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| USA TODAY The Carson Wentz era is off to a bumpy beginning. |
Eagles defeat Buccaneers 17-9
Carson Wentz suffers injury in low-scoring affair with Tampa Bay.
Rookie of the Game: Eagles CB C.J. Smith (3 PD's, 1 INT) sort of proved that Carson Wentz, a fellow Eagle rookie, is not the only North Dakota State Bison to be an NFL-caliber talent. The undrafted corner won five consecutive FCS championships but, is a long shot to make a roster that currently holds veterans Ron Brooks, Nolan Carroll and Leodis McKelvin along with rising youngsters Eric Rowe, Randall Evans and JaCorey Shepherd. I'm not sure how highly new head coach Doug Pederson regards the corners that came in under a completely separate regime (Carroll, Rowe, Evans and Shepherd) so, there is a chance Smith makes the squad, just don't count on it no matter how well he performs.
How about those first-rounders? Carson Wentz looked composed and confident and those two things do not show up in a box score. What did show up in his box score? 12/24-89-0-1, 3 carries for 15 yards and a hairline rib fracture that will cost him the remainder of the preseason. Not a promising start for Philadelphia's future but, he wasn't expected to start until 2017 at least.
In 16 snaps on the field, Vernon Hargreaves III did not allow a catch by any Eagle receiver because, as Sam Bradford figured out early, this Florida corner is going to be ready in his first NFL action.
Quick Notes
1. Chase Daniel is not good. He never looked like a future starter in New Orleans and only showed glimpses in Kansas City for two reasons, one being the limited amount of playing time against non-week 17 defenses that were actually trying and two being Andy Reid's conservative passing approach. This game changed nothing about Daniel's resume. The eighth year quarterback completed just 4 of 10 for 15 measly yards and the offense went stagnant, gaining just 12 yards in the 24 plays Daniel lined up under center. Don't be shocked if Carson Wentz is the #2 QB on the depth chart once he's healthy.
2. Both offensive lines looked miserable and Eagles RB Kenjon Barner (7 carries, 35 yards) was the sole runner to get a decent workload and look like someone who might lock up a roster spot with a few more games like this one. The starting lineman are probably okay but, these two fan-bases will praying for a healthy season for Jason Kelce, Demar Dotson and even Ali Marpet.
3. Jordan Hicks performed well in his return from a season-ending torn pectoral muscle. If he can entirely re-grasp the dominance he had all over the field in his Defensive Rookie of the Year-like debut season, he will become one of the best linebackers in the NFL. The 2015 third rounder led Philadelphia's defense in tackles at the time of his injury and should easily lead the team once again in 2016.
Biggest Overreaction: Man, oh man, it is impossible to see how teams will stop Ryan Mathews based on his two carries for fifteen yards and a TD in this one.
Falcons defeat Washington 23-17
Behind three QB's named Matt, Atlanta outdoes conservative Washington offense.
Rookie of the Game: USC Trojan and Washington professional football team linebacker-turned-safety Su'a Cravens was a first round draft pick on some boards. He certainly looked like his reputation on Thursday night when his name was dropped on seemingly every other play from scrimmage. 4 tackles, a pass defended and two tackles for loss made every viewer raise their eyebrows as Cravens was a major force in holding Atlanta's run game to 2.8 yards per carry. Along with his run-stuffing Deonne Bucannon-esque play, Cravens prevented Matt Ryan from completing a single pass. No matter what you think of Matt Ryan's ceiling, that's an impressive feat by Washington's defense.
How about those first-rounders? Falcons safety Keanu Neal missed the game with a minor "trunk" injury.
Wide receiver Josh Doctson was inactive with an Achilles injury for Washington. Hey, this update was pretty easy.
Quick Notes
1. Matt Schaub is back and had quite the nice outing (10/15-179-0-0) versus a second-string defense. There was not going to be much of a battle between him, Matt Simms and Sean Renfree and now, he looks to have already locked up a spot on the bench behind Matt Ryan. Schaub is used to this role as not only was he a backup for Joe Flacco last season (pre-injury) and Derek Carr the year before but, he sat behind Michael Vick for this very same team (Atlanta) from 2004 through 2006.
2. Arkansas State wideout J.D. McKissic returned a kickoff for a 101-yard touchdown. This touchdown was McKissic's lone kick return on the evening and when his lone reason for being on the team at this point is in fact returning kicks, chances are he is in the lead for return duties this season. Releasing Devin Hester just to pick up another #23 with dreads and incredible speed? Atlanta made the wise financial decision (veterans always cost more) and it's possible that this was even the right football decision as well.
3. Keith Marshall's debut as a backup to Matt Jones in Washington certainly could have gone better. Just nine yards on seven touches won't cut it in the regular season and obviously won't get the job done versus a bunch of backups and practice squad players either. Marshall was a seventh round pick out of Georgia and is supposedly battling just Chris Thompson for the #2 RB role in Jay Gruden's offense but, Robert Kelley (9 touches, 53 yards, 1 TD) and Mack Brown (10 touches, 40 yards, 0 TD) looked solid and that could kill all sleeper fantasy value for Marshall if he doesn't improve these next four weeks.
Biggest Overreaction: Matt Ryan is done. He was never any good and now he has been ruined for good.
Patriots defeat Saints 34-22
Saints' offense cannot hang onto ball early nor can they ever catch back up on the scoreboard in loss to Brady-less Pats.
Rookie of the Game: Former Ohio State Buckeye and current Saints' receiver Michael Thomas looks like the real deal. All of the offseason hype surrounding Thomas seems to have been well-placed as he grabbed four passes for 67 yards and made some sweet moves reminiscent of some of the best wideouts in the game. New Orleans' second round pick was already a sleeper darling of the fantasy world and nothing he did Thursday night quieted the talks surrounding him so, go ahead and reach for him in your draft if you have to because all it takes is one game of watching the kid in order for a fantasy owner to be convinced of his talent.
How about those first-rounders? Sheldon Rankins, Saints defensive tackle, grabbed one tackle as the starters for his team only played two drives. There was not enough on tape to sway opinions on him one way or the other and now, there won't be for a while as Rankins broke his fibula in practice on Monday. He is out at least 6-8 weeks and the Saints will likely turn to Nick Fairley and Tyeler Davison in his absence.
New England sacrificed their first-rounder in the dumbest scandal in the history of the NFL.
Quick Notes
1. Honorable mention for Rookie of the Game goes to Patriots' wide receiver Malcolm Mitchell. A fourth round draft pick out of Georgia, Mitchell seemed miles ahead of guys like Aaron "What the hell am I still doing here?" Dobson and the last version of Danny Amendola that we saw. New England sat their top three receivers in this one and Mitchell was clearly the #1 most talented at his position on this team in this game. Four catches and 55 yards later, Mitchell unfortunately dislocated his elbow and will miss at least four games barring some kind of miracle. This could hurt his chances at being a dominant rookie receiver but, his future looks extremely bright.
2. With Tom Brady docked four games for deflating footballs that he didn't actually deflate, all eyes were on Jimmy Garappolo once again as he is expected to start every game in September. Garoppolo looked just a mediocre (11/18-168-0-0) as he did week 1 of the preseason last season (20/30-159-0-1) as he needed to throw some ugly, underthrown balls before he could get into a full rhythm. I'm not sure how close Martellus Bennett's production will be to that of Aaron Hernandez's pre-jail production but, I can only assume that we won't know his full role until Brady returns to the field week 5 versus Cleveland.
3. Trey Flowers doesn't have a clear path to playing time in New England and last year's fourth round pick has not let that impact his play for anything other than positive production. After only being active for a single game in his rookie season, Flowers' second round of auditions for Bill Belichick is off to a great start with six tackles and a strip-sack for a touchdown. Chris Long, Rob Ninkovich and Jabaal Sheard are certainly all above him on the depth chart but, with Ninkovich injured and Sheard and Long both being veterans in the game, it's possible Flowers gets more opportunities than one would have initially guessed looking at this roster.
Biggest Overreaction: RB Travaris Cadet (4 touches, 21 yards) is going to steal the #2 running back job from Tim Hightower (6 touches, 24 yards) any minute now. I mean... it's not like Cadet has shown us the exact same preseason superstardom these past four years before falling out of favor on the depth chart.
