NATE BURLESON: Week 11 in the league.
BOOMER ESIASON: All right. There's Ryan Tannehill, 8-2 Titans hosting the Texans. They've won six straight, two without Derrick Henry, and they have the easiest remaining schedule left.
NATE BURLESON: Carson Wentz, he's thrown more TDs this season than he did all last season. Looking to take out the Bills like a bank withdraw.
BILL COWHER: Josh Allen, 19 touchdowns, 3 rushing. Going against Indy today.
PHIL SIMMS: Lamar Jackson is sick and out of the game today. Turned over to Tyler Huntley, his first NFL start, second year undrafted free agent out of Utah. Be relaxed and do your job, Tyler.
JAMES BROWN: Yes, that was Nate not me just then, but I'm back here now. Hello, everyone. Welcome to "The NFL Today," presented by the all new 2022 Grand Wagoneer. I'm James Brown. Folks, there is so much excitement and unpredictability. Tell me about it. That's why this roller coaster NFL season keeps us coming back for more. We've seen upsets, nail biters, and the all too rare tie game. Week 11 promises even more fun, so let's get started.
At 8-2, the Tennessee Titans have the best record in the AFC. Today Ryan Tannehill and company hope to keep things rolling as they host the Texans in Nashville. Carson Wentz and the Colts look for their third straight win as they head to orchard park to take on Josh Allen and the AFC east leading Buffalo Bills.
In Chicago, Justin Fields and the Bears play host to the Ravens, a team dealing with yet another bump in the road on their roller coaster season. Today backup Tyler Huntley steps in for Lamar Jackson. He's missing today's game with an illness as the team looks to answer the all important question, who are the real Baltimore Ravens?
>> They're back to their old tricks again. Testing our patience.
>> Touchdown. This one's over.
>> He's got a first down, and it is party time in Baltimore.
>> Bounces off the cross bar, and it's good!
>> Oh, my goodness.
>> Oh, my goodness.
>> Believe in each other. Trust each other. Play for each other.
>> Touchdown Ravens.
>> The Ravens defense is having a day.
>> Touchdown, Mark Andrews.
>> They are overpowering the Chargers.
>> As complete of a win as I've seen in a long time.
>> I did not see this one coming tonight at all.
>> The Miami Dolphins stun the Ravens tonight.
>> First thing you've got to do is look in the mirror and figure out what can I do to get better?
>> Bottom line is we were not prepared the way we need to be prepared. Our schemes weren't up to snuff. We just weren't ready.
JAMES BROWN: Meanwhile back inside of studio 43, where activity is frenetic, indeed folks. I'm joined by my colleagues, former NFL MVPer Boomer Esiason. The multitalented and including the voiceover King here, Nate Burleson. Hall of Fame coach Bill Cowher. And two-time Super Bowl champion Phil Simms.
You know what, from the booth at Soldier Field in Windy City, we are joined by -- wow, Sammy is calling Tony Romo vivacious now. I don't know if that's a word I would use. Tony, we've seen the best and the worst from the Ravens this season. Today they deal with another blow as Lamar Jackson out due to illness. What are your expectations for Tyler Huntley?
TONY ROMO: Well, I actually went back and watched a bunch of tape on him, and I think he plays a lot like Lamar. I don't think the offense is going to change a fun. Lamar is special, he's rare. He's got the gifts of short area quickness and a lot of things that he sees, faster spatial awareness. But I think he can throw the football. I think he knows where to go. Outside the numbers, he's going to look okay. I think some of the stuff in the middle down the field, I'd stay away from that a little bit today.
I think they're just going to put their toe in the water, see what he can do early, make it simple and easy for him. They'll probably stay out of empty formations, maybe not get stuff spread out right away. Eventually they'll get back to who they are. I don't think the offense will change much, and I think they'll be okay.
JAMES BROWN: Tony, I think you would agree a terrific performance for Justin Fields in last week's loss. What have you seen in his continued development?
TONY ROMO: I think you're seeing a guy just learn the game every rep, every day at practice, every game. He comes back, and he's like, mm, okay, that taught me something. Coming from Ohio State where you literally just lined up and were able to look at a guy and play, he's really learning football this year. You're seeing that development each week.
Remember he's playing new systems each week. It's not always just the same. So it's going to take a while. But you see these splash throws, these wild throws, and all of a sudden it's like this kid has a chance to be really good.
JAMES BROWN: Good insight indeed, Tony. The best to you, Jim and Tracy, on the call today. Coach, I turn to you. No Jackson. Talk about what you see happening.
