Preseason Primer: Dolphins at Jaguars

The Dolphins will take the field tonight in Jacksonville, in what will be their final preseason matchup. According to HC Mike McDaniel, he expects to play starters for anywhere between “more than a series, and less than a half”. It’s also expected that the Jaguars will play their top unit for most of the first half. 

While the impact of the starting units isn’t much more than a dress-rehearsal for the regular season, there are still important things to keep an eye on. NFL teams must trim their rosters to 53 by Tuesday’s deadline, so this will serve as a last-chance effort for bubble players, and camp positional battles to potentially find resolution. 

Most of the Dolphins roster looks pretty set in stone, but these are the things I’ll be keeping my eye on at the 7pm kickoff: 

 

Will the Dolphins keep a fourth running back? If so, then who? 

Barring a Jonathan Taylor trade, current running backs Raheem Mostert, Jeff Wilson Jr, and Devon Achane, look to be locks for the final 53. The other three backs, Salvon Ahmed, Myles Gaskin, and Chris Brooks have all contributed strong preseason performances, so if McDaniel decides to keep a fourth it won’t be an easy decision. 

Gaskin, now in his fifth season with the Dolphins, is the longest tenured runner on the roster. The former seventh-round pick is the most polished runner of the three, and his scrappy nature is a big part of why he’s lasted in Miami this long. 

Ahmed’s skill set may be a bit redundant with rookie third-round pick Devon Achane on the roster, but after Achane suffered a shoulder injury last week, Ahmed could be safe to make the initial roster. 

Undrafted rookie Chris Brooks is the most intriguing of the group. At 6 ‘1”, 223 lbs Brooks is the biggest and most powerful runner on the team, and has run with force and vision in the previous exhibitions. It will be interesting to see how many snaps he gets against the Jaguars, as he still appears to be a long shot behind the incumbents. Even if he doesn’t survive final-cuts, he will likely be a player that Miami looks to add to their practice squad. 

 

Tight ends Durham Smythe and Tyler Kroft look to be safe, but which tight end will step up to claim the third spot?

The answer to this could very well come down to which player the team feels could be a contributor on special teams. Eric Saubert got some h-back, and special teams reps last week against the Texans, but has largely been unimpressive throughout campo and the exhibition season. Rookie sixth-round pick Elijah Higgins brings some upside to the team with his receiving ability, and had some good run-blocking reps between the first two games. He is raw, having recently transitioned from his college position at wide receiver, he may be someone they look to stash on the practice squad. 

Tanner Conner may be the name to watch. After a standout performance in camp last year as an undrafted rookie, Conner made the team, but failed to see much playing time behind Mike Gesicki and Smythe. He has missed nearly all of training camp while on the physically-unable-to-perform (PUP) list, but was activated this past week. He doesn’t have much time to make an impression, so today’s game could be pivotal if Conner hopes to extend his stay on Miami’s active roster. 

Current undrafted rookie Julian Hill has flashed throughout the offseason, and could have an outside chance, particularly if Miami decides to keep four tight ends. 

 

Where is Robbie Chosen? 

Chosen was an exciting addition this off-season, and flashed his speed in OTA’s, but he’s had a surprisingly quiet training camp. It no longer feels like he’s a lock to make the roster, especially when River Cracraft can play on special teams. If McDaniel chooses to only keep five receivers, Chosen may be on the outside looking in, with Braxton Berrios, Cedrick Wilson, and Erik Ezukanma securely on the roster. 

 

With Robert Jones hurt, and Lester Cotten missing time, has Isaiah Wynn locked up the left guard spot, and how many snaps does Liam Eichenberg see in his return to action? 

It’ll be interesting to see if Eichenberg receives any snaps with the first-team. He was clearly losing the left guard battle before being sidelined with an injury. I don’t know that there’s much he can do to be the opening day starter, but a strong performance could be the kick-starter his confidence needs after a rough training camp. Right now it looks like Wynn has claimed the starting job, but it’s important he continues to play strong after an impressive camp by Lester Cotton. 

 

The Dolphins have a slew of defensive backs that could all make their case for the final 53, but Miami can’t keep everyone. Xavien Howard, Kader Kohou, Jevon Holland, Cam Smith, Eli Apple, DeShon Elliott, and Brandon Jones are all locks to make the team. Noah Igbinoghene is likely to make the team, as he’s on the final year of his rookie deal. After them, there’s a lot of intriguing young players, like Trill Williams, Verone McKinley, Noah Igbinoghene, Keidron Smith, and Bryce Thompson, that could all do themselves a huge favor with a strong performance tonight in Jacksonville. 

Special teams standout Elijah Campbell has probably locked up a spot, but another core special teams player may be in doubt. After missing a chunk of time with an injury, Keion Crossen returned to practice this week, but with the depth in the secondary, he may be on the outside looking in. 

 

Can any of the young players earn their spot with a solid showing on special teams? 

Undrafted rookies like linebackers Mitchell Agude, Garrett Nelson, and Aubrey Miller Jr, all have a real chance to make the team if they can prove to be of value on special teams. All three have flashed in different parts of the offseason, but Nelson and Agude have really turned it up in the exhibition games. It wouldn’t be a shock if one of them earns one of the final spots on Miami’s 53.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Betting in the NCAAF?

NCAAF, or the National Collegiate Athletic Association Football, has been around since 1869 it was first played. These players would play for four years in college while recruited for the NFL or the National Football League and other leagues of their choosing. 