Ravens defeat Panthers 22-19
Terrance West scores twice, beats Panthers by 3 in game missing all Baltimore offensive starters.
Rookie of the Game: Division II sack leader and fifth round pick DE/LB Matt Judon showed off his dominant ceiling when he recorded seven tackles and a sack against Carolina's still-unimpressive offensive line. It will take a lot of injuries or sudden drop-offs for Jim Harbaugh to turn to Judon as a starting linebacker with veterans Terrell Suggs and Elvis Dumervil and good young prospects in Za'Darius Smith and Kamalei Correa above Judon on the depth chart. He's got a good chance at making the team but, playing time will be extremely hard to come by without switching back to defensive end.
How about those first-rounders? Offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley (AKA: Not Laremy Tunsil) only got selected by Baltimore because of Laremy Tunsil's last second drama when his uncle posted a video of him wearing a gas mask and taking a bong hit from an unknown previous date. The Notre Dame lineman was seen as a top ten pick prior to Tunsil's controversy and is going to start right away. So far, so good as Ryan Mallett was held up by his o-line and the run game was effective behind the line that included Stanley.
On Carolina's end, defensive tackle Vernon Butler was a curious choice with Kawann Short bursting onto the scene last season but, if there's one thing the Panthers know, it's defense. Butler collected two tackles in his debut and got some pressure on the opposing quarterback, resulting in an overall decent showing.
Quick Notes
1. Brenton Bersin's hands have paid for their sins and now, the former Wofford Terrier has been on and off Carolina's roster for four years. Bersin's lone moment of national spotlight was when he dropped every ball thrown or kicked his way in the 2014-15 postseason. In his most impressive performance of his entire NFL career, Bersin caught five passes for 69 yards. Carolina's receiving corps is still as thin as it was the day Muhsin Muhammad left and they need somebody like Bersin to come through even in a minor role.
2. Carolina's offensive line clearly wanted to improve their pass blocking after the ugly effort they put on in Super Bowl 50. Unfortunately, the players they have added to their new starting offensive line are garbage run blockers instead apparently. Carolina ran the ball 30 times for 81 yards against a weaker-than-usual Baltimore defense.
3. Despite the absences of Joe Flacco, Steve Smith Sr., Mike Wallace, Ben Watson, Breshad Perriman and Kamar Aiken, Baltimore's passing game was on point with Ryan Mallett and Josh Johnson filling in for 90% of the game. Along with Jerrod Johnson, Baltimore's passing attack completed 20 of 28 passes for 181 yards, a touchdown and an interception. While it is not recommended that the team goes forward without their starters, I could see this being a real warning signal of a lack of depth behind the line for Carolina.
Biggest Overreacion: Joe Flacco is a system quarterback and no, he is not elite.
Jets defeat Jaguars 17-13
New RB duo cannot overcome Chris Ivory's former team despite solid results on the ground.
Rookie of the Game: I don't even remember him entering the draft (2016 has just turned into the craziest fuzzy blur for me and many others) but, former Ohio State LB Darron Lee certainly reminded anyone who forgot of his existence by wrapping up four Jaguars for tackles, two for loss and one sack. The former national champion was taken in the first round (20th overall) by the Jets and should start week one.
How about those first-rounders? Darron Lee: See above.
Jalen Ramsey is still recovering from a meniscus injury.
Quick Notes
1. Last year's first round pick DE Leonard Williams picked up a sack before quickly exiting with the rest of the Jets' starters. Look for Williams to start living up to the potential #1 overall draft grades he was getting last Spring.
2. Now that Ryan Fitzpatrick has re-signed, the battle for the #2 Jets QB role is a real thing that is going to matter at some point when Fitzpatrick gets a little dinged up like he has many times previously. Also a real thing, rookie Christian Hackenberg was noticeably absent and the coaching staff seems extremely disappointed in their Penn State product's training camp performance. This could turn into a Tyler Wilson situation where the QB had all the hype in the world until the team actually saw him play, ultimately deciding to release him.
3. The Jaguars' offense looked excellent despite only putting up 17 on the scoreboard (understandable since it's hard to establish enough consistency to score a lot of points in the preseason). The intriguing duo of T.J. Yeldon and Chris Ivory combined for 52 yards and a touchdown on 10 carries (and they looked better than that) while the top 2 quarterbacks (Blake Bortles & Chad Henne) on Gus Bradley's depth chart went 14 of 16 for 199 yards and no turnovers. There has been talk of regression in Jacksonville's passing game after Bortles' surprising 35-touchdown season but, with a more balanced offense, I'd be shocked to see them take a step backward.
Biggest Overreaction: Finally, it's Marqise Lee's breakout season!
Broncos defeat Bears 22-0
Defending champs take the "defending" part very literally, shut out Cutler & the Bears.
Rookie of the Game: Bronco QB Paxton Lynch did not have the stiffest competition to face (Chicago's #3 defense essentially) and still managed to impress with his accuracy and confidence. The former Memphis star completed six of seven passes for 74 yards and scrambled for a 7-yard run on a 2nd-and-6. He's not expected to start week one but, I don't know why this team is willing to just sit the guy while trotting out the known Mark Sanchez and the likely-sucky Trevor Siemian, who should not have ever been drafted by an NFL team.
What about those first-rounders?: Paxton Lynch: see above.
Leonard Floyd looked really good in a small sample size as well. He may have only recorded two tackles but, on only a drive or two of action, that could easily be stretched into a ten tackle performance for the Georgia Bulldog. He looks like an NFL player and what do you know, he plays like one too.
Quick Notes
1. Another honorable mention for Rookie of the Game goes to Louisiana Tech undrafted linebacker Vontarrius Dora (great name) for his two sacks and a forced fumble. I watched some Louisiana Tech games last year and Dora never jumped off the screen at me but, when being guarded by Jacksonville's third-string o-line, he was a monster of a football player.
2. Used to kicking at Mile High Stadium, Brandon McManus missed two of his four field goal attempts at Soldier Field. Don't read too deep into it however, as one was a 46-yarder and the other was blocked by Chris Prosinski.
3. Who's to blame for Chicago's shutout? It's some combination of Chicago's own offensive line and the Broncos two punters (Britton Colquitt and Riley Dixon) being awesome. The Bears' quarterbacks were sacked seven times (a week 1 high) and the ground game averaged just 2.8 yards per carry. Colquitt and Dixon punted five times and all five times, the ball landed inside the 20. The loser of that job is going to be high on another team's list for another lead punting job.
Biggest Overreaction: The Broncos are right back at it and that defense should win their division easily, no matter who the quarterback is.
Lions defeat Steelers 30-17
The Lion backups rise up for 30 and a win despite Dan Orlovsky's pick-six.
Rookie of the Game: This game was filled with underwhelming newbies. Lions QB Jake Rudock (Michigan) is trying to shed the label of being "just another one-year wonder made great by Jim Harbaugh" and so far, he's doing a nice job against Dan Orlovsky for the backup quarterback job. Rudock completed 8 of 11 for 72 yards and a touchdown to Jace Billingsley along with a two-point conversion to Quinshad Davis. It's been a while since Detroit has had a trustworthy #2 QB and Rudock might finally be the answer.
What about those first-rounders? Steeler cornerback Artie Burns sat this one out as he has been terribly disappointing in camp and Pittsburgh just didn't want to see him out there (major red flags).
James Harrison gave Lions' first-rounder Taylor Decker his "welcome to the NFL" moment when Harrison brushed past him for a strip-sack and that is the lone highlight from Decker's Detroit debut. Ouch.
Quick Notes
1. Ameer Abdullah sat this one out as he recovers from offseason knee surgery. The rest of the team looked underwhelming in the run game (27-95-3.5-0) and Abdullah should be starting week one as long as the combination of lesser runners keeps this up.
2. After returning from a torn ACL, Bruce Gradkowski re-injured himself and basically blew his shot at re-taking the backup quarterback job from Landry Jones if he even had a chance at that in the first place. Now sitting with a torn hamstring, I think we've seen the last of 33-year old journeyman.
3. Even with the disappointment of Artie Burns so far, Doran Grant had a huge game with eight tackles, a pass defensed and a pick-six off of Dan Orlovsky. The Steelers have been extremely careful with Grant, only bringing him off the practice squad for the final handful of games last year and not even giving him much playing time afterwards. Now, the Steelers are all young on defense (minus Harrison and Lawrence Timmons) yet, old enough that everyone should be coming into their own soon if not now.
Biggest Overreaction: The Steelers need to re-sign Michael Vick or something because this quarterback situation behind Roethlisberger is awful.
Dolphins defeat Giants 27-10
Miami backups look flashy in win over consistently dull Giants.
Rookie of the Game: Jakeem Grant was one of the more exciting players in college football last season as he was a threat to take it to the house on every single kick return or end-around Texas Tech ran with him. I was not so sure that his abilities would translate into being an NFL receiver as he's pretty much Jarvis Landry with no hands. Alas, I might be wrong again as Grant caught a team-high four passes for 68 yards and while everyone is paying attention to Leonte Carroo as the Dolphins' best rookie wideout, I'll be watching Grant snatch that title away from him.
What about those first-rounders? With how miserable Dallas Thomas looked in this one, it's probable that Laremy Tunsil will make the move over to left guard. Tunsil's debut was okay, which is better than most of the Miami line.
Giants' cornerback Eli Apple gave New York fans something to be nervous about as the former Michigan Stater left the game with a strained knee. He is considered week-to-week and only finished with two tackles on Friday night.
Quick Notes
1. Ryan Nassib has completed 90% of his career passes for a 152.1 QB rating. That version of Ryan Nassib was absent Friday as Eli Manning's backup completed 7 of 15 for 75 yards and two interceptions. The Giants did not get to the end zone after Rashad Jennings exited the game after one drive of action and Nassib deserves plenty of blame. The offensive line certainly was of no help to him but, Eli would have still gotten the job done and done it well.
2. Isaiah Pead has returned from the grave to suddenly compete for the last spot on Miami's running back depth chart. The former Rams' second round draft pick has gotten in trouble on and off the field with constant injuries and a substance abuse suspension, failed with both the Rams and Steelers and all this happened after he was taken seven picks ahead of Brock Osweiler, eight ahead of Lavonte David and nine ahead of Eagles' D-end Vinny Curry. Friday night, he looked like someone who made sense as a second round choice with 50 yards on 10 carries. He only has to beat out Daniel Thomas to have a chance at making the team and he has to outperform Damien Williams to clinch a spot on the roster. It's about a 50/50 chance that Pead makes the team right now and games like this will give him an advantage.
3. After a shaky rookie season, Dolphins' corner Bobby McCain needs to perform well in order to keep his regular season playing time. This was a solid performance from him as he grabbed an interception (he had 0 last season in an important role) and collected three tackles also. Now, he'll probably start alongside Byron Maxwell as Miami just hopes and prays that this all works better than it did last year so that they aren't just wasting Cameron Wake's last years and Ndamukong Suh's prime.
Biggest Overreaction: The Giants are going to suck this year, they couldn't do anything right in this game.
Vikings defeat Bengals 17-16
Mike Zimmer's defense takes care of his former team in a close win for Minnesota.
Rookie of the Game: Living in Wisconsin and seeing every Badger game as a result, I never thought (and still don't) that Alex Erickson could be more than a #4 receiver on an NFL team. However, on Cincinnati's current roster, anything is possible at the receiver position. Brandon LaFell is not a #2 WR and Tyler Boyd probably isn't ready to be a #2 so, that spot across the field from A.J. Green is open for interpretation. Erickson won't win it but, he did a damn solid job of convincing the staff to trust him more by both catching a touchdown and returning a punt for a touchdown as well.
What about those first-rounders? Viking receiver Laquon Treadwell is the real deal and was a steal back at this year's draft. The former Ole Miss star caught four passes for 41 yards and has built a repertoire with Teddy Bridgewater. I don't know if I believe in the Teddy Bridgewater breakout season but, he certainly has the weapons to do so now.
Cincinnati's first-rounder CB William Jackson III missed the game, and will miss many more games, with a torn pectoral muscle.
Quick Notes
1. Looking for answers on the Gio Bernard-Jeremy Hill timeshare? Look again at a later date. For now, with 11 combined touches for 43 yards, the Bengals don't have an obvious #1 back and they haven't for two years. It'll likely be the same, disappointing story this year in the post-Hue Jackson Bengal universe.
2. Mike Zimmer has never poorly coached a defense before and this game was the same case. 8 pass defenses and 6 hits to the opposing quarterback, compared to 1 and 2 from Cincinnati, ended up as the deciding factor in a one point Minnesota victory. Standouts included rookie Clemson corner Mackensie Alexander and backup safety Antone Exum Jr..
3. As if the loss of Jackson III to a long-term injury wasn't bad enough, the Bengals have now lost fourth round pick DT Andrew Billings for the season after he was carted off with a torn meniscus. Billings was seen as a late-first, early-second round talent by many experts and was seen as one of the biggest steals in this year's draft up until last week's injury.
Biggest Overreaction: Charles Johnson is a serious deep threat and will see a return to 2014 standards.
Packers defeat Browns 17-11
Three safeties and an RG3 pick later, the Packer backups still beat Cleveland.
Rookie of the Game: OGBAH! Browns defensive end Emmanuel Ogbah was technically a second round pick despite being taken 32nd overall after New England sacrificed their first round pick just to have their quarterback suspended anyway. Ogbah looked worthy of a first-rounder Friday night when he got after Marqise Williams and Joe Callahan all night long. Ogbah finished with six tackles, two for loss, two pass defenses and one sack. He was a monster in college and the Browns would be forever grateful if his talent translated into the NFL.
What about the first-rounders? Kenny Clark grabbed one tackle at nose tackle for Green Bay. It was not enough for him to show any signs one way or the other as to what type of player he will be. More playing time will surely follow over the next two preseason games at least.
Corey Coleman sat out the game with a minor hamstring injury because why risk anything with your first round pick and likely #1 wide receiver once week one comes around?
Quick Notes
1. With Aaron Rodgers resting and Brett Hundley suffering from a minor injury, former Wesley Wolverine (a real school that exists) quarterback Joe Callahan got to start an NFL preseason game. Not to be confused with the quarterback from the movie Draft Day (Bo Callahan; University of Wisconsin), this Callahan was signed out of nowhere as an undrafted free agent. His first start was really fun to watch and actually, semi-productive (16/23-124-1-0). His mobility was impressive and his footwork was identical to that of Aaron Rodgers. I have no clear view of what his ceiling is but, if this is his floor... then Ted Thompson really knew something that nobody else sees coming. PS: The verdict is in and Marqise Williams (6/14-55-0-1 and 7 carries for 26 yards) was the worst quarterback I saw in football this past week.
2. I'm not convinced that Justin Perillo isn't the best tight end in Green Bay right now. I have never seen him go out onto the field and not accomplish something productive. There was one drive in this game where he was President Callahan's perfect safety blanket en route to a touchdown. At the end of the game, Perillo racked up five catches on seven targets for 52 yards. He's probably not the best blocker (Rodgers might be), nor is he the best receiver (Cook might be), but I don't see any glaring weaknesses here.
3. Terrelle Pryor's transition from QB to wide receiver went bumpy last season and now, with a new team and lesser competition, he actually got the start as Cleveland's #2 WR and took advantage of his moment in the spotlight. Pryor showed blazing speed as he outran Green Bay's coverage on a deep ball and ended the game with just two catches but for 57 yards.
Biggest Overreaction: Eddie Lacy is back to 2014 Eddie Lacy again! He looked so much thinner and faster!
Raiders defeat Cardinals 31-10
Oakland runs all over Cardinal backups in dominant win.
Rookie of the Game: Oakland RB DeAndre Washington showed explosive ability that would make Latavius Murray look average by comparison. I was already in the camp of believing Washington would take the starting job from Murray at some point and with 75 yards on 9 touches (including a 32-yard catch), the fifth-rounder from Texas Tech speedster is off to a great start. His ability to maneuver around tacklers is something the Raiders have missed since... wait for it... Bo Jackson.
