New England vs. Arizona: Patriots Look to Turn Things Around Against Cardinals on MNF​

The New England Patriots enter Week 14’s "Monday Night Football" matchup in must-win mode against the Arizona Cardinals. Sitting at 6-6, the Patriots are just a game out of the seventh and final spot in a tightening AFC playoff race.

New England holds the tiebreaker over the team they’re chasing, the New York Jets, and by Monday night could have a chance to rise above them. But plenty of land mines for the Patriots remain, including games against the defending AFC champion Cincinnati Bengals, 8-4 Miami Dolphins, and current No. 1 seed Buffalo Bills. Beating up on the 4-8 Cardinals feels like a must.

As for Arizona? The Cardinals are just playing out the string, a string of mediocrity this season after losing four of their past five games. Last year’s red-hot, top-10 offensive scheme has slipped to 20th in the NFL; quarterback Kyler Murray appears to have regressed after signing a five-year, $230.5 million extension during the offseason. From a six-game suspension for DeAndre Hopkins to running back James Conner and Murray battling injuries, the Cardinals have struggled to simply keep their best players on the field.

It all leads to finger-pointing at head coach Kliff Kingsbury, on the hot seat after going 5-12 in his last 17 regular-season games along with a first-round playoff exit. Can his team turn around an NFC-worst 1-6 record at home with an upset against the Patriots? Or will New England continue its recent dominance against Arizona, where the Pats have won seven of their last eight matchups?

Monday Night Football: New England (6-6) at Arizona (4-8)

Kickoff: Monday, Dec. 12 at 8:15 p.m. ET
TV: ESPN
Live Stream: fuboTV (Start your free trial)
Spread: Patriots -1.5
Tickets: As low as $66 on SITickets.com*

Three Things to Watch

1. Can the Cardinals get off to a better start?

Part of Arizona’s problem this season is their inability to score early. An average of just 2.4 points in the first quarter ranks 30th in the NFL; only Carolina and Houston have performed worse. The Cardinals have trailed at the half in nine of their 12 games this season, going 2-7 in those contests.

“At some point, it just has to click for us,” head coach Kliff Kingsbury said earlier this year, when the Cardinals started out scoreless in the first quarter through their first five contests. “I don’t think there’s any magic answers except guys showing up, being ready to go, and not regressing back to that once we get it figured out.”

Since then, the Cardinals have picked it up a bit. But they still have a total of just two first-quarter touchdowns in 12 games, getting outscored 61-29 over a full season. That’s one heck of a hole to climb out of every week.

To be fair, New England isn’t much better, scoring just 2.7 points in the first quarter (28th in the NFL). The difference is the Pats haven’t trailed after the first quarter in a little over a month; in fact, it’s happened just three times all year. Head coach Bill Belichick is known for running a tight ship and the Patriots, despite a struggling offense, have kept pace early and cut down the scoring.

Speaking of that offense…

2. Will Mac Jones and the Patriots get back on the same page offensively?

It feels like getting off to a hot start is imperative for the Patriots after infighting during a 24-10 loss last Thursday to the Buffalo Bills. After struggling for just 195 passing yards, just days removed from his best game of the year (382 yards), Jones was caught on the sidelines yelling “Throw the (insert swear word here) ball!”

The end result against the Bills was 355 net yards but only 10 points; 20.8 points per game this season ranks just 20th in the NFL. Criticism has been increasing around offensive coordinator Matt Patricia, the former Pats defensive coordinator who was placed in this role after Josh McDaniels was hired over the offseason by the Las Vegas Raiders.

Cardinals defensive coordinator Vance Joseph turned up the heat on Patricia and Joe Judge this week, who are combining to call the plays for the Pats.

“It’s a very conservative pass game – lot of screens, all kind of screens. It’s how a defensive guy would call offensive plays, right?” Joseph said. “‘Let’s not turn the ball over, let’s get four yards a play, and let’s try to burn clock.’ That’s what they’re doing and that’s what he’s going to do on Monday night.”

