Sunday Reading

Giants

Duggan The Athletic: The Giants’ greatest shortcomings were exposed against the Jets. So how do they address them during the bye week?
https://theathletic.com/1375323/2019/11/13/the-giants-greatest-shortcomings-were-exposed-against-the-jets-so-how-do-they-address-them-during-the-bye-week/

Raanan ESPN:,Breaking Big Blue Podcast: A deep dive into whether Pat Shurmur and Dave Gettleman survive this Giants mess from DanGrazianoESPN and myself.
Also begin w/some nuggets on Evan Engram, Saquon, DeAndre Baker and more (Audio)
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/breaking-big-blue-with-jordan-raanan/id1300714083

GM

Willis NYP: Dave Gettleman’s silence overshadows Giants’ bye week
https://nypost.com/2019/11/16/dave-gettlemans-silence-overshadows-giants-bye-week/amp/

Coach

Leonard NYDN: How Pat Shurmur’s Giants can show progress down stretch of another lost season
https://www.nydailynews.com/sports/football/giants/ny-pat-shurmur-progress-lost-season-20191116-octutdqjbfahdh3hcc7sp3udju-story.html

Slater NJ.com: Will Giants’ Pat Shurmur save his job in final 6 games? Here’s what he can do to stay — even if he doesn’t finish 2019 with a great record
https://www.nj.com/giants/2019/11/will-giants-pat-shurmur-save-his-job-in-final-6-games-heres-what-he-can-do-to-stay-even-if-he-doesnt-finish-2019-with-a-great-record.html

Rosenblatt NJ.com: Here’s the reason the Giants ultimately hired Pat Shurmur instead of Eagles’ Jim Schwartz as head coach
https://www.nj.com/giants/2019/11/heres-the-reason-the-giants-ultimately-hired-pat-shurmur-instead-of-eagles-jim-schwartz-as-head-coach.html

Offense

Schmeelk Giants.com: Film Study, Pt. 1: Scouting Daniel Jones and the offense
https://www.giants.com/news/film-study-daniel-jones-self-scout

QB

Dunleavy NYP: Daniel Jones is stuck in the Giants’ offensive line nightmare
https://nypost.com/2019/11/13/daniel-jones-is-stuck-in-the-giants-offensive-line-nightmare/

Stapleton The Record: NY Giants: Want proof that Daniel Jones' fumble issue can be fixed? Watch Lamar Jackson
https://www.northjersey.com/story/sports/nfl/giants/2019/11/14/daniel-jones-fumble-issue-fixable-just-ask-ravens-lamar-jackson/4177233002/

Schwartz NYP: There is no way for Giants to salvage the Eli Manning farewell
https://nypost.com/2019/11/14/there-is-no-way-for-giants-to-salvage-the-eli-manning-farewell/

WR

Lombardo NJ.com: Darius Slayton emerges as future star WR | Could he follow in Giants legend Victor Cruz’s footsteps?
https://www.nj.com/giants/2019/11/darius-slayton-emerges-as-future-star-wr-could-he-follow-in-giants-legend-victor-cruzs-footsteps.html

RT

Falato BBV: How did Nick Gates do in his first start at right tackle for the Giants?
https://www.bigblueview.com/2019/11/14/20964360/nick-gates-ny-giants-film-study-analysis-first-start-jets-mike-remmers

Nick Falato (@nickfalato)
11/14/19, 8:19 PM
Nick Gates was the best #NYG OLmen on Sunday...he displayed nimble feet, a low COG/ability to utilize leverage, good mental processing, an ability to mirror up the arc, and solid hand placement. He also did well in the run game. Anchor may need some improvement in some situation

jordanraananespn
Watched every snap from Nick Gates’ first start. Acquitted himself well. Saw three pressures allowed. He told me feedback from coaches was good. Flashed quick feet, ability to manipulate defenders and finish blocks. Makes sense to keep him as starting RT

Defense

Schmeelk Giants.com: Film Study, Pt. 2: Self-scouting the defense
https://www.giants.com/news/film-study-pt-2-self-scouting-the-defense

Pflum BBV: Blitz or play coverage? The Giants’ defensive dilemma
Whether it is blitzing or playing coverage, the Giants don’t have any good options on defense
https://www.bigblueview.com/2019/11/14/20964707/2019-ny-giants-defense-blitz-pass-rush-pressure-rate-james-bettcher-chase-young

DT

Lombardo NJ.com: At least this Giants rookie gives Dave Gettleman reason for optimism in another lost season
https://www.nj.com/giants/2019/11/at-least-this-giants-rookie-gives-dave-gettleman-reason-for-optimism-in-another-lost-season.html

OLB

Pflum BBV: The curious case of Markus Golden -- just how good has he been this season?
https://www.bigblueview.com/platform/amp/2019/11/15/20964633/2019-ny-giants-markus-golden-film-study-analysis-review

CB

Schwartz NYP: It’s time for Giants to be seriously concerned about DeAndre Baker
https://nypost.com/2019/11/14/its-time-for-giants-to-be-seriously-concerned-about-deandre-baker/

FS

Dunleavy NYP: Forgotten Giants rookie Julian Love is itching for a chance
https://nypost.com/2019/11/16/forgotten-giants-rookie-julian-love-is-itching-for-a-chance/amp/

NFL

Volin Boston Globe: Sunday Football Notes: Is the Ravens’ offense with Lamar Jackson sustainable? The coach who brought the wildcat to the NFL thinks so
https://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/patriots/2019/11/16/ravens-offense-with-lamar-jackson-sustainable-the-coach-who-brought-wildcat-nfl-thinks/lmQbphVPxFswKYKuQpZWpI/story.html

Brooks NFL.com: What happened to Rams' offense?

