Thursday, October 23
Hello and welcome to my NFL Week 8 Overrated/Underrated Injury Report.
Chargers at Broncos (today): Chargers cornerback Brandon Flowers is out with a concussion and San Diego's other cornerback, rookie Jason Verrett, isn't likely to play either because of a shoulder injury.
Perception: Bookmakers better duck and put on their Chargers rooting hats because the Broncos are being steamed up.
Nover's View: No team played Denver tougher than San Diego last season holding them to an average of 24 points in three games and beating them during the regular season in Denver. The Chargers' pass defense is much stronger this season - due in large part to Flowers and Verrett. The Chargers lack quality backup corners to adequately replace them. So I can't get behind this 'dog. But, on the other hand, I'm not going to fade the Chargers either because they have been playing too well, are well coached, have an outstanding quarterback and know how to handle this division rival. San Diego hasn't lost by more than eight points during their last four games against the Peyton Manning-led Broncos.
Lions-Falcons in London (Sunday): Falcons starting center Peter Konz out for the year replaced by undrafted rookie Josh Stone.
Perception: Another week, another Falcons lost offensive lineman. The Falcons are sunk against Detroit's No. 1 ranked defense.
Nover's View: Jake Matthews and Konz are about all that is left on Atlanta's offensive line - and they haven't been playing well. A trip to London may be what it takes to snap the Falcons out of their funk. The long journey gives Matt Ryan and Stone ample time to get in sync with each other. Center is one of the least important starting spots nowadays.
Lions-Falcons in London (Sunday): Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew not likely to play because of a foot injury.
Perception: The Lions are deep at tight end so it doesn't matter.
Nover's View: Pettigrew has teased but never emerged as a consistent tight end force. However, the Lions have a cluster injury problem at the position with Eric Ebron and Joe Fauria also not likely to play because of injuries. Calvin Johnson probably is a no-go again with Detroit having a bye next week and now Reggie Bush might not play because of an ankle injury. This leaves Matthew Stafford short of weapons. Both teams are carpet, indoor teams who will be playing in an outdoor soccer stadium so a look to the under might be in order.
Bills at Jets (Sunday): Percy Harvin is expected to be limited to 25-30 snaps in his Jets debut.
Perception: It's going to be difficult for Harvin to be an immediate factor because he doesn't know Marty Mornhinweg's offense and has Geno Smith passing to him.
Nover's View: Harvin could make a huge difference - on special teams. He's one of the most dangerous kickoff returners in the league and might also be used on punts. Just his presence should provide a lift for the Jets' struggling offense.
Texans at Titans (Sunday): Jadeveon Clowney could see his first action since Week 1 when he went down with a knee injury.
Perception: Clowney could be a real force.
Nover's View: Clowney couldn't pick a better time to return to action with the Titans switching quarterbacks to lead-footed rookie Zach Mettenberger, who will be making his first NFL start. The Titans have to scheme against J.J. Watt. That could lead to a big game from Clowney.