BILL COWHER: If you go back three years ago, they thought RG3 was a guy that could run this offense. Last year they went out and drafted Tyler Huntley because he's got a similar skill set, as Tony made reference to. They're not going to change much when they talk about what they want to do offensively. He can run the football, do RPOs, and he can throw the football. The only thing he lacks is experience.
They are coming off the worst offensive production of the year. Miami only scored ten points. Everybody is going to run and pick it up. It's not about Tyler Huntley. It's about everybody else. Going against a Chicago team that does not have Akiem Hicks and doesn't have Khalil Mack. It may be a good matchup.
NATE BURLESON: Similar skill set and similar frame, wiry quarterback. Here's the thing. Enough can't be said about this moment in time he's in. He hasn't played in an NFL game. He's undrafted, second season. There's a lot of pressure on him right now. Talk about what happened last week with the terrible loss against the Miami Dolphins. He's going to have to step up.
He doesn't have to do it all by himself. Lean on your tight end. Any advice, look for Mark Andrews and early and often in this game.
BOOMER ESIASON: You have a distinct advantage at quarterback assuming Lamar Jackson is playing. He's not playing. You have to rely on your defense. How about the defensive numbers for the Ravens? They are the worst pass defense in football. The second worst when it comes to take-aways. And they're the third worst giving up more plays over 20 yards.
I think, if you are Justin Fields, Phil, you've got to go right after this defense and don't kind of hold back. Be aggressive, man, and throw the ball down the field.
PHIL SIMMS: They're going to do that, Boomer. You talk about Justin Fields, one, I think the coaches -- this is against the grain here. The coaches are putting him in good position to have success. They're patient with the run game. He's big, fast, strong, and he can rip it down the field. Here's a good example against the Pittsburgh Steelers. He gets crushed by Cameron Hayward, stays in the pocket, and throws an arrow down the field to Jimmy Graham, gets that pass there.
We talked about it, Tony did, going down the field. When you go down the field as an offense, it spreads the defense out, makes it easy for a rookie quarterback to see those there, and Justin Fields is patient in the pocket. Only runs when you make him.
JAMES BROWN: We have made the point again that Lamar Jackson will not be in action today, but he has been looking for a W off the field lately. For more on that and all the latest news from around the league, our NFL today insider Jason La Canfora.
JASON LA CANFORA: He's negotiating today. The Ravens are willing to make him among the highest paid players in history, sources said, but several obstacles remain. Jackson is having another MVP-type season and count 23 million against the cap next year on a fifth year option. He may well end up commanding 45 million a year like Patrick Mahomes.
With COVID numbers ticking up, the NFL has enacted heightened protocols for the holidays. Everyone with access to the team facility must be tested on the Monday and Wednesday following Thanksgiving. Teams continue to be impacted by COVID. Ben Roethlisberger is back for the Steelers. Nick Chubb returns for the Browns. But Amari Cooper will miss the next two games for the Cowboys. And the NFL is investigating claims that Antonio Brown used a fake vaccination card. Brown's personal chef claims the receiver got a doctored card from another football player. Brown claims he got a drive through COVID shot, Boom.
BOOMER ESIASON: How about paying your debts, Antonio? How about Adrian Peterson, replacement for Derrick Henry last two games, 18 carries for 42 yards and a touchdown. He's the man now in the backfield for the Tennessee Titans.
>> Coming up on "The NFL Today," the Titans are on a six-game winning streak. Putting some distance between themselves and the rest of the AFC. The big question is how long can the boys from the music city keep hitting the right notes? Speaking of the right notes, Jonathan Taylor has become a virtuoso at running back this season. We sat down with the Colts star to find out how he makes it all look so easy.
Could today's matchup between the Chiefs and Cowboys be a preview of Super Bowl LVI? The guys will give their prediction on who will be facing off in the City of Angels in February. All that and more when "The NFL Today" returns on CBS.
[ Break ].
JAMES BROWN: Folks, a lot of history between Josh Allen and Carson Wentz. Check this out, both were recruited by the same college coach who saw similarities in their games. Now as both of their teams are rounding into shape, their paths converge again for a big time midseason showdown.
>> The Indianapolis Colts started the year 0-3.
>> Jonathan Taylor, 78 yards to the house.
>> Michael Pittman Jr., another touchdown. A 76-yard reception.
>> Darian Leonard, the maniac with the INT.
>> Colts with the opportunistic defense have gotten it back to 5-5 on the season.
