The Shenoa Report Conference Championship '24

The Shenoa Report

January 28, 2024

CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP

It’s Sunday afternoon and I’ve just started writing this blog post. It was another hard week. I’ve put off writing this until the last possible moment. I’m dedicating this post to Tony. I know he read my blog and he loved sports. The first time I met him he was also introduced to “Football Shenoa.” You see, it was the first Sunday of the season and the Giants were playing the Cowboys. If you know me, and my passion for football and the Giants, you know that I was already amped for the game, let alone meeting my father-in-law for the first time. The Giants played nice and actually beat the Cowboys 20-19. I behaved myself and was so glad that both my partner and Tony accepted “Football Shenoa” as well as regular everyday Shenoa. Throughout the years my partner and I would get texts from Tony after games that the Giants lost to make sure I was ok as well as celebratory texts or phone calls after a win. If you read my post last week you can put together that Tony was the major loss in our life.  I still encourage you to hug your loved ones. Call your family and tell them you love them. Call your friends and do the same. Life is short. 

I went 3-1 on my picks in the divisional round.

Before we get into  the conference championship  let’s recap the Divisional round.

Texans @ Ravens 10-34

I liked the first half of this game much better than the second. The Texans and Ravens went into the half tied at 10. But when the second half of the game started there was definitely a momentum shift. The Ravens defense didn’t give up a single point to the Texans in the third and fourth quarters. Lamar Jackson had four total touchdowns on the day, two passing and two rushing. Jackson made history by becoming the first quarterback since at least 1948, in the regular season or playoffs, with at least two touchdown passes, two TD runs, 100 yards rushing and a 100 passer rating in the same game. Next up the Ravens will host the Chiefs in the Championship game. 

 

Packers  @ 49ers 21-24

This game was way closer than expected. I mean, really close. It came down to the final two minutes. The 49ers didn’t play their best game and the Packers fought and made it very exciting to watch. For more than a moment I thought that the Packers were going to pull off a huge upset. But it was Christian McCaffrey who was the hero for San Francisco as he had the game winning rushing touchdown with 1:07 to play. The 49ers will now host the Lions in the Championship game. 

Buccaneers @ Lions 23-31

This game was back and forth until the fourth quarter when the Lions pulled away with the win. Jahmyr Gibbs ran through a huge hole for a tiebreaking, 31 yard touchdown early in the fourth quarter.  Jared Goff made it a two touchdown lead when he connected with Amon-Ra St. Brown later in the 4th. Goff finished 30 of 43 for 287 yards and two passing touchdowns. St. Brown had eight catches for 77 yards and a receiving touchdown. Baker Mayfield threw three TD passes for Tampa Bay, including a 16 yard pass to Mike Evans that got the Bucs within one score with 4:37 left in the game. The Lions couldn't run out the clock on offense, giving Tampa Bay one last chance, but Mayfield threw a  pass over the middle that was intercepted by Detroit’s linebacker Derrick Barnes which ultimately ended the game. The Lions have now won two playoff games in a season for the first time since 1957 and for the first time in franchise history they had two postseason games at home. Next up the Lions will head to San Francisco to face the 49ers in the Championship game. 

Chiefs  @ Bills 27-24

Ugh. A perfect ending to a perfect week. That’s my sarcastic font. Wide right. Honestly, I’m pretty numb to this ending. In a highly emotional week I would’ve thought I’d cry at this loss. But I just stared at the tv emotionless. It was a super close game where neither team led by more than seven points and they traded leads five times. Bills kicker Tyler Bass had the first score of this game but by missing the field goal at the end of the game he became the villain and ended the Bills season. The Chiefs are pretty good in the postseason. They are 13-3 with Patrick Mahomes as their QB in the playoffs. Now they have knocked the Bills out of the playoffs for the third time in the last four seasons. This was Patrick Mahomes first playoff road win as Kansas City usually has home field advantage. Needless to say, they didn’t need the home field to spoil the Bills once again. It was a very close game and even if Bass had made the field goal with less than two minutes in regulation the Chiefs would’ve gotten the ball back and Mahomes probably would’ve orchestrated another comeback to win the game. Or it could have gone to overtime which is also not good for the Bills as Josh Allen has NEVER won an overtime game. So many what if’s. But the reality is the Bills lost. The Chiefs will now head to Baltimore to face the Ravens in the Championship game. 

 CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP SUNDAY

Sunday, January 28th 

Chiefs @ Ravens  (3pm CBS)

As long as Patrick Mahomes has been a starter for the Chiefs he has taken the team to the AFC Championship. This is the Chiefs sixth-straight trip. It is the second longest streak all-time behind the Patriots (2011-2018). For Andy Reid, this is his 11th conference championship, passing Tom Landry for the second-most by a head coach all-time. This is the first time that the Ravens have hosted the AFC Championship in the franchise's history. I’ll be rooting for the Chiefs but I don’t expect them to win. KC will be without linebacker Willie Gay as well as left guard Joe Thuney due to injuries sustained in last week’s game. This is a devastating blow for the Chiefs. Meanwhile, the Ravens are getting healthier with the return of Mark Andrews. He was activated off of IR for this game after not playing since suffering an ankle injury on Nov. 16. He led the Ravens with 54.4 receiving yards per game this season and led the Ravens with six receiving touchdowns, despite missing seven games. With all that said, I’m picking the Ravens to win this game but I’ll be pulling for the Chiefs. 

 

Lions @ 49ers (6:30pm FOX)

As crazy as it sounds I have more confidence in the Lions beating the 49ers than I do the Chiefs beating the Ravens. I know the Lions are coming into this game as the underdogs. The 49ers are 7.5 point favorites. The 49ers have injuries to watch. Deebo Samuel was injured in last week’s game and if he’s not 100% this game the 49ers could be in trouble. The Lions play with so much heart and passion that I really think they can beat the 49ers. I really just don’t want another 49ers-Ravens super bowl so I am going to pick the Lions to win this game. Why not? GO LIONS!

