SMU Dominates LA Tech in Season Opener

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September 3, 2023

Southern Methodist University (SMU) quarterback Preston Stone launched the 2023 season with an impressive 38-14 victory over Louisiana Tech, showcasing his prowess by completing 23 of 37 passing attempts for 248 yards and three touchdowns, all in the first half of the game. Stone, who redshirted in 2021 and saw limited action in three games, displayed his adaptability by completing three passes for 24 yards and rushing for two yards before suffering a season-ending broken collarbone in last year’s match against Tulsa.

Photo Cred: Dallas Morning

The backbone of SMU’s success stemmed from their formidable defense, which relentlessly pressured Bulldogs quarterback Hank Bachmeier, tallying six sacks and securing a pick-six from transfer player Kori Roberson. The defense also notched an impressive 11 tackles for a loss. Conversely, the Bulldogs struggled to reach Stone, as the Mustangs’ offensive line prevented a single sack throughout the game.

Photo Cred: Dallas Morning

In a critical moment, Mustangs wide receiver Jordan Hudson scored the game’s first touchdown late in the first quarter. Hudson debuted with the Mustangs after transferring from TCU, where he played 14 games and recorded three touchdowns and 174 receiving yards. Although Stone had a sluggish start in the second half, he later orchestrated a drive in the game’s waning moments, culminating in a rushing touchdown.

Photo Cred: Emerald McIntyre

These additional repetitions afforded Stone valuable experience running the offense as he prepares for the upcoming season, which will be crucial as the team embarks on road games across state lines. Looking ahead, SMU will travel to Oklahoma next week to face the Sooners, who blanked Arkansas State with a commanding 73-0 shutout earlier in the day.

NFL 2023-24 Position Group Rankings: Secondaries

By

Troy Finnegan

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September 2, 2023

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We’re less than a week from the 2023-24 NFL season, and the excitement is building as the preseason is in full swing. I’m diving into each position group, from the quarterbacks to the kickers, and ranking them before the season kicks off in Kansas City on Sept. 7. We wrap up the defense by looking at the defensive backs.

1. Denver Broncos

My hot take that’s becoming less and less hot with each game: Patrick Surtain II is the best cover corner in football. Surtain has great feet and fluid hips and uses his long frame to disrupt routes. Not many teams have someone who can take away half of the field, but the Broncos do. Surround that with two excellent safeties (Justin Simmons and Kareem Jackson), a good nickel (K’Waun Williams), and a hybrid player who has the potential to excel both in the box and back deep (Caden Sterns) and you have a group that’s worthy of the number one ranking.

Photo Cred: Miles High Report

2. New York Jets

Sauce Gardner blew past lofty expectations. As a rookie, he emerged as one of the best corners in the NFL and earned first-team All-Pro honors in year one. Opposite him, D.J. Reed was excellent at coverage a year ago, giving the Jets the best cover duo in football. The safeties are a bit more of a question mark, but when you can leave both your corners on an island on most downs, it provides an advantage for the defense.

3. Dallas Cowboys

By now, everyone knows that Trevon Diggs is the best corner in football at taking the ball away, but he is becoming more consistent down-to-down in coverage. The spot opposite Diggs has plagued the Cowboys but adding Stephon Gilmore in free agency should shore that up. Safety is more of a question in Dallas, but the trio of Malik Hooker, Jayson Kearse, and Donovan Wilson should be more than enough to make this an elite unit with the talent at the corner.

4. Cleveland Browns

This ranking may seem high, but the Browns’ secondary is full of young talent that could be ready to blow up. I’m expecting a breakout season for Greg Newsome II at the corner opposite Denzel Ward, which would give Cleveland a great pair of cover guys on the outside. Juan Thornhill brings some big-game experience from Kansas City, and former LSU standout Grant Delpit could be ready for another leap in year three after showing improvement in 2022.

5. Buffalo Bills

The Bills possess the best safety tandem in football in veterans Micah Hyde and Jordan Poyer, who should anchor an elite unit if healthy. Tre’Davious White has struggled to stay healthy over the past two seasons but still has shutdown ability. Buffalo needs a second corner and hopes former first-rounder Kaiir Elam can grow to that role.

6. Philadelphia Eagles

The Eagles will miss Marcus Epps and C.J. Gardner-Johnson at safety, both of whom departed this offseason. The corners, however, are still elite. James Bradberry and Darius Slay can each cover any receiver in the league, and that enough lands the Eagles in the top 10. If safeties Reid Blankenship and Terrell Edmunds can come close to the production that Epps and Gardner-Johnson reached last season, this will be a high-end unit again in 2023.

Photo Cred: SI

7. Miami Dolphins

The Jalen Ramsey era in Miami isn’t off to a great start after Ramsey suffered a meniscus injury in camp. With Ramsey out until December, the onus will again be on Xavien Howard as the number one guy, something he has proven more than capable of doing. When Ramsey gets back, the pairing of him and Howard on the outside gives the Dolphins two of the top corners in the game.

8. Baltimore Ravens

The question for the Ravens’ secondary (like the rest of their roster) is always health. When healthy, they have a top-10 unit in the back end with Marlon Humphrey playing at an elevated level. Baltimore also has a good safety duo of Marcus Williams and second-year man Kyle Hamilton, who really came into his own doing a lot of different things for the defense last season.

9. Seattle Seahawks

The Seahawks struck gold in the 2022 draft with Tariq Woolen, who picked off a league-leading six passes as a rookie. Woolen is a gambler on the outside, but the duo of him and 2023 No. 5 overall pick Devon Witherspoon gives the Seahawks a promising young tandem at the corner. There’s more experience at safety, with Quandre Diggs back in center field and Jamal Adams on the mend from his knee injury suffered in week one last season.

10. Kansas City Chiefs

The Chiefs’ secondary players were the unsung heroes of their Super Bowl run a season ago, filled with late-round gems. L’Jarius Sneed’s development into a number-one corner has been rapid, and Trent McDuffie came on in the slot toward the end of the year. With veteran safety Justin Reid tying things together in year two in Kansas City, this could be a solid group right from the jump.

11. Carolina Panthers

Jaycee Horn has struggled to stay healthy since being drafted in the top 10, but he has been an absolute monster on the field. Horn can shut down half of the field. He can seriously bolster this unit if he can remain healthy. The Panthers also added safety Vonn Bell from Cincinnati this offseason, adding to a solid safety room that includes Xavier Woods and Jeremy Chinn. The Panthers are searching for a number two corner, but if they find one? Watch out.

12. New England Patriots

This Pats secondary is underrated and underappreciated. Kyle Dugger is already a star at safety, using his supernatural physical traits to play the run and be a great cover man in both man and zone. They round out the secondary with rock-solid starters in Jabrill Peppers, Jonathan Jones, and Jalen Mills.

Photo Cred: USA Today

13. San Francisco 49ers

It remains to be seen what this defense will look like without DeMeco Ryans pulling the strings, but they still have plenty of talent on the back end. Talanoa Hufanga is a heat-seeking missile at safety, and Charvarius Ward developed into a top-end corner last season. The Niners also have a promising pair of young DBs in Deommodore Lenoir and Isaiah Oliver who can contribute immediately this season.

14. Los Angeles Chargers

Asante Samuel Jr. could benefit from some better hands, but he’s figuring out the rest of this “playing corner in the NFL” quickly. Samuel is sticky in coverage and has great instincts and pairing him with a (finally) healthy J.C. Jackson should give the Chargers an elite duo on the outside. And that’s not to mention Derwin James, the do-it-all force that anchors the Chargers defense from the safety position.

15. New Orleans Saints

There are questions at the second corner spot for the Saints, but they don’t have to worry about the No. 1 role with Marshon Lattimore back in the fold. Lattimore is still a top-tier corner and should elevate this unit once again. Tyrann Mathieu returns to safety, giving the Saints a great duo in the back end. If the second corner spot gets figured out, this should be one of the Saints’ strengths.

16. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

It’s been an up-and-down few seasons for the Bucs in the secondary (and as a whole). They do have continuity, with Jamel Dean and Carlton Davis III once again filling the corner spots and Antoine Winfield Jr. back at safety, but all three have been inconsistent over the past few years. If they can return to their peak level of 2020-21, they can carry this defense to a strong season.

17. Cincinnati Bengals

This off-season was the time for the Bengals front office to pay the piper, and it turns out safeties Jessie Bates III and Vonn Bell were the odd men out. Now, Cincy turns to Dax Hill and Nick Scott in the back end, hoping they can fill those big shoes. The good news is that they will get Chidobe Awuzie back on the outside.

18. Pittsburgh Steelers

Minkah Fitzpatrick is one of the best safeties in football, someone who can change a game instantly with his nose for the football and his ability to cause turnovers. On the outside, things are a little spottier. Veteran Patrick Peterson was brought in and still is a solid starter, though he is past his prime. Pittsburgh will need rookie Joey Porter Jr. to hit to solidify the Steel Curtain.

Photo Cred: NY Post

19. Green Bay Packers

Green Bay still has a shutdown corner in Jaire Alexander, but the secondary is haphazard after that. Darnell Savage has had his moments at safety but is coming off a down year in 2022. Another player looking for a bounce back year in Green Bay is Rasul Douglas, who was excellent in 2021 but came back to earth last season. If the two can rebound, the Packers can field an above-average unit.

20. Washington Commanders

The Commanders are transitioning in the secondary, with veteran corner Kendall Fuller holding it together while the youth come along. Kamren Curl has made strides as a safety, and the team is extremely high on rookie first-round pick Emmanuel Forbes Jr. at the corner. The Commanders don’t need this unit to be elite, but they need them to be good enough to complement their elite front line.

21. Atlanta Falcons

A.J. Terrell took a slight step back in 2022 after an amazing 2021 season, but I expect him to return to form again in 2023. Terrell struggled with scheme fit and some injuries a year ago, but he is too good a cover man to struggle like that again. Pairing a talent like that with former Bengals safety Jessie Bates III in the Falcons secondary should give them a big boost this season.

22. Chicago Bears

Chicago has a very volatile unit, with guys who have plenty of difficulties. Sometimes, Eddie Jackson looks like an elite safety, and other times looks lost in the back end. Corner Jaylon Johnson has shown very promising ability in his first few seasons and could be in for a breakout season.

23. Houston Texans

The Texans have quietly stockpiled talent in the back end of their defense. Safeties Jalen Pitre and former 49er Jimmie Ward form a strong duo, but the headliner in this group is Derek Stingley Jr. The 2022 No. 3 overall pick was good in his rookie season but was put into a box in the Texans’ cover two heavy schemes. New head coach DeMeco Ryans should let Stingley play more man coverage and allow him to highlight his incredible physical traits, and Stingley could really take off in 2023.

24. Tennessee Titans

The Titans have missed on a lot of recent draft picks in recent years but may have finally found a solid starter last year in Roger McCreary. Tennessee also added Sean Murphy-Bunting from Tampa Bay, who has been a solid contributor in coverage for a few years. Kevin Byard may be out of his prime, but he is still a good ball-hawking safety, and that should make this group at least serviceable.

Photo Cred: ESPN

25. Minnesota Vikings

With Patrick Peterson gone, it’s all up to the young talent on Minnesota’s roster to carry the burden at the corner. They did add Byron Murphy from Arizona, who will immediately be the number one guy. However, youngsters Andrew Booth Jr., Akayleb Evans, and Mekhi Blackmon will manage business on the outside. At least veteran Harrison Smith is back to quarterback the secondary at safety.

26. Detroit Lions

The Lions made a concerted effort to upgrade the secondary in the offseason, adding one of the top safeties in the game in C.J. Gardner-Johnson and drafting Brian Branch out of Alabama in the first round. Both are versatile pieces that can play different roles, and both should be quality contributors in year one in Detroit. Despite that, the Lions still have plenty of questions at the outside corner, where Emmanuel Mosely and Cameron Sutton are the week one starters.

27. Jacksonville Jaguars

No names jump off the screen in Jacksonville, but Tyson Campbell quietly grew into a good cover corner last season. The rest of the names in the secondary aren’t flashy, but they do form a group of solid veterans with safety Rayshawn Jenkins and nickel Trey Herndon.

28. New York Giants

The Giants are running it back and hoping for internal growth from a group that played average to below average a year ago. Adoree’ Jackson is a solid cover corner and a freak athlete. Hard-hitting safety Xavier McKinney has shown potential as a box safety who can be physical in the run game.

29. Indianapolis Colts

Stephon Gilmore is gone, but Kenny Moore II returns and is still one of the best nickel players in football. Outside of Moore, however, the Colts are extremely thin at the corner, with multiple recent day-three draft picks competing for starting jobs.

30. Arizona Cardinals

The Cardinals officially waved the white flag on this group when they traded away Isaiah Simmons during the preseason. They have an excellent safety duo in promising Jalen Thompson and young star Budda Baker but are incredibly weak at the corner. Without Simmons’ versatility in the slot, the Cardinals can’t cover well enough to be any higher on this list.

Photo Cred: Arizona Cardinals

31. Las Vegas Raiders

The Raiders are another team that doesn’t have enough starter-level players in the secondary to field a good unit. Former TCU standout Trevon Moehrig has shown some promise, but it won’t be enough to lift this group.

32. Los Angeles Rams

The Rams are simply out of talent in the secondary after trading away Jalen Ramsey this offseason. Ramsey’s departure made four key contributors gone from a year ago in Los Angeles, including Taylor Rapp, Nick Scott, and Troy Hill. Cobie Durant is a promising young player, but this is a developmental year for the Rams’ secondary.

Most Surprising NFL Roster Cuts

By

Andrew Bruner

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September 2, 2023

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maxresdefault — Photo Cred: YouTube- Chat Sports

Background

Tuesday at 4 P.M. was a critical day in the NFL landscape. By that time, all NFL teams had to cut their preseason rosters to 53 players in time for the start of the season. Over 30 players had to be cut from each team by Tuesday. As rosters shuffled and a flurry of valuable players became available, here are the most surprising cuts made by NFL teams.

Photo Cred: ClutchPoints

Desmond King – Houston Texans

King, a former all-pro with the Chargers back in 2018, remains one of the most consistent slot cornerbacks in the league. If there’s one knock on him, it’s that he’s limited to being just a slot cornerback. Regardless, that doesn’t take from his value in that role. The Texans surprisingly cut King after he lost the starting slot role to young CB Ja’Sir Taylor. Houston has a bounty of depth at the position, but letting King loose is still an odd decision. He’s already been picked up by the Pittsburgh Steelers through waivers and will now look to compete for their starting slot corner role.

Photo Cred: Steelers Now

Darius Rush – Indianapolis Colts

Rush makes this list after being a surprising cut by the Indianapolis Colts. He was a CB taken at the top of the 5th round back in April and will now be playing for a new team in less than six months. The Colts wanted to hold on to Rush, hoping that he would clear waivers and they could sign him to their practice squad. Unfortunately for them, the Kansas City Chiefs decided to take on a CB they probably liked themselves back during the draft. This occurred even though they were last in the waiver order! Indianapolis has maintained that fellow 2023 7th-round pick Jaylon Jones was the reason Rush was cut. Jones managed to outplay him in the preseason. The team had better hope they made the right choice because the Chiefs now add an ultra-talented young CB to their back seven.

Photo Cred: YouTube

Bradley Roby – New Orleans Saints

Continuing the CB trend, Bradley Roby was another surprising cut made by the New Orleans Saints. Roby was traded to New Orleans in 2021 for a third-round pick. Now, he finds his job replaced by 2022 second-round pick CB Alontae Taylor. He has to head to the buyout market yet again… Roby remains a capable corner, both inside and out, and would be an excellent late offseason addition to many teams. It’s hard to fault the Saints too much for moving on to their young guy. However, trading a third-rounder for somebody who was off the team in less than two years stings a bit.

