The Shenoa Report Week 4 '25 #theshenoareport

The Shenoa Report
September 25 2025
Regular Season Week 4

Week three was the week of blocked kicks. There were four blocked field goals last week during the early Sunday games, which was the most in a single day since 1991. To go along with the blocked field goals there were also four walk-off field goals, including one that sent the Broncos to their second straight loss despite Denver having never trailed in the fourth quarter of either game. Two of the blocked field goals came in the same quarter of the same game against a kicker who had never been blocked before.

Three of the blocks came in the final two minutes, something that hadn’t happened in the NFL since at least 1990, and the four blocked field goal attempts in the fourth quarter marked the most on a single day since 1978.

The Bills, Chargers, 49ers, Eagles, Colts, and Buccaneers are still undefeated heading into week 4. On the other side of the coin, there is a group of teams that have not won a game this season. The Dolphins, Titans, Giants, Jets, Saints, and Texans have yet to win a game this season. I won in one league and lost in the other fantasy league this week. It’s no fun losing to my mom. CMC Ya Next Season 2-1, Won’t You Be My Nabers 2-1.  Also, I went 9-7 in my picks. Hooray!

Let’s jump into the recap! 

Dolphins  @ Bills 21-31

This game was way closer than anticipated. Thankfully the Bills came out on top. The Bills have now beaten the Dolphins in 14 of their last 15 meetings, including seven straight wins. Josh Allen threw three touchdowns, including his 200th career TD pass, and James Cook rushed for 108 yards with a touchdown, tying a franchise record for consecutive games with a rushing TD. 

Bengals @ Vikings 10-48

Yeah, I got this pick wrong. Who knew Carson Wentz was relevant. Actually, who knew the Vikings defense was a force to be reckoned with. Vikings defender Isaiah Rodgers scored two defensive touchdowns, an 87-yard pick-six and a 66-yard fumble recovery return! The Bengals are in real trouble. Jake Browning is not the answer to their struggling offense. 

Steelers @ Patriots 21-14

Ugh. Another win for Aaron Rodgers. Not cool. Patriots QB Drake Maye connected twice with TE Hunter Henry for scores but was sacked three times and intercepted once. Rodgers had two touchdowns and no interceptions. Patriots, do better! 

Colts @ Titans 41-20

Daniel Jones continues to do well in Indianapolis. Jones threw for 228 yards and a touchdown, while Jonathan Taylor rushed for 102 yards and three scores. Colts cornerback Kenny Moore set the tone early with a 32-yard Cam Ward pick-six on the third play of the game. Fun fact, the Colts didn’t need to punt until Week 3. Punter Rigoberto Sanchez’s first appearance came with 9:19 left in the second quarter of this game.

Texans @ Jaguars 10-17

It was really the Jags defense that won the game for Jacksonville.  They forced three turnovers, including a game-sealing interception by Antonio Johnson.  Texans QB C.J. Stroud threw a 50-yard TD to WR Nico Collins but was picked off twice and pressured heavily throughout the game. Travis Etienne Jr. and Bhayshul Tuten each rushed for touchdowns for the Jags. I got this pick wrong too. 

Falcons @ Panthers 0-30

Speaking of wrong picks…. 

Ummmm…. 

The Panthers shut out the Falcons? What? In? The? World? 

Atlanta should absolutely be panicking. This is bad. Carolina’s defense forced three turnovers and scored on a pick-six by Chau Smith-Wade, while Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. was benched late after two interceptions. Fun fact: This was the NFL’s first shutout of the 2025 season and the Panthers’ first since November 2020.

Rams @ Eagles 26-33

I’m mad at the Eagles. But, I’m always mad at the Eagles. Mostly I am mad at Saquon for not getting enough points for me in fantasy. I was elated when I checked the scores on Sunday to see the Eagles were down 19 points in the second half of the game. But then they made a stupid comeback without Saquon. Jalen Hurts threw three touchdowns in the second half to complete the comeback. Lame. 

NY Jets @ Buccaneers 27-29

Fun fact, Tampa Bay became the first team in the Super Bowl era to win in the final minute of regulation in each of its first three games of a season. The Jets could have won this game but Tyrod Taylor kept giving the ball to the Bucs rather than his own team.  Taylor threw a pick-six and lost a fumble, contributing to the Jets league-worst turnover differential of -4. Ouch. 

Raiders @ Commanders 24-41

The Commanders definitely bounced back and did it with Marcus Mariota under center. Mariota threw for 207 yards and a touchdown, while RB Jeremy McNichols added a 60-yard rushing score and Jaylin Lane returned a punt 90 yards for a touchdown. Raiders QB Geno Smith threw three touchdowns to Tre Tucker, who finished with 145 yards receiving, but the defense gave up 34 unanswered points between the second and fourth quarters. Whoops. 

Packers @ Browns 10-13

Guys, the Browns stunned the Packers, and the rest of the NFL, scoring all their points in the final 3:38 of the game for the win.  Browns defender Grant Delpit’s interception set up RB Quinshon Judkins’ game-tying touchdown, and rookie kicker Andre Szmyt drilled a 55-yard field goal as time expired to win it. The Packers had a chance to retake the lead, but their field goal attempt was blocked with under 30 seconds left. Fun fact: According to Sportradar, this was the first time in Browns history they won a game after trailing by 10+ points with under four minutes remaining.

Broncos @ Chargers 20-23

Justin Herbert threw for 300 yards and led a late comeback, tying the game with a 20-yard touchdown to WR Keenan Allen before setting up Cameron Dicker’s game-winning 43-yard field goal as time expired. Denver had taken a 20–13 lead early in the fourth quarter but went scoreless the rest of the way, suffering their second straight last-minute loss. Fun fact: Herbert, at 27 years and 195 days old, became the youngest player in NFL history to reach 2,000 career completions, surpassing Drew Bledsoe who held the record at age 29.

Saints @ Seahawks 13-44

The Seahawks crushed the Saints and that’s an understatement. It started out with a 21–0 first-quarter lead and they never looked back. Seahawks WR Tory Horton scored twice - once on a 95-yard punt return (the longest in franchise history) and once on a 14-yard TD catch from Sam Darnold. RB Kenneth Walker III added two rushing touchdowns, while Seattle’s special teams blocked a punt and set up multiple short-field scores. Fun fact: Seattle’s 38 first-half points were the second-most in team history, trailing only their 45-point outburst against Detroit in 2022.

Cardinals @ 49ers 15-16

The 49ers squeaked out a win over the Cardinals. Mac Jones threw a fourth-quarter touchdown to FB Kyle Juszczyk and led a final-minute drive to set up Eddy Piñeiro’s game-winning 35-yard field goal as time expired. RB Christian McCaffrey totaled 140 scrimmage yards, and San Francisco’s defense held Arizona to 6 points in the first half while forcing key stops late. Fun fact: The Cardinals briefly led 15–13 after scoring a rare fourth-quarter safety—the NFL’s first tiebreaking safety in the final period since 2014.

