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Updated 2024-11-27 17:17
Panthers place Newton on injured reserve
The Carolina Panthers hoped to see Cam Newton return this season, but now the 2015 NFL MVP will miss the remainder of the year after being placed on injured reserve Tuesday, the team announced."At this time, we have decided that the best decision to reach the goal of bringing the foot back to 100 percent is to place Cam on injured reserve," said Panthers general manager Marty Hurney.After missing just three starts over his first seven seasons, Newton has now sat out eight of his past 10 possible games dating back to Week 16 of last year.He was sidelined with a shoulder injury in 2018, and the three-time Pro Bowler has missed six games this campaign due to a Lisfranc injury suffered in the third week of the 2019 preseason.Newton visited two foot specialists, and he was considering options during his slow recovery."We have said all along that it is impossible to put a timetable on this injury. Nobody is more frustrated with that fact than Cam," Hurney said. "He's one of the fiercest competitors I've been around during my 20-plus years in the league."Hurney added, "For the past seven weeks, Cam has diligently followed a program of rest and rehab and still is experiencing pain in his foot."The 30-year-old signal-caller started two games in 2019, going 0-2 with a 56.2 completion percentage, 562 passing yards, no touchdowns, and one interception.Newton has one more year left on his contract and is set to become a free agent in 2021. He's scheduled to make $18.6 million in 2020 with a cap hit of $21.1 million. That includes only $2 million in dead cap and $19.1 million in cap savings if Carolina either cuts or trades him.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Chargers owner calls reported London interest 'total f------ bullshit'
Warning: Story contains coarse languageLos Angeles Chargers owner Dean Spanos is strongly denying a Monday report that he would listen if the NFL asked the franchise to relocate to London, England.Spanos called the story "a lot of crap," per Mike DiGiovanna of the Los Angeles Times, and insisted his team will be staying put."It's total fucking bullshit," Spanos said of the report, according to ESPN's Eric Williams. "We're not going to London. We're not going anywhere. We're playing in Los Angeles. This is our home, and this is where we are planning to be for a long fucking time. Period."The team's Twitter account hilariously followed up shortly after.
Titans' Butler hits IR with wrist injury
The Tennessee Titans announced Tuesday that cornerback Malcolm Butler was placed on injured reserve with a wrist ailment suffered in Sunday's Week 9 loss to the Carolina Panthers.Through nine games this season, Butler produced 30 tackles, 10 passes defensed and two interceptions, including a pick-6.He's in the second season of a five-year, $61.25-million deal with the Titans.In a corresponding move, Tennessee re-signed cornerback Tye Smith.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Amukamara supports Trubisky amid struggles: 'Mitch is our leader'
The Chicago Bears lost their fourth straight game Sunday to the Philadelphia Eagles on the heels of a disastrous first half.Quarterback Mitchell Trubisky was once again criticized for his performance, completing 10 of 21 passes for 125 yards while being sacked three times. Including Week 4 when he was injured in the first quarter, the third-year quarterback has failed to throw a touchdown in five games this season.Although Trubisky has struggled, his teammates are still confident in the second overall pick of the 2017 NFL Draft."One hundred percent Mitch is our captain, Mitch is our leader," cornerback Prince Amukamara said in his appearance on ESPN 1000 Chicago. "I mean, for whatever reason, it might seem like (the offense is) coming off a slow start or whatever, but we have full faith in the offense."Chicago averages 17.8 points (27th in the league) and 266.8 total yards (29th) per game this season, while Trubisky has five touchdown passes in seven games.When asked about the possibility of the Bears benching the 25-year-old quarterback, Amukamara reiterated his commitment to the signal-caller."To do that, then that means you're saying this guy is not part of our future, ever," he said. "Because you can't keep swapping and swapping, coaches know not to do that, management knows not to do that. I mean, I’m not part of management, but I believe Mitch is the future, Mitch is the guy."The 3-5 Bears will try to snap their losing streak against the Detroit Lions in Week 10.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Foles to start over Minshew following Jaguars' bye
Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Doug Marrone announced on Tuesday that Nick Foles will return to his role as the team's starting quarterback following a Week 10 bye.Foles broke his collarbone in the season opener and has been cleared to return following an eight-game absence. Rookie Gardner Minshew was starting in place of the veteran.The former Super Bowl MVP will be activated from the injured reserve in time for Jacksonville's Week 11 tilt against the Indianapolis Colts.After taking over for Foles, Minshew quickly endeared himself to football fans with his quirky wardrobe choices and on-field improvisation while leading the Jaguars to a surprising 4-4 record as a starter.However, the sixth-round rookie struggled in his most recent game, turning the ball over four times during Sunday's loss to the Houston Texans."He's done a great job," Marrone said of Minshew, according to MMQB's Albert Breer. "I feel a whole lot different about him now than I did prior to him playing, in a positive way.""We had some discussions on things that we're going to work on going forward which will give him the ability to be a player in this league for a long time," he added, according to John Reid of The Florida Times-Union.Foles signed a four-year, $88-million contract with Jacksonville in free agency following his second stint with the Philadelphia Eagles. He was expected to become the final piece of a talented roster, but Minshew's play put the Pro Bowler's depth-chart position in question.The Jaguars sit two games behind the Texans in the AFC South with seven contests remaining.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
NFL Week 10 survivor picks
Find line reports, best bets, and subscribe to push notifications in the Betting News section.It was smooth sailing last week. The Buffalo Bills won comfortably and the Philadelphia Eagles took care of business.Congratulations if you're still alive in Week 10, but don't pat yourself on the back. This is the point in the season when survival is no longer expected - it's earned - and the contenders separate from the pretenders.Here's your guide to surviving Week 10.Safest pick: New Orleans SaintsThe Atlanta Falcons might not win another game under lame-duck head coach Dan Quinn. The fact that he's still employed by the organization has to boil down to a matter of respect. After more than four years of service, two trips to the playoffs, one division title, and a Super Bowl appearance, the team is likely waiting until the end of the season to fire Quinn, but at what cost?The players have clearly quit on their coach, as the Falcons have lost six in a row while allowing an average of 34 points per game over the skid. That reflects especially poorly on Quinn, who made a decision last offseason to take control of the defense, which ranks 30th in DVOA despite featuring some talented players.Still, Quinn survived the dreaded bye week, with the team instead reshuffling his assistants in an attempt to provide a spark. Raheem Morris moved from wide receivers coach to defensive backs coach, Dave Brock moved from running backs coach to receivers coach, and Bernie Parmalee took Brock's place in charge of the backs (being promoted from offensive assistant). Seriously, those are changes Atlanta made during the bye week. You can't make this stuff up. That's the football equivalent of throwing all your dishes from the counter into the sink and saying you cleaned the kitchen.Narrator: Meanwhile, in New Orleans ...The Saints coasted into their bye week following six consecutive wins, with Drew Brees looking perfectly healthy upon his return from injury in a 31-9 win over the Arizona Cardinals. New Orleans ranks sixth in both offensive and defensive DVOA, which is the sort of balance coaches dream off. The Saints run the ball well, pass it effectively, and are stout at defending both. Plus, they just had a week off to get healthy, as Alvin Kamara and Jared Cook are both expected to return at home against a Falcons team they've handled with ease at the Superdome over the last two seasons.If you're feeling lucky: San Francisco 49ersI'd be willing to bet that very few people - if any - will choose the 49ers in your survivor pool this week, and it's easy to understand why. Pete Carroll and Russell Wilson's 23-5-1 record together in prime-time contests speaks for itself. The Seattle Seahawks thrive under the lights and are a public betting favorite. According to Sports Insights, 68% of spread bets and 88% of moneyline bets are on the Seahawks for this matchup.But does Seattle deserve to coast off its reputation? This season, the Seahawks have managed one-score wins over four teams that are well below .500 while failing their only real tests, losing to the Saints and Baltimore Ravens at home.We've yet to see the Seahawks play well against a legitimately good football team, with their four road contests to date coming against underwhelming opponents. This week, they'll travel to San Francisco to take on the 8-0 49ers, who boast the NFL's best defense - a suffocating unit that's allowed just 241 yards and 12.8 points per contest. This is a statement game for Kyle Shanahan and the 49ers, who will also have a few extra days to prepare after playing on Thursday night last week.Avoid: Baltimore RavensThere's no reason the Ravens shouldn't win this game. They're better in just about every area, with the biggest gulf coming at quarterback. Lamar Jackson just beat the New England Patriots, while fourth-round pick Ryan Finley will make his first career start for the Cincinnati Bengals. Finley's never attempted a pass in the NFL, but guess what? Neither had Denver's Brandon Allen before Week 9, but he threw for 193 yards and two touchdowns to beat the Cleveland Browns 24-19.I know what you're thinking, and you're right. The Ravens are better than the Browns, and the Broncos are better than the Bengals. Still, there's a risk that comes with betting on an unknown.At 24 years old, Finley is mature for a rookie and he's a rare breed who spent five years playing NCAA football. While he lacks professional experience, he's got the intricacies of the quarterback position down and he won't lack receiving options, with A.J. Green expected to play for the first time this season alongside Tyler Boyd, Auden Tate, and Alex Erickson.