 

The NCAAF has a huge fanbase, usually from alums, but its bettors are usually from around the globe. It’s a popular sport to place wagers on, so let’s look at its advantages and disadvantages. 

 

The Advantages of NCAAF Betting

As you know, college football is quite popular, and for good reason! This section focuses on the advantages of NCAAF betting and why you should do it too. 

 

Great Betting Opportunities

Don’t look down on NCAAF betting’s popularity since it’s almost as popular as the NFL. That means you can find numerous sports books to bet on NCAA football and find the best college football odds. You can get your lines from land-based sports books and big online bookies. Just find a sports book that suits your preferences. There are numerous top sportsbooks with great odds and lines and system usability.

 

Since there are numerous sports books on the market where you can shop for lines, you can easily find the best odds and lines you want to wager on. Due to its popularity, you won’t have to be limited in your betting decisions. 

 

Top Dominating Players

When a dominating player comes to the field, they can change the course of a game. It’s why recruiters will ensure that they get the best of the best in their team. Every team will need a complete set of players with different expertise. This setting is the same for every team; however, you will see that in every season, certain players dominate games in different weeks. 

 

When gamblers think of dominating players, they immediately think of quarterbacks. However, there are also instances when the running back or defensive end dominates the game. It’s evident in the NCAA 2019 season. When Chase Young from Ohio State dominated every team in his path, their opponents had to change their game plan due to his dominance on the field. 

 

It would help to look for the teams with dominating players when betting on NCAA football. Witness how they would change every game with their domineering presence on the field. Using this information can help ensure that you’re making profitable wagers. 

 

There Are Talent Gaps

The NCAAF is different from NFL. In NFL, the best recruits are dispersed into different teams. That’s because it’s a professional football league, and almost all teams have what it takes to win the season. In NCAAF, you can observe that the best recruits tend to be on the same teams. It’s why you’ll see that the top 10 usually comprises the same teams. 

 

You can see this in the recruiting rankings for the NCAAF teams. However, the rankings are great to help you see who’s talented this season and which team can help you make a profit. You don’t have to bet on the top teams; you can just focus on looking at the teams that are small and medium-sized. It’s recommended that you don’t look at teams with a big conference. 

 

When looking at the NCAAF teams, you can see leagues with good recruits and those with poor to average recruits. By observing the teams for several seasons, you would see which teams perform best each season. Consider doing this in the 2023 season. 

 

The Disadvantages of NCAAF Betting

NCAAF betting is gambling on college football teams. Since you are gambling, there are always risks; continue reading below to get to know them. 

You Can Get Addicted.

Gambling is undoubtedly fun and exhilarating; however, due to these properties, you can get addicted if you aren’t careful, which makes it dangerous. Once you win, you will do whatever it takes to win again, even if your guesses don’t pan out. It’s an activity that may cloud your judgment and eventually lead you to lose your savings if you are not careful. 

 

Risk of Losing Money

You are gambling on your guess – that means the chances of winning your bet would depend on luck, your research if it’s legitimate, and many more. Various factors contribute to winning a bet. So, the chances of losing a bet are high. For this reason, you would see many guidebooks to NCAAF betting to do your research and read up on past performances to help you make an educated and confident guess. 

 

Final Thoughts

Being informed is a must when it comes to betting. Knowing the pros and risks of NCAAF betting is essential so that you know before you place your hard-earned money on wagers. 

It’s fun and exhilarating due to the many great betting opportunities, but it can also be dangerous due to its addicting properties. So, use the list to help you decide if you would proceed to NCAAF betting. 

 

Tua impresses, and more Dolphins minicamp takeaways

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. – The Miami Dolphins’ mandatory minicamp on Day 2 unveiled impressive performances and some valuable insights. Here are five key takeaways that shaped the narrative of minicamp:

Tua Tagovailoa’s Anticipatory Precision

  1. Tua Tagovailoa impressed with his quick decision-making and precise throws during both 7-on-7 and team drills. His ability to release the ball swiftly and anticipate openings in the defense showcased his growth and potential as a franchise quarterback.

Revamped Offensive Focus

  1. The Dolphins emphasized the importance of a revitalized running game, fully aware of its significance in late-season success. This commitment was palpable during the minicamp’s second practice, characterized by a heavy dose of run-heavy plays and bootlegs. 

Promising Offensive Line Performance

  1. Despite missing Terron Armstead and Connor Williams, the first team offensive line displayed productivity and forcefulness. The absence of key defensive players such as Zach Sieler and Jaylen Twyman also contributed to the linemen’s success. The solid blocking provided ample opportunities for the running backs to find some openings 

QB2 Duel Intensifies

  1. Skylar Thompson continued to impress, particularly during the latter part of the minicamp. His accurate deep throws, including a connection with undrafted rookie Daewood Davis for a potential 70-yard touchdown, solidified his standing in the competition for the backup quarterback position. Mike White, too, exhibited improvement with well-timed passes, notably connecting with Erik Ezukanma. The battle for the backup spot remains fierce..

Xavien Howard’s Engaged Presence

  1. Xavien Howard’s active involvement in offseason practices has demonstrated his dedication to the team and eagerness to impress under the guidance of new DC Vic Fangio. Alongside Jalen Ramsey, Kader Kohou, and Cam Smith, Howard’s commitment fortified the Dolphins’ formidable cornerback lineup. Justin Bethel, Tino Ellis, and Keion Crossen continue to compete for the remaining cornerback positions.

Other notes

Several noteworthy plays stood out during the minicamp session. 

-Alec Ingold made an impressive grab from TuaTagovailoa; they were in sync today.

