Tag: Dallas Cowboys

Is Dak the right QB for Dallas

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The Dallas Cowboys have been more than formidable this season having beaten teams by 10 or more points on 7 different occasions. They are currently sitting 4th in the NFL in scoring at 27.5 per game, and their defense has been brutalizing giving up just 20.1 / game. And they have wreaked havoc on opposing quarterbacks with 54 sacks and 110 quarterback hits and that’s not including the 16 interceptions. 

Last year in 2021 they had the Wild Card loss versus the San Francisco 49ers, 23-17 and they lost again to SF this season as Dak had 2 costly turnovers. That is certainly an experience that Dallas and their fans would like to get past – and get that ugly taste out of their mouth. Is this the year they can do it, and if so, who or what will be the reason they can?

Dak has had a disappointing season this year with 23 touchdowns and 15 interceptions. Last year, he was outstanding with 37 TDs and just 10 interceptions, in many ways, this year he has greatly regressed. Dallas tends to win better the better the Dak plays that’s the bottom line. And 2 out of the team’s 3 losses, this year – Prescott threw 2 or more interceptions. If he’s having an off day and not completing his passes, if he completes 60% or less the Cowboys are also 0-2. And like most quarterbacks in the NFL, obviously the less pressure he faces and the less times that he’s hit and sacked behind the line of scrimmage, the Cowboys do better. In games where Dak was sacked 2 or more times in the game, the Cowboys are just 2-3. So if he stays up right the Cowboys win that’s a huge key for any defense facing him and this powerful Cowboys offense. 

Dallas Cowboys fans have been waiting 27 years for this team to make the Super Bowl again. The last time they were in the Super Bowl – was all the way back in 1995 – when they played the Pittsburgh Steelers and won, 27-17. Dallas had some really good teams back in 2007 and 2009, but we’re never able to make it any further than the Divisional round. And currently, Ezekiel Elliott is not a kid anymore at an aged and road weary, 27 yrs old – Dak kind of seems to have peaked, and we know who and what he is going to be.  But now it seems as if this team’s identity really has been their monstrous defense. Micah Parsons the 2nd yr pro has been on an absolute rampage this year with 13.5 sacks, 14 tackles for loss, and 3 forced fumbles. His ability to almost personally stop opponents and make key plays when needed, has been phenomenal. So for a quarterback to have that kind of support from the other side of the field is hugely advantageous. And it definitely seems like he can expect that kind of support in any game any week, as their defense has allowed 19 or less points in 56 % of their games this year so far. 

As a team that blew out Minnesota, 40-3, back on 11.20.2022, then also was able to handle Philadelphia, 40-34 on 11.24.2022 – they certainly appear to have a high-powered defense and an offense that’s capable of putting up points. Any team that has those 2 qualifications, certainly does, and always will have, a very strong chance to make the big game. They are definitely going to be a team to keep your eyes on next year with good odds to make the Super Bowl as their defense is tough and they have a lot of playmakers. 

Is CeeDee Lamb now the Cowboys Top WR

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With Amari Cooper’s role looking as if it is taking a backseat, CeeDee Lamb is looking to be the clear WR1 on a team that likes to throw the ball, with a slinging QB who has no problem hanging big numbers on the stat sheet. Cooper is getting a little less action because of CeeDee Lamb – and that means a lot. Lamb is going to get 135+ targets from Dak Prescott, and the former Oklahoma WR appears to become the primary endzone target. It is difficult to say a player isn’t a WR1 in that situation.

I’m not saying Lamb is going to be the reason this team becomes a SuperBowl champion – but the Cowboys had to be pretty confident in what he brings to the team. He is a very talented player, Lamb was really good last year and should get even better this year, and going forward. But he is certainly one of the main reasons they are sitting at 8-4, currently in the top slot in the NFC East.

CeeDee was a very good player last year for Dallas and he had some promising WR numbers. It came from steady play in his games, as he was consistent all last season. There’s no question he is the real deal.  Lamb saw a 17% target share on the team, meaning Dallas was putting the ball in his direction, and that was with Amari Cooper still getting 20% of Dallas’ targets, without Cooper eating as many looks – his numbers are going to increase. He has had 7 or more targets in 7 of 11 games along with averaging 8.1 targets /game on the season. He is getting the looks, bottom line. The Cowboys have been a top ended passing team – for several of the last seasons. For anyone to be a number one WR, they need targets, and Dak throws the ball. Having a confident QB who can deliver the rock is essential – and he constantly throws for over 280 /game, and it is increasingly looking as the identity of the once dominant running game of Dallas.