Photo Cred: NFL.com

Bailey Zappe – New England Patriots

QB Bailey Zappe was maybe the most surprising out of any of these cuts, as he was a fourth-round pick made by the Patriots just last year. Zappe was one of the most interesting stories around the league in 2022. Amid QB Mac Jones’ struggles, the television broadcast picked up Patriots fans chanting “We want Zappe” in the crowd. This happened after a couple of exciting performances from the rookie. Today, the team seems fully behind Jones, waiving Zappe and initially leaving Jones as the team’s only rostered QB. Second-year QB Matt Corral, formerly of the Carolina Panthers, was recently claimed off waivers by New England. He looks to be Mac Jones’ new backup now. After clearing waivers, Zappe was added to the team’s practice squad, meaning this fascinating saga may not be entirely over.

Photo Cred: Boston Sports Journal

NFL Season 2024 Outlook

By

Stephen Patrick

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September 2, 2023

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1000_F_431743763_in9BVVzCI36X304StR89pnxyUYzj1dwa — Photo Cred: Adobe Stock

As the summer heat gives way to fall, anticipation is building for another thrilling season of the National Football League (NFL) in 2024. Teams are sharpening their strategies, rookies ready to make their mark, and fans eagerly waiting to cheer on their favorites. It’s football season!

Rookie Impact

One of the most exciting aspects of each NFL season is the emergence of new talent. The 2024 season is no exception, with a fresh crop of rookies poised to make their mark. From quarterbacks with pinpoint accuracy to defensive linemen with incredible speed off the edge, these rookies bring a blend of skills that could potentially reshape the league’s landscape. Bryce Young and C.J. Stroud are the most game-ready quarterbacks. The supporting cast must prove they can thrive. The talent advantages they enjoyed in college will not be there in their first season.

Photo Cred: NBC Sports

Quarterback Showdowns

The quarterback position continues to be the heart and soul of the NFL. The 2024 season promises epic battles between seasoned veterans and rising stars. The classic matchups between Patrick Mahomes and Lamar Jackson and the anticipated duels between young guns like Trevor Lawrence and Justin Field will captivate fans’ attention. These showdowns not only highlight individual talent but also evaluate the strategic brilliance of the coaching staff. Russel Wilson & Jimmy G in the AFC West must show success with their last teams wasn’t flukes. The AFC is stacked with Justin Herbert, Deshaun Watson, Aaron Rodgers, Josh Allen, and Tua Tagovailoa at the helm.

Photo Cred: CBS Sports

Innovative Gameplay

With each passing season, NFL teams are pushing the boundaries of gameplay innovation. The 2024 season is expected to witness an even greater emphasis on creative play-calling. Coaches are designing intricate schemes to keep defenses guessing. The Kansas City Chiefs have led the way with creativity. Trick plays, wildcat formations, and innovative use of special teams are all in the playbook, making each game a canvas for strategic brilliance. Players are now making a roster based on trick play playmaking.

Photo Cred: The Big Lead

SMU President Announces School Will Join ACC

By

Jesus Gomez

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September 1, 2023

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DX-Photo-Template-2023-09-01T122239.013 — Photo Cred: Dallas Express

SMU President Gerald Turner shared groundbreaking news with the university community and the world. Starting July 1, 2024, SMU will officially join the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). The scene celebrating the university’s acceptance into the Atlantic Coast Conference on Friday was quite the contrast to previous somber days. It was 36 years ago when SMU received what is still the only so-called death penalty over NCAA recruiting violations.

Photo Cred: SMU

In his own words, President Turner said, “All of my years as President of SMU, I’ve never had as many emails, texts, and calls in one day as I’ve had today. And it’s been a joy because everybody I’ve talked to has been unbelievably happy.”

The ACC, known for its athletic prowess and strong academic institutions, was the desired destination for SMU. The university had been working diligently to position itself for this opportunity. David Miller, Chairman of SMU’s Board of Trustees, played a crucial role in this endeavor. He emphasized that this move is not only about athletic success but will also enhance SMU’s academic reputation nationally.

Photo Cred: CNN

“This transformational move will do much more than just enhance SMU athletically,” he said. “Being in the same fraternity and rubbing shoulders consistently with some of the absolute finest academic institutions in the country is going to reposition the way this university is perceived academically at a national level.”

The news has ignited excitement within the SMU community. The belief is it will eventually energize the city of Dallas around SMU athletics. SMU will forgo nine years of TV revenue for more exposure. Rick Hart (SMU’s Director of Athletics) praised the commitment of everyone involved, from donors who supported the construction of facilities to the resolute board members and university leadership.

Photo Cred: Dallas Morning News

“The incredible donor support we’ve had over the past decade and, more recently, the underwriting that’s come together in support of this initiative were differentiators for us and made a very large impression on the PAC 12 and the ACC.”

SMU is preparing for its final year in the American Athletic Conference. They will have to pay an early termination fee when they leave the AAC. The Mustangs have been undeniably struggling ever since the Southwest Conference ceased to exist in 1996. Additionally, it’s also been seven years after the shutdown of the SMU football program.

Giants Game-by-Game Predictions

By

Arnav Sarkar

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September 1, 2023

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jywoq1weirjwosm3j8vk — Photo Cred: Giants.com

With the NFL regular season quickly approaching, it is officially time to unveil my New York Football Giants game-by-game record predictions! The team had a promising 9-7-1 campaign that included a playoff appearance and win over the Minnesota Vikings on the road. However, their season came to an end with a blowout loss to the eventual NFC champion Philadelphia Eagles. With that being said, Brian Daboll and Joe Schoen revitalized the Giants. Despite the lack of star receivers, New York won many close games and clinched their first playoff berth since 2016. This is a great result after a 4-12 record the year before.

The Giants went to work in free agency, signing Parris Campbell, Bobby Okereke, Darren Waller, A’Shawn Robinson, and trading for Isaiah Simmons. They also drafted well, adding Deonte Banks, John Michael Schmitz, and Jalin Hyatt to fulfill the team’s biggest needs. The receiving core looks a lot better with Hyatt and Campbell, as well as receiving tight end Waller. RB Saquon Barkley returns to lead the Giants’ running back room as well.

Photo Cred: Giants Wire – USA Today Photo Cred: Twitter

On defense, Xavier McKinney and Banks star in the secondary. Kayvon Thibodeaux, Dexter Lawrence, and Leonard Williams are some of the big names up front for Big Blue. On the other side of the line of scrimmage, the offensive line will be led by All-Pro left tackle Andrew Thomas. Right tackle Evan Neal and center John Michael Schmitz will shore up the line as well. Graham Gano remains one of the league’s most accurate kickers.

QB Daniel Jones looks to prove that he deserves every penny of the $160 million contract he signed this offseason, especially with a better roster surrounding him. With a tough schedule, will that be enough for the Giants to return to the playoffs? Can they make some more noise in the postseason? Keep reading and you’ll find out!

Photo Cred: Giants.com Photo Cred: New York Post

Week 1: Giants vs. Cowboys, Sunday, September 10th, 8:20 PM, NBC (SNF)

The Giants open the 2023 season with a familiar first-week opponent and hated division rival, the Dallas Cowboys. While the Cowboys have been dominant against the Giants in recent years, this year feels a little bit different. New York has gotten better on both sides of the football. While Dallas has too, MetLife Stadium will be electric for this Sunday Night Football clash.

Photo Cred: New Jersey 101.5

Daniel Jones connects with Jalin Hyatt for a deep touchdown and throws another to Darren Waller. He also adds 70 rushing yards and a score on the ground. Saquon rushes for 125 yards and a couple of touchdowns after an uncertain offseason. Dak Prescott throws a game-sealing interception to Deonte Banks with the Cowboys trailing by four with under two minutes left in the football game. Everything clicks for Big Blue, and disappointed Cowboys fans leave MetLife Stadium while Giants fans revel in the victory long after the clock hits triple zeroes!

