Odell Beckham Jr. is looking to do something he hasn't since the 2018 NFL season – suit up in a regular-season game for the New York Giants.
Beckham signed with the Giants as a free agent on June 1. It marked a reunion between him and the franchise that selected him with the 12th overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, and also a second partnership with John Harbaugh, who coached him with the Baltimore Ravens in 2023.
Few knew what to expect from Beckham with the Giants. The 33-year-old receiver had last played during the 2024 NFL season with the Miami Dolphins, generating nine catches for 55 yards across nine games.
Nonetheless, Beckham was given a legitimate chance to fight for a spot on a wide-open Giants receiver depth chart behind fellow LSU product Malik Nabers. He generated seven catches for 76 yards across his preseason action while looking to stake a claim to a roster spot.
Was Beckham able to earn a spot on the Giants' 53-man roster? Here are the latest updates about his status as the NFL's 53-man roster deadline approaches on Aug. 30.
Did the Giants cut Odell Beckham Jr.? Latest updates
The Giants have not yet released Beckham. New York has not yet announced the players it is releasing to comply with the 53-man roster deadline, but a decision about the 33-year-old's status will be reached by 6 p.m. ET on Sunday, Aug. 30.
The Giants entered their Friday, Aug. 28, preseason final against the New York Jets with 11 receivers on their 90-man roster. Teams typically keep between five and seven receivers on their 53-man rosters during the NFL season, so Beckham is firmly on the Giants' roster bubble.
The Giants had seven players listed as first-, second- or third-string receivers on their most recent unofficial depth chart release. One of them, Calvin Austin III, suffered a season-ending ACL tear in practice. The remaining six were listed as follows:
The Giants also have Braxton Berrios, Xavier Gipson, Isaiah Hodgins and Jaylin Hyatt listed as fourth-string receivers. All are battling with the likes of Beckham and Cambre for spots on the back end of New York's roster.
Meanwhile, though Slayton and Mooney are listed ahead of Fields, the third-round rookie could ultimately emerge as the team's No. 2 receiver early in the season because of his size (6-4, 218 pounds) and blocking capabilities.
Odell Beckham Jr. contract details
Beckham Jr. signed a one-year contract worth $1.3 million with the Giants. He will only carry a $1.075 million cap hit, per Spotrac.com, and will not have a dead-cap charge if released.
EAST RUTHERFORD – The Jets saw what they needed to. So, in their preseason finale against the Giants, they rested just about everyone who’s anyone.
No Geno Smith. No Breece Hall. No Garrett Wilson.
It was the Cade Klubnik show and those fighting for a roster spot. Chip Trayanum scored a touchdown. Nate Lynn had another sack. For the most part, they kept the Giants at bay, but ultimately fell 23-6.
It was a solid end to the summer. Now, the Jets will spend the next 48 hours trimming their roster to 53.
Here’s our final prediction of what moves might be coming for Aaron Glenn and Darren Mougey...
Quarterback (2)
Makes the cut: Geno Smith, Cade Klubnik
Gets cut: Bailey Zappe, Brady Cook
Cade won the backup quarterback job almost by default. Zappe and Cook were terrible in camp and the preseason. I’d look for the Jets to explore other quarterbacking options on the waiver wire, potentially J.J. McCarthy (Vikings) or Tanner McKee (Eagles).
Running back (5)
Makes the cut: Breece Hall, Braelon Allen, Isaiah Davis, Kene Nwangwu, Andrew Beck (FB)
Gets cut: Dominic Richardson, Chip Trayanum
The injuries to Hall and Davis cloud this room some. The Jets expect both players back for the opener, but how close to 100 percent will they be? Nwangwu gives them an insurance policy. They can always cut him, and move him to the practice squad, if Hall and Davis are truly back to form.
Receiver (6)
Makes the cut: Garrett Wilson, AD Mitchell, Omar Cooper, Isaiah Williams, Tim Patrick, Arian Smith
Smith, last year’s fourth-round pick, hasn’t done much to separate himself to this point. He makes the 53-man roster just because it’s hard to see the Jets keeping five wideouts. It’s very possible a player shakes free from another team and the Jets claim him, then cut Smith, a day later.
Sep 7, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets tight end Mason Taylor (85) reacts to the play during the second half against the Pittsburgh Steelers at MetLife Stadium. / Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Tight end (4)
Makes the cut: Mason Taylor, Kenyon Sadiq, Jeremy Ruckert, Jelani Woods
Gets cut: Chase Curtis, Connor Hulstein
This is one of the deeper tight end rooms I can remember the Jets having. All four players can play. Woods might be having the best summer of anyone.
Offensive line (9)
Makes the cut: Olu Fashanu, Dylan Parham, Josh Myers, Joe Tippmann, Armand Membou, Anez Cooper, Xavier Newman, Max Mitchell, Chukwuma Okorafor
Gets cut: Liam Fornadel, Marquis Hayes, Xavier Hill, Kohl Levao, Cortland Ford, Landon Young
No real surprises here. This is another spot I could see the Jets looking to fortify on the waiver wire. Their starters are very good, but there isn’t much depth.
Defensive line (10)
Makes the cut: David Bailey, T’Vondre Sweat, Harrison Phillips, Will McDonald, Kingsley Enagbare, David Onyemata, Mazi Smith, Darrell Jackson, Jowon Briggs, Joseph Ossai
Gets cut: Paschal Ekeji, Payton Page, Jack Heflin, Braiden McGregor
This unit is almost completely rebuilt from the one Robert Saleh and Joe Douglas constructed just a few years ago. McDonald, who's been working with the backup defense, is the lone remaining. This group could use some fortification in the middle.
Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix (10) throws the ball under pressure from New York Jets linebacker Jamien Sherwood (44) in the first quarter during an NFL International Series game at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium / Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Linebacker (4)
Makes the cut: Demario Davis, Jamien Sherwood, Kiko Mauigoa, Marcelino McCrary-Ball
The Jets have a tremendous 1-2 punch at linebacker in Davis and Sherwood. Behind them is the real concern, though. Glenn can’t feel confident in any of the other guys if they’re forced to play meaningful defensive reps. Linebackers aren’t that hard to find. The Jets might go looking.
