The NFL Offensive Player of the Year award market is heating up.It's been obvious since Week 1 that Christian McCaffrey is still a touchdown machine and Tyreek Hill is still a freak. These two stars quickly separated themselves from the pack early as the award front-runners.However, A.J. Brown has emerged as a serious contender thanks to his dominant six-week stretch and needs to be heavily considered in what should be a three-horse race.OPOY oddsPlayerOddsImplied Prob.Christian McCaffrey+13542.6%Tyreek Hill+13542.6%A.J. Brown+80011.1%Odds via theScore Bet.Brown was +5000 (2% implied probability) two weeks ago after he hauled in seven balls for 131 yards in the Eagles' Week 6 loss against the Jets. He's added two more games of 130-plus receiving yards and three touchdowns since then, vaulting him up the oddsboard to +800.With Brown's 130-yard showing against the Commanders on Sunday, the Philadelphia wideout broke Calvin Johnson's record with six straight games of 125 or more receiving yards. He's logged 831 yards and five touchdowns since Week 2.

New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones has been cleared for contact and is in line to return for the Week 9 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders, head coach Brian Daboll announced Monday, according to Ralph Vacchiano of Fox Sports.Jones - who's missed the last three games due to a neck injury - met with doctors before Sunday's loss to the New York Jets and was given the green light to return. He had already been ruled out of the Jets game earlier in the week.The quarterback is expected to resume practicing fully Wednesday.It was previously reported that the Giants were targeting a Week 10 return versus the Dallas Cowboys for their No. 1 quarterback.Tyrod Taylor started in Jones' absence but suffered an injury to his ribs against the Jets and was taken to the hospital for evaluation. He was discharged Monday and is considered week-to-week moving forward, a source told Adam Schefter of ESPN.Undrafted rookie Tommy DeVito finished the game for the Giants.Jones previously said he was hoping to return against the Jets as he was physically able to do everything but was awaiting clearance from doctors to resume contact work.The 26-year-old inked a four-year, $160-million extension in March after completing 67.2% of his passes for a career-high 3,205 yards and 15 touchdowns against five interceptions in 2022. He also produced career-best marks in rushing yards (708) and touchdowns (seven).But Jones regressed in his first five starts of 2023, throwing for just two scores against five picks while averaging only 5.9 yards per attempt (tied for 29th in the NFL).Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

An MRI confirmed that Kirk Cousins will miss the rest of the season after tearing his Achilles tendon Sunday, the Minnesota Vikings announced Monday.The Vikings feared their quarterback had sustained a serious Achilles injury after he was carted to the locker room in the fourth quarter of Sunday's 24-10 win over the Green Bay Packers. However, the team was waiting on additional testing to confirm the issue.

The Buffalo Bills are signing free-agent running back Leonard Fournette to their practice squad, his agents told NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.Fournette has been linked to Buffalo since running back Damien Harris went down with a neck injury. He originally intended to meet with the Bills earlier this month, but the visit fell through.The veteran back was with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for the last three seasons. After playing important roles in his first two years in Tampa Bay, Fournette rushed for just 668 yards last season and averaged 3.5 yards per carry, his lowest average since 2018. He won a Super Bowl with the Bucs in 2020, recording 448 yards from scrimmage and four total touchdowns during their playoff run.The Bills' backfield is led by second-year pro James Cook. Cook leads the team in rushing yards (486). Latavius Murray has also received work, carrying the football 40 times for 143 yards.Buffalo heads into Week 9 with a 5-3 record, good for second in the AFC East.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett will be a game-time decision for Thursday's game against the Tennessee Titans, head coach Mike Tomlin announced Monday.Pickett suffered a rib injury in Pittsburgh's Week 8 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, but Tomlin said "the door is definitively ajar" for him to play in Week 9. Veteran quarterback Mitchell Trubisky came in for Pickett against the Jaguars.Meanwhile, safety Minkah Fitzpatrick is expected to miss the prime-time game with a hamstring injury he suffered in Week 8. Tomlin said he doesn't yet have a timeline for the Pro Bowler's return.Pickett again struggled before exiting against the Jaguars, completing 10 of 16 passes for 73 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions. The signal-caller has failed to make a sophomore leap in 2023, throwing for 1,350 yards and five scores against four picks in seven appearances.Trubisky, who started five games in 2022 before Pickett was handed the reins, produced 138 yards and one touchdown against two interceptions in relief duty versus Jacksonville.The Steelers will reportedly be facing rookie quarterback Will Levis - who threw for four touchdowns during his NFL debut in last Sunday's win over the Atlanta Falcons - with Ryan Tannehill sidelined with a high ankle sprain.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The New England Patriots have lost their leading receiver for the remainder of the season.Veteran wideout Kendrick Bourne suffered a torn ACL in Sunday's loss to the Miami Dolphins, NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reports.The Patriots initially hoped Bourne suffered only a torn MCL prior to his MRI, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.Bourne couldn't finish Sunday's game but ended the contest with three catches for 36 yards and a touchdown.The 28-year-old leads New England in receptions (37), receiving yards (406), and touchdowns (four).Bourne's scheduled to be a free agent next offseason.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

For the third time in their last six games, the prime-time NFL viewership gets a close look at the Raiders. The first two times, a tight win and a close loss, weren't particularly impressive. Luckily for anyone willing to back Las Vegas, though, they don't have to win this game to cover the spread.The on-again, off-again status of Jimmy Garoppolo is back on again, but the betting market still doesn't think much of the Raiders' chances despite Detroit getting blown out of Baltimore a week ago.Raiders @ Lions (-7.5, 46.5)The spread for this game crept up over last week, but the news that Garoppolo is starting sent the line on its way back down. If you foresaw the quarterback's availability and bet the Raiders +8.5, I won't talk you out of going into Monday night's game with some decent closing line value.On the other hand, now that the Lions are widely available at -7 with odds of -120 or better - meaning you're getting your money back if the Lions win by a touchdown - Detroit is the side to play.Things got out of hand for the Lions last week in Baltimore because they're most comfortable with the lead. They're third in the NFL in first-quarter points and eight in first-half scoring, including the zeroes they put on the board against the Ravens. Meanwhile, the Raiders are 26th in points per first half. Expect Dan Campbell to have his team sharp early for the first MNF game in Detroit since 2018 - it wouldn't be out of character.The Raiders should then be forced to play from behind against a Lions secondary that's merely league-average and has seen Jordan Love and Bryce Young have second-half success when trailing. Expect Detroit to be up 10-15 points late, working to hold off Las Vegas' attempt to get back into it.Pick: Lions -7 (-120 or better)Jared Goff: Over 268.5 passing yardsPerhaps surprisingly, the Raiders are among the top five in the NFL in gross passing yards per game allowed. Their defensive coordinator, Patrick Graham, prefers to create a deep shell and force teams to beat them methodically. Presumably, he hopes that the opposition will make an unforced error or that star pass-rusher Maxx Crosby will create a play to halt a drive.Tyson Bagent patiently took those comfortable throws, and the Bears ran well against the Raiders' front. Jared Goff should be able to do the same. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson will likely plan to minimize Crosby's impact. Short throws to Amon-Ra St. Brown, Sam LaPorta and Jahmyr Gibbs will work better than deep drops or running - without David Montgomery - into the middle of a line missing Jonah Jackson and Frank Ragnow.Slowly but surely, Goff will accumulate yardage. And with the Raiders staying in touch of the lead for 60 minutes, the Lions' quarterback should be in for a good statistical day.Michael Mayer: Over 2.5 receptions (+115)Michael Mayer followed his career-high six-target game with four more looks last week. However, limited production came as a result of subpar quarterback play. The Raiders still want to get their rookie into the offense, as evidenced by Mayer's snap share going up for the third straight week. Now they have Garoppolo back to facilitate it, and he should have ample opportunity for a handful of catches.Jakobi Meyers: Anytime touchdown (+210)Meyers racked up five touchdowns in six games as a Raider and out-snapped renowned teammate Davante Adams in the last four games. The touchdowns haven't just come in wins and from Garoppolo's throws: He caught one from Aidan O'Connell in a loss to the Bears last week. There are no guarantees, but as long as Jakobi Meyers is priced longer than +200 to score, I'll keep betting on him to do so.Matt Russell is the lead betting analyst for theScore. If there's a bad beat to be had, Matt will find it. Find him on social media @mrussauthentic.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Tennessee Titans are expected to start rookie quarterback Will Levis for Thursday's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers with Ryan Tannehill still recovering from a high ankle sprain, a source told Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.Levis starred in his NFL debut in Week 8, throwing four touchdown passes while leading the Titans to a 28-23 victory over the Atlanta Falcons.The 33rd overall pick connected three times with receiver DeAndre Hopkins for scores - including a 61-yarder and a 47-yarder - and finished with 238 passing yards.While Levis was expected to split time with second-year pro Malik Willis, he ultimately got almost all of the workload, with Willis running the ball twice for four yards.Tannehill - who suffered a similar ankle injury last season that forced him to miss the campaign's final three contests - passed on having surgery and is expected to return this year.Levis was rumored to be in contention to be a top-10 pick in April, but the 24-year-old ended up falling to the Titans at the top of the second round.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Green Bay Packers and linebacker Rashan Gary agreed to a four-year contract extension worth $107 million, he announced Monday.The former first-round pick's contract has $96 million in new money on top of his 2023 salary of $10.892 million, as well as a $34.6-million signing bonus, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.The deal makes Gary the fifth-highest-paid pass-rusher in the NFL in terms of new-money average salary ($24 million) behind Nick Bosa ($34 million), T.J. Watt ($28 million), Joey Bosa ($27 million), and Myles Garrett ($25 million), per Over The Cap.Gary produced seven sacks across his first two seasons before breaking out with a 9.5-sack campaign in 2021. He was on pace to eclipse that mark in 2022 after racking up 6.5 quarterback takedowns in nine games before suffering a torn ACL.The 25-year-old recovered in time to suit up for the start of the season and leads Green Bay with 4.5 sacks and five tackles for loss.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Sunday Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.Bengals turn the corner Thearon W. Henderson / Getty Images Sport / GettyHe's back, y'all.Things didn't look so good for Joe Burrow and the Bengals early this season. The star quarterback's calf injury in training camp had lingered into September, and a powerhouse Cincinnati offense had begun to fall apart as a result. But we should have known better than to count this group out.There were signs of a potential resurgence in recent weeks, with the occasional big play providing hope, but nothing compared to what we saw in Sunday's win over the 49ers. Burrow and Co. announced their triumphant return with a near-perfect performance against one of the league's premier defenses.Burrow's progress with the calf injury allowed Cincinnati to implement more under-center looks from the offense during the bye week. This cleared the way for a more natural downhill run game, with Joe Mixon averaging a season-best 5.4 yards per carry against San Francisco's third-ranked run defense, and play-action opportunities that weren't previously available to the Bengals working exclusively out of shotgun.Burrow took full advantage of his improved movement skills and the more expansive playbook, connecting on 28 of 32 passes - including 18 straight completions in the first half - for 283 yards, three scores, and no turnovers. He also showed off his mobility as a ball-carrier, topping 40 rushing yards for the first time since last December.Continuing to manage this injury will be crucial for the Bengals, as any setbacks could quickly wash away all the progress we've seen with this offense. But it really feels like Burrow and the rest of this group have turned a corner.The Bengals going on the road and outclassing the 49ers in this manner will be the game we all look back on if and when they find themselves in the AFC title game for a third consecutive year.Brutal day for QBs Patrick McDermott / Getty Images Sport / GettyA rash of quarterback injuries was the top story coming out of Sunday's action, with a reported torn Achilles for Kirk Cousins being the most costly of them all.Cousins, who is a free agent at the end of the season, had been playing some of the best football of his career before the devastating non-contact play in a win over the Packers. He was the driving force in the Vikings clawing back to 4-4 after an 0-3 start, and it's tough to imagine this team staying competitive without him. Cousins may have played his last game in Minnesota.Elsewhere, Matthew Stafford's status will be worth watching this week after he exited a blowout loss to the Cowboys with a thumb injury. Stafford's stellar play after last year's injury issues has the Rams as a surprise playoff contender in the NFC. Any missed time would be a major blow to their chances, though, as they've only got so much room for error at 3-5.Kenny Pickett was replaced by Mitch Trubisky after suffering a rib injury in Pittsburgh's loss to Jacksonville, Giants backup Tyrod Taylor left his start with a similar issue, and Desmond Ridder spent the second half on the sidelines despite clearing concussion protocol.Levis shines in debut Justin Ford / Getty Images Sport / GettyNobody saw this one coming - not even the Titans.Any hype there could have been for Will Levis' first NFL start was effectively cast aside when it was revealed that both he and second-year quarterback Malik Willis would see time against the Falcons. It's tough for the public to have much confidence in a second-round rookie if his own team is so reluctant to hand him the keys.As it turns out, even the Titans may have underestimated the progress in his development. Levis was sensational in leading Tennessee to a big win over Atlanta, completing 19 of 29 passes for 238 yards, four touchdowns, and no interceptions.The Kentucky product was the most criticized prospect of the consensus top four quarterbacks in this year's class. The physical tools were clear, and the toughness unmatched, but it seemed like he had a long way to go in terms of accuracy, decision-making, and pocket presence.Those perceived issues may well peek through when Levis gets his shot as the full-time starter going forward, but the early returns couldn't have been much better. Levis was at his best pushing the ball downfield, showing off his effortless arm talent, some impressive touch, and more poise than you'd expect from a rookie who started the year buried on the depth chart.It's still early, and more capable defenses will challenge him in different ways, so we won't make any sweeping judgments just yet. But Levis enjoying such immediate success - doubling Ryan Tannehill's season touchdown total in one game - at least opens the door for a major development for the future in Tennessee.Levis saw his draft stock tumble after injuries and a subpar supporting cast impacted his play for his final year at Kentucky. Did the NFL overthink this one?As ugly as it gets Kathryn Riley / Getty Images Sport / GettyHere's hoping your Sunday afternoon was spent watching any other game, or doing literally anything else, than suffering through the Jets-Giants dumpster fire. Football truly doesn't get much worse than this, folks.The pair of offensive juggernauts combined for an incredible 24 punts on the day, with the Jets and Giants going 2-15 and 2-19 on third down, respectively.Perhaps we could cut the Giants a little bit of slack here. Tyrod Taylor exiting late in the second quarter forced Tommy DeVito into the lineup, and Brian Daboll clearly had no interest in seeing the practice squad rookie air it out in the rain. But the numbers are what they are, and there's really no defending a team output of negative-nine passing yards on the day.And that somehow may not even be the most embarrassing side of this matchup. Needing overtime to put away a Giants team that couldn't so much as manage positive yards in the passing game is the latest indictment of this Jets offense. Aaron Rodgers making an unprecedented return in time for the playoffs isn't going to mean much if Zach Wilson can't do the bare minimum to complement a top-five defense.Lucky for us, the schedule has the Jets in prime time each of the next two weeks, and then featured again in a Black Friday afternoon game. Buckle up!Deadline implications Justin Casterline / Getty Images Sport / GettyThe NFL's trade deadline is set for Tuesday afternoon at 4 p.m. ET. Let's check in on how some of this week's developments might impact how teams conduct business over the next two days.Chiefs: Patrick Mahomes playing through an illness may have been a factor in Kansas City's shocking loss to Denver, but so was a glaring lack of talent at receiver. Whether it's DeAndre Hopkins, who caught three touchdowns this week, or Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton from the division-rival Broncos, there will be plenty of receivers available. The Chiefs can't sit around and hope someone will step up alongside Travis Kelce.Vikings: A slow start seemingly had the Vikings headed for seller status at the deadline. Those plans surely went out the window when an impressive run saved their season, but now Cousins is likely done for the year. The Vikings should respond by revisiting those trade scenarios and dumping valuable veterans like Danielle Hunter and Harrison Smith. But throwing in the towel with a .500 record can be tough. Will they do the right thing?Titans: The Titans may be less inclined to hold a full-fledged fire sale after beating the Falcons to get to 3-4. But Levis earning himself an extended look as the starting quarterback means there's no reason to keep Ryan Tannehill. The Jets and Falcons are the most obvious fringe contenders who could use an upgrade under center, and the latter's head coach knows the veteran quarterback quite well from his time in Tennessee.Giants: As if it wasn't already clear, the Giants are going nowhere. That should open the door for a number of trade possibilities, with Saquon Barkley, Darren Waller, Leonard Williams, and Adoree' Jackson just a few of the many names who could be made available. As we saw with the Daniel Jones deal, however, self-scouting isn't exactly this organization's forte. Let's see if the Giants have the courage to prioritize the future.49ers: Sunday's loss to the Bengals highlighted the major issues the 49ers have in the secondary. There's a clear need for at least one cornerback, and you can bet the ultra-aggressive tandem of Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch will be exploring any such possibilities right up until the deadline. Giants corner Adoree' Jackson and Panthers corner Donte Jackson could be good fits.Quick slantsRegression was always coming Loren Elliott / Getty Images Sport / GettyBrock Purdy threw two interceptions in the 49ers' loss to the Bengals. That makes it five picks over the course of a three-game losing streak for San Francisco. Purdy has been the same player throughout this season - he's still making many of the same impressive plays he did during a flawless five-game stretch to start the year - but teams are now capitalizing on the multiple turnover opportunities he tends to give them. It was bound to happen. Purdy has been a great find, and he may well prove to be the 49ers' long-term quarterback. The early numbers were just a little misleading.Ramsey's impactContending teams have a busy few days ahead as they try to chase down a final piece or two before Tuesday's trade deadline. There could be plenty of action to that end, but it's tough to imagine any club making a more impactful addition than the Dolphins did with the healthy return of Jalen Ramsey this week. The defense was a real problem over the first seven games of the season, ranking 27th in success rate and 23rd in EPA/play. Ramsey getting an interception in his first game back was just a taste of the impact an All-Pro corner can have in taking a unit to another level.Eagles win anywayWatching the Eagles can be a frustrating experience. Jalen Hurts isn't quite playing at the level he did last year, the offense as a whole has struggled at times under new coordinator Brian Johnson, and there are real shortcomings in the secondary. Yet none of it ever seems to matter, just like it didn't matter in Sunday's win over the Commanders. A.J. Brown goes into beast mode whenever the offense needs a play, and the defense does just enough in big spots. The Eagles getting it done consistently despite playing a brand of football that feels far removed from their potential should be a scary thought for the rest of the league. They're going to be unstoppable if everything finally clicks.Bryce flashesThe Bryce Young era hasn't gotten off to the best of starts, and that can be a tough look with other rookie quarterbacks hitting the ground running. Don't be so quick to write off the No. 1 pick, though. Young hasn't been getting much help from the Panthers' offense, but we're still seeing flashes of the brilliance that made him such a highly touted prospect. This throw, in particular, is a great example of the rare playmaking genius Young brings to the table. Give him time (and some receivers) and he should make this a more regular occurrence.Chasing records Rich Storry / Getty Images Sport / GettyTyreek Hill has racked up over 1,000 receiving yards so far. That'd be a great season for most, but it's only Week 8. He's the fastest to reach that mark in the Super Bowl era and on a 17-game pace for 2,154 yards. Anything even close to that mark would shatter Calvin Johnson's single-season record of 1,964 and should get him MVP consideration. While a non-quarterback winning the award feels impossible in today's NFL, this would be a stronger case than anyone's had since Adrian Peterson in 2012.Addison feastingJustin Jefferson going down with a hamstring injury should have tanked this offense. Fortunately for the Vikings, their first-round rookie had other ideas. Jordan Addison has been a scoring machine in the early stages of his pro career, recording seven touchdowns over eight games. While the Cousins injury will likely hurt Addison's production from this point forward, the impression has been made. Whoever plays quarterback for the Vikings next season will have the luxury of throwing to one of the NFL's best young receiver tandems.Credit to HowellWe've spent a lot of time poking fun at Sam Howell's astronomical sack numbers this year, but we also have to give credit where it's due. The Commanders' quarterback was largely excellent in Sunday's loss to the Eagles. Howell finished the day with career highs in completions (39), passing yards (397), and touchdowns (four). Most promising of all, he only took one sack against a loaded Philly defensive front. Howell's play will likely remain something of a roller-coaster ride, as evidenced by a rough sequence to close out the game, but there are certainly signs that he can be a player in this league.Football shape is realAnyone desperate to laugh at the idea of a running back getting paid probably enjoyed Jonathan Taylor's first two games back from injury. After an extended absence, though, it was only fair to expect that it would take some time for him to ramp up. We're once again starting to see signs of his All-Pro talent, with Sunday's 95-yard effort (7.9 yards per carry) against the Saints being his most productive day yet. Extending Taylor was a smart move.Stat of the week