GO LIONS!

Thanks for the edit Eric!

The Shenoa Report Divisional Round '24

The Shenoa Report

January 20, 2024

DIVISIONAL ROUND WEEKEND

This week I’ve learned to welcome distractions.  Football is a good distraction. We, my partner and I, suffered a major loss this past week (we are ok). I wondered if I would even write and post this blog. Clearly I’ve decided to write. I encourage you to hug your loved ones. Call your family and tell them you love them. Call your friends and do the same. Life is short. Carpe Diem. Distractions are welcome. 

So let me distract myself for a while and talk about football. 

I went 4-2 on my picks in the wildcard round but I was perfect in who I’d hoped would win.

Before we get into the Divisional round  let’s recap Super Wildcard Weekend.

Browns @ Texans 14-45

CJ Stroud threw for 236 yards and three touchdowns, one to Nico Collins, one to Brevin Jordan, and one to Dalton Schultz, all before halftime! The defense took over in the second half, with Steven Nelson and Christian Harris returning interceptions for touchdowns on consecutive drives in the third quarter to extend the lead to 38-14. The Browns were only “in” this game in the first quarter and that’s because they got the ball first to start the game. Cleveland did score the first touchdown, a Kareem Hunt rushing TD with about 2 minutes to go in the first quarter. The Texans answered back, finishing with a touchdown of their own, a pass from Stroud to Nico Collins. The second quarter started much like the first with another touchdown from Kareem Hunt, this time it was a receiving touchdown from Joe Flacco. But that would be the last score for the Browns. The Texans unleashed an extraordinary romping of the Browns. Stroud became the youngest rookie quarterback to win a playoff game after throwing for 274 yards and three touchdowns. Stroud was replaced with Davis Mills early in the 4th quarter as his job was done for the day. Devin Singletary had a rushing touchdown, the last score of the day, early in the 4th quarter and, clearly, Cleveland wasn’t coming back. This is the Browns’ worst postseason loss since a 34-0 thumping by the Baltimore Colts on Dec. 29, 1968. It was sad to see the Browns lose but also great to see the Texans win. They’ve endured a lot, and clearly  made the right decision in getting rid of Deshawn Watson. Next up the Texans will travel to Baltimore to face the Ravens in the divisional round. 

 

Dolphins @ Chiefs 7-26

I think this was the game that Chiefs fans had wanted and expected all season and it came just in time for playoffs. For what seems like the first time this season the Chiefs actually dominated. It’s about damn time. Patrick Mahomes went 23-41 in passing attempts, 262 yards, a touchdown to Rashee Rice, and zero interceptions. Tua, who said he wouldn’t wear gloves because it was “just a state of mind” went 20-39 in passing attempts, 199 yards, had a touchdown to Tyreek Hill, and an interception. Isaiah Pacheco had a rushing touchdown and Harrison Butker handled the rest, racking up 4 field goals in the win. It was not the Dolphins day. I’m sure the temperature had an effect on the outcome. Coming from Miami where it’s 80 degrees to Kansas City where it was -4 below at the start of the game probably didn’t help Miami. With the windchill it felt like -27 degrees. It was so cold Andy Reid’s mustache had icicles on it and Patrick Mahomes’ helmet shattered when it collided with a defender's helmet.  Once officials saw the fist-sized hole, they made Mahomes get a backup helmet from the bench. The Chiefs should have used a timeout for the switch or Mahomes should have sat out for a play but neither happened. I guess the refs figured that time out or not the Chiefs had already won the game. Who knows with refs nowadays.  The Dolphins never threatened down the stretch in their 11th straight loss when game-time temps are 40 degrees or less. Now the Dolphins have the longest active streak without a playoff win. It was 24 years ago in 2000. Next up *SPOILER* the Chiefs will travel to Buffalo to face the Bills!

If you didn’t already know that the Bills won, you’ll read it in the recap soon!

Packers @ Cowboys 48-32

Yo! How ‘bout them Cowboys? Or should I say, GO PACK GO! This was the most shocking game of the weekend for sure. I got the pick wrong and am so happy I did! The Green Bay scoring was bananas. Aaron Jones ran for three touchdowns. Jordan Love threw for three more TDs in his postseason debut, one to Dontayvion Wicks, one to Luke Musgrave, and one to Romeo Doubs. On defense, Darnell Savage returned an interception 64 yards for another touchdown!  And that is how the Packers beat the Cowboys.  Here are a few fun facts: This was the first time a number 2 seed lost to a number 7 seed in NFL history. The Cowboys have now extended their playoff streak appearances without a conference title game to 13. Also, this was the Cowboys first home loss since week 1 of 2022. The Packers will head to San Francisco next week to take on the 49ers. Moving forward, I’m sure you’ll be hearing a lot of “Aaron Rodgers who?” All you need is Love. 

Rams @ Lions 23-24

Unless you live under a rock you’ll remember the blockbuster trade that sent the Lions QB Matthew Stafford to the Rams for their QB Jared Goff plus two first round picks, three years ago. The Rams thought they got the better end of the deal because Stafford took them to the Super Bowl and got them a ring in Feb of 2022. Jared Goff, on the other hand, gave defenses a lot of interceptions and fumbles. Coach Dan Campbell kept coaching Goff, encouraging him and the rest of his team. You saw it first hand if you tuned into Hard Knocks in 2022. Campbell doesn’t give up on his guys and it shows. The Lions won their first playoff game in 32 years. Being the number 3 seed, Detroit will have two home playoff games for the first time in franchise history. This was such a close, nail biting, intense game. The Rams had a chance to take the lead late in the 4th but the Lions defense said, NO thanks. The Rams trailed the entire game. Detroit’s rookie tight end was able to suit up for this game having been questionable all week. TE Sam LaPorta even had a touchdown midway through the second quarter after catching a pass from Jared Goff. David Montgomery and rookie Jahmyr Gibbs each had a rushing TD for the Lions, and St. Brown had seven receptions for 110 yards. It was a good solid game, I just don’t like it being THAT close! Next up the Lions will host the Bucs, which is another spoiler of sorts. More on that in the upcoming recap. 

