Cincinnati Bengals running back Joe Mixon isn't practicing Friday as he continues to nurse his foot injury, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.With Mixon once again sidelined during on-field drills this week, it appears likely that Giovani Bernard will start his second straight game.Mixon, Cincinnati's starting tailback, injured his foot in Week 6 versus the Indianapolis Colts and hasn't practiced since.In his absence, Bernard carried the ball 13 times for 37 yards in a Week 8 loss to the Cleveland Browns, adding five receptions for 59 yards.The Bengals face the Tennessee Titans on Sunday before entering a bye in Week 9.Mixon has rushed for 428 yards and three touchdowns through six games this season. He also caught 21 passes for 138 yards and one score.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Find line reports, best bets, and subscribe to push notifications in the Betting News section.Not only did we not need the points with our Week 7 teaser, but we could have parlayed both 'dogs on the moneyline and cashed in.We've been rolling with our weekly teaser, so let's stay hot this week.Colts @ Lions, 1 p.m. ETLine: Lions +2.5Teaser line: Lions +8.5The 4-2 Colts are somewhat polarizing in NFL circles. Many have them penned as AFC contenders, while some are waiting for the other shoe to drop. I fall somewhere in the middle. The list of teams the Colts have beaten this season is underwhelming. Their losses aren't flattering, either. This team has plenty going for them defensively to be competitive on a weekly basis, but Philip Rivers looks well past his expiration date.Rivers has had little success pushing the ball down the field, as his arm strength just isn't there anymore. Indy's opponents are stacking the box and inviting Rivers to beat them, which he hasn't. As a result, the Colts are averaging a league-worse 3.6 yards per rush despite boasting one of the league's best offensive lines. It's simply not a recipe to blow teams out.Indianapolis is rightfully favored in this spot, but you have to feel comfortable getting 8.5 points with the Lions. Detroit is playing better defensively and getting healthy in the secondary, while the emergence of D'Andre Swift has provided an element of dynamism to the team's offense.Rams @ Dolphins, 1 p.m.Line: Dolphins +3.5Teaser line: Dolphins +9.5We don't know what to expect from rookie Tua Tagovailoa ahead of his first start in nearly a calendar year. While it's important to temper expectations, let's not rule out the possibility that he will be an improvement on Ryan Fitzpatrick, who had been playing well in helping the Dolphins to a 3-3 start.Tua is an excellent fit for Chan Gailey's quick-hitting offense, and he's armed with ample weapons. DeVante Parker, Mike Gesicki, and Preston Williams are the sort of big targets that can create mismatches for opposing defenses, while Myles Gaskin and Jakeem Grant are excellent complementary pieces. Gailey is a smart play-caller who will put Tua in a strong position to make plays against a stingy Rams defense while ensuring he remains protected behind an improving offensive line.However, it's the Dolphins' defense that warrants attention here. They're finding ways to get after the quarterback, and their secondary is one of the NFL's most underrated units. Miami will be well-versed in stopping this dynamic Rams offense following its bye, while Los Angeles had precious little time to prepare for Tagovailoa's skill set after a short week and a trip across the country. In what's more of a coin flip, getting 9.5 points with the Dolphins feels like a gift.Full teaser: Lions +8.5, Dolphins +9.5 ($110 to win $100)(Odds source: theScore Bet)Alex Moretto is a sports betting writer for theScore. A journalism graduate from Guelph-Humber University, he has worked in sports media for over a decade. He will bet on anything from the Super Bowl to amateur soccer, is too impatient for futures, and will never trust a kicker. Find him on Twitter @alexjmoretto.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Baltimore Ravens have agreed to a five-year contract extension with All-Pro left tackle Ronnie Stanley, the club announced Friday, per Ryan Mink of the team's official site.The new contract is worth $98.75 million, reports ESPN's Adam Schefter. Including his 2020 salary, the deal carries a maximum value of $112.866 million and contains over $70 million in guarantees. Stanley becomes the No. 2 highest-paid offensive lineman in football, trailing only Laremy Tunsil of the Houston Texans."Ronnie is the mainstay on our offensive line," said general manager Eric DeCosta. "He's a shutdown left tackle who excels on the field and in our community. This is just the beginning for Ronnie, and we could not be happier for him and his family."A first-round pick in 2016, Stanley anchored a Ravens offensive line that helped Baltimore set an NFL single-season record last year for rushing yards (3,296) and become the league's No. 1 scoring offense (33.2 points per game).

SSSQ is a weekly look at under-the-radar fantasy players to consider starting and potential busts you should leave on your bench. We also identify breakout candidates to stash on your roster and players you can safely cut.For the rest of your lineup decisions, consult our Week 8 rankings. You can also listen to the Week 8 preview episode of theScore Fantasy Football Podcast.StartCarson Wentz, Eaglesvs. Cowboys Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyWentz has overcome a slow start and injuries to almost every position on the Eagles' offense to post top-15 fantasy finishes in each of the last five games, including QB3 and QB7 results the past two weeks.Travis Fulgham has emerged as a reliable presence in the receiving corps, and now first-round rookie Jalen Reagor is set to make his return to the lineup. With Boston Scott and Richard Rodgers filling in admirably as injury replacements at running back and tight end, respectively, Wentz enters Week 8 in his best spot yet against a toothless Dallas defense.The Cowboys have allowed multiple touchdowns to five of the last six quarterbacks they've faced, setting up Wentz for a third straight week in the top 10.Boone's projection: 272 passing yards, 3 TDs, 21 rushing yardsOther QBs to start

Atlanta Falcons receiver Calvin Ridley didn't return to Thursday's game against the Carolina Panthers due to an ankle injury, the team announced.Ridley suffered the injury after making a second-quarter reception. He was seen holding his foot in pain before limping to the sideline and then to the locker room.X-rays were negative on the 25-year-old's foot Thursday night, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports. Ridley will undergo an MRI on Friday to determine if he can return next week.The third-year wideout recorded three catches for 42 yards before leaving the game.Ridley entered the night leading the Falcons with 40 receptions. He was also third in the league in receiving yards with 615 and tied for second in touchdown receptions with six.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The New York Giants apparently avoided a COVID-19 outbreak, as all nine isolated players and coaches in close contact with starting guard Will Hernandez tested negative on Thursday, sources told Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News.The isolated contacts will return to practice on Friday, the team announced. However, Hernandez remains quarantined and won't play Monday night versus the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.Hernandez tested positive on Thursday and the club later placed him on the reserve/COVID-19 list. The Giants had to quarantine all but four members of their offensive line as a result.Head coach Joe Judge didn't believe Monday's game would be in danger despite the positive test, and the NFC matchup remains on track.New York's facility remained open Thursday after the players immediately self-isolated.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

theScore's NFL editors debate the hot topics around the NFL. Grab a cold towel and brace for hot takes.Cowboys will fire Mike McCarthy after one year Harry How / Getty Images Sport / GettyMike Alessandrini: TrueThis is Jerry Jones we're talking about, so nothing should come as a surprise.Dallas is the laughingstock of the NFL right now. Despite incredibly high expectations entering 2020, the Cowboys currently sit second-last in the NFC East with a 2-5 record. Injuries to the offensive line and quarterback Dak Prescott don't help, of course, but the team's inconsistencies were on full display from Week 1.It's fair to wonder whether McCarthy's roster will quit on its head coach. The former Green Bay Packers boss is coming off a near decade-long rift with Aaron Rodgers, and anonymous Cowboys players have already called their staff unprepared.The reality is this: America's Team ranks 31st in point differential, 32nd in turnover differential, and last in scoring defense. Jones will be so embarrassed by his franchise's performance that he cuts ties with McCarthy after just one season. Other high-profile coaches potentially on the 2021 market - including Lincoln Riley and Urban Meyer - could make the decision an easy one.Jack Browne: FalseWith Jason Garrett, the Cowboys were loyal to a fault. Jones gave Garrett far more chances to prove himself than he deserved, and Dallas is paying the price now. But the answer to the team's current issues shouldn't be flipping to the other extreme and cutting ties with McCarthy before he's had a real chance to make his mark.McCarthy can argue that he could've righted the ship if Prescott was available the entire year or if he had a full offseason to implement his vision. The head coach definitely hasn't impressed early in his tenure, but it's clear that Dallas vastly overestimated its talent level. Whether or not you believe those arguments hold water, they might be enough to sway the stubbornly optimistic Jones.By opting against an extensive search to replace Garrett in the offseason - only McCarthy and Marvin Lewis were interviewed - Jones and Co. indicated that the one-time Super Bowl champion was the man to finally end the Cowboys' Super Bowl drought. And Jones repeated that same message again this week. It's not inconceivable that he'll make a bold move. But it's far more likely he doubles down on his first instinct and gives McCarthy a second shot.Antonio Brown will thrive in Tampa Bay Michael Reaves / Getty Images Sport / GettyAlessandrini: TrueMost of Brown's decisions over the last two years certainly weren't good ones, but if there's a team he can revive his career with, it's the Buccaneers. There's little doubt AB can still play - his final six seasons in Pittsburgh were unlike anything we've ever seen at the wide receiver position. He even hauled in four catches and a touchdown with the Patriots last year coming off the street.The seven-time Pro Bowler is set to thrive in Tampa due in large part to Tom Brady. While other quarterbacks could have trouble building rapport with the controversial wideout, Brady has now welcomed him with open arms on two different clubs. If the six-time Super Bowl champion trusts you, you're good to go.Finally, the Bucs simply deploy too many weapons for their new wideout not to succeed. With Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, Rob Gronkowski, and Scotty Miller in tow, Brown will be faced with plenty of one-on-one matchups in the secondary. He may be past his prime at age 32, but the four-time All-Pro selection can still win those matchups. If AB has truly cleaned up his act, Tampa Bay becomes a legitimate Super Bowl contender.Browne: FalseEveryone is aware of how turbulent Brown's last 22 months have been. But despite the huge red flags, it seems like the Buccaneers believe they can be the ones to get the troubled wideout back on track after an eight-game suspension for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy. However, as the Steelers, Raiders, and Patriots all learned before them, the Bucs will soon find out there is no controlling Brown.Head coach Bruce Arians and Brady both have firsthand knowledge of how the receiver can poison his relationship with his teams. Arians watched Brown's diva tendencies develop in Pittsburgh, while Brown rewarded Brady's faith in him last season by burning his bridges in New England after one game. It's frankly ludicrous that people think Brady is capable of keeping Brown in check after the quarterback already spectacularly failed to do so.On the field, of course Brown will make Tampa Bay better. But the club was already arguably the strongest NFC contender and, as you pointed out, has the conference's best weapons. Arians said Brown is an "insurance policy," as Evans and Godwin have both had injury issues. But an insurance policy is meant to be the last line of defense from a disaster, not a potential disaster itself.The Browns will make the playoffs without OBJ Andy Lyons / Getty Images Sport / GettyBrowne: TrueThe loss of Odell Beckham Jr. will undoubtedly limit Cleveland's passing attack for the rest of the season. Despite failing to live up to expectations since he arrived prior to the 2019 campaign, Beckham remains an elite talent at the position and the Browns' most explosive weapon. But the AFC North club is still in its best position to end a 17-season playoff drought.The Browns will continue to rely heavily on a dominant run game, as they did even before Beckham was hurt. Cleveland ranks second in rushing attempts, fourth in yards per carry, and third in rushing yards per game. In the win against the Cincinnati Bengals, Baker Mayfield also showed that he can thrive when spreading the ball around to the likes of Jarvis Landry, Rashard Higgins - who had a career-high 110 receiving yards - Kareem Hunt, and Harrison Bryant. Austin Hooper will return from injury soon too.Cleveland's offense won't be better without Beckham, but the team is built to withstand his absence. Moreover, with an expanded playoff field and a relatively weak AFC, the 5-2 Browns should be at least in the running for a wild-card berth.Alessandrini: FalseBeckham ranks 45th in receiving and 64th in catches league-wide, so he wasn't exactly lighting up the stat sheet. However, his loss will hurt on a number of levels. Cleveland owns the league's No. 2 rushing attack, but successfully relying on the ground game may now prove more difficult. Mayfield and Co. will face more stacked boxes from opponents, and there's little depth at running back behind Hunt. Nick Chubb may miss a few more weeks as well.

