Debuting their magnificent, new structure known as SoFi Stadium, the L.A. Rams felt refreshed and inspired entering the 2020 season. Donning a new look with a logo and uniforms, everything was set for a fun night in the opening matchup against the Dallas Cowboys. "Our focus this year is to build up our youth within the framework of our goals. Our young guys will be counted on to play early and often and we'll need them engaged throughout in order for us to be the group we're capable of becoming." Coach Sean McVay thinks this offense can be one of the more explosive in the Pandora league. With the addition of slot receiver Taylor Gabriel before the 53-Man cut day, all systems were on to kick off the new year.

After a great first drive was capped off with a short Cam Akers TD run, superstar CB Jalen Ramsey picked off Dak Prescott giving the Rams possession inside the Cowboys 40-yd line. Rookie K Sam Sloman kicked a field goal to put L.A. up 10-0 early in the 1st quarter. From there, Dallas regained their footing and committed to feeding Ezekiel Elliott. He led the way for Dallas accounting for 36 total touches and 157 yards with all three of Dallas's touchdowns. The short runs, the medium runs, even the sneaky screen calls that extended drives, Elliott kept it rolling as they spoiled our SoFi debut. 

QB Jared Goff slipped in the opener throwing three interceptions, including two in scoring range. "I was off on a couple of my progressions and let the pressure cause rough throws. We can't let those mistakes define our games. They ran some good defenses and caught us off-guard." LBs Sampson Ebukam and Leonard Floyd each picked up a sack in the 27-16 loss with Ebukam forcing a fumble with his. S John Johnson III led the defense with five tackles.

Next up, L.A. heads to Philadelphia for a date with the Eagles at Lincoln financial Stadium. QB Carson Wentz had 307 yards and 3 TDs in their opening victory over Washington. RB Miles Sanders ran for 127 yards and WR Ques Watkins caught a TD in addition to 129 yards. "We expect another challenge with the Eagles. They're very sharp offensively and we'll have to be very prepared." 

Note: The Rams will play all four NFC East teams by week 5.

 

Until Next Time ...
 

As a new season in Genesis begins, there's a buzz brewing that is beginning to catch Oakland by storm. New Head Coach Tim Hamilton has brought in the promise of restoring the pride of the Raiders and Raider Nation. Toughness, accountability and character were his key bullet points in his welcome presser. "I want our guys to believe in the mission. Each game is an opportunity to be at your best. We each get a chance to be our best each and every week. Each and every day. I welcome that grind. Because the payoff is always the sweetest when you can look back and see the price paid for it along the way." Hamilton isn't short on words. He spoke for about 45 minutes amidst questions from the media and taking photos with members of the organization and former players. 

What Hamilton brings to the table is an established pedigree of building complete teams. Usually constructed from the inside out, he inherits an offense that looks to find their identity. With an offensive line that can hold its own, in the interior especially, this running game could see a committee of backs being used to move the chains. And with the recent acquisition of Lamar Miller, there is now a veteran presence in the backfield to help younger backs Isaiah McCarthy & Anton Walker. Under center, Derek Carr remains as the leader of this offense. After two underwhelming years to start this cycle, Coach Tim has already begun to challenge the man who he seems as the engine to everything that will work under his watch, "He's gotta be the man each week. This is his team and franchise. He knows he can play better and he's gonna have to if we're gonna be successful this season."

On defense is where the excitement is forming most amongst Raider Nation. Up front, the d-line is young, hungry and versatile. With a rotation that could see up to 8 different linemen on the field in a given week, this group could pay serious dividends as the season progresses. The LB corps is where there's some concern for this unit. Other than the beast that is Khalil Mack, there isn't much to boast about with the group. However, what is lacking in top talent could be complemented by effort and experience. Tamir Whitehead will be manning the middle of the defense. Now 30+, with plenty of juice in his wheels, Tahir is beyond motivated to have a big year, "I've seen quite a bit in my years playing, so now that things seem to be more organized here, I'm ready to roll. We got some Dawgs in here and we gonna bring the noise to the Bay." Finally, the secondary had some youth injected during the draft with two CBs and a safety selected. Parker Goss is a fiesty corner who doesn't mind playing press & run coverage with his quickness and speed. Telvin Black is long and can play both outside and in the slot with his physicality. Byron Jones will be the #1 guy on the outside with Gareon Conley earning the other starting corner position in preseason. Conley began to show signs of being a good pro last season finishing with 3 INTs and a slew of deflections. As he enters a contract year, he knows he's betting on himself to get that coveted 2nd contract. "I'm placing all bets on myself this season. I know what I have to do and I plan on accomplishing a lot this year.

For this new regime to make waves in year 1, a lot will have to go their way. As physical and fast as they would like to play, this team could be in for some growing pains as they find out who will be consistent and steady throughout the year. This group seems to buying what Coach Hamilton is selling. The question is ... Can they cash in with a trip to the postseason? 

Let's find out ...