>> What a start for the Bills. Josh Allen making it look easy. Big, big performance.
>> Diggs with a stroke of genius.
>> Caught, touchdown Buffalo. Touchdown Buffalo.
>> Intercepted. Picked off, intercepted.
>> The Buffalo Bills, everything they want is right in front of them.
>> The Bills pouring it on.
>> Starting to look like the Bills we've come to expect.
JAMES BROWN: Talk about drama still inherent in the season. So many teams in the AFC trying to flex their respective muscles and stay in the thick of the playoff race. This contest between the Bills and the Colts may have postseason implications down the line.
BOOMER ESIASON: J.B., how about these Colts trying to run their way back into the playoffs. They're 5-5 right now, and the reclamation project that is Carson Wentz is going pretty well, 17 touchdowns, 3 interceptions. I worry about him when there's pressure on him and the decisions he makes. How about Jonathan Taylor? 34 percent of the offense has gone through Jonathan Taylor. I would think, if you're the Bills defense, that's the guy you've got to keep your eye on.
BILL COWHER: And worry about decision-making. Look at the stat in the bottom. They're number 1 in all of these, takeaways. Yes, be careful with the ball and manage the ball. The one thing about the defense, they gave up 143 yards and three touchdowns to Derrick Henry earlier going up against Jonathan Taylor. But these two have seven touchdowns between them, and Stefon Diggs comes off his best game of the year last week with 163 yards.
BOOMER ESIASON: It was the Jets, Colts.
BILL COWHER: I know, but he did. Talk about the Tennessee Titans. Are you talking about possible trap game?
NATE BURLESON: Don't say it's a trap game, Coach. Texans-Titans, Ryan Tannehill, all eyes on him. It's not just about him. Eyes should be on the sideline. Todd Downey, offensive coordinator, doing a great job. A.J. Brown, the last four games, five touchdowns. The last few, six games. He's going to have to step up for the team.
PHIL SIMMS: No Derrick Henry, rely on the defense. They can rush the passer. Harold Landry, speed rusher, 10 sacks. Jeffery Simmons, 7.5. Denico Autry, with 5. This is more than the football team had all year. Mike Vrabel went out and said I'm going to fix the line on pass rush. He did a pretty good job.
BOOMER ESIASON: Dolphins over the Jets. Joe Flacco going to get the start for the Jets. He started four games last year for the Jets. They lost all four games. Coach Rob Saleh says he gives them the best chance to win today.
NATE BURLESON: How about Tua starting against the Jets? He throws that slant route. Looking forward to seeing that today. He leads the team in rushing TDs. How about Tyler Huntley? In college his name was Snoop Dogg because he resembled the rapper. Without Lamar Jackson, let's see if he can be the lead dog.
[ Break ].
NATE BURLESON: If you want football like you've never seen it before, check us out on NFL Slimetime on Nickelodeon every Wednesday night at 7:00 eastern. Join me to tackle the week's best slime lights and see who gets named the MVP. This week it didn't surprise anyone that Patrick Mahomes took home the honor.
>> Well, well, well, sir.
>> What is this right here?
>> It's so heavy. Well, on behalf of Nickelodeon and the kids everywhere, the MVP is yours.
>> The Slimetime Nickelodeon MVP. That's nice. Can I pour this on you, bro?
>> No.
>> A little slime right here. Nice. Thanks to Nickelodeon for being the MVP. This has got to be one of the best trophies I've ever gotten.
NATE BURLESON: The best trophy ever? Okay, Patrick Mahomes. Congratulations. Time for pregame HQ delivered by Domino's. For more on Mahomes and his upcoming battle with the Cowboys, let's throw it our guy who always brings the hit, Jim Rome.
JIM ROME: Cowboys-Chiefs may be a Super Bowl preview, especially given the artist formerly known as Patrick Mahomes. Cam Newton letting everybody know I'm back. It was Mahomes who should have been screaming it from the top of the roofs after lighting up the Raiders. Meantime, Jerry Jones seemed absolutely awed by his team's performance against Atlanta. J.J., you do know it was just the Falcons you slapped, right?
While there is a lot to like about the boys, the big fellow roaming the sidelines mismanaging the clock or losing track of it all together is not one of them. Pat's back. The Chiefs defense is actually getting off the field now, so I am riding with the Chiefs.
Aaron Rodgers returned last week. While he may have been the story of the day, he was not the reason they won. Their underappreciated defense was. They locked up Russell Wilson. They shut out Seattle. So give that unit the respect that it has earned. I get that Wilson had some ring rust, but that's three straight weeks the Packers D has made miserable life for one-named QBs, Kyle, Patrick, and now Russ. Incredibly, they're doing it without one of their best, lockdown corner Jaire Alexander and QB killer Za'Darius Smith. We already know what No. 12 means to the Packers just as he knows he's not going to get that walkoff ring in Green Bay without that defense, J.B.
JAMES BROWN: As always, the insight of Jim Rome. Take a look at the playoff picture, it's all come together for the Packers as they find themselves in a familiar spot atop the conference. The other division leaders, Arizona, Dallas, and the defending champions not too far behind. The Rams, Saints, and Panthers parked in the Wild Card spots, but the Vikings, Niners, Eagles, and Falcons may have something to say about that.
Over in the AFC, the Titans tower over the conference followed by Buffalo, Baltimore, and the reigning AFC champs the Kansas City Chiefs. The red hot Patriots sit in a Wild Card spot alongside the Steelers and Chargers. And a host of good teams chomping at the bit.
With that in mind, let's go back and revisit -- oh, Bill Cowher loves this one. Our week 1 Super Bowl predictions.
NATE BURLESON: I'm going with Chiefs-Packers. Aaron Rodgers last run. It's going to be a good one.
BILL COWHER: The Bills. Buffalo-Tampa Bay.
PHIL SIMMS: Bills-49ers for me. 49ers have the best offensive and defensive lines in the NFL combined.
BOOMER ESIASON: Packers and the Bills. Aaron Rodgers and Josh Allen.
JAMES BROWN: Are you feeling the pressure of being Nostradamus? The NFL system is set up for parity. They've got just that. Take a look. There's no shame in wanting for my guys to change their Super Bowl picks. Bill, I hear you frowning already over there. No better place than here and now. Any second thoughts about your Super Bowl picks?
PHIL SIMMS: A little bit. I took the Buffalo Bills and San Francisco 49ers. You've got to take a chance once in a while. You guys all chalked it, no guts. I'm changing to the Dallas Cowboys against the Buffalo Bills. You look at the Dallas Cowboys, they're loaded on the offensive side. Think about this. As good as they are anywhere on the football field, they're getting DeMarcus Lloyd back, Gregory, and Lattimore. Three defensive linemen. You put them with the rest of the football team, and that's a Super Bowl team.
BILL COWHER: I have a body of work. We have seven or eight games left to go. I'm changing both these teams. I'm going with the New England Patriots. They still have to play Buffalo twice. Honestly, they're getting better. It was good for them to be able to play the best team in their division later in the season.
And I'm going to take the Arizona Cardinals. I'll say this. Kyler Murray, let him get healthy. It's okay to go through this down cycle now. They're going to be the team to reckon with. Too much talent on both sides of the ball. New England-Arizona.
NATE BURLESON: It's fine to have a body of work, Coach. That is fine. In the beginning of the season, we should have used body spray because that take stunk. Your original picks were terrible.
For me, I'm sticking with my picks because I knew what I was talking about at the beginning of the year. I'm going with KC and Green Bay. KC will figure it out. I know we have concerns about their running game and their defense, the same thing we were saying last year before they went on their second consecutive run to a Super Bowl. As far as Green Bay, coming out of a COVID fog, Aaron Rodgers still beat Russell Wilson and the Seattle Seahawks. Their defense is fantastic, like Jim Rome was saying.
BOOMER ESIASON: I'm'changing my pick either. I'm going with the Bills. Aaron Rodgers, two guys that are will be in the MVP race at the end of the season. I'm used to you flip'Floing. You, I had a preseason body of work. I knew exactly what I was talking about. You are Mr. Flip flop.
PHIL SIMMS: He doesn't know what he's talking about.
JAMES BROWN: Remember year one when Nate bristled when he saw Bill Cowher getting upset in a role play situation. Now he's talking about his body of work stunk. Unbelievable.
Green Bay and Tennessee are holding it down in the No. 1 spot in their respective conferences. The question is will both teams end the season, Boomer, as top seeds?
BOOMER ESIASON: I'm going to start with the Titans. I do believe the Titans are going to end up No. 1. Take a look at their schedule. They still have the Texans twice meeting today. Later in the season, they have the Miami Dolphins, Jacksonville Jaguars. Obviously a couple of tough games in there with New England and Pittsburgh and San Francisco. But at the end of the day, I think they'll remain No. 1 in the AFC.