Final score: Giants 35, Cowboys 31

Record prediction: 1-0

Week 2: Giants @ Cardinals, Sunday, September 17th, 4:05 PM, FOX

Photo Cred: Big Blue View

The Giants hit the road for the first time this season to visit the Arizona Cardinals. The Cardinals are rebuilding and will likely either start Josh Dobbs or Clayton Tune at quarterback. Arizona very well may have the NFL’s worst roster. They also recently traded one of their best players, Isaiah Simmons, to the Giants. After an inspiring victory in Week 1, the Giants hit some bumps on the road. Jones throws his first interception of the season, but he also scores four touchdowns. Two of them go to new addition Parris Campbell. The Giants win easily and improve to 2-0 to open the 2023 season.

Final score: Giants 28, Cardinals 7

Record prediction: 2-0

Week 3: Giants @ 49ers, Thursday, September 21st, 8:15 PM, Prime Video (TNF)

Photo Cred: Big Blue View

The Giants stay on the West Coast to visit the 49ers on Thursday Night Football. The Niners went to the NFC Championship game, and their roster looks just as talented (if not more) this season. A painful loss to Philly came one game after the Giants suffered the same fate. The Niners look to compete for another Super Bowl and the Giants aren’t quite there yet. On short rest and on the road, the Giants don’t have enough to compete with San Francisco’s loaded offense. DE Nick Bosa comes up with a big sack on Jones to prevent the Giants from a comeback bid late in the game. He will have returned to the Niners from his holdout for the regular season. QB Brock Purdy does just enough to manage the game and the 49ers hold on to get the win.

Final score: 49ers 28, Giants 14

Record prediction: 2-1

Week 4: Giants vs. Seahawks, Monday, October 2nd, 8:15 PM, ESPN (MNF)

Photo Cred: Big Blue View

The Giants return to MetLife Stadium for their third primetime clash in four games, when they host the Seattle Seahawks. They are coming off a similar resurgence as the Giants. The Seahawks rode a breakout season from longtime backup quarterback Geno Smith to a playoff appearance. They’ll look to end up in a similar position this season. New York lost to the Seahawks on the road last season. With an improved roster, playing at home, and being well-rested, the Giants get revenge this year, however. Barkley has a game-winning touchdown after a highlight catch from Waller puts Big Blue in the red zone late in the game.

Final score: Giants 28, Seahawks 24

Record prediction: 3-1

Week 5: Giants @ Dolphins, Sunday, October 8th, 1:00 PM, FOX

Photo Cred: Miami Herald

The Giants head to South Beach for their first 1 PM kickoff of the season. They take on another talented opponent, the Miami Dolphins. Led by star quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and receiver Tyreek Hill, the Dolphins look to contend in a crowded AFC East. Josh Allen’s Bills and Aaron Rodgers’ Jets will look to compete alongside them. Miami’s defense is tough at home, and Jones throws an untimely interception. Unfortunately, it goes for a pick-six with the Giants already down a touchdown…

Final score: Dolphins 35, Giants 21

Record prediction: 3-2

Week 6: Giants @ Bills, Sunday, October 15th, 8:20 PM, NBC (SNF)

Photo Cred: Giants.com

The Giants visit their second consecutive AFC East opponent and in-state opponent, the Buffalo Bills. Coming off another AFC East division title, the Bills have failed to break through to a Super Bowl. They are consistently one of the top teams in the AFC, however, and will be tough to beat at home. After a game in sunny Miami, the cold of Buffalo is a tough adjustment for Big Blue. Saquon Barkley has a big day on the ground, but Allen finds Stefon Diggs for two touchdowns. RB James Cook scores for the Bills as well. The Giants lose by double-digits for the second straight week. However, they come out of the toughest part of their schedule with a 3-3 record.

Final score: Bills 30, Giants 17

Record prediction: 3-3

Week 7: Giants vs. Commanders, Sunday, October 22nd, 1:00 PM, CBS

Photo Cred: Big Blue View

The Giants return home to battle another divisional opponent, the Washington Commanders. New York has been pretty successful against Washington in recent years, and that was before the Giants’ surge last season. After tying at MetLife last season, the Giants bounce back against the new-look Commanders. They win a close game on another Jalin Hyatt deep touchdown.

Final score: Giants 21, Commanders 14

Record prediction: 4-3

Week 8: Giants vs. Jets, Sunday, October 29th, 1:00 PM, CBS

Photo Cred: AP News

The Giants host the Jets for bragging rights between the two New York/New Jersey football teams. Both teams will have winning records coming into this contest. After Rodgers got into it with Jihad Ward during their preseason matchup, tensions will be high between Big Blue and Gang Green. Unfortunately for Giants fans, Rodgers throws five touchdowns and Jones falls one touchdown short. The Jets get a rare win over their MetLife stadium co-tenants, but at least the Jets also beat the Cowboys and Eagles. This will keep the Giants in the division race.

Final score: Jets 35, Giants 28

Record prediction: 4-4

Week 9: Giants @ Raiders, Sunday, November 5th, 4:25 PM, FOX

Photo Cred: Big Blue View

The Giants visit Las Vegas for a clash against the Raiders. Jimmy Garoppolo connects with Davante Adams for a couple of touchdowns and doesn’t turn the ball over. However, Jones lights up the Raiders defense with a couple of scores on the ground. He also finds Waller for a couple more touchdowns against his old team. The Giants offense has a field day, and Big Blue bounces back in a big way by blowing out the Raiders.

Final score: Giants 42, Raiders 21

Record prediction: 5-4

Week 10: Giants @ Cowboys, Sunday, November 12th, 4:25 PM, FOX

Photo Cred: Big Blue View

The Giants stay on the road for a rematch with the Cowboys. Dallas is always a tough place to play, especially for other NFC East teams. This is why things don’t go the Giants’ way in Jerry World. Dak Prescott redeems himself and finds his star-studded receivers for 300 yards and three touchdowns. Aside from a Kayvon Thibodeaux sack, the Giants struggle to keep up. The Cowboys get revenge and continue to hold second place in the NFC East behind the Eagles for the time being.

Final score: Cowboys 28, Giants 21

Record prediction: 5-5

Week 11: Giants @ Commanders, Sunday, November 19th, 1:00 PM, FOX

Photo Cred: Sporting News

Both defenses shine again in the rematch between the Giants and Commanders in D.C. Sam Howell throws an interception to Xavier McKinney while looking for Terry McLaurin on a deep ball. The Commanders, down seven late in the game, cannot prevent Graham Gano from icing the game with a field goal from 57 yards out.

Final score: Giants 24, Commanders 14

Record prediction: 6-5

Week 12: Giants vs. Patriots, Sunday, November 26th, 1:00. FOX

Photo Cred: Pats Pulpit

The Giants return home to battle their two-time Super Bowl opponent, the New England Patriots. Years later, New England’s dynasty is dead, and the Patriots are expected to come in last in a tough division that features three more talented teams. However, with Bill Belichick coaching, the Patriots aren’t going to be a pushover, and Mac Jones plays an interception-free game to keep the Pats close down the stretch. Daniel Jones makes some plays with his legs and the Big Blue defense does just enough to win the game, giving the Giants some momentum in a more favorable part of their schedule.

Final score: Giants 21, Patriots 17

Record prediction: 7-5

Week 13: Bye Week

The Giants get some well-deserved rest late into the 2023 season.

Photo Cred: 104.5 The Team ESPN Radio

Week 14: Giants vs. Packers, Monday, December 11th, 8:15 PM, ESPN

Photo Cred: Big Blue View

Coming off a bye week, the Giants battle the Green Bay Packers in a return to Monday Night Football. The Packers will be led by new starting quarterback Jordan Love, but they should be behind the Lions and Vikings in the NFC North. With Aaron Rodgers in New York now, they are working with a less talented roster. After the Giants beat a Rodgers-led Packers team in London, the Pack will struggle to keep up with the new-look Giants at MetLife. A well-rested Giants team takes care of business and cruises to victory over the Packers. With the loss, Green Bay struggles to keep up in the NFC Wild Card race.