Pittsburgh backup QB Mason Rudolph has had to learn how to adjust to being ready every week with no guarantee of playing for most of his young career. His rookie year saw him fill in for 11 games and performing on par with what an average rookie QB season is. Now in his 3rd year out of Oklahoma St., Mason has had to sit behind Jameis Winston this season, who was brought in to spice up an offense Rudolph felt he was more than capable of leading,

"It was a confusing offseason for me, to say the least. After Ben leaves, you'd think it's my turn and then you get told you have to compete with another starting caliber guy. It's tough. But you remain professional, believe in your abilities and you stay ready and sharp mentally. That's been my saving grace, the mental part of this game."

That mentality has been what's shined the most out of Rudolph during his time in Pittsburgh. He's usually one of the first players at the team's complex and stays after practice with the receivers working on routes and gameplans.

"You can see him waiting for his shot. He never complains though. He just works. He's got a lot of respect within these walls. That's for sure." exclaimed LB Ryan Shazier.

Those sentiments can be found throughout the Steelers locker room for a QB who now finds himself in a position where he could lead the Steelers into the postseason for the first time this cycle. As Winston is now out for the remainder of the year with a broken collarbone, Rudolph is more than equipped to handle the road ahead. His quick trigger and accuracy should provide stability and some excitement for an offense plagued by tunrovers this season. Jacksonville (7-6) comes to town this week needing a win themselves to stay in the mix among the crowded AFC Wild Card contenders. After starting 5-2, Pittsburgh has gone 2-4 since their bye week with INTs being the main issue. Rudolph sees where he will have to be the most polished. "We win when we protect the ball. It's that simple. Turnovers have killed us in our losses. We can't give it up and want a chance in the end."

The Steelers can't afford to falter now. They begin a 3-game season tonight and with what's at stake, Mason know he now gets to show what's he's got. My guess is that he's ready for the show. 

Until Next Time ...

Last night, after a third straight loss to begin MBL's Season 33, the entire Pittsburgh Steelers roster stayed in the locker room after showers and before boarding the team buses. They asked to have the room and asked anyone who "doesn't wear a Steelers uniform on game day" to leave. One team reporter was allowed to stay with the condition being that no one's name can be mentioned in whatever was written. What followed was an aggressive, passionate conversation led by a few respected veterans. The focus of the discussion was on the lack of hunger they've displayed so far. One defensive player spoke extensively about how some of the younger players on the roster aren't taking practice and film sessions seriously. "There's no {expletive} way you watched the film and allowed that {expletive} to get behind you. THAT'S YOUR MAN. OWN HIM!" There was even a moment between two position groups that almost escalated to a physical level but cooler heads stepped in separating them. For a brief moment, Coach Mike Tomlin was allowed in to remind the guys that the buses were departing shortly. One offensive player apologized to everyone for not being fully committed with his play thus far. It led to the energy in the room move in a positive direction and calmed things down.

By the end of the conversation, the players said a prayer together, hand in hand and we're exchanging handshakes and embracing each other before departing. This group is expected to make the postseason, at the very least. With elite playmakers and a fast, physical defense, it begged the question of what could possibly be causing them to play as erratic as they have. Tonight's talk amongst the team is definitely a step in the right direction but words can only be felt by the action put behind them.

From here, the only place for this group to go is up. I've come to feel that Players Only meetings are cliché. But for a franchise with so much history and success, something like this was necessary. This team needs to find a bond and play as one. The offense has looked clueless. Yes, Le'Veon Bell is injured but they weren't running well when he played the first two weeks. Big Ben isn't even completing 50% of his throws, currently a career low. Defensively, the big plays are KILLING them. Week 1 vs. The Browns had Baker Mayfield looking like a superstar (he very well may be) but there is a lack of attention to detail in the back end of this unit. Joe Haden has been a virtual no-show so far as the #1 CB. Ryan Shazier is heartbeat of this defense, he has 7 tackles in 3 games. Completely unacceptable. The upside? If there is a group that can turn this around, it's this collection of Steelers. There is a great blend of experience and youth throughout the roster and it is time for everyone to play for one another and turn this season around.

Until Next Time ...

Cycle Review: New England Patriots (Seasons 26-32)

The Numbers

• W/L: 61-51
• Division Titles: 3
• Conference Titles: 1
• Super Bowl App: 1
• Playoff W/L: 4-3

What Went Right

• Defensively, our guys were always optimistic and full of energy. I made it a mission to try and cause havoc for opposing teams. I wanted to mix tough man coverage with strategic blitzes to create opportunities for turnovers and momentum. Was I as successful with it as I wanted to be? Probably not. But where we lacked in results for that, we made up for in effort. We fought hard and took chances to make plays for a team that was led mostly by their defense. Out of the seven seasons played, New England had a top-10 unit four times. Malcolm Butler, Rashad Elliss, Devin McCourty, & Dont’a Hightower were just some of the defenders on the field for us this cycle who made an impact.

