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Drake Maye’s Big Day

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NEW ORLEANS – (Staff and Wire Service Report) – Drake Maye passed for 261 yards and three touchdowns as the visiting New England Patriots defeated the New Orleans Saints 25-19 on Sunday afternoon. Maye completed 18 of 26 passes as the Patriots (4-2) matched their win total from last season while improving to 3-0 on the road.

Spencer Rattler completed 20 of 26 for 227 yards and Blake Grupe kicked four field goals for the Saints (1-5).

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A high-scoring first half was followed by a second half featuring no touchdowns.

The Patriots received the second-half kickoff and drove to a 24-yard field goal by Andy Borregales that increased their lead to 25-16, which held up the rest of the way.

On the third play of the fourth quarter, Grupe kicked a 54-yard field goal to pull the Saints within 25-19.

New Orleans got the ball back and drove across midfield, but Juwan Johnson fumbled and Craig Woodson recovered for New England at its 49.

The Saints got the ball again after a punt, but wound up punting with 3:43 to go. Maye threw for two first downs as the Patriots ran out the clock.

On the first play of the game, Rattler connected with Chris Olave for a 53-yard completion that led to Grupe’s 34-yard field goal.

On the fourth play of the ensuing possession, Maye hit DeMario Douglas for a 53-yard touchdown that gave the Patriots a 7-3 lead. Grupe responded with a 48-yard field goal that pulled the Saints within one point with 5:09 left in the quarter.

Maye’s 25-yard touchdown pass to Kayshon Boutte gave New England a 14-6 lead at the end of the first.

Taysom Hill’s 1-yard touchdown run pulled New Orleans within one point. The Patriots crossed midfield on the next possession, but on fourth-and-7 an errant snap got past Maye and he fell on the ball at the New England 47.

That led to Grupe’s 38-yard field goal that gave the Saints a 16-14 lead with 1:51 left in the half.

Maye and Boutte teamed up once again on a 29-yard touchdown pass. After two penalties on New Orleans, Maye sneaked for a two-point conversion to give the Patriots a 22-16 halftime lead.

–Field Level Media

NFL: It’s Brand New England vs. Orleans

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Game Preview: New England Patriots at New Orleans Saints

October 12, 2025 – Caesars Superdome, New Orleans, LA
Kickoff: 1:00 PM ET | Broadcast: FOX | Weather: Dome-controlled 

In the heart of the Big Easy, where jazz flows as freely as the Mississippi and the air is thick with the scent of beignets and anticipation, the New Orleans Saints are set to host the New England Patriots in what promises to be a Week 6 showdown blending old-school grit with Southern swagger. This isn’t just another Sunday afternoon gridiron battle—it’s a narrative of redemption, rising stars, and the relentless pursuit of playoff positioning in a tightly contested NFL season. With both teams hovering around .500 records early on (Patriots at 3-2, Saints at 2-3, based on our hypothetical standings through Week 5), this game could be the spark that ignites a midseason surge or the stumble that deepens the doubts.

The Patriots’ Tale: From Dynasty Echoes to a New Blueprint

Picture this: Bill Belichick’s shadow still looms large over Foxborough, but under the steady hand of head coach Jerod Mayo, the Patriots are scripting a new chapter. Gone are the days of Tom Brady’s precision-guided missiles, but in their place is a young quarterback phenom, Drake Maye, who’s been turning heads with his dual-threat prowess. Maye, the 2024 third overall pick, has already notched three 300-yard games this season, blending arm strength with elusive scrambles that evoke memories of a certain No. 12. But it’s not all on the kid—veteran running back Rhamondre Stevenson anchors a ground game that’s pounded out over 150 rushing yards per contest, providing the balance Mayo craves.

Defensively, the Pats remain a force of nature. Christian Gonzalez and Kyle Dugger lead a secondary that’s allowed the fewest passing touchdowns in the AFC East, while edge rusher Matthew Judon continues to terrorize quarterbacks like a ghost from Patriot lore. The storyline here? Resilience. After a rocky rebuild post-Brady, New England is hungry to prove they’re back in contender conversations. A road win in the raucous Superdome could silence the skeptics and build momentum heading into a brutal divisional stretch.

Key Patriot to Watch: WR Kendrick Bourne. Fresh off a contract extension, Bourne’s route-running wizardry could exploit the Saints’ injury-riddled secondary, potentially turning short slants into explosive plays.

The Saints’ Saga: Bayou Bounce-Back and Home-Field Magic

Flip the script to the Crescent City, where the Saints are channeling that signature NOLA resilience after a sluggish start. Head coach Dennis Allen, under the microscope after last season’s playoff miss, has his squad leaning into their identity: a high-octane offense fueled by Derek Carr’s veteran poise and a defense that’s as opportunistic as a Mardi Gras pickpocket. Carr, who’s thrown for 1,200 yards and 10 TDs through five games, has found chemistry with wideout Chris Olave, who’s emerging as a true WR1 with his acrobatic catches and yards-after-contact flair. Add in Alvin Kamara, the ageless wonder at running back, who’s still dodging defenders like he’s auditioning for a highlight reel—expect him to feast on New England’s occasionally vulnerable run defense.

On the flip side, the Saints’ defense, led by Tyrann Mathieu’s ball-hawking instincts and Cameron Jordan’s relentless pass rush, has forced turnovers in every game this season. They’re particularly lethal at home, where the Superdome’s deafening roar has turned many a visiting team into a shell of itself. The narrative thread? Revival. With a new offensive coordinator injecting creativity (think more RPO plays and trickery), New Orleans is poised to turn their early-season woes into a symphony of success. A victory today could propel them back into NFC South contention, especially with the Falcons and Bucs breathing down their necks.

Key Saint to Watch: DE Carl Granderson. Underrated but explosive, Granderson’s speed off the edge could pressure Maye into mistakes, tilting the game toward the black and gold.

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Matchup Breakdown: Where the Magic Happens

This isn’t a clash of titans—it’s a chess match. The Patriots’ disciplined, bend-but-don’t-break defense will test the Saints’ explosive playmakers, while New England’s evolving offense faces a Saints secondary that’s allowed big plays but thrives on creating chaos. Expect a low-scoring first half as both teams feel each other out, but watch for fireworks in the third quarter when fatigue sets in and big plays emerge.

  • Offensive Edge: Slight nod to the Saints at home, where Carr’s experience could outshine Maye’s youth in crunch time.
  • Defensive Battle: Patriots might control the line of scrimmage, but the Saints’ turnover machine could swing the momentum.
  • X-Factor: Special teams. New Orleans’ Blake Grupe has been money from deep, while Pats returner Marcus Jones is a threat to house any punt.
  • Prediction: In a game that feels like a jazz improv session—unpredictable and full of flair—the Saints edge it out 27-24 on a late field goal, riding the home crowd’s energy to victory. But don’t count out the Pats; if Maye channels his inner legend, this could be the upset that defines their season.Whether you’re a die-hard Pats fan bundled up in the Northeast or a Who Dat loyalist savoring some gumbo pre-game, this matchup is pure NFL theater. Tune in, grab your snacks, and let the drama unfold. What’s your take—Patriots pull off the road warrior win, or do the Saints keep the party going in NOLA? If you want stats deep dives, player props, or fantasy advice, just ask!