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett was unable to finish Sunday's 20-10 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars due to a rib injury.Pickett landed hard on his right side after being taken down on an incomplete pass near the end of the second quarter. He walked off the field, appearing to favor his rib area, before heading to the locker room.The Steelers initially announced that Pickett was expected to return before ruling him out just minutes later.

The Denver Broncos used stout defense and three touchdown passes from Russell Wilson to beat the Kansas City Chiefs 24-9 on Sunday, ending a 16-game losing streak to their AFC West rival.The Broncos forced three Patrick Mahomes turnovers (two interceptions, one fumble) while their defense kept the Chiefs completely out of the end zone all game.More to come.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Joe Burrow threw for three touchdowns and the Bengals' defense did the rest Sunday as Cincinnati handed the San Francisco 49ers their third straight loss.Brock Purdy was picked off twice and fumbled once in the 31-17 defeat. After starting the season 5-0, the 49ers have now dropped to 5-3.More to come.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New York Giants quarterback Tyrod Taylor was taken to a hospital for further examination after suffering an injury to his rib cage in Sunday's 13-10 loss against the New York Jets, the team announced.Taylor will remain hospitalized overnight for observation.The veteran was hurt after taking a hit on a run from linebacker C.J. Mosley. Undrafted rookie Tommy DeVito stepped in at quarterback.Taylor was starting his third straight game with Daniel Jones dealing with a neck injury.Jones has yet to be cleared for contact but the Giants are reportedly eyeing a Week 10 return against the Dallas Cowboys for the signal-caller.Taylor was struggling in the first half against the Jets, completing four of seven passes for just eight yards while adding 33 yards on the ground.DeVito spent his first four seasons in college with Syracuse before switching to Illinois for his final campaign. He threw for 2,650 and 15 touchdowns against four interceptions during 13 appearances in 2022.The Giants also lost tight end Darren Waller for the remainder of the Week 8 game to a hamstring injury.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson blamed the referees for his team's 20-10 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday."I don't care what nobody is saying - they cost us the game," Johnson said postgame, according to Mike DeFabo of The Athletic.The wideout added: "They were calling some stupid stuff. They should get fined for making terrible calls. That's how pissed I am. They cost us the game. They must have got paid good today."Pittsburgh wasn't happy with several of the officials' calls throughout the matchup, including a second-quarter offensive drive that resulted in the Steelers missing a field goal in the final seconds of the first half.

Tyreek Hill says he's been a much better player since joining the Miami Dolphins than he was during his time with the Kansas City Chiefs."I know a whole lot more now, whether it's doing stuff off the field or just being in the locker room with the guys trying to be a leader. I'm light-years ahead of where I was back then (with Kansas City)," Hill said after Sunday's 31-17 win over the New England Patriots.The speedster is enjoying a historic start to the 2023 season. He entered Week 8 leading the NFL in receiving yards and touchdowns. Hill caught eight passes for 112 yards and one TD versus New England en route to becoming the first player in league history to have 1,000-plus receiving yards in a season's first eight games."It feels great," Hill said of his performances. "I've been calling my shot since I came to the league. A lot of people doubted me (and) said I couldn't do this, couldn't do that, but it's all about believing in yourself."A former fifth-round pick, Hill spent his first six NFL seasons with the Chiefs. He racked up 6,630 yards and 56 touchdowns in 91 regular-season appearances, helping the AFC West team win a Super Bowl title. Kansas City traded him to Miami during the 2022 offseason.The Dolphins and Chiefs face off in Germany in Week 9."I'm ready, man, just another game," Hill said. "I'm just excited to play against my old brothers."Hill said in the offseason that one of his goals in 2023 is to become the first receiver to ever top 2,000 yards.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Atlanta Falcons turned to quarterback Taylor Heinicke in the second half of Sunday's 28-23 loss to the Tennessee Titans.Starter Desmond Ridder, who was on the bench to start the third quarter with Atlanta down 14-3, was evaluated for concussion at halftime but cleared the protocol. He was sacked five times and lost one fumble while passing for just 71 yards before being replaced.Heinicke led Atlanta to 20 second-half points, but that wasn't enough to take down the Titans and rookie Will Levis, who tossed four touchdowns in his first NFL start. Heinicke finished Week 8 with 12 completions on 21 attempts for 175 yards and one touchdown."We just finished the game," head coach Arthur Smith said postmatch, according to The Athletic's Josh Kendall. "Obviously, we have a lot of confidence in Des. I didn't take him out for performance issues. (Heinicke) did his job. That's why he's here. We have a lot of faith in Taylor."The Falcons signed Heinicke to a two-year, $14-million contract this past offseason after the 30-year-old spent the previous three seasons with the Washington Commanders.Ridder, the Falcons' 2022 third-round pick, became the team's starter this season but has lacked consistency in Year 2. The 24-year-old completed 65.4% of his passes while tossing six touchdowns against six interceptions through the 2023 campaign's first seven games. He also lost five fumbles before the Titans matchup, including three in Week 7.Sunday's loss dropped Atlanta to 4-4 this season.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown made history on Sunday against the Washington Commanders by becoming the first NFL player to post 125-plus receiving yards in six straight games.Brown entered the record books with a catch in the fourth quarter of Philadelphia's 38-31 victory in Week 8. It was the eighth catch versus Washington for the two-time Pro Bowler, who finished the day with 130 yards and two touchdown catches, including a spectacular one-handed TD.

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford exited Sunday's 43-20 loss to the Dallas Cowboys due to a thumb injury.Stafford hit his throwing hand on the helmet of a Cowboys defender toward the end of the first half. He returned for the start of the third quarter and caught a pass on a two-point try following a Royce Freeman rushing touchdown before exiting to the locker room.Stafford, who was originally listed as questionable, came back to the sideline with a taped hand but didn't re-enter the game with the Rams down big to the Cowboys late in the second half. Brett Rypien stepped in for L.A. at quarterback.The 35-year-old completed 13 of 22 passes for 162 yards and one touchdown against one interception before his injury.Stafford entered Week 8 ranked fifth in passing yards (1,908), 17th in touchdown passes (seven), and seventh in interceptions thrown (six).The former No. 1 pick has an extensive injury history. He struggled with an elbow ailment during the offseason prior to the 2022 campaign before missing eight games that year with a neck injury.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Several stars around the NFL celebrated Halloween and showed off their costumes before Sunday's Week 8 slate of games, including Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett, Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons, and Carolina Panthers receiver Laviska Shenault.Here are some of the best Halloween costumes from around the league:

The Washington Commanders are receiving trade interest for pass-rushers Chase Young and Montez Sweat ahead of Tuesday's deadline, sources told Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.The Atlanta Falcons have made an offer of a third-round pick for Sweat, a source told Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk.Washington could either look to sell off some of its top assets or push for a playoff spot depending on the result of Sunday's game against the Philadelphia Eagles, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.The Commanders enter Week 8 with a 3-4 record.If the NFC East club does engage in trades, it isn't expected to keep both Young and Sweat, adds Schefter. Both players are set to hit free agency in 2024.Washington has also reportedly received trade inquiries regarding defensive end Jonathan Allen and defensive back Kendall Fuller. However, the Commanders won't listen to offers for Allen despite the veteran's public outburst following last week's loss to the New York Giants.Young - the 2020 No. 2 pick - and Sweat are both in the midst of strong seasons. The former has five sacks this year after missing nearly all of the 2022 campaign and half of the 2021 season, while the latter is on pace for a career year after racking up 5.5 quarterback takedowns and 27 total tackles.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The New York Giants aim to have quarterback Daniel Jones back from his neck injury for the Week 10 clash against the Dallas Cowboys, sources told Adam Schefter of ESPN.Jones is unlikely to be available in Week 9 versus the Las Vegas Raiders as he has yet to be cleared for contact, Schefter adds.While the 26-year-old's injury isn't believed to be season-ending, it must fully heal to avoid aggravating it upon his return, sources told Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.The quarterback's ailment has reportedly caused significant weakness in his left (non-throwing) arm.Jones was injured in the Week 5 loss to the Miami Dolphins. He also missed the final six games of the 2021 campaign due to a neck ailment."It's a different injury," Jones said. "I think when you see other guys who have similar situations as mine, and they are able to progress and come back, I'm following a similar timeline to that. That is kind of the optimism, and yeah, it's a different injury than last time."The 2019 first-round pick signed a four-year, $160-million deal this offseason to remain the team's franchise quarterback. He's struggled when healthy this season, throwing for 884 yards with two touchdowns and six interceptions in five starts.Tyrod Taylor will get the call again Sunday for the Giants. The 34-year-old is 1-1 in two starts this campaign, throwing for 571 yards with two touchdowns and zero interceptions.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Find positional rankings, additional analysis, and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.theScore's Justin Boone was first overall in FantasyPros' Most Accurate Expert Competition in 2019 and finished among the top seven each of his last seven years in the contest. Follow the links below to see his rankings for Week 8.Half PPR

The Tennessee Titans told star running back Derrick Henry that they don't plan to trade him despite receiving interest from other teams, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.There is still a chance Henry could be moved prior to Tuesday's 4 p.m. ET trade deadline, Schefter reports.Tennessee received trade calls on multiple players, but general manager Ran Carthon won't deal anybody barring an "exceptional" offer, according to The Athletic's Dianna Russini. The Titans traded two-time Pro Bowl safety Kevin Byard to the Philadelphia Eagles earlier this week.Henry is playing out the final season of a four-year contract extension worth $50 million. The 29-year-old is set to make $6.4 million for the remainder of the campaign, Schefter adds.The Dallas Cowboys were among teams speculated to be eyeing Henry but have not expressed any interest in trading for the 6-foot-3, 247-pound halfback, Schefter reports.The 2020 Offensive Player of the Year has rushed for 425 yards and three touchdowns in six contests this season. However, Henry is on pace to record his lowest yards-per-carry average since 2021 when he played in only eight games. The three-time Pro Bowler has accumulated 8,760 yards and 81 touchdowns since the Titans drafted him in the second round in 2016.Tennessee (2-4) could be a seller ahead of the deadline as the club sits fourth in the AFC South ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Atlanta Falcons.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The San Francisco 49ers will have Brock Purdy on Sunday.The quarterback has no injury designation ahead of Week 8 against the Cincinnati Bengals after clearing concussion protocol, the team announced Saturday.Purdy entered the protocol on Wednesday - days after the team's loss to the Minnesota Vikings - and was listed as questionable on Friday's injury report. He started feeling concussion symptoms on the plane ride home from Minnesota.The second-year passer is the first NFL player this season to play the same week in which he was placed in the concussion protocol, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.Purdy tossed only two touchdowns against three interceptions in his last two appearances. San Francisco lost both games, suffering back-to-back losses for the first time since October 2022.The 23-year-old has completed 67.8% of his passes for 1,688 yards and 11 TDs to three picks in 2023 for the 5-2 Niners.He became the 49ers' starter midway through his rookie season in 2022 after injuries sidelined Trey Lance and Jimmy Garoppolo long term. San Francisco moved on from Garoppolo and Lance this year. Sam Darnold is the Niners' current backup QB.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Baltimore Ravens seem interested in bringing in more offensive help for quarterback Lamar Jackson.Baltimore is looking to acquire a running back before Tuesday's trade deadline at 4 p.m. ET, reports Dianna Russini of The Athletic.The Ravens lost J.K. Dobbins for the season in Week 1, and their running back depth chart currently features Gus Edwards and Justice Hill. Veteran Melvin Gordon and rookie Owen Wright are also on Baltimore's practice squad.Edwards leads the 5-2 Ravens with 86 carries, but Jackson paces the team with 363 yards and five touchdowns on the ground. Baltimore's rushing attack ranks sixth in the NFL in EPA per carry.Saquon Barkley of the New York Giants and Derrick Henry of the Tennessee Titans are the two main running backs who've been linked as potential trade candidates this year. However, Giants coach Brian Daboll said the team doesn't plan to move Barkley. The Titans have received trade calls on multiple players, but general manager Ran Carthon won't deal anybody barring an "exceptional" offer, according to Russini.New York Jets running back Dalvin Cook has also been the subject of trade speculation due to his limited workload this season, but the club reportedly isn't getting many calls on the four-time Pro Bowl tailback.Baltimore hired Todd Monken as offensive coordinator in the offseason and significantly bolstered Jackson's supporting cast by signing wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. and drafting Zay Flowers in the first round.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett doesn't think the NFL does a good job when it comes to naming MVPs."It's a load of crap," Garrett recently said on "The Rich Eisen Show" when asked about the MVP becoming a quarterback award. "And I think the last time (a defender) should've won the MVP would be J.J. Watt with the outstanding year he had in 2012. That was easily his award."Former Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson was the last non-quarterback to be named NFL MVP in 2012. A defender hasn't won the award since Lawrence Taylor in 1986.Watt, who retired from football at the end of the 2022 season, was the defensive player who came closest to taking home the MVP in recent years. The three-time Defensive Player of the Year winner claimed four straight first-team All-Pro berths from 2012-15 and ranked second for the league's top individual award in 2014 behind Aaron Rodgers."We have an Offensive Player of the Year award," Garrett added. "So if you want to give the best offensive player an award, we have that handled. But the best player, the one who's most respected, most feared, and makes the most game-changing plays, shouldn't just go to a quarterback or wide receiver. It should go to the guy who's been game-planned all week, who has to be respected, who you're avoiding and when that time comes, he makes that play."Garrett's comments come days after one of the most dominant performances of his career. The 27-year-old, who's earned four career Pro Bowl berths and a pair of first-team All-Pro nods, racked up nine tackles, two sacks, two forced fumbles, one pass breakup, and a blocked field goal in Week 7 to help the Browns edge the Indianapolis Colts 39-38. It was Cleveland's second straight victory with backup quarterback P.J. Walker under center.Garrett, who amassed 16 sacks in each of the last two seasons, has racked up 7.5 in six games this season to go along with 16 quarterback hits and a league-high three forced fumbles. He also tops the NFL in pass rush win rate among players with at least 140 snaps as a pass-rusher, according to PFF.Since being drafted first overall in 2017, though, the Texas A&M product has never finished higher than fifth in Defensive Player of the Year voting.Garrett is a vital part of a Browns defense that leads the NFL in total yards and passing yards allowed per game so far in 2023."That's exciting, not only for me but for us as a defense to put the team on our backs," said Garrett, who's recorded 82 career sacks, the most ever for a player before turning 28 since individual sacks became official in 1982.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