• Cornerbacks are often looked at as the divas of the defense. Not many like to get dirty while still maintaining being one of the best in coverage. Stephon Gilmore was all of the above during his six seasons In Foxborough. His best year was in Season 27, where he grabbed a career-high 12 interceptions and was selected to the Pro Bowl. His leadership and high IQ for the game alongside elite All-Pro CB Butler created one of the best CB tandems in the MBL. He finished his Patriot career with 36 INTs & 8 touchdowns. “He’s got one of the sharpest minds of any defender I’ve ever played with. He can diagnose a play to the smallest detail. Being his teammate was a treasure.” said LB Dont’a Hightower. Stephon was a pleasure to have this MBL cycle.

• Season 26’s run to the Super Bowl was special. In the first season of the cycle, we backed our way into the playoffs at 9-7 after losing three of our last four to end the regular season. Rolling through Oakland in the Wild Card, then beating the L.A. Chargers & then putting together a special performance defensively to knock off Pittsburgh in the AFC Championship showed us we could play with the best in pursuit of our ultimate goal. Although not winning as we wanted to, that first season put a lot of optimism in the air.

What Went Wrong

• Before the Rookie draft heading into Season 29, we decided to trade a future 1^st-rd pick and a current 2^nd rounder to acquire an additional 1^st rounder in that draft. What turned out to be good picks at the time in DE Keith Felder & TE Griffin McIntyre ended up being two busts who never panned out to their potential. In five seasons in the MBL, Griffin caught one TD pass. He never had more than 450 yards receiving in a season. His rookie year was a wash as he battled injuries and drops for most of the campaign. As the full-time starter, he couldn’t get separation from LBs and was mainly used as a blocker in the run game. Felder didn’t fare much better. He finished the cycle with 26 career sacks in the same amount of seasons. McIntyre was expected to fill the big shoes of Rob Gronkowski but it never materialized. Two play ers with Superstar progression never made it close to that level of play. Felder had one of the best combine performances in MBL history and rose up the boards in the weeks leading up to that draft. What he showed in his motor, strength and speed, never made it to the field consistently. Thinking back, his talents may have been best used as a D-Tackle. His strength in the interior could have done wonders in defending the run game, where we struggled the most in the last two seasons. And just how good was that 1^st rd pick that we traded away to Atlanta?

• When a team moves on from a quarterback, it’s usually due to a feeling that a particular player can’t get the franchise over the top or to the next level. Well after Season 29 and bad play in the playoffs, the decision was made to cut QB Jimmy Garoppolo. With the free agent class of QBs expected to be worth the temptation, moving on from Jimmy seemed like the smart play. In retrospect, we barfed all over ourselves. We never gave him a true shot to lead this team. Jimmy was the perfect QB to take over after Brady retired and we let him go over a hunch. Opting for Patrick Mahomes, management seemed to be pleased with the move. He was coveted due to his arm strength and eagerness to be the guy from the very first meeting with the team. But Mahomes didn’t get it done either. In his three seasons with us, he never threw for more TDs than INTs. He didn’t win a playoff game. And, he was benched in his last season for Calvin Skinner, who finished with over 3,000 yards & 24 TDs in 11 starts. We owe Jimmy a sincere apology. He should’ve stayed home and worked it out so we could’ve seen what may have happened. Swing and a miss here.

• Releasing CB Cyrus Jones was utterly foolish. He could have developed into a starter or a good nickel back in his Patriot career. But impatience and an error in judgment led to him having more success in Cleveland where he finished as a 2-time champion. We gave Malcolm Butler more time than he needed and those years could have been Cyrus’s time to shine.

Overall, this cycle showed me a lot about what it takes to be consistently successful in the MBL. Building your team to their strengths should always be the priority as you progress through the franchise. Maximizing what you do best and improving other areas can put you on the brink of a title (Ex: Cleveland/ZStar). Winning in the trenches can carry you so far. Having an aware offensive line will keep your QB upright more than not. Defensively, knowing when to go for the big play or to just concede a few yards to gain data entry. It’s the little things that matter to win in the MBL. And, most importantly, have some damn fun. We all take time out of our lives to enjoy and play a game with people from all over the world. Let’s keep the great energy and brotherhood going as we continue to lead the Way in CFM gaming.

Until Next Time … 

A Necessary Bond

Cooks & Bryant have formed a connection that could be the key to a deep playoff run

