Pro Football History.com Blog

November 26th, 2023

The Pro Bowl is an event that can be a great way for the NFL to wind down at the end of its conclusion, with fans and players alike able to participate in the festivities.

Scheduled to take place following the conclusion of the Playoffs and in the lead-up to the Super Bowl, there have been a number of changes to the Pro Bowl, including its name to the Pro Bowl Games. These changes have been made for a variety of reasons, which has helped to keep the engagement of this annual event with fans as high as possible.

This year’s event will be taking place at Camping World Stadium in Orlando for the first time in three years, and tickets have already been made available to purchase.

Based on what had been able to achieve last year for the inaugural Pro Bowl Games, there could be a lot of demand for them. According to data, more than 58,000 people had turned up to the games at the Allegiant Stadium - this year’s Super Bowl venue - which was up 16% on the year before.

For those who may be unfortunate not to get tickets due to the likely demand, they will be able to watch the event on TV or through a platform that offers the ability to watch Football Live Online from the comfort of their home. More than 6.4 million viewers watched proceedings last season, and it would not be a surprise if more were to tune in once again after another top NFL season.

What events will take place at the Pro Bowl 2024?

Fans who decide to attend the event will be able to experience a multitude of different activities, with the AFC competing against the NFC across various skill-based games and flag football over multiple days.

Competitions will likely see the return of the Gridiron Gauntlet. This is an event in which six players from the AFC and NFC compete against each other in a team relay race they have to tackle through walls, crawl under doors and climb barriers as they attempt to get across the field the quickest.

It is possible to expect to see the Move the Chains game, too. This game will feature offensive and defensive linemen having to work together to try and move the 3,000 pounds of weight from the wall and then pull it along the ground and access the finish line.

There will be other skill-based challenges for other positional players, with quarterbacks likely to be challenged with their accuracy, while wide receivers may be tested with their catching abilities. These will all take place on the Pro Bowl Skills Show, which can provide a good vibe throughout the entire day.

Flag Football game could be bigger than ever

The Pro Bowl Games recently introduced the concept of a flag football-based game at the end to keep players safe from injury after a long season. However, this year’s could be even bigger with the news that the sport has been included in the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

The AFC will be coached by the legendary quarterback Peyton Manning, whereas the NFC will be coached by his brother, Eli, who is a two-time Super Bowl winner with the New York Giants in his own right.

Amid the announcement of the inclusion of flag football, it will be interesting to see what the NFL decides to do regarding the game. With it only being played once a year, could we see the league look to try and adopt an approach to ensure Team USA has a solid chance of winning gold in a sport that many expect them to dominate? Will they look to use it as a way of practicing, or will it be kept the same, and each year will be based on those that deserve to be in the Pro Bowl Games following the season they just had?

It is important to remember that fans currently have the main say when it comes to selecting the AFC and NFC rosters, as they are able to cast votes on who they believe should get the opportunity to go.

By Stephen Juza

November 18th, 2023

Entering Week 11, there are division matchups all around the league. This article examines one such divisional matchup that much of the country will watch on Sunday: the New York Jets versus the Buffalo Bills, delving into their historical confrontations as long-standing divisional rivals.

Current Season:

This game is a pivotal matchup for either team to prevent the season from slipping away. Both teams have fallen short of the preseason expectations and are eager to regain their momentum.

The Bills are hopeful that firing offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey can rejuvenate their struggling offense. The team entered the season with Super Bowl or Bust expectations, driven in part by the three consecutive AFC East titles and the conviction that Josh Allen was the second-best quarterback in the AFC. However, they currently hold the second position in the division at 5-5, and another loss against the Jets will place them at least two games behind the lead with six games remaining.

For the Jets, they entered the season with expectations of ending their playoff drought. They brought in future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers, retooled the offensive coaching staff, but it all came crashing to earth after only four plays when Rodgers tore his Achilles tendon in a season-opening win against the Bills. Since that victory, the Jets have posted a 3-5 record while averaging the third-fewest points a game (16.0) in the NFL. But a second victory against the Bills will keep them in the Wildcard hunt.

While the Jets took the initial game in the season series, the Bills are favored at many NY sportsbooks this Sunday. Despite the offensive struggles that led to Dorsey’s firing, they are still averaging 10 more points a game than the Jets offense.

Franchise History:

And while the Jets have won the most recent matchup, it’s a series that has traditionally been very even. The two franchises have been facing off since they both joined the American Football League (AFL) in 1960, the league’s inaugural year. The two rivals faced off in Week 1, with the Jets (then the Titans) taking the game 27-3.