Fantasy podcast: Late-season breakout candidates, top waiver adds
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, Boone discusses potential late-season breakout candidates, recaps all the latest injuries, and takes an early look at possible waiver wire adds.
Tomlin 'optimistic' Conner will return from shoulder injury vs. Rams
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin told reporters Tuesday that running back James Conner will be limited in practice early this week as he continues to recover from his shoulder injury, according to ESPN's Brooke Pryor.Conner missed Pittsburgh's Week 9 win over the Indianapolis Colts, but Tomlin said he's "optimistic" the tailback will play Sunday against the Los Angeles Rams, per Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.The third-year rusher's practice time will "perk up" as the week goes on, but Tomlin added he "will make no bold predictions" on Conner's availability.The 24-year-old injured his shoulder in Week 8 against the Miami Dolphins and didn't practice at all last week.Jaylen Samuels started in place of Conner against the Colts, rushing for 10 yards on eight carries while hauling in 13 catches for 73 receiving yards.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Fantasy: Waiver Wire - Week 10
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.Ownership percentages are based on Yahoo leagues. FAAB bids are set off a $100 budget. Only players owned in less than 60 percent of leagues are considered.QuarterbacksIcon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyJimmy Garoppolo is around the 60% ownership mark and would be the top streamer this week, if available.Daniel Jones, GiantsNext UpOwnershipFAAB bidat NYJ26%$1Following his difficult Monday night matchup with the Cowboys, Jones gets to square off with a disintegrating Jets squad that just lost to the previously winless Dolphins. Gang Green has allowed six passing touchdowns over their last two games, despite facing Gardner Minshew II and Ryan Fitzpatrick. Jones had a career day against his last easy opponent, putting up 322 yards and four touchdowns on the Lions. During a thin week for fantasy quarterbacks, Jones will be one of the best streamers available.Ryan Tannehill, TitansNext UpOwnershipFAAB bidvs. KC17%$1Since taking over as the Titans' starter three games ago, Tannehill has posted the fifth-most fantasy points among quarterbacks. The bottom could fall out on this ride anytime, but he's worth consideration as a bye-week replacement against a Chiefs defense that was shredded at home the last two Sundays, allowing top-10 fantasy QB finishes in each contest. Tannehill's current streak of success has earned him temporary starter status in fantasy.Other options: Sam Darnold vs. NYG (26% owned), Brian Hoyer vs. MIA (0% owned), Derek Carr vs. LAC (46% owned), Kyle Allen at GB (8% owned), Mitch Trubisky vs. DET (21% owned)Running backsKatharine Lotze / Getty Images Sport / GettyRonald Jones, BuccaneersNext UpOwnershipFAAB bidvs. ARI40%$29This isn’t Jones' first appearance in our waiver wire column, but there’s a new sign of hope for his fantasy value. Head coach Bruce Arians finally anointed Jones the starter after it had been clear for a while the second-year back was outplaying teammate Peyton Barber. "He's been consistent," Arians admitted about Jones. "He's been more explosive. It's not that Peyton did anything wrong." In Week 9, Jones played over 50% of the Bucs' snaps for the first time this season and turned 20 touches into 82 yards and a score. With another plus matchup on deck in the Cardinals, Jones will be a top-30 fantasy RB this week.Derrius Guice, RedskinsNext UpOwnershipFAAB bidon Bye32%$9Redskins' interim head coach Bill Callahan said Guice is on track to return to the lineup in Week 11, following Washington's bye. It's hard to imagine he'll be given the monster workload that Adrian Peterson has seen under the new regime since Guice still has to prove he can stay healthy for an extended stretch in the pros. Temper your expectations, but Guice is more versatile than Peterson at this stage of his career and his upcoming slate versus the Jets, Lions, Panthers, and Packers is enticing. Consider him a high-risk RB3 with RB2 upside if his body holds up.Kalen Ballage, DolphinsNext UpOwnershipFAAB bidat IND9%$5With Kenyan Drake traded and Mark Walton suspended for four games, Ballage is the last man standing in Miami's backfield. Aside from one long touchdown run as a rookie, Ballage has done very little to earn this opportunity. Don't be surprised if the Dolphins sign someone new or treat this as a rest-of-season tryout for depth backs like Myles Gaskin or Patrick Laird, who are unsurprisingly owned in 0% of fantasy leagues. Ballage should be rostered for the potential volume alone; just don't trick yourself into getting excited about his fantasy outlook.Bilal Powell, JetsNext UpOwnershipFAAB bidvs. NYG0%$5Le'Veon Bell went for an MRI on his knee Monday and until we know the results, the Jets' backfield situation is up in the air. That makes Powell a sneaky add since he's out-snapped Ty Montgomery the last two weeks while handling six touches to Montgomery's zero. It's worth noting that Bell went for an MRI on his shoulder earlier in the season and ended up being fine, so perhaps this is just precautionary, but if there hasn't been an update before the waiver deadline, make sure you have a bid in for Powell, who could offer fringe RB2 stats if vaulted into lead back duties.Other options: Alexander Mattison at DAL (32% owned), Kareem Hunt vs. BUF (59% owned), Tony Pollard vs. MIN (13% owned), Darrell Henderson at PIT (24% owned), Malcolm Brown at PIT (9% owned), Rashaad Penny at SF (30% owned), Gus Edwards at CIN (4% owned), Trey Edmunds vs. LAR (1% owned), Rex Burkhead on Bye (12% owned), Ryquell Armstead on Bye (1% owned), Reggie Bonnafon at GB (3% owned), Giovani Bernard vs. BAL (4% owned), Raheem Mostert vs. SEA (6% owned), DeAndre Washington vs. LAC (1% owned), Jalen Richard vs. LAC (3% owned), Dion Lewis vs. KC (11% owned), Wayne Gallman Jr. at NYJ (8% owned), Jordan Wilkins vs. MIA (1% owned), Nyheim Hines vs. MIA (12% owned), Brian Hill at NO (0% owned)Wide receiversMichael Reaves / Getty Images Sport / GettyMarquise Brown and Jamison Crowder are around the 60% ownership mark and should be owned in almost all leagues.DeVante Parker, DolphinsNext UpOwnershipFAAB bidat IND35%$9Promising rookie Preston Williams is out for the season with a torn ACL that sadly occurred during a true breakout game where he compiled five receptions, 72 yards, and two touchdowns before being carted off. Parker has trailed the rookie in yardage this year, but he has managed to reach the end zone in four of his last five outings and has at least 50 yards in six of eight appearances. Though other receivers will be worked into the mix, Parker is the clear top option in a Dolphins passing attack that's almost always in comeback mode, and he can be deployed as a WR3 in fantasy.Zach Pascal, ColtsNext UpOwnershipFAAB bidvs. MIA20%$7Pascal has flashed a high ceiling with a low floor this season. He's amassed 70 receiving yards or a touchdown in four of his last six games, but less than 10 yards in the other two contests. T.Y. Hilton is out for a month with a calf injury and Parris Campbell is joining him on the sidelines with a fractured hand. Even though we should see Devin Funchess back soon and Chester Rogers is also a candidate for more targets, Pascal is the most dangerous downfield weapon in Indy's arsenal and a date with the lowly Dolphins is up next. Don't be afraid to use him in your starting lineup as a WR3/flex option.A.J. Brown, TitansNext UpOwnershipFAAB bidvs. KC45%/19%$5/$5The Titans rookie has been hard to trust based on inconsistent target volume, making him a volatile play for fantasy managers. However, since Tannehill has assumed control of the offense, Brown has stat lines of 6-64-0, 2-11-1, and 4-81-0. Outside of his bye in Week 11, Brown has winnable matchups the rest of the way, setting up a potential late-season breakout. Teammate Corey Davis (45% owned) is in a similar situation for fantasy, though his spike weeks have been far less frequent despite seeing more targets.Josh Reynolds, RamsNext UpOwnershipFAAB bidvs. PIT1%$5Brandin Cooks visited a specialist during the bye week after suffering his second concussion of the season. He's not expected to be out long term, but we still don't know how many weeks his recovery will take. While he's on the mend, Reynolds will step into the starting lineup and be a WR4 with a heightened ceiling thanks to his touchdown upside.Ted Ginn, SaintsNext UpOwnershipFAAB bidvs. ATL6%$5Drew Brees' return prior to the Saints' bye resulted in a 42-yard day for the veteran receiver. Ginn's matchups after the week off should pique your interest, with two games against the Falcons and one against the Bucs over the Saints' next four contests. Atlanta and Tampa Bay rank in the top five