Tag: NFL

Back To School Special

~ Dave Ettinger ~ 4 Comments

nfl

“Back to school, back to school, to prove to my dad I’m not a fool.”

Yes ladies and gentlemen, it’s that time of year again. Time to get the kids on the bus, and send them off to school. Let’s just hope your child isn’t going back to kindergarten at the age of 35 (haha).

Labor Day Weekend is an exciting time. It marks the opening of the College Football season. Baseball is in the home stretch. The U.S. Open is approaching the semifinals. And last but certainly not least, the NFL is just days away….

College Football

What an exciting week of college football!! Although there were many games worth staying up until midnight for, 2 stood out:

Texas A&M vs. UCLA

All you need to know is Josh Rosen and the UCLA Bruins overcame the largest deficit in college football since 2006. 34 POINTS!! A 48-yard field goal put the Aggies up 34 with 4:08 left in the 3rd quarter. Those would be the Aggies’ last points. It was ALL UCLA from then on. 5 touchdowns later, UCLA walked away with a 45-44 victory. Insane!!

Tennessee vs. Georgia Tech

Labor Day brought us a thriller!! A double-overtime thriller!! Sometimes that QB moniker is just for show, as TaQuon Marshall is technically Georgia Tech’s quarterback. His stat-line would beg to differ:

44 carries for 249 yards and 5 touchdowns and 5/9 passing for 120 yards.

WOW!! Despite Marshall’s incredible performance (in his 1st game ever), Georgia Tech fell to 25 ranked Tennessee 42-41.

U.S. Open

For those who haven’t noticed, tennis’ final Grand Slam is well under way. And no, you don’t need to adjust your eyeballs. Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Venus Williams are all in the Quarterfinals of the U.S. Open. Hey guys, psst, where can I get some of that fountain of youth stuff?? Venus will take on 13th ranked Petra Kvitova tonight @ 7:00 P.M. EST. Federer lands a tough draw as he’ll take on Juan Martin Del Potro. And Nadal will play Andrey Rublev. In a highly anticipated match-up, Federer and Nadal would play each other in the semifinals. Multiple fingers are crossed….

Baseball

There’s impressive, and then there’s what the Arizona Diamondbacks did on Monday. Both of these feats were accomplished against the all-mighty Los Angeles Dodgers (keep that in mind). Robbie Ray, Diamondbacks pitcher, was perfect through 5 innings. His first blemish, a leadoff single by Logan Forsythe in the 6th inning. Ray would go 7 and 2/3 innings giving up just 3 hits and striking out 14. And to think Ray wasn’t the best player on his own team on Monday….

That distinction belongs to J.D. Martinez. Martinez hit 4 HOME RUNS in this game!! He became just the 18th player to go yard 4 times in 1 game.

NFL

I like to save the best for last. The 2017 NFL season kicks-off in 2 days!! I’m so excited I think I just, uh yeah, I just wet myself. Game 1 of the NFL season is the Kansas City Chiefs @ the Super Bowl Champion New England Patriots. You can watch Tom Brady and the Patriots handle their business on NBC @ 8:30 P.M. EST. There’s no pre-game speech necessary for the NFL. It speaks for itself. Don’t forget to set your Fantasy lineups….

 

What were you watching this past weekend?? Don’t be afraid to tell me all about it in the comment section below.

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page.

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel called DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

 

 

 

 

NFC West Preview

~ Dave Ettinger ~ Leave a comment

nfc-west

Annnnddddd last, but quite possibly least, the NFC West. Last season, this was the weakest division in the NFL, with only 1 team above .500. I don’t envision that changing — the weaker the quarterbacks, the weaker the division….

Last Season’s Standings:

Seattle Seahawks: 10-5-1

Arizona Cardinals: 7-8-1

Los Angeles Rams: 4-12

San Francisco 49ers: 2-14

From worst-to-first we go….

San Francisico 49ers

You may want to buckle your seatbelts, because this ride is going to get bumpy. The 49ers will battle the New York Jets for the worst offense the NFL has ever seen. They will also battle the Jets for the worst record in the NFL. Despite John Lynch’s successful 1st offseason as 49ers’ General Manager, this team is going to be BADDDDD!! They did draft good, young talent, so NFL fans can enjoy watching their improvement, but until they find a quarterback, expect the 49ers to draft in the top-5 every year.

