Tag Archives: interceptions

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How to Watch Ravens vs Vikings: Live Stream NFL, TV Channel

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Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens face off against Justin Jefferson and the Minnesota Vikings in Week 10 of the NFL season. The game takes place on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at U.S. Bank Stadium.

**How to Watch Ravens vs. Vikings**
– **When:** Sunday, November 9, 2025
– **Time:** 1:00 PM ET
– **TV Channel:** FOX
– **Live Stream:** Fubo (try for free)

The Ravens arrive with a 3-5 record, averaging 25.3 points and 183.0 passing yards per game. On the ground, they are strong, rushing for an average of 135.5 yards per game, ranking 6th in the league. Quarterback Lamar Jackson has thrown for 1,073 yards with 14 touchdowns and only one interception so far this season. Running back Derrick Henry has been a powerhouse, accumulating 629 rushing yards and six touchdowns. Wide receiver Zay Flowers has contributed significantly with 550 receiving yards through eight games. With Jackson back full-time in the lineup, the Ravens are in a much better position to stack up wins.

On the other side, the Minnesota Vikings enter this matchup with a 4-4 record. They average 22.8 points, 191.9 passing yards, and 99.9 rushing yards per game. Wide receiver Justin Jefferson has caught 47 passes for 649 yards and two touchdowns. Rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy has seen limited action, throwing for 444 yards, four touchdowns, and four interceptions this season.

Defensively, the Vikings have been solid against the pass, allowing just 194.5 yards per game. However, they have given up 122.3 rushing yards per game and allow 23.3 points on average.

This promises to be an exciting NFL matchup that you won’t want to miss! Make sure to tune in and catch all the action live.

**Live Stream Ravens vs. Vikings with Fubo:**
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https://www.newsweek.com/how-to-watch-ravens-vs-vikings-live-stream-nfl-tv-channel-11017454

general

Texans Add Versatile Veteran to Roster Ahead of Showdown Against Jaguars

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The Houston Texans continued their roster shuffle ahead of their Week 10 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars, focusing primarily on their injury-depleted secondary. To bolster their defensive backfield, the Texans will rely on veteran Myles Bryant, a versatile player with six NFL seasons under his belt.

### Texans Elevate Myles Bryant From Practice Squad for Jaguars Game

Bryant, now in his second season with the Texans, has been elevated from the practice squad to the active roster for the third time this season, according to league sources. KPRC 2’s Aaron Wilson reported on November 8 that Bryant’s versatility makes him a valuable asset, as he has experience playing nickel, safety, and outside corner positions.

With starting nickel corner Jalen Pitre sidelined due to a concussion, Bryant is expected to see significant playing time. The Texans plan to deploy their base 4-3 defense frequently, with Bryant stepping in during nickel situations.

In addition to this move, the Texans placed rookie third-round pick Jaylin Smith on injured reserve, adding to the challenges faced by the team’s secondary.

### Bryant’s Career and Contribution

Myles Bryant entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the New England Patriots in 2020. Over his career, he has compiled 214 total tackles, four interceptions, three forced fumbles, two sacks, and one recovery. His experience and versatility make him a valuable depth piece for the Texans as they navigate multiple injuries.

Meanwhile, the Texans have already made changes to their safety group this season. They released offseason trade acquisition C.J. Gardner-Johnson and brought in former Tampa Bay Buccaneers second-round pick M.J. Stewart (2018) as his replacement. Since Gardner-Johnson’s departure, the Texans’ defense has performed well, but injuries to Bryant and Stewart could test their depth moving forward.

### Texans Bring Back UDFA Cornerback Alijah Huzzie

Earlier in the week, the Texans made additional moves in the secondary. Rookie cornerback Alijah Huzzie was initially cut to make room for former Las Vegas Raiders first-round pick Damon Arnette on the 53-man roster. However, Huzzie was quickly re-signed to the practice squad after clearing waivers.

Wilson reported on November 7 that the Texans re-signed Huzzie, who had been activated from the Reserve/Non-Football Injury (NFI) list on November 5. The undrafted rookie out of North Carolina has yet to appear in a game this season but remains part of the team’s depth chart.

### Texans Navigating Significant Injury Concerns

The Texans face several notable injuries as they prepare for the Jaguars. Besides Jalen Pitre’s concussion, the team is dealing with injuries to offensive linemen Ed Ingram and Tytus Howard, kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn, and starting quarterback C.J. Stroud.