Final score: Giants 28, Packers 14

Record prediction: 8-5

Week 15: Giants @ Saints, Sunday, December 17th, 1:00 PM, FOX

Photo Cred: SBNation.com

The Giants head to New Orleans to take on the Saints. Past matchups between the two teams have been interesting, and this New Orleans team is likely the best team in the NFC South. Derek Carr, Alvin Kamara, and Michael Thomas pose a threat on offense and the defense has solid pieces up front and in the secondary. Regardless, the Giants prove to be too much with all of their own receiving weapons. They win an exciting shootout similar to one the two teams had in 2015.

Final score: Giants 48, Saints 42

Record prediction: 9-5

Week 16: Giants @ Eagles, Monday, December 25th, 4:30 PM, FOX

After knocking off the Saints in a thriller, the Giants head to Lincoln Financial Field for a Christmas Day clash with the Eagles. Big Blue has not won in Philadelphia in nine years, and that is not expected to change this year either. Although the G-Men got better on both sides of the football, the Birds have done the same thing as well. They appear to be headed for another deep playoff run.

Photo Cred: Twitter

The Giants have more weapons in the passing game than they did last year, which will take some pressure away from Saquon Barkley and Eric Gray. However, they still don’t have enough to keep up with an energized Eagles team that is playing for the #1 seed in the NFC. The Giants avoid a blowout loss but can’t close the gap on the Eagles. Jalen Hurts airs it out to AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith while the Giants fall behind. DT Jalen Carter effectively ends the game with a strip-sack on Daniel Jones that lets Philadelphia run out the clock.

Final score: Eagles 42, Giants 30

Record prediction: 9-6

Week 17: Giants vs. Rams, Sunday, December 31st, 1:00 PM, FOX

Photo Cred: Big Blue View

The Giants return home to battle the Los Angeles Rams on New Year’s Eve. After a tough loss in Philadelphia, the Rams are a perfect get-right opponent. They are largely devoid of the talent that got them to a Super Bowl win a few seasons ago. DT Aaron Donald impresses with a couple of sacks, but the Rams’ offense is terrible. New York clinches a Wild Card spot with some firepower of their own. Darren Waller scores two touchdowns, Jones runs in one more, and the Giants win handily going into the new year. The Giants are tied with the Cowboys for the NFC’s first Wild Card spot at 10-6. The G-Men have the tiebreaker in hand and each team has one more game to play.

Final score: Giants 35, Rams 13

Record prediction: 10-6

Week 18: Giants vs. Eagles, Sunday, January 7th, Time TBD, TV TBD

Photo Cred: Sports Illustrated

The Giants and Eagles face off for the second time in three weeks in the return game back at MetLife. Fortunately for Big Blue, the Birds have locked up the #1 seed after defeating the Cardinals the week prior. Philadelphia makes the wise decision to rest its starters, while the Giants need a victory to clinch the fifth seed ahead of the Cowboys. The Giants roll their starters out, taking out all their anger on the team that humiliated them in the playoffs a season ago. New York romps to a comfortable victory over backup quarterback Tanner McKee and the Eagles’ second and third stringers. Big Blue clinches the NFC’s fifth seed with their 11th win of the season. With this, they advance to the wild-card round for another duel with the New Orleans Saints.

Final score: Giants 31, Eagles 17

Record prediction: 11-6

NFC Wild Card Round: #5 New York Giants @ #4 New Orleans Saints, Time TBD, TV TBD

The Giants return to the playoffs after improving on their 9-7-1 record from a season ago. Just like last year, they visit a regular-season opponent in their opening-round matchup. This time, however, Big Blue had a victory in the prior matchup. The Saints were the most consistent, experienced, and talented team in the NFC South. QB Derek Carr led New Orleans back to the playoffs with a 9-8 record. However, the Giants return to the Big Easy looking for more playoff success, and they bring their A-game. Jones finds Darren Waller for two touchdowns, Darius Slayton has a 100-yard performance, and Barkley finds the end zone.

Photo Cred: NY Post

Carr finds Michael Thomas and Chris Olave for scores through the air. Alvin Kamara makes the game interesting with a rushing touchdown of his own, but Dexter Lawrence lives in the Saints’ backfield and stuffs the run. The Giants take the lead on a Daniel Jones rushing touchdown with under a minute left. Carr, however, channels Kirk Cousins by finding TE Jimmy Graham short of the sticks on a last-call fourth down for New Orleans. The Giants are road warriors again and win another thriller between the two teams. They get to advance to the divisional round for a second straight year!

Final score: Giants 45, Saints 38

Giants advance to the Divisional Round to take on the 49ers

NFC Divisional Round: #5 New York Giants @ #2 San Francisco 49ers

The Giants return to San Francisco to take on the 49ers in another regular-season rematch. After a tough loss on the West Coast at the beginning of the season, the Giants look much better and are coming off a full week of rest. Jones, once again, distributes the ball to his playmakers. WR Isaiah Hodgins steps up again with another 100-yard performance to keep the Giants in the game. Entering halftime tied at 14, the Giants feel optimistic about their chances to win the football game.

Photo Cred: Elite Sports NY

However, in the second half, Christian McCaffrey and Deebo Samuel are all over the field, while the vaunted Niners pass rush forces the Giants to go back to the running game. Barkley and Gray share carries in the backfield, but that too is sniffed out by the Niners’ defensive line. New York’s offense stalls, even though they are trailing by seven with under four minutes left to play. The G-Mens’ backs are up against the wall on fourth down. However, former Eagle Javon Hargrave takes down Jones in the backfield. The Niners end up advancing to the NFC Championship Game for a rematch with the Philadelphia Eagles.

Final score: 49ers 27, Giants 20

Giants eliminated from the playoffs

Looking Forward to 2024!

Although the Giants season ends in the divisional round once again, they have taken another huge step forward. Big Blue has shown promise that they can compete with the top teams in the NFC. The offseason moves pan out well for the G-Men. Jones blossoms into the quarterback Giants fans hoped they were getting when he was drafted sixth overall years ago. The passing game opens up and eases the load on Barkley. He rushes for over 1,000 yards once again and finally earns his second contract with Big Blue. Andrew Thomas and Evan Neal both become all-pro tackles and bookend a strong offensive line, giving Jones time to throw.

Photo Cred: Giants.com

Waller, Jalin Hyatt, Parris Campbell, Hodgins, and Darius Slayton become a fearsome five on offense. Kayvon Thibodeaux, Dexter Lawrence, and Leonard Williams continue to lead a talented defense. In the secondary, rookie cornerback Deonte Banks shines and complements talented safety Xavier McKinney. Things go just about as well as they could for New York, but the roster is still not quite up to the level of the Eagles and 49ers. However, with a few more offseason moves, the Giants will prove to be quite the contenders in 2024. They will win their fifth Super Bowl, upsetting the 49ers, Eagles, and Chiefs along the way!

First in History: Tigers Take on Notre Dame

By

Chante Gayden

-

September 1, 2023

0

The football team of Tennessee State University will play against Notre Dame this weekend. This season’s opener game will be the first time in history that a historically Black college plays against an FCS team (football championship subdivision team). They are in two completely different conferences. TSU (Tennessee State University) in the OVC (Ohio Valley Conference) and Notre Dame in the FCS. The two opponents have never met, and the stakes are high.

Photo Cred: Saturday Blitz

No. 13 Notre Dame (1-0) opened the season last week with a 42-3 win over Navy in Dublin, Ireland. Tennessee has not competed yet this season. Given the history from last year’s season, Tennessee finished with a record of 4-7, and Notre Dame finished with 9-4. The Leprechauns and head coach Marcus Freeman must secure their first win on their home field to prove they are the better team.

