Tag Archive for: Miami Dolphins

2022 NFL Draft Rumors

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It’s the largest smokescreens NFL teams put out year after year. Many NFL Teams moves are a mystery as news is intentionally leaked out by the organizations themselves, truth or not.

The odds and news have changed dramatically over the last days as this years NFL Draft is truly the most unpredictable in years.

Here are some of the 2022 NFL Draft rumors and notes:

Deebo Samuel

League source confirms Deebo Samuel is not being traded at this time, which means a draft day move is unlikely for many teams hoping to get an electric player.

Top 10 news

Jacksonville Jaguars

Georgia EDGE rusher Travon Walker is garnering a lot of hype lately and the oddsmakers are betting on the Bulldog product to be taken first overall to the Jacksonville Jaguars.

I’ve had Aidan Hutchinson in several mock drafts to Jacksonville, but with rumors coming out, it may not be far fetched.

Schematically, it favors Walker than Hutchinson as Walker can play outside linebacker, standup EDGE and as an interior lineman. This help out K’Lavon Chaisson and Foye Olukun, compared to Hutchinson who is a hand in the dirt rusher.

Detroit Lions

A Malik Willis pairing in Detroit is all about the future. Willis can learn behind Goff as he needs the most development of any quarterback in this years 2022 NFL Draft class.

General Manager Brad Holmes is “looking” at the quarterback position and it might not be with the second overall pick.

It may come down to Aidan Hutchinson or Travon Walker to beef up the defensive trenches.

However, how much longer does Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers have left to play, the same may be said about Kirk Cousins.

The Chicago Bears still need some pieces and Justin Fields is still developing, drafting Willis may pay off in the future.

Houston Texans

Derek Stingley Jr. and the Texans have had connections for a while due to his former DB coach part of the Texans Coaching staff.

If Houston is all in on Davis Mills, building the trenches would be a better option with the third overall pick in the NFL Draft. In the latest mocks and with some news coming out, the Texans do have two offensive tackles in mind: Evan Neal and Ikem Ekonwu.

It’s a deep defensive class towards the backend of the draft, especially for defenders. The 2022 NFL Draft rumors have the trading back from the 13th overall pick.

New York Jets

I’ve heard that Robert Saleh is not a big Travon Walker fan. Also, Kyle Hamilton fourth overall would not fit with what the Jets defense is looking to build.

Ikem Ekonwu is a favorite of Jets General Manager Joe Douglas. Having another offensive lineman fortifies the the line for Zach Wilson and we may see shades of his BYU playing days.

Gang green will look to load up on offense by pairing Wilson arm with a big body wide receiver in the likes of Drake London. Jameson Williams is a possibility with the tenth overall selection.

Head Coach Robert Saleh may want to get better in the trenches on defense. If Kayvon Thibodeaux falls, it may be a tossup between him and Jermaine Johnson.

New York Giants

The 2022 NFL Draft rumor mill has it that the Giants may look to trade back a few spots to gain more value.

While General Manager Joe Schoen has hinted that the offensive line is a priority, they may forgo passing on a lineman for more pressing needs. An EDGE rusher, a deep class overall, is very much in play. Especially the top three in Thibodeaux, Walker, and Johnson.

If the Giants are comfortable at fifth and seventh overall Evan Neal and Charles Cross are targets. Big Blue has a big decision to make after the draft if they want to keep Daniel Jones for a fifth year, which does not seem likely.

Carolina Panthers

Carolina is a weird team this year. Considering the fact that they are heavily interested in a quarterback this year, Sam Darnold is still “the guy”.

They have the sixth pick and their next is in the fourth round. I highgly expect Carolina to select a quarterback with the physical tools of Matt Corral. Kenny Pickett seems like the logical choice– have Matt Rhule and co. made a logical decision recently?

Atlanta Falcons

Expect Terry Fontenet and the Falcons to after several EDGE rushers hard. I’ve heard Kayvon Thibodeaux is a favorite but Jermaine Johnsons skillset is very hard to pass up on.

Atlanta could be a dark horse for Malik Willis if he were to fall to the eighth pick, even if Kayvon Thibodeaux is on the board.

Seattle Seahawks

Seattle just seems so perfect for Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner.

They’ll have to re-build their defense and Sauce brings the moxie and physical play style Carroll wants in his defense.

However, recent draft history has shown that the Seahawks routinely trade back to garner more picks later on to fill needs. Offensive line is another deep position group in this years class.

Notes

Philadelphia Eagles

Philadelphia is on the market for cornerbacks and Trent McDuffie has been mocked routinely. The 2022 NFL Draft rumor mill has Kaiir Elam as the third or fourth corner picked, I would not be shocked if Kaiir Elam is picked up by the Eagles with their second first round pick.

The Eagles are also on the marke for an EDGE rusher, George Karlaftis has been a mainstay in several recent mock drafts. Although, another wide receiver for Jalen Hurts would not hurt, a potential trade up for Jameson Williams may be in play. Garrett Wilson could also be on the board.

Kyle Hamilton

Hamilton seems to be one of the most polarizing players in this draft cycle as he can do it all on the defensive side of the ball.

The range he showed on tape didn’t match the speed he showed in workouts; shockingly, to NFL teams it may matter. However, teams within the top 10 have other pressing needs than a safety.