Steelers @ Bills 17-31

This game was slated for 1pm on Sunday but due to the State of Emergency in Western NY the game was postponed to Monday afternoon. Over two feet of snow fell over the weekend, the majority of it falling Sunday afternoon through the overnight. Fans were paid $20/hr to help with snow removal. By the time the game started the field was uncovered and pristine but the stands still had a LOT of snow. Certain sections were still completely covered in feet of snow. I like to think, and judging from pictures during the game, the uncleared sections were those where Steelers fans sat. It was comical watching videos of fans trying to find their seats while wading through waist deep snow. I left work early on Monday to make sure I was able to catch the entire game and I’m glad I did. It was a great game. Josh Allen was money. Allen threw three touchdown passes and had a rushing TD on a franchise playoff-record 52 yard touchdown run. The Bills led 21-0 before the Steelers scored on three straight possessions to get it to 24-17. I didn’t like that part but Allen continued to dominate and with less than 7 minutes to go in the fourth quarter he connected with Khalil Shakir on a 17 yard touchdown pass to seal the win. Allen finished 21 of 30 for 203 yards and ran for 74 yards on eight carries, becoming the first quarterback in NFL playoff history to throw three or more TD passes while rushing for 70 or more yards and a score. Also, he didn’t have a turnover for just the fourth time this season. It’s safe to say that the Bills had one of their best games this season. It’s also safe to say the Steelers didn’t. Things just didn’t come together for them. Next up the Bills will HOST the Chiefs on Sunday. More on that in the predictions. 

Eagles @ Buccaneers 9-32

I’m just going to go ahead and say what needs to be said, the Eagles are no longer a good football team. They have GREAT talent on their roster but for whatever reason, they are not playing together and they need help. Fortunately they now have all of the off season to figure it out. In other news, I think Baker Mayfield likes being in Tampa Bay and I think that Bucs fans are happy he’s there. Mayfield threw for 337 yards and three touchdowns in the romping. Tampa Bay's defense never allowed Hurts or the rest of the Eagles offense to get into any sort of rhythm. I’d like to say I was surprised with the outcome of this game, but after the Eagles lost 5 out of their last six games I almost expected this loss. I’ve also learned to never count out the Eagles and that’s why I picked them to win this game initially. So I got the pick wrong. Oh well. I’m still happy with the outcome. I like Baker Mayfield and I am glad that he is able to thrive with Tampa Bay. The Bucs will now travel to Detroit and the Eagles will travel to their couches. Big shout out and Congrats to Jason Kelce, the center for the Eagles, who announced his retirement after this game. 

 DIVISIONAL ROUND WEEKEND

Saturday, January 20th 

Texans (10-7)  @ Ravens (13-4)  (4:30pm ESPN/ABC/ESPN+)

I don’t have strong ties or feels for either of these teams and just hope it’s a good game. I guess, even though I just said I don’t care who wins, I think I’ll be rooting for the Texans. I like their story. I like CJ Stroud. I think the Ravens will win but I wouldn’t be surprised if the Texans pull off a tremendous upset. I’m picking the Ravens to win. They just signed running back Dalvin Cook from the Jets and they are potentially getting tight end Mark Andrews back from his mid-season injury that placed him on IR. The Texans are coming into this game quite beat up. Houston has lost two of their top wide receivers due to injury. They will be without Tank Dell and Noah Brown for this game. I think that if both of these receivers were able to suit up it would be a vastly different game. So. I’m rooting for the Texans, I’m picking the Ravens to win, but I really just hope it’s a good game. Vegas has the Ravens -9.5 so, we’ll see. 

 

Packers  (9-8) @ 49ers (12-5) (8:15pm FOX)

It’s safe to say that the Packers loathe the 49ers, especially during the playoffs. When Aaron Rodgers was their quarterback the 49ers knocked the Packers out of the playoffs four times, including twice in the previous four seasons. Will Jordan Love fare better for Green Bay? I don’t think so, at least this time. The 49ers are 10 point favorites. That’s tough. The Packers have been playing really good football as of late. The saying goes, Any given Sunday… Well it could be any given Saturday too. We’ll see. I’m picking the 49ers to win this game. 

Sunday, January 21st

Buccaneers (9-8) @ Lions (12-5) (3pm NBC)

As much as I love Baker Mayfield and what he has done for the Bucs organization this year I am all in on the Lions to win this game. Fun fact: Jared Goff is the first quarterback in NFL history to snap a 10+ year playoff win drought from multiple teams. First with the Rams and now with the Lions. Detroit is aiming to win 2 playoff games in a season for the 1st time since 1957. I like their odds. I’m rooting for and picking the Lions to win this game. 

Chiefs  (11-6) @ Bills (11-6) (6:30pm CBS)

These two teams have a playoff rival history much like the Packers 49ers. The Chiefs have knocked the Bills out of the playoffs twice in the past 3 seasons. Last season the Bengals knocked the Bills out in the divisional round. The Bills now have the advantage. They will host the Chiefs instead of having to travel to Arrowhead. I just hope the game doesn’t go into overtime. Josh Allen has yet to win an overtime game with the Bills. I’m rooting for and picking the Bills to win this game. Go Bills!!!!

GO LIONS! GO BILLS!

Thanks for the edit Eric!

The Shenoa Report Super Wildcard Weekend '24 #theshenoareport

The Shenoa Report

January 13, 2024

SUPER WILDCARD WEEKEND

***MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENT*** THE BUFFALO BILLS GAME HAS BEEN MOVED TO MONDAY AFTERNOON DUE TO WEATHER. 

