchdown run of 30-plus yards in a season opener since Hall of Famer Jim Brown of the Cleveland Browns against Washington in 1963.
Reed also had an apparent 38-yard touchdown reception on the opening drive get wiped out because both teams had 12 men on the field. He finished with four catches for 138 yards.
Love went 17 of 34 for 260 yards with two touchdowns and an interception.
Barkley’s third touchdown put the Eagles ahead 31-26 with 4:26 left in the third quarter. Reed Blankenship set up that score with an interception that gave Philadelphia the ball at Green Bay’s 25.
The Eagles still led 31-26 when Jaire Alexander intercepted Hurts in the end zone early in the fourth quarter. Green Bay drove into the red zone but settled for a 26-yard field goal by rookie Brayden Narveson, who went 3 for 4 on his attempts.
Philadelphia then controlled possession until Jake Elliott kicked a 21-yard field goal with 27 seconds left.
Some Eagles players had expressed reluctance earlier this week about traveling to Brazil, which cost them the opportunity to play their season opener in front of a friendly crowd at Lincoln Financial Field. The crowd at NeoQuimica Arena instead was balanced among Packers fans, Eagles fans and spectators who just cheered any positive development.
Players from both teams were slipping on the playing surface throughout the first half. A Brazilian soccer league game was played in the stadium five days earlier.
NeoQuimica Arena’s field is often praised by soccer players as Brazil’s best, but it had never hosted an American football game. The hybrid field includes both grass and synthetic fiber.
The slippery surface may have contributed to a sloppy start.
Philadelphia committed turnovers on each of its first two series, enabling Green Bay to start back-to-back drives in the red zone, but the Packers settled for field goals both times.
Then, the offenses took over. Six of the next seven possessions resulted in touchdowns.
Once the game began, it became clear there were three groups in attendance: Eagles supporters, Packers fans and those who were happy to cheer for either team. Local authorities estimated that roughly 20% of the expected crowd of 42,000 was from the United States.
Game officials, though, didn’t get any sympathy. Insults in Portuguese chanted every weekend for soccer referees rang out whenever a divisive decision was made. Fans also gasped when Packers quarterback Jordan Love limped off the field with assistance after getting injured with 6 seconds left.
Before the game, Packers fan and schoolteacher Cody Armstrong, 32, told The Associated Press he spent much of the money he made over the summer to travel from Oakland, California, with three friends, including two Eagles fans. They were all dressed in green as they waited for their orders at a fast-food restaurant next to the stadium.
“Is it true that they don’t like green here?” Armstrong said. “Well … they will have to bear with us.”
Also dressed in green, the friends watched Kansas City’s season-opening victory over Baltimore on Thursday night at a Sao Paulo bar, and they were excited to see so many locals enthusiastic about American football. Marketing experts have estimated there are 38 million fans of the sport in soccer-mad Brazil.
Bruno Silva, 37, bought an unofficial black Eagles jersey, which was being sold for about 50 Brazilian reals ($10) in a subway station near the stadium. A Corinthians fan, he said he would support Philadelphia — designated as the home team in Brazil — because it declined to wear green.
“This is our home,” said Silva, who started following the NFL five years ago. “We support who supports us.”
William Camargo, 39, also a Corinthians fan, showed up wearing a green Packers jersey, which many supporters of the soccer club would consider to be heresy.
“We like to say that Corinthians is owned by its fans. Green Bay is the same thing,” Camargo said of the community-owned franchise.
He said he became a fan of the Packers because of their former quarterback, Aaron Rodgers — whose jersey was a popular choice among fans in the stadium Friday night.
Other fans wore jerseys of other NFL teams, including New England, San Francisco, Buffalo and Baltimore.
Some were dressed out for a night out. Wearing a long blue dress, Narrima Oliveira, 34, attended with her boyfriend and was most interested in the halftime performance of Brazilian pop star Anitta.
“This feels like a party. We are going out to dance after this, too. I am not a football fan, but I can feel the joy that you guys have by watching it. It is a big celebration,” she said.
Local fans didn’t appear too excited about listening to Anitta singing in English and Spanish.
The party could have been less rowdy if the Sao Paulo state government had not made a special authorization for in-stadium beer sales. Brazil rarely authorizes the sale of alcoholic beverages inside sporting venues to avoid violence among fans.
Russell Okung, who played for four teams over 11 NFL seasons, was among the attractions off the field Friday night. He joined other Brazilian practitioners of capoeira, an African-Brazilian martial art disguised as a dance, to perform in front of applauding fans at various spots outside the stadium.
“I love Brazil,” Okung told reporters before one of his several capoeira performances. “So glad the NFL made it here.”
Before kickoff, several Brazilian Olympic athletes saluted the crowd, including gymnast Rebeca Andrade and skateboarder Rayssa Leal, both Corinthians fans and medalists at the Paris Games.
One Wisconsin lawmaker is urging the Green Bay Packers not to go to Brazil for their season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles Friday night in São Paulo at Corinthians Arena. Republican state Rep. John Macco, who represents the 88th Assembly District in Brown County, Wisconsin, is concerned about safety in the city.”Their national holiday, their equivalent to Fourth of July, is this Saturday, the 7th, the day after our football game. They are predicting major upheaval. And when you look at some of the riots and some of the other issues that have gone on there, that is not a place that we should be in right now,” Macco said. Macco said it would be in the NFL’s best interest to move the game back to the United States. There is also concern about smoke in the city coming from Amazon wildfires. Brazil has one of the largest NFL fan bases in the world.The Packers boarded a flight to Brazil on Wednesday.
One Wisconsin lawmaker is urging the Green Bay Packers not to go to Brazil for their season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles Friday night in São Paulo at Corinthians Arena.
Republican state Rep. John Macco, who represents the 88th Assembly District in Brown County, Wisconsin, is concerned about safety in the city.
“Their national holiday, their equivalent to Fourth of July, is this Saturday, the 7th, the day after our football game. They are predicting major upheaval. And when you look at some of the riots and some of the other issues that have gone on there, that is not a place that we should be in right now,” Macco said.
Macco said it would be in the NFL’s best interest to move the game back to the United States.
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There is also concern about smoke in the city coming from Amazon wildfires.
Brazil has one of the largest NFL fan bases in the world.
The Packers boarded a flight to Brazil on Wednesday.
The Philadelphia Eagles, with their passionate fan base and rich history, have created many memorable moments in the NFL.
From thrilling victories to unforgettable plays, the Eagles have a legacy that resonates with football enthusiasts.
Here, we explore the top 10 historical moments that have defined the Philadelphia Eagles.
1) Founding of the Philadelphia Eagles // 1933
The Philadelphia Eagles were established in 1933 when the Frankford Yellow Jackets went bankrupt. Bert Bell and Lud Wray purchased the franchise rights, birthing the Eagles. Despite early struggles, the foundation was laid for a team that would become an integral part of NFL history. The Eagles’ journey from these humble beginnings to a celebrated franchise is a testament to their resilience and determination.
2) First NFL Championship // 1948
In 1948, the Eagles won their first NFL Championship under head coach Earle “Greasy” Neale.The Eagles defeated the Chicago Cardinals 7-0 in a blizzard, showcasing their grit and determination. Steve Van Buren, one of the team’s legendary players, scored the only touchdown, securing the Eagles’ first title. This victory marked the beginning of a successful era for the franchise.
3) Back-to-Back Championships // 1949
PHOTO: Unsplash
The Eagles defended their title successfully in 1949, defeating the Los Angeles Rams 14-0 in the NFL Championship Game.
This back-to-back championship victory cemented the Eagles’ status as a dominant force in the league. The team’s defense, led by Hall of Famers Chuck Bednarik and Pete Pihos, was instrumental in their success, laying a strong foundation for future teams.
4) Chuck Bednarik’s Career // 1949-1962
Chuck Bednarik, known as “Concrete Charlie,” is one of the most iconic players in Eagles history. Playing both linebacker and center, Bednarik epitomized toughness and versatility. His career, spanning from 1949 to 1962, included numerous memorable moments, such as his game-saving tackle in the 1960 NFL Championship Game against the Green Bay Packers. Bednarik’s legacy is a cornerstone of the Eagles’ storied history.
