2015 NFL Mock Draft 1.0
By Ryan Crawford
The hot commodities of this draft include the two intriguing quarterbacks, two high level running backs, a batch of very good interior defensive linemen, three dynamite edge rushers and a group of wide receivers that just might rival last years extraordinary crop. Here’s my initial mock draft for 2015. There’s sure to be many changes before long.
1. TAMPA BAY BUCS – Jameis Winston – QB – Florida State
Lovie Smith and the Bucs badly need a franchise quarterback and Jameis Winston can be that guy. Questions about his maturity and too many interceptions are the major red flags. I think the Bucs jump at the opportunity to snag such a high level QB prospect and hope the potential problems work themselves out.
2. TENNESSEE TITANS – Leonard Williams – DT – USC
I do not think the Titans are enamored with developing Marcus Mariota at QB. Williams might be the top talent in the draft and fills a huge need in the middle of the Titans defensive line.
3. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS – Randy Gregory-OLB- Nebraska
Jaguars are looking to upgrade on defense and Gregory is a stud.
4. OAKLAND RAIDERS – Amari Cooper-WR-Alabama
Take your choice between Cooper, White, Parker etc. but there is a clear need at the receiver position and the Raiders will have plenty to choose from. Cooper seems to be the cream of the crop.
5. WASHINGTON REDSKINS – Landon Collins – S- Alabama
Best safety in the draft fills a huge void for the Redskins.
6. NEW YORK JETS – Dante Fowler – DE/OLB – Florida
Bigtime explosive pass rusher is a welcome gift for the defensive minded new head coach Todd Bowles.
7. CHICAGO BEARS – Shane Ray – DE – Missouri
Watching the Bears play defense last season was somewhat frightening for Bears fans. Ray is a pure pass rusher who should put some pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
8. ATLANTA FALCONS – Danny Shelton -DT- Washington
Another team with a bad defense…seeing a trend down here? Danny Shelton was a monster at the senior bowl and should anchor the middle of the Falcons line for years.
9. NEW YORK GIANTS – Brandon Scherff- OT- Iowa
The Giants most important job is to keep Eli Manning upright so he is able to get the ball to Odell Beckham Jr, Victor Cruz and Ruben Randle. This load should help accomplish that goal.
10. ST LOUIS RAMS – Marcus Mariota- QB- Oregon
Rams are thrilled to see Mariota drop into their laps and will jump at the chance to replace the often injured and highly paid Sam Bradford
Could Marcus Mariota slip to the Rams at 10? (Via SportsChat)
11. MINNESOTA VIKINGS – Kevin White – WR- West Virginia
White ran a 4.35 at the combine. At 6’3″ with top flight speed, he can be a dynamic weapon for Teddy Bridgewater
12. CLEVELAND BROWNS – Devante Parker- WR- Louisville
Parker is another top weapon to be contended with and the Browns have major concerns at the wide receiver spot with Josh Gordon being a major question mark.
13. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS – Vic Beasley-DE-Clemson
Beasley is a prolific pass rusher who will be called upon to play OLB because of his size. Certainly the Saints will require some defense sooner or later. Had a great combine.
14. MIAMI DOLPHINS – Ereck Flowers- OT- Miami
Another massive body in front of Ryan Tannehill could be just what the doctor ordered for the Dolphins.
15. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS – Arik Armstead –DE/DT-Oregon
New coach, new ideas but there will be a big need to retool the ferocious 49ers defense and Armstead is a mountain of a man for the defensive line.
16. HOUSTON TEXANS – Andrus Peat – OT- Stanford
The Texans need to build up their offensive line and Peat is great place to start
17. SAN DIEGO CHARGERS – Eddie Goldman- DT- Florida State
With all the weapons they have on offense, the Chargers can use a little defense and this guy is a force in the middle of a four man front
18 KANSAS CITY CHIEFS – Dorial Green Beckham- WR- Missouri
Green-Beckham is just one of those guys who could not seem to find his niche in college but oozes talent. The Chiefs are a team that had no touchdowns last year from a wide receiver. Seems like a match to me.
19. CLEVELAND BROWNS – TJ Clemmings- OT- Pittsburgh
The Browns continue to build up their offense. Now if they can only figure out the quarterback situation then they can start to move the team forward.
20. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES – Trae Waynes – CB – Michigan St
Not sure how I got Waynes to drop down this far, especially after he ran a 4.30 in the combine, but the Eagles would be thrilled if he did and snatch him up quickly.
21. CINCINNATI BENGALS – Bud Dupree- DE/OLB- Kentucky
Called a physical freak of nature, this future NFL edge rusher will help the Bengals defense immensely. Ran a 4.56 in the 40 yard dash and has a 42 inch vertical leap and did a 138 inch broad jump. All while weighing in at 270 lbs. Oh My!!