-Tagovailoa demonstrated his quick decision-making by rolling to his right and completing a pass for a short gain. He also efficiently checked to his flat and connected with Ingold on another play.

-On the defensive side, Justin Bethel intercepted a pass from Mike White over the middle. White faced pressure from the collapsing offensive line during the play.

-UDFA Garrett Nelson applied consistent pressure on Skylar Thompson, generating a couple of impressive pass rushes.

-Thompson, in turn, displayed his arm talent and accuracy by finding Daewood Davis on a crossing route, resulting in a substantial gain of over 30 yards and even more YAC.

 

Online Casinos and Football Go Hand in Hand – Here’s How

When most people think of online casinos, they might not immediately associate them with football. However, the two industries actually have a surprising amount of overlap. From sponsorships and partnerships to themed slots and betting options, online casinos and football have developed a mutually beneficial relationship over the years.

 

In this article, we will explore how online casinos and football go hand in hand and examine how they intersect. More importantly, we will be helping you understand exactly what it is that makes these two go so well together.

 

Partnerships and Sponsorships

 

Partnerships and sponsorships are significant reason why online casinos and football have a close relationship. Online casinos and bookmakers often partner with football clubs or sponsor football events, which allows them to connect with football fans and promote their brand.

 

Sponsorships and partnerships with football clubs can involve a range of activities, such as featuring the casino’s logo on the team’s shirts, providing financial support for the club, or even naming rights to the stadium. Such partnerships and sponsorships give online casinos and bookmakers a platform to reach a wider audience, as football is a hugely popular sport with millions of fans worldwide.

 

Furthermore, football clubs can also benefit from partnerships and sponsorships with online casinos and bookmakers. Financial support from these companies can help clubs finance player transfers, pay wages, and invest in facilities. In addition, partnerships and sponsorships can also help football clubs to raise their profile and increase their fan base.

Themed Slots

 

One way that football and online casinos go hand in hand is through theme slots. Many online casinos, whether you play King Johnnie Casino or any other casino of your choosing, offer slot machines that are themed around football. These games feature images and symbols related to the sport, such as football players, stadiums, and team logos.

 

Theme slots are an excellent way for football fans to engage with their favorite sport while also enjoying the excitement of online gambling. These games often feature special bonuses and jackpots that can make them particularly appealing to players. Whether you play at King Johnnie Casino or any other online casino of your choosing, you’re likely to find a variety of football-themed slot games to choose from.

 

In addition to providing entertainment for football fans, theme slots also offer a unique opportunity for online casinos to partner with football teams and leagues. By offering games themed around specific teams or events, casinos can attract fans who are passionate about the sport and increase their visibility among this audience. This has led to many partnerships and sponsorships between online casinos and football organizations, further cementing the connection between these two industries.

 

Betting Options

 

Betting options are a vital component in the link between online casinos and football. Many online casinos offer various betting options on football games, from pre-match betting to in-play betting. Players can place bets on various outcomes, such as the final result, the number of goals scored, or even the first player to score. Betting on football games adds excitement to the games and provides an additional way to engage with the sport. 

 

Furthermore, it also allows players to potentially earn some extra money while enjoying their favorite sport. Betting options are an essential aspect to consider when choosing an online casino if you are a football fan looking to engage in this type of activity.

 

No matter what casino you choose to bet in, you are likely to find a wide range of football betting options available. The availability of these options allows football fans to engage with the sport in a new and exciting way, while also providing the opportunity to win some money. Additionally, online casinos often offer special promotions and bonuses for football betting, making it an even more attractive option for fans of the sport.

 

Football-Themed Promotions and Bonuses

 

Football-themed promotions and bonuses are a common strategy used by online casinos to attract football fans. These promotions often come in the form of bonuses and free bets that are themed around football, such as a bonus for placing a bet on a specific football match or a free bet for signing up during a major football tournament. Some online casinos also offer football-themed games and tournaments, where players can win prizes related to football.

 

These promotions and bonuses are designed to create a sense of excitement and engagement among football fans who also enjoy online gambling. Football-themed promotions and bonuses not only provide an incentive for players to sign up and play at an online casino, but they also offer a way for players to enjoy their favorite sport and potentially win big.

 

Online Streaming

 

Many online casinos now offer live streaming of major football matches, allowing players to watch the game and place bets simultaneously. This feature not only enhances the overall experience for football fans but also increases the level of engagement with the online casino platform. Furthermore, online streaming can really quickly create new sports fans, especially when done right.

 

By offering live streaming of football matches, online casinos can attract more customers and increase player retention rates. This is because it allows users to access both forms of entertainment in one place, providing added convenience and value. This is especially true for those who are unable to attend live matches or do not have access to cable or satellite television.

 

From partnerships and sponsorships to themed slots and betting options, these two industries have a lot in common. Partnerships and sponsorships are significant reason why online casinos and football have a close relationship. 

 

Football-themed promotions and bonuses are a common strategy used by online casinos to attract football fans, and many online casinos now offer live streaming of major football matches, allowing players to watch the game and place bets simultaneously. Football clubs can also benefit from partnerships and sponsorships with online casinos and bookmakers, receiving financial support to help finance player transfers, pay wages, and invest in facilities. 

 

Meanwhile, football-themed slot games offer a unique opportunity for online casinos to partner with football teams and leagues, attracting passionate fans and increasing their visibility among this audience. All in all, the relationship between online casinos and football is mutually beneficial, and the possibilities for collaboration between these two industries are only continuing to grow.

