NFL Preseason Week 3 Preview: Philadelphia at Cleveland
By ATSSportsline.com
Philadelphia at Cleveland
Current Line: Cleveland (-4/38')
Philadelphia is at Cleveland at 7:30pmET from Cleveland Browns Stadium on Friday night. Philadelphia beat New England, 27-17 on Monday night laying 3. The Browns are coming off winning both of their preseason games, including a 35-10 win over Green Bay on the road. Last year in preseason, Philadelphia won at home, 24-14 laying 6. These two teams will open the season on Sept. 9 back at Cleveland.
Weather: 77 degrees, 8% chance of rain.
Philadelphia is coming off a disappointing 8-8 SU season (8-8 ATS, 8-7-1 O/U) as expectations were much higher. Andy Reid is 20-32 SU in preseason and is 22-30 ATS and 27-21-1 Over. The Browns are coming off another disappointing 5-11 SU season, they were 7-7-2 ATS and 5-11 Under. Last year, they went 1-3 ATS in the preseason. Pat Shurmur is in his second season as head coach and went 1-3 ATS, 1-3 SU and 3-1 Over his first year.
Outlook: Though the third game of the preseason is usually the one in which NFL teams are most apt to show their hand, expect the Philadelphia Eagles and Cleveland Browns to remain rather poker-faced when they get together on Friday.
The two clubs will be squaring off just 16 days before they'll be facing one another again with a lot more on the line, with the Eagles also invading Cleveland Browns Stadium for the Sept. 9 regular-season opener. As a result, both figure to be very vanilla with the game plans and likely less inclined to have prominent players on the field for extended periods.
Philadelphia treated Monday's Week 2 matchup at New England as its primary warm-up for the real games, with the majority of the Eagles' starters working into the third quarter of their 27-17 win. That wasn't the case for Michael Vick, however, as the brittle quarterback saw action for only six plays before exiting with a rib contusion midway through the first quarter.
Vick, who was also forced into an early exit during Philadelphia's preseason lid-lifter against Pittsburgh because of a bruised throwing thumb, should be fine for the Week 1 matchup with the Browns but won't participate in Friday's tilt. With main backup Mike Kafka also on the shelf due to a broken left hand, impressive rookie Nick Foles will lead the Eagles' offense at the outset of this game.
Foles delivered a second straight strong performance after relieving Vick against the Patriots, with the 2012 third-round draft choice amassing 217 yards and two touchdowns on 18-of-28 passing with one interception. He also came through with a pair of scoring throws in the Eagles' 24-23 decision over the Steelers on Aug. 9 and has registered a 118.4 quarterback rating through his first two outings, the best of any player thus far in this preseason.
The Browns received a good effort from their first-year signal-caller as well in their most recent go-around, with expected starter Brandon Weeden contributing to last week's 35-10 triumph at Green Bay by completing 12-of-20 passes for 118 yards while operating the entire first half.
Cleveland's defense did its part as well, limiting a sloppy Packers squad to 228 total yards and 10 first downs and forcing four turnovers on the night. Reserve safety David Sims had the most notable takeaway, intercepting Green Bay quarterback Graham Harrell and returning the pick 38 yards for a touchdown early in the third quarter.
The Browns succeeded on that side of the ball despite the absence of several starters, with linebackers D'Qwell Jackson (shoulder), Scott Fujita (leg) and Chris Gocong (torn Achilles) and linemen Phil Taylor (torn pectoral), Ahtyba Rubin (pelvic surgery) and Frostee Rucker (knee) all not present. Nickel back Dimitri Patterson also missed the contest with a sprained right ankle.
Fujita, Taylor, Gocong and Patterson are among the Cleveland contingent expected to be held out once again this week, a group that will also include rookie running back Trent Richardson as the fifth overall pick in April's draft continues to recover from a recent knee scope.
Wide receiver Mohamed Massaquoi (head) and tight ends Benjamin Watson (undisclosed) and Jordan Cameron (back), all of whom were inactive against the Packers, could be ready to return for Friday's test. Jackson and Rubin are possibilities as well if the coaching staff elects to give the two valued defenders the green light.
In addition to Vick and Kafka, other notable Eagles certain to sit out are defensive end Jason Babin (calf), offensive tackle Jason Peters (torn Achilles), defensive tackle Mike Patterson (brain surgery). Cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, who left the New England game with a shoulder injury, and linebacker Jamar Chaney (hamstring) are both questionable for Philadelphia.
Gocong, who's out for the entire 2012 season, and Patterson are one of four former Eagles on the current Cleveland defense, with veteran cornerback Sheldon Brown and end Juqua Parker also having previously played for Philadelphia. Several ties to the Eagles also exist on the sideline and in the front office, with head coach Pat Shurmur having served as Philly's quarterback coach under Andy Reid from 2002-08 and general manager Tom Heckert spending nine years with the Eagles organization before joining the Browns.
Key Injuries: Philadelphia: QB Michael Vick (ribs) will not play in the final 2 preseason games. QB Mike Kafka (hand) is out 2-3 weeks. DT Mike Patterson (brain surgery) and DE Jason Babin (torn calf) are out. Cleveland: DL Phil Taylor (pec),RB Trent Richardson (knee) are out. LB Scott Fujita (leg) is out. LB Chris Gocong (Achilles) is out for the season. CB Dimitri Patterson (ankle) is out. CB Joe Haden (susp/disp.) is ?
Preseason Trends:
Philadelphia is 2-11 ATS off BB Overs
Cleveland is 1-5 ATS as faves off SU win.
QB Rotations:
Philadelphia
Michael Vick (inj.)
Trent Edwards
Nick Foles (R)
Mike Kafka (inj.)
QB Rotations:
Cleveland
Brandon Weeden (R)
Colt McCoy
Seneca Wallace
Thaddeus Lewis
NFL Preseason Logs Last 6 Years
Philadelphia
2006 Results
at Oakland L -3 10-16 u36
(at Canton, OH)
Cleveland W -3’ 20-7 u33
at Baltimore L +3 10-20 u34
Pittsburgh W -3 16-7 u35
at NY Jets W +5 17-20 o31
2007 Results
at Baltimore L +3’ 3-29 o31’
Carolina W -3 27-10 o35
at Pittsburgh L +3 13-27 o35’
NY Jets L -2’ 11-13 u36’
2008 Results
at Pittsburgh L +1 10-16 u33'
CAROLINA W -3 24-13 o36
at New England W +3 27-17 o37
NY JETS L -3 20-27 o35'
2009 Results
NEW ENGL. L +3 27-38 o37
at Indy L -3’ 15-23 o36’
JACKSO L -7’ 33-32 o37’
at NY Jets L +3 27-38 o37
2010 Results
Jacksonville L -3 28-27 o33
at Cincinnati L +2’ 9-22 u39
at Kansas City W -1’ 20-17 u40
NY Jets L -2 17-21 o34
2011 Results
BALTIMORE W -3 13-6 u34
at Pittsburgh L +3 14-24 o35’
CLEVELAND W -6’ 24-14 u39
at NY Jets W -3’ 24-14 o36
2012 Results
Pittsburgh P -1 24-23 o35
at New Engl. W -3 27-17 o40
CLEVELAND
2006 Results
at Philadelphia L +3' 7-20 u33
DETROIT W -2' 20-16 o34
at Buffalo W +3' 20-17 o34'
CHICAGO L -3 7-20 u33'
2007 Results
K. CITY W -3 16-12 u34'
DETROIT L -2' 20-23 o35'
at Denver W +6 17-16 u37
at Chicago W +4 19-9 u37
2008 Results
NY JETS L -4 20-24 o35
at NY Giants L +2 34-37 o36
at Detroit L +2' 6-26 u41
CHICAGO L -2' 10-16 u38
2009 Results
at Green Bay L +3 0-17 u35
DETROIT W -3 27-10 u38’
TENNESSEE W -1 23-17 o37’
at Chicago L +2’ 23-26 o36
2010 Results
at Green Bay W +3 27-24 o34
ST. LOUIS L -4 17-19 o35’
at Detroit L +3 27-35 o41
CHICAGO W +1’ 13-10 u37
2011 Results
GREEN BAY W +3 27-24 o34
DETROIT L -2’ 28-30 o38
at Philadelphia L +6’ 14-24 u39
at Chicago L pk 14-24 o36
2012 Results
at Detroit W +3 19-17 p36
at Green Bay W +3 35-10 o40
ATSSportsline.com has been providing winning sports picks since 1992. Want more from ATS Consultants? Free NFL Football Picks delivered directly to your inbox with no obligation!
NFL Preseason Week 3 Preview: Atlanta at Miami
By ATSSportsline.com
Atlanta at Miami
Current line: Atlanta (-3/42)
Atlanta takes on Miami at 7:30pmET at Sun Life Stadium on Friday night. Miami has lost their first two games, including last week against Carolina on the road, 23-17, getting 3. Atlanta has lost both games including last week's 24-19 home game vs. Cincinnati, laying 4'. Last year, Miami beat Atlanta getting 2, 28-23 in preseason.
Weather: 83 degrees, 20% chance of Thunderstorms.
Miami is coming off a 6-10 SU season, and they were 8-7-1 ATS and 4-12 Under. Last year, they went 3-1 ATS in the preseason while Joe Philbin is the new coach.
Outlook: Joe Philbin has just made the most important decision thus far in his short tenure with the Miami Dolphins. Ryan Tannehill now gets his chance to prove that his new head coach made the right choice.
In his first appearance since being named Miami's starting quarterback, Tannehill will lead the Dolphins into battle for Friday's preseason skirmish with the Atlanta Falcons from Sun Life Stadium. The promising rookie came out on top of a three-man competition with veterans Matt Moore and David Garrard after acquitting himself well in the team's first two exhibition games, and officially won the job after outperforming Moore in last week's 23-17 loss at Carolina.
Tannehill wasn't stellar in his first NFL start, with the first-round selection completing just 11-of-23 passes for 100 yards and taking three sacks, but didn't turn the ball over while playing the entire first half and was more impressive than Moore, a 12-game starter for the Dolphins a year ago. The former Panther connected on an off-target 5-of-15 throws for 57 yards on the night.
Garrard had already essentially eliminated himself from consideration after the injury-prone 34-year-old underwent arthroscopic knee surgery at the onset of the preseason.
Through the first two weeks, Tannehill has amassed 267 yards on 25-of-48 passing with one touchdown and no interceptions.
Tannehill should have a challenge on his hands this week from an Atlanta defense now being directed by Mike Nolan, who had spent the previous two seasons as the Dolphins' defensive coordinator. Nolan's unit did allow a pair of long touchdown drives in the Falcons' most recent outing, though, a 24-19 setback to Cincinnati at the Georgia Dome.
Miami's stop unit should have its top pass rusher back in action after defensive end Cameron Wake returned to practice this week. The converted outside linebacker missed the Carolina game while recovering from injuries sustained in a minor car accident. Linebacker Kevin Burnett is also slated to return after being sidelined with a back issue the last two weeks.
Middle linebacker Karlos Dansby (knee) and wide receiver Brian Hartline (calf) will likely stay on the Dolphins' inactive list for Friday's clash, however.
While Atlanta's defense had a so-so showing, quarterback Matt Ryan continued his sizzling start to this preseason. The fifth-year pro was a razor-sharp 18- of-21 for 174 yards and a touchdown before giving way to backup Chris Redman late in the first half.
Ryan also shined in the Falcons' 31-17 defeat to Baltimore in the preseason opener, making good on 9-of-13 attempts for 155 yards with one touchdown and an interception. Wide receiver Julio Jones has stood out as well, with the physically gifted second-year target having racked up 150 yards on nine grabs in Atlanta's two games.
The Falcons will be attempting to halt a seven-game losing streak in preseason play, which includes a 28-23 ousting by the Dolphins at the Georgia Dome last summer. They'll also be doing so without the services of running back Jason Snelling (lower leg), defensive tackle Corey Peters (foot) and offensive swing tackle Will Svitek, out for the entire 2012 campaign after suffering an upper arm injury that will require surgery in Sunday's practice.
Atlanta is expected to get Akeem Dent back on defense after the projected starting middle linebacker was held out against the Bengals with a concussion.
Key Injuries: Miami: WR Brian Hartline (calf) is dbtful.OG Eric Steinbach has retired.
LB Karlos Dansby (knee) is out. QB D.Garrard (knee) is out. Atlanta: OT Will Svitek (arm) is out.
Preseason Trends:
Miami: 26-14 ATS as an underdog
Miami is 1-5 Under as a home underdog
Miami is 1-7 Under in Week 3.
Atlanta is 1-5 ATS as a favorite
Atlanta is 1-6 ATS away off BB SU/ATS losses.
QB Rotations:
Atlanta
Matt Ryan
Chris Redman
John Parker-Wilson
Dominique Davis (R)
Miami
Matt Moore
Ryan Tannehill (R)
David Garrard (inj.)
