Category: Arizona Cardinals - LINDSEYYOK.COM

NFL says Tua Tagovailoa concussion was handled properly

1/1/2023

For the second time this season, the NFL and the NFLPA investigated whether concussion protocol was properly carried out with Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.

The NFL issued a statement on Saturday afternoon.

“The review established that symptoms of a concussion were neither exhibited nor reported until the following day.”

On #Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa, via the NFL and NFLPA: pic.twitter.com/BtKDEQ3IjG
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 31, 2022

Tagovailoa's head hit the turf in the second quarter of last week's game, and everyone missed it. It wasn't until the game concluded that a Twitter user posted the video on social media, questioning if Tagovailoa's three interceptions were a product of his slamming his head into the turf.

Head coach Mike McDaniel said he saw the hit on film the following Monday morning and pointed Tagovailoa in the doctor's direction, where it was determined he had suffered a concussion. Tagovailoa was shortly ruled out for Week 17 when it was confirmed.

The NFL, the Dolphins, and the NFLPA all seem to do the right things in saying that no concussion symptoms were immediately present (or they're trying to cover their asses). Still, a few questions remain: Why didn't someone see this sooner and allow him to continue playing in this game? Will Tagovailoa be shut down for the season? Will Tagovailoa ever play again?

more Qb news:

David Blough gets the nod for the Arizona Cardinals this week, making him the 64th starting quarterback for the 2022 season. After Kyler Murray tore his ACL, the Cardinals shifted between Colt McCoy, Trace McSorley, and now Blough, who has only been with the team for a couple of weeks.

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Trey Lance underwent a second surgery on his injured ankle this weekend, removing hardware irritating him. Lance is expected to be ready for the 2023 off-season. As the starter? We'll see.

QB news: Trey Lance had a second surgery on his right ankle FRI, this one to remove hardware from the September procedure. Irritation that Lance has been feeling during rehab is believed to have been caused by the hardware’s proximity to an ankle tendon.
— Matt Barrows (@mattbarrows) January 1, 2023

Matt Ryan benched, again

12/22/2022

Merry Christmas to me!

The Indianapolis Colts are benching quarterback Matt Ryan - yes, again - for Nick Foles. Foles will be their third quarterback to start this season. Definitely not what they had planned.

The Colts are changing quarterbacks again. Nick Foles will take over for Matt Ryan as the starter Monday Night against the Chargers, and the plan is for Foles to start the final three games of the season. Announcement expected Wednesday afternoon.
— Dan Graziano (@DanGrazianoESPN) December 21, 2022

The first time Ryan was benched, rookie Sam Ehlinger took over, and head coach Frank Reich was later fired. Then, the Colts hired Jeff Saturday for some reason, went back to Ryan, and blew the biggest lead in NFL history.

Foles, their last hope, is a former Super Bowl MVP and has only played two snaps this season - the final snaps of a 24-0 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Foles said on Wednesday that he had no frustration towards the Colts for not turning to him earlier in the season.

The Colts take on Justin Herbert, an actual good QB, and the Los Angeles Chargers on Monday Night Football.

more Qb news:

Lamar Jackson did not practice again on Wednesday, putting his status for this week in jeopardy.

Ravens QB Lamar Jackson (knee) was not at practice. This would be his eighth straight absence.

It’s not looking likely that he’ll be back for Saturday’s game vs. Atlanta.
— Jonas Shaffer (@jonas_shaffer) December 21, 2022

The Dallas Cowboys lost to the Jacksonville Jaguars last week, but Dak Prescott played well, as long as you don't count that pick-six in overtime. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones says he doesn't fault Prescott for the loss. "We can win with him playing like that, to be trite. I thought he played outstanding."

Colt McCoy will not play this week, due to a concussion. QB Trace McSorley will start for the Arizona Cardinals, which will be quite an adventure.

Cardinals have ruled out quarterback Colt McCoy vs. the Bucs due to his concussion.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 21, 2022

Kirk Cousins is the NFC offensive player of the week. Cousins led the Minnesota Vikings to the biggest comeback in NFL history against the Indianapolis Colts, throwing four touchdowns after the half.