5) 1960 NFL Championship Victory
The Eagles’ 1960 NFL Championship win against the Green Bay Packers remains a defining moment. Led by head coach Buck Shaw and quarterback Norm Van Brocklin, the Eagles triumphed 17-13. Chuck Bednarik’s famous tackle on Packers’ fullback Jim Taylor as time expired secured the victory.This game was significant as it was the only playoff loss for legendary Packers coach Vince Lombardi.
6) Miracle at the Meadowlands // 1978
One of the most famous plays in NFL history, the “Miracle at the Meadowlands,” occurred on November 19, 1978. With the New York Giants leading and attempting to run out the clock, a botched handoff resulted in a fumble recovery and touchdown by Eagles’ cornerback Herman Edwards. This improbable victory remains etched in the memory of Eagles fans and is a symbol of never giving up.
7) Reggie White’s Dominance // 1985-1992
Reggie White, known as the “Minister of Defense,” was a dominant force on the Eagles’ defensive line from 1985 to 1992. White’s extraordinary skill and relentless play made him one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history.He amassed 124 sacks with the Eagles, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise. White’s impact extended beyond his on-field performance, inspiring future generations of players.
8) Donovan McNabb Era // 1999-2009
Donovan McNabb’s tenure as the Eagles’ quarterback marked a period of sustained success. Selected second overall in the 1999 NFL Draft, McNabb led the Eagles to five NFC Championship Games and one Super Bowl appearance.His leadership and playmaking ability revitalized the franchise, making the Eagles perennial contenders. McNabb’s era is remembered for its highs and his significant contribution to the team’s legacy.
9) Super Bowl LII Victory // 2018
The Eagles’ victory in Super Bowl LII on February 4, 2018, is undoubtedly the pinnacle of the franchise’s history. Led by backup quarterback Nick Foles, the Eagles defeated the New England Patriots 41-33 in a thrilling game.The “Philly Special,” a trick play resulting in a touchdown pass to Foles, became an iconic moment. This victory ended a long championship drought and solidified the Eagles’ place in NFL lore.
10) Introduction of Jalen Hurts // 2020-Present
Drafted in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Jalen Hurts has quickly become the face of the Eagles’ future. Hurts’ dynamic play and leadership have injected new energy into the franchise. His ability to make plays with both his arm and legs has made him a dual-threat quarterback, drawing comparisons to the league’s elite.As Hurts continues to develop, the Eagles’ future looks bright, promising new historical moments.
Conclusion
The Philadelphia Eagles’ history is rich with unforgettable moments that have shaped the franchise and its passionate fan base.From their early championship victories to recent triumphs, the Eagles have consistently demonstrated resilience, excellence, and a deep connection to their supporters.
The Week 1 contest of the Philadelphia Eagles is official. They will face the Green Bay Packers in Brazil on Sept. 6, setting the stage for the 2024 NFL season.
While it will surely be a fun experience and environment, this game will allow the Eagles to put their 2023 woes to rest. Against a young, up-and-coming Super Bowl contender, Philadelphia can start off their season right this time.
Eagles Won Unconvincingly in 2023
It was apparent from the moment the Eagles’ 2023 season started that they were a bit of a step behind where they were in 2022. Sure, they won 10 of their first 11 games, but they did so in an unconvincing fashion. They had many one-score games and typically played down to opponents. Their elite level of talent bailed them out of certain doom on countless occasions, and it just wasn’t a sustainable model.
Photo: Getty Images
Now that the Eagles have new coaches on the offense and defense as well as new voices in the locker room, that has the potential to change. While this season’s team will have a similar structure, it will be different in many senses. They can finally shake the “fraud” narrative that, frankly, ended up being true. They have to get that monkey off of their backs and look good on both sides of the ball.
Not winning games by big margins wasn’t necessarily the Eagles’ problem. Sometimes, your best is only enough to win by one score. Therein lies the issue — the Eagles never gave their true best. Whether it was poor ball security, defensive play, or play-calling, something went horribly wrong in every game for Philadelphia. It wasn’t just against contenders — it was essentially every week.
So, what does that mean for the 2024 team?
Starting off strong could really help them down the stretch.
Forming better habits might help them succeed. For arguably all 10 of the Eagles’ wins when they started off 10-1, they got away with not playing their best football. It’s ignorant to assume the team would have a perfect game all the time, but they were playing like a .500 NFL team and not the best in the league, as their record suggested. When they won by just five points against the lowly 4-13 New England Patriots in Week 1 in a game where they were arguably outplayed, things never got better. They kept winning largely because of the talent gap.
It’s a new season now, and the talent gap between Philadelphia and Green Bay is much more subtle. The Eagles objectively have the better on-paper roster and should match up well with them, but the game will indicate where Philadelphia is at. Week 1 has been a nice indicator for them for a while now.
In 2023, they struggled but won mostly because of their talent. In 2022, they had an explosive offense against the Detroit Lions, but they didn’t close out the game well with some defensive blunders in a 38-35 final — sound familiar? In 2021, they showed flashes on both offense and defense despite being a young team coming off of a bad season against the Atlanta Falcons. In 2020, they lost by two scores to the Washington Commanders.
There’s no point in being redundant — Week 1 in the NFL is huge. It sets the tone for the entire season and has done so for a very long time. The Eagles don’t necessarily have to beat the Packers, but they will have to show up. A win only means something if they play well.
Are the Packers Next Up?
While the Packers were only 9-8 last season and won a single playoff game, they were one of the more impressive NFC teams. Despite being among the younger teams the NFL has seen in the Super Bowl era, they made the playoffs and were pretty impressive in them. They routed the Dallas Cowboys on the road in a first-half stunner, leading 27-7 after 30 minutes. In a one-score showdown, they fell to the eventual NFC champion San Francisco 49ers.
But does this make them a legitimate contender in the NFC? Will they see regression, or will progression be in their future due to their youthful nature?
Quarterback Jordan Love was very impressive last season, so it’s possible that the 25-year-old will only continue to get better. Now that he has a full season under his belt, he could take the Packers to contention with him.
With the NFC seemingly getting just a bit stronger from where it was entering last season, the Eagles have to prove that they are still among the best. After a disappointing season where they didn’t win as much as a playoff game, they can’t fall off the map. Week 1 can prove that.
While the 2024 Eagles and 2023 Eagles are two completely different teams, there are some narratives that they will need to put to rest.
Does Philadelphia have what it takes to start off strong and put up a fight against a solid Packers team, or will they falter and put themselves in a bad place early?
Quarterback Brock Purdy became first San Francisco 49ers quarterback to throw four interceptions in a game since Colin Kaepernick in 2015; Baltimore Ravens and 49ers both remain top of their respective conferences and can still clinch No 1 seeds
Last Updated: 26/12/23 9:44am
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Highlights of the Baltimore Ravens against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 16 of the NFL season.
Highlights of the Baltimore Ravens against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 16 of the NFL season.
Lamar Jackson led the Baltimore Ravens past the San Francisco 49ers in a stunning 33-19 victory after throwing two touchdown passes in 18 seconds in the third quarter at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.
Kyle Hamilton and the Ravens defense intercepted quarterback Brock Purdy on three of the first four drives of the game for the 49ers to turn a 16-12 halftime lead into a commanding 30-12 advantage.
Purdy became the first 49ers quarterback to throw four interceptions in a game since Colin Kaepernick in 2015 and finished 18 for 32 for 255 yards before leaving the field after sustaining a left shoulder stinger in the fourth quarter with Sam Darnold replacing him.
Jackson took an intentional grounding safety after he tripped over a fallen official in the end zone and attempted a pass to give the 49ers the first points of the game.
On first-and-10 at Baltimore’s 15, Purdy attempted to force a pass to wideout Deebo Samuel that Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton stepped in front of for an interception.
After Baltimore forced a punt on the opening drive of the second half, Jackson capped a drive by throwing a 6-yard touchdown pass to Nelson Agholor.