Feels like a dangerous game for an inferior team to play, right? Belichick has made a career of turning bulletin board material into winning motivation. What’s more, there appears to be a definitive movement within this organization to get more aggressive this week.

Watch out for Hunter Henry, who had a season-high 63 yards receiving against the Vikings; the Cardinals' defense is notoriously weak on tight ends. And arguably the Patriots’ best offensive player, running back Rhamondre Stevenson, has been making the most of the screens he does catch. His 56 receptions lead the team and will remain in a key pass-catching role with wide receiver Jakobi Meyers likely to sit this one out (concussion protocol).

3. Can Kyler Murray pierce through the Patriots' defense?

Murray’s year has been rocked by inconsistency. That said, the Patriots have struggled against signal-callers as mobile as Murray this season: they’re 0-3 against Justin Fields of the Bears, Lamar Jackson of the Ravens and Josh Allen of the Bills. That trio ranks first, second and fourth in the NFL, respectively, in rushing yards by a quarterback.

Can Murray keep up the trend? He was effective on the ground in his return from injury last week in a losing effort: 56 yards, eight yards per carry, and a rushing touchdown. But Murray has also been easier to defend with a defensive front due to some mistakes through the air (six interceptions in his last seven starts).

Whether Murray has his top target, DeAndre Hopkins, could be key to opening up the ground game. Hopkins was suffering through an illness this week but was back to full participation in Friday’s practice, a crucial add with tight end Zach Ertz out for the season with a torn ACL and wide receiver Greg Dortch nursing a thumb injury.

“He catches everything,” Belichick said of Hopkins this week. “[He] has great hands, and he’s long so he’s never covered. Even if he’s covered, there’s a place where the ball can be that he can get it and still make the catch.”

The Pats' secondary has been bent the past two weeks against top receivers: Justin Jefferson and Stefon Diggs have combined for 231 yards and two touchdowns. Will Hopkins be the next to break them?

Final Analysis

On paper, you might argue the Cardinals have more talent than the Patriots; it’s a tough matchup for the way New England’s team is built. But something has just simply been off with Arizona all season. The Cards dig themselves early holes, then try and fight out of them too late while the offensive rhythm varies wildly from drive to drive.

The Pats still have a real shot at the playoffs despite a more dysfunctional season than normal. But Belichick is a Hall of Fame coach for a reason; expect him to pull the team together this week and shore up an inconsistent offensive scheme for a game he needs to have.

Prediction: Patriots 20, Cardinals 17

Did a little research of perhaps the six best teams in the NFL at this point.

In no particular order, Philadelphia, Kansas City, Buffalo, San Francisco, Dallas and Cincinnati.

Other than the Bengals, it’s my opinion all those teams have more OL-talent than the Rams. However, all six of those teams have enjoyed very-good-to-terrific health and continuity on the O-Line.

The starting-five offensive linemen for those six teams have missed a combined 15 games thus far in 2022. That’s COMBINED. So it’s 2.5 missed games per-team for those six teams.

The Rams projected starting-five OL alone has missed 27 games thus far. And, that doesn’t even consider the three projected top-reserves who are all on season-ending-IR.

We have discussed the Rams’ O-Line injuries; and, like most here, I recognize that the Rams have other issues and there have been other disappointments. Like most, I hope to see an off-season up-grade in OL-talent.

All that being said … six teams … 5 starters per-team … 30 players … 15 total missed games.

The Rams … 5 projected starters … 5 players … 27 missed games.

The injuries to the Offensive Line is not the Only Story of the 2022 Rams. It is the Lead Story, in my opinion.

By-the-Way ... the 2021 Super Bowl Champion Rams' O-Line had a total of 5 missed games for the entire season.