Josh Allen was named the AFC offensive player of the week, completing 25-of-40 passes for 304 yards and four touchdowns in a Buffalo Bills win.

Ryan Tannehill is facing an "uphill battle" to play this week. Tannehill injured his ankle during Week 15's loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. Malik Willis would get the start should Tannehill not be able to go.
- Because of Tannehill's injury, the Tennessee Titans signed QB Josh Dobbs off the Detroit Lions practice squad. Head coach Mike Vrabel said adding Dobbs helps the team with depth as they prepare for this week.

The latest on three QBs whose status is in doubt this week: Jalen Hurts, Ryan Tannehill and Mike White. @gmfb @nflnetwork pic.twitter.com/0A6CaBwpPn
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 20, 2022

The Philadelphia Eagles have not yet ruled out Jalen Hurts, but Gardner Minshew will make the start for at least this week. The team isn't that worried, though, according to tight end Dallas Goedert. "He's just got a lot of respect because he comes in here to work every day, prepares like the starter even though he knows he's the backup. He knows his role, and he just waits for an opportunity like this, and we all have faith that he's going to make the most of it."
- Hurts was not seen at practice on Wednesday.

The Houston Texans will continue to rotate quarterbacks this week, per Pep Hamilton. I guess it's the only thing that makes them look like a competent football team.

Pep Hamilton on using Jeff Driskel in two-quarterback system, said it was initially an 'experiment,' now it's a part of the offense to 'create conflict,' disrupt the defense. 'We hope it will limit the potential looks we will see.'
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) December 21, 2022

The Jaguars listed Trevor Lawrence as questionable this week with a toe injury.

Kyler Murray diagnosed with a torn ACL

12/14/2022

Kyler Murray did tear his ACL as expected, an MRI confirms. He will miss the rest of the season.

#AZCardinals QB Kyler Murray tore his ACL last night, the MRI confirmed today. His season is over. pic.twitter.com/Dd3IniVIga
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 13, 2022

While this season was mostly a wash for the Arizona Cardinals, now the question lingers if he'll be ready to go by the start of the 2023 season.

Head coach Kliff Kingsbury told reporters on Tuesday that he will get more tests done before having surgery.

OLIPOP - Finally, Soda That's Actually Good For You

more qb news:

While it worked until The Tank set in, the Houston Texans used both Davis Mills and Jeff Driskel at the quarterback position. It's expected to continue next week. For what reason, no one knows.

Texans are expected to maintain two-quarterback system of Davis Mills and Jeff Driskel going forward after having success last Sunday against the Cowboys, according to league sources
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) December 13, 2022

Kenny Pickett has entered the NFL's concussion protocol after leaving Sunday's game. Backup Mitch Trubisky took his place and would likely get the starting nod should Pickett not be able to go in Week 15. This is Pickett's second such injury in two months, which is cause for concern.

Mike Tomlin said if QB Kenny Pickett (concussion protocol) is "able to work, we'll work him. If not, we'll get Mitch and Mason ready." He said when dealing with concussion protocol, you take it day-to-day.
— Gerry Dulac (@gerrydulac) December 13, 2022

Mac Jones was famously seen on camera visibly frustrated with New England Patriots offensive coordinator Matt Patricia's playcalling. Was Patricia offended by this (no pun intended)? He says no. "We're trying to win, so I love all that... I know [Mac Jones] wants to win, and he's doing everything he can just like we all are. So, that stuff's great."

OLIPOP - Finally, Soda That's Actually Good For You

It's not a secret that Matt Ryan is nearing the end of his NFL career. It's also not a secret that this year has been particularly hard on Ryan, as it seems he's constantly slammed into the turf at alarming rates. Ryan says he's not focused on if he'll continue playing after 2022. What will happen to my content?

Matt Ryan turns 38 next May and is under contract for 2023.

Ryan, today, on if he’s thought about playing next year: pic.twitter.com/zXoOyh4kJJ
— Kevin Bowen (@KBowen1070) December 13, 2022

Baltimore Ravens backup quarterback Tyler Huntley is in concussion protocol but was able to participate in Tuesday's walk-through practice. Huntley was listed as limited.
- Lamar Jackson did not practice Tuesday.

Good news for Ravens: QB Tyler Huntley was participating during media viewing of Tuesday’s practice.