Williams injured his groin attempting to tackle Ravens linebacker Patrick Queen after Purdy’s fourth interception. Jackson immediately turned that into another score with a 9-yard TD pass to Zay Flowers that made it 30-12. Jackson threw for 252 yards, ran for 45 more and vaulted past Purdy to take the limelight.
Umpire Alex Moore falls as Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) runs from San Francisco 49ers defensive end Chase Young (92) during the first half
San Francisco’s Christian McCaffrey set a franchise record with his eighth straight game with at least 100 yards from scrimmage.
Darnold replied for the 49ers with a fourth-quarter touchdown after replacing an injured Purdy but by then it was already too late.
Both teams remain on top of their conferences. The Niners are in a three-way tie with Philadelphia and Detroit for the best record in the NFC and can still clinch the No. 1 seed and a first-round bye with wins in their final two games.
The Ravens remained a game ahead of Miami for the best record in the AFC and can clinch the No. 1 seed with a win next week against the Dolphins.
What did they say?
Baltimore Ravens coach John Harbaugh: “Our guys work hard. They compete hard. Everybody wants to be respected. There’s one way to be respected, and that’s to go out there and earn that. I thought Lamar had an MVP performance tonight. It takes a team to create a performance like that, but it takes a player to play at that level, to play at an MVP level, it takes a player to play that way. Lamar was all over the field.”
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson: “We got the W. I don’t really care about performance. I just want to win. That’s what happened tonight. On Christmas, I got my gift.”
San Francisco 49ers Kyle Shanahan coach: “I didn’t mind his [Purdy] demeanour. He stayed in there and kept battling. Our whole team struggled there in the second half, so it wasn’t just him.”
What’s next?
The Ravens host Miami Dolphins while the 49ers visit Washington on Sunday December 31.
Make sure you tune in to Sky Sports NFL every Sunday at 6pm for the first game of our triple-header of live action. The evening’s entertainment also includes NFL Redzone action as hosted by Scott Hanson, as well as Sunday Night Football to round off the night.
Sky Sports will broadcast two exclusive live games every Sunday throughout the regular season in the 6pm and 9pm slots, while also showing every Thursday Night, Sunday Night and Monday Night match-up.
Fans can also watch every minute of the playoffs across January, followed by Super Bowl LVIII at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on February 11.
The Giants’ recipe for winning with this low-scoring offense is to force frequent turnovers on defense and capitalize. Wink Martindale’s aggressive scheme typically flusters young quarterbacks, and his defense has forced 10 turnovers in the last three games. But Green Bay quarterback Jordan Love is on a hot streak with eight touchdown passes and no turnovers in the Packers’ three-game winning streak. Forcing Love into an early mistake would go a long way toward keeping this game close and giving the Giants a chance.
CONTINUE TO THROW DEEP
Jalin Hyatt made catches for 41, 29 and 22 yards in the Giants’ pre-bye 10-7 win over the Patriots. None of those plays led to points, but they did flip field position, an important dynamic for a defense-led team that needs to win low-scoring, tight games. Brian Daboll and Mike Kafka need to continue dialing Hyatt’s number to help Tommy DeVito and the offense stay confident and contribute in some meaningful way. The deep threat opens any offense.
BLOCK THE PACK’S FRONT
Rashan Gary, Preston Smith and Kenny Clark comprise a devastating Packers defensive line that is playing at a high level this season. DeVito has taken 28 sacks in 149 dropbacks, including nine in Week 11 at Washington — the most sacks ever allowed in a Giants victory. It’s on both the offensive line and DeVito to avoid negative plays, but it won’t be easy against Matt LaFleur’s defense.
Dak Prescott is playing the best football of his career – can he lead Dallas to the Super Bowl?
The Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills are primed for a 13 seconds rematch, the Dallas Cowboys have their sites on snatching the NFC East title from the Philadelphia Eagles. Week 14 is shaping up nicely; we guide you through the latest news, views and build-up ahead of Sunday in the NFL…
Editor’s note…
There might not be a quarterback playing better football in the NFL than Dak Prescott at this moment. He has entered the MVP conversation, and so too the Dallas Cowboys to-be-taken-seriously Super Bowl contention. Yes, you might have heard that before.
It can often be what goes unnoticed that can be so impressive and so defining to the way Dak plays. From the mastery of his rhythmic and hoodwinking pre-snap cadence, to the speed at which he can diagnose a field and slide protections, adjust assignments or alter play concepts accordingly at the line of scrimmage. “He plays the position” as Aaron Rodgers said recently on the Pat McAfee Show, igniting a ‘Texas Coast’ offense that has buried its early-season teething issues.
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Highlights of the Seattle Seahawks against the Dallas Cowboys in week 13 of the NFL season.
Highlights of the Seattle Seahawks against the Dallas Cowboys in week 13 of the NFL season.
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December 11, 2023, 1:15am
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Only Brock Purdy owns a better EPA+CPOE composite (an advanced metric on quarterback play-by-play value and efficiency) than Prescott this season, the Dallas quarterback having put up a passer rating of at least 115.0 in five of six games since the Week Seven bye week. In that time he has completed 156 of 221 passes (70.59 per cent) for 1,901 yards and 20 touchdowns to two interceptions. He also happens to be the league’s best quarterback on third down this year, which tends to serve as a nice indication of how well a passer is faring in decisive moments of a game, which always comes with an added caveat of pressure as an expectation-burdened Cowboys play-caller.
McCarthy’s offense is purring as it empowers its quarterback to take command of games with more aggressive pass designs and opportunities to use his legs alongside an increased use of play-action, while dressing up the line of scrimmage with pre-snap motion and crowning CeeDee Lamb as their focal point by shifting him across multiple spots in the formation.
Lamb has taken a seat at the table alongside the league’s most dynamic receivers with 90 catches for 1,182 yards and seven touchdowns, Brandin Cooks has answered the Cowboys’ call for a legitimate No 2 receiver, Jake Ferguson is peppering the seam as his threat continues to increase as the team’s lead tight end. Tony Pollard’s multi-purpose production out of the backfield has meanwhile picked back up after a minor lull as a crucial sell for the Cowboys play-action game.
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The Her Huddle team discuss whether this could be the season which sees a player who doesn’t play at quarterback win the NFL’s MVP award, with Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill the frontrunner.
The Her Huddle team discuss whether this could be the season which sees a player who doesn’t play at quarterback win the NFL’s MVP award, with Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill the frontrunner.
Dallas rank third in EPA/play and sit at the top of scoring rankings on offense, while Dan Quinn’s stunting, route-jumping defense continues to be among the NFL’s elite at third in EPA/play and third in total yards. ‘Our year’ sentiment has been long-exhausted and long-unfulfilled in Cowboys territory amid their pursuit of a first Super Bowl appearance since their victory at the end of the 1995 season.
The 49ers are nagging frontrunners to prolong that pain, and beckon as a potential ultimate test somewhere down the line in the playoffs. Before then, Dak and the Cowboys have the opportunity to force home their respective MVP and Championship credentials across a home stretch that sees them face the Philadelphia Eagles – who they could yet leapfrog in the NFC East – and Mike McDaniel’s Miami Dolphins.
How ’bout them Cowboys? We are about to find out.
Around the league…
Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence was limited on his return to practice Thursday having appeared to swerve serious injury after suffering a high ankle sprain in Monday’s loss to the Cincinnati Bengals; Lawrence said he was hopeful of facing the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, with head coach Doug Pederson insisting he won’t sacrifice a player’s health for one game.
New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh confirmed Zach Wilson will start at quarterback against the Houston Texans having been demoted for Tim Boyle and Trevor Siemian in the last two games.
Buffalo Bills general manager Brandon Beane said Von Miller remains available to play against the Kansas City Chiefs Sunday following allegations of domestic violence against the edge rusher.
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Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence shows his frustration after suffering an injury against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence shows his frustration after suffering an injury against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Former Indianapolis Colts three-time Pro Bowl linebacker Shaq Leonard signed a one-year deal with the Eagles this week.
Miami Dolphins right tackle Austin Jackson agreed a three-year, $36m extension on Thursday amid his impressive 2023 campaign.
Justin Jefferson is set to make his return for the Minnesota Vikings against the Las Vegas Raiders after missing seven games due to a hamstring injury.
