How are we already approaching the halfway point of the 2022 NFL season? Is this the ugliest first half of an NFL season in the history of football? It sure does feel like it, but it's not all bad. There are some bright spots — even if we have to look really hard to find them. Let's break down the good, the bad and the ugly from Week 7.
The good
The 2022 Bengals are finally looking like the 2021 Bengals.
They started the season 0-2 but have now won four of their last five outings and look good while doing it. Burrow finally looks back up to speed following his offseason appendix explosion and the passing game is humming. Over their last three games, the Bengals are averaging 392 scrimmage yards and 27.3 points, and Burrow and the passing game are a big reason why.
Joe Burrow odds to win NFL MVP: +1600 | Bet $10 to win $160
Kenneth Walker and Dameon Pierce are dueling for Offensive Rookie of the Year.
Since Week 4, both rank top eight in total rush yards and yards after contact. Both are averaging more than 5.0 yards per rush attempt. They account for two of the four running backs in the entire league with 18+ missed forced tackles in that span.
Walker and Pierce are absolute treats to watch right now. See for yourself with some footage of the best plays from Pierce and Walker so far this season, pick your favorite and come bet with us on FanDuel Sportsbook.
Kenneth Walker odds to win OROY: +200
Dameon Pierce odds to win OROY: +300
Which one of these rookies are you betting to win? Maybe neither? Cough, Chris Olave. Let us know over on Twitter!
The bad & the ugly
There were a lot of big injuries.
Jets RB Breece Hall is done for the season with a torn ACL. DK Metcalf was carted off with a knee injury Sunday (no, he did not need to use the bathroom). He doesn't need knee surgery, but he's probably out for awhile. WR Mike Williams and TE David Njoku will both miss several weeks with high ankle sprains. JC Jackson is out for the year after dislocating his knee.
I'm officially voting to wrap all players in bubble wrap until further notice. Anyone else?
Matt Ryan
No offense, Matt Ryan. You're a handsome enough guy. But the play on the field? U-G-L-Y. That's gotta go — and the Colts agree. It took seven games, nine interceptions and 11 fumbles (three lost) for them to get there.
Sam Ehlinger will get the start in Week 8 and is the team's starting quarterback... for now. It is possible we'll see him give this offense a spark, coming off an excellent showing in the 2022 preseason.
Mike Tomlin's unwavering loyalty
Steelers fan, here, so maybe this is more of a personal grievance. ESPN's Brooke Pryor asked Mike Tomlin Tuesday why they're not making a change to the offense. His response? "I'm not there yet."
We're literally terrified to see what this team looks like once they're "there."
Steelers odds to win five or fewer games: -115 | Bet $11.50 to win $10 profit