Pat Devlin
NFL Preseason Logs Last 6 Years
Miami
2006 Results
Jacksonville L -1’ 26-31 o33
at Tampa Bay W +2 13-10 u34’
at Carolina L +4 10-19 u36’
St. Louis W -3 29-9 o35’
2007 Results
Jacksonville W +1’ 18-17 o34
at Kansas City W +3 11-10 u34
Tampa Bay L +2 28-31 o34
at New Orleans L -1 0-7 u38
2008 Results
TAMPA BAY L -2 6-17 u32
at Jacksonville W +3' 19-14 u35
K. CITY W -3 24-0 u34
at New Orleans W +1 14-10 u35
2009 Results
JACKSONVILLE T -3 12-9 u33
CAROLINA W -3 27-17 o33’
at Tampa Bay W +2’ 10-6 u37
at New Orleans W +3 10-7 u36’
2010 Results
TAMPA BAY L -3’ 10-7 u33’
at Jacksonville W +1’ 27-26 o35’
Atlanta L -2’ 6-16 u38’
at Dallas L -3 25-27 o37
2011 Results
at Atlanta W +2 28-23 o33’
CAROLINA W -6 20-10 u34
at Tampa Bay L +3’ 13-17 u36
DALLAS W -3’ 17-3 u36’
2012 Results
Baltimore L -1 17-31 o35
Cincinnati L -4' 19-24 o38
ATLANTA (AT)
2006 Results
NEW ENG. N -3 26-23 o35'
at Green Bay L +3 10-38 o36
at Tennessee W P 20-6 u38
J'VILLE L -4' 17-20 o36
2007 Results
at NY Jets L +3' 16-31 o32'
at Buffalo W +3 13-10 u34
CINCY W +3 24-19 o38'
BALT. W +3' 13-10 u34
2008 Results
at Jacksonville W +4 17-20 o34
INDY L -3 9-16 u38
TENN. W -3 17-3 u35
at Baltimore W +2' 10-9 u33'
2009 Results
at Detroit W +3’ 26-27 o34’
at St. Louis W -2’ 20-13 u36
SAN DIEGO W -2’ 27-24 o42’
BALTIMORE L -3 3-20 u35’
2010 Results
KANSAS CITY W -2’ 20-10 u34
NEW ENGLAND L -3 10-28 o37’
at Miami W +2’ 16-6 u38’
at Jacksonville L +3 9-13 u37’
2011 Results
MiIAMI L -2 23-28 o33’
at Jacksonville W +3 13-15 u37’
at Pittsburgh L +3 16-34 o35’
BALTIMORE L -3 7-21 u38
2012 Results
Tampa Bay L -3 7-20 u33
at Carolina L +3 17-23 o38
ATSSportsline.com has been providing winning sports picks since 1992. Want more from ATS Consultants? Free NFL Football Picks delivered directly to your inbox with no obligation!
NFL Preseason Week 3 Preview: New England at Tampa Bay
By ATSSportsline.com
New England at Tampa Bay
Current line: New England (-6'/44)
Tennessee takes on Tampa Bay at 7:30pmET from Raymond James Stadium on Friday night. The Titans are coming off losing at Seattle, 27-17, getting 3, while Tampa Bay defeated Miami on the road, 20-7 as a 3-point dog. These two teams met in the regular season last year, with Tennessee (-3/44) winning, 23-17.
Weather: 83 degrees, 30% chance of Thunderstorms.
New England is coming off a 13-3 SU season in 2011, while going 9-7 ATS and 11-5 O/U. Last year, they went 2-2 ATS in the preseason, while Bill Belichick is 38-31 SU lifetime in preseason (36-28-5 ATS, 25-33-2 Under). Tampa Bay is coming off a disappointing 4-12 season, they were 4-12 ATS and 10-6 Over. Last year, they went 3-1 ATS in the preseason and Greg Schiano is a brand new coach.
Outlook: The New England Patriots may only have a few days to prepare for Friday's preseason clash with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but the defending AFC champions will still be entering Raymond James Stadium as a very rested team.
Patriots head coach Bill Belichick opted to hold out a plethora of big-name players for Monday's game against Philadelphia, with quarterback Tom Brady the most prominent member of that long list. Also among those given the night off were wide receivers Wes Welker and Brandon Lloyd, tight end Aaron Hernandez, defensive tackle Vince Wilfork, linebacker Jerod Mayo, defensive end Rob Ninkovich and cornerback Devin McCourty.
All of the above are fully expected to be back in uniform for Friday's tussle, which will serve as the primary regular-season prep for both teams. New England may have a few previously injured members now available as well, with All-Pro left guard Logan Mankins (knee surgery), right tackle Sebastian Vollmer (back) and tight end Daniel Fells (leg) all activated from the physically unable to perform list within the last two weeks.
The Patriots likely won't have starting safety Patrick Chung, who left Monday's 27-17 loss to the Eagles after hurting his shoulder, while wide receiver Jabar Gaffney (leg) and tight end Visanthe Shiancoe (hamstring) figure to sit out another week after also missing the Philadelphia game.
New England also surprisingly released veteran defensive lineman Jonathan Fanene on Tuesday, citing an unreported knee condition as the reasoning.
Ryan Mallett and Brian Hoyer struggled in stepping in for Brady on Monday, with the backup duo completing a combined 15-of-37 attempts for 160 yards on the night. Mallett did throw a touchdown pass to Alex Silvestro early in the second quarter, however.
McCourty and Silvestro, a former defensive lineman attempting to make the Pats as a converted tight end, both played collegiately for former Rutgers head coach Greg Schiano, a close associate of Belichick who's in his first year in charge of the rebuilding Buccaneers.
Schiano's debut went rather well, with the Bucs posting a 20-7 victory at Miami in their preseason opener, but weren't anywhere near as sharp in last Friday's 30-7 trouncing at the hands of visiting Tennessee.
Tampa Bay's offense was virtually non-existent against the Titans, producing a paltry 81 total yards and six first downs for the contest. Starting signal- caller Josh Freeman did complete a short touchdown pass to Mike Williams in the first quarter, but ended his evening just 4-of-10 for 21 yards.
Rookie running back Doug Martin, one of two first-round picks by the Buccaneers in this past draft, compiled 23 rushing yards on seven carries in the loss. The Boise State product could be in line for quite a bit of action in this one, with backfield mate LeGarette Blount's status in question after straining his groin in Friday's setback.
Schiano is hopeful tight end Luke Stocker will be ready to go after missing last week's tilt with a concussion, but left tackle Donald Penn (calf), wide receiver Arrelious Benn (knee), defensive end Da'Quan Bowers (Achilles) and cornerback E.J. Biggers (broken foot) remain sidelined for Tampa Bay.
Brady threw for a pair of touchdowns in New England's 31-14 triumph over the Bucs at Raymond James Stadium last August. Tampa Bay has usually had the upper hand in this preseason series, however, winning seven of the nine all-time exhibition meetings between the clubs.
Key Injuries: New England: S Patrick Chung (shldr) is ? OT Sebastian Vollmer (back) is dbtful. OG Logan Mankins (knee), LB Brandon Spikes (knee) are on the PUP list. Tampa Bay: RB LeGarrette Blount (groin) is ? WR Arrelious Benn (knee) is out indef.