Playoffs? Playoffs! We’ve made it to the playoffs. Happy Super Wildcard Weekend! Let’s not waste any time! I went 10-6 on my picks. 

Before we get into Super Wildcard Weekend let’s recap week 18. 

Steelers @ Ravens 17-10 

I was so mad that the Ravens let the Steelers win this game. I was hoping that the Bills would have already shored up a spot in the playoffs well before they had to play. I guess it’s easier to beat a team that isn’t starting most of their starters. It was nice to see Ravens outside linebacker, Jadeveon Clowney, get a sack which met his incentive of $750,000! The Steelers may have won this game but it came at a great cost. T.J. Watt injured his knee in the third quarter and didn’t finish the game. The Steelers will be headed to Buffalo next and the Ravens have a first round bye. 

 

Texans @ Colts 23-19

The turn around that Houston has made this season is astounding. The Texans had the second pick in the draft coming into this season and using it on CJ Stroud has proved very fruitful. With this win over the Colts, the Texans are playoff bound for the first time in years. The Colts were eliminated with this loss. Next up the Texans will host Cleveland to face a very scary Browns team. 

Buccaneers @ Panthers 9-0

The Bucs clinched the NFC South division title with this win. Panthers fans are just happy the season is over. This was the second shutout for Carolina this season. Not a good stat to have. Even though it was the Bucs defense and kicker that really won this game for Tampa it must have been a really nice feeling for Baker Mayfield to have won against the team that waived him in the offseason and get into the playoffs by beating said team. 

Browns  @ Bengals 14-31

The Bengals were able to finish the season above .500 after this win against a team that rested all of their starters. The Browns will head to Houston to take on the Texans next and the Bengals will be watching the playoffs from their couches. 

Vikings @ Lions 20-30

The Lions were playing for the second seed in the playoffs. They needed the win and they needed the Cowboys to lose. Well, they got the win but they didn’t secure the second seed because the Cowboys also won. Unfortunately this Lions win came at a big cost especially with the playoffs right around the corner. Rookie tight end, Sam LaPorta, injured his knee early in the game and didn’t return. The Lions eliminated the Vikings in this victory over their rival. Next up the Lions will host the Rams. 

Jets @ Patriots 17-3 

The Jets hadn’t beaten the Patriots in the last 15 matchups. Then the Jets handed Bill Belicheck his very last loss with the Patriots. Probably not the sendoff that New England wanted, but it’s definitely the end of an era.  

Falcons @ Saints 17-48

The Saints annihilated the Falcons but missed the playoffs because Green Bay won and by doing so knocked the Saints out. . The ending of this game was especially fun to watch as the Saints were in victory formation at the Falcons one yard line. Instead of kneeling it out they decided to fake it and handed the ball off to Jamaal Williams for a one yard run for his first touchdown of the season. Both head coaches were visibly upset but the Saints players wanted to honor Williams by letting him get his only touchdown for the entire season.  The Saints coach said he and his staff had called for the offense to run out the clock, but players on the field decided on their own to give Williams a chance to score his only touchdown of the season. The Falcons head coach was fired just hours after the loss. 

Jaguars @ Titans 20-28

I got this pick wrong but I’m glad I did because with the Titans winning it took some of the pressure off the Bills. The Bills were in a must win situation to get into the playoffs after the Steelers also won. I don’t think anyone thought that the Jags would lose this game, well maybe Titans fans. Derrick Henry ran for a season-high 153 yards and had a rushing touchdown in what might be his last game with Tennessee. It was the Titans defense that saved the day. They stopped Tevor Lawrence with about 7 minutes to go in the fourth on their one yard line. The Jags went for it on 4th and goal on a quarterback keep but the Titans defense stood strong and forced a turnover on downs. The Jags had one last chance late in the fourth but couldn't convert and the Titans were able to run out the clock. Even though the Titans won this game Mike Vrabel was relieved of his head coaching duties this past week. Both teams will be watching the playoffs from their couch. 

Seahawks @ Cardinals 21-20

Even though the Seahawks won this game they didn’t get the help that they needed from other teams and missed the playoffs for the second time in three seasons. It was a tight game and they almost lost it but Cardinals kicker, Matt Prater, missed a 51 yard field goal attempt that went wide right as time expired. It was his second missed field goal of the fourth quarter. Both teams played their hearts out. And both teams will be watching the playoffs from their homes. I don’t think the Seattle players knew that this would be the last game with Pete Carroll as their head coach. Carroll's 14 year run as Seahawks coach ended Wednesday when team owner Jody Allen announced that Carroll would be transitioning into an advisory role with the organization. Wow!

Bears @ Packers 9-17

I think Packer fans are happy. From what I gather, Packer fans kinda really soured on Aaron Rodgers and welcomed his departure after failing to get into the postseason last year. The Packers bounced back from a 2-5 start by winning seven of their last 10 games, including three straight and with this win they are now headed to the playoffs. Jordan Love threw for 316 yards and connected with Dontayvion Wicks on a pair of touchdowns that led his team to victory over their division rivals. The Packers will now head to Dallas to take on the Cowboys in one of the wildcard games. The Bears, not so much. 

Chiefs @ Chargers 13-12

I am at a loss for words with these Chiefs. I’m glad they won. I’m glad I got the pick correct. I knew that they were resting their starters but the Chargers weren’t. It was a boring, somewhat meaningless game. The Chiefs will really have to step it up if they want to advance in the postseason. The Chiefs will host the Dolphins next. 

Broncos @ Raiders 14-27

Really, I’m just glad Denver lost because F the Broncos organization. I’m also happy that Antonio Pierce has had such great success as the Raiders interim head coach. The Raiders organization would be smart to make Pierce their head coach next season. 