4raBet promos: best of the best

4raBet is a serious player in the world of betting, which is why the company offers many unique bonuses that competitors cannot boast. Here is their list and to find them you can go https://appsbetting.in/4rabet-promo-code/:

120% to deposit

Without a doubt, one of the coolest bonuses is, for example, 120% deposit bonus. In order to get it, you need to fund your account – as soon as this is done, you will immediately get 120% to your deposit, up to 50 thousand rupees.

Here’s a quick guide to getting this bonus: 

  • Register or log in with 4raBet promo;
  • Activate the 4raBet promo in your personal cabinet;
  • Make a deposit of 10 000 INR and more;
  • Get 120% back on your deposit (max 50.000 INR).

If we look at this 4raBet promo from a profit perspective, the following pros and cons come to mind:

Pros 

  • Large amount of 4raBet promo.
  • The bonus can be used on any sport.

Cons

  • Difficult wagering.
  • Rather high entry threshold.

It is possible to say that this is a really good offer for those who play big. Despite the rather high entry threshold and complicated, this bonus allows you to get up to 50,000 rupees for new wagers.

This, of course, is far from the only cool bonus you can get with the 4raBet promo. This bookmaker also offers a cool bonus for cryptocurrency enthusiasts – you can fund your account with BTC, ETH, XRP and many other coins to get a solid deposit boost.

Here’s a quick guide to getting this 4raBet promo: 

  • Register or log in with the 4raBet promo bookmaker;
  • Deposit Rs. 100 or more using Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Dogecoin, Tether, etc. cryptocurrencies; 
  • Go to the tips menu and type there “CRYPTO4RASP”.

It should be said, however, that the amount of this bonus is determined individually for each player. If you are a regular bettor who spends a lot of time at 4raBet promo, you will benefit many times over from this promo code. 

As for the pros and cons of this 4raBet promo, it comes to mind:

Pros 

  • Simple and clear wagering conditions.
  • The bonus is available to all players without exception, the main condition is to use cryptocurrency.

Cons

  • The wagering of this promo code is set quite a big wager. You will need to wager it in eight times the amount. 
  • This is an interesting offer for those who replenish their account with cryptocurrencies. It allows you to get a one-time and quite pleasant bonus to the deposit. 

200% on initial deposit amount

4raBet promo also (in addition to the 120% deposit bonus) has another deposit bonus – 200%. It is paid by 4raBet promo. By registering on the exchange, you can get 200% or 58 thousand rupees as the onetime bonus – the highest incentive on the Internet so far. The vast majority of other betting companies offer no more than 110-120%.

To get money from this 4raBet promo, you need:

  • Enter the promo code – “4RABETMAX” when registering your account;
  • Deposit 20 thousand rupees into your account;
  • Get the bonus and wager it.

If you deposit such amount, the total value of the deposit in such a case will increase by 58 thousand rupees. But if the first deposit amount is, say, one thousand rupees, then only two thousand rupees will be deposited in your account. This tip is good for those who like to gamble big, making serious bets, or spending large sums in casinos. 

Bonuses from using PayTM

PayTM bank card holders are offered a really cool 4raBet promo. It literally gives away 35,000 rupees. To get this generous gift, you don’t have to deposit money in a single transaction of Rs 12 thousand. It can be done consistently and in small amounts. For example, Rs. 300 or Rs. 500 at a time. 4raBet promo accruals will continue until the amount reaches the promised value of 35 thousand rupees. 

But as is clear from the name, this 4raBet promo can only be obtained if you are a PayTM card holder, because otherwise (when using e.g. Visa, MasterCard) you will not get this 4raBet promo. 

Other special offers

All in all, 4raBet promo include more than 10 kinds of special offers, which increase the status of members who bet regularly. The most elite of these specials is considered to be the package that gives seven thousand rupees per deposit. The maximum amount of extra charges in such a case may well amount to 35 thousand rupees. By taking advantage of these advanced offers of the 4raBet promo, you ensure that you can get a really big win, while spending a minimal amount of money, all of which will go to the deposit and appear in your main game account. 

Daily incentives for Instagram and Telegram subscribers 

If you follow the company news and info memos about the new 4raBet promo, you will get special attention from the organization. The program of draws, bonuses and promotions in this direction is updated daily, so you can count on the fact that you will be sent in a timely manner, as well as informed about the most interesting matches.

4raBet promo main approach is to stimulate customer interest by offering special offers and bonuses. And this tactic really works, because 4raBet promo are some of the coolest and most profitable not just in the whole Indian market of betting companies, but in the international market as well. 

All promo codes, despite being working at the time of writing, may lose their validity over time. If you want to get the latest information regarding 4raBet promo, you better subscribe to this bookmaker’s newsletter in some social network, or agree to be sent messages to your email or phone number when a new 4raBet promo is available.

Final 2023 NFL Mock Draft

Another 2023 NFL Mock Draft! As the hour winds down to Draft night, there’s been a lot of movement in the last 48 hours and things are radio silent in the NFL World.

While last night I ran a mock, things have started to shake up a little

This 2023 NFL Mock Draft answers the biggest questions on where the quarterbacks will be going, potential trades and big surprises. In this 2023 NFL Mock Draft I will be focusing on the first round. So here is my predictive 2023 NFL Mock Draft round 1:

Top 10 Mock Draft

1) Carolina Panthers (from Chicago): QB Bryce Young

2) Houston Texans: EDGE Will Anderson

3) Tennessee Titans (Projected Trade with Arizona): QB Anthony Richardson

4) Indianapolis Colts: QB, CJ Stroud

5) Seattle Seahawks (from Denver): DL Jalen Carter

6) Detroit Lions: CB Devon Witherspoon

7) Las Vegas Raiders: QB, Will Levis

8) Atlanta Falcons: EDGE Tyree Wilson

9) Chicago Bears (from Carolina): OT Paris Johnson Jr.