Carolina Panthers tight end Hayden Hurst has been diagnosed with Post Traumatic Amnesia by an independent neurologist after suffering a concussion in the Week 10 game against the Chicago Bears, his father announced.
Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy is expected to coach at the weekend despite undergoing surgery on Wednesday after being diagnosed with an acute case of appendicitis.
What to watch…
Week 14 live on Sky!
Los Angeles Rams (6-6) @ Baltimore Ravens (9-3): The Ravens struck gold with Kyle Hamilton, who has arrived as advertised since entering the league as the No 14 pick at the 2022 Draft. He stands to be the quintessential modern NFL safety as Mike Macdonald’s disguised blitzer, hybrid box tackler, slot demon and sideline-to-sideline blockade. With Marcus Williams on hand to play deep, Hamilton has free rein to wreak havoc as Baltimore’s most dangerous disruptor at the line of scrimmage. And while attention has been on the Rams’ young offensive playmakers, the audition process for Aaron Donald’s supporting cast has been intriguing. Third-round rookie nose tackle Kobie Turner has quietly amassed a rookie-leading 5.5 sacks, while fellow third-rounder Byron Young is close behind on five sacks.
Live NFL
December 10, 2023, 9:15pm
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Buffalo Bills (6-6) @ Kansas City Chiefs (8-4): Tight ends, assemble. For years the Bills have watched Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce torch the NFL as the league’s most dynamic quarterback-tight end tandem, shattering Buffalo’s Super Bowl hopes on a couple of occasions in the process. In a bid to add their own Kelce-esque dimension, the Bills went and drafted Dalton Kincaid in the first round earlier this year. The vision was tight splits in multiple tight end sets from which he and Dawson Knox could sell the run game, lure defenses downhill and open up shots for Josh Allen downfield, as well as leaking out into routes of their own. The production (56 catches, 474 yards) has been sporadic, not helped by the absence of Knox, with flashes of an integral supporting role behind Stefon Diggs, while Kelce, without lighting up the world, leads the Chiefs with 813 receiving yards and five scores.
Philadelphia Eagles (10-2) @ Dallas Cowboys (9-3): Do we call this the Shaq Leonard bowl? There was little surprise when the Eagles edged out the Cowboys to wrap up a deal for the former Indianapolis Colts man, not because Howie Roseman is one of the savviest operators in the market but because of the extent to which the 49ers exposed Philly’s linebackers in Week 13. Time and time again Kyle Shanahan disorientated the likes of Nicholas Morrow and Christian Ellis, standing in for the injured Zach Cunningham, with Deebo Samuel’s pre-snap reload motion to muddy the play direction, eventually disguising it to unleash the Niners receiver for his first-half catch-and-run touchdown out of the backfield. Morrow bit hard on a Christian McCaffrey out-route at the sideline before later being shrugged off by Samuel again on his 48-yard touchdown; it was a torrid day, Nick Sirianni’s safeties included as Shanahan toyed with the middle of the field. Can Leonard step in immediately? And will the Cowboys similarly plot to exploit the Eagles’ weakness at the second level?
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Jeff Reinebold says Baltimore Ravens’ defense create mental as well as physical problems for their opponents, and backs them to beat the Los Angeles Rams in Week 14.
Jeff Reinebold says Baltimore Ravens’ defense create mental as well as physical problems for their opponents, and backs them to beat the Los Angeles Rams in Week 14.
Best quotes
Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence on his injury against the Bengals: “I’m thankful it’s not a worse injury than what I thought on the field.”
Taylor Swift, in her interview for 2023 Time magazine’s person of the year: “Football is awesome, it turns out. I’ve been missing out my whole life.”
Nick Bosa suggests the 49ers showed the NFL how to stop Jalen Hurts: “You see it on tape. Obviously, we put the blueprint out there. Hopefully, the Dallas Cowboys watch the tape. We made Jalen stay in the pocket and escape outside instead of those B-gaps. And it paid off.”
Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers on The Pat McAfee Show: “The most disappointing thing about the whole rehab process was December 24 was literally on my mind. It would have been like 14-and-a-half weeks, I thought that would be reasonable based on my progress.”
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Speaking on Inside The Huddle, Neil Reynolds and Jeff Reinebold discuss the Miami Dolphins’ season so far and why sealing home matches in the playoffs could be crucial to their success.
Speaking on Inside The Huddle, Neil Reynolds and Jeff Reinebold discuss the Miami Dolphins’ season so far and why sealing home matches in the playoffs could be crucial to their success.
Live NFL
December 10, 2023, 5:00pm
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Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel on his team’s 9-3 record at the top of the AFC: “Call me when it’s a 13-game season. That’s all nice, but we have a job to do today. If we short-change and are worried about anything other than the Tennessee Titans when we’re game planning, then all those conversations and stories literally don’t matter at all.”
Ravens coach John Harbaugh on Rams receiver Puka Nacua: “I liked him (in the Draft). He was one of my highest-rated guys. You can ask anybody here, he was way up on my board. He’s playing exactly how I thought he would, for the record.”
Jets defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich on facing Houston’s CJ Stroud: “He’s a very unique young quarterback. He’s a guy I really wish we would’ve played Weeks One to Four when he was still trying to figure out this game.”
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Speaking on Inside The Huddle, Neil Reynolds and Jeff Reinebold discuss the San Francisco 49ers’ impressive win over the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 13.
Speaking on Inside The Huddle, Neil Reynolds and Jeff Reinebold discuss the San Francisco 49ers’ impressive win over the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 13.
The stats
Tyreek Hill’s 938 yards on vertical routes so far this season are the most of any receiver in a single campaign since 2018
Chargers wide receiver Keenan Allen currently has 898 catches in 138 games and has the chance to surpass Antonio Brown (143 games) as the fastest player in history to reach 900 career receptions
Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson sits on 5,396 career receiving yards, leaving him needing just 117 more to overtake Michael Thomas for most by a player in his first four seasons in history
Cowboys edge rusher Micah Parsons, who has 11.5 sacks on the year, is looking to become the second player since sack statistics began in 1982 to record at least 13 sacks in each of his first three seasons – Hall of Famer Reggie White having been the first
CJ Stroud needs 253 passing yards to overtake Andrew Luck for the second-most by a player in his first 13 games
Brock Purdy can become the fourth quarterback in NFL history to post a completion percentage of 70-or-higher in seven straight games this weekend
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Jeff Reinebold describes the Packers’ win over the Chiefs as a ‘magical night’ and hails the performances of quarterback Jordan Love.
Jeff Reinebold describes the Packers’ win over the Chiefs as a ‘magical night’ and hails the performances of quarterback Jordan Love.
The NFL playoff race has reached the home stretch in one of the most wide-open seasons in recent memory, with surprise teams occupying postseason spots and expected contenders battling for their place.
All is not rosy in the land of the mighty. The defending champion Kansas City Chiefs have been marred by drops and deficiencies on a limping offense, behind which Patrick Mahomes and Steve Spagnuolo’s defensive subterfuge have between them retained some level of serious contention, with question marks over an 8-4 team speaking volumes as to the self-imposed expectations in Arrowhead.
And in western New York the Buffalo Bills are fighting for their playoff lives as they play catch-up having endured marquee injuries, suffered late heartbreak, fired offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey and slipped behind the pack in what is still deemed a Championship window for under-pressure head coach Sean McDermott and his high-powered team.
Hannah Wilkes and Phoebe Schecter talk to Italy Women’s flag football captain Nausicaa Dell’Orto about the challenges she faced in forming a female team in Milan.
Neil Reynolds and Jeff Reinebold discuss the San Francisco 49ers’ emphatic win over the Philadelphia Eagles and the red-hot form of the Miami Dolphins…
Thursday night rewind…
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Highlights of the New England Patriots up against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 14 of the NFL season.
Highlights of the New England Patriots up against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 14 of the NFL season.
Bailey Zappe threw three first-half touchdown passes as the New England Patriots snapped a five-game skid while damaging the Pittsburgh Steelers’ playoff hopes with a 21-18 victory on Thursday night.