in fantasy points allowed to opposing receivers. The Saints' passing attack is back to full strength with Brees under center, restoring Ginn's big-play ceiling.Other options: Phillip Dorsett on Bye (41% owned), Kenny Stills on Bye (40% owned), Darius Slayton at NYJ (9% owned), Diontae Johnson vs. LAR (26% owned), Josh Gordon at SF (59% owned), Olabisi Johnson at DAL (3% owned), Cole Beasley at CLE (29% owned), Hunter Renfrow vs. LAC (2% owned), Danny Amendola at CHI (49% owned), Russell Gage at TB (0% owned), Deebo Samuel vs. SEA (12% owned), Chris Conley on Bye (32% owned), Allen Lazard vs. CAR (10% owned), James Washington vs. LAR (5% owned), Keelan Cole on Bye (0% owned), Anthony Miller vs. DET (15% owned), Taylor Gabriel vs. DET (5% owned)Tight endsIcon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyGerald Everett and TJ Hockenson are around the 60% ownership mark and are the top streamers this week, if available.Dallas Goedert, EaglesNext UpOwnershipFAAB bidon Bye25%$7The tight end section is a bit bigger than usual today to give us a chance to discuss a pair of players heading into their bye week who have TE1 potential for the remainder of the season. Goedert has appeared on this list before and continues to produce alongside Zach Ertz. The Eagles have wisely increased Goedert's usage and with DeSean Jackson back on the sidelines for four to six weeks, Philadelphia's offense will be forced to rely on its two talented tight ends. Goedert also offers top-five upside if something happens to Ertz.Noah Fant, BroncosNext UpOwnershipFAAB bidon Bye12%$5The trade of Emmanuel Sanders has turned Fant into the de facto No. 2 receiver in the Broncos' offense. His three-catch, 115-yard, one-touchdown performance should make fantasy owners take notice and stash him as he enters his bye week.Chris Herndon, JetsNext UpOwnershipFAAB bidvs. NYG30%$3Everything we've said all season about Herndon remains true. He's a skilled player who can deliver top-10 fantasy numbers when on the field. Unfortunately, a suspension and a hamstring injury have kept him from seeing action and the Jets' offense has been in full descent since their win over the Cowboys a few weeks ago. We now have to worry that the situation could limit Herndon's ceiling once he returns. He's more of a speculative add than a guaranteed starter moving forward.Mike Gesicki, DolphinsNext UpOwnershipFAAB bidat IND4%$1We mentioned Gesicki on a recent episode of theScore Fantasy Football Podcast after he put up back-to-back solid outings in Weeks 6 and 7. He's coming off his best performance in the NFL with six receptions and 95 yards in Week 9. The Colts possess one of the league's worst defenses when it comes to defending his position, permitting 50 yards and/or a touchdown to six different tight ends this season. Gesicki is poised to become the seventh, making him a viable streamer in Week 10.Other options: O.J. Howard vs. ARI (35% owned), Jack Doyle vs. MIA (25% owned), Jonnu Smith vs. KC (43% owned), Jason Witten vs. MIN (51% owned), Vance McDonald vs. LAR (52% owned), Kyle Rudolph at DAL (31% owned)Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Report: Bell's Week 10 availability in doubt due to knee injury
There are concerns that New York Jets running back Le'Veon Bell won't be available for the team's Week 10 matchup with the New York Giants, according to Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News.Bell is scheduled to undergo an MRI on his injured knee Tuesday, and the Jets are reportedly signing practice squad running back Josh Adams to the active roster. The team expects to have more clarity on Bell's status later in the week.Even if he does miss Sunday's matchup, the star tailback's injury isn't considered serious, reports ESPN's Adam Schefter.Bell apparently injured his knee during last week's loss to the Miami Dolphins, but New York head coach Adam Gase admitted Monday he "can't say exactly where it happened."The 27-year-old Bell has accumulated 415 rushing yards, 242 receiving yards, and two total touchdowns through eight games this season for the struggling Jets.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Barkley discusses Giants' struggles: 'I'm 100% sure that it will turn around'
Saquon Barkley and the New York Giants fell to 2-7 on the season after a 38-17 beatdown by the Dallas Cowboys on Monday night, the team's fifth consecutive loss."We are struggling right now and things aren't going our way, but I'm not going to lose my focus," Barkley said after the divisional clash, according to Grant Gordon of NFL.com.Barkley had 14 carries for 28 yards - the second-worst rushing total of his career - but did catch six balls for 67 yards on eight targets."It's football, it's the NFL. It's week what? I don't even know," he said when asked where he was physically. "I'm coming off of an ankle injury. I'm not going to make any excuses."The reigning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year has now faced a 2-7 record in both of his seasons in the league, with his rushing averages dropping from 81.7 to 66.8 yards per game in 2019."Things aren't going our way right now, we can't just cry about it," Barkley said. "I'm just going to continue to come to work every single day and I am 100% sure that it will turn around. It just hasn't turned around as soon as we would have liked it to."The Giants will try to avoid their first 2-8 start since 2017 against the 2-7 New York Jets in Week 11.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Report: Raiders' Key likely out for season with broken foot
Oakland Raiders defensive end Arden Key suffered a broken foot in Week 9 and is expected to miss the remainder of the season, a source told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.Key will receive a second opinion from foot specialist Dr. Robert Anderson to confirm the diagnosis, Rapoport added.The 23-year-old lineman has battled a number of ailments in 2019. He underwent shoulder surgery in January and missed Oakland's Week 7 loss to the Green Bay Packers with a patellar tendon injury.A third-round pick in 2018, Key started his sophomore campaign slowly but picked up a sack in two straight games before going down.In his absence, Benson Mayowa, along with rookies Clelin Ferrell and Maxx Crosby, will likely see increased pass-rush snaps on the edge.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Report: NFL has discussed idea of Chargers moving to London
The Los Angeles Chargers would listen if the NFL asked the franchise to relocate to London, England, sources told The Athletic's Vincent Bonsignore.The idea of the Bolts migrating across the pond has reportedly been broached among league personnel, though an actual move appears to be far-fetched."We are fully committed and focused on Los Angeles and look forward to continuing to build our fan base as we transition to our new stadium," Chargers owner Dean Spanos told the outlet. "We're seeing progress every day, and we look forward to building on that."The Chargers are scheduled to move into a new $4.5-billion stadium in 2020, which they'll share with the Rams. The Chargers have been playing at Dignity Health Sports Park since leaving San Diego in 2017.The club has struggled to secure a large fan base in Los Angeles, with most local fans pledging allegiance to the Rams. Meanwhile, the Chargers have participated in the annual London series twice since 2008 as the NFL has looked to grow the game internationally."The current path they are on will not yield results in the foreseeable future," an NFL source said of the Chargers' standing in Los Angeles. "They need to consider something to shake up their franchise. This would give them a major international market and the chance to shine."Other NFL owners are reportedly concerned with the Chargers' long-term viability in Los Angeles and would support a relocation to London if the team wanted to pursue it.While logistical issues create a major stumbling block with respect to moving a team to London, the NFL apparently wants a franchise there eventually.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Jon Gruden hates Thursday Night Football
The Oakland Raiders are flying high, winning three of their last five games and, at 4-4, find themselves in the thick of the AFC playoff race.Their next game, an important divisional battle with the 4-5 Los Angeles Chargers, comes in prime time, but Raiders head coach Jon Gruden isn't exactly thrilled about playing on Thursday Night Football."I hate this. I don't believe in this Thursday football," Gruden said Monday, according to Myles Simmons of the Las Vegas Review-Journal.Gruden said it's difficult to prepare for the Chargers with three days between games and a banged-up roster that's constantly in flux."I'm not going to be on my soapbox any more than that. It hurts us - it hurts both teams. Obviously, the preparation," he said. "We take a lot of pride in getting our guys ready to play - we need a little time to do that. But a lot of people disagree with me, obviously. So it'll be a challenge."Both teams are struggling to remain healthy this season. The Raiders have eight players on injured reserve after corner Isaiah Johnson was designated for return Monday. The Chargers have 14 players on IR, including star safety Derwin James.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Dolphins' Walton banned 4 games by NFL
Miami Dolphins running back Mark Walton has been suspended four games by the NFL.The ban stems from his three offseason arrests, which predated his time with the Dolphins, a source told ESPN's Cameron Wolfe."The conduct of our players is very important and Mark has done everything we have asked of him both on and off the field since signing with the Dolphins," head coach Brian Flores said in a statement. "We look forward to having him back at the conclusion of his suspension."Walton emerged as the Dolphins' primary running back after beginning the season below Kenyan Drake and Kalen Ballage on the depth chart. Miami traded Drake to the Arizona Cardinals before the Oct. 29 deadline, but reportedly knew a suspension was looming for Walton.In seven games this season, Walton has rushed for 201 yards, averaging 3.8 yards per carry. He was a fourth-round pick of the Cincinnati Bengals in 2018.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Brissett uncertain vs. Dolphins after MRI confirms MCL sprain
The Indianapolis Colts are unsure of quarterback Jacoby Brissett's status for Week 10 after an MRI confirmed he suffered a sprained MCL in Sunday's loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers."I was a little encouraged, but we'll just see how it goes," head coach Frank Reich told reporters Monday, via The Athletic's Stephen Holder.Brissett sat out most of Week 9 after injuring his knee early in the second quarter. Backup Brian Hoyer tossed three touchdowns in relief, but it wasn't enough as the Colts fell on the road in Pittsburgh.Indianapolis hosts the Miami Dolphins in six days."We'll see," Brissett responded when asked about his pending availability.Brissett has thrown for 1,649 yards with 14 touchdowns and three interceptions over eight games for the 5-3 Colts.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Panthers claim Moncrief off waivers from Steelers
The Carolina Panthers claimed wide receiver Donte Moncrief off waivers from the Pittsburgh Steelers.Carolina will assume what remains of the two-year, $9-million deal Moncrief inked with Pittsburgh last offseason. The 26-year-old got off to a miserable start with the Steelers, suffering from drops before being stripped of his starting spot and eventually waived.Moncrief posted four receptions for 18 yards in his short-lived Steelers tenure. He'll join a Panthers receiving corps headlined by Curtis Samuel and DJ Moore.Last season, Moncrief caught 48 passes for 668 yards and three touchdowns for the Jacksonville Jaguars, making it the second-most productive campaign of his career.The Panthers sit second in the NFC South at 5-3.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Zimmer vague on Thielen's hamstring injury
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Adam Thielen's return from his hamstring injury didn't last long.After missing Week 8 with the ailment, Thielen seemed fit to return for his club's tilt with the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday. However, he left the contest early in the first half and didn't return after re-aggravating his injured hamstring.Head coach Mike Zimmer gave a vague update Monday on the two-time Pro Bowler's status."I'm not sure, honestly. Whenever the doctors say he's ready, he's ready," Zimmer said.Minnesota's passing attack survived without Thielen against the lowly Washington Redskins in Week 8, but he was sorely missed during the 26-23 loss at Arrowhead Stadium. Quarterback Kirk Cousins completed only 50% of his passes while Thielen's receiving mate, Stefon Diggs, managed just one catch for 4 yards.Thielen originally picked up the ailment in Week 7, but it was reportedly not considered serious at the time.The Minnesota native has totaled 391 yards and six touchdowns on 27 grabs through eight games this season.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
DeSean Jackson to have core muscle surgery, reportedly out 4-6 weeks
Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeSean Jackson will undergo surgery to repair a core muscle injury that has bothered him throughout the season, the team announced.Jackson is expected to miss four-to-six weeks with his abdominal muscle completely torn off the bone, according to NBC's John Clark. He was told the injury is now worse than when it first occurred in Week 2.The speedy wideout returned from a six-game absence Sunday against the Chicago Bears but left early in the contest after he aggravated his injury.Jackson's injury was expected to linger for the remainder of the season and he wasn't 100% going into Sunday's game.The news is a major blow to Philadelphia's offense that has struggled to stretch the field in the veteran's absence.It is unknown whether the Eagles plan to place Jackson on injured reserve. Given the six-week timetable, it is realistic the receiver could return for the postseason if Philadelphia qualifies.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Dolphins' top receiver Williams out for season; reportedly tore ACL
Miami Dolphins head coach Brian Flores announced Monday that wide receiver Preston Williams suffered a season-ending injury against the New York Jets in Week 9, according to ESPN's Cameron Wolfe.Flores failed to disclose specific information on the injury, but Williams left Sunday's game after hurting his knee, Wolfe added.The rookie wideout suffered a torn ACL, a league source told Joe Schad of the Palm Beach Post."It's a big loss for us," Flores said. "Talked to him this morning. He's done an incredible job for us ... I was devastated for the kid. I told him this is just a bump in the road."Williams was signed as an undrafted free agent in May. He spent two years at Tennessee before transferring to Colorado State for the 2018 campaign. The former highly touted recruit was arrested in 2017 on a misdemeanor assault charge following a domestic violence incident.The 22-year-old leads Miami with 32 catches and 428 receiving yards through eight games this season.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
MNF player props: Best bets for Cowboys-Giants
Find line reports, best bets, and subscribe to push notifications in the Betting News section.The Dallas Cowboys travel to take on the New York Giants for Monday Night Football. After hitting three of our five player props Sunday, here are the best plays for the NFC East clash.Jason Witten under 3.5 receptions and 34.5 yardsWitten kicked his comeback tour off with a bang against these same Giants. In the Cowboys' season opener versus New York, the veteran tight end hauled in three passes and a touchdown. Fellow tight end Blake Jarwin also registered three receptions and a score. But since Week 1, New York's done a pretty solid job at defending the position.Quarterbacks have completed less than 50% of their passes to tight ends over the Giants' last seven games. Over New York's last five contests, the team's defense hasn't allowed more than two catches to the position. Although the Giants entered Week 9 with the fourth-most passing yards allowed in the NFL, they've allowed the fewest yards to tight ends. With Witten unable to gain separation from opposing defensive backs, New York should get the better of him this time around.Saquon Barkley over 4.5 receptionsBarkley's rushing prop is usually tricky. If the Giants played in more neutral or positive game scripts and could afford to run the ball, the second-year running back would smash his rushing totals. Unfortunately, New York's offense has spent most of the season trailing, equating to more drop-backs for quarterback Daniel Jones. Fortunately, Barkley is dynamic in the Giants' passing game! He's had at least three receptions in every contest he's been healthy, including a season-high eight last week against Detroit. Barkley should be another good bet this weekend against the Cowboys, who are allowing close to seven receptions per game to opposing running backs in 2019.Golden Tate over 4.5 receptionsTate spoke up, and the Giants listened. Displeased with his limited role back in Week 5 after catching just three passes on six targets in his return from suspension, Tate has since run amok. The veteran receiver has seen an average of 10 targets over the past three games and has caught at least six passes in each contest. There's no reason to think he won't get more volume against the Cowboys' secondary Monday.Alex Kolodziej is a betting writer for theScore. He's a graduate of Eastern Illinois who has been involved in the sports betting industry for 12 years. He can quote every line from "Rounders" and appreciates franchises that regularly wear alternate jerseys. Find him on Twitter @AJKoIodziej.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
10 key takeaways from Week 9
Sunday Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines the significance of those events moving forward.Ravens make statementHanding Tom Brady and the Patriots their first loss of the season with the whole football world watching on Sunday night is about as impressive a win as you're going to see in this league.Baltimore's early 17-0 lead didn't last, but everyone had to know the Patriots would get themselves back in the game somehow. But unlike so many other teams, the Ravens were able to weather the storm of the New England comeback and fire back with answers of their own.We're not about to forecast the demise of the Patriots - that's been done far too many times in the past, only for Brady and Bill Belichick to have the last laugh in February. This game was less about New England's shortcomings than it was about the Ravens flat-out balling on the big stage.Tasked with moving the ball against a historically great defense, Baltimore turned to its stellar ground game led by Lamar Jackson and Mark Ingram and ran the ball down the Patriots' throats all night long. It's one of the most satisfying ways to win, and one of the most demoralizing ways to lose.The defense also did its part, consistently pressuring Brady in the pocket and coming away with key turnovers to halt the comeback attempt early in the second half.No one wants to meet this Ravens team in the playoffs - including the Patriots.Three-man MVP raceThe Ravens' superb Sunday night win also turned our attention to the MVP race and Lamar Jackson's mounting candidacy for the individual honor. The way things stand right now, with Patrick Mahomes having missed multiple games, this could be shaping up as a three-man race.Arguably the most explosive dual-threat quarterback talent this game has ever seen, Jackson has been phenomenal in his first full year as a starter. His ability to gash opponents on the ground, as we saw against the Patriots, is unmatched at the position, and he's also made major strides as a passer. Leading the charge in a dismantling of the defending champs certainly qualifies as a signature MVP moment.The Seahawks' overtime win over the Buccaneers, meanwhile, provided what may be Russell Wilson's most compelling case yet. The Legion of Boom is long gone and the Seahawks now field little more than a pedestrian defense, so shootouts like this aren't exactly going to be rare. But that's not such a bad thing. Wilson's the most dangerous passer in the game right now, and falling behind early, as Seattle did Sunday, continues to feel like no big deal because it means putting the ball in his hands. After 378 passing yards and five touchdown passes on the day, he's on pace to blow away his career highs in both categories.Deshaun Watson may not get as much love as Wilson and Jackson, perhaps because Houston is more of a fringe contender than the Seahawks and Ravens, but the Texans would be a whole lot worse if not for his Superman-like play. He was once again doing it all in Sunday's win over the Jaguars in London.All three quarterbacks can put their teams on their backs and make the kinds of ridiculous improvisational plays you just can't teach. The MVP chase will be fascinating to watch down the stretch.Jets hit rock bottomMark Brown / Getty Images Sport / GettyAdam Gase told reporters he's not embarrassed by the Jets' loss to the previously winless Dolphins, but he should be. He should feel humiliated.Against a team that probably doesn't want to win, the Jets were outplayed and outcoached. Even for a franchise with a history rich in sadness, this low point felt historic.Sam Darnold looked unfit to start at quarterback. Ryan Fitzpatrick, meanwhile, got revenge against his old team with three touchdown passes.The loss comes days after the Jets shopped star players including Jamal Adams and Le'Veon Bell at the trade deadline. The former stormed off the field to the locker room before the game ended.The Jets have burned bridges with their biggest stars, and the only path out of this darkness could involve firing Gase - perhaps before the end of his debut season in the Big Apple.
Broncos' Miller says he knew QB Allen was 'going to give us the magic'
The Denver Broncos got a steadying 24-19 win over the Cleveland Browns in Week 9 thanks in large part to new starting quarterback Brandon Allen.Perennial Pro Bowler Von Miller told the media postgame that he predicted the breakout performance from Allen, who'd never before thrown an NFL pass in his four years in the league."I feel like when Lil Wayne found Drake," Miller said after the game, according to team reporter Aric DiLalla. "I called it at the beginning of the week. I said, 'He's going to give us the magic. He's going to be ready to go.' He was cold in college, and I just knew if he got an opportunity, he'd be good."Allen completed 12 of 20 passes for 193 yards and two touchdowns with no turnovers in his first career NFL start. He was taking over for Joe Flacco under center after the Broncos placed the veteran on injured reserve with a neck injury last week.Despite Miller's effusive praise, Allen was much more measured in evaluating himself."They helped me out. I made some dicey throws that Courtland (Sutton) bailed me out a couple times on," Allen said. "Noah (Fant), what an incredible play by him just to catch that ball and take it the distance. It was incredible. You can't do any of those things without the offensive line and the way they were blocking."The 27-year-old pivot also praised his offensive coordinator, Rich Scangarello, for taking the time this week to work with him and tailor a game plan that fit his skill set.Allen and the 3-6 Broncos will have a bye next week before they head to the Twin Cities to take on the 6-3 Minnesota Vikings in Week 11.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Dolphins HC Flores on 1st career win: 'Something I'll never forget'
The Miami Dolphins got their first win of the season after they took down the division-rival New York Jets 26-18 on Sunday. The victory also doubled as the first of Brian Flores' young head coaching career."A lot about coaching is building relationships and having fun out there, so those moments mean a lot more. I wasn't expecting any kind of bath," Flores said, according to ESPN's Cameron Wolfe. "It was a fun moment for them, fun moment for me. It was something I'll never forget."
Browns' Kitchens 'not worried about' job security despite 4th straight loss
After a fourth straight loss further warmed the seat of Freddie Kitchens, the Cleveland Browns head coach insisted he isn't worried about his job security."It really doesn't concern me," Kitchens said, according to Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com. "It's not my decision. I've never worried about it before, I'm not worried about it now, I'm not going to worry about it in the future. I'll just do the best job I can do."Kitchens has shouldered a fair share of the blame for the much-hyped Browns' 2-6 record on the season.Cleveland's scoring offense - which ranks 25th in the NFL - is averaging 19 points per game despite featuring talent at multiple skill positions. The first-year head coach previously stated he had no plans of giving up play-calling duties.Rather than focusing on the past, Kitchens wants his team to take a week-by-week approach moving forward."I think our guys are still fighting," he said. "I think they go out and played well for the most part. Got bogged down in the red zone offensively. Defensively, I think you make a few more tackles and they don't really have much. They scored 24 points on 21 minutes of possession, so that means that they were getting them off the field and giving up a few big plays and a couple tackles that extended drives for them."We've still got eight games left so we've got to do something with those eight games," Kitchens continued. "It starts at one game. That's the only thing we can win is one game. I think these guys focused and concentrated this week."Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Browns release Whitehead after 'unacceptable' social media tirade
Warning: Story contains coarse languageThe Cleveland Browns released safety Jermaine Whitehead, the team announced Monday.The decision came after the defensive back went on a social media diatribe following Cleveland's loss to the Denver Broncos on Sunday.Whitehead sent threatening tweets from a non-verified account to fans who were criticizing his play. He also threatened a Browns radio host who questioned the defensive back's tackling effort.Dustin Fox of 92.3 The Fan tweeted, "Whitehead's efforts tackling today is a joke."Whitehead responded, "Come get it in blood b---- made a-- lil boy. I'm out there with a broke hand. Don't get smoked f--- a--- c------."In another tweet, Whitehead told a user, "Imma kill you b----."
