Chicago Bears Shakeup Continues
In a striking move that underscores ongoing turbulence within their coaching ranks, the Chicago Bears have parted ways with their offensive coordinator, Shane Waldron. This marks the second time in just under a year that the Bears have dismissed an offensive coordinator, signaling potential unrest in their offensive strategy. Waldron's exit follows the January firing of Luke Getsy, who had a fleeting stint with the Raiders before being let go less than ten days prior to Waldron's dismissal.
The decision to let go of Waldron comes after a particularly dry spell for the Bears offense, which went 23 consecutive drives without scoring a touchdown. Such a barren stretch may have forced the hand of Chicago's management to seek fresh leadership in hopes of revitalizing their underperforming offensive unit.
Dolphins Surge with Victory Over Rams
Meanwhile, the Miami Dolphins showcased their defensive prowess and clinched a 23-15 victory over the Los Angeles Rams on the latest edition of Monday Night Football. Central to the Dolphins' triumph was an aggressive defensive performance led by a relentless pass rush that sacked Rams' quarterback Matthew Stafford four times.
Stafford, who now holds a prime-time record of 12-21, struggled against the Dolphins’ defensive schemes. In contrast, Miami's quarterback Tua Tagovailoa delivered a commendable second-half performance, completing 11 of 13 passes for 120 yards and a touchdown. This crucial win improved the Dolphins' season record to 3-6, stirring hopes, albeit slim, for a playoff berth — a feat achieved by only four teams in NFL history after starting a season 2-6.
The Rams, with a precarious record of 4-5, find themselves teetering just below a .500 winning percentage, prompting questions about their playoff viability as the season progresses.
Power Rankings and Player Movements
Across the league, shifts in dynamics are captured in Pete Prisco's Week 11 Power Rankings. The Kansas City Chiefs continue to dominate the leader board, while the Pittsburgh Steelers, buoyed by recent performances, make an entrance into the top five. A significant advancement by the Philadelphia Eagles sees them soaring from ninth to sixth place, reflecting their improved form.
In contrast, the Washington Commanders experienced a dramatic fall, dropping from fourth to 10th. Despite a modest rise from 23rd to 20th, the Dolphins still seek further progress. Meanwhile, the Raiders languish at the bottom, grappling with instability.
In player news, the Pittsburgh Steelers have fortified their ranks by signing former All-Pro returner Jamal Agnew to their practice squad. Agnew, known for his explosive returns, has six return touchdowns in his career and could prove to be a valuable asset in the Steelers’ special teams unit.
On a less positive note for individual players, Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott is set to undergo surgery for an injured hamstring, casting a cloud over his immediate playing future. Additionally, the Seattle Seahawks waived linebacker Tyrel Dodson, whose role as the leading tackler made him a linchpin in their defense.
International Expansion on the Horizon
Amidst these domestic narratives, the NFL’s sights are set on global expansion. Potential plans to stage an NFL game in Australia by 2026 have been floated, a pioneering move considering no major American sports league has yet penetrated the Australian market. As Jonathan Jones astutely observed, "Australia entices the NFL for several reasons. There is a vibrant sports scene there, and there's no language barrier."
This ambition is part of a broader international strategy that includes slated games in London, Spain, Brazil, Germany, Mexico, and Ireland by 2025. As Jones further pointed out, "It is distinct from the European expansion the league has endeavored," signaling the NFL’s intent to break new ground and broaden its global footprint.
As the NFL navigates through a season filled with unpredictable turns both on and off the field, the league's dynamism is evident in the evolving storylines — be it shifts in team personnel, dramatic game outcomes, or ambitious global ventures.