Whether you like Mayfield or not this really is a must watch. This guy isn't a Ram fan. But he breaks down Baker's passes in Thursday's game showing how good Mayfield's technique has become. It shows Mayfield's developmental growth because I watched a similar breakdown of Mayfield when he was in Cleveland and there were issues to be sure. He still makes some choice issues but what QB doesn't. He still tends to lockon presnap where he's going. But there are times when he makes throws where things breakdown that are still amazing. It also shows Tutu's growth as a WR. This is why regardless of Stafford's decision about next year I think Baker will stay at least one year more just to continue his development in this offense under McVay. It shows why if Stafford retires either next year or the year after why Mayfield might be the Ram's QB of the future. The breakdown clearly shows the talent that Mayfield has and why the Rams could be in good hands at QB with Baker in McVay's offense. I'm always harping about scheme fit and IMO Mayfield is a good scheme fit for McVay.

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Miami Dolphins vs. Los Angeles Chargers: AFC Playoff Hopefuls Face Off on SNF​

Welcome to the prime-time spotlight Dolphins and Chargers. The prestigious "Sunday Night Football" slot on NBC goes to this AFC showdown between Tua Tagovailoa and Justin Herbert after the powers that be flexed Chiefs-Broncos out. Remember that these two quarterbacks went fifth and sixth in the 2020 NFL Draft.

Both teams come into this game with playoff hopes but at different ends of the spectrum. The Dolphins are tied for the second-best record in the AFC at 8-4 and purely in control of their own destiny, having won five of their last six, with the one loss coming against the NFL's best defense in San Francisco. They'll face AFC East rivals Bills, Patriots, and Jets down the stretch.

The Chargers are sitting at 6-6, having lost three of their last four games. They'll have winnable games against the Titans, Rams, Colts, and Broncos, but they can't afford to fall any further down the standings if they're going to make a run to the postseason.

Sunday Night Football: Miami (8-4) at Los Angeles (6-6)

Kickoff: Sunday, Dec. 11 at 8:20 p.m. ET
TV: NBC
Live Stream: fuboTV (Start your free trial)
Spread: Miami -3.5
Tickets: As low as $75 on SITickets.com*

Three Things to Watch

1. Tyreek the freak

Hill, the NFL's human cheetah, had a field day last week for the Dolphins by grabbing nine receptions for 146 yards and a touchdown. Of course, it helps when you have the quarterback with the highest QBR rating in the league chucking it in Tagovailoa. Hill is a dynamic force in that high-octane offense the Dolphins have, and they can use him in numerous ways. Plus, the Chargers' defense is notorious for giving up big plays (13 touchdowns of 20-plus yards this season). So this game seems catered to Hill and his speed. Plus, in two career games in SoFi Stadium, Hill has 17 catches for 247 yards and two TDs. This is his kind of place.

2. Don't be afraid to run

Now, we're not trying to tell the Dolphins and Chargers how to play offense, but just remember that the ground game should not be forgotten here. The Chargers have the worst rushing defense in the NFL and gave up 144 yards on 26 carries to Josh Jacobs last week. Granted, nobody on the Dolphins' roster is running the ball like Jacobs, the NFL's best, but don't forget to put some runs into the game plan because chances are they will work against the Bolts. As for the Chargers, they just might wanna hand the ball to Austin Ekeler once in a while if Herbert gets pummeled in the pocket too often.

3. Under pressure. Or not.

These two teams also are dealing with QBs that are under a high amount of duress. In Sunday's loss to the Raiders, Herbert was sacked five times and took on an incredulous 13 hits in the loss. In his last three games, Herbert has been sacked 14 times, so it's obvious that the Charger O-line is becoming Swiss cheese late in the season. And remember, the Dolphin pass rush isn't overwhelming but they did pick up four sacks and 10 QB hits and knocked Jimmy Garappolo out for the season last week. Keep this in mind, however, if Herbert DOES get time, the Dolphin pass defense is not great, allowing a 68 percent completion rate for opposing QBs (28th in the NFL) and 233.5 yards per game (21st).

On the other side, boy do the Chargers miss Joey Bosa. While we're on the subject of pass rush and QB pressure, that is something that was sorely missing from the Chargers' banged-up defense against the Raiders as Derek Carr seemed to be pitching a tent in the pocket and waiting for his receivers to get some separation. As explained last week, the Dolphins are without both starting tackles (Terron Armstrong and Austin Jackson) and starting guard Liam Eichenberg. Bad things man.

Final Analysis

There is something to be said for a team that is nearing desperation mode, and that's where the Chargers are now. Another loss might sink them too far under .500 and threaten their postseason lives. Now, I know SoFi Stadium is just about a zero in home-field advantage — this being laissez-faire Los Angelenos and all — but there is also something about being in the familiar confines of their home field. Plus they know how bad things will get if they lose again.

Tagovailoa got out-performed by some dude named Brock Purdy last week, so I'm just going to go with the home team and their outnumbered fans for this one.

Prediction: Chargers 31, Dolphins 27

Sunday, December 11, 2022

THE LATE GAMES
Kansas City at Denver, 4:05 p.m.
Tampa Bay at San Francisco, 4:25 p.m.
Carolina at Seattle, 4:25 p.m.

THE EARLY GAMES
New York Jets at Buffalo, 1 p.m.
Cleveland at Cincinnati, 1 p.m.
Houston at Dallas, 1 p.m.
Minnesota at Detroit, 1 p.m.
Philadelphia at New York Giants, 1 p.m.
Baltimore at Pittsburgh, 1 p.m.
Jacksonville at Tennessee, 1 p.m.

SNF
Miami at Los Angeles Chargers, 8:20 p.m. (SNF)

Monday, December 12, 2022

MNF
New England at Arizona, 8:15 p.m.

Byes: Atlanta, Chicago, Green Bay, Indianapolis, New Orleans, Washington

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ALREADY PLAYED

Thursday, December 8, 2022

Las Vegas at Los Angeles Rams, 8:15 p.m.

Sunday, December 11, 2022

THE EARLY GAMES
New York Jets at Buffalo, 1 p.m.
Cleveland at Cincinnati, 1 p.m.
Houston at Dallas, 1 p.m.
Minnesota at Detroit, 1 p.m.
Philadelphia at New York Giants, 1 p.m.
Baltimore at Pittsburgh, 1 p.m.
Jacksonville at Tennessee, 1 p.m.

THE LATE GAMES
Kansas City at Denver, 4:05 p.m.
Tampa Bay at San Francisco, 4:25 p.m.
Carolina at Seattle, 4:25 p.m.

SNF
Miami at Los Angeles Chargers, 8:20 p.m. (SNF)

Monday, December 12, 2022

MNF
New England at Arizona, 8:15 p.m.

Byes: Atlanta, Chicago, Green Bay, Indianapolis, New Orleans, Washington

---

ALREADY PLAYED

Thursday, December 8, 2022

Las Vegas at Los Angeles Rams, 8:15 p.m.

Do You guys hate us the most outside of the division?

yall remember this?

is there any way we make the playoffs?

Per fantasy sports going back to Kentucky

There have been a lot of crazy, unbelievable sporting moments. Famous at-bats/snaps/shots that happened before my time (e.g. Ruth calling his shot) excluded, these are the top few that I've experienced with my own eyes in real time:

• Kirk Gibson's World Series HR on one leg
• Miracle on Manchester Kings comeback from 0-5 against the Oilers
• Miracle on Ice (USA win vs the mighty USSR in the Olympics)
• The tackle, giving the Rams their first Super Bowl victory
• The Mayfield Miracle (yes, I just named it)

In my view, they all have two things in common to make them special for me.

1. Improbability
2. Impact

Everything on this list except what happened last night had a huge impact. From a Super Bowl win to put a bow on the improbable Kurt Warner season, to playoff victories against heavy favorites leading to Championships, respect or Gold medals.