22. PITTSBURGH STEELERS – Malcolm Brown- DT- Texas
A mountain for the middle of the Steeler defensive line.
23. DETROIT LIONS – LaEl Collins – OT – LSU
The Lions have a few holes on their offensive line and Collins looks like he’ll be a pretty good one. At 6’5″ and 322 lbs, he projects at left tackle.
24. ARIZONA CARDINALS – Jaelen Strong- WR- Arizona State
At 6’4″, this blazer is another stud in the crop of highly sought after receivers. A local product, the Cards are thrilled to scoop him up at 24.
25. CAROLINA PANTHERS – Marcus Peters – CB- Washington
Regarded as the number two cornerback in the entire draft, Peters is a very physical corner who fills a major need for the Panthers.
26. BALTIMORE RAVENS – Melvin Gordon-RB-Wisconsin
The Ravens are in dire need of a top flight running back and Gordon is considered the best of a strong group.
27. DALLAS COWBOYS – Maxx Williams- TE – Minnesota
The heir apparent to Jason Witten, the Cowboys are on the lookout for a young tight end that they can develop. Williams has great hands and top speed. Reminds some of a young Jeremy Shockey.
28. DENVER BRONCOS – Devin Funchess- WR- Michigan
Broncos are in salary cap dilemmas with the Thomas boys. If they franchise Demaryius Thomas, they might lose Julius Thomas. Either way they should be in the market for a pass catching tight end with speed to play receiver and Funchess certainly fits the description.
29. INDIANAPOLIS COLTS – Cedric Ogbuhei- OT- Texas A & M
When you have a quarterback with the ability of an Andrew Luck, you must wisely do anything and everything to protect him. A big tackle helps and Ogbuhei oozes with potential.
30. GREEN BAY PACKERS – Denzel Perryman – ILB – Miami
The Packers just released veteran A.J.Hawk and Perryman is a highly regarded prospect who could step into that inside linebacker role.
31. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS – Kevin Johnson- CB- Wake Forest
The Legion of Boom was a little banged up by the end of the season and with Byron Maxwell slated for free agency, a young corner might be just what the doctor ordered.
32. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS – Mike Bennett – DT- Ohio State
Another big body for the defensive front should help the Patriots continue to dominate the NFL.
Other Potential 1st Round Picks
Todd Gurley- RB- Georgia
Trey Flowers – DE- Arkansas
Shaq Thompson- OLB – Washington
Eli Harold- DE- Virginia
Breshad Perriman- WR- Central Florida
Quinten Rollins – CB- Miami (Ohio)
NFL Week 15 Predictions
By Brett Malamud
Cardinals (10-3) over Rams (6-7)
Steelers (8-5) over Falcons (5-8)
Redskins (3-10) over Giants (4-9)
Patriots (10-3) over Dolphins (7-6)
Chiefs (7-6) over Raiders (2-11)
Texans (7-6) over Colts (9-4)
Browns (7-6) over Bengals (8-4-1)
Ravens (8-5) over Jaguars (2-11)
Packers (10-3) over Bills (7-6)
Buccaneers (2-11) over Panthers (4-8-1)
Titans (2-11) over Jets (2-11)
Broncos (10-3) over Chargers (8-5)
Lions (9-4) over Vikings (6-7)
Seahawks (9-4) over 49ers (7-6)
Eagles (9-4) over Cowboys (9-4)
Saints (5-8) over Bears (5-8)
Brett Malamud is a Computer Science Major at Binghamton University. He is the co-founder of dabuzzza.com. His favorite athletes are Derek Jeter and Todd Bertuzzi. You can follow him on twitter at @brettnyy
NFL Week 14 Predictions
Brett Malamud’s Picks
Dallas over Chicago
St. Louis over Washington
NY Giants over Tennessee
New Orleans over Carolina
Minnesota over NY Jets
Miami over Baltimore
Houston over Jacksonville
Detroit over Tampa Bay
Indianapolis over Cleveland
Cincinnati over Pittsburgh
Denver over Buffalo
Arizona over Kansas City
Seattle over Philadelphia
San Francisco over Oakland
New England over San Diego
Green Bay over Atlanta
Alex Horowitz’s Picks
Dallas over Chicago
St. Louis over Washington
Tennessee over NY Giants
New Orleans over Carolina
Minnesota over NY Jets
Miami over Baltimore
Houston over Jacksonville
Detroit over Tampa Bay
Cleveland over Indianapolis
Cincinnati over Pittsburgh
Buffalo over Denver
Kansas City over Arizona
Philadelphia over Seattle
San Francisco over Oakland
New England over San Diego
Green Bay over Atlanta
Studs and Duds: NFL Week 13
By Brett Malamud
Here’s week 13’s edition of Studs and Duds:
Stud: Ryan Fitzpatrick, Houston Texans
Fitzpatrick had a great day on Sunday, throwing six touchdowns and 358 yards in Houston’s rout of the Titans.
Dud: Cleveland Quarterbacks
Down in the fourth quarter, the Browns brought Johnny Manziel into replace Brian Hoyer. Manziel rushed for a touchdown and in doing so, sparked some controversy in Cleveland. After announcing that Hoyer will start this weekend against the Colts, be sure that Johnny Football fans will be outraged for no good reason at a team that still has a winning record.
Stud: DeAndre Hopkins, Houston Texans
Hauling in most of Fitzpatrick’s throws was DeAndre Hopkins, who had 238 receiving yards and two touchdowns.
Dud: Jets antics
The Jets are in a bad place right now. It was reported last week that head coach Rex Ryan was forced by the “higher ups” in the Jets organization to start Geno Smith at quarterback on Monday night against the Dolphins. Then the antics continued when the Jets announced the entire offense on the PA system, but didn’t announce Geno Smith. The speculation is that the Jets tried to avoid fans booing Smith.
Rex Ryan was forced to start Geno Smith this week. (Via AP)
Stud: Tre Mason, St. Louis Rams
Mason was great on the ground and in the air. He finished with 117 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Mason also added 47 receiving yards and a receiving touchdown.
Dud: Tony Romo, Dallas Cowboys
Romo didn’t throw a touchdown pass, but did throw two interceptions. He also threw for just 199 yards.
Stud: Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints
Brees hit nine different receivers in route to his 257 yards, five touchdown passing performance.
Dud: Colin Kaepernick, San Francisco 49ers
Kaepernick couldn’t handle the Seattle defense. He threw for just 121 yards and no touchdowns. He also threw a pair of interceptions in the 49ers Thanksgiving loss to the Seahawks.
Brett Malamud is a Computer Science Major at Binghamton University. He is the co-founder of dabuzzza.com. His favorite athletes are Derek Jeter and Todd Bertuzzi. You can follow him on twitter at @brettnyy
NFL Week 11 Predictions
By Brett Malamud
This week has a lot of great matchups, especially in the later games. Here’s my week 11 predictions:
BYES: Ravens, Cowboys, Jaguars, Jets
-Bills 09 (5-4) at Dolphins 22 (5-4), FINAL on Thursday
The Dolphins took a big win that propelled them into second place in the AFC East.
-Vikings (4-5) at Bears (3-6), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Bears defense can make or break this game. I think that the Vikings will come out strong and take the victory. Verdict: Vikings
-Texans (4-5) at Browns (6-3), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
Good matchup here as the Texans head into Cleveland. The Browns are riding a three game winning streak and show no signs of stopping here. I think they’ll take this one in a close game. Verdict: Browns
-Falcons (3-6) at Panthers (3-6-1), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Panthers have not been able to get it together. Cam Newton has thrown one touchdown pass since week seven. I think that he’ll edge out Atlanta here though Verdict: Falcons
-Bengals (5-3-1) at Saints (4-5), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
I’m taking New Orleans, no question. I think that this one could turn ugly if Drew Brees is himself. Verdict: Saints
-Buccaneers (1-8) at Redskins (3-6), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Bucs enter week 11 with the 29th ranked offense and defense. They will probably lose this one on the road. Verdict: Redskins
-Broncos (7-2) at Rams (3-6), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Broncos should win this one easily. Look for Peyton Manning to have another great game. Verdict: Broncos
-49ers (5-4) at Giants (3-6), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Giants have won their last two matchups with the 49ers, the first of the two coming in the NFC Championship game a few years ago. However, I’m going to go with the 49ers on the road. I think that the Giants will make it a good game though and will stay close throughout. Verdict: 49ers
-Seahawks (6-3) at Chiefs (6-3), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
This game will be a battle of defenses. I think Russell Wilson takes over and that Marshawn Lynch runs in a pair of touchdowns. Verdict: Seahawks
-Raiders (0-9) at Chargers (5-4), Sunday @ 4:05 PM EST
I expect the winless Raiders to stay winless this week. I just can’t see them taking down San Diego on the road. Verdict: Chargers
-Lions (7-2) at Cardinals (8-1), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
Another fantastic matchup here puts Calvin Johnson and the Lions against the Cardinals secondary. I think that Megatron wins here and has a huge game. Don’t doubt Larry Fitzgerald. Even with the Carson Palmer injury, Fitzgerald could have a good game. Verdict: Lions
-Eagles (7-2) at Packers (6-3), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
Rodgers takes on…Sanchez? A big game here sees one of the league’s top QB’s taking on the former butt-fumbler. Sanchez was good last week though. I just cannot see how he pulls one out in Lambeau though. Verdict: Packers
Mark Sanchez hopes to continue the Eagles winning ways this week in Green Bay (Via USA Today)
-Patriots (7-2) at Colts (6-3), Sunday @ 8:30 PM EST