The Washington Commanders and Houston Texans have been heavily linked to Kyle Hamilton in the 2022 NFL Draft rumors.

Running back in Round 1?

A new saying goes that you do not ever take a running back in the first round, there are differing opinions.

There’s been a recent trend of running backs devalued in the first round; however, it is situationally based.

The 2022 NFL Draft rumors has the Buffalo Bills circling around Iowa State’s Breece Hall as the first running back taken off the board. Pair with a lethal aerial attack in Orchard Park, the Bills may well be on their way back to the AFC Championship game.

Miami Dolphins

It’s quiet in south beach, a bit too quiet. It’s been an aggressive off-season for the Miami Dolphins and General Manager Chris Grier.

Grier talked about finding the right time to be aggressive in the off-season and the NFL Draft is a part of it.

With Miami only having four picks in this years draft a move up to grab a player they really like is a good possibility to complete a piece on either side of the ball.

 

Hussam Patel is a Miami Dolphins contributor and Lead NFL Draft analyst at Five Reasons Sports Network, Director of Scouting at PhinManiacs and Editor at Dolphins ATB. Follow him on Twitter at @HussamPatel

 

Use code “FIVE” to receive a matching $100 bonus on Prizepicks

 

Day 2 NFL Combine Takeaways

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Day 2 of the 2022 NFL Scouting combine is in the books here are 3 takeaways from the second day of on-field workouts.

40 times (again)

Remember Thursday night at the scouting combine, when the receivers blew the roof off like they were on the racetrack?

It extended to Friday’s offensive line drills, when we saw a display of pure speed from Hog Mollies we’ve never seen before.

It’s as if monster trucks beat Dale Earnhardt Jr. by one-tenth of a second.

There were six offensive linemen with official sub-5.0 40 times in the first group, and six in the second. The previous record was six, and there were 11 sub-4.5 40-yard dashes overall in the last three combines.
Rutgers’ Isiah Pacheco and South Dakota State’s Pierre Strong tied for the fastest running back at the 2022 combine with 40 times of 4.37 seconds.
https://twitter.com/brgridiron/status/1499968529856188416?s=20&t=qqh9-WqPIMlqPs6QOBwK2A
Notre Dame’s Kyren Williams caught flak for his 4.7 40 yard dash time as many expected him to run faster.
https://twitter.com/DP_NFL/status/1500124754837131267?s=20&t=KZeswPrZHw85YSWx0Y-Ahg

However for RB’s there are more important factors and measurables at play than 40 times.

Zion Johnson’s Big Day

Zion Johnson played tackle and guard at Boston College, and then took reps at center during Senior Bowl week. Johnson has showcased his versatility and followed it up with a fantastic combine performance.

Few offensive linemen are as undersized like Johnson at 6-foot-3 and 312 pounds, but few had better combines than Johnson. He ran a 5.18 40-yard dash aced other drills, and looked very smooth and powerful on the field.

Johnson needed to show some athleticism to go with his play strength, and he took care of that admirably. He led all lineman with 32 bench press reps and showed off his movement in space with the wave drill

The Boston College product was showing an ability to create power without planting during on-field drills.

Johnson is an easy mover, and you can see how he’s able to gain power and efficiency from that. He has separated himself as one of the top interior offensive linemen.

James is Cooking

In today’s league, top running backs threaten defenses on third down with their receiving skills, and NFL teams loved what they saw in James Cook on Friday.

Cook ran a 4.42 40 times and made seamless cuts with the ball in his hands during the on-field drills. He looked natural in space, secured all of his passes and caught the ball with his soft hands like a natural receiver.

At Georgia, Cook only logged 230 carries, so he doesn’t have mileage on him; however, he can project as a featured ball-carrier primed to log 15-plus carries a game.

Furthermore, Cook can become a matchup nightmare on crucial downs either in the slot or on short routes in the middle of the field.

*** This article was originally posted at ATB Network***
Hussam Patel is a Miami Dolphins contributor at Five Reasons Sports Network, Director of Scouting at PhinManiacs and Editor at Dolphins ATB. Follow him on Twitter at @HussamPatel

Day 1 NFL Combine Takeaways

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Day 1 of the 2022 NFL Scouting combine is in the books here are the 3 takeaways from the first day of on-field workouts.

40 times

The first night of on-field workouts was a speed thrill. In a city that celebrates speed with Indy cars , the wide receivers at the NFL scouting combine matched a record Thursday that would have NASCAR opening their eyes.

The group of pass catchers left dust, as the eight sub-4.4 clockings tied the most by the wide receivers at the combine in any year evaluated since 2006.

Tyquan Thornton had the only official time under 4.3, as Tennessee wide receiver Velus Jones Jr., had the second fastest official clocking at 4.31.

Many unofficial times had to be changed and chatter around the league was this years class of pass catchers is the fastest in NFL History OR the 40 times were off

Kenny Pickett’s Hand Size

It is hands-down the most critiqued quality attached to NFL quarterback prospects each year.

As a potential first round pick, Pickett‘s hand size has been scrutinized heavily. His hands officially measured in at 8 1/2″ at the NFL Combine. This makes Pickett’s hands the smallest of any quarterback in the NFL.

“The reason I didn’t measure at the Senior Bowl was just to have those extra couple weeks, just kind of a commonsense thing, to have more time working the exercises…Whatever it measures, it measures, I’m sure that won’t be the end of it, but that will be the last measurement I’m sure I’ll take of it.”