Eagles @ NY Giants 10-27

Best. Game. Of. The. Season. WE BEAT THE EAGLES!!!!!!!!!!!! AND IT WASN’T EVEN CLOSE! Jalen Hurts was 7 of 16 for 55 yards and one interception. Tyrod Taylor threw for 229 yards in the first half and the Giants led 24-0. Saquon Barkley had two rushing touchdowns and Darius Slayton had a receiving touchdown, in what was most likely his last game with the Giants. Hopefully that wasn’t Barkley’s last touchdown with the Giants as well. I was so proud of the Giants. They finished strong and we even got to see Tommy DiVito for a few plays while Taylor was getting checked out on the sidelines. Of course the Giants didn’t make it to the postseason this year. We also found out that there was a big rift between coach Daboll and defensive coordinator Wink Martindale. Wink was very displeased that his coaching staff was let go on Monday and basically told Daboll to pound sand and then quit and flew back to Florida. So the Giants have some coaching vacancies to fill in the off season which started after their last win. The Eagles head to Tampa next to face the Bucs. 

Rams @ 49ers 21-20

With both teams already playoff bound before this game it was just fun for the backups to get some playing time. Carson Wentz started for the Rams and Sam Darnold started for the 49ers. I was surprised that the Rams got the win, so I got this pick incorrect. The Rams will head to Detroit next and the 49ers will wait until the following week as they have a first round bye in the wildcard weekend. 

Cowboys @ Commanders 38-10

The Commanders came up short like they have this entire season. Washington’s losing streak reached eight games. That includes going 0-6 since head coach Ron Rivera fired defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio and made himself the play-caller on that side of the ball. Rivera was fired Monday morning after this loss. The Cowboys will host the Packers next. 

Bills @ Dolphins 21-14

I feel like the Bills nickname should be the cardiac kids. Man do they make it nail bitingly close. Josh Allen is the poster child for this. Allen made things very frustrating for fans with three turnovers in Miami territory, but finished the game with 359 yards and two touchdown passes. Buffalo trailed 14-7 in the 4th quarter before Deonte Harty returned a punt 96 yards for a touchdown. It was then that the momentum shifted for the Bills. Buffalo then forced a three-and-out and the offense marched down the field where Allen connected with Dawson Knox on a 5 yard touchdown pass to take the lead. Miami had one last chance, but Taylor Rapp intercepted Tua Tagovailoa on a pass intended for Chase Claypool with 1:13 left. With this win the Bills now have the second seed and will host the Steelers on Monday afternoon. The Dolphins will travel to Kansas City to take on the Chiefs on Saturday night.

 SUPER WILDCARD WEEKEND

Saturday, January 13th 

Browns (11-6) @ Texans (10-7)  (4:30pm NBC)

I think this is going to be a good game. I think both teams are evenly matched. It’s tough for me to pick a winner or to know who I am going to root for in this game. I’ve liked the Browns ever since watching their season of Hard Knocks. But I also like Houston’s story of getting CJ Stroud second overall and making the playoffs. Stroud is the only rookie starting quarterback to make the playoffs this season and the 22-year-old will face off against the oldest QB in the postseason in Cleveland’s Joe Flacco, who turns 39 three days after the game. I am picking the Texans to win, but only because they have the home field advantage. That, and Cleveland has only won 3 games on the road this season. 

 

Dolphins (11-6) @ Chiefs (11-6) (8pm Peacock)

When this game kicks off it’ll be a balmy -5 degrees. It’ll make the list of one of  the coldest games in NFL history. Heading into Saturday's matchup, the NFL official record book lists the 1967 NFL Championship as the coldest playoff game, with the Ice Bowl played at -13 degrees with -48 wind chill, per NFL Research. The Bills Steelers game has already been postponed due to weather and people have been calling for this game to be postponed too. Will that happen? Unlikely. Peacock paid a lot of money to have this game streamed on their service. 

While the Dolphins are in the postseason in consecutive years for the first time since 2001, the Chiefs will be playing their 15th straight home playoff game. I think that Kansas City definitely has the home field advantage. We know that Tyreek Hill is accustomed to this weather too as he played with the Chiefs for years before being traded to Miami. As for the rest of the Dolphins, will they be ready for these bone chilling temperatures? I don’t think so. Tua has stated that he will not be wearing gloves for this game. That’s just dumb. I’ve liked watching the Dolphins in the Hard Knocks In Season episodes but I think this is the end of the road for Miami. I’m picking the Chiefs to win this game. 

Sunday, January 14th 

Packers (9-8) @ Cowboys (11-5) (4:30pm FOX)

Alright, you already know that I’ll be rooting for Green Bay. Go Pack Go! I don’t think it’s at all likely that they’ll win but they’ve got my support. The Cowboys haven’t lost at home in two seasons. I don’t think they are going to start now. I mean, it would be epic and I wouldn’t be sad if they did, but I’m picking the Cowboys to win this game hoping I’m wrong. 

Rams (10-7) @ Lions (12-5) (8pm NBC)

Matt Stafford will be back in Detroit and Jared Goff will also be playing against his former team. This will be the Lions first playoff home game in three decades. I am all in on the Lions. I’ll be rooting for them and picking them to win this game. Everyone rooting for the Lions is hoping and praying that rookie tight end Sam LaPorta will be able to play after injuring his knee in the prior game. 

Monday, January 15th

Steelers (10-7) @ Bills (11-6) (4:30pm CBS)

This game was slated for 1pm on Sunday but due to the State of Emergency in Western NY the game has been postponed to Monday afternoon. Governor Kathy Hochul made the announcement Saturday afternoon. “We want our Bills to win, but we don’t want 60 to 70 thousand people traveling to the football game in what is going to be horrible conditions,” said Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz. Even with the game moved to Monday there is still a risk of inclement weather. Regardless of when this game is played I am all in on the Bills. I’ll be rooting for them and picking them to win this game. I’m just bummed that I’ll have to leave work early on Monday to get home in time to catch it. That’s sarcasm. I am not bummed about leaving work early, but I don’t know what I’m going to do at 1pm on Sunday now! GO BILLS!