PATRIOTS STUN BILLS, 23-20

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BUFFALO – (Wire Service Report) – Andy Borregales made a 52-yard field goal with 15 seconds remaining in the game to help the visiting New England Patriots upset the Buffalo Bills 23-20 on Sunday night.

The Patriots (3-2) received two rushing touchdowns from Rhamondre Stevenson.

New England wide receiver Stefon Diggs caught 10 passes on 12 targets for 146 yards. It was the first time Diggs has played a game in Buffalo since the Bills traded the four-time Pro Bowl selection to the Houston Texans before the 2024 season.

New England quarterback Drake Maye completed 22 of 30 passes for 273 yards.

The loss ended Buffalo’s 14-game, regular-season home winning streak dating back to November 2023. Buffalo quarterback Josh Allen completed 22 of 31 passes for 253 yards and two touchdowns. Allen, who was intercepted once, led the Bills with 53 yards rushing on nine carries. Tight end Dalton Kincaid caught all six of his targets for 108 yards.

Buffalo (4-1) had one turnover in its first four games but had three turnovers (including two fumbles) in the loss.

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New England led 6-3 at halftime. After Borregales made a 30-yard field goal with 56 seconds remaining in the opening quarter, Buffalo’s Matt Prater kicked a 31-yard field goal with 9:34 left in the second quarter. Borregales gave New England the lead with a 19-yard kick on the final play of the half.

The Bills took their first lead when Curtis Samuel caught a 6-yard TD pass from Allen on Buffalo’s first possession of the second half. Prater’s PAT put Buffalo in front 10-6 with 9:21 left in the third quarter.

Stevenson’s 4-yard touchdown run came on the ensuing possession. Borregales made the PAT, which gave the Patriots a 13-10 advantage with 6:34 remaining in the third. Stevenson’s second TD came on a 7-yard run and helped the Patriots take a 20-10 lead with 12:10 to play.

Buffalo received a 2-yard TD catch from Keon Coleman with 7:37 remaining in regulation before Prater tied the game, 20-20, on a 45-yard field goal with 2:17 left.

New England running back/kick returner Antonio Gibson sustained a right knee injury while he was returning a kickoff in the second quarter and was ruled out for the remainder of the game.

–Field Level Media

 

NFL Sunday Night Football Preview

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New England Patriots (2-2) at Buffalo Bills (4-0)
Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Bills -8.5, Total 49.5

Series Rewind: Buffalo has won eight of the past 11 meetings after New England won 35 of the previous 39 matchups.

Inside Edge intel: The Bills have a streak of eight consecutive games over 100 rushing yards.

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Buffalo is one of two 4-0 teams and has racked up 133 points, second-highest in the league behind the Detroit Lions (137). The Bills are vying for their first 5-0 start since 1991, a season in which they reached the Super Bowl. Buffalo also is seeking its 15th consecutive regular-season homefield victory as the club continues to enjoy one of top atmospheres in the sport. New England receiver Stefon Diggs remembers how it works in Orchard Park after spending four seasons – making the Pro Bowl each time – with the Bills. This will be his first trip in as a visiting player since he was traded to the Houston Texans following the 2023 campaign. Diggs had six catches for 101 yards in last week’s 42-13 thumping of the Carolina Panthers. That also marked the first time New England reached the 40-point mark since 2021. Second-year quarterback Drake Maye is developing well and has completed 74 percent of his passes for 988 yards, seven touchdown and two interceptions. He also has rushed for two scores. Reigning NFL MVP Josh Allen of the Bills has thrown for 964 yards, seven touchdowns and one interception while also rushing for three scores. James Cook is the NFL’s second-leading rusher with 401 yards and has a league-best five rushing touchdowns. New England allowed an opening-drive touchdown in three of its first four games.

NFL: Week 5 | Four O’Clock Games

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Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-1) at Seattle Seahawks (3-1)
Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Seahawks -3, Total 44.5

Series Rewind: Tampa Bay has lost its last two games at Seattle, last winning there in 2009. The Seahawks lead the series 9-6, but the Buccaneers have won five of the last seven.

Inside Edge intel: Seattle has allowed one rushing touchdown in the past 11 games. The Seahawks have prevented a rushing TD on 128 consecutive drives, best in the NFL.

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Tampa Bay nearly pulled off its fourth straight comeback victory to begin the season, but dug itself too big a hole after falling behind 24-3 vs. Philadelphia last week, losing 31-25. QB Baker Mayfield has been exceptional on the road of late, throwing two-plus touchdowns in each of his last four road starts. However, he may be down a few weapons for this game at Seattle with Mike Evans (hamstring) still not practicing and RB Bucky Irving (237 rushing yards, 193 receiving yards) also sidelined in practice with foot/shoulder injuries suffered last week. The Buccaneers do possess the NFL’s longest active streak with 100-plus rushing yards in 13 consecutive games. The Seahawks have allowed less than 100 rushing yards in each of their past three games. Seattle is coming off a mini-bye after beating Arizona on a last-second field goal last Thursday. The Seahawks have won three straight games since losing their season opener. WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba is one of just two players with 90-plus scrimmage yards in all four games this season and RB Kenneth Walker has five carries for 15-plus yards. Seattle’s defense ranks sixth with 12 sacks, including six in the Arizona win. However, it could be a bit depleted with cornerback Devon Witherspoon (knee) and safety Julian Love (hamstring) each not practicing Wednesday or Thursday.

Tennessee Titans (0-4) at Arizona Cardinals (2-2)
Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Cardinals -8.5, Total 41.5

Series Rewind: Kyler Murray threw four touchdown passes and rushed for a score in the most recent matchup, the Cardinals’ 38-13 win in Nashville in 2021.

Inside Edge intel: Arizona’s Trey McBride has been targeted more than any tight end in the NFL — 9.1 times per game — since the start of the 2024 season.

The Titans are one of three 0-4 teams in the NFL and have been outscored by a staggering 69 points. Rookie quarterback Cam Ward sharply criticized the team after Tennessee was outclassed 26-0 by the Houston Texans last week. The Titans had just 175 offensive yards and Ward set season lows for completion rate (38.5 percent) and passing yardage (108). It has been a bumpy start for the No. 1 overall pick. Ward is completing a league-worst 51.2 percent of his throws (among qualifiers) for 614 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions. Arizona dropped consecutive games by four total points to NFC West rivals San Francisco and Seattle the past two weeks. The Cardinals overcame a 14-point deficit against the Seahawks before falling on a field goal as time expired. Cardinals receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. caught six passes for 66 yards and one TD in that contest but also had a ball roll off his hands into those of Seattle’s Ernest Jones IV for an interception. The Cardinals lost running back as Trey Benson (knee) and placed him on injured reserve after losing standout James Conner to a season-ending foot injury in the previous game. Either Michael Carter or Emari Demercado will start at RB on Sunday.

