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Explosive First Half Leads No. 20 Missouri Past South Carolina

College
FBS
SEC

October 22, 2023

Cody_Schrader_MizzouFB_2023_South_Carolina_BANNER_AJ8I6200 — Photo Cred: Missouri Athletics

Missouri scored 24 points in the first half of their 34-12 victory over South Carolina on Saturday at Faurot Field. The Tigers improved to 7-1 for the first time since 2013, heading into their bye week next weekend.

First Half Offense

MU quarterback Brady Cook passed for 138 yards and a touchdown in the first half. His passing touchdown came in the first quarter when he connected with wide receiver Luther Burden III for a 42-yard touchdown. The QB also made several substantial passing plays early in the contest. In the first quarter, Cook found WR Theo Wease Jr. for a 29-yard reception, leading to a touchdown for the Tigers on the next play. Toward the end of the first half, the junior found WR Mookie Cooper for a 23-yard gain. Burden finished the game as the leading receiver for Missouri with 90 yards and a touchdown. Cooper had 57 yards on six receptions.

The Tigers were also effective in running the ball in the first half. Kirby Moore’s offense went into the locker room with 156 rushing yards at halftime. Running back Cody Schrader recorded 102 yards and a touchdown. His lone first-half touchdown was for 10 yards, giving MU a 14-0 lead in the first quarter. The senior finished the game with 159 yards and two touchdowns. Cook added 45 yards and a rushing touchdown before halftime. He found the endzone on a 17-yard run to give the Tigers a 21-0 lead with 8:21 left in the second quarter. At the beginning of the second quarter, Cook scrambled to the right to gain 20 yards, putting Missouri on the South Carolina 22-yard line. The junior finished the matchup with 19 more rushing yards.

“We came out very strong offensively in the first half,” head coach Eliah Drinkwitz said. “The fact that we were able to score in three out of our first four possessions and jump out to a lead was nice to see.”

Photo Cred: KSTP (#12 Cook)

Preparation was a significant factor in Missouri’s strong offensive start, according to Schrader. The running back mentioned that the team’s practice during this week translated into early-game success.

“Everyone is really buying into the hard work at the line of scrimmage every day at practice and that’s exactly what you saw today,” Schrader said.

First Half Defense

Defensively, MU held UofSC’s offense to just 73 total yards in the first half. Gamecocks QB Spencer Rattler threw for 81 yards and completed 11 passes throughout the first two quarters. However, Blake Baker’s defense didn’t give up any rushing yards and forced South Carolina to lose eight yards instead. UofSC only scored three points in the first half, a 51-yard field goal by Mitch Jeter with a little over a minute to go.

The Tigers sacked Rattler three times in the first half. Linebackers Ty’Ron Hopper and Triston Newsom both had a sack early in the game. MU finished the contest with six sacks. Heading into halftime, Hopper and defensive back Daylan Carnell led the way in tackles with four total. Carnell also finished the game as the leader in tackles for Missouri, with seven tackles (six solo). DB Jaylon Carlies also had a great performance with seven tackles, including four solo.

Photo Cred: The Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

Much like the offensive side of the ball, Drinkwitz was very pleased with how his defensive group started the game.

“Coach Baker did a great job with our defense today,” Drinkwitz said. “It helped a lot that we were able to cause problems defensively and hold them down until halftime.”

Looking Ahead

Missouri will have a bye week before they head to Athens to face off against No. 1 Georgia at Sanford Stadium on November 4th. The time of kickoff is still to be determined.

Photo Cred: Sanford Stadium

How Will Seton Hall’s Upcoming Season Play Out?

College
Big East

Sam Cohen

October 22, 2023

The upcoming Seton Hall basketball season is just around the corner, with their first game scheduled for November 6th against the St. Peters Peacocks. The game holds a special connection for Pirates coach Shaheen Holloway, as it’s his alma mater. This season, the Pirates are determined to secure a spot in the NCAA tournament, a goal they narrowly missed in Holloway’s debut as head coach last year.