Eagles (11-6) @ Buccaneers (9-8) (8:15pm ABC/ESPN/ESPN+)

The Manningcast is back for this game and maybe, just maybe, Eli will show double birds again for the Eagles fans. Philadelphia started 10-1 before losing five of six to fall all the way to the No. 5 seed. Tampa Bay, meanwhile, rebounded from a stretch in which it lost six of seven to go 5-1 over the last six weeks to win its third consecutive division title and earn the No. 4 seed. To say the Eagles are banged up is an understatement. Hurts injured the middle finger on his throwing hand last week against the Giants. In the same game, AJ Brown injured his knee and won’t be able to play in this game. The Bucs aren’t faring much better injury wise. Baker Mayfield is dealing with rib and ankle injuries. I’ll be rooting for the Bucs for sure. I hope they win this game. I’m going to pick the Eagles to win though and I hope I’m wrong. 

GO LIONS! GO BILLS!

Thanks for the edit Eric!

The Shenoa Report Week 18 '24 #theshenoareport

The Shenoa Report

January 6, 2024

Regular Season Week 18

Happy New Year and happy last week of the regular season! We’ve got a lot of scenarios to get into the postseason. You'll have to read on to know if your team is going to make it! Spoiler, the NY Giants will not make it. Tear. There are a lot of other teams that aren’t going to make it either. Sorry. May your team win this weekend. I went 10-6 on my picks. 

Before we get into week 18 let’s recap week 17. 

Jets @ Browns 20-37

Joe Flacco, who was on his couch a month and a half ago has propelled the unlikely Cleveland Browns into a spot in the playoffs. The Browns are now the first team in NFL history to make the playoffs after starting four different quarterbacks in the same season. Another fun fact, Flacco, who has started the last 5 games this season has more passing touchdowns (13) than Deshawn Watson, the Titans, Steelers, or Jets. 

Lions @ Cowboys 19-20

I can’t even with this game. The Lions technically won this game but I’m pretty sure the Cowboys were filling the refs pockets, before, during, and after the game. Either that or the refs should get eyeglasses and hearing aids because they clearly made so many bad calls, no calls, or mistakes. The biggest mess up came at the end of the game. With less than two minutes left in the game the Lions had just scored a touchdown and Dan Campbell decided the team would go for two to win the game. It was a play that they had practiced a bunch and Campbell had even notified the refs before the game started that they would likely call this play at some point in the game. It was a tricky kind of play that should’ve paid off. Jared Goff completed a pass to lineman Taylor Decker, but he was ruled to be an ineligible receiver. After replay it was clear that Decker had reported to the ref. Goff said Decker, the starting left tackle, reported to officials and Dan Skipper, a backup offensive tackle, did not. Skipper said he didn't report to an official. Two players can't report to be eligible receivers on the same play. The Lions went for  the two point conversion again and Goff was intercepted but the Cowboys were called for offsides. The last time they went for it the pass was incomplete and the Cowboys snuck away with the game.  The refs F-ed up so badly it cost the Lions the win AND playoff rankings, AND gave the stupid Cowboys the W. Unbelievable. 

Dolphins @ Ravens 19-56

Yo. Now the Dolphins might feel like how they made the Broncos feel earlier this season. Miami got Whooped. On the other side of the field Lamar Jackson had a perfect passer rating and with the win the Ravens clinched a division title and the top seed in the AFC. 

Patriots @ Bills 21-27

Why do the Bills always play so badly against the Patriots? I mean, yes, they won the game but they should have clobbered the Pats. In reality, I’m just glad the Bills got the win. At least one of my teams should make the playoffs. Fingers crossed. 

Falcons @ Bears 17-37

The Bears dominated this game and played spoilers in the meantime. For the Falcons to have a chance at making the playoffs they needed to win out. It’s not looking good for Atlanta. The Bears also had a super slim chance of making the playoffs but that came to an end later that evening when the Packers beat the Vikings. 

Raiders @ Colts 20-23

“I feel like I never pick either of these teams correctly. I’ll pick the Raiders to win this week.” 

Is what I said last week. I give up. By winning this game the Colts are still technically alive with the hopes of a playoff berth. The Raiders, not so much. 

Panthers @ Jaguars 0-26

The poor Panthers. Another shut out. Ouch. The Jags got the win without a passing touchdown. Just a lot of field goals and rushing touchdowns from kicker Brandon McManus and RB Travis Etienne, respectively.

Titans @ Texans 3-26

The Texans are rolling. More surprising, after having the second pick in the draft coming into this season, Houston has a chance at making the playoffs this season. The Texans who are 9-7, along with the Colts and Jaguars, all won Sunday to leave the three teams with identical records in the AFC South.  This keeps the Texans in contention for both the division title and a playoff spot. The Titans on the other hand have been out of contention for a while now. 

Rams @ NY Giants 26-25

As a Giants fan, this was a heartbreaking game. We had a few chances to win but it didn’t come together. With 3:27 left in the game Giants punt returner Gunner Olszewski scored on a 94-yard punt return to get New York within a point. After an encroachment penalty on the extra point attempt, coach Brian Daboll decided to go for a 2-point conversion.  Tyrod Taylor missed a wide-open Saquon Barkley on a rollout to the right. Ouch. But not all was lost. The Giants defense was able to get a stop and we got the ball back. With less than a minute left in the game we drove down the field again but our kicker, Mason Crosby, missed a 54 yard field goal that would’ve given the Giants the win. 

