Yeah, the Cowboys got a “win” Friday night to finish the preseason 2-1, but that team is not ready to start the real thing. Far from it. While you can’t anticipate every adversity, you can prepare for them, and Jerry Jones has failed to do that. The offensive line has been grossly mismanaged since the end of last season, and the loss of Tyron Smith now appears nothing short of catastrophic. Things may smooth out to a degree as the season progresses, but that makeshift O-line will get mauled in the opener against the Bucs and Dak will be in blindside peril. The running game will be limited, and the receiving corps is shaky. This team is mismanaged.
Geno Smith is the Seahawks’ starter. I understand why football people get frustrated by Drew Lock. He made some big-league throws Friday night against the Cowboys. He then followed them with just as many brain-dead throws.
The Rams say they will take care of any disciplinary action resulting from that joint practice, helmet-swinging melee with the Bengals quietly and internally. Let me translate that. They’re not about to piss off Aaron Donald.
Matt Araiza has to go. I have every confidence the Bills will do the right thing.
You’re gonna think this is nuts, but I’m telling you the Saints will seriously challenge the Bucs in the NFC South.
Speaking of the NFC South, the Panthers are in a world of hurt. Baker Mayfield is solidly established as Carolina’s starting QB, but the Panthers currently have no backup. Rookie draft choice Matt Corral is lost for the season with a foot ligament injury. And Friday night Sam Darnold went down with what is at best a serious high ankle sprain. Darnold will not be back anytime soon. What’s next? Cam Newton is on Matt Rhule’s speed-dial.
The surprising young Orioles have been the “feel good” story of the season in MLB. Unless they beat my Astros, which they did 2-0 Friday night. That didn’t feel good at all.
Mariners’ shortstop Fernando Tatis Jr. has behaved recklessly and immaturely. And he has now paid a price, as Adidas has ended its promotional relationship with him. Actions and decisions have consequences. Now I hope Tatis learns from this and becomes the superstar his talent can produce.
There’s actual college football today here in “Week Zero.” That Big 10 matchup between Nebraska and Northwestern works for me!