Watch the Baltimore Ravens host the Los Angeles Rams from 5pm (kickoff at 6pm) live on Sky Sports NFL this Sunday, followed by the Buffalo Bills at the Kansas City Chiefs and the Dallas Cowboys against the Philadelphia Eagles
Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson says “everything is stable” with Trevor Lawrence after the quarterback suffered an ankle injury in Monday’s loss to the Cincinnati Bengals; Pederson has not ruled Lawrence out of Sunday’s clash with Cleveland Browns
Last Updated: 05/12/23 7:48pm
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Highlights of the Cincinnati Bengals’ clash with the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 13 of the NFL
Highlights of the Cincinnati Bengals’ clash with the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 13 of the NFL
Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson says quarterback Trevor Lawrence was “very fortunate” to avoid a more serious injury after damaging his ankle in Monday’s loss to the Cincinnati Bengals.
Lawrence was injured in the fourth quarter as Jake Browning threw for 354 yards and a touchdown in his second career start to lead the Bengals to a stunning 34-31 overtime win.
Browning also ran for a score as the Bengals (6-6) won on Monday Night Football for the first time since 1990 on Evan McPherson’s 48-yard field goal in the extra frame, with Lawrence’s injury for the Jaguars (8-4) appearing to be potentially the biggest blow of the evening for the home team.
Left tackle Walker Little stepped on Lawrence’s ankle, causing him to twist it as he was sacked. Lawrence tried to get up, but dropped to the ground, ripped off his helmet and threw it in disgust. He was helped off the field and into the tunnel for X-rays.
Pederson said on Tuesday tests on Lawrence’s right ankle showed “everything’s stable, everything’s good”. He added surgery “is not necessarily something that would be warranted at this time”.
“We’ll see where he’s at in a couple days,” Pederson said roughly 12 hours after the game had finished.
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The Bengals took the lead with Ja’Marr Chase’s 76-yard touchdown reception, his team’s longest play of 2023
The Bengals took the lead with Ja’Marr Chase’s 76-yard touchdown reception, his team’s longest play of 2023
“[It] looked worse than it really was. Very fortunate there.”
It ended an otherwise stellar night for Lawrence, who completed 22 of 29 passes for 259 yards and two touchdowns. He also ran for a score.
Pederson has not ruled Lawrence out of Sunday’s upcoming clash with the Cleveland Browns.
“I’m not going to put that timetable on Trevor,” he added. “Not going to put him in a box like that. We’ll see how he is in a couple of days.”
Browning was equally stout in place of star Joe Burrow, who watched and coached from the sideline while wearing a cast and a sling. Browning completed 32 of 37 passes and directed the overtime drive that set up McPherson’s winner.
McPherson, who played collegiately at nearby Florida, banged a 57-yarder off the crossbar in the same direction early in the game.
Jacksonville backup CJ Beathard completed nine of 10 passes for 63 yards in relief of Lawrence. Beathard put the Jaguars in position for Brandon McManus’ 40-yard field goal with 26 seconds remaining in regulation.
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A Bengals trick play went all wrong when Tyler Boyd’s pass was picked off by Jaguars’ Josh Allen
A Bengals trick play went all wrong when Tyler Boyd’s pass was picked off by Jaguars’ Josh Allen
Ja’Marr Chase caught 11 passes for 149 yards and a touchdown, a 76-yarder in the third quarter that got the Bengals going. Joe Mixon ran for 68 yards and two scores, and rookie Chase Brown added 61 yards on the ground for the league’s worst rushing attack. Mixon also had six receptions for 49 yards.
The Bengals made it harder than it should have been when coach Zac Taylor called a trick play that turned into a debacle in third.
Browning lateraled to receiver Tyler Boyd, who inexplicably threw directly to pass rusher Josh Allen. Allen caught the ball for his second career interception. The Jaguars scored four plays later when Lawrence jumped and stretched the ball across the goal line.
It was the second bungled trick play for the Bengals, who also lost seven yards when Chase completed a double pass to Browning. Still, the Bengals finished with 491 yards and were eight of 14 on third down.
Scoring summary
Scoring summary
FIRST QUARTER
Bengals 0-7 Jaguars
Travis Etienne four-yard rushing TD (extra point)
SECOND QUARTER
Bengals 7-7 Jaguars
Joe Mixon six-yard rushing TD (extra point)
Bengals 7-14 Jaguars
Trevor Lawrence 22-yard TD pass to Evan Engram (extra point)
Bengals 14-14 Jaguars
Joe Mixon two-yard rushing TD (extra point)
THIRD QUARTER
Bengals 21-14 Jaguars
Jake Browning 76-yard TD pass to Ja’Marr Chase (extra point)
Bengals 21-21 Jaguars
Trevor Lawrence 14-yard TD pass to Parker Washington (extra point)
Bengals 21-28 Jaguars
Trevor Lawrence one-yard rushing TD (extra point)
FOURTH QUARTER
Bengals 28-28 Jaguars
Jake Browning one-yard rushing TD (extra point)
Bengals 31-28 Jaguars
Evan McPherson 54-yard field goal
Bengals 31-31 Jaguars
Brandon McManus 40-yard field goal
OVERTIME
Bengals 34-31 Jaguars
Evan McPherson 48-yard field goal
What did they say?
Jags quarterback C.J. Beathard on injury to Lawrence: “First instinct was ah, it sucks for Trevor when you see him on the ground hurting. That sucks. It kind of takes the breath away from the guys on the sidelines and stuff when you see your starting quarterback hurting like that. But then you quickly flip into going into that two-minute drive to try and tie the game or win the game. Obviously, don’t have much time for the news to kick in, just kind of got to go.”
What next?
The Bengals are back in action at home to the Indianapolis Colts (7-5), while the Jaguars prepare for a spell without Lawrence on the road against the Cleveland Browns (7-5).
DaRon Bland made it five interceptions returned for a touchdown in a single season, breaking the record he had equalled in Week 11; Dak Prescott passed for 331 yards and four touchdowns in a big win for the Dallas Cowboys; Washington Commanders QB Sam Howell was sacked four times
Last Updated: 24/11/23 1:21am
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Highlights of the Washington Commanders against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 12 of the NFL season.
Highlights of the Washington Commanders against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 12 of the NFL season.
DaRon Bland capped a 45-10 Thanksgiving victory for the Dallas Cowboys over their NFC East rival Washington Commanders by breaking the NFL record for most interceptions returned for a touchdown in a season.
Rico Dowdle put the Cowboys (8-4) ahead at AT&T Stadium with 46 seconds remaining in the first quarter with a 15-yard touchdown, and further scores from Brandin Cooks and Tony Pollard helped the home side into a 20-10 lead at half time.
Joey Slye’s field goal and a rushing touchdown from Commanders quarterback Sam Howell, who ended the day with 300 yards and completed 28 of 44 passes but was sacked four times, ensured the visitors kept within touching distance of their NFC East rivals.
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But after a scoreless third quarter Brandon Aubrey’s field goal, a sixth receiving touchdown of the season for CeeDee Lamb and KaVontae Turpin’s grab in the end zone ensured a sixth-straight home game of Dallas scoring 30-plus points, with quarterback Dak Prescott passing for 331 yards and four touchdowns.
There was still time for Bland to make NFL history though, coming up with a pick-six with under five minutes remaining as he snagged a pass from Howell and raced 63 yards downfield for his fifth of the season – breaking the record of four he had jointly held with Eric Allen (1993), Jim Kearney (1972) and Ken Houston (1971).
The dichotomy that is Howell’s 2023 season was shown again on Washington’s opening drive as the NFL’s passing yard leader heading into this game was sacked for a league-leading 52nd time this season, and the Commanders were forced to punt after their first two possessions of the game stalled at midfield.
Having punted at the end of their first possession, the Cowboys built steadily on their second, despite back-to-back penalties which left them facing second and 25, and put together a 15-play, 110-yard drive which ended in Prescott’s short pass to Dowdle sending the running back streaking away for the opening score.
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DaRon Bland created history with his fifth pick-six of the season, a new NFL record.
DaRon Bland created history with his fifth pick-six of the season, a new NFL record.