Preseason Trends:
New England is 2-7 Under after allowing 400+ total yards
Tampa Bay is 20-11 ATS vs. AFC East opponents
QB Rotations:
New England
Tom Brady
Brian Hoyer
Ryan Mallett
Tampa Bay
Josh Freeman
Dan Orlovsky
Brett Ratliff
NFL Preseason Logs Last 6 Years
New England
2006 Results
at Atlanta N +3 23-28 o35’
Arizona W -3; 30-3 u37
Washington W -3’ 431-0 o35
at NY Giants L +3’ 23-31 o35
2007 Results
at Tampa Bay L +2’ 10-13 u33
Tennessee L -5’ 24-27 o35
at Carolina W +1 24-7 u37’
NY Giants W -3’ 27-20 o36
2008 Results
BALTIMORE L -4 15-16 u34
at Tampa Bay L +2 10-27 o34
PHILADELPHIA L -3 17-27 o37
at NY Giants L +2' 14-19 u35'
2009 Results
at Philadelphia W +3 27-25 o33
CINCINNATI L -6’ 6-7 u36
at Washington L -3’ 27-24 o37
NY GIANTS W +3 38-27 o36
2010 Results
NEW ORLEANS W -1’ 27-24 o35
at Atlanta W +3 28-10 o37’
ST. LOUIS L -8 35-365 o38
at NY Giants P +3 17-20 u38
2011 Results
JACKSONVILLE W -3’ 47-12 o35
at Tampa Bay W +1 31-14 o38
at Detroit L -3’ 10-34 u44’
NY GIANTS L -8 17-18 u39’
2012 Results
New Orleans L -4' 7-6 u37'
Philadelphia L +3' 17-27 o40
Tampa Bay
2006 Results
NY Jets W -3’ 16-3 u33’
Miami L -2’ 10-13 u34’
at Jacksonville L +3 18-29 o33’
at Houston N +3 13-16 u35
2007 Results
New England W -2’ 13-10 u33
at Jacksonville L +4’ 19-31 o35
at Miami W -2 31-28 o34
Houston W -3 31-24 o37
2008 Results
Miami W +2 17-6 u32
NEW ENG. W -2 27-10 o34
JACK. L +3 17-23 o35
Houston W +1 16-6 u36
2009 Results
at Tennessee L +4 20-27 o35
at Jacksonville W +3 24-23 o34
MIAMI L -2’ 6-10 u37
HOUSTON L -3 20-27 o33’
2010 Results
at Miami W +3’ 7-10 u33’
KANSAS CITY W -2 20-15 o33’
JACKSONVILLE L +3 13-19 u37
at Houston W +2’ 24-17 o36’
2011 Results
at Kansas City W -2’ 25-0 u32’
NEW ENGLAND L -1’ 14-31 o38
MIIAMI W -3’ 17-13 u36
at Washington W +7 24-29 o35’
2012 Results
at Miami W +3 7-20 u33
Tennessee L -2 7-30 u38
ATSSportsline.com has been providing winning sports picks since 1992. Want more from ATS Consultants? Free NFL Football Picks delivered directly to your inbox with no obligation!
NFL Preseason Week 3 Preview: San Diego at Minnesota
By ATSSportsline.com
San Diego at Minnesota
Current line: Minnesota (-3/42')
Minnesota takes on San Diego at 8pmET from Mall of America Field in Minneapolis. The Vikings are coming off a 36-14 win over Buffalo and lost their opening game to San Francisco. San DIego is 2-0 after beating Dallas last week, 28-20. These two teams meet in the opening game of the season.
Weather: 80 degrees, 11% chance of rain
San Diego is coming off a 8-8 SU, 6-10 ATS and 8-8 O/U. Last year, they went 1-2-1 ATS in the preseason while Norv Turner (SD, Oakland, Wash) is 33-31 SU, 26-32-6 ATS and 25-31 Under in preseason. The Vikings are coming off a disappointing 3-13 SU season, they were 5-10-1 ATS and 9-7 Over. Last year, they went 3-1 ATS in the preseason. Leslie Frazier, now in his second full season, is 2-2 SU, 2-2 ATS and 1-3 Under in preseason. (stats before presason)
Outlook: The comeback of Vikings standout Adrian Peterson from a potentially devastating knee injury the four-time All-Pro suffered in late December of last season remains right on schedule. But the team announced its intention to hold out the powerful back for the remainder of the preseason as a precaution. Peterson just resumed practicing on Aug. 14 and has still yet to be cleared for taking part in contact drills.
Peterson is still expected to be ready when Minnesota opens its regular season against Jacksonville on Sept. 9.
The Vikings got by just fine without Peterson last week, amassing 160 rushing yards as a team en route to a 36-14 victory over visiting Buffalo. Toby Gerhart had 30 yards on six carries while serving as the first-string tailback in Peterson's absence, with fleet-footed quarterback Joe Webb racking up a game-high 64 yards on a pair of scrambles.
Starting signal-caller Christian Ponder did his damage with his arm in Friday's victory, with the 2011 first-round pick completing 10-of-13 passes for 136 yards and a touchdown before giving way to Webb in the second quarter. Rookie linebacker Audie Cole was Minnesota's defensive star, picking off a pair of passes and returning both for touchdowns within a 13-second span late in the game.
Cornerback Chris Cook did sustain a concussion against the Bills and will be held out of Friday's tilt as a result, while defensive tackle Letroy Guion and tight end John Carlson will miss another week for the Vikings as both recover from knee sprains.
The Chargers are bracing for an absence from 2011 leading rusher Ryan Mathews that could extend into the early stages of the regular season. The injury- prone third-year back fractured his collarbone on his first carry of San Diego's preseason-opening win over Green Bay on Aug. 9 and is facing a 4-to-6 week timetable to return, putting his status for Week 1 in question.
Veterans Ronnie Brown and Jackie Battle and holdover Curtis Brinkley will work in a timeshare while Mathews heals, though none of them were effective in Saturday's matchup with Dallas. The trio combined for a meager 30 rushing yards on 14 attempts.
Quarterback Philip Rivers hit on a sharp 13-of-15 throws for 109 yards against the Cowboys, but was intercepted twice in San Diego's 28-20 triumph in which backup Charlie Whitehurst delivered a pair of touchdown passes to rally the Bolts back from a 10-0 halftime deficit.
Whitehurst's first score was an 18-yard strike to Vincent Brown, but the second-year receiver fractured his ankle on the play and will be sidelined for at least the next two months.
The Chargers are already operating with a somewhat depleted receiving corps, with slot man Eddie Royal having missed the first two games with a groin injury that may keep him out of this contest as well.
Nose tackle Antonio Garay is likely to sit out another week for San Diego due to a sprained ankle, while center Nick Hardwick is doubtful to suit up after suffering a concussion in Tuesday's practice.
These teams opposed one another in San Diego in the 2011 regular-season opener, a
Key Injuries:
Minnesota: RB Adrian Peterson (knee) is out. TE John Carlson (knee) is out. CB Chris Cook (concus) is out. NT Letroy Guion (knee) is ? San Diego: WR Vincent Brown (ankle) is out 6-8 weeks. RB Ryan Mathews (collarbone) is out 4-6 weeks. C Nick Hardwick (concus) is out indef. NT Antonio Garay (ankle) is dbtful.