Key Additions: Pierre Garcon, Elvis Dumervil, Malcolm Smith

Key Losses: Antoine Bethea, Glenn Dorsey, Torrey Smith

Los Angeles Rams

They can move across the country. They can change their name. Hell, they can even change their hair color and get a tattoo. Nothing will keep them from stinkin’ up the joint. The Los Angeles Rams (I’m still getting used to that) would have a solid defense IF Aaron Donald would show up. But Dave, he’s just one guy. I’m aware. But that ONE GUY happens to be the best defensive player in the NFL. Their offensive line is key. They must give Jared Goff time to find his new wide receivers, Sammy Watkins and Robert Woods. And they must provide running lanes for the super-talented Todd Gurley. Until those things happen, the Rams offense will stall, like a beat-up, old car.

Key Additions: Robert Woods, Andre Whitworth, Sammy Watkins (Trade) 

Key Losses: Kenny Britt, Greg Robinson, T.J. Mcdonald 

Arizona Cardinals

Everyone on the Arizona Cardinals is another year older. Profound right?? Cardinals quarterback, Carson Palmer, is 109. Seriously though, he’ll be 38 years old before season’s end. Larry Fitzgerald (34) is no Spring chicken either. This team will rely heavily on star running-back David Johnson. They will also hope and pray Johnson can repeat his performance from last season, 2,118 total yards and 20 total touchdowns. I’m sure there will be similar hoping and praying going on with the #1 overall pick in Fantasy Football drafts.

Key Additions: Jarvis Jones, Karlos Dansby, Antoine Bethea

Key Losses: D.J Swearinger, Calais Campbell, Jaron Brown

Seattle Seahawks

Who knew the New York Jets would play a role in someone winning football games?? Not me. Friday afternoon, the Jets parted ways with Sheldon Richardson, trading him to the Seattle Seahawks. Despite being a malcontent, Richardson is a special talent. He’ll help strengthen an already stellar defensive line. The only question is, how bad is this offensive line?? NFL experts project this offensive line to be one of the worst in the league. If Russell Wilson is afforded any time to throw, or room to run, this division will be a walk in the park.

Key Additions: Eddie Lacy, Luke Joeckel, Sheldon Richardson (Trade)

Key Losses: John Jenkins, Jermaine Kearse, Steven Hauschka

This Season’s Predictions:

Seattle Seahawks: 11-5

Arizona Cardinals: 7-9

Los Angeles Rams: 5-11

San Francisco 49ers: 3-13

 

As a whole, the NFC West stinks.

The Seahawks will win this division by default.

“That’s all I have to say about that.”

 

Who will win the NFC West?? Post your predictions in the comment section below.

 

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page.

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel called DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

 

NFC South Preview

~ Dave Ettinger ~ Leave a comment

nfc south

Is it possible for every team in 1 division to be .500 or better?? If it’s going to happen in 2017, it’s going to happen in the NFC South. This division will feature 4 very good football teams competing for playoff spots in the NFC…..

Last Season’s Standings:

Atlanta Falcons: 11-5

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 9-7

New Orleans Saints: 7-9

Carolina Panthers: 6-10

From worst-to-first we go….

New Orleans Saints

Notoriously good on offense. Notoriously bad on defense. That’s been the headline in New Orleans for the past few years. Expect more of the same. Only this year, Drew Brees has his work cut out for him. Brees is a future hall of famer, so he’ll steer the ship in the right direction, but it’s not easy when your #1 receiver is Michael Thomas. No offense to Thomas, after a phenomenal rookie season, but he’s not a #1 receiver — yet. For all you fantasy lovers, anticipate an Adrian Peterson resurrection. This, of course, depends on Mark Ingram’s carries, but those have declined steadily every year Ingram has been in the league.

Key Additions: Adrian Peterson, Ted Ginn, Larry Warford

Key Losses: Brandin Cooks, Tim Lelito, Roman Harper

Carolina Panthers

I foresee the Carolina Panthers bouncing back in a big way. Last season, Cam Newton was coming off an injury. He, along with the Panthers defense, got off to a slow start. Expect Newton to return to MVP form and drive his team to success. Their defense is still very solid, led by Luke Kuechly at the middle linebacker position. The Panthers should compete for an NFC Wild Card spot this season. The addition of Matt Kalil will be important. Kalil will help protect Newton’s blind side, keeping Newton from ending up on his back every 5 seconds.