Huntley left Sunday’s game with a concussion. pic.twitter.com/WpXM4axUKe
— Jamison Hensley (@jamisonhensley) December 13, 2022

OLIPOP - A new kind of soda.

Brock Purdy remained limited in practice on Sunday as he tries to play through his injury. Purdy stated earlier in the week that he expects to play.
- For an official "ok" to play, head coach Kyle Shanahan says it will be "probably" Thursday.

Kyle Shanahan said #49ers QB Brock Purdy (oblique/rib) will be limited in practice today.

The 49ers aren't going to do much on the practice field, but the guys listed as "limited" will be more limited than the others, Shanahan said.
— Matt Maiocco (@MaioccoNBCS) December 13, 2022

The Tennessee Titans signed QB Kevin Hogan to the practice squad.

Baker Mayfield is in line to start for the Los Angeles Rams this week.

Kyler Murray suffers knee injury in Monday Night Football

12/13/2022

Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray suffered a non-contact knee injury on the third play during Monday Night Football.

Murray was in the middle of a scramble when his knee appeared to buckle. (I'm not going to post the video, but you can look for it if you want to see it.) Murray was carted off the field, surrounded by teammates, and quickly ruled questionable to return. Murray was later ruled out by the team in the second quarter with a knee injury.

Backup QB Colt McCoy replaced him.

Both teams went over to console Kyler Murray on the cart □□□□□□ pic.twitter.com/XNUxZgNFA9
— MLFootball (@_MLFootball) December 13, 2022

Reports began to emerge throughout the game that Murray had torn his ACL. Murray will have an MRI on Tuesday to confirm.

Cardinals QB Kyler Murray is expected to have an MRI tomorrow but there is "little doubt that it’s torn," a source told me, referring to the quarterback's ACL.
— Josh Weinfuss (@joshweinfuss) December 13, 2022

more Qb News:

San Francisco 49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw will be one of the lucky few to be able to tell his grandchildren that he intercepted the Tom Brady one day. Thankfully, he has proof. Greenlaw made sure to get Brady's signature on the ball for safekeeping.
- Is there a chance Brady could be on the Niners' field in 2023, but on the roster? "I don't go there," he said. "I'm just trying to get this right, and see what we can possibly accomplish."

Class act ✍️ pic.twitter.com/sw7Egm9vYs
— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) December 12, 2022

Speaking of Brady, adding to his problems is a potential hand injury. Brady downplayed the injury, saying he feels fine, but the video shows a pretty hard shot.

Tom Brady hit his hand very hard on a #49ers defender's helmet. pic.twitter.com/8pBchHCuTO
— MLFootball (@_MLFootball) December 12, 2022

Justin Herbert had a big night on Sunday, setting the record for most passing yards through his first three seasons with 13,056. The previous record-holder was now-retired QB Andrew Luck. Herbert had this to say about Luck: "I've got a ton of respect for Andrew Luck. For him as a football player, as a person, as a teammate - I think it's just cool to be in the same conversation as him."

The Dallas Cowboys had to breathe several sighs of relief after coming away with a near-loss to the worst team in the league, the Houston Texans. Amongst a string of blowouts, the Cowboys were heavily favored in this one and came away with a 27-23 win. Dak Prescott thinks this type of win will make them a better team in the long term. "This will serve us more than I think the Minnesota game or even the way we finished the last game when it comes down to it because we're going to play some tough games as we get going."

Brock Purdy won fans over as he beat Tom Brady in a blowout, and he won over his teammates as well. Nick Bosa praised the rookie's performance: "I had a lot of confidence in him, but obviously, it's the NFL, and you've got to perform. And he did that pretty darn good."
- Purdy is dealing with an oblique injury and had an MRI on Monday. He is expected to be ready to play on Thursday despite the injury. Purdy was listed as a limited participant on Monday's estimated practice report.

#49ers QB Brock Purdy is getting an MRI today on his injured oblique, per source.

Purdy got hurt on the game's second drive Sunday, and obviously played well after it. So, not a lot of concern pending further tests. But a quick turnaround for Thursday night in Seattle.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 12, 2022

Patrick Mahomes threw an uncharacteristic three interceptions on Sunday, but he's thankful the rest of the team was able to step up when he had a bad day. "The defense made a lot of stops in critical moments when we were putting them in some bad situations."