Preseason Trends:
San Diego is 26-10 ATS off a home game
Minnesota is 10-3 Over off a home win by 10+ points
San Diego
Phillip Rivers
Charlie Whitehurst
Jarrett Lee (R)
Kevin O'Connell
Minnesota
Christian Ponder
Sage Rosenfels
Joe Webb
McLeod Bethel-Thompson
NFL Preseason Logs Last 6 Years
San Diego
2006 Results
Green Bay W -3’ 17-3 u35
at Chicago L +3’ 3-24 u34
Seattle W -3’ 31-20 o37
at San Francisco L +3’ 14-23 o35
2007 Results
Seattle L -3’ 16-24 o36’
at St. Louis W -2’ 30-13 o38
at Arizona L -2’ 33-31 o40’
San Fran. W -2’ 16-13 u38
2008 Results
DALLAS W -3 31-17 o35'
St. Louis W +3' 6-7 u37
SEATTLE L -6 18-17 u38
San Fran. W +3 20-17 o36
2009 Results
SEATTLE L -3 14-20 u36
at Arizona W +2’ 17-6 u40
at Atlanta L +2’ 24-27 o42’
SAN FRANCISCO W -3’ 26-7 u37
2010 Results
CHICAGO W -2’ 25-10 o33
DALLAS L -2’ 14-16 u35’
at New Orleans L +3 21-36 o44’
at San Francisco P +3 14-17 u36’
2011 Results
SEATTLE L -3 17-24 o35
at Dallas W +1 20-7 u37’
at Arizona T -3 34-31 o41
SAN FRANCISCO L -3 17-20 u38
2012 Results
Green Bay W -2' 21-13 u38'
Dallas W -3 28-20 o39
Minnesota
2006 Results
Oakland L -2’ 13-16 u36’
at Pittsburgh W +3 17-10 u34’
Baltimore W -2’ 30-7 o35’
at Dallas W +6 10-10ot u34’
2007 Results
St. Louis L -1’ 10-13 u35’
at NY Jets W +4 37-20 o35
at Seattle L +7 13-30 o38
Dallas W -2’ 23-14 o36’
2008 Results
SEATTLE L -3 17-34 o34
at Baltimore W +1' 23-15 o34'
PITTSBURGH W +3 10-12 u36'
at Dallas L +3 10-16 u34
2009 Results
at Indianapolis W -3 13-3 u36
KANSAS CITY W -3 17-13 u37
at Houston W +3 17-10 u39
DALLAS L -3 31-35 o36
2010 Results
at St. Louis W +2’ 28-7 o31’
at San Francisco L +2’ 10-15 u35
SEATTLE W -4’ 24-13 u39
DENVER W -3’ 31-24 o35
2011 Results
at Tennessee L +3 3-14 u34
at Seattle W -3 20-7 u37’
DALLAS L +1 17-23 o36’
HOUSTON W -3’ 28-0 u37’
2012 Results
at San Francisco L +3 6-17 u34
Buffalo W -2' 36-14 o37
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NFL Preseason Week 3 Preview: Chicago at NY Giants
By ATSSportsline.com
Chicago at NY Giants Preview
Current Line: New York Giants (-3/41)
The Chicago Bears visit MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. to take on the New York Giants on Friday at 8pmET. The Bears are 1-1 this preseason after edging Washington 33-31. The Giants are 1-1 after beating the Jets 26-3 last week. Last season, the Giants crushed Chicago, 41-13, laying 4.5 in their second game of preseason.
Weather: 81 degrees and 13% chance of rain.
Chicago is coming off a 8-8 SU, 7-8-1 ATS and 9-7 Over. Last year, they went 3-1 ATS in the preseason while Lovie Smith is 16-16 SU, 13-17-3 ATS and 17-16 Over in preseason. The Giants are coming off a disappointing 9-7 SU regular season, but made the playoffs and won the Super Bowl. They were also 8-7-1 ATS and 8-7-1 Over. Last year, they went 2-2 ATS in the preseason. Tom Coughlin is 39-33 SU (NYG, Jax) lifetime in preseason, 36-31-5 ATS and 39-28-2 Over. (all stats are before preseason started).
Outlook: The Giants will be holding their first true home game since capturing last season's Lombardi Trophy with a hard-fought 21-17 victory over New England in Super Bowl XLVI, though Big Blue was in its familiar venue for last weekend's annual preseason encounter with the fellow Met Life Stadium-tenant Jets. The Giants looked very much like an elite outfit in that one, taking the latest battle of New York with a convincing 26-3 triumph over their crosstown rivals.
Excellent defense set the tone for last Saturday's rout, with the Giants sacking quarterbacks Mark Sanchez and Tim Tebow a combined seven times while limiting the Jets to a meager 148 total yards on the night. The unit also came through with a touchdown when rookie cornerback Jayron Hosley intercepted a hurried Sanchez and returned the pick 77 yards late in the first half.
The Giants' offense wasn't quite as crisp, with Super Bowl XLVI Most Valuable Player Eli Manning going just 7-of-14 for 62 yards and tossing an interception before exiting at halftime.
New York will probably be without top receiver Hakeem Nicks once again, though the big-play wideout did resume practicing this week as he recovers from a broken foot sustained earlier in the summer. Will Beatty, the Giants' projected starter at left tackle, remains sidelined indefinitely with a lingering back issue, however, with veteran Sean Locklear filling in during the interim.
The Giants continue to be banged up on the defensive end as well. Tackles Chris Canty (knee), Shaun Rogers (blood clot in leg) and Marvin Austin (back) will all sit out another week, as will linebacker Michael Boley (hamstring) and cornerback Terrell Thomas (knee). Hosley joined the list of walking wounded when he left Saturday's win with a turf toe injury.
Chicago bounced back from a lopsided home loss to Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos in the opening week of the preseason to down Washington last Saturday at Soldier Field. The Bears wound up holding on for a 33-31 decision over the Redskins, but had built a comfortable 30-10 lead after three quarters before Washington rallied against the bottom members of the Chicago depth chart.
Starting quarterback Jay Cutler and understudy Jason Campbell both fared well in the win, with the pair combining for 263 yards on 16-of-28 passing. The Bears' offense also got good games out of a pair of rookies, with second-round wideout Alshon Jeffery coming up with three catches for 62 yards and fourth- round tight end Evan Rodriguez gaining 49 yards on his three grabs.
Offseason acquisition Brandon Marshall added 61 yards on two receptions for the Bears, who finished with 307 net passing yards as a team.
Chicago was hit with a few concerning injuries against the Redskins. Starting free safety Chris Conte will miss the rest of the preseason after dislocating his shoulder, while rookie backup Brandon Hardin was carted off the field with a neck problem in the third quarter and punter Adam Podlesh strained his left hip.
The Bears are already without defensive leader Brian Urlacher, with the decorated middle linebacker to be held out of the entire exhibition slate to build strength in his surgically repaired left knee.