You can't turn profitable until you get over .500. A 7-3 Week 7 that brings us one game better than par for the season is a welcome sight as sample size accumulates, with the hope that the cream rises to the top.Cooper Kupp: Over 84.5 receiving yardsMatthew Stafford's numbers against man coverage haven't been great this campaign. However, the quarterback has only had Cooper Kupp available for three games, and one of those was last week when he was under fire from the Steelers' front. The Cowboys are among those who play the most man-to-man in the NFL, so Kupp's pristine routes should be more effective in a contest that the betting market expects Los Angeles to trail in. With Kupp's total under 90 yards for the first time since his season debut, look for the receiver to get his Comeback Player of the Year-calibre season cooking again.Ezekiel Elliott: Under 28.5 rushing yardsEzekiel Elliott is averaging 32 yards per contest this season. However, he had an outlier 16-carry, 80-yard game that came when the Patriots had a rare lead that needed salting away, so his median yardage is 29, which is in line with his total. But Elliott's place in the game plan versus the Dolphins might look like the first matchup when he had only five carries for 13 yards. That's closer to the less than 3 yards per carry he averaged in three of his last four games.Desmond Ridder: Over 10.5 rushing yardsLast week's Bijan Robinson fantasy football fiasco acts as a reminder for bettors that the under is also an option. After a rocking chair winner for us fading Robinson, we'll look at the Falcons' quarterback to do some running.The Titans have faced a handful of statuesque QBs this season, but even Derek Carr and a hobbled Joe Burrow took off running a few times. Mobile quarterbacks Lamar Jackson and Deshaun Watson ran for 63 and 16 yards against Tennessee, respectively. Desmond Ridder has recorded at least four carries or 10-plus yards in four of his last six games. The opportunity should be there whether or not he fumbles at the goal line.Jordan Addison: Under 58.5 receiving yardsThe Vikings took advantage of in-breaking routes and a 49ers' secondary to win last Monday. Jordan Addison also wrestled a ball away from Charvarius Ward for 60 of his 123 yards. Replicating that six days later will be tough now that the rookie is the focal point for the Packers' defense and top cornerback Jaire Alexander. It'll be especially difficult considering this is the highest yardage total of Addison's young career.Jalen Hurts: Over 249.5 passing yardsDoes Jalen Hurts going over his passing yardage total in five straight games signal a shift in the Eagles' confidence in their quarterback? With 30 or more attempts in all but one contest this year - something he did in about half his games last season - the answer might be yes.The Commanders have allowed 7.4 yards per attempt this campaign (fourth most). That equates to a 30-attempt day producing 222 yards, while just an average effort would result in 258 yards. In what's been a competitive matchup, Hurts' arm should see better-than-average volume and success.Breece Hall: Over 91.5 rushing and receiving yardsDalvin Cook wants a trade. The running back presumably wants out because he knows Breece Hall is back to 100% and, coming out of the Jets' bye week, about to get the workload reflective of a player who can gash the Giants via the run and in the passing game. We'll bypass Hall's rushing yards after seeing him get five receptions for 54 yards against Philadelphia last week. He's capable of a sizeable contribution via screens and Zach Wilson check-downs.Juwan Johnson: Over 16.5 receiving yardsAfter a multiple-game absence, the Saints get Juwan Johnson back, with Taysom Hill questionable to play. Against a Colts defense thin in the secondary and giving up the third-most receptions to opposing tight ends, expect Derek Carr to happily find his biggest target, who's lined low after being out for a sizeable period. Johnson's as high as +500 to score a touchdown - good value to score as well.Bryce Young: Under 230.5 passing yardsThere's hope for a more efficient Panthers offense with Thomas Brown calling plays for the first time this year. However, based on what's being said out of Carolina, a focus on the run game might be coming. Chuba Hubbard showed he could handle more two weeks ago, Miles Sanders is back, and, in what should be a closer game than their last two, Bryce Young won't have to throw constantly in the second half.Javonte Williams: Over 47.5 rushing yardsJavonte Williams ran effectively two weeks ago against the Chiefs with 52 yards on 10 carries. He followed that up with a boost in workload and an even better yard-per-carry clip (5.5) in a win over the Packers. The Broncos know they need to run the ball to stay in a game with the Chiefs after missing Williams in two close losses last season.Austin Ekeler: Under 51.5 rushing yardsWhether he's still not 100% or the Chargers just can't block for Austin Ekeler, it's been a struggle since he returned from missing three games, with 28 carries for 72 yards. Playing twice in six days couldn't have helped any lingering issues for Ekeler, and neither will facing a sneaky-good run defense for the offensive line. The Bears are tied with the Patriots in giving up the fewest yards per carry this season, and Ekeler's still having some of his workload cut into by Joshua Kelley.Matt Russell is the lead betting analyst for theScore. If there's a bad beat to be had, Matt will find it. Find him on social media @mrussauthentic.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Las Vegas Raiders will start quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo in Monday night's game against the Detroit Lions, head coach Josh McDaniels announced Saturday."Good to go," McDaniels said of Garoppolo, according to Andrew Siciliano of NFL Network.Garoppolo returned to practice this week after missing Las Vegas' 30-12 loss to the Chicago Bears in Week 7 with a back injury.The Raiders struggled at quarterback versus Chicago, with veteran Brian Hoyer starting. Hoyer completed just 17 of 32 attempts for 129 yards and zero touchdowns against two interceptions. Rookie Aidan O'Connell - who previously started Week 4 when Garoppolo was in the concussion protocol - replaced Hoyer late with the Bears game out of reach, going 10-for-13 passing with 75 yards and one TD to one pick.Garoppolo has completed 68% of his passes while passing for 1,079 yards and seven touchdowns against a league-high eight interceptions in five starts so far this season. The 31-year-old signed a three-year contract with Las Vegas in the offseason.The 3-4 Raiders have struggled offensively in 2023, ranking 30th in the NFL with 16 points per game.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce says Patrick Mahomes' list of career achievements could eventually match those of Tom Brady.Kelce was asked on Wednesday's episode of the "I AM ATHLETE" podcast if he thinks Mahomes will eclipse Brady as the greatest quarterback of all time. He noted that he has "all the respect" for Brady but said Mahomes could catch up to the future Hall of Famer."(Mahomes) has an ability to find a way to get things done even when it breaks down, or he's got to make this crazy throw across the field, and that's just something you haven't seen in the NFL. And he's been doing it since his first snap, and I think he's gonna play a long, long time," Kelce said. "So I think he'll catch him in all the accolades."But I think the biggest thing is always going to be those Super Bowls. That's a lot of Super Bowls."Brady won seven Super Bowls and five Super Bowl MVP awards in his 23 seasons, both NFL records. Mahomes, meanwhile, has led the Chiefs to two Super Bowl titles in his first seven seasons.Through seven games this season, Mahomes has completed 69.5% of his passes for 2,017 yards with 15 touchdowns and six interceptions.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Ahead of the 2023 NFL Draft, C.J. Stroud's high school coach spoke to theScore about his knack for minimizing interceptions.Here's how Mark Verti, head coach at Rancho Cucamonga in Southern California during Stroud's final years at the school, explained the quarterback's signature trait:

Washington Commanders pass-rushers Montez Sweat and Chase Young are not giving much attention to rumors of being potential trade candidates ahead of the league's Oct. 31 trade deadline."I don't think about it all," Young said Thursday, according to The Athletic's Ben Standig. "Focused on the (Philadelphia) Eagles. ... I ain't tripping about nothing."The Commanders (3-4) are trying to reverse their fortunes after losing four of their past five games."I mean, shit, with everything going on, it definitely comes across your mind," Sweat said. "But you try to keep your head focused on what's ahead - and that's Philly."Washington has spent plenty of draft capital on its defensive line over the past several years. Both Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne have received lucrative extensions, leaving Sweat and Young's status with the franchise in limbo.The Commanders declined to pick up the fifth-year option on Young's rookie contract this past offseason. He's set to become a free agent at the end of his 2023 campaign. The former second overall pick provided an immediate impact by tallying 44 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and 7.5 sacks on his way to being named Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2020. His 2021 season ended after he tore his ACL in Week 10.Sweat, meanwhile, is playing out the final year of his rookie deal after the Commanders picked up the option on his contract for this season."I definitely enjoyed my time here with the guys on the D-line, the people on the team," he said.Sweat leads the Commanders with 5.5 sacks to go along with eight tackles for loss. Young sports five sacks and added six tackles for loss.Head coach Ron Rivera isn't putting much thought into what his roster could look like after Halloween."We've got 10 games left. ... If we take them one at a time ... there's a lot of good things that can happen," Rivera said.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The San Francisco 49ers listed quarterback Brock Purdy as questionable for their Week 8 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals.Purdy entered concussion protocol after playing in all of Monday's contest against the Minnesota Vikings.The 23-year-old was a full participant in practice Friday and has one more protocol step to pass before he's cleared to play, head coach Kyle Shanahan said Friday, according to David Lombardi of The Athletic.Shanahan added that Purdy will "definitely" start against the Bengals if he passes Saturday's protocol test.Purdy reportedly started feeling concussion symptoms on the plane ride home from Minnesota last Sunday. It's unclear when he suffered the ailment.The Iowa State product completed 21 passes for 272 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions against the Vikings. The 49ers lost the game, dropping their second straight contest and record to 5-2.San Francisco also listed offensive Tackle Trent Williams (ankle) as questionable and ruled wide receiver Deebo Samuel (shoulder) out versus the Bengals.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Find positional rankings, additional analysis, and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.Welcome to theScore Fantasy Football Podcast, hosted by Justin Boone.Find the show on Spotify, Apple, Google, and Stitcher.In this episode, Boone goes over the notable injury updates heading into Week 8.