Saints @ Buccaneers 23-13

The Saints are now 8-8 after this win. And I suppose that makes sense because Derek Carr seems to have had a good game then a bad game, rinse and repeat. Carr had a good game this time around with two passing touchdowns. The Saints defense also stepped up and shut out the Bucs for the first 3 quarters. Baker Mayfield had two passing touchdowns but they came late in the 4th after garbage time had already started. 

Cardinals @ Eagles 35-31

“I think it would be hilarious if the Cards could pull off the upset,” is what I said last week. 

I don’t think that Eagles fans thought it was hilarious but I sure did. I’m not even upset I got the pick wrong. It was an amazing game to watch. Kyler Murry had 3 touchdown passes, Jalen Hurts only had two. Also, my dear James Conner had two rushing touchdowns, the last one was the game winner. 

49ers @ Commanders 27-10

The 49ers bounced back and won this game. I could say well duh, it should’ve been an easy win but from the game recap directly above we’ve learned that anything is possible. 

Steelers @ Seahawks 30-23

With this win the Steelers keep their playoff hopes alive. The Seahawks are still technically alive but they’ll need to win in week 18 and get a lot of help as well. I’m just upset that I got this pick wrong. 

Bengals @ Chiefs 17-25

Harrison Butker hit 6 field goals in this sloppy win over the Bengals to get the Chiefs to the AFC West title. You read that right. Butker was the MVP of this game, not Patrick Mahomes or Travis Kelce. This win also knocked the Bengals out of a chance at the post season. 

Chargers @ Broncos 9-16

I’m so mad the Chargers couldn’t pull off this win. One, because I said I refused to pick the Chargers to win for the rest of the season. Two, I did anyway because the Broncos did Russell Wilson dirty. I hope the Broncos never have another successful season. I’m team Wilson. 

Packers @ Vikings 33-10

Jordan Love threw three touchdown passes and ran for a score to put the Packers in control of a spot in the playoffs with this win. The Vikings haven’t officially been eliminated yet, they have a 3% chance of making it after this loss. 

 WEEK 18

Saturday, January 6th 

Steelers (9-7) @ Ravens (13-3)  (4:30pm ABC/ESPN/ESPN+)

The Ravens clinched the number one seed and first round bye in the playoffs last week so they have nothing to play for this week and will most likely rest the majority of their starters. For instance Lamar Jackson will not start. Tyler Huntley is set to start in Jackson's place. The Ravens have also ruled out receiver Odell Beckham Jr., cornerback Marlon Humphrey, guard Kevin Zeitler, linebacker Malik Harrison, and defensive back Daryl Worley. Receiver Zay Flowers is doubtful and safety Kyle Hamilton is questionable with a knee injury. The Steelers can clinch a postseason berth with a win AND a loss by either Buffalo or Jacksonville. There is a scenario in which Pittsburgh could get in with a loss, but that requires help from multiple teams. With all that said, I’m going to make it easy for everyone and say the Ravens will beat the Steelers and end most of these scenarios. I’m picking the Ravens for the win. (This will also help the Bills should they lose in Miami on Sunday)

 

Texans (9-7) @ Colts (9-7) (8:15pm ABC/ESPN/ESPN+)

The Colts can clinch the AFC South division title with a win + Jags loss or tie OR a tie + Jags loss. The Colts can clinch a playoff berth with a win OR a tie + a Steelers  loss or tie. The Texans can clinch the AFC South division title with a win + Jags loss or tie. The Texans can clinch a playoff berth with a win + Jags loss + Steelers loss or tie. Jacksonville is ahead of Indianapolis and Houston in the AFC south based on head-to-head record (Jaguars' 3-1 to the Colts' 1-2 and the Texans' 1-2). Indianapolis is ahead of Houston in the AFC South based on head to head (1-0). Basically both teams need this win in order to advance. I’m picking the Colts to win this game. 

Sunday, January 7th 

Buccaneers (8-8) @ Panthers (2-14) (1pm FOX)

The Panthers will be playing for nothing but pride and spoilers. The Bucs will be playing to get into the postseason. The Bucs can clinch the NFC South division title with a win OR a tie + a Saints  loss or tie. The Bucs can clinch a playoff berth with a win OR a tie + a Seahawks loss + Packers loss or tie. I’m picking the Bucs to win this game. 

Browns (11-5) @ Bengals (8-8) (1pm CBS)

Cleveland has already clinched the playoffs and will be resting most of their starters including Joe Flacco and Myles Garrett. WR Amari Cooper, LG Joel Bitonio, CB Denzel Ward, and TE David Njoku — all Pro Bowlers — are also expected to sit rest. QB Jeff Driskel will get the start for the Browns. Fun fact: Driskel made five starts for the Bengals in 2018. The Bengals have already been eliminated from the post season so they’ll just be playing for pride. They are pretty beat up but I am picking the Bengals to win this game to give their fans on last hoorah for the season. 

Vikings (7-9) @ Lions (11-5)  (1pm FOX)

The Lions clinched the playoffs with a win against the Vikings two weeks ago. If the Lions beat the Vikings AND Dallas loses at Washington AND Philadelphia gets beat by the New York Giants on the road THEN the Lions would bump up to the No. 2 spot, giving them a better chance of hosting two playoff games this month. I mean I’m rooting for the Lions and hoping all these scenarios come true but the Vikings are also fighting to get into the playoffs. The Vikings can clinch a playoff berth with a win + Packers loss + Seahawks loss + Bucs loss OR a win + Packers loss + Seahawks loss + Saints loss. So you’re saying there’s a chance? With all that said I’m picking the Lions to win this game! 

Jets (6-10) @ Patriots (4-12) (1pm FOX) 

Both teams have already been eliminated from the possibility of the playoff and will be playing for divisional pride. I’m picking the Pats to win this game, it would help the NY Giants draft pick potentially. I think both fan bases are just glad the season will be over after this game. 