Detroit Lions (3-1) at Cincinnati Bengals (2-2)
Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Lions -10.5, Total 48.5

Series Rewind: Cincinnati has won 10 of the past 11 games in the series.

Inside Edge intel: Lions WR Jameson Williams is averaging 8.0 yards per catch this season, third in the NFL. The Bengals are 29th in the NFL, allowing an average of 5.4 yards after catch this season.

Detroit is No. 1 in the NFL with 34.3 points per game as the Lions shrug off outside concern the offense might veer off the rails without coordinator Ben Johnson. QB Jared Goff leads the NFC with nine TD passes and has been pristine on the road with a completion percentage over 70 percent in nine of his last 10 road starts. The Bengals are standing by Jake Browning at quarterback, but he’s generated only one touchdown in eight quarters over the two starts since Joe Burrow’s toe injury. Browning is 3-1 in four career starts at home. Turnovers are breaking the Bengals’ backs — Browning has thrown a pick for every 10.67 completions — and holding off the Lions’ pass rush headed by Aidan Hutchinson (4.0 sacks this season) is highest priority. Without time to throw, Browning risks continuing to be a target of WR Ja’Marr Chase’s frustration. They’ve connected five times in each of Browning’s starts this season but for a grand total of 73 yards.

Washington Commanders (2-2) at Los Angeles Chargers (3-1)
Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Chargers -2.5, Total 48.5

Series Rewind: Different millennium, different results. The Chargers were 0-6 vs. Washington in the 20th century but are 5-1 since 2001, the only loss coming in overtime in 2013. Norv Turner coached Washington (1994-2000) and the Chargers (2007-12).

Inside Edge intel: Since Jim Harbaugh was hired in Jan. 2024, the Chargers have 10 games with 120-plus rushing yards. Last week (161 rushing yards at Giants) was the first loss under Harbaugh in a game where the team rushing total was over 120.

It’s a California homecoming for Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels, who grew up in San Bernardino and has been cleared to return after missing two games with a left knee injury. Washington managed a split in his absence with Marcus Mariota at the controls but will need Daniels at his best against a stingy Chargers defense that ranks third in the NFL, allowing 270.0 yards per game. The Washington D has been more generous, ranked 27th against the pass. That could be just the tonic Justin Herbert needs, as the L.A. QB has seen his completion percentage drop each week: 73.5 to 70.4 to 59.6 and down to 56.1 in last week’s humbling loss to the previously winless Giants. Both sides are rolling with rookie running backs, the Chargers with first-rounder Omarion Hampton (270 rushing yards, two TDs) and the Commanders with seventh-round surprise Jacory Croskey-Merritt (172 rush yards, two TDs).

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NFL: Week 5 Game Previews

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Houston Texans (1-3) at Baltimore Ravens (1-3)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Texans -1.5, Total 40.5

Series Rewind: The Ravens nearly pitched a Christmas Day shutout at Houston last season, winning 31-2. Baltimore also defeated the Texans in the postseason in January 2024, 34-10, and has won six of the past seven meetings.

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Inside Edge intel: Houston is 5-1 when passing for at least 250 yards since the 2024 season began. During the same timeframe, the Ravens have allowed 248.6 passing yards per game.

Houston didn’t get to wrapped up in whether or not Lamar Jackson’s hamstring would keep him on the sideline this week, knowing the challenge runs deeper because of Baltimore’s trove of weapons. RB Derrick Henry has 284 yards on the ground with three touchdowns and plowed through Houston’s run defense 27 times for 147 yards and a touchdown on Christmas Day when these teams last met. Cooper Rush was 4-4 last season with the Dallas Cowboys, throwing the ball well on play-action but rarely attacking defenses over the top the way Jackson can with a subtle snap of the wrist. The Texans blanked the Titans last week to win for the first time this season and don’t want to drop a fourth game with Indianapolis and Jacksonville going strong atop the AFC South. They might have found something in RB Woody Marks, who tallied 118 yards from scrimmage and scored two TDs last week. Houston is trying to open up the passing game with WR Nico Collins, but pass protection hasn’t been perfect. The Ravens are banged up on defense, too, but Baltimore sacked QB C.J. Stroud five times in the meeting last season. Stroud threw a pick and had a QB rating of 59.2.

Las Vegas Raiders (1-3) at Indianapolis Colts (3-1)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Colts -6.5, Total 47.5

Series Rewind: Sunday’s winner seizes the lead in a series knotted at 11-11, including a 1-1 split in the playoffs. The Colts have momentum with three wins in the last four meetings. Eight of the last 10 were decided by eight or fewer points.

Inside Edge intel: The Colts have a point differential of plus-16 in the first quarter this season. Las Vegas allowed a touchdown in the first quarter in three of its first four games.

This week’s sudden retirement of decorated Colts cornerback Xavien Howard removes at least one threat facing Raiders quarterback Geno Smith, who tossed three of his NFL-leading seven interceptions in last weekend’s painful 25-24 setback against the Bears. He also threw two touchdown passes to Ashton Jeanty, whose historic day against Chicago made him just the third rookie running back in NFL history with 100-plus rushing yards, one rushing TD and two TD catches in a game. He also leads the league with 15 broken tackles. Losing Howard hurts, but Indy’s best defense is an offense that ranks fourth in the NFL with 30.8 points per game behind a resurgent Daniel Jones (third in NFL with 1,078 passing yards). Jonathan Taylor has 100-plus scrimmage yards and a rushing TD in all four career games against the Raiders. First-round pick Tyler Warren leads all tight ends with 263 receiving yards and all rookies with 19 catches.

Denver Broncos (2-2) at Philadelphia Eagles (4-0)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Eagles -4.5, Total 43.5

Series Rewind: Philadelphia has won three of the past four meetings to lead 9-5 in the all-time series. Two of their last three clashes saw the winner put a 50-piece on the board: The Broncos won 52-20 in 2013, and the Eagles won 51-23 in 2017.

Inside Edge intel: The Broncos are 2-8 since the start of the 2024 season when allowing 100-plus rushing yards.

The X’s and O’s will be flying in this showdown of veteran play-callers, as Sean Payton’s Denver offense will attempt to find cracks in Vic Fangio’s defense in Philadelphia. Arkadelphia-born quarterback Bo Nix and the Broncos racked up a season-high 512 yards in Monday’s 28-3 beating of the Bengals, while the Eagles have yet to allow more than 376 in a game. Philadelphia has held each of its first four opponents to two touchdowns. Jalen Hurts and Co. have not lost at home since Week 2 last season and haven’t lost to an AFC foe at home since Nov. 7, 2021 (Chargers). The defending champs are trying to start 5-0 for the third time in four seasons. They’ll try to get Saquon Barkley and A.J. Brown going against a Denver defense led by All-Pro corner Pat Surtain II and ex-Eagle LB Alex Singleton, who has 32 tackles in his last three games.