What about those first-rounders? Safety Karl Joseph skyrocketed up draft boards after other defensive players disappointed at the draft combine and Oakland swiped him up at pick #15. Joseph recorded one tackle and was barely targeted in this game.
Arizona stole DT Robert Nkemdiche out of Ole Miss after character concerns moved him down from the top three of draft boards, all the way down to the 29th pick. Unfortunately, we have to wait to see Nkemdiche on this awesome defense, as he is on the physically unable to perform list for the time being.
Quick Notes
1. Cardinals' preseason announcer Ron Wolfley is just as awesome as he was two years ago.
2. Oakland's offensive line continues to improve. The Raider line only gave up two TFL's and two hits to the quarterback with not a single sack allowed and an awesome performance for run-blocking (21-166-7.9-2). It won't matter who wins the starting running back job with that kind of help up front, they will have serious fantasy value.
3. This game is probably a sign of the end for Matt Barkley's NFL dreams. It's incredible how a prospect like him went from being the potential #1 overall draft pick to staying an extra year at USC to the third round to traded to Arizona for nothing to a preseason game so atrocious (8/24-121-0-1) that his NFL future isn't even a thing anymore. USC quarterbacks are a mixed bag of results (good: Carson Palmer, surprisingly okay: Rob Johnson & Matt Cassel, woefully disappointing: Matt Leinart, Mark Sanchez, Todd Marinovich & Barkley) and further prove that scouting is an imperfect science.
Biggest Overreaction: Andre Ellington should pass up Chris Johnson on the depth chart since he doesn't waste time dancing behind the o-line like "CJ2K" always does.
Seahawks defeat Chiefs 17-16
Seattle wins on two-point conversion following Hail Mary touchdown pass at the buzzer.
Rookie of the Game: Kansas City's sixth round linebacker Dadi Nicolas (his real name) couldn't force any turnovers to alter that final score a little bit but, he still did his job as an outside linebacker better than anybody else on the field Saturday afternoon. 3 tackles, 2 for loss, 2 QB hits and a sack gave him a good box score and definitely caused Trevone Boykin to scramble for his life.
What about those first-rounders? Kansas City did not have a first-round pick.
Seattle OL Germain Ifedi is going to start in week one for the Seahawks as the right guard most likely. His debut performance against the Chiefs was impressive as he paved the way for multiple rushers and made fellow linemen's jobs easier by preventing his designated opponent from getting anywhere near Christine Michael and Russell Wilson.
Quick Notes
1. Former Wisconsin QB/WR/S Tanner McEvoy somehow made it through an NFL training camp and kicked serious ass in his first NFL preseason game. Not only did McEboy catch three passes for 71 yards and a touchdown but, that touchdown was essentially the game-winning touchdown catch on a Hail Mary of all plays. He's not going to make the final roster barring any serious injuries to other players but, the practice squad is not out of the question for this versatile athlete.
2. Kansas City used five quarterbacks in this game and here they are ranked from strongest performance to weakest performance
1 - Alex Smith (3/4-36-0-0, 7 points by KC while in the game)
2 - Aaron Murray (3/5-52-0-0, 3 points)
3 - Nick Foles (4/8-37-0-0, 3 points)
4 - Tyler Bray (3/9-48-0-0, 3 points)
5 - Kevin Hogan (2/6-21-0-1, 0 points)
If I were the Chiefs' GM, I would make this as dramatic as possible and cut the weakest link after this week's preseason game and next week's game and then they'd be left with three QB's, two for the active roster and one for the practice squad. I'm sorry, Kevin Hogan, but I've never believed in you and you were the weakest link so... goodbye.
3. Marcus Peters picked up where he left off by intercepting the very accurate Russell Wilson by jumping in front of his receiver at the goal line and giving flashbacks to one of the least satisfying Super Bowl endings ever.
Biggest Overreaction: ALL ABOARD THE C-MIKE TRAIN AGAIN! Christine Michael is for really, really real this time!
Colts defeat Bills 19-18
Tyrod Taylor gets paid big to lose to Scott Tolzien.
Rookie of the Game: Between a chipped bone in his hip and his rumored involvement in the major lawsuit against Tennessee's athletics program, it's no wonder that Curt Maggitt went undrafted this season. Luckily for him, the Colts are a franchise that is familiar with trying to redeem people (see: Jim Irsay) and they took a chance on signing him right after the draft concluded. The former Volunteer had four tackles including three for a loss against Buffalo Saturday evening.
What about those first-rounders? Bills' defensive end Shaq Lawson has had shoulder surgery and will miss most if not all of the 2016 season.
Colts' center Ryan Kelly was inconsistent in his debut and will be expected to have more of the same as it has never been easy for any rookie center to start from day one. Kelly did a fine job at Alabama but, I never saw him as a first rounder and the Colts' maybe jumped the gun on taking an offensive lineman just so they can say they tried to help Andrew Luck not lose internal organs on the field. In all fairness, he only got tossed around by the huge former pro-bowler Marcell Dareus.
Quick Notes
1. Why did the Bills trade Kiko Alonso? I understand how enticing LeSean McCoy is and was last season but, this team looks desperate and lost at linebacker with Lorenzo Alexander currently listed as a starting outside linebacker. The team also signed former d-end Kroy Biermann and former inside linebacker David Hawthorne out of desperation and are trying to work them both outside despite a lack of ability at that specific position.
2. Speaking of the LeSean McCoy trade, Buffalo's running backs behind LeSean McCoy are good enough to start if needed and Karlos Williams has already proven that to be true. Former Arkansas Razorback Jonathan Williams had a good first game with eight carries for 44 yards. With all of the hype coming out of Bills' training camp on J-Will and the awesome rookie season from K-Will, this team really does not need LeSean McCoy the way they may have in 2014.
3. Considering how much the Bills hate E.J. Manuel, Cardale Jones should lock up the backup job behind Tyrod Taylor before the fourth game of the preseason. Jones couldn't beat out J.T. Barrett for the starting job at Ohio State AND keep it for long but, his NFL future is much brighter than Barrett's likely will be. The former Buckeye that "ain't come to play school" came to play ball in this one, completing 11 of 21 for 162 yards and a touchdown while also rushing four times for 34 yards.
Biggest Overreaction: Luck can throw all he wants, nothing can save him from Indy's atrocious running game.
Rams defeat Cowboys 28-24
LA gets their first home win since 1994.
Rookie of the Game: All the talk of the football world was about QB Dak Prescott after he looked more ready than any other quarterback drafted this offseason to start in the NFL. Mississippi State's best quarterback ever completed ten of twelve passes for 139 yards and two touchdowns and he also gained 13 yards on the ground. Prescott proved that he can be a pocket passer, scramble effectively if needed and throw absolute darts to the receivers he accurately recognizes as open. Let the Prescott lovefest begin because, it's only a matter of time before Dallas gets furious with Tony Romo's lack of postseason success.
What about those first-rounders? Jared Goff (4/9-38-0-1) didn't get a long enough tryout for the Rams' week 1 starting job and in the little bit that we saw, none of his play was very impressive. Case Keenum is still the week one starting quarterback for now.
RB Ezekiel Elliott rested with a supposedly minor hamstring injury. The Cowboys' running back will try to give it a go this upcoming weekend.
Quick Notes
1. The Rams have had an awful receiving corps every year since Jeff Fisher has taken over, through none of the receivers' faults as Jeff Fisher just has not had any success with a wide receiver since Derrick fucking Mason in the early-to-mid aughts. I wasn't on the anti-Fisher train until I realized that fact. With all of that said, I reallllllly like Nelson Spruce a lot. The former Colorado Buffalo had one incredible drive where he caught four of five passes for 28 yards and converted a fourth down in Julian Edelman-esque fashion. He could be another one of the league's many excellent slot receivers but, when he's on a Jeff Fisher team that already employs the human wildcard (Tavon Austin), he's going to have to wait a while for his breakout. Maybe Spruce will luck out and get released, freeing him up to get signed by Chicago or Atlanta or someone that could actually use him effectively.