– Kenny Pickett

According to ESPN Stats & Information data, average hand size for quarterbacks taken in the first round from 2008 to 2020 is 9 7/10 inches.

Christian Watsons big day

Watson won the day at the receiver position. He’s 6-4 and 210 pounds, one of the most sizable receivers in this class.

He ran 4.36 with a 38.5-inch vertical jump and an 11-foot, four-inch broad jump, one of the longest in combine history.

“He’s a special dude. You can see that just physically, how big he is, how fast he is. Great person to be around, obviously one of my closest friends. Someone that helped me get to where I am right now. I wouldn’t be here without Christian.”

–Trey Lance on Christian Watson

I wrote about Christian Watson last summer and how the Miami Dolphins should take a chance on him.

Now, I’m not sure if Watson lasts till the end of the 2nd round, he’s highly thought off in league circles.

*** This article was originally posted at ATB Network***

Hussam Patel is a Miami Dolphins contributor at Five Reasons Sports Network, Director of Scouting at PhinManiacs and Editor at Dolphins ATB. Follow him on Twitter at @HussamPatel

2022 NFL Scouting Combine Preview

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The NFL Combine kicks off on March 1st and ends on March 7th. The 2022 NFL Combine will take place in Lucas Oil Stadium. 

NFL Network will be covering the 2022 NFL Combine:

  • March 3rd: quarterbacks, wide receivers and tight ends from 4 p.m. ET to 11 p.m. ET 
  • March 4th: running backs, offensive linemen and special teams from 4 pm. ET to 10 p.m. ET 
  • March 5th: Five hours of live coverage of defensive linemen and linebackers from 4 p.m. ET to 9 p.m. 
  • March 6th: Five hours of live coverage of defensive backs from 2 p.m. ET to 7 p.m. ET 

What it is

The 2022 NFL Scouting Combine allows prospects to participate in on-field drills in front of NFL evaluators. Additionally, prospects have the opportunity to interview with NFL teams.

There are around 324 total combine participants ranging from SEC powerhouses to FCS and HBCU players. 

Analysis

The NFL combine is the biggest draft-centric event of the year. A year after its full cancellation, the NFL combine is returning this year but the National Invitational Camp planned to implement several COVID-19 protocols, including a “bubble.” 

However, The NFL Combine is lifting bubble restrictions shortly after the news that player agents were organizing a boycott.

Most prospects train for the NFL Combine right after the season ends. Each prospect has a team of nutritionists, agents, and trainers- to help them with their testing, nutrition, training and even sleep schedule.

Training for the combine is no joke as it is the biggest interview of prospects lives.

It may be entertaining for fans and media alike to enjoy the testing events such as the 40 yard dash and even the bench press. NFL teams view the medical evaluations as the most vital aspect of the combine.

These medical evaluations are critical in decision making for NFL teams. At times if a player fails the evaluation it may knock them off a teams board or may even shatter their dreams of playing in the NFL.

Interviews with NFL team evaluators is the second most important part of the combine process. It’s a rare opportunity for scouts, coaches, and general managers to get to know players in a one-on-one format. 

This allows players to understand what teams are looking for in them and teams to really pick a prospects brain and see if they can be a cultural fit within their organization.

Prospects see a volatile change in their training regimen for the NFL Combine. The Combine itself has a different structure compared to how players train.

Players are in a new uncomfortable environment which interferes in how they go about doing things. It’s not an optimal environment that will translate into testing numbers they usually hit.

Furthermore, it’s why teams go to prospects pro days. Pro days are similar to the NFL combine except colleges host it for their players. This allows prospects to be comfortable in familiar circumstances to put their best foot forward.

Pro days are essentially structured by college training staffs where players know the surface they are working on. In short, players create the workout during pro days where the combine creates the work for them.

Conclusion

For many of us in the draft world, analysts don’t “trust” the pro day testing numbers as they want to see how prospects react to different environments as it translates to prospects figuring out things in the league and on game days.

Agents of prospects sometimes tell them to forgo the combine testing and do the medical testing and interviews with teams. Teams still take into account pro day numbers and can use their evaluation criteria to better judge players.

 

*** This article was originally posted at PhinManiacs***

 

Hussam Patel is a Miami Dolphins contributor at Five Reasons Sports Network, Director of Scouting at PhinManiacs and Editor at Dolphins ATB. Follow him on Twitter at @HussamPatel

Dolphins hire Jon Embree to assist Mike McDaniel

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Jon Embree has been hired as the tight ends coach and assistant head coach of the Miami Dolphins.

 

 

This past Sunday, the Miami Dolphins hired 49ers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel as their new Head Coach. 

 

Embree follows Mike McDaniel to South Florida to coach a TE group consisting of rookie 3rd round pick Hunter Long and Adam Shaheen

 

 

Mike Gesicki and Durham Smythe are Free Agents, unless Miami retains one or both of them. 

 

Embree first made his mark on the NFL in 2006 as a Tight End coach with the Kansas City Chiefs. There he coached Hall of Famer Tony Gonzalez who led the league in 20007 and 2008 in receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns. 

 

He then joined the formerly known Washington Redskins in 2010 where TE Chris Cooley ranked 2nd in TE receptions. He also helped Jordan Cameron reach the Pro Bowl in 2013 as Cameron ranked 2nd in receiving yards (917). 

 

In 2016 with Tampa Bay, Embree helped TE Cameron Brate establish career highs in in receptions (57) yards (660) and touchdowns (8) which tied most in the NFL among tight ends. 

 

 

From 2017-2021, George Kittle was developed under Embree who helped him earn All-Pro honors, 49ers franchise records for tight ends, PFWA All-NFL and All-NFC and was selected as a starter in the Pro Bowl multiple times. 

 

 

Embree has played in college and been in the NFL for 12 years and brings an experienced mind in the offensive room and help develop talented tight ends in Miami.

 

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Brian Flores is filing a lawsuit against the Dolphins and the entire NFL

Brian Flores files lawsuit against Dolphins, Giants, NFL

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The Miami Dolphins once again find themselves in the middle of a scandal. Late Tuesday afternoon, reports were confirmed that former Dolphins head coach Brian Flores is suing the NFL in a federal class-action racial discrimination lawsuit.

Per the lawsuit, owner Stephen Ross is at the center of the issues in Miami. Flores alleges that Ross offered 100k per loss incurred in 2019.  Also, Flores calls Ross out for trying to make him violate league tampering rules to recruit an elite level QB to Miami. That quarterback is – according to reports by the Palm Beach Post’s Joe Schad – Tom Brady. Brady, obviously, went on to sign with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers instead.

Beyond the Dolphins, Flores implicates the Giants and the Broncos. The lawsuit alleges that the New York Giants had already chosen Brian Daboll as their head coach before Flores had the chance to interview for the job. Texts from New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick are cited, congratulating Flores for earning the job when the texts were intended for Daboll.

As for the Broncos, Flores states that then-GM John Elway and President Joe Ellis arrived an hour late to the interview, extremely hungover. This indicated to Brian Flores that the Broncos never took him as a serious candidate before they hired Vic Fangio, who is white.

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Flores was still considered a finalist for the Houston Texans job before filing this lawsuit. In doing so, he may have destroyed any potential he had to coach in the NFL again, as he may be viewed as a pariah now. However, Flores soon issued a statement after the news broke, stating he understands the implications. He is also prepared for any potential consequences.

Flores’s lawsuit could rock the NFL to its very core. This will undoubtedly lead to an investigation and many, many lawyers will be involved given the seriousness of the implication. Reports are coming out that other minority coaching candidates could potentially join Flores in his cause. They can testify their own experiences in interviewing for jobs. Jobs they knew they would not get.

This sort of situation is precisely what the Rooney Rule – which mandates that all NFL teams must interview at least one minority candidate for job openings – was supposed to prevent. However, it seems to have only exacerbated the issue.

Naturally, the accused parties are pushing back against the accusations. The Miami Dolphins issued a statement refuting Flores’s claims against them.

The New York Giants and the NFL as a whole sent out similar statements.

From a broader standpoint, the entire NFL will have its hands full for the foreseeable future. Many have accused the NFL for not seriously considering minority candidates for decades. Now, this lawsuit will put the league under an uncomfortable microscope.

This situation will be watched carefully over the coming weeks.  It is yet to be determined how potential coaches or even players will respond to this scandal.

Luis Sung has covered the Miami Dolphins for numerous outlets such as Dolphins Wire for seven years. Follow him on Twitter: @LuisDSung

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Miami Dolphins coach Brian Flores has been fired

BREAKING: Miami Dolphins fire coach Brian Flores

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In a stunning turn of events, the Miami Dolphins fired head coach Brian Flores one day after the franchise secured back-to-back winning seasons for the first time since 2002-2003. Jay Glazer of Fox Sports speculated that Flores could be on the hot seat after failing to make the playoffs. He also stated that the franchise would be very short-sighted to do so.

Now, they have done so.

According to ESPN’s Jeff Darlington, the firing has nothing to do with the recent availability of Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh. In fact, Darlington claims the Dolphins aren’t even looking at Harbaugh to be Flores’s replacement. Instead, the firing has much more to do with the fact that Flores’s relationship with owner Stephen Ross and GM Chris Grier rapidly deteriorated over the course of the season.

Reports did periodically arise from various sources that Flores was difficult to work with. He has a tendency to come across as the smartest guy in the room, and that attitude sometimes grated on people. Also, reports indicate Flores was fired after refusing to comply with a request to make changes to his coaching staff.

On the other hand, Flores knew how to motivate his players. After going on a 7-game losing streak, he managed to turn the team around and put them on a 7-game winning streak. Unfortunately, he couldn’t lead them over the must-win game against the Tennessee Titans. That knocked them out of the playoffs.

Darlington also reports that the relationship between Tua Tagovailoa and Brian Flores had deteriorated. It got so bad, they did not speak to each other. It was obvious that Flores did not trust Tagovailoa. So, essentially, the decision to fire Flores is an implied commitment to Tagovailoa.

Brian Flores went 24-25 as Miami’s head coach, and he will likely be a very strong candidate for one of the other openings around the league. If he doesn’t become a head coach, he will definitely be a defensive coordinator. Now, the Dolphins will spend the beginning of this offseason looking for someone to fill that void.

Luis Sung has covered the Miami Dolphins for numerous outlets such as Dolphins Wire for seven years. Follow him on Twitter: @LuisDSung

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Everything Tradeshows is a one-stop-shop for trade show exhibit rentals and custom exhibit display purchase solutions to companies of all sizes.

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Duke Johnson has a decision to make about being in Miami

Dolphins hoping to retain former Miami Hurricanes star Duke Johnson

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Back in 2012-2014, the Miami Hurricanes found a superstar running back by the name of Duke Johnson. He lit up the University of Miami, made fans chant out his first name in dramatic fashion as he ran for 1,652 yards in his final season there.

It took seven years, but Johnson finally found his way back home. After being drafted in the 3rd round of the 2015 NFL draft by the Cleveland Browns, Johnson was used mostly as a scatback, more valued for his ability to catch passes than running the ball. Eventually he wound up in Houston, and after two seasons there, he agreed to sign on with the Dolphins.

It didn’t take long for him to pick up where he left off.

He ran for 107 yards in Week 15 against the New York Jets, his first time playing in Hard Rock Stadium as the home team since his UM days, and the crowd again chanted his name.

“It just reminded me of college,” he said after that game. “It felt like my college days again. Definitely enjoyed it.”

Johnson repeated the performance in the final week of the season against the New England Patriots, rushing 22 times for 117 yards and a touchdown. Again the chants rang out, and now the Miami Dolphins have a decision to make.

Do they keep Duke Johnson home in Miami?

“Me staying here? Like you said, it’s my home,” Johnson said after the game. “If I didn’t have to leave home, I wouldn’t.”

Naturally, after the performances he’s put together wearing aqua and orange, it seems a no-brainer that the Miami Dolphins should try to keep Johnson around. He’s looked far and away like the best running back on the team.

“I’m hoping that it does.” Johnson said about getting to come back next season. “How confident I am? I really don’t know. I really can’t say because again, it’s above my pay grade. But for me just having an opportunity to come back and play.”

According to Five Reasons Sports Network sources, the Miami Dolphins want to keep Duke Johnson around for at least another one more season, and have already expressed that to him. But Johnson, while staying in Miami would be an ideal situation, hasn’t committed to doing so just yet. Those sources say that Johnson is expecting interest elsewhere, and intends to explore all his options before he simply decides to return to Miami.

Again, his desire to stay home is genuine. But Johnson wants to explore his options to find a situation that will allow him the best chance for success. If he decides that’s in Miami, expect him back. If he sees a better opportunity elsewhere, Miami may have to throw a little extra incentive at him.

Miami still has Myles Gaskin and Gerrid Doaks on the roster. They can also try to retain Phillip Lindsay if Johnson opts to leave. Miami should also heavily consider finally addressing the position in a meaningful way in the draft.

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Make no mistake, the Dolphins want to keep Johnson, and they should. But Johnson wants to see what options he has available before he plants his roots back in Miami.

Luis Sung has covered the Miami Dolphins for numerous outlets such as Dolphins Wire for seven years. Follow him on Twitter: @LuisDSung

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Everything Tradeshows is a one-stop-shop for trade show exhibit rentals and custom exhibit display purchase solutions to companies of all sizes.

Visit them at everythingtradeshows.com or call 954-791-8882

Tua Tagovailoa celebrates after the Miami Dolphins defeated the New York Jets 24-17.

Goldie’s Best Bets Week 17: Ride the Tua, Dolphins Wave

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Goldie:

All Time Record: 267-135-1          

Vs. Spread: 200-202-1

 

21-22 Season:  141-80-1               

Vs. Spread: 111-113-1

 

Week 16 Record: 10-5                

Vs. Spread: 5-10

 

Guarantee Record: 15-15

Upset Record: 16-13              

 

Crazy Uncle Jeff 

All Time: 33-13              

21-22 Season: 17-12       

Week 16: 0-2

 

Goldie’s Guarantee AND UPSET of the Week

Cleveland Browns (7-8) @ Pittsburgh Steelers (7-7-1)

Vegas Picks: CLE -3.5

Goldie’s Take: Steelers Win 23-20

I have been one of the Browns strongest supporters this season, but this week I’m changing my tune. Both teams fighting for their playoff lives under the bright lights of Monday night should be a thriller. I love love love the fact that Pitt is at home. All signs are pointing towards this being Big Ben’s last home game in Pittsburgh. I believe he puts on one more show for the home fans. The sheer emotion that will be bumping through that building is enough for me to pick the Steelers as the UPSET AND the GUARANTEE of a loaded week 17 slate!

 

Crazy Uncle Jeff’s Lock of the Week: DAL -6.5

Arizona Cardinals (10-5) @ Dallas Cowboys (11-4)

Vegas Picks: DAL -6.5

Goldie’s Take: Cowboys Win 34-28

Don’t let the 10-5 Cards record fool you. Since their 7-0 start ‘Zona has very much fallen back to earth and do not look like the same team as when they started. They’ve surrendered the division lead to the Rams, and now they’re just thankful they’ll make the playoffs. Also, the Cowboys dropped a cool 56 points on Washington last week. I think their offense is fine. How ‘Bout Them Cowboys!

 

Crazy Uncle Jeff’s Lock of the Week: NO -6.5

Carolina Panthers (5-10) @ New Orleans Saints (7-8)

Vegas Picks: NO -6.5

Goldie’s Take: Saints Win 24-17

Jeffy likes a pair of -6.5s this week as his locks, and who can blame him betting against Carolina. Talk about hitting the self-destruct button! The Carolina Panthers started this season 3-0 and have completely fallen apart since, being outscored by 80 points during their five game losing streak. N’awlins takes care of business in the dome!

 

Rest of Week 17:

 

Miami Dolphins (8-7) @ Tennessee Titans (10-5)

Vegas Picks: TEN -3.5

Goldie’s Take: Dolphins Win 26-23

Lots of storylines surrounding this one. First, this is Ryan Tannehill’s first matchup with the team that drafted him (and eventually traded him), and he gets a shot to severely injure Miami’s playoff hopes with a win. The other side of that coin is Tua gets a chance to prove the Dolphins front office right with a win against the man he was brought in to replace (and be better than). My pick reeks of Miami bias, but how can you bet against a team who’s won seven straight games? Fins go into Tennessee and UPSET the Titans!

 

Los Angeles Rams (11-4) @ Baltimore Ravens (8-7)

Vegas Picks: LAR -6

Goldie’s Take: Rams Win 27-23

For the third consecutive week Lamar Jackson’s health has a huge barring over my pick in the Ravens game. Tyler Huntley showed he was a capable backup against the Packers, but capable enough to defeat one of the strongest defenses in the league? I don’t know about all that. Safe play is to pick the Rams here, but giving Crows a solid upset shot, especially if Lamar plays. 

 

Kansas City Chiefs (11-4) @ Cincinnati Bengals (9-6)

Vegas Picks: KC -4.5

Goldie’s Take: Chiefs Win 28-24

Big playoff implications on the line in this one as Chiefs look to lock up No.1 seed and Bengals look to clinch their division. Chiefs have rattled off eight wins in a row and enter as the hottest team in football, but the Bengals are not far behind them. This Joe Burrow led team has really started to prove themselves with some quality wins this year (4-0 vs PIT/BAL), but I just can’t go against the red hot Chiefs. Especially with Travis Kelce coming back from Covid reserve. However, Burrow has a chance to really establish himself with the upper echelon of QBs with a win against the almighty Patty Mahomes. 

 

New York Giants (4-11) @ Chicago Bears (5-10)

Vegas Picks: CHI -6

Goldie’s Take: Bears Win 21-13

It’s been 16 weeks picking games this season, and I’ve yet to pick the Bears once. UNTIL TODAY! I’ve picked the Giants to cover multiple times in the past few weeks and they continue to fail me. Chicago should look to build off the thrilling win they had last week in Seattle. Been waiting all season to emphatically yell, “DA BEARS!”

 

Jacksonville Jaguars (2-13) @ New England Patriots (9-6)

Vegas Picks: NE -16

Goldie’s Take: Pats Win 24-9

Pats at home after a tough loss to division rival Buffalo Bills, and they’re facing the Jaguars of all teams? Poor poor Trevor Lawrence. Bill is going to pull out all the stops to confuse this NFL newborn. Defense wins the day, and Pats coast past Jags at home.

 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (11-4) @ New York Jets (4-11)

Vegas Picks: TB -13

Goldie’s Take: Bucs Win 35-14

The stark difference in talent is evident in this one, plus this is about the time of year where Tom Brady seems to elevate his game to another level. PLUS Brady has owned the Jets his entire career. This one reminds me of when a big time college team schedules a game against a Bethune Cookman or Umass Amherst early in the season to get the team tuned up for the season. This is similar, except Brady and the Bucs will use this matchup with the Jets to get tuned up for the playoffs.

 

Atlanta Falcons (7-8) @ Buffalo Bills (9-6)

Vegas Picks: BUF -14.5

Goldie’s Take: Bills Win 28-17

Buffalo has to be feeling themselves a bit after regaining firm control of the AFC East in a huge road win in New England. Meanwhile, Atlanta was struggling to put away the lowly Lions at home. The Bills are clearly the favorite here, however the Falcons are still somehow alive in the playoff race so they should play hard. Bills should get the win but not ruling out a possible trap game after such a momentous win.

 

Las Vegas Raiders (8-7) @ Indianapolis Colts (9-6)

Vegas Picks: IND -8

Goldie’s Take: Colts Win 27-20

Indy has been one of the hottest teams in the league for awhile now. Another big win last week in Arizona shows even more that the Colts are the real deal. The emergence of Johnathan Taylor has given this team a strong identity. Colts keep the train rolling with a big win against Carr and the Raiders. 

 

Philadelphia Eagles (8-7) @ Washington Football Team (6-9)

Vegas Picks: PHI -4.5

Goldie’s Take: Eagles Win 31-24

This game just means more for the Eagles. Philly has put themselves in position to clinch a playoff berth this weekend with a win and some help. Washington, on the other hand, just got steamrolled by the Cowboys in a game where the No Names allowed Dallas to drop a 56 burger. Jalen Hurts also had over 300 yards on this same Washington defense a few weeks ago. I’ve been calling Philly to grab that last NFC spot for weeks now. Birds on a 4-1 run, should make it 5-1 with a win in the nation’s capital this Sunday.