Dallas Cowboys (1-2-1) at New York Jets (0-4)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Cowboys -2.5, Total 47.5

Series Rewind: Dallas won the last meeting 30-10 at home in 2023 after the Jets won the previous three matchups.

Inside Edge intel: The Cowboys are worst in the NFL preventing touchdowns to wide receivers: 1.4 per game since the start of the 2024 season.

The Jets are one of three teams buried under a 0-4 start and are the only squad in the league not to force a turnover. First-year coach Aaron Glenn may have earned raves in the past as a defensive coordinator but his team is tied for 28th in scoring defense (30.0) and ranks last with a minus-7 turnover ratio. QB Justin Fields has gone five consecutive games without throwing an interception and is a threat to run, which presents a new challenge to Dallas’ drop zone defense. The Cowboys also having plenty of trouble stopping teams, ranking last in total defense (420.5 yards per game) and 31st in scoring defense (33.0 points). Maybe missing that Micah Parsons guy? Dallas’ Dak Prescott leads the NFL with 1,119 passing yards while throwing six touchdowns against three interceptions. Receiver George Pickens has 21 catches for 300 yards and four touchdowns and was a top target for Prescott with CeeDee Lamb (ankle) sidelined for last Sunday’s 40-40 tie with the Green Bay Packers. New York’s Breece Hall (238 rushing, 108 receiving) is solid but backup Braelon Allen (knee) was placed on injured reserve after being hurt in Monday’s 27-21 loss at Miami. Star wideout Garrett Wilson has 27 receptions for 311 yards and one touchdown.

New York Giants (1-3) at New Orleans Saints (0-4)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Saints -1.5, Total 41.5

Series Rewind: The Saints have won three of their last four and seven of the last 10 against the Giants, but New York holds a 17-16 lead in the all-time series.

Inside Edge intel: The Giants have lost 14 consecutive games when trailing at halftime, all in the past two seasons.

Fresh off becoming the first NFL QB since 2002 to win his first career start against a team with a 3-0 record or better, Jaxson Dart now leads the Giants into his first road start at winless New Orleans. Dart wasn’t particularly productive in his first career start but was quite effective, throwing for 111 yards and a touchdown, running for 54 and a score and leading a turnover-free offensive performance. With another sack last week, Giants defensive end Brian Burns already has five on the season, his seventh straight season with five-plus sacks. New Orleans QB Spencer Rattler is hoping to snap an 0-10 skid as a starter to begin his NFL career, tied for the sixth-longest streak in NFL history. The Saints passed on Dart with the ninth overall pick, winding up with Tyler Shough, who lost a QB battle to Rattler, in the second round of this year’s draft. With two more catches, Saints RB Alvin Kamara (586 career catches) can leap into the top five in NFL history in catches by a running back.

Miami Dolphins (1-3) at Carolina Panthers (1-3)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Dolphins -1.5, Total 44.5

Series Rewind: This will be the first matchup of these teams in Charlotte since a 45-21 Panthers win in 2017. The Dolphins have won the two games since by a combined margin of 75-31 and lead the series 6-2.

Inside Edge intel: In 13 games with at least one turnover the past two seasons, the Dolphins are 3-10.

Miami plays its first game without star receiver Tyreek Hill, out for the season with dislocated knee and multiple torn ligaments sustained in Monday’s win over the Jets, this weekend at Carolina. There’s optimism about how Jaylen Waddle (4,314 yards and 22 catches in five seasons) can replace Hill’s production. Tight end Darren Waller could also help out after recording two touchdown catches in his first game back from a one-year retirement. Carolina followed up a convincing win over Atlanta with a 42-13 dud of a loss last week at New England. Bryce Young is looking for his third straight interception-free start after throwing three in the first two games of the season, but he also ranks 31st out of 33 eligible QBs in yards per pass attempt (5.2). He keeps building chemistry with Tetairoa McMillan, who ranks second among rookies in receiving yards (278) and catches (18) but is still looking for his first career touchdown.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-1) at Seattle Seahawks (3-1)
Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Seahawks -3, Total 44.5

Series Rewind: Tampa Bay has lost its last two games at Seattle, last winning there in 2009. The Seahawks lead the series 9-6, but the Buccaneers have won five of the last seven.

Inside Edge intel: Seattle has allowed one rushing touchdown in the past 11 games. The Seahawks have prevented a rushing TD on 128 consecutive drives, best in the NFL.

Tampa Bay nearly pulled off its fourth straight comeback victory to begin the season, but dug itself too big a hole after falling behind 24-3 vs. Philadelphia last week, losing 31-25. QB Baker Mayfield has been exceptional on the road of late, throwing two-plus touchdowns in each of his last four road starts. However, he may be down a few weapons for this game at Seattle with Mike Evans (hamstring) still not practicing and RB Bucky Irving (237 rushing yards, 193 receiving yards) also sidelined in practice with foot/shoulder injuries suffered last week. The Buccaneers do possess the NFL’s longest active streak with 100-plus rushing yards in 13 consecutive games. The Seahawks have allowed less than 100 rushing yards in each of their past three games. Seattle is coming off a mini-bye after beating Arizona on a last-second field goal last Thursday. The Seahawks have won three straight games since losing their season opener. WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba is one of just two players with 90-plus scrimmage yards in all four games this season and RB Kenneth Walker has five carries for 15-plus yards. Seattle’s defense ranks sixth with 12 sacks, including six in the Arizona win. However, it could be a bit depleted with cornerback Devon Witherspoon (knee) and safety Julian Love (hamstring) each not practicing Wednesday or Thursday.

Tennessee Titans (0-4) at Arizona Cardinals (2-2)
Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Cardinals -8.5, Total 41.5

Series Rewind: Kyler Murray threw four touchdown passes and rushed for a score in the most recent matchup, the Cardinals’ 38-13 win in Nashville in 2021.

Inside Edge intel: Arizona’s Trey McBride has been targeted more than any tight end in the NFL — 9.1 times per game — since the start of the 2024 season.

The Titans are one of three 0-4 teams in the NFL and have been outscored by a staggering 69 points. Rookie quarterback Cam Ward sharply criticized the team after Tennessee was outclassed 26-0 by the Houston Texans last week. The Titans had just 175 offensive yards and Ward set season lows for completion rate (38.5 percent) and passing yardage (108). It has been a bumpy start for the No. 1 overall pick. Ward is completing a league-worst 51.2 percent of his throws (among qualifiers) for 614 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions. Arizona dropped consecutive games by four total points to NFC West rivals San Francisco and Seattle the past two weeks. The Cardinals overcame a 14-point deficit against the Seahawks before falling on a field goal as time expired. Cardinals receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. caught six passes for 66 yards and one TD in that contest but also had a ball roll off his hands into those of Seattle’s Ernest Jones IV for an interception. The Cardinals lost running back as Trey Benson (knee) and placed him on injured reserve after losing standout James Conner to a season-ending foot injury in the previous game. Either Michael Carter or Emari Demercado will start at RB on Sunday.

Detroit Lions (3-1) at Cincinnati Bengals (2-2)
Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Lions -10.5, Total 48.5

Series Rewind: Cincinnati has won 10 of the past 11 games in the series.

Inside Edge intel: Lions WR Jameson Williams is averaging 8.0 yards per catch this season, third in the NFL. The Bengals are 29th in the NFL, allowing an average of 5.4 yards after catch this season.

Detroit is No. 1 in the NFL with 34.3 points per game as the Lions shrug off outside concern the offense might veer off the rails without coordinator Ben Johnson. QB Jared Goff leads the NFC with nine TD passes and has been pristine on the road with a completion percentage over 70 percent in nine of his last 10 road starts. The Bengals are standing by Jake Browning at quarterback, but he’s generated only one touchdown in eight quarters over the two starts since Joe Burrow’s toe injury. Browning is 3-1 in four career starts at home. Turnovers are breaking the Bengals’ backs — Browning has thrown a pick for every 10.67 completions — and holding off the Lions’ pass rush headed by Aidan Hutchinson (4.0 sacks this season) is highest priority. Without time to throw, Browning risks continuing to be a target of WR Ja’Marr Chase’s frustration. They’ve connected five times in each of Browning’s starts this season but for a grand total of 73 yards.

Washington Commanders (2-2) at Los Angeles Chargers (3-1)
Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Chargers -2.5, Total 48.5

Series Rewind: Different millennium, different results. The Chargers were 0-6 vs. Washington in the 20th century but are 5-1 since 2001, the only loss coming in overtime in 2013. Norv Turner coached Washington (1994-2000) and the Chargers (2007-12).

Inside Edge intel: Since Jim Harbaugh was hired in Jan. 2024, the Chargers have 10 games with 120-plus rushing yards. Last week (161 rushing yards at Giants) was the first loss under Harbaugh in a game where the team rushing total was over 120.

It’s a California homecoming for Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels, who grew up in San Bernardino and has been cleared to return after missing two games with a left knee injury. Washington managed a split in his absence with Marcus Mariota at the controls but will need Daniels at his best against a stingy Chargers defense that ranks third in the NFL, allowing 270.0 yards per game. The Washington D has been more generous, ranked 27th against the pass. That could be just the tonic Justin Herbert needs, as the L.A. QB has seen his completion percentage drop each week: 73.5 to 70.4 to 59.6 and down to 56.1 in last week’s humbling loss to the previously winless Giants. Both sides are rolling with rookie running backs, the Chargers with first-rounder Omarion Hampton (270 rushing yards, two TDs) and the Commanders with seventh-round surprise Jacory Croskey-Merritt (172 rush yards, two TDs).

Filed Under: NFL Tagged With:

NFL: Week 5 Previews

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Minnesota Vikings (2-2) vs. Cleveland Browns (1-3)
Sunday, 9:30 a.m. ET, London
FanDuel odds: Vikings -3.5, Total 35.5

Series Rewind: This is the first meeting between the teams since 2021, when Baker Mayfield and Nick Chubb led the Browns to a 14-7 win in Minneapolis.

Inside Edge intel: The Vikings have allowed fewer than 350 total yards in five consecutive games, the longest active streak in the NFL.

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Juggling quarterbacks is nothing new to these franchises, who will start players who began the season as backups in Week 5. Rookie Dillon Gabriel will take over under center when Cleveland kicks off against the Vikings at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Browns coach Kevin Stefanski, previously offensive coordinator of the Vikings, decided to make the change after his team lost 34-10 against the Detroit Lions a week ago. He benched Joe Flacco, a 40-year-old veteran who leads the NFL in turnovers. In comes Gabriel, whom the Browns drafted at No. 94 overall, for a stern test against blitz-heavy Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores. Gabriel has appeared in two games in backup duty, completing three of his four passes for 19 yards and one touchdown. Minnesota is on the second leg of a two-week international tour that began with a 24-21 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Ireland last week. Carson Wentz is slated to make his third start of the season and has completed 66.7 percent of his passes for 523 yards with four touchdowns and two interceptions. Rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy is progressing from his high ankle sprain but is expected to remain out. Wentz has the confidence of Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell and the rest of the staff. Justin Jefferson is Wentz’s clear-cut No. 1 target in the passing game. Jefferson has 22 catches for 326 yards and one touchdown in four games, which is considerably more than No. 2 target T.J. Hockenson, who has 13 catches for 115 yards and one touchdown.

Houston Texans (1-3) at Baltimore Ravens (1-3)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Texans -1.5, Total 40.5

Series Rewind: The Ravens nearly pitched a Christmas Day shutout at Houston last season, winning 31-2. Baltimore also defeated the Texans in the postseason in January 2024, 34-10, and has won six of the past seven meetings.

Inside Edge intel: Houston is 5-1 when passing for at least 250 yards since the 2024 season began. During the same timeframe, the Ravens have allowed 248.6 passing yards per game.

Houston didn’t get to wrapped up in whether or not Lamar Jackson’s hamstring would keep him on the sideline this week, knowing the challenge runs deeper because of Baltimore’s trove of weapons. RB Derrick Henry has 284 yards on the ground with three touchdowns and plowed through Houston’s run defense 27 times for 147 yards and a touchdown on Christmas Day when these teams last met. Cooper Rush was 4-4 last season with the Dallas Cowboys, throwing the ball well on play-action but rarely attacking defenses over the top the way Jackson can with a subtle snap of the wrist. The Texans blanked the Titans last week to win for the first time this season and don’t want to drop a fourth game with Indianapolis and Jacksonville going strong atop the AFC South. They might have found something in RB Woody Marks, who tallied 118 yards from scrimmage and scored two TDs last week. Houston is trying to open up the passing game with WR Nico Collins, but pass protection hasn’t been perfect. The Ravens are banged up on defense, too, but Baltimore sacked QB C.J. Stroud five times in the meeting last season. Stroud threw a pick and had a QB rating of 59.2.

Las Vegas Raiders (1-3) at Indianapolis Colts (3-1)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Colts -6.5, Total 47.5

Series Rewind: Sunday’s winner seizes the lead in a series knotted at 11-11, including a 1-1 split in the playoffs. The Colts have momentum with three wins in the last four meetings. Eight of the last 10 were decided by eight or fewer points.

Inside Edge intel: The Colts have a point differential of plus-16 in the first quarter this season. Las Vegas allowed a touchdown in the first quarter in three of its first four games.