Overall, the Bills lead the series 68-58, which includes the single playoff matchup between the two teams in the 1981 AFC Wildcard game. The Bills also hold the longest streak of victories between the two teams, ten consecutive wins from 1987-1992.

While the head-to-head matchup may be even, franchise success is not. While the Jets own the only Super Bowl victory between the two teams, the Bills have won 13 division titles to the Jets’ four, and have won four conference championships to the Jets’ one.

What to expect this weekend:

With both teams struggling on offense, but dominating on defense, expect a low-scoring affair between the two rivals. While the Jets’ struggles mean a constant stream of field goals, the Bills’ struggles will still manage a touchdown or two. Expect the Bills’ offense will be good enough to carry the home victory over the Jets, 20-12, splitting the season series, and putting them back on pace for a division showdown with the Dolphins in a few weeks.

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November 17th, 2023

In the thrilling world of college football, every season brings its share of highs and lows, victories and defeats, and heroes and underdogs. One such season that has captivated fans nationwide is the 2023 season, marked by the intense rivalry between the Washington Huskies and the Oregon Ducks.

Notably, this season saw Michael Penix Jr. of the Huskies square off against Bo Nix of the Ducks in a game still being discussed in every fan's living room. The outcome of that fateful game not only affected the AP Poll rankings but considerably shifted the odds for the coveted Heisman Trophy. Let's delve deeper into the fascinating story behind the 2023 Heisman Trophy odds.

Unstoppable Ducks Vs. Struggling Huskies

We've seen a clear shift in their performance trajectories in the aftermath of the epic showdown between the Ducks and the Huskies. The Ducks, led by the formidable Bo Nix, have been performing at an outstanding level, going 4-0 in the last four games with a +96 point differential. Nix has been a standout player, amassing over 1,300 passing yards and 16 total touchdowns with just a single interception. His completion rate of 77.5% even puts him at the top among all qualified FBS quarterbacks.

On the other hand, despite remaining undefeated, the Huskies have shown signs of struggle. Their victories over Arizona State, Stanford, USC, and Utah were hard-fought, with margins of less than 10 points. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr.'s performance has been less than stellar, with a completion rate of only 62% and eight touchdowns with four interceptions.

Comparing these two Heisman contenders, it's fair to say that Nix has emerged as a more efficient offense. Quite interestingly, the sportsbooks seem to agree, with FanDuel's hypothetical line for a Pac-12 game between Oregon vs Washington favoring the Ducks by 6.5 points. In the race for the Heisman Trophy, Nix is currently the betting odds leader. However, the season is not over yet, and as we have seen, there can always be unexpected turns on the road to the Heisman Trophy.

Dark Horses in the Heisman Trophy Race

While Penix and Nix have dominated the discussions around the Heisman Trophy, two other players have quietly showcased their talent and made a case for themselves - Marvin Harrison Jr. from Ohio State and Kyle McCord.

Harrison Jr. has been performing exceptionally, with over 1,000 yards receiving in this season alone. His recent game against Michigan State, where he racked up 150 yards and two touchdowns on seven catches, has been hailed by many as Harrison’s “Heisman game.” Accounting for about 40% of Ohio State's passing output this season, Harrison’s contribution to his team is undeniable.

Similarly, Kyle McCord, leading the No. 1 AP-ranked Buckeyes’ offense, has proven to be an indispensable asset. If Ohio State triumphs over Michigan, wins the Big Ten Championship game and makes the College Football Playoff, largely due to Harrison's and McCord's contributions, they could potentially make compelling cases for the Heisman Trophy.

Of course, the CFP Committee has the final decision. If Washington and Oregon are left out of the College Football Playoff, it could further bolster these dark horses' chances in the Heisman Trophy race. The climax of this captivating season is yet to unfold, and the NCAAF betting odds may still have surprises in store.

Impact on NFL Draft Stock

The performances of these players on the collegiate field not only position them as Heisman contenders but also significantly impact their NFL draft stock. Bo Nix's exceptional agility and precision, coupled with his leadership qualities as showcased in leading the Ducks, have certainly raised his stock in the eyes of NFL scouts. His ability to maintain a high completion rate under pressure is a testament to his potential in the big league.

Although Michael Penix Jr.'s recent performances may have raised some concerns, he remains a strong NFL prospect. His resilience and ability to pull through crucial moments, as demonstrated in the game against Oregon, underline his potential as a future NFL quarterback.

Similarly, the rise of Marvin Harrison Jr. and Kyle McCord cannot be disregarded. Harrison Jr.'s exceptional receiving skills and game-changing performances for Ohio State have undeniably put him on the radar of NFL teams. Moreover, McCord's ability to manage and lead the AP's No.1 ranked team showcases his potential as a valuable asset for any NFL team.

Conclusion

As the 2023 College Football season marches on, the contest for the Heisman Trophy and NFL Draft positions continue to evolve. The race remains thrillingly unpredictable, from the seemingly indomitable Bo Nix and the resilient Michael Penix Jr. to the emerging dark horses like Marvin Harrison Jr. and Kyle McCord. Regardless of the eventual outcomes, the performances we have witnessed so far underscore these athletes' extraordinary talent and dedication. No matter who walks away with the Heisman Trophy or where these players land in the NFL Draft, their contributions to the sport will always be remembered.

November 15th, 2023

In the heart of Ontario, a revolution is taking place. FanDuel, a titan of sportsbooks, has made a grand entrance, offering a regulated haven for sports enthusiasts to indulge in the thrill of the game. With its robust presence, FanDuel isn’t just a platform; it's an immersive sports experience, wrapped in the safety of Ontario’s unique position as the only province to welcome private operators into its fold.

Ontario's Open Market: A Model for the Future

Ontario stands as a beacon of progress in Canada's sports betting landscape. Here, FanDuel thrives, providing a dual convenience of digital and brick-and-mortar bookmaking under a protective legal umbrella. This dual access caters to both the tech-savvy bettor and the traditional punter, seeking the camaraderie of a communal betting experience.

Beyond Ontario: A Glimpse at Canada's Betting Climate

Venture outside Ontario, and the scene shifts. Other provinces are bound to provincial sportsbooks and services like Proline, with a nod towards parlay wagers and the recent, exciting introduction of single-event betting. These developments promise a richer tapestry of betting opportunities for Canadians coast to coast.

Betting With Precision: Understanding the Market

FanDuel's commitment to precision and adherence to Canadian law is unwavering. The sportsbook ensures all wagering options are transparent and within the legal frameworks, offering peace of mind to both the experienced and novice bettor.

Tailoring the Experience: A Platform for All

FanDuel prides itself on catering to all levels of sports fans. With a clear explanation of betting terms and a variety of options, the platform ensures newcomers can navigate the betting world with confidence, while seasoned veterans can delve into the complexities of sophisticated wagers.

Engaging with FanDuel: More Than Just a Bet

Engagement is the name of the game, and FanDuel excels with enticing offerings and bonuses that make every game an event to look forward to. From welcome bonuses to loyalty rewards, the sportsbook ensures that every participant feels valued and excited to be a part of the action.

NFL Betting: Touchdowns and Triumphs

With the NFL season in full swing, the excitement around FanDuel Canada NFL betting is palpable. This segment of FanDuel's platform is specially designed for the Canadian NFL aficionado, offering live updates, competitive odds, and a suite of betting options. Whether you're placing a bet on your favorite team or trying your hand at predicting the next MVP, FanDuel Canada provides a comprehensive NFL betting experience that's hard to match.

Ethical Promotion: The FanDuel Way

FanDuel sets the bar high, with a staunch commitment to ethical marketing. The sportsbook avoids misleading promotions, instead focusing on building trust through accurate, responsible, and engaging communication with its users.

The Expansion Vision: FanDuel and TSN's Strategic Alliance

FanDuel's partnership with TSN is more than just a collaboration; it's a vision for the future. This alliance lays the groundwork for a potential expansion beyond Ontario, with TSN's trusted brand providing a platform for FanDuel to reach new heights in the Canadian sports betting market.

Conclusion: Betting on Canada’s Sportsbook Future

FanDuel’s entry into Ontario is just the beginning. With its eyes set on a national presence, the sportsbook is poised to offer its premier experience to all Canadian sports fans. The partnership with TSN marks a strategic move towards this goal. As regulations evolve, so, too, will FanDuel, always with a commitment to integrity, engagement, and the ultimate betting experience. Writers and promoters alike must navigate this dynamic landscape with finesse, championing FanDuel's offerings while staying attuned to the changing tides of Canadian sports betting laws.

By Stephen Juza

November 11th, 2023

Bill Belichick’s tenure with the New England Patriots has been nothing short of legendary. His unmatched success in the NFL includes six Super Bowl titles, making him one of the greatest coaches in the league's history. However, recent developments have raised concerns about his future with the franchise. Entering Week 10, he has a 49% chance of being fired after the season according to our model, leading many to speculate about the end of an era.

In this article, we will delve into the recent history of Bill Belichick and the Patriots, and the reasons why he is on the precipice of being fired.