Carolina Panthers quarterback Teddy Bridgewater exited Thursday's contest with a neck injury after taking a late hit from Atlanta Falcons pass-rusher Charles Harris, but the passer later returned.The Falcons' pass rush tripped up Bridgewater before Harris' hit. The defensive end was ejected for the play.

Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence left the door slightly open for a return to the school next season, but head coach Dabo Swinney isn't holding his breath.“I mean, we'll certainly let him stay if that's what he wants to do. But I'd be surprised if he's back with the Tigers next year, but who knows? You never know. I didn't think Christian Wilkins was coming back, but he did," Swinney said, according to ESPN's Rich Cimini.Lawrence's remarks earlier this week led to some hope that he could come back for his senior year.“My mindset has been that I’m going to move on,” Lawrence said. “But who knows? There’s a lot of things that could happen.”The talented passer, and likely No. 1 pick next spring if he departs for the NFL, was off to arguably his best start. However, Lawrence announced that he tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday.Lawrence has completed 70% of his pass attempts for 1,833 yards. He's also limited his turnovers, throwing 17 touchdown passes and just two interceptions.Lawrence guided Clemson to a national championship in 2018, and he received first-team All-ACC honors last season.Clemson is averaging 48.2 points per game this campaign, and the Tigers will look to remain perfect with a win over Boston College this Saturday.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence tested positive for COVID-19 and will miss Saturday's game against Boston College.

The Carolina Panthers have decided not to activate Christian McCaffrey from the injured reserve for their Thursday night matchup with the Atlanta Falcons.McCaffrey will miss his sixth straight game after suffering a high ankle sprain in Week 2. He was pushing to play on Thursday, but the tailback suiting up was always considered a long shot.The All-Pro tailback returned to practice at the beginning of the week and was given a designation to return from IR. However, Carolina erred on the side of caution due to the short week and the 24-year-old being unable to fully participate in on-field drills.Veteran backup Mike Davis will get another start versus Atlanta. He's rushed for 284 yards and two touchdowns across seven games in 2020, adding 233 receiving yards and two scores through the air.McCaffrey, who was initially given a return timetable of four-to-six weeks, will likely be available for next week's clash with the Kansas City Chiefs, Newton notes.The Panthers have stayed in the hunt for a playoff spot despite losing their top offensive weapon, winning three of their last five games.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Dallas Cowboys could be down to their third-string quarterback Sunday night, but the team remains confident in Ben DiNucci."Slinger. Full of confidence. You see a fire in his eyes. We believe in our brother," linebacker Jaylon Smith said Thursday when asked what he's seen from DiNucci in practice, according to The Athletic's Jon Machota.A seventh-round pick in 2020, DiNucci replaced Andy Dalton during last Sunday's game against the Washington Football Team after the veteran suffered a concussion. DiNucci went 2-of-3 passing, but he was also sacked three times.Dalton participated in meetings Thursday. However, he hasn't returned to practice and remains in the concussion protocol, according to Michael Gehlken of the Dallas Morning News. Consequently, DiNucci is receiving first-team reps, and receiver Michael Gallup has been impressed with the rookie's arm.“He’s been slinging that thing. He’s got a little speed on that ball. It gets on you quick," Gallup said, according to Machota.DiNucci wasn't expected to get any significant playing time this season, but with Dalton's status uncertain and Dak Prescott out for the year, there may be a lot riding on his shoulders.The 2-5 Cowboys are off to a disappointing start and are preparing to face the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday Night Football. If he's called on, DiNucci is confident he can perform well under the prime-time lights.“This is every kid’s dream, getting a chance to be the starting quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys. What more could you want?" he said.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Philadelphia Eagles wideout Jalen Reagor received medical clearance to play Sunday night, a source told NBC Philadelphia's John Clark on Thursday.Reagor has been sidelined since Week 2 after undergoing right thumb surgery to repair a UCL injury.In two contests this season, the 2020 first-round selection has recorded five catches for 96 yards.Reagor's return comes at an ideal time after the Eagles placed wideout Desean Jackson on the injured reserve earlier in the week.The rookie has made a favorable impression with teammates despite his limited action.“... We see it in practice,” said quarterback Carson Wentz, according to Dave Zangaro of NBC Sports Philadelphia. “We see the explosiveness that he brings and how he can change a game in a heartbeat.”The former TCU product will join Travis Fulgham, Greg Ward, and John Hightower to round out Philly's pass-catching group.The Eagles are set to square off against the Dallas Cowboys in a pivotal NFC East showdown on Sunday Night Football.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The New England Patriots are in the middle of a three-game slide, and Cam Newton says losing has no place in his team's culture."Losing is not acceptable in this locker room, in this county, in this state, in this area, in this region. So Cameron Newton, you need to pick your expletive up. That's what I've learned," the quarterback said Thursday.

Find line reports, best bets, and subscribe to push notifications in the Betting News section.Each week during the NFL season, we'll focus on one underdog with a chance to pull off the outright upset. Last week, the Panthers (+290) nearly stunned the Saints, which would have easily made us profitable for the year. Instead, we're 2-5 on moneyline underdogs with -1.15 units won.A win this week would turn that around, and we like our chances with the Dolphins (+165) in a compelling underdog spot against the Rams.Miami on the riseThe Dolphins got off to a slow start with losses to the Patriots and Bills, but they've been on a tear since then, winning three games by a combined 68 points and losing a one-possession contest to the NFC-leading Seahawks.The highlight was a 43-17 beatdown over the same 49ers team that toppled the Rams a week later. Miami's defense forced Jimmy Garoppolo out of the game after a pair of interceptions, and its offense could have scored more than 41 points if it converted better than 3 of 6 red-zone trips for touchdowns.The Dolphins must feel good about Tua Tagovailoa's readiness to replace a red-hot Ryan Fitzpatrick, and he should have his full complement of weapons with two full weeks to prepare for a talented but inconsistent Rams defense. Miami has covered four straight out of a bye week and will be ready for Sunday's test.Rams' offense in troubleThe Dolphins' highly paid defense is finally generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks, which could be trouble for a Los Angeles offense that relies on clear, schemed throws for Jared Goff.Like most quarterbacks, Goff is more effective when getting the ball out quickly, but he tends to collapse under pressure. Goff has the sixth-lowest percentage of dropbacks under pressure (24.7%) among 32 quarterbacks with at least 100 dropbacks this season. Yet, he ranks 25th among those 32 quarterbacks in passer rating (46.2) and 29th in adjusted completion percentage (52.5%) when he's under pressure.Miami's defense is at its best when creating chaos through exotic blitz schemes, which is a nightmare for a quarterback like Goff. Coupled with the way the Dolphins' high-end corners have played in recent weeks, it'll be tough for the Rams to find any rhythm - which is the crux of coach Sean McVay's offense.Why the Dolphins will winMiami is among the most underrated teams in the NFL, as evidenced by a 4-1 record against the spread in its last five games. It's also had two weeks to game plan for Tagovailoa's much-anticipated debut against a Rams team coming off a short week after playing Monday night.Los Angeles has limited tape on how the Dolphins' offense might change under Tagovailoa, making this the perfect spot to bet high on the rookie quarterback. If his defense makes life difficult for the opposing QB, too, he'll be in an ideal spot to earn his first career win.(Odds source: theScore Bet)C Jackson Cowart is a betting writer for theScore. He's an award-winning journalist with stops at The Charlotte Observer, The San Diego Union-Tribune, The Times Herald-Record, and BetChicago. He's also a proud graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill, and his love of sweet tea is rivaled only by that of a juicy prop bet. Find him on Twitter @CJacksonCowart.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Find positional rankings, additional analysis, and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.theScore's Justin Boone was the winner of FantasyPros' Most Accurate Expert Competition in 2019, marking the seventh time he's placed in the top 10. Follow the links below to see his rankings for Week 8.The final rankings will be released Sunday morning.Half PPR

