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P!NK Tickets – Beautiful Trauma Tour Heads to a City Near You

October 24, 2017 by Nate

Have you been eagerly waiting for P!NK’s next tour? Well, your wait is almost over: just get that ticket! The iconic pop star is back in the spotlight with an incredible album and a highly anticipated tour.

“Beautiful Trauma” Tour

P!NK, a Grammy-winning pop star caught her fans by surprise when she announced the “Beautiful Trauma” World Tour in 2018. She is famous for her top-notch entertaining and memorable performances – one of the reasons the P!NK tickets are always sold out. During the announcement, P!NK mentioned that the tour will be exceptional, and will even topple the last one.

The last time this pop icon hit the road was during the “Truth About Love Tour” in 2013-2014. This tour was held across 13 countries, spanning 142 sold out shows. The singer showed an epic workout of vocals, stunt-work, and stagecraft without missing a note! Now, “Beautiful Trauma” World Tour marks her seventh headlining tour. The lengthy tour stretches from March to June in 2018 and hits every major city from New York City to Los Angeles.

Her first single “What About Us” was released in August and her second single “Beautiful Trauma” was debuted just last week.

Since the “Can’t Take Me Home” debut in 2000, the pop icon has managed to release six studio albums.

The highly regarded album sold over 42 million copies, more than 75 million singles, and over 2.4 million DVDs around the globe. Missundaztood was her most successful album in 2001, selling over 15 million copies around the globe. This record has hit singles namely “Just Like a Pill,” “Get the Party Started,” “Don’t Let Me Get Me,” as well as “Family Portrait.” These four songs are some of the most performed tracks during her live performance shows.

P!NK’s Influence

Other than being a pop icon, P!NK’s career has offered a workable blueprint for female pop-outsider archetype – now embodied by Kesha, Halsey, Alessia Cara, among others – a role she explicitly claimed in 2001.

Instead of focusing on beauty and being on magazine covers, P!NK chose a different path. She now concentrates on honing her live performances such as the acrobatic aerial dancing that has become her trademark.

For fans of P!NK and everything she has done in the music industry, this tour will be must-see. View the complete tour schedule to find your Beautiful Trauma tour tickets today!

Bucket List – Every NFL Fan Must Attend These Stadiums to See a Game

October 11, 2017 by Nate

There is no denying that the NFL has produced a product over the years that is must-see TV. The only thing better than watching the NFL on TV is heading to one of the 32 beautiful stadiums and seeing the most skilled football players on the planet in person.

The architecture and ingenuity that some of these stadiums display is top-notch. When a stadium is constructed, the main goal is to build a place that fans take pride in heading to.

From delicious food to an unbeatable atmosphere, here are the best stadiums for fans to catch an NFL game.

Gillette Stadium

If you are a Patriots fans, then this is the mecca of the NFL. No team wins more than the New England Patriots. As a result, the stadium is always packed and loud. Even if you are a visiting fan, the energy in the stadium is contagious. You know you are in for a good game when you head to Gillette.

The stadium isn’t even two decades old and sits just under 70,000 fans. There is 89 luxury suites making it easy for fans to enjoy the game in style. Endless parking for an unforgettable tailgate atmosphere is another aspect of the stadium that all of the fans love.

Besides the state-of-the-art stadium itself, Gillette Stadium has become somewhat of a small town. Located just a half-hour outside of Boston, the stadium attracts many people from the big city. Patriot Place features over a million square feet of dining, shopping and all kinds of entertainment.

There is no denying that Gillette Stadium and Patriot Place has something for every fan. This is a perfect place for every fan to see their first football game live.

MetLife Stadium

Unfortunately, this is the only stadium on the list that I’ve been to. All of these NFL stadiums are beautiful, but being a Giants fan has me somewhat biased. Either way, MetLife Stadium is beautiful.

MetLife Stadium opened in 2010, is one of the newest in the NFL. With a capacity of 82,500, it is also one of the biggest. A home to the New York Giants and New York Jets, there is good football being played in this stadium all season long. There is plenty of great seats, a clean environment and a number of concession stands that allow for quick and easy access to food and drink. An incredible assortment of classic cuisine from the New York/New Jersey area always satisfies fans.

A stadium tour of MetLife is another awesome aspect that fans can enjoy. A view from the stadium at all angles is what fans can expect. From the luxury suites to the broadcast booth, this tour is an interesting way fans can learn more about the stadium. A visit to the clubhouse and Legacy Club also offers fans the chance to take in all the history that the Giants and Jets have established.

Arrowhead Stadium

Depending on who you ask, this is the loudest stadium in the NFL. Arrowhead Stadium is the home of the Kansas City Chiefs, a franchise that is incredibly rich in history. Tucked away in the Midwest, this football stadium is a pure classic.

No fancy renovations and no high-tech jumbo tron screens are needed to improve the beautiful stadium. Its simplicity is what makes it so special. The Midwestern charm and the football knowledge that these fans have make it welcoming for visiting fans as well.

Of course the food is on point in Kansas City as well. The food there is catered by the award-winning, world-renowned Levy Restaurants. The savory food appeals to a number of different palates, and few can complain about the grub at the stadium.

With over 75,000 seats the raucous stadium is always sold out. This season especially, there is a spectacular buzz around the Chiefs. The team is 5-0, and at this point in the season, the road to the Super Bowl will run through Kansas City.

That fact alone spells trouble for visiting teams. In 2014, Arrowhead Stadium reclaimed the Guinness World Record for loudest stadium by reaching 142.2 decibels. Bring your ear plugs if you’re not ready for some of the most passionate fans in the world.

CenturyLink Field

Depending on who you ask, CenturyLink Field is the loudest stadium in the NFL. Going back and forth with Arrowhead Stadium, CenturyLink Field had the record for loudest stadium in the NFL before the Chiefs took it back.

One of the most architecturally fascinating stadiums, CenturyLink Field is build to accentuate acoustics. The rowdier the Seattle Seahawks fans get, the more noise and energy their team has to feed off of. Known as the 12th man, Seattle’s fans provide one of the best atmospheres in the league.

Pregame festivities are also a big part of the amazing vibe at CenturyLink Field. Touchdown City is the biggest attraction for fans of all ages. This attraction doesn’t require a ticket to the game to enter, and features a number of fun activities. It includes, interactive games and contests, food and drink, autograph booths and TVs displaying football games across the country. Live music is also featured hours before the game outside the stadium free of charge.

With a capacity of 72,000, over 15,000 parking spots in the surrounding downtown area, and nearly 50 concession stands, CenturyLink Field has all the aspects of a welcoming stadium.

Lambeau Field

For the truest of football fans, Lambeau Field is a bucket list stadium. There isn’t a franchise or a field that has more history behind it than the home of the Green Bay Packers. Much like Arrowhead Stadium, it’s lore comes from the undeniable aura surrounding the stadium. Vince Lombardi, Paul Hornung, Reggie White and Brett Favre have all created a legacy while playing at Lambeau Field.

Stadium tours and the Packers Hall of Fame are some of the attractions that allow fans to get closer to that history. World Championship trophies, recollections from past players’ greatest achievements and a replica of Vince Lombardi’s office are all features of the Packers Hall of Fame.

The most popular sports bar in Titletown is open year round as well. 1919 Kitchen & Tap has incredible locally grown ingredients, a wide selection of beers and a number of TVs for a perfect view of the game.

In terms of the stadium itself, Lambeau Field is impeccable. The stadium has sold out every game since 1961. Packers fans are some of the most devote in the NFL. Visiting fans are welcomed but warned that they are in Packer Nation. This incredible passion for their team is contagious, and always makes for must-see contests no matter who they are playing.

AT&T Stadium

Now for the biggest and brightest segment of NFL bucket list stadiums. Down in Arlington, AT&T Stadium, better known as Jerry World is home to the Dallas Cowboys. It is only fitting that the most iconic NFL franchise has a stadium that matches that. The beautiful stadium not only hosts Dallas Cowboys football game, but also high profile college football and even the Final Four in men’s college basketball.