Key Additions: Matt Kalil, Captain Munnerlyn, Mike Adams

Key Losses: Michael Oher, Ted Ginn, Mike Tolbert

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

If you haven’t watched Jameis Winston play, you’re missing out. He is as talented a player as you’ll find in this league. The question is, can he take another step forward this season. His improvements from his rookie to sophomore campaign were noticeable, and the addition of DeSean Jackson won’t hurt. Their defense is solid. And while I don’t love their running attack, Winston’s arm is such a threat, he opens up running lanes for Jacquizz Rodgers and Doug Martin. Don’t be surprised when the Buccaneers challenge the Falcons for the NFC South Division Title.

Key Additions: J.J, Wilcox, Desean Jackson, Nick Folk 

Key Losses: Vincent Jackson, Alterraun Verner, Daryl Smith

Atlanta Falcons

The Atlanta Falcons had a magical 2016 season. Even though they blew the biggest lead in Super Bowl history, they greatly exceeded expectations. This year, they will do the opposite. Everyone expects them to waltz through this division, like a stroll through Central Park. While I think they’re a good team, slight regression is on the horizon. Matt Ryan has finally received the credit he’s been due for the better part of a decade, and Devonta Freeman is shaping into a top-5 running back in the league. Their defense, however, will let them down. Don’t believe me?? You’ll see the light soon, don’t worry. I still have them winning the NFC South by virtue of a tiebreak over the Buccaneers.

Key Additions: Dontari Poe, Hugh Thornton, Jack Crawford 

Key Losses: Dwight Freeney, Sean Weatherspoon, Jacob Tamme

 

This Season’s Predictions:

Atlanta Falcons: 10-6

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 10-6

Carolina Panthers: 8-8

New Orleans Saints: 6-10

 

This is going to be a really solid division.

They have 4 great quarterbacks in a league that is run by quarterbacks.

Who do you think will win the NFC South?? Post your predictions in the comment section below.

 

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page.

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel called DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

 

 

 

What’s A Zeke?? (AKA NFC East Preview)

~ Dave Ettinger ~ 4 Comments

nfc-east-preview

No one will be paying attention to football in the NFC East this season. Well, at least for the first 6 weeks. All eyes will be glued to the Ezekiel Elliot situation. Elliot has been suspended by the NFL for 6 games due to violation of the personal conduct policy. ‘Zeke’ as his friend calls him, has decided to appeal the suspension. The appeals process started Tuesday, and ahhh who cares!! Don’t be a bad guy, and you won’t get suspended. Anyway, let’s talk about the NFC East….

Last Season’s Standings:

Dallas Cowboys: 13-3

New York Giants: 11-5

Washington Redskins: 8-7-1

Philadelphia Eagles: 7-9

You know how this works by now. Worst-to-first….

Philadelphia Eagles

Expect regression. Yes, their offensive line is pretty good. Yes, Carson Wentz has a few new weapons to play with. Yes, they still have ugly uniforms. But that doesn’t mean they’re going to be good this year. I don’t think Wentz is going to be an elite quarterback. Their defense is nothing to write home about. And expect to be extremely disappointed with their latest running back acquisition, LaGarrette Blount. He will be the bust of the year. And the Eagles will call 4th place in the NFC East home. Sorry Philly. Beautiful city. Amazing cheese steaks. Bad football team.

Key Additions: Alshon Jeffrey, Jordan Matthews (Trade), LaGarette Blount

Key Losses: Bennie Logan, Conor Barwin, Leodis McKelvin

Washington Redskins

The Washington Redskins seem to be stuck in purgatory. Never good enough to make a run in the playoffs, but never bad enough to get the top pick in the NFL Draft. After an offseason of playing hardball with their own quarterback (smart!), the Redskins can look forward to another season of average. They will be the definition of average this season. Like last year, they will have a good passing attack, but their running game will plod it’s way down the field. Outside of their left tackle (Trent Williams), their offensive line is not very good, and their defense is eh.

Key Additions: Terrelle Pryor, D.J. Swearinger, Brian Quick

Key Losses: Pierre Garcon, DeSean Jackson, Kory Lichtensteiger

Dallas Cowboys

Last season was no Tony Romo, no problem. This year it’ll be No Ezekiel Elliot, big problem. Listen, their offensive line is so good I could run for 1,000 yards back there, but potentially missing Elliot for 6 games is not a recipe for success. No matter how many games Elliot plays this season, expect regression across the board. Last season’s record of 13-3 (2 of their losses coming by way of the Giants) was the result of a perfect storm. Their defense will take a BIG step back this season. While they will make the playoffs this year, I don’t see an NFC East Division Title in their near future.