Luck vs Brady. Now there’s a good matchup. The two QB’s will duel on national television in Lucas Oil Stadium. The Colts have the top ranked offense at the moment. I see that trend continuing this week as they take down the mighty Patriots. Verdict: Colts
-Steelers (6-4) at Titans (2-7), Monday @ 8:30 PM EST
A strange Monday Night Football matchup sees the Steelers’ 4th ranked offense going head to head with the Titans’ 31st ranked offense. This game shouldn’t be close as long as Big Ben keeps his composure. I’m taking Pittsburgh. Verdict: Steelers
Brett Malamud is a Computer Science Major at Binghamton University. He is the co-founder of dabuzzza.com. His favorite athletes are Derek Jeter and Todd Bertuzzi. You can follow him on twitter at @brettnyy
NFL Week 10 Predictions
By Brett Malamud
This week sees a lot of boring matchups and few intriguing ones. It would be unfair to predict the Thursday night game, since this is being published on a Sunday. The Browns beat the Bengals, and I probably would have picked them, as they’ve been great thus far. Here are your week 10 predictions:
-Chiefs (5-3) at Bills (5-3), Sunday @ 1:00 PM ESTSurprisingly this game is going to be really good. The Chiefs have the edge in my book, and I think that their run game will win it for them here. Verdict: Chiefs
-Dolphins (5-3) at Lions (6-2), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
This is my game of the week and I’m going to keep up with it. Both teams enter with a top-three defense. The Dolphins have been great on the run and the Lions have been great on the pass. Calvin Johnson returns this week, but I don’t think that he’ll be too much of a factor. I think that the Dolphins take win on the road in a shocker. Verdict: Dolphins
Calvin Johnson returns this week, but shouldn’t be a huge factor. (Via AP)
-Cowboys (6-3) at Jaguars (1-8), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
We travel to Wembley Stadium in London, England for this matchup. It shouldn’t be much of a contest. The Cowboys will run right through the Jaguars. Verdict: Cowboys
-49ers (4-4) at Saints (4-4), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
A good matchup here sees the second ranked defense heading into New Orleans to face the second ranked offense. It should be a close one, but I’m taking the Saints. Verdict: Saints.
-Titans (2-6) at Ravens (5-4), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Titans enter week 10 towards the bottom of the league in virtually every major category. They will face the Ravens, who played a good offensive game last week, but were outmatched by Big Ben and the Steelers. I’m going with the smart play and am taking Baltimore. Verdict: Ravens
-Steelers (6-3) at Jets (1-8), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Jets are done. I think there’s a chance that they win here, but not a big chance. The Steelers have the third ranked offense and quarterback Ben Roethlisberger comes in with 12 touchdown passes in his last two games. The Jets will make it interesting, as they always do, but will ultimately fall to Pittsburgh. Verdict: Steelers
-Falcons (2-6) at Buccaneers (1-7), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Falcons come in off of the bye week and head into Tampa Bay on a five game losing streak. Tampa Bay is ranked 31st in both offense and defense. That’ll be more of the same here, and the Falcons will win the game. Verdict: Falcons
-Broncos (6-2) at Raiders (0-8), Sunday @ 4:05 PM EST
Is this even a game? Not really. The Broncos will easily dispose of the winless Raiders. Verdict: Broncos
-Rams (3-5) at Cardinals (7-1), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
Hmmm. This one isn’t really too hard to pick, I’m going with Cardinals at home. Verdict: Cardinals
-Giants (3-5) at Seahawks (5-3), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
The Giants will need all of their star power to take down the mighty Seahawks. I see Seattle’s defense taking advantage of Eli Manning and coasting to the victory. Verdict: Seahawks
-Bears (3-5) at Packers (5-3), Sunday @ 8:30 PM EST
A Sunday Night Football game that won’t be easily forgotten. This game will strictly come down to defense. Both of these offenses are projected to score a boatload of points tonight. Whoever can step up on defense will take it. And I think it’ll be Green Bay. Verdict: Packers
-Panthers (3-5-1) at Eagles (6-2), Monday @ 8:30 PM EST
Headed in with the fourth ranked offense, the Eagles look to continue their early season success. However, they’ll turn to Mark Sanchez at quarterback, following the injury to Nick Foles. This could prove to be the Eagles kryptonite as they have the 23rd ranked defense. I see them running the ball a lot en route to the victory. Verdict: Eagles
NFL Week Nine Predictions
By Brett Malamud
-Saints (3-4) at Panthers (3-4-1), Thursday @ 8:25 PM EST
The Saints come into week nine off of a big win against the Green Bay Packers. The Panthers come in with a loss to the Seahawks. Cam Newton looked bad. Plain and simple. I’m not sure that their defense will be able to stop Drew Brees and Brandin Cooks though. I’m taking the Saints. Verdict: Saints
-Buccaneers (1-6) at Browns (4-3), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Buccaneers are going to have a tough time here. Nothing has been clicking for them and the Browns have been playing well. Brian Hoyer will lead Cleveland to another victory. Verdict: Browns