10) Philadelphia Eagles (from New Orleans): RB Bijan Robinson

The Middle picks

11) Arizona Cardinals: OT Darnell Wright

12) Houston Texans (from Cleveland): OT Peter Skoronski

13) Green Bay Packers (from New York Jets): EDGE Nolan Smith

14) New England Patriots: OT Broderick Jones

15) New York Jets (from Green Bay Packers): Jaxon Smith Njigba

 

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16) Washington Commanders: CB Joey Porter Jr.

17) Pittsburgh Steelers: CB Christian Gonzalez

18) Detroit Lions: DL Calijah Kancey

19) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: EDGE Myles Murphy

Rounding out the teens

20) Cincinnati Bengals (Projected Trade with Seattle): TE Dalton Kincaid

21) Los Angeles Chargers: WR Quentin Johnson

22) Baltimore Ravens: CB Deonte Banks

23) Kansas City Chiefs (Projected Trade with Minnesota): WR, Zay Flowers

24) Jacksonville Jaguars: OT Anton Harrison

25) New York Giants: WR Jordan Addison

26) Dallas Cowboys: EDGE Lukas Van Ness

27) Buffalo Bills: DL Bryan Breese

28) Seattle Seahawks (Projected Trade with Cincinatti): G O’Cyrus Torrence

29) New Orleans Saints (from San Francisco through Miami and Denver): DL Mazi Smith

30) Philadelphia Eagles: EDGE Keion White

31) Minnesota Vikings (Projected Trade with Kansas City): SAF Brian Branch

 

Hussam Patel is a Miami Dolphins contributor and Lead NFL Draft analyst at Five Reasons Sports Network. Follow him on Twitter at @HussamPatel

2023 NFL Mock Draft

The 2023 NFL Draft is just days away and NFL teams are finalizing their big boards and start to focus on draft day. This 2023 NFL Mock Draft answers the biggest questions on where the quarterbacks will be going, potential trades and big surprises.

In this 2023 NFL Mock Draft I will be focusing on the first round and finally give my thoughts on what the Dolphins will do with their first pick in this years draft.

Top 10 Mock Draft

1) Carolina Panthers: QB C.J. Stroud

As of now, the betting market has QB Bryce Young to be selected first. However, I believe new Panthers Head Coach Frank wants a prototypical QB for the scheme he’ll bring to Carolina in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft

2) Houston Texans: QB Bryce Young

The connections are too great for Bryce Young to not be selected by Houston. Nick Caserio and DeMeco Ryans have spoke highly of Young. While Young does not fit the mold of your typical NFL Passer, he’s reminiscent of another QB (Kyler Murray) that was taken high with other elite traits at the QB position.

3) Detroit Lions (Projected Trade with Arizona): QB Anthony Richardson

Now this will make the biggest headlines in the 2023 NFL Draft if this actually happens. Yes, Jared Goff has done well with the Lions last year, but having Richardson in this Lions offense, with this many weapons and a good OL would set the Lions up for success in the future.

4) Indianapolis Colts: QB, Will Levis

Mayo loving QB Will Levis has been making waves in the pre-draft process. Scouts and NFL Media are raving about Levis playing in a pro-style offense at Kentucky. The Wildcat prospect has enough tools to work with, athleticism and ran a pro style offense with no run game, a bad OL and subpar receivers in the SEC. new HC Shane Steichen has worked with many QB’s in the past and could fit him up to be the next Colts QB.

5) Seattle Seahawks (from Denver): DL Jalen Carter

Jalen Carter is exactly what the Seattle Seahawks need in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. The Georgia Bulldog prospect is a monster up front, pairing him up with Dre’Mont Jones and Jarran Reed is another step in revamping their front four and getting back to playing Championship caliber defense.

6) Arizona (Projected Trade with Arizona): EDGE Will Anderson

This is the best scenario for the Cardinals as there becomes a frenzy on QB’s and they take the best player available in the draft and gain picks to start their rebuild. Anderson is a blue chip prospect and the best player at his position. He has the athleticism, build, and arm length to make relentless plays against the pass and run

7) Las Vegas Raiders: OT Paris Johnson

With Jimmy Garoppolo as their new Qb, the Raiders will need protection up front. Johnson has the  a really nice prototype at OT-size, length, and quickness- for the Raiders to become a nasty unit up front. Kolton Miller is their LT for now and Johnson has only played a year at LT, he’s versatile enough to play RG. He’s an elite run blocker that will pave the way for Josh Jacobs.

8) Atlanta Falcons: EDGE Tyree Wilson

The Falcons need help with their pass rush, especially as they were ranked 26th in ESPN’s Pass Rush Win Rate. Wilson gives the Falcons a player with elite traits and measurables in a rotating pass rush group that will develop his skills and pass rush moves.

9) Chicago Bears (from Carolina): OT Peter Skoronski

The Chicago Bears are in desperate need of any and all offensive linemen to protect QB Justin Fields. The best available OL for Ryan Poles on the board is Northwestern Peter Skoronski. According to the Bears evaluation chart, Length is a big requirement to play OT. Skoronski fits as a Guard with his measurables.