Cornerbacks (6)
Makes the cut: Brandon Stephens, AZ Thomas, Jarvis Brownlee, D’Angelo Ponds, Qwan’tez Stiggers, Nashon Wright
Gets cut: Mory Bamba, Tre Brown, Jordan Clark, Keenan Garber, Samuel Womack
The Jets cornerback room is deep, it’s just lacking a legitimate guy at the top. They essentially have six No. 2, No. 3 guys and no lockdown presence. That’s tough in today’s NFL. It’s near impossible to find a game-changing corner on the waiver wire or trade block, so the Jets will likely have to make it work with these guys this year.
Safeties (4)
Makes the cut: Minkah Fitzpatrick, Dane Belton, Andre Cisco, VJ Payne
Gets cut: Dean Clark, Jarius Monroe, Malachi Moore, Tanner Wall
Belton finally surpassed Cisco on the depth chart this week, taking over as the starter next to Fitzpatrick. It’s deserved. He’s had a far better summer. It wouldn’t surprise me if the Jets just cut Cisco and went with someone younger.
Special teams (3)
Makes the cut: Jason Sanders (K), Austin McNamara (P), Thomas Hennessy (LS)
Gets cut: N/A
Sanders won the kicking competition because he was the least bad. This is one that would still surprise me if he’s their Week 1 kicker. The Jets will likely look to get something else done here.
CANTON, OHIO - AUGUST 06: Akayleb Evans #29 of the Carolina Panthers looks on during the first quarter of the 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame Game against the Arizona Cardinals at Tom Benson Hall Of Fame Stadium on August 06, 2026 in Canton, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images) | Diamond Images/Getty Images
The end of the offseason is here. All NFL teams are required to cut their 90-man preseason rosters down to 53 players by Sunday evening. Carolina Panthers gneral manager Dan Morgan and head coach Dave Canales (+3300 to win AP NFL Coach of the Year per FanDuel) will have their work cut out for them. Not only do they have to release 37 players and build a 16-player practice squad, but they also have to keep an eye on their favorite roster bubble players from around the league to try to bring to Charlotte via the waiver wire.
How does the waiver wire work?
Teams have until 1 PM ET the day after roster cuts—that’s Monday, August 31st for those following along at home—to file a waiver claim. That’s just 19 hours after cuts are finalized. The NFL will then review claims and assign players to teams in order of their waiver wire priority.
What is waiver wire priority?
Waiver wire priority follows, for the first three weeks of the NFL season, the pre-trade NFL draft order. That order then adjusts to a record-based order, essentially the next year’s projected draft order. The Carolina Panthers are currently 19th in the waiver wire priority order. The full list is as follows:
JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA - AUGUST 19: Bryce Young #9 of the Carolina Panthers throws a pass during a joint training camp at Miller Electric Center on August 19, 2026 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Logan Bowles/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Carolina Panthers have to cut their roster down from 90 to 53 by 6:00 PM ET on Sunday, August 30th. This is your live tracker and discussion thread for all of Carolina’s cuts this season. We will not be tracking notable cuts from other teams in this space. Any of those who get added to the Panthers will be addressed if and when they are signed.
Keep in mind that the roster at 6 PM Sunday is not the same thing as the roster the Panthers will open with against the Chicago Bears on Sunday, September 9th. Late cuts can lead to adjustments through the rest of this week. NFL rules also make things difficult to deal with injured players at this time of year.
Two players can be placed on injured reserve before final roster cuts and still be designated to return during the season. Any other player placed on injured reserve before 6 PM Sunday is ineligible to return this season. We’ll be watching Haynes King in particular with regards to his injury status this weekend.
In short, expect things to change quickly and often, even after the deadline. With that in mind, stay tuned to this space.
2026 Roster Cuts
None yet. Check back soon.
FanDuel odds for the playoffs
Our friends at FanDuel are offering +250 odds for the Carolina Panthers to make the playoffs and -310 for them to miss them entirely. Roster cuts aren’t going to move that line all that much, but you can look to how many of other teams cast offs the Panthers pick up vs how many of their own cuts find jobs elsewhere in the league.
On the one hand, this is the deepest roster the Panthers have fielded in a long time. That also means it has been a long time since other teams have had much interest in sniffing around the Panthers cuts. If teams pick up some of our soon-to-be-former guys then maybe the Panthers are in line for a brighter season than recent years would imply. If the Panthers are dumping their training camp players in favor of folks that couldn’t make an impact with another club then we can all expect more of the same.
While it would be funny to back into the playoffs with a losing record for the second consecutive year, it would make for a necessarily stressful season. I think we’d all rather avoid that if possible.
Checkout FanDuel, the official sportsbook partner of SB Nation.
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - AUGUST 28: Miami Dolphins helmets are seen during the first half at Hard Rock Stadium on August 28, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Miami Dolphins have completed their 2026 NFL Preseason schedule with a loss to the Atlanta Falcons on Friday night. The Falcons game, along with their earlier games against the Washington Commanders and New York Giants, and the summer’s training camp practices, have given the Dolphins’ coaches all the evaluations they need to build the team’s roster for this year – and they now have to start making decisions.
The NFL roster cuts deadline is fast approaching. Miami and all 31 other teams must cut from the preseason 90-man roster to the regular-season limit of 53 players over the next couple of days. Roster cuts are due by 6 p.m. Eastern on Sunday, August 30.
After the cuts, practice squad players will sign or re-sign with the team. We will track those on Monday, but each team can carry up to 16 additional reserve and developmental players.
The final 53-man roster is, of course, anything but final. Players will be re-signed, claimed off waivers, or signed as free agents before the season begins on Wednesday, September 9. Even after the regular season kicks off, we will see plenty of roster moves, especially for Miami who will likely churn the bottom of the roster all season long.
The 2026 season is not expected to be a good one for the Dolphins. According to the oddsmakers at FanDuel Sportsbook, Miami has the longest odds to make the playoffs in the AFC at +1500. The New York Jets have the next worst odds at +700. Miami’s roster churn will, hopefully, help the Dolphins find players who can grow with the team as they move through this year’s rebuild and into the 2027 season and beyond.
Dolphins roster
Current size: 91 Cuts needed: 38
(Roster size includes two players on the active/physically unable to perform list.)
Rookies in italics.