Key Injuries: Chicago: LB Brian Urlacher (knee) is out indef. S Chris Conte (shldr) is out. S Brandon Hardin (neck) is out. P Adam Podlesh (hip) is dbtful. New York Giants: WR Hakeem Nicks (knee) and DE Jason Pierre-Paul (back) are dbtful. RB Ahmad Bradshaw (hand) is ? OT Will Beatty (back) is out indef. DT Shaun Rogers (calf) is out indef. CB Terrell Thomas (knee) is out indef. DT Chris Canty (knee) is on PUP list
Preseason Trends
Chicago is 3-13 ATS off a home win
NY Giants is 5-1 ATS off BB ATS wins
QB Rotations:
NY Giants
Eli Manning
David Carr
Ryan Perrilloux
Chicago
Jay Cutler
Jason Campbell
Josh McCown
Matt Blanchard (R)
NFL Preseason Logs Last 6 Years
CHICAGO
2006 Results
at S. Francisco L -1 14-28 o34'
S DIEGO W -3' 24-3 u34
ARIZONA L -3' 16-23 o34
at Cleveland W +3 20-7 u33'
2007 Results
at Houston W +2 20-19 o33
at Indianapolis W -2 27-24 o36'
SAN FRAN. L -5' 31-28 o36'
CLEVELAND L -4 9-19 u37
2008 Results
K. CITY L -3' 20-24 o34
at Seattle (OT) L +1 26-29 o36
SAN FRAN. L -3' 30-37 o37
at Cleveland W +2' 16-10 u38
2009 Results
at Buffalo L +3 20-27 o34
NY GIANTS W -2 17-3 u34’
at Denver W +2 27-17 o38
CLEVELAND W -2’ 26-23 o36
2010 Results
at San Diego L +2’ 10-25 o33
OAKLAND L -2 17-32 o33’
ARIZONA L -3’ 9-14 u37
at Cleveland L -1’ 10-13 u37
2011 Results
BUFFALO W -3 10-3 u35’
at NY Giants L +4’ 13-41 o35
at Tennessee W +3 13-14 u37
Cleveland W pk 24-14 o36’
2012 Results
Denver L -3 3-31 p34
Washington W -1' 33-31 o38
New York Giants
2006 Results
at Baltimore W +3 17-16 u34
at Kansas City W -3 17-0 u36
at NY Jets W -4 13-7 u36
New England W -3 31-23 o35
2007 Results
Carolina L +1 21-24 o34
at Baltimore W +3’ 13-12 u33’
NY Jets L +2’ 12-20 u36’
at New England L +3’ 20-27 o36
2008 Results
at Detroit L +2' 10-13 u31'
CLEVE. W -2 37-34 o36
at NY Jets N +3 7-10 u38
NEW ENG. W -2' 19-14 u35'
2009 Results
CAROLINA W -3 24-17 o32’
at Chicago L +2 3-17 u34’
at NY Jets L -3 25-27 o36’
at New England L -3 27-38 o36
2010 Results
at. NY Jets W +3 31-16 o33’
PITTSBURGH L +6 17-24 o34
at Baltimore L +3’ 10-24 u38’
NEW ENGLAND P -3 20-17 u38
2011 Results
at Carolina L +2’ 10-20 u33
CHICAGO W -4’ 41-13 o35
NY JETS W +2’ 3-17 u34’
at New England L -8 18-17 u39’
2012 Results
at Jacksonville W +2 31-32 o35
at NY Jets W +1' 26-3 o37
ATSSportsline.com has been providing winning sports picks since 1992. Want more from ATS Consultants? Free NFL Football Picks delivered directly to your inbox with no obligation!
NFL Preseason Week 3 Preview: Seattle at Kansas City
By ATSSportsline.com
Seattle at Kansas City Preview
Current Line: Seattle (-3/42)
Seattle visits Kansas City's Arrowhead Stadium to take on the Chiefs at 8pmET on Friday night. The Seahawks are 2-0 after beating Tennessee and Denver. KC is 1-1 after falling at St. Louis last week, 31-17, laying 1. In the regular season in 2011, Kansas City routed Seattle on the road, 42-24 laying 2.
Weather: 81 degrees and 23% chance of rain.
Seattle is coming off a 7-9 SU season, and they were 9-5-2 ATS and 9-7 Over. Last year, they went 3-1 ATS in the preseason. Pete Caroll is 13-12 SU, 13-10-2 ATS and 12-13 Under. The Chiefs are coming off a disappointing 7-9 SU season, they were 9-7 ATS and 4-12 Under. Last year, they went 0-3-1 ATS in the preseason. Romeo Crennel is in his first year as head coach and previously coached with Cleveland where he was 8-8 SU, 9-7 ATS and 6-10 Under in preseason. (all stats are before preseason started).
Outlook: Terrell Owens may not have made an impact in his brief time with the Seattle Seahawks, but Russell Wilson sure has opened a few eyes during the team's first two preseason games.
With a chance to seize a starting quarterback position that's still up for grabs, Wilson will draw a surprise start for the Seahawks as they head to Arrowhead Stadium for a rehearsal contest against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Wilson, Seattle's third-round choice in this past April's draft following a stellar collegiate career at North Carolina State and Wisconsin, entered camp as the underdog in a three-man battle to be the team's No. 1 signal-caller. The rookie has been terrific in his two preseason appearances -- albeit against second-team defenses -- to emerge as perhaps the favorite to be under center when the Seahawks open the regular season at Arizona on Sept. 9.
After going 12-of-16 for 124 yards with a touchdown and adding a 32-yard scoring scramble in Seattle's victory over Tennessee on Aug. 11, Wilson threw for 155 yards and two touchdowns while leading the Seahawks to 21 second-half points and a 30-10 triumph at Denver this past Saturday.
Carroll did caution that a final decision on the starting quarterback has yet to be determined, though it's apparent that 2011 regular Tarvaris Jackson is no longer in the mix. Matt Flynn, Seattle's most notable free-agent addition during the offseason, does remain a viable contender despite the ex-Green Bay backup's uneventful performance against the Broncos.
Flynn managed just 31 yards on 6-of-13 passes in the first half, with five of his seven incompletions coming on targets to Owens. One of those misfires was a would-be 46-yard touchdown that the mouthy wide receiver dropped after getting behind the defense.
Owens, signed by the Seahawks shortly prior to the first preseason game after spending all of 2011 out of the NFL, is fighting for a roster spot that isn't guaranteed. The 38-year-old may face an even more uphill climb with Sidney Rice, Seattle's top wideout, ready to return to action this weekend after missing the team's initial two outings while on the mend from shoulder surgery.
Slot receiver Doug Baldwin won't suit up for a third straight week, however, due to a hamstring injury, but the Seahawks may get fellow wideout Ben Obomanu (neck) and tight end Zach Miller (concussion) back in the lineup.
The Chiefs received some mixed news as they prepare for their critical third game of the preseason schedule. Wide receiver Dwayne Bowe finally ended a three-week holdout by signing his franchise tender offer last Friday, but the team found out earlier this week that Pro Bowl outside linebacker Tamba Hali would be suspended for the club's Week 1 opener against Atlanta for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy.
Bowe did report in good shape and is slated to receive some snaps in this matchup. The three-time 1,000-yard wideout's return is welcome news for Matt Cassel, though the veteran quarterback fared pretty well without Bowe in last Saturday's 31-17 loss at St. Louis.
Cassel worked the entire first half against the Rams and was a crisp 13-of-18 for 142 yards. He showed a strong rapport with free-agent addition Kevin Boss, with the former Raiders tight end amassing game highs of four catches and 62 yards.
Brady Quinn, engaged in a competition with second-year pro Ricky Stanzi for the primary backup job behind Cassel, may have secured that spot after completing 5-of-6 throws for 70 yards and a touchdown in relief.
Cornerback Brandon Flowers (foot) will be held out a third straight game for Kansas City, which began its preseason with a 27-17 home decision over Arizona.
Key Injuries: Seattle: WR Doug Baldwin (ham) is out. . TE Zach Miller (concussion) and guard John Moffitt (elbow) are out. KC: CB B. Flowers (foot) is out. WR Dwayne Bowe (personal) is dbtful.
Preseason Trends:
Seattle is 17-6 ATS vs. AFC West opponents
Seattle is 23-5 ATS in Week 3.