-Cardinals (6-1) at Cowboys (6-2), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
This is shaping up to be a great matchup. The Cowboys and the Cardinals have both been great. The Cardinals took down the Eagles while Dallas was edged out last week by the Washington Redskins. I think that this week will be different though and Dallas win get the win Verdict: Cowboys
-Eagles (5-2) at Texans (4-4), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Eagles were taken down by Arizona last week. They’ll take on the Texans this week, who beat the Titans last week. Look for the Texans defense to give the Eagles trouble throughout the game. I’m still going with the Eagles though. Verdict: Eagles
-Jets (1-7) at Chiefs (4-3), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Jets announced that Michael Vick will start at quarterback. However, the move comes against a tough Chiefs defense that manhandled the St. Louis Rams last week. Kansas City’s crowd will be into it, especially after they watched the Royals lose in the World Series. The Chiefs will run right through the Jets. Verdict: Chiefs
-Jaguars (1-7) at Bengals (4-2-1), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
This game doesn’t have much debate regarding the winner. The Bengals will take this one. Verdict: Bengals
-Chargers (5-3) at Dolphins (4-3), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Dolphins are good, but are they good enough to beat the Chargers? I think that this will be a close one but San Diego will pull away at the end. Verdict: Chargers
-Redskins (3-5) at Vikings (3-5), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
RG3 returns in this matchup against the Vikings. The Vikings have the 29th ranked offense, which should lead to their downfall. Verdict: Redskins
-Rams (2-5) at 49ers (4-3), Sunday @ 4:05 PM EST
The 49ers enter with the second ranked defense. They’ll take on Austin Davis and the Rams who have the 22nd ranked offense. The Niners will take this one. Verdict: 49ers
-Broncos (6-1) at Patriots (6-2), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
Brady vs Manning. It doesn’t get much better than that. This will be a QB deal throughout but Denver will come out on top Verdict: Broncos
-Raiders (0-7) at Seahawks (4-3), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
Is this even a game? The answer is no. I see this more of a funeral for the Raiders’ season. The Seahawks will coast to the victory. Verdict: Seahawks
-Ravens (5-3) at Steelers (5-3), Sunday @ 8:30 PM EST
Could be a good one here. The Steelers put up 51 points on the Colts last week and according to the NFL, have the third ranked offense. I think they’ve got what it takes to beat the Ravens at home on national television. Verdict: Steelers
-Colts (5-3) at Giants (3-4), Monday @ 8:30 PM EST
The Colts travel into Metlife Stadium with the top ranked offense. The Giants? Eh. They come in off of their much needed bye week after losing in the previous two weeks. I’m taking Luck and the Colts, no question. Verdict: Colts
Brett Malamud is a Computer Science Major at Binghamton University. He is the co-founder of dabuzzza.com. His favorite athletes are Derek Jeter and Todd Bertuzzi. You can follow him on twitter at @brettnyy
NFL Week Eight Predictions
By Brett Malamud
A recordbreaker, a fantasy football stud, and “the next Tom Brady or Kurt Warner” are few of the many who will suit up this week. Here are your week eight predictions:
BYES: Giants, 49ers
-Chargers (5-2) at Broncos (5-1), Thursday @ 8:25 PM EST
This is shaping up to be a great game. The Broncos head into this matchup coming off of Peyton Manning’s record breaking performance and he shows no signs of slowing down. The Chargers are hungry though, and a week after taking a loss at home to the Kansas City Chiefs, they’ll look to bounce back on the road. Both teams are passing teams and that will be a big factor in the game. I’m going with the safe bet here by taking Manning and the Broncos. Verdict: Broncos
-Lions (5-2) at Falcons (2-5), Sunday @ 9:30 AM EST
At this moment in time, the Lions have the top ranked defense according to the NFL. They’ll travel to the Georgia Dome to take on the Atlanta Falcons. The Falcons enter with the 30th ranked defense, but the sixth ranked offense. Defense wins games and they’ll win this one. I’m taking the Lions. Verdict: Lions
-Vikings (2-5) at Buccaneers (1-5), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
This will probably turn out to be a close game but could be a boring one. The Vikings competed with the Bills this week and barring a last second touchdown catch by Sammy Watkins, they would’ve won the game. This week will probably be different and will end in a win for the Vikings. Look for Teddy Bridgewater to come alive in this one. Verdict: Vikings
-Bills (4-3) at Jets (1-6), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
Could the Jets start their season at 1-7? At the beginning of the season, that was what I thought they’d do. Unlike my prediction, they probably won’t win their final eight in a row (Yeah that was a pretty insane prediction) to snag a playoff spot. The addition of Percy Harvin will be a bit of a decoy but won’t make an immediate impact simply because of this: If Geno Smith cannot accurately throw the ball to Percy Harvin, then Harvin is a non-factor. They’ll face the Bills here and I’ll take a shot on them in this game for the upset. Verdict: Jets