Davis Mills is set to start in place of Stroud, while Blake Fisher and Juice Scruggs will fill in for Howard and Ingram, respectively. To fill the kicker position left vacant by Fairbairn, the Texans signed veteran and former Jaguars kicker Matthew Wright.

With these roster adjustments, the Texans aim to maintain competitive depth to overcome their injury challenges and secure a win in Week 10 against Jacksonville.
https://heavy.com/sports/nfl/houston-texans/bryant-huzzie-roster-injuries-jaguars-ryans/

general

Bill Belichick commends Drake Maye for an ‘outstanding’ start with Patriots

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“They’ve won a couple of close games, and that’s really changed their record.”

UNC head coach Bill Belichick has largely remained mum this season when it comes to talking about his former team, the Patriots, and in particular, Tar Heels alum Drake Maye. But the future Hall-of-Fame head coach did give New England’s QB some props this week while making an appearance on the “Let’s Go!” podcast with Jim Gray.

In particular, Belichick highlighted the dangers that come with the dreaded sophomore slump for young quarterbacks and how a team on the rise could seemingly splinter in short order. In this exercise, Belichick pointed to how the Washington Commanders and QB Jayden Daniels have largely regressed this season, while Maye’s ascension as one of the league’s top young quarterbacks has allowed New England to jump up to a 7-2 record.

“I think competitively, most everyone who’s been in strong competition will tell you that it’s a little bit easier to get to the top than just stay on top,” Belichick said. “Certainly, an organization like Washington could see that this year. They had a great year last year. Things fell right for them. And this year, everybody’s gunning for them. And it’s a lot tougher.

“Certainly, Drake Maye has had an outstanding year for the Patriots,” Belichick added. “They’ve won a couple of close games, and that’s really changed their record. I’d say.”

Maye has put himself in the conversation for league MVP in his first full season as New England’s starting QB, with DraftKings tabbing Maye with the third-best MVP odds (+425), behind only Josh Allen (+180) and Patrick Mahomes (+350).

Even with an uneven performance on Sunday against the Falcons, Maye is still completing 74.1 percent of his passes this season, throwing for 2,285 yards (fifth in the NFL) to go along with 17 touchdowns (tied for 3rd) and just four interceptions. He has also rushed for 270 yards and two touchdowns on the year, averaging 4.6 yards per carry.

Of course, Maye and the Patriots might need to heed Belichick’s warning for next season when it comes to teams being more prepared to account for Maye’s playmaking and a New England team that has surprised many so far this season.

New England will need to both keep its franchise QB healthy and avoid regression across several other areas of their depth chart moving forward—two keys that the Commanders have failed to execute in what is looking to be a lost year for a franchise that made it all the way to the NFC Championship Game last season.
https://www.boston.com/sports/new-england-patriots/2025/11/05/bill-belichick-drake-maye-nfl-football-new-england-patriots-unc-north-carolina/

general

Bengals HC Zac Taylor gets honest on Logan Wilson trade to Cowboys

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Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor has shared his thoughts on the deadline-day trade of linebacker Logan Wilson to the Dallas Cowboys. The Bengals traded Wilson for a 2026 seventh-round pick on Tuesday.

Wilson, who was drafted in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft, has been a captain and a cornerstone of the Bengals’ defense. Taylor expressed his gratitude in the team’s official release announcing the trade, saying:

“I appreciate everything Logan has done as a player and as a person during his time in Cincinnati. He has been a central part of our defense over the past six years, and he will be remembered as a leader in our locker room. I wish him the best moving forward.”

The Dallas Cowboys acquired Logan Wilson in an effort to strengthen their struggling defense. Just hours before the trade was finalized, the Cowboys had suffered a 27-17 loss to the Arizona Cardinals on Monday. Backup quarterback Jacoby Brissett led the Cardinals’ offense, throwing for two touchdowns and rushing for another, exposing Dallas’ defensive vulnerabilities.

The Cowboys have been one of the NFL’s worst defenses this season, especially after losing star linebacker Micah Parsons in a trade with the Green Bay Packers. They are currently allowing an average of 30.8 points per game—ranked 31st in the league. Last season, they finished last as well, conceding 27.5 points per game.

Cowboys owner Jerry Jones voiced a sense of urgency to make impactful moves before the trade deadline, reflecting on past decisions. He stated:

“I have a natural urgency because of my age. My immediate tomorrows are a big thing to me. I’m satisfied that I can make good decisions. I’ve made some bad decisions, obviously, being trite. I am supremely responsible for where we are right now.”