New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman is reportedly expected to miss Sunday’s clash against the Buffalo Bills after undergoing knee surgery on Thursday, according to Jeff Howe of The Athletic.Edelman has dealt with the ailment dating back to training camp, Andrew Callahan of the Boston Globe reports.While Edelman will miss time after the procedure, it's not expected to cost him the remainder of the season. The team has not provided a recovery timeline.The 34-year old leads the club with 21 receptions for 315 yards and zero touchdowns through six games this season and has also rushed for 22 yards.The Kent State product has tallied three 1,000-yard campaigns as a Patriot.The squad could also be without first-round selection N’Keal Harry, who is dealing with concussion symptoms, according to ESPN’s Mike Reiss, after exiting in the first half against the San Francisco 49ers.New England's passing game will now feature Jakobi Meyers, Gunner Olszewski, and Damiere Byrd with Edelman on the shelf.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Los Angeles Chargers will be working virtually after a player tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday, the team announced Thursday.The player is reserve offensive lineman Ryan Groy, a source told ESPN's Adam Schefter.All close contacts have been told to stay home and isolate, and the Chargers' facility will remain open."We continue to operate in close consultation with the NFL, as well as our team of independent doctors and specialists, and will follow their guidance," the Chargers said in a statement. "As has been the case since day one of this pandemic, the health and safety of our players, staff, and community continue to be our highest priority."The positive test is the first for the team since training camp opened. The news came the same day the New York Giants reportedly placed guard Will Hernandez on the COVID-19/reserve list and sent other offensive linemen home.Los Angeles is scheduled to play the Denver Broncos on Sunday.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Find line reports, best bets, and subscribe to push notifications in the Betting News section.The Panthers (-2.5) and Falcons will face off for the second time in four weeks in a rematch of Carolina's 23-16 win as a short road underdog. Can Atlanta pull off that same feat this time around?Here are our favorite trends, props, and bets for Thursday night.Betting trendsThe Panthers have been red-hot as underdogs, winning four straight against the spread in that spot this season. It's been a different story as favorites, though: Carolina has lost three straight ATS in a chalk spot and is 3-8 ATS since Week 11 of 2018.The Falcons have been so-so as underdogs, but they've covered six of their last seven road games and are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 against the Panthers. But last week's embarrassing loss could take a toll this week. The Falcons are 8-14-1 ATS following a loss since 2018, and they're a startling 1-9 ATS in their last 10 games after losing a game they'd led at halftime.When these two teams face off, expect a low-scoring affair. The under is a stellar 12-3 in their last 15 matchups, averaging a combined 43.2 points per game. The Falcons have gone under in three of their last four games, while the Panthers have done so in three of their last five.Player propsD.J. Moore over 69.5 receiving yards (-110)In case you missed it, Atlanta's defense is really bad. The unit's allowed 1,561 yards to opposing receivers this campaign, second-most in the NFL, including standout performances from Kenny Golladay (114 yards) and Marvin Jones (80) a week ago.Moore, comparatively, is quite good. He logged exactly 93 yards in three straight games, a streak that started against the Falcons in Week 5. Atlanta's secondary has only gotten thinner since then, making this one of the easiest bets on the board.Matt Ryan under 1.5 passing touchdowns (+164)Ryan has not been effective at generating points this year despite leading the league in passing yards through seven weeks. His touchdown rate (4.2%) is identical to last year's and just a tick below his career mark (4.7%), yet he's thrown for one touchdown or less in four of his last five - including zero against the Panthers earlier this year.Carolina's pass defense has been a pleasant surprise this season, allowing just nine passing scores through seven games. At this value, it's an easy play to expect another stout performance on Thursday.Best betPanthers -2.5It's time to stop buying this Falcons team as if it's still the 2016 iteration. This squad's offense has been good at eating up chunk yardage but ineffective at converting when it counts, and the defense is particularly vulnerable to an aggressive passing attack like the Panthers'. This is a perfect spot to fade Atlanta - especially coming off a short week following a fourth-quarter collapse.C Jackson Cowart is a betting writer for theScore. He's an award-winning journalist with stops at The Charlotte Observer, The San Diego Union-Tribune, The Times Herald-Record, and BetChicago. He's also a proud graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill, and his love of sweet tea is rivaled only by that of a juicy prop bet. Find him on Twitter @CJacksonCowart.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Trade winds are blowing as the NFL's Nov. 3 deadline for deals approaches. Below, we assess the likelihood of a move for 50 players potentially on the block.Quarterback Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyMatt Ryan, FalconsRyan's name was floated as a trade possibility with Atlanta in free fall and seemingly on the verge of a total rebuild, but the salary cap ramifications of such a deal make it extremely unlikely.Trade potential: 0/5Sam Darnold, JetsIf the Jets are truly committed to tanking for the right to draft Clemson's Trevor Lawrence first overall, it would make sense to get anything they can for Darnold now. That said, it's far more likely that the Jets wait until after the season when they have their draft slot guaranteed.Trade potential: 1/5Dwayne Haskins, WashingtonHaskins' days as Washington's franchise passer might be over for good, but there's no point in selling him off at his value's nadir. Washington would be wise to rebuff any offers and give Haskins a few late-season starts to rehabilitate his value before trading him in the offseason.Trade potential: 1/5Ryan Fitzpatrick, DolphinsIt's Tua time in Miami, which makes Fitzpatrick expendable. Though the journeyman would presumably jump at the opportunity to start for a record ninth team, the Dolphins will want to keep him around to guide their rookie through his first months of pro action.Trade potential: 1/5Tyrod Taylor, ChargersOne wonders if Taylor might still be starting in L.A. had a team doctor not accidentally punctured his lung and opened the door for breakout rookie Justin Herbert. As is the case in Miami, it makes far more sense for the Chargers to ask their veteran to play mentor rather than look to trade him away for pennies on the dollar.Trade potential: 1/5Running Back Frederick Breedon / Getty Images Sport / GettyDavid Johnson, TexansJohnson hasn't exactly been reborn in Houston, and it probably doesn't help that he carries the stigma of being the player DeAndre Hopkins was traded for. Another fresh start would be good for the 28-year-old tailback, and the Texans are so draft-poor that they would probably do a deal for any mid-round pick.Trade potential: 2/5Jordan Howard, DolphinsHoward has been a healthy scratch as the Dolphins turn their backfield over to Myles Gaskin. Miami would happily trade Howard, but no team is going to come calling.Trade potential: 1/5Kerryon Johnson, LionsThe third wheel in a backfield that features rookie D'Andre Swift and the immortal Adrian Peterson, Johnson is perhaps the most appealing running back prospect on the trade block. Still just 23 years old, a suitor might decide there's untapped upside in the former second-round pick.Trade potential: 2/5Jaylen Samuels, SteelersThe versatile Samuels has fallen out of favor in Pittsburgh with James Conner handling the bulk of the backfield work and both Benny Snell and Anthony McFarland Jr. looking good in relief roles.Trade potential: 2/5Wide Receiver Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyA.J. Green, BengalsGreen is thought to have quietly desired a clean break from Cincinnati for several years now, but his sudden re-emergence as a receiving threat (15 catches on 24 targets in his last two games, following just 14 catches on 34 targets over his first five) might lead the Bengals to keep him around to earn the rest of his $18-million franchise tag and assist with Joe Burrow's development.Trade potential: 2/5Michael Thomas, SaintsThere are rumblings that Thomas' antics behind the scenes, which caused him to get benched for a game, have caused him to fall out of favor in New Orleans and begin planning his own exit strategy. But the Saints can't trade Thomas without incurring a dead-cap hit of $26 million, so there's no chance he's shipped out of town this season.Trade potential: 0/5Julio Jones, FalconsLike Matt Ryan, Jones' name has come up based purely on the notion that the Falcons will look to shed salary and get younger as they embark on a complete rebuild. It won't happen before the deadline.Trade potential: 0/5Alshon Jeffery, EaglesJeffery can't stay healthy, and the only way for the Eagles to get his cumbersome salary off the books is by sweetening any potential trade with a draft pick of their own.Trade potential: 1/5Will Fuller, TexansMultiple teams have reportedly inquired about Houston's speedy No. 1 wideout, but it's almost impossible to imagine the Texans following up their wildly unpopular DeAndre Hopkins deal by shipping out Deshaun Watson's next-best weapon.Trade potential: 1/5Kenny Stills, TexansStills is in a contract year and has fallen behind Fuller, Brandin Cooks, and Randall Cobb on the depth chart. All four Houston wideouts are trade candidates, but Stills is the most likely to go.Trade potential: 4/5Golden Tate, GiantsTate was shipped from the Lions to the Eagles before 2018's deadline and could be on the move once again.Trade potential: 2/5Marvin Jones, LionsIf the Lions don't see themselves as contenders, it would make sense to try to get a late draft pick for Jones and his expiring contract.Trade potential: 2/5DaeSean Hamilton, BroncosDenver's 2018 fourth-round pick has just five catches this season. He needs a fresh start in a new locale.Trade potential: 1/5John Ross, BengalsRoss is a bust, but it's more owing to his inability to stay healthy than his performances in limited action. He's not worth anywhere near the ninth overall pick that the Bengals used on him, but Ross could be a useful deep threat in a new environment.Trade potential: 4/5Dante Pettis, 49ersWere it not for a slew of injuries to the 49ers' other receivers, Pettis might already be wearing new colors.Trade potential: 2/5J.J. Arcega-Whiteside, EaglesA case could be made that Arcega-Whiteside is the worst receiver in the NFL. Why would anyone trade for him?Trade potential: 0/5Tight End Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyZach Ertz, EaglesErtz was a prime trade candidate before he landed on IR with an ankle injury. The Eagles likely will be hard-pressed to get enough value in return to pull the trigger on a deal.Trade potential: 3/5*Note: Ertz being designated for short-term injured reserve by the Eagles has made him ineligible for a trade before the deadline.Evan Engram, GiantsFor whatever reason, the Giants haven't figured out how to fully integrate Engram into their offense. The 26-year-old might have lost the few believers he had left in the organization after dropping a potential game-clinching catch versus the Eagles in Week 7. If the Giants are offered a third-round pick or better, they should take it.Trade potential: 4/5David Njoku, BrownsNjoku has made it very clear that he wants out of Cleveland, but Austin Hooper's recent bout of appendicitis might prevent Njoku from getting his wish. That said, the Browns seem enamored with rookie Harrison Bryant, so they could still deem Njoku expendable.Trade potential: 2/5Kyle Rudolph, VikingsIt's time for the Vikings to rebuild, and a tight end on the wrong side of 30 is just about the last thing they need.Trade potential: 1/5Chris Herndon, JetsA popular breakout pick among fantasy football prognosticators before the season, Herndon has been a major dud in New York. The possibility that he could break out after being freed from Adam Gase - as so many others already have - might inspire a team to ask about Herndon's availability.Trade potential: 1/5Offensive Line Corey Perrine / Getty Images Sport / GettyKevin Zeitler, GiantsZeitler has frequently been mentioned in trade talks, and there are countless teams in need of offensive line reinforcements. A deal appears likely unless the Giants' asking price is unreasonable.Trade potential: 4/5Cameron Fleming, GiantsLike Zeitler, Fleming is easy to connect to several contenders with holes on the O-line.Trade potential: 3/5Joe Thuney, PatriotsThuney is the best player on the Patriots' offensive line, but if Bill Belichick doesn't plan to lock him up in 2021 (Thuney's making almost $15 million on the franchise tag this season) then it makes sense to flip him for a future asset.Trade potential: 2/5Riley Reiff, VikingsThe Vikings could get a nice return for their left tackle considering the demand that seems to exist around the league.Trade potential: 3/5Edge RusherAlready traded: Carlos Dunlap (Bengals to Seahawks), Everson Griffen (Cowboys to Lions), Yannick Ngakoue (Vikings to Ravens), Markus Golden (Giants to Cardinals), Jordan Willis (Jets to 49ers) Frederick Breedon / Getty Images Sport / GettyJ.J. Watt, TexansWatt has repeatedly made it known that he won't be happy in Houston until the Texans start winning again, but shipping out the greatest player in franchise history would send a bad message to players and fans alike. Unless the Texans can somehow convince a contender to swap a first-round pick, a trade is highly unlikely.Trade potential: 1/5Whitney Mercilus, TexansThe Texans would probably give Mercilus away for free just to get his four-year, $54-million contract off the books. It's doubtful they'll find any takers.Trade potential: 2/5Ryan Kerrigan, WashingtonNearly every playoff contender could use a player like Kerrigan, and he probably won't be too pricey to obtain as a rental. The only potential impediment to a deal could be if Washington decides to push to win the dismal NFC East instead of continuing a slow build for the future.Trade potential: 4/5Melvin Ingram, ChargersFresh off injured reserve, Ingram is an appealing option for teams seeking pass-rush help. He's overpaid for what he produces, but his contract expires at the end of the season, so the financial risk is minimal.Trade potential: 3/5Haason Reddick, CardinalsThe Cardinals could look to sell high on Reddick, who's having a career year but has largely been a disappointment since the team selected him in the first round in 2017.Trade potential: 2/5Takk McKinley, FalconsThe Falcons are reportedly shopping their 2017 first-round pick, whose play has fallen off in recent seasons. They appear highly motivated to make a deal happen.Trade potential: 5/5Trent Murphy, BillsThe Bills recently made the veteran Murphy a healthy scratch. He could probably be had for cheap if any team wants him.Trade potential: 1/5Defensive InteriorAlready traded: Steve McLendon (Jets to Buccaneers) Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyQuinnen Williams, JetsThe Jets appear to be floating the name of 2019's No. 3 pick to see if they can get a king's ransom in return. They will be hard-pressed to land more than a second-rounder, so a deal probably won't happen.Trade potential: 2/5Geno Atkins, BengalsIt's difficult to say whether the Bengals' trade of Carlos Dunlap to Seattle makes it more or less likely that Atkins will also be sent packing. The Cowboys initially seemed like an ideal trade partner, but they suddenly look like sellers instead of buyers.Trade potential: 2/5Linebacker Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyJarrad Davis, LionsDavis has been linked to the Steelers, who lost star sophomore Devin Bush to a torn ACL, but it's difficult to say if there is any substance to those rumors. Davis has seen his snap count dwindle the season, so it's apparent that he's not in the Lions' plans.Trade potential: 2/5Avery Williamson, JetsEvery player on the Jets is conceivably for sale. Williamson is another player who's been connected to the Steelers.Trade potential: 2/5Denzel Perryman, ChargersPerryman isn't getting much playing time with the Chargers and would surely welcome a change of scenery. The question is whether any team wants to trade for a two-down thumper of a linebacker - a dying breed in 2020.Trade potential: 1/5Cornerback Maddie Meyer / Getty Images Sport / GettyStephon Gilmore, PatriotsCould the 2-4 Patriots be sellers at the deadline? If so, Gilmore would likely be their prime chip. The reigning Defensive Player of the Year's deal expires after the 2021 season, and the Patriots reportedly shopped him before the draft and in camp. Gilmore's house is rumored to be for sale, adding even more intrigue. If there's a blockbuster deal before the deadline, this is probably it.Trade potential: 4/5William Jackson, BengalsThe Bengals reportedly rebuffed offers for their former first-round pick before last season's deadline but might be more open to a trade now given that Jackson's contract expires at the end of the year.Trade potential: 2/5Brian Poole, JetsBrian Poole is a top-five slot corner, which means he's an upgrade for most teams. If the Jets don't ask for the moon, Poole is as good as gone.Trade potential: 4/5Pierre Desir, JetsDesir is far from a star, but he's a competent cover corner and should come pretty cheap on an expiring contract. He's the type of player who's easy to swing a deadline deal for.Trade potential: 3/5Safety Abbie Parr / Getty Images Sport / GettyHarrison Smith, VikingsSmith is rumored to have unfollowed the Vikings' social media accounts, which could suggest a trade is likely. It's becoming harder to see where the 31-year-old fits into Minnesota's plans.Trade potential: 2/5Anthony Harris, VikingsHarris is earning $11.4 million on the franchise tag this year and has been frequently linked with a trade to the Browns. Unless the Vikings are willing to give him away for a swap of late picks, it's difficult to envision any team being motivated to make a deal happen.Trade potential: 1/5Marcus Maye, JetsAdam Gase has reportedly sought to trade Maye since the time he was hired, so it shouldn't surprise anyone if a deal happens. However, a case can be made that Maye is one of the few building blocks that the Jets should keep around.Trade potential: 1/5Bradley McDougald, JetsNoticing a trend yet? Every starter in the Jets' secondary is potentially available.Trade potential: 1/5Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

A New York Giants player tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday, the team announced Thursday, but head coach Joe Judge doesn't believe Monday's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will have to be postponed.“We are expecting to play Monday night," said Judge, per Bob Glauber of Newsday Sports.Guard Will Hernandez is the player who will be placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list, sources told Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.As a result, the Giants reportedly quarantined all but four members of their offensive line.Outside linebackers coach Bret Bielema and defensive backs coach Jerome Henderson were also sent home, according to Rapoport."Late last night, we were notified that a Giants player tested positive for COVID-19. The player was immediately self-isolated, and the contact tracing process was initiated," the team said in a statement. "All of the player's close contacts were identified and were informed to remain home today."Those individuals will participate in meetings remotely. We are working closely with the NFL's chief medical officer regarding next protocol steps."Quest Diagnostics Training Center will remain open, and the rest of the team will follow their normal practice and meeting schedule."

Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Gardner Minshew suffered multiple fractures and a strained ligament in his right thumb and his status for next week's game against the Houston Texans is uncertain, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.Minshew reportedly had discomfort in his thumb since Oct. 11, but Jacksonville - which is currently on its bye week - wasn't aware of the injury until this week after X-rays revealed the injury.If the second-year quarterback is unable to play, either Mike Glennon or Jake Luton would get the start against the Texans.The injury could explain Minshew's recent dramatic drop in accuracy. He had a 69.9 completion percentage through the first five games but only hit 54.9% of his passes in losses to the Detroit Lions and Los Angles Chargers.The slump led to head coach Doug Marrone saying it's possible the young signal-caller could be benched in the future.Minshew has thrown for 1,855 yards and 13 touchdowns against five interceptions this season.The 1-6 Jaguars sit tied at the bottom of the AFC South with the Texans entering their bye. The club has lost six straight games.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The NFL is exploring various seating plans at Super Bowl LV in Tampa Bay on Feb. 7 in light of the coronavirus pandemic."The safety of the public, attendees, players and personnel continues to be our foremost priority," league spokesman Brian McCarthy said in a statement Wednesday, according to Ben Fischer of Sports Business Journal. "We are working on a host of Super Bowl plans, include gameday, in conjunction with the host committee and the appropriate local and county public health and government officials."Though the NFL has yet to confirm how many spectators will be allowed at Raymond James Stadium for the event, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the league is planning for 20% of the venue's capacity."There is no set capacity figure at this time as we continue to monitor the ongoing pandemic with more than three months to go before the Super Bowl on February 7," McCarthy said."There have been 19 teams that have already or have been authorized by public authorities to host regular-season games. The average has been around 20 percent with fans seated in pods and everyone wearing face coverings. Among the scenarios we are exploring (for the Super Bowl) is a capacity of around that figure but we anticipate it could grow as we get closer to the game."Fans will reportedly be placed in pods 6 feet apart from others and masks will be required in the stands due to the COVID-19 pandemic.A handful of teams have already experienced outbreaks in their buildings during the 2020 campaign, most notably the Tennessee Titans and New England Patriots. The NFL reportedly planned to create a Week 18 if such issues continued.If a Week 18 is added to the regular season, the off week usually given to participating teams would be eliminated and the Super Bowl would remain on schedule for Feb. 7, per Schefter.Raymond James Stadium has a maximum capacity of nearly 66,000. That means there could be 13,000-15,000 fans at this season's big game.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Dallas Cowboys released defensive tackle Dontari Poe and cornerback Daryl Worley on Wednesday.Dallas reportedly tried to trade the pair but was unsuccessful.When asked whether Poe being the only Cowboys player to kneel during the national anthem contributed to the team's decision, owner Jerry Jones said it mainly came down to Poe's weight and a lack of drive."When you're 30 pounds overweight and you're not doing anything about what's keeping you from performing well on the field, there is no reason to get into the other stuff," Jones said, according to Chris Mortensen of ESPN.The Cowboys are starting to become sellers after beginning the season 2-5, as they've moved some veterans ahead of the Nov. 3 trade deadline. They traded Pro Bowl defensive end Everson Griffen to the Detroit Lions for a conditional draft pick Tuesday.Dallas has now parted with five of its main offseason acquisitions.

Los Angeles is currently the City of Champions.After the Lakers' NBA Finals triumph earlier in October and the Dodgers' World Series victory on Tuesday night, one of the NFL's teams in L.A. is hoping to continue the city's streak."It's something that's really exciting for the city right now," Rams quarterback Jared Goff said Tuesday, according to NFL.com's Grant Gordon. "It'd be good to make that a little three-peat with us involved there. It's definitely something that we're conscious of, absolutely."The Rams are just one year removed from their last appearance in a Super Bowl, and they're off to a 5-2 start in 2020."We've got all the pieces. We're winning games. We are playing well, on offense, defense, special teams," Goff said. "We always believe in ourselves and we've been there once with a lot of the same people. We know how to get there. We've just got to finish it off and hopefully this is the year."If the Rams can't get the job done, the Chargers could also bring another championship to Los Angeles. However, they'll need to overcome a 2-4 start.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers doesn't agree with any recent criticism directed toward Minnesota Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer."He's a phenomenal coach," Rodgers said Wednesday, according to Nick Shook of NFL.com. "I was telling a friend of mine, to see (Zimmer) mentioned to be on the hot seat, to me, is absolutely crazy. I think he's one of the best coaches in the league and has been for a long time."They don't all give you the trouble and the scheme that Mike does. I have a lot of respect for the way he coaches and the way he especially coaches defense."As NFC North rivals, Rodgers has faced off against the Zimmer-led Vikings 12 times. The Packers signal-caller is 7-4-1 in those games, which includes a 43-34 victory in their Week 1 meeting.Zimmer is under pressure as the Vikings have started their season 1-5. Minnesota is currently on a two-game skid, and its defense ranks 30th in the NFL with 32 points allowed per contest.After the Vikings lost several veteran defenders to free agency, injuries sidelined several key players in the first month of the season, including defensive end Danielle Hunter and linebacker Anthony Barr.Zimmer, who inked a multi-year extension with Minnesota in July, owns a 58-43 regular-season record since taking the reins in 2014. He's led the Vikings to the playoffs three times.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Denver Broncos running back Melvin Gordon spoke to the media Wednesday, two weeks after he was cited for driving under the influence.Gordon took the opportunity to apologize for the incident."I try to do my best to walk a straight line and lead by example with things like that. I'm a little upset that I even put myself in the situation for it to be brought to others, including my family who was reaching out," Gordon said."I had a hard time dealing with it myself. Like I said, I hadn't been in trouble before, so it was tough. To the people of Denver and everyone, I don't want anyone to feel like I don't care and say, 'Oh, he got his money, he doesn't care.' I do. I'm not happy I was in the situation."After missing the Broncos' Week 6 game due to illness, he returned to the field in Week 7 and carried the ball 17 times for 68 yards in a loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. The 27-year-old will next face his old team Sunday when the Broncos take on the Los Angeles Chargers.Gordon spent the first five years of his career with the Chargers and held out at the beginning of the 2019 season in the hope of landing a new contract. He instead left for Denver via free agency after the season."Obviously, it's going to be cool to go up against some of the guys that I built a great relationship with over the years, but it's not different than any other team," Gordon said. "We're going to prepare the exact same way and go out there and try to get this W."Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Bruce Arians liked what he saw from Antonio Brown during the recently signed wide receiver's first workout with his new team."He looks fantastic. I think we had really good conversations today, he and I," Arians said Wednesday, according to Jenna Laine of ESPN. "He was in the meetings and everything. And he's working with (Buccaneers conditioning coach) Anthony Piroli and the strength staff. He looks in great shape. Yeah, ready to go next week."Brown appeared at the Buccaneers' facility for the first time Wednesday. He underwent six days of COVID-19 testing this past week after agreeing to a one-year deal with the team Friday.The 32-year-old won't be making his debut with Tampa Bay on Monday against the New York Giants, as he's suspended until the end of Week 8. The Buccaneers host the New Orleans Saints in Week 9.Arians was also asked if he thinks Brown will follow the NFL's coronavirus protocols this season."He wants to play, and if you want to play, you've got to do it," he said, according to The Athletic's Greg Auman.Arians, who indicated during the offseason that Brown wasn't a fit in his team's locker room, recently said the wideout has "matured."Brown appeared in just one game and was cut twice last season, with the Raiders and New England Patriots jettisoning him due to off-field issues.The seven-time Pro Bowler has racked up 841 receptions for 11,263 yards while scoring 75 touchdowns over 10 NFL seasons.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Find positional rankings, additional analysis, and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.Welcome to theScore Fantasy Football Podcast, hosted by Justin Boone.Find the show on iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, Spotify, and Anchor.In this episode, Chris Meaney of FTN joins Boone to discuss the most important fantasy questions heading into Week 8.