Prescott doesn’t force throws to anyone, but Lamb has been getting the lion’s share – and looks to continue being the focal point for Dallas to zone in on. He’s the type of player you can feed targets to, as a physical CB1 cannot shut him down – but, having that option certainly is nice, even though not necessary. With Amari moving more into the WR2 slot, his targets will at least the same as what he did last year, if not they will only go up. He has developed as a receiver, has a very accurate QB, on a team that believes in their offensive unit. Making them a lethal duo to deal with for opponents.

The 21 yr old WR was good last season and absolutely deserves to start being looked at among the league’s WR1’s. Lamb ran over teams for 58 YDs /game, and had some solid pieces of the target share, which is only getting bigger, absorbing 111 targets, 74 receptions, along with 935 receiving yards while snagging 5 TDs. Those numbers put him as a strong 2nd option at the position. But this year, I think it is safe to say we can all assume that his top end production has improved and is getting more and more consistent. His downfield yards, and TDs that is showing this year, are certainly enough for a WR1 for the Cowboys.

Have the Dallas Cowboys turned it around

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It, of course, is far too early to decide just how strong the Dallas Cowboys are going to be by season’s end. Every season, there is a team that will start red hot, and then blow it. Other teams start slow, and bumble along early, and will appear beatable, and then will come roaring back to finish 12-5 .Every.
Single.
Year.

Dallas have been looking pretty strong this season, sitting at 5-1 so far after 6 games. With Dak being Dak, good chemistry and excellent scoring they have seemed like they got things in order. They have rolled up a compelling record vs their division – being able to take care of business in your playground is always a great start. And, playing in a division with the hapless Giants and Eagles – doesn’t hurt, who have been a combined 14 – 31 over the last 45 games. They can legit look at their division and know they should be able to win v the majority of their division games, every year.

Their offense has gotten them big plays and a lot of scoring opportunities – as they have had a lot of coherence on both sides of the ball. Dallas is 9th in the NFL with a meager 35.7% 3rd down conversion rate – which says a lot about why the Cowboys have been able to rack up some big Ws. Their ball movement has been tough to control with their mix of lethal passing and running game. Having that dual threat ability is why the Cowboys have been the top scoring squad in the league

CeeDee Lamb has been a great WR, with 49 targets and 497 YDS, as the 22 yr old and Amari Cooper compliment each other on the field. Cooper catching 72 or more passes a year in 5 out of 6 years from his rookie year has been a real accomplishment, and he appears to be well on his way to those kinds of numbers this season as well. And Dak getting them the ball like he does, with his remarkable accuracy, makes teams confused on who they need to throw a double with a safety on.

Zeke has been one of the best RBs in the league for many years, and with Tony Pollard as his duo – this tandem can be very dangerous. Elliot isn’t quite the complete gamewrecker that he was 3-4 years ago – but he still can tear off a big chunk run or take it to the house if someone misses a tackle. On running plays, they keep blocking until the whistle, as they don’t get overpowered on 3rd and short, as Zeke has picked up 29 first downs, and hammers out 6.5 YPC in the 3rd quarter of games – his pounding style certainly wears down teams. Play action is always a serious threat since their running game is still as potent as the pass, with Zeke pounding the rock.

Success starts with stability – a QB who has thoroughly learned the playbook, and a RB that is fiercely competitive and always wants to keep getting better.
They have these both.
Many teams in the NFL hope to get their team chemistry to the point where they feel confident every Sunday. It is easy to say because the Cowboys play in a weak division in the NFL, they have an easy couple of wins – but that really doesn’t explain everything. Dallas looks like they have finally gotten it together. And I think they will be the team in the NFC East for another several years.

Dallas Cowboys Will Win the NFC East

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The Cowboys are going to be very good this year. They have loads of talent on offense and the return of Dak Prescott is only going to make them strong. I think they are going to run away with their division, and this wager offers more value than their season win total, which is at 9.5 and remember they play 17 games this year. The biggest move the Dallas Cowboys made this offseason was drafting pretty much all defense with 3 key signings: Key 2021 Draft Picks: LB Micah Parsons, CB Kelvin Joseph, DT Osa Odighizuwa. Also – Key Additions: DL Brent Urban, OT Ty Nsekhe, EDGE Tarell Basham. The Giants and Eagles will  be poor this year as the Washington defense is tough but they aren’t ready on offense yet.  The Cowboys have the strength and talent to dominate the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball. And as long as their pass defense holds up, they could once again post units ranked in the Top 10 in offense and defense like they did a few years ago. The Cowboys lost five games in the 4th Q last year and with their duel threat QB back he will be the difference maker in the 2021 NFL season.  

Take the DALLAS COWBOYS +110 to WIN THE NFC EAST. 

Betting the NFL Preseason in 2021

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The Hall of Fame Game is the first NFL preseason game of the year, which closes the annual Hall of Fame enshrinement festivities. On August 5th, 2021, the Dallas Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers will kick-off the preseason at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio. The game marks the seventh appearance by each squad in the annual preseason classic which is tied for the most by any team. Both clubs own 3-3 straight-up record. The game starts at 8:00 PM ET and can be viewed on Fox.

You will hear people say “Don’t bet on NFL Preseason Football”. Big Mistake! It’s actually easier than capping the regular season. In most cases you can read ahead of time the exact game plan for each team. I feel the NFL preseason is a great opportunity to start and build a nice bankroll for the upcoming regular season. Many handicappers have the opinion that the preseason games should be left alone and not bet on. I feel just the opposite. If you do your homework–the preseason offers sharps and squares a tremendous opportunity to make a lot of money. Here are my personal keys, stats, systems, angles, reasons, and teams to consider when betting NFL Preseason football in 2021.

1) Depth

This one is obvious. Jo public gets so worked up about the starters and skill position players on certain teams during the regular season. But they’re the same in the preseason. Teams that can go two-and three-deep (sometimes four-deep) at the skill positions have a decided advantage over a club that has a few stars that will be sitting after the first or second series. A perfect example of a team like that this season, is none other than the Buffalo Bills. Josh Allen, Mitchell Trubisky, and Jake Fromm are a solid top three. They signed Davis Webb who has a big arm. Even if Josh Allen plays very little, the next three should give teams fits in August. Don’t forget, the Bills have been running Sean McDermott’s system for 4 years. The Bills went 4-0 ATS when we last saw the NFL preseason (2019). On the flip side, the Detroit Lions will break in a brand new head coach (see below), new offensive coordinator, and new defensive coordinator. Jared Goff, Tim Boyle, and David Blough will be learning a brand new offense. The Lions’ defense will be learning a new scheme as well. I think this team is heading for a rough preseason!

Quarterbacks and continuity are key. NFL preseason wagers, just like those during the regular Season, often come down to the last eight minutes of a game. So find teams that have solid depth at QB and/or has some experience or success in the league. They’ll have a tremendous advantage in the closing moments of a game against a third and/or fourth-string defense.

2) Experience

I don’t necessarily mean which team has the most grizzled veterans on it. In fact, experience can be a detriment. Most older players hate preseason games. And teams that have established players in certain positions or roles will often see those guys “mail it in” during the preseason because they know the games are “meaningless” and already have their “jobs” locked up.

However, experience is a key factor when it comes to handicapping coaches/systems. Organizations that haven’t experienced much turnaround have a significant advantage over those that are easing in a new brain trust. For example, the Seattle Seahawks have been running Pete Carroll’s system since 2010. The Seahawks are going to be much sharper than a team that is going through drastic changes. Take the Philadelphia Eagles for example. They are breaking in a brand new head coach (Nick Sirianni), new offensive coordinator (Shane Steichen), and new defensive coordinator (Johnathan Gannon). Keying on clubs that have familiarity & continuity, and finding teams that are much less comfortable with their new system is a big key when wagering on preseason games. I can’t stress this enough!



3) First-Year Head Coaches with new team (Full Season)

We have seven for the 2021-22 season in alphabetical order by team. First year head coaches can be tricky, but generally perform very well in their first August home game.They went 6-1 ATS in their first home game five years ago, 5-2 ATS four years ago, 4-1 ATS three seasons ago and 6-2 ATS in 2019. That adds up to a a bankrolling 21-6 ATS mark the last four preseasons combined! A lot of expectations are put on these guys coming in. They all want to show the Owner, General Manager, players, and fans that he is the right man for the job. Setting the tone early means playing to win in the preseason. With just three games this preseason, it’s even more important to win early.

Arthur Smith (Atlanta Falcons)

Dan Campbell (Detroit Lions)

David Culley (Houston Texans)

Urban Meyer (Jacksonville Jaguars)

Brandon Staley (LA Chargers)

Nick Sirianni (Philadelphia Eagles)

Robert Saleh (NY Jets)

4) Competition/Philosophy

If you know how head coaches were raised and what their philosophies are than you will have a big advantage this August. I will give you one HC that treats the preseason as the regular season. That would be John Harabaugh of the Baltimore Ravens. The Ravens are 17-0 ATS over the past four preseasons. Who needs Bitcoin? His 37-12 ATS overall record in the preseason would have made you a small fortune. On the flip side, Sean McVay of the Los Angeles Rams clearly hates the preseason. He uses August to scout his younger guys while keeping his starters and key backups healthy. The Rams went 1-3 ATS last year. Sean McVay is 5-8 ATS in his career and it could be much worse. The odds-makers are going to inflate the Rams’ opponent lines this August. Be careful! Keep an eye on the Seattle Seahawks this August. Pete Carroll has always played to win in the preseason, evident by a 36-18 (66.6%) ATS record. Seattle went 3-1 ATS in the 2019 preseason after going 0-4 ATS in 2018. That was the first time Pete Carroll and the Seahawks never cashed at least one preseason game. I would expect Seattle to make bettors money once again this August.