Eddie George, head coach for Tennessee State University’s football team, places trust in his defensive line as they limited their opponents to 190.1 passing yards per game last season, making them 19th in the FCS. Notre Dame ranked no. 13 will be the toughest matchup this team has faced yet. This game will be tough as each team is relentless on the field. It will be a game about who can execute the best. Will the offense of Notre Dame override Tennessee State’s defense or is Tennessee strong enough to stand its ground?

Photo Cred: Yahoo Sports

The biggest challenge for Notre Dame in its first-ever matchup with an FCS and HBCU school will be itself. How do the Fighting Irish respond mentally and to a lesser degree physically after traveling to and from Ireland for last week’s 42-3 win over Navy? Notre Dame is simply bigger, faster, and better than Eddie George’s TSU squad.

Photo Cred: Rivals

You never want to take an opponent for granted, but Tennessee State isn’t in Notre Dame’s league from a talent perspective. Offensively, the Irish continue their momentum under quarterback Sam Hartman. The Wake Forest transfer lived up to the lofty expectations when he completed 19 of 23 passes for 251 yards with four touchdowns and no interceptions against Navy. The young guys also get playing time due to a huge halftime deficit. Defensively, it’s hard to imagine that Tennessee State can challenge the Irish. If the Tigers can’t get anything going on the ground, it’s poised to be a long day. Notre Dame dominates this one from start to finish undoubtedly.

Missouri Rolls Past South Dakota in Season Opener

By

Ethan Burke

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September 1, 2023

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download (4) — Photo Cred: San Diego Union-Tribune

Missouri started off strong and never looked back in its 35-10 victory over South Dakota to open the season on Thursday at Faurot Field.

Photo Cred: Columbia Daily Tribune

First Quarter Highlights

Senior quarterback Brady Cook finished the game with 172 yards and a touchdown. He also completed a 13-yard pass to sophomore receiver Luther Burden III, which got them to the Coyotes 23-yard line. A couple of plays later, Cook threw an 18-yard touchdown pass to sophomore WR Mehki Miller to give Missouri the lead early.

Photo Cred: Columbia Daily Tribune

Missouri kept the momentum the very next drive. Graduate student running back Nathaniel Peat ran it into the South Dakota 1-yard line on first down. On the very next play, Peat punched it into the end zone to give the Tigers a 14-0 lead with 3:19 remaining in the first quarter.

Second Quarter Highlights

Eliah Drinkwitz’s team continued to pull away in the second quarter. Graduate student running back Cody Schrader ran the ball for 32 yards on five straight plays. He would punch it in a two-yard touchdown to extend Missouri’s lead to 21-3.

Photo Cred: The Morganton News Herald

The Tigers would get the ball back quickly. Cook threw a 30-yard pass to Burden. A couple of plays later, he ran it in for a 15-yard touchdown himself. This gave Missouri a 28-3 lead with 33 seconds left in the first half.

Third Quarter Highlights

On the first possession of the second half, the Coyotes slowly made their way up the field. Junior defensive back Ennis Rakestraw Jr. broke up South Dakota quarterback Aidan Bouman’s pass on third down. True freshman defensive back Marvin Burks Jr. capitalized on Rakestraw’s play by sacking Bouman on fourth down to give the Tigers the ball.

Photo Cred: AP News

Fourth Quarter Highlights

South Dakota didn’t go away, however. Bouman completed a pass to wide receiver Jack Martens for 23 yards. He proceeded to connect with redshirt sophomore RB Mike Mansaray for a six-yard touchdown pass with 12:14 left in the game.

Photo Cred: ESPN

Top Performers on Offense and Defense

Missouri’s offense ended the game on a high note. Sophomore QB Sam Horn threw a screen pass to Burden, which resulted in a 15-yard touchdown.

Missouri’s defense had a strong performance in its season opener. Defensive linemen Johnny Walker Jr., Josh Landry, and linebacker Ty’Ron Hopper each had four solo tackles. Burks and Kris Abrams-Draine, meanwhile, had three solo tackles.

Photo Cred: ESPN

Burden III and Miller were the receiving leaders for the Tigers in their season opener. Burden finished with 96 yards and one touchdown, while Miller recorded 49 yards and a touchdown. Horn, who was Missouri’s QB in the second half, ended the game with 54 yards and a touchdown.

The rushing attack was also strong for the Tigers. Schrader ran for 148 yards and a touchdown. Peat added 52 yards and a touchdown.

Photo Cred: Clayton News Daily

Next Week

Missouri will look to continue its hot start to the season as it hosts Middle Tennessee at 6:30 P.M. next Saturday at Faurot Field.

Photo Cred: Middle Tennessee State University Athletics

NFL 2023-24 Position Group Rankings: Linebackers

By

Troy Finnegan

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August 30, 2023

0

Best-Linebackers-in-the-NFL-2023 — Photo Cred: PFF

We’re a few short weeks from the 2023-24 NFL season, and the excitement is building as the preseason is in full swing. I’m diving into each position group, from the quarterbacks to the kickers, and ranking them before the season kicks off in Kansas City on Sept. 7. Today, we moved to the second level of the defense. Let’s look at the linebackers.

1. San Francisco 49ers

The best linebacking core in the NFL is by the unquestioned best linebacker in the NFL: Fred Warner. Warner is a flat-out superstar, a linebacker who runs like a wide receiver. This allows him to blanket running backs, tight ends, and even wide receivers in coverage, all while being an elite run defender. It’s not often that a middle linebacker is one of the most fun players to watch in the league. Warner’s ability to quarterback one of the league’s elite units and be a consistent game-wrecker is critical. His running mate, Dre Greenlaw, is coming off a career season in 2022, landing the Niners comfortably in the top spot.

Photo Cred: USA Today

2. Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens’ midseason trade for Roquan Smith completely changed the calculus for this Baltimore defense. Smith is a physical specimen who runs sideline to sideline, and when he meets a ball carrier, they’ll know about it. He is an enforcer against the run and very smart in coverage while excelling as a blitzer. Smith’s presence also alleviated the pressure on young Patrick Queen, who settled into the number two role very nicely over the back half of the season. A full offseason together should only help this duo, and they should be among the NFL’s elite this season.

3. Chicago Bears

The Bears went all-in on this group, and it’s a great one on paper. They took Tremaine Edmunds from Buffalo, and T.J. Edwards from Philadelphia are coming off stellar seasons leading good defenses. Edmunds is one of the best coverage linebackers in football, while Edwards excelled in all facets last season. There’s no continuity with this group, but there’s no doubt they have the talent to be an elite unit.

4. Indianapolis Colts

Part of this ranking is me betting on Shaquille Leonard getting healthy and back to his game-wrecking ways. When he’s right, Leonard is a turnover machine with a nose for the football, picking off passes and forcing fumbles left and right. In 2021, he forced seven fumbles and picked off four passes. Leonard will start alongside E.J. Speed, who filled in admirably in Leonard’s absence last year.

5. New Orleans Saints

For this Saints group to live up to this ranking, Pete Werner will need to play much more like his 2021 self than he did last season, but they should put together a good unit either way. Much of the heavy lifting for this group comes from Demario Davis, one of the elite defensive players who can do it all at the position. He can cover a back out of the backfield, fit a run and make the tackle for no gain, chase down a ball carrier on the sideline, or blitz and put pressure on the quarterback. Davis has played the fourth-most snaps of any linebacker over the past five seasons and has played them all at a prominent level.

Photo Cred: SI

6. Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals’ linebacker duo of Germaine Pratt and Logan Wilson has some continuity after playing together for a few years. Both are exceptionally good, with Wilson playing close to the line of scrimmage, blitzing, and filling gaps in the run game, while Pratt specializes in pass coverage. The Cincinnati defense is tied by their two leaders in the middle.