The Cincinnati Bengals traded disgruntled defensive end Carlos Dunlap to the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for a seventh-round pick and offensive lineman B.J. Finney, the Bengals announced Wednesday.Dunlap made several public trade requests amid the Bengals' poor start to the season.After Sunday's loss to the Cleveland Browns, the veteran appeared to list his Cincinnati home for sale on his social media accounts. A day earlier, Dunlap criticized his diminishing role and Cincinnati's defensive line rotations.He also seemingly had a heated discussion with a member of the coaching staff during the game against the Browns.Dunlap, who's spent his entire career in Cincinnati, is a much-needed potential boost to Seattle's pass-rush issues. He racked up 17 sacks over the last two seasons.The Seahawks are tied for 26th with nine sacks through seven weeks. The poor production has continued from last year when the NFC West club tied for 31st with just 28 quarterback takedowns.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Tom Brady opened up about his relationship with new Tampa Bay Buccaneers wideout Antonio Brown and other former teammates with troubled pasts during a conference call Wednesday.Responding to a question from ESPN's Jenna Laine, the Bucs quarterback explained that he tries to "bring a positive impact" to his locker room and those around him."I had a lot of people support me over the years, realizing that I was far from where I needed to be, and they would guide me and provide me with the help that I needed as a player to reach my potential," Brady said. "How you impact people on the field's one thing, how you impact people off the field's another. So, whether that's teammates that you can impact or people in the community that you can impact, all those things are important."You just try your best every day realizing that a lot of people weren't born with the same advantages that I've had growing up, they weren't born with the same background or support systems that I had. ... I want to see other guys succeed, and I think that a lot of joy, in my experience, comes from seeing other people be their best and seeing people succeed in ways that can set their family up."Brady was teammates with Brown for a brief time in New England last season. There was speculation he had an influence on the Bucs signing Brown, though head coach Bruce Arians denied that was the case.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Green Bay Packers are among the teams who have inquired about trading for Houston Texans wide receiver Will Fuller, a source told The Athletic's Aaron Reiss.However, a deal reportedly isn't imminent as Houston "isn't interested in a fire sale."With their season effectively over after starting 1-6, the Texans could look to move some veteran players prior to next Tuesday's deadline.Fuller - who is on pace for a career season after catching 31 passes for 490 yards and five touchdowns - is part of a crowded Houston wide receiver room that also contains Randall Cobb, Brandin Cooks, Kenny Stills, and Keke Coutee.The Packers have long sought an effective complement to star wideout Davante Adams. Their need has been further highlighted this year amid an injury to Allen Lazard and Marquez Valdes-Scantling's struggles.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson is in concussion protocol, head coach Matt Nagy announced Wednesday, according to staff writer Larry Mayer.Robinson was evaluated for a concussion after taking a hard hit during Monday's loss to the Los Angeles Rams.The 27-year-old's status for Chicago's Week 8 tilt against the New Orleans Saints is in doubt, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.Robinson is the Bears' leading receiver this year with 44 catches, 544 yards, and two touchdowns.Anthony Miller, Darnell Mooney, and Javon Wims would see an increase in playing time should Robinson be sidelined.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Atlanta Falcons have engaged in trade discussions regarding former first-round pass-rusher Takk McKinley, sources told Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.Other teams reportedly believe McKinley - who has been held out of practice the last two days due to a groin injury - will be moved before next Tuesday's deadline, but no deal is apparently imminent.Atlanta will hold McKinley out of Thursday's game against the Carolina Panthers so he can heal, sources told Jeremy Fowler of ESPN. However, listing him as inactive could help the team move McKinley, Fowler notes.The Falcons are apparent sellers after starting 1-6. They also fired head coach Dan Quinn and general manager Thomas Dimitroff earlier this season.Atlanta selected McKinley with the 26th overall pick of the 2017 NFL Draft.The young defensive end racked up 13 sacks and two forced fumbles during his first two seasons. However, he struggled in Year 3 and produced only three quarterback takedowns. McKinley has one sack so far in 2020.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Find positional rankings, additional analysis, and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.In an effort to help you find trades that could improve your fantasy team, we present the Trade Value Chart.You can use this chart to compare players and build realistic trade offers. Values are based on 12-team leagues.Follow the links below to see the trade values and rest of season rankings for each position.Trade Values

The Houston Texans are shutting down their facility after a positive player COVID-19 test, the team announced Wednesday.The Texans are currently on their bye week, so there is no immediate danger to the NFL's schedule. Houston played the Green Bay Packers in Week 7.

The Dallas Cowboys continue to make changes to their struggling defense.Dallas informed defensive tackle Dontari Poe and cornerback Daryl Worley that they'll be released Wednesday if the team can't trade them, sources told Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.The Cowboys traded pass-rusher Everson Griffen to the Detroit Lions on Tuesday for a reported conditional sixth-round pick.Dallas ranks last in scoring defense (34.7 points per game) and rushing yards allowed (178.3 yards per game), and 27th in total yards allowed (408.1 per game). The unit also has created just three turnovers (one interception, two forced fumbles).Poe has seven total tackles and zero sacks in seven appearances. Meanwhile, Worley has 14 tackles and one pass defense. Both players signed with Dallas as free agents this past offseason.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The NFL Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's football editors.With Halloween on the calendar this week, we're identifying every team's scariest stat that should be a cause for concern moving forward.1. Kansas City Chiefs (6-1)Previous Rank: 1There isn't much to critique on this dynamic Chiefs team, though its run defense is exploitable. Kansas City owns the NFL's third-poorest rushing defense - giving up 150 yards on the ground per game - and its 65 first downs allowed on rush attempts rank 31st.2. Pittsburgh Steelers (6-0) Frederick Breedon / Getty Images Sport / GettyPrevious Rank: 3The Steelers may be perfect, but there is still room for improvement. Pittsburgh allowed 17 points in the second half Sunday, the third time this season it's surrendered 14-plus points in the latter half of games. While the team has escaped unharmed thus far, this may not be a recipe for future success.3. Seattle Seahawks (5-1)Previous Rank: 2The Seahawks are in trouble if Pete Carroll's defense doesn't turn things around. Seattle's stop unit ranks last in both total yards allowed and pass defense while placing 23rd in points allowed per game.4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-2)Previous Rank: 7Bruce Arians isn't getting enough consistent production from his No. 1 receiver. Mike Evans has amassed three catches on four targets for 47 yards over his last two games. He also caught two or fewer passes in Weeks 1 and 3, though he scored touchdowns in both tilts.5. Baltimore Ravens (5-1)Previous Rank: 4Expectations were high for Lamar Jackson following his brilliant MVP campaign, but he must improve his passing production for Baltimore to hang with the Steelers in the AFC North. Jackson's 56.6% completion rate over his last four games ranks 31st during that span.6. Green Bay Packers (5-1) Dylan Buell / Getty Images Sport / GettyPrevious Rank: 5Green Bay's defense ranks 31st in pass-rush win rate this season at 15.2% of dropbacks despite fielding elite edge rushers in Za'Darius Smith and Preston Smith. The Packers are also dead last with 34 total pressures.7. Tennessee Titans (5-1)Previous Rank: 6Tennessee's glaring weakness is its inability to create three-and-outs. Mike Vrabel's stop unit is allowing opponents to convert a league-high 61% of their third downs.8. Arizona Cardinals (5-2)Previous Rank: 11The Cardinals have committed a league-high 55 accepted penalties for 418 yards, including 16 infractions for either defensive pass interference, defensive holding, or illegal contact.9. Los Angeles Rams (5-2)Previous Rank: 10The Rams are a well-rounded squad, but Sean McVay's offense isn't spreading the wealth as much we'd expect. Since Week 2, wide receiver Robert Woods and tight end Tyler Higbee - two players with high expectations coming into the year - have averaged a combined 5.5 receptions and 61 yards per game.10. New Orleans Saints (4-2) Jonathan Bachman / Getty Images Sport / GettyPrevious Rank: 9Drew Brees' game is beginning to feel a bit one-dimensional. The veteran has thrown just nine passes covering 20 or more air yards this year.11. Buffalo Bills (5-2)Previous Rank: 8The Bills' offense has drastically cooled off after they ran through their opponents to open the season. Buffalo has scored just four touchdowns over its last three matchups after averaging four per contest to begin the campaign.12. San Francisco 49ers (4-3)Previous Rank: 15The Niners appear to be back in the playoff hunt, but their schedule is about to get significantly tougher. Seven of San Francisco's final nine opponents - including upcoming games against the Seahawks, Packers, and Saints - currently sit at least two games above .500.13. Indianapolis Colts (4-2)Previous Rank: 13T.Y. Hilton ranks 71st league-wide with 242 receiving yards. Philip Rivers' 51.9 passer rating when targeting Hilton is concerning, as only four quarterbacks have earned a worse rating on throws to a single wideout.14. Cleveland Browns (5-2) Joe Sargent / Getty Images Sport / GettyPrevious Rank: 16Against teams currently under the .500 mark, Baker Mayfield has a perfect 4-0 record while completing 70.2% of his passes for 11 touchdowns, two interceptions, and 8.1 yards per attempt. Versus clubs over .500? He's 1-2 with a 55.3% completion percentage, four touchdowns, five picks, and 5.9 yards per attempt.15. Chicago Bears (5-2)Previous Rank: 12The Bears' ground game has officially entered uncharted waters after another poor performance Monday night. Chicago was under 65 rushing yards in four consecutive games for the first time in franchise history.16. Las Vegas Raiders (3-3)Previous Rank: 14Vegas is struggling to create turnovers. The Raiders have notched three interceptions and no fumble recoveries through Week 7, forcing a turnover on just under 6% of their defensive snaps.17. Miami Dolphins (3-3)Previous Rank: 18The Dolphins are hoping for more consistency from their receivers - especially Preston Williams - with Tua Tagovailoa due to make his first official start. Williams has hauled in just 48% of his targets, third-worst in the NFL among all receivers (minimum 25 targets).18. Carolina Panthers (3-4) Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyPrevious Rank: 19Despite ranking second in 2019 with an impressive 53 sacks, Carolina's pass rush has taken a step back under Matt Rhule and Phil Snow. The Panthers have recorded just six sacks this season, tied for last with the Jaguars.19. Los Angeles Chargers (2-4)Previous Rank: 25Justin Herbert has set the world on fire since his debut, but can his defense return the favor? The Chargers sit near the bottom of the league with only five takeaways this season.20. Detroit Lions (3-3)Previous Rank: 24The Lions have been all bark but no bite when it comes to getting after the quarterback. Detroit has pressured passers on just 16.3% of dropbacks this season, the third-lowest mark in the NFL.21. Philadelphia Eagles (2-4-1)Previous Rank: 22Philadelphia is arguably the league's most injury-riddled franchise right now. Nine of the Eagles' 11 projected Week 1 starters on offense - which account for 22 Pro Bowls - have missed extended time this season. Their replacements combined for 29 career starts prior to the campaign, with tight end Richard Rodgers accounting for 24 of them.22. New England Patriots (2-4) Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyPrevious Rank: 17One reason New England's passing game isn't working? A lack of talent on the perimeter. The Patriots had four interceptions targeting wide receivers in Week 7. On the season, they've recorded one touchdown and eight interceptions on passes to wideouts.23. Denver Broncos (2-4)Previous Rank: 20Drew Lock is completing just 32% of his passes when under pressure this year, earning an alarming 24.3 passer rating on such throws - dead last among quarterbacks.24. Washington Football Team (2-5)Previous Rank: 31Ron Rivera's squad may be in the hunt for the NFC East crown, but Washington's offense is averaging a league-worst 23.5 yards per drive this campaign.25. Dallas Cowboys (2-5)Previous Rank: 21The Cowboys have now faced a deficit of at least 14 points in six straight games this year. It's the first time since 1961 that Dallas has trailed by 14-plus points for six consecutive contests.26. Houston Texans (1-6) Logan Riely / Getty Images Sport / GettyPrevious Rank: 23How much better could the Texans' offense be if they had a reliable rushing attack behind Deshaun Watson? David Johnson has been a major dud, averaging under four yards per carry in five games this season.27. Minnesota Vikings (1-5)Previous Rank: 27Sometimes simple stats paint an accurate picture. Kirk Cousins has thrown an interception on 5.7% of his pass attempts, which is the league's worst rate. It's difficult for the Vikings to stay in games with their turnover troubles.28. Cincinnati Bengals (1-5-1)Previous Rank: 28Can we get the rook some protection? Not only is Joe Burrow being pressured on over 34% of his dropbacks, but he's also been sacked 28 times.29. Atlanta Falcons (1-6)Previous Rank: 26The Falcons have lost three games in which they had at least a 98% chance of winning the contest. The rest of the league has four such defeats combined.30. Jacksonville Jaguars (1-6) Katelyn Mulcahy / Getty Images Sport / GettyPrevious Rank: 30The Jaguars' defense is struggling to inflict fear in any offense. Jacksonville allowed over 400 yards in four consecutive weeks against the Bengals, Texans, Lions, and Chargers, who own a combined 7-18-1 record.31. New York Giants (1-6)Previous Rank: 29No offensive line has given up more pressures this season than the Giants' 106. New York's unit also ranks 32nd in PFF's pass-blocking efficiency rating.32. New York Jets (0-7)Previous Rank: 32There are too many scary stats to choose from for the NFL's worst team. However, the Jets' -118 point differential, 51 points below the 31st-ranked Cowboys, highlights deficiencies on both sides of the ball.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Cincinnati Bengals told disgruntled defensive end Carlos Dunlap to stay home from workouts on Wednesday as they sort out his future, sources told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.The Bengals are engaged in discussions with other clubs about trading Dunlap, Rapoport adds.Dunlap took to social media following Sunday's loss to the Cleveland Browns and appeared to list his Cincinnati home.A day earlier, the 31-year-old voiced his frustration with Cincinnati's defensive line rotations. He also reportedly discussed his displeasure with his lack of playing time earlier in the month.Dunlap's effort against the Browns was seen as inexcusable to his coaching staff, according to MMQB's Albert Breer. This, along with his on-tape production, is making it more difficult to trade the veteran.The NFL's trade deadline is scheduled for Nov. 3.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Dallas Cowboys traded defensive end Everson Griffen to the Detroit Lions in exchange for a conditional draft pick, the Cowboys confirmed Tuesday.It's a sixth-round selection, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, that can become a fifth-rounder depending on multiple conditions."I'm excited. I just got to process everything," Griffen told Josina Anderson. "I'm gonna reach out to (Lions running back) Adrian (Peterson) at some point."The 32-year-old won't be available for the Lions' game against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday due to the NFL's COVID-19 protocols. Detroit will have to pay half of Griffen's $6-million salary in 2020.Griffen joined the Cowboys on a one-year free-agent deal in the offseason after a 10-year stint with the Minnesota Vikings.The four-time Pro Bowler racked up 20 tackles and 2.5 sacks through seven games with Dallas. He thanked the club and head coach Mike McCarthy after learning of the trade, and showed excitement for his new team.

Find line reports, best bets, and subscribe to push notifications in the Betting News section.On Sunday night, the Eagles will play the Cowboys in a game with major divisional implications. The winner will earn at least a share of the NFC East lead through eight weeks and seize control of the league's most unpredictable division. And yet, both teams enter with just two wins through their first seven games.Welcome to the NFC East, football's worst division and perhaps the worst of all time. It's the first time in NFL history that every team in a division has fewer than three wins through the first seven weeks, per NFL Research. The NFC East is also on pace to shatter the record for worst cumulative winning percentage (.268) and the worst winning percentage by a division champion (.357).Injuries have complicated this race even further. The Eagles (2-4-1) have 11 players on injured reserve, per Spotrac, seemingly including their entire offensive line and receiving corps; the Cowboys (2-5) are on their third-string quarterback; Washington (2-5) added former All-Pro safety Landon Collins to its own growing IR list Sunday; and the Giants (1-6) are listless without do-it-all back Saquon Barkley, who's out for the year.Alas, somebody has to win this division, even if it only takes six or seven wins. Here are the odds to win the NFC East and what you should know about each team's chances:TEAMODDSPhiladelphia Eagles-165Dallas Cowboys+350Washington Football Team+450New York Giants+1200Philadelphia Eagles (-165)If it's possible for a team to "deserve" to be favored in this mess of a division, it's the Eagles by default. They have the best record by a half-game after squeaking by the Giants on Thursday night, and their net yards per play (-0.2) is the highest in the division.Should the price be this short, though? Philadelphia barely escaped an inept New York squad and is 0-1 against the other two NFC East teams. Carson Wentz has the third-worst QBR of any season-long starter (50.5), and even his best performance was a bit shaky - he was 7-for-10 for 104 yards and two touchdowns on his team's first and last drives Thursday, and 18-for-33 for 255 yards and an interception in between.The Eagles aren't my favorite pick out of this division, but they're easily the safest with a slim lead and key players expected to return from injury. Still, this isn't a great team, or even a good one, so take that into consideration before betting such a short price.Dallas Cowboys (+350)The Cowboys are broken, and it's going to take longer than 10 weeks for them to pick up the pieces. Dak Prescott couldn't lift this squad to a winning mark despite setting NFL records prior to his injury. Since he went down, Dallas has been outscored 63-13 and has the league's second-worst point differential (-67) behind the Jets.It's hard to decide what's most troubling about this club. Is it the quarterback position, which could be manned by seventh-rounder Ben DiNucci on Sunday? Is it the defense, which ranks dead last in opposing points per game (34.7) and rushing yards per contest (178.3)? Is it the team culture, which has come under fire for a lack of effort and an unwillingness to support one another?It's surprising to see the Cowboys listed at just +350 when they're arguably the worst in the division. It's also hard to see how that changes without a surprise at quarterback or a brand-new defense.Washington Football Team (+450)Before we knew just how bad the Jets would be, many thought Washington would be the NFL's worst squad. Instead, the team has been a pleasant surprise, going 2-1 against the NFC East and remaining competitive against a stout non-conference schedule.There are clear positives for this club, too. Washington's defense quietly ranks 11th in points allowed (23.6) and fourth in yards allowed (309.1) on the strength of its dominant pass rush, which is a boon in a division full of bad offensive line play. The offense is still a work in progress, but Kyle Allen has improved in each of his three starts after a midseason quarterback change, and he has a legit game-changing weapon in receiver Terry McLaurin.Four of Washington's first seven opponents have a winning record through Week 7; only three of its final nine can say the same. With tiebreakers over the Eagles and Giants, this team is positioned to erase its half-game deficit over the back half of the season.New York Giants (+1200)This division could've been the Giants' to lose with a healthy Barkley. Instead, their 31st-ranked offense - behind the Jets, as always - has held them back. They've scored 21 or fewer points in six of seven games, and they only won in Week 6 because Washington unsuccessfully attempted a two-point conversion in a 20-19 loss.The defense has been surprisingly effective, led by All-Pro candidates James Bradberry and Blake Martinez, both of whom were added in free agency. The biggest issue has been turnovers; Daniel Jones ranks in the top three in interceptions (7) and fumbles (4), which has made it nearly impossible for New York to sustain offensive success or prevent scoring opportunities.Getting 12-1 odds in this division is attractive regardless of the team, so I can't fault anyone for taking a shot. A multi-game deficit will be tough to overcome, though, for a club that may not win another contest all season.Best betWashington +450Three weeks ago, I said Washington was the best divisional bet you could make at 10-1 odds. Here we are now, and this team is still one of the NFL's best values.The statistics support it, too. Washington has the best point differential in the division (-32), is ranked highest in the NFC East by DVOA (21st), and is directly behind the Eagles in PFF team grades (25th). Football Outsiders' playoff odds report gives Washington a 23.3% chance of winning the division, which is still factoring in a few sloppy weeks under Dwayne Haskins.That percentage would imply roughly +325 odds, so you're getting an obvious value even with that conservative estimate. It's not a sexy pick betting on a club without many household names, or even an actual team name, but it's the best value you can find in the NFL's worst division.C Jackson Cowart is a betting writer for theScore. He's an award-winning journalist with stops at The Charlotte Observer, The San Diego Union-Tribune, The Times Herald-Record, and BetChicago. He's also a proud graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill, and his love of sweet tea is rivaled only by that of a juicy prop bet. Find him on Twitter @CJacksonCowart.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The 2021 East-West Shrine Bowl - a college football all-star game and scouting showcase - has been canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic, organizers announced Tuesday."It's terribly disappointing to have to cancel this year's game, but there are so many issues involved with bringing in approximately 130 players and 25 NFL coaches from every corner of the United States and Canada," Shrine Bowl executive director Bob Roller said in a release. "It's difficult enough currently for these college teams to provide some sort of a bubble during the regular season, but our game occurs after all players have gone home for the holidays. It presented too many potential issues for this one year."The Shrine Bowl was scheduled to take place Jan. 23, 2021.Several past participants have gone on to star in the NFL, including Tom Brady, Brett Favre, John Elway, and Lawrence Taylor.The Shrine Bowl will still carry on with the tradition of sending out formal invitations to players who would have been eligible to play in the 2021 game.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Find positional rankings, additional analysis, and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.theScore's Justin Boone was the winner of FantasyPros' Most Accurate Expert Competition in 2019, marking the seventh time he's placed in the top 10. Follow the links below to see his rankings for Week 8.Updated rankings (including Standard and PPR) will be released Thursday, with the final version coming down Sunday morning.Half PPR

