The Cumming Police Department has seen a lot of changes over the last year, including a new chief, new hires and new vehicles, but Cumming Police Chief David Marsh said experience might be the most important change of all.

In July 2019, Marsh was sworn-in an as the new chief of the Cumming Police Department, after working with the Forsyth County Sheriffs Office since 2004.

Marsh said since he stepped into the role, the department has made some cosmetic changes for vehicles and patches and added new equipment, but the reality is the biggest change is the people, 100%.

We have, including me, 21 people working here at the Police Department, Marsh said. When I first started, we had seven, so we had a pretty strong push to get good people in, to get good people hired, to get good people working, and Im pleasantly surprised that we have been able to get that mark.

The chief said those hires have all been for uniformed officers and have run the gamut from new officers to those with experience in Forsyth, Hall and Gwinnett counties and the city of Atlanta, which he counts as a big benefit for the department.

What were really looking forward to in the future is just training and cultivating our police department around that leadership, Marsh said. We dont have a ton of shootings in the city of Cumming, which is great, which is awesome, but should we have one, its nice that we have people that know how to handle that kind of stuff.

Experience is one of the things that everyone wants to have but no one wants to get because it takes years and you have to go through hard things to learn from experience, so when you bring people in that have truly lifetimes of experience from one of the hardest places in the country, it just changes the dynamics of this place exponentially.

Experience isnt the only change the new employees have brought.

Marsh said when he came to the department, officers were not handling calls at all hours of the day, and now they are.

So that was one of the biggest pushes was to get enough officers in who we could kind of fulfill our duties as a police department and handle calls for service, he said. Thats the real basic mandate of what our job is, when 911 calls come in, we need officers that are working around the clock, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and we didnt have that.

Another internal change has been the addition of a criminal investigation division to look at property and person crimes that have been committed, whereas before the job fell on one officer and was done in addition to their other duties.

What theyve been able to provide in way of investigations to our city, you cant even imagine what its like, Marsh said, and it even concerned me a little bit because, essentially, this agency, we werent investigating any property crime. Anything that was considered a person crime, we were sending to the sheriffs office and they were adding that to the list of however many person crimes that they have. I have been just so proud of their ability to take cases and work them as completely as possible.

Over the past year or so, the department has also seen some additions of new equipment including body cameras, cameras in vehicles and nine new police vehicles.

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Marsh says the biggest change is the people since taking over as Police Chief - Forsyth County News Online

For the second time in two months, mansionization will come back for more review and discussion this week by the city Planning Commission.

The commission will hear recommendations made at an earlier meeting for a zoning code amendment designed to limit mansionization. The meeting begins at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday and can be viewed at: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86869208879.

Mansionization is often described as a situation where a proposed house, addition, or remodel results in a structure that is out of scale, ill-proportioned, or out of character with its surrounding neighborhood, according to a city staff report. New houses and additions to older houses sometimes appear larger and stylistically different than houses built in previous decades due to a variety of factors. In many of the citywide community meetings, these concerns [oversized houses, houses being too big for the lot and incompatible architecture] were prevalent.

According to that report, and after reviewing community feedback and comments from the Planning Commission and Design Commission, the four primary issues identified by staff are the construction of new houses, architectural compatibility of additions to existing houses, privacy, and accessory structures.

The zoning amendment includes expanded neighborhood notification of projects, architectural compatibility requirements, and a 12-foot height limit for the first-story top plate. It also requires second-story additions to match existing plate height, limits placement of second-story windows, requires compatibility for accessory structures, and adopts neighborhood compatibility requirements,

The amendment would also require neighborhood notification of certain residential projects, a potential discretionary review process for certain projects that exceed neighborhood average floor area up to the currently allowed maximum.

The recommendation will be presented to the City Council at a future meeting.

Angry Neighbors

When the issue came before the Planning Commission last month, concerned residents criticized the Planning Department for not notifying neighbors about the scope of a project. Other neighbors called for signs accurately describing projects and an effort to make sure that projects are compatible with the neighborhood.