Jeff Saturday says Matt Ryan will remain the starting quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts following the bye week.

The Washington Commanders activated Carson Wentz off of injured reserve on Monday. He will serve as Taylor Heinicke's backup.

Commanders activated QB Carson Wentz from the Reserve/Injured List.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 12, 2022

Andy Dalton will remain the New Orleans Saints' starter for Week 15.

New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh said Mike White is day-to-day after suffering a (series of) rib injury on Sunday. Saleh wouldn't commit to Joe Flacco or Zach Wilson starting in his place, or as the backup. I know what the obvious choice is.

Saleh is non-committal on whether it will be Flacco or Wilson for QB2 this week, so it sounds like there’s a chance Wilson could get a bump up. #Jets
— Rich Cimini (@RichCimini) December 12, 2022

The Atlanta Falcons announced their quarterback change - to rookie Desmond Ridder. Head coach Arthur Smith said that while it was a performance-based decisiont to bench Marcus Mariota, he will go to injured reserve, ending his season.

Russell Wilson exited Sunday's game with a head injury and he was placed in concussion protocol, where he remains. Denver Broncos head coach Nathaniel Hackett said on Monday that all they can do is go through the process. "

#Broncos coach Hackett says Wilson feels great today. But he’s in protocol #Denver7 pic.twitter.com/2x4OTvm0RA
— Troy Renck (@TroyRenck) December 12, 2022

The Baltimore Ravens are unsure who will start at QB this week. With Tyler Huntley in concussion protocol, it could be Anthony Brown this week. Head coach John Harbaugh said he has no update on Lamar Jackson's status, which likely means he won't be able to go after missing just one week with a PCL sprain. "I really don't have any updates that I would be allowed to share on that."

Matthew Stafford not playing Sunday

11/27/2022

With starter Matthew Stafford already ruled out due to a concussion, Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay wouldn't say whether or not backup John Wolford or Bryce Perkins will get the start. However, he did say Perkins got first-team reps in practice this week.

Sean McVay says "you'll see on Sunday" whether QB Bryce Perkins starts.
However, he also confirms that Perkins has gotten the No. 1 reps this week. John Wolford has been limited this week (neck).
— Jourdan Rodrigue (@JourdanRodrigue) November 25, 2022

more qb news:

The Dallas Cowboys have put together two dominant performances two weeks in a row, and a lot of that has to do with quarterback Dak Prescott's confidence. "I am as confident as I can be and always have been in this team. As I told y'all earlier in the week, it doesn't matter who says anything about what they believe in. I know what this team is capable of, especially with this defense that we have."

Justin Fields' status remains in the air for this week, but the New York Jets are preparing as he will play. Fields was listed as questionable by the Chicago Bears.

Robert Saleh said they’re preparing for Justin Fields Sunday. “If he plays, we’re going to hit him. If he doesn’t, we’re going to hit the next guy.” #Jets
— Al Iannazzone (@Al_Iannazzone) November 25, 2022

Houston Texans head coach Lovie Smith confirms that Kyle Allen will start at QB this week.

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson missed one day of practice this week with a hip injury, but should be good to go for Sunday. He spoke to reporters on Friday regarding the details.

Lamar Jackson on his hip injury: “It’s getting better.”

Was it the same hip injury from earlier this season? “It’s something different. But it’s good, though.”

Did it bother you in the game? “It’s all right. We won." pic.twitter.com/qbIOiZ9UPG
— Jamison Hensley (@jamisonhensley) November 25, 2022

Arizona Cardinals head coach Kliff Kingsbury said on Friday that Kyler Murray should be good to go for this weekend. Murray exited the injury report.

Kingsbury updates:

- “looks that way” for Kyler to start
- Humphries, Murphy are out
- Dortch is a game day decision
- Hollywood Brown is expected to play Sunday
— Darren Urban (@Cardschatter) November 25, 2022

Kyler Murray still not quite ready to go

11/23/2022

Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray has been dealing with a hamstring injury for a couple of weeks, missing two games so far. Murray reportedly originally injured his hamstring at the end of October. Head coach Kliff Kingsbury said on Tuesday that while Murray has made some progress, he's not quite ready to return to the field.

Arizona Cardinals says the offensive line being down 4/5 starters played a role in being cautious QB Kyler Murray returning pic.twitter.com/atrQGQGgxg
— Bo Brack (@BoBrack) November 22, 2022

As a disappointing season for Arizona continues, backup QB Colt McCoy will get starting reps while Murray is out.

The Cardinals have the Los Angeles Chargers up next, followed by a Week 13 bye. It's very possible they wait until after the bye week to put Murray back in the line-up.

more QB news:

Jimmy Garoppolo threw four touchdown passes on Monday night, putting the offense in the best place to win. The defense balanced the game as well, playing their part. Garoppolo acknowledged their complete game on a national stage, while still citing need for improvement. "Today was probably our best full game that we've put together. But we've got a long way to go. There's some yards we left out there, even some points that we left out there."

The Tennessee Titans are facing the Cincinnati Bengals this week. The last time that happened wasn't that great of a time for the Titans and Ryan Tannehill. He spoke about how this time, it's a whole new ball game.

#Titans QB Ryan Tannehill on facing the Bengals: pic.twitter.com/SMn4RCxLT3
— Ben Arthur (@benyarthur) November 22, 2022

Dak Prescott and Daniel Jones were named Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award nominees for 2022.

Josh Allen was limited on Tuesday's injury report.

The Carolina Panthers quarterback revolving door keeps on turning. Sam Darnold will get the start this Sunday, the team announced. Baker Mayfield will be the backup while PJ Walker recovers from an ankle injury.

Derrick Henry is QB for the night

11/18/2022

The Tennessee Titans dominated the Green Bay Packers from start to finish on Thursday Night Football. The star of the show was running back Derrick Henry. Henry topped 1,000 rushing yards for the season (seven-plus weeks to go). Henry also ran for a touchdown and played quarterback for the night, tossing this pass to tight end Austin Hooper for six.

DERRICK HENRY TOSSES IT FOR SIX □

(via @NFL)pic.twitter.com/cjrGrIabEz
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) November 18, 2022

more qb news:

The Las Vegas Raiders are keeping head coach Josh McDaniels around for some reason, despite him being a horrible coach. Speaking of horrible, Derek Carr was asked about Mark Davis' endorsement of McDaniels. "There is a process, and we do have time during the season that we know who our leader is, and we know that we're rolling, and that gives us confidence as a football team." Ummm.. ok.

Baker Mayfield will start for the Carolina Panthers this weekend, but he's not worried about keeping the job. "It's pretty important to win since we're still in the division race. That's where I'm at. Not worried about anything else, it'll take care of itself as long as I do my job, and we'll see where it goes."

Justin Fields is on pace to set the new quarterback rushing record, but there are always concerns about a quarterback's body when running. Fields acknowledged the toll all the running takes on his body. "My legs just felt heavy after the game. The guys on the strength staff said that my load has been pretty high, so I've just been doing a little bit of tapering back this week in practice."

After missing last week's game, Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford will be cleared from the concussion protocol and will start Sunday's game against the Saints. The bigger problem is the absence of wide receiver Cooper Kupp, but I'm sure the Rams will take what they can get at this point.

From NFL Now: #Rams QB Matthew Stafford is expected to be cleared from the NFL's concussion protocol and play Sunday. pic.twitter.com/3ZXjtEjxyj
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 17, 2022

The New England Patriots' offense has struggled this season, but with the team still in the middle of a playoff race, quarterback Mac Jones spent his bye week reflecting on his play. "I think a lot of us are working on different things every day, and the bye week's a great time to do that. So for me, just making sure my feet and eyes are in the right place and continue to go through my reads and continue to improve in the weight room, nutrition, all that stuff."

Pittsburgh Steelers rookie quarterback Kenny Pickett has been dealing with some first-year jitters this season. His interceptions are one of the main ones sticking out like a sore thumb. But, Pickett said, "There are things I can get a lot better at. It's knowing what those things are and finding out and going and attacking it."

Josh Allen was limited in Thursday's practice.