A Thursday night sweep of our three plays kicked off Week 8. The ball keeps bouncing our way after a lucrative Week 7 with our moneyline underdogs (4-1 SU/ATS) and three wins in four games against the spread to improve to 19-11-2 (63.3%) in this space.With no teams resting this week, there's plenty to choose from to keep the heat as the weather turns during the last weekend of October.Best bets ATSWe've already discussed the five underdogs with a shot to win outright relative to their price, and as always, they're worth a look against the spread.TEAMSPREADPanthers+3.5Rams+6.5Browns+4Bengals+3.5Bears+9.5However, there are more plays worth making this week.Dolphins -9.5Maybe it's as simple as putting some offensive line pieces back in place and giving Demario Douglas and Jalen Reagor more snaps, but the Patriots upset over the Bills is more about Buffalo's vulnerability to well-coached teams.New England's defense is 26th in sack percentage without Matthew Judon, so I'm not worried about Tua Tagovailoa feeling the type of pass-rush pressure that's the only thing capable of disturbing the Dolphins' offense. Wednesday's practice report consisting of names like Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, and Raheem Mostert shouldn't be a big deal, so let's grab Miami before it goes to -10, as Mac Jones won't be able to keep up.Titans +3 (-120)The version of the Titans with Will Levis starting has to be unfathomably bad for this line to favor the Falcons by a field goal with moderate juice on the home underdog. Coming off a bye, and with Teair Tart back to lockdown the middle of Tennessee's run defense, I'll be on Mike Vrabel to have a conservative, functional plan on offense and a defense that'll give Desmond Ridder even more than his usual set of issues.Jets -2.5 (-120)MetLife Stadium hasn't provided much home-field advantage to the Giants at the best of times. Now, they take on their co-habitants as the nominal home team.The Jets managed to survive the Eagles without their top two corners, so even if Sauce Gardner and/or D.J. Reed suffer a setback after logging full practices, they should be fine against Tyrod Taylor.The edge comes from Breece Hall's ability to work a Giants' run defense, allowing 5.0 yards per carry. That should set up Zach Wilson to be effective with limited responsibility.Eagles -7The first matchup with the Commanders went to overtime, so you can see how there would be some interest in Washington getting a touchdown here. But a closer look reminds us that the Commanders had just 4.9 yards per play in the contest. They followed that game with just 84 yards in the first half of a home loss to the Bears and then 3.9 and 4.1 YPP against the Falcons and Giants. Why would we expect above-average production, given Sam Howell's been sacked an impossible-to-believe 40 times this season?If it weren't for Ridder turnovers in Atlanta - things we don't expect from Jalen Hurts - the Commanders might be on a five-game losing streak, and this line would have never dipped below -7 and likely gone higher.Broncos +7.5 (-115)This line's come down from +8.5, but there's still a little value left for a Broncos team that's seen their historically bad defensive start turn around with the talent getting healthier.Denver held up nicely against Patrick Mahomes just two weeks ago. The Broncos might have replicated the close losses from 2022 had they gotten more from their offense in the game. The Chiefs had Nick Bolton causing problems for Russell Wilson, but he's out again with wrist surgery. Look for Denver to run the ball well enough to open up the offense and allow them to stay close.Moneyline upset of the weekOur defined parameter for this section is underdogs paying at least +150.Bears (+320)Do you know how much you have to impress to go from Shepherd College to the NFL? Normally, when the "Who?" quarterback gets a look in the NFL, those of us deep in the college football weeds remember the player from his time on a mid-tier ACC or Big Ten team. Those guys get chances that Division II players don't get unless their play, preparation, and football intellect force teams to notice. Maybe Tyson Bagent turns into a pumpkin, but the Bears beat the Raiders comfortably while asking nothing spectacular from their rookie backup quarterback. Perfect for a matchup against an easily confused Chargers defense.If you're worried about Chicago slowing Justin Herbert (6.6 YPA at home), what have the Chargers done to scare you? Meanwhile, the Bears are tied for the league lead in defensive rushing yards per carry. Their pass defense has improved considerably by having their top three cornerbacks - Jaylon Johnson, Tyrique Stevenson, and Kyler Gordon - in the lineup simultaneously, and the defensive backfield could be at full strength this week.Best 6-point teaserSteelers +8.5 / Lions -2.5 (-130)Whether it's the magic of Mike Tomlin or a more efficient offense with the return of Diontae Johnson that allows more downfield shots to George Pickens, the Steelers should play yet another close game against the Jaguars this week.As for the Monday nighter, the line is too high for what the Raiders can do with Jimmy Garoppolo at the helm. But the chances the Lions win by at least a field goal are better than the 75% required to warrant their use as a teaser leg.Matt Russell is the lead betting analyst for theScore. If there's a bad beat to be had, Matt will find it. Find him on social media @mrussauthentic.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

A 1-2 Week 7 brings our season record to 11-10.The NBA's in full swing, college football is coming down the stretch, and the NFL keeps cruising. In honor of Halloween, the spookiest thing for NFL bettors this season has been betting on overs.Unders are continuing to hit at a high rate, but that's not stopping us from eyeing a particular over. Let's get to Week 8's best total bets.Bengals @ 49ers over 43.5The Bengals' offense has finally showcased some of the magic it displayed over the last two seasons after some disappointing performances to open the campaign. Cincinnati could take off after a bye - much like it did in the latter part of last season - with Joe Burrow and the rest of the team having time to get healthy.The 49ers' pass rush is elite, but the Bengals will have success moving the ball if their offensive line can keep Burrow up.Despite back-to-back losses, the 49ers have the NFL's second-highest-scoring offense, averaging 28.7 points per game.Brock Purdy is in concussion protocol and unlikely to play Sunday. If he can't go, Kyle Shanahan's offense and an array of weapons shouldn't miss a beat. Sam Darnold is one of the league's best backups and has played well as a starter in recent stints.Both offenses will have success finding the end zone Sunday afternoon in San Francisco.Falcons team total over 18.5The Falcons' offense has been frustrating to watch at times. Desmond Ridder shows flashes of excellence followed by moments of incompetence. He has a lot to prove for the rest of the season.Nevertheless, the Falcons are 4-3 and sit in first place in a weak NFC South. Their offensive mistakes are fixable. For example, Atlanta had two red-zone fumbles in last week's narrow 16-13 win over the Buccaneers.The Falcons are 13th in yards per game but 29th in points per contest. They have success moving the ball but struggle to finish drives. That's somewhat expected with an inexperienced quarterback. But with experience comes growth, and I have faith that Atlanta's offense will have more success starting this week against the Titans.Tennessee is currently more focused on trading key players for assets than winning games. The Falcons have reached 20 points in three of their four wins. As 2.5-point road favorites, they'll eclipse 20 points again.Rams team total under 19.5The Rams haven't reached 20 points in three of their four losses this season. They're on the road this week against Dallas - which has the NFL's fourth-best scoring defense - as 6-point underdogs.The Rams' offense has been inconsistent, but its best showings have come against two of the league's seven worst scoring defenses in the Cardinals and Colts.Los Angeles' passing attack ranks seventh in the league thanks to a healthy Cooper Kupp and the emergence of Puka Nacua, but its running game is 15th.As a result, the Rams will run into some problems this weekend against a frightening Cowboys defense off a bye.Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter, @soshtry for more betting coverageCopyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

SSSQ is a weekly look at under-the-radar fantasy players to consider starting and potential busts you should leave on your bench. We also identify breakout candidates to stash on your roster and players you can safely cut.Consult our Week 8 rankings for the rest of your lineup decisions. You can also listen to the Week 8 preview episode of theScore Fantasy Football Podcast.StartC.J. Stroud, Texansat Panthers Mike Carlson / Getty Images Sport / GettyStroud is coming off his bye week as the QB14 in fantasy points per game. It's been an impressive start for the rookie, who's elevated the talent around him while playing behind a banged-up offensive line.Fantasy managers should expect the 22-year-old passer to continue making strides as he gains more experience and his blockers get healthier.Next up is a Panthers defense that overachieved in the opening month but has been hindered by injuries lately. In its last two outings, Carolina allowed Jared Goff and Tua Tagovailoa to throw for three touchdowns apiece en route to top-three weekly fantasy finishes.Boone's projection: 273 passing yards, 2 passing TDs, 12 rushing yardsOther QBs to start

New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones will be sidelined for a third consecutive game due to a neck injury, head coach Brian Daboll announced Friday.Tyrod Taylor will again step in for Jones in Sunday's contest with the New York Jets.Daboll was noncommittal when asked if Jones will return this season.