Quarterbacks
Quinn Ewers Mark Gronowski Cam Miller Malik Willis
Running backs
De”Von Achane Coleman Bennett Donovan Edwards Ollie Gordon II D.J. Herman (FB) Jarquez Hunter Carlos Washington, Jr. Jaylen Wright
Wide receivers
Chris Bell Kevin Coleman, Jr. Caleb Douglas AJ Henning Terrace Marshall, Jr. Donaven McCulley Ryan Miller Jalen Reagor Jalen Tolbert Malik Washington Theo Wease, Jr.
Tight ends
Ethan Conner Greg Dulcich Jeremiah Franklin Will Kacmarek Ben Sims Seydou Traore (International Player Pathway)
Tackles
Gottlieb Ayedze Kevin Cline Marques Cox Charlie Heck Austin Jackson Patrick Paul
Guards
DJ Campbell Josh Priebe Kadyn Proctor Jonah Savaiinaea Caedan Wallace
Centers
Aaron Brewer Andrew Meyer
Defensive ends
Robert Beal, Jr. Seth Coleman-Lyles Clelin Ferrell Cameron Goode Max Llewellyn Rodney McGraw David Ojabo Chop Robinson Josh Uche
Defensive tackles
Zeek Biggers Matthew Butler Keith Cooper, Jr. Kenneth Grant Alex Huntley Fatorma Mulbah Jordan Phillips Cam Rice Zach Sieler
Inside linebackers
Jordyn Brooks Stephen Dix, Jr. Tyrel Dodson Willie Gay, Jr. Ronnie Harrison Kyle Louis Trey Moore Cam Riley Jacob Rodriguez Jaheim Thomas Jackson Woodard
Cornerbacks
Alex Austin Darrell Backer, Jr. (Active/PUP) Miles Battle Ethan Bonner JuJu Brents Storm Duck (Active/PUP) A.J. Green III Chris Johnson Jason Marshall, Jr. Jai’Onte’ McMillan Marco Wilson
Safeties
Zayne Anderson Major Burns Lonnie Johnson, Jr. Louis Moore Michael Taaffe Dante Trader, Jr.
Punters
Bradley Pinion
Kickers
Riley Patterson
Long Snappers
Tucker Addington
Injured reserve
Rene Konga, defensive tackle Cole Turner, tight end Carter Warren, tackle
Chicago Bears defensive lineman Jamree Kromah (59) stretches during a joint training camp at the Kettering Health Practice Fields, Thursday, Aug. 20, 2026, in downtown Cincinnati. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Co
The Chicago Bears’ offseason has seen several players raise their stock. None more so than sixth-round draft pick Jordan van den Berg, who went from a fun athletic day-three prospect to getting reps with the starters. At this point, van den Berg’s roster spot is a lock, but there’s another defensive lineman who made a splash in the last couple of weeks.
Jamree Kromah came out of college in 2024 as one of the most athletic defensive tackles in his class (9.67 RAS), but he went undrafted and signed with the Bears. He moved up and down the line at James Madison, but as a pro his future was at defensive end. The 275-pounder had a nice camp and totaled 3 tackles and 2 QB hits in the preseason and was ultimately signed to Chicago’s practice squad.
The New England Patriots signed him to their active roster a couple of weeks later, but he was waived and signed back to the Bears’ practice squad, where he remained the rest of 2024.
He was back in Chicago the next year, and in the 2025 preseason he had 6 tackles and a QB hit. The Bears once again signed him to the practice squad, where he stayed all season.
This year, he came into camp a new man.
“One thing I did for sure was I changed my body, changed my nutrition, because I was much heavier last year,” Kromah said in the locker room following the preseason opener against the Browns, where he hit the D-lineman trifecta of a sack, forced fumble, and recovery all on the same play. “So I wanted to make some changes by losing weight. I lost over 20 pounds, but got stronger and then put more lean mass on. So this is the best I have felt … I had to look at the man in the mirror and be true to myself, and come up with a real plan.”
In his first two preseason games, the 6’3″, now 268-pounder, has 6 tackles, 3 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, and a forced fumble and fumble recovery. His second game wasn’t as impactful, but he did have a half-sack negated by a holding penalty.
In Saturday’s game in Tennessee, he’ll get another chance to shine and make a final push for a roster spot. The Bears may not play their starters, but starting defensive end Austin Booker is sidelined with a groin issue, which could create more opportunities for Kromah.
Our friends at FanDuel Sportsbook currently have the Titans as a 2.5 point favorite in the preseason finale. If you think the Bears will win outright, the moneyline is at +122, with the point total over/under at 37.5.
While most of the starters weren't in action, Friday night's game was a final chance for Jets and Giants players to make their case for roster spots. After a convincing 23-6 win, the Giants can feel good about their depth.
The Jets took a 6-0 lead on their first offensive possession with a 10-play drive that ended with short touchdown run by undrafted rookie running back Chip Trayanum. However, their offense struggled for the rest of the half and the Giants overcame two turnovers to take a 10-6 lead on Tyrone Tracy's touchdown run and Dominic Zvada's short field goal.
The rookie Zvada, who looks to have secured the placekicker job over Ben Sauls, extended the lead to 16-6 with a 53-yard field goal in the third quarter and another early in the fourth. The Jets already announced that Jason Sanders has won their own kicking contest, but his early missed extra point won't fill their fans with confidence, and he also missed a 54-yard field goal.
Jake Haener's 37-yard touchdown pass to former Jets receiver Xavier Gipson made it 23-6 with 10:30 remaining. At the time, Big Blue had outgained the Jets by 354 yards to 99, as they clearly dominated in all three phases. They ran out the clock on their next possession and ultimately outgained the Jets, 400-139.
Here are the takeaways...
– With most starters on both teams sitting, the Jets opted to use defensive tackle T'Vondre Sweat and edge defender Joseph Ossai on the Giants' first two possessions. These were two of the Jets' biggest offseason acquisitions on the defensive side of the ball but hadn't been able to suit up in the first two preseason games due to injuries. Both flashed as Sweat blew up a run in the backfield and Ossai got in Jameis Winston's face to break up a pass.
– John Harbaugh has been honest about wanting to see more from Tracy, who ran hard with four carries for 37 yards and a touchdown in the first half. However, he ended up being sidelined with a head/neck injury. Tracy's spot on the 53 is not entirely secure depending on how many running backs the Giants plan to carry. New addition Najee Harris, who might be his main competition, also played well with 59 yards on 12 touches.