### Reflecting on Logan Wilson’s Time in Cincinnati

Logan Wilson was a defensive stalwart for the Bengals since being drafted in 2020. He led the team in tackles each season from 2021 through 2023. Additionally, Wilson ranks among the league’s leaders in interceptions over the past five and a half seasons, recording 11 interceptions.

The 29-year-old linebacker missed the final six games of last season due to injury and has struggled to fully regain his role within the Bengals’ defense ever since. Reduced playing time led Wilson to request a trade, which was granted on Tuesday.

As Wilson embarks on a new chapter with the Cowboys, both teams will be looking to capitalize on this move—Dallas aiming to shore up their defense and Cincinnati focusing on retooling their linebacker group.

—

*Edited by Kayode Akinwumi*
https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/news-bengals-hc-zac-taylor-gets-honest-logan-wilson-trade-cowboys

general

Patriots Reportedly Not Interested in Adding Weapon for Drake Maye

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The New England Patriots have been one of the most impressive teams in the NFL to start the season, currently holding a 6-2 record and sitting in first place in the tough AFC East. The Buffalo Bills trail closely behind at 5-2, making the division race highly competitive.

**Drake Maye in Rare Company with Current Streak**

Winners of five straight games, much of the Patriots’ success this season can be attributed to what Drake Maye has accomplished under center. Maye has thrown for at least 200 yards in every game he’s played this year, amassing 2,026 yards, 15 touchdowns, and just three interceptions.

As a still very young team exceeding expectations, it would make sense for the Patriots to explore acquiring a difference-maker on offense to support their young talent, especially as the trade deadline approaches.

**Trade Speculation: A.J. Brown and Beyond**

Reports over the past few months suggested the Patriots had interest in wide receiver A.J. Brown. However, it appears the Philadelphia Eagles are unwilling to part ways with him, which could prompt New England to look elsewhere.

According to the latest report from Dianna Russini of *The Athletic*, the Patriots are currently focused on adding a pass rusher to bolster their defense.

> “The Patriots are searching for a pass rusher but feel good about their offensive weapons. Running back could be a possibility because of recent injuries,” Russini wrote.

While a running back addition remains a possibility due to recent injuries, the team feels confident in their current offensive lineup.

**Looking Ahead: Developing Drake Maye**

Allowing Maye to continue developing at quarterback might be the best approach. The Patriots likely have many competitive years ahead with him leading the offense. Unless there is a significant downturn in his play or other unforeseen circumstances, New England can hold onto its assets and consider making bigger moves in future seasons.

With a strong foundation in place and a commitment to building around their young stars, the Patriots are positioning themselves well for sustained success.
https://www.newsweek.com/sports/nfl/patriots-reportedly-not-interested-in-adding-weapon-for-drake-maye-10977528

general

Ben Johnson Gets Honest About His Role Leading Bears Defense So Far

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**Bears Head Coach Ben Johnson Discusses Defensive Struggles and Partnership with Dennis Allen**

Chicago Bears first-year head coach Ben Johnson entered the role with little experience on the defensive side of the ball, which is a key reason he brought in defensive coordinator Dennis Allen. Now responsible for every phase of the football team as head coach, Johnson has leaned on Allen to lead the defense this season.

A longtime offensive assistant, Johnson hired Allen—who is in his 15th season as a coordinator or head coach—to manage the defense. Despite this partnership, the Bears’ defense has faced significant challenges this year.

### Defensive Struggles Despite Takeaways

Interestingly, the Bears lead the NFL in takeaways this season, but several other defensive metrics paint a less optimistic picture:

– The defense has allowed 5.3 yards per carry, ranking 30th in the NFL.
– Opposing quarterbacks have posted a passer rating of 98.6, which ranks 21st league-wide.
– Despite the presence of Montez Sweat, the pass rush has generated only 14 sacks, placing them 25th overall.
– In the red zone, opponents have scored touchdowns on 64% of their trips, also ranking 25th in the NFL.

These struggles were particularly evident in the most recent game, when backup quarterback Tyler “Snoop” Huntley and the Baltimore Ravens scored 30 points against the Bears.

### Ben Johnson on Working with Dennis Allen and the Defense

Speaking at Friday’s press availability, Johnson addressed his role overseeing the defense and his collaboration with Allen.

“Dennis and I spend a lot of time together,” Johnson said. “I’m not necessarily in their install meetings because I’m a little more involved with the offense in their install meetings. Where we are now in the season, it’s a little more focus on the offense and making sure that side of the ball is good.”