The Miami Dolphins are planning for cornerback Jalen Ramsey to make his season debut against the New England Patriots, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.Ramsey missed the club's first seven games after undergoing surgery for a knee injury he suffered in the offseason. He's logged five consecutive limited practices.Ramsey clarified later Thursday that he'll only play if he feels "great.""Full transparency: There's a CHANCE that I can play this Sunday," Ramsey said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. "But that decision genuinely isn't made yet, so that is news to me just like it is to y'all lol - I have to go through a whole process to feel GREAT enough to play."The 29-year-old's potential return comes as the Dolphins contend with a banged-up secondary. Corner Xavien Howard missed last week's game and has been limited in practice this week with a groin injury, safety Jevon Holland is battling a concussion, and Kader Kohou has been limited with a neck ailment.Cornerback Nik Needham has also yet to play this season but has logged limited practices to start the week as he comes back from an Achilles injury.Miami has won five games on the back of an explosive offense. The defense has struggled to replicate that league-leading production, ranking 27th in points allowed per game and 21st in yards allowed per contest.Ramsey owns 19 interceptions, 92 pass deflections, six forced fumbles, and 452 tackles in 108 career games. He's been named to six Pro Bowls since the Jacksonville Jaguars selected him with the No. 5 pick in the 2016 draft.The three-time All-Pro defensive back was traded to the Dolphins after spending three and a half seasons with the Los Angeles Rams.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Find positional rankings, additional analysis, and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.Welcome to theScore Fantasy Football Podcast, hosted by Justin Boone.Find the show on Spotify, Apple, and Google.In this episode, Boone opens up the fantasy mailbag to answer your questions before Week 8.

Running back Dalvin Cook isn't happy with his limited role in the New York Jets' offense through six games."I want to play. ... I want the situation to be best for both sides," Cook said Thursday, according to Connor Hughes of SNY."Of course it's frustrating," Cook added, per Zack Rosenblatt of The Athletic. "It's new for me. I come from getting the ball 20 times a game. It's something I'm adapting to."The 28-year-old signed a one-year, $7-million deal with the Jets in August that included $5.8 million guaranteed, according to Over The Cap. The Minnesota Vikings signed him to a five-year, $63-million extension in 2020 but released him in June this year.Cook said he didn't ask the Jets to trade him ahead of the Oct. 31 deadline, according to Brian Costello of the New York Post, but New York has reportedly made him available, per Dianna Russini of The Athletic.The running back has failed to eclipse 34 yards rushing in a single game this campaign. After garnering 13 carries in Week 1, the Florida State product has yet to receive more than eight carries in a single contest. Cook has 39 rush attempts for 109 yards through six games, good for 2.79 yards per carry.The 2017 second-round pick said his yards per rush are down due to his lack of carries, per Rosenblatt. He added that it's hard for him to get going when he's only getting a few attempts per game.The Jets face the New York Giants in Week 8.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

With a second Brock Purdy interception to seal Monday night's game for the Vikings, just like that, our guilty pleasure gambit is free-rolling for the rest of the season. A 3-3 split to start the campaign had us in the black before last week thanks to better-than-even-money results, but a big 4-1 Week 7 netted over ten more units, thanks to the Patriots, Bears, Steelers, and Vikings.With just 11 more weeks to go in the regular season, we sit at the coveted "break even or better" mark, freeing us up to get as loose as we want when searching for underdog value.How it worksWe parlay five underdogs together - which we also bet against the spread - in 10 different three-team parlays. Using every combination of a three-team parlay is called a round robin, so we'll use a total of 1.1 units to make 11 different bets: 10 three-team parlays and one five-team parlay, each for .1 units. You'll likely double your money if three teams pull off the upset. If four teams win, you're connecting on four separate parlays and will be very pleased with the return. If all five teams win, you'll be diving into a gold doubloon silo like a young Scrooge McDuck.Who to playPanthers (+150) over TexansHow bad are the Panthers? They're likely the worst team in the NFL, but are they worse than the three-win Bears and Texans of 2022? We're not going to answer that here, but a three-win season in Carolina isn't what the team had in mind, sending its first-round draft pick to Chicago for Bryce Young.However, a potential 3-14 campaign means the Panthers win three of their final 11 games. Assuming a team trying to win now can do that, who are those victories coming against? Unfortunately for the 2023 Texans, they're a prime candidate, at least compared to some other teams on Carolina's home schedule.How does a win happen? With the energy and innovation of a new play-caller being installed in Charlotte. Frank Reich has handed over those duties to 37-year-old offensive coordinator Thomas Brown, something that was supposedly the plan since the club hired the "bright, offensive mind" in February.While the Panthers are rated at the bottom of the league, the Texans' rating has risen significantly since before the season. While that seems deserved, it's also creating a decent-sized home underdog in a game that should be closer to 50-50.Rams (+220) over CowboysThe Rams are shaping up as the team that isn't good enough to avoid being a sizable underdog but is good enough to cash tickets as one. This game should come down to whether Dak Prescott turns the ball over and if Matthew Stafford can carve up the Cowboys by connecting with man-to-man superweapon Cooper Kupp and zone-breaker Puka Nacua. Justin Herbert probably should have hurt Dallas' secondary worse in the Cowboys' previous contest before last week's bye. Plus, L.A. is less likely to give back seven points thanks to missed kicks this week.Browns (+160) over SeahawksDespite P.J. Walker under center, the Browns are winning games using a sweltering defense that plays as much man coverage as anyone in the league. And that's exactly the scheme that usually vexes Geno Smith. Two wins in their last three games have bumped the Seahawks' market rating while also hiding that it's been a month since the offense looked good. For the third straight week, we're left wondering if Walker is a significant downgrade from what we've seen in the last calendar year from Deshaun Watson. A 3.5-point spread suggests the Seahawks are the better team, and I don't think that's the case.Bengals (+150) over 49ersThis isn't the deal it was going to be when it was assumed that Purdy would play and the Bengals' moneyline was longer than +200. But we get Sam Darnold in exchange. That sounds dismissive, but this becomes a fascinating game for those in the "Is Purdy the product of the system?" debate. Maybe the former No. 1 pick takes over for a "Mr. Irrelevant," and the Niners' offense doesn't miss a beat. However, at +150 on a short week, it's worth betting that Purdy is just good, and he matters more than a modest move of around 6% in win probability.Bears (+340) over ChargersIt scares me how much I like the Bears in this game, undoubtedly more than ever, with a +340 underdog. Chicago's secondary getting healthier has coincided with its opponents' yards per pass attempt falling from more than 7 yards early in the season to 5.7 in the last three games, and no team has allowed fewer yards per rush. The early reviews of Tyson Bagent are nothing shy of glowing from inside Chicago's locker room after an efficient 70.3 QBR, with claims that he's capable of more.As for the Chargers, would you be shocked - after losing two big games in less than a week - if they continued to struggle on both sides of the ball in front of what should be another rabid road fan base?How the odds look this week:PARLAYODDS (Approx.)CAR+LAR+CLE+2000CAR+LAR+CIN+1800CAR+LAR+CHI+3200CAR+CLE+CIN+1400CAR+CLE+CHI+2600CAR+CIN+CHI+2400LAR+CLE+CIN+2100LAR+CLE+CHI+3600LAR+CIN+CHI+3400CLE+CIN+CHI+2700CAR+LAR+CLE+CIN+CHI+22000Who are your five underdogs for a football betting lottery ticket?Matt Russell is the lead betting analyst for theScore. If there's a bad beat to be had, Matt will find it. Find him on social media @mrussauthentic.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Buffalo Bills tight end Dawson Knox was placed on injured reserve with a wrist injury, the team announced Thursday.Knox needs surgery, and he will have to miss at least four games before he's eligible to come off IR.The 26-year-old suffered the injury in Buffalo's loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 5 but was able to play in the next two games.Knox racked up 1,104 yards and 15 touchdowns over the past two seasons. However, his role has shrunk in 2023, as he ranks sixth on the team in receiving yards with 102 while catching just one touchdown pass.Rookie first-rounder Dalton Kincaid will likely take on an expanded role with Knox sidelined. Kincaid is coming off a career-best eight-catch, 75-yard outing in last Sunday's loss to the New England Patriots, taking his season totals to 25 catches and 193 yards.Quintin Morris, the Bills' No. 3 tight end, will miss a second straight game Thursday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers due to a groin injury. As a result, Buffalo will likely promote Joel Wilson from the practice squad to back up Kincaid.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Patrick Mahomes is again atop the NFL MVP oddsboard following his Week 7 showdown against the Chargers.The Chiefs quarterback is +275 to win the award after his 424-yard, four-touchdown performance rocketed him ahead of Tua Tagovailoa and Jalen Hurts among MVP front-runners. Mahomes was the betting favorite before the season began.MVP OddsPlayerOddsPatrick Mahomes+275Tua Tagovailoa+450Jalen Hurts+500Lamar Jackson+600Brock Purdy+1500Josh Allen+1500Christian McCaffrey+2500Jared Goff+2500Trevor Lawrence+2500Dak Prescott+5000Joe Burrow+5000Justin Herbert+5000Tyreek Hill+5000Kirk Cousins+10000Matthew Stafford+10000(Odds via theScore Bet)Mahomes has led the Chiefs to six straight wins. Their Week 1 loss to the Lions is their lone blemish this season.The reigning MVP winner's partner in crime, Travis Kelce, is also putting together another incredible campaign but isn't getting as much love in the QB-heavy MVP market. He's +15000 to win the award while sitting at +4000 to claim Offensive Player of the Year.Tagovailoa soared up the oddsboard early in the season and became the favorite following the Dolphins' Week 1 victory. Tagovailoa and Josh Allen then jockeyed for the top spot until Mahomes' resurgence.Hurts has quietly lingered around the third to fifth option on the betting board. But he's yet to have the eye-popping game like Mahomes or Tagovailoa that shifts the betting market's perspective.Lamar Jackson is also making a move. He vaulted from +1600 to +600 after he and the Ravens dismantled a highly touted Lions team. Jackson threw for 357 yards and three touchdowns in Week 7.Christian McCaffrey holds the shortest odds for any non-quarterback at +2500. He's looking to become the first non-QB since Adrian Peterson in 2012 to win the award.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Find positional rankings, additional analysis, and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.theScore's Justin Boone was first overall in FantasyPros' Most Accurate Expert Competition in 2019 and finished among the top seven each of his last seven years in the contest. Follow the links below to see his rankings for Week 8.The final rankings will be released Sunday morning.Half PPR

Deshaun Watson is set to be sidelined for a third time in the Cleveland Browns' last four games, but the quarterback is refuting speculation that he isn't giving his best effort to return from a shoulder injury."This is what I've been doing since I was 6 years old, so why wouldn't I want to play? I see the same things, I see all the narratives ... all that stuff is just trying to cause controversy and emotion," Watson said Thursday, according to Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com."Physically, everything else is in a great space except my shoulder, so we're working hard to get that back, but why wouldn't I want to play? I don't do this for no other reason. I see that whole contract situation. And all that stuff is just for people to talk to, to create narratives," added the 28-year-old, who signed a fully guaranteed five-year contract worth $230 million in 2022.Watson didn't play in Week 4 and, after Cleveland's Week 5 bye, also missed Week 6 due to a rotator cuff contusion. Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski said after Week 4 that the passer was medically cleared but chose to sit. General manager Andrew Berry later addressed Stefanski's comments, saying several people were involved in the situation and that it was an "easy" decision to keep Watson sidelined.Watson returned for Week 7 against the Indianapolis Colts but left the contest to be evaluated for concussion after taking a hit in the first quarter. He didn't return to the game despite clearing protocol, and Cleveland didn't give him an official injury designation.Stefanski said postgame that he chose to keep the three-time Pro Bowler on the sideline to "protect our franchise quarterback.""I thought I was ready. I wasn't ready," Watson said Thursday about his appearance versus the Colts, according to ESPN's Jake Trotter. "I just didn't have the strength and things ... to be able to go out there and play a full complete game."Stefanski initially said he expected Watson to face the Seattle Seahawks this week. However, the Browns recently announced that P.J. Walker will start Week 8."As soon as possible," Watson said when asked when he'll play again. "We just gotta go through the process again and rehab and get back with the docs and try to strengthen as much as possible and get the pain away and try to get back on the field as soon as possible."Watson completed 63% of his passes for 678 yards and four touchdowns against two interceptions while helping the Browns post a 2-1 record in this season's first three games. He served an 11-game suspension and played six contests in his first year with Cleveland after missing the entire 2021 campaign following his trade request from the Houston Texans.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce is coming off one of the best performances of his career, and quarterback Patrick Mahomes heaped praise on his favorite target Wednesday."I think defenses and defensive coordinators are doing their best to cover him," Mahomes said, according to NFL.com's Nick Shook. "There's a reason he's Travis Kelce; he finds a way to get himself open versus man, versus zone, versus everything. I'm just glad he's on my team, I'll say that."Kelce tied a career-high 12 receptions on 13 targets from Mahomes in last Sunday's win over the Los Angeles Chargers. His 179 receiving yards in the contest are also the second-highest total of his illustrious career.Despite dealing with a knee injury that forced him to miss the season opener and limited him upon his return, the 34-year-old remains one of the NFL's premier weapons.Kelce has either exceeded 100 yards or caught a touchdown in all but one game this season. The All-Pro tops the Chiefs with four receiving scores and is by far the team's leading receiver with 525 yards. Rookie Rashee Rice ranks second with 305 yards."We always talk with the receivers (and) tight ends about having that clock in your head," Chiefs head coach Andy Reid said. "Trav has the ability to keep that thing running; how long can I do what I need to do to get open, and Pat stays in tune with that."They've got a good connection, that's what makes them special together. From a defensive standpoint, (if you) try to put too many guys on one guy and then the other guys have a battle, so that can be a tough thing from that side."Mahomes and Kelce will look to continue their hot streak and win a seventh straight game Sunday on the road against the Denver Broncos.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

It won't be a cold night in Buffalo - at least not to the extent that one might expect with Halloween around the corner. Unseasonable warmth is invading Western New York, which could be a metaphor for a Bills team that hasn't been able to play to their forecast this season. They suffered losses at New England and to the Jaguars in London, which sandwiched a narrow win in their last prime time hosting duty against the Giants two weeks ago.Buccaneers @ Bills (-8.5, 42.5)Even though they had the second-highest rating going into last season, the Buccaneers finished 8-9 and barely made the playoffs despite getting 17 starts from the greatest quarterback of all time. After covering the spread in the first two games, they covered just twice in the final 16 games, including the playoffs. The market never accepted how mediocre the 2022 Bucs were because Tom Brady was still omnipresent. Each week's point spread felt like a discount to many bettors - but it rarely was.Even though Brady was replaced by Baker Mayfield, rating Tampa Bay below average, the team could lose its next two games and have the same record as last year's outfit. But the comparison here is for their opponent. Because of defensive injuries, Buffalo might be in the midst of a season similar to Tampa's last year, only without the forgiving divisional schedule. It can't be a coincidence that three straight non-covers (nearly all losses as a significant favorite) came after Tre'Davious White Sr., Matt Milano, and DaQuan Jones hit the IR.The market kept backing the 2022 Bucs only to be disappointed. Their rating would subsequently lower a notch or two, and they'd disappoint again. And the cycle would repeat. By the end, Tampa Bay went from a highly rated 11-win team to a below-average one. If that can happen to a club with the GOAT under center, is Josh Allen impervious to such a fate?Fundamentally, there are excuses for the Bills' recent woes, but with another point spread over a touchdown, it's unlikely that the market is downgrading them quickly enough. With back-to-back losses, the Bucs aren't the most trustworthy outfit - especially to win outright - but neither were the Giants or the Patriots. Until the Bills (with the 26th-highest defensive yards per play allowed) prove they can cover a sizeable point spread, there's still a way to go before we're down to an appropriate rating for Buffalo. So we'll take our chances that the underdog can stay within the number.Allen might be concerned about the offense, but the Bills have a 4-3 record this season despite the fourth-most yards per play, the third-best offensive defense-adjusted value over average and a tough-to-maintain 71.4% red zone efficiency. However, no team has been better than Tampa Bay at stopping opponents from crossing the goal line once they're in the red zone.Pick: Buccaneers (+8.5)Dalton Kincaid: Over 37.5 receiving yards (-110)Allen has thrown 56 passes to tight ends this season - roughly eight per game. With Dawson Knox out, rookie Dalton Kincaid should get those looks. He collected 75 yards on eight catches last week in New England, pushing his total receptions to 25 of the 27 balls thrown his way. That's more impressive than Knox's 15 of 28 in one more game. So, while his total is higher than it's been all season, it's only by 7-17 yards - and Allen's apparent connection with Kincaid can make up for the higher expectation.On the flip side, the Bucs' defense has covered the position well, but opponents have still been optimistic enough to throw to tight ends sixth-most in the NFL.Josh Allen: Anytime touchdown (+185)Kirk Cousins, Derek Carr and Jared Goff didn't score rushing touchdowns against the Bucs this season, but Justin Fields, Jalen Hurts and Desmond Ridder all have. With four touchdowns in his last five games via calling his own number, which skill set category do you think Allen fits into?Odds of +150 suggest that there's only a 40% chance that Allen scores on the ground, but he's done so in 42% of his games since Ken Dorsey took over as the play-caller in Buffalo. Any price longer than +150 provides value for someone looking to take matters into his own hands.Matt Russell is the lead betting analyst for theScore. If there's a bad beat to be had, Matt will find it. Find him on social media @mrussauthentic.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy has entered the league's concussion protocol, head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed Wednesday.Purdy started feeling concussion symptoms on the plane ride home from Minnesota, according to David Lombardi of The Athletic. It is unclear when he suffered the concussion.Shanahan said Purdy will participate in some of the team's walkthrough on Wednesday, but backup quarterback Sam Darnold will get the majority of the first-team reps, according to Matt Burrows of The Athletic. The 49ers face off against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday.Purdy completed 21 passes for 272 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions in Week 7 against the Vikings. Both interceptions came in the fourth quarter, including one on the team's final drive that iced the game for Minnesota.Darnold beat out Trey Lance for the backup job this offseason after signing a one-year, $4.5-million deal in March.The 26-year-old Darnold is 21-34 in 55 career starts. He has 11,768 passing yards with 61 touchdowns and 55 interceptions since entering the league as a first-round pick in 2018.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Find positional rankings, additional analysis, and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.Welcome to theScore Fantasy Football Podcast, hosted by Justin Boone.Find the show on Spotify, Apple, Google, and Stitcher.In this episode, Matt Donnelly of Dynasty Vipers joins Boone to discuss the biggest fantasy questions for Week 8.