Falcons (7-9) @ Saints (8-8)  (1pm CBS)

The Saints can clinch the NFC South division title with a win + a Bucs loss or tie OR a tie + a Bucs loss. The Saints can clinch a playoff berth with a win + Seahawks loss or tie + Packers  loss or tie OR a Saints tie + Seahawks loss + Packers loss. The Falcons can clinch the NFC South division title with a win + Bucs loss. With all that said, I’m picking the Saints to win this game. 

Jaguars (9-7) @  Titans (5-11) (1pm CBS)

The Titans have already been eliminated from playoff contention so they’ll just be playing for spoilers and pride in this divisional matchup. The Jags, however, have a lot to play for. The Jaguars can clinch the AFC South division title with a win. It’s as simple as that. They can also clinch the division tidal with a tie + a tie in the Colts - Texans game. If the Jags don’t win outright they can also clinch a playoff berth with a tie + Steelers loss or tie OR a Steelers loss + Broncos loss or tie +  a tie in the Colts - Texans game. With all that said, I’m picking the Jags to win this game but I’ll be rooting for Derrick Henry to get one more rushing touchdown. One more rushing TD would give Henry 12 for the fifth time in his career, joining LaDainian Tomlinson, Emmitt Smith, Adrian Peterson, Alexander Brown, and Jim Brown as the only players in NFL history with five such seasons.

Seahawks (8-8) @ Cardinals (4-12) (4:25pm FOX)

The Cardinals have also already been eliminated from playoff contention so they’ll just be playing for spoilers and pride in this divisional matchup. The Seahawks can get into the postseason but they’ll need some help. They can clinch a playoff berth with a win + Packers  loss or tie OR a tie + Packers loss + Bucs loss or tie OR a tie +Packers loss + Saints loss or tie. I honestly don’t see the Seahawks making it into the playoffs this season even if they win this game. I’m picking the Seahawks to win this game but I wouldn’t be surprised if the Cardinals upset an angry bird for the second week in a row (Also, an Arizona win would help the NY Giants draft pick).

Bears (7-9) @ Packers (8-8) (4:25pm CBS)

Like so many other teams the Bears  have also already been eliminated from playoff contention so they’ll just be playing for spoilers and pride in this divisional matchup. Green Bay can get into the playoffs with a win. If they don’t win this game there are a ton of other scenarios to get them into the postseason. They can also  clinch a playoff berth with a  tie + Seahawks loss or tie + Saints loss or tie OR a tie + Seahawks loss + Bucs loss OR a tie + Seahawks tie + Bucs loss or tie OR a Vikings loss or tie + Seahawks loss + Bucs loss OR a Vikings  loss or tie + Seahawks loss + Saints loss. I’m picking the Packers to win this game. 

Chiefs (10-6) @ Chargers (5-11) (4:25pm CBS)

I am actually curious to watch this game. The Chargers have nothing to play for as they’ve already been eliminated. The Chiefs will be resting the majority of their starters including Patrick Mahomes. I’d like to see if Kansas City’s B team is better than their starters. The bar hasn’t been set high. I’m picking the Chiefs to win this game. Why? I don’t really know. 

Broncos (8-8) @ Raiders (7-9) (4:25pm FOX)

Both teams have been eliminated from the postseason. I’ll be rooting for and picking the Raiders to win this game because F the Broncos organization. 

Eagles (11-5) @ NY Giants (5-11) (4:25pm FOX)

As a Giants fan I’m just glad this is the last game of the season. To say it’s been rough is an understatement. I’m not happy that we have to play the Eagles to end out the season but at the same time it’s pretty damn poetic. The Giants faced the Eagles just two weeks ago on Christmas day. The crazy thing is we were totally in that game. The Eagles have already clinched a spot in the playoffs but if they win this game and get some help they could move up in the seeding. Philadelphia can clinch the NFC East division title with a win + Cowboys  loss or tie OR a tie + Cowboys loss. The Cowboys are playing the Commanders so it’s pretty unlikely that Dallas would lose but crazier things have happened. Ok. So if the Giants lose this game they’ll most likely get the 5th pick in the draft, and, with help, could also possibly move up to the 4th pick, to get the NC Tarheels QB Drake Maye. If the Giants win this game they’ll most likely move down to the 8th pick in the draft. Personally, I don’t care what draft pick we are. I’ve spoken about this at length. No need to go into it again. Also, if the Giants lose this game that’ll help the Cowboys out. I don’t like that either. I want the Giants to win. I will obviously be rooting for them to do so. I want them to play for all the pride and spoil the dirty birds chances of moving up in the seeding! With that said, I’m a realist and will be picking the Eagles to win this game. 

Rams (9-7) @ 49ers (12-4) (4:25pm FOX)

This will be a pretty meaningless game for both teams. The 49ers have already clinched the playoffs and the Rams have already been eliminated. Carson Wentz will be starting for the Rams and Blaine Gabbert will be starting for the 49ers. I’m picking the 49ers to win this game. 

Cowboys (11-5) @  Commanders (4-12) (4:25pm FOX)

I root for the Commanders about 4 times every season. Every time they play the Eagles and every time they play the Cowboys. This will be the 4th and final time this season I’ll be rooting for the Commanders. I know they won’t win and I know that if they did that would help the Giants at getting a better draft pick. I’m picking the Cowboys to win this game. 

Bills (10-6) @ Dolphins (11-5) (8:20pm NBC)

This is the game that I’m most nervous about and most excited about. The Dolphins have already clinched a playoff spot but can clinch the AFC East division title with a win or tie. I hope this doesn’t happen. The Bills can also clinch the AFC East division title with a win. The Bills can clinch a playoff berth with a win or tie OR a Steelers loss or tie

OR a Jags loss or tie OR a Colts Texans tie. I’m just going to go ahead and pick the Bills to win this game so that I can continue to root for a NY team in the postseason! GO BILLS!!

GO G-MEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thanks for the edit Eric!