– The Jets' defense, which was historically bad at forcing turnovers last year, showed more playmaking abilities in this game after having intercepted two passes last week. Linebacker Marcelino McCrary ball intercepted a pass that was deflected by cornerback Qwan'tez Stiggers and then forced a Braxton Berrios fumble, covered by Stiggers in the end zone. Despite these two plays, Stiggers had a mixed day, getting beaten deep and a personal foul on special teams.
– The Giants haven’t had much of a chance for their starting offensive line to play together in preseason, which was probably a factor in their three interior starters -- center John Michael Schmitz and guards Francis Mauigoa and Jon Runyan Jr. -- all getting the start. For most of the game, the Giants offensive front got the better of the Jets' defensive line, but not necessarily on those early drives. Guard Evan Neal was a standout with the second unit, though.
– Gang Green would have liked to have seen more from rookie quarterback Cade Klubnik, who was at the helm during the first half, as he is expected to be the backup this season. On their scoring drive, he handed the ball to Trayanum on nine of the 10 plays, as their backup offensive line had their way with an opposing front seven also comprised of backups. Klubnik ended up with six completions on 13 passes and didn't complete one down the field until less than two minutes left in the half. He was also intercepted by linebacker Zaire Barnes.
– One Giants player who stood out was edge defender Trace Ford, who had a sack and blew up two runs in the backfield in the first half. For the Jets, Nate Lynn continued his late push for a roster spot with another sack after having had two last week.
– The Jets lost rookie guard Anez Cooper to an apparent right wrist injury in the second quarter. The sixth-round pick was probably destined to be a healthy scratch to start the season anyway, so if he needs to go on injured reserve instead, it might ironically be beneficial in terms of freeing up a roster spot for another potential contributor.
Game MVP: Odell Beckham Jr.
Beckham's attempts to make the Giants' roster has been one of the stories of the summer, and he made a strong case for himself here with three catches for 53 yards before sitting out the second half. Beckham, who also drew a flag for pass interference, was looking sharp as he showcased that he still has the ability to create separation. It could have been a monster half for Beckham, who was wide open for a potential deep touchdown but unlucky not to be able to hang onto a diving catch attempt on Winston’s overthrown pass.
New York Jets safety Jarius Monroe (25) blocks the ball as New York Giants wide receiver Braxton Berrios (87) attempts to catch the ball during a game at MetLife Stadium, Aug 28, 2026, East Rutherford, NJ, USA. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Co
In the New York Jets’ third and final preseason game of 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey, the Jets were defeated by the New York Giants, 23 – 6.
The Jets opened on defense and on third down they intercepted Jameis Winston. That set them up with first and ten at the Giants 36. The Jets proceeded to run a 10 play drive that ended with a short Chip Trayanum touchdown run. No passes were thrown in the drive. Jason Sanders missed the extra point to make the score Jets 6, Giants 0.
The Giants proceeded to put together a long drive that ended when the Jets forced a fumble by old friend Braxton Berrios into their own end zone for a touchback. The turnovers are flowing for the Jets this preseason.
Late in the first quarter the Giants took advantage of a short field to go on a drive culminating in a Tyrone Tracy touchdown run and a 7 – 6 Giants lead. The first quarter ended a few seconds later with the score still 7 – 6.
A few plays into the second quarter Cade Klubnick threw a terrible pass into tight coverage that was picked off by the Giants. The Giants then put together a long drive that bogged down inside the Jets five yard line. They converted on a chip shot field goal to take a 10 – 6 lead with less than three minutes left in the half. Neither team got much going on offense the last few minutes and the half ended with the score still Giants 10, Jets 6.
The Jets opened the third quarter on offense. Bailey Zappe took over for Cade Klubnik at quarterback and promptly led the team on a scintillating three and out. The Giants offensive scrubs took over and put together a short drive ending in a 53 yard field goal and a 13 – 6 Giants lead midway through the third quarter.
Zappe took over on offense and engineered a thrilling three and out as he made his case to be cut on Sunday.
Legendary quarterback Jake Haener took over for the Giants and led them on a long drive. The third quarter ended with the score still Giants 13, Jets 6, but the Giants were lining up for a field goal attempt. On the first play of the fourth quarter the Giants hit on a 46 yard field goal as the Giants took a 16 -6 lead to open the fourth quarter.
Bailey Zappe proceeded to lead the Jets on a stirring three and out as he continued to impress.
Jake The Legend Haener then led the Giants on a swift drive resulting in a touchdown on a 37 yard pass to old friend Xavier Gipson as the Giants piled on with 23 unanswered points. The score was Giants 23, Jets 6 with 10:30 left in the game.
Midway through the fourth quarter the Jets turned to Brady Cook at quarterback. Cook led the Jets on a short drive ending in a missed 54 yard field goal by Jason Sanders, who had a rough night and may have played himself off the team.
Jake The Goat Haener and the Giants then closed out the game with a long drive to the Jets one yard line before taking a knee on the last three plays of the game.
Final score: Giants 23, Jets 6. The loss brought the Jets’ preseason record to 1-2. The score doesn’t really matter. The record doesn’t really matter. The most important development in the game were injuries to Anez Cooper, Chip Trayanum, Dominic Richardson and Joseph Ossai. We’ll see if these end up being injuries that threaten to keep these players out for an extended period of time. Now the Jets move on to getting their roster down to 53 players by 6:00 P.M. EDT on Sunday. They then begin preparations for their opening day game against the Tennessee Titans on September 13.
CHARLOTTE, NC - AUGUST 28: Carolina Panthers linebacker Claudin Cherelus (53) tackles Houston Texans running back Deuce Vaughn (31) during a preseason NFL football game between the Houston Texans and the Carolina Panthers on August 28, 2026, at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, N.C.(Photo by John Byrum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
If you sat down to watch the third Texans’ preseason game and watched the entire thing, you get nothing but respect from me. Because this game was just difficult to watch. No starters played, as was expected because who wants to put starters at risk for a meaningless game, but there were things that we could learn from the game.
First of all, the offensive line cannot afford a single injury this season. Not a one. Because the depth behind the Texans line is upsetting. The backups, in the first drive of the game, surrendered two sacks of Davis Mills. That was the opening drive when our backups should have been up for the game getting completely pants’d by future grocery stockers.
While it might not be enough to get him a spot on the roster, Sabastian Harsh had the game of his life, racking up three tackles, a sack, and a pass deflection on the day. He might make the practice squad based on that performance.