OTAs are the first session of the offseason where the team comes together and begins to prepare for the new campaign ahead. There’s always a player, usually a star or starter, that elects to sit out this time while contract negotiations with the team are being handled. Enter Brandin Cooks. About to begin his 8th season, the 5’10 speedster is coming of his best season in New England. Approaching the last year of the five-year deal he signed in Season 26, reports around the team stated that Cooks and management were tabling discussions until after OTAs completed. Many around the organization seemed perplexed as to the reason. So why? “I’ve been getting some good advice from my guy Martavis [Bryant] on how to handle these kind of things now.” said Cooks. Martavis Bryant was picked up in Free Agency by the Patriots after he wasn’t offered an extension by the Pittsburgh Steelers prior to Season 30 and it was clear the team was going with smaller, faster wideouts moving forward. He’s the third veteran WR brought in by New England in the past four seasons with DeSean Jackson & Marvin Jones Jr not panning out in their respective time with the team. At 6’4 with capable speed, strong hands, and no stranger to the big moment, Bryant was brought in as part of a huge free agent class including Isaiah Crowell, Ramik Wilson, P.J. Williams and Jaelen Strong. A class full of established talent and production in the MBL, Bryant was the piece that brings experience and championship pedigree to the fold. “He’s such a leader for us. He keeps us all all sharp out there and it’s refreshing to have a guy like him on our side.” exclaimed Malcolm Ward, the slot receiver who started last season opposite Cooks.

The relationship between the two star wideouts began at the Pro Bowl last season. The two were seen together in various photos from the week and it was clear that Cooks was recruiting Martavis seeing as he was about to be on the market. He shared how it didn’t take much for the two to hit it off, “We related to each other very quickly. I realized that we both want the same things in this game and I want to help him achieve his goals also. He’s tired of hearing that he’s all speed. This guy is the complete package. He’s got what it takes to be one of the best.” This season Bryant has moved into more of a possession receiver role as his speed has tapered off a bit in recent years. But where he lacks in speed now, he makes up for in technique. “I’m gonna make you work if you’re on the other side of me. Improving my footwork has given me new appreciation on the position. Routes are won with your feet. After that, the rest is on you.” Brandin surpassed 1,000 yards receiving for the 2nd straight year including grabbing six TDs in his last three games with the team winning two of those three.

The tandem carries a shared chip on their shoulders that they hope propels them through the AFC where Bryant's former team, Pittsburgh is the clear-cut favorite to come out of the conference. QB Pat Mahomes has found a rhythm with Cooks that has taken almost two seasons to get down. “He’s been patient with me since I got here and he’s always in my ear about what he’s seeing out there that can help make the offense get in rhythm. It’s not always about him which I love most about him. He wants this team to succeed and it’s felt throughout the locker room.” With the running game accepted as the engine of the offense, the veteran duo know that they have to always stay ready. But, when their numbers are called, best believe #10 and #14 are gonna pick up and be stars.

Until Next Time ...

The Bad

1. C. Christian Horn (Steelers) 19 sacks allowed - It just keeps getting worse. Horn has been by far the worst offensive lineman in the MBL this season. His confidence must be shot at this point and he is a major liability for the Steelers championship aspirations this year

2. QB Wes Schroeder (Eagles) 1,187 yards, 45% comp, 42.5 passer rating, 10 TD 22int - At this point, it's just the organization in Philly that can't get it right at QB.

3. TE Deandre Mcintosh (Falcons) 13 catches 200 yards 0 TD - 200 yards and 0 TD for a first round pick is unacceptable no matter how you look at it. Mcintosh has played well when the QB actually throws him the ball, but he is currently averaging 1 catch a game…. Need I say anymore?

4. RG Reed Elway (Jets) 7 sacks allowed - For the sake of having another different rookie in the bad section, Elway has not justified his high pick since he has been unreliable at best in pass blocking. He has however, been decent in run blocking, and has the tools to bounce back next season.

Dishonorable Mentions

1. QB Marshall Cotchery (Cowboys) - 433 yards 53% comp, 37.2 passer rating, 1 TD & 8 Int

2. QB Brock Burks (Bengals) - 2404 yards, 58% comp, 60.1 passer rating, 10 TD & 26 Int

The Good

1. WR Dre Christian (Steelers) 55 catches 1,185 yards & 8 TD - This is just getting stupid now. Not only does Christian have over 1k yards, but Howard has 1300 yards and Arnold has 796 yards. Christian is extremely versatile this season and has been effective whether he has been out wide or in the slot. Christian is still the most likely candidate to win AFC offensive rookie of the year.

2. WR Lawrence McGowan (Jags) 42 catches 770 yards & 8 TD - McGowan has sadly been just the type of weapon Shirley has needed to have a great season, however the Jaguars still will at least miss the playoffs. McGowan has played great though; and can be considered one of the top 3 WR in a rookie class that has produced some amazing receiving talent this season.

3. DE Johnathan Kendall (Jags) 21 tackles, 8.5 sacks, 1 FF - Much as I hate having 2 Jags rookies on this list, Kendall definitely has justified his placement on this list with his play this season. His 8.5 sacks is most among rookies; and he has been an utter terror next across from Doman on the defensive line (I speak from experience sadly). Doman and Kendall could become one of the next great defensive lines in the MBL

4. MLB Nash James (Chiefs) 60 tackles, 3 TFL, 2 Int, 5 deflections, 1 FR - James is already becoming the leader of the Chiefs defense as a rookie. His 60 tackles is tied for 5th most in the league, and he has been an effective user MLB.