The Commanders responded with a strong second-quarter drive led by Howell and running back Brian Robinson Jr earning consecutive first downs, yet some strong defensive plays from the Cowboys saw the visitors pushed back to third and 18, and eventually have to settle for a 43-yard field goal from Joey Slye.
Dallas were soon on the board again though as Prescott unleashed a pass to Cooks, who broke double coverage and sprinted away for a 31-yard touchdown to extend the home side’s advantage.
Despite being sacked for the second time in the game, Howell was able to guide Washington up to within striking distance and finished off the 67-yard drive with a four-yard run for a touchdown which closed the gap to four points inside the two-minute warning.
The Cowboys stunned the Commanders with a third touchdown before half time though, taking over possession with 1:51 of the second quarter remaining and going 70 yards for a drive which was finished by Pollard rushing seven yards up the middle to score, although Aubrey missed the extra point attempt.
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Dak Prescott and the Dallas Cowboys celebrated their touchdown with a turkey leg!
Dak Prescott and the Dallas Cowboys celebrated their touchdown with a turkey leg!
Washington’s offense clicked more into gear in the third, but each time they found themselves thwarted by some determined defense from the Cowboys and were unable to make further inroads despite preventing the hosts from adding to their tally as well.
Dallas eventually managed to add some points to their tally early in the fourth quarter as rookie kicker Aubrey notched his record-extending 22nd-consecutive field goal with a 52-yarder.
Micah Parsons’ 11th sack of the season and Johnathan Hankins taking down Howell as the Commanders went for it on fourth then earned the Cowboys a turnover on downs, and they put the game to bed soon after when Prescott connected with Lamb for a 15-yard touchdown pass which was followed by a successful two-point conversion.
The Cowboys were not done there though as Prescott found Turpin with a 34-yard pass, followed by cornerback Bland putting the icing on the cake and writing his name in the NFL history books.
Scoring summary
Scoring summary
FIRST QUARTER
Commanders 0-7 Cowboys
Dak Prescott 15-yard pass to Rico Dowdle (extra point)
SECOND QUARTER
Commanders 3-7 Cowboys
Joey Slye 43-yard field goal
Commanders 3-14 Cowboys
Dak Prescott 31-yard pass to Brandin Cooks (extra point)
Commanders 10-14 Cowboys
Sam Howell 1-yard rush (extra point)
Commanders 10-20 Cowboys
Tony Pollard 7-yard rush
FOURTH QUARTER
Commanders 10-23 Cowboys
Brandon Aubrey 52-yard field goal
Commanders 10-31 Cowboys
Dak Prescott 15-yard pass to CeeDee Lamb (two-point conversion)
Commanders 10-37 Cowboys
Dak Prescott 34-yard pass to KaVontae Turpin (extra point)
Commanders 10-45 Cowboys
DaRon Bland 63-yard interception (extra point)
What was said?
Dallas Cowboys cornerback DaRon Bland, after breaking the individual pick-six season record on Thanksgiving: “To do it on Thanksgiving just means everything, in front of fans and family.”
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott on what was behind his team’s big win: “I credit a lot around me, the offensive line protected great, look back at a couple of those touchdowns and they gave us a lot of time. We are playing free.”
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Dak Prescott and DaRon Bland celebrated their Thanksgiving win with some well-earned turkey!
Dak Prescott and DaRon Bland celebrated their Thanksgiving win with some well-earned turkey!
What’s next?
The Dallas Cowboys open Week 13 at home to the Seattle Seahawks, who face NFC West rivals the San Francisco 49ers in the late game on Thanksgiving, in the Thursday night encounter.
The Washington Commanders, meanwhile, face a tough task when they host the Miami Dolphins on Sunday, December 3.
The New York Jets (4-6) then take on the Miami Dolphins (7-3) in the NFL’s first ever Black Friday game from 8pm.
Mac Jones was benched for Bailey Zappe in the final minutes of the fourth quarter as the New England Patriots fell to a 10-6 defeat to the Indianapolis Colts in Frankfurt, Germany; Jonathan Taylor rushes for a first-half touchdown while Julian Blackmon comes up with late interception
By Cam Hogwood from Deutsche Bank Park, Frankfurt
Last Updated: 12/11/23 5:40pm
Jonathan Taylor waltzes in for the Colts touchdown
Mac Jones was benched in the fourth quarter as Jonathan Taylor’s first-half touchdown helped the Indianapolis Colts to a 10-6 victory over the New England Patriots in Frankfurt on Sunday.
Julian Blackmon came up with a sucker-punch interception to derail a late Patriots drive, marking the final straw on a tough day for Jones as he exited the game for Bailey Zappe with two minutes to play.
His backup did not fare much kinder, throwing a game-icing interception to Rodney Thomas II as the Colts improved to 5-5 on the year in the final international regular-season game of the season.
Jones finished 15 of 20 passing for 170 yards and an interception, while Colts quarterback Gardner Minshew went 18 of 28 for 194 yards and a pick.
Both teams missed field goals either side of half-time, which the Colts had entered with a 7-3 lead thanks to Taylor’s second rushing touchdown of the season and three sacks from Dayo Odeyingbo.
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New England Patriots’ Mac Jones throws away the go-ahead opportunity with a league-leading 10th interception as he looked to find Mike Gesicki
New England Patriots’ Mac Jones throws away the go-ahead opportunity with a league-leading 10th interception as he looked to find Mike Gesicki
The Patriots threatened a perfect start to the second half when Myles Bryant was well-positioned to collect Minshew’s tipped pass off the hands of Michael Pittman Jr for an interception at the half-way line.
Jones almost landed himself in trouble as he attempted a dangerous under-arm shovel while scurrying to try and escape pressure.
The pick eventually went unrewarded as the Patriots failed to convert on third-and-three before Chad Ryland skewed his 35-yard field goal attempt wide of the posts.
New England’s next drive was all about the run, Stevenson carrying the ball five times alongside two Ezekiel Elliott runs and a 15-yard Mac Jones scramble to set themselves up at the Colts 24 at the beginning of the fourth quarter.
Jones was almost intercepted by Julian Blackmon as the Colts safety got hands on a lofted pass in the end zone, the Patriots settling for a 24-yard field goal at the end of a 15-play drive lasting eight minutes.
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Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor gets his team on the board against the Patriots in Frankfurt
Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor gets his team on the board against the Patriots in Frankfurt
Stats leaders:
Indianapolis Colts
Passing: Gardner Minshew, 18/28, 194 yards, 1 INT
Rushing: Jonathan Taylor, 23 carries, 69 yards, 1 TD
Receiving: Michael Pittman Jr, 8 catches, 84 yards
Matt Gay’s 51-yard field goal pushed the Colts’ lead to 10-6 on the ensuing drive after Isiah McKenzie had ignited the response with a 42-yard kick return.
The Patriots would come up short once again in their efforts to turn the game on its head when Blackmon snagged Jones’ pass at the goal line with four minutes to play, much to the despair of the New England sideline at the end of a nine-play series.
Zappe entered the game with two minutes remaining, before any hopes of a late twist fizzled out when the Patriots quarterback was intercepted by Rodney Thomas II.
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The Colts defense blunted Jones and the Patriots to the sight of five sacks heading into the break, three of which came courtesy of Odeyingbo.
New England flashed signs of mending their stuttering offense during a 13-play opening drive that ended in Ryland’s 37-yard field goal after an Odeyingbo had derailed the series on third-and-six.
Taylor capped an immediate response when he skipped outside to run in for a one-yard touchdown at the end of a 14-play, 75-yard, seven-minute march ignited by Minshew’s off-script 30-yard throw to Isaiah McKenzie on third-and-six.
The sides then exchanged seven punts to test Deutsche Bank Park’s low-hanging scoreboard, Kwity Paye joining the sacks tally for the Colts having returned from an injury scare earlier in the half.
Minshew put the Colts in position to extend their lead late in the first half when he connected with Josh Downs for 12 yards on fourth-and-four, only for Matt Gay to miss the 57-yard field goal attempt.