Beyond that, it was a snooze for most of the game. Neither team scored a touchdown until late in the fourth quarter of the game. It was a bad, boring game that we had to get through to watch real football. And now we are clear for the regular season.
The Houston Texans’ season starts Sunday September 6 at noon CDT against the Buffalo Bills. We’ll see you then!
CINCINNATI, OH - AUGUST 22: Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Tacario Davis (20) walks off the field before the preseason game between the Chicago Bears and the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium on August 22, 2026 in Cincinnati, OH. (Photo by Ian Johnson/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Rookie cornerback Tacario Davis was taken in the third round of the NFL Draft this season. It was a bit earlier than some experts anticipated, but the measurables were simply so rare to find.
At 6’4 and a hair under 195 lbs., you simply do not find guys at that size who can play corner every year, and it’s something the Cincinnati Bengals needed more of.
So, it’s good to see he does have some pretty good ball skills, which we saw in Friday’s preseason finale vs. the Philadelphia Eagles, turning a pass that went through the receiver’s hands into an interception.
This play is exactly what you want to see from your corners. Making a play on the ball in a split second that shouldn’t be there. He even had a little wiggle there on the return.
This also came after Davis had a beautiful deflection on the first drive of the game. The commentators said he is playing in this game because the coaches want to see him get more reps. They plan on deploying him in certain packages to use his size on bigger receivers.
For those that remember Tre Flowers who had a short stint with the team during their run to the Super Bowl. He was used against the talented tight ends that are such matchup nightmares for defenses. Davis may be used in a similar fashion early in his career.
Jacksonville Jaguars defensive end Bryan Thomas Jr. (57) tallies a sack on Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jalon Daniels (10) during the second quarter of an NFL preseason football matchup at EverBank Stadum on Friday, Aug. 28, 2026 in Jacksonville, Fla. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union] | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Co
The Jacksonville Jaguars closed out the preseason on a high note Friday night, turning in a dominant performance from their depth players in a convincing showing against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Jacksonville’s defense controlled the game throughout, consistently making plays and giving the younger players an opportunity to make their case for roster spots. Several players made sure their performances would be difficult to overlook, with the defense and special teams taking the spotlight in the shutout performance featuring 5 sacks, a takeaway, no first downs surrendered after halftime, and Tampa going 2 of 12 on third down on the day.
Here’s everything you need to know from Jacksonville’s 2026 Week 2 preseason 19-0 victory over the Buccaneers.
Game Recap
With both the Jaguars and the Buccaneers sitting the majority of starters following a week of two joint practices, Friday’s matchup was about the depth players locking in roster spots. While QB Nick Mullens’ role on the roster was never truly in jeopardy, he played his two first-quarter drives like a man fighting for something. Following last week’s 6/7, 65-yard performance, Mullens’ day wrapped with a similar 5/7 for 62 yards and a 98.5 passer rating against Tampa. While both drives ended with no points, the offense showed multiple explosive plays and three total first downs prior to punting.
One of those explosives came courtesy of Jacksonville’s stacked tight end room. Hunter Long completed his two longest receptions of the preseason on the opening two drives of the game. On the first, he rumbled down the right sideline on a 34-yard catch-and-run, then brought in a 13-yard catch in traffic before taking a hit that temporarily sent him to the medical tent in the first quarter.
On defense, second-year defensive end Jalen McLeod had a busy opening half with seven tackles, including a tackle for loss while in coverage, and a quarterback hit.
Meanwhile, undrafted free agent defensive end Bryan Thomas Jr. heard his name called early and often in this one with a tackle (1-yard gain), a pass deflection, two sacks, and a quarterback hit that initially looked to be a Jalen Huskey fumble returned for a touchdown. However, replay later overturned the fumble, crediting BTJ only with the quarterback pressure and hit. It was a major performance by BTJ, in his final offseason opportunity to audition for the roster.
In the secondary, the roster battle between Jabbar Muhammad and Christian Braswell may be a photo finish. Both players ended Friday with similar days, as both had two tackles, with one being solo. However, Braswell added a first-half pass breakup that was nearly intercepted by Muhammad, while Muhammad made a splash on special teams with his solo tackle coming on the punt team. With the roster cut-down taking place on Sunday at 4:00 pm, this competition will be one to watch, with two deserving players potentially vying for one role.
Biggest play(s) of the game:
Cam Little drilling a 61-yard kick turns what most consider a long attempt into an extra point.
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - AUGUST 28: Kyle Trask #14 of the Carolina Panthers looks to pass the ball during the first half of a preseason game against the Houston Texans at Bank of America Stadium on August 28, 2026 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by David Jensen/Getty Images) | Getty Images
First Quarter
If you thought a game in the rain featuring no starters was going to be a slog to watch offensively, you were right. Though there were moments to enjoy from a defensive perspective.
Trevis Gipson and Trevin Wallace each registered a sack to force a punt on the Texans’ first drive. The offense didn’t do anything and punted right back, but the defense got the ball right back with an interception by Lathan Ransom that was aided by more good pressure up front.
The Panthers at least got a couple of first downs on their next drive, but Kenny Pickett wasn’t able to find anyone on a 4th and 4 and the Panthers turned the ball over. DeVonta Smith broke up a couple of passes to get the ball back to the home team.
Pickett found Ja’seem Reed over the middle for a 17 yard gain as the first quarter came to a close.
Second Quarter
A false start by John Metchie III put the Panthers behind the sticks, and they couldn’t catch up. A Sam Martin punt downed the Texans at the 10.
The defense held up again and forced another punt. Kyle Trask checked in at quarterback and promptly through a very poor interception. That gave the Texans the ball in scoring range, so they were able to put a field goal on the board despite another stop by the defense.
The Trask-led offense picked up one first down before punting once again, but the defense got the ball back a couple plays later after a botched exchange was picked up by Cam Gill. Just like with the Texans, the offense couldn’t punch it in and settled for a field goal.
The Texans put together a decent drive in the two minute, but Brett Rypien overthrew a receiver and had his pass intercepted by Cam Miller. Trask strung together a couple of nice passes to get the Panthers into field goal range, where Ryan Fitzgerald knocked in his second kick of the night.