NATE BURLESON: I'm with you. A lot of focus on the offense when Derrick Henry went down. Defensively, they are fantastic. Over the last couple of weeks without Derrick Henry, nine sacks, leads the NFL. And on the back end, guys like Kevin Beyer, when that ball is in the air, he turns into a wide receiver.
BILL COWHER: And Green Bay, not just because of Aaron Rodgers, but that defense is for real. They're playing well. Also remember the Green Bay Packers were the No. 1 seed last year and lost to Tampa Bay in the championship game. Doesn't mean you're going to go to the Super Bowl if you're the No. 1 seed, but they'll keep the No. 1 seed. Last six games at home.
PHIL SIMMS: Even though I'm taking the Dallas Cowboys to go to the Super Bowl, the Packers will hold on to the No. 1 position. That doesn't mean they're going to the Super Bowl. You've got to love the Packers for many reasons. Aaron Rodgers, the run game got that going, and their defense. Joe Berry has done a great job, coming up there first year defensive coordinator. He's changed the defense. They play safer, which is better. They don't give up big plays, aLa the Tampa Bay touchdown before the half last year they'll never get over. So that's been good. Defense, third in the NFL with scoring.
JAMES BROWN: Having a body of work gives you an opportunity to be more substantive in what you're talking about.
BILL COWHER: Thank you, J.B.
JAMES BROWN: Nate's going to come back at us both. With kickoff just about a half hour away, Nate, it's time to set the scene at your game as we take you out to first on the field with the latest news and updates on your matchup.
>> Thank you, J.B. Soldier Field, the site today of Baltimore and the Bears. There's news. I know you discussed it at the top, Tony, because of news and not COVID, Lamar Jackson inactive today. Tyler Huntley will be the starting quarterback against the Bears.
TONY ROMO: What a blow if you're a Ravens fan. What just happened. The Dolphins last week and now you've got this. Harbaugh, we're going to talk about it. It's been a crazy year.
JIM NANTZ: He said it's been the strangest of all. Even more bizarre than a year ago with the COVID issues of a year ago. Huntley, second year undrafted coming into the league. How much do they have to change the game plan today?
TONY ROMO: That's a great question. I think he has a lot of similar traits that Lamar Jackson has. He's not going to be quite that good. He probably doesn't have the spatial awareness. This is a great opportunity for a young man. You waited your whole life to get it, and here it is. You get a chance to start. Great offensive system around you. Go out there and prove it today and show this team you're worthy of being here for a long time.
JIM NANTZ: Matt Nagy and the Bears continue to show continued growth as they have the young quarterback, the rookie from Ohio State Justin Fields, who has incrementally gotten better every week. Really in the fourth quarter against Pittsburgh two weeks ago, they were on a bye last week, he showed what he was capable of doing. It was impressive.
TONY ROMO: When was very impressive. You're exactly right. Each game he improves. Each game new development. He sees things tighter. You're learning football. He's really learning football this year. Each time you see him, it's like, oh, wow, look at that. It's special. I think you're going to see that continue.
JIM NANTZ: And they believe they have a special running back in David Montgomery, who missed about half the season with IR on the knee. This will be his second game back.
TONY ROMO: He'll be out there a lot. He's special, and he's a great picture for them. Not a coincidence they played well on offense against Pittsburgh when he came back. I think they'll play well today.
JIM NANTZ: Early morning showers. All set for a fine fall day here in the windy city.
[ Break ].
.
JAMES BROWN: Let's take a look at recycled plays presented by Pepsi.
>> It's time now.
>> What a run by Jonathan Taylor.
>> Jonathan Taylor, touchdown.
>> He's got better and better as this season has gone on.
>> Jonathan Taylor, touchdown. I-n-d-y.
JAMES BROWN: Know the difference, make a difference. Being a team player and recycle. For more information on the Pepsi trash talk sustainability program, visit Pepsitrashtalk.com.
It's been a monster year for Jonathan Taylor. The south jersey native averaging 5.8 yards per carry.
That's good enough for second among all backs. So let's check in with Melanie Collins, who sat down with the league's leading rusher. Good to see you, Melanie.
>> Good to see you too, J.B. In just his second year in the NFL, Jonathan Taylor has emerged as one of the best running backs in the league. This week I sat down with a young Colts star who appears to have the wisdom of a savvy veteran, who's not only talented and confident, but eager to help his team in any way he's asked.
>> This is Jonathan Taylor.
>> Jonathan Taylor.