Photo Cred: Seton Hall

The team’s roster remains largely intact from the previous season. Kadary Richmond, who transferred from Syracuse during his sophomore year, is expected to be a pivotal force for Seton Hall. Joining him is Al-Amir Dawes, a senior guard who made an impressive debut with the Pirates. He averages 12.1 points per game after transferring from Clemson.

While the Pirates have retained much of their talent, they did suffer a significant loss in the forward department. Tray Jackson, who had initially transferred from the University of Missouri, made his way to the University of Michigan to play under coach Juwan Howard. Jackson was a valuable contributor, averaging 6.5 points per game and shooting 37.5% from beyond the arc. His departure leaves a void in floor spacing for the team.

Photo Cred: Seton Hall

To compensate for this loss, the Pirates secured the services of junior center Elijah Hutchins-Everett, who transferred from Austin Peay. Hutchins-Everett had an impressive record, averaging 11.5 points and 5.5 rebounds per game for the Governors. Standing at a towering six feet and eleven inches, he brings much-needed size to the team’s frontcourt.
Another addition to the roster is senior guard Dylan Addae-Wusu, a transfer from St. John’s University in Queens. Addae-Wusu will step into the shoes of the departing Jamir Harris at the shooting guard position, having averaged 9.3 points and 4.4 rebounds per game for the Red Storm.

Photo Cred: St. Johns

Coach Holloway is implementing his coaching strategies following the departure of the previous head coach, Kevin Willard, who moved on to the University of Maryland. Holloway is working to mold the program according to his vision, bringing in players who align with his approach to building the team. Although Seton Hall seeks to improve from their previous season’s performance, they may still fall short in competing with powerhouse programs in the Big East like St. John’s, Villanova, and the University of Connecticut. As a result, it’s likely that the Pirates will finish outside of the NCAA tournament this year and secure the fifth position in the Big East conference, trailing behind the University of Connecticut, Villanova, St. John’s, and Marquette.

Anthony White has Turned Atherton High School into a Powerhouse

High School

Stephen Patrick

October 22, 2023

download (13) — Photo Cred: Courier Journal

In a thrilling clash filled with early obstacles, Atherton emerged triumphant, hoisting the Class 5A, District Three title with a convincing 24-6 victory over Fairdale. It was the first district title in Atherton history. The high school was previously known as a dumpster fire and easy win, but not anymore! A spectacular game from running back Mike Curry extended their winning streak to eight. The Ravens had impressive season record of 8-1. Curry, a junior transfer from St. Xavier, played a key role this year, earning the trust of his coach and teammates.

Photo Cred: Courier Journal

Curry reflected on the achievement, saying, “It feels immensely satisfying for me to arrive here in my first year and be a part of something this special, which has never been accomplished at this school. It’s a great feeling to help the people who have been striving for this victory for so long. Coming from a successful program, I’m thrilled to assist them in achieving this.”

The game began as a defensive battle between the Ravens and the Bulldogs, with both sides demonstrating their resilience. Despite early challenges, Atherton’s defense remained steady, and defensive back QuilShaun Baines intercepted a crucial pass. Atherton faced initial difficulties with the opening kickoff. These struggles persisted into the first half with consecutive fumbles, including one by senior wide receiver Sincere Smith.

Nevertheless, the Ravens bounced back by blocking a field goal. The turning point came when junior lineman Brandon Edwards executed a strip-sack on Fairdale quarterback Jerrel Mason. Following the play, Curry surged ahead, scoring from one yard and capped off the first half on a high note.

Photo Cred: Courier Journal

Head coach Anthony White emphasized the importance of ongoing improvement, saying, “That’s what we practice for; we’re going to review the film and make corrections. Each week presents unique challenges, and that’s why we study the film. We’ll keep getting better. I have one of the best running backs in the state, and I trust these guys, so we’ll make the necessary adjustments, I promise you.”