From a beautiful stadium, delicious restaurant and even an art museum, AT&T Stadium has it all. The Stadium Club has it all! From appetizers to dessert the menu gets rave reviews on a weekly basis. A kids menu as well as a cocktail menu completes the restaurant.

The long list of contributors to the art that is displayed throughout the stadium just goes to show how committed Jerry Jones was to this. A number of original pieces give this stadium a unique feel. There are also beautiful glass windows in the stadium to give it some natural light even when the roof is closed.

Seating over 100,000 passionate fans, the football cathedral is one of the landmarks in Texas. In a state where football is king, this is definitely the palace. AT&T Stadium is much more than just a football stadium, and fans flock from all over the country to check out everything it has to offer.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Trying to eclipse AT&T Stadium, 800 miles east we find the brand new Mercedes Benz Stadium. The new home of the Atlanta Falcons is incredibly unique. At first glance, you aren’t quite sure what to make of it. The futuristic design makes it one of the most aesthetic stadiums in the NFL. Mercedes-Benz Stadium also features a falcon statue along with the team’s motto, “Rise Up” at the main entrance. That alone gets fans hyped up when they walk in the door.

The roof opens up like a pinwheel, and from an aerial view the stadium is astonishing. It is only a matter of time before this stadium is awarded a Super Bowl.

From the construction to everything being brand new and clean this stadium is incredible. The one last thing fans need to know: bring your appetite. The Atlanta Falcons aim to please when it comes to fans and their wallet. Mercedes-Benz Stadium has a great variety on the menu. Additionally, there is no item on the menu more expensive than $6. In terms of league average, the Falcons food and drink is close to 65% cheaper than any other stadium. I’ll be first in line!

Tuesday Takeaways – Eagles Fly and Jaguars Bite in Week 5 Action

October 10, 2017 by Nate

Yet again it was a tough week to be a superstar in the NFL. Injuries played a vital role in the outcome of some of the games on Sunday. Seasons and expectations now have to be altered drastically in the coming weeks due to the injuries.

Offensive star Odell Beckham Jr. is out with an ankle fracture for the New York Giants. On the other side of the ball, J.J. Watt fractured his leg Sunday night for the Houston Texans. Both players are crucial to their team’s success. The season is definitely over for the New York Giants. The Texans can still rally, but it is an uphill battle without Watt.

The Giants undeniably got hit with the injury bug the hardest. They lost three wide receivers for the season on Sunday, while also seeing a few defensive backs suffer minor injuries.

It’s never easy seeing the emotions some players go through when they realize their seasons are over. Let’s transition to some of the teams and players that are still playing this season, and playing well.

Week 5 Winners

Philadelphia Eagles – The Wentz Wagon is officially full. After many football fans were unsure of the quarterback from North Dakota State after one year in the NFL, he has silenced the critics through Week 5 in his second season.

Carson Wentz lets if fly whenever he feels like it. Furthermore, his electric arm and ability to extend the play were on full display against the Arizona Cardinals. The Eagles jumped out to an early lead, and never looked back. With an array of weapons on the outside, the Eagles have one of the most potent offenses in the league.

Alshon Jeffrey, Nelson Agholor and Torrey Smith are all getting involved on a weekly basis. At 4-1, the Eagles are in the driver’s seat of the underwhelming NFC East. With LeGarrette Blount beginning to find his stride out of the backfield, look out for the Eagles moving forward.

Green Bay Packers – The Pack are back. After a few rocky performances early in the season, the Packers were in need of a statement win. Leave it to Aaron Rodgers to save the day. Just a few weeks ago, the Lions and Vikings looked to be in control of the NFC North. However, the script has flipped thanks to some late game heroics from Rodgers in the past couple weeks.

With 11 seconds remaining in the game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday, Aaron Rodgers found Davante Adams in the end zone for a 35-31 win. A week after Adams was brutally hit after catching a pass against the Chicago Bears, he was the most reliable target for Rodgers.

Additionally, they also got a superb performance from the most unlikely of players.