 

Denver Broncos (7-8) @ Los Angeles Chargers (8-7)

Vegas Picks: LAC -8

Goldie’s Take: Chargers Win 30-24

Chargers look to bounce back in this one after a shocking loss to the lowly Texans. Now their playoff hopes have seriously been put in jeopardy. Speaking of playoff hopes seriously in jeopardy, a loss here would effectively end the Broncos season. Should be a good game but like Herbert and the Chargers to get the win at home, especially with Denver without Teddy Bridgewater. 

 

Houston Texans (4-11) @ San Francisco 49ers (8-7)

Vegas Picks: SF -12.5

Goldie’s Take: 49ers Win 28-20

Niners control their own destiny in the NFC playoff race so all that they’re focused on is beating the 4-11 Houston Texans. At home. Things are looking good for San Fran. However, Texans have quietly won two in a row including an impressive victory last week over Justin Herbert and the Chargers. Also, Niners will most likely be without starting QB Jimmy Garrapolo, should be interesting to see how rookie Trey Lance fairs in his replacement. Picking Niners to get the win, but picking Texans to cover. 

 

Detroit Lions (2-12-1) @ Seattle Seahawks (5-10)

Vegas Picks: SEA -7

Goldie’s Take: Seahawks Win 28-16

Seattle has easily been the most disappointing team in the NFL this season. Eliminated from playoff contention with three games left is very unlike Pete Carroll/Russell Wilson led teams. Lions have played hard all season despite not having all that much talent, but without Jared Goff and going on the road? Here I go again trusting the Seahawks brand even though they’ve let me down time and time again this season. 

 

Minnesota Vikings (7-8) @ Green Bay Packers (12-3)

Vegas Picks: GB -13

Goldie’s Take: Packers Win 34-14

Vikings without Kirk Cousins and Adam Theilen in this one is why the betting line has ballooned to 13 points, but I’m STILL trusting the Packers. Green Bay hasn’t lost at home all season and have a chance to lock up the number 1 seed in NFC with a win. Vikings have won two straight against the Pack, but I can’t trust Sean Mannion (who was just elevated off Covid list Friday) to go in and compete with the Packers. Green Bay takes care of business at Lambeau to continue their home perfection. 

 

It is time for Tua Tagovailoa to start at quarterback for the Miami Dolphins.

Goldie’s Best Bets NFL Week 13: Take Tua’s Dolphins again

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Goldie:

All Time Record: 226-120-1          

Vs. Spread: 167-179-1

 

21-22 Season:  100-65-1               

Vs. Spread: 78-90-1

 

Week 12 Record: 8-7                

Vs. Spread: 8-7

 

Guarantee Record: 13-13       

 

Upset Record: 13-12              

 

Crazy Uncle Jeff 

All Time: 31-10              

21-22 Season: 15-9       

Week 12: 1-0

 

Goldies Guarantee: LV -1

Washington Football Team (5-6) @ Las Vegas Raiders (6-5)

Vegas Picks: LV -1

Goldie’s Take: Raiders Win 24-20

Raiders look to keep the momentum rolling after a big win in Dallas on Thanksgiving. The Raiders also have the rest/prep edge as they played on Thanksgiving, while No Names played Monday night. Raiders will miss TE Darren Waller, who’s doubtful for this game with a knee injury, but Washington is down multiple players as well. JD Mckissic, Landon Collins, and Wes Schweitzer are all already ruled out for this contest. AND Ereck Flowers is legitimately questionable. If Flowers misses the game this means No Names would be without both of their starting Guards. Raiders pass rush should take advantage of this and get Vegas a big win at home. I GUARANTEE IT!

 

Goldie’s UPSET of the Week

San Francisco 49ers (6-5) @ Seattle Seahawks (3-8)

Vegas Picks: SF -3.5

Goldie’s Take: Seahawks Win 27-26

Seattle clearly hasn’t been themselves all season. Things really hit the fan when Russell Wilson got hurt and missed three games, and even when he came back, the Hawks still haven’t looked like the Seahawks we’re used to. With all that being said, Seattle still has a small glimmer of hope at a playoff spot. If things are going to turn around for the Seahawks, it’s now or never. Russell Wilson and Pete Carroll are very aware of this. Some would even say Pete’s coaching for his job. Also, I don’t buy into the 49ers hype. UPSET!

 

Crazy Uncle Jeff’s Lock of the Week: MIA -6

New York Giants (4-7) @ Miami Dolphins (5-7)

Vegas Picks: MIA -6

Goldie’s Take: Dolphins Win 23-15

Don’t look now, but other than the Pats, the Miami Dolphins are probably the hottest team in football right now. During Miami’s four game winning streak we have seen their defense completely come back to life. Evident by the three INTs and five sacks they forced last week at the hands of Carolina. The box score doesn’t do that game justice either. The Fins defense DOMINATED Cam Newton and the Panthers. Carolina couldn’t get anything going the entire game. I envision a very similar result in this one with the Mike Glennon led Giants coming to town. Fins D controls the game, as Tua should be able to game-manage the Fins to their fifth straight W. The Crazy Uncle approves.

 

Minnesota Vikings (5-6) @ Detroit Lions (0-10-1)

Vegas Picks: MIN -7.5

Goldie’s Take: Vikings Win 28-24

Vikes coming off a disappointing loss in San Fran last week. What’s worse is the fact that stud RB Dalvin Cook was injured in that contest and is out for Sunday’s matchup in Mo-Town. Lions will also be without their star RB D’andre Swift, so that slow-moving offense takes yet another hit. Still, giving Detroit a good chance to keep this one within the fat betting line. Lions are 7-4 ATS this season, losing close games has become their bread and butter. 