5. CB Josh Kuehl (Giants) 41 tackles, 5 Int, 5 deflections, 1 TD - While Landon Collins is the leader of this Giants defense, Kuehl has quietly had a very good rookie campaign. His 5 interceptions is the most out of any rookie this season, and he has played a huge part in the Giants amazing season in which they have only lost one game.

Honorable Mentions

1. WR Francis Holloway (Seattle) - 39 catches 753 yards & 5 TD

2. TE Demarco Moss (Broncos) - 48 catches 810 yards & 4 TD

3. WR J.T. Lippett (Jets) - 23 catches 505 yards & 2 TD

4. QB Joe Watson (Browns) - 2613 yards, 64% comp, 91.8 rating, 20 TD & 21 Int

The Bad

1. C Christian Horn (Steelers): 15 sacks allowed - I was so sure that Lipp would bench Horn at some point… I was wrong. Horn leads the league in sacks allowed and it not even close anymore. Currently, Horn is the Steelers main weakness and one of the only ways opposing owners can have an advantage on defense against Lipp.

2. QB Brock Burks (Bengals): 1,355 yards, 58% comp %, 4 TD 21 INT - Burks continues to disappoint in his rookie campaign, throwing more than 5x more interceptions than TD. He's at least improved his completion percentage over the last few weeks, however, unless something changes he will most likely hit the 40-INT mark by the end of the season.

3. RT Quinn Leeuwenburg (Vikings): 7 sacks allowed - I won’t be too hard on Quinn as most of his stats have occurred in sims and he was a second-round pick. However, he is tied for 4th in the league for the most amount of sacks, so he has to be on this list.

Dis-Honorable Mentions

1. QB Wes Schroeder (Eagles): 753 yards 44% comp %, 6 TD 15 INT

2. LG Wes Dillon (Dolphins): 6 sacks allowed

The Good

1. ROLB Alante Powers (Lions): 32 tackles, 4 INT, 1 sack, 1 FF - Powers is another example of smart team building by Owner Bomber. In the offseason, he let KGH walk after having a very good season with 10+ interceptions. To fill the need, he grabbed Powers and he's already replacing his production. Powers will be a building block on this defense for the next couple of years and could possibly win NFC defensive rookie of the year.

2. RE Cameron Wilkerson (Raiders): 31 tackles, 4 TFL, 5 sacks - It has not been an amazing year for rookies on defense, but Wilkerson has had a solid year so far. His 5 sacks lead all rookies, and his 4 TFL and 31 tackles are both 3rd among rookies.

3. WR Darnell Warner (Dolphins): 32 catches 684 yards and 3 TD - Warner should have been on the last quarterly report but he can't be overlooked any longer. He's been the only thing keeping the Dolphins offense somewhat afloat with no other receivers stepping up consistently. This rookie has come in and shown he's capable of.

4. WR Dre Christian (Steelers): 36 catches for 833 yards and 6 TD - Christian has proven to be almost impossible to stop this season. His 833 yards is 3rd in the MBL, only behind Beckum and his own teammate, Javier Howard. Christian could be one of the top WR’s in the league for a long time and he may also be the Offensive Rookie of the year in the AFC.

Honorable Mentions

1. TE Demarco Moss (Broncos): 36 catches for 597 yards and 2 TD

2. WR Lawrence Mcgowan (Jags): 29 catches for 537 yards and 6 TD

Quarterly Rookie Showcase

by Taut

The Bad

The Good

     With Season 31 close to kicking off, it's time we review this past offseason for the New England Patriots. They came into this one with a strong need for talent all over the field. Last season saw veterans show their age and decreasing abilites after being kept too long and an offense that flashed the potential to be special but couldn't stay out of their own way with turnovers and untimely injuries. While still trying to be contenders in a loaded AFC, they fell short of the playoffs by a 1/2 game in the AFC East. While there's been a revolving door in the division the past three seasons, New England knows they are the class of this division when focused. They took that energy to this past offseason and here's what they fared:

Free Agency:

Isaiah Crowell (RB) - After striking out on their push for Le'Veon Bell, front office officials moved to Crowell as he fills a necessary void in the backfield for the Pats. His ability to finish runs through contact as well as making defenders miss in the open field brings value to this offense. His 60 Rushing TDs so far this cycle ranks 3rd in the MBL. Only Melvin Gordon & Dalvin Cook have more. Expect Isaiah to featured heavily this season.

Martavis Bryant (WR) - Pittsburgh wanted to move in a new direction after having much success with Bryant. Even at age 30, Bryant has much left in the tank. After the failed experiment with Marvin Jones Jr., Mahomes now has a target that will go and get those 50/50 passes and can still be weapon in the open field. 

P.J. Williams (CB) - The long, athletic CB fits exactly what this secondary needs. With Malcolm Butler losing a couple steps last season, Williams steps in with his physical style and quickness to the point of attack giving the Pats a real weapon on the back end. He's coming off a career-high 6 INTs in his last season in New Orleans. P.J. is slated to start opposite Stephon Gilmore.

Ramik Wilson (MLB) - Ramik may be 30 but his motor runs like few in the MBL. He was the man in the middle for the famed Drako defense out in Kansas City and performed well in that role. With Dont'a Hightower gone, Wilson has already fit right in in the locker room as he'll anchor the front seven.

Jaelen Strong (WR) - Jaelen's strengths are his reliable hands and his ability after the catch which is key for an offense that's looking for structure. Young wideout Malcolm Ward isn't giving up his reps lightly tho. Expect Jaelen to see plenty of opportunities.

Other Signings: 

Vaughn Morrison (RT), Julius Porter (SS), LaMarcus Joyner (FS) & Teddy Bridgewater (QB)

Draft:

Cameron Virgil (LT) - One of the many elite talents on the UGA Championship team in this draft class, Virgil is slated to be the Lord of Mahomes's blindside when the season starts. He allowed just two sacks in his three years as a starter in college. He's also slimmed down from 330 lbs to around 310 which surprised many at the combine. Virgil states, "I'm naturally strong. Doesn't matter what weight I'm at, I'll be fine. Can't wait to get out there." Sounds like the Pats got one confident lineman.

Jose Colston (DE) - Colston rose up the draft boards after a dominant combine and a few good private workouts. He figures to fit in the rotation on the line, especially on running plays. His preseason has been productive and he has shined in his time on field. He seems more like a long-term project but given the opportunity, the kid could shine.

Martinez Moody (RB) - Probably the most important pick in the draft here. Moody gives the Patriots offense some much needed versatility out of the backfield. He's already made some explosive plays in the return game and he's won the job as the team's primary returner. LaMarcus Riles has filled in over the years but Moody's talent is primed to keep him on the sideline.

Other picks: Marshall Flynn, Henry Nicholson (RT), Gabe Cone (WR) & David Battles (CB)

This team looks to get back to establishing the run and being more efficient in the passing game in Season 31. With Mahomes at the helm for a second season, expect a more polished attack from New England. 

Defensively, they've been a top 5-10 defense for most the cycle. They could be even better  this season with the new pieces acquired. The Patriots have performed best when their defense forces turnovers. They have to get back to that in order to compete with the elites in the AFC. Expect a hard-hitting, disciplined defense out of Foxborough this year.

This team is hungry and is ready to get back to the Super Bowl. Management and the front office have put together a group of winners who knows what it takes to get to the big moment. Expect a lot of success from these Patriots.

Until Next Time ...

Season 30 for the New England Patriots concluded with the team finishing at 8-8 and out of the playoffs for the third time in five seasons. This season was expected to bring new energy and a keen focus on building on last season's playoff appearance. Instead, turnovers, an inconsistent offensive line and 4th quarter collapses highlighted a year of frustration and wasted opportunities for this group.

At QB, Patrick Mahomes was brought in after the unsuccessful era with Jimmy G concluded. His strong arm combined with the budding talent at WR and TE was expected to recharge an offense looking to make a splash in the league. What was produced were 25+ turnovers by Mahomes, including INTs that clinched 4 losses. WRs accounted for 6 of the 9 lost fumbles on the year, with 2nd-yr WR Malcolm Ward leading that category with 4. The RBs took a hit in the very first week. FA signee LaTavius Murray carried the ball a grand total of six times. Why? Because in the 1st quarter of their week 1 matchup, he completely tore his LCL & MCL in his left knee and was effectively out for the season. Backup LaMarcus Riles stepped up as he has in years past to fill in at the position. This year, he pitched in with over 700 yards and 11 TDs although he only averaged 3.7 ypc. Serviceable, yes. Game-changing, hardly.

What's missing in this offense is a RB who can affect the game both as a runner and a receiver. What will take this team to another level is if they can get a back with the speed to get outside the tackles and the patience and vision to hit the holes and take the contact, this team could get back to where they feel they belong. Look for this to be addressed via Free Agency and the Draft.

On the receiving side of things, the Pats got significant growth and production from their wideouts. Brandin Cooks led the way with over 1100 yds & 8 TDs. His first season over 1k this cycle. Malcolm Ward took a big jump from a quiet rookie campaign to lead the team in receptions (63), finish 2nd in yards (857) & TDs (4) in his second season. TE Griffin McIntyre finished with 36 receptions on the year in his first season where he played more than 10 games. Three years after being selected at the end of the first round, the 6'5 TE will enter the final year of his rookie contract with much to prove. Can he stay healthy for an entire year? Will he finally show the ability that made some experts tab him as the best TE prospect in his class? A lot will need to be shown from Mr. McIntyre.