10) Philadelphia Eagles (from New Orleans): RB Bijan Robinson

Death, Taxes, and Howie Roseman picking up value as one of the best General Managers in the NFL. Analytics be damned! Bijan rules and the Eagles try to continue to surround newly paid QB Jalen Hurts with more talent to make another run at the Super Bowl. Robinson and Hurts’ gravity with their legs will put defenders in a bind.

The Middle picks

11) Tennessee Titans: OT Broderick Jones

The Titans lost a lot of veteran offensive lineman in free agency and need to get younger, especially with Tannehill and Henry getting older. Tennessee gets bigger and stronger up front with the big UGA Bulldog. Jones has insane upside and is a great fit for Tennessee’s power running game.

12) Houston Texans (from Cleveland): WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba

Jaxson Smith-Njigba might be the best WR in this years class and certainly the first WR taken in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. While JSN might not be super fast, he’s an exceptional route runner, creates separation and gets downfield. He’ll pair up well in Houston with Bryce Young and John Metchie III.

13) New York Jets: OT Darnell Wright Tennessee

The rest of the world is waiting on the Aaron Rodgers saga, I’m not. The Jets need help at their Tackle position. The Jets depth chart at Tackle is paper thin and Wright becomes their best OL regardless of whoever is playing QB.

14) New England Patriots: EDGE Nolan Smith

The New England Patriots do not have any other pass rushers under contract beyond 2023 besides Matthew Judon and 2021 draft pick Ronnie Perkins. Smith is an athletic freak. He’s comparable to Haasan Reddick and gives Bill Belicheck a versatile player in the front seven.

15) Green Bay Packers: EDGE Myles Murphy

The Packers are currently looking to select a pass rusher in the draft and Murphy is the best option on the board. Murphy is a higly athletic pass rusher along the lines of what GM Brian Gutenkest likes in pass rushers. Murphy’s explosive off the edge but needs to better his technique against the run.

 

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16) Washington Commanders: CB Devon Witherspoon

Washington is in dire need of a cornerback and Witherspoon is the first corner off the board. Witherspoon’s the best corner on the board and offers position flexibility. Witherspoons learning curve in the Commanders defense would be minimal as Illinois ran a similar style in 2022.

 

17) Pittsburgh Steelers: CB Christian Gonzalez

Gonzalez is one of the many corners the Steelers have brought in for a draft visit and also need secondary help. At 6’2″ and 200 pounds, he is an ideal size to matchup with bigger and stronger wide receivers at the NFL level especially in the AFC.

18) Detroit Lions: CB Joey Porter Jr.

As the run on CB’s start, the Lions bolster their defense with an NFL Bloodline prospects. After the trade of Okudah, the Lions level up in the secondary. With Porter’s versatility means he’ll fill in anywhere he’s needed and a good schematic fit for the Lions.

19) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: S Brian Branch

Todd Bowles needs a thumper in the middle of his defense and someone who can wear multiple hats while doing it well. Branch is that player. He’s a do it all defender with good instincts in coverage and speed as a blitzer. As of now the Bucs need a nickel defender and someone who has the ability to also play safety. Branch is the pick in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft.

Rounding out the teens

20) Cincinnati Bengals (Projected Trade with Seattle): TE Dalton Kincaid

This is a pretty shocking trade to pull off, especially for a TE. However, this TE class is absolutely loaded and Kincaid is the best pass catching TE there is to help bring more firepower to an electric Bengals offense.

21) Los Angeles Chargers: WR Quentin Johnson

There are targets up for grabs in LA, and Johnston fits a similar profile to the type of receivers the Chargers have drafted in the past. Size, RAC, and toughness. Keenan Allen and Mike Williams aren’t getting any younger.

22) Baltimore Ravens: CB Deonte Banks

Deonte Banks stays home in Maryland in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. Banks is a natural fit in Mike MacDonalds system and great in man coverage. Banks is a young infusion in a well tenured defensive back group that dealt with injuries last season.

23) Minnesota Vikings: WR Zay Flowers

It would not shock me if the Minnesota Vikings trade back to gain more draft capital, however; if a top WR2 prospect like Zay Flowers is avaliable, I think they take him. It’s a good move to pair up Zay Flowers with Justin Jefferson, two really good separators that can do damage against top CB’s.

24) Jacksonville Jaguars: DL Calijah Kancey

The Jaguars have a void in the interior of their defensive line. Calijah Kancey gives the Jaguars a young, but dominant core for the next couple of years. While Kancey does not have the measurables, he was disruptive and a productive force at Pitt and can line up anywhere on the front seven to make the Jaguars a multiple front.

25) New York Giants: WR Jordan Addison

An extremely productive receiver at Pitt with Kenny Pickett and at USC with Caleb Williams, Addison goes to newly paid Giants QB Daniel Jones to give the football Giants a brand new playmaker they have desperately needed into their offense. Addison is a refined route runner that can lineup in the slot and move around the field.

26) Dallas Cowboys: DL Bryan Bresee

This pick goes against the grain of what the Cowboys have done in the first round, they’re all about flashy players on offense, TE feels like a safe pick but they have pressing needs at defensive tackle. While Dallas’ defense is strong they need someone in the middle of the line to make it stout. Having Breese, coming off an ACL injury, but young and talented to play by Micah and DeMarcus Lawerence would set the Boys DL for the future

27) Buffalo Bills: EDGE Lukas Van Ness

Recent history suggest Bills draft defense in the first round, especially amongst the front seven. Buffalo gets a physical but raw defender in Lukas Van Ness in this 2023 Mock Draft.  Van Ness is a project early on but having him learn the tools of the trade behind DaQuaon Jones, Ed Oliver, and Von Miller will benefit his development. His upside is not to be taken lightly. The Bills defense is built from the inside out, and the rugged Hawkeyes pass rusher would fit the culture and could be a critical rotational edge rusher as a rookie.

28) Seattle Seahawks (Projected Trade with Cincinatti): G O’Cyrus Torrence

In a whirlwind trade with the Cincinatti Bengals, the Seattle Seahawks get tremendous value in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. One of the best offensive lineman in the draft lands up in Seattle to form a young offensive line that provides a long term fixture at guard. Geno Smith gets another year to prove himself behind an OL that ranked 27th in the NFL per PFF with two rookie tackles.

29) New Orleans Saints (from San Francisco through Miami and Denver): DL Mazi Smith

The Saints need to shore up the interior of their defense, especially after losing three starters in Shy Tuttle, David Onyemata, and Marcus Davenport. The consensus points to Michigan prospect Mazi Smith to settle down in the Bayou. Smith is a classic run stuffer for a Dennis Allen Saints defense with athleticism on early downs. They ranked 24th against the rush, Mazi is a big bodied presence for the Saints.

30) Philadelphia Eagles: OT Anton Harrison

It’s like General Manager Howie Roseman loves Sooner Prospects. First Lane Johnson, then Jalen Hurts, next up in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft is Anton Harrison. Harrison just had a top 30 visit with the Eagles. Harrison is reloaded into the Eagles offensive line to continue their dominant run game and protect Jalen Hurts. Also, Eagles Coach Jeff Stoutland loved what Harrison was able to do in the pass rush drop drill at the Combine.

31) Kansas City Chiefs: TE Michael Mayer

Man would this be a selection for the Kansas City Chiefs. Pairing up one of the best TE prospects in this draft class with a future Hall of Famer in TE Travis Kelce. The Combination of Mayer and Kelce will be destructive for opposing defenses as the Chiefs would do damage in 12 personnel. Michael Mayer can do the dirty work in the trenches and pick up yards in the passing game.

Bonus

51) Miami Dolphins: TE Darnell Washington

Darnell Washington is hard to miss if he’s available on the board. At 6’7 and 265 pounds, Washington is a freakishly good athlete that relies on his strengths to block in-line and can catch passes at his size. He’s hard to take down. It’ll take some time for Washington to become a tactful blocker in Miami, but he does strengthen the blocking aspect of Miami’s offensive line.

 

Hussam Patel is a Miami Dolphins contributor and Lead NFL Draft analyst at Five Reasons Sports Network. Follow him on Twitter at @HussamPatel

3 Methods for Sports Field Marking Lines

Artificial grass is often used in sports fields. In some cases, a sports field caters to different types of sports. Marking the field lines for a mixed sports field can be challenging, so advanced technology like the GPS line marking machine is often used for precision. This post features three methods used for sports field marking lines, so make sure to go through them!

Direct order

Clients can have tailored-made artificial grass with marking lines. The client shares the dimensions of the field and its design so the manufacturer will come up with the correct line width. The manufacturer will produce the marking lines as grass rolls in the desired color. 

Custom order marking lines is a cost-efficient method that doesn’t require additional cutting. Also, it contributes to better firmness on the field. But the process is quite delicate, including technical details that can produce errors if implemented incorrectly. 

Inlaid marking lines

The inlaid method leaves less room for error and is a cost-effective option. It is used for the central pitch markings to minimize mistakes. White artificial grass is used to complete the markings, but their colors can also be used. The method includes cutting the artificial grass where the marking lines should be, seamlessly integrating them, and applying glue. 

Painting

Painting the lines over the grass is easy for sports field marking lines. There is no need to cut the grass, so waste is eliminated, and installation is straightforward. However, there are a few downsides to this method. Firstly, the longevity of the painted marking lines can’t be defined. The color fades due to wear and tear and needs to be reapplied. In addition, the paint might not adhere properly depending on the grass.

The painting method for mixed sports fields includes the application of various colors. The most frequently played sport on the field gets the white color, followed by yellow. The remaining marking lines are painted blue and red for distinction. 

When choosing this field marking method, it is essential to mind the paint choice. The paint chosen is waterproof so it won’t be damaged by rain. In addition, it needs to be safe for the people and the environment. 

Another essential aspect when choosing paint is whether you prefer a permanent or a temporary solution, and this depends on your particular needs. 

When using paint for the field marking lines, measuring and marking the positions is essential. One of the methods used for marking is to use line chalk. Mark the positions and draw where the liens should be. The chalk can then be easily washed with water and soap, an excellent temporary solution. Another alternative for precise markings is to use masking tape. Line the tape, so it perfectly highlights the lines. Remove once the paint is dry.

A line marking machine is the most precise method for painting field marking lines. It will save you so much time and guarantees high precision.

Final thoughts

We explained the available methods for field marking lines. Each has pros and cons, so choose according to your specific requirements. Rolling out a pre-made grass roll to mark the lines is a simple method with easy installation. Inlaid marking reduces the chance of error but requires cutting. Painting is an inexpensive method for quick results. Line marking machines are commonly used to make the process easier. With advanced models that use GPS, there is no need for manual measurements to ensure high precision. 