Tom Brady:

It’s a cop out to simply suggest “it’s because he no longer has Tom Brady”. It’s true that his record without Brady as a starter pales in comparison to his record with Brady. But early on, Belichick saw something special in the 6th round draft pick, keeping four quarterbacks on the roster in Brady's rookie season when a typical team only carried three. This was even more surprising because the Patriots had signed starting quarterback Drew Bledsoe to the largest contract in NFL history before Brady’s second season. While his future GM moves have made his life as a coach more difficult, one of his first decisions certainly reshaped NFL history in his favor.

While Brady may have been a constant player on the Patriots unprecedented run of success, credit goes to Belichick to always change the team’s scheme to match where their talent lies, or spotting emerging trends before the rest of the NFL. Shifting from dominating defenses early in his tenure, to an offensive strategy that highlighted speedy or shifty wide receivers, to one that focused on two tight end sets, and back to defense, all while maintaining a level of success that was previously thought impossible in the era of free agency. However, Brady was always the glue that held the offensive side of the ball together, no matter which players suited up on Sunday.

Inflection Point: August 6th, 2020:

That all came crashing down in 2020. Brady left the team in free agency in March, 2020, but arguably the bigger hit came on August 6th, 2020. That was the day that players had to opt out of the 2020 season due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The Patriots had eight players opt out, by far the most of any team. These opt outs included several starters, such as defensive players Patrick Chung and Dont’a Hightower.

While Brady created a leadership void on offense, the team had all offseason to mitigate this loss. Losing two starters on defense on the eve of training camp proved to be too much. It’s quite possible that the Patriots had so many opt outs due to their prior success; an NFL career is very short, and already reaching the Super Bowl pinnacle may have made it easy to sit out. In a way, Belichick’s success helped bring about his downfall.

While losing multiple starters was bad enough, two vital pieces of his coaching staff also departed that offseason: offensive line coach Dante Scarnecchia and director of football research Ernie Adams. While Scarnecchia was vital at forming the offensive line for almost two decades, Adams was responsible for scouring any possible area for a mathematical advantage. He managed this by working with statistics professors to help hone the team’s game plan for when to go for it on fourth down, when to go for two points, and many other ideas. The Patriots were early adopters of some of these strategies, and without Adams, the rest of the league was able to catch up.

Coaching Staff Limitations:

Belichick has always shown a reluctance to hire position coaches and above from outside his coaching tree, almost always opting to promote from within. Additionally, he has shown great loyalty to former assistants, offering them a spot on the staff after they are fired from their own head coaching opportunities. However, this has led to a deficient coaching staff that is atypical from the modern NFL team.

Over his Patriots tenure, he has often opted to choose a coach with no position experience over an unfamiliar coach for a position (or coordinator) coaching role. As his long-time coaches retired, inexperience crept into his staff. Scarnecchia, who coached from 2000-2013 and again from 2016-2020, was replaced by two coaches (Cole Popovich and Carmen Bricillo) who had never coached the position before. Running backs coach Ivan Fears (2002-2021) retired and was replaced by Vinnie Sunseri, who had a single year of running back experience assistant Fears before being handed the reins. Wide receiver coach Chad O'Shea offered stability at the position from 2009-2018, but in 2019 was replaced by former special teams coach, Joe Judge.

That was also not the only time that Judge had coached a position he had no prior experience with. Last season, after being fired as head coach from the Giants, Belichick offered him the quarterbacks coach position for second-year quarterback Mac Jones. Meanwhile, Judge couldn’t even rely on an experienced offensive coordinator, because the team didn’t have one, and play calling had gone to former defensive coordinator-turned-offensive line coach (and recently fired Lions head coach) Matt Patricia.

The NFL Is Entertainment:

The NFL is first and foremost an entertainment product, and Belichick has committed a cardinal sin of having a bad team that is also a very boring team. They sit last in the league, with a quarterback who has given little hope for the future, with a bottom-tier offense and defense.

They are on pace to score their fewest points per game (15.0) since 1993, while the defense is on pace to allow more points per game (25.3) in a season since 1990. A complete breakdown on both sides of the ball, and the buck stops at Belichick. Whether it’s a coaching problem, or a player problem, his complete control of football operations in New England means he has only himself to blame.

It’s also not too late for him to turn around the season. Coming up next, they face three straight opponents without a winning record, with a bye week in there. But no coach is immune to being fired. If Tom Landry can be fired in Dallas, if Andy Reid in Philadelphia, and Mike Shanahan in Denver, are we about to see how much leeway six Super Bowls grant a coach?

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