The Washington Football Team offered Eric Reid a spot on their practice squad, but the free-agent safety declined it."I just don't think playing on the practice squad is reflective or indicative of my career," Reid said Tuesday, according to Rob Maaddi of Associated Press."I'm just not in a place to play on the practice squad right now ... If they go a different direction, I'll be ready."Reid was released by the Carolina Panthers in March after two seasons and has yet to join a team for the 2020 campaign.The 28-year-old started in all 29 games he played for the Panthers, who were then coached by current Washington head coach Ron Rivera. Reid accumulated 147 tackles, five sacks, one interception, and 11 pass breakups with Carolina.Reid has been one of the most outspoken figures in the NFL regarding social issues in the U.S. He was the first player to join quarterback Colin Kaepernick's protests during the national anthem when they were teammates on the San Francisco 49ers from 2013-16.Washington's secondary took a big hit last week after losing former Pro-Bowl safety Landon Collins for the remainder of the season to an Achilles injury.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Carolina Panthers released cornerback Eli Apple on Tuesday, the team announced.Apple signed a one-year deal with the Panthers in May but suffered numerous injuries during training camp. He started the season on the team's injured reserve list.The Ohio State alum was active for Carolina's Week 4 contest against the Arizona Cardinals, where he saw limited action. The 25-year-old tallied four tackles against his former team, the New Orleans Saints, last week.Apple, a first-round pick of the New York Giants in 2016, has recorded three interceptions, 33 passes defended, and three forced fumbles during his career.The Panthers will lean on cornerbacks Donte Jackson, Troy Pride, Corn Elder, and Stantley Thomas-Oliver.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Find positional rankings, additional analysis, and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.Every Monday during the season, theScore's Justin Boone runs down the recommended waiver wire pickups.Rostered percentages are based on Yahoo leagues. Free Agent Budget (FAB) amounts are set off a $100 salary cap. Only players rostered in less than 60% of leagues are considered.Quarterbacks Jonathan Bachman / Getty Images Sport / GettyTeddy Bridgewater, PanthersNext UpRosteredFABvs. ATL44%$2Bridgewater has been a top-15 fantasy quarterback in three of his last four outings.He now gets a Falcons defense giving up the most fantasy production to opposing passers in 2020, including at least 20 points to the quarterback position in every game this season.Bridgewater posted 313 yards and two scores in Week 5 in his first meeting with the Falcons.If he's available, there isn't a better streamer option this week.Jimmy Garoppolo, 49ersNext UpRosteredFABat SEA30%$1Coming off a disappointing performance in a tough test against his former club, Garoppolo is poised to rebound versus the Seahawks, one of the 10 best matchups for fantasy quarterbacks.Seattle has allowed multiple touchdowns to five of the six QBs they've encountered this season.Even with Deebo Samuel injured, Garoppolo has more than enough firepower to keep pace with Russell Wilson in a game with a 54.5 projected point total.Long-term option: Tua Tagovailoa vs. LAR (29% rostered)Risky streamer options: Derek Carr at CLE (29% rostered), Baker Mayfield vs. LV (33% rostered), Philip Rivers at DET (16% rostered), Nick Foles vs. NO (10% rostered), Kirk Cousins at GB (29% rostered)Running backs Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyCarlos Hyde/DeeJay Dallas, SeahawksNext UpRosteredFABvs. SF11%/0%$24/$9Chris Carson is week-to-week with a mid-foot sprain after being forced from Sunday's contest. The Seahawks also lost Travis Homer to injury in the game.Hyde should therefore be the unquestioned starter, but the 30-year-old is dealing with a tight hamstring that could keep him out of Week 8, as well.The veteran racked up 76 yards and a score Sunday while handling 75% of the running back touches once Carson exited the contest. However, if Hyde is unable to go this week, fourth-round rookie Dallas - who caught two passes for 18 yards on Sunday - will get the bulk of the backfield work.Treat Hyde as a strong RB2 if he's able to go, and consider Dallas as a potential low-end RB2/flex if he gets the start.It's also worth noting that Rashaad Penny (injured reserve) could return soon, making him a player to stash.JaMycal Hasty/Tevin Coleman, 49ersNext UpRosteredFABat SEA21%/27%$19/$14With Raheem Mostert and Jeff Wilson dealing with ankle injuries, the 49ers are again looking for a new starter in their backfield.Jerick McKinnon, who's rostered in most leagues, filled in as the lead back when Mostert missed time early in the season. It apparently took a lot out of him, so the team scaled back his workload last week to rest his body.Coleman is a Kyle Shanahan favorite, but it's unclear if he'll return this week after missing the last five games with a knee issue. When healthy, Coleman would likely get the nod over everyone on the depth chart, aside from Mostert.If Coleman can't go, then the undrafted rookie Hasty will finally get his chance. Remember, Hasty out-touched McKinnon 9-8 and outgained him 37-28 in Week 6 when Mostert, Wilson, and Coleman were out.This will be a situation to monitor, but you should approach Hasty as a flex option and Coleman as more of a long-term stash for now. As we've mentioned many times before, it's never a bad idea to roster members of a Shanahan backfield.La'Mical Perine, JetsNext UpRosteredFABat KC16%$9Perine's playing time rose for the second straight week as he saw the field on 70% of the Jets' offensive snaps.The rookie also turned in a career-best day with 11 carries for 39 yards and a touchdown, with another 16 yards added on two receptions.Though it's clear the Jets are giving him a chance to be the lead back, the coaching staff still gave 37-year-old Frank Gore 11 carries in the game.As we stated last week, it's hard to get overly excited by Perine's ceiling when he's splitting touches in one of the league's worst offenses. He remains more of a stash than a flex option that you feel safe trusting in your lineup.Chase Edmonds, J.K. Dobbins, Giovani Bernard, Boston Scott, Justin Jackson, Joshua Kelley, Latavius Murray, Alexander Mattison, Jamaal Williams, and Zack Moss are around the 60% rostered mark and should be rostered in almost all leagues.High-upside backups like Tony Pollard (20% rostered), Brian Hill (12% rostered), and Cam Akers (44% rostered) should be rostered in most leagues.Risky flex options: Wayne Gallman vs. TB (2% rostered), Damien Harris at BUF (47% rostered), Gus Edwards vs. PIT (8% rostered), Frank Gore at KC (29% rostered), Royce Freeman vs. LAC (1% rostered), Corey Clement vs. DAL (1% rostered)Other quality backups: Benny Snell at BAL (8% rostered), Duke Johnson on Bye (19% rostered), Matt Breida vs. LAR (20% rostered), J.D. McKissic on Bye (40% rostered), Jordan Wilkins at DET (0% rostered), Rex Burkhead at BUF (27% rostered), Jeremy McNichols at CIN (1% rostered), D'Ernest Johnson vs. LV (8% rostered)Injured reserve stash: Rashaad Penny (3% rostered)Long-term upside stashes: Anthony McFarland Jr. at BAL (1% rostered), Ke'Shawn Vaughn at NYG (5% rostered), AJ Dillon vs. MIN (16% rostered)Deeper stashes: Eno Benjamin on Bye (0% rostered), Devine Ozigbo on Bye (2% rostered), Jordan Howard vs. LAR (21% rostered)Wide receivers Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyBrandon Aiyuk, 49ersNext UpRosteredFABat SEA49%$29Available in half of the leagues, Aiyuk is an immediate add for managers in need of help at receiver.With Deebo Samuel again on the shelf - this time due to a hamstring injury - Aiyuk moves back to the top of the depth chart as the No. 1 wideout and second-option in the passing attack behind tight end George Kittle.The rookie set career highs Sunday with six grabs and 115 yards against the Patriots. We've also seen him get work as a runner this season, similar to how Shanahan deploys Samuel at times.With a schedule that screams shootouts - Seahawks, Packers, and Saints over the next three weeks - Aiyuk is a WR3 with WR2 upside and a priority pickup.Sterling Shepard, GiantsNext UpRosteredFABvs. TB29%$14Shepard came off IR last week and led the Giants in receptions (six), receiving yards (59), and scored a touchdown.Now healthy, he'll battle Darius Slayton for the rights to be Daniel Jones' top target.Still available in over 70% of leagues, Shepard could be an instant WR3 in your lineup.Jalen Reagor, EaglesNext UpRosteredFABvs. DAL14%$14Sometimes players on IR can sneak through the cracks, which explains Shepard only being rostered in 29% of leagues. It's a similar situation with Reagor, who was activated this week.While he's not guaranteed to see the field in Week 8, his return is coming at the right time with DeSean Jackson about to miss six-to-eight weeks with an ankle issue.Let's not forget, Reagor was the 21st overall pick in this year's draft and someone the Eagles have very high hopes for. His explosiveness will be a welcomed addition to a Philly attack that can become stagnant at times.Stash Reagor now before it's too late.Jerry Jeudy, Christian Kirk, Mike Williams, and Henry Ruggs are around the 60% rostered mark and should be rostered in almost all leagues.Flex options: Preston Williams vs. LAR (22% rostered), Tre'Quan Smith at CHI (29% rostered), Rashard Higgins vs. LV (2% rostered), Cole Beasley vs. NE (41% rostered), Scotty Miller at NYG (9% rostered)Risky flex options: Denzel Mims at KC (4% rostered), Marvin Jones vs. IND (50% rostered), Gabriel Davis at NE (3% rostered), Corey Davis at CIN (28% rostered), Demarcus Robinson vs. NYJ (2% rostered), Mecole Hardman vs. NYJ (33% rostered), Darnell Mooney vs. NO (2% rostered), Nelson Agholor at CLE (4% rostered), Curtis Samuel vs. ATL (15% rostered), Marquez Valdes-Scantling vs. MIN (24% rostered), Marcus Johnson at DET (1% rostered), Zach Pascal at DET (1% rostered), Greg Ward vs. DAL (7% rostered), Kendrick Bourne at SEA (3% rostered)Dart-throw flex options: Marquez Callaway at CHI (1% rostered), Deonte Harris at CHI (3% rostered), K.J. Hamler vs. LAC (2% rostered), Adam Humphries at CIN (14% rostered), Hunter Renfrow at CLE (19% rostered), Damiere Byrd at BUF (3% rostered)Injured reserve stash: Michael Pittman Jr. (7% rostered)Deep bench stashes: Devin Duvernay vs. PIT (1% rostered), Jalen Guyton at DEN (4% rostered), David