He expressed confidence in Allen’s capabilities, noting, “Dennis has a great grasp on his system, so I’m not gonna micromanage that. He’s done it at a high level for a long time and that’s part of the reason he came here.”

Johnson also shared that he sometimes contributes ideas to the defense. “I’ve got ideas that I’ll spit ball,” he said. “Sometimes Dennis will implement the idea or not. It’s good for my education as well; it helps me grow as a coach.”

He emphasized his supportive role and a willingness to challenge ideas at times. “I’m there to help support and I do like to challenge occasionally and learn. I do think the longer I’m in this role, the more in tune I am with bringing all three phases together so that we can play complementary football.”

### Bears Aim to Make a Statement Against the Bengals

Looking ahead to Sunday’s matchup, the Bears (4-3) face the Cincinnati Bengals (3-5). While Chicago ranks second in the NFL on third down, allowing conversions on just 31.9% of attempts, they cannot rely solely on takeaways for defensive success—turnovers often come down to luck.

With Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow on injured reserve, veteran Joe Flacco has taken over and impressively has not thrown an interception or lost a fumble in three starts. If Flacco is unable to play due to a sprained AC joint, the Bears’ chances of generating takeaways could improve against Jake Browning, who has thrown eight interceptions this season. However, Bengals head coach Zac Taylor is expected to tailor the game plan to minimize turnover risks.

Ultimately, the Bears’ best path to defensive success lies in shutting down the run and forcing Cincinnati’s quarterback into third-and-long situations. This straightforward strategy plays to Chicago’s strengths and could be the key to controlling the game.
https://heavy.com/sports/nfl/chicago-bears/ben-johnson-defense-dennis-allen-relationship/

college, football, recruitment, sports

Miami football gets huge recruiting win after 4-star WR changes course

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The University of Miami football program made a major recruiting statement this week by flipping 4-star wide receiver Milan Parris from the Iowa State Cyclones. This addition boosts what’s quickly becoming one of the top receiver hauls in the 2026 recruiting class.

The move elevated the Hurricanes’ 2026 recruiting class to No. 1 in the ACC and No. 12 nationally, according to 247Sports. The announcement went viral Tuesday night when On3’s Hayes Fawcett posted the commitment edit on X (formerly known as Twitter). The post featured Parris posing in full Hurricanes gear alongside a quote regarding his decision to flip back to Miami football.

“Thanks to my family, coaches and teammates for helping me get to this point, Go Canes🙌🏽,” Parris stated.

Parris had previously committed to Iowa State in January, where he would have been the highest-rated receiver in program history. However, following a massive senior-year breakout and official visits to Oregon, Oklahoma, and Miami, the 6-foot-5, 210-pound target changed course.

This commitment gives Hurricanes receivers coach Kevin Beard his fourth Rivals300 wideout, tying Ohio State for the most in the nation. Miami’s recruiting class now includes standout players like Vance Spafford (flipped from Georgia), Somourian Wingo, and Tyran Evans.

Currently standing at 6-1 overall and bowl-eligible, the Hurricanes are seeing their on-field success translate directly into recruiting wins. According to Rivals and 247Sports, Parris ranks No. 23 among all wide receivers and is projected as a top-200 overall prospect. His blend of size, leaping ability, and deep-threat speed adds another valuable layer to an already stacked wide receiver room.

The timing of the flip was impeccable—it dropped just hours after Miami’s dominant 42-7 win over the Stanford Cardinal. Fans and recruiting analysts quickly labeled it a major victory over competing programs like Oregon and Oklahoma, both of whom were in the final mix for Parris.

Despite this recruiting momentum, Miami recently dropped from No. 2 in the national rankings following a 24-21 home loss to unranked Louisville in Week 8. Quarterback Carson Beck struggled in that game, throwing four interceptions, including a costly one in field goal range late in the fourth quarter.

The edit from Fawcett, featuring a message from the Ohio native and 2026 commit, quickly made the rounds across Miami football circles, racking up over 67,000 views in less than a day on the platform.