The Linda Vista-Annandale Association said it supports the adoption of mansionization rules to limit and control out-of-character and out-of-scale neighborhood development in most of Pasadenas single-family neighborhoods.

The group questioned the citys review process, and its compatibility and design standards.

Although we are perceived as a hillside area, in fact, a significant percentage of our neighborhood is considered flat [about 15-20 percent] and is being altered in accordance with underlying zoning in a manner that is out of scale, out of character, and with unacceptable impacts on adjacent neighbors and potential historic resources and streets. And, the time is now we have several streets at a tipping point where character, scale, and valuable architecture and design are about to be lost forever, wrote Nina Chomsky, association president.

Andrew Oksner said a notice posted across the street from his house said there would be an addition of 583 square feet to extend the living, dining and family rooms to his neighboring home.

My reaction was great, as such would be a clear investment and improvement to the neighborhood, Oksner said.

But that reaction turned into displeasure and the feeling that the neighbor had gamed the system.

Improvements of far more than 583 [square feet] seem to be being built there is a new facade, roof, second-floor deck, chimney, and additional and/or significantly enlarged rooms.

Michael Gottlieb said his neighbor built a large home that was grossly incompatible with other homes and the character of the Linda Vista neighborhood.

However, the posted sign for the project only said second story/remodel.

Nothing was shared with us before construction, Gottlieb said. In fact, my neighbor tore down the existing structure and built a house that towers over my own [admittedly in part due to a rise in the elevation of the street]. Its porch extends nearly to the sidewalk and the house occupies the whole street side of the lot.

Neighbors stop and stare and shake their heads. Yes, it is their property. But even if within code shouldnt the Planning Department take into account compatibility with neighboring structures and preservation of the character of neighborhoods?

Talks Ongoing

Serious discussions about mansionization at the city level began in 2015. It was then that the Planning and Community Development Department held citywide community meetings focused on single-family home neighborhood issues.

Other meetings were also held focusing on Lower Hastings Ranch and on Hillside Overlay District areas, which helped the department learn of neighborhood concerns about mansionization from a wider cross-section of the community.

The meetings led to design guidelines that could eventually cover all other single-family home residential zones in the city.

The preservation group Pasadena Heritage has been vocal about these concerns over the years. The nonprofit has been saying that new developments were continuing in Pasadena at an aggressive pace and have presented a constant challenge to maintaining the historic character of the citys residential neighborhoods.

Get all the latest Pasadena news, more than 10 fresh stories daily, 7 days a week at 7 a.m.

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Planning Commission to Take Another Look at Mansionization - Pasadena Now

Time again for STAR WARS WEEKLY, the SYFY WIRE series that rounds up the most important news of the week from a galaxy far, far away.

Think of us as your own personal Star Wars Holocron.

FIRST LOOK AT THE MANDALORIANS SECOND SEASON

The biggest news this week came fromEntertainment Weekly, whichpublished our first look at the second season of The Mandalorian, including a long article that contains interviews with Dave Filoni and Jon Favreau. Filoni and Favreau talked about what to expect for Season 2 and drop plenty of hints and some photos.

One of the biggest bits of news is that were getting eight episodes for this season and the length of the episodes will vary between them. The article did not explicitlyconfirm the well-reported, well-sourced rumors about big new additions to the cast, including the report that Rosario Dawsonwill be playing a live-action Ahsoka. Instead, the articlemerely says that some of the rumors were true and some werent, but made no mention of which were which.

Giancarlo Esposito, the actor behind Moff Gideon, might be the cast member who is the most excited for this upcoming season. He tweeted all about it.

With how tight they're holding on to secrets this season, there's every reason to believe we're getting something as amazing as Baby "The Child" Yoda for this new season. Whether it's old characters or new, we're all waiting with bated breath for the story to unfold.

REY KENOBI?

In a recent interview on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Daisy Ridley told guest host Josh Gad that Reymay well have been a Kenobi, as the Jedi had a connection to Obi-Wan's line in earlier drafts of the story.