Rodgers calls upset loss to Chargers 'a good slice of humble pie'
The 7-1 Green Bay Packers went into Los Angeles in Week 9 to take on a sputtering 3-5 Chargers squad, but they were subdued by the home team in a 26-11 loss.Despite snapping a four-game winning streak, Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers was able to find a silver lining."This is a good slice of humble pie for us," Rodgers told reporters, including ESPN's Rob Demovsky, after the game. "We're kind of rolling, 7-1, and starting to listen to the chatter maybe a little too much. I think this will be a good thing for us. We'll regroup, go back home and play another good team (the Carolina Panthers) before the bye."Rodgers and Green Bay's offense had been in a groove before coming up against Chargers edge rushers Melvin Ingram and Joey Bosa, who combined for two tackles for loss, three sacks, and 11 pressures on Sunday.The result was a season-low 161 passing yards for Rodgers after he'd averaged 339 yards with 11 total touchdowns across the last three weeks. In his return from injury, Pro Bowl wideout Davante Adams contributed only 41 yards on seven catches, while the Packers ran the ball just 11 times for 45 yards against a 20th-ranked Chargers rushing defense.Green Bay, which now sits at 7-2, still leads the NFC North by one game, as the rival Minnesota Vikings also lost on Sunday, dropping to 6-3.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
NFL told Beckham, Landry to change cleats or not play in 2nd half
The NFL told Cleveland Browns wide receivers Odell Beckham Jr. and Jarvis Landry to change their illegal cleats or sit for the second half of Sunday's loss to the Denver Broncos, the CBS broadcast reported, according to ESPN's Jake Trotter.Beckham and Landry both conformed to the rules and changed footwear.The former initially wore white cleats with a red-and-blue scheme seemingly inspired by the recent "Joker" movie, while the latter was sporting gold cleats.
Monday Night Football betting preview: Cowboys at Giants
Find line reports, best bets, and subscribe to push notifications in the Betting News section.The run of dreadful Monday night matchups continues this week when the Dallas Cowboys visit the rival New York Giants, who haven't won a game since September. Still, there's value nestled in this game for those who can bring themselves to watch.The Cowboys snapped a three-game skid with a resounding Week 7 victory over the Eagles and have had a week to prepare for New York, which hasn't beaten Dallas since 2016.Here's everything you need to know about Monday's prime-time matchup from a betting perspective:Line movementThe Cowboys opened as clean 7-point favorites and haven't moved off that number, even with the public hitting the road favorites in side action. The total also hasn't moved since opening at 48, which would be the second-highest total for Dallas this year and tied for third-highest for New York.Betting trendsDallas has won five straight games straight up and against the spread in this series, covering by an average of 9.8 points. The latest meeting saw the Cowboys hand the Giants a 35-17 smackdown in the penultimate start of the Eli Manning era.New York has since installed quarterback Daniel Jones, who won his first two games but is 1-3 ATS since; he was sacked 16 times and amassed five fumbles in those four games, all outright losses.The Cowboys' pass rush had arguably its best day of the season against Philly, sacking Carson Wentz three times and forcing two fumbles in a 37-10 victory. On the offensive side, Ezekiel Elliott rumbled for 111 yards on 22 carries, and he could be in for another big day against a Giants defense that ranks seventh-worst in Pro Football Focus' run defense grades.Dallas has looked suspect at times, but mostly only against elite teams. The Cowboys went 0-2 versus the Saints and Packers by a combined 12 points, but they're 4-1 ATS with an average victory margin of 15.6 points in all other games.The X-factorThe Giants' secondary has had a roller-coaster season, performing especially poorly against elite receiving weapons. Amari Cooper and Michael Gallup both abused New York's corners in Week 1; Mike Evans did the same in Week 3, and it was Adam Thielen's turn in Week 5.Cooper and Gallup are back for more in Week 9, a week after Kenny Golladay torched the Giants for 123 yards and two scores. Elliott might be too busy pushing 150 yards rushing for the passing game to matter, but Dak Prescott should have no issue going through the air to re-establish a sizable lead if the score gets too close.PickThe Cowboys are a better team than the Giants; that much is clear. But this Dallas team's ceiling may have been obfuscated by its mediocre showings as chalk against the Saints and Packers, both of whom are now 7-1 and were overqualified underdogs in retrospect.A loss to the underwhelming Jets is a concerning blemish on Dallas' resume, but these Cowboys have otherwise clowned bad teams all year. New York, in every sense, is a bad team. Don't get too cute here in a rivalry the 'Boys have owned and should continue to own in prime time.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 © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Brissett suffers suspected MCL injury in Colts' loss to Steelers
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Jacoby Brissett left Sunday's loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers after suffering a knee injury in the second quarter.Head coach Frank Reich said postgame the injury is "MCL-ish.""I think it looks like a sprain but we'll see to what degree," he said, according to Kevin Bowen of 1070 The Fan. "We have to see how it responds."Brissett, who never returned to the game, was hurt as one of his offensive linemen fell into his left leg. Brian Hoyer threw three touchdowns in his place, but Adam Vinatieri shanked a go-ahead field-goal attempt in the dying minutes and the Colts fell 26-24 on the road.Brissett went 4 of 5 for 59 yards before exiting. He spent the second half on the sideline.The 26-year-old entered Week 9 with 1,590 yards, 14 touchdowns, and three interceptions over seven starts.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Dolphins off schneid after stumping Jets for 1st win of season
The Miami Dolphins defeated the New York Jets 26-18 to pick up their first win of the season, leaving the Cincinnati Bengals as the only remaining winless team in the NFL.More to come.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Packers' Adams active after 4-game absence
Green Bay Packers wide receiver Davante Adams is officially active against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, the team announced.Adams hasn't played since he suffered a toe injury versus the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 4.The Packers went 4-0 in his absence, averaging 32.5 points per game. Six different players hauled in a receiving touchdown for Green Bay during those contests.Running backs Aaron Jones and Jamaal Williams have played major roles in the Packers' passing game this season. Jones leads the club in receptions (34) and Williams has a team-high four touchdown catches.The NFC North leaders are seeking their first 8-1 start since 2007.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Bears held to 9 total yards in disastrous 1st half vs. Eagles
Concerns about the Chicago Bears' offense grew exponentially after the first half of Sunday's contest against the Philadelphia Eagles.After 30 minutes of football, the Bears were held to nine total yards, including one through the air and eight on the ground. Seven of those yards came on a scramble by quarterback Mitchell Trubisky in the last minute of the half.The Bears failed to convert a first down in nine minutes with the football. They also committed eight penalties, losing 56 yards.The oft-criticized Trubisky was 6-for-13 passing for 24 yards but took three sacks to lose 23 yards.Entering the game, the Bears, losers of three straight, were ranked 29th in total offense and 29th in passing offense.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Sunday Night Football betting preview: Patriots at Ravens
Find line reports, best bets, and subscribe to push notifications in the Betting News section.The New England Patriots' first real test amid an undefeated run comes Sunday when they face the Baltimore Ravens under the lights at M&T Bank Stadium in a potential playoff preview.The Patriots have won three straight in this rivalry and two of three against the spread, but neither team has strung together consecutive ATS wins since John Harbaugh took over in Baltimore in 2008. Sunday's game is the smallest point spread that New England has seen all year; could it mark the Patriots' first loss, too?Here's everything you need to know about Sunday's prime-time matchup from a betting perspective:Line movementThe Patriots opened as four-point favorites and they've seen nearly twice as many tickets at theScore Bet in New Jersey. But sharps are on the Ravens, who were bet at +4, +3.5, and +3.The total opened at 44.5 and has been nudged to 45, which would be the highest total in any New England game since Week 2.Betting trendsThe Patriots' defense - and particularly their elite secondary - has embarrassed teams this year, holding opponents to a combined 61 points through eight games. It could be tougher against the league's second-best scoring offense in Baltimore, which ranks first in rushing yards per game (204.1) and second in yards per carry (5.5).Yet Bill Belichick has routinely found success against elite rushing attacks. Since he took over in 2000, the Patriots are 25-14 ATS (64.1%) when an opponent runs for at least 5.5 yards per carry against them, the second-best mark in the NFL over that span. The rest of the league has covered just 47.9% of those games.Sunday's contest presents a fascinating coaching matchup between Belichick and Ravens bench boss John Harbaugh, who's 8-3 ATS coming off a bye week. Since 