-Bears (3-4) at Patriots (5-2), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Patriots escaped with a win last week against the Jets. They won’t see it getting any easier for them this week when they host the Chicago Bears. The Bears enter this week off of a bad game against the Dolphins last week. They’re going to have a rough time against Tom Brady. Verdict: Patriots
–Seahawks (3-3) at Panthers (3-3-1), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
I’ve been looking forward to this game for a few week now. Russell Wilson and Cam Newton have been two of the top running quarterbacks this season. This week they’ll put it on the line to see who can lead their team to victory. I’m going to go with Wilson, but expect Newton to test the Seahawks defense. Verdict: Seahawks
–Dolphins (3-3) at Jaguars (1-6), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Dolphins came out on top in their matchup against the Chicago Bears, and should have no problem this week. They’ll take on the Jaguars, who finally got their first win last week against the Browns Verdict: Dolphins
-Ravens (5-2) at Bengals (3-2-1), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Bengals were shut out last week against the Colts but look to move on. They’ll probably take a loss this week though to the Ravens, who took down the Atlanta Falcons last week. Verdict: Ravens
-Texans (3-4) at Titans (2-5), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
Both of these teams took losses last week and will attempt to change what have become disappointing seasons. The team that can step up on defense will win this one and I think it’ll be Houston Verdict: Texans
-Rams (2-4) at Chiefs (3-3), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
Brett Favre said that Rams quarterback Austin Davis could be “the next Tom Brady or Kurt Warner.” That’s a pretty big compliment coming from one of the greatest quarterbacks in the history of football. This week he’ll turn his attention the Kansas City Chiefs, whose defense was one of the leagues best last season. I can see him getting by though, and the Rams will win a close one. Verdict: Rams
Austin Davis: the next Tom Brady? (Via AP)
–Eagles (5-1) at Cardinals (5-1), Sunday @ 4:05 PM EST
This is my game of the week. The Eagles come off of their bye week and head into Phoenix to play the Cardinals. In their last game, Philadelphia shut out the New York Giants and were clicking on all cylinders. This week they’ll take on the Arizona Cardinals, who had a bit of a break last week when they faced the dreaded Oakland Raiders. This game will probably be decided in the final minutes, and I believe that the Eagles will come out on top. Verdict: Eagles
–Colts (5-2) at Steelers (4-3), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
Last week, Andrew luck had another great performance in route to a shut out over the Cincinnati Bengals. The Steelers won last week, but didn’t really show that they could make some noise this coming week. Indianapolis will take the W. Verdict: Colts
–Raiders (0-6) at Cleveland (3-3), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
Can the Raiders finally win one? The Jacksonville Jaguars won their first game against the Cleveland Browns last weekend. This week Cleveland will take on the Oakland Raiders and hope to come out with a win. I think that they’re too good for Oakland and will coast to the victory. Verdict: Browns
–Packers (5-2) at Saints (2-4), Sunday @ 8:30 PM EST
R-E-L-A-X. Aaron Rodgers has got it under control. He threw for three more touchdowns last week in a huge win over the Panthers. Drew Brees, meanwhile, has had the worst of luck this season and can’t seem to win games. This week, the quarterback duel should be fun to watch but ultimately, the Packers will win the game. Verdict: Packers
–Redskins (2-5) at Cowboys (6-1), Monday @ 8:30 PM EST
Two NFC rivals will go head to head in this week eight matchup. DeMarco Murray continues to dominate each and every week that should continue this week. On the other side, Kirk Cousins was pulled from the game in favor of Colt McCoy, who led Washington to the victory. The Cowboys will take this one, and it could be by a landslide. Verdict: Cowboys
Brett Malamud is a Computer Science Major at Binghamton University. He is the co-founder of dabuzzza.com. His favorite athletes are Derek Jeter and Todd Bertuzzi. You can follow him on twitter at @brettnyy
Studs and Duds: NFL Week Seven
By Brett Malamud
It’s pretty easy to spot out the studs for this week. With the many game changing plays this week, some of these studs were a lock for the list. Here’s this week’s edition of Studs and Duds:
Stud: Peyton Manning, Denver Broncos
How can you lead off this list with anyone who isn’t named Peyton Manning? The future hall of famer reached a new plateau, becoming the NFL’s all time leading passing touchdowns leader. But he didn’t stop there, and threw another touchdown. Manning finished the day with 318 passing yards and four touchdowns.
Dud: Giovani Bernard, Cincinnati Bengals
It just so happens that the Bengals were shutout but I’m blaming Bernard here, simply because of his dip in performance from the week before. A week after his 157 yard performance, Bernard could not find success this week. He finished the day with just 17 yards on the ground and without a touchdown.
Stud: Demaryius Thomas, Denver Broncos
Thomas caught Peyton Manning’s record breaking touchdown as part of his two touchdown night. Thomas finished the day with eight catches on nine targets for 171 receiving yards.
Dud: Alshon Jeffery, Chicago Bears
Jeffery was a big disappointment this week. He had just two catches for nine yards, and that’s not acceptable, especially since the Bears were already down 14-0 and were forced to throw the football.
Stud: Russell Wilson, Seattle Seahawks
Russell Wilson had another outstanding week. He threw for 313 passing yards and two touchdowns. Once again, Wilson proved his value to fantasy owners and added 106 rushing yards and a touchdown as well.
Dud: Julius Thomas, Denver Broncos
Surprisingly, Thomas had a off night on Sunday. He caught just four of his six targets, including a brutal drop. Thomas still leads the NFL in touchdowns though with nine.
Stud: Sammy Watkins, Buffalo Bills
Sammy Watkins had a great day with a pair of touchdown catches. The highlight was his second touchdown grab, which gave Buffalo the lead with a second left on the clock.
Dud: Buffalo Bills Running Backs
The Bills had a pretty dreadful second quarter. No, it wasn’t because of the score, but rather their backfield. Both Fred Jackson and CJ Spiller went down with injuries and will be out for the next few weeks. Not great for a team that is trying to compete in a competitive AFC East.
The Bills will miss CJ Spiller (Via AP)
Stud: Antonio Brown, Pittsburgh Steelers
Remember how I said that one play could land you on the studs or duds list? These last two studs are complete examples of just that with their trick plays. Wide receiver Antonio Brown came around the backfield to take a reverse. He curled back around to the left with the ball and fired one straight into the chest of Lance Moore. The trick play gave the Steelers the lead and eventually the win.
Stud: St. Louis Rams
The trick plays of the weekend came in St. Louis. The Seahawks, who are argued to have the top punt coverage unit in the league, were fooled multiple times by the Rams. First, they were set to return a punt as the Rams were backed up to their own 18 yard line when punter Johnny Hekker passed the ball for a first down. Then later in the game, Seattle set out to return a punt. The Rams ran back towards the left side of the field to block for return man Tavon Austin, bringing the Seahawks along with them. The punt actually came down on the opposite side of the field to Steadman Bailey, who had an almost open sideline. Bailey took the return all the way back for a touchdown. The Rams went on to beat the defending champions 28-26.
Brett Malamud is a Computer Science Major at Binghamton University. He is the co-founder of dabuzzza.com. His favorite athletes are Derek Jeter and Todd Bertuzzi. You can follow him on twitter at @brettnyy
NFL Week Seven Predictions
By Brett Malamud
This week has Peyton Manning on the precipice of NFL history. Manning needs just two touchdowns to tie Brett Favre for the all time touchdowns record. Here’s what else is on tap for week seven:
BYES: Philadelphia Eagles, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
-Jets (1-5) at Patriots (4-2), Thursday @ 8:25 PM EST
The Jets come into this matchup off their loss to Peyton Manning and the Broncos. They showed signs of promise, and kept with Denver for most of the game. This week they’ll face another hall of fame quarterback in Tom Brady. Brady was excellent last week against the Bills and hopes to continue his success. I believe that the game will be close throughout, but I’m taking New England. Verdict: Patriots
-Falcons (2-4) at Ravens (4-2), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Falcons lost to the Bears last week in a game that was close through three quarters before Chicago pulled away. They’ll face the Ravens, who return home after their biggest win this season. Joe Flacco finished his day with five touchdown passes in route to a 48-17 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. I’m going to pick the Ravens to stay hot. Verdict: Ravens
-Titans (2-4) at Redskins (1-5), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Titans barely edged out the Jacksonville Jaguars last week, in a performance that Tennessee should not be proud of. They allowed 336 passing yards to Jaguars rookie quarterback Blake Bortles. This week they’ll have a tougher matchup against Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins who threw for 354 yards against a tough Arizona Cardinals defense. The task will be tough, and I think it’ll be too difficult for the Titans to stop Cousins. Verdict: Redskins
-Seahawks (3-2) at Rams (1-4), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Seahawks were shocked last week by the Dallas Cowboys. Seattle quarterback Russell Wilson was held to just 126 yards on the day. The Rams also were defeated last week, taking a Monday night loss to the San Francisco 49ers. Look for Rams rookie quarterback Austin Davis to show some promise against a deadly Seahawks defense, and ultimately win. The Rams will continue powering through their rough schedule. Verdict: Rams