Kyler Murray and Colt McCoy both practiced on Thursday, but on a limited basis.

Taylor Heinicke will start in Week 11

11/17/2022

The moment we've all been waiting for - we finally know who will be starting for the Washington Commanders going forward. Head coach Ron Rivera announced on Wednesday that quarterback Taylor Heinicke will start for the team in Week 11 against the Houston Texans.

Taylor Heinicke will start Sunday in Houston, Ron Rivera said.
— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) November 16, 2022

Carson Wentz is still on injured reserve with a finger injury, but he is eligible to resume throwing. It's unclear whether Heinicke will remain the starter for the remainder of the season, or if it's just next week.

In my personal opinion, I think Heinicke has more than earned it. The offense plays better with him, and his record (3-1 as a starter) shows it. He'll get a gimme game against the Texans, but beating the undefeated Philadelphia Eagles was a huge momentum shift for the Commanders.

more qb news:

Kliff Kingsbury said QB Kyler Murray remains day-to-day with a hamstring injury. Backup QB Colt McCoy is also dealing with a knee injury, so if neither can go this week it will be none other than Trace McSorley. Can't wait! Note: Murray initially injured his hamstring in Week Eight vs. the Minnesota Vikings, per an ESPN report.

Kingsbury injury updates:

- Confirms TE Zach Ertz done for the season
- Kyler Murray and Colt McCoy day to day. Hopes at least one of them will be available.
- said there is a “chance” Hollywood Brown will play
— Darren Urban (@Cardschatter) November 16, 2022

Josh Allen has had an uncharacteristic streak of turnovers in the past four games, leaving people wondering what, exactly, is up with him? Allen spoke on Wednesday and acknowledged that most of it was due to pressing, or trying to get too much done. "I can make a play or I can trust somebody else to make a play that I've battled with my entire football career, and trying to do too much sometimes." Note: Allen was limited in Wednesday's practice.

The Indianapolis Colts put QB Matt Ryan back in the lineup last week, and there he will remain. Cause if an 87-year old Matt Ryan has to save you, that means you're down bad.

If this wasn’t already clear, Jeff Saturday confirmed it today: “Matt Ryan is our starting quarterback.”
— Zak Keefer (@zkeefer) November 16, 2022

New Orleans Saints head coach Dennis Allen said Andy Dalton will continue as the starting quarterback this week. Joy.

Ryan Tannehill exited the Tennessee Titans' injury report and should be good to go for Thursday Night Football.

As Deshaun Watson is now back practicing with the Cleveland Browns, current starter Jacoby Brissett said he's only focused on what he can control - himself. "It's the coach's job to balance how he splits things up and stuff like that. I just have to go out there and prepare like I always prepare."

Baker Mayfield will be starting for the Carolina Panthers this week, but Sam Darnold is also cleared and ready to go after a high ankle sprain has kept him out for most of the season. Head coach Steve Wilks basically said there's a possibility they'll turn to Darnold at some point, even if it's not this week. "I just want to be able to get Sam some opportunities. Because the first time that he goes in there, I don't want it to be the first time."

lots of concerns about Josh Allen's elbow

11/8/2022

Buffalo Bills quarterback and MVP-favorite Josh Allen is said to be dealing with an ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injury and the team is currently evaluating the situation and running more tests to determine the severity of the injury. Allen hurt the elbow on this play and was seen grabbing it immediately after.

Video of the play where Josh Allen suffered his elbow injury. Happened on Buffalo’s final drive on Sunday: pic.twitter.com/RrPT2iVYfD
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) November 7, 2022

First of all, this isn't good news at all. If he were to miss any extended amount of time, it would all but mean the Bills are done this season. A lot is riding on this injury.

more QB notes:

The Chicago Bears did not win this week, but that didn't mean all eyes weren't on second-year quarterback Justin Fields. Head coach Matt Eberflus acknowledged Fields' development over the last few weeks. "We have a young football team. We are building upon that, and the centerpiece of that is the quarterback. That’s the way it is in the NFL. Talk about toughness and grit and the ability to persevere through a lot of different things. Obviously start of the season is feeling his way, and now the last three games he’s really taken off."