Cowboys @ Bears 14-31

Yo! Da Bears! Great win! Caleb Williams threw four touchdown passes and posted a career-high 142.6 passer rating. Dak Prescott didn’t fare as well. He only had one touchdown and threw two interceptions. I got the pick wrong and I am totally ok with this. Fun fact: The Bears didn’t allow a single sack in the game—their first sack-free performance since November 2023.

Chiefs @ NY Giants 22-9

Have you ever bitten into a hot pretzel expecting buttery bliss, only to find it’s cold, stale, and somehow still soggy? That was the Giants offense Sunday night. In a game that felt like a chance to rewrite history, the G-Men instead served up a masterclass in missed opportunities. Russell Wilson looked like he borrowed Zach Wilson’s playbook, the O-line collapsed like a folding chair at a tailgate, and the defense? They tried. Bless ‘em. The Chiefs hadn’t won in New York since EVER, but leave it to Big Blue to roll out the red carpet. Mahomes didn’t need magic — just a few deep shots to WR Tyquan Thornton (who?) and a defense that made MetLife feel like Arrowhead East. If you’re a Giants fan, this one hurt. Not because we lost, we’ve seen worse, but because it felt like we could’ve won. And that hope? That’s the cruelest part. False hope once again.  Crushed. AND ANOTHER THING Nabers with 3.3 points handed me my first loss in fantasy, against my MOM! UGHHHHHH! 

Lions @ Ravens 38-30

The Lions ran wild in Baltimore, racking up 224 rushing yards and four touchdowns behind David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs in this win over the Ravens. Detroit’s defense sacked Lamar Jackson seven times and forced a red-zone fumble from RB Derrick Henry, flipping momentum late in the fourth. Jared Goff stayed clutch with a key fourth-down strike to WR Amon-Ra St. Brown, sealing the Lions biggest road win of the season. Go Lions! 

WEEK 4

Thursday, September 25th

Seahawks (2-1) @ Cardinals (2-1) (8:15pm PRIME VIDEO)

I am going to give the edge and pick to the Cardinals because they are playing at home but I wouldn’t be surprised if the Seahawks spoiled the fun. 

Sunday, September 28th

Vikings (2-1) @ Steelers (2-1) (9:30am NFLN, NFL+)

Check the time folks. We’ve got our first Dublin, Ireland game! Croke Park Stadium will host the matchup between the Vikings and Steelers. This is a Steelers home game with the Rooney family (Steelers owners) who trace their roots to County Down, making this game deeply personal for them. The Steelers wanted to arrive early to adjust to jet lag, but the NFL denied the request to keep things fair. Both teams will land at the same time. I’ll be rooting for the Vikings but I’m pretty sure the Steelers will win this game. 

Chargers (3-0) @ NY Giants  (0-3) (1pm CBS)

Ugh. We are going to go 0-4. I’m not excited about a Jackson Dart start. I think it’s too soon. He’s going to get annihilated. If our O line couldn’t protect Russell Wilson, a seasoned QB, how the hell are they going to protect this rookie. Ugh. The Chargers are having one of their best starts to the season in years and looking at this game they are going to continue to trend upward. QB Justin Herbert leads the league with 860 passing yards, 6 TDs, and just 1 INT. The Chargers defense ranks top 10 in both rushing and passing yards allowed. I just hope the Chargers allow us to score some points. Having Nabers in my starting lineup this week is giving me pause. I’m playing my partner in fantasy and I would really like to win.  The Giants haven’t beaten the Chargers since 1998. That’s a not so fun fact. Go G-Men! 

Titans (0-3) @ Texans (0-3) (1pm CBS)

With both teams winless this season I am going to have to pick the home team to win this game. Though I wouldn’t be surprised if it ended in a tie. I am picking the Texans to win this game. 

Commanders (2-1) @ Falcons (1-2)  (1pm CBS)

The Falcons are struggling. QB Michael Penix Jr. has just 1 TD and 2 INTs through three games, and the team fired their WR coach this week. With that said it doesn’t even matter if Jayden Daniels is starting for Washington. I am picking the Commanders to win this game. I mean, the Panthers shut out Atlanta last week. Bleak. 

Saints (0-3) @ Bills (3-0) (1pm CBS)

I’ll be rooting for and picking the Bills to win this game. I don’t have much to say otherwise. Go Bills! 

Eagles (3-0) @ Buccaneers (3-0)  (1pm FOX)

If anyone can do it, Baker Mayfield can! Obviously I’ll be rooting for the Bucs in this game. The Bucs have won their last 6 of 7 matchups against the Eagles. That bodes well for me. Fantasy speaking I need both teams to score points. I need a high scoring game. I’ve got Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley, Baker Mayfield, and Chris Godwin in fantasy. But, seriously, Go Bucs! I’m picking the Eagles to win but I hope I’m wrong. 

Browns  (1-2) @ Lions (2-1)  (1pm FOX)

I’m picking the Lions to win this game. I think they’ve found their groove. 

Panthers (1-2) @ Patriots (1-2) (1pm FOX)

Last week the Panthers shut out the Falcons, what will they do this week? Probably be shut out by the Patriots. Also, not likely. Patriots QB Drake Maye is coming off a rough Week 3 with 1 INT and 2 fumbles in a loss to Pittsburgh while Panthers QB Bryce Young is 1-15 as a starter on the road. Both teams are tied for second-most giveaways in the NFL with 6 each. This will be an ugly game but I am picking the Patriots to get a home win. 

Jaguars (2-1)  @ 49ers (3-0) (4:05pm FOX)

Brock Purdy may be back for the 49ers. Even if he isn’t, Mack Jones has been alright as a backup QB. I’m picking the 49ers to win this game and I need CMC to show up big with lots of points! 

Colts (3-0) @ Rams (2-1) (4:05pm FOX)

I know the Colts have been playing well this season. I mean the team has only punted once. I even picked up Danny Jones in fantasy for the injured Joe Burrow, and I think I am going to start him this weekend. That said, I’m picking the Rams to win this game because I feel like I’m jinxing the entire Colts org by starting DJ. Sorry Colts fans, and you’re welcome Rams fans. 

Ravens (1-2) @ Chiefs (1-2) (4:25pm CBS)

It’s crazy to think that both these teams have only one win this season. The Chiefs have not won at home nor have the Ravens won a game on the road this season. I think the Chiefs have more problems than the Ravens right now and I wouldn’t be sad if they lost at home. It’ll probably come down to the refs because they favor the Chiefs. I am still going to pick the Ravens to win this game. Sorry not sorry.

Bears (1-2) @ Raiders (1-2) (4:25pm CBS)

The Bears made a statement last week in Dallas. Therefore, I am picking the Bears to win this game on the road as well. Boom!

Packers (2-1) @ Cowboys (1-2)   (8:20pm NBC)

The Packers lost a heart breaker in week 3 and I don’t think they’ll make that mistake twice. The Cowboys are terrible and traded their bestest player to the Packers in the off season. LB Micah Parsons will make his return to Dallas in Green and Gold. Have all the fun Micah, you deserve it. Not so fun fact, Jerry Jones, owner and GM of the Cowboys, is so dumb that first of all he let Micah go and second of all called him Michael Parsons, so he didn’t even know the guy’s name. I’m picking the Packers to win this game. Also, I do have to thank Jones for trading away Parsons because now he’s not wreaking havoc on the NFC East! 