>> What a run.
>> Taylor, having a day.
>> Jonathan, what a season you are having. You're tied for the league lead in rushing. For those who are just sort of hearing your name in the NFL consistently for the first time, who is Jonathan Taylor?
JONATHAN TAYLOR: Jonathan Taylor is someone who really wants to go out there each and every single day and prove to his coaches and teammates that they can trust him on any down and distance, any scenario, any situation. That's what fuels Jonathan Taylor is being able to have that trust from his coaches and teammates.
>> We're in week 11. You play one of the most violent positions in the sport. How do you go about preserving your body as the season goes on?
JONATHAN TAYLOR: A lot of people think after the games is when you do most of your recovery. A lot of it is what I like to call prehab. So preparing your body throughout the week before you get to Sunday instead of just going through the motions, going through practice, and trying to recover after the game. It's really that prep before the game that helps you be able to withstand each and every single week of this game.
>> That 78-yard touchdown run against the Jets.
>> There he goes. Jonathan Taylor, 78 yards to the house, touchdown.
>> You clocked 22 miles per hour, the fastest speed in the NFL this season. How do you get in that gear?
JONATHAN TAYLOR: I'm a track guy, so you know all about how to set up your runs and have a fantastic long run. I was a 100-meter sprinter. Very few times in the NFL you get a chance to really set up your runs to hit that drive phase and then transition.
>> Can you go faster?
JONATHAN TAYLOR: That's definitely the goal. I've hit faster before, but it wasn't in pads and a football.
>> We need seven here, guys.
>> You were fortunate enough to play behind an incredibly talented offensive line that has had a lot of continuity. I see you smiling. Talk about those guys. What makes them so special?
JONATHAN TAYLOR: A lot of times you hear about how big our offensive line is and how they have great combo blocks and how they move people out of their way with ease, which is true. The reason why they're able to do that so well is because they're so smart. They're able to anticipate different pressures or slants that this defensive front is giving us.
>> Here we go. J.T., don't dance with him. Run him over.
>> Last season you got to play with the legend Philip Rivers. This year you have Carson Wentz. Just tell us about the impact that he has had on the team this season and why you guys are having so much success right now.
JONATHAN TAYLOR: On the field, besides his physical abilities, it's just his ability to lead. He's calm. He's cool, collected inside of the huddle. He knows how to just make everyone around him feel like we're just fine. Do one play at a time. So he just kind of makes you feel like everything is exactly how it's supposed to be right now.
>> When you think about your goals personally, not just for this seas on but for your career, what do you want to accomplish? What's the ceiling for Jonathan Taylor?
JONATHAN TAYLOR: Really I know this goal is probably a lot of other people's goals on this team, but I want to become a champion.
PHIL SIMMS: Great job, Melanie, on that interview. Jonathan Taylor looks like he's been running on those arms the size of those things.
NATE BURLESON: Big old guns. More consecutive games with 100-plus scrimmage yards in a rush TD. Tied with Larry Johnson. Tomlinson and Lydell Mitchell. The same high school in New Jersey, just pumping out running backs. How good is this offense?
PHIL SIMMS: The offense is terrific. The offensive line, great run blockers. Jonathan Taylor, with all the experience up in Wisconsin running the football, he knows where to go. Watch Eric Fisher, the left tackle, gets off the block and creates a running lane. Jonathan Taylor makes the right decision all the time from that great experience in college and in the pros. As they go left. Watch Eric Fisher here, the left tackle. He's going to take two guys out. Jonathan Taylor, puts the foot on the ground, makes the cut back, little hurdle action and gets the extra yards. When you run it well, you can do what?
NATE BURLESON: A little play action. Look at the top of the screen. You have the safety. He has to make the decision. Does he guard the crossing route or let go of the top route, which is a deep V. When he bites on the crossing route, you make them pay. When you can run the ball like that, open up the holes with those hog Mollies, you can use the play action and take it downfield.
PHIL SIMMS: Indy loves this. They throw the ball down the field six to eight times a game looking for those big plays. It's really a good complement to their offense much that's the Indy offense. Let's throw it over to James Brown.
JAMES BROWN: J.T. is a track guy like our guy Nate Burleson. Time now for another edition of "The NFL Today"'s burning questions. Rapid fire questions with quick hit answers. Here we go.
The Colts who are, of course, facing Buffalo today, who will win? Bills win the east, Coach?