Key Additions: Nolan Carroll, Stephen Paea, Taco Charlton (Draft)

Key Losses: Ronald Leary, Brandon Carr, Rolando McClain  

New York Giants

The New York Giants are always an interesting team, right?? They have spectacular regular season’s, and fall short of expectations. And then they turn around and run the table, as an underdog, twice. All while simultaneously having stability. Curious, isn’t it?? I expect the former this season. They will have a very good regular season en route to their 9th NFC East Division Title, but they’ll lose in the 1st round of the playoffs. Pencil in more of the same from Eli Manning, decent numbers with too many turnovers. Their running game will be bad, but their defense will be top-10 in the league.

Oh, and expect to see Eli Manning on his back more than you’re accustomed. This offensive line is REALLY BAD!!

Key Additions: Brandon Marshall, Rhett Ellison, Evan Engram (Draft) 

Key Losses: Ronald Leary, Johnathan Hankins, Rashad Jennings, Marshall Newhouse

 

This Season’s Predictions:

New York Giants: 10-6

Dallas Cowboys: 9-7

Washington Redskins: 7-9

Philadelphia Eagles: 6-10

This is a well-balanced, healthy, nutritious meal. No, this is a well-balanced division. Expect entertaining football when the NFC East is on TV.

Who do you think will win the NFC East?? If you have a different opinion than me, you’re wrong, but you can still post it in the comment section below.

 

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page.

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel called DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

NFC North Preview

~ Dave Ettinger ~ Leave a comment

nfc north

The NFC North is the proud new owner of the highest paid player in the NFL. No, it’s not Aaron Rodgers (even though it should be). That distinction now belongs to Detroit Lions quarterback, Matthew Stafford. With a deal like this, you’d think the Lions represent the NFC in the Super Bowl every year. Not so much. Who do you think they are..the Patriots?? Oh, we finished the AFC Preview??

If you missed any of my AFC preview, keep scrolling down….

And now, let’s kick-off our NFC Preview with the NFC North:

Last Season’s Standings:

Green Bay Packers: 10-6

Detroit Lions: 9-7

Minnesota Vikings: 8-8

Chicago Bears: 3-13

You know the drill. Worst-to-first….

Chicago Bears

Da’ Bears are going to be really, really, REALLY bad this year. The Bears recently gave the nod to Mike Glennon to be their starting quarterback Week 1. 1st round draft pick (#2 overall pick), Mitchell Trubisky, will await his turn on the bench. Don’t get too comfy Mitch, for I think your shot will come sooner rather than later. Whoever is under center will lack the basic offensive weapons necessary to succeed. Wide receiver, Cameron Meredith, tore his ACL in Week 3 of the Preseason, leaving Kevin White atop the receiver depth chart. No offense Kevin but, wait yes, I do mean offense.  If Kevin White is your #1 receiver, you’re in trouble.

Key Additions: Kendall Wright, Mitchell Trubisky (Draft), Mike Glennon

Key Losses: Jay Cutler, Alshon Jeffrey, Eddie Royal

Detroit Lions

Monday evening, Matthew Stafford reportedly agreed on a 5-year extension with the Detroit Lions. This deal will make the 29 year-old quarterback the highest paid player in the NFL. SAY WHAT?! Yes, you read that right. Matthew Stafford is set to make 27 million dollars per year. The reported 92 million dollars in guaranteed money would be the highest of any contract in NFL history. And does all this mean the Lions will be good this season?? It most certainly does not!! Expect an extremely average performance by Mr. Stafford and company.

Key Additions: T.J. Lang, Greg Robinson, D.J. Hayden 

Key Losses: Anquan Boldin, Larry Warford, Riley Reiff 

Minnesota Vikings

Oh Minnesota. What could have been?? To start 5-0 and miss the playoffs is not easy to accomplish. They won’t however, have to worry about starting 5-0 this year. The Vikings still have a stellar defense, and they upgraded their running game, but they will only go as far (stop me when you’ve heard this before) as their quarterback will take them. And as long as their quarterback is Sam Bradford, they won’t reach the outer limits of their city. Expect them to finish smack dab in the middle of the league. But hey, who doesn’t want to spend their life in purgatory??

Key Additions: Latavius Murray, Dalvin Cook (Draft), Riley Reiff

Key Losses: Adrian Peterson, Matt Kalil, Chad Greenway 

Green Bay Packers

The Green Bay Packers. A staple in the NFL. They show up, they win games, they go home. It sounds simple, but it’s not. Aaron Rodgers just makes it look easy. Aaron Rodgers’ teams haven’t been blessed with top-5 defenses or running games, but he goes to the playoffs every year (they haven’t missed the playoffs since 2008). That is quite a feat in the NFL. And this season, after losing talent from his defense and offensive line, Rodgers will prove, yet again, why he should be the highest paid player in the NFL. Expect a deep run in the playoffs this year.

Key Additions: Martellus Bennett, Jahri Evans, Davon House

Key Losses: Eddie Lacy, Julius Peppers, T.J. Lang 

 

This Season’s Predictions:

Green Bay Packers: 11-5

Minnesota Vikings: 7-9

Detroit Lions: 6-10

Chicago Bears: 3-13

Anyone disagree with my predictions?? If you do, you may want to have that looked at….

I see an upset Lions fan yelling at me in the near future.

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page.

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel called DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

 

AFC South Preview

~ Dave Ettinger ~ 2 Comments

afc south preview

The AFC South is usually stinky. It’s like that co-worker who opts for a cologne bath rather than a shower. Yeah, that kind of stink. However, this season, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the smell of the AFC South….

Last Season’s Standings:

Houston Texans: 9-7

Tennessee Titans: 9-7

Indianapolis Colts: 8-8

Jacksonville Jaguars: 3-13

 

From worst-to-first we go….

Jacksonville Jaguars

This division as a whole will be better, but that doesn’t apply to this bottom feeder. The Jacksonville Jaguars will be awful this season — again. Their level of bad will depend on the number of turnovers their quarterback has (and if they beat the Jets or not). New head coach, Doug Marrone, has inexplicably decided to stick with Blake Bortles under center. Bortles, the former #3 overall pick (2014), has been nothing short of a disaster early on in his career. I envision feeling very badly for rookie running back, Leonard Fournette at some point this season.

Key Additions: Leonard Fournette (Draft), Calais Campbell, Barry Church

Key Losses:  Julius Thomas, Luke Joeckel, Kelvin Beachum

Indianapolis Colts

The Indianapolis Colts will go as far as their quarterback will take them. The only problem is their quarterback is injured. And when he’s not injured, he’s being sacked, and in turn, re-injured. The way Colts’ management has treated Andrew Luck is criminal. I can’t recall a quarterback, with hall of fame talent like Luck, ever taking snaps behind a worse offensive line. And I’m sorry Colts’ fans, that streak of missing the playoffs in 2 consecutive years won’t end this year.

Key Additions: Christine Michael, Johnathan Hankins, Kamar Aiken 

Key Losses:  Trent Cole, Dwayne Allen, D’Qwell Jackson

Houston Texans

Being a Houston Texans fan must be frustrating. The Texans have such a talented roster, outside of the MOST IMPORTANT POSITION on the field, quarterback. Yes, they drafted Deshaun Watson in the 2017 Draft (12th pick), but as per head coach, Bill O’Brien, Watson will ride the pine to start the season. O’Brien will turn the reigns over to Mr. Tom Savage. No no, you don’t need glasses. You read that right. The question though, is when, not if, Watson will take over at quarterback?? We know how you feel DeAndre Hopkins, but don’t jump overboard yet. Help is coming….

Key Additions: Deshaun Watson (Draft), Breno Giacomini, Marcus Gilchrist  

Key Losses:  Vince Wilfork, A.J. Bouye, Antonio Smith

Tennessee Titans

Are you sensing a theme in this division?? Every team will go as far as their quarterback will take them. Marcus Mariota is one of the great, young quarterbacks in this league. Despite breaking his leg in December of 2016, Mariota looks poised to lead his Titans to an AFC South Division Title. Mariota will line up behind one of the best offensive lines in the NFL, and when he’s not running the ball, will hand it off to the best running back tandem in the league (Demarco Murray and Derrick Henry).

Jump on the bandwagon while you still can!! It’s getting crowded on here!!

Key Additions: Eric Decker, Logan Ryan, Corey Davis (Draft)

Key Losses:  Jason McCourty, Kendall Wright, Chance Wormack

 

This Season’s Predictions:

Tennessee Titans: 11-5

Houston Texans: 9-7

Indianapolis Colts: 6-10

Jacksonville Jaguars: 4-12

 

Who do you think will win the AFC South?? Post your predictions in the comment section below.

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page.

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel called DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

Patriots’ World Domination (AKA AFC EAST Preview)

~ Dave Ettinger ~ Leave a comment

afc-east

I’m so excited for football I may wet myself. With the NFL turning the corner toward Week 3 of the Preseason, teams are starting to take shape. Rookies are becoming acclimated with the speed of the NFL, while most veterans are simply going through the motions, attempting to avoid injury. Injuries, however, continue to mount, potentially changing the landscape of each division. Over the final 2 weeks of the Preseason, I will be dissecting each division, giving predictions for every team in the NFL. Today, we start with the most predictable division in the NFL; the AFC East.

Last Season’s Standings:

New England Patriots: 14-2

Miami Dolphins: 10-6

Buffalo Bills: 7-9

New York Jets: 5-11

 

Let’s start with my least favorite team in the NFL:

New England Patriots

I can respect and appreciate their dominance, even though they have been a thorn in my side for the past 16 years. Yes, I am a Jets fan. A dejected Jets fan who is impatiently waiting for Tom Brady and Bill Belichick to retire. Everyone will have to wait AT LEAST 1 more year for that. 2017 will be no different than 2016, and 2015, and 20…well you get the point. The last time the Patriots didn’t win the AFC East was 2008 (they went 11-5 that year). Despite being 40 years old, Tom Brady will be at the helm, driving on cruise control to another AFC East Division Title.

Key Additions: Brandin Cooks, Stephon Gilmore, Dwayne Allen

Key Losses: Martellus Bennett, Chris Long, Rob Ninkovich (retirement)

Miami Dolphins

The revolving quarterback door is at it again in Miami. After Ryan Tannehill went down with a knee injury, the Dolphins pulled Mr. Jay Cutler out of retirement to call plays under center. Hey, Miami, just because Cutler will be reuniting with Adam Gase, doesn’t mean this will end well. Expect Cutler and the Dolphins to do what they do best, define mediocrity.

Key Additions:  Jay Cutler, Lawrence Timmons, T.J. Mcdonald

Key Losses: Dion Jordan, Earl Mitchell, Jordan Cameron 

Buffalo Bills

It’s not a good sign when a kicker headlines your offseason additions. The Bills decided it was time to part ways with oft-injured, wide receiver Sammy Watkins, as they traded him to the Los Angeles Rams for cornerback E.J. Gaines. I’m sure this didn’t have quarterback Tyrod Taylor jumping for joy. The Bills did sign Anquan Boldin on August 7th….only to watch him retire 13 days later. Good stuff!! Maybe Bills and Jets’ fans will get along this season. Misery does love company — right??

Key Additions: Steven Hauschka, Vlad Ducasse, Micah Hyde 

Key Losses: Sammy Watkins, Stephon Gilmore, Mike Gillislee 

New York Jets

Boy, oh boy!! Where do I begin?! Taking this season in a vacuum, this will be the longest, most frustrating season Jets’ fans have ever endured — ever!! And that’s saying a lot. The offense the Jets will be running onto the field every Sunday is the result of a Tank Job for the ages. See, the Jets are like a car you want to rebuild. Any old, rusty parts that can be scrapped are taken to the junkyard. And any new, shiny parts will replace the old ones..only the new parts are on back order..for a YEAR. Buckle up Jets’ fans, it’s going to be a bumpy ride.

Key Additions: Demario Davis, Josh McCown, Kelvin Beachum 

Key Losses: Brandon Marshall, Eric Decker, Darelle Revis, Nick Mangold, David Harris, I could keep going, but let’s just agree the Jets are TANKING 

This Season’s Predictions:

New England Patriots: 12-4

Miami Dolphins: 7-9

Buffalo Bills: 5-11

New York Jets: 2-14

How do you think the AFC East will play out?? If you see it differently than I do, you may want to change your prescriptions. Just sayin’.

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page.

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel called DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

 

Would The World Stop Spinning Without The NFL?!

~ Dave Ettinger ~ 1 Comment

players-strike-1974-roy-jefferson-nl

Imagine a world without the NFL….

No, seriously, close your eyes and picture it. Horrifying isn’t it?? I don’t know about you, but I saw husbands, all across the country, holding bags at Bed Bath And Beyond. It made my skin crawl. A sport that used to dominate your Sunday, 5 months of the year, now dominates your everyday, 12 months of the year. From Free Agency, to the Draft Combine, to the Draft, to the Actual Season, to the Postseason, to the never ending world of Fantasy Football, the NFL is easily the most popular sport known to man..or woMan. But there’s a chance the NFL could face a work stoppage in 2021. How you say?! Well, keep reading, and I’ll tell you….

The NFL and the NFLPA (NFL Players Association) have a CBA (Collective Bargaining Agreement). This is an agreement, much like the other major sports have, that outlines the rules, and salary cap guidelines, and many other details about the league. The last CBA was negotiated in 2011, and carries a 10-year expiration date, thus bringing us 4 years into the future; to 2021.

To see the 2011 CBA, click here.

The Executive Director of the NFLPA, DeMaurice Smith, expressed the possibility of such a work stoppage in an interview with Sports Illustrated. He said, “I think that the likelihood of either a strike or a lockout is almost a virtual certainty.” Smith didn’t get into specific details of what the players would be looking for in a new CBA, but he felt the owners didn’t hold up their end of the bargain last time, “Owners colluded with each other, and we found out they colluded with each other. And all of the bad things that went to the players happened, and none of the bad things that went to the owners happened.”

I’ve always felt NFL players should go on strike. Of course I’d cry myself to sleep without the NFL, but at least I’d know the players would be fighting for fair pay and treatment. NFL players have actually gone on strike before (as you can see from the above picture), multiple times, but it’s never brought about fair results.

Click here to see the list of NFL lockouts. 

Don’t get me wrong. NFL players have a nice life, making exorbitant amounts of money, but compared to the other major sports, NFL players get treated like doggy-doo:

  • Their salaries are not guaranteed
  • It is the most physically demanding of the major sports
  • Veteran contracts have been minimalized
  • Rookie contracts have been cut-down (players are locked in for 4 years)

Let’s talk about that last one. The average career of an NFL player is 4.8 years. And the owners have those players locked into their rookie contracts for 4 of those years. That doesn’t sound fair to me. Now, rookies who outperform their contracts, cough..Odell Beckham Jr…cough cough, turn into disgruntled employees. I’m not a big fan of Beckham Jr., but the nuisance deserves to be paid more. The guy is a top-3 wide receiver in this league. And while there was some noise prior to training camp of Beckham Jr. holding out, he ultimately showed up. Because the owners have all the power.

It would suck for all the rookies and minimum salary players, but an NFL strike would be the best thing for the long-term health of the players. The question is, do they have the cojones to follow through with it??

We’ll find out in 4 short years….

Do you think the NFL players will go on strike in 2021?? Should they?? Post your opinion in the comment section below.

 

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page.

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel called DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

 

What A Wild Wednesday!!

~ Dave Ettinger ~ 2 Comments

aaron judge 3

Who knew a Wednesday in August could provide so much entertainment?? From idiot doctors to MONSTER home run blasts, Wednesday provided as much fun as one guy can handle.

Misdiagnosis

There’s being bad at your job, and then there’s being BAAAAAAADDDD at your job. As the orthopedists for an NFL team, your only job is to properly diagnose players’ injuries and occasionally perform surgery — that’s it! Apparently, New Orleans Saints’ orthopedists Deryk Jones and Misty Suri couldn’t even do that. Jones and Suri misdiagnosed an injury to Saints’ #1 cornerback Delvin Breaux. Their official diagnosis was Breaux was dealing with a bone bruise, when in fact he FRACTURED HIS FIBULA!!!! WOW!! I mean, just WOW!! That’s like the school nurse sending you back to class with a  bag of ice, when you have a bone sticking out of your arm.

Needless to say, Jones and Suri were promptly fired. Now, Jones and Suri are also the team doctors for the New Orleans Pelicans of the NBA, so it’ll be interesting to see what route they take with these 2 geniuses.

That Ball Went Reeeaaalllyyy Far!!

The game was tied at 1. It was the top of the 4th inning. Mets’ pitcher, Robert Gsellman, actually looked like a MLB starter through 3 innings of Game 3 of the Subway Series at CitiField. And then Aaron Judge happened. Aaron Judge hit a home run to left field that may be in orbit at the moment. Judge has struggled since the All-Star Break, but his power remains undeniable. “My logic is undeniable.” $20 bucks to anyone who knows what movie that’s from…..

Anyway, you have to see this blast to fully appreciate it, so click here and enjoy. HOLY CRAP!! Right?? ESPN measured that bad boy at 457 feet, but I’m calling for a re-measure. The best part of the video, depending on your team-allegiance, is Yoenis Cespedes’ reaction. Re-watch the video and you’ll notice Cespedes doesn’t move an inch or even turn around. He simply knew that baseball was destined for space travel.

Not My Kind Of Record

Aaron Judge’s evening wasn’t all rainbows and butterflies. Despite hitting a monstrous home run, and going 2 for 5, Judge landed on the wrong side of the record books. Judge has now struck-out in 33 consecutive games. This is the longest streak, by a non-pitcher, in MLB history. He surpassed strikeout machine, Adam Dunn.

The question is, how many more games in a row will Judge strikeout??

Screw You Trevor Rosenthal

As a Yankees’ fan, I know how important the outcome of Boston Red Sox games are, especially in August. With a Yankees’ W firmly in the books Wednesday evening, my attention turned to the Red Sox game. They trailed the St. Louis Cardinals 4-2 in the bottom of the 9th inning. Here comes Cardinals’ closer, Trevor Rosenthal. A 1-2-3 inning would have been too much to ask for, right?? Instead, Rosenthal thought it would be a better idea to give up 2 runs without recording an out. Yay!! So rather than the Yankees cutting a game off the Red Sox’ lead in the AL East, they remain 4.5 games back. Thanks Mr. Rosenthal. Ya jerk!!

 

What were you watching on Wednesday night?? Tell me about it in the comment section below.

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page.

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel called DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

 

 

 

A Thursday For The Ages

~ Dave Ettinger ~ 2 Comments

brett gardner

Beware of Flying Helmets

“See ya!!” No 2 words have ever been more recognizable in the world of baseball. Just after 11:00 p.m. on Thursday night, Yankees’ announcer Michael Kay’s voice carried through a humid, Summer night alongside a Brett Gardner long-drive. In the bottom of the 11th inning, Gardner took an Andrew Kittredge breaking-ball deep to right field. And the celebration was on!! A dramatic, walk-off victory (6-5) over the division rival, Tampa Bay Rays is reason to celebrate. Someone, however, should teach the Yankees to exercise caution when jumping up and down on home plate.

In the midst of the raucous celebration, rookie sensation, Aaron Judge, took some friendly fire. Judge caught a helmet right in the kisser, which resulted in a chipped tooth. You can check out the video of the celebration here. It appears that Gardner’s helmet grew legs and jumped off Austin Romine’s back directly into Aaron Judge’s mouth. Judge can be seen immediately grabbing his Michael Strahan-esque smile as he head straight for the locker room. Judge should be fine, but it’s the condition of his signature, gap-toothed smile I’m worried about.

Oh Football

It is insane Colin Kaepernick doesn’t have a job in the NFL. Now, before you jump down my throat, listen closely. You don’t have to agree with Kaepernick’s actions over the past year. Hell, you don’t even have to like him. But, you can’t deny that Kaepernick is qualified to play in the NFL. Forget the fact that he’s better than a portion of the STARTING quarterbacks in the league, but at the start of training camp, most teams carry 4 or 5 quarterbacks. So you’re telling he’s not better than ALL 160 quarterbacks entering NFL training camps?! If you believe that, you’re not being honest with yourself.

Now, just as Kaepernick has the RIGHT to kneel during the National Anthem, NFL owners have the RIGHT not to hire him. This would be all well and good, except for the fact that NFL owners are the biggest hypocrites in the world (thanks to public perception of course). NFL owners have no problem employing murderers, rapists, wife-beaters, dog killers and drug addicts, but ohhhhh nooooo, there is no way we are hiring this protester.

Again, I understand both sides of the debate here, but isn’t it wild how selectively forgiving our society is??

In other football news, Odell Beckham Jr. thought Day 1 of training camp was a good time to tell the world he wants to be the highest paid player in the NFL. Good for you buddy. Now shut up, and go do your job!!

At least Beckham showed up to training camp, unlike fellow NFL star LeVeon Bell. Bell, one of the NFL’s top rushers, is holding out for a lucrative, long-term contract. Yeah, this should end well….

The Rich Get Richer

This is scary. As dominant as the Golden State Warriors were last season, they’ve somehow improved. It’s true. They spent this offseason re-signing every important role player (Shaun Livingston and Andre Iguodala), and they brought in new reserves in the form of Nick Young and Omri Caspri. As if that wasn’t enough, they spent Thursday re-signing Javale McGee to a veteran’s minimum contract (1-year, $2.1 million). So let’s grab that remote from Adam Sandler’s blockbuster-flop, Click, and fast forward through another NBA season. Barring a major injury to 1 or 2 of the Warriors’ core players, they will, without a doubt, be hoisting the trophy next June.

Why watch if you already know the outcome??

 

What was the most exciting story from Thursday?? Tell me all about it in the comment section below.

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page.

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel called DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!