Monday September 29th

NY Jets (0-3) @ Dolphins (0-3) (7:15pm ESPN)

A divisional game against two winless teams. How did we get so lucky on a Monday night? Justin Fields is in the concussion protocol but is progressing towards a possible return. If Fields plays I am picking the Jets to win. I need both teams to score points though. Mainly Tyreek Hill and Garrett Wilson. 

Bengals (2-1) @ Broncos (1-2) (8:15pm ABC)

The Broncos are coming off of their second straight loss despite never trailing in the fourth quarter of either game. They’ve lost by two walk off field goals. I am picking them to win this game for that reason alone. Also, the Bengals are a mess. That helps. 

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

Thanks for the edit Eric!

The Shenoa Report Week 3 '25 #theshenoareport

The Shenoa Report
September 18, 2025
Regular Season Week 3

Week two is in the books!  The Chiefs are winless, the Packers look like playoff royalty, and the Colts haven’t punted once. Yes, really.  What in the world?!?! Speaking of the Colts, they are in a group of undefeated teams this season. The Packers, Bills, Rams, Chargers, Cardinals, 49ers, Eagles, Bengals, and Buccaneers are also undefeated so far. On the other side of the coin, there is a group of teams that have not won a game this season.  I mentioned the Chiefs before and I’ll do it again. The Chiefs, Dolphins, Browns, Titans, Giants, Panthers, Saints, and Texans have yet to win a game this season. Not to harp on the Chiefs but they are playing the Giants in week 3 so I’m sure they’ll get back on track. Cool. You’re welcome.   Anyway, I guess it’s a good thing that I am playing in two fantasy leagues, better chances at winning, because we all know that’s not in the NY Giants future. I won in one league and lost in the other fantasy league this week. CMC Ya Next Season 1-1, Won’t You Be My Nabers 2-0.  Also, I went 11-5 in my picks. Hooray!

Let’s jump into the recap! 

Commanders @ Packers 18-27

Jordan Love threw for 292 yards and 2 TDs, and TE Tucker Kraft turned into a fantasy fever dream with 124 yards. Also, F Tucker Kraft. His stupid points are what handed me my first loss in fantasy this season. I know this game was only Thursday, but the guy finished with 24 points after a projected 9. Lame. The Commanders waited until the fourth quarter to remember they were allowed to score points. Washington’s offense was like a slow loading webpage, by the time it showed up, nobody cared anymore. Thank you Green Bay for handing Washington their first loss of the season. 

Rams @ Titans  33-19

Matthew Stafford threw for 298 yards and 2 TDs, and WR Davante Adams finally showed up with 106 receiving yards and a touchdown. Woot! That helped me in fantasy but it wasn’t enough for the win. The Titans had a halftime lead and then couldn’t do anything in the second half. Titans Cameron Ward looked like a rookie QB in a haunted house. Rams fans, rejoice. Titans fans, grab a beverage, it’s going to be a long season.

Jaguars @ Bengals 27-31

I made the wrong quarterback start in fantasy. I started Joe Burrow and he went down after only 7 points. Backup QB Jake Browning stepped in, threw three picks, and still won the game. How? Because the Jags forgot how tackling works. Bengals kicker Evan McPherson hit a 58-yarder like it was a chip shot to seal the win. Jacksonville is now 1-12 in their last 13 road games. That’s not a stat, that’s a cry for help.

Browns @ Ravens 17-41

QB Joe Flacco returned to Baltimore and got absolutely wrecked. Ah yes, you may have forgotten that Flacco led the Ravens to a Super Bowl win back in 2013.  Lamar Jackson threw 4 touchdown passes and the Baltimore defense made the Browns want their mommy. Cleveland’s offense was sad and scored their second touchdown in garbage time. If you started a Browns player in fantasy, I’m sending you a casserole and a hug.

Bills @ Jets 30-10

Josh Allen wrecked his face and the Jets defense. Seriously though, Allen's nose is BROKEN.  He’s going to start to look like Owen Wilson. The Bills handled the Jets early so we got to see some QB action from Mitch Trubisky after Allen left the game. James Cook ran for 132 yards and 2 TDs. Cook’s points on the day in fantasy furthered my fantasy loss.  The Jets offense was so bad Tyrod Taylor threw for just 56 yards after Justin Fields left the game with an injury. . Jets WR Garrett Wilson tried to make it look respectable. He failed. I started Wilson in fantasy. Sigh. Hey, Jets fans, blink twice if you need help.

Patriots @ Dolphins 33-27

Patriots QB Drake Maye outplayed Dolphins QB Tua Tungaviola. RB Rhamondre Stevenson caught everything in sight and ran all over the Dolphins.  Patriots rookie kicker Andy Borregales missed two PATs but nailed a 53-yarder like it was a warm-up swing. WR Tyreek Hill had 109 yards, but Miami’s defense was in full “bend and break” mode. Dolphins fans deserved better. But do they really?

49ers @ Saints 26-21

The 49ers didn’t have their starting QB Brock Purdy, or starting TE George Kittle, but it didn’t seem to be a problem. Mac Jones threw 3 TDs, CMC did his thing, and the Saints couldn’t stop a screen pass if their lives depended on it. Saints QB Spencer Rattler matched Jones with 3 TDs, but the 49ers defense made the final stop. New Orleans had a chance late but dropped the ball. Literally.

NY Giants @ Cowboys 37-40 OT

I am not okay. I am STILL so frustrated. I work with a couple of Giants fans and we all agree I could be a better defensive coordinator. But I digress. Russell Wilson threw for 450 yards and we still lost. We had a lead. We had momentum. We had hope. And then for reasons not known to me, our defense decided to play soft and deep and allow THE BEST KICKER IN THE LEAGUE a 64 yard field goal to send the game into overtime. I can’t. As sooooooon as he made that kick I knew the game was over. Overtime didn’t matter. We should have STOPPED THEM IN REGULATION. F*%K. I am not ok. Malik Nabers had an incredible game with 167 yards and 2 TDs and we lost due to weak, spineless play calling. I said it. I didn’t watch the game winning kick in overtime. There was no need. I went outside and started mowing the lawn. Stupid Giants. Stupid heartbreak. Stupid false hope. Stupid play calling. STUPID STUPID STUPID. The defense gave up a game-winning drive in OT like it was a group project they forgot to do. At least I got the pick correct. … Still mad. 

Bears @ Lions 21-52

The Lions remembered they’re supposed to score points!  Jared Goff threw four touchdowns, and the Bears defense looked like they were auditioning for a Disney Channel original. Bears QB Caleb Williams started hot, then his defense got buried under a tsunami of Detroit touchdowns. If you started the Bears D in fantasy… I’m perplexed and sorry. 

Seahawks @ Steelers 31-17

I’m not gonna lie, it was nice to see the Steelers, ahem, Aaron Rodgers, lose. Seattle RB Kenneth Walker III ran wild, and the Seahawks defense scored when George Holani recovered the kickoff in the endzone for a touchdown. Aaron Rodgers looked like he aged 10 years in one game. Seattle dominated every phase, and the Steelers fans were booing by the third quarter. I’m not mad about it, even though I got the pick wrong.

Broncos @ Colts 28-29

Colts QB Daniel Jones is officially the plot twist of the season. The Colts haven’t punted in two weeks. Jonathan Taylor ran for 165 yards, and Danny Dimes still hasn’t thrown an interception. Giants fans are still not ok. The Broncos defense tried, but the Colts offense kept handing them existential dread and Denver was shut out in the  final quarter of the game. 

Panthers @ Cardinals 22-27

On paper, the Panthers had the better game. Bryce Young threw for 328 yards with 3 touchdowns and one interception. Arizona QB Kyler Murray only had 220 passing yards, with one touchdown and one interception. But, alas, the Panthers were just playing catch up the whole game and even though they shut out the Cards in the fourth quarter it wasn’t enough to win the game. Sorry Panthers fans. 

Eagles @ Chiefs 20-17

Jalen Hurts didn’t throw a TD but ran for two and the Eagles defense made Mahomes really work for it. TE Travis Kelce ran the wrong route again, and the Chiefs offense is officially in “figure it out” mode. (Don’t worry KC fans, you get the Giants next week. You’re welcome.)  Philly’s win was gritty, ugly, and exactly how they like it. I still don’t like them, but I respect the hustle.

Falcons @ Vikings 22-6

The Falcons defense showed up and shut down Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy, hurting him in the process. McCarthy went out with an ankle injury. The Vikings offense was flatter than my fantasy hopes. Justin Jefferson who? I think he’s in witness protection. Atlanta’s pass rush was relentless, and RB Bijan Robinson finally looked like a first-round pick. Minnesota fans, I’m sorry. That was rough. Like, “delete your fantasy app” rough.

Buccaneers @ Texans 20-19

Bucs QB Baker Mayfield didn’t light it up, but he didn’t need to. The defense held strong and the Texans missed their chance late. It was ugly, it was close, and it was a win. Sometimes that’s all you need. Just ask my fantasy team, which is currently held together by duct tape and positive vibes.

Chargers @ Raiders 20-9

Chargers QB Justin Herbert threw for 242 yards and 2 TDs, while the defense forced three picks from Raiders QB Geno Smith. Chargers WR Quentin Johnston’s 60-yard TD was the dagger for Las Vegas. The Raiders didn’t score a single touchdown. That’s not football—that’s performance art. And not the good kind.

WEEK 3

Thursday, September 18th

Dolphins (0-2) @ Bills (2-0) (8:15pm PRIME VIDEO)

Week 3 starts out with another divisional matchup. Unfortunately I don't think this is going to be a close game. Fortunately my side piece team should get an easy win. Josh Allen is averaging 35.5 points per game, and Miami’s run game ranks 29th. This is not a matchup—it’s a mercy mission. I’m hoping that Tyreek Hill will have a good game, but Buffalo’s defense is built to bully. Mike McDaniel’s seat is heating up like a tailgate grill. How far have the Dolphins fallen since seeing them on Hard Knocks? I’m obviously rooting for and picking the Bills to win this game. GO BILLS! 

Sunday, September 21st

Bengals (2-0) @ Vikings (1-1) (1pm CBS)

Both teams will be without their starting quarterback. Carson Wentz will get the start for the Vikings and Jake Browning will get the start for the Bengals. I’m pretty sure that the Vikings are hitting their panic button right now. I am picking the Bengals for the win. 

Steelers (1-1) @ Patriots (1-1) (1pm CBS)

I don’t feel great about either of these teams. The Steelers will probably win this game but I’m not going to pick them. I am picking the Patriots to win this game. 

Colts (2-0) @ Titans (0-2) (1pm CBS)

The Titans have lost 8 straight games dating back to last December. Cam Ward is still searching for his first win as the Titans rookie QB but I don’t think it’s going to come this week. The Colts RB Jonathan Taylor leads the league in rushing yards after contact, and the Titans defense has already surrendered 300+ rushing yards this season. I’m picking the Colts to win this game. 

Texans (0-2) @ Jaguars (1-1)  (1pm CBS)

I’m surprised that the Texans haven’t won yet this season and therefore I am picking them to win on the road against the Jags. 

Falcons (1-1) @ Panthers (0-2) (1pm CBS)

This is a divisional game. I am pretty sure the Falcons are going to win it and that’s who I am going to pick to win. Sorry Panthers fans. 

Rams (2-0) @ Eagles (2-0)  (1pm FOX)

I am hoping this game is high scoring. I am picking the Eagles to win but I need Kyren Williams, Jalen Hurts, and Saquon Barkley to have high scoring games. I also need Hurts to not throw Devonta Smith, as my opponent has him in fantasy. That opponent is my Mom.  I’m not sure what to do with Davante Adams. I am starting him in one league and in my other league my Mom is starting him. Fantasy implications, ya know. How do you root for your people in this circumstance? 

NY Jets  (0-2) @ Buccaneers (2-0)  (1pm FOX)

Yeah, with Justin Fields possibly out for the Jets I am going to have to pick the Bucs to win this game. Go Baker Mayfield! You were my backup QB but now with Burrows out, you are my QB 1!

Raiders (1-1) @ Commanders (1-1) (1pm FOX)

I think the Commanders will bounce back this week even if they don’t have their starting quarterback under center. Jayden Daniels is dealing with a knee sprain and hasn’t practiced this week. The Commanders are expected to start Marcus Mariota. I’m picking Washington for the win, but I hope I’m wrong! 

Packers (2-0)  @ Browns (0-2) (1pm FOX)

I wouldn’t be surprised if the Browns put up a fight but I don’t think they’ll win the game. I’m picking the Packers to win this game, but I hope the Browns are playing a stingy defense because my other opponent (not my mom) in fantasy has a lot of Packer players. 

Broncos (1-1) @ Chargers (2-0) (4:05pm CBS)

Justin Herbert is playing well right now. I hope he keeps up the pace and finds Keenan Allen too. I’m picking the Chargers to win this game. 

 Saints (0-2) @ Seahawks (1-1) (4:05pm CBS)

The Seahawks will win this game at home. The 12th man will help. 

Cardinals (2-0) @ 49ers (2-0) (4:25pm FOX)

Obviously I am picking the 49ers to win this game. One of my fantasy team names is CMC Ya Next Year. Let’s go CMC!

Cowboys (1-1) @ Bears (0-2)   (4:25pm FOX)

I’ll be rooting for the Bears and hoping for a win. I did ask AI what it thought about the game and it said this, “This one’s wild. Caleb Williams finally puts it together, and the Cowboys defense gets exposed. CeeDee Lamb and D.J. Moore both go off, but Chicago pulls the upset in a shootout. Fantasy managers rejoice. Cowboys fans spiral.”

I mean, I like this take. I don’t think it’ll come to fruition, but I like it. I am picking the Cowboys to win and will be happy if I’m wrong. 

Chiefs (0-2) @ NY Giants (0-2) (8:20pm NBC)

Mahomes is 0-2 and mad. The Giants are 0-2 and sad. And bad. This is going to be ugly. I’m not looking forward to it.  I’m not ready to talk about it. I’ll watch with my knitting needles and a beverage. If I drink enough, maybe I won’t remember this game at all? I’m picking the Chiefs to win this game. 

Monday September 15th

Lions (1-1) @ Ravens (1-1) (8:15pm ABC, ESPN)

This should be a good, fun game to watch. I think the Ravens have the edge this time and I am picking Baltimore to win. I will, however, be rooting for the Lions though and hoping they pull off the upset, as long as Zay Flowers gets 40 points for me in fantasy. 

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

Thanks for the edit Eric!

The Shenoa Report Week 2 '25

The Shenoa Report
September 11, 2025
Regular Season Week 2

Week one is in the books! I guess it’s a good thing that I am playing in two fantasy leagues, better chances at winning, because we all know that’s not in the NY Giants future. I won in both of my fantasy leagues so that helps with a Giants loss!  Also, I went 10-6 in my picks. Hooray!

Let’s jump into the recap! 

Cowboys @ Eagles 20-24

Guys. This season started off bonkers crazy. Eagles fullback Ben VanSumeren was injured during the opening kickoff. He’ll most likely be out for the season after a knee injury. While the medical staff was attending to VanSumeren things went down. Before the actual first play from scrimmage Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter was ejected from the game for spitting on Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. You read that right. Carter SPIT on Prescott. It was disgusting, revolting, immature, and very foolish. Immediately, the Eagles were down two important players. After all that nonsense, the game actually started and continued until just after half time when a weather delay was called. The game didn’t end until after midnight. (I did not stay up for it) Remember when I said I picked up Jalen Hurts at QB on one of my fantasy teams. Well, my opponent started basically the rest of the Eagles offense. Seriously, AJ Brown, Saquon Barkley, Dallas Goedert… oh and for good measure George Pickens on the Cowboys. Suddenly, I didn’t want Hurts to throw to any of the above mentioned, including Barkley. (I have Barkley in another league, yes it pains me) I was in rare form cheering on Hurts on all of his running touchdowns. I felt dirty inside. Cheering for an Eagle. Yuck. But if it gets me wins? Also, Jalen is a stand up guy. I respect him. That’s all the nice things I am going to say about the Eagles. Jalen didn’t throw a passing touchdown or an interception but he did have 152 passing yards, 62 rushing yards, and two rushing touchdowns. Barkley rushed for 60 yards and one rushing touchdown. The Cowboys actually shocked me. They didn’t look horrible. Isn’t football fun?

Chiefs @ Chargers 21-27

The Chargers snapped a seven-game losing streak against the Chiefs with a “home” victory in São Paulo, Brazil, marking their first win over Kansas City since 2021. Fun fact: Jim Harbaugh has NEVER lost in week one as an NFL Head Coach.  Justin Herbert (one of my fantasy QBs) had an amazing day with 318 passing yards and three touchdowns, including a clutch 19-yard scramble on third-and-14 that sealed the win. On the other side of the ball the Chiefs TE Travis Kelce ran the wrong route and took out WR Xavier Worthy who left the game suffering a dislocated shoulder and will be out multiple weeks, if not the whole season. This was not a good start for the Chiefs who, as you may remember lost, horribly, in the Super Bowl.  

Cardinals @ Saints 20-13

Cardinals QB Kyler Murray woke up under the weather Sunday but you wouldn’t have known it after his performance in this game.  This was night and day from last season where Murray said it wasn’t his job to get WR Marvin Harrison Jr. the ball. Harrison Jr. made a splashy debut with 71 receiving yards and a receiving touchdown. The Saints continued to struggle with 13 penalties throughout the game and a dropped game-tying pass in the final seconds.   

Dolphins @ Colts 8-33

Well I got this pick wrong. Colts fans, move forward with caution. Take the win, but be weary. Danny Dimes had moments of brilliance as a Giant too. Not to diminish what he accomplished on Sunday. Daniel Jones pulled off something in Week 1 that Peyton Manning never did in a single game with the Colts: he led the offense to score on all seven of their possessions—three touchdowns and four field goals—with zero punts. The Colts also snapped an 11 year streak of opening day losses. The last time the Colts started their season 1-0 was back in 2013. The Dolphins did not start their season well at all. There is so much disarray in this team. The Fantasy Focus gang thinks that Tyreek Hill should be traded by week 3. I’m not starting rumours, I’m speaking things into existence. Because I drafted Hill I need him to do much better and he’s not going to do things better in Miami. 

Raiders @ Patriots 20-13

The Raiders kicked off the Pete Carroll era with a gritty road win over the Patriots.  Pete Carroll became the only coach to win debuts with four different teams! QB Geno Smith donned the black and silver in his debut going 24-of-34 for 362 yards, with a touchdown and 1 interception. Rookie RB Ashton Jeanty punched in his first NFL touchdown, while TE Brock Bowers racked up 103 receiving yards before exiting the game with a knee injury.  Fun fact: Smith had nine pass plays of 20+ yards—more than any Raiders QB in a single game since at least 1991. Patriots Rookie QB Drake Maye, making his NFL home debut, threw for 198 yards and a touchdown. He also had an interception, but he also caught one of his own deflections for a 2-yard gain. 

Steelers @ Jets 34-32

Heartbreaker at MetLife. I thought the Jets had pulled it off but then stupid A-aron had to ruin the Jets once again. Justin Fields looked electric, throwing for 218 yards and rushing for two touchdowns, including a gutsy fourth-down bootleg that gave NY a late lead. But it wasn’t meant to be.  Stupid Steelers and stupid Rodgers. I couldn’t have been more of a Jets fan during this game. Jerks. 

NY Giants @ Commanders 6-21

Well, that was a gut-punch to start the season. The Giants lost to one of their division rivals and it wasn’t just the score—it was also the missed chances that haunt every Giants fan. We had two trips inside the 5-yard line and came away with a measly three points each time, including a brutal sequence where QB Russell Wilson threw four straight incompletions from the 3-yard line late in the fourth. THERE HAS GOT TO BE BETTER PLAY CALLING!Wilson showed flashes of brilliance, especially scrambling for 44 of our 74 rushing yards, but the offense never found rhythm. WR Malik Nabers had a couple of highlight grabs, and the defense held Washington scoreless for most of the second half—until Deebo Samuel broke loose for a 19-yard dagger that sealed it. Fun fact (or cruel irony): Our opening scoring drive lasted 16 plays, 76 yards, and over 8 minutes… and ended in a short field goal. That kind of day. Cool. Cool, cool, cool. At least I got the pick correct. 

Panthers @ Jaguars 10-26

The Jaguars new head coach Liam Coen, got his first win in Jacksonville. Coen was the offensive coordinator for the Buccaneers previously.  RB Travis Etienne had 143 rushing yards and QB Trevor Lawrence threw a touchdown pass to TE Hunter Long and more importantly, didn't have an interception. Jacksonville’s defense forced three takeaways, including a Foye Oluokun interception off a tipped pass. On the other side of the ball,  Carolina’s QB Bryce Young struggled again in a season opener throwing two interceptions, fumbling once, and even catching his own deflected pass. Fun fact: The game was delayed 1 hour and 16 minutes due to lightning, but the Jags struck harder after the delay scoring 17 unanswered points in the second quarter alone.

Bengals @ Browns  17-16

The Browns had more yards than the Bengals 327–141, they dominated time of possession, and still lost thanks to two tipped-pass interceptions and a pair of missed kicks by rookie kicker Andre Szmyt. QB Joe Flacco, in his first start as a Brown at age 40, threw for 290 yards and a touchdown, but the offense stalled in the red zone and the final drive ended with a sack and a missed 36-yard field goal.

If you are a Browns fan the silver lining is that the defense held Bengals QB Joe Burrow to 113 yards and the offense moved the ball well. But moral victories don’t count in the standings.

Buccaneers @ Falcons 23-20

After reading the recap of the Bengals game I clearly made the right decision to start Mayfield over Burrow in week 1. Bucs QB Baker Mayfield threw 3 touchdown passes, 2 of them going to rookie WR Emeka Egbuka, including the game-winner with just 59 seconds left in the game. Fun fact: This was Egbuka’s NFL debut—and it happened in the same stadium where he won a college national championship just eight months earlier.

49ers @ Seahawks 17-13

Well, the 49ers got the win but it seems like they lost a bunch of notable players to injury at the same time. Thankfully RB Christian McCaffrey did not make that list ,,, yet. I mean we’ve all been burned before by a CMC injury. QB Brock Purdy, TE George Kittle, RB Brandon Aiyuk, and WR Jauan Jennings were all injured during the game and will all miss time going forward. The Seahawks let wide receivers DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett go in the offseason and replaced them with Cooper Kupp. It was a gamble, and at the moment, not the correct one. 

Titans @ Broncos 12-20

The Broncos spoiled Titans QB Cam Ward’s NFL debut with a win in Week 1. The Broncos defense is what won them the game. They continually had to bail out a turnover-prone QB Bo Nix. Nix threw for a touchdown to WR Courtland Sutton but also coughed up two interceptions and a fumble, while Denver’s defense racked up six sacks, including a game-sealing strip-sack by Ja’Quan McMillian in the final minute.

The Titans had three chances to tie it in the final five minutes but came up empty each time, including a drive derailed by a costly unnecessary roughness penalty on Jeffery Simmons. It was a sloppy game but the Broncos came out on top. 

Fun fact: Cam Ward became the latest No. 1 overall pick to lose his season opener—making quarterbacks taken first overall just 1–15–1 in Week 1 starts since 2000. 

Lions @ Packers 13-27

Are we back in 2005? The Lions looked HORRIBLE! What the heck happened? The Lions didn’t look like the team that led the league in scoring last season. They didn’t even reach the end zone until the final minute of the game. The Packers, on the other hand, came to play. LB Micah Parsons made his Packers debut and looked like he’d been there for years, wrecking the Lions line and setting the tone. 

Texans @ Rams 9-14

Rams QB Matthew Stafford became just the 10th quarterback in NFL history to surpass 60,000 career passing yards—and he did it with style, throwing five “big-time throws”, the most of any QB that week.  What’s a “big time throw”? It’s a tight-window, downfield laser pass. Not bad for a guy who missed most of preseason with a back injury! Now, if he could just find WR Davante Adams more often then we’d be all set. Well, at least one of my fantasy teams would be better off. 

Ravens @ Bills 40-41

Never in doubt. Am I right? Dude. I’m not gonna lie, I went to bed mid 4th quarter. I’d already watched my Giants lose that day and the Bills were down 15 points. I couldn’t keep my eyes open and I couldn’t endure another loss from a team I love. So I went to bed. When I got home from work Monday evening we put the game on so I could watch the miraculous comeback. Down 15 with four minutes left, Bills QB Josh decided the game wasn’t actually over. He found Keon Coleman on a 4th and 2 from the Baltimore 10 to score a touchdown. When the Ravens got the ball back Derrick Henry FUMBLED the ball giving it back to the Bills. Allen scored again with his legs this time to bring the score within 2 points. The Ravens then went 3 and out giving the ball back to Buffalo once again. Allen orchestrated a nine-play, 66-yard drive to set up kicker Matt Prater’s game-winning field goal as time expired. It was insanity. Allen finished with 394 passing yards, 2 passing TDs, and 2 rushing TDs. This victory now ties Josh Allen with Joe Ferguson for second-most wins in franchise history. Allen has now led the Bills to four game-winning drives in his last five starts, and in Week 1, he became the first quarterback in NFL history to throw for 350+ yards, rush for a touchdown, and complete passes to nine different receivers in a season opener. That’s not just elite—it’s downright orchestral. Fun fact: Baltimore became the first team in NFL history to lose a game after scoring 40+ points and rushing for 235+ yards. Another fun fact: Bills teammates thought that Matt Prater was one of the coaches on the sidelines. Prater was added to the team just a few days before the game. The 41 year old kicker was staying in shape by practising at a high school in his home town before he got the call to be a Bill.

Vikings @ Bears 27-24

The Vikings stunned the Bears in a wild Monday Night Football opener at Soldier Field, and if you’re a Chicago fan… yeah, that one’s going to linger. Bears QB Caleb Williams looked sharp early, tossing a TD and rushing for another. The Bears led 17–6 midway through the third after a combination of CB Nahshon Wright’s 74-yard pick-six and the defense holding Minnesota to just 80 yards in the first half. I started the Bears defense on my fantasy team so I was stoked! But then came the fourth quarter and Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy.The rookie QB, making his first NFL start, threw two touchdowns (to WRs Justin Jefferson and Aaron Jones) and ran for another on a 14-yard bootleg with 2:53 left that capped the comeback. 

WEEK 2

Thursday, September 11th

Commanders (1-0) @ Packers (1-0) (8:15pm PRIME VIDEO)

I’ll be rooting for and picking the Packers to win this game. Duh. I’m a Giants fan and I need the Packers to stomp the Commanders. 

Sunday, September 14th

Rams (1-0) @ Titans  (0-1) (1pm CBS)

Rookie QB Cam Ward is going to get his first start at home for the Titans. Ward didn’t do well last week and hopes to bounce back this week. That said, I am still picking the Rams to win this game. 

Jaguars (1-0) @ Bengals (1-0) (1pm CBS)

Joe Burrow is 3–0 against Jacksonville in his career and he’s vowed to be more aggressive this week after a lackluster game in week one. This bodes well for the Bengals. Also, the Jags struggle on the road. They are 1-11 in their last 12 away games. I’m picking the Bengals to win their home opener.

Browns (0-1) @ Ravens (0-1) (1pm CBS)

The Ravens have beaten the Browns in 6 out of their 7 last matchups. The Ravens lost last week and I don’t think they’ll let it happen two weeks in a row. I am picking the Ravens to win this game. 

Bills (1-0) @ Jets (0-1)  (1pm CBS)

I’ll be rooting for and picking the Bills to win this game. Hooray for division rivals! 

Patriots (0-1) @ Dolphins (0-1) (1pm CBS)

Speaking of division rivals, Dolphins QB Tua is 7–0 all-time vs. the Patriots, including three straight wins at Hard Rock Stadium where he’s averaged 300+ yards and 3 TDs. I’d like to see those numbers if those TD passes go to Tyreek Hill (fantasy implications). The Patriots haven’t won in Miami since 2019 and are just 16–43 all-time in South Florida. That said, it’ll probably be a close game but I am picking the Dolphins to win this game. 

49ers (1-0) @ Saints (0-1)  (1pm FOX)

I’m pretty sure the 49ers offense is going to run through McCaffrey. The 49ers are already banged up. They lost 4 players due to injury in week one. Mac Jones will likely get the start at QB for the injured Brock Purdy. Hopefully the Saints won’t be able to stop CMC. The Superdome is no joke. New Orleans has won 6 of the last 10 against San Francisco and the crowd will be loud. That said, I’m still picking the 49ers to win this game. 

NY Giants (0-1) @ Cowboys (0-1)  (1pm FOX)

These are dark days. Cowboys QB Dak Prescott is 13–2 all-time vs. the Giants, including 8 straight wins at home. I am not delusional. I’ll be rooting for, and hoping for a Giants win, but I’m pretty sure we’ll be last in the division after this loss. That’s me not picking the Giants to win. Go G-MEN!

Bears (0-1) @ Lions (0-1) (1pm FOX)

I think that the Lions will bounce back and win their home opener. If they don’t, it’s definitely time to hit the panic button. 

Seahawks (0-1)  @ Steelers (1-0) (1pm FOX)

I am back to not liking the Steelers. I’d like to see Aaron Rodgers lose as much as possible this year. I’ll be rooting for the Seahawks but, unfortunately, I don’t think they’ll beat the Steelers. I’m picking the Steelers to win this game. 

Broncos (1-0) @ Colts (1-0) (4:05pm CBS)

I think this game is going to come down to whomever has the better defense. I don’t think Danny Jones is as good as his debut might lead you to believe. I’m picking the Broncos to win this game. 

Panthers (0-1) @ Cardinals (1-0) (4:05pm CBS)

I am picking the Cardinals to win this game. The Panthers just aren’t good. 

Eagles (1-0) @ Chiefs (0-1) (4:25pm FOX)

I’m pretty sure this is going to be a repeat of the last Super Bowl. I’d like to see the Chiefs beat the Eagles, but it is not likely. I am picking the Eagles to win this game. 

Falcons (0-1) @ Vikings (1-0)  (8:20pm NBC)

I’m picking the Vikings to win this game for no other reason than they are playing at home. 

Monday September 15th

Buccaneers (1-0) @ Texans (0-1) (7pm ABC, ESPN)

I’ve decided to start Joe Burrow over Baker Mayfield this week. We’ll see if that was the right choice. I’ll be rooting for the Bucs but I’m going to pick the Texans to win their home opener. 

Chargers (1-0) @ Raiders (1-0) (10pm ESPN)

I am also starting Justin Herbert in another league and therefore will be picking the Chargers to win this game. I need him to connect with WR Keenan Allen early and often. 

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

Thanks for the edit Eric!

The Shenoa Report Week 1 '25 #theshenoareport

The Shenoa Report
September 4, 2025
Regular Season Week 1

Welcome back football, welcome back readers, welcome back The Shenoa Report. 

This will be my 16th season writing this blog. I started it a lifetime ago, while living in North Carolina. I had felt so disconnected from my family, especially my dad, whom I had watched football with the most, that I wanted an outlet to talk about football. I also had a number of people ask me for my opinion on football and what teams they should root for. And that’s how The Shenoa Report got its start. Please know that I am very biased, and this report is just my opinion! I really just like talking about football. 

The last time I wrote, the Eagles and Chiefs were headed to the Super Bowl. I decided that after I posted my final report of the season I would take a break from Facebook. It’s been the best break ever. I’ve been so, so, so, much happier not playing in the cesspool that is the online platform. I really, really, really struggled with coming back and writing The Shenoa Report this season. I love football. I love talking about football. And I think you like reading this little blog. So, my love for football has overcome my hate for Facebook. I will post this report but I will remain distant from the platform. 

That said, the Eagles won the Super Bowl, ending the season.  

Cam Ward went #1 in the draft to the Titans. He’s already been named their starting quarterback going into this season. 

Some notable moves in the off season include, but are not limited to: Deebo Samuel to the Commanders. DK Metcalf and Aaron Rodgers to the Steelers. Sam Darnold to the Seahawks. Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston to the Giants. Davante Adams to the Rams, Stefon Diggs to the Patriots, and Kareem Hunt is back with the Chiefs. Geno Smith is now a Raider, George Pickens is a Cowboy and Cooper Kupp is a Seahawk. Speaking of the Cowboys, Micah Parsons is now a Packer, that just happened this week. 

Hard Knocks followed the Buffalo Bills this preseason and if you pause the screen during the preseason game against the Giants you will see me, my partner, and my uncle! In other news, we got to see the Bills - Giants preseason game. It was a lot of fun, but much too stressful watching my two favorite teams play each other. Glad it was preseason so the game didn’t count. 

In other preseason Giants news, we had to say goodbye to Tommy Cutlets. He was cut from the team as we did not need 4 quarterbacks. He did make the 53 man roster in New England and we wish him all the luck there. The Giants went undefeated in the preseason AND scored the most combined points! We have the toughest schedule this regular season so I’ll take all the meaningless wins in the preseason. 

I’ll also be playing fantasy football again this season, two separate leagues. I had a draft on Monday and Tuesday of this week so, fingers crossed, all my players are still healthy coming into week one. 

Ready, set, let’s do this! 

Now...

WEEK 1

Thursday, September 4th

Cowboys @ Eagles (8:20pm NBC/ Peacock)

The reigning Super Bowl champs will host the Cowboys in the opening game of the season. Although the Cowboys lead the series record 71-57, I’m pretty sure they’ll get their 58th loss. The last time these two teams met was in the NFC East final last season where the Eagles beat the Cowboys 41-7.

As a Giants fan, I hope this game ends in a tie. But as a person who is starting Jaylen Hurts in one league and Saquon Barkely in the other I’m picking the Eagles to win this game. 

Friday, September 5th

Chiefs @ Chargers (8:00pm YouTube)

A Friday night football game at Corinthians Arena in Sao Paulo, Brazil. And, yes, you read that correctly, this game is ONLY streaming on YouTube NOT on regular TV or cable or YouTubeTV or, etc. The Chiefs lost, horribly, in the Super Bowl and are looking to start the season fresh, with a win, obviously. Travis Kelce got engaged this preseason so I’m pretty sure his mind is elsewhere. The Chiefs have more to prove this season and I think it’s going to be an uphill battle. I think the tides are changing in KC. I’m going to pick the Chiefs to win this game but I am not convinced they will have a good season. 

Sunday, September 7th

Cardinals @ Saints (1pm CBS)

The Saints are starting QB Spencer Rattler, who went 0-6 as a starter last season. The Cardinals are going with QB Kyler Murray who has a healthy team around him this season. That said, I am picking the Cards to win this game. 

Dolphins @ Colts (1pm CB)

Danny Dimes gets the start at QB for the Colts. As a former Colts fan, and a former supporter of Daniel Jones, I am so sorry Colts Nation. Hopefully Danny Dimes is better for you than he was for NY. On the other side of the ball there is trouble in paradise for WR Tyreek Hill and the Dolphins. Hill is no longer a captain on the team and not really happy to be in Miami. My dumbdumb ass drafted Hill so I need things to get better for him and the Dolphins, or be traded… I’m picking the Dolphins to win this game even though both teams have problems. 

Raiders @ Patriots (1pm CBS)

Pete Carroll is back in the NFL as the new head coach of the Raiders with Geno Smith as his quarterback. I’m getting Seahawks vibes. The Raiders were so bad last year that they’ve had some major turn over. I don’t expect much from them this season. It’ll be another rebuilding year. The Patriots are doing slightly better. They are going into year two with QB Drake Maye and head coach Mike Vrabel. I’m picking the Pats to win this game. 

Steelers @ Jets (1pm CBS)

Drama seems to follow Aaron Rodgers everywhere he goes. Or maybe he creates it. Rodgers is returning to MetLife Stadium this Sunday but this time he’ll be wearing black and yellow instead of Gang Green. Justin Fields will be wearing Gang Green instead of black and yellow. It’s confusing. Basically these two teams just traded quarterbacks. 

Rodgers will have DK Metcalf to throw to but only if he can stay upright. The Jets have a stingy defense and they may just remember what type of team player Rodgers was. Might he be hit harder? The same could be said for Justin Fields. Did he make friends while he was on the Steelers or enemies? 

Against better judgement I am picking the Jets to win their home opener. I really just can’t get behind picking A-aron to win. 

NY Giants @ Commanders (1pm FOX)

Sigh. I’m not gonna lie, I asked Copilot if the Giants even had a chance at winning the game. Who knew that even Copilot has sarcasm? It said, there’s a chance. EVEN used the sarcastic font! So, you’re telling me there’s a chance? I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. I have a rule as it comes to picking the Giants to win a game. Each season I start with a fresh, clean slate. If I pick them to win and they don’t win, I can’t pick them to win another game until they actually do. It’s too painful otherwise. So, this week I am not going to pick the Giants to win, so that if they do win, I will feel better about picking them to win the next time. Kind of like reverse psychology on myself. The Giants were swept last season by the Commanders, so that's not good. The Commanders are favored by 6 points, also not good. Washington also has the reigning Rookie of the Year in quarterback Jayden Daniels. The Giants, however, played well in the preseason. QB Russell Willson is really connecting with WR Malik Nabers, and the Giants defense is stepping up. All that said, I am picking the Commanders for the win, but I’ll be rooting for the Giants and hoping for an upset! GO G-MEN!

Panthers @ Jaguars (1pm FOX)

Both teams are at the bottom of their division, and they share a division. The Jags are favored by just 3 points but I think the real story is that the Panthers always seem to implode. The Jags drafted the 2024 Heisman winner Travis Hunter who will play both cornerback and wide receiver. Something to look out for. I’m picking the Jags to win their home opener. 

Bengals @ Browns  (1pm FOX)

Bengals QB Joe Burrow is 1-4 in season openers. That’s not a good look for the Bengals. Cincinnati has always taken a few games to get their act together. The Browns are starting Joe Flacco at quarterback. He’s old. It’ll really depend on what version of Flacco the Browns get. The Browns also have DE Myles Garrett, who decided to stay in Cleveland. God only knows why. I’m picking the Browns to win this game, against better judgement. 

Buccaneers @ Falcons (1pm FOX)

The Falcons are sticking with QB Michael Penix Jr. who is turnover prone and still very young and the Bucs are sticking with QB Baker Mayfield. 

So, fun, or not so fun story. In one of my leagues I forgot I had already drafted Joe Burrow so I went ahead and picked up Baker Mayfield. A 9% Treehouse beer may have been to blame. But, I like Baker and I’ve decided to start him over Burrow this week just to make sure I actually am a drafting genius. I am also picking the Bucs to win this game. 

49ers @ Seahawks (4:05pm FOX)

QB Brock Purdy will get the start for the 49ers and QB Sam Darnold will get the start for the Seahawks. Seattle hasn’t beaten the 49ers at home in four years and I don’t think this year will be different. I am picking the 49ers to win this game. I learned nothing from last year and drafted RB Christian McCaffrey again this season. So I NEED him to be healthy and have a really good season. 

Titans @ Broncos (4:05pm FOX)

Ooof. The Broncos are favored by 8 points going into this game. The Titans, who had the number one pick of the draft, picked QB Cam Ward, who will make his debut week one. Rookie QBs starting away in Week 1 are just 2–15 since 2020, with only 8 total TDs in those games. I’m not putting my money on Ward this week. I’m picking the Broncos for the win. 

Lions @ Packers (4:25pm CBS)

There are a lot of division matchups in week one and this one should not disappoint. Detroit swept Green Bay last season and has won 3 straight at Lambeau. LB Micah Parsons, who was just traded to the Packers from the Cowboys, may not take the field in week one, he’s dealing with a back injury. Even though the Packers are slight favorites going into this game I am going to have to pick the Lions to win this game. 

Texans @ Rams (4:25pm CBS)

WR Davante Adams is now a Ram and it just so happens that I drafted him this season. I don’t have any Texans on my teams this season so it looks like I’m picking the Rams to win this game solely because of Davante Adams. This is how I football. 

Ravens @ Bills (8:20pm NBC)

Guys, the Bills did not look good in the preseason. I know it doesn’t count, because, preseason. But, I just hope they bounce back and get things done in the regular season. The Bills are only favored by 1.5 points heading into this game. QB Lamar Jackson is 3-1 versus Buffalo in the regular season, hopefully that changes to 3-2. I’m all in on the Bills this season as my AFC team. I’m picking the Bills to win this game. GO BILLS!

Monday September 8th

Vikings @ Bears (8:15pm ESPN/ABC)

The Vikings swept the Bears last season and it looks like it could happen again this season. The Vikings have WR Justin Jefferson and QB JJ McCarthy. I’m picking the Vikings to win this game.

Happy Week One!!!!!

GO GMEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thanks for the edit Eric!