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PHOENIX (AP) — Two people familiar with the negotiations say reliever Greg Holland and the Arizona Diamondbacks have agreed to a $3.25 million Roberto Perez Jersey , one-year contract.The people spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Wednesday because the agreement had not been announced. The deal allows Holland to earn an additional $3.5 million in bonuses.A 33-year-old right-hander, Holland was 2-2 with a 4.66 ERA with St. Louis and Washington last season, when he earned $14 million. He has a 2.83 ERA in eight major league seasons.Holland was an outstanding closer with Kansas City, where he had a 1.80 ERA in 2011 Eddie Robinson Jersey , a 1.21 ERA and 47 saves in 2013 and a 1.44 ERA with 46 saves in 2014.An elbow injury that required surgery in 2015 affected his velocity, but he has remained mostly effective.Holland pitched one season for Colorado before going to St. Louis last year. Holland was released by the Cardinals after going 0-2 with a 7.92 ERA in 32 games. He signed with Washington and was 2-0 with a 0.84 ERA in 24 games for the Nationals. A look at what’s happening around the majors today:TRY AGAINLuis Severino gets a wild-card do-over when he starts for the Yankees against Oakland in a winner-take-all matchup. Severino allowed three runs and got just one out in last year’s wild-card game against Minnesota before New York rallied for an 8-4 victory. Severino was chosen over J.A. Happ and Masahiro Tanaka despite a second-half slump.“I think he’s equipped in so many ways to handle this, and perhaps most importantly, he’s equipped with amazing stuff and the ability to dominate big league hitters because he’s such a talented pitcher http://www.indiansfanproshop.com/authentic-matt-belisle-jersey ,” manager Aaron Boone said.The A’s will counter with a bullpen game, beginning with reliever Liam Hendriks — among the more unlikely postseason starters ever. Hendriks was waived off the 40-man roster in June, spent two months in the minors, then emerged in September as Oakland’s go-to “opener” to cover for an injury-decimated rotation.Hendriks (0-1) will be just the fourth pitcher to start a playoff game after a regular season of no wins Mike Napoli Jersey , according to the Elias Sports Bureau. The previous three missed most of their seasons either to serve in a war or because of injury.DOUBTFUL DANSBYBraves shortstop Dansby Swanson appears to be a longshot to make the team’s roster for its NL Division Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Swanson partially tore a ligament in his left hand on a swing against the Mets on Sept. 25. He had pain when he tried to swing a bat Saturday in Philadelphia and received more treatment Tuesday, remaining inside while his teammates were on the SunTrust Park field. Atlanta manager Brian Snitker says Swanson has “a chance” to play, but added “I don’t know how great of one.”DAY OF RESTAfter winning an epic NL wild-card game that lasted nearly five hours, Trevor Story and the Rockies can finally take a breather. Backup catcher Tony Wolters hit a tiebreaking single with two outs in the 13th inning and Colorado outlasted the Chicago Cubs 2-1 Tuesday night at Wrigley Field in the longest winner-take-all postseason game in major league history. It was the third big game over three days in three different cities for the Rockies Carlos Baerga Jersey , who play Game 1 of a best-of-five Division Series at NL Central champion Milwaukee on Thursday. “We didn’t make it easy on ourselves, that’s for sure,” Story said, “but we’re going to enjoy this one tonight and we’re definitely not done.”TWIN CITIES SEACH PARTYMinnesota is looking for a new manager one day after firing Paul Molitor. Chief baseball officer Derek Falvey and general manager Thad Levine cited a pursuit of more productive player development for their younger players. The move comes amid struggles for Byron Buxton and Miguel Sano Yonder Alonso Jersey , players long targeted as franchise cornerstones. Minnesota is willing to wait until after the World Series to decide on a skipper in case a candidate is still participating.

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Nolan Arenado and Colorado had one good stretch at the plate. That was it for the whole afternoon.Tough couple of days for the Rockies‘ star-studded lineup.Arenado helped Colorado rally against Milwaukee’s vaunted bullpen in Game 1 of the NL Division Series Corey Dickerson Jersey , but the Rockies were unable to finish off Jeremy Jeffress. Mike Moustakas then hit an RBI single in the 10th inning to lift the Brewers to a 3-2 win Thursday.Led by Arenado and Trevor Story, Colorado finished among the major league leaders in several offensive categories this year. But the Rockies have been held in check since they bashed five homers in a 12-0 victory over Washington last Sunday, leaving them in a tie for the NL West lead.“We’ve got to put better at-bats together, all of us,” Arenado said. “I think we’re having a little trouble there the last few games. But at the same time, we’re facing good pitching. It’s tough. These guys are good.”Colorado had just one hit Thursday before Gerardo Parra and Matt Holliday opened the ninth with consecutive singles off Jeffress, who had made 11 consecutive scoreless appearances since Aug. 31. Charlie Blackmon singled in Parra and DJ LeMahieu reached on an error before Arenado tied it at 2 with a sacrifice fly to center.The Rockies had a chance for more, but Blackmon was tagged out in a rundown on David Dahl’s grounder to first and Jeffress struck out Story to end the inning.“I thought we did a good job at the end, stringing together some hits, put a couple runs up when it didn’t look good,” Blackmon said. “We didn’t really do a whole lot offensively until that ninth inning.”That missed opportunity proved costly when Moustakas came up with the game-ending hit against Adam Ottavino.Game 2 of the best-of-five series is back at Miller Park on Friday.“We just got to be ready to go tomorrow,” Arenado said. “It’s a borderline must-win really.”Colorado had a chance to win the NL West before it lost 5-2 in the tiebreaker at Los Angeles on Monday. It had just two hits before Arenado and Story hit back-to-back homers in the ninth inning.Arenado hit a sacrifice fly in the first in the wild-card game Tuesday night in Chicago, and Colorado didn’t score again until Tony Wolters‘ 13th-inning RBI single in a 2-1 victory over the Cubs. The Rockies finished with 11 hits, but went 1 for 10 with runners in scoring position and left 11 runners on base.Playing in their fourth city in five days — covering approximately 2,700 miles — it was more of the same in the NLDS.Perhaps that shouldn’t be such a surprise. Playing away from hitter-friendly Coors Field, the Rockies ranked 20th in runs (335) and 29th in batting average (.225) on the road.Carlos Gonzalez tripled with two out in the fifth for Colorado’s first hit. But Ian Desmond tapped back to the mound on Corbin Burnes’ next pitch, ending the inning.LeMahieu and Ryan McMahon each walked, and then were thrown out trying to steal second.“I think it was more about how they threw the ball than our at-bats Austin Meadows Jersey ,” manager Bud Black said. “I mean, they pitched really, really well.”Arenado hit .297 with an NL-best 38 homers this year, helping stop the Triple Crown bid by Brewers star Christian Yelich. But the 27-year-old Arenado went 0 for 3 with two strikeouts in just the third playoff game of his stellar career.Story, who set career highs with 37 homers and 108 RBIs this season, also struck out three times, and Dahl went 0 for 4 with two Ks.None of the Rockies’ hitters saw a pitcher more than once.“They have a good bullpen. We knew that coming in,” Arenado said. “But we feel like we had some good at-bats. Hit the ball hard, just right at people sometimes.” Gregory Shamus/Getty ImagesThe Houston Astros are one step closer to defending their World Series title after completing a three-game sweep over the Cleveland Indians in the American League Division Series.George Springer hit two home runs in a 3-for-6 day to help Houston earn an 11-3 road win on Monday in Game 3. Cleveland led 2-1 until 10 straight runs led to an easy victory for the visitors.The three wins in the best-of-five series also gives the Astros their first playoff sweep in franchise history.Terry Francona Costs Indians With Pitching Staff GambleTrevor Bauer was a Cy Young candidate as a starter over the course of the season, but manager Terry Francona has decided to use him exclusively in relief this series, appearing in all three games.After allowing a run in 2.2 innings to start the series, he gave up three runs (two earned) in a miserable Game 3. He also had a pair of throwing errors that helped extend the decisive seventh inning.paul hoynes hoynsieTrevor Bauer has made 5 errors in his career. In the seventh inning in Game 3 of the ALDS, hes made 2.The Astros built their momentum and piled on the scoring against Cody Allen and others, totaling 10 runs in the last three innings. Five relievers were used to cover four innings, and all but one allowed at least one run.MikeClevinger had been all the Indians could have hoped for in his first career postseason start, especially afterproven starters Corey Kluber and Carlos Carrasco were unspectacular in Games 1 and 2.A solo home run was the only run heallowed in five innings that also included nine strikeouts.This wasn't enough to factor into the decision, though, as the bullpen couldn't hold onto the lead.The Indians succeeded in the past because Francona wasn't afraid to be unconventional with his pitching staff. Andrew Miller and Cody Allen virtually carried the club to the World Series in 2016.Unfortunately http://www.piratesfanproshop.com/authentic-colin-moran-jersey , the bullpen wasn't nearly as effective in 2018 and the manager's gambles didn't pay off in the playoffs. Bruce Hooley of105.7 The Zone gave his thoughts on the situation:Bruce Hooley BHOOLZNo other manager in baseball -- NONE -- could survive achieving less in 3 consecutive seasons with this starting staff and this talent. NONE! And before you say, quot;We won the Central 3 times. Thats hard.quot; Given the competition it is no harder than winning at solitaireThe players do have to perform, but Francona didn't put his best ones in a position to succeed during the series.Astros Incredible Depth Makes Them Team to Beat...AgainJust like last postseason, the Astros are getting a lot of production from a wide variety of hitters already in the playoffs.Jose Altuve is the biggest name in the lineup while Alex Bregman was the best hitter in 2018, but there are several other players who can and will hurt you if given the opportunity.George Springer hit two home runs, including one in the fifth to start Houston's scoring for the day:MLB MLBYou can鈥檛 keep these Astros down for long. jrp8xNfpX2MLB MLB#Postseason Springer is a BEAST. sZYZMC6MRBMarwin Gonzalez then came through with the big hit in the seventh inning, driving in two runs with a bases-loaded double:MLB MLB.marwinGF9 with another MASSIVE hit. #ALDS FQexZ5g8ICAfter an RBI single later in the game, Gonzalez finished 7-for-13 in the ALDS.He and Springer were also two of five Astros players with at least four hits in the series.Carlos Correa even got in on the action with an eighth-inning three-run home run, which was his first hit of the postseason.No. 4 hitter Yuli Gurriel did virtually nothing in the series but Houston kept on going with little resistance. We also haven't seen the best out of Altuve, the reigning AL MVP.If these players reach their ability andCorrea builds off his big hit, the Astros' lineup could be unstoppable.Houston had the worst scoring offense of all the AL playoff teams (despite being sixth in the majors), but the team excels because it's not too reliant on one or two players coming through night after night. In a long postseason, this could be the difference.After the supporting cast showed what it could do a year ago, the Astros look ready for another championship run in 2018.Indians Must Find Impact Hitter In Offseason After Quiet ALDSGame 3 was better for the Indians offense than the first two outings, where the team was held to a combined three runs on six hits. However, the final installment wasn't too much better with just three runs, with the problem being a lack of production from the team it was hoping to rely on most.Jose Ramirez looked like an MVP for much of the regular season but was no help in the ALDS while going 0-for-11 at the plate with three strikeouts.He was 0-for-4 in the must-win Game 3, ending his season by grounding into a double play. Considering he also hit 2-for-20 in the postseason last year David Freese Jersey , there are legitimate concerns about his playoff hitting.Meanwhile, the rest of the middle of the order didn't do much better.Ramirez,Edwin Encarnacion and Josh Donaldson, the team's three through five hitters, combined to go 1-for-10 Monday and the trio only had two hits all series. This won't win too many games regardless of the opponent.Francisco Lindor did his job,getting a hit in each game of the series with home runs in each of the last two. Still, you need a lot more than just a leadoff hitter in order to make a deep run in the playoffs.Looking forward, the Indians have some tough decisions with their lineup withDonaldson, Michael Brantley and Melky Cabrera among those hitting free agency this offseason. Whether or not these players are re-signed, the team still needs other hitters it can trust to carry the offense when the other stars aren't hitting.Even if Ramirez has better days, he and Lindor can't do it all by themselves.If the Indians want to extend this contention window, they need to add at least one more big-time hitter this winter. What's Next?With a ticket already punched in the ALCS, the Astros can now relax until the start of the next round on Oct. 13. The squad will take on the winner of the other ALDS between Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees, although Houston will only have home-field advantage against the Yankees.

ST. LOUIS (AP) — Thrilled with the results http://www.oriolesfanproshop.com/authentic-craig-gentry-jersey , the St. Louis Cardinals thanked Mike Shildt.The Cardinals took off the interim tag from Shildt’s title and promoted him to full-time manager through 2020, a reward for steering the team back into postseason contention after replacing the fired Mike Matheny.“Why now? We could have waited but we feel like the time is right,” President of Baseball Operations John Mozeliak said Tuesday at Busch Stadium. “As we stated from Day One, we would use this time to really see how he handled the job. We just felt like we could not do better. Mike has shown he can do the job. Mike checks a lot of boxes along the way.”“It made sense to do it now. Everything is going well, and more importantly momentum is building behind our players. Having Mike Shildt as manager is a tremendous story. I hope the next chapter is even better,” he said.The story got off to a good start when the Cardinals scored a 5-2 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates to give Shildt his first win without the interim tag.“It’s great,” said Jedd Gyorko about Shildt’s promotion. “He deserves it. We’re playing really good baseball and he’s leading the charge behind that. We’re pumped for him. He definitely deserves it.“Behind closed doors, he’s a great guy to play for and he’s an even better person.”Jose Martinez belted a two-run homer in the first inning to give the Cardinals the lead and they never looked back.“I’m actually happy for him,” Martinez said about Shildt. “He’s a guy who’s been working hard his whole career as a manager and a coach and everything. He’s really professional in everything he does.“I’m going to try to keep hitting homers to try and make him happy 100 percent.”Rookie pitcher Jack Flaherty picked up the win to improve to 8-6.