5) Motivation

If you watched the NFL for any number of years you should know that not every Head Coach cares about winning in the NFL Preseason. Different HC’s have different agendas when playing in August and they all pretty much stick to their beliefs. I gave you four very good examples above that should hold true once again this upcoming preseason. Each coach handles the preseason differently. Some put a premium on the second game. For some it’s the third or even the fourth back in the day. Some coaches just mess around and tinker with their lineups during the preseason and use it to evaluate their younger guys. But here’s the key – and this is a big difference between the regular season and preseason football – most coaches are forthright about what the game plan will be. All you have to do is a little research from the local beat writers.




6) Scheduling

The NFL preseason schedule generally isn’t too taxing on the teams and players. But there are quirks. The two teams that play the Hall of Fame Game are a good bet to fade in their next game. If some key players are a bit banged up then you can expect those guys to be watching in street clothes. Keep a close eye on how players from the Cowboys and Steelers come out of the Hall of Fame game. Also, NFL teams who play on the West Coast (with little to no humidity), and than travel to play a high humidity East Coast game. It would be wise to fade those West Coast teams, especially if installed as a favorite. This has worked extremely well over the past few years with the new OTA rules in place.

Jeff’s NFL Preseason system to consider in 2021

If you are looking for a very profitable system/angle in the NFL preseason here is one to consider this year. Teams that get crushed by 28+ points in their first preseason game are a great bet in their very next game (week two). Mostly because the public overreacts and the lines get super inflated. NFL teams in this role are cashing 62% over the past decade. Choose wisely!



Jeff’s #1 NFL Preseason Team to “Play On” in 2021

Minnesota Vikings. The Vikings went 7-9 SU in 2020. Mike Zimmer is 18-8 ATS (69%) in the preseason and has always played to win August games, especially following a losing regular season. Kirk Cousins, Kellen Mond, Jake Browning, and Nate Stanley seem capable to execute a veteran system. I especially like the Vikings -3 at home against the Colts in week two (August 21st). The Colts play the Panthers on Saturday, August 15th and will have one less day to recover and prepare. The Vikings Week one game is on August 14th. I like this all the way up to 6 points!

Jeff went 16-6-1 ATS (including postseason) last year documented at The Sports Monitor of OK. Look for more articles in the coming weeks. Jeff was ranked No. 3 in the NFL two seasons ago, No. 3 in the 2017-18 NFL regular season, and No. 1 (tied) in the postseason at The Sports Monitor of OK, cashing just under 70%. Jeff has shown a profit in 8 straight football seasons, fully documented. Jeff is a 7x NFL Top 10 Handicapper. Early Bird Football season packages are now available.

Good Luck this Football Season!

Written by Jeff Hochman.

Follow him on Twitter @jhsportsline

NFC East Draft Recap

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NFC East Draft Review

With the NFL draft done, all 32 teams now have their draft picks set heading into the summer and fall. Over the next few days, we’ll be taking a look at each team, division by division, in order to see who came out of the draft with players that fit both need and value.

 

Today, we’re starting things off with the NFC East.

Dallas Cowboys

The Cowboys were expected to target defense or offensive line with their first pick, but they couldn’t refuse when Oklahoma WR CeeDee Lamb fell to them at 17th overall. Dallas quickly snatched up Lamb, with a plan for him to join Amari Cooper and Michael Gallup as one of the team’s starting receivers.

 

Day two of the draft saw the Cowboys address their defense. With their second and third round picks respectively, they took Alabama CB Trevon Diggs and Oklahoma DT Neville Gallimore. Diggs is a candidate to start at corner to replace the departed-Byron Jones, while Lamb’s teammate Gallimore will provide depth on the interior of the defensive line.

 

On the final day, Dallas was able to marry need and value with their selections. They added another cornerback in Tulsa’s Reggie Robinson, and found a new potential starting center in Tyler Biadasz from Wisconsin. In one of the best value picks of the draft, the Cowboys ended up with Utah DE Bradlee Anae, a potential third-round pick, near the end of round five at No. 179 overall. They closed their draft out with a quarterback in the seventh round, going with Ben DiNucci from James Madison.

 

Overall, draft experts praised Dallas’ draft, with some even calling it one of the two or three best in the league. It’s hard to disagree, as the Cowboys came out of the draft with several players ready to make an impact right away.

New York Giants

At fourth overall, the Giants had their pick of offensive linemen in order to boost a group that has struggled for several years. They ultimately decided to take Georgia OT Andrew Thomas with their first round pick, a surprise to some. But just as many experts also felt New York got it right with the pick, as Thomas will be a day one starter at either left or right tackle.

 

New York has a perfect combination of need and value met in the second round when they selected Alabama S Xavier McKinney. McKinney was expected to be a first round pick, and should be able to start at either safety spot next to Jabrill Peppers. The Giants then used their round three pick at 99 overall to select the big OT Matt Peart from UConn.

 

Armed with seven picks on day three, including four seventh round picks, the Giants targeted defense. Some notable selections included UCLA CB Darnay Holmes, Penn State LB Cam Brown and Minnesota LB Carter Coughlin. Their only offensive pick on Saturday was Oregon OG Shane Lemieux, who they plan to cross-train at center.

 

As a whole, the Giants made sure that offensive line and athletes on defense, their two biggest needs heading in, were met. Although they didn’t draft a center, true pass-rusher, or even a wide receiver, it was considered a successful draft for New York.

Philadelphia Eagles

With a clear need at wideout heading into the draft, the Eagles did in fact go wide receiver in round one. Although it wasn’t the receiver many people thought it would be, as the team passed on LSU’s Justin Jefferson in favor of TCU WR Jalen Reagor. Even though it was a little bit of a surprise pick, Reagor should provide explosiveness to their offense.

 

Philadelphia continued the surprises on day two, taking Oklahoma QB Jalen Hurts in the second round. The Heisman Trophy finalist becomes the backup to Carson Wentz and a viable option in case Wentz gets hurt. It also wouldn’t be a surprise if Hurts was used on certain packages and option plays for the time being. They finished the day with Davion Taylor, the speedy linebacker from Colorado.

 

The draft experts loved Philadelphia’s day three picks, with GM Howie Roseman finding some great value late. Clemson S K’Von Wallace was picked in the fourth round after some believed he could go as high as the second round. They also picked, among others, Auburn OG Jack Driscoll and Boise State WR John Hightower, both of whom were good value picks. In addition to four more day three picks, the Eagles also traded for 49ers WR Marquise Goodwin.

 

Even though some of their earlier picks were considered a little puzzling, the Eagles definitely targeted wide receiver and filled that need. They also improved their depth along the offensive line and at pass-rusher. It’s a solid draft that could be considered brilliant if Hurts ends up becoming a huge piece for them.

Washington Redskins

After the Bengals got the draft started with QB Joe Burrow, the Redskins had the next no-brainer pick and took Ohio State EDGE Chase Young. Young was the draft’s best defensive prospect, and should be a staple on Washington’s defensive line for years to come.

 

With no second round pick, Washington’s only day two selection was a running back near the beginning of the third round, Memphis’ Antonio Gibson. Gibson is a do-it-all running back who new head coach Ron Rivera can deploy in a multitude of ways.

 

Day three was a busy day for the Redskins. The action started with a trade of disgruntled OT Trent Williams to the 49ers in exchange for a fifth round pick this year and a third rounder for next year. With Williams gone, Washington selected his potential replacement in the fourth round, LSU OT Saahdiq Charles. Liberty WR Antonio Gandy-Golden was a good value pick in the fifth round, as was San Diego State C Keith Ismael, who was taken with the pick acquired from San Francisco. The team had three more picks to wrap up the day, including N.C. State EDGE James Smith-Williams, to close out their draft.

 

Desperate for impact players, the Redskins certainly got that in Young, with Gibson and Charles also expected to see the field often. They are hoping that their good draft, paired with the new coach and the development of QB Dwayne Haskins, can propel them out of the division cellar.

 

When you are ready to bet on the teams from the NFC East – head to PayPerHead247; our favorite pay per head bookie site.

The most disappointing NFL Teams of 2019

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There are a lot of teams that I could go with. The Los Angeles Chargers, the over-hyped Cleveland Browns, or the high expectation of the Dallas Cowboys.
But the team that I have to choose are the LA Rams. LA had some really high expectations as the reigning NFC champs. Then the Rams won just 3 of their first 6 games. Losing a shootout to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 55-40. The Buccaneers – a team with a QB who seems to love throwing the ball to the other team, as much as put TDs on the boards. With all of awesome talent they have on this team – I’m honestly not sure how that’s even possible. They seemed to only win the games they should win – vs the middling to bad teams this season.

The Rams returned this season with the core of guys from last season’s Super Bowl team – and returning to the big game, was surely their thought. But, the Rams not only failed to repeat a strong campaign, but they missed the playoffs. The Rams took a great big step forward in 2018, going 12-4 and getting to the Bowl – most saw them as being the team to beat in the NFC again this year. Then they started tumbling after their 3 game skid in late Sept to early October, where they just never seemed to get it back together.