The Ravens heavily relied on Mike Curry during the second half after junior QB QuaShawn Thompson left the field due injury. Thompson played in two more series before White turned to junior QB Dean Hynniman. Hynniman and Curry established a formidable combination on the field, as the QB connected with Curry down the middle for 21 yards. This significant play set up Curry for his second touchdown, a four-yard rush. Curry then rounded off his performance in the fourth quarter with his third touchdown.

Head coach White praised Curry’s contributions, stating, “He’s a phenomenal player. In cold-weather games on a muddy field, you rely on your workhorse, and that’s exactly what 21 is – a bell cow who carries us home.”

Photo Cred: Courier Journal

This victory held exceptional significance for Atherton, given their previous encounter with Fairdale, a humbling 22-0 loss during the second round of the Class 5A playoffs. Atherton’s extraordinary transformation and championship win marked a watershed moment in the history of their football program.

Julio Urias Will Not Return to the Dodgers in 2024

American Sports
MLB
Pro

Kellan Quinn

October 22, 2023

MLB: World Series-Tampa Bay Rays at Los Angeles Dodgers — Oct 27, 2020; Arlington, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers relief pitcher Julio Urias (7) celebrates defeating the Tampa Bay Rays in game six of the 2020 World Series at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a crucial decision regarding embattled free agent pitcher Julio Urias. Urias was expected to get a massive payday as an ace-level pitcher entering free agency at just 27 years old. Following a tumultuous year, he will not be re-signed by the Dodgers.

Photo Cred: LA Times

Urias faced a year filled with turmoil, starting with a domestic violence arrest in early September that led to his absence from the pitching mound throughout 2023. Typically, a talented and youthful 27-year-old ace pitcher like Urias would be in high demand during free agency. However, the cloud of legal charges hanging over him raises doubts about whether any team will take the risk of signing him.

In the aftermath of the incident that led to his arrest, the MLB promptly placed Urias on administrative leave. This incident involved a public altercation, in which Urias assaulted a female individual outside an LAFC soccer match. It’s essential to note that this is not the first instance of Urias being involved in potentially abusive behavior. In 2019, he avoided prosecution in a domestic battery case by committing to a year-long domestic violence counseling program.

Photo Cred: Fox Sports

The Dodgers began removing murals featuring Urias towards the end of the season. When questioned about Urias’s potential future with the club in early October, manager Dave Roberts stated, “As far as what the future holds, I have no idea.”

As for Urias’ performance during the 2023 season, he participated in 21 games, securing 11 wins but also suffering eight losses, with an ERA of 4.60. However, his on-field performance seems to have been overshadowed by the off-field troubles that have led to his uncertain future in professional baseball.

Week 8 Super 16 Rankings

FBS
AAC
ACC
Big 10
Big 12
C-USA
College
Division I
Independents
MAC
MW
Pac-12
SBC
SEC

Joshua Vargo

October 22, 2023

Cam Spencer Seeks to Make UConn Repeat Champions

College
Big East

Stephen Patrick

October 21, 2023

cam-spencer-uconn-transfer-nil — Photo Cred: Outkick

In the midst of the 2023-2024 college basketball season, the University of Connecticut Huskies have once again seized the spotlight. This storied program, regarded as a blue blood in the world of college basketball, stands as the reigning national champions. Despite the departure of standout players, the expectations for UConn remain unwavering. The pressing question on the minds of fans and analysts alike is whether Dan Hurley can steer the Huskies toward the establishment of a lasting basketball dynasty.

Photo Cred: SI

The memory of the Huskies’ championship win in the previous season still lingers on in the hearts of Connecticut’s passionate basketball enthusiasts. The team concluded the prior season with an impressive final record of 31-8, boasting a conference record of 13-7. In the challenging arena of the Big East, UConn managed to secure a fourth-place finish, even though their journey ended with a loss in the Big East semifinals. Their true test, however, awaited them in the NCAA Tournament.

UConn’s refusal to falter in the face of adversity became evident during their remarkable March Madness run. The team’s outstanding offensive capabilities played a pivotal role in their success. With remarkable field goal percentages and unrivaled three-point shooting, the Huskies clinched the third spot in points per game within their conference, solidifying their position as a dominant force in college basketball.

The 2023-2024 season brings new opportunities for the Huskies, thanks to the transfer portal. A notable addition to their roster comes in the form of Cam Spencer, a transfer from Rutgers. With a remarkable basketball IQ and an impressive background, Spencer is a deadeye three-point shooter. His accuracy from beyond the arc stands at an impressive 43.4 percent, and he averaged 13.2 points per game while launching five three-pointers per contest. His experience competing in the Big Ten last season only enhances his value to the Huskies.

Photo Cred: Pressbox

Spencer consistently demonstrated his ability to perform at a high level against top-tier opponents, making him an invaluable asset to UConn’s arsenal. As the 2023-2024 season approaches, his addition promises to infuse a new dimension into the Huskies’ offensive strategy, creating a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation among the fans.

Fresh off their championship run, the UConn Huskies are poised to prove their mettle once again. While they face the formidable task of filling the shoes of departed stars, the team’s offensive prowess and the addition of Cam Spencer suggest that Connecticut remains a formidable force. They have set their sights on the pursuit of back-to-back championships and the realization of their dream of establishing a lasting basketball dynasty.

SMU Makes Record Fundraising as they Beat Temple

FBS
AAC
College
Division I
The American

Jesus Gomez

October 21, 2023

Gerald_J_Ford_Stadium — Photo Cred: USA Today

SMU’s transition to the ACC marks a significant milestone in the university’s athletic history. The move comes with its fair share of challenges and opportunities, and the infusion of $100 million in funding will be crucial in navigating this transformative journey.

Transitioning to a new athletic conference entails various financial commitments, from upgrading facilities to recruiting and retaining top-tier coaches and athletes. The $100 million raised by SMU will help bridge the financial gaps associated with this transition, ensuring that the university can compete at the highest level within the ACC.

Beyond the financial commitment, the ACC move has already yielded substantial economic benefits for SMU. Media coverage of this transition generated over $163 million in advertising revenue in just three days. This revenue demonstrates the market’s confidence in the potential of SMU within the ACC and the broader interest generated by the move.

While the university’s transition to the ACC is grabbing the spotlight, it’s important to recognize the outstanding performance of SMU’s athletic programs. A recent game against the Temple Owls showcased the prowess of the SMU Mustangs, reinforcing their status as formidable contenders for the conference championship. In that game, the Mustangs demonstrated their offensive prowess and rock-solid defense in a convincing 55-0 victory. Southern Methodist’s performance left no room for doubt, as they established a 14-0 lead by the end of the first quarter and extended it to 24-0 by halftime.

Multi-Dimensional Scoring

SMU’s offensive strategy was multi-dimensional, with touchdowns coming from both passing and running the ball. Quarterback Preston Stone showcased exceptional form, throwing for 300 yards and contributing two touchdowns. The Mustangs recorded an impressive 563 total yards, with seven different players finding their way into the end zone. This highlights the depth and variety of their offensive arsenal.

Photo Cred: CBS Sports

Stifling Defense

The Southern Methodist defense played the best game of their season. They prevented Temple from converting any third downs in the first half and limited them to just 134 total yards. The Mustangs managed to sack the Temple quarterback five times, illustrating their dominance remarkably on both sides of the ball.

Photo Cred: Underdog dynasty

A Promising Future

This victory marked SMU’s first conference shutout since their days in Conference USA and their second shutout of the season. With an undefeated record against conference opponents, the Mustangs look poised to compete for the conference championship title, making their transition to the ACC even more exciting and promising.

Southern Methodist’s successful fundraising campaign and its impressive performance on the field signal a bright future for the university as it makes the leap to the ACC. With substantial financial support and a winning spirit, SMU is well-prepared to thrive in its new athletic conference, showcasing the excellence and potential of both the university and the city of Dallas.

