Christian McCaffrey set the NFL's single-season record for catches by a running back with his 103rd reception of the year against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday.Earlier in the game, the Carolina Panthers sophomore joined LaDainian Tomlinson and Matt Forte as the only running backs to record 1,000 rushing yards and 100 receptions in the same season.He reached that milestone with a first half performance that included 15 carries for 52 yards and seven receptions for 43 yards.McCaffrey tied Steve Smith's franchise record for receptions in a season; he passed DeAngelo Williams' record for career receptions by a running back (178); and he surpassed his father's (Ed) career singe-season high of 101 receptions.The 22-year-old was selected with the eighth overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft and entered Week 16 with 13 total touchdowns on the year.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Los Angeles Rams star running back Todd Gurley is inactive for Sunday's game against the Arizona Cardinals due to a knee injury.The Rams were planning for Gurley to play, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN, so it appears the team wasn't satisfied with his pregame tests.Head coach Sean McVay said Friday that the Rams wouldn't put Gurley at risk by playing him. Backup C.J. Anderson, who was signed last week, could take over as the Rams' top ball carrier.The Rams are still in the hunt for a first-round bye with the NFC West wrapped up and are looking to bounce back from two straight disappointing offensive performances.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Carolina Panthers quarterback Taylor Heinicke left his first career start against the Atlanta Falcons in the second quarter of Sunday's game with a left elbow injury, and his return is questionable, according to the team.Heinicke was replaced under center by Kyle Allen with Cam Newton inactive for Week 16.Heinicke started the game, his fifth appearance of the season, by completing nine of 13 passes for 72 yards and a touchdown on the game-opening drive. The 25-year-old added 14 yards on the ground.Allen, 22, had never previously appeared in an NFL game.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Oakland Raiders are currently set to enter the 2019 campaign without a home stadium and, as a result, the team is apparently considering a radical option.Oakland has discussed the possibility of playing its home games in London next season ahead of the move to Las Vegas in 2020, FOX Sports' Jay Glazer reports.The NFL has held at least one game per season in London since 2011. The league has expanded the International Series in recent years, with four games set to be played there next year.It would seem the league has two viable options in Wembley Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur's new home, the latter of which is specifically designed to accommodate football games, though the logistical challenges of one team playing all its home games across the pond would be a significant obstacle to overcome.The city of Oakland filed a lawsuit against the Raiders to recover damages related to the team's upcoming relocation, further complicating the franchise's potential agreement to a new lease.The Raiders would prefer to stay at the Coliseum, according to ESPN's Paul Gutierrez.The AFC West team could also join the San Francisco 49ers in Santa Clara or play in San Diego for the 2019 campaign.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

theScore's Justin Boone is coming off his fifth top-10 finish in FantasyPros' Most Accurate Expert Competition. Follow the links below to see his updated rankings for Week 16.You can also listen to the Week 16 preview episode of theScore Fantasy Football Podcast.Standard