Seattle is 17-6 ATS vs. NFC West opponents
Kansas City is 13-31 ATS with a line of +3 to -3
QB Rotations:
Seattle
Russell Wilson (R)
Matt Flynn
Tarvaris Jackson
Josh Portis
Kansas City
Matt Cassel
Brady Quinn
Ricky Stanzi
Alex Tanney (R)
NFL Preseason Logs Last 6 Years
Seattle
2006 Results
Dallas L -3 3-13 u35’
at Indianapolis W +2’ 30-17 o38’
at San Diego L +3’ 20-31 o37
Oakland W -3 30-7 o36’
2007 Results
at San Diego W +3’ 24-16 o36’
at Green Bay L +3 13-48 o35’
Minnesota W -7 30-13 o38
Oakland W -3 19-14 u37’
2008 Results
at Minnesota W +3 34-17 o34
CHI. (OT) W -1 29-26 o36
at San Diego W +6 17-18 u38
OAKLAND W -3 23-16 o36
2009 Results
at San Diego W +3 20-14 u36
DENVER W -3 27-13 o36’
at Kansas City W +2’ 14-10 u39
OAKLAND W -3 31-21 o36
2010 Results
TENNESSEE L -3’ 20-18 o35
GREEN BAY L -2’ 24-27 o40’
at Minnesota L +4’ 13-24 u39
at Oakland P +3 24-27 o38
2011 Results
at San Diego W +3 24-17 o35
MINNESOTA L -3 7-20 u37’
at Denver W +5’ 20-23 o37
OAKLAND W -3’ 20-3 u37
2012 Results
Tennessee W -3 27-17 o36'
at Denver W pk 30-10 o38
Kansas City
2006 Results
at Houston L +2’ 14-24 o35’
at NY Giants L +3’ 0-17 u36
St. Louis W -3’ 16-12 u39’
New Orleans W +3 10-9 u36’
2007 Results
at Cleveland L +3 12-16 u34’
Miami L -3 10-11 u34
New Orleans L -2 7-30 o36’
at St. Louis L +3 3-10 u36’
2008 Results
at Chicago W +3' 24-20 o34
ARIZONA L -2 17-27 o36
at Miami L +3 0-24 u34
ST. LOUIS L -4' 21-17 o34
2009 Results
HOUSTON L -2 10-16 u37’
at Minnesota L +3 13-17 u37
SEATTLE L -2’ 10-14 u39
at St. Louis L +1 9-17 u36
2010 Results
at Atlanta L +2’ 10-20 u34
at Tampa Bay L +2 15-20 o33’
PHILADELPHIA L +1’ 17-20 u40
GREEN BAY P -4 17-13 u40’
2011 Results
TAMPA BAY L +2’ 0-25 u32’
at Baltimore L +7 13-31 o32’
ST. LOUIS L +2 1-14 u35
at Green Bay T +1 19-20 o37
2012 Results
Arizona W -1' 27-17 o34
at St. Louis L -1 17-31 o37
ATSSportsline.com has been providing winning sports picks since 1992. Want more from ATS Consultants? Free NFL Football Picks delivered directly to your inbox with no obligation!
What Bettors Need to Know: Week 3 Preseason Friday
By Jon Campbell
Covers.com
Friday night holds six preseason games in the NFL. We give you the quick betting rundown on all of them.
Eagles vs. Browns (-4.5, 37.5)
Rookie Nick Foles will get his first NFL start for the Eagles with Michael Vick sidelined with a rib injury. Foles has four TDs to just one interception so far. Philly is 2-0 and 1-0-1 ATS in the preseason, but Andy Reid wasn't happy with the defense last game, as you may have seen on YouTube.
The Browns are 2-0 straight up and ATS this preseason, despite a rookie QB (Brandon Weeden) in the starting role. They've had some injuries on defense but linebacker D'Qwell Jackson, the Browns' top defensive player, says he's healthy and was making waves at practice this week.
Falcons at Dolphins (+3, 41.5)
A couple of fights broke out at Monday's practice this week in Atlanta. Perhaps because the team is 0-2 SU and ATS so far and poor defensive play has allowed the over to cash twice. The O-line has some question marks and the coaching staff could be holding back with its first stringers to ensure everyone stays healthy.
The Dolphins have lost and failed to cover in their first two preseason games. Coaches admit they've neglected the running game as they try to install the new West Coast offense with rookie QB Ryan Tannehill in the preseason and they intend to run a more balanced attack Friday. Problems abound on this team though, especially with talent. The Chad Johnson situation hasn't helped.
New England at Tampa Bay (+6.5, 44)
Bill Belichick held out a dozen players for Monday's game against Philly earlier this week, mostly veterans including Tom Brady. He wanted them healthy for this week's joint practices and game with Tampa Bay. Sounds like the Pats are more concerned with evaluation than winning right now and they are 0-2 ATS.
Two unders for the Bucs so far in preseason play with just 27 points through two games. The Bucs have position battles happening all over the field and new coach Greg Schiano is settling in. Schiano said he wants his team to be more physical against the Pats so thinking we might see the first team defense in a bit longer Friday.
Chargers at Minnesota (-3, 43)
The Chargers say they're getting more confident on offense each day. They showed that in last week's convincing 36-14 win over the Bills. Adrian Peterson will reportedly dress and participate in warmups so he could surprise us and see some playing time.
Injuries have hit the Chargers with the worst coming to receiver Vincent Brown, who broke his ankle this week. A bunch of players on the Chargers O-line are also banged up including veteran center Nick Hardwick. The first team got about 20 snaps last week and Norv Turner says they'll see more Friday.
Bears at Giants (-3, 41.5)
The Bears defense has been pathetic so far, allowing 31 points in each of its two preseason outings. Chicago has three starters injured on defense right now though and it doesn't seem too upset by the losses.
The Giants are focused on improving their running game as a carry-over from last season. They proved that in their game against the Jets last week when they ran 32 times for just 58 yards. With a lot of running and short gains, the clock keeps running. No surprise they easily played under the total against the Jets.
Seattle at Kansas City (+3, 42)
The Seahawks will start rookie QB Russell Wilson for this game to see what he can do against Kansas City's first-team offense. Wilson has tossed three touchdowns and leads the Seahawks in rushing but he's done it all against the opposition's backups so far.
The suspension to LB Tamba Hali for the first game of the season rocked the Chiefs this week. They were already coming in this week on a low note after an ugly loss to the Rams. They have a battle going for the backup QB spot so it remains to be seen how much playing time Matt Cassel will see.
Friday Betting Notes
By Antony Dinero
VegasInsider.com
Philadelphia at Cleveland
Since the teams are set to square off when it counts on Sept. 9, this dress rehearsal will feature little that can be deemed conventional for a third preseason game. Michael Vick wasn't going to see much action, if any, but is now completely 'out' after taking a nasty hit to the ribs from New England's Jermaine Cunningham on Monday night. Nick Foles will try and continue his big week, playing about a half with Philadelphia's first and second units. With Mike Kafka still out, Trent Edwards will close out the game for the visitors.
Brandon Weeden is also going to see a half, according to head coach Pat Shurmur, but we're not likely to see anything but basic offense given the impending regular season opener. Colt McCoy, still on the trade block, will get time to showcase his skills. First-rounder Trent Richardson has been out since getting his knee scoped earlier this month, so with his status still unclear, don't count on backup RB Montario Hardesty getting much work. Brandon Jackson, coming off a field day against his ex-team, Green Bay, has a chance to rack up more preseason numbers.