Scoring summary
Scoring summary
FIRST QUARTER
Colts 0-3 Patriots
Chad Ryland 37-yard field goal
Colts 7-3 Patriots
Jonathan Taylor one-yard rushing TD (extra point)
SECOND QUARTER
THIRD QUARTER
FOURTH QUARTER
Colts 7-6 Patriots
Chad Ryland 24-yard field goal
Colts 10-6 Patriots
Matt Gay 51-yard field goal
What’s next?
The Patriots enter a bye week before returning to face the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in Week 12, while the Colts are due to host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after their break.
Week 10 in the NFL concludes on Monday night when the Denver Broncos visit the Buffalo Bills in the early hours of Tuesday, before the Cincinnati Bengals take on the Baltimore Ravens in Thursday Night Football to kick off Week 11.
The Detroit Lions and Jacksonville Jaguars find themselves as potential challengers for the Super Bowl this season
Jacksonville Jaguars. Detroit Lions.
Two of the harder sells in terms of the NFL in recent years. Decades even.
The two teams form part of a foursome of franchises to have never before reached a Super Bowl, joining the Cleveland Browns and Houston Texans as the only teams never to do so.
The Lions haven’t even been to the playoffs in seven years and, staggeringly, are without a postseason win since the 1991 season!
The Jaguars’ recent history isn’t quite so bleak perhaps. Established as a franchise four years after Detroit’s last playoff win, they actually shocked the world with a run to the AFC Championship game in just their second season, getting back there again in 1999 and, more recently, in 2017.
Last year, after a few barren seasons which saw them earn the No 1 pick in back-to-back NFL drafts (2021 and 2022), Jacksonville again made the playoffs, riding the coattails of the very man they selected first overall in the first of those drafts, quarterback Trevor Lawrence.
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Jacksonville Jaguars coach Doug Pederson was full of praise for Trevor Lawrence and labelled him as ‘the real deal’
Jacksonville Jaguars coach Doug Pederson was full of praise for Trevor Lawrence and labelled him as ‘the real deal’
They pulled off a remarkable 27-point comeback to beat the Los Angeles Chargers 31-30 in the wild card round, and then pushed eventual champs the Kansas City Chiefs all the way before ultimately succumbing to a 27-20 defeat in their divisional matchup.
The Chiefs (7-2) are again top dogs in the AFC through the opening nine weeks of the 2023 season, while last year’s NFC winners, the Philadelphia Eagles (8-1), are again sitting pretty on their perch. But, below both, poised, ready to pounce are the Lions (7-2) and Jaguars (6-2) at second and third in their respective conferences.
There is a new elite forming in the NFL and we’ve got to get used to the unusual sensation of seeing Detroit and Jacksonville very much at the heart of it.
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Highlights of the Las Vegas Raiders against the Detroit Lions from Week Eight of the NFL season
Highlights of the Las Vegas Raiders against the Detroit Lions from Week Eight of the NFL season
Gone are the days of the Bill Belichick-Tom Brady axis in New England that saw the Patriots sweep all before them in claiming six Super Bowl titles (seven for Brady when you add in his three-year dalliance with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers), and while storied franchises like the Miami Dolphins, San Francisco 49ers and Dallas Cowboys are all certainly in the mix, it has been a long time since any of them got their hands on the Vince Lombardi Trophy.
Could we be witnessing the start of the era of the Jaguars? Or is there a dynasty forming in Detroit?
We’ll get the chance to see both squads up close and personal this Sunday, when Jacksonville host the 49ers (6pm kickoff) and the Lions then travel to Los Angeles to take on the Chargers (9.05pm kickoff) – both games live on Sky Sports NFL and Main Event.
Campbell’s ‘kneecap biters’ delivering on promise
But what has led to the sudden optimism for these two down-trodden NFL teams? It starts with the coaching and, specifically, the two leaders entrusted with establishing a winning culture and turning the teams’ fortunes around.
Dan Campbell certainly got everyone’s attention when, at his introductory press conference with the Lions in 2021, he said: “This team’s going to be built on: we’re going to kick you in the teeth, all right, and when you punch us back, we’re going to smile at you and when you knock us down, we’re going to get up. And, on the way up, we’re going to bite a kneecap off.
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“And, we’re going to stand up, and then it’s going to take two more shots to knock us down. And, on the way up, we’re going to take your other kneecap, and we’re going to get up and then it’s going to take three shots to get us down. And, when we do, we’re going to take another hunk out of you. Before long, we’re going to be the last one standing. That’s going to be the mentality.”
Campbell’s kneecap-biters took a while to work up an appetite, however, with a 3-13-1 season following in his debut campaign, before a 1-6 start to 2022 had him firmly on the hot seat.
Eight wins followed over Detroit’s final 10 games, the team agonisingly falling short of a playoff spot but the coach earning a stay of execution which he has certainly made the most of.
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Highlights of the Detroit Lions against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week One of the NFL season
Highlights of the Detroit Lions against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week One of the NFL season
The Lions bettered the defending-champion Chiefs in a thrilling 2023 season-opener, and have only been bested by the Seattle Seahawks (5-3) and Baltimore Ravens (7-2) so far this year. They rank second, behind only the explosive Dolphins, in total offense, registering 390.6 yards per game, while their underrated defense is top five, allowing only 296.9 YPG.
The fulcrum of the Lions defensive unit is second-year standout Aidan Hutchinson. The sophomore star has 4.5 sacks this year following the 9.5 the Michigan alumni registered in his rookie campaign, while he also has a pick to go with the three he logged last year.
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Highlights from Michigan defensive end Aidan Hutchinson’s 2022 NFL Scouting Combine workout
Highlights from Michigan defensive end Aidan Hutchinson’s 2022 NFL Scouting Combine workout
It’s another way in which the Lions and Jaguars will be linked, and the success of both teams compared, over the next decade, as Hutchinson was taken with the No 2 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, having been overlooked by the Jaguars, who owned the first selection.
Jacksonville instead opted for Travon Walker out of Georgia, the NFL Combine stud with the eye-catching measurables. Though he didn’t flash as much as Hutchinson in his rookie season, there are signs to suggest Walker is coming good on that selection, with his 3.5 sack total this year already matching his tally for 2022.
He forms part of an imposing Jaguars defense that ranks in the top-10 in scoring, allowing only 19.5 points per game, and is tied with the New Orleans Saints for the most takeaways this season with 18 (11 interceptions, seven forced fumbles).
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The Jacksonville Jaguars made defensive lineman Travon Walker the first pick of the 2022 NFL Draft
The Jacksonville Jaguars made defensive lineman Travon Walker the first pick of the 2022 NFL Draft
Josh Allen, namesake of the Buffalo Bills quarterback, has two of those forced fumbles to his name and is the standout on Jacksonville’s defense, with his nine sacks for the year already placing him only one behind league-leader Danielle Hunter of the Minnesota Vikings and on course for a career-best total to beat his 10.5 set in his rookie 2019 season.
The Jaguars are currently in the midst of a five-game win streak, coming off their bye, as they get set to welcome San Francisco this Sunday. Their only losses on the year came in consecutive weeks when dropping games to Kansas City and Houston following an opening win over the Indianapolis Colts.
It’s all a far cry from the team that was in turmoil as recently as 2021 when then-head coach Urban Meyer was fired from the team midway through a dismal 3-14 season which saw him clash with both his coaches and players, as well as be caught up in a viral video scandal which appeared to show the married man dancing inappropriately with a women at a restaurant one day after a defeat to the Cincinnati Bengals.
The Jacksonville Jaguars fired head coach Urban Meyer after a disastrous 2021 season on and off the field
Lawrence leaves London a franchise quarterback
Doug Pederson, Super Bowl winner in 2017 with Philadelphia, came in and though the team got off to a slow 2-6 start, seven wins in nine followed to secure a playoff berth, with Lawrence in particular stepping up following a Week Eight loss to the Denver Broncos in London.
Lawrence completed over 70 per cent of his passes for an average of 252.6 yards per game down the stretch, returning a 102.6 passer rating and a sparkling 15-2 touchdown-to-interception ratio. He registered three 300-yard passing games over the final nine games of the season, matching his tally from the first 25 games of his NFL career.
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Quarterback Jared Goff is having his best season for the Detroit Lions, here’s a look at some of his best plays so far this season
Quarterback Jared Goff is having his best season for the Detroit Lions, here’s a look at some of his best plays so far this season
But Lawrence isn’t the only top-drafted quarterback delivering against his lofty position. Jared Goff, a former No 1 overall pick for the Los Angeles Rams in 2016, was much maligned for the first five years of his NFL career – in spite of taking the team to the Super Bowl in his third season – but he’s enjoying quite the renaissance in Detroit.
Traded to the Lions in 2021 in a deal that also included two first-round picks in 2022 and 2023, and a 2021 third-round selection, in exchange for QB Matthew Stafford, Goff was viewed as nothing more than a stopgap at the position until such time as Detroit could find better.
But Campbell and co have stuck with him and are now reaping the rewards, with Goff throwing 29 TDs to only seven interceptions last season and having tallied 12 already this year, along with 2,174 passing yards which places him fifth in the NFL when broken down into yards per game (271.8).
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Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs lept high into the stands to join the crowd after scoring on a 27-yard touchdown run against the Las Vegas Raiders
Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs lept high into the stands to join the crowd after scoring on a 27-yard touchdown run against the Las Vegas Raiders
The weaponry available to both Goff and Lawrence is plentiful also. They each boast a sizeable threat in the backfield, with Lions rookie Jahmyr Gibbs boasting a breakout performance of 189 scrimmage yards and a score in their latest win over the Las Vegas Raiders, while the Jaguars have Travis Etienne who saved his best for their win over the Bills in London as he racked up 184 scrimmage yards and two TDs.
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Highlights of the Jacksonville Jaguars against the Buffalo Bills at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in Week Five of the NFL season
Highlights of the Jacksonville Jaguars against the Buffalo Bills at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in Week Five of the NFL season
In terms of pass-catching targets, Lawrence boasts Calvin Ridley and Christian Kirk in Jacksonville, while Goff has Amon-Ra St. Brown leading the way, backed up by promising second-year speedster Jameson Williams. There’s also tight end talents Evan Engram (Jaguars) and Sam LaPorta (Lions), who by some strange coincidence both have 434 yards on the season to date – albeit the latter logging four TDs along the way.
Simply put, these two teams are stacked. And it’s time the NFL took these two teams seriously as, who knows, we could well have a Super Bowl first-timer on our hands this season. Or two of them.
Watch the Indianapolis Colts take on the New England Patriots in Frankfurt, Germany live on Sky Sports NFL from 1.30pm Sunday, with kick-off at 2.30pm; the San Francisco 49ers then face the Jacksonville Jaguars from 6pm followed by the Detroit Lions at Los Angeles Chargers.
Trent McDuffie starred as the Kansas City Chiefs defense proved instrumental yet again to inspire Andy Reid’s defending Super Bowl champions to victory over the Miami Dolphins in Frankfurt; the Chiefs built a 21-0 half-time lead before denying the Dolphins overtime late in the game.
By Cam Hogwood from Deutsche Bank Park, Frankfurt
Last Updated: 06/11/23 12:12am
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Highlights of the Miami Dolphins against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week Nine of the NFL season.
Highlights of the Miami Dolphins against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week Nine of the NFL season.
How fitting it would prove of a Steve Spagnuolo unit to play a defining role on his return to Frankfurt as the Kansas City Chiefs marched to victory over the Miami Dolphins on Sunday.
Spagnuolo, who coached for the Frankfurt Galaxy in 1998, watched on as a Trent McDuffie-inspired unit contained one of the league’s most potent attacks to underline the story of the season so far for the defending Super Bowl champions.
Tyreek Hill was limited to 62 yards while Tua Tagovailoa threw for a season-low 193 yards as Mike McDaniel’s side suffered their third loss to a team with a winning record this season.
“The fact that they’re so good at all three levels, they’re deep,” said Patrick Mahomes. “Guys rotate in. They can play. It’s hard to get everybody snaps, that’s how good they are. It’s got to be the top defense in the NFL.
“That’s a great offense. To hold them to 14 points where I fumbled in our own area for seven of those points, that’s a tremendous job. I think they’re going to continue to get better because they’re young and they love it.
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Sky Sports’ Olivia Harlan Dekker and Cam Hogwood give their verdict on the Kansas City Chiefs’ win over AFC rivals Miami Dolphins in Frankfurt, Germany.
Sky Sports’ Olivia Harlan Dekker and Cam Hogwood give their verdict on the Kansas City Chiefs’ win over AFC rivals Miami Dolphins in Frankfurt, Germany.
McDuffie paved the way for the Chiefs to take a 21-0 lead into half-time when he dislodged the ball from Tyreek Hill to set up Bryan Cook’s 59-yard fumble recovery.
Leo Chenal meanwhile stood firm in the face of Miami’s wide zone running scheme, L’Jarius Sneed took ownership over the task of shadowing Hill, and 2020 undrafted free agent Tershawn Wharton was on hand to deliver a drive-derailing sack late in the fourth quarter.
“I knew they were going to be good. You look at the end of last year, they played great football and no one really noticed. I knew they were going to be good,” said Mahomes.
“They brought back so many people, so many young guys, they were going to develop. I mean, the fact they’re all developing this fast, I don’t know if anyone could have guessed it. I knew they were going to be great as their careers went on. Good to have a lot of young guys that can play like that.”
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The Kansas City Chiefs defence comes up with an amazing play as their former teammate, Tyreek Hill is stripped by Mike Edwards who laterals the ball to Bryan Cook for the score.
The Kansas City Chiefs defence comes up with an amazing play as their former teammate, Tyreek Hill is stripped by Mike Edwards who laterals the ball to Bryan Cook for the score.
It marked the latest instalment of a standout year for McDuffie, who was notably acquired in the 2022 NFL Draft with one of the picks the Chiefs received during Hill’s trade to the Dolphins.
“I’m blessed, look at what football can do, take it all across the world and put it in front of a whole new crowd, I love it,” McDuffie told Sky Sports NFL. “They were whistling, yelling, clapping, I wanted to see what that soccer atmosphere look like and they brought it.
“Like I said you’ve got to get your hands on that man (Hill). He’s fast, he’s elusive, he can make a lot of plays, it’s about limiting the explosives.”
Miami threatened an unlikely comeback in the third quarter when Cedrick Wilson Jr and Raheem Mostert both found the end zone to cut the Chiefs’ lead to seven points, only for Spagnuolo’s defense to ice the game.
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Travis Kelce hails ‘special ‘Kansas City Chiefs as his side moves to 3-0 in International games with a win over the Miami Dolphins in Frankfurt.
Travis Kelce hails ‘special ‘Kansas City Chiefs as his side moves to 3-0 in International games with a win over the Miami Dolphins in Frankfurt.
“We went in there (at half-time) and knew the game would come back to the defense, we had them at zero and the only way they could win was if we gave it up. Gotta love the tenacity we showed the whole game,” added McDuffie.
“This defense has been wanted to score and create turnovers, it shows how great this defense is becoming.”
Offensive fireworks have often been at the heart of Super Bowl charges for Andy Reid’s Chiefs in recent years. This year has a different feel. The frightening prospect being the might of the defending champions should Mahomes and co. begin to pile up the points.
“Defensively, what a first half,” said Reid. “What a second half. The fourth quarter was really something, which made a very exciting. The McDuffie strip of Tyreek, punching the ball out, Mike Edwards picking it up, Cook scoring. Doesn’t get any better than that. Sneed’s ability to match up most of the day on Tyreek was big, although Tyreek is a heck of a football player. He made a couple real nice plays in there, too.”
“Typically two good offenses, that being the No. 1 offense, the Dolphins, in the National Football League right now,” said Reid. “For the things that our defense did right there, that was a tremendous achievement. Obviously we got to keep it going. You’re just as good as the next game that you play in. That was a heck of an achievement. [Defensive coordinator] Steve [Spagnuolo] did a great job with scheming it. The players executed very well.
Week Nine concludes on Monday night when the Los Angeles Chargers visit the New York Jets, live on Sky Sports NFL from 1.15am in the early hours of Tuesday; Stream the NFL and more with NOW
PHOTO: Unsplash