“Everybody in here is excited,” Flaherty said. “I think his biggest thing is for everybody to be themselves and he’s done the same thing. I’m just happy for him.”In danger of missing the playoffs three straight years for the first time since the late ’90s Andrew Cashner Jersey , the Cardinals have gone 26-12 since July 15 — the most wins in the majors during that span. A 19-5 mark in August has put them into the top spot in the NL wild-card standings.“I have been given a lot of credit for what’s happened in the past six weeks,” Shildt said. “I appreciate it, but I cannot accept it. The players make the plays and run the bases. They are a special group and I’m glad to be a part of it.”The Cardinals were 47-46 when Matheny was fired a day before the All-Star break. They’ve cut their deficit in the NL Central from 7 1/2 games to 4 1/2 behind the division-leading Chicago Cubs.“The team’s focused, high-level style of play under Mike is a standard that his teams consistently displayed during his prior years in the minors, and it has continued here at the major league level,” Cardinals Chairman Bill DeWitt Jr. said. “We’ve won, certainly, but he’s got great relationships with the players. We all watch the games and my observation is, I think his game strategy is excellent.”The Cardinals made the move before hosting Pittsburgh. St. Louis has won five of six, all on the road http://www.oriolesfanproshop.com/authentic-chance-sisco-jersey , and have won each of their last nine series overall.“What a privilege and honor it is to be the field manager of the St. Louis Cardinals,” Shildt said. “Mo had a vision for my career far greater than my own and I’m very grateful for that.”The 50-year-old Shildt, who never played in the minors or majors, joined the Cardinals organization in 2004. He spent most of that time managing in the minors and was a member of the major league coaching staff the past two seasons.Shildt became the 50th manager in franchise history when he was given the job on an interim basis.St. Louis missed the playoffs the last two years. Matheny reached the postseason in his first four years since following Tony La Russa, who guided the Cardinals to the 2011 World Series championship.An organization that has longed prided itself on playing the game right — “the Cardinal Way,” the team says — St. Louis has done well in all phases since Shildt took over.“I think there’s a different energy here now,” general manager Mike Girsch said. “There’s a different energy around everything in the clubhouse.”With veterans Yadier Molina and Matt Carpenter provided a steadying presence and an influx of rookies and newcomers, the Cardinals are back in position as October contenders.Second baseman Kolten Wong has seen the difference, especially since the switch in the dugout.“Shildt’s been really good at letting us play our own game and letting us play the way we want to play. That’s the biggest thing,” Wong said last week after a sweep at Dodger Stadium. “We have so many different personalities and different guys in this clubhouse. You just have to allow people to be themselves and eventually people are going to mesh together.”Cardinals closer Bud Norris said Shildt is an easy guy to play for.“Most guys are comfortable with him Jeremy Hellickson Jersey ,” Norris said. “He has a relationship with every last person on this team and even around the clubhouse on a personal level, and he can communicate with everybody. The fact that he cares about you personally off the field, and he cares about you on the field is a big part of that. You just feel warm when you’re around him.”In his minor league managing career, his teams went 471-432. The North Carolina native managed for eight seasons in the Cardinals farm system where his clubs won league championships in 2010 and 2011 with Johnson City of the rookie Appalachian League and in 2012 with Springfield of the Double-A Texas League. ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — New York Yankees shortstop Didi Gregorius and center fielder Aaron Hicks could return from injuries during a regular season-ending series this weekend at Boston.Gregorius was cleared to resume baseball activities after a hand specialist examined his right wrist. Gregorius tore cartilage in the wrist during a head-first slide last weekend while scoring the run that clinched a postseason berth.“Hopefully some point this weekend, that would be ideal,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone of Gregorius’ return. “Certainly since the first day, he’s come in upbeat and optimistic, and that’s been really good to see. We continue to get pretty good news each day, but I temper it until I know we’re out of the woods.”Gregorius hit in an indoor cage and took 41 grounders with throws to first base during a 10-minute session before Wednesday night’s game at Tampa Bay.“I don’t think it was something too crazy to worry about http://www.oriolesfanproshop.com/authentic-caleb-joseph-jersey ,” Gregorius said. “I want to be out there for the team. As soon as they let me play I’ll be in there.”The Yankees complete a four-game series on artificial turf at Tropicana Field on Thursday before heading to Fenway Park.Boone wouldn’t rule out Gregorius starting the Oct. 3 wild-card game against in Oakland Athletics even if he doesn’t play in Boston.Hicks left Monday night’s 4-1 win over Tampa Bay with left hamstring tightness while running to first and avoiding a double play.Hicks had an MRI on Tuesday that showed no grade strain or tear. He hit in the cage Wednesday and will run the bases Thursday in preparation for a likely return Friday.“Nice little workout and everything felt great,” Hicks said.Infielder Gleyber Torres was out of the starting lineup for the second straight game due to minor hip/groin area discomfort. He should start on Thursday.“I feel like he’s good to go, but I decided coming over today, especially being on turf, to give him one more day,” Boone said. “There’s no tightness in there today.”

TORONTO (AP) — Dylan Larkin scored on a breakaway at 2:48 of overtime and the Detroit Red Wings beat the Toronto Maple Leafs 5-4 on Thursday night after blowing a three-goal lead in the third period.Larkin beat Garret Sparks between the pads to snap Toronto’s five-game winning streak.Gustav Nyquist set up the winner Tim Schaller Jersey Womens , and finished a goal and two assists. Mike Green had a goal and an assist, Jonathan Ericsson and Luke Glendening also scored, Larkin had an assist and former Maple Leafs goalie Jonathan Bernier stopped 27 shots.Andreas Johnsson and Kasperi Kapanen had a goal and an assist each for Toronto. John Tavares and Zach Hyman also scored, and Sparks made 27 saves.William Nylander suited up for his first game since coming to terms with Toronto on a new six-year, $45 million contract over the weekend. The 22-year-old winger got a mostly warm reception when he stepped on the ice for his first shift, and started on a line with Auston Matthews and Patrick Marleau before getting benched midway through the third period.PENGUINS 6, ISLANDERS 2PITTSBURGH (AP) — Phil Kessel had two goals and two assists, and Kris Letang also scored twice in Pittsburgh’s victory over New York.Sidney Crosby had his 15th goal and had two assists, and Riley Sheahan scored his fourth goal. The Penguins have won two straight and five of eight following a slump in which they won once in 10 games.Jake Guentzel had three assists and has a career-best six-game points streak for Pittsburgh.Casey DeSmith made 19 saves to win for the fifth time in six starts.Anders Lee and Brock Nelson scored for the Islanders.CAPITALS 4, COYOTES 2GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Andre Burakovsky scored late in the third period, Pheonix Copley stopped 27 shots and Washington beat Arizona.Jakub Vrana scored his third goal in two games and Matt Niskanen had one on his birthday to help the Capitals end Arizona’s four-game winning streak.Alex Ovechkin added an empty-net goal and became the fastest player in NHL history — ninth overall — with 5,000 career shots, reaching the mark in 1,031 career games. Marcel Dionne was the previous fastest at 1,215 games.Christian Fischer and Lawson Crouse scored for Arizona.LIGHTNING 3, BRUINS 2TAMPA Jay Beagle Jersey Womens , Fla. (AP) — Mathieu Joseph and Anthony Cirelli scored early in the third period and Tampa Bay beat Boston for its fifth consecutive victory.After Joseph scored at 2:40, Cirelli put home a short-handed backhand 1:23 later to make it 3-1.Boston pulled to 3-2 on David Krejci’s goal with 1:45 remaining.Brayden Point also scored and Louis Domingue made 33 saves to help the NHL-leading Lightning improve to 22-7-1. David Pastrnak also had a goal for Boston, and Tuukka Rask stopped 27 shots.BLUE JACKETS 4, FLYERS 3, OTPHILADELPHIA (AP) — Seth Jones scored his second goal of the game 10 seconds into overtime to lift Columbus past Philadelphia.Cam Atkinson fed a wide-open Jones in the slot moments into overtime, and Jones beat goalie Anthony Stolarz over his left shoulder. Brandon Dubinsky and Boone Jenner also scored for the Blue Jackets, and Atkinson extended his career-best points streak to 12 consecutive games.Sergei Bobrovsky made 23 saves to improve to 12-3-1 against his former team. Travis Sanheim scored twice, and Claude Giroux had a goal and an assist for the Flyers.CANADIENS 5, SENATORS 2OTTAWA, Ontario (AP) — Paul Byron scored twice and Montreal beat Ottawa to sweep the home-and home series.Jeff Petry, Brendan Gallagher and Andrew Shaw also scored, and Carey Price stopped 19 shots. The Canadiens also beat the Senators 5-2 on Tuesday night in Montreal.Mark Stone and Colin White scored for the Senators, and Craig Anderson stopped 38 shots.AVALANCHE 5, PANTHERS 2SUNRISE, Fla. (AP) — Carl Soderberg scored twice, J.T. Compher broke a third-period tie and Colorado beat Florida.Mikko Rantanen and Gabriel Landeskog also scored, and Philipp Grubauer stopped 33 shots. Aaron Ekblad and Colton Sceviour scored fir Florida Curtis McKenzie Jersey Womens , and Roberto Luongo made 32 saves in his second game back from a knee injury.FLAMES 2, WILD 0CALGARY, Alberta (AP) — Mike Smith made 31 saves, Elias Lindholm scored twice and Calgary beat Minnesota.Smith got his second shutout of the season and has won his past five games.Lindholm scored his 14th and 15th goals of the season and has 32 points in 29 games. His career high is 17 goals, reached with Carolina in 2014-15.GOLDEN KNIGHTS 4, BLACKHAWKS 3LAS VEGAS (AP) — Jonathan Marchessault and Alex Tuch scored 12 seconds apart in the third period to send surging Vegas past Chicago.The Golden Knights won for the seventh time in eight games and moved into a third-place tie with San Jose in the Pacific Division with 33 points. The Blackhawks, meanwhile, dropped their sixth straight and have been outscored 30-17 during the skid.After allowing the Blackhawks to score three consecutive goals for a 3-2 lead in the third, the defending Western Conference champions responded. Marchessault fired a shot past goalie Corey Crawford to tie the game, and 12 seconds later it was Tuch punching one in to put Vegas back in front.Reilly Smith and Deryk Engelland also scored for the Golden Knights. Marc-Andre Fleury stopped 32 shots.Jonathan Toews, Dylan Strome and Artem Anisimov scored for Chicago. Crawford made 32 saves.CANUCKS 5, PREDATORS 3VANCOUVER, British Columbia (AP) — Rookie sensation Elias Pettersson scored on his first NHL penalty shot and Vancouver beat Nashville to snap a four-game losing streak.Bo Horvat and Jake Virtanen each had a goal and an assist for the Canucks, who have just two wins in their last 14 games (2-10-2).Alex Edler, on the power play, and Loui Eriksson also scored for Vancouver. Antoine Roussel had two assists.Ryan Hartman, Colton Sissons and Matt Irwin scored for the Predators. Pekka Rinne had 21 saves before being replaced to start the third period by Juuse Saros.Canucks goaltender Jacob Markstrom stopped 26 shots.DEVILS 6 Nick Holden Jersey Womens , KINGS 3LOS ANGELES (AP) — Kyle Palmieri scored two goals and New Jersey stopped a six-game losing streak with a victory over Los Angeles in a matchup of conference cellar dwellers.The right wing, who leads the Devils with 14 goals, had not scored in his last 13 games against the Kings and had only two goals in 18 meetings.Taylor Hall had three assists while Travis Zajac and Will Butcher each had a goal and an assist. Nico Hischier and Blake Coleman also scored for the Devils, and Keith Kinkaid made 29 saves.Brendan Leipsic, Adrian Kempe and Kyle Clifford scored for the Kings, who have dropped four of five and are last in the NHL with 21 points. Jonathan Quick stopped 29 shots. WASHINGTON (AP) — Cameras followed Willie O’Ree’s every move and flashbulbs popped as the hockey pioneer toured the Smithsonian’s Museum of African American History and Culture.When the player who broke the NHL’s color barrier in 1958 stood next to a statue of Jackie Robinson, Commissioner Gary Bettman paused to take his phone out and snap a few photos of his own. O’Ree and Bettman have attended countless events together over the past two decades, but this tour on the opening day of the season and a month before they’re inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame together was a unique opportunity for an influential newsmaker to immerse himself in hundreds of years of history.“It brought back a lot of memories for me,” O’Ree said Wednesday. “My grandparents, they were slaves, and then bringing up to date, it’s just amazing. I had a few tears in my eyes there.”With Bettman by his side, O’Ree wiped tears from his eyes as sports curator Damion Thomas talked about the small buildings slaves slept in in after picking cotton from sunrise to sunset. He stopped to read about Michael Jordan’s influence and got a kick out of a story about Chuck Berry driving a red Cadillac on stage to perform at St. Louis’ Fox Theatre.Memories came flooding back in a room featuring a picture of one of Robinson’s games in Atlanta with so many people packed into the stadium that some were on the field. O’Ree sat down in one of the replica seats from Ebbets Field and recalled meeting Robinson in the dugout after a game at age 14 and telling him he played not only baseball but hockey, too.“He remarked that, ‘I didn’t know that there were any black kids playing hockey,'” O’Ree said. “I said, ‘Yeah Paul Stastny Jersey Womens , there’s a few.'”Thirteen years later when O’Ree was playing professional hockey in Los Angeles, a coach introduced him to Robinson. Or, rather, re-introduced him.“Mr. Robinson turned around and said, ‘Willie O’Ree, aren’t you the young fella I met in Brooklyn?'” O’Ree said. “So he remembered me from 1949 to 1962 and that made a big impact on me.”O’Ree’s impact is still being felt today as there are now more than two dozen black players in the NHL. There isn’t yet anything about the Canadian-born O’Ree in the museum, though that could change after he and Bettman got to experience what it was all about.“This museum is amazing,” Bettman said. “As a bit of a history buff, there’s so much I didn’t know and that I was learning and it’s clear to me that I have to come back. But as importantly to be able to experience this with Willie, special doesn’t begin to describe it.”O’Ree, 82, also wants to return with his family after getting only 90 minutes or so to walk around. But those were some important minutes for the museum itself with a living legend in its hallways.“It was an honor to tour through the museum with Willie,” Thomas said. “You’re not just sharing history with a member of the public, but you’re sharing history with a history maker. So, what you hope that you’re able to do in the museum is to have people see their contributions in a much larger light, have people be able to see how their contributions connect to other parts of history.”