 

Indianapolis Colts (6-6) @ Houston Texans (2-9)

Vegas Picks: IND -10

Goldie’s Take: Colts Win 28-14

Colts get a bit of a break in the midst of what is a very tough schedule. Bills and Bucs the past two games, and Pats and Cardinals on deck for Indy. Recipe for success in this one should be simple for the Colts. Feed Johnathan Taylor. The last time these two faced off, JT ran for 145 yards and 2 TDs to do his part in a 31-3 rout of their division rival. Expect a similar showing from Taylor this Sunday. Colts take care of business on the road. 

 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-3) @ Atlanta Falcons (5-6)

Vegas Picks: TB -11

Goldie’s Take: Buccaneers Win 30-22

Falcons have been one of the most inconsistent teams in football this season, so I’m going off trends in this one. Yes, I believe TOMpa Bay is clearly the better football team, but in their past 13 trips to the ATL, Tampa has only won by more than a TD just one time. Bucs will get the win, but I’m expecting Matty Ice to keep Dirty Birds in this one. 

 

Philadelphia Eagles (5-7) @ New York Jets (3-8)

Vegas Picks: PHI -7

Goldie’s Take: Eagles Win 30-14

After a tough loss to the New York Giants last week, Philly gets set to play on the road in the same stadium to face the New York Jets. I’m expecting a big bounce back performance for the Eagles in this one. Even after a loss where the offense only mustered 7 points, I still believe in Jalen Hurts and this offense. More importantly, I’m a big believer in Philly’s stingy defense. Birds are still my pick to land that final NFC Wild Card spot, and a rout of the lowly Jets is the first step in getting there. 

 

Arizona Cardinals (9-2) @ Chicago Bears (4-7)

Vegas Picks: ARI -7.5

Goldie’s Take: Cardinals Win 28-17

I don’t think I’ve picked Chicago one time this season, and that trend is not going to end here. Cardinals pass rush should give old banged up Andy Dalton fits all day. Plus Zona is slated to get back QB Kyler Murray and WR Deandre Hopkins. All signs point towards a Cardinals W in the Chi. Assuming Murray doesn’t have any setbacks with his injury, Cards should roll to a multiple score victory. 

 

Los Angeles Chargers (6-5) @ Cincinnati Bengals (7-4)

Vegas Picks: CIN -3

Goldie’s Take: Bengals Win 24-23

Toughest pick of the week for me because I have been a big Justin Herbert supporter for awhile now, however cooler heads prevail as I’m taking the Bengals to win this one. Cincy has won their past two games (against solid teams) by an average score of 25 points, while Bolts have really started to slip going 2-4 in their past six games. Giving Chargers a solid upset shot here, but smarter play is to take the red hot home team. Venue call!

 

Jacksonville Jaguars (2-9) @ Los Angeles Rams (7-4)

Vegas Picks: LAR -13

Goldie’s Take: Rams Win 31-17

Rams come home looking to bounce back after losing their last three games. This is the perfect game for LA to get back on track. To start, the game is at home so that’s a plus right away. Next, the game is against the Jags who have been near the bottom of the league for a while now. Rams loaded defense should make it a long day for Rookie QB Trevor Lawrence. Trev has had a very poor rookie year, and that trend should continue as he’s getting ready to face Aaron Donald and Jalen Ramsey. Rams cruise to victory at home.

 

Baltimore Ravens (8-3) @ Pittsburgh Steelers (5-5-1)

Vegas Picks: BAL -4.5 

Goldie’s Take: Ravens Win 26-20

Steelers were obliterated last week by division rival Cincinnati, while Ravens have been hanging on for wins in their past few games. It’s getting to be late in the season which means Big Ben starts to become weak and weary; expect a lot of Najee Harris in this one. Pitt should keep it close at home, but all signs point to the Ravens to get the win on the road. 

 

Denver Broncos (6-5) @ Kansas City Chiefs (7-4)

Vegas Picks: KC -9.5

Goldie’s Take: Chiefs Win 27-21

Very confident in KC to win this one. Andy Reid is 14-3 when coming off a bye, and Mahomes is 7-1. Not too shabby. Also this one will be in Primetime at home. This has a Chiefs win written all over it. However, it is still a divisional game, and Denver has quietly won three of their last four. Chiefs will get the win but don’t be shocked when Teddy Two Gloves keeps this one within the fat betting line. 

 

New England Patriots (8-4) @ Buffalo Bills (7-4)

Vegas Picks: BUF -2.5

Goldie’s Take: Bills Win 27-24

Buffalo was finally supposed to seize AFC East supremacy when Brady left for Tampa Bay, but it seems the hoodie-wearing genius still has some tricks up his sleeve. Rookie Mac Jones seems to be fitting the offense perfectly, as Pats are the hottest team in football, winners of six in a row. However, Bills are the real deal on the other side as well. Should be an ugly game, as it’s supposed to be very windy and snowy in Buffalo on Monday Night. Viewing this one sorta like an old Kung-Fu movie. Young up and comer (Bills) have to go and take down the old wise OG who’s been the man for decades (Bellichick and the Pats). Get your popcorn ready, I think Bills are up to the challenge.