Third Quarter
The Panthers got the ball first and Ja’Seem Reed caught another 20 yard pass from Trask to get the offense moving. The drive stalled at midfield, and Sam Martin punted away. The Texans muffed the punt and recovered it inside their own five, but it was all moot as a flag for too many players on the field gave the Panthers a first down. Jimmy Horn Jr. had a nice run on a screen pass, but it was called back. Still, Trask was able to connect on a couple of passes to keep the drive alive into the red zone, though it wouldn’t make it to the end zone. Ryan Fitzgerald field goal number three put the Panthers up 9-3.
The Texans responded with a field goal drive of their own. There weren’t any explosives, but they nickel and dimed their way to a field goal to make it 9-6.
Fourth Quarter
The fourth quarter with a couple of quick passes to move the Panthers out past midfield. Trask seemed to have found a rhythm and was delivering his passes on time and on target. He worked the team into the red zone, then Miles Davis picked up a hard two yards on a 4th and 2. On the next play, he battered his was through the defense for what was almost a 10 yard touchdown. A review took the touchdown off the board. It took a couple more tries, but Davis eventually got his touchdown.
The Texans marched back down the field in response as they went into chase mode. They picked up a bunch of small gains and capped off the drive with a touchdown to Zay Jones. The Panthers couldn’t put together a drive to clinch the game and had to punt back to the Texans with a little over two minutes to play.
It looked like the defense had done their job and gotten off the field with a fourth down interception, but the game was extended by a pass interference penalty. All that did was gave the Panthers a chance to rack up two more violent sacks from Elijah Garcia and Jeremiah Moon. The latter jarred the ball free, and Cam Gill pounced on it for his second fumble recovery of the game.
Overview
There’s not a whole lot to glean from a preseason game in which none of the starters played, but the defense showed out and a number of players put plays on film that are going to have the coaches talking.
Rosters have to be finalized by Sunday, and then the regular season kicks off two weeks later.
Aug 28, 2026; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Ravens head coach Jesse Minter prior to the game against the Washington Commanders at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
The Baltimore Ravens left nothing on the field on Friday night, dominating the Washington Commanders start to finish and leaving with a 41-3 victory to close out an undefeated preseason. Here are Baltimore Beatdown’s reactions to the win:
This was about as dominant of a performance that you will ever see. Baltimore’s defense was absolutely suffocating for the third game in a row this preseason. With so many quality players on defense, the Ravens are going to have to make several difficult decisions to get the roster down to 53 players. It was encouraging to see the rushing attack come alive on offense after struggling to get going in the first two games. Joe Fagnano had another excellent outing, making a strong case for Baltimore to carry three quarterbacks on the 53-man roster. The lone negative from this game is of course the performance of Tyler Loop. Loop entered this game on shaky ground and may have forced the Ravens to go to the street to find another kicker after two more misses tonight. – Dustin Cox
If there’s one thing that I take away from this game, it’s part of a larger whole: this defensive staff looks like they’re going to do great things.
This game wasn’t even close, and much of that was owed to the defense being disruptive early and often. You saw PBUs in big spots, several plays where the ball-carrier was blown up in the backfield, and Ethan Burke with another impressive play as he forced a fumble. Even with the grain of salt that Washington’s O-line is in terrible shape, having this defense allow only a single touchdown across the entire preseason with their second and third team defenses out there is a testament to how organized Coaches Minter and Weaver have this bunch. If that side of the ball is as organized as it looks and the offense can keep LJ upright, this team is going to be a squad to be reckoned with. – Kevin McNelis
It was a dominant preseason debut for Jesse Minter’s Ravens, finishing 3-0 and only allowing one score in each of their three games. It’s hard to tell what roster questions were answered. Both Adam Randall and Rasheen Ali played well enough to justify carrying three or four backs. There’s no clear winner on the center starter. Even with Jenkins and Washington sitting out this game, they could still get traded with Peebles, Okoye, Benny and Olajiga all making plays to make the roster. Fagnano certainly made his case for keeping three quarterbacks but can the Ravens truly do that with how massive the roster crunch is this year? All three of Burke, Rucker, and Isaac made plays. In fact, with how many questions weren’t answered, we had another question added: will Tyler Loop make this roster? Loop only went 2/4 and his struggles from distance continued after going 1/5 last year from 50+. The Ravens should really consider signing a free agent. – Zach Canter
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - AUGUST 28: Cam Miller #15 of the Miami Dolphins slides after a run against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half at Hard Rock Stadium on August 28, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Miami Dolphins closed out their preseason schedule on Friday night, losing to the Atlanta Falcons in South Florida’s Hard Rock Stadium. The Dolphins played well for much of the game, at least well enough to not be blown out like they were in their first two preseason games.
Miami did not play their starters in the game, giving the roster bubble, depth, and developmental players a bigger opportunity to make their final pitch for a roster spot. Unfortunately for the Dolphins, they now finish the preseason without a win in three tries.
Next on the NFL calendar are roster cuts, which are due by 6 p.m. Eastern on Sunday. Waiver claims and practice squad signings will happen early next week, then the team will start their preparations for the regular season. Miami opens the season on September 13 at the Las Vegas Raiders.
Final Score
Falcons 17 – 12 Dolphins
Dolphins second-team defense stands up to Falcons starters
Miami elected to sit all of their starters for this game, using the final preseason game as a chance to get an extended look at the depth players one last time before cutdown day on Sunday. The Falcons played their starters, using the game to tune up the first team and prepare for the regular season. A philosophical coaching difference put a tough task in front of Miami’s second-team defense – but they stepped up to the test.
After Miami punted to end the opening drive of the game, the Falcons were able to drive down the field and score on a three-yard run from Brian Robinson, Jr., but the Miami defense stiffened after that.
After Miami kicked a field goal, Falcons quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, making his return to South Florida after six seasons with the Dolphins, fumbled the first snap of Atlanta’s second drive, with Miami linebacker Willie Gay, Jr., recovering. Miami was unable to score on the resulting possession, having a long field goal attempt blocked, but the defense again made something happen. On a 1st and 10 from the Miami 18-yard line, linebacker Tyrel Dodson hit Robinson on the ball and forced a fumble, with linebacker Jackson Woodard falling on the loose ball.