2. The Rams also knew what they were doing when they drafted Sean Mannion in the third round last season (Les Snead = yay; Jeff Fisher = nay). I get being desperate for a quarterback but, there was no reason for the Rams to trade up for Goff when they could have just stayed confident in their guy from last year who saw very little playing time in Mannion. He really looked like he knew what he was doing in the second half whether it was against the third-string defense or not. The former Oregon State Beaver completed 18 of 25 passes for 147 yards, 3 touchdowns and one INT, all while leading Los Angeles to a comeback victory and establishing a relationship with ROTG Nelson Spruce and rookie TE Tyler Higbee. I know this sounds like the Biggest Overreaction and trust me, it totally is, but I feel like Sean Mannion is going to be the better NFL quarterback than Jared Goff. Don't believe it? fight me in real life, you coward (please don't).
3. Dallas played in this game also but, outside of Dak Prescott's debut, not a single thing of note happened. Oh wait! that's Dez Bryant's music! Dez played despite still recovering from some offseason surgery and the general irrelevancy of the entire preseason. Shocker! He looked good (2 catches, 28 yards and a nice touchdown grab).
Titans defeat Chargers 27-10
Tennessee's running game exploits San Diego's worthless run defense in a win.
Rookie of the Game: Derrick Henry was not the only running back to blow up for the Titans in this game but, he was the only one to wear a single-digit uniform number while doing said blowing up plus, he was the most consistently awesome runner on the field Saturday night. Henry shared carries with DeMarco Murray at first and finished with 74 yards on 10 carries with a touchdown and still averaged 6.4 yards per carry if you took away his longest run.
What about those first-rounders? Jack Conklin played exactly like rookie offensive tackle is expected to in their first preseason game; shaken but not stirred. He is absolutely not touching the left side of the offensive line barring any injuries to teammates and as long as he's at right tackle, maybe Marcus Mariota will be able to stay safe despite Conklin's pass-blocking inefficiencies. He's a run blocker at heart and that part of his game went extremely well.
Joey Bosa is still holding out on the Chargers. Very reminiscent of Ladanian Tomlinson's holdout or Shawne Merriman's or Philip Rivers' or etc.
Quick Notes
1. Continuing on the trend of bragging up Tennessee's running game and offensive line, they even made Bishop Sankey look reanimated! The disappointing third year pro had 52 yards and a touchdown on 3 carries. Even Antonio Andrews had 41 yards on 8 carries and now, everyone is looking at Dexter McCluster as someone that might be sacrificed despite his contract.
2. Without Joey Bosa, San Diego still managed to hit Tennessee's quarterbacks seven times. That is a very bad sign for the Titans' odds at holding Mariota up for 16 games with no issues. I'm not convinced by any of San Diego's pass rushers besides maybe Nick Dzubnar. Dzubnar is closing in on preseason hall of fame status by the way.
3. Is it news or noise that Melvin Gordon III had a 44-yard touchdown catch and 56 yards on 4 touches? I'd say noise considering how great he looked last preseason. Plus, it was still just one play that outshone everything he did last season (0 touchdowns in all of 2015).
Biggest Overreaction: DeMarco Murray has 2,000 yard potential again this season.
Texans defeat 49ers 24-13
Houston's defense pulls off a strong victory despite absence of J.J. Watt.
Rookie of the Game: And the winner for the game with least impressive rookie showings goes to... this game right here. Jeff Driskel did a bad job of passing the ball but, much like Tim Tebow in an Adam Gase offense, he could make his skill set work in a Chip Kelly offense. The former Louisiana Tech QB ran five times for 61 yards and converted a few very impressive runs into first downs.
What about those first-rounders? Will Fuller was drafted as a speedster receiver who will need some time to develop into a full-bodied NFL wide receiver. His debut showed him catch one four-yard pass and get demolished on a punt return as a "welcome to the big leagues" moment. He's going to be brutal as a rookie and I can't really tell where he'll go from there onward for the Texans.
DE DeForest Buckner did a very nice job of being in the right places at the right time. The former best player on Oregon's defense racked up three tackles in the first quarter before exiting for lesser defenders, who did a noticeably lesser job.
Quick Notes
1. San Fran backup QB Thaddeus Lewis (12/21-97-0-0 and 10 yards on 4 carries) tore his ACL after looking like the best passer among the Driskel-Gabbert-Lewis horror-show they put on. Lewis showed great ability to balance himself and make defenders miss before he took one bad step and sadly, ended his season.
2. Vance McDonald (2-54-1) reminds me of Travis Kelce in that both can turn 3-yard catches into 30-yard gains through nothing but grit and toughness. He has tremendous fantasy sleeper value in an offense with no receiving weapons outside of Torrey Smith.
3. Mike Davis (5-72-0) was an absolute waste of a roster spot last season (35-58-0) and now, looks like a breakout stud again. Part of me wants to stop this observation before I go overboard but, sometimes it just takes some time for players to adjust to the pro leagues and this could be a perfect example. This could also be a waste of everyone's time again or maybe, just maybe, Chip Kelly can get an awesome 1-2 punch going that he couldn't develop in Philly last season.
Biggest Overreaction: The Texans' defense looks just fine without J.J. What's his name? They don't need him.
All overreactions are somewhat sarcastic and final.
2. Carolina's offensive line clearly wanted to improve their pass blocking after the ugly effort they put on in Super Bowl 50. Unfortunately, the players they have added to their new starting offensive line are garbage run blockers instead apparently. Carolina ran the ball 30 times for 81 yards against a weaker-than-usual Baltimore defense.
3. Despite the absences of Joe Flacco, Steve Smith Sr., Mike Wallace, Ben Watson, Breshad Perriman and Kamar Aiken, Baltimore's passing game was on point with Ryan Mallett and Josh Johnson filling in for 90% of the game. Along with Jerrod Johnson, Baltimore's passing attack completed 20 of 28 passes for 181 yards, a touchdown and an interception. While it is not recommended that the team goes forward without their starters, I could see this being a real warning signal of a lack of depth behind the line for Carolina.
Biggest Overreacion: Joe Flacco is a system quarterback and no, he is not elite.
Jets defeat Jaguars 17-13
New RB duo cannot overcome Chris Ivory's former team despite solid results on the ground.
Rookie of the Game: I don't even remember him entering the draft (2016 has just turned into the craziest fuzzy blur for me and many others) but, former Ohio State LB Darron Lee certainly reminded anyone who forgot of his existence by wrapping up four Jaguars for tackles, two for loss and one sack. The former national champion was taken in the first round (20th overall) by the Jets and should start week one.
How about those first-rounders? Darron Lee: See above.
Jalen Ramsey is still recovering from a meniscus injury.
Quick Notes
1. Last year's first round pick DE Leonard Williams picked up a sack before quickly exiting with the rest of the Jets' starters. Look for Williams to start living up to the potential #1 overall draft grades he was getting last Spring.
2. Now that Ryan Fitzpatrick has re-signed, the battle for the #2 Jets QB role is a real thing that is going to matter at some point when Fitzpatrick gets a little dinged up like he has many times previously. Also a real thing, rookie Christian Hackenberg was noticeably absent and the coaching staff seems extremely disappointed in their Penn State product's training camp performance. This could turn into a Tyler Wilson situation where the QB had all the hype in the world until the team actually saw him play, ultimately deciding to release him.
3. The Jaguars' offense looked excellent despite only putting up 17 on the scoreboard (understandable since it's hard to establish enough consistency to score a lot of points in the preseason). The intriguing duo of T.J. Yeldon and Chris Ivory combined for 52 yards and a touchdown on 10 carries (and they looked better than that) while the top 2 quarterbacks (Blake Bortles & Chad Henne) on Gus Bradley's depth chart went 14 of 16 for 199 yards and no turnovers. There has been talk of regression in Jacksonville's passing game after Bortles' surprising 35-touchdown season but, with a more balanced offense, I'd be shocked to see them take a step backward.
Biggest Overreaction: Finally, it's Marqise Lee's breakout season!
Broncos defeat Bears 22-0
Defending champs take the "defending" part very literally, shut out Cutler & the Bears.
Rookie of the Game: Bronco QB Paxton Lynch did not have the stiffest competition to face (Chicago's #3 defense essentially) and still managed to impress with his accuracy and confidence. The former Memphis star completed six of seven passes for 74 yards and scrambled for a 7-yard run on a 2nd-and-6. He's not expected to start week one but, I don't know why this team is willing to just sit the guy while trotting out the known Mark Sanchez and the likely-sucky Trevor Siemian, who should not have ever been drafted by an NFL team.