DeVante Parker was 15 yards beyond intended receiver Jakeem Grant when things got weird.A defender's hit redirected the pass Youth Kenny Stills Jersey , which was dislodged from Grant's arms as he gathered it in. The ball sailed directly to Parker, who alertly made the catch for a bizarre 46-yard gain ."It shocked me," Parker said. "I was just in the right spot at the right time."That's a refreshing chang e for the Miami Dolphins receiver, and perhaps a sign of changing fortunes. Parker has been an unlucky underachiever since he was drafted with the 14th overall pick in 2015.This season the injury-prone Parker has missed five games because of finger and quadriceps issues, and he hopes to play two weeks in a row for the first time Sunday against the New York Jets .He's coming off one of his best games yet. Parker was a rare bright spot in Miami's 42-23 loss at Houston last week, catching six passes for a career-high 134 yards — including the reception that ranked among the NFL's goofiest grabs this year."It felt good to be out there contributing," he said.The Dolphins hope Parker can continue to give their injury-plagued offense a lift. They'll be without quarterback Ryan Tannehill (throwing shoulder) for the fourth game in a row Sunday, and at Houston, the 6-foot-3, 215-pound Parker made backup QB Brock Osweiler look good."DeVante is an extremely talented receiver," Osweiler said. "He's a big target, he's physical, he plays hard. He did some great things for us against Houston, and I expect him to do some great things for us against New York. In fact, I expect him to play even better. I think DeVante is just getting rolling."Parker's statistics against the Texans could have been even more impressive, but Osweiler overthrew him in the open on a deep route. They worked on the pattern half a dozen times in practice Wednesday, and Osweiler found his target."It was much better http://www.authenticsmiamidolphins.com/cheap-t.j.-mcdonald-jersey ," Osweiler said with a chuckle. "Hopefully we got that one cleaned up."The Jets will be braced for Parker. He had eight receptions and a touchdown against them last year."He's a deep-ball threat, obviously, and he can go up and get the ball, and he can catch it over the middle," Jets coach Todd Bowles said. "He's a big receiver and he can run, so we're going to have to cover him."Although Parker's an inviting target, he has yet to have a 750-yard receiving season, and has made only one touchdown catch in the past two years.Now the opportunity is there for him to do more. Receiver Kenny Stills (groin) didn't practice Wednesday and might miss his second game in a row. And receiver Albert Wilson (hip) is out for the season.Because of those injuries, the Dolphins decided against parting with Parker at this week's trade deadline, despite rumors he was on the market. Complicating the situation was an outburst by Parker's agent, Jimmy Gould, who questioned Gase's competence and complained about his client not playing.Gase said there was never a problem between him and Parker, and put the issue in the past."We move on quick, man," Gase said. "If DeVante had something to say to me, he'd say it. He's not afraid to tell me stuff."Gase, in his third season at Miami Authentic Jesse Davis Jersey , said Parker has been unlucky with injuries."In my time he has tried to do everything possible to make sure he is ready to go," Gase said. "And he has done a good job of staying engaged when he wasn't playing."Despite long stretches of idleness, Parker had a good grasp of his assignments against Houston, Gase said. And it showed."He was playing fast," Gase said. "Hopefully we just keep getting better every week and keep expanding his role."AP Sports Writer Dennis Waszak in New York contributed to this report. The Miami Dolphins have announced two roster moves on Wednesday. The team placed linebacker Chase Allen on injured reserve as he continues to deal with a foot injury that does not appear to be progressing. The Dolphins are hopeful that Allen will be able to return this year. He has appeared in five games, including one start, for Miami this season.Replacing Allen on the roster is safety Maurice Smith, who was released by the team on Monday to make roster space for tackle Sam Young to be re-signed to the team. Smith originally made the team’s 53-man roster on September 1, but was released on September 3, when the Dolphins re-signed Young, who had been released the previous day when the team was awarded center Travis Swanson off waivers. Thus, this is the second time this season the Dolphins have released Young, then re-signed him a couple of days later and released Smith. Smith joined the Dolphins practice squad when it happened to him earlier in the season, now he comes straight back to the 53-man roster.Smith has played in four games this season, recording three tackles and a pass defensed.The Dolphins kickoff at 1pm ET on Sunday in a home game against the Detroit Lions.

Ravens left guard Alex Lewis didn’t play against the Saints last Sunday as a result of the neck injury he suffered in Week Six against the Titans Womens Hayden Hurst Jersey , but he was back on the practice field Wednesday and feeling grateful for that development.Lewis needed to be taken to the hospital after being carted off the field a couple of weeks ago, but was able to fly home from Tennessee with the team after being diagnosed with a pinched nerve.“I had some numbness. That was scary,” Lewis said, via the team’s website. “I’m just thankful now that I can be walking around here and be back on the team. It was just one of those freak hits — something gets pinched in there. It was almost like a light switch went off for a second and came back on. There’s nothing that I could have done differently.”Lewis said that the experience didn’t make him think twice about returning to action because he loves “this sport too much” to walk away if he’s physically able to participate. The goals were to let the backups play and learn, and to be inspired.Missions accomplished.The Ravens and Bears honored their great linebackers Ray Lewis and Brian Urlacher with some defense to make them proud in the Hall of Fame game that opened the NFL's preseason Thursday night. Baltimore held on 17-16."Ray is the greatest linebacker of our time," said 2016 Heisman Trophy winner Lamar Jackson, who quarterbacked the second half for the Ravens. "That was a big thrill and exciting stuff."Oh, there was a little spark of offense, some provided by Baltimore's first-round draft pick. Jackson's 7-yard touchdown pass to fellow first-rounder Hayden Hurst came after the Ravens' defense recovered a fumble.Chicago put together its best drive in the final minutes and journeyman Tyler Bray connected with Tanner Gentry for a 10-yard score to cap a 92-yard march. But the 2-point conversion pass fell incomplete.Otherwise, D was the letter of the day: there were six turnovers in all, and 12 sacks, eight by the Bears."To represent Ray in this game to our guys meant even more," Ravens coach John Harbaugh said."It was a special moment for our organization," noted new Bears coach Matt Nagy.The teams exchanged tipped interceptions on the first two possessions of the preseason.Chicago moved swiftly downfield only to have Chase Daniel's pass to Josh Bellamy deflected to safety Chuck Clark at the Baltimore 6. He returned it 15 yards, then the Ravens replicated the turnover.Robert Griffin III, attempting a comeback after sitting out 2017, had his pinpoint throw go off the hands of receiver Breshad Perriman, then off rookie cornerback Michael Joseph. DeAndre Houston-Carson dived to make the pick at the Ravens 34.The Bears soon converted when Michael Burton caught a 4-yard scoring pass from Daniel.Baltimore tied it, sparked by two big gainers by undrafted rookie running back Gus Edwards. Griffin found Maxx Williams for a 4-yard score."It felt great Authentic Tony Jefferson Jersey ," Griffin said. "I can't tell you how grateful I am to play the game again."Then Lewis' old unit gave him a thrill. On the next play from scrimmage, linebacker Kamalei Correa sped 19 yards with an interception to the Chicago 9. But Urlacher's former defense made him smile, sacking Griffin on third down to hold Baltimore to a 31-yard field goal by Kaare Vedvik.Generally, it was a sloppy affair among backups marred by a slew of dropped passes, poor protection for the quarterbacks, and misthrows by those QBs.But something Lewis and Urlacher would approve, the defenses hit hard and tackled well.NEW COACH, OFFENSENagy, of late the offensive coordinator in Kansas City, made his head coaching debut with the Bears. He has said his new offense is in the early steps of development, and it looked that way all night.Of course, with backups playing it's nearly impossible to gauge progress. But he was optimistic."The arrow is pointing up for us," he said. "We definitely took steps in the right direction."INTROSEach of the seven inductees to the hall who were on hand — Terrell Owens is a well-publicized no-show — received a rousing ovation when they were introduced before the game. Lewis replicated his patented warmup dance for a few seconds, and Urlacher slapped hand with every Bears player lined up on the 45-yard line."Ray was on the field getting all fired up, doing his thing," Harbaugh said. "With both teams at the 45, I thought that was awesome, and then to see Ray come out, that was spectacular."Urlacher gave a pregame pep talk to the Bears in the locker room."It's so funny to see http://www.ravenscheapstores.com/nick-boyle-jersey-cheap ," veteran defensive lineman Akiem Hicks said. "Growing up, you've watched these guys, and you're one of the guys now who people come up and ask for pictures and autographs. Then you see Urlacher come into the locker room and you get to see all these NFL football players turn into kids ..."It's a phenomenal feeling."Also walking along midfield between the lines of Ravens and Bears were Randy Moss, Brian Dawkins, Jerry Kramer, Robert Brazile and Bobby Beathard.Owens did make it onto the cover of the Hall of Fame enshrinement magazine, however.At halftime, Hall of Famers Ozzie Newsome, the general manager of the Ravens, and Dan Fouts received their "Rings of Excellence" from David Baker, the hall's president.HELMET RULEThe first application of the NFL's enhanced enforcement of penalties for players lowering their helmet to make a tackle occurred early. Ravens linebacker Patrick Onwuasor was flagged for his hit on Benny Cunningham, earning a 15-yard penalty that helped set up Chicago's first touchdown.Correa got nailed for the same violation in the third quarter, but he also had a sack that forced a fumble in that period, and three sacks overall."It was great to see him break out," Harbaugh said of Correa's overall performance. "His work ethic and attention to detail, to see it pay off like that, a coach loves to see it."NEXT UPBears: At Cincinnati next Thursday night.Ravens: Host Los Angeles Rams next Thursday night.__

Ravens QB Joe Flacco discusses rule changes and playing in the AFC North The NFL has seen many rule changes in favor of the offense since Joe Flacco entered the league in 2008. Playing 10 seasons behind multiple offensive lines and against many top-tier defenders has given him some insight as to how the game has developed over the years. Despite being a quarterback — a position that has been protected a great deal by the NFL — Flacco believes that football is inherently a dangerous game. “Listen – this is football Womens John Brown Jersey , man, Flacco said to reporters on Wednesday. “We all sign up to get hit, and we all sign up [knowing] that you might get hurt. That’s what makes this league a little different than any other professional sports league.”Players will feel the bumps and bruises over the course of an NFL season that others will not. Flacco knows this and due to the awareness of the rule changes in favor of the ofense, he feels for the players on the other side of the ball. “We’re not really putting our life on the line, but every time we do go out there, we are putting our career on the line. That’s what makes football a little bit different. I think that’s what makes it interesting to watch.During his career, Flacco has been sacked 322 times. He has played through injuries — some occurring during the season and a back injury during the 2017 offseason — he has had his knee rolled up on and been battered and beaten, but Flacco understands that it’s all part of the game that he plays.“It’s a violent sport; it’s meant to be that way,” said Flacco. “I definitely have feelings for those guys who are there, because not only are they penalizing people and affecting outcomes of games, but they’re also taking paychecks away from people Womens Hayden Hurst Jersey , and they’re acting like it’s no big deal. It is a big deal. It’s a lot of money – for anybody. There are a lot of issues with it, I think.”Flacco has seen penalties go his way — others have not. He realizes that when playing football, one cannot search for yellow flags. A play must be made, whether or not the referees will toss a flag for roughing the passer, a defenseless receiver, pass interference, etc. “It’s very rarely – maybe when you’re looking for a call,” Flacco said. “You just don’t really think about it gametime. You’re just trying to execute the play and do all that stuff. I don’t have time to worry about whether they’re going to call a flag on me or not. That’s what my family is up in the stands for, I guess. I don’t know.”Aaron Doster-USA TODAY SportsIn his last game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Flacco was sacked four times. Each one of those sacks served as a debilitating blow to the offense. Playing in a division such as the AFC North takes a quarterback through all of the emotions and bodily harm that one would expect from some of the better defenses in the league. It also takes a certain kind of player to play in all sorts of weather — the rain, the sleet Authentic Tony Jefferson Jersey , the snow and the wind that comes with playing up north.“I think everybody who plays in this league has a certain toughness about them when they go take that field. Playing in this division for as long as I’ve had, up against the defenses that we get to go against week-in and week-out and dealing with all the different elements, I think it’s impossible to not gain an edge from that. We’ve played against hardnosed, tough teams every year, and it becomes a part of who you are a little bit.”After taking hits during the game on Thursday night, Flacco was able to get back up and make plays. Though he ended up going 32-for-55 passing with 375 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions, the 33-year old continued to churn on. He didn’t end up with the outcome that he wanted, but his toughness and pride is something that is emblematic of many NFL quarterbacks.“I think every quarterback takes pride in being able to stand in the pocket and deliver when you’re under siege a little bit,” said Flacco. “You’re not going to be able to make a living of it week-in and week-out. But, that’s why you have those big guys up front for. They’re doing a great job. You understand that week to week http://www.ravenscheapstores.com/nick-boyle-jersey-cheap , you’re going to go against guys that are really, really good at their position, and you’re going to have to do that.”Though he does believe in the grit that quarterbacks show on a regular basis, he doesn’t think they are anywhere close to being the most resilient player on the field. They are there to make plays when they are needed the most. “Quarterbacks – they’re the least tough guy on the field. Flacco said. “So, when you are given your chance twice a game, you better stand in there and make the throw.”Flacco’s durability will be tested against the Denver Broncos on Sunday when linebacker Von Miller and defensive end Bradley Chubb are chasing after him. Ravens vs. Steelers final score, takeaways: Joe Flacco, Baltimore defense shine in huge win - Ryan WilsonFlacco did exactly what franchise quarterbacks are supposed to do against bad defenses - rack up yardage and avoid mistakes. Joe displayed pinpoint accuracy on all but a few throws and is clearly comfortable in this offense.In age of offense, Ravens defense dancing to different tune - Jamison HensleyMartindale used dime personnel extensively in the second half. And once Roethlisberger lost his rhythm, he never regained it. The NFL’s second ranked defense could be even better once Jimmy Smith and Willie Henry return.The Ravens tricked the Steelers AND the refs on this potentially illegal formation - Charles R. McDonaldCoordinator Marty Mornhinweg was downright masterful on Sunday night. He threw a bevy of different looks at the Steelers defense, including this deceptive formation with Williams http://www.ravensauthorizedshops.com/authentic-john-brown-jersey , heavy pre-snap motion from two tight end sets, Lamar Jackson niche plays, bootlegs, a nifty tunnel screen and one play where tackle Ronnie Stanley lined up in the slot. Not all were successful, but this level of ingenuity is a stark departure from his formerly stale scheme.NFL Week 4 grades: The Ravens look like Super Bowl contenders - Steven RuizAfter being considered a middling team at the start of the season, oddsmakers have made Baltimore the favorite to win the division and given them the fourth best odds to win the AFC.