-Browns (3-2) at Jaguars (0-6), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
I picked the Browns to win last week and they did against the Pittsburgh Steelers. They’re going to win this one too, especially against the winless Jaguars. Verdict: Browns
-Bengals (3-1-1) at Colts (4-2), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
Last week’s Bengals-Panthers game ended with Mike Nugent kicking a 36-yard field goal wide right as the clock expired to end the game in a tie. The Bengals now look to regroup as they head into Indianapolis. They’ll try to stop a red-hot Colts team, led by quarterback Andrew Luck and wide receiver T.Y. Hilton. The Colts come off of a win in Houston on Thursday Night Football. They’ll take this one, especially at the rate they’ve been playing at. Verdict: Colts
-Vikings (2-4) at Bills (3-3), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Bills couldn’t handle Tom Brady and the Patriots last week, and that sent them to an even 3-3 on the season. Bills quarterback Kyle Orton did look good though and hopes to continue that this week. He’ll match up against Vikings rookie quarterback Teddy Bridgewater. Bridgewater couldn’t find the endzone last week against the Detroit Lions. I think that will change, but the Bills will run away with this one. Verdict: Bills
-Dolphins (2-3) at Bears (3-3), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
Jay Cutler impressed last week, torching the Atlanta Falcons for 381 passing yards in route to a 27-13 victory. This week, the Bears turn their attention to the Miami Dolphins, who come off of a closely contested game with the Green Bay Packers. This game will be very close, but I’m going with Chicago here. Verdict: Bears
-Saints (2-3) at Lions (4-2), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Saints head off of their bye week into Detroit, where they’ll take on the Lions. Injuries will have an impact in this one, as the Saints will likely be without tight end Jimmy Graham, and the status of Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson is up in the air as well. The one achilles heel of the Lions could be their running game, currently ranked 29th in the league. With that said, look for wide receiver Golden Tate to step into the spotlight and lead the Lions to a close victory. Verdict: Lions
-Panthers (3-2-1) at Packers (4-2), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Panthers escaped last week’s game with a tie after the Bengals kicker Mike Nugent missed a 36-yard attempt as time expired in overtime. Carolina quarterback Cam Newton had 284 passing yards and two touchdowns through the air, in addition to his 107 yards and a touchdown on the ground. The Panthers will take on the Packers at Lambeau Field this week. The Packers beat the Dolphins this week and look to continue their win streak. I believe that they will. Verdict: Packers
-Chiefs (2-3) at Chargers (5-1), Sunday @ 4:05 PM EST
The Chiefs come in off of the bye week after being defeated in San Francisco the week before. The Chargers on the other hand squeaked out a victory against the Oakland Raiders. Quarterback Philip Rivers threw for 313 yards and three touchdowns. San Diego has the third ranked defense and will have to stop the Chiefs’ run game. I think they will, and will charge past the chiefs this weekend Verdict: Chargers
-Cardinals (4-1) at Raiders (0-5), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
I’d be shocked to see Oakland come away with a victory in this one. The Cardinals took down the Redskins last week, and the Raiders took a loss to the Chargers. Look for the Cardinals to keep the Raiders winless. Verdict: Chargers
-Giants (3-3) at Cowboys (5-1), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
A battle is brewing in the NFC East. The Eagles and Cowboys are currently tied for first place at 3-1 and lurking behind them is the Giants at 3-3. The Giants are sure to miss wide receiver Victor Cruz after he tore his patella tendon, ruling him out for the rest of the season. Odell Beckham Jr. and Ruben Randle will have to step up, knowing that they’ll have to get open quick due to the bad offensive line that the Giants have. I’m going to have to go with the Cowboys simply because of their offense, that took down the mighty Seattle Seahawks last weekend. Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo and running back DeMarco Murray should have a big day. Verdict: Cowboys
-49ers (4-2) at Broncos (4-1), Sunday @ 8:30 PM EST
My game of the week is right here, with the 49ers traveling into the Mile High City. The Broncos are fresh off of their win against the Jets last week. Peyton Manning is two touchdown passes away from tying Brett Favre for the all time touchdowns record. He’ll most likely tie the record on Sunday. The 49ers took down the Rams last week, but will probably take a loss to Peyton and the Broncos here. Verdict: Broncos
Peyton Manning will go for the NFL all time touchdowns record this week (Via CBS Sports)
-Texans (3-3) at Steelers (3-3), Monday @ 8:30 PM EST
The Texans took a loss at home on Thursday Night Football to send them to an even 3-3 record. The Steelers took a loss to the Cleveland Browns. With both teams looking to bounce back, expect a good game here. I’m going with the Steelers, who head into this week with the sixth ranked offense in the league. Verdict: Steelers
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