What about those first-rounders?: Paxton Lynch: see above.
Leonard Floyd looked really good in a small sample size as well. He may have only recorded two tackles but, on only a drive or two of action, that could easily be stretched into a ten tackle performance for the Georgia Bulldog. He looks like an NFL player and what do you know, he plays like one too.
Quick Notes
1. Another honorable mention for Rookie of the Game goes to Louisiana Tech undrafted linebacker Vontarrius Dora (great name) for his two sacks and a forced fumble. I watched some Louisiana Tech games last year and Dora never jumped off the screen at me but, when being guarded by Jacksonville's third-string o-line, he was a monster of a football player.
2. Used to kicking at Mile High Stadium, Brandon McManus missed two of his four field goal attempts at Soldier Field. Don't read too deep into it however, as one was a 46-yarder and the other was blocked by Chris Prosinski.
3. Who's to blame for Chicago's shutout? It's some combination of Chicago's own offensive line and the Broncos two punters (Britton Colquitt and Riley Dixon) being awesome. The Bears' quarterbacks were sacked seven times (a week 1 high) and the ground game averaged just 2.8 yards per carry. Colquitt and Dixon punted five times and all five times, the ball landed inside the 20. The loser of that job is going to be high on another team's list for another lead punting job.
Biggest Overreaction: The Broncos are right back at it and that defense should win their division easily, no matter who the quarterback is.
Lions defeat Steelers 30-17
The Lion backups rise up for 30 and a win despite Dan Orlovsky's pick-six.
Rookie of the Game: This game was filled with underwhelming newbies. Lions QB Jake Rudock (Michigan) is trying to shed the label of being "just another one-year wonder made great by Jim Harbaugh" and so far, he's doing a nice job against Dan Orlovsky for the backup quarterback job. Rudock completed 8 of 11 for 72 yards and a touchdown to Jace Billingsley along with a two-point conversion to Quinshad Davis. It's been a while since Detroit has had a trustworthy #2 QB and Rudock might finally be the answer.
What about those first-rounders? Steeler cornerback Artie Burns sat this one out as he has been terribly disappointing in camp and Pittsburgh just didn't want to see him out there (major red flags).
James Harrison gave Lions' first-rounder Taylor Decker his "welcome to the NFL" moment when Harrison brushed past him for a strip-sack and that is the lone highlight from Decker's Detroit debut. Ouch.
Quick Notes
1. Ameer Abdullah sat this one out as he recovers from offseason knee surgery. The rest of the team looked underwhelming in the run game (27-95-3.5-0) and Abdullah should be starting week one as long as the combination of lesser runners keeps this up.
2. After returning from a torn ACL, Bruce Gradkowski re-injured himself and basically blew his shot at re-taking the backup quarterback job from Landry Jones if he even had a chance at that in the first place. Now sitting with a torn hamstring, I think we've seen the last of 33-year old journeyman.
3. Even with the disappointment of Artie Burns so far, Doran Grant had a huge game with eight tackles, a pass defensed and a pick-six off of Dan Orlovsky. The Steelers have been extremely careful with Grant, only bringing him off the practice squad for the final handful of games last year and not even giving him much playing time afterwards. Now, the Steelers are all young on defense (minus Harrison and Lawrence Timmons) yet, old enough that everyone should be coming into their own soon if not now.
Biggest Overreaction: The Steelers need to re-sign Michael Vick or something because this quarterback situation behind Roethlisberger is awful.
Dolphins defeat Giants 27-10
Miami backups look flashy in win over consistently dull Giants.
Rookie of the Game: Jakeem Grant was one of the more exciting players in college football last season as he was a threat to take it to the house on every single kick return or end-around Texas Tech ran with him. I was not so sure that his abilities would translate into being an NFL receiver as he's pretty much Jarvis Landry with no hands. Alas, I might be wrong again as Grant caught a team-high four passes for 68 yards and while everyone is paying attention to Leonte Carroo as the Dolphins' best rookie wideout, I'll be watching Grant snatch that title away from him.
What about those first-rounders? With how miserable Dallas Thomas looked in this one, it's probable that Laremy Tunsil will make the move over to left guard. Tunsil's debut was okay, which is better than most of the Miami line.
Giants' cornerback Eli Apple gave New York fans something to be nervous about as the former Michigan Stater left the game with a strained knee. He is considered week-to-week and only finished with two tackles on Friday night.
Quick Notes
1. Ryan Nassib has completed 90% of his career passes for a 152.1 QB rating. That version of Ryan Nassib was absent Friday as Eli Manning's backup completed 7 of 15 for 75 yards and two interceptions. The Giants did not get to the end zone after Rashad Jennings exited the game after one drive of action and Nassib deserves plenty of blame. The offensive line certainly was of no help to him but, Eli would have still gotten the job done and done it well.
2. Isaiah Pead has returned from the grave to suddenly compete for the last spot on Miami's running back depth chart. The former Rams' second round draft pick has gotten in trouble on and off the field with constant injuries and a substance abuse suspension, failed with both the Rams and Steelers and all this happened after he was taken seven picks ahead of Brock Osweiler, eight ahead of Lavonte David and nine ahead of Eagles' D-end Vinny Curry. Friday night, he looked like someone who made sense as a second round choice with 50 yards on 10 carries. He only has to beat out Daniel Thomas to have a chance at making the team and he has to outperform Damien Williams to clinch a spot on the roster. It's about a 50/50 chance that Pead makes the team right now and games like this will give him an advantage.
3. After a shaky rookie season, Dolphins' corner Bobby McCain needs to perform well in order to keep his regular season playing time. This was a solid performance from him as he grabbed an interception (he had 0 last season in an important role) and collected three tackles also. Now, he'll probably start alongside Byron Maxwell as Miami just hopes and prays that this all works better than it did last year so that they aren't just wasting Cameron Wake's last years and Ndamukong Suh's prime.
Biggest Overreaction: The Giants are going to suck this year, they couldn't do anything right in this game.
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| David Kohl - USA TODAY Sports Alex Erickson introduces himself to the Bengals' fans in an impressive way. |
Mike Zimmer's defense takes care of his former team in a close win for Minnesota.
Rookie of the Game: Living in Wisconsin and seeing every Badger game as a result, I never thought (and still don't) that Alex Erickson could be more than a #4 receiver on an NFL team. However, on Cincinnati's current roster, anything is possible at the receiver position. Brandon LaFell is not a #2 WR and Tyler Boyd probably isn't ready to be a #2 so, that spot across the field from A.J. Green is open for interpretation. Erickson won't win it but, he did a damn solid job of convincing the staff to trust him more by both catching a touchdown and returning a punt for a touchdown as well.
What about those first-rounders? Viking receiver Laquon Treadwell is the real deal and was a steal back at this year's draft. The former Ole Miss star caught four passes for 41 yards and has built a repertoire with Teddy Bridgewater. I don't know if I believe in the Teddy Bridgewater breakout season but, he certainly has the weapons to do so now.
Cincinnati's first-rounder CB William Jackson III missed the game, and will miss many more games, with a torn pectoral muscle.
Quick Notes
1. Looking for answers on the Gio Bernard-Jeremy Hill timeshare? Look again at a later date. For now, with 11 combined touches for 43 yards, the Bengals don't have an obvious #1 back and they haven't for two years. It'll likely be the same, disappointing story this year in the post-Hue Jackson Bengal universe.
2. Mike Zimmer has never poorly coached a defense before and this game was the same case. 8 pass defenses and 6 hits to the opposing quarterback, compared to 1 and 2 from Cincinnati, ended up as the deciding factor in a one point Minnesota victory. Standouts included rookie Clemson corner Mackensie Alexander and backup safety Antone Exum Jr..
3. As if the loss of Jackson III to a long-term injury wasn't bad enough, the Bengals have now lost fourth round pick DT Andrew Billings for the season after he was carted off with a torn meniscus. Billings was seen as a late-first, early-second round talent by many experts and was seen as one of the biggest steals in this year's draft up until last week's injury.
Biggest Overreaction: Charles Johnson is a serious deep threat and will see a return to 2014 standards.
Packers defeat Browns 17-11
Three safeties and an RG3 pick later, the Packer backups still beat Cleveland.
Rookie of the Game: OGBAH! Browns defensive end Emmanuel Ogbah was technically a second round pick despite being taken 32nd overall after New England sacrificed their first round pick just to have their quarterback suspended anyway. Ogbah looked worthy of a first-rounder Friday night when he got after Marqise Williams and Joe Callahan all night long. Ogbah finished with six tackles, two for loss, two pass defenses and one sack. He was a monster in college and the Browns would be forever grateful if his talent translated into the NFL.
What about the first-rounders? Kenny Clark grabbed one tackle at nose tackle for Green Bay. It was not enough for him to show any signs one way or the other as to what type of player he will be. More playing time will surely follow over the next two preseason games at least.
Corey Coleman sat out the game with a minor hamstring injury because why risk anything with your first round pick and likely #1 wide receiver once week one comes around?
Quick Notes
1. With Aaron Rodgers resting and Brett Hundley suffering from a minor injury, former Wesley Wolverine (a real school that exists) quarterback Joe Callahan got to start an NFL preseason game. Not to be confused with the quarterback from the movie Draft Day (Bo Callahan; University of Wisconsin), this Callahan was signed out of nowhere as an undrafted free agent. His first start was really fun to watch and actually, semi-productive (16/23-124-1-0). His mobility was impressive and his footwork was identical to that of Aaron Rodgers. I have no clear view of what his ceiling is but, if this is his floor... then Ted Thompson really knew something that nobody else sees coming. PS: The verdict is in and Marqise Williams (6/14-55-0-1 and 7 carries for 26 yards) was the worst quarterback I saw in football this past week.
2. I'm not convinced that Justin Perillo isn't the best tight end in Green Bay right now. I have never seen him go out onto the field and not accomplish something productive. There was one drive in this game where he was President Callahan's perfect safety blanket en route to a touchdown. At the end of the game, Perillo racked up five catches on seven targets for 52 yards. He's probably not the best blocker (Rodgers might be), nor is he the best receiver (Cook might be), but I don't see any glaring weaknesses here.
3. Terrelle Pryor's transition from QB to wide receiver went bumpy last season and now, with a new team and lesser competition, he actually got the start as Cleveland's #2 WR and took advantage of his moment in the spotlight. Pryor showed blazing speed as he outran Green Bay's coverage on a deep ball and ended the game with just two catches but for 57 yards.
Biggest Overreaction: Eddie Lacy is back to 2014 Eddie Lacy again! He looked so much thinner and faster!
Raiders defeat Cardinals 31-10
Oakland runs all over Cardinal backups in dominant win.
Rookie of the Game: Oakland RB DeAndre Washington showed explosive ability that would make Latavius Murray look average by comparison. I was already in the camp of believing Washington would take the starting job from Murray at some point and with 75 yards on 9 touches (including a 32-yard catch), the fifth-rounder from Texas Tech speedster is off to a great start. His ability to maneuver around tacklers is something the Raiders have missed since... wait for it... Bo Jackson.
What about those first-rounders? Safety Karl Joseph skyrocketed up draft boards after other defensive players disappointed at the draft combine and Oakland swiped him up at pick #15. Joseph recorded one tackle and was barely targeted in this game.
Arizona stole DT Robert Nkemdiche out of Ole Miss after character concerns moved him down from the top three of draft boards, all the way down to the 29th pick. Unfortunately, we have to wait to see Nkemdiche on this awesome defense, as he is on the physically unable to perform list for the time being.
Quick Notes
1. Cardinals' preseason announcer Ron Wolfley is just as awesome as he was two years ago.
2. Oakland's offensive line continues to improve. The Raider line only gave up two TFL's and two hits to the quarterback with not a single sack allowed and an awesome performance for run-blocking (21-166-7.9-2). It won't matter who wins the starting running back job with that kind of help up front, they will have serious fantasy value.
3. This game is probably a sign of the end for Matt Barkley's NFL dreams. It's incredible how a prospect like him went from being the potential #1 overall draft pick to staying an extra year at USC to the third round to traded to Arizona for nothing to a preseason game so atrocious (8/24-121-0-1) that his NFL future isn't even a thing anymore. USC quarterbacks are a mixed bag of results (good: Carson Palmer, surprisingly okay: Rob Johnson & Matt Cassel, woefully disappointing: Matt Leinart, Mark Sanchez, Todd Marinovich & Barkley) and further prove that scouting is an imperfect science.
Biggest Overreaction: Andre Ellington should pass up Chris Johnson on the depth chart since he doesn't waste time dancing behind the o-line like "CJ2K" always does.
Seahawks defeat Chiefs 17-16
Seattle wins on two-point conversion following Hail Mary touchdown pass at the buzzer.
Rookie of the Game: Kansas City's sixth round linebacker Dadi Nicolas (his real name) couldn't force any turnovers to alter that final score a little bit but, he still did his job as an outside linebacker better than anybody else on the field Saturday afternoon. 3 tackles, 2 for loss, 2 QB hits and a sack gave him a good box score and definitely caused Trevone Boykin to scramble for his life.
What about those first-rounders? Kansas City did not have a first-round pick.
Seattle OL Germain Ifedi is going to start in week one for the Seahawks as the right guard most likely. His debut performance against the Chiefs was impressive as he paved the way for multiple rushers and made fellow linemen's jobs easier by preventing his designated opponent from getting anywhere near Christine Michael and Russell Wilson.
Quick Notes
1. Former Wisconsin QB/WR/S Tanner McEvoy somehow made it through an NFL training camp and kicked serious ass in his first NFL preseason game. Not only did McEboy catch three passes for 71 yards and a touchdown but, that touchdown was essentially the game-winning touchdown catch on a Hail Mary of all plays. He's not going to make the final roster barring any serious injuries to other players but, the practice squad is not out of the question for this versatile athlete.
2. Kansas City used five quarterbacks in this game and here they are ranked from strongest performance to weakest performance
1 - Alex Smith (3/4-36-0-0, 7 points by KC while in the game)
2 - Aaron Murray (3/5-52-0-0, 3 points)
3 - Nick Foles (4/8-37-0-0, 3 points)
4 - Tyler Bray (3/9-48-0-0, 3 points)
5 - Kevin Hogan (2/6-21-0-1, 0 points)
If I were the Chiefs' GM, I would make this as dramatic as possible and cut the weakest link after this week's preseason game and next week's game and then they'd be left with three QB's, two for the active roster and one for the practice squad. I'm sorry, Kevin Hogan, but I've never believed in you and you were the weakest link so... goodbye.
3. Marcus Peters picked up where he left off by intercepting the very accurate Russell Wilson by jumping in front of his receiver at the goal line and giving flashbacks to one of the least satisfying Super Bowl endings ever.
Biggest Overreaction: ALL ABOARD THE C-MIKE TRAIN AGAIN! Christine Michael is for really, really real this time!
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| Any excuse for me to use this image is a good excuse. |
Tyrod Taylor gets paid big to lose to Scott Tolzien.
Rookie of the Game: Between a chipped bone in his hip and his rumored involvement in the major lawsuit against Tennessee's athletics program, it's no wonder that Curt Maggitt went undrafted this season. Luckily for him, the Colts are a franchise that is familiar with trying to redeem people (see: Jim Irsay) and they took a chance on signing him right after the draft concluded. The former Volunteer had four tackles including three for a loss against Buffalo Saturday evening.
What about those first-rounders? Bills' defensive end Shaq Lawson has had shoulder surgery and will miss most if not all of the 2016 season.
Colts' center Ryan Kelly was inconsistent in his debut and will be expected to have more of the same as it has never been easy for any rookie center to start from day one. Kelly did a fine job at Alabama but, I never saw him as a first rounder and the Colts' maybe jumped the gun on taking an offensive lineman just so they can say they tried to help Andrew Luck not lose internal organs on the field. In all fairness, he only got tossed around by the huge former pro-bowler Marcell Dareus.