7. Miami Dolphins

The Dolphins have a unique set of linebackers. Jerome Baker and Elandon Roberts excel as blitzers and pass rushers, allowing Vic Fangio to use them uniquely. Baker is a well-rounded player, producing in all facets of the position. The Dolphins also made a splash by adding former Titans linebacker David Long, who had an excellent season in 2022 and should form one of the most consistent duos in football with Baker.

8. New York Jets

The Jets linebackers struggle a bit in pass coverage, but they are fast and physical and are another unit that loves to play downhill. C.J. Mosley had a strong 2022 in the middle of the Jets’ defense after up-and-down seasons. The other starter, Quincy Williams, is a heat-seeking missile who loves to hit and hit hard. This group is a bit vulnerable but will set the tone every week.

9. Carolina Panthers

The Panthers have quietly built a promising group on the defensive side of the ball, and their linebacking core is at the center of it. Shaq Thompson is a Panthers veteran who has been a starter caliber for many years. Next to Thompson is one of the most underrated linebackers in the game: Frankie Luvu. If you don’t know the name, you should get familiar. Luvu is a menace in the box, stuffing runs and putting pressure on the quarterback at will, leading this Panthers linebacking core to a top-10 spot.

10. New England Patriots

The Patriots may not be the juggernaut they were with Tom Brady at the helm, but Bill Belichick keeps churning out elite defenses, and he has the talent to do so again. Ja’Whaun Bentley was quietly playing at a Pro Bowl level a season ago, and his running mate Jahlani Tavai, was not far behind. This may be the most unsung unit on this Pats defense, but it still is more than capable of getting the job done.

Photo Cred: NBS Sports

11. Denver Broncos

The Broncos linebackers don’t get a ton of shine, but they are quietly a steadily above-average unit. Neither Alex Singleton nor Josey Jewell is a superstar, but both are rock-solid and add value in the run-and-pass game. Denver also spent a day two pick on Arkansas prospect Drew Sanders, who should add some athleticism and some burst to this group. Sanders already picked up an interception in the Broncos’ preseason victory over the Rams.

12. Kansas City Chiefs

Kansas City is paying their top dogs a lot, leaving them to fend for the other positions in the draft. They have done very well with that strategy in recent years, and there may be no better example than their linebacking core. 2021 second-rounder Nick Bolton is the star, already proving to be a good linebacker and one of the biggest hitters in football. Bolton is complemented by 2020 second-rounder Willie Gay Jr., who excels much more in coverage. This combo proved vital in the Chiefs’ Super Bowl run last season and should only improve with more experience in 2023.

13. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Tampa Bay comes into 2023 with the same combo of talented backers with different styles. Lavonte David is as consistent as they come, always in the right spots and producing at an elite level year in and year out. On the other hand, Devin White is much younger and much more volatile. While he excels as a blitzer, White is wildly inconsistent and gets lost on more than a few occasions. If White can steady his performance like he did for much of the Bucs’ Super Bowl-winning 2020-21 campaign.

14. Buffalo Bills

Buffalo will miss Tremaine Edmunds, who is off to Chicago after a successful stint in Buffalo. Replacing him will be a challenge and is the reason the Bills land outside the top 10 on this list. But Matt Milano is back and is still one of the most underrated players in the NFL. Milano is a strong run defender, but his coverage ability is unmatched.

15. Seattle Seahawks

The Seahawks are bringing back a franchise legend in Bobby Wagner after his short stint with the Rams, but the franchise’s all-time tackles leader adds more than just sentimental value. While he’s not what he used to be, Wagner is still one of the most secure tacklers in football and one of the smartest at that. He will pair with Jordyn Brooks, a young linebacker raised in the Wagner mold and is a good run defender in his own right. The Seahawks took a chance on former Steeler Devin Bush to fill their third spot; Bush is a great athlete for the position but struggled to settle into a consistent role in Pittsburgh.

Photo Cred: CBS News

16. Green Bay Packers

Can De’Vondre Campbell return to his incredible 2021 form? That may be the biggest question for the Packers’ linebacker core heading into this season. Campbell (understandably) took a dip last year after his outlier year a few seasons ago but was still more than serviceable in the middle of the Green Bay defense. Alongside him, Quay Walker looks to be steadier in year two but really needs to shore up his production against the run.

17. Cleveland Browns

Browns have the tools to excel at linebacker; now it’s about displaying their strengths. Former Notre Dame star Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah is among the most athletic linebackers in football, offering an excellent complement to Sione Takitaki and Anthony Walker. The three have grappled with injuries, making staying healthy a priority.

18. Jacksonville Jaguars

Veterans Foyesade Oluokun and Chad Muma are back for Jacksonville in 2023 after a consistent year in 2022. They are solid in the run game but occasionally struggle in coverage. The group’s volatility is attributed to second-year player Devin Lloyd. Lloyd possesses good athleticism and playmaking ability, but during his rookie year, he struggled at times. If Lloyd can enhance his consistency on a play-to-play basis, he could make substantial progress in his second season.

19. Dallas Cowboys

Leighton Vander Esch leads the linebacker core. He’s a proficient coverage linebacker who stabilizes the group when fit. The Boise State alum has participated in 31 games over the past two seasons after injury-laden years in 2019 and 2020, which is positive news for the Cowboys. Prior to 2022, the Cowboys also acquired Anthony Barr to strengthen the linebacker unit; the combination of Barr and Vander Esch bestows Dallas with one of the league’s most experienced linebacker groups.

20. Houston Texans

The Texans enter 2023 with a trio of dependable veterans who complement each other well to complete their linebacker unit. Denzel Perryman is the enforcer in the middle but has struggled with health issues throughout his career. Cory Littleton will partner with Perryman, an excellent athlete at the position who excels in coverage. Rounding out the group is Christian Kirksey, with former Alabama standouts Christian Harris and Henry To’oTo’o also prepared to contribute.

Photo Cred: ABC

21. Minnesota Vikings

The Vikings lost longtime staple Eric Kendricks in the middle, but Jordan Hicks returns for another season in Purple. Hicks performed admirably against the run the previous season, while his coverage skills occasionally lagged, but he still compiled a solid campaign. Alongside Hicks, likely to start, is either veteran Troy Reeder or Brian Asamoah. Asamoah displayed promise last season, albeit in limited appearances, while Reeder joined from Los Angeles.

22. Arizona Cardinals

One of the few promising positions on this struggling Cardinals roster is linebacker. Though unproven, this group has the potential to blossom this year. First-round pick Zaven Collins possesses elite physical attributes, and his performance began to improve in late 2022. Next to him is a new addition, former Eagle Kyzir White, coming off a strong season; he is a versatile and well-rounded linebacker. If Collins doesn’t make a leap; White will elevate the group’s baseline.

23. Detroit Lions

The Lions have effectively blended veteran leadership with youthful talent at linebacker, with Alex Anzalone returning to start once more as the senior figure in Detroit. Malcolm Rodriguez started 15 games as a rookie in 2022 and delivered a commendable performance. This group received a boost from rookie first-round pick Jack Campbell. He was the premier linebacker in college football in 2022, displaying exceptional coverage skills and prowess in run defense.

24. Los Angeles Chargers

If Kenneth Murray Jr. can establish greater consistency and address his run defense issues, this could evolve into a proficient linebacking duo. Murray’s slight build has resulted in vulnerability against inside tackles and significant struggles against the run. While he remains an adept coverage player, his one-dimensional skillset necessitates a new addition. Eric Kendricks compensates where Murray falls short. The bright side is that Kendricks has been, and continues to be, one of the foremost run stoppers in football at middle linebacker, enhancing the core of this Chargers defense in his inaugural season in Los Angeles.

25. New York Giants

The Giants bolstered a former weak point by adding ex-Colt Bobby Okereke as their starting middle linebacker in 2023. Okereke proved himself a dependable starter last season, amassing 151 combined tackles while standing in for the injured Shaquille Leonard. Following Okereke, the Giants remain thinly staffed. Projected starter Jarrad Davis is sidelined by a knee injury. Okereke will need to shoulder most of the load for this unit.