There was a high dose of anticipation for Cam Newton's debut in Norv Turner’s offense. However Womens James Bradberry Jersey , the Panthers also had a new defensive coordinator to show off in their season opener. Former defensive line coach Eric Washington was promoted to call the defense after Steve Wilks’ departure to Arizona. Washington’s unit gave the better show. The run defense, blitz packages, pattern matching concepts, and overall execution was on display. Washington’s introductory remarks to Sunday’s win emphasized the effort, energy, and team work.Shutting down Dallas’ rushing attackThe Cowboys don’t make any secrets about their intentions. They want to establish the run with Ezekiel Elliott. The issue for Dallas, however, is that their game plan was predictable. They aligned in heavy sets (multiple TEs, 6 OL) to compensate for the injuries on their line. This played right into Carolina’s hands. Despite Thomas Davis’ absence, the Panthers defensive line, safeties, and linebackers read their keys perfectly. The Cowboys run a “duo” concept with multiple double teams on Carolina’s defensive tackles. Dallas’ offensive line gets solid push. Da’Norris Searcy wins his individual battle with the tight end, but the run stop is made possible by the force player Donte Jackson. He anticipates the run to close down Elliott’s angle Youth DJ Moore Jersey , but then shows off his tackling technique to limit the gain.Linebacker blitzes leading to sacksOne of my main criticisms with Steve Wilks’ scheme was his over reliance on blitzes. Blitzing is fine, but Carolina didn’t have the personnel in 2017 to be successful with a heavy volume. Dallas hired a new offensive line coach this off-season. Inevitably, there will be an adjustment period for them to get their communications in sync. Fortunately, Carolina was able to take advantage of these issues by blitzing their linebackers.There were subtle movements by the defensive linemen at the snap, which gave Kuechly and Thompson huge lanes to pursue Dak Prescott. Elliott is also late to diagnose the blitzing linebacker on Thompson’s sack.Pattern matching conceptsThe Panthers pattern matching concepts were equally effective as their blitzes. Dallas had to spread the field out in the 2nd half in hopes of scoring quickly. There is a lot going on in this play, so let’s break it down. Carolina is essentially playing a cover 3 fire zone pattern matching concept. On the weak side of the formation, Donte Jackson patrols the sideline while Searcy operates in the hook zone area.Julius Peppers drops into the fire zone while Shaq Thompson blitzes. Kuechly is reading the running back. The complex part of the coverage comes on the trips side. Bradberry and Munnerlyn are reading the releases of the receivers. When the number 2 receiver goes vertical, Bradberry immediately picks him up. Munnerlyn matches with the number 3 receiver who runs an arrow route. Finally, the number 1 receiver runs a crosser. The underneath defenders pass it off smoothly which disrupts the timing. Ultimately, Carolina is able to force Dallas into a holding penalty. While Munnerlyn’s coverage on Cole Beasley could have been better, this was an ideal circumstance of coverage and pressure working together.Here is another example of Carolina’s secondary working together to pass off and match routes in cover 4. When the receiver to the near side motions, it gives Bradberry an easy read. He’s matching the vertical route. The most impressive part of this play comes from how Carolina is able to fluidly pass off the crosser and limit the yards after catch. Washington lauded the teamwork during his presser. This is an example. Carolina had a couple breakdowns in coverage, which weren’t exploited thanks to pressure. This was a well rounded performance Youth Trai Turner Jersey , though, The Panthers defense has to take this performance and carry it into Atlanta this weekend.Cam Newton is finally a good quarterback It took almost eight years, y’all, but Cam Newton has finally become a good quarterback. The former first round pick turned in a performance for the ages against the Dallas Cowboys and has pulled his season average completion percentage up to 65%. As we all know, completing 65% of your passes on average is the absolute benchmark for good quarterbacking. It’s a black and white standard.I assume that is the story of the season. I assume that everybody who spent years claiming that Newton was overrated during his 2015 NFL MVP season, who was clamoring for Derek Anderson to start, and who has, for months, been trying to buy passage on the Taylor Heinicke bandwagon has now been quieted. That their support has been thrown unequivocally behind Cameron Jerrell Newton, efficient passer of the football, as the quarterback of the Carolina Panthers for now and hereafter.Never we mind that Newton has averaged almost 40 yards a game on the ground. Never we mind that those yards often came on critical third and fourth down opportunities. Those yards and those plays aren’t valuable when produced by a quarterback and neither are the 55 touchdowns he has rushed for since entering the league.The Panthers stuck by their first overall pick for longer than many franchises would have. His ascendancy to being a good and relevant quarterback in his eighth season qualifies him as a late bloomer. Other first overall picks didn’t receive as much as time as Newton has to prove that they were good quarterbacks. Alex Smith only received seven seasons in San Francisco, which is mathematically less than Newton’s eight. David Carr, meanwhile Youth Cam Newton Jersey , was released after four seasons by the Houston Texans.Ironically, both of those quarterbacks became good in their last seasons with their original teams. They posted 70% and 68.9% completion ratings respectively. Maybe that is the sign that this is Newton’s final year. Maybe the Panthers are just letting Derek Anderson rest for a season so that he can take the league by storm in 2019.It will be a tough call for general manager Marty Hurney, to be sure. On the one hand, Newton is now a good quarterback. On the other hand, the Panthers probably have a better chance of making the Super Bowl without him. It’s not like he ever proved capable of carrying their entire offense — kicking and screaming — through the playoffs all by himself.As for 2018, Newton will probably try to maintain his performance as a good quarterback. He can do that if he keeps his season average completion percentage above 65%, I’m told. That will probably mean he has to stop running so gosh darn much. Smiling, too. That’s OK, though. The Panthers have never been hurt by leaving a few first downs on the table, letting drives stall out, and not scoring in the red zone.

not helpful to your team’s chances of winning football games Authentic Matt Ioannidis Jersey , but it didn’t hurt Washington on Sunday afternoon.Thanks to four turnovers and two missed field goals, the Buccaneers only managed three points while Washington managed to put up 16 despite being outgained by 215 yards. It’s not a blueprint that anyone would draw up to win a football game, but head coach Jay Gruden will take being 6-3 over the alternative.“If that’s what it takes to win a game, I really don’t care,” Gruden said, via 106.7 The Fan. “I’ll save the fantasy football for the guys who play that. We’re just trying to get a win and grind聽it out anyway we can. I told the team last night: if we win 6-3 or 50-49, I don’t care. The whole idea is to win the game. Right now, we’re winning ugly, but I’m not sure there’s any such thing as winning ugly.”Washington’s offense should look better in the coming weeks if wide receiver Jamison Crowder, running back Chris Thompson and left tackle Trent Williams can get healthy. Even if it does, it will be a good idea to start holding opponents under 500 yards.The 5 O’Clock Club: One week, two important games against the NFC South The 5 o’clock club is published Wednesday to Saturday during the season, and aims to provide a forum for reader-driven discussion at a time of day when there isn’t much NFL news being published. Feel free to introduce topics that interest you in the comments below.The Redskins go to New Orleans on Monday night to face the Saints, who are 3-1 and leading the NFC South, and then come home on Sunday to host the 2-1 Carolina Panthers, who are just a half-game back of the Saints.This week and these two contests could go a long way towards defining the 2018 Redskins and shaping the season.Win both games, and the Redskins would be 4-1 at the end of the week, and likely in strong control of the NFC East, with two huge wins over two teams that are likely to factor into the playoff seedings.On the other hand, if the Redskins lose both games, they would fall to 2-3.That would likely drop them to at least 3rd place in the division, and would create terrible tie-breaking scenarios versus the Saints and Panthers for any eventual chase for a wildcard spot.TheRedskins don’t have a division game until Week 7, and these two games against the two leading