How Michael Penix Jr. Can Improve His Heisman Case

College
FBS
Pac-12

Huston Dunston

October 21, 2023

NCAA Football: California at Washington — Photo Cred: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

The Heisman Trophy, college football’s most prestigious individual honor, is a dream for many talented players. Michael Penix Jr., the Washington Huskies’ quarterback, is making a strong case to join the ranks of Heisman contenders this year. With a remarkable season so far, Penix is gearing up for a crucial showdown against Arizona State University (ASU), which might be his best opportunity yet to enhance his Heisman resume.

Photo Cred: Washington

In the 2023 college football season, Michael Penix Jr. has established himself as one of the nation’s top players. With impressive statistics, he is capturing the attention of fans, pundits, and Heisman voters alike. As the Washington Huskies’ star quarterback, Penix has thrown for an astounding 2,301 yards, connecting on 20 touchdowns while throwing a mere three interceptions. These numbers undoubtedly set him apart as a dynamic force on the football field.

ASU’s Vulnerable Defense

One of the critical factors working in Penix’s favor is the matchup against ASU this weekend. Arizona State’s defense, which has been uncharacteristically porous this season, is allowing an average of 339 yards per game to opposing teams. With the Washington Huskies’ offensive prowess, averaging 424 passing yards per game, this contest has all the makings of a high-scoring affair.

Penix Jr.’s Path to Heisman Glory

To have a shot at the Heisman Trophy, a player must exhibit exceptional skill, leadership, and consistency throughout the season. Michael Penix Jr. has undoubtedly displayed these attributes in his 2023 campaign. Let’s take a closer look at what makes him a legitimate contender:

Exceptional Passing Statistics: Penix’s 2,301 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, and three interceptions are truly outstanding. These statistics highlight his ability to read defenses, make accurate throws, and lead his team to victory.Photo Cred: Bally Sports
Consistency: He has consistently delivered strong performances week in and week out, proving that he is not just a one-game wonder. His ability to maintain a high level of play is a hallmark of a Heisman-worthy candidate.
Strong Team Performance: Penix’s individual success is intrinsically tied to the Washington Huskies’ overall performance. His leadership on the field has propelled his team to success, making their presence felt in the competitive college football landscape.
Opportune Moment: With USC QB Caleb Williams, another Heisman hopeful, losing a game last week, the field is wide open for Michael Penix Jr. to make his mark. Beating ASU and putting up an impressive performance could significantly boost his chances.

Photo Cred: Fox News

Michael Penix Jr.’s journey to the Heisman Trophy is in full swing, and the game against Arizona State this weekend is a crucial step in that journey. With remarkable passing statistics, a consistent performance record, and a vulnerable Sun Devils defense as the backdrop, Penix has a golden opportunity to further bolster his Heisman candidacy. As he lights up the scoreboard and showcases his talent, football fans around the nation will be keeping a close eye on this rising star and his quest for college football’s most coveted individual award.

Missouri’s Offense Looks To Take Advantage Of Struggling South Carolina Defense

College
FBS
SEC

Ethan Burke

October 21, 2023

South-Carolina-vs — Photo Cred: ClutchPoints

Mizzou is looking to maintain its impressive offensive momentum as the Tigers prepare to host South Carolina this Saturday. MU currently boasts a four-game winning streak against the Gamecocks heading into this weekend’s showdown.

South Carolina’s Defense is Having a Tough Season So Far

UofSC has encountered defensive difficulties this season. Clayton White’s total defense is ranked last in the Southeastern Conference, surrendering an average of 451.5 yards per game. South Carolina’s run defense is also struggling, placing ninth in the SEC with 129.83 yards per game. The team has allowed an average of 31.3 points per game, including two occasions where they gave up 41 points.

Defensively, the Gamecocks have faced their most significant challenges thus far. In their last two games, both losses to Tennessee and Florida, South Carolinas’ opponents managed to score 41 points. Tennessee quarterback Joe Milton threw for 239 yards and a touchdown. UofSC also allowed running back Jaylen Wright to gain 123 yards and score a touchdown in their 41-20 loss to the Volunteers. In the Florida game, QB Graham Mertz passed for 423 yards and three touchdowns, leading the team to a 41-39 victory last weekend. The Gators’ offense managed to move the ball down the field in less than two minutes, securing the game-winning touchdown with only 47 seconds left on the clock.