Moore vs. SF (2% rostered), Donovan Peoples-Jones vs. LV (0% rostered)Tight ends Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyTrey Burton, ColtsNext UpRosteredFABat DET21%$5Burton has averaged the 12th-most fantasy points among tight ends since returning from injury three weeks ago, as he continues to be a major part of the Colts' offense.Against the Bengals, Burton caught four passes for 58 yards and a score while also adding another touchdown on the ground.As T.Y. Hilton's effectiveness continues to wane, Burton appears to be a reliable target for Philip Rivers, who has always favored his tight ends.He's in the conversation as a low-end TE1/high-end TE2 moving forward.Harrison Bryant, BrownsNext UpRosteredFABvs. LV1%$1Austin Hooper underwent an appendectomy, which made him inactive Sunday and could keep him out of Week 8.In his absence, the rookie Bryant starred in the Browns' offense by catching four passes for 56 yards and two touchdowns. Teammate David Njoku also found the end zone but only saw three targets to Bryant's five.If Hooper is unable to go, Bryant is a high-end TE2 and strong streamer against a Raiders defense that's permitted stat lines of 8-108-1 and 5-62-1 to starting tight ends over the last two games.Dallas Goedert is around the 60% rostered mark and should be rostered in almost all leagues ahead of his expected Week 10 return.Potential long-term starter: Logan Thomas on Bye (26% rostered)Streamer options: Richard Rodgers vs. DAL (9% rostered), Eric Ebron at BAL (46% rostered)Risky streamer options: Irv Smith Jr. at GB (7% rostered), Drew Sample vs. TEN (2% rostered), Albert Okwuegbunam vs. LAC (0% rostered)DefensesWeek 8 streamersTeamNext UpRosteredTitansat CIN27%Packersvs. MIN19%Brownsvs. LV50%Lionsvs. IND2%Favorable upcoming schedules: Titans DEF (27% rostered), Washington DEF (24% rostered), Lions DEF (2% rostered)Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Find line reports, best bets, and subscribe to push notifications in the Betting News section.Another week, another winner. The Bills didn't exactly make life easy on us in Week 7, falling behind 10-0 before ultimately winning comfortably, but we lived to tell about it and that's all that matters.And now we're blessed with a freebie in Week 8.Week 8 confidence rankingConfidence rankings (CR) are out of 10 based on the author's picks:AWAYHOME (SPREAD)PICK (CR)NY JetsKansas City (-19.5)KC (10)Tampa BayNY Giants (+11)TB (8)DallasPhiladelphia (-7)PHI (7)PittsburghBaltimore (-3.5)BAL (6)MinnesotaGreen Bay (-7)GB (5)LA RamsMiami (+3.5)MIA (3)AtlantaCarolina (-3)CAR (3)New OrleansChicago (+3)NO (2)San FranciscoSeattle (-3)SEA (2)Las VegasCleveland (-2.5)LV (2)IndianapolisDetroit (+2.5)IND (1)New EnglandBuffalo (-4)NE (1)TennesseeCincinnati (+6)CIN (1)LA ChargersDenver (+3)DEN (1)(Odds source: theScore Bet)Author's pick: Kansas City ChiefsIf you haven't picked the Chiefs yet, like us, then you can go ahead and start planning for Week 9. I don't say that lightly, either.I consider myself a very superstitious person when it comes to betting. I am one of those individuals who believes that what I do on my couch on Sundays has a direct impact on what happens on NFL fields. If I'm not eating a bowl of pasta (if you eat pasta on a plate, I can't help you) and inputting my pending bets into Excel by 12:30, with Curt Menefee and Terry Bradshaw guiding me into the early games, I'm almost certainly going to have a horrible week. When things aren't going well, it's time to change my positioning on the couch. When things are going well, anyone in my household who interferes with the setup is getting an earful.And one thing I never, ever do is look ahead to the next week in survivor. The second that hubris sets in, it's curtains. I've done it twice in my life. In Week 13 of the 2014 season, when options can become scarce, I had the Giants to beat the Jaguars as three-point favorites. A pair of Rashad Jennings touchdowns helped New York to a 21-0 first-half lead. I went to look at the Week 14 schedule to plot my next pick. Two defensive touchdowns and a last-second Josh Scobee field goal later, and the Jaguars walked away 25-24 winners.Naturally, I blamed myself. But I hadn't learned the lesson just yet. Fast-forward to 2017, Week 6. The Falcons are -11 at home to the Dolphins. Cake, right? Up 17-0 late in the first half, my mind moves on to Week 7. Matt Bryant misses a field goal with no time left in the second quarter. That should have been my first sign. As I talk myself into taking the Patriots the following week, Jay Cutler has other plans. The Dolphins score on all four of their second-half drives as the Falcons capitulate in the ways only they can. Miami wins 20-17.So when I say you can begin planning for Week 9 if you still have Kansas City in your arsenal this week, it's not a casual statement. The Chiefs are currently 19.5-point favorites over the Jets and I firmly believe they can win this game with Chad Henne as QB1. There's nothing Kansas City doesn't do well on offense, while its opportunistic defense will have Sam Darnold seeing ghosts at Arrowhead. This is the single biggest mismatch the 2020 NFL season can produce, and if my superstitious self can proclaim Chiefs moneyline as a lock, so can you.The last time a favorite of 17 points or more lost outright was in Week 14 of the 1995 season, when the Cowboys fell 24-17 as 17.5-point favorites to Washington. Since then, they're 27-0 straight up and on a 7-2 run ATS. While blown leads have become commonplace in the NFL, massive upsets are a thing of the past. Congratulations on making it to Week 9, friend.Avoid: Green Bay PackersYannick Ngakoue will suit up for the Ravens on Sunday and Danielle Hunter has been shut down for the season. Add Michael Pierce, who opted out of the season, and Anthony Barr (injured reserve) to the absentees and the Vikings are depleted in the front seven with virtually no pass rush to speak of. Facing off against Aaron Rodgers, that's problematic, though Mike Zimmer has been known to get creative and find success with his blitz packages.However, Minnesota has a route to victory in Week 8 through its still-talented offense. Dalvin Cook is slated to return Sunday, and the ground game will be pivotal for the Vikings. They need to establish the run and stick to it, which will in turn open up opportunities down the field for Kirk Cousins to connect on some big plays with Adam Thielen, Justin Jefferson, and Irv Smith.Minnesota got away from the running game in its first meeting with Green Bay after falling behind early, but still averaged 6.1 yards per rush against a struggling Packers run defense. In terms of yards per rush, Green Bay has faced just three rushing offenses this year ranked inside the top 20: Minnesota (fifth), New Orleans (17th), and Tampa Bay (18th).The Saints gashed the Packers for 9.9 yards per carry on the ground, with Alvin Kamara going off for 139 yards on just 13 carries (averaging 10.7 yards). Ronald Jones and Ke'Shawn Vaughn combined for 155 yards on 28 carries (5.5 average) for the Buccaneers against this defense.For all of the Vikings' defensive troubles this season, rookie corners Jeff Gladney and Cameron Dantzler continue to improve under Zimmer. This secondary isn't nearly as green as it was when these teams met in Week 1, and with the full bye week to prepare for this divisional tilt, exercise caution when it comes to selecting the Packers this week.Alex Moretto is a sports betting writer for theScore. A journalism graduate from Guelph-Humber University, he has worked in sports media for over a decade. He will bet on anything from the Super Bowl to amateur soccer, is too impatient for futures, and will never trust a kicker. Find him on Twitter @alexjmoretto.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Former MLB and NFL All-Star Bo Jackson averaged 73.2 yards per game in his four seasons with the then-Los Angeles Raiders, but thinks that number would be much higher if he was playing today.The 57-year-old explained why he would be even more dominant in this era of the NFL during an appearance on Deion Sanders' "21st & Prime" podcast on Monday."Nobody wrap up and tackle no more," Jackson said. "With me being a ball carrier, my coach taught us, number one, he said, 'I know you can run, but I'm gonna teach you how to carry that football.' He said, 'that football is like your newborn baby, don't ever put it on the ground. And keep it away from the enemy.'"It's like this - and I watch technique - I don't see nobody hitting or wrapping up. Everybody's running into each other and trying to use their shoulder pads to knock the ball carrier down. And I'm like, if I played during this era, man, I'd be averaging 350-400 yards a game ... because nobody wraps up anymore. They run into each other with their pads."Jackson's best season in the NFL was in 1989, when he rushed for 950 yards and four touchdowns in 11 games while also playing for the Kansas City Royals.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert was one of over 100,000 residents evacuated from their Southern California homes due to wildfires, sources told NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.Several others with the Chargers, including players and staff members, were also evacuated and settled in hotels. The Chargers continue to prepare for their Week 8 contest with the Broncos in Denver.California is prone to wildfires in the fall, and five of the 20 largest wildfires in the state's history have occurred in 2020, according to Cal Fire.After wildfires spread across Southern California in 2017, the Los Angeles Rams gave Monday Night Football tickets to thousands of first responders and families who were recovering from the disaster as well as the mass shooting in Thousand Oaks.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Chris Godwin will miss Monday's contest against the New York Giants after undergoing surgery for a fractured left index finger, according to Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times.Godwin could return for Tampa Bay's Week 9 clash against the New Orleans Saints.The 24-year-old reportedly suffered the injury during the fourth quarter on Sunday while securing a four-yard touchdown catch. He was able to finish the game, which the Bucs won by a score of 45-20 over the Las Vegas Raiders.Godwin amassed nine receptions for 88 yards and a touchdown during the contest.He missed a pair of games earlier this season due to a hamstring injury he suffered against the Denver Broncos in Week 3.Copyright © 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.