The Arizona Cardinals are planning to fire Steve Wilks, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.The first-year head coach and former Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator has led the Cardinals to a 3-11 record this season and they share last place in the NFL coming off a 40-14 loss to the Atlanta Falcons in Week 15.A source told Schefter he could not envision a scenario in which Wilks is brought back for the 2019 season.The 49-year-old previously spent time with the then-San Diego Chargers, Chicago Bears, and throughout the college ranks, holding various assistant titles. His only other head gig was at Savannah State from 1997-1998.If the Cardinals finish the campaign with two more losses, their 3-13 record would match their worst single season since the franchise relocated from St. Louis in 1988.The Cardinals host the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Atlanta Falcons No. 1 wideout Julio Jones will play against the Carolina Panthers Sunday, a source told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.Jones had been battling hip and rib issues but was able to work out in pregame warmups.The six-time Pro Bowler has played all 14 game this season and leads the NFL with 1,511 receiving yards. He's scored six touchdowns over the past seven weeks after a lengthy end zone drought which dated back to last season.Jones has topped 100 receiving yards in nine games this season. He caught five of nine targets for 64 yards in his first matchup with the Panthers in Week 2.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The NFL's coaching carousel is set to start spinning in a couple weeks when the regular season ends, but several high-profile names are apparently not in danger of losing their jobs.The Carolina Panthers and Jacksonville Jaguars are expected to retain their head coaches - Ron Rivera and Doug Marrone - for 2019 despite both enduring disappointing seasons, sources told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.Rapoport added that while the Atlanta Falcons are expected to make changes to their coaching staff, with former Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell a candidate to replace Steve Sarkisian, head coach Dan Quinn's job is safe.In other coaching news, Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald told Rapoport that the players are behind embattled first-year head coach Steve Wilks."We all would want him back," Fitzgerald said via text message.The Panthers are all but eliminated from postseason contention, with FiveThirtyEight putting their odds at one percent. The 4-10 Jaguars have long since been eliminated after starting the campaign 3-1. The Falcons, who entered the season as potential Super Bowl contenders, have stumbled to a 5-9 record.Jacksonville inked Marrone to a contract extension after making the AFC title game last season, and owner Shad Khan reportedly wants to push forward with the current regime.Carolina has experienced a sea of changes this season with new owner David Tepper coming in. The billionaire apparently wants to be patient despite reports he's frustrated with the franchise's lack of analytics and old-school approach.Former Indianapolis Colts and Detroit Lions head coach Jim Caldwell is planning to return to football in 2019 and is expected to be a head coaching candidate for some teams, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter. Caldwell posted a cumulative 36-28 record during his four seasons with the Lions but was dismissed at the end of the 2017 season.Meanwhile, Denver Broncos head coach Vance Joseph could find a new home if he is fired at the end of the season, a source told Schefter. If Joseph is dismissed by the Broncos, he is expected to be considered for the Cincinnati Bengals' defensive coordinator role and could eventually succeed Marvin Lewis as the team's head coach. Schefter reports that the Broncos are preparing to move on from Joseph.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Former Kansas City Chiefs, New England Patriots, and New York Jets offensive coordinator Charlie Weis is interested in a return to the NFL for 2019, he told ESPN's Adam Schefter over the weekend.Weis most recently served as head coach of Kansas at the college level from 2012-14. His only other head coaching role was with Notre Dame from 2005-2009.The 62-year-old said he's waiting for the right situation, but he has his wife's blessing for a return to the sidelines.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Former New York Giants general manager Jerry Reese turned down the Oakland Raiders' request to interview him for their GM vacancy, league sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.Reese, who was fired by the Giants last year, reportedly declined the invitation due to concerns about working with head coach Jon Gruden, who has significant say over personnel decision thanks to his 10-year, $100-million contract.His concern is apparently one shared by other GM candidates around the league.Gruden continued to reshape their franchise this week, as sources told Schefter that the head coach fired head strength and conditioning coach Tom Shaw, whom he hired upon taking the Raiders job.Oakland parted ways with Reggie McKenzie earlier this month after seven years. In doing so, the Raiders reduced the amount of minority general managers to just Chris Grier of the Miami Dolphins, as Ozzie Newsome of the Baltimore Ravens will step down at the end of this season.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Ohio State quarterback Dwayne Haskins received a first-round projection for the 2019 NFL Draft from the NFL's college personnel advisory board, league and school sources told Chris Mortensen of ESPN.The redshirt sophomore finished third in 2018 Heisman Trophy voting, behind Oklahoma's Kyler Murray and Alabama's Tua Tagovailoa. He completed 70.2 percent of 496 pass attempts for 4,580 yards and 47 touchdowns with eight interceptions, while adding four rushing scores this season.Haskins is discussing his options with coaches and family, but is planning to play in the Rose Bowl against Washington on Jan. 1, Mortensen adds.He is projected as the 10th overall selection by ESPN's Todd McShay.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The prop market is one that bettors can capitalize on by finding edges on specific, individual matchups. Here are the three best prop bets for the Sunday Night Football game between the Kansas City Chiefs and Seattle Seahawks.Travis Kelce Under 6.5 receptions (+100)For a matchup with the highest total of any game on Sunday's slate, it might be playing with fire to start ripping off under-related prop bets, especially when it features the league's top tight end. Kelce has brought down at least seven passes in the last four games, combining for a total of 36 over that span. He'll be a go-to target for Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, but we don't like the matchup against the Seahawks at CenturyLink Field, as Seattle has yet to allow a tight end to catch more than six passes in a single game this season.Chris Carson Over 73.5 rushing yards (-114)In league where passing has become the norm, Seattle is playing old-school football to find their offensive success. With rush attempts on 52.17 percent of their offensive plays, the Seahawks are the only team in the NFL that run the ball more than they pass. Having struggled to find stability at running back over the years, Seattle finally has their guy in Chris Carson. He's carried the ball at least 16 times in more than half his starts this season, including 22 in back-to-back weeks leading up to Sunday. Seattle would be wise not to engage in a shootout with the Chiefs, so we'll likely see a heavy dose of Carson, who faces the NFL's worst defense in terms of rushing yards allowed per attempt (5.0) this season.Patrick Mahomes Over 305.5 passing yards (-114)Amid a season where he's torn it up on a weekly basis, Mahomes' stat line in last week's loss to the Los Angeles Chargers was a bit underwhelming. The second-year pivot posted a season-low 243 passing yards and finished with 7.15 yards per attempt, his second lowest clip of the season. But it's proven to be tough to keep Mahomes down for too long, as he's averaging close to 400 yards passing the week after he falls to eclipse 300. Mahomes has been the best quarterback on the road by a mile, ranking first in passing touchdowns (28), explosive pass rate percentage (17%), passer rating (124.2), and yards per attempt (9.5).(All prop bets were taken from Bet365. Be sure to shop around for the best numbers.)Alex Kolodziej is theScore's betting writer. He's a graduate of Eastern Illinois who has been involved in the sports betting industry for 11 years. He can quote every line from "Rounders" and appreciates franchises that regularly wear alternate jerseys. Find him on Twitter @AlexKoIodziej.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New England Patriots wide receiver Josh Gordon was given an indefinite suspension for violating the terms of his reinstatement under the substance abuse policy on Thursday due to multiple violations this season, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, who adds Gordon tested positive for "more than marijuana."The Patriots had Gordon under surveillance this season in order to try to prevent any sort of violation, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter, but the team believes he eluded security during the Nov. 18 bye week.Gordon would have to show the NFL and commissioner Roger Goodell that he was clean for a sustained period of time in order to be reinstated again, though it's possible that could happen in time for the beginning of the 2019 season, said Rapoport.The current suspension is Gordon's fifth since 2012 and his third indefinite ban.The Patriots acquired Gordon from the Cleveland Browns in exchange for a 2019 fifth-round pick. The 27-year-old caught 40 of 68 targets with the Patriots for 720 yards and three touchdowns over 11 games, starting all of them. He had just one 19-yard catch off two targets in a loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 15.A Pro Bowler and All-Pro in 2013, Gordon led the league with 1,646 receiving yards over 14 games with the Browns, scoring nine touchdowns in a 4-12 season.His rookie 2012 season was the only campaign in which he played a full 16 games after being selected in the second round of the supplemental draft.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Houston Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins will play Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles despite battling an ankle injury, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and James Palmer.Hopkins tested his ankle on the field during pregame warmups and told Palmer he's good to go.The Texans hold the top spot in the AFC South with a record of 10-4, one win clear of the Tennessee Titans who topped the Washington Redskins on Saturday. The Indianapolis Colts enter the day two wins back of the Texans at 8-6.Hopkins is coming off a Week 15 outing against the New York Jets in which he caught 10 of 11 targets for 170 yards and two touchdowns. The 26-year-old has 94 receptions for 1,321 yards and 11 touchdowns over 14 games this season.Wide receivers Demaryius Thomas and DeAndre Carter will also be taking on bigger roles Sunday as rookie Keke Coutee was ruled out with a hamstring injury.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