“1) Buzz for 2020 WR class a trap for NFL teams? When my Move The Sticks Podcast partner Daniel Jeremiah tweeted out high praise for the 2020 NFL Draft's WR class earlier this week, he sparked some social-media debates about the value of pass catchers in the upcoming class. While it certainly makes sense for teams to stockpile dynamic wide receivers in a league that's becoming more pass-centric by the day, I believe the WR position has become overvalued in the team-building process.
I know the "overvalued" argument has typically been reserved for running backs in recent years, but a quick review of recent draft classes suggests that teams would be wise to wait before pulling the trigger on a wide receiver in the draft. Just look back at the past four drafts and you can make a strong case that the first round hasn't produced more impactful playmakers at the position than the second round. Here are the WRs selected in the first or second round since 2016, along with their career stats:

2019
ROUND 1
Marquise Brown, Baltimore Ravens (25th overall pick): 7 games, 28 receptions for 454 yards (16.2 avg), 4 TDs.
N'Keal Harry, New England Patriots (32nd): Activated from injured reserve prior to Week 9; has yet to see regular-season action.
ROUND 2
Deebo Samuel, San Francisco 49ers (36th): 8 games, 30 catches for 339 yards (11.3 avg), 2 TDs (one rushing).
A.J. Brown, Tennessee Titans (51st): 10 games, 27 catches for 446 yards (16.5 avg), 3 TDs.
Mecole Hardman, Kansas City Chiefs (56th): 10 games, 21 catches for 437 yards (20.8 avg), 5 TDs.
J.J. Arcega-Whiteside, Philadelphia Eagles (57th): 9 games, 2 catches for 14 yards (7.0 avg).
Parris Campbell, Indianapolis Colts (59th): 6 games, 15 catches for 115 yards (7.7 avg), 1 TD.
Andy Isabella, Arizona Cardinals (62nd): 9 games, 6 catches for 174 yards (29.0 avg), 1 TD.
D.K. Metcalf, Seattle Seahawks (64th): 10 games, 35 catches for 595 yards (17.0 avg), 5 TDs.
2018
ROUND 1
D.J. Moore, Carolina Panthers (24th): 25 games, 109 catches for 1,472 yards (13.5 avg), 3 TDs.
Calvin Ridley, Atlanta Falcons (26th): 25 games, 100 catches for 1,292 yards (12.9 avg), 14 TDs.
ROUND 2
Courtland Sutton, Denver Broncos (40th): 25 games, 86 catches for 1,396 yards (16.2 avg), 8 TDs.
Dante Pettis, San Francisco 49ers (44th): 21 games, 38 catches for 576 yards (15.2 avg), 7 TDs.
Christian Kirk, Arizona Cardinals (47th): 19 games, 83 catches for 1,057 yards (12.7 avg), 6 TDs.
Anthony Miller, Chicago Bears (51st): 24 games, 50 catches for 641 yards (12.8 avg), 7 TDs.
James Washington, Pittsburgh Steelers (60th): 23 games, 39 catches for 586 yards (15.0 avg), 2 TDs.
D.J. Chark, Jacksonville Jaguars (61st): 20 games, 57 catches for 866 yards (15.2 avg), 6 TDs.
2017
ROUND 1
Corey Davis, Tennessee Titans (fifth): 36 games, 127 catches for 1,640 yards (12.9 avg), 6 TDs.
Mike Williams, Los Angeles Chargers (seventh): 35 games, 85 catches for 1,344 yards (15.8 avg), 10 TDs.
John Ross, Cincinnati Bengals (ninth): 20 games, 37 catches for 538 yards (14.5 avg), 10 TDs.
ROUND 2
Zay Jones, Buffalo Bills/Oakland Raiders (37th): 39 games, 96 catches for 1,095 yards (11.4 avg), 9 TDs.
Curtis Samuel, Carolina Panthers (40th): 31 games, 88 catches for 1,051 yards (11.9 avg), 9 TDs.
JuJu Smith-Schuster, Pittsburgh Steelers (62nd): 40 games, 207 catches for 2,867 yards (13.9 avg), 17 TDs.
2016
ROUND 1
Corey Coleman, Cleveland Browns/Buffalo Bills/New England Patriots/New York Giants (15th): 27 games, 61 catches for 789 yards (12.9 avg), 5 TDs.
Will Fuller, Houston Texans (21st): 38 games, 141 catches for 2,011 yards (14.3 avg), 16 TDs.
Josh Doctson, Washington Redskins/Minnesota Vikings (22nd): 33 games, 81 catches for 1,100 yards (13.6 avg), 8 TDs.
Laquon Treadwell, Minnesota Vikings (23rd): 47 games, 62 catches for 601 yards (9.7 avg), 1 TD.
ROUND 2
Sterling Shepard, New York Giants (40th): 47 games, 215 catches for 2,553 yards (11.9 avg), 15 TDs.
Michael Thomas, New Orleans Saints (47th): 56 games, 407 catches for 4,814 yards (11.8 avg), 27 TDs.
Tyler Boyd, Cincinnati Bengals (55th): 49 games, 209 catches for 2,454 yards (11.7 avg), 11 TDs.
As you can see, there are a handful of first-round picks who have played up to their draft status, but it's hard to ignore the individual and collective production of their second-round brethren. Considering the significant sample size of the pass catchers in this discussion, NFL executives should pause before tabbing wide receivers as "must-haves" in the first round. We've seen a horde of second-round (a.k.a. "value") selections exceed expectations despite entering the league viewed as "eventual starters" (second-round grades on my NFL grading scale suggest prospects selected in that round will crack the starting lineup a year or so after entering the league).

This is exactly how Hall of Fame executive Ron Wolf and coach Mike Holmgren viewed the position when I was a player with the Green Bay Packers in the mid-1990s, and it continued to be the draft philosophy when I worked as a scout for the Seattle Seahawks (under Holmgren) in the early 2000s. Holmgren believed his system could elevate pass catchers by creating easy catch opportunities through scheming. He did not subscribe to the notion that a team needed a bunch of A+ pass catchers to field an
explosive offense. In fact, he preferred developmental receivers with the physical traits and skills that could be enhanced with solid teaching and a mastery of the fundamentals.
I watched Holmgren utilize this approach to build a dynamic passing game in Green Bay with Robert Brooks and Antonio Freeman (both third-round picks by the team), who helped the Packers win Super Bowl XXXI. He replicated it in Seattle with an aerial attack featuring Darrell Jackson (third-round pick of the Seahawks), Bobby Engram (second-round pick of the Bears), Joe Jurevicius (second-round pick of the Giants) and D.J. Hackett (fifth-round pick of the Seahawks), who joined forces for an NFC title team in 2005.

With that in mind, NFL scouts will need to determine whether the "name brands" in the 2020 wide receiver class are better options than the "generics" who could be available in the second round. Based on the recent success of second-rounders, I would suggest evaluators opt for talented route runners or "bullies" (big-bodied receivers with physical games) who could be available in Round 2. We've seen multiple instances of coaches creating opportunities for pass catchers on the perimeter through clever scheming, so I would lean toward a skilled playmaker with a polished game over a dynamic athlete with tantalizing physical traits.
Although speedsters enjoy success as vertical playmakers, it's harder to generate sustainable production from one-trick ponies when the film circulates around the league. While there are always exceptions, I believe route runners and bullies are better suited to enjoy consistent success due to their refined skills and/or strength advantages over defenders. This enables coaches to build game plans around them and continue to make them the focal points of the passing game despite coverage tricks.
Hopefully, the tantalizing potential of the 2020 WR class is fully realized, but as I've laid out in this item, it usually doesn't work out that way, and missing on a first-round receiver can be a massive setback for a franchise. With that in mind, executives and scouts should spend more time looking for hidden gems instead of focusing their gaze on the star power at the top of the draft.”

https://amp.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001077085/article/rams-offensive-struggles-explained-plus-derek-carrs-revival?

Barnwell ESPN: NFL teams and players most likely to improve or decline the rest of the 2019 season
https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/28074785/nfl-teams-players-most-likely-improve-decline-rest-2019-season

Clark The Ringer: Go for It: The Story Behind the NFL’s Fourth-Down Conversion
Ten years ago this week, the Patriots failed to convert a fourth down in a pivotal loss to the Colts, but they started a conversation about being more aggressive
https://www.theringer.com/nfl/2019/11/13/20962514/nfl-fourth-down-conversion-patriots-lamar-jackson

La Canfora CBS Sports: Troy Vincent explains suspensions from Myles Garrett helmet fight, says 'another wave of fines coming'
https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/troy-vincent-explains-suspensions-from-myles-garrett-helmet-fight-says-another-wave-of-fines-coming/

NFL.com: Kaepernick says he's ready after Atlanta workout
http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001077193/article/colin-kaepernick-says-hes-ready-after-atlanta-workout

Jones USA Today: With workout power move, Colin Kaepernick might have just waved goodbye to last chance at NFL job
https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/columnist/mike-jones/2019/11/17/colin-kaepernick-nfl-workout-teams-atlanta/4221683002/

ARIZONA
Urban Cardinals.com: Growth Spurt: Christian Kirk Leads Receivers Toward Kyler Chemistry
https://www.azcardinals.com/news/christian-kirk-kyler-murray-andy-isabella-grow-together-in-passing-game

Urban Cardinals.com: Maxx Williams Signs Two-Year Extension With Cardinals
https://www.azcardinals.com/news/maxx-williams-signs-two-year-contract-extension-with-cardinals

Bob McManaman (@azbobbymac)
11/16/19, 2:12 PM
In addition to extending Maxx Williams' contract through 2021, the Cardinals have been having contract negotiations with a handful of other players set to become unrestricted free agents, including left tackle D.J. Humphries and center A.Q. Shipley, per source

BALTIMORE
Kelly The Ringer: The Ravens Have Built the NFL’s Most Terrifying—and Fun—Offense
https://www.theringer.com/platform/amp/nfl/2019/11/15/20965903/baltimore-ravens-offense-lamar-jackson

Hensley ESPN Baltimore: Heisman package is latest wrinkle to Ravens' 'indefensible' offense
https://www.espn.com/blog/baltimore-ravens/post/_/id/51310/heisman-package-is-latest-wrinkle-to-ravens-indefensible-offense

Martin Yahoo Sports: Enjoy Lamar Jackson for the QB he is rather than be a killjoy looking for what he isn't
https://sports.yahoo.com/enjoy-lamar-jackson-for-the-qb-he-is-rather-than-be-a-killjoy-looking-for-what-he-isnt-214724000.html

Oyefusi Baltimore Sun: Addition of veteran linemen gives depth to run defense with Michael Pierce a game-time decision
https://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/ravens/bs-sp-ravens-defense-20191115-zmfdrb7rhzhorapbfncfrxbnfy-story.html

CAROLINA
Newton ESPN Charlotte: Success against Julio Jones could pay off for Panthers' James Bradberry
https://www.espn.com/blog/carolina-panthers/post/_/id/32964/covering-julio-jones-could-pay-off-for-panthers-james-bradberry

CHICAGO
Finley Chicago Sun Times: Why the Rams’ long-term plan is a cautionary tale for the Bears
https://chicago.suntimes.com/bears/2019/11/14/20965284/chicago-bears-los-angeles-rams-long-term-plan-jared-goff-todd-gurley-sean-mcvay-matt-nagy-ryan-pace

Morrissey Chicago Sun Times: Bears GM Ryan Pace needs to stop hiding and answer questions about Mitch Trubisky
https://chicago.suntimes.com/platform/amp/bears/2019/11/15/20967006/chicago-bears-gm-ryan-pace-needs-to-stop-hiding-and-answer-questions-about-mitch-trubisky-matt-nagy

Finley Chicago Sun Times: The Bears broke the Rams offense last year, and it has yet to recover
In the 12 games before the Rams played the Bears last year, they averaged 34.9 points and 439.9 yards per game. In the 16 games since — which includes last year’s playoffs — they’ve averaged 24.6 points and 371.1 yards
https://chicago.suntimes.com/bears/2019/11/15/20966977/chicago-bears-broke-la-rams-offense-vic-fangio-chuck-pagano-khalil-mack-prince-amukamara

Campbell Chicago Tribune: How Nick Williams went from being out of the NFL to leading the Bears in sacks
https://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/bears/ct-chicago-bears-nick-williams-sacks-20191115-lr4epu4jdbbljbryc7npfimqau-story.html

CLEVELAND
Patsko Cleveland Plain Dealer: Browns brawl with Steelers: Breaking down the ugly ending to Thursday’s game
https://www.cleveland.com/browns/2019/11/browns-brawl-with-steelers-breaking-down-the-ugly-ending-to-thursdays-game.html

Williams Cleveland Plain Dealer: Baker Mayfield solidified himself as the Cleveland Browns’ undisputed leader after Myles Garrett melee
https://www.cleveland.com/browns/2019/11/baker-mayfield-solidified-himself-as-the-cleveland-browns-undisputed-leader-after-myles-garrett-melee.html

Grove Cleveland Plain Dealer: Odell Beckham Jr. tells cleveland.com he’s upset over volume of random drug tests: ‘Nobody is getting tested like me’

“After Thursday’s game, a clearly frustrated obj walked through the hallway of reporters, telling @clevelanddotcom to write a story about the fact that he’s randomly drug tested after every game and randomly drug tested twice a week”

https://www.cleveland.com/browns/2019/11/odell-beckham-jr-tells-clevelandcom-hes-upset-over-volume-of-random-drug-tests-nobody-is-getting-tested-like-me.html

Cabot Cleveland Plain Dealer: Morgan Burnett lost for the year with a torn Achilles; Antonio Callaway loses appeal of 10-game suspension
https://www.cleveland.com/browns/2019/11/morgan-burnett-lost-for-the-year-with-a-torn-achilles-antonio-callaway-loses-his-appeal-of-10-game-suspension.html

Lesmerises Cleveland Plain Dealer: Joe Schobert held the Cleveland Browns together on a night when they needed to beat Pittsburgh
https://www.cleveland.com/browns/2019/11/joe-schobert-held-the-cleveland-browns-together-on-a-night-they-needed-to-beat-pittsburgh.html

Patsko Cleveland Plain Dealer: How Joe Thomas went from 300-pound Browns left tackle to trim NFL analyst
https://www.cleveland.com/browns/2019/11/how-joe-thomas-went-from-300-pound-browns-left-tackle-to-trim-nfl-analyst.html

DALLAS
Gehlken Dallas Morning News: ‘He’s Kawhi Leonard of the NFL’: Cowboys WR Amari Cooper makes spectacularly improbable catches, he just doesn’t celebrate them
https://www.dallasnews.com/sports/cowboys/2019/11/16/hes-kawhi-leonard-of-the-nfl-cowboys-wr-amari-cooper-makes-spectacularly-improbable-catches-he-just-doesnt-celebrate-them/

Clarence Hill Jr (@clarencehilljr)
11/13/19, 4:00 PM
The Vikings outcoached, outplayed and outschemed the Cowboys. Center Travis Frederick confirmed that Mike Zimmer had the Cowboys facing an unfamiliar front on the final 3rd and 2, causing miscommunication with him and guard Connor Williams that resulted in a 3 yard loss

Gehlken Dallas Morning News: Cowboys are preparing Darian Thompson to start at safety Sunday for Jeff Heath. "He’s a guy that we trust to put out there."
https://www.dallasnews.com/sports/cowboys/2019/11/14/cowboys-s-darian-thompson-expected-to-start-sunday-for-jeff-heath/

DENVER
Newman Denver Post: Broncos scouting report: How Denver matches up against the Vikings and predictions
https://www.denverpost.com/2019/11/16/broncos-scouting-report-at-minnesota-vikings-predictions/

O’Halloran Denver Post: Vic Fangio says time off helped Broncos rookie quarterback Drew Lock
https://www.denverpost.com/2019/11/14/broncos-vic-fangio-on-drew-lock-return/

O’Halloran Denver Post: For Broncos’ young receivers, focus is on consistent development
https://www.denverpost.com/2019/11/16/broncos-young-receivers-azzanni/amp/

Klis 9News Denver: CONNOR MCGOVERN MAKING FAMILY PROUD AS BRONCOS STARTING CENTER
https://www.9news.com/article/sports/nfl/denver-broncos/mike-klis/connor-mcgovern-making-family-proud-as-broncos-starting-center/73-0699280b-96a7-423d-b5ae-6e8fe56b2911

O’Halloran Denver Post: Old friend, familiar offense when Broncos face Vikings and Gary Kubiak
https://www.denverpost.com/2019/11/15/broncos-face-vikings-gary-kubiak/

O’Halloran Denver Post: Broncos Briefs: CB Bryce Callahan headed to surgery to replace “bent screw” in foot
https://www.denverpost.com/2019/11/15/broncos-cb-bryce-callahan-headed-to-surgery/

DETROIT
Birkett Detroit Free Press: How Detroit Lions football opportunity could pay off for backup Jeff Driskel
https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/11/14/jeff-driskel-detroit-lions-matthew-stafford-injury/4183669002/

Birkett Detroit Free Press: In 799 Detroit Lions games, this is what their 'foot mechanic' has done for them
https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/11/16/detroit-lions-football-athletic-trainer-joe-recknagel-milestone/4214070002/

HOUSTON
Wilson Houston Chronicle: Texans rule out Will Fuller, Bradley Roby, won't make trip to Baltimore
https://www.chron.com/sports/texans/article/Texans-rule-out-Will-Fuller-Bradley-Roby-Ravens-14840270.php

Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL)
11/17/19, 12:01 AM
Texans get back two key starters as left tackle Laremy Tunsil (shoulder) and safety Tashaun Gipson (back, wrist) return Sunday for pivotal road game against Ravens. With Bradley Roby out, Texans have new corner Vernon Hargreaves prepping for his first action with new team

Wilson Houston Chronicle: The future of NFL QBs: Deshaun Watson, Lamar Jackson
https://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/texas-sports-nation/texans/article/The-future-of-NFL-QBs-Deshaun-Watson-Lamar-14834795.php

Wilson Houston Chronicle: New Texans corner Hargreaves has a lot to absorb in a hurry
https://www.chron.com/sports/texans/article/New-Texans-corner-Hargreaves-has-a-lot-to-absorb-14836395.php

Wilson Houston Chronicle: Vernon Hargreaves is latest example of Texans' aggressive strategy
https://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/texans/article/Vernon-Hargreaves-is-latest-example-of-Texans-14839165.php

JACKSONVILLE
Frenette Florida Times Union: Jaguars bank on Foles’ leadership skills to deliver playoff run
https://www.jacksonville.com/sports/20191115/gene-frenette-jaguars-bank-on-folesrsquo-leadership-skills-to-deliver-playoff-run

KANSAS CITY
Farmer LA Times: Patrick Mahomes has Chiefs fans transfixed: ‘He’s half-man, half-amazing.’
https://www.latimes.com/sports/chargers/story/2019-11-15/patrick-mahomes-chiefs-fans-hes-half-man-half-amazing

LOS ANGELES CHARGERS
Williams ESPN LA: Chargers' Philip Rivers to evaluate his status after 2019 season
https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/28092932/chargers-philip-rivers-evaluate-status-2019-season

LOS ANGELES RAMS
Klein LA Times: Rams vs. Bears: The biggest stars in the game ... might get crushed by these guys
https://www.latimes.com/sports/rams/story/2019-11-15/rams-aaron-donald-chicago-bears-defense-khalil-mack-sunday-night-football?

Maadi AP: Rams aren’t flying high on offense anymore
https://apnews.com/4d221470973e4d3c8f7ec8d5dfc06252?utm_medium=AP_NFL& utm_source=Twitter& utm_campaign=SocialFlow

Klein LA Times: Rams hope youngsters can keep offense in line against aggressive Bears defense
https://www.latimes.com/sports/rams/story/2019-11-13/rams-hope-youngsters-can-keep-offense-in-line-against-aggressive-bears-defense

MIAMI
Hyde Sun Sentinel: What Tua’s injury could mean for him ... and Dolphins
https://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/dave-hyde/fl-sp-hyde5-tua-draft-20191116-ogxue2ksz5adrmumijigzhqzae-story.html

Deen Sun Sentinel: Kalen Ballage hopes to get into a rhythm, but Dolphins need to address RB in draft
https://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/miami-dolphins/fl-sp-dolphins-kalen-ballage-20191115-imzgs2zixrelrmys6mwtpd6zcu-story.html

Kelly Sun Sentinel: Dolphins using Nik Needham’s emergence as inspiration, and teaching tool for young team
https://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/miami-dolphins/fl-sp-dolphins-bills-advance-20191116-2ika4kjuhverhnqo5opf2yscaq-story.html

MINNESOTA
Craig Minn Star Tribune: Dalvin Cook has been a model back, model teammate for Vikings
http://m.startribune.com/dalvin-cook-has-been-a-model-back-model-teammate-for-vikings/565044612/

Krammer Minn Star Tribune: Yin and Yang: Vikings' Everson Griffen and Danielle Hunter create chaotic harmony
http://www.startribune.com/yin-and-yang-vikings-everson-griffen-and-danielle-hunter-create-chaotic-harmony/565020072/

NEW ENGLAND
Volin Boston Globe: The Patriots are about to start a season-defining stretch, and know they must take them one at a time
https://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/patriots/2019/11/16/the-patriots-are-about-start-season-defining-stretch-and-know-they-must-take-them-one-time/9yIbdKncc8ftPHUlJ94JhP/story.html

Reiss ESPN Boston: Quick-hit thoughts/notes around the Patriots and NFL (Malcolm Mitchell’s rookie WR advice for N’Keal Harry; Tom Brady’s production dips under pressure; Josh Gordon in Seattle; Patriots/Kap; “4 C’s” for a winning culture; Watch for blocked kicks today etc.)
https://www.espn.com/blog/new-england-patriots/post/_/id/4818632/malcolm-mitchell-patriots-rookie-wr-nkeal-harry-needs-thick-skin-to-thrive

Sullivan Boston Globe: The past never matters with the Patriots
https://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/patriots/2019/11/12/the-past-never-matters-with-patriots/lsPT6j3BStvbpUtms2S6XM/story.html

Guregian Boston Herald: Tom Brady, Patriots are the NFL’s best avengers
https://www.bostonherald.com/2019/11/16/tom-brady-patriots-are-the-nfls-best-avengers/amp/

Reiss ESPN Boston: How Patriots soared again after devastating Super Bowl loss to Eagles
https://www.espn.com/blog/new-england-patriots/post/_/id/4818615/how-patriots-soared-again-after-devastating-super-bowl-loss-to-eagles

Callahan Boston Herald: Patriots N’Keal Harry ready for delayed NFL debut
https://www.bostonherald.com/2019/11/14/patriots-nkeal-harry-ready-for-delayed-nfl-debut/

Princiotti Boston Globe: From offensive line to ‘The Office’: Patriots’ Ted Karras takes to the stage
https://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/patriots/2019/11/14/how-patriots-ted-karras-was-able-change-roles-for-night/RKFix5kDjYJ4YoQnaR0foL/story.html

Daniels Providence Journal: Patriots defense looks to rebound against another athletic QB in Carson Wentz
https://www.providencejournal.com/sports/20191113/patriots-defense-looks-to-rebound-against-another-athletic-qb-in-carson-wentz

Yang Boston Globe: Ja’Whaun Bentley, Carsen Edwards friendship just gets stronger
https://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/patriots/2019/11/15/whaun-bentley-carsen-edwards-friendship-just-gets-stronger/V0lmOUk1z0QBG8EJojmBgJ/story.html

Daniels Providence Journal: Patrick Chung returns to Patriots practice
https://www.providencejournal.com/sports/20191113/patrick-chung-returns-to-patriots-practice

NEW ORLEANS
Just Nola.com: "It's like an old rusty car that needs to be tuned up."
Keith Kirkwood felt like he was going to be at the peak of his game. Then the Saints WR hurt his hamstring.
He was back at practice on Wednesday. And, importantly, he feels like himself:
https://www.nola.com/sports/saints/article_521c91c4-0662-11ea-bd01-bba68e41b583.html

Martell AP: AP source: Peat has surgery on broken arm, out about 6 weeks
https://apnews.com/8bd602e0329d4578929b481ac07de00a?utm_source=Twitter& utm_campaign=SocialFlow& utm_medium=AP_NFL

NEW YORK JETS
Cimini ESPN NY: A look at what's happening around the New York Jets:
Le'Veon Bell could be one-and-done with Jets, but there's no easy way out
https://www.espn.com/blog/new-york-jets/post/_/id/81585/leveon-bell-could-be-one-and-done-with-jets-but-theres-no-easy-way-out

Mehta NYDN: Quincy Enunwa incident is latest example that Jets players don’t respect or trust Adam Gase to be their leader
https://www.nydailynews.com/sports/football/jets/ny-quincy-enunwa-adam-gase-players-mad-20191115-xn34z66zwfhuhlv2wxy3bqdbxy-story.html

Mehta NYDN: Jets CEO Christopher Johnson hedges on Jamal Adams’ future with team
https://www.nydailynews.com/sports/football/jets/ny-jamal-adams-christopher-johnson-joe-douglas-20191114-n2wsex6uonbmpelyjg5jegs4xu-story.html

OAKLAND
Kawahara SF Chronicle: Raiders coach Jon Gruden: ‘a lot of respect’ for winless Bengals
https://www.sfchronicle.com/raiders/amp/Raiders-Jon-Gruden-A-lot-of-respect-for-14839079.php

Wagaman AP: Healthy and happy, Ferrell starting to pay off for Raiders
https://apnews.com/9eff406cb16149c8a22f8ed4c3aa441e?utm_source=Twitter& utm_medium=AP_NFL& utm_campaign=SocialFlow

Bair NBC Bay Area: Benson Mayowa's steady pressure helps raise status of Raiders pass rush
https://www.nbcsports.com/bayarea/raiders/benson-mayowas-steady-pressure-helps-raise-status-raiders-pass-rush

PHILADELPHIA
McLane Phil Inquirer: Cursing is a bleeping way of life for NFL players. The Eagles are no different
https://www.inquirer.com/eagles/eagles-cursing-carson-wentz-brian-dawkins-20191113.html

Domowitch Phil Inquirer: Eagles-Patriots and the Week 11 numbers that matter |
https://www.inquirer.com/eagles/philadelphia-eagles-patriots-tom-brady-super-bowl-lii-third-down-carson-wentz-average-drive-start-takeaways-20191117.html

Bowen Phil Inquirer: Standing across the line from the Patriots on Sunday won’t stir any memories for Carson Wentz
https://www.inquirer.com/eagles/carson-wentz-tom-brady-eagles-patriots-bill-belichick-doug-pederson-super-bowl-lii-20191114.html

Smith Phil Inquirer: Eagles sign Jay Ajayi as Jordan Howard is questionable for Sunday with shoulder injury
https://www.inquirer.com/eagles/philadelphia-eagles-jay-ajayi-jordan-howard-injury-report-shoulder-20191115.html

Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet)
11/17/19, 6:35 AM
Newly signed #Eagles RB Jay Ajayi, just signed on Friday, is expected to be suited up for Philly vs. the #Patriots, source said. Miles Sanders and Boston Scott will carry the load, but Ajayi should get touches, too

McLane Phil Inquirer: Is assistant coach Carson Walch to blame for Eagles’ WR woes?
https://www.inquirer.com/newsletters/eagles/philadelphia-eagles-wide-receivers-struggling-alshon-jeffery-nelson-agholor-newsletter-20191113.html

Sielski Phil Inquirer: Eagles’ Alshon Jeffery and Patriots’ Stephon Gilmore: Friends who don’t speak, rivals who don’t taunt
https://www.inquirer.com/eagles/philadelphia-eagles-new-england-patriots-stephon-gilmore-alshon-jeffery-steve-spurrier-jr-20191113.html

Hayes Phil Inquirer: For peerless Eagles guard Brandon Brooks, anxiety and injury are no match
https://www.inquirer.com/eagles/eagles-brandon-brooks-20191112.html

Smith Phil Inquirer: Eagles’ Brandon Brooks on contract extension: ‘I don’t want to play anywhere else, I love the city, love the fans
https://www.inquirer.com/eagles/philadelphia-eagles-brandon-brooks-extension-contract-sign-achilles-pff-20191113.html

McLane Phil Inquirer: Jim Schwartz’s sway within the Eagles is unparalleled for a coordinator
https://www.inquirer.com/sports/eagles-jim-schwartz-defensive-coordinator-doug-pederson-chris-long-bill-belichick-20191116.html

Ford Phil Inquirer: Will Sunday’s game be another Jim (Schwartz) workout for Tom Brady?
https://www.inquirer.com/eagles/tom-brady-new-england-patriots-eagles-super-bowl-jim-schwartz-philadelphia-20191115.html

PITTSBURGH
Batko Pittsburgh Post Gazette: Short-handed Steelers ran out of gas during key sequence against Browns
https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/steelers/2019/11/16/pittsburgh-steelers-cleveland-browns-johnny-holton-jaylen-samuels/stories/201911160017

Batko Pittsburgh Post Gazette: Steelers sign receiver Deon Cain, running back Kerrith Whyte
https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/steelers/2019/11/16/Steelers-sign-receiver-Deon-Cain-running-back-Kerrith-Whyte/stories/201911160052

Pryor ESPN Pittsburgh: From fear of dogs to epic dog dad: Boujee has changed Steelers receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster
https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/28072109/from-fear-dogs-epic-dog-dad-boujee-changed-pittsburgh-steelers-receiver-juju-smith-schuster

SAN FRANCISCO
Branch SF Chronicle: 49ers’ Emmanuel Sanders plans to play with painful injury
https://www.sfchronicle.com/49ers/amp/49ers-Emmanuel-Sanders-plans-to-play-with-14839048.php

Branch SF Chronicle: 49ers’ Joe Staley back on shelf after finger surgery
https://www.sfchronicle.com/49ers/amp/49ers-George-Kittle-Joe-Staley-won-t-play-14833282.php

Branch SF Chronicle: Last time for a legend? 49ers could play last game against Larry Fitzgerald
https://www.sfchronicle.com/49ers/amp/Last-time-for-a-legend-49ers-could-play-last-14839656.php

Hutchinson KNBR: Damontre Moore’s Sunday ‘torture’ is over: How he stayed ready, expectant of 49ers return
http://www.knbr.com/2019/11/13/damontre-moores-sunday-torture-is-over-how-he-stayed-ready-expectant-of-49ers-return/

Branch SF Chronicle: Unlike others: 49ers’ Fred Warner has been model of health, reliability
https://www.sfchronicle.com/49ers/article/Unlike-the-others-49ers-Fred-Warner-has-been-14840668.php

SEATTLE
Bell News Tribune: Carroll: NFL talking to Seahawks on officiating Russell Wilson differently than other QBs
https://amp.thenewstribune.com/sports/nfl/seattle-seahawks/article237388889.html

Condotta Seattle Times: Three questions the Seahawks defense faces entering the bye week
https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/seahawks/three-questions-for-seahawks-defense-will-shaquem-griffin-play-more-and-what-happens-now-at-safety/

Farrar Touchdownwire USA Today: Jadeveon Clowney's arrival game came at the perfect time for Seahawks
https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2019/11/14/jadeveon-clowneys-arrival-game-came-at-the-perfect-time-for-seahawks/

TAMPA BAY
Encina TB Times: A Bucs fan’s lament: ‘Non-competitive team, very expensive, very hot.’

Two teams are keeping the Bucs out of the NFL’s attendance basement. One is winless and the other plays in a 30,000-seat soccer stadium
https://www.tampabay.com/sports/bucs/2019/11/16/a-bucs-fans-lament-non-competitive-team-very-expensive-very-hot/

Stroud TB Times: Bruce Arians versus the refs: An undercard for most Bucs contests
https://www.tampabay.com/sports/bucs/2019/11/16/bruce-arians-versus-the-refs-an-undercard-for-most-bucs-contests/

Encina TB Times: Bruce Arians on Colin Kaepernick: ‘He’s 32 with a bad shoulder’
https://www.tampabay.com/sports/bucs/2019/11/15/bruce-arians-on-colin-kaepernick-hes-32-with-a-bad-shoulder/?

Stroud TB Times: Bucs-Saints: How the NFL is getting Mossed by Mike Evans
https://www.tampabay.com/sports/bucs/2019/11/16/bucs-saints-how-the-nfl-is-getting-mossed-by-mike-evans/

Encina TB Times: Bucs defensive tackle Vita Vea used to being an offensive weapon
https://www.tampabay.com/sports/bucs/2019/11/14/bucs-defensive-tackle-vita-vea-used-to-being-an-offensive-weapon/

Romano TB Times: Lavonte David is the star Tampa Bay has not always recognized
https://www.tampabay.com/sports/bucs/2019/11/16/lavonte-david-is-the-star-tampa-bay-has-not-always-recognized/

Laine ESPN TB: Rookie Devin White becomes tone-setter Bucs' defense needs
https://www.espn.com/blog/tampa-bay-buccaneers/post/_/id/23132/rookie-devin-white-becomes-tone-setter-bucs-defense-needs?

Laine ESPN TB: Vernon Hargreaves wanted so badly to be a Buccaneer, he had “Tampa” etched on his cleats at the combine. But he broke a cardinal Bruce Arians rule Sunday: “You can’t play hard, you can’t play here.” And that’s why he’s gone
https://www.espn.com/blog/tampa-bay-buccaneers/post/_/id/23123/bruce-arians-sends-powerful-message-about-culture-change-in-tampa

WASHINGTON
Carpenter Washington Post: Five keys for the Redskins against the Jets
https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2019/11/17/five-keys-redskins-against-jets/

Whyno AP: Not pretty but progress: Jets give Redskins look into future
https://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/nfl/bs-sp-cs-fbn-redskins-jets-advance-20191116-adbsmwmltbcublqxxelfhg352e-story.html

Carpenter Washington Post: “A lot of people say we haven’t been the same since we lost Alex,” linebacker Ryan Anderson said.
Or, as Jay Gruden said the day he was fired: “We just couldn’t get over the Alex thing.”
https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2019/11/14/alex-smith-held-redskins-together-year-since-his-broken-leg-its-all-fallen-apart/

Keim ESPN Washington: Redskins' invigorated Dwayne Haskins sees 'a different me'
https://www.espn.com/blog/washington-redskins/post/_/id/39252/redskins-invigorated-dwayne-haskins-sees-a-different-me?

Svrulga Washington Post: Of the countless Redskins questions, Dwayne Haskins can provide the first answer
https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/redskins/of-the-countless-redskins-questions-dwayne-haskins-can-provide-the-first-answer/2019/11/15/14961e80-07d2-11ea-818c-fcc65139e8c2_story.html

Copeland Washington Post: Redskins will be without Paul Richardson Jr. and Chris Thompson against the Jets
https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2019/11/15/redskins-will-be-without-paul-richardson-jr-chris-thompson-against-jets/?

Carpenter Washington Post: Montez Sweat wants more sacks for Redskins: ‘They didn’t bring me here to stop the run’
https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2019/11/14/montez-sweat-wants-more-sacks-redskins-they-didnt-bring-me-here-stop-run/

Carpenter Washington Post: An apparent OD in Montae Nicholson’s home leaves a woman dead and a family with questions
https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2019/11/15/redskins-player-who-dropped-overdosed-woman-hospital-practices-might-play-this-weekend/?

Colleges/Draft

Kubena NO Advocate: LSU hangs on in blow-for-blow battle against Ole Miss, one game from clinching SEC West
https://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/sports/lsu/article_49420886-08c4-11ea-843a-0b94175b1292.html

Rabalais NO Advocate: LSU rolls to 10-0, but 'nobody's feeling good' as defense flounders at Ole Miss
https://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/sports/lsu/article_7dc70fe4-08be-11ea-ac14-330b3a2d1a49.html

Lesmerises Cleveland Plain Dealer: Ohio State football is in March Madness and Rutgers was its No. 16 seed
https://www.cleveland.com/osu/2019/11/ohio-state-football-is-in-march-madness-and-rutgers-was-its-no-16-seed.html

Weiszer Athens Banner Herald: Bulldogs hold on against Auburn for another SEC East title
https://www.onlineathens.com/sports/20191116/bulldogs-hold-on-against-auburn-for-another-sec-east-title

Elliott LA Times: UCLA’s masquerade as a winner ends after Utah exposes its true nature
https://www.latimes.com/sports/ucla/story/2019-11-16/ucla-true-nature-exposed-by-utah-after-blowout-loss-pac-12

Kartje LA Times: Kedon Slovis powers USC’s offensive barrage in victory over Cal
https://www.latimes.com/sports/usc/story/2019-11-16/kedon-slovis-powers-usc-offensive-barrage-in-victory-over-cal

QB
Thamel Yahoo Sports: In with a flourish and out with tears, here's Tua Tagovailoa's Alabama legacy
https://sports.yahoo.com/in-with-a-flourish-and-out-with-tears-heres-tua-tagovailoas-powerful-bama-legacy-045230960.html

Calkins Seattle Times: Jacob Eason has a choice: Declare for the NFL draft or lead UW to a potentially historic season
https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/uw-husky-football/heres-why-huskies-qb-jacob-eason-should-return-in-2020-and-not-leave-for-the-nfl-draft/?

Means Cleveland Plain Dealer: Grading quarterback Justin Fields’ performance in Ohio State football’s road win over Rutgers
https://www.cleveland.com/osu/2019/11/grading-quarterback-justin-fields-performance-in-ohio-state-footballs-road-win-over-rutgers.html

Davison Fort Worth Star Telegram: ‘He just keeps getting better.’ TCU’s Max Duggan takes another step vs. Texas Tech.
https://www.star-telegram.com/sports/college/big-12/texas-christian-university/article237448054.html

History

NFL.com: 'NFL 100 Greatest' Teams, No. 12: 1986 New York Giants
https://sports.yahoo.com/amphtml/nfl-100-greatest-teams-no-020242601.html

Giants Birthdays 11-17

Tyrone Davis CB D3-Clemson 1985 NYG 1985 11-17-1961

Tony Ugoh T/TE W-DET 2011 NYG 2011 11-17-1983

Larrye Weaver HB/DB UDFA-Fullerton JC 1955 NYG 1955 11-17-1931

Capital Journal Salem Oregon (8-8-1955)
“HE'S A LEAPING LEOPOLD Larrye Weaver, rookie halfback with the New York Giants was in a fairly exclusive circle in anolher sport before signing a pro tontract. He was one o 14 track men who bettered 25 feet in the broad jump last year (only lour did better than 26 feet) while he was in the Air Force in California at Antelope Junior college. By coincidence, too, he has unpleasant recollections about McCulloch Stadium where he competed in the Willamette Belays last spring on that miser able, cold, windy, rainy day and pulled a muscle on the broad jump runway. Not being able to continue, he placed fourth for his .Mather Air Force Base team. He's considered quite a prospect in pro football ranks, also.”

Made his mark as a offensive coordinator:

“Weaver joined the Chargers' staff in 1977 and served as defensive backfield coach for four seasons.
In 1981 he moved to the offense and guided the team to NFL records for total net yardage (6,744) and passing yardage (4,873) in a single season. The Chargers averaged 321 yards passing per game in the strike-shortened 1982 season, setting a new league record.
He was guarded about his reasons for leaving San Diego.
'All I'm saying is that I'm leaving for personal reasons,' Weaver said.
'Larrye Weaver is the right man at the right time for the Cleveland Browns,' said Rutigliano, who worked with Weaver on the New England Patriots' staff in 1973.
'He is respected as one of the finest coaches in the league because he's had success on both sides of the ball,' he added. 'The Chargers' offensive domination is one indication of Larrye's ability.
'He is also recognized as a defensive coaching standout and I feel fortunate that we could attract him to our staff.'”

In Memoriam

Ox Parry RT UDFA-Baylor 1937 NYG 1937-1939 Born 11-17-1914 Died 3-02-1975