The Carolina Panthers activated quarterback Sam Darnold on Monday, adding him to the mix. PJ Walker was benched on Sunday for backup Baker Mayfield. The Panthers announced Monday that Walker will start on Thursday night, citing the short week. No decision on a starter beyond Thursday has been announced.

Panthers activated quarterback Sam Darnold.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 7, 2022

Overall, Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence has been disappointing this season. However, he has shown some brief flashes of being a franchise QB. Head coach Doug Pederson spoke about some of the positive things he saw from Lawrence this week. "He really managed the offense, the situations, made some tough throws, got out of some tough throws, got out of some sack situations, ran hard. He just took a step in the right direction. "

Speaking of disappointing, the Arizona Cardinals have not played up to their potential this year, and neither has their star quarterback Kyler Murray. Two of the main reasons for that are not being able to string an entire game together and making critical mistakes at the worst times. Murray said, "We just keep shooting ourselves in the foot."

Week Eight Highlights

10/31/2022

Yes, Matt Canada called this play.

The Pittsburgh Steelers ran the 'Philly Special' against the Philadelphia Eagles, because of course they did. It involved wide receiver Chase Claypool throwing a touchdown to fullback (!!) Derek Watt for six in the first quarter.

The Steelers ended up losing this game (badly) and the Eagles remain the only undefeated team in the league.

.@ChaseClaypool TD PASS to @DerekWatt34 on 4th and Goal!

□: #PITvsPHI on CBS
□: Stream on NFL+ https://t.co/kHi66m0LGX pic.twitter.com/NR713Wal6v
— NFL (@NFL) October 30, 2022

Hopkins hands are incredible pic.twitter.com/TxhyZf6lY8
— Barstool Sportsbook (@BSSportsbook) October 30, 2022

Arizona Cardinals wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins has the touchdown catch of the year so far with this one-handed grab from QB Kyler Murray.

Hopkins is coming off of a six-game PED suspension and is still one of the best in the league made sure to stick his hand out while being smothered by Minnesota Vikings defenders.

The Cardinals went on to lose this game, 34-26.

No one wants to win the NFC South.

In a close game, the Carolina Panthers had wide receiver DJ Moore line up to receive a Hail Mary attempt from QB PJ Walker, which was caught.

But before they had a chance to get excited, Moore ripped off his helmet, which is a (lame) penalty for excessive celebration, generating a flag by the refs.

The kick was missed, sending the game into overtime.

The Atlanta Falcons ended up winning this one by pure magic, 37-34.

PJ WALKER JUST DID THAT. HAIL MARY TO DJ MOORE. pic.twitter.com/dDYwoZhaGG
— NFL (@NFL) October 30, 2022

It's tricky!@CMC_22 TD pass to @THE2ERA ?

? #SFvsLAR on FOX pic.twitter.com/9CcXXH3XU7
— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) October 30, 2022

The newest San Francisco 49er made a splash in a big way on Sunday.

Running back Christian McCaffrey blessed us with some trickery and threw a touchdown to wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk to tie up the game.

More QB News:

The Denver Broncos were icing Russell Wilson's shoulder between drives. Wilson originally injured his shoulder in Week Four.

The New York Jets chose Mike White as the backup QB in Week Eight, as Joe Flacco and Chris Streveler were inactive.

Philadelphia Eagles backup Gardner Minshew replaced starter Jalen Hurts in the fourth quarter, as they were up 35-13.

New York Jets wide receiver Elijah Moore was asked about his chemistry with QB Zach Wilson and his response was, "I don't know, I don't get the ball." MAJOR Eyeball Emojis here ?

Elijah Moore was asked about his on-field chemistry with Zach Wilson:

"I don't even know, I couldn't even tell you. I don't get the ball. I don't know." pic.twitter.com/I4qt96ENrd
— Jets Videos (@snyjets) October 30, 2022

The Las Vegas Raiders were shut out, as they lost 24-0 to the New Orleans Saints in a mid-off between Derek Carr and Andy Dalton. Carr said the typical shit, "we need to be better and look within," following the beatdown.

"This is embarrassing...that should never happen."

-Derek Carr #RaiderNation #Raiders pic.twitter.com/Fw6EV4qkXs
— Logan Reever (@loganreever) October 30, 2022