This week’s sudden retirement of decorated Colts cornerback Xavien Howard removes at least one threat facing Raiders quarterback Geno Smith, who tossed three of his NFL-leading seven interceptions in last weekend’s painful 25-24 setback against the Bears. He also threw two touchdown passes to Ashton Jeanty, whose historic day against Chicago made him just the third rookie running back in NFL history with 100-plus rushing yards, one rushing TD and two TD catches in a game. He also leads the league with 15 broken tackles. Losing Howard hurts, but Indy’s best defense is an offense that ranks fourth in the NFL with 30.8 points per game behind a resurgent Daniel Jones (third in NFL with 1,078 passing yards). Jonathan Taylor has 100-plus scrimmage yards and a rushing TD in all four career games against the Raiders. First-round pick Tyler Warren leads all tight ends with 263 receiving yards and all rookies with 19 catches.

Denver Broncos (2-2) at Philadelphia Eagles (4-0)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Eagles -4.5, Total 43.5

Series Rewind: Philadelphia has won three of the past four meetings to lead 9-5 in the all-time series. Two of their last three clashes saw the winner put a 50-piece on the board: The Broncos won 52-20 in 2013, and the Eagles won 51-23 in 2017.

Inside Edge intel: The Broncos are 2-8 since the start of the 2024 season when allowing 100-plus rushing yards.

The X’s and O’s will be flying in this showdown of veteran play-callers, as Sean Payton’s Denver offense will attempt to find cracks in Vic Fangio’s defense in Philadelphia. Arkadelphia-born quarterback Bo Nix and the Broncos racked up a season-high 512 yards in Monday’s 28-3 beating of the Bengals, while the Eagles have yet to allow more than 376 in a game. Philadelphia has held each of its first four opponents to two touchdowns. Jalen Hurts and Co. have not lost at home since Week 2 last season and haven’t lost to an AFC foe at home since Nov. 7, 2021 (Chargers). The defending champs are trying to start 5-0 for the third time in four seasons. They’ll try to get Saquon Barkley and A.J. Brown going against a Denver defense led by All-Pro corner Pat Surtain II and ex-Eagle LB Alex Singleton, who has 32 tackles in his last three games.

Dallas Cowboys (1-2-1) at New York Jets (0-4)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Cowboys -2.5, Total 47.5

Series Rewind: Dallas won the last meeting 30-10 at home in 2023 after the Jets won the previous three matchups.

Inside Edge intel: The Cowboys are worst in the NFL preventing touchdowns to wide receivers: 1.4 per game since the start of the 2024 season.

The Jets are one of three teams buried under a 0-4 start and are the only squad in the league not to force a turnover. First-year coach Aaron Glenn may have earned raves in the past as a defensive coordinator but his team is tied for 28th in scoring defense (30.0) and ranks last with a minus-7 turnover ratio. QB Justin Fields has gone five consecutive games without throwing an interception and is a threat to run, which presents a new challenge to Dallas’ drop zone defense. The Cowboys also having plenty of trouble stopping teams, ranking last in total defense (420.5 yards per game) and 31st in scoring defense (33.0 points). Maybe missing that Micah Parsons guy? Dallas’ Dak Prescott leads the NFL with 1,119 passing yards while throwing six touchdowns against three interceptions. Receiver George Pickens has 21 catches for 300 yards and four touchdowns and was a top target for Prescott with CeeDee Lamb (ankle) sidelined for last Sunday’s 40-40 tie with the Green Bay Packers. New York’s Breece Hall (238 rushing, 108 receiving) is solid but backup Braelon Allen (knee) was placed on injured reserve after being hurt in Monday’s 27-21 loss at Miami. Star wideout Garrett Wilson has 27 receptions for 311 yards and one touchdown.

New York Giants (1-3) at New Orleans Saints (0-4)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Saints -1.5, Total 41.5

Series Rewind: The Saints have won three of their last four and seven of the last 10 against the Giants, but New York holds a 17-16 lead in the all-time series.

Inside Edge intel: The Giants have lost 14 consecutive games when trailing at halftime, all in the past two seasons.

Fresh off becoming the first NFL QB since 2002 to win his first career start against a team with a 3-0 record or better, Jaxson Dart now leads the Giants into his first road start at winless New Orleans. Dart wasn’t particularly productive in his first career start but was quite effective, throwing for 111 yards and a touchdown, running for 54 and a score and leading a turnover-free offensive performance. With another sack last week, Giants defensive end Brian Burns already has five on the season, his seventh straight season with five-plus sacks. New Orleans QB Spencer Rattler is hoping to snap an 0-10 skid as a starter to begin his NFL career, tied for the sixth-longest streak in NFL history. The Saints passed on Dart with the ninth overall pick, winding up with Tyler Shough, who lost a QB battle to Rattler, in the second round of this year’s draft. With two more catches, Saints RB Alvin Kamara (586 career catches) can leap into the top five in NFL history in catches by a running back.

Miami Dolphins (1-3) at Carolina Panthers (1-3)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Dolphins -1.5, Total 44.5

Series Rewind: This will be the first matchup of these teams in Charlotte since a 45-21 Panthers win in 2017. The Dolphins have won the two games since by a combined margin of 75-31 and lead the series 6-2.

Inside Edge intel: In 13 games with at least one turnover the past two seasons, the Dolphins are 3-10.

Miami plays its first game without star receiver Tyreek Hill, out for the season with dislocated knee and multiple torn ligaments sustained in Monday’s win over the Jets, this weekend at Carolina. There’s optimism about how Jaylen Waddle (4,314 yards and 22 catches in five seasons) can replace Hill’s production. Tight end Darren Waller could also help out after recording two touchdown catches in his first game back from a one-year retirement. Carolina followed up a convincing win over Atlanta with a 42-13 dud of a loss last week at New England. Bryce Young is looking for his third straight interception-free start after throwing three in the first two games of the season, but he also ranks 31st out of 33 eligible QBs in yards per pass attempt (5.2). He keeps building chemistry with Tetairoa McMillan, who ranks second among rookies in receiving yards (278) and catches (18) but is still looking for his first career touchdown.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-1) at Seattle Seahawks (3-1)
Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Seahawks -3, Total 44.5

Series Rewind: Tampa Bay has lost its last two games at Seattle, last winning there in 2009. The Seahawks lead the series 9-6, but the Buccaneers have won five of the last seven.

Inside Edge intel: Seattle has allowed one rushing touchdown in the past 11 games. The Seahawks have prevented a rushing TD on 128 consecutive drives, best in the NFL.

Tampa Bay nearly pulled off its fourth straight comeback victory to begin the season, but dug itself too big a hole after falling behind 24-3 vs. Philadelphia last week, losing 31-25. QB Baker Mayfield has been exceptional on the road of late, throwing two-plus touchdowns in each of his last four road starts. However, he may be down a few weapons for this game at Seattle with Mike Evans (hamstring) still not practicing and RB Bucky Irving (237 rushing yards, 193 receiving yards) also sidelined in practice with foot/shoulder injuries suffered last week. The Buccaneers do possess the NFL’s longest active streak with 100-plus rushing yards in 13 consecutive games. The Seahawks have allowed less than 100 rushing yards in each of their past three games. Seattle is coming off a mini-bye after beating Arizona on a last-second field goal last Thursday. The Seahawks have won three straight games since losing their season opener. WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba is one of just two players with 90-plus scrimmage yards in all four games this season and RB Kenneth Walker has five carries for 15-plus yards. Seattle’s defense ranks sixth with 12 sacks, including six in the Arizona win. However, it could be a bit depleted with cornerback Devon Witherspoon (knee) and safety Julian Love (hamstring) each not practicing Wednesday or Thursday.

Tennessee Titans (0-4) at Arizona Cardinals (2-2)
Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Cardinals -8.5, Total 41.5

Series Rewind: Kyler Murray threw four touchdown passes and rushed for a score in the most recent matchup, the Cardinals’ 38-13 win in Nashville in 2021.

Inside Edge intel: Arizona’s Trey McBride has been targeted more than any tight end in the NFL — 9.1 times per game — since the start of the 2024 season.

The Titans are one of three 0-4 teams in the NFL and have been outscored by a staggering 69 points. Rookie quarterback Cam Ward sharply criticized the team after Tennessee was outclassed 26-0 by the Houston Texans last week. The Titans had just 175 offensive yards and Ward set season lows for completion rate (38.5 percent) and passing yardage (108). It has been a bumpy start for the No. 1 overall pick. Ward is completing a league-worst 51.2 percent of his throws (among qualifiers) for 614 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions. Arizona dropped consecutive games by four total points to NFC West rivals San Francisco and Seattle the past two weeks. The Cardinals overcame a 14-point deficit against the Seahawks before falling on a field goal as time expired. Cardinals receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. caught six passes for 66 yards and one TD in that contest but also had a ball roll off his hands into those of Seattle’s Ernest Jones IV for an interception. The Cardinals lost running back as Trey Benson (knee) and placed him on injured reserve after losing standout James Conner to a season-ending foot injury in the previous game. Either Michael Carter or Emari Demercado will start at RB on Sunday.

Detroit Lions (3-1) at Cincinnati Bengals (2-2)
Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Lions -10.5, Total 48.5

Series Rewind: Cincinnati has won 10 of the past 11 games in the series.

Inside Edge intel: Lions WR Jameson Williams is averaging 8.0 yards per catch this season, third in the NFL. The Bengals are 29th in the NFL, allowing an average of 5.4 yards after catch this season.

Detroit is No. 1 in the NFL with 34.3 points per game as the Lions shrug off outside concern the offense might veer off the rails without coordinator Ben Johnson. QB Jared Goff leads the NFC with nine TD passes and has been pristine on the road with a completion percentage over 70 percent in nine of his last 10 road starts. The Bengals are standing by Jake Browning at quarterback, but he’s generated only one touchdown in eight quarters over the two starts since Joe Burrow’s toe injury. Browning is 3-1 in four career starts at home. Turnovers are breaking the Bengals’ backs — Browning has thrown a pick for every 10.67 completions — and holding off the Lions’ pass rush headed by Aidan Hutchinson (4.0 sacks this season) is highest priority. Without time to throw, Browning risks continuing to be a target of WR Ja’Marr Chase’s frustration. They’ve connected five times in each of Browning’s starts this season but for a grand total of 73 yards.

Washington Commanders (2-2) at Los Angeles Chargers (3-1)
Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Chargers -2.5, Total 48.5

Series Rewind: Different millennium, different results. The Chargers were 0-6 vs. Washington in the 20th century but are 5-1 since 2001, the only loss coming in overtime in 2013. Norv Turner coached Washington (1994-2000) and the Chargers (2007-12).

Inside Edge intel: Since Jim Harbaugh was hired in Jan. 2024, the Chargers have 10 games with 120-plus rushing yards. Last week (161 rushing yards at Giants) was the first loss under Harbaugh in a game where the team rushing total was over 120.

It’s a California homecoming for Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels, who grew up in San Bernardino and has been cleared to return after missing two games with a left knee injury. Washington managed a split in his absence with Marcus Mariota at the controls but will need Daniels at his best against a stingy Chargers defense that ranks third in the NFL, allowing 270.0 yards per game. The Washington D has been more generous, ranked 27th against the pass. That could be just the tonic Justin Herbert needs, as the L.A. QB has seen his completion percentage drop each week: 73.5 to 70.4 to 59.6 and down to 56.1 in last week’s humbling loss to the previously winless Giants. Both sides are rolling with rookie running backs, the Chargers with first-rounder Omarion Hampton (270 rushing yards, two TDs) and the Commanders with seventh-round surprise Jacory Croskey-Merritt (172 rush yards, two TDs).

New England Patriots (2-2) at Buffalo Bills (4-0)
Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Bills -8.5, Total 49.5

Series Rewind: Buffalo has won eight of the past 11 meetings after New England won 35 of the previous 39 matchups.

Inside Edge intel: The Bills have a streak of eight consecutive games over 100 rushing yards.

Buffalo is one of two 4-0 teams and has racked up 133 points, second-highest in the league behind the Detroit Lions (137). The Bills are vying for their first 5-0 start since 1991, a season in which they reached the Super Bowl. Buffalo also is seeking its 15th consecutive regular-season homefield victory as the club continues to enjoy one of top atmospheres in the sport. New England receiver Stefon Diggs remembers how it works in Orchard Park after spending four seasons – making the Pro Bowl each time – with the Bills. This will be his first trip in as a visiting player since he was traded to the Houston Texans following the 2023 campaign. Diggs had six catches for 101 yards in last week’s 42-13 thumping of the Carolina Panthers. That also marked the first time New England reached the 40-point mark since 2021. Second-year quarterback Drake Maye is developing well and has completed 74 percent of his passes for 988 yards, seven touchdown and two interceptions. He also has rushed for two scores. Reigning NFL MVP Josh Allen of the Bills has thrown for 964 yards, seven touchdowns and one interception while also rushing for three scores. James Cook is the NFL’s second-leading rusher with 401 yards and has a league-best five rushing touchdowns. New England allowed an opening-drive touchdown in three of its first four games.

Kansas City Chiefs (2-2) at Jacksonville Jaguars (3-1)
Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET
FanDuel odds: Chiefs -3, Total 46.5

Series Rewind: Kansas City has won the last eight games against Jacksonville, including a 27-20 playoff win in the 2023 divisional round.

Inside Edge intel: The Chiefs are 11-0 when possessing the ball longer than their opponent the past two seasons. The Jaguars allowed an average time of possession of 32 minutes since the start of the 2024 season, second-highest in NFL.

The Chiefs are back to .500 after their first 0-2 start in 11 years. Patrick Mahomes threw four touchdowns to four different players in last week’s 37-20 win over Baltimore, more than the three TDs he threw in the first three games combined. Xavier Worthy, in his first game back from a dislocated shoulder, led the team in receiving (83) and rushing (38) yards. The Chiefs have turned the ball just once this season, something that will be tested by a Jaguars defense which leads the league in forced turnovers (13) and turnover differential (plus-nine). With a win last week at San Francisco, the Jaguars are 3-1 for just the second time in 15 years. After ranking 26th last season in rushing offense, Jacksonville ranks fourth this season under new coach Liam Coen, averaging 144.0 rushing yards per game. Travis Etienne Jr. is third in the NFL in rushing yards (394) and is averaging a league-best 6.1 yards per carry among players with 25 or more rushes.

–Field Level Media

Filed Under: NFL

NFL: Monday Night Football

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Cincinnati Bengals (2-1) vs. Denver Broncos (1-2)

Monday, 7:15 p.m. ET

FanDuel odds: Broncos -7.5, Total 43.5

Series Rewind: It’s their fourth meeting on “Monday Night Football,” with the Bengals winning in 2004 and 2014 and the Broncos victorious in Week 16 of their Super Bowl season in 2015.

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It’s a rematch of last season’s Week 17 thriller, when Broncos QB Bo Nix tied it with a 25-yard TD to Marvin Mims Jr. with eight seconds left in regulation, only to fall 30-24 on Joe Burrow’s short TD pass to Tee Higgins with 1:07 left in overtime. This time, Burrow-less Cincinnati limps into Denver still smarting from the most lopsided loss in franchise history: 48-10 last weekend at Minnesota. Despite their winning record, the Bengals have been outscored 91-58 and have more turnovers (eight) than touchdowns (seven). They’ll need a whopper from Ja’Marr Chase, who has 43 catches for 585 yards and five TDs in four appearances on “MNF.” Nix is 6-0 with a 102.6 rating in his last six home starts for the Broncos. J.K. Dobbins has rushed 33 times for 294 yards (8.9 average) and four TDs against the Bengals while going 4-0 in his career.

New York Jets (0-3) at Miami Dolphins (0-3)

Monday, 7:15 p.m. ET

FanDuel odds: Dolphins -2.5, Total 44.5

Series Rewind: Miami is 4-1 in the past five games against the Jets, who claimed a 32-20 win in the 2024 regular-season finale.

The loser will be looking at an 0-4 start and the knowledge it is OK to start focusing on 2026 draft preparations. Miami badly needs to win this contest or coach Mike McDaniel will see the heat pick up. The Dolphins have allowed more than 30 points in each of their three games, and the offensive precision has dipped. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has thrown five touchdown passes but has been picked off four times. Tyreek Hill is averaging 13.2 yards per catch but has just 198 receiving yards. Linebacker Bradley Chubb always goes all-out and has three of the team’s six sacks. The Jets might be going with Tyrod Taylor for the second straight week after fellow quarterback Justin Fields sustained a concussion in Week 2. Taylor helped New York overcome a 17-point fourth-quarter deficit last week before the Tampa Bay Buccaneers walked it off with a 29-27 victory. Receiver Garrett Wilson (229 on 21 catches) is the only Jet with more than 80 yards or in double digits in receptions. Putting LB Quincy Williams (shoulder) on injured reserve is a blow for the Jets’ defense.

Patriots Take Care of Carolina Biz

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FOXBORO – (Wire Service Report) – Marcus Jones sparked New England with a pair of huge punt returns, including one for a touchdown, and Patriots’ quarterback Drake Maye accounted for three touchdowns as New England beat the visiting Carolina Panthers, 42-13, on a busy sports Sunday afternoon in Massachusetts.

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Jones set a franchise record with 167 punt return yards on three attempts. Maye threw two touchdowns and added a rushing score against his hometown team.

New England (2-2) didn’t record its second victory last year until Oct. 27.

Maye was 14 for 17 for 203 yards. Hunter Henry and Mack Hollins caught his scoring passes. Stefon Diggs gained 101 receiving yards on six catches.

Trailing 42-6 less than a minute into the fourth quarter, the Panthers (1-3) were in danger of suffering the most lopsided loss in team history (43 points vs. the Raiders in 2000).

After driving for points on the game’s opening possession, Carolina didn’t score again until backup Andy Dalton’s 2-yard fourth-down pass to Mitchell Evans on the first play following the two-minute warning. Quarterback Bryce Young was 18 for 30 for 150 yards and a touchdown.

Jones returned a punt 87 yards for New England’s first points with 5:34 left in the first quarter. The Patriots also scored on their next three possessions, expanding their lead to 28-6 at halftime.

Maye, on the first snap of the second quarter, and TreVeyon Henderson both scored on 5-yard runs, while Antonio Gibson got into the end zone from 1 yard out.

That last TD drive of the first half covered only 14 yards after Jones’s 61-yard punt return.

To begin the game, the Panthers moved 76 yards, scoring on Young’s 7-yard pass to Tommy Tremble.

The Panthers have trailed by at least 17 points at halftime in all three of their losses.

Carolina’s Ryan Fitzgerald, whose extra-point kick bounced off the upright, missed on a 55-yard field goal attempt in the second quarter.

Maye threw 31 yards to Henry to open the second-half scoring.

The Panthers lost receiver David Moore to an injury on the first play from scrimmage.

–Field Level Media

SNF on NBC

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Green Bay Packers (2-1) at Dallas Cowboys (1-2)

Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET

Odds: Packers -6.5, Total 47.5

Series Rewind: Green Bay has never lost at AT&T Stadium. The Packers have won seven of the past eight meetings.

You might have heard the Packers are coming to Dallas and bringing an old friend to visit the Cowboys. Micah Parsons, the NFL leader in pass-rush pressures and the only player in the league with eight-plus pressures in multiple games this season, has a new crew and it includes the league leader in sacks (Rashan Gary, 4.5).

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Green Bay gives up 16 fewer points per game than the Cowboys (30.7) and arrives angry after laying an egg — much gentler terms than Parsons used — at Cleveland in a 13-10 loss last week. Dak Prescott is playing at a high level but Dallas went scoreless in the second half of both losses. CeeDee Lamb (ankle) won’t play this week and the Cowboys are down key personnel on the offensive line. The shuffled starting 11 on offense features George Pickens as the No. 1 wide receiver; TE Jake Ferguson (13 catches last week) will have a bigger share of the play-call sheet this week, according to coach Brian Schottenheimer. Dallas’ best weapon has been the ground game with a rejuvenated Javonte Williams averaging 4.7 yards per carry. Jordan Love is also behind a modified blocking scheme because of injuries. Against a Dallas front adding Jadeveon Clowney, Love figures to let it fly after the Cowboys’ pass defense was roasted by the Giants and Bears.