Back up running back Aaron Jones got his first career start in the NFL after an injury to Ty Montgomery. Jones totaled 134 yards and scored a touchdown to give the Packers offense some much needed balance.

Week 5 Losers

Pittsburgh Steelers – On the other hand, some teams look like they lost their identity this weekend. Instead of feasting on a conference opponent at home, the Steelers were bitten by the Jaguars defense. After a 3-1 start that saw them rise to the top of the division, the Steelers had an opportunity to keep their foot on the gas.

However, the Jaguars defense had other plans. They forced five interceptions and returned two for touchdowns. The 30-9 win was a statement around the league that the Jaguars are no longer an easy opponent.

Meanwhile, the Steelers have to answer some very pressing questions. After losing to teams like Chicago and Jacksonville, they are not striking fear in to any of their opponents. They own the tiebreaker for first in the AFC North, but the Ravens are right on their heels. A reliance on the run game could change the outlook of the Steelers season. Instead of feeding LeVeon Bell, the Steelers are choosing to air it out with not much success.

Los Angeles Rams – I’m being a little harsh this week. Two teams with winning records find themselves in the Week 5 Losers section. However, the Los Angeles Rams had a statement win in their grasp and they let it slip away. With the Cardinals and 49ers struggling, it seems the division title will be won by the Rams or Seahawks.

After picking off Russell Wilson and kicking a field goal, the Rams were up 10-0 in the second quarter. Unfortunately they failed to score again. The Seahawks showed their championship DNA and clawed back to win 16-10.

Jared Goff finally looked human after being picked off twice. An early Todd Gurley fumble doomed the Rams as well. Instead of going up 7-0 in the opening quarter, the Rams were gut punched by the unlucky turnover at the pylon.

Week 5 Top Plays

Now time for everyone’s favorite segment, the week’s top plays. For the first time ever, special teams is dominating the top plays segment. There was also a crazy catch and run in Philadelphia that we all need to see again. Nelson Agholor, you’re up first.

There were plenty of big plays to choose from in the Philadelphia-Arizona game. One in particular caught our eye. Carson Wentz to Nelson Agholor looks like it will be a combination that will torture defenses for years to come.

Of course, bonus points for the spin move and celebration.

Next we move to the often overlooked aspect of pro football: special teams. This part of the game was huge during prime time. In the Sunday and Monday night football games there were must-see plays.

If you needed a reminder, Tyreek Hill is easily the fastest player in the NFL. He demonstrated that again during a punt return against the Houston Texans.

Finally, a fake punt for a touchdown! Who doesn’t love a successful trick play on special teams. Ultimately, the Chicago Bears lost a close game, but they were in it until the end.

Needing a spark at the end of the third quarter trailing 10-2, John Fox reached in to his bag of tricks and pulled out this gem. Pat O’Donnell to Benny Cunningham is the new dynamic duo in the Windy City.

Week 6 Must-See Match Ups

Carolina Panthers vs. Philadelphia Eagles – Finally a Thursday Night Football game worth watching! These two 4-1 teams will square off for the top spot in the NFC.

New England Patriots vs. New York Jets – Wait…what? The Jets and Pats are tied atop the AFC East at 3-2. For this reason, this surprising match up has major implications in the division moving forward.

Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Kansas City Chiefs – In my opinion, this will be the game of the week. A playoff rematch featuring two of the best teams in the AFC will be exciting to watch. In addition, two of the most dynamic players will be on the field.

Kareem Hunt as well as LeVeon Bell aret two of the best running backs in the NFL. Fans that tune into this game will see a number of highlights.

All videos courtesy of YouTube.

Tuesday Takeaways – Giants Dig Deeper Hole, Patriots Pull Out a Win

September 26, 2017 by Nate

Week 3 of the 2017 NFL season will be one to remember. The in-game action was overshadowed by actions taken by players across the world pregame. It all started in London early in the morning, and shifted across the Atlantic Ocean throughout the rest of Sunday.