After digging up some tips and giving our five best plays for the weekend, let's go over some of the line and total moves for Sunday's slate.Houston Texans at Philadelphia EaglesOpening odds: HOU -1.5 / 45Current odds: PHI -2.5 / 46.5Bettors are apparently buying Nick Foles when the Philadelphia Eagles host the Houston Texans with playoff implications on the line. The backup quarterback kept the season alive last weekend, guiding the offense to 30 points in a road win over the Los Angeles Rams. This line crossed zero throughout the week, with oddsmakers now listing the Eagles as marginal favorites. The total caught some traction on Saturday by moving from 46 to 47 in most shops. The Texans will be without running back Lamar Miller and rookie receiver Keke Coutee.Cincinnati Bengals at Cleveland BrownsOpen: CLE -6.5 / 46.5Current: CLE -10 / 45The Cleveland Browns caught more early steam than any side during the week, being pushed up from -6.5 all the way to -10. They took care of the Cincinnati Bengals with ease back in Week 11 with a 35-20 win and now face a a banged-up offense that recently added wide receiver Tyler Boyd to the injury report.Jacksonville Jaguars at Miami Dolphins Open: MIA -4 / 39.5Current: MIA -3.5 / 38Sunday's game between the Jacksonville Jaguars and Miami Dolphins doesn't figure to be all that aesthetically pleasing. The Jags under backup quarterback Cody Kessler have scored just 28 combined points over the last three games, while the Dolphins lost another offensive player to injury last weekend in running back Frank Gore. It's not a surprise the total saw a slight dip during the week from 39.5 to 38.Atlanta Falcons at Carolina PanthersOpen: CAR -3.5 / 48Current: ATL -3 / 44.5Originally opening as the favorite, the Carolina Panthers unsurprisingly moved to the underdog role following word that starting quarterback Cam Newton was to sit with an ailing shoulder injury. With Taylor Heinicke getting the nod, the total dropped all the way to 43.5 before the market came back and pushed the number up to 44.5.Buffalo Bills at New England Patriots Open: NE -10.5 / 45Current: NE -13.5 / 44.5Bettors are expecting the New England Patriots to bounce back against the Buffalo Bills following consecutive losses, but this spread has seen some odd movement. The Patriots jumped from -10.5 to -13 and back down to -12.5 early in the week, but shortly after it emerged that star wide receiver Josh Gordon was suspended, the line actually jumped back up to -13.5. The Patriots have been lethal as a double-digit favorite recently, covering in 11 of the previous 12 situations.New York Giants at Indianapolis ColtsOpen: IND -9.5 / 47Current: IND -10 / 48The New York Giants find themselves facing the largest spread of their season as they travel to take on the Indianapolis Colts. There's a stark contrast to how these two teams played in Week 15 - the Giants were shut out at home by the Tennessee Titans, while the Colts blanked the Dallas Cowboys, 23-0. For a third straight week, the Giants will be without star wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr., who's still hampered by a quad injury.Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Dallas Cowboys Open: DAL -7 / 46Current: DAL -7 / 48The Dallas Cowboys attracted a ton of action for Sunday's game, garnering five times as many tickets as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at MGM resorts as of Saturday night. The Cowboys might be in a good spot to clinch the NFC East, catching the Bucs on back-to-back road games.Green Bay Packers at New York JetsOpen: GB -3 / 45Current: GB -2.5 / 46.5Oddsmakers were put in a difficult spot with the Green Bay Packers-New York Jets matchup. First, they set the Packers as three-point favorites but moved the line through zero and made New York a favorite with the status of Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers up in the air. After it was confirmed that Rodgers was a go, the line swung back and reinstalled the Packers as favorites. Green Bay is clearly the better team, but motivation becomes an intriguing narrative as the Packers were eliminated from playoff contention last weekend. They'll be without wide receiver Randall Cobb, though the Jets will also be down a pass catcher in Quincy Enunwa.Minnesota Vikings at Detroit LionsOpen: MIN -4 / 42.5Current: MIN -6 / 43The Minnesota Vikings caught lightning in a bottle last week, ripping off 44 points days after firing their offensive coordinator. Bettors were quick to hit the Vikings leading up to Sunday and it's clear why: they're still in the playoff mix and now meet the Detroit Lions, who have scored fewer than 20 points in each of the previous five games. Minnesota, like Dallas, was getting five times as many tickets at MGM resorts.Los Angeles Rams at Arizona CardinalsOpen: LAR -13.5 / 47.5Current: LAR -14 / 44It's rare to see a Los Angeles Rams total open below the 50-point mark, let alone drop as much as it did over the week. As the number dipped from 47.5 to 44 throughout the week, it was obvious that bettors don't have much faith in the Arizona Cardinals offense. A unit that ranks last in the league in total offense and points per game hasn't gone over the team total at home once this season in seven tries, averaging fewer than 13 points per contest in those situations.Chicago Bears at San Francisco 49ersOpen: CHI -3.5 / 43Current: CHI -4.5 / 44Bettors might want to err on the side of caution - or at least be aware of the circumstances - should they choose to play on the Chicago Bears, who fall into a weird spot on Sunday. Coming off a huge home win over the Packers that clinched the NFC North, the Bears are on the West Coast to play a scrappy San Francisco 49ers club. Chicago was the most bet team at MGM resorts over the week, attracting seven times as many tickets as the Niners.Pittsburgh Steelers at New Orleans SaintsOpen: NO -6.5 / 56Current: NO -6.5 / 53The New Orleans Saints and Pittsburgh Steelers can score in bunches, but it hasn't trended that way for either team as of late. The Saints are on a 5-0 run to the under while the Steelers have gone under the total in four of the previous five. Steelers star wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster injured his groin in practice during the week but will give it a go, much to the delight of fantasy owners.Alex Kolodziej is theScore's betting writer. He's a graduate of Eastern Illinois who has been involved in the sports betting industry for 11 years. He can quote every line from "Rounders" and appreciates franchises that regularly wear alternate jerseys. Find him on Twitter @AlexKoIodziej.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have yet to make a decision on head coach Dirk Koetter and could still retain him for the 2019 season, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports.It has been widely assumed that Koetter would be shown the door at the end of his third season as the Bucs' coach, but ownership will reportedly gather at the end of the campaign and could potentially bring back Koetter, along with his coaching staff and quarterback Jameis Winston.A year after Koetter kept his job following a 5-11 finish, the Bucs sit last in the NFC South with a 5-9 record.However, the Bucs' defense has been much improved since the firing of coordinator Mike Smith and the offense is ranked third in yards.Tampa Bay could potentially blow up their current regime by breaking up the trio of Koetter, Winston, and general manager Jason Licht. The quarterback's $20.9-million salary is guaranteed for injury only in 2019, so the Bucs could release him this offseason without incurring a dead-money hit to their cap.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Tennessee Titans offensive lineman Taylor Lewan and Washington Redskins corner Josh Norman had a heated exchange after the Titans' 25-16 win Saturday.The adversaries met face-to-face as players cleared the field, and the incident was captured on video.

Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota was taken to the locker room just before halftime of Saturday's game against the Washington Redskins. He was diagnosed with a stinger and didn't return.Blaine Gabbert took over under center with less than a minute remaining in the second quarter and the team trailing 10-9, leading Tennessee to a come-from-behind 25-16 victory.Gabbert had seen time in six previous games this season for the oft-injured Mariota, starting two contests - in Weeks 2 and 3 - and leading the Titans to victories on both occasions.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Los Angeles Chargers star receiver Keenan Allen is a go for Saturday's crucial matchup with the Baltimore Ravens.He wasn't among the list of inactives for the tilt between the two current holders of the wild-card spots in the AFC.

LeBron James didn't mince words during the Dec. 21 episode of HBO's "The Shop" when discussing certain differences between the NFL and NBA, and the level of respect shown to the athletes of each league by ownership."In the NFL, they got a bunch of old white men owning teams and they got that slave mentality," James said, according to The Washington Post's Ben Golliver. "And it's like, 'This is my team. You do what the f--- I tell y'all to do. Or we get rid of y'all.'"The Los Angeles Lakers superstar went on to show his appreciation for Adam Silver, saying he feels the NBA commissioner provides players with the freedom to be activists for political and social change without fear of reprimand."He doesn't mind us having ... a real feeling and to be able to express that," he said. "It doesn't even matter if Adam agrees with what we are saying, he at least wants to hear us out. As long as we are doing it in a very educational, non-violent way, then he's absolutely okay with it."The NFL announced in May that a national anthem policy had been approved by owners for the 2018 season, but it was quickly shelved months later under an agreement with the NFLPA. The policy would have required players and personnel to stand or remain in the locker room during the playing of the anthem. It was in response to multiple players, including quarterback Colin Kaepernick, kneeling during the anthem to protest police brutality."I am very educated about what I believe in and I'm not doing it in a violent way," James said. "I'm not knocking on your door saying, 'Listen, I'm kneeling today and if you don't kneel with me, I'll knock you the f--- out.' But you know people go crazy when things are done outside the box. People don't know how to react."James, Dwyane Wade, Carmelo Anthony, and Chris Paul used the opening segment of the 2016 ESPYs to speak out against violence in the United States. In 2014, James and several other players donned "I Can't Breathe" shirts in support of Eric Garner, who was killed after a confrontation with police, after he was put in a chokehold.The 33-year-old also wore a "Kaepernick" shirt prior to the Lakers' third preseason game and has voiced his support for the quarterback on numerous occasions.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

If the New York Jets fire Todd Bowles at the end of the season as expected, he might not be out of work for long.Despite a 24-38 record and no playoff berths across four seasons, Bowles will be considered for other head coaching vacancies around the league, NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reports.Garafolo added Bowles has links to several teams with openings, including the Green Bay Packers and Cleveland Browns.Bowles was lauded as a defensive dynamo when he came to the Jets from the Arizona Cardinals but he's failed to replicate his desert success in New York.The Jets rank 24th in points allowed per game and 22nd in yards allowed per game this season. The unit finished 28th and 22nd, respectively, in those categories in 2017.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Each week, we take a look at five last-minute additions for your fantasy team heading into Sunday.C.J. Anderson, RB, Ramsat CardinalsGrant Halverson / Getty Images Sport / GettyAnderson reportedly has a chance to start Week 16 after being signed by the Rams earlier in the week with Todd Gurley expected to be a game-time decision due to a knee injury. Justin Davis and John Kelly are the Rams' other options in the event Gurley is forced to sit. They've combined for just four carries on the year.Anderson, a former 1,000-yard rusher, hasn't played since he was released by the Carolina Panthers following Week 10. He carried the ball just 24 times over nine games for 104 yards. His lone catch of the season is a 24-yard touchdown.Only two teams allow more rushing yards per game than the Cardinals' 144.9, and none have allowed more than their 20 scores on the ground.Phillip Dorsett, WR, Patriotsvs. BillsIcon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyDorsett saw seven targets in three of his first four games this season. He made 16 catches for 165 yards and two touchdowns over that time before having his role reduced following the Patriots' acquisition of Josh Gordon. The former first-round pick of the Indianapolis Colts played just two offensive snaps last week, according to Football Outsiders.Now there's room for Dorsett to get more work with Gordon suspended indefinitely for violating the terms of his reinstatement. The Patriots' official depth chart lists Chris Hogan and Julian Edelman as the starting wideouts but Dorsett has proven to be a reliable option this season with a catch rate of 84.4 percent, albeit at an average length of reception of just 9.5 yards.The Patriots could try changing some things up in the passing game after scoring just 10 points last week in a second consecutive loss.Zach Zenner, RB, Lionsvs. VikingsTom Szczerbowski / Getty Images Sport / GettyLions running back LeGarrette Blount is questionable for the Week 16 game against the Vikings due to a calf problem, likely putting Zenner in line for a second straight start. The 27-year-old has taken 22 carries for 99 yards and two touchdowns over the past two weeks.Zenner should receive his biggest workload of the season as he'll enter the contest with little competition for both carries and work in the passing game. He caught three of four targets last week and his role will grow with wide receiver Bruce Ellington ruled out with a hamstring issue.The Vikings have allowed 6.2 targets and 51.1 receiving yards per game to pass-catching running backs and rank 31st by DVOA.Kapri Bibbs, RB, Packersat JetsPatrick McDermott / Getty Images Sport / GettyBibbs was claimed off waivers Monday following his release from the Washington Redskins and could be thrust into a significant role behind Jamaal Williams after Aaron Jones was placed on injured reserve.The 25-year-old received just 20 carries with Washington this season but turned those touches into 101 yards and three scores while adding 13 receptions for 102 yards and another touchdown.Jones had received at least three targets in each of his last six games before suffering the injury in Week 15. Williams has caught just 62.1 percent of his targets this season at an average of 7.4 yards per catch, leaving the pass-catching role available for Bibbs to take over for the final two games.Tim Patrick, WR, Broncosat RaidersAAron Ontiveroz / Denver Post / GettyPatrick has become one of Case Keenum's favorite targets, catching 12 of 18 looks over the last two games following the loss of Emmanuel Sanders. He's racked up 150 yards but has been held out of the end zone.The 6-foot-5 wideout holds a significant matchup advantage but has received just one red-zone target on the year. Patrick, however, is averaging 13.9 yards per catch with longs of more than 20 yards in each of his last two outings.The Raiders' pass defense ranks last in the league with 32 touchdowns allowed on the year and tied for second last by allowing 8.2 yards per passing attempt, giving hope that Patrick can finally break off a big play for a score.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Houston Texans running back Lamar Miller has been downgraded from questionable to out for Sunday's game against the Philadelphia Eagles due to an ankle injury.Miller suffered the injury last week during a win over the New York Jets, but Texans head coach Bill O'Brien said on Friday that he had a "chance" to play through the issue.Houston has nearly secured the AFC South. However, the team is still in a fight with the New England Patriots for a first-round bye in the playoffs. The Patriots sit one game behind the Texans.With Miller sidelined, Alfred Blue will likely take over the lead role in the Texans' backfield. The backup runner has recorded 473 yards and two touchdowns on 143 rushing attempts this season. His average of 3.3 yards per carry languishes far behind Miller's 4.8, the 19th-best mark in the league out of 52 qualified running backs, according to ESPN.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

theScore breaks down the playoff ramifications of every meaningful matchup in Week 16, as well how results can impact the race for the No. 1 overall pick.According to FiveThirtyEight, the Panthers and Browns have a less-than-one-percent chance of making the playoffs, so both will be considered eliminated from postseason contention along with the Falcons, Buccaneers, Giants, Lions, 49ers, Cardinals, Bengals, Bills, and Jaguars.Redskins at Titans (Sat)What's at stake?: This is a do-or-die game for both teams, as a loss means their postseason hopes are done. A division title is highly unlikely for either the Titans and Redskins, so wild-card contenders in each conference will be keeping a close eye on this matchup. The Vikings, in particular, need a Redskins loss to clinch this week.Rooting for Titans win: Eagles, Cowboys, Vikings

After offering some betting tips and making our picks for every NFL team total in Week 16, here are our five best plays for the weekend.New York Giants at Indianapolis Colts Wager: New York Giants +9.5The Indianapolis Colts might be the league's unofficial surprise team of the year after last week's convincing 23-0 rout of the Dallas Cowboys. One thing is certain: They're a public darling at 8-6 behind Comeback Player of the Year candidate Andrew Luck, first-year head coach Frank Reich, and an above-average defense most projected would be the team's Achilles heel prior to the season.There's a stark contrast between the Colts and the New York Giants, Indy's opponent on Sunday. The Giants are 5-9 and coming off a 17-0 home loss to the Tennessee Titans. Despite the injuries scattered throughout New York's depth chart, Sunday's line feels a tad inflated for the home side.Jacksonville Jaguars at Miami Dolphins Wager: Jaguars +3.5The Jacksonville Jaguars' offense has looked awful over their last three games with backup quarterback Cody Kessler under center. After the Jaguars narrowly won 6-0 over the Colts in Kessler's first start, the Titans rolled them 30-9 in prime-time. Now, Jacksonville is coming off a home loss to the Josh Johnson-led Washington Redskins, a game in which Kessler was sacked six times while averaging 0.9 (!) yards per pass attempt.Sunday's game should give the Jaguars a good shot to produce offensively, as they square off against a Miami Dolphins defense that's had trouble getting after the quarterback this season, ranking 31st in sacks with only 24. Jacksonville's defense hasn't showed up on the road since Week 1, but playing the numbers leads to the Jags getting a slight edge at this price.Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Dallas Cowboys / Pittsburgh Steelers at New Orleans SaintsWager: Saints -0.5 / Cowboys -1 (6-point teaser)We'll play on the Dallas Cowboys and New Orleans Saints in a six-point teaser against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Pittsburgh Steelers, respectively.There's nowhere to go but up for the Cowboys, who were shut out last week at Indianapolis. Sunday feels like a nice spot at home against a Buccaneers defense playing back-to-back road games, and Dallas has the opportunity to clinch the NFC East.The Saints are coming off three straight road games, a stretch when the league's No. 2 scoring offense recorded just 51 points. However, New Orleans is back at home where the team is averaging 38 points per game, and Drew Brees has a chance to get back into the MVP race. The Saints are also on our radar against a Steelers team that could be in for a let down following a home win over the New England Patriots.Extra PointsHouston Texans at Philadelphia EaglesRecommended Pick: Over 46The Houston Texans come into Week 16 with one of the better defenses in the league, allowing just 20.1 points per game. Then again, their competition this season hasn't been all that stiff.The Texans will get another favorable spot on Sunday against Philadelphia Eagles backup quarterback Nick Foles, who orchestrated a 30-point effort on the road last weekend against the Rams to keep the Eagles' playoff hopes alive. Foles brings some volatility, but claiming he has a higher ceiling than Carson Wentz on a weekly basis isn't crazy, especially when his leash is longer and he's taking shots downfield.Opposite Foles will be Deshaun Watson, who has the Texans' offense clicking, as the unit has scored 29-plus points in three of Houston's previous four games. With two secondaries that can be exposed, we like the over in this one.Atlanta Falcons at Carolina PanthersRecommended Pick: Over 44Defense could be optional on Sunday when two teams that won't make the playoffs meet for an NFC South battle.The biggest factor comes under center for the Panthers, who are giving the quarterback reins to backup Taylor Heinicke as Cam Newton sits due to a shoulder injury. Carolina's offense can still thrive on the ground against an Atlanta Falcons defense that's ranked 31st in rushing yards allowed per game. And since the Panthers are coming off a loss to the Saints in prime-time that crushed their playoff hopes, we don't think there will be much incentive to stop the Falcons' passing attack.Top plays: 26-16-2 (61.9 percent)Overall record: 41-31-1 (56.9 percent)Alex Kolodziej is theScore's betting writer. He's a graduate of Eastern Illinois who has been involved in the sports betting industry for 11 years. He can quote every line from "Rounders" and appreciates franchises that regularly wear alternate jerseys. Find him on Twitter @AlexKoIodziej.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Oakland Raiders are apparently exploring creative locations for their 2019 home, as The Associated Press reports the team has talked to MLB's San Francisco Giants about playing at AT&T Park next year.The Raiders are scheduled to move to Las Vegas for the 2020 season. The team made an offer to renew their lease for one more year at the Oakland Alameda Coliseum before the city filed a federal lawsuit against the team and the NFL over the planned relocation. The $7.5-million offer has since been pulled from the table.The Giants would be interested in helping out their fellow Bay Area team."The Giants want to do what's best for Bay Area fans and would be open to the concept just as we hosted Cal Football in 2011 when Memorial Stadium in Berkeley was being renovated," the team said in its statement, according to Paul Gutierrez of ESPN.The Raiders could be playing their final game in Oakland on Monday Night Football when they host the AFC West-rival Denver Broncos.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Baltimore Ravens will retain head coach John Harbaugh for the 2019 season and are working on a contract extension, the team announced in a statement Friday.Harbaugh has posted a cumulative 102-70 record since taking over as head coach in 2008, winning a Super Bowl in 2012.Baltimore currently occupies the sixth and final playoff spot in the AFC, with the Indianapolis Colts and Tennessee Titans sporting identical records in the seventh and eighth spots, respectively.With speculation swirling about where Harbaugh would end up in 2019, the Ravens have made it clear he's their leader, regardless of how the end of the season plays out.Baltimore squares off against the Los Angeles Chargers on Saturday in a game that would feature the AFC's two wild-card teams if the playoffs were to begin today.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Upcoming free-agent running back Le'Veon Bell has apparently already started on his wish list for next season.Bell "has his eyes on" the Indianapolis Colts, a source familiar with his plans told Ralph Vacchiano of SNY."He sees (quarterback Andrew Luck) and that offense and all that cap room and they're much closer than the (New York) Jets. He wants to go someplace he can win right away," the source said.The Colts are projected to lead the NFL in cap space heading into the 2019 season at slightly less than $124 million. The Jets are second with $106 million.A report from November said Bell was seeking a contract worth more than $17 million per year with at least $45 million guaranteed.The 26-year-old has sat out the entire 2018 campaign after refusing to sign a second consecutive franchise tag with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He'll hit free agency with career totals of 5,336 rushing yards, 2,660 receiving yards, and 42 total touchdowns over 62 games.The Colts have received strong production from running backs Marlon Mack, Jordan Wilkins, and Nyheim Hines this season, as they've totaled more than 1,300 rushing yards as a trio with nine rushing scores behind a strong offensive line.Bell previously seemed to hint at a desire to join Luck and the Colts when the league's official Instagram account posted the quarterback's stats, in which he commented, "just imagine."Indianapolis occupies second place in the AFC South with a record of 8-6.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Kansas City Chiefs running back Spencer Ware is doubtful for Sunday's game against the Seattle Seahawks with a hamstring injury, while cornerback Kendall Fuller is listed as questionable with a thumb injury.Chiefs wide receiver Sammy Watkins will miss his fourth consecutive game with a foot ailment.Ware missed Week 15 against the Los Angeles Chargers and Damien Williams thrived in his absence, rushing for 49 yards and two touchdowns on 10 carries while adding six receptions for a team-high 74 yards.Fuller played through a fractured wrist in Week 15 and underwent surgery following the contest. Despite going through a procedure, it's possible he suits up in time for Sunday's game.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Running back James Conner will miss a third consecutive game when his Pittsburgh Steelers take on the New Orleans Saints on Sunday due to an ankle injury, while wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster is questionable with a groin issue, the team announced Friday.Conner will remain sidelined and leave the Steelers' backfield in the hands of Jaylen Samuels and Stevan Ridley. Samuels, a fifth-round rookie, racked up 142 rushing yards on 19 carries against the New England Patriots in Week 15, adding two catches for 30 yards.Smith-Schuster left Thursday's practice and was listed as a non-participant on Friday. The sophomore wideout has been targeted 10 or more times in four of the past five games, topping 100 yards in three of those outings.The Steelers enter the penultimate week of the regular season in first place in the AFC North with a record of 8-5-1.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Los Angeles Rams running back Todd Gurley will be a game-time decision for Sunday's Week 16 contest against the Arizona Cardinals due to a knee injury."We’re not going to do anything that isn’t smart for Todd," Rams head coach Sean McVay said.McVay added that running back C.J. Anderson, who signed with the team on Tuesday, could start if Gurley doesn't play. John Kelly and Justin Davis may also get carries in Gurley's absence.Gurley left briefly during the Rams' Week 15 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles but returned to the game without further incident. He rushed for 48 yards and two touchdowns in the contest while adding a team-high 10 receptions for 76 yards.The 24-year-old was named to his third Pro Bowl this week after rushing for 1,251 yards and 17 touchdowns so far this season. He's added 59 receptions for 580 yards and four more scores.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Arizona Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Los Angeles Rams after missing practice with an illness.Peterson hasn't missed a game since entering the league in 2011, playing in 126 consecutive contests."He has that virus that’s going around right now,” Cardinals head coach Steve Wilks said, according to Bob McManaman and Katherine Fitzgerald of the Arizona Republic.The standout cornerback was named to his eighth consecutive Pro Bowl after recording 50 tackles, a sack, five pass deflections, and two interceptions in 14 games.Arizona is already out of playoff contention but it would be a tough loss if Peterson misses Sunday's game.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Atlanta Falcons star wide receiver Julio Jones will be a game-time decision for Sunday's Week 16 contest against the Carolina Panthers, head coach Dan Quinn said Friday.Jones is battling a hip injury but returned to practice Friday."At his core, he is a true competitor," Quinn added of the receiver.Jones leads the NFL with 1,511 receiving yards to go along with 100 receptions and six touchdowns. In the process, he's become the fourth player in NFL history to record three seasons of 100 receptions with 1,500 yards.At 5-9, the Falcons are already eliminated from the playoffs.Should Jones miss the contest against Carolina, Calvin Ridley would likely see increased targets.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

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 16 rankings. You can also listen to the Week 16 preview episode of theScore Fantasy Football Podcast.StartDak Prescott, QB, Cowboysvs. BuccaneersIcon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyWe've reached the fantasy championships, which means every decision takes on heightened importance. If you start the wrong player this week, you'll be regretting it all offseason. That won't be the case with Prescott, who's coming off a down week, but is poised to rebound against the Bucs. Not only has Amari Cooper helped the Cowboys' passing attack find its groove, but Prescott has also been lifting his fantasy stats on the ground - something he lamented not doing enough last week when he had zero rushing attempts. Tampa Bay has allowed several quarterbacks to gash them in the run game this year, including Mitch Trubisky (53 yards), Baker Mayfield (43 yards), Cam Newton (33 yards twice), and Lamar Jackson (95 yards). Prescott is comfortably among the top-10 QB plays in Week 16.Boone's projection: 267 passing yards, 2 TDs, 41 rushing yardsOther QBs to start

Here's a breakdown of four significant positional mismatches in Week 16:Titans DL Jurrell Casey vs. Redskins' interior offensive lineThe Washington Redskins' offensive line has been decimated by injuries this season, and the interior's been hit particularly hard, with guards Arie Kouandjio, Shawn Lauvao, Brandon Scherff, and Jonathan Cooper all out with season-ending injuries.As a result, Washington's assembled a rag-tag unit with Luke Bowanko and Tony Bergstrom starting at the guard positions. Center Chase Roullier is the lone member of the interior offensive line to start every game this season.This week, they'll get the unenviable task of blocking Tennessee Titans lineman Jurrell Casey, who's been underrated for quite some time and has dominated this season with 58 tackles (11 for loss), 11 quarterback hits, seven sacks, and two pass deflections.One of the best ways to attack an offensive line that's not used to playing together is with stunts, as the absence of continuity makes it difficult to quickly determine blocking assignments.So, it wouldn’t be a surprise if the Titans dial up a number of stunts and complex blitzes to take advantage. Here's an example of Casey’s effectiveness on stunts: Your browser does not support the video tag. NFLOn this play, Casey (No. 99) is aligned in the B-gap as the defensive tackle between the offensive guard and offensive tackle. Once the ball is snapped, he veers outside as the "penetrator" in a tackle-end stunt with Harold Landry (No. 58) as the "looper."That means Casey's tasked with drawing the attention of the right guard and tackle just long enough for Landry to loop inside unblocked. However, the right guard and tackle fail to communicate - the guard takes on Landry but the tackle doesn't pick up Casey in time - which allows Casey to get free and sack the quarterback.When he's not rushing the passer, Casey should have a disruptive day against the run. Bowanko and Bergstrom lack the raw strength to hang with Casey at the point of attack, and they're nowhere near technical enough to counter the array of moves he'll throw their way. This play is a great example of Casey’s ability against the run: Your browser does not support the video tag. NFLCasey's once again aligned in the B-gap as the defensive tackle. Once the ball is snapped, he angles his body slightly so he can expand his rush outside when the right tackle engages him.As he starts to expand outside, Casey executes a perfectly timed chop with his outside hand, causing the guard to lose his balance and stumble forward. This makes it easy for Casey to clear the block and make the tackle at the line of scrimmage.Saturday's matchup with Washington screams "big-time performance" for Casey, and Tennessee could coast to a victory if he comes through as expected.Bears DL Akiem Hicks vs. 49ers RG Mike PersonThe Chicago Bears' defense is the best in the league and stacked with talent at every level. And while Khalil Mack (rightfully) receives a lot of attention, Akiem Hicks might be just as important.Hicks has been an outstanding defensive tackle this season, racking up 51 tackles (11 for a loss), 11 quarterback hits, six sacks, three forced fumbles, and a pass deflection. He was voted to the Pro Bowl and it will be a travesty if he doesn’t get All-Pro consideration.This week, Hicks should dominate his matchup with San Francisco 49ers right guard Mike Person, who hasn’t been bad this season but doesn’t match up well here. Person mostly struggles with defensive tackles who play with a great deal of power at the point of attack - and that certainly describes Hicks.At 6-foot-5 and 332 pounds, Hicks exerts a unique amount of force with his strikes. He also complements that power with deceptive quickness and a wide array of hand techniques. Here's a great example: Your browser does not support the video tag. NFLOn this play, Hicks is aligned with an outside shade over Los Angeles Rams right guard Austin Blythe, one of the best in the league at his position.After the ball is snapped, Hicks hops outside, influencing Blythe to get more width in his pass set, which also widens the gap between the center and Blythe, opening up the inside move. So, Hicks tries to win inside, executing a powerful club move with his inside hand. However, Blythe manages to counter the move and stay in front of Hicks, forcing him into Plan B.Hicks quickly re-counters by stabbing with his outside hand, which pins Blythe inside and creates a soft edge to work around on the way to sacking Jared Goff.There may only be a handful of human beings with the technique, balance, power, and quickness to make that sequence work, but Hicks is one of them. And that's a bad sign for Person, who should have a long day at the office.Broncos LB Bradley Chubb vs. Raiders LT Kolton MillerA week after getting a great matchup against the Cleveland Browns, Bradley Chubb has an even tastier showdown in Week 16.Oakland Raiders rookie left tackle Kolton Miller might be the worst starting offensive tackle in football, as he's declined after a decent start to the campaign. He especially struggles with powerful pass-rushers, as he lacks the core strength and hand techniques to anchor against them.This week, Miller will have his hands full with Chubb, whose 12 sacks are just 2.5 behind Jevon Kearse's rookie record. And Chubb plays with the powerful style that Miller has trouble with, which is seen on plays like this: Your browser does not support the video tag. NFLHere, Chubb's aligned with an outside shade over Rams left tackle Andrew Whitworth, one of the best in the NFL. Chubb attacks Whitworth down the middle with a bull rush and does a good job of winning the