BILL COWHER: Let's take the New England Patriots. The way they're playing now, and they still get to play the Buffalo Bills twice in the upcoming rest of the season. I look at where they're trending now. Hottest team in football. They can run the football and play great defense. I think they're going to take over the division.
BOOMER ESIASON: I picked the Bills to win the Super Bowl. I'm sticking with my initial prediction because of Josh Allen. Josh Allen is a difference maker. The rookie quarterback in New England could be a difference when they get to the playoffs.
JAMES BROWN: Boomer, who's the coach of the year?
BOOMER ESIASON: A bunch of guys you could pick from. I'm going to stay with Mike Vrabel of the Tennessee Titans. He's had a tremendous year coaching. They lost Derrick Henry and replaced him with Adrian Peterson, and now he's relying on his defense. As Phil pointed out earlier in the show, they revamped the defense, and they're getting after people because of decisions made earlier in the season.
BILL COWHER: How about Bill Belichick? What he's done in New England with a rookie quarterback, with Josh McDaniel, a great job with that. And rebuilt the defense. And one of the best offensive lines in football.
JAMES BROWN: Amazing it's been since 2010 that he was coach of the year, Coach. Who's the more valuable Titan, Ryan Tannehill or Derrick Henry?
BOOMER ESIASON: Let's take a look at Ryan Tannehill, since he arrived, 26-10. That's the fourth best record of the NFL since he took over as the starting quarterback. I have to say he is. I know Derrick Henry is a big part of everything that they did. Now he's out. They have won two in a row with Ryan Tannehill playing pretty good football, if you ask me, Coach.
BILL COWHER: I agree with you, Boomer. Derrick Henry, he is the face of that team. He gives them that kind of identity that Mike Vrabel wants, but let's face it. You want to talk about the quarterback, you only go as far as Ryan Tannehill will take you.
JAMES BROWN: Tannehill is a good guy as well too, folks. Who will win the NFL rookie of the year, Coach?
BILL COWHER: I'm going to say Mack Jones on offense, and Micah Parsons from Dallas on defense.
BOOMER ESIASON: I agree 100 percent. I think you want to use Robert Kraft's plane for some reason. You stayed up in New England for this segment. How about a rookie quarterback Justin Fields is getting better as the season goes on. Coming off a strong performance against Pittsburgh, today gets to see the worst pass defense in the NFL in the Ravens.
[ Break ].
JAMES BROWN: In an effort to support Florida Memorial University's construction trades certificate program, the Dolphins hosted students at Hard Rock Stadium for a tour of ongoing construction at that venue.
There's A.J. Brown, wide receiver of the Tennessee Titans. He's now the main target for Ryan Tannehill. With Julio Jones out, 41 receptions, three touchdowns.
BILL COWHER: Target for Josh Allen is Stefon Diggs. Last week targeted 13 times. He had 162 yards. They take on the Indianapolis Colts today.
NATE BURLESON: Jalen waddle, sixth in the NFL for catches. On pace for 102, a rookie NFL record.
BOOMER ESIASON: How about Rashod Bateman. He's only played in four games. 14 receptions, 212 yards. He's averaging 15 yards per catch. Let's go back over to our very own Jim Rome.
JIM ROME: Tampa Bay lost two straight and looked bad doing it. I could easily do the Hack thing and remind everybody that father time is still unbeaten and that he's finally giving Tom Brady the hands. Maybe 44 isn't the new 24. Maybe he really is too old. Or maybe his team is just really dumb. That's not me talking. That's Bucs coach Bruce Arians, who said Sunday, quote, we're a very dumb football team, end quote.
They certainly were Sunday against the WFTBA. But you know what else would be dumb? Burying the GOAT and the defending champs in November because it says here, you can always fix stupid. Now go out tomorrow night and choke in primetime against the Giants, that is not just dumb, that is unforgivable. Do that, and then I'm definitely reaching for my shovel.
And I'm not looking to overreact to Cam Newton's return to Carolina, but don't tell me their beatdown of Arizona means nothing because that's wrong too. No, Cam at 32 is no longer the MVP or superman, but he's not Sam Darnold either. Before he got there, Carolina was circling the drain and thinking about next season. Then Cam shows up, and he hammers a spike of adrenaline into the entire organization and fan base. Yes, it was only one game, but even from here, I can see the impact he's had with his energy, his charisma, and his experience.
No, he's no savior, but with that defense and the return of Christian McCaffrey, he doesn't need to be. I'm not saying they're about to go on a Super Bowl run with him, but I am saying that their season was already over without him, J.B.
JAMES BROWN: Jim, thank you so much, buddy. Folks, you can catch the Hall of Famer on the Jim Rome show. That of course can be heard daily on CBS Sports radio and simulcast on CBS Sports network.
We saw just the infectious nature of Cam's energy in last week's win. So the question is what are the expectations for the Panthers with the former MVP back at the helm?
PHIL SIMMS: How does he ever live up to the hype? I watch everything, listen to everybody all week, it's Super Bowl. It's just amazing what the energy Cam Newton has brought to people that do the business and of course their football team.
Look, for him, it's almost playing like he did in New England. Control the ball, run the football some, be careful throwing it. Remember this, can Joe Brady, the offensive coordinator, adjust to Cam Newton? I think that's a big deal.
BILL COWHER: How ironic is it today that he opens up against Ron Rivera and the Washington football team. Remember what these two guys did together. Two time coach of the year for Ron Rivera. For Cam Newton, MVP, went to the Super Bowl. I agree with you, Phil, when you look at this football team, all they've got to do -- in their five losses, ten interceptions. Five wins, two interception. They play to your strength, which is going to be your defense, your running game. Cam is giving an infusion of confidence. Just don't turn it over. Don't try to do too much.
JAMES BROWN: On the other side of the NFC south, the defending champions have dropped two in a row. Any concerns for Tom Brady and the Bucs?
NATE BURLESON: No, no concerns at all. Bobby McFerrin once said, don't worry, be happy. I say, don't worry, be realistic. This time last year, Buccaneers 7-5 coming off two straight losses. They figured it out, regrouped, and didn't lose another game. They have everything they need, leadership on the field and outside the lines with the coaching staff. They will be perfectly fine.
BOOMER ESIASON: Just can't play dumb football, as Jim Rome just pointed out. The one thing I will say, Tom Brady has turned the ball over five times the last two weeks. That coincides with two losses. They also lost one on their defensive line. Their defense has been giving up 122 yards a game the last four games. Those are two things that lead to losses.
I would imagine that Tom Brady is going to get it straightened out. I'm not worried about it. He's in the lead right now, in my eyes anyway, for the NFL MVP.
JAMES BROWN: Coming up later today, a huge AFC showdown between the Bengals and Raiders. Thoughts on that matchup?
PHIL SIMMS: Talked about it a little earlier. I'd like to see the Bengals run the football a little more, take some of the pressure off Joe Mixon. Jonah Williams, the left tackle, and reed the right tackle. Be ready today. Max Crosby and Yani are going after Joe Burrow. These guys do not give up. Their energy, passion, 56 of 72 plays last week against Kansas City, they got after the quarterback. Can they stop him today?
BILL COWHER: I look at the Cincinnati defense, and prior to the last two weeks, they were one of the top defenses in the National Football League. They were bad against the Jets and bad against Cleveland. Cleveland was a little bit of the interception return for a touchdown that changed the moment of that game. I think this defense is fine. I think Jesse Bates is one of the best in the game.
NATE BURLESON: Keep your eyes on Tyler Renfro. He's been balling out in receiving yards and touchdowns. Things have been spooky for that Cincinnati Bengals pass defense. They're the worst in the NFL.
BOOMER ESIASON: They won their first two games without Jon Gruden. He was grinding on everybody. Now they lost their last two games. I think the Raiders are in a weird spot. I would expect the Bengals to show up and show up big.
JAMES BROWN: Nate is talking about singers. James Brown would say you're doing it to death. Time now for upset specials for week 11.
PHIL SIMMS: I've got to get back on the train and get hot. Pittsburgh over the Los Angeles Chargers.
BILL COWHER: That's a good pick. Dallas over KC.
NATE BURLESON: Raiders at home beating Boomer's Bengals.
BOOMER ESIASON: I don't think so. I will also take the Seattle Seahawks over the Arizona Cardinals without tie Kyler Murray.
JAMES BROWN: Nate going with the alliteration. Boomer's Bengals.
PHIL SIMMS: But he picked Vegas earlier.
JAMES BROWN: For those of you getting the 4:00 game, we'll be back after a quick time-out. For the rest of you.
NATE BURLESON: We'll get you out to your game next!
[ Break ]
JAMES BROWN: Welcome back to "The NFL Today." Amazon take you out to the sights and sounds of the game between the Ravens and the Bears. Let's take you out to our Chicago with our announcers Jim Nantz, Tony Romo, and Tracy Wolfson.
FastScripts Transcript by ASAP Sports