Defensively, the team impressed overall. The unit put together a stellar campaign in Season 30 finishing 5th in total defense. Their 3rd such mark in five seasons. Starting CBs Stephon Gilmore & Butler each grabbed 6 INTs on the year as they have continued to be one of the best tandems in the MBL this cycle. Butler has probably played his last game in a Patriots uniform with his cap number for Season 31 expected to be too high for the team's plans next season. Safety play was solid throughout the year as the big plays were held in check for the most part. Production from the LB corps dipped a bit this season as no LB had more than 4 sacks or 1 INT. Jamie Collins was a bust of a Free Agent pickup as he gave virtually zero production throughout the year and was benched for Curry Cornelius after the bye week. Dont'a Hightower showed his age this season and will most likely be in a new uniform next season. The pass rush will need some fresh blood as the DEs gathered 10 sacks total in Season 30. The switch to 4-3 was supposed to give Rashad Elliss and Keith Felder a fresh start given they started their careers out of position as 3-4 ends. The production didn't match and it will need to pick up with Todd Bowles implementing his aggressive fronts moving forward.

This season had its bright and low points. There was much to take away from the 8-8 campaign for the Pats, mainly, that there's still room to improve and with only 2 seasons left in the current cycle, there will need to be an injection of talent to the roster right away. Free Agency and the Draft are mere weeks away and with the expectations of a proud franchise looming large, New England needs to shape up quickly.

Until Next Time ...

The mood was right for a big win in The Land as the Patriots visited the Browns in an AFC matchup last night. After coming up short in Week 1 to the Jags, New England was focused and ready to take it to the Browns, who eliminated them in the playoffs last season.

Cleveland received the ball to open the contest and the Pats defense held them to a quick 3 & out, forcing them to punt. New England took their opening possession to the Cleveland 17-yd line but stalled and forced a 34-yd FG by kicker De'Jon Hamilton. Cleveland responded on their 2nd drive with a TD run by Duke Johnson giving them a 7-3 lead. On the ensuing drive, Patrick Mahomes moved the team down the field on some big throws to Brandin Cooks and Malcolm Ward getting them to the Browns' 18-yd line. On the following play, Mahomes dropped back and faked a handoff to RB LaMarcus Riles and was blasted by former Pats CB Cyrus Jones, causing him to fumble the ball and Cleveland took it back the other way for a TD putting them up 13-3 as the 1st quarter ended.

New England followed that drive by going 3 & out on their next one causing them to punt. On the return, Jabrill Peppers was hit from the side by rookie CB Denard Dingle, forcing the ball to come loose and CB Malcolm Butler scooped it up for a 20-yd fumble return for a TD. Stephon Gilmore picked off Jameis Winston on the following possession and the Pats were back in business down 13-10 midway through the 2nd quarter. The offense was able to pick up a first down but stumbled yet again in the red zone and had to settle for another FG by Hamilton, tying the game at 13. Cleveland added a FG right before the half making the score 16-13 at recess.

After both teams punted on their first possessions out of the break, New England drove 72 yards and finished it with a 19-yd run for a TD by backup RB Chris Thompson putting the Pats back up 20-16 at the end of the 3rd quarter. With the 4th quarter starting, Cleveland used a methodical approach on offense. The first two downs were to make 3rd downs short which maximized their options. They accomplished that as Winston was able to pick up three huge 3rd down conversions extending the drive that was capped off by a 2-yd TD run by Duke Johnson, putting the Browns up 23-20 with three minutes to go. 

The Patriots tried to go big on the 1st play of the next drive leading to a sack and an injury to Patrick Mahomes's throwing shoulder. In came backup Brad Kaaya and on the next play, he attempted a pass to the outside for WR Chad Williams and was intercepted by Cyrus Jones who returned it all the way for a TD, effectively sealing the game. It was a gut-wrenching moment as the offense had been playing so well for most of the game and in an instant, the game was all but over. Mahomes came back on the next drive and got the team into FG range and Hamilton made it 30-23 with just under 2 minutes left. The ensuing onside kick failed and Cleveland was able to get a 1st down and run out the clock. 

Final: Browns 30 - Patriots 23

Quote of the Night: "Tonight is a tough one to swallow because we felt as if we were right there to take the W but it wasn't meant to be. Me getting hurt didn't help down the stretch. Brad is always prepared and to see him in that spot being asked to get us out of a jam was rough to watch. We'll bounce back from this. We have a bunch of hungry guys in that locker room that will use tonight as fuel going forward." - QB Patrick Mahomes

Next up, the Patriots will have their home opener in Week 3 as the Chargers will come calling. It's safe to say that this game is a must-win. 

Until Next Time ...

On a crisp evening in Jacksonville, the Patriots entered Everbank Field looking to begin their year with a focused approach. With a new QB and a fresh feel to the team after a progressive preseason, the energy was right for a good night on the field. What followed was a hard fought effort that ended in defeat as the Jags took game 1, 34-19 in front of a sellout crowd.

After good opening drive, that spanned over 3 minutes, The drive stalled on 3rd down leading to a 36-yd FG from Kicker De'Jon Hamilton putting the Pats out to a 3-0 lead early in the 1st quarter. The Jags responded with a drive of their own, instead in a long TD run by RB Leonard Fournette. The Patriots would threaten inside the Jags twice more in the 1st half. Once resulting in another Hamilton FG, then a 2nd time, star CB Jalen Ramsey forced a fumble which gave the Jags back the ball. After a TD pass from QB Daniel Shirley to put the Jags up 17-6, the Pats were able to get a 51 yd FG from Hamilton to go in right before the half to make it 17-9. QB Patrick Mahomes threw two 1st half INTs leading to 10 Jaguars points. 

RB LaTavius Murray, who signed a 2-yr deal with the team in the offseason to be their starting back, tore his right ACL on a toss play earlier in the first half. You could see the team deflate on the field watching him writhe in pain. Murray had become a leader on the team with his accountability and non-stop work in the film and weight rooms. In his first official game with the team, he's gone for the year. His surgery is scheduled for next week.

New England kept it close in the 2nd half. The team went to a spread offense and passed for majority of the half. Mahomes finished with 332 yards passing with a TD and 3 INTs. WR Malcolm Ward, who won the starting job in camp from vet WR Marvin Jones, open the campaign with 6 catches for 97 yards. Brandin Cooks left the game in 3rd quarter with back spasms but is expected to be ok for next week's contest at Cleveland.

Coach Todd Bowles stated that the team was ready to play but it felt like the Jags just executed more. "Our guys were ready, we felt good all week and the effort was there all game. We just needed to be sharper in a couple of situations." When asked about his new QB's first game as a Patriot, Bowles said, "Patrick is gonna be fine. He plays with a lot of confidence and it shows. We want him to be smart more than anything. We wont have to reign him in. He knows what's expected of him. I have no worries about #15."

Next week, the Patriots get a rematch of their Divisional Round loss to the Cleveland in their building again. They were missing MLB Dont'a Hightower and Cooks in that game and felt things could have been different had they played. We will find out. Startiung off 0-2 with the schedule they have this season would not be ideal.

Until Next Time ...

Counted Out: Gerberry Living The Dream in Minnesota

To know Jack Gerberry is to know every underdog story you can imagine. But his story is a bit unique. Born and raised in Blacksburg, VA, Jack was always the little kid who could throw the heck out of a football. He didn't even reach his current height of six feet until his 19th birthday after his freshman year in college. One trait that Jack always displayed, was mental toughness. To be told you're always the smallest or you're not the quickest or fastest, is humbling to the average person. To Jack, it was fuel. He used the slights and negativity to push himself to being one of the best players in the state of Virginia by his Senior year of high school. He only carried five scholarship offers from programs to play D-1 football. Akron, Nevada, UVA, Cincinnati & Rutgers. He received interest from Florida State University on the strength that his uncle and father played for the school in the 80s. The offer from FSU was essentially an offer to walk-on.  The deal the coaches gave him was for Gerberry to come and probably have to sit for 2-3 years and hope he could play his way on to a full scholarship. Another challenge for Jack to achieve. So instead of having better chances to play early at the other schools, he decided to enroll at FSU with the goal being becoming their starting QB as quickly as he can.

After redshirting his first season, Jack was listed as the backup on the preseason depth chart entering his redshirt freshman year after two QBs transferred to different programs. He didn’t see any action until their final game of the season vs. Auburn where he stepped in for the starter and threw for 3 TDs in a comeback victory in the Sugar Bowl. He became the starter in the following year and went on to throw for over 4,000 yards with 34 TDs and just 3 INTs. Being that he was 3rd-yr sophomore, he made himself eligible for the draft after receiving 1st-2nd rd draft grade from the MBL’s advisory committee. He was pegged as the 5th best QB in the class. With six going in the 1st round of the latest MBL rookie draft, Gerberry was taken 6th overall by the Minnesota Vikings. “It was something about that phone call I received from the front office that day that made me feel I was going to the right place.” Says Gerberry, who opted to spend the draft at home in Blacksburg with his family than the Green Room at the draft. He was gifted the keys to the franchise and was made the opening-day starter coming into Week 29. Out the gate, Jack struggled as he threw 5 INTs in his first three games which helped the team fall to 0-3 out the gate. Since then, the Vikings are 10-0 averaging 38 pts a game during this streak. Gerberry hasn’t thrown an INT in his last five games. He’s thrown for 15 TDs in that same span. “I’m just enjoying the game that I love. Our coaches have made the calls that put us in the best situations and I’m just making the best read. It helps to have the weapons I do also. These guys have made it easy for me to get the love I’m getting I guess.” Jack has begun to take the west coast system to an elite level in just his rookie season. Through all the doubt he has faced in his years, he continues to shine. You ask any teammate about him and they all love him. “He’s never down. Always upbeat, smiling, you would think he’s never mad.” WR Javonte Turner explained, “There’s not a play that I was a part of where he wasn’t smiling in the huddle. Too cool man.”

That’s what you get with QB Jack Gerberry. A lot of toughness, plenty of focus but even more heart. Minnesota looks to be in good hands for many years to come.