hand-placement and leverage battles, allowing him to walk Whitworth back to the quarterback.Once Whitworth tries to anchor against the bull rush, Chubb uses the tackle's slight forward momentum against him, as he moves Whitworth aside and brings down Goff.Expect Chubb to take advantage of Miller - who's nowhere near Whitworth's level - throughout Monday's game.Seahawks DT Jarran Reed vs. Chiefs' offensive guardsFresh off being snubbed from the Pro Bowl, Seattle Seahawks defensive tackle Jarran Reed will be out to prove it was the wrong decision.And while the Kansas City Chiefs possess one of the best offenses in football, their interior offensive line doesn’t meet that standard. Center Mitch Morse is adept in pass protection, but the same can't be said for guards Cameron Erving, who missed last week with a knee injury, and Andrew Wylie. If Erving's held out once again, Jeff Allen will take his place.Meanwhile, Reed is solid against the run, but his ability to rush the passer (8.5 sacks this season) has blossomed this season. Here's an example: Your browser does not support the video tag. NFLOn this play, Reed's aligned with an outside shade over the left guard. After the ball is snapped, he fakes an attack to the outside before darting inside with a two-hand swipe and arm-over finish that clears contact.From there, Reed bullies his way through light contact to bring down Nick Mullens for the sack.Prior to this year, Reed wouldn't have made that sack (he had just three in the last two seasons), but don't be surprised if he keeps producing against Kansas City's biggest weakness - guard play.John Owning is a football writer at theScore. He has written for Bleacher Report and Football Insiders. He was also the lead NFL content editor at FanRag Sports. John provides analysis on the Dallas Cowboys for the Dallas Morning News and edits for The Quant Edge. Find him on Twitter @JohnOwning.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New York Giants star receiver Odell Beckham Jr. has been ruled out of Sunday's Week 16 game against the Indianapolis Colts with a quad injury.Beckham missed the past two games and then every practice this week. It's possible the Giants shut him down with only one contest left and their playoff hopes long extinguished.The 26-year-old Beckham missed out on a Pro Bowl selection this week, but he still broke the 1,000-yard mark for the fourth time in five seasons.The Giants will attempt to play the role of spoiler on Sunday, as the Colts are still in the AFC playoff race after shutting out the Dallas Cowboys last week.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Dez Bryant is apparently not done throwing up the "X."The wide receiver said Thursday he's aiming to play in the NFL next season after missing the 2018 campaign due to an extended free-agent stint and a torn Achilles tendon."I have to (play again). I got business and I got ball," Bryant said on KRLD-FM, according to Clarence E. Hill Jr. of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. "I can't end like this. I have to throw the X up."Bryant signed with the New Orleans Saints in November, ending a seven-month period without a team. But the 30-year-old was injured in practice two days after joining the NFC South team.The Saints are reportedly open to bringing back the former Dallas Cowboys receiver but it will likely depend on whether Bryant can overcome what's expected to be a lengthy rehabilitation process.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The inordinate number of random drug tests administered to Eric Reid this season has the Carolina Panthers safety convinced that the NFL has a target on his back."I perceive that the league is full of you-fill-in-the-blanks," he said Thursday, per ESPN's David Newton. "I wish I could see y'alls faces if what I know becomes public from this lawsuit.''Reid, who's suing the NFL for collusion, drew his seventh drug test in 11 games after the Panthers lost to the New Orleans Saints on Monday Night Football. The 27-year-old's ongoing lawsuit claims that NFL owners conspired to keep him out of the league much like they did to close friend Colin Kaepernick.Reid struggled to find work in the offseason and wasn't signed until Week 4, despite establishing himself as a viable starter over five seasons with the San Francisco 49ers."I'm not concerned I'm going to fail a drug test,'' he said. "I've never failed a drug test in my life. It's not like I'm worried about it. But it's duly noted that it's happened. It's (like) stop-and-frisk. If I'm walking down the street, I know I'm not doing anything illegal, but that doesn't mean I should be stopped every time I go outside."I know what I'm going up against. I'm not surprised by this. This is some of the least shocking things that I'm aware of in this collusion case. So my teammates are more shocked about it than I am.''Panthers coach Ron Rivera joked that Reid should buy a lottery ticket given how many times his name has come up for selection."I guess there was something about some mathematician saying it's highly improbable, but definitely possible,'' Rivera said. "But I'll say this: if my name came up that many times, I'd buy a lottery ticket.''The NFL Players Association is reportedly investigating the degree to which Reid has been selected for drug tests.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Travis Scott joining Maroon 5 in the Super Bowl LIII halftime show may not be a done deal, after all.Jay-Z, who has been critical of the NFL for its treatment of former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick, is trying to talk Scott out of performing, sources told Variety's Jem Aswad and Shirley Halperin.TMZ reported Thursday that Scott has signed on for the halftime show and that Cardi B and Big Boi are also in talks about performing.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Steve Gleason is set to become the first NFL player to receive the Congressional Gold Medal.The U.S. House of Representatives voted Thursday to award its highest civilian honor to the former New Orleans Saints safety, according to NFL.com. President Donald Trump is expected to sign the legislation in 2019.Gleason was diagnosed with ALS in 2011, and has since helped spread awareness and raise money for those living with the disease through his Team Gleason Foundation."Through his work to help others who are disabled, Steve Gleason has changed so many lives for the better," Louisiana senator Bill Cassidy, who first introduced legislation to award Gleason the medal, said in a statement."As more members of Congress heard about Steve's work, the support for this bill only grew. Steve is a hero to many and I'm proud we got this done to honor a great American."Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

It's shaping up to be a long December for the New England Patriots.After two straight losses, the Patriots are still looking to clinch the AFC East and could be forced to play on Wild Card Weekend for the first time since 2009, when they lost to the Baltimore Ravens.There are certainly offensive concerns in New England - including uncharacteristically bad decisions from Tom Brady, some decline from Rob Gronkowski, and the sudden loss of Josh Gordon - but the biggest issue of all can be found on the other side of the ball.Specifically, the Patriots' lack of athletic playmakers at the first two levels of their defense is a huge problem.It's an issue that's lingered over the unit in recent seasons, and one that was evident in the Patriots' Super Bowl LII loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. In that game, New England's defenders couldn't recover when caught out of position and struggled to cover running backs and receivers underneath.The front office somewhat addressed the problem by drafting linebacker Ja'Whaun Bentley, but he went down with an injury in September and the unit's struggled at the second level without him.Those struggles are evident on plays like the one below - a long touchdown run from Miami's Brandon Bolden in Week 14. Strong safety Patrick Chung (No. 23) is down in the box alongside linebackers Elandon Roberts (No. 52) and Dont'a Hightower (No. 54), but all three players get swallowed up by their blockers: Your browser does not support the video tag. NFLChung and Roberts fail to disengage in time, while Hightower can't chase the play down from the backside. That allows Bolden to reach the third level of the defense untouched before outracing the safeties to the end zone.Another example is seen on this 17-yard run from Jaylen Samuels of the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 15: Your browser does not support the video tag. NFLHere, Hightower gets hooked on the outside by Steelers tight end Jesse James (No. 81), preventing him from setting the edge. Meanwhile, Kyle Van Noy is swallowed up inside and Chung's backside pursuit isn't quick enough.New England's lack of playmakers also impacts its pass rush. Other than Trey Flowers, the Patriots don't have anyone who consistently wins one-on-one matchups up front and/or finishes sacks in the backfield. That's led the unit to try different looks in hopes of generating pressure on passers, such as in Week 13 against the Minnesota Vikings when Flowers moved inside to line up over the center. Your browser does not support the video tag. NFLIn this case, New England's alignment creates some confusion for blockers while Flowers gets past the center to pressure Kirk Cousins and force an errant pass.However, much of the time, the Patriots - who actually generate a lot of pressure without blitzing - aren't finishing these plays, as they rank fourth-last in the NFL in sacks.That lack of finishing is seen on this snap against the Steelers, as the Patriots rush just four and Adrian Clayborn nearly gets to Ben Roethlisberger. However, Clayborn can't finish the sack as Roethlisberger steps up in the pocket before completing his throw for a 9-yard gain: Your browser does not support the video tag. NFLIt's been a trend all season, as mobile quarterbacks - namely Deshaun Watson, Andrew Luck, Patrick Mahomes, Aaron Rodgers, Ryan Tannehill, and Marcus Mariota - have avoided New England's pressure and enjoyed success in the passing game.That might be why Patriots defensive coordinator Brian Flores has turned to the blitz at the eighth-highest rate in the league this year. However, when you blitz and don't get to the passer, it's worse than whiffing with a four-man rush: Your browser does not support the video tag. NFLHere, the Patriots send the blitz after Tannehill but don't get home, leaving the secondary exposed in man coverage. The Dolphins easily complete the throw and move the chains.Overall, it's certainly true that New England has a growing list of concerns on both sides of the football. But while much of the talk has focused on Brady, Gronkowski, and the rest of the offense, the defense's lack of athletic playmakers at the first two levels looks like the Patriots' true Achilles' heel.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New England Patriots wide receiver Josh Gordon announced Thursday he would take a leave of absence from the team to focus on his mental health for an unspecified period.However, the 27-year-old's departure is involuntary, as the NFL confirmed he's been placed on the Reserve/Commissioner Suspended list indefinitely for violating terms of his reinstatement under the substance abuse policy.He isn't expected to play again this season and his career is potentially in jeopardy, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

The Los Angeles Chargers are getting a huge boost at just the right time.Star running back Melvin Gordon will suit up against the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday in Week 16 after missing the last three games with a knee injury, head coach Anthony Lynn said Thursday."Melvin's practiced all week and he's doing fine," Lynn told SiriusXM NFL Radio, according to The Athletic's Ross Tucker. "I don't know that he's himself, but he's going to play."The 25-year-old Gordon has scored 13 total touchdowns this season and is averaging a career-best 5.2 yards per carry.He'll rejoin Los Angeles amid a fight with the Kansas City Chiefs for first place in the AFC West and likely the conference's No. 1 seed. Both teams sit at 11-3, but the Chargers will need the Chiefs to drop at least one remaining game in order to pass them.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

theScore's Justin Boone is coming off his fifth top-10 finish in FantasyPros' Most Accurate Expert Competition. Follow the links below to see his updated rankings for Week 16.The final rankings will be released Sunday morning.You can also listen to the Week 16 preview episode of theScore Fantasy Football Podcast.Standard

Maroon 5 has reportedly found a guest for its Super Bowl LIII halftime show.Rapper Travis Scott will join the band on stage at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Feb. 3, according to TMZ.Maroon 5 is also in talks with Cardi B and Outkast's Big Boi about joining the halftime show, sources told TMZ.Earlier this month, it was reported that Maroon 5 was having trouble finding guests because "no one wants to associate themselves with the NFL" due to its response to Colin Kaepernick's protests against police brutality.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Here's a look at the team totals for all 32 teams playing in Week 16, along with our picks and confidence level:Washington Redskins at Tennessee TitansRedskins' team total: 12.5 pointsUnder third-string quarterback Josh Johnson last Sunday, the Redskins averaged 4.0 yards per play and were aided by a special teams touchdown in their 16-point effort. We claimed last week it'd be a crime not to take a team total over at a number less than two touchdowns, but we'll take a shot at the under with this price against a good Titans defense.Pick: Under (+100)

The Miami Dolphins are looking to profit from their wild Week 14 victory over the New England Patriots.The Dolphins filed a trademark application for the phrase "MIAMIRACLE" on Dec. 14, as discovered by Josh Gerben of Gerben Law Firm. The team plans to use the phrase on an abundance of merchandise, including paper goods, sports apparel, jewelry, toys, and household items."MIAMIRACLE" is a play on what became known as the "Miami Miracle," which saw running back Kenyan Drake take a lateral to the end zone as time expired to secure the team's 34-33 win.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Indianapolis Colts rookie linebacker Darius Leonard is planning on taking out his frustration over being left out of the 2019 Pro Bowl on the New York Giants offense on Sunday."He told me he wanted 40 tackles, but I told him it's humanly impossible," Colts Pro Bowl tight end Eric Ebron said, according to Mike Wells of ESPN. "He doesn't care. ... Things like (the Pro Bowl) should really go by statistics rather than names. He's one of the all-time great rookie linebackers statistically in a long time."Leonard, the 36th overall pick of the 2018 NFL Draft, leads the league with 146 combined tackles. He's added seven sacks and has six passes defended, with four forced fumbles and two recoveries.One of the frontrunners to be named 2018's Defensive Rookie of the Year, Leonard was disappointed to be left out of January's All-Star showcase."I was heartbroken at first because I thought I did enough, but it is what it is," Leonard said.When asked to place how upset he was on a scale from 1-10, Leonard replied, "Twenty."The 23-year-old's target of 40 tackles would easily shatter the NFL's single-game record of 25 held by Brian Urlacher.He disagrees with Ebron on how achievable his goal may be."Impossible? There is nothing impossible," Leonard said. "If you play a lot of snaps you've just got to get on every play possible."The product of South Carolina State leads Colts defenders with 90.3 percent of defensive snaps played this season.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Welcome to theScore Fantasy Football Podcast hosted by Justin Boone and David P. Woods.Find the show on iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, Spotify, and Anchor.In this episode, Boone and Woods are joined by theScore's Dan Wilkins to discuss the biggest fantasy questions heading into Week 16.Topics include:

Los Angeles Rams running back Todd Gurley is still struggling with a knee injury and missed Wednesday's practice, according to Dan Graziano of ESPN.However, head coach Sean McVay said the "expectation" is that Gurley will be able to suit up against the Arizona Cardinals and entered the team facility feeling much better, per Rich Hammond of the Orange County Register.The fourth-year rusher underwent an MRI on his knee following the Rams' Week 15 game against the Philadelphia Eagles, but the evaluation revealed no structural damage.McVay also said that the recently signed C.J. Anderson might "play a role as early as this week," according to NFL Network's Andrew Siciliano. Anderson joins Justin Davis and John Kelly on the Rams' depth chart below Gurley.The Rams have fallen to 11-3 on the season after losing their past two games.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.