Photo Cred: NY Post

26. Washington Commanders

The Commanders’ linebacker situation hinges on whether former first-rounder Jamin Davis can mature in 2023. His success could elevate this unit; otherwise, the low ranking on this list would prove accurate. The Commanders brought in former Seahawk Cody Barton to play alongside Davis—a capable but occasionally inconsistent player.

27. Philadelphia Eagles

It’s unusual to see any facet of the stacked Eagles roster ranked so low. That’s the outcome when both starters from the prior season have departed. Kyzir White and T.J. Edwards excelled for Philly last year but left in free agency. Former Georgia standout Nakobe Dean now steps in. Although undersized, a glance at his Georgia performance demonstrates his impact. Dean possesses exceptional speed and a penchant for pursuing the ball, offering star potential if his body holds up against the run.

28. Pittsburgh Steelers

This is decidedly not the linebacker corps of yesteryear for the Steelers. The tandem of Cole Holcomb and Elandon Roberts constitutes a moderately experienced yet unremarkable pairing in the middle. Holcomb battled to remain on the field last season, and Roberts heavily relied on blitzing. He’ll be a reliable starter capable of strengthening an already impressive defense.

29. Tennessee Titans

The Titans bid farewell to David Long, their standout linebacker in 2022, leaving a vacuum of experience. They acquired former 49er Azeez Al-Shaair, a promising run defender, though he only saw limited action in San Francisco. He’s likely to take on a more prominent role as the top linebacker. Monty Rice, a 2021 third-round selection, is anticipated to feature after appearing in 13 games for Tennessee the prior season.

30. Atlanta Falcons

The Falcons possess a group that could surpass expectations. They recruited Kaden Elliss from New Orleans after a strong season, particularly near the line of scrimmage and as a pass rusher. Next to Elliss, Troy Andersen might be a player to monitor in Atlanta. Andersen is still adapting to the position after playing quarterback and running back in college at Montana State. With an improved understanding of the game in his second season, he possesses elite physical attributes for a quality linebacker.

Photo Cred: USA Today

31. Los Angeles Rams

The Rams welcome back Ernest Jones at linebacker in 2023, furnishing them with a dependable starter in the heart of the defense. The departure of Bobby Wagner leaves a significant void beside Jones. Beyond Jones, the Rams’ most seasoned linebacker is Christian Rozeboom, who has participated in just ten career snaps. While Jones should stabilize Sean McVay’s defense, the remaining middle linebacker spots remain unpredictable.

32. Las Vegas Raiders

The year 2023 poses a challenging situation for linebackers for the Raiders, as they lack notable talent. Not only do they lack stars, but they also lack linebackers established as reliable starters. Third-year player Divine Deablo possesses the potential for a breakthrough but projecting too much from someone with only 13 career starts is ambitious.

Athletic Stars Switch to LSU Online Due to Safety Concerns on Campus

By

Serenity Martin

-

August 30, 2023

0

Some LSU athletic players have decided to move online due to safety concerns on campus. Due to their recent increase in notoriety across social media, gymnast Olivia Dunne and women’s basketball player Angel Reese have opted to go online during the start of the fall semester.

Photo Cred: Marca.com Photo Cred: LSU Athletics

Olivia Dunne and Angel Reese Switch to LSU Online

Livvy Dunne made her decision over the summer, while Reese decided a few weeks before school was set to start. The sports stars listed their reasons being safety concerns and the rise in fans on their social media platforms and across the globe. Dunne has over seven million followers on TikTok and a little over four million followers on Instagram. Reese has 2.5 million followers on TikTok and Instagram.

Photo Cred: Twitter Photo Cred: Just Women’s Sports

Dunne Lists Safety Concerns as Reason for Move

For Dunne, a situation occurred during the first meet of their season last year. A mob of combined high school and college boys demanded to see the gymnast. They refused to leave until they received a picture or autograph from her. The mob ultimately increased and grew to become so disorderly that the university enforced supplemental security for the duration of the season.

Dunne Speaks on Incident that Took Place at First Gymnastics Meet

“I didn’t really realize until after the meet when I saw the videos of it. I was like, ‘holy moly,’” Dunne said. “I will always appreciate and love the support from you guys, but if you come to a meet, I want to ask you to please be respectful of the other gymnasts and the gymnastics community as we are just doing our job.”

LSU's Livvy Dunne's rise to fame shows impact of NIL policies on women athletes Photo Cred: The 19th News

Reese Lists Increase in Social Media Status As Reason For Move

During a recent interview with Teen Vogue, Reese shared that she will be starting and finishing her senior year online. Reese gained popularity as the ‘Bayou Barbie,” when the Tigers won the women’s basketball championship last season. However, her popularity increased tremendously this past summer. This summer alone, Reese threw out the first pitch at the Orioles game, has been featured in a Cardi B music video, and recently got into a very publicized relationship with Florida State Seminoles guard Cam’Ron Fletcher.

Reese States School as her First Priority Despite Rise in Fame

“I don’t feel like I’m a celebrity, but I think a lot of people look at me as a celebrity now because of the impact I’ve had on not just women’s basketball, but sports in general, and black women as a whole,” Reese said. “Things have changed for me. School is first, basketball is next. I wouldn’t be here without school and basketball, so that’s my priority.”

Much Like Olivia Dunne, LSU Basketball Star Angel Reese Says Celebrity Status Has Now Forced Her To Take Online Classes Exclusively - Bounding Into Sports Photo Cred: Bounding Into Sports –

It is a good sight to see these stars prioritizing their education over sports. However, it is still disappointing that fans will not let them enjoy their college experience. They are talented nonetheless, but they are still young adults and have a hard time dealing with the spotlight.

Photo Cred: Daily Mail

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1. Denver Broncos

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5. Buffalo Bills

6. Philadelphia Eagles

7. Miami Dolphins

8. Baltimore Ravens

9. Seattle Seahawks

10. Kansas City Chiefs

11. Carolina Panthers

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Week 1: Giants vs. Cowboys, Sunday, September 10th, 8:20 PM, NBC (SNF)

Week 2: Giants @ Cardinals, Sunday, September 17th, 4:05 PM, FOX

Week 3: Giants @ 49ers, Thursday, September 21st, 8:15 PM, Prime Video (TNF)

Week 4: Giants vs. Seahawks, Monday, October 2nd, 8:15 PM, ESPN (MNF)

Week 5: Giants @ Dolphins, Sunday, October 8th, 1:00 PM, FOX

Week 6: Giants @ Bills, Sunday, October 15th, 8:20 PM, NBC (SNF)

Week 7: Giants vs. Commanders, Sunday, October 22nd, 1:00 PM, CBS

Week 8: Giants vs. Jets, Sunday, October 29th, 1:00 PM, CBS

Week 9: Giants @ Raiders, Sunday, November 5th, 4:25 PM, FOX

Week 10: Giants @ Cowboys, Sunday, November 12th, 4:25 PM, FOX

Week 11: Giants @ Commanders, Sunday, November 19th, 1:00 PM, FOX

Week 12: Giants vs. Patriots, Sunday, November 26th, 1:00. FOX

Week 13: Bye Week

Week 14: Giants vs. Packers, Monday, December 11th, 8:15 PM, ESPN

Week 15: Giants @ Saints, Sunday, December 17th, 1:00 PM, FOX

Week 16: Giants @ Eagles, Monday, December 25th, 4:30 PM, FOX

Week 17: Giants vs. Rams, Sunday, December 31st, 1:00 PM, FOX

Week 18: Giants vs. Eagles, Sunday, January 7th, Time TBD, TV TBD

NFC Wild Card Round: #5 New York Giants @ #4 New Orleans Saints, Time TBD, TV TBD

NFC Divisional Round: #5 New York Giants @ #2 San Francisco 49ers

Looking Forward to 2024!

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