Quick Notes
1. Why did the Bills trade Kiko Alonso? I understand how enticing LeSean McCoy is and was last season but, this team looks desperate and lost at linebacker with Lorenzo Alexander currently listed as a starting outside linebacker. The team also signed former d-end Kroy Biermann and former inside linebacker David Hawthorne out of desperation and are trying to work them both outside despite a lack of ability at that specific position.
2. Speaking of the LeSean McCoy trade, Buffalo's running backs behind LeSean McCoy are good enough to start if needed and Karlos Williams has already proven that to be true. Former Arkansas Razorback Jonathan Williams had a good first game with eight carries for 44 yards. With all of the hype coming out of Bills' training camp on J-Will and the awesome rookie season from K-Will, this team really does not need LeSean McCoy the way they may have in 2014.
3. Considering how much the Bills hate E.J. Manuel, Cardale Jones should lock up the backup job behind Tyrod Taylor before the fourth game of the preseason. Jones couldn't beat out J.T. Barrett for the starting job at Ohio State AND keep it for long but, his NFL future is much brighter than Barrett's likely will be. The former Buckeye that "ain't come to play school" came to play ball in this one, completing 11 of 21 for 162 yards and a touchdown while also rushing four times for 34 yards.
Biggest Overreaction: Luck can throw all he wants, nothing can save him from Indy's atrocious running game.
Rams defeat Cowboys 28-24
LA gets their first home win since 1994.
Rookie of the Game: All the talk of the football world was about QB Dak Prescott after he looked more ready than any other quarterback drafted this offseason to start in the NFL. Mississippi State's best quarterback ever completed ten of twelve passes for 139 yards and two touchdowns and he also gained 13 yards on the ground. Prescott proved that he can be a pocket passer, scramble effectively if needed and throw absolute darts to the receivers he accurately recognizes as open. Let the Prescott lovefest begin because, it's only a matter of time before Dallas gets furious with Tony Romo's lack of postseason success.
What about those first-rounders? Jared Goff (4/9-38-0-1) didn't get a long enough tryout for the Rams' week 1 starting job and in the little bit that we saw, none of his play was very impressive. Case Keenum is still the week one starting quarterback for now.
RB Ezekiel Elliott rested with a supposedly minor hamstring injury. The Cowboys' running back will try to give it a go this upcoming weekend.
Quick Notes
1. The Rams have had an awful receiving corps every year since Jeff Fisher has taken over, through none of the receivers' faults as Jeff Fisher just has not had any success with a wide receiver since Derrick fucking Mason in the early-to-mid aughts. I wasn't on the anti-Fisher train until I realized that fact. With all of that said, I reallllllly like Nelson Spruce a lot. The former Colorado Buffalo had one incredible drive where he caught four of five passes for 28 yards and converted a fourth down in Julian Edelman-esque fashion. He could be another one of the league's many excellent slot receivers but, when he's on a Jeff Fisher team that already employs the human wildcard (Tavon Austin), he's going to have to wait a while for his breakout. Maybe Spruce will luck out and get released, freeing him up to get signed by Chicago or Atlanta or someone that could actually use him effectively.
2. The Rams also knew what they were doing when they drafted Sean Mannion in the third round last season (Les Snead = yay; Jeff Fisher = nay). I get being desperate for a quarterback but, there was no reason for the Rams to trade up for Goff when they could have just stayed confident in their guy from last year who saw very little playing time in Mannion. He really looked like he knew what he was doing in the second half whether it was against the third-string defense or not. The former Oregon State Beaver completed 18 of 25 passes for 147 yards, 3 touchdowns and one INT, all while leading Los Angeles to a comeback victory and establishing a relationship with ROTG Nelson Spruce and rookie TE Tyler Higbee. I know this sounds like the Biggest Overreaction and trust me, it totally is, but I feel like Sean Mannion is going to be the better NFL quarterback than Jared Goff. Don't believe it? fight me in real life, you coward (please don't).
3. Dallas played in this game also but, outside of Dak Prescott's debut, not a single thing of note happened. Oh wait! that's Dez Bryant's music! Dez played despite still recovering from some offseason surgery and the general irrelevancy of the entire preseason. Shocker! He looked good (2 catches, 28 yards and a nice touchdown grab).
Titans defeat Chargers 27-10
Tennessee's running game exploits San Diego's worthless run defense in a win.
Rookie of the Game: Derrick Henry was not the only running back to blow up for the Titans in this game but, he was the only one to wear a single-digit uniform number while doing said blowing up plus, he was the most consistently awesome runner on the field Saturday night. Henry shared carries with DeMarco Murray at first and finished with 74 yards on 10 carries with a touchdown and still averaged 6.4 yards per carry if you took away his longest run.
What about those first-rounders? Jack Conklin played exactly like rookie offensive tackle is expected to in their first preseason game; shaken but not stirred. He is absolutely not touching the left side of the offensive line barring any injuries to teammates and as long as he's at right tackle, maybe Marcus Mariota will be able to stay safe despite Conklin's pass-blocking inefficiencies. He's a run blocker at heart and that part of his game went extremely well.
Joey Bosa is still holding out on the Chargers. Very reminiscent of Ladanian Tomlinson's holdout or Shawne Merriman's or Philip Rivers' or etc.
Quick Notes
1. Continuing on the trend of bragging up Tennessee's running game and offensive line, they even made Bishop Sankey look reanimated! The disappointing third year pro had 52 yards and a touchdown on 3 carries. Even Antonio Andrews had 41 yards on 8 carries and now, everyone is looking at Dexter McCluster as someone that might be sacrificed despite his contract.
2. Without Joey Bosa, San Diego still managed to hit Tennessee's quarterbacks seven times. That is a very bad sign for the Titans' odds at holding Mariota up for 16 games with no issues. I'm not convinced by any of San Diego's pass rushers besides maybe Nick Dzubnar. Dzubnar is closing in on preseason hall of fame status by the way.
3. Is it news or noise that Melvin Gordon III had a 44-yard touchdown catch and 56 yards on 4 touches? I'd say noise considering how great he looked last preseason. Plus, it was still just one play that outshone everything he did last season (0 touchdowns in all of 2015).
Biggest Overreaction: DeMarco Murray has 2,000 yard potential again this season.
Texans defeat 49ers 24-13
Houston's defense pulls off a strong victory despite absence of J.J. Watt.
Rookie of the Game: And the winner for the game with least impressive rookie showings goes to... this game right here. Jeff Driskel did a bad job of passing the ball but, much like Tim Tebow in an Adam Gase offense, he could make his skill set work in a Chip Kelly offense. The former Louisiana Tech QB ran five times for 61 yards and converted a few very impressive runs into first downs.
What about those first-rounders? Will Fuller was drafted as a speedster receiver who will need some time to develop into a full-bodied NFL wide receiver. His debut showed him catch one four-yard pass and get demolished on a punt return as a "welcome to the big leagues" moment. He's going to be brutal as a rookie and I can't really tell where he'll go from there onward for the Texans.
DE DeForest Buckner did a very nice job of being in the right places at the right time. The former best player on Oregon's defense racked up three tackles in the first quarter before exiting for lesser defenders, who did a noticeably lesser job.
Quick Notes
1. San Fran backup QB Thaddeus Lewis (12/21-97-0-0 and 10 yards on 4 carries) tore his ACL after looking like the best passer among the Driskel-Gabbert-Lewis horror-show they put on. Lewis showed great ability to balance himself and make defenders miss before he took one bad step and sadly, ended his season.
2. Vance McDonald (2-54-1) reminds me of Travis Kelce in that both can turn 3-yard catches into 30-yard gains through nothing but grit and toughness. He has tremendous fantasy sleeper value in an offense with no receiving weapons outside of Torrey Smith.
3. Mike Davis (5-72-0) was an absolute waste of a roster spot last season (35-58-0) and now, looks like a breakout stud again. Part of me wants to stop this observation before I go overboard but, sometimes it just takes some time for players to adjust to the pro leagues and this could be a perfect example. This could also be a waste of everyone's time again or maybe, just maybe, Chip Kelly can get an awesome 1-2 punch going that he couldn't develop in Philly last season.
Biggest Overreaction: The Texans' defense looks just fine without J.J. What's his name? They don't need him.
All overreactions are somewhat sarcastic and final.
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