The Jaguars and Ravens both stood together as a team before the game kicked off in London. Jaguars owner Shahid Khan was even down on the field arm-in-arm with the rest of his players during the National Anthem. Other players took knees while other teams stayed in the locker room to peacefully protest their rights as an American citizen.

Unfortunately, sports and politics has become a hostile relationship. From the President calling out NBA and NFL players, to players standing up for themselves, the world is in a unique place. Overall, bravo to the players and teams that had the courage to protest whichever way they saw fit.

However, statements were also made on the field in Week 3. Lets get in to this week’s edition of Tuesday Takeaways.

Week 3 Winners

Buffalo Bills – Wait…what? Yes, okay the Buffalo Bills deserve to be in the Week 3 winner’s section this week. Tyrod Taylor was the definition of efficient against a stingy Denver defense. Denver is coming off an incredibly dominating performance against the Dallas Cowboys, winning 42-17 and making Taylor’s performance much more impressive.

Buffalo has now planted themselves in the AFC East Divisional race. With the Patriots at 2-1, the Bills are tied for the division lead and can’t wait for the opportunity to play the defending champs. As mentioned, Tyrod Taylor went 20-26 with two touchdowns and no interceptions. However, he did not do it alone. Additionally, two interceptions from the defense and an impressive performance from kicker Steven Hauschka aided the Bills. A 49-yard field and two 50-yard field goals were crucial for the Bills to hang on in this one.

The task only gets tougher for Buffalo. They travel to Atlanta to take on the defending NFC champs, but will do so with much more confidence. A smart quarterback and a stingy defense is a recipe for a win in the NFL, and the Bills are hoping to repeat that formula on a weekly basis.

New Orleans Saints – The Saints get the nod to be a Week 3 winner because their season was on the line this week and they played like it. On the road, against a 2-0 team, and the Saints dominated. Going up against the Carolina Panthers is no easy task. With the Saints’ defense reeling, many experts expected the Panthers to cruise to victory.

Drew Brees and his aerial arsenal had other ideas. Michael Thomas is a breakout star at the wide receiver position. With seven catches and a touchdown, he is undoubtedly the number one target. Brandon Coleman and Tedd Ginn Jr. also caught touchdown passes in the impressive win.

The excellent performance from the defense is what helped the Saints win this one. They picked off former MVP Cam Newton on three occasions, and stifled every comeback effort.

Week 3 Losers

Cincinnati Bengals – The Bengals had an epic road win against a top team in the NFL, and then it didn’t. Andy Dalton came out firing. He hit numerous wide receivers, linked up with AJ Green for a touchdown, and gave the Bengals a convincing lead heading in to halftime.

Up 21-7, the Bengals slowly but surely let their grasp on the game slip. Only scoring a field goal in the second half, Aaron Rodgers was able to bring his team all the way back to tie it at 24.

The Bengals had one more chance in overtime as they got the ball first, but an underwhelming three-and-out all but gave the game to the Packers.

Rodgers pulled off a couple incredible plays, and a Mason Crosby chip shot sank the Bengals to 0-3.

Oakland Raiders – A cross-country trip is always tough for any team. However, the Oakland Raiders are supposed to be able to bring their A-game anywhere if they want to become one of the elite teams in the NFL. That narrative did not play out in prime time on Sunday night.

The running game was unable to get going. Marshawn Lynch was stifled at the line of scrimmage and without that, the Oakland Raiders became one dimensional early.

Derek Carr didn’t bring his best game on Sunday night either. With an interception on the first drive, Oakland was searching for answers early. Carr added another interception later in the half, and that combined with numerous drops from his wide outs made for a frustrating night. Oakland will have a chance to prove this was just a blip on the radar as they travel to Denver next week for an enticing divisional match up.

Week 3 Top Plays

Ouch, this segment is going to hurt. Within a matter of minutes on Sunday afternoon the Patriots had secured an epic comeback while the Giants (Odell Beckham, Jr.) put together an impressive performance only to see it dashed by a rookie kicker. The back and forth between the two divisional rivals was must-see TV in the fourth quarter on Sunday.

