Next week we will be switching to Game Preview format, since most of the film has solidified by midseason.
From Week 9:
BUF MIA
JAX PHI
CHI ARI
LAR SEA
LAC CHI
Buffalo Bills - Miami Dolphins 30-27
Josh Allen is on an unbelievable run. He'd be the obvious MVP if it were not for Lamar. The Bills roster is one of the least special in the league. Before Amari Cooper, Josh would just run around waiting for someone to get open. He had two games of fresh air, hit yardage overs in both (283 vs SEA, 323 vs TEN), then immediately fell back into scramble mode with Amari out. Nevertheless, he persisted. And overcame.
Keon Coleman is clearly a complementary piece at this point in his career. Not yet showing up with consistency. Most of his highlights over the last couple weeks were built on a bully ball game that is not a sustainable form of combat. He may flash on a back shoulder throw, but he's not separating in man coverage enough to get high volume.
MIAMI
Tua Tagovailoa fixed everything wrong with the offense. They're back to putting up 27 points with regularity. The playcalling is more confident. He lifts everyone up.
It's safe to say that the FUN is back. Every dropback feels precarious, but what choice do they have. Tua's the only one on the roster who can operate this offense. A real contingency plan will need to be built in the offseason.
All systems go for the Dolphins WRs next week. The Rams DBs are sleepwalking through every game. A bet for Tyreek and Waddle is a prayer for Tua. And I'm a very religious man.
Philadelphia Eagles - Jacksonville Jaguars 28-23
PHILADELPHIA
Saquon Barkley is healing. It's such a beautiful thing to see someone you love finally thriving. It was a long road to get back to his explosive self but we have officially arrived. Chase the thread below if you'd like a recap of ACL & ankle recovery journey that he's been on.
Saquon's greatness had been subdued for so many years. To see him operate in this environment is like breaking through the atmosphere.
No one is surprised to see Devonta Smith stepping up in AJ Brown's absence, but it's always nice to get the reminder of his special ability. If AJ misses anytime, Devonta is simply a WR1.
This incomplete pass is emblematic of some of the problems with Jalen Hurts' passing game. It's not specifically Jalen's fault, but the decision to lob instead of drive the ball allows the defender to work to it. AJ Brown can do a better job of staying consistent on his path, but it's these occasional missed opportunities that keep Hurts from reaching Lamar Jackson status. An unfair expectation for any player, but worth the observation.