Photo Cred: Gators Wire – USA Today

Even in their two victories, White’s defense faced challenges. South Carolina had to rely on an explosive offensive display in their 37-30 victory over Mississippi State in September. MSU QB Will Rogers finished with an impressive 487 yards and a touchdown. Bulldogs wide receiver Lideatrick Griffin tallied 256 yards and a touchdown on seven receptions. In their Week 2 win over Furman, the Gamecocks allowed 21 points. Paladins QB Tyler Huff managed 129 yards and a touchdown, while WR Joshua Harris added 73 yards.

For UofSC to have a chance against Missouri, several players will need to step up. Defensive back Jalon Kilgore leads the team in tackles and currently ranks fifth in the SEC with 53 tackles (31 solo). Sophomore DB DQ Smith also plays a crucial role for the Gamecocks, contributing 45 tackles (20 solo), a forced fumble, and an interception in six games. Defensive tackle TJ Sanders leads White’s defense with 4.5 sacks, achieving a sack in three out of four SEC games this season.

Missouri’s Offense Aims to Stay Hot

In 2023, the Tigers’ offense has been a standout feature. Kirby Moore’s offensive unit ranks fourth in the SEC, averaging 33.9 points per game and 446.6 yards per game.

This week, MU received several midseason awards on their offense. The offensive line room earned a spot on the Joe Moore Award’s Midseason Honor Roll, with OL Javon Foster securing a place on the Midseason All-America Second-Team Offense. WR Luther Burden III was recognized on the Midseason All-America First-Team Offense and was also unanimously voted as a Midseason All-American. QB Brady Cook found a place on the Manning Award Midseason Watch List. Both Cook and Burden were mentioned in the Midseason Maxwell Award Watch List.

Photo Cred: Missouri Athletics

Cook has had an impressive season leading the offense, amassing 2,054 yards and 14 touchdowns in seven games. The junior has delivered standout performances, including Missouri’s 38-21 victory over Vanderbilt a few weeks ago, where he recorded 395 yards and four touchdowns. Burden is currently the third-leading receiver in the nation, with 808 yards and five touchdowns. The WR has achieved five games with over 100 receiving yards. WR Theo Wease Jr. has also been significant for Moore’s offense, contributing 400 yards and five touchdowns so far this season. His best game came against the Commodores, where he registered 118 yards and a touchdown. WRs Mookie Cooper and Marquis Johnson, along with tight end Brett Norfleet, also play pivotal roles in the Tigers’ offense.

RB Cody Schrader is having a strong senior season, ranking as the 19th-leading rusher in the nation with 648 yards and seven touchdowns on 114 carries. The senior’s most notable performance this season was in Mizzou’s 49-39 loss to LSU, where he accumulated 114 yards and three touchdowns. However, the RB is listed as questionable for this Saturday’s contest. RB Nathaniel Peat has also contributed to MU’s ground attack with 274 yards and two touchdowns.

Photo Cred: X.com (Wease Jr., Burden III, Cooper)

Gametime

Missouri will kick off against South Carolina on Saturday at 2:30 P.M. CT at Faurot Field, with the game broadcast on SEC Network.

Contender or Pretender? A Look at the NFL’s .500 Teams

American Sports
NFL
Pro

Troy Finnegan

October 20, 2023

ezgif.com-webp-to-jpg (5) — Photo Cred: USA Today

We’re six weeks into the NFL season, and the elite are starting to separate themselves from the pack. As the standings shake out for the season, those teams in the middle of the pack are still looking to cement themselves as they jostle for playoff position.

Eight teams sit at 3-3, right in the middle, with their seasons ready to go one way or the other. A contender doesn’t necessarily mean they’re a Super Bowl contender, just a team that will be in the playoff mix at the end of the year. Let’s get started.