With this significant signing and continued on-field efforts, the Hurricanes are positioning themselves as a powerhouse in both competition and recruiting moving forward.
https://clutchpoints.com/ncaa-football/miami-football-news-4-star-wr-flip-milan-paris

sports

No. 13 Texas Tech and Kansas State meet in Big 12 play

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No. 13 Texas Tech (7-1) at Kansas State (4-4)

Date & Time: Nov. 1 at 3:30 p.m. EDT

BetMGM College Football Odds Opening Line: Texas Tech by 7

Against the Spread Records: Texas Tech 7-1, Kansas State 4-4

How to Watch: FOX

Key Stats

Texas Tech Offense

  • Overall: 499.4 yards per game (4th in FBS)
  • Passing: 300.1 yards per game (12th)
  • Rushing: 199.3 yards per game (27th)
  • Scoring: 43.6 points per game (4th)

Texas Tech Defense

  • Overall: 264.8 yards per game (10th in FBS)
  • Passing: 196.6 yards per game (39th)
  • Rushing: 68.1 yards per game (1st)
  • Scoring: 12.4 points per game (4th)

Kansas State Offense

  • Overall: 366.5 yards per game (87th in FBS)
  • Passing: 223.4 yards per game (80th)
  • Rushing: 143.1 yards per game (83rd)
  • Scoring: 31.0 points per game (53rd)

Kansas State Defense

  • Overall: 368.9 yards per game (73rd in FBS)
  • Passing: 220.4 yards per game (68th)
  • Rushing: 148.5 yards per game (74th)
  • Scoring: 25.8 points per game (83rd)

Kansas State ranks 91st in third down percentage, converting 37.5% of the time. Texas Tech’s defense ranks 13th, allowing opponents to convert at just 30.2%.

Both teams have strong turnover margins: Texas Tech is 22nd in the FBS with a +5 turnover margin, while Kansas State ranks 6th with +9.

Penalty yards are another factor to consider. Texas Tech averages 63.4 penalty yards per game (103rd in FBS), whereas Kansas State is much more disciplined at 33.0 yards per game, ranking 7th nationally.

Kansas State also excels in red zone offense, scoring on 92.0% of trips, which ranks 20th in the FBS.

Team Leaders

Texas Tech

  • Passing: Behren Morton – 1,501 yards, 13 TDs, 3 INTs, 68.4% completion
  • Rushing: Cameron Dickey – 680 yards on 113 carries, 9 TDs
  • Receiving: Caleb Douglas – 511 yards on 34 catches, 2 TDs

Kansas State

  • Passing: Avery Johnson – 1,787 yards, 15 TDs, 2 INTs, 62.9% completion
  • Rushing: Joe Jackson – 382 yards on 95 carries, 1 TD
  • Receiving: Jayce Brown – 577 yards on 36 catches, 4 TDs

Last Game Recap

Texas Tech dominated Oklahoma State 42-0 on Saturday, Oct. 25. Mitch Griffis led the offense with 172 yards on 9-of-13 passing (69.2%), throwing one touchdown and no interceptions. He also rushed seven times for -7 yards but scored a rushing touchdown. Cameron Dickey contributed 47 yards on 13 carries with one touchdown and added one reception for seven yards. Caleb Douglas had five receptions for 98 yards and one touchdown.

Kansas State defeated Kansas 42-17 on the same day. Avery Johnson passed for 231 yards on 11-of-17 attempts (64.7%) with two touchdowns and no interceptions. He also rushed six times for 17 yards and two rushing touchdowns. Joe Jackson ran for 69 yards on 20 carries and caught two passes for one yard. Jayce Brown hauled in four receptions for 160 yards and one touchdown.

Next Game

Texas Tech will host No. 10 BYU on Nov. 8.

Kansas State will travel to play Oklahoma State on Nov. 15.

https://wtop.com/ncaa-football/2025/10/no-13-texas-tech-and-kansas-state-meet-in-big-12-play/

coaching, football, predictions, sports, teams

Patriots Coach Makes Surprising Admission About Browns Ahead of Week 8

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The Cleveland Browns are set to go on the road to play the New England Patriots in Week 8, and Patriots coach Mike Vrabel made a surprising admission ahead of the matchup.

Despite the Browns holding a 2-5 record on the year, Vrabel believes Cleveland’s defense is the best New England will face this season.

“Yeah, I mean, just statistically and play style, they’re playing at a high level,” Vrabel said on Wednesday. “There’s quite a lot of confidence. It’s a lot of speed, a lot of disruption. They don’t give you a lot of time to make decisions, and then there’s enough change-ups in there. You just have to be good, you have to be sound, and you can’t hold onto the ball.”

Cleveland’s defense showcased their impressive form in Week 7, forcing Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to throw three interceptions during their dominant blowout win. With that performance in mind, Vrabel is well aware of the challenge ahead for his team’s offense—and especially for quarterback Drake Maye, who will need to be well prepared to face the Browns’ aggressive defense.