Rey's possible Kenobi heritagewas one of the early ideas that J.J. Abrams had, and he certainly put clues in the story that would support that idea (like having the voices of bothObi-Wan actors call out to her during her vision in The Force Awakens).Star Wars fans who pay attention to how thesefilms are made took this news with a grain of salt. Star Wars movies evolve by the seat of the directors pants every time a new one is made;the story evolves and the storytelling changes. For his part, Rian Johnson created a situation where Rey could have been anyone or no one, feeding the mystery of her lineage. J.J. Abrams was handed the difficult task of completely reconfiguring the end of the saga after the passing of Carrie Fisher and that evolution and ambiguity played into his favor.

For anyone who believes that Star Wars has always had blueprints set in stone, Id recommend reading the Making of Star Wars books by J.W. Rinzler. Lucas was flying by the seat of his pants. Vader as Lukes father? Not really planned for. Leia as a Skywalker? A late addition in Return of the Jedi no one on the production had expected when making Empire. Its just a thing that happens as Star Wars movies evolve.

Thats not to say critiques about Reys lineage arent fair: they absolutely are. It's just thatStar Wars'creative process tends to lend itself to seemingly last-minute reveals and changes. This isn't anything new.

MARVELS THE HIGH REPUBLIC PREVIEW

We got a new glimpse of The High Republic, which is scheduled to kick off in early 2021. This comes in the form of a preview of Cavan Scotts Marvel comic of the same name over at StarWars.com.

The book follows a Jedi Padawan Keeve and her Trandoshan master Sskeer. Keeve is close to her Jedi trials and it will be interesting to see them so far back in the history of the Jedi.

The comic premieres next year. For the full, four-page preview, visit the officialStar Warswebsite.

ELEE & ME

The redoubtable Amy Ratcliffe announced a new Star Wars project this week. Elee & Me expands the world of Batuu and the experience of Galaxys Edge. It tells the story of Salju and her little friend Elee. Salju runs the mechanics shop and filling station at Black Spire Outpost. Currently, there isnt much to Saljus Filling Station when you visit Galaxys Edge, but lets hope that as they expand the lore with books like this, there will be more added to that part of the Disney Park experience.

Amys childrens book is part of Targets Galaxys Edge Trading Outpost collection. It comes out Nov.3, 2020.

THE MOVIES THAT MADE STAR WARS

At Dragon Con this last weekend, the offerings from the Star Wars track were incredibly varied and impressive. The trivia contest had a nearly impossible qualifying test that even made the news. One of my favorite panels was the one dedicated to the movies that influenced Star Wars.

I was on the panel alongside other experts in the field. It was recorded and thats what well leave you with this week.

Until next week, may the Force be with you!

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A first look at The Mandalorian Season 2 and Rey's Kenobi origins - SYFY WIRE

Who has the edge when the Titans head to Denver to face the Broncos in the season opener on Monday Night Football (9:20 p.m., ESPN/WZTV-17)?

The Broncos offense is young and exciting but also largely unproven. The additions of running back Melvin Gordon and rookie receivers Jerry Jeudy and K.J. Hamler, who might miss the opener because of a hamstring injury, are a significant boost to an offense that already was brimming with young talent, including quarterback Drew Lock and wide receiver Courtland Sutton. But the Titans bring back 10 of 11 starters from an offense that averaged 30.4 points per game in Weeks 7-17 last season. Theres no reason to believe they cant pick up where they left off.

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This category became much closer in the days leading up to the opener thanks to one name: Jadeveon Clowney. The edge rushers versatility changes the complexion of the Titans defense and raises the overall profile of the group. Still, Denvers defense is its strength it ranked 10th in points allowed, 12th in total yards allowed and first in defensive red-zone percentage last season. The unit lost a star in cornerback Chris Harris Jr. but gained one in a defensive lineman whom Titans fans know well: Jurrell Casey. Once Clowney and Vic Beasley are fully up to snuff for the Titans, they probably get the nod here.

The Titans bring back Pro Bowl punter Brett Kern, who is among the best at his position in the NFL. But uncertainty still looms at kicker. Can Stephen Gostkowski revert to his old form and bounce back from October hip surgery? Time will tell. For now, Denver and kicker Brandon McManus, who hit 29 of 34 field-goal attempts and all but one extra-point attempt last season, have the edge.

With so many returning faces on offense, the Titans hold an advantage over the Broncos after an offseason that limited the opportunities NFL teams had to mesh on the field. The momentum of an AFC championship game appearance is difficult to carry over eight months later, but the jolt the Tennessee defense gets with arguably the most exciting free-agent acquisition in Titans-era history in Clowney is something thats tangible.

The nod here goes to the coach who ended last season by guiding his team on an improbable run to the AFC championship game. This year, Mike Vrabel figures to take on more of the defensive play-calling duty with Dean Pees out of the picture, though its still unclear how hell divvy up that responsibility between himself and outside linebackers coach Shane Bowen. In any event, Vic Fangio, entering his second season as Broncos coach after a 7-9 debut, still has more to prove than his Week 1 counterpart.

Erik Bacharach, Titans beat writer

Titans 27, Broncos 23: 337 days separate the last time these two teams played in Denver, but this is far from the Titans squad whose punchless offense couldnt muster a point in a 16-0 nightmare last October. Ryan Tannehill, Derrick Henry and company begin writing a new chapter of offensive success for Tennessee as JadeveonClowney plays an impactful role in his Titans debut.

Gentry Estes, sports columnist

Titans 24, Broncos 20:The Broncos will be better this season, but familiarity after a weird offseason should favor the Titans, who were also very good on the road in Week 1 last season. The altitude does matter, yes, but it's a big deal that the Broncos won't have their usual home-field advantage without fans.

Reach Erik Bacharach atebacharach@tennessean.comand on Twitter @ErikBacharach.

Excerpt from:
Titans at Broncos: Who has the edge in 2020 season opener? - Tennessean

As Ciena's (CIEN) Q3 results showed, having a business built around a few key customers has its drawbacks. Despite increasing diversification across its client base, a spending pause at its major telco clients looks to have significantly de-rated shares, driving a discount to the multiple despite its long-run growth outlook remaining largely intact. Looking through a softer Q4 guide, I remain bullish on the long-term potential, with growth tailwinds across optical, share gains from Huawei restrictions, and operating leverage set to drive continued earnings growth.

On a non-GAAP basis, Q3 revenue reached $976.7 million, with telecom revenue declining 3% Y/Y to $556 million. Non-telco revenue offset this weakness, rising to a c. 43% contribution for the quarter, led by Webscale, along with both MSOs and R&E/enterprise customers. By region, the vast majority (c. 70-75%) of Ciena sales still come from the Americas, with a lower level of deployments in India (as a result of COVID-19-related lockdowns), weighing on the overseas contribution.

(Source: Ciena Form 10-Q)

Gross margins were, however, a positive surprise for the quarter at 48%, well above the prior 44% to 46% guidance range. The margin improvement reflected a favorable mix shift toward line card additions into existing systems, which carry a better gross margin profile. A decrease in operating expenses also played a key role, coming in below consensus estimates despite a Q/Q increase in headcount for the quarter. As a result, Q3 EPS of $1.06 was well above consensus.

(Source: Ciena Q3 Presentation)

Encouragingly, management confirmed on the Q3 call that there are no cost-cutting plans at this point, even though fiscal 2020 is set to see materially lower opex due to COVID-19. Interestingly, management also noted that logistical challenges have played a key role - COVID-19 is making it more difficult to access deployment sites and install equipment, and as a result, customers are opting to defer larger new deployment projects.

Top-line guidance for the upcoming quarter stands at $820 million at the midpoint of the $800 to $840 million range, well below consensus expectations. In addition to slower roll-outs of optical technologies, and challenges in India as a result of COVID-19 restrictions, management also attributed the weakness to a slowdown in carrier spending amid weaker enterