Games of the Week
Jaguars escape with a win against the Chiefs (31–28)
The Jaguars are 4-1 while the Chiefs are 2–3, just like everyone predicted. Jacksonville pulled off a massive Monday Night upset after Trevor Lawrence scored on a bizarre rushing play where his center stepped on him, he fell, got back up, and powered into the end zone for the game-winning touchdown.
Kansas City looked completely out of sorts. Patrick Mahomes threw a pick-six in the red zone and the defense made critical mistakes, including dropping one of the easiest interceptions imaginable. The dynasty may well be over.
Titans grab their first win of the Cam Ward era in Arizona (22–21)
Speaking of strange plays, Tennessee earned a one-point win with one of the most unusual touchdowns you will ever see. Cam Ward threw an interception, which the Cardinals defense then fumbled, only for the ball to be batted and kicked into the end zone where the Titans offense recovered it for a score.
It was a bizarre finish in a game that often resembled a comedy of errors. While it is good to see Cam Ward notch his first win, it is fair to wonder if these are two of the worst teams in the NFL.
Buccaneers win another nail-biter against Seattle (38–35)
Tampa Bay seems incapable of playing anything other than close games. The Buccaneers won at the buzzer on a Chase McLaughlin field goal as time expired. Down seven with just over a minute to play, Baker Mayfield found Sterling Shepard for the tying touchdown.
From there, Tampa’s defense forced a turnover to set up the game-winner. The Buccaneers deserve credit for showing resilience in these close contests, but if they cannot learn to hold leads, regression could be looming.
Top Player Performances
Matthew Stafford, QB, Rams
The potential Hall of Famer has been excellent this season, and Week 5 was no exception. Stafford threw for 389 yards and three touchdowns in a losing effort, further solidifying Puka Nacua as his top target in what has become a prolific connection.
Rico Dowdle, RB, Panthers
A last-minute starter after Chuba Hubbard was ruled out with a calf injury, Dowdle delivered a career game. He ran for 206 yards on 23 carries, averaging nine yards per attempt, and added a touchdown in Carolina’s upset of Miami.
Emeka Egbuka, WR, Buccaneers
The rookie wideout continues to build his Offensive Rookie of the Year case. Egbuka caught all seven of his targets for 163 yards and a touchdown. He has quickly become one of Baker Mayfield’s most trusted options, producing explosive plays downfield and consistently finding openings in the red zone.
Joe Flacco Makes It Three Teams in the AFC North
In one of the strangest trades in recent memory, the Cleveland Browns dealt veteran quarterback Joe Flacco to division rival Cincinnati. For the Bengals, the move reflects the failure of Jake Browning to establish himself and the desperation of head coach Zac Taylor, who may be running out of time.
For Cleveland, Dillon Gabriel inherits the job and the unenviable task of blocking out the constant noise surrounding Shedeur Sanders and the Browns’ ongoing quarterback carousel.
Betting Strategy Adjustments After Week 5
Stay away from the Chiefs
Travis Kelce looks worn down, Chris Jones appears disengaged, and Patrick Mahomes looks mortal. Until Kansas City finds its footing, the smarter play is to avoid them altogether.
Panthers as a live underdog against the Cowboys
Carolina showed fight against Miami and could provide value against Dallas if the spread is right. The Cowboys defense has proven vulnerable, and the Panthers have enough to cover even in defeat. They also get the Cowboys at home, where the Panthers are currently undefeated this season (2-0).
The Rams as a SGP favorite
The Rams have become one of the best teams to build same-game parlays around. Between Stafford’s passing volume and Puka Nacua’s emergence, Los Angeles offers consistent production that can anchor multi-leg bets.
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