The first quarter ended during Miami’s possession and the Falcons pulled their first team on the next possession. Atlanta’s starters were only able to score a touchdown on three drives against Miami’s second-team defense, with the Dolphins getting two takeaways during the period. Tagovailoa finished the game 7-for-8 for 95 yards, 59 of them to tight end Kyle Pitts who had a 37 yard gain on the opening drive, and Robinson picked up 15 yards on five carries, including the touchdown push, so it was not perfect. But, overall, Miami’s second defense was able to stand up against the Falcons’ first-team offense.
Special teams could be key to making or missing the roster
Making an impact on special teams is an easy way to stand out among the crowd of players hoping to make it to the 53-man roster. Cornerback Ethan Bonner, who is likely already locked onto the roster, was flying downfield on the first punt from the team – he overran the tackle, but he was moving out there. Cameron Goode was in on the tackle on that punt, and he likely needs to get noticed on special teams to claim a roster spot.
Wide receiver Jalen Reagor had one catch for 17 yards for his offensive production, but his return work on kicks and punts is what makes him likely to stick around this year. He had one punt return for 10 yards and he returned three kicks for 96 yards, giving him a 32-yard average; his long return was 46 yards.
On the other end of the spectrum, punter Bradley Pinion continues to make me nervous for the season. Miami is going to need its punter to be consistent and a field-position-changing weapon, and Pinion has not been that this summer. He has some good kicks, but he shanks them just as often. After the Preseason Week 1 game against the Washington Commanders, I wrote, “Punter Bradley Pinion is a concern, with some of his kicks tonight seeming off. He may work off the rust and be ready by the regular season, but his performance tonight didn’t instill confidence.” Nothing tonight changed any of those concerns. I would not be surprised if the Dolphins start shopping for a punter – and given the adventure that was field goal attempts tonight, breaking up the long snapper to punter/holder to the kicker battery is not going to be a major issue.
Chris Bell makes impact
Rookie wide receiver Chris Bell, who was on the non-football injury list for much of the summer as he recovered from an ACL tear he sustained in his final year at Louisville, made his debut with the Dolphins on Friday night. He was targeted often early in the game, catching two passes for 22 yards.
The coaches rightfully got him out of the game fairly quickly, giving him just enough time to take some hits and play at the NFL speed, but then got him to the sideline and protected him for the regular season. It was a solid debut for the receiver.
Miami is proving to be allergic to the endzone
The Dolphins scored a touchdown on the opening drive of their first preseason game, the only drive the Miami starters played this summer. Miami did not score again in that game. Last week, they kicked a second-quarter field goal, their only points in the game. This week, they had a field goal in each quarter.
The Dolphins cannot find the end zone. Hopefully, their allergy to touchdowns is only a depth issue and not something the starters have developed as well.
Quarterback Mark Gronowski at least created a discussion
The Miami Dolphins will likely head into the regular season with Malik Willis as the starting quarterback and Quinn Ewers as the backup. Cam Miller started the game, then gave way to Mark Gronowski for the second half. Both players are likely to be waived in the roster cuts that are coming, but Miami could consider bringing one back to the practice squad – and Gronowski made an argument that he could stick around as a developmental option.
The undrafted rookie finished 4-for-8 for 97 yards, giving him a 94.3 passer rating. That is fine, but it was his ability to run for chunk yardage that could make him an interesting project. He rushed four times for 28 yards and looked fast. He may not stick around, especially since the Dolphins already cut him once this summer only to bring him back when Ewers was injured, but there might be enough there to warrant a practice squad spot.
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - AUGUST 28: Jack Velling #84 of the Atlanta Falcons reacts to his touchdown against the Miami Dolphins during the first half at Hard Rock Stadium on August 28, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Atlanta Falcons turned the ball over twice and still went into halftime with a 17-6 lead, which says a lot more about the Dolphins than it does the Falcons. Then things got predictably slow and ugly.
Atlanta’s offensive gameplan seemed to be heavily predicated on screens and short passes, and that had the dual effect of not revealing much of what Atlanta plans to get up to on offense this year and making this something of a slog. Tua Tagovailoa’s fumbled snap, Brian Robinson’s fumble, and a comically tipped and bobbled Jack Strand pass that was intercepted made for an ugly night, even if the Falcons were very obviously if narrowly the better team against Miami’s reserves. The defense got plenty of pressure and did a nice job against the run all night, but saw the cornerbacks implode a bit to give Miami a real shot at climbing back into this one.
Ultimately, the defensive effort up front and just enough offense combined to give Atlanta a 17-12 win, but that’s the less important result. The more important one is that the Falcons have enough information between these games and training camp to make the roster decisions they must make before Sunday at 6 p.m., especially at spots like running back, inside linebacker, and cornerback where the decisions might have been tougher before Friday night.
Here’s the drive-by-drive recap of the game you just watched.
1st Quarter
Jalen Reagor took the kickoff to about the 25 yard line, but an illegal formation call on the Dolphins backed them up immediately. A quick pass to Chris Bell picked up about five yards on a comeback route working against A.J. Terrell. A handoff to Carlos Washington Jr. (former Falcon sighting!) lost multiple yards after Samson Ebukam hit him. Cam Miller scrambled for a first down, but a penalty backed the Dolphins up 10 yards. Miller then ran backwards away from pressure and threw it away, with Brandon Dorlus almost getting him. The punt saw a nice return from Zachariah Branch that got the Falcons close to midfield.
Tua Tagovailoa took the field as the starting quarterback and hit Jahan Dotson for a first down. Brian Robinson Jr. was swallowed up on the secnod down carry for no gain. A penalty backed the Falcons up to 2nd and 17, and then Tua hit Kyle Pitts over the middle for six yards. On 3rd and 11, Pitts took a screen almost to the 10 yard line for 37 yards. Robinson then took it about seven yards through contact. Robinson then took it again and picked up the first down. On first down, Tua rolled away from pressure but had to throw it away. On second down, though, Robinson pushed his way through to the end zone to make it 7-0 Falcons.
Miller hit Jalen Tolbert, who made an impressive 19 yard leaping grab. Cameron Thomas then sacked Miller on first down. Miller then ran up the middle and slid to gain back the lost yardage. Miller then hit Bell over the middle for 18 yards. Washington then picked up three yards. Miller then threw it too low for Reagor, and then Mike Hughes and DeMarcco Hellams combined to knock out a pass to Bell. The field goal attempt was good to make it 7-3 Falcons.
The kick went out of bounds, giving the Falcons the ball at the 40. Unfortunately, Tua couldn’t get his hands on the snap and fumbled it, giving the Dolphins the ball around the 35.
Miller threw a floater that Bell nearly reeled in on the sideline, with CJ Henderson working in coverage. A quick pass to Tolbert picked up six or so yards but Henderson was there to wrestle him out of bounds. Miller then almost threw a pick as Mike Hughes and DeMarcco Hellams arrived. The field goal was blocked by Chris Williams, who made a hell of a leap.
A quick Tua pass to Brian Robinson went for eight yards. Then he hit Pitts over the middle and Pitts high stepped away from a tackle for a first down and much more. A quick sideline ball to Jahan Dotson went for about seven yards, and a penalty on Miami was declined. A false start on Jawaan Taylor backed the Falcons up. A quick pass from Tua to Dotson went for another first. Unfortunately, Robinson fumbled on the next carry and the Dolphins recovered.
Miller missed badly on first down. Washington got six yards on second down. Miller then tried to run and did not make it to the first down marker.
2nd Quarter
Dylan Drummond returned the punt for a handful of yards. Then a quick pass from Cooper Rush went for five yards, and a handoff to Tyler Goodson went nowhere. The Falcons did not pick up a first down on the next play. Punt.
A false start backed the Dolphins up. Miller then tried to roll out and Jammie Robinson got him. Washington then took a toss and got upended after about four yards. Miller held on to the ball too long and Harold Perkins Jr. got him with the sack as the ball squirted out of bounds. Punt.
Cooper Rush got away from pressure and hit Jack Velling for a first down. Goodson was stymied on first down. Then Rush hit Nick Muse just short of a first down, and the run was stuffed. A fourth down pass to Chris Blair was good for a first down. Rush then hit Nate Carter for a very small gain. Rush under pressure threw it very low and Blair scooped it for a first down. A quick pass to Goodson picked up five yards. Rush then folled out and hit Vinny Anthony for a first down. Goodson then pushed his way down to the three yard line. Rush then threw it a little behind a tumbling Drummond for an incompletion. On third down, though, Rush hit Jack Velling over the middle for a touchdown to make it 14-3 Falcons.
Reagor then got back to almost midfield on the return. Miller then completed a pass over the middle for a first down. A toss to Washington went for about two yards. A quick throw to Tolbert picked up four yards. Miller then had the pass dropped with Henderson hitting him. Riley Patterson juuuuust hit the 45 yard field goal try to make it 14-6 Falcons.
Goodson took it across the 30, but a penalty backed up the return. Rush patted it and then hit Drummond for about five yards. Rush then ran away from pressure and just missed Velling to the sideline. Rush under pressure tried to hit Blair and just missed him. Punt, and it was a beauty from Bailey to prevent much of a return.
Miller was almost sacked on first down by Christian Harris. Miller was under a ton of pressure on second down and then nearly threw a pick. Another incompletion followed, and then it was punt time. Bradley Pinion’s punt went out of bounds.
Cooper Rush then threw a low pass that Anthony tried to reel in but just couldn’t. Rush then got Velling for about eight yards over the middle. Rush then hit Blair again for a first down. Then Rush finally uncorked one after a lot of short passes, hitting Goodson in stride, with Goodson hitting a nice spin move and spiking it to set up the field goal try Nick Folk easily hit. 17-6 Falcons.
3rd Quarter
The punt was muffed, but recovered. Jack Strand handed it to Nate Carter for a good pickup, but a penalty on Atlanta backed things up. Strand then hit Keelan Marion for about six yards. Strand followed that up with a very quick pass to Muse for a couple of yards. Strand then tried to get away from pressure and was sacked on third down. Punt.
Washington made it nowhere on first down. Under pressure, new quarterback Mark Gronowski rolled away and threw it away. Gronowski then threw a pretty downfield ball and Terrace Marshall simply got leverage on Cobee Bryant to make the big grab. Gronowski then hit Tolbert for another first down, this one against Clark Phillips (who also got called for a pass interference call). Washington then picked up about six yards. Washington then almost picked up the first down and then almost got it again. On fourth down, Washington powered through before Phillips finally got him. Washington then tried to get a touchdown but was stymied at the one yard line. Then Washington was hit by Josh Woods and Carlos Allen Jr. on second down. Gronowski then threw it a bit low and the receiver couldn’t get it. A false start by the Dolphins backed them up, and they settled for the field goal. 17-9 Falcons.
Carter picked up three yards, and then made a couple defenders miss en route to another six yards. Strand then tried the sneak and came up just short. Punt, but a five yard penalty brought Bailey back out.
Gronowski got Reagor for a first down. That was followed by a one yard run. Gronowski then got blocking and went for a first down. Then Gronowski had a pass simply doink off a receiver’s hands, followed by a one yard run. Gronowski then ran for a first down again. The Dolphins then picked up a yard.
4th Quarter
Gronowski then threw for about seven yards. A faked handoff and scramble was stopped cold after a yard or two. Then there was a fumbled snap that Josh Woods recovered. Falcons ball.
A two yard gain beget a Strand pass to Cash Jones for seven yards. The third down carry went nowhere, and the team punted again.
A quick loss was offset by Falcons’ defensive holding. The subsequent first down run went nowhere, and a quick pass over the middle picked up six yards that moved back owing to an illegal formation call. A quick screen then went for a huge gain after multiple Falcons missed their shots. A fake handoff and deep shot fell incomplete after Reagor lost it, though he handily beat Malcolm DeWalt IV on the play. A quick run only picked up three yards. GroThe nowski was run out of bounds after losing a yard on a run. Punt.
Strand hit Antwane Wells Jr. for a first down, but a penalty backed things up. Strand then hit Anthony for about six yards over the middle. His next pass went off Nate Carter’s hands, was tipped off another Miami defender’s hands, and ultimately picked off.
On first down, Gronowski tried to run and James Pearce Jr. got him for no gain. Washington then got a yard or two. Gronowski then tried to run again and was taken down by Pearce again. The field goal try was good, making it 17-12 Falcons.
Vinny Anthony had a huge return, getting past midfield and further cementing his case for a spot. After a nothing first down, Strand then slid for a yard with nobody open and hit Wells for a first down. The Falcons then picked up nothing on the first down handoff to Jones. Strand then rolled out and hit Velling for about seven yards. Strand then faked the handoff and ran it for a first down. The Falcons then kneeled it out.