Tom Brady is a savage. That’s the only way to put it. With the Patriots down five and only a few minutes left on the clock, Brady methodically drove his team down the field. He nearly turned the ball over twice, but the Texans couldn’t make him pay. After completing a few long passes, a New England win seemed inevitable. A beautiful dime to Brandin Cooks with less than 30 seconds remaining was the final blow to complete comeback.

As for the Giants, they finally came to play in the second half of the Philadelphia Eagles. It appeared that Odell Beckham, Jr. was back in action and ready to save the day once again.

With not one, but two incredible touchdown grabs, and a little help from Sterling Shepherd, the New York Giants had their first lead of the season! Odell started this season injured, but after an insane grab and a poignant celebration it was evident that he was back.

The man could be a Pro Bowl wide receiver with one hand. Truly remarkable stuff. However, the Giants are not the same team they were a year ago. They are not clicking the same, and are definitely not playing complimentary football. Jake Elliott kicked a 46-yard field goal for the tie with 51 seconds remaining. After the Giants failed to move the ball, the Eagles got a chance for the win.

Alshon Jeffrey made a great grab to put the Eagles in field goal position and Jake Elliott came on to attempt a 61-yard field goal for the win. I certainly was ready for overtime. The Giants even sent Odell back to catch a missed field goal so the Giants could win miraculously. Instead, Jake Elliott had other plans.

I don’t want to talk about football anymore. Here are the biggest games on the schedule in Week 4.

Week 4 Must-See Match Ups

Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings – Two 2-1 teams square off for a chance at first place in the NFC North. Matt Stafford takes on a stingy Minnesota defense in what should be an intense finish.

Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Baltimore Ravens – Another divisional match up that features two teams with records 0f 2-1. Both are coming off embarrassing losses and will be ready to go.

Oakland Raiders vs. Denver Broncos – A divisional match up yet again. What a coincidence, both teams are 2-1. Derek Carr needs a bounce back game, but the Denver defense and quarterback Trevor Siemian are extremely comfortable at home.

Kansas City Chiefs vs. Washington Redskins – Monday Night Football closes out Week 4 with the Chiefs trying to remain undefeated. They will look to protect home field against a hot Redskins team that has won two in a row and scored 27 points in back-to-back weeks.

For a complete selection of NFL tickets, check out TicketNetwork.com.

Tuesday Takeaways – Wild Week 1 and What to Expect in Week 2

September 12, 2017 by Nate

Fans across the country are either waking up with a huge smile on their face or dreading the morning commute. Yes, the NFL season has returned. However, that glee of getting to watch your favorite team week in and week out comes with the agony of watching them under perform.

There was plenty to go around this week, so fans of the New York Giants and New England Patriots, you are not alone. Also, some unexpected dominant performances might be fool’s gold for other teams around the league. The Jacksonville Jaguars and Los Angeles Rams were prime examples of this.

Much like any week in the NFL, there were also some incredible plays. The speed, strength and talent of these players is unmatched, leading to some memorable highlights each season.

In this new segment, each week I’ll break down the best and worst of each NFL week. Tuesday Takeaways starts now!

Week 1 Winners

Jacksonville Jaguars – Although I mentioned that it might be fool’s gold, the Jags definitely came out a winner in Week 1. Their physical style of play on defense and powerful duo at running back give them a fighter’s chance in the inept AFC South.

Rookie Leonard Fournette led the way with 100 yards rushing and a touchdown. His back up, Chris Ivory, had a productive day as well. This one-two punch will keep the Jags afloat while Blake Bortles works through his issues in the pocket.

As for the Jacksonville defense, they feasted on an inexperienced offensive line on the road. Going forward that will give them a lot of confidence. Calais Campbell had 4 sacks, and Tashaun Gipson had an interception. Not to mention they did all of this against a division rival, the Houston Texans.

Detroit Lions – Trailing 17-15 at the end of the third quarter, the Lions stepped up at home to secure a Week 1 win. Scoring 20 unanswered before a late Arizona Cardinals touchdown, the Lions have to be pumped about a quality win versus a team as talented as the Arizona Cardinals.