Atlanta Falcons: Contender

Photo Cred: Fox Sports

The early returns on Desmond Ridder have been poor, but I still believe in Arthur Smith and this group of skill position players in a weak NFC South. Contrary to preseason expectations, the Falcons defense is the unit making me hang onto my stock. Atlanta ranks fourth in the NFL in total defense through six weeks, and they’re the third-best unit in football on third down. Jessie Bates has been a superstar in the Falcons’ secondary, and their linebacker group led by Kaden Elliss has been stellar as well.

Cincinnati Bengals: Contender

Photo Cred: ESPN

Joe Burrow looks healthy again, Ja’Marr Chase is always open, and all is right in Cincinnati. After what seemed like a nightmare start to the Bengals’ season, Cincinnati won two straight and sit at 3-3, right in the middle of the playoff picture. Each unit shined in the last two weeks for Cincinnati, with their offense rolling over the Cardinals and their defense stifling the Seahawks. Last Sunday’s win over Seattle was impressive, as the defense held the Seahawks offense to just three points in four second half red-zone trips.

Houston Texans: Contender

Photo Cred: AP News

I’m buying all of the Houston stock after six weeks. The Texans have so many unexpected bright spots, none shining more brilliantly than C.J. Stroud. As a rookie, Stroud has already been playing like one of the 10 or 12 best quarterbacks in the league, showing elite processing ability and anticipation right from the jump in his young career. Nico Collins is enjoying a breakout season at receiver, and DeMeco Ryans has this defense punching far above their weight this season. The Jags are still the class of the AFC South, but I expect Houston to battle for a wild card spot down the stretch.

Indianapolis Colts: Pretender

Photo Cred: USA Today

Anthony Richardson’s season-ending shoulder injury is a massive bummer, as the rookie was playing good football to start his career. The Colts still would’ve been pretenders either way. The Indianapolis defense has been a bottom-10 unit in football, both in yards and points this season. I don’t trust the offensive weapons to prop Gardner Minshew up enough for the offense to keep its current pace. The schedule is not bad, but the Colts can’t keep up in a crowded AFC.

Las Vegas Raiders: Pretender

Photo Cred: Silver and Black Pride

I don’t see where the Raiders fit in in a muddy AFC playoff picture. The Vegas defense has performed above expectation due to Maxx Crosby putting together a Defensive Player of the Year caliber season. The offense has not held up its end of the bargain. Las Vegas is putting up just 16.7 points per game this season, and I don’t trust the defense to keep up their production, even with Crosby wreaking havoc week in and week out.

Los Angeles Rams: Contender

Photo Cred: ESPN

I struggled with where to put the Rams on this list, but I ultimately trust Sean McVay and this offense to get them into the playoffs. Cooper Kupp has hit the ground running since returning from injury. Puka Nacua continues to produce opposite him. The defense has been solid, despite their lack of talent, and in a weak NFC, fine might just be good enough. The schedule isn’t friendly; the Rams have meetings with the Cowboys, Ravens, and Browns ahead in addition to their second game with the mighty 49ers, but the Rams should be fine.

New York Jets: Pretender, unless…

The Jets, somewhat miraculously, sit at 3-3 despite Zach Wilson at quarterback. It’s a testament to their incredible defense. This Jets season feels like a repeat of last year, with a great defense buoying a poor offense and hoping that’s good enough to squeak into the playoffs. The problem is, the defense has slightly regressed from the best-in-the-league caliber squad of a year ago to just a great unit, and I’m not sure that’s good enough. The Jets need to try to make a move to upgrade the quarterback position short-term in order to compete in a division with two of the AFC’s top teams.

Washington Commanders: Pretender

Photo Cred: WTOP

The Commanders are one of those teams that always leaves you wanting more. Their defense has been awful, ranking 29th in total defense and 30th in scoring defense, despite having arguably the most talented front four in the NFL. In the secondary, first-round rookie Emmanuel Forbes was benched last week after brutal showings against Philadelphia and Chicago. The Commanders’ offense has been fun to watch but is extremely erratic under the leadership of Sam Howell. Howell has flashed traits of a franchise quarterback but still needs to develop some down-to-down consistency and eliminate the negative plays from his game for this to be a more consistent unit.

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