My point is that if the impact of last night turns into the resurrection of Baker Mayfield's career, and it's with the Rams upon Stafford's retirement over the next few seasons, I think it will take the number one spot for me.

Where would you rank the above?

Any moments I missed?

Baker vs Russell Wilson.

Ohhh boiii just imagine if current trends continue.

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Really feels kind of right. Just does

1. "I swear I've seen a lot of stuff in my life, but that... was... AWESOME!!!"

- Tommy Boy Callahan
- me (12/8/22)

2. Holy crap on a stick. Did I actually just see Baker Mayfield lead a 98 yard game winning TD drive with 2 minutes, no timeouts, and only 48 hours in town?

3. Let's not take away from three other players who made this happen: Van Jefferson, Ben Skowronek and Tutu Atwell!!!! All had big catches!!!

4. Cam Akers owes all of those guys a big fruit basket!!!

5. Let's face it guys and gals... we needed this one. Its been a tough, tough season. Nice to have something to smile about.

6. So what does this mean going forward?

7. First, we have something to look forward to seeing for the next few weeks (particularly good for me, as I'm travelling to Lambeau for next Monday's game).

8. Second, we hopefully have our back-up for Matthew Stafford for next year.

9. Third, maybe a starting QB of the future?

10. I know... I'm getting ahead of myself. But Mayfield, with time to actually master the system and the benefit of Kupp and Robinson (along with others), could be a very good fit in this offense. He has the arm, he has the wheels... maybe he just needs McVay to take him to the next level?

11. I know... too soon. But, shit.... that was freaking exciting!!!!

12. Let's give credit to the defense - particularly Bobby Wagner, Ernest Jones and Greg Gaines - for keeping the game in reach after a shaky start.

13. Jalen Ramsey got beat a couple of times but, in the end, Davante Adams had only 3 catches (71 yards) on 7 targets.

14. The refs gave us a hard time with some picky calls, but they made up for it by not letting two clear penalties (PI, unsportsmanlike conduct) go on the last drive.

15. So... are the Browns happy the massaged their starting QB position the way they did, or is it the Rams who will have the happy ending?

16. Yeah... I went there!

17. Kyren Williams is continuing to earn a role, and Cobie Durant is looking like a keeper. Nice to see some production from the rookie class.

18. The graphic they put up on the telecast - only 5 starters from the Super Bowl have played in every game this year - tells you all you need to know.

19. Can't believe this Florida boy is going to a night game in Green Bay in December. My 20 Random Thoughts may be delayed next week until I return and my fingers thaw out.

20. Seriously... wow!

'nuff said.

Baker Mayfield will be the second Heisman Trophy winning QB from Oklahoma to play for the Rams.

How many times does he need to throw for a score for the Rams before he surpasses the last Sooner Heisman Trophy winner to achieve that feat?

Thursday December 8, 2022

Game Day Thread

The GDT is a live thread tradition here at ROD.

While we all get fired up watching the game, please remember our core principles;we always show respect for our team and each other.

Despite the emotional highs and lows watching a game, we will moderate this thread with that in mind, however please refrain from name calling. This applies to players, the Rams organization, and others.

This is the core rule of the GDT. Moderators are tasked to issue thread bans, at a minimum, to maintain this standard.

This is our team. Win or lose. Good days and bad. We are here for FUN, not to be dragged down.

A more loosely moderated atmosphere can be found in the chat room.

Go Rams!

———

ROD Chat Room;

Game Day Room

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This may not be news. It is to me though. So many NCAA football players hitting the portal isn’t just about playing time and moving onto a winning team.

One reason is that so many coaches have lied to them about available NIL money that would be made available to them. So surprising recruiting classes like Maryland recently had and the unreal 17 of the top 100 recruits going to A&M was a charade.

Another reason is that players are unhappy with coaching changes.

1,100 is a lot of available talent for teams to fill needs with.