2014, Belichick is 9-2 ATS and 10-1 straight up against coaches who have a week to prepare.If Baltimore is to have a chance Sunday, its defense will have to step up. The Ravens are allowing 22.3 points per game this year; since the start of 2018, the Patriots are 20-1 SU and 17-4 ATS when scoring at least 21 points.The X-factorIt's the line everyone is repeating: The Patriots haven't faced a player like Lamar Jackson. But the Ravens quarterback has never faced a defense like New England's in his life, and Belichick is renowned for taking away an opposing pivot's biggest strength. Is Jackson good enough to beat this Patriots secondary with his arm alone?New England's defense has the athletes to spy Jackson and force him to beat man coverage, which he's still struggling to do at times. And if the Patriots - who lead the league in first-quarter points (10.9) - can build an early lead, it'll force Jackson to test their star-studded secondary. Good luck.Baltimore has only trailed at halftime in two games this year, against the Kansas City Chiefs and Cleveland Browns. Jackson had two of his three lowest rushing outputs this year in those games, and the Ravens lost both contests.PickIt's starting to feel like bettors are talking themselves into Baltimore as the quintessential Patriots foil here, thanks to Jackson's unique rushing ability. But two teams lesser than New England have already found ways to stump him - and the mismatch between the Patriots' offense and the Ravens' defense might be more relevant, anyway.A close game wouldn't be surprising, nor would an outright Ravens win. But to bet on it is to fade Belichick's ability to scheme around Jackson, as he's done with so many quarterbacks before. The safer pick here is the Patriots, especially if you're only laying a field goal.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 © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Giants' Shepard re-enters concussion protocol, will miss MNF
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard won't play Monday night versus the Dallas Cowboys after re-entering the concussion protocol, the team announced Sunday.Shepard cleared the protocol Friday, but his concussion symptoms returned Saturday evening."He practiced fully this week and was limited with no contact the two weeks before that," Giants head coach Pat Shurmur said. "He told (Sr. VP Medical Services/Head Athletic Trainer) Ronnie (Barnes) last evening (Saturday) he didn't feel well and was sent for examination and evaluation. When he arrived for work this morning, he still did not feel well. At that point, the decision was made to continue in the concussion protocol."The fourth-year wideout suffered the concussion in Week 5 against the Minnesota Vikings. It was his second of the season and he'll miss his fourth straight game as a result.Shepard has caught 25 passes for 267 yards and one touchdown in four starts this season.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Mahomes won't play vs. Vikings
The Kansas City Chiefs will be without Patrick Mahomes once again Sunday.Mahomes was officially listed as inactive for the contest against the Minnesota Vikings, the team announced. The star pivot was a limited participant in practice this week, but he still hasn't fully recovered from a dislocated kneecap he suffered Oct. 17.Mahomes was initially expected to miss at least three weeks with the injury.Doctors believe Mahomes had a 40% chance of re-dislocating his kneecap if he played after fewer than 21 days from the injury, but those chances drop to 10-to-15% after three weeks, Jay Glazer of FOX Sports reports. Mahomes suffered the injury on Oct. 17. The Chiefs' next game in Week 10 falls outside the three-week window.Matt Moore will make his second straight start at quarterback.Moore performed well during last week's loss to the Green Bay Packers, throwing for 267 yards and two touchdowns in his first NFL start in more than two years.The Chiefs enter Week 9 sitting atop the AFC West with a 5-3 record.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Report: Jets declined multiple trade offers for 1st-rounder Williams
It appears the New York Jets received calls about players other than just Jamal Adams and Le'Veon Bell prior to the NFL trade deadline.Teams were reportedly interested in acquiring 2019 first-round pick Quinnen Williams, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.At least one team offered a blockbuster package of picks for the young defensive lineman and believed the Jets couldn't turn down the proposal, Schefter added.The Jets, however, denied all offers.New York selected the Alabama product third overall this past April.The 2018 Outland Trophy winner battled an ankle injury to begin his NFL career. He's accumulated 16 tackles and 0.5 sacks in fives games thus far.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Report: Wilson pushed Seahawks to sign AB before claiming Gordon
Russell Wilson pushed the Seattle Seahawks to sign Antonio Brown before the team claimed another receiver, Josh Gordon, off waivers, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.Brown has been a free agent since Sept. 20, when the New England Patriots released him. The 31-year-old is being sued by his former personal trainer, who accused him of raping her. Brown also sent intimidating text messages to another woman after she accused him of sexual misconduct.The NFL launched an investigation into the claims several weeks ago but has yet to interview Brown, whose agent said there are "a few teams that are very interested in signing Antonio once this process is over."Seattle claimed Gordon from the Patriots on Friday, adding him to a receiving corps that features Tyler Lockett and rookie DK Metcalf in starting roles. Gordon posted 20 receptions for 287 yards and one touchdown over six games with New England.
Report: Jets wanted Cowboys' Martin, Smith for Adams
It appears the New York Jets wanted a major boost to their offensive line if they were to deal star safety Jamal Adams.The Dallas Cowboys inquired about a potential deal for Adams prior to the trade deadline, and the Jets asked for All-Pro guard Zack Martin in return, sources told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.Dallas quickly shut down the offer, as well as the subsequent proposal by New York general manager Joe Douglas of left tackle Tyron Smith.The Cowboys' best offer for Adams was a first-round draft pick and backup cornerback Anthony Brown, according to Rapoport.Though the Jets received numerous calls about the Pro Bowl safety, a deal never came close to being finalized.Martin and Smith are among the top players at their respective positions and vital to Dallas' offensive attack. The duo have earned a combined 11 Pro Bowl appearances and five All-Pro selections.Adams voiced his displeasure earlier this week with the fact that New York was shopping him before the deadline. However, he later said he's "at peace" following a meeting with Jets chairman Christopher Johnson.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Fantasy: Start, Sit, Stash, Quit - Week 9
SSSQ is a weekly look at under-the-radar fantasy players you should 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 9 rankings. You can also listen to the Week 9 preview episode of theScore Fantasy Football Podcast.StartGardner Minshew, Jaguarsvs. TexansDustin Bradford / Getty Images Sport / GettyNot only is Minshew one of the most entertaining surprises of the 2019 campaign, he's also the QB11 on the season in fantasy. While we still don't know if the Jaguars' old-school regime will stick with Minshew once veteran Nick Foles is healthy, the rookie will have an outstanding opportunity to improve his case before the team's bye thanks to a mouth-watering matchup against the Texans. Even prior to their recent wave of injuries - including losing J.J. Watt for the year - the Texans have been vulnerable through the air, allowing three or more passing touchdowns in each of their last four outings. Minshew is a top-10 play this week and hopefully Jacksonville makes the right decision and lets him keep the starting job moving forward.Boone's projection: 289 passing yards, 3 passing TDsOther QBs to start
Fantasy: Week 9 Rankings (Updated)
theScore's Justin Boone is coming off his sixth top-10 finish in FantasyPros' Most Accurate Expert Competition. Follow the links below to see his updated rankings for Week 9.Half PPR
Report: Newton out several more weeks, could be placed on IR
Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton is expected to be sidelined for several more weeks due to his Lisfranc injury, a source told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.Newton met with foot specialist Dr. Robert Anderson and is now weighing his options, one of which is a stint on injured reserve, Rapoport adds.Anderson didn't recommend surgery for the former MVP, as the hope is that more rest will allow the injury to heal.Newton played in only the first two games this campaign. He injured his foot during the preseason but was able to return for Week 1.The Panthers previously believed Newton would be ready to return after their Week 7 bye.Kyle Allen will continue to start at quarterback. Carolina is 4-1 with Allen under center.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Report: Vikings' Thielen expected to play vs. Chiefs
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Adam Thielen is expected to play Sunday's game against the Kansas City Chiefs, returning to action after missing one game with a hamstring injury, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports, citing a source.The injury, suffered in a Week 7 victory over the Detroit Lions, kept Thielen out for last week's Thursday night win over the Washington Redskins.He was a limited participant throughout this week of practice and was ultimately listed as questionable on Friday's injury report.Thielen's return is a major boost for the Vikings in a matchup with the AFC West-leading Chiefs, as he and Stefon Diggs combine to form one of the NFL's premier receiver tandems.Prior to the hamstring issue, the 29-year-old had racked up 27 receptions for 391 yards and six touchdowns.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Report: DeSean Jackson expected to return vs. Bears
Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeSean Jackson is expected to return against the Chicago Bears after a lengthy absence due to an abdomen injury, a source told ESPN's Adam Schefter.Jackson, who was officially listed as questionable, has been sidelined for the past six games.The 32-year-old is expected to play through pain after opting against surgery."The biggest thing about this is not trying to overdo it. You've got to work back into it, build it up, so that's what I've been doing, and it's been going pretty good," Jackson said Friday, according to ESPN's Tim McManus."It's obviously the worst injury I've had, put me on my ass for several weeks, not knowing what to expect or what to do, so it's kind of trying to figure it out and not rush ...That's the most frustrating thing is to experience that pain, especially being a sprinter or a fast guy like myself."Jackson caught two 50-plus-yard touchdowns in Philadelphia's season opener from Carson Wentz before going down with the injury.The elite deep threat should provide a major boost to an Eagles offense that has struggled to hit downfield shots without him.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Report: Packers optimistic Adams can return vs. Chargers
The Green Bay Packers are reportedly optimistic that injured wide receiver Davante Adams will be ready to return for Sunday's game against the Los Angeles Chargers, sources told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.Adams, who's been out since Sept. 26, will go through a workout to test his ailing toe, but the NFC North leaders are planning on him being available, added Rapoport.The 26-year-old is officially listed as questionable.Adams was in the midst of his best game of the season before suffering the injury, racking up 10 catches for 180 yards against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 4.Young receivers Jake Kumerow and Allen Lazard have stepped up in Adams' absence and earned the trust of star quarterback Aaron Rodgers.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Redskins' Sprinkle fined more than 2 game checks' worth of salary
Washington Redskins tight end Jeremy Sprinkle could pay a heavy price for two recent hits that the NFL deemed unnecessary roughness.Sprinkle, who has a base salary of $645,000 this season, was fined $84,231 for the two shots he delivered in last Thursday's loss to the Minnesota Vikings, according to ESPN's John Keim.The tight end earns $37,941 a week, so he's set to lose more than two game checks' worth of salary.Sprinkle was docked $56,156 for a hit to the head of Vikings cornerback Xavier Rhodes. The fine is more than $21,000 higher than the next largest for a play in 2019, Keim adds.The 25-year-old can appeal the punishment as the NFL allows players to do so if the fine "exceeds 25% of one week of a player's salary for a first offense, and 50% of one week of a player's salary for a second offense."Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Seahawks claim Josh Gordon off waivers
The Seattle Seahawks claimed receiver Josh Gordon off waivers Friday, the team announced.Gordon was subject to waivers after he was released by the New England Patriots off injured reserve Thursday.The waiver priority list works in the inverse order of the current NFL standings. The Seahawks, sitting at 6-2, had No. 28 priority, according to ESPN's Field Yates.Head coach Pete Carroll admitted he was surprised Gordon was still available when Seattle's turn came up."He's a unique talent, and next week we'll take a look and see what he looks like," Carroll said, confirming he'll miss Sunday's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. "He's done a lot of good stuff and made a lot of good plays, so we'll find out more next week."While the Seahawks were the only team to put in a claim for Gordon, his agent, David Canter, told ProFootballTalk's Mike Florio that as many as nine teams wanted to work out the veteran wideout if he cleared waivers.Gordon is owed the remainder of his $2-million salary, but a team could have signed him for significantly less if he had cleared, Florio adds.He recorded 20 catches, 287 yards, and a touchdown in six appearances with the Patriots. He was placed on IR after missing their Week 7 contest with injuries to his knee and ankle.The wideout has yet to play a full 16-game slate since his rookie season with the Cleveland Browns due to suspensions and mental health-related issues.Seattle represents Gordon's third team since 2018. He now joins a receiving corps that features Tyler Lockett and DK Metcalf and will catch balls from MVP candidate Russell Wilson.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Patriots activate 1st-round WR Harry from IR
The New England Patriots activated rookie wide receiver N'Keal Harry off injured reserve Saturday, the team announced.Harry missed the first eight weeks of the season with an ankle injury.The Patriots have yet to disclose whether Harry will be active Sunday against the Baltimore Ravens, but his presence will improve an already deep receiving corps for Tom Brady.Josh Gordon was recently released by New England off injured reserve and claimed by the Seattle Seahawks.New England selected Harry at No. 32 overall out of Arizona State in April's draft after a productive collegiate career.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Report: Cowboys' Vander Esch likely to miss Giants clash
Dallas Cowboys linebacker Leighton Vander Esch is likely to sit out Monday's divisional game against the New York Giants as he continues to have issues with a neck injury suffered in Week 7, sources told ESPN's Todd Archer.He was officially listed as questionable for the contest.The Cowboys were hoping Vander Esch would be able to recover after their bye week, but the second-year linebacker is apparently still dealing with soreness and issues with his range of motion.The 23-year-old was injured in an awkward collision in Dallas' win on Oct. 20 against the Philadelphia Eagles.If Vander Esch is sidelined, Sean Lee will start alongside Jaylon Smith.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
Week 9 player props: Expect Minshew Mania in London
Find line reports, best bets, and subscribe to push notifications in the Betting News section.The player prop market is a hot one for bettors. While standard spread and total bets account for an entire game, individual props focus on specific matchups.Here are five bets to consider for Week 9:Gardner Minshew over 247.5 passing yardsRemember when Minshew and the Jaguars were nine-point underdogs to the Texans with a total of 41 back in Week 2? Fast forward to Sunday and Jacksonville's just a one-point 'dog to Houston with a total of 47 in London. Minshew hasn't gotten enough credit for what he's done in his rookie season. He's thrown for nearly 2,000 yards with 13 touchdowns and just two interceptions while working with an inexperienced receiving corps.Minshew was fine in his first meeting with the Texans. He went 23-for-33 with 213 yards and a touchdown in the narrow loss. Houston's secondary is trending way down, as it's allowed close to 11 yards per reception this season. Minshew, who's engineering the seventh-most explosive pass offense in 2019, should find more success this time around.Royce Freeman over 2.5 catchesCleveland's defense isn't a great matchup for Broncos quarterback Brandon Allen, who's making his first career start Sunday. But one way Allen can settle into a groove is through the short passing game, particularly with Freeman. The running back has been a go-to option out of the backfield, recording at least four catches in four of Denver's last six games. The Browns are also allowing more than 20% of the passing yards they've surrendered this season to come from opposing rushers, the third-highest mark in the league.Cameron Brate over 2.5 catchesYou would've thought Brate was a solid buy-low candidate in Week 8 with No. 1 tight end O.J. Howard on the shelf. But after catching just three passes for 32 yards last weekend against the Titans, Brate has now caught three or fewer balls in all nine career games when Howard has been sidelined - so much for a bargain buy. Common logic would point to fading him altogether, but I'm willing to jump back on board the Brate train against a Seahawks defense that's allowing roughly six catches and north of 70 yards per game to opposing tight ends this season.Tom Brady over 37.5 passing attemptsBrady's been slinging it around lately, attempting at least 38 passes in five straight games before his streak was snapped amid a torrential downpour at home against Cleveland last weekend. New England might find it tough to run on a Ravens defense that's allowed just 3.7 yards per carry over the last three weeks.Robby Anderson longest reception over 21.5 yardsIf the Jets watched any of the Dolphins' matchup with the Steelers on Monday, their offense should be licking its chops. Three different Pittsburgh receivers had at least one catch of over 20 yards as quarterback Mason Rudolph picked on a Dolphins secondary that's last in the league in explosive pass rate. Miami's defense is also down star cornerback Xavien Howard, which should open up more suitable matchups for Anderson, who's averaging 14.7 yards per reception this season.Alex Kolodziej is a betting writer for theScore. He's a graduate of Eastern Illinois who has been involved in the sports betting industry for 12 years. He can quote every line from "Rounders" and appreciates franchises that regularly wear alternate jerseys. Find him on Twitter @AJKolodziej.Copyright © 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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