Why Online Betting Will Be a Success in Maryland For The State and Players

The Maryland betting market is anticipated to be extensive when launched. It is famous for the Baltimore Ravens, which have shown outstanding performance in the NFL. In addition, it is home for all those sports enthusiasts that enjoy fantasy sports games. They will check sites like BetbuddyMD to check the available betting options. 

 

Maryland and the rest of the DMV are a hub for professional sports, so the betting market is expected to grow extensively. Moreover, it could be the best betting market in the whole nation. 

 

Why online betting will be a success for the state

Legalizing sports betting in Maryland is expected to happen by the end of 2022. Back in November 2021, the officials stated that legalizing betting would occur at that time. For now, there is ongoing research performed by the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission. It focuses on online betting and its implementation. 

 

Many sports fans can’t wait to see what the newly established market offers. And we must highlight that the fans are eager to see betting options for the upcoming NFL games. With this, football fans can support their favorite teams legally.

 

Betting market

The betting market is highly regulated, so companies need to have the proper certifications. Sixty betting companies have gained permission to operate in this market. In addition, 30 sportsbooks have also been granted a license. With so many companies available, players are free to choose the right fit for their betting needs.

 

What to expect from the Maryland betting market? The big brands in the betting world will have dedicated apps for their customers. With this, betting on the go will be so much easier. 

 

How the players will benefit from betting in Maryland

The betting marketplace has enormous potential. We know that many companies already have licenses to operate in this market. With many of them being big brands, the competition will be intense. For players, this is good news. The companies will need help to gain new customers and will offer great prizes and bonuses for this. In addition, online betting sites will provide various options and improve their features for the ultimate user experience. With welcome bonuses and the possibility to pay in crypto, the players will enjoy their online experience.

 

It is important to note that reputable brands in the betting industry will enter the market. Big names such as DraftKings and With so many providers available, players will have the freedom to choose. Line shopping will be available for the ones looking for the best odds. Maryland has a competitive market, unlike other states, where you can only find a few providers.

 

But also it is essential to note that there are exciting options available. Sports fans have domestic teams to bet on the Ravens and Orioles. For example, the Ravens have already established a partnership with a reputable company that will bring so many bonuses when betting on home teams. And for sports fans, this will be an exciting experience for sure. 

Iowa Hawkeyes Football Team Welcomes 11 Newcomers

It’s been quite a while since we last saw head coach Kirk Ferentz and the Iowa Hawkeyes take the field, but as we know by now, most programs have already started to get ready for the upcoming campaign, and they’re not the exception to that rule. Nearly 12 weeks after their last game, they finally conducted the first day of their yearly spring practices.

 

Unsurprisingly, the Hawkeyes have one goal in mind, which is claiming their second Big Ten West title in the past three years. Nonetheless, maybe some of the fans may need to temper their expectations, as there will be as many as 11 newcomers in the program for the upcoming campaign.

 

Ferentz knows it might take a while before all the new guys are settled in and ready to contribute, and you can just see that if you visit ClutchBet.com and take a look at the odds for next season. The program was way more active in the NCAA’s transfer portal than it usually is, so there will be some growing pains as the new guys get used to his system:

 

“It was our biggest group of newcomers (from fall to spring),” Ferentz said in his media availability. “Then the mix of newcomers are veteran players as opposed to the past, typically high school guys. That’s really been an interesting process for us. We got two more (transfer portal players: linebacker Nick Jackson and offensive lineman Rusty Feth) that are scheduled to be here in June. Looking forward to that, as well.”

 

Needless to say, the Hawkeyes will look to spend as much time as they can getting the new guys up to speed within their system, with coach Ferentz stating that they’ll take a fully-developmental approach.

A QB Competition Brewing In Iowa

 

Regardless of their defensive success, it’s not a secret that Iowa’s offense has been lacking for quite a while now. Notably, the addition of former Michigan QB Cade McNamara might as well open the door for a new regime for the Hawkeyes.

 

Senior Spencer Petras isn’t likely to come back due to a potentially career-ending shoulder injury, and with Junior Alex Padilla transferring to SMU, Ferentz was quick to land McNamara and Deacon Hill in his QB room.

 

Notably, the expectation was that McNamara would be the team’s starter right away, with Hill and Joe Labas going toe-to-toe to land the backup spot. Nonetheless, McNamara is dealing with an injury, so the job might be up for grabs if any of those players impresses the coaching staff during practice. 

 

“[McNamara’s] Not full throttle, but is doing some work in 7-on-7 drills,” the Head Coach said. “The good news is he’s been throwing some individual stuff, throwing on his own. As long as there’s nobody around him, as long as he’s comfortable, we’re going to let him participate in that.”

Everyone Needs To Step Up

The Hawkeyes will likely go through a bit of a transition phase, but that doesn’t mean they’re not ready to compete. Coach Ferentz knows they might not have the same depth from other years, but he expects several guys to step up and embrace bigger roles next season:

 

“We have some quality guys (but) we’re thin,” Ferentz said. “Start with —  it’s easy to pick Jay (Higgins) because he played a lot last year. A guy that’s ascended in the program. To think we’re going to replace Jack Campbell is not realistic. We don’t have a guy like him. The group I’m excited about, just cherry-pick. You have Jay (Higgins), Carson (Sharar), and Kyler Fisher. Kyler is the same thing; we really see him ascending right now. Karson is a guy that’s really intriguing. This spring will be really important for them.”

 

Iowa’s combination of youth and experience makes them an interesting team ahead of the upcoming campaign. We already know who they’ll be on the defensive side of the field, so hopefully, a new QB can finally help them take a step forward offensively as well.