NFC South teams are very important if the Redskins want to show their fans and the rest of the NFL that they are serious playoff team, and the two games are vitally important to the math of qualifying for a playoff spot later on.Playing in New Orleans on Monday Night FootballThe Saints opened up their season with a shocking loss to Tampa Bay, 48-40.Since then, they have won three straight games againstthe Browns, Falcons and Giants, with two of those wins coming on the road.The Saints offense is one of the most potent in the NFL, ranking 3rd in points per game at 34.2 (behind Chiefs and Rams).They will be a tough test for the Redskins’ 2nd ranked defense that has given up just 14.7 points per game against the Cardinals, Colts and Packers. The Cardinals have averaged around 10 ppg in their other three contests, the Colts 24.3, and the Packers 25, so, the Redskins have held each of the three teams to about 3 - 8 points under their ‘norm’.Applying that to the Saints would mean that the Redskins would still likely have to score more than 30 points to win — something they have so far managed only against the Packers.Of course, scoring on the Saints hasn’t exactly been a challenge this season; their opponents are averaging 30.2 points per game Matt Ioannidis Jersey Elite , even as they’ve lost three of those games to New Orleans.The Saints have a surprisingly balanced offensive attack, ranking 7th in passing yards and 18th in rushing.Against the Redskins, the Saints will see the return of Mark Ingram, who was suspended for the first 3 games of the season.He is likely to be motivated, and to have fresh legs, so the Redskins, who rank 7th against the run, will have to have a good game plan and superior execution to stop Ingram and Kamara, who combined for 1,852 rushing yards in 2017.Drew Brees, of course, is the future first-ballot Hall of Fame player on this team.He threw 3 TD passes against Tampa Bay, 2 versus Cleveland, and another 3 against the Falcons.He has thrown an average of 40 passes per game, and he can sling the ball when he needs to, airing it out 45 times against the Bucs and 49 times against Atlanta.Brees is on track to break some huge passing records, and he’s likely to hit at least one milestone against the Redskins.With just over 200 yards of passing offense, Brees will break Peyton Manning’s record of 71,940 career passing yards.Playing at home in front of rabid Saints fans who will be counting down towards the milestone, and likely facing a short stoppage of play to acknowledge it when it happens will probably supercharge the atmosphere in the Superdome on Monday Night.This won’t just be a physical contest, but a mental and emotional challenge as well, as the Redskins are likely to face a team and fan base that will be amped to see their superstar quarterback look like the Hall of Famer he is likely to become in front of a prime time television audience.The Redskins are going to have to take control of the game early and get a 2-score lead to de-energize the crowd or it could be an ugly night for Washington and its fans.Carolina Panthers on Sunday at 1:00 p.m. at FedEx FieldThere’s no rest for the weary.Following the bye week and the Monday night contest, the Redskins will come home to get ready for the Panthers on a short week.This game, in addition to being a home game, looks slightly less daunting on paper, but will still provide another tough challenge for the good guys this week.The Panthers are the other team that had a Week 4 bye, so they currently have the same record as the ‘Skins, 2-1.The Panthers lost on the road to the Falcons, and picked up home wins against the Cowboys and Bengals.Carolina ranks 18th in total offense, 16th in points per game, and 11th in time of possession.Their offensive attack, at least on paper, isn’t balanced at all; the Panthers rank 1st in rushing and 25th in passing.Again, on paper, this should provide a pretty good matchup for the Redskins http://www.washingtonredskinsteamonline.com/matthew-ioannidis-jersey , who are 7th in rushing yards allowed, 2nd in passing defense, 3rd in total yards allowed, 2nd in points allowed, and 3rd in offensive time of possession.As might be expected from three teams with winning records, the ‘Skins, Saints and Panthers have all dominated time of possession this season, with the Redskins the best of the three and ranked 3rd in the NFL at 33:31.The winner of each game may be the one who can win that ToP battle again.So far, Carolina has managed that partly through a positive turnover margin — they are +4 through 4 weeks.This is where Alex Smith’s conservative nature may be a real benefit.He’s thrown just one interception so far this season, and that appeared to be the fault of Jordan Reed, who either quit on a route or got beaten badly by his defender.Fumbles may provide a bit more opportunity for the opportunistic Carolina defense, as Smith has put the ball on the ground several times this season without actually losing possession to the defense.Adrian Peterson, of course, had the memorable strip at the end of his long run in his first regular season game as a Redskin, and Jordan Reed lost a ball against the Colts that pretty much ended any hope of a Redskins rally.The Panthers are averaging 11 points per game less than the Saints, so it’s likely that the Redskins won’t have to put up a “track meet” score to win at home against Carolina, but the Redskins will have to play very good football to come away with the win.Penalties may also factor in, as the Panthers are averaging only 48 penalty yards per game, while the Redskins have been a bit sloppy at times and have been penalized to the tune of 73 yards per game.Between penalties and turnovers, the Panthers could steal a possession or two, which could make the difference in what looks to be a close contest between two good teams.The schedules for our NFC East rivalsThis is a big weekend for NFC East Football, with a Sunday lineup that features the Giants at 1:00, Eagles at 4:25, Cowboys on Sunday Night Football, and then the Redskins playing Monday night.The fun continues with a divisional game between the Eagles and Giants on Thursday night.I imagine that the network execs thought they were signing up to broadcast a high-stakes game to decide the early-season divisional lead.Depending on the outcome of Sunday’s games, they might, instead, be broadcasting a game between two teams with a combined record of 3-7 fighting each other to stay out of last place in the NFC East.Of course, if the Redskins lose to the Saints while the Eagles and Giants win on Sunday, the Giants could be playing on Thursday night for a 3-3 record and a shot at 1st place, or the Eagles could go to 4-2 with a win over the Giants putting themselves back in control of the division.It seems crazy, but this early in the season, almost anything is possible.Cowboys7 Oct 8:20 pm at Texans (1-3)14 Oct 4:25 pm Jaguars (3-1)Eagles7 Oct 4:25 pm Vikings (1-2-1)11 Oct 8:20 pm Giants (1-3)Giants7 Oct 1:00 pm Panthers (2-1)11 Oct 8:20 pm Eagles (2-2)

Packers will meet in the finale of Week 6. The Monday Night Football game features two third place teams in their respective divisions Youth Jerome Baker Jersey , something not expected from either team this year. Who could use this game as a springboard to a climb to the playoffs?If it is going to be the Packers, they will be doing it with a banged up Aaron Rodgers, who is dealing with a knee injury. If it is the 49ers, they will do it with their backup quarterback, C.J. Beathard, a fter Jimmy Garoppolo sustained a torn ACL. You can join us in a live chat throughout the game using the comments at the bottom of this page. You can also find all the information you need to watch/stream the game below. San Francisco 49ers at Green Bay PackersWeek 6Monday Night FootballLocation: Lambeau Field Youth Ryan Tannehill Jersey , Green Bay WisconsinGame time: 8:15 pm ETTV channel: ESPNAnnouncers: Joe Tessitore, Jason Witten, Booger McFarland, Lisa Salters Online streaming: Watch ESPN49ers team site: Niners NationPackers team site: Acme Packing Company Tonight’s Thursday Night Football game features the Carolina Panthers who travel to Pittsburgh Pennsylvania to take on the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Panthers come into the game with only two losses but trail the New Orleans Saints in their division, who currently have only one loss. The Pittsburgh Steelers currently lead their division over the Bengals with the same number of wins but one less loss by way of a tie. Please use this thread to follow this evenings game or as always your Miami Dolphins. Please continue to follow all site rules in live threads as you would elsewhere on the site. As always there is no sharing, requesting or discussing illegal game streams on the Phinsider or any other SBNation site. Carolina Panthers (6-2) 2nd NFC South @ Pittsburgh Steelers (5-2-1) 1st AFC NorthWhen: 8:20 PM ESTWhere: Heinz Field White Jesse Davis Jersey , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania TV: FOX, NFL NetworkOdds: Steelers -3.5Over/Under: 51.5