One of the rare NFL trade deadlines that actually meant something. The Bills swap RBs with the Colts (Zach Moss and a conditional 5th round pick for Nyheim Hines). The Dolphins got Jeff Wilson from the Niners (who upgraded by getting CMC) for a 5th round pick, but then one upped themselves by getting Bradley Chubb and a much later 5th round pick for a first rounder, a 2024 fourth rounder, and Chase Edmonds. The Bears, hewing closely to the “only one headcase on the roster at any time” traded away Roquan Smith (for a 2nd and a 5th, but, more importantly, for the opportunity to not meet his contract demands), and gave up a 2nd to get Chase Claypool from the Steelers. Finally, the Jaguars gave up a 5th next year and a 2nd in 2024 for Calvin Ridley. They’re hoping (and made conditions on the picks) that Calvin, who has been excellent, will be successful in dealing with his mental health and gambling issues). And there were even more trades, but I’m bored now.
In other news, festering ass-boil Dan Snyder is looking into selling the Washington Commanders. I’m tempted to say anyone would be an improvement, but the race to the bottom among NFL owners is always sickening. Also, one of my favorite guys, Ray Guy, passed away this week. Punt one out for him.
Here’s your games, with the lines and over/under:
THURSDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL
Eagles at Texans Texans +13.5 45.5
SUNDAY
Early
Chargers at Falcons Falcons +3.5 49.5
Dolphins at Bears Bears +5 45.5
Panthers at Bengals Bengals -7.5 42.5
Packers at Lions Lions +3.5 49.5
Raiders at Jaguars Jaguars +1.5 48
Colts at Patriots Patriots -5.5 40
Bills at Jets Jets +12.5 47
Vikings at Comm. Comm. +3.5 43.5
Late
Seahawks at Cards Cardinals -2 49.5
Rams at Buccaneers Buccaneers -3 42.5
SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL
Titans at Chiefs Chiefs -12.5 46
MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL
Ravens at Saints Saints +2.5 48
First thing that jumped out at me was the Packers, who have been playing horribly on offense, were favored by only 3.5. I’ll be smashing that line, as I expect the Aarons and the defense to greatly improve. Not sure why I expect that, it hasn’t happened yet. But hope springs eternal.
The Thursday night game is all but forgettable. Might I suggest Rings of Power. Or XCOM 2. Or getting a broken glass enema.
The Sunday early games have the potential for some surprisingly interesting games. Lions at home looking for their first win against the underachieving Pack. The Raiders/Jags should be close, at least, but one can hope for some good football played in there somewhere. And, oddly enough, I may peek in on the Bears/Dolphins, just because I love under-thrown passes and looks of confusion on players faces.
There are only two afternoon games, and they both could be interesting. The Seahawks are suprisingly good, especially the defensive turnaround they’ve had this year, and the Cards continue to underperform with their talent level. And Brady v. Stafford … was an interesting matchup last year, but this year … not so much.
The Monday night game could be interesting too. If both teams play well. Which isn’t very likely.
So, how’d your team do on the trade deadline (I’m a Packer fan, and they’re rarely involved)? How much do you hate Dan Snyder (on a scale of 1 to 1. With 1 being I hate him with the heat of a thousand fiery suns)? What is your opinion on punters in the Hall of Fame?
Let’s hear from you.