Todd Gurley’s 2019 year, was far from being the player that we saw over the last few seasons. He put up just 57 YDs/game to last years 89 YDs/game – and only 31 receptions to last seasons 59 catches. His touches went way down – something was just not right with #30 this season – and we all witnessed it. QB Jared Goff was not sharp – passing inconsistency has been a key all year – his passing TD% of throws was the lowest since his rookie season in 2016 – he struggled in many ways to play like last year’s guy.
It felt like LA would make the final push for a ring in 2019. After such a great season in 2018 – nothing about the team really seemed to fire on all cylinders this year. Their rushing D was poor, their offense was shaky, and their Oline was just tolerable.
There was a lot more expected of the defense especially when they have Aaron Donald, Dante Fowler’s season, bringing in Clay Matthews, and then bringing in Jalen Ramsey. Donald was his usual dominant self – maybe not the ginormous wrecking ball that we saw last year – but he was excellent still. Ramsey brought a shutdown kind of play on the field and Fowler was all over the field in his best season ever. But, they still weren’t able to make the plays when needed, or stop teams from pounding the rock on the ground over and over.

They were expected to be far better than just going 9-7, that’s for sure – it is truly mystifying how the Rams have fallen since their Super Bowl.
It goes to show how fast things can turn around for any team, in a short while.

What is the definition of a sports dynasty

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We as sports fans have watched a multitude of great teams come and go over many tears of watching the amazing sports that we love. Teams like the Boston Celtics, the New York Yankees, Dallas Cowboys and most recently, the New England Patriots. What is one thing that we could all actually be in agreeance on.  Odds are, they have been consistent historical winners, and oftentimes, the sheer mentioning of these teams brings anger and frustration to fans of other teams, and opposing fan bases get annoyed and aggravated when hearing about them.
Because they have been incredibly successful. They had a period where they were dominating their division, their conferences, and their leagues for a lengthy amount of time, and this in itself, angers others. And if we are being completely honest with ourselves, as fans, they are the teams that we wish our teams could emulate. Who wouldn’t love their underachieving, yet steady 7-9 football team to rack up 12 wins in the season every year, like the New England Patriots or have the reputation and great players, seemingly always, like Pittsburgh and be a preseason favorite to win it all, before the season even begins? We all would love that.
By definition from dictionary.com – a dynasty is regarded as a noun 1. a sequence of hereditary rulers: an Egyptian dynasty or 2. any sequence of powerful leaders of the same family: the Kennedy dynasty
But is that what you, as a sports fan consider as a dynasty?
A ruler?
Lets examine.
A teams season wins count for something. A winning team that has been putting up a large amount of wins a season for a lengthy and long period of time is a huge component for being called a dynasty. In the NBA, the Cleveland Cavaliers have racked up a .654 win pct over the last 3 seasons – which is far ahead of the next best teams in the Eastern conference  like hot teams like the Toronto Raptors and the Boston Celtics. Winning is hard anyway you look at it, but winning 65% of your games for a lengthy period of time is pretty impressive. Not having the oddball eye opening season of big wins, like the New York Giants or the Portland Trail Blazers – but the 15 straight seasons of 10 wins or more like the New England  Patriots or 8 of the last 11 seasons, like the Pittsburgh Steelers  is something to be admired.
Playoff appearances have to count for a huge part of the equation, absolutely. For instance, New England has made the tournament for 9 straight seasons. The fact is, a team that has been able to utterly dominate their division and blow passed them, and get to the playoffs for so many years straight, is pretty impressive. Who wouldn’t want to feel they had a team that did that every single season? And making it to the championship of their sport is beyond comprehension for the vast majority of sports fans. It isn’t commonplace, which is sometimes misunderstood. What the Buffalo Bills did back in the 90’s was amazing, lets be completely honest about that. How many teams make the Super Bowl – let alone, 4 straight? I will tell you…. it doesn’t happen, that is why we always cherish the precious moment if our team makes it there.
Do you seriously consider the Bills a dynasty though? Or when you think of dynasties do you think of Troy Aikman and the Dallas Cowboys? You think of Dallas and I will tell you why. Not only did they win 3 Super Bowls during a 4 year timeframe, but they were one of the teams to beat for about a decade. And going back to an original statement – why do you think Dallas has so many fans that dislike the team? Because they won and they won for a long period of time.
That’s why.
Championships are the ultimate way to openly judge a dynasty. How many times have they won the top honors as the ultimate team to beat. The Yankees won 5 championships over 14 years from 1996-2009, and made it to the World Series 6 times in 8 years. The Patriots have made it to at least the conference championship at least 10 times over 15 seasons. And the Celtics hung up 11 titles from 1956 to 1968.
It’s trying for most of teams, especially those that are usually a middling organization, like the New Orleans Saints, the Detroit Pistons and the Indiana Pacers and you may question why or what happened, or the best of the hypothetical questions  the “what if…” Trust me, we all have entertained those deep thoughts in our heads….but then reality comes back around, and who  actually completed their goals and made the right draft picks and hired the right coaches.
Regardless of how you calculate the way you measure a teams success factor to be a dynasty. A team that wins and wins big consistently for a multitude of years, that’s what a dynasty is. A team that doesn’t play down to their opponents, a team that teams fear, and wins across their league – that is the true signs and key to being called a real dynasty. A team that seems to never get worse, a team that thrill their fans and infuriates fans of other teams, based on their immense amount of success, that is when your team has become a real dynasty.
In sports games we often judge a team, by their championships, or a player, often unfairly, by the 5 boxes that we look at. But a team that brings championships to teams, is the ultimate sign of success for an organization, and those are considered what makes a true dynasty.

2017 VegasTopDogs NFL SEASON PREDICTIONS

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We have just about made it!

The 2017 offseason has been long and we have all waited for our teams to strap on their battle gear – lace up their cleats, and start showing us again, why we obsess over them. The Bucs have made some nice improvements to their team – and Miami has not done much of anything worth being too up or down about. Some teams, as we all know, fall way short of great expectations – and others end up shocking the rest of the league – these are just some of the reasons we love the NFL.
Things could always change.

And likely will throughout the season.

As we all know, hate fact if you want to, but the Cowboys and the Patriots are really good. The Browns are not a good team, and the Jaguars are not going to be competing again this year either. But – there are still plenty of games to be played – some huge games – some games that are nothing more than practice runs for the real ones. But with all that being said – lets take a look at the 2017 VTD FULL ON NFL Predictions for the season.
With playoff indicators and playoffs.
Lets get ready!!

Z – division champion
Y – wildcard

AFC EAST
Z – New England Patriots last season; 14-2
2017 predicted record; 13-3
strengths; talent
weakness; special teams

Y – Miami Dolphins last season; 10-6
2017 predicted record; 10-6
strengths; special teams
weakness; chemistry

Buffalo Bills last season; 7-9
2017 predicted record; 6-10
strengths; running game
weakness; QB

New York Jets last season; 5-11
2017 predicted record; 4-12
strengths; RBs
weakness; QB

AFC NORTH
Z – Pittsburgh Steelers last season; 11-5
2017 predicted record; 10-6
strengths; offensive line
weakness; aging

Cincinnati Bengals last season; 6-9-1
2017 predicted record; 9-7
strengths; WR corps
weakness; offensive line

Baltimore Ravens last season; 8-8
2017 predicted record; 8-8
strengths; defense
weakness; weapons

Cleveland Browns last season; 1-15
2017 predicted record; 3-13
strengths; hope
weakness; young

AFC SOUTH
Z – Tennessee Titans last season; 9-7
2017 predicted record; 10-6
strengths; improvement
weakness; secondary

Indianapolis Colts last season; 8-8
2017 predicted record; 9-7
strengths; coaching
weakness; flawed

Houston Texans last season; 9-7
2017 predicted record; 8-8
strengths; defense
weakness; QB

Jacksonville Jaguars last season; 3-13
2017 predicted record; 4-12
strengths; recent draft
weakness; offense

AFC WEST
Z – Oakland Raiders last season; 12-4
2017 predicted record; 11-5
strengths; hot
weakness; pressure

Y – Kansas City Chiefs last season; 12-4
2017 predicted record; 10-6
strengths; turnovers
weakness; LBs

Denver Broncos last season; 9-7
2017 predicted record; 8-8
strengths; defense
weakness; schedule

LA Chargers last season; 5-11
2017 predicted record; 7-9
strengths; talent
weakness; defense

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NFC EAST
Z – Dallas Cowboys last season; 13-3
2017 predicted record; 10-6
strengths; youth
weakness; youth

New York Giants last season; 11-5
2017 predicted record; 10-6
strengths; wide receiver corps
weakness; Oline

Washington Redskins last season; 8-7-1
2017 predicted record; 9-7
strengths; firepower
weakness; RBs

Philadelphia Eagles last season; 7-9
2017 predicted record; 8-8
strengths; Alshon Jeffery
weakness; OC play calling

NFC NORTH
Z – Green Bay Packers last season; 10-6
2017 predicted record; 12-4
strengths; Aaron Rodgers
weakness; defense

Y – Minnesota Vikings last season; 8-8
2017 predicted record; 10-6
strengths; defense
weakness; division

Detroit Lions last season; 9-7
2017 predicted record; 8-8
strengths; Matthew Stafford
weakness; turnovers

Chicago Bears last season; 3-13
2017 predicted record; 4-12
strengths; Jordan Howard
weakness; roster

NFC SOUTH
Z – Atlanta Falcons last season; 11-5
2017 predicted record; 11-5
strengths; firepower
weakness; Super Bowl hangover

Y – Tampa Bay Buccaneers last season; 9-7
2017 predicted record; 10-6
strengths; division
weakness; Oline

Carolina Panthers last season; 6-10
2017 predicted record; 8-8
strengths; offensive ability
weakness; secondary

New Orleans Saints last season; 7-9
2017 predicted record; 7-9
strengths; offense
weakness; defense

NFC WEST
Z – Seattle Seahawks last season; 10-5-1
2017 predicted record; 10-6
strengths; Russell Wilson
weakness; RBs

Arizona Cardinals last season; 7-8-1
2017 predicted record; 9-7
strengths; veteran team
weakness; age

Los Angeles Rams last season; 4-12
2017 predicted record; 5-11
strengths; division
weakness; firepower

San Francisco 49ers last season; 2-14
2017 predicted record; 5-11
strengths; schedule
weakness; talent

Mike Anthony of VegasTopDogs.com

 

2017 NFL Draft Preview

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​​VegasTopDogs 2017 NFL DRAFT PREVIEW –
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With another NFL draft upcoming – that which has an excellent amount of skilled RBs in particular, with Leonard Fournette, Dalvin Cook and Christian McCaffrey, just to name s a few. And guys like Jonathan Allen, Kevin King and Myles Garrett coming out on the defensive side of the ball, this draft is going to be great.
The other positions, we have some guys who some are leery of buying fully in on. The position we are looking at, as one of the most questionable slots is the QB position. the very intriguing DeShone Kizer, Texas Tech big armed Patrick Mahomes and dual threat Deshaun Watson are looked at as some of the top QBs heading into the draft. They all have some pros, but all certainly have their obvious cons.
Kizer was only completing 58% of his passes on the season in 2016.
Mahomes had not been a great leader in 2016, losing 7 games, nothing to be too excited about.
Watson threw 17 picks.
Regardless – we are going to watch and we are going to cheer and sometimes complain at the picks. Here, we will take a projective look at the 1st rd Draft projections as to who will draft who.
Let’s get it underway!
1. Cleveland Browns: Myles Garrett – DE – Texas A&M
2. San Francisco 49ers: Jonathan Allen -DT – Alabama
3. Chicago Bears: Marshon Lattimore – CB – Ohio State
4. Jacksonville Jaguars: Solomon Thomas – DT – Stanford
5. Tennessee Titans (from Rams): Mike Williams – WR – Clemson
6. NY Jets: Deshaun Watson – QB – Clemson
7. LA Chargers: O.J. Howard – TE – Alabama
8. Carolina Panthers: Derek Barnett – DE – Tennessee
9. Cincinnati Bengals: Takk McKinley – DE – UCLA
10. Buffalo Bills: Malik Hooker – S – Ohio State
11. New Orleans Saints: Forrest Lamp – OG – W Kentucky
12. Cleveland Browns (from Eagles): Mitch Trubisky – QB – North Carolina
13. Arizona Cardinals: John Ross – WR – Washington
14. Philadelphia Eagles (from Vikings): Leonard Fournette – RB – LSU
15. Indianapolis Colts: Dalvin Cook – RB – Florida State
16. Baltimore Ravens: Corey Davis – WR – Western Michigan
17. Washington Redskins: Christian McCaffrey – RB – Stanford
18. Tennessee Titans: Jamal Adams – S – LSU
19. Tamps Bay Buccaneers: Reuben Foster – LB – Alabama
20. Denver Broncos: Garett Bolles – OT – Utah
21. Detroit Lions: Charles Harris – LB – Missouri
22. Miami Dolphins: Cam Robinson – OT – Alabama
23. NY Giants: TJ Watt – OLB – Wisconsin
24. Oakland Raiders: Gareon Conley – CB – Ohio State
25. Houston Texans: DeShone Kizer – QB – Notre Dame
26. Seattle Seahawks: Kevin King – CB – Washington
27. Kansas City Chiefs: Jarrad Davis – LB – Florida
28. Dallas Cowboys: Taco Charlton – DE – Michigan
29. Green Bay Packers: Quincy Wilson – CB – Florida
30. Pittsburgh Steelers: Marlon Humphrey – CB – Alabama
31. Atlanta Falcons: Malik McDowell – DL – Michigan State
32. New Orleans Saints (from Patriots): Patrick Mahomes – QB – Texas Tech
So let’s sit back get ready for our teams with hearts pounding, and await what names we hear called out to us from that podium.
The 2017 football season is gong to arrive eventually with mini-camps starting in just a few months – now it’s just time to be patient, and get through our all-too lengthy offseason, and wait to see who is unleashed on the league as rookie phenoms, and the inevitable expected busts, that we all know are going to be there.