### Patriots Coach Continues to Praise Browns Defense

After calling the Browns the best defense the Patriots have faced so far this season, Vrabel continued to lavish praise on their speed and ability to pressure the quarterback and force turnovers.

“Well, they’re fast, they’re disruptive. They put pressure on the quarterback. And they do it through their players and their identity,” Vrabel explained. “They understand what they want to do and how they want to play. They want to force you into mistakes if you give up loose plays or guys get on the edge of somebody.

“You’ve got an elite edge rusher on the outside, and if you can’t step up it’s going to be hard to protect. And then the corners are going to be sticky, the linebackers all can run, safeties are very good tacklers. And that’s the thing that I’ve noticed, is that if a ball breaks, eight yards is a really long run against this team because the safeties are such good tacklers—Grant [Delpit] and Ronnie [Hickman].”

The Browns’ defense is currently allowing just 21.7 points per game, while averaging 2.57 sacks and five total interceptions per game—numbers that underscore their disruptive nature on the field.

### Kevin Stefanski Reveals Message to Defense

Following the Browns’ dominant defensive performance against Miami, head coach Kevin Stefanski sent a clear message to his defense, emphasizing discipline and teamwork.

“I think, obviously you score 21 points off of four takeaways, that’s a great recipe for success,” Stefanski said. “I think a big message for our defense, and I’m sure most defenses, is ‘do your job’. And you don’t go looking for an interception, or you use your technique when you’re tackling and the second guy in punches out.

“So, doing your job, the ball, you’ll be in position to make plays on the ball. And sometimes you have to wait for those opportunities to come, but you don’t go outside the framework of your defense.”

Stefanski expressed his confidence in the defense’s potential, noting there is a strong foundation to build on following their impressive showing against Miami.

### Looking Ahead

The Browns enter Sunday’s game as seven-point underdogs against the Patriots, but with a defense performing at such a high level, this matchup promises to be a test for New England’s offense. Fans can expect an intense battle as both teams look to claim a crucial win in Week 8.
https://heavy.com/sports/nfl/cleveland-browns/mike-vrabel-surprising-admission-defense/

brawl, entertainment, football, news, sports

NFL referee steps in to protect Seahawks’ Jaxon Smith-Njigba in wild ‘MNF’ brawl scene

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This referee went above and beyond on Monday night during the Seahawks’ 27-19 home win over the Texans on “Monday Night Football.”

Former NFL defensive back and current official Nathan Jones stepped in front of Seahawks star Jaxon Smith-Njigba on the Texans’ sideline to prevent any fireworks during a potentially combustible situation.

The incident unfolded roughly halfway through the fourth quarter after Texans cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. intercepted a Sam Darnold pass intended for AJ Barner, with the Seahawks leading 27-12. As Stingley ran out of bounds, he stiff-armed Smith-Njigba, causing the receiver’s helmet to fall off.

Smith-Njigba, the former Ohio State star who had earlier received an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty after scoring a touchdown, responded by shoving Stingley in the back as both headed toward the benches. Several Texans players rushed over, with linebacker Christian Harris even shoving Smith-Njigba into the bench.

Sitting on the bench, Smith-Njigba extended his arms outward, seemingly indicating he was not trying to escalate the situation. Meanwhile, some Texans teammates held Harris back to prevent further confrontation.

As tensions rose, Seahawks teammate Cooper Kupp and others made their way over to defuse the situation. That’s when Nathan Jones worked his way through the pile of bodies to surround Smith-Njigba. Standing face-to-face with the receiver, Jones put his arms on each side of him, helping to calm both sides down.

Stingley ultimately received an unnecessary roughness penalty for his actions.

ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky praised Jones for his quick and decisive intervention.

“That’s a good job by that official, that referee right there, to protect that player, man,” Orlovsky said. “I don’t know that official’s name, but that’s outstanding by him.”

A Newark native, Nathan Jones played college football at Rutgers before being drafted in the seventh round of the 2004 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys. Over an eight-year NFL career spanning 106 games, Jones played for the Cowboys (2004-07), Dolphins (2008-09, 2011), Broncos (2010), and Patriots (2011). He tallied three interceptions and six sacks during his time in the league.

Jones’ transition from NFL player to official clearly showed his commitment to the game, proving invaluable in moments like Monday night’s intense confrontation.
https://nypost.com/2025/10/21/sports/nfl-referee-steps-in-to-protect-seahawks-jaxon-smith-njigba-in-wild-mnf-brawl-scene/