The Eagles won't expose top weapon LaSean McCoy much, but it's an important game for rookie RBs Bryce Brown and Chris Polk, who both had nice fourth quarters against New England. Dion Lewis will play the McCoy role first, while Mardy Gilyard and Damaris Johnson will attempt to do their best DeSean Jackson's impersonation in an effort to open some eyes.
Atlanta at Miami
According to the Atlanta-Journal Constitution, Falcons new offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter is going to try and give Michael Turner an opportunity to stretch his legs in this third preseason game. It makes sense, since the passing game has flexed its muscle throughout the preseason. Turner and backups Jacquizz Rodgers and Jason Snelling are likely to get increased play. Snelling has been out for a lot of camp because of a right leg injury, so this is a chance for him to get up to speed against live bullets.
Ryan Tannehill has already been named the first opening day rookie starter in Dolphins history to polarizing reviews. Those that oppose the baptism-by-fire approach are lining up to say he'll be ruined for life if thrown to the wolves in Week 1, particularly with a receiving corps that boasts more question marks than the old-school Frank Gorshin-played Riddler's suit. Atlanta is looking to flex some muscle in the secondary, so this first half bears watching. Matt Moore is set to take over and play the bulk of the second half.
HBO's "Hard Knocks" has created a faction rooting for or against Dolphins backups, which will make the fourth quarter interesting even no matter what the score is. With popular Eric Steinbach having retired, there's healthy competition to fill a vacancy up front, while receiver Chris Hogan has assumed people's champion status in many minds as he attempts to earn a spot. Falcons backups, many fighting for their own lives, will undoubtedly welcome the possible increased exposure.
New England at Tampa Bay
As detailed on Monday with so many regulars taking the night off, the Patriots were looking forward to a week of joint practices and this dress rehearsal as their most serious work this preseason. Tom Brady has played the equivalent of a single quarter thus far, so this will likely be his one opportunity to do serious in-game work. New Bucs coach Greg Schiano wants to take advantage of this opportuity to see exactly where his team stands against one of the game's best teams, especially since they're not going in cold having held joint practices with them all week.
As dominant as the Brady-run Patriots offense can be, there's still roles to be carved out. Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez will return to the mix after joining Brady as inactives, but another performer set to get into the mix is potential downfield threat Brandon Lloyd. Look for New England to see how he fares against Aqib Talib and prized rookie safety Mark Barron, slated to play his second contest.
Tampa is expected to let its starters open the second half, but may be careful with LaGarrette Blount, who suffered a scary episode landing awkwardly last week. He returned to practice Monday and will join Josh Freeman in the backfield behind first-string left tackle Donald Penn, who will debut after missing the first pair of preseason games with a calf sprain. It will be interesting to see how he and maligned right tackle Jeremy Trueblood deal with impressive rookie Chandler Jones and Vick-killer Cunningham. TE Dallas Clark is also slated to see the most in-game reps he's seen to date since joining the Bucs.
San Diego at Minnesota
No, Adrian Peterson won't play, though it's a great sign that he's getting through non-contract practices without any knee swelling. The Vikings are still crossing their fingers he'll be ready for the opener and are attempting to get Christian Ponder more comfortable. His ability to continue clicking with Percy Harvin and impressive newcomer Jerome Simpson will go a long way in how effective the team can be early as Peterson shakes off rust.
The Chargers are going to be in discovery mode after losing arguably their top receiver, Vincent Brown, in last week's comeback victory over Dallas. That said, it might not be Philip Rivers out there auditioning the wideouts for very long, since uncertainty up front has Norv Turner thinking twice about exposing his All-Pro quarterback. Center Nick Harwick and left tackle Jared Gaither won't play, while left guard Tyrone Green is questionable after missing most of the week with a sore foot. Charlie Whitehurst, who shined against the Cowboys, would joing rookie Jarrett Lee in getting the bulk of the snaps against the Vikings.
With Brown out, it's up to a host of newcomers to separate themselves and impress the San Diego coaching staff, as head coach Norv Turner, offensive coordinator Hal Hunter and legendary receivers coach Charlie Joiner all have to come to a consensus. First-year Chargers Robert Meachem, Eddie Royal, Roscoe Parrish, Michael Spurlock and rookie Taylor Embree are attempting to standout alongside likely new No. 1 Malcom Floyd.
Chicago at N.Y Giants
Victor Cruz and the no-name gang remain Eli Manning's targets with Hakeem Nicks still out, so it remains to be seen how much Tom Coughlin exposes his two-time Super Bowl-winning quarterback. Left tackle Will Beatty is out and it appears undersized veteran Sean Locklear is set to fill the void, but even given the likelihood that will continue to be the case entering the Sept. 5 season opener, it's still up in the air as to how long Manning will be out there with a compromised first-team offense.
It helps New York's cause that Brian Urlacher remains out of action after getting his knee scoped on Aug. 14. The gossip around Bears camp this week involved the Pro Bowl linebacker heading to Europe this past spring, a story that simply adds to the speculation that there's a lot more going on with him physically than he's letting on. Insisting he'll be ready Week 1, Urlacher remains out of preseason action and won't be a factor here. Defensive tackle Stephen Paea and safety Major Wright will also miss the contest. Both Julius Peppers and Lance Briggs are slated to participate in the first half.
Jay Cutler also gets an opportunity to do more work with his first-team offense after he, Matt Forte and Brandon Marshall skipped the opening preseason encounter and marched down the field in last week's meeting with the Redskins. Another name to watch is rookie Alshon Jeffery, who has looked dominant as an x-factor at receiver.
Seattle at Kansas City
It's Russell Wilson's world right now, and everyone including Matt Flynn is just living in it. Signed as the team's biggest free agency splash in March, Flynn may end up a backup despite signing a three-year $26 million contract. It's going to depend on how the rookie looks running with the regulars, an opportunity Pete Carroll is affording Wilson after watching him dominate reserves in consecutive weeks, twice bringing the Seahawks victories with dominant performances. If he remains the explosive dual threat he's been to date against Kansas City, it's very possible that Flynn winds up a very expensive clipboard-holder come Week 1. The former Packer was held out of Thursday's practice with arm soreness.
Another huge theme to watch from the Seahawks side is how Terrell Owens handles what is likely a make-or-break situation for the veteran former All-Pro. After dropping a sure touchdown from Flynn last week and failing to come up with a catch despite five targets in his Seattle debut a week ago, speculation is that his new team might run out of patience with him before the regular season even begins. With Braylon Edwards out-performing T.O and mainstays Sidney Rice and Doug Baldwin getting healthier, this could be make-or-break for the controversial wide receiver. That definitely brings snarky implications to "get your popcorn ready."
Kansas City's Dwayne Bowe will see his first and potentially only preseason action after ending his holdout last Friday. It's unknown just how long the Chiefs top target will work with the first team and QB Matt Cassel, but there is plenty of curiosity regarding what type of shape he's in entering a critical season that will determine whether he'll eventually sign long-term with the only franchise he's ever played for. Bowe signed the equivalent of a one-year deal and will join a potentially explosive offense featuring last year's top pick Jonathan Baldwin, newcomer Kevin Boss and has seen Jamaal Charles and Tony Moeaki return from knee injuries.