Matthew Stafford threw four touchdown passes, including the tremendous grab from Kenny Golladay. He has numerous weapons at his disposal, and spread the wealth to seven different receivers on Sunday. His favorite, Golden Tate, had the biggest day. He caught ten passes for 107 yards.

Throw in a 58-yard boot, and a 35-yard interception return for a touchdown and the Lions played well in all three phases of the game on Sunday. All wins are important in the NFL, but some are better than others. The Lions defending home turf against the Cards falls in to that category.

Week 1 Losers

New York Giants – Unfortunately the only winner from the New York Giants this week was Odell Beckham Jr. He might have rather seen his team get to 1-0 without him, but that was not the case.

The Giants struggled mightily all night against the Dallas Cowboys. The offense was only able to muster three points, and didn’t do a single favor for their defense. Without OBJ the team is inept. He affects the game in every way, and he needs to be on the field for the Giants to win. When contract negotiations come around for the star player, he should receive a healthy increase in salary. They struggled to move the ball, to sustain drives, and the only time they reached the red zone, it resulted in a field goal.

The defense was stout as usual, and kept the Giants in it throughout. However, without Odell, they played the whole game on fumes.

New England Patriots – This is the only week I expect to see the Patriots here, but nevertheless, they deserve to be here Week 1. Tom Brady went 16/36, failed to throw a touchdown pass, and by the end of the game he looked confused by the hungry Kansas City Chiefs defense.

Additionally, this was supposed to be a celebratory night for the Pats. They hung their fifth championship banner and were ready to start the season 1-0. The game started well, but they blew coverages, assignments and eventually the lead against Kansas City.

Injuries piled up for the Pats as well. On offense, Danny Amendola looked to suffer a concussion. He has become a trusted target for Brady, and was going to see an increased role with Julian Edelman out for the year. On defense, Dont’a Hightower suffered an apparent knee injury. Those are always extremely nerve racking for football players these days. Fortunately, it was ruled an MCL sprain, but Hightower will have to be careful on it as the season progresses.

Week 1 Top Plays

Week 1 was action-packed, and offered up a variety of must-see plays. Three in particular stand out in my mind. Some were pivotal while others were just plain outstanding.

The first is nothing too crazy. Cole Beasley of the Dallas Cowboys made a catch on third down that sustained momentum for his team and pretty much made a comeback for the Giants impossible. He juggled the ball, and needed help from his helmet. Although it was a short gain, the focus and timing that were involved in the catch helped it land on the list.

Our second top play is just something you don’t see everyday. A tight end scoring an 88-yard touchdown is a rare sight. On Sunday, Austin Hooper made it look easy. After not recording a catch for the entire game, he waited until the fourth quarter to make his move. After a blown coverage by the Chicago Bears‘ secondary, Hooper caught the pass around midfield and scampered another 15 yards before he was approached by a defender.

What happened next might be the highlight of his season. With his left arm, he delivered a mean stiff-arm to the safety of the Chicago Bears that sent his body flying in to the turf. Hooper galloped the rest of the way for an easy yet crucial touchdown for the Atlanta Falcons.

Lastly, comes an insane interception from an otherwise mediocre football game. The Carolina Panthers rolled the San Francisco 49ers, 23-3. The final score was far from the most important talking point in this one. Jaquiski Tartt made a memorable play early in the second quarter, and tried to do all he could to keep the Niners afloat.

The acrobatic ability mixed with the presence of mind to get up for a lengthy return showed Tartt’s talent as well as his football IQ. Unfortunately, the talent level for the Niners isn’t what it used to be. It will be a long season in San Francisco.

Hopefully Week 2 of the NFL season offers more of the same!

Week 2 Must-See Match Ups

New Orleans Saints vs. New England Patriots – Both teams start the season 0-1, and Drew Brees and Tom Brady will look to bounce back.

Atlanta Falcons vs. Green Bay Packers – The grand opening of Mercedes Benz Stadium for the Atlanta Falcons should be a game to remember.

New York Giants vs. Detroit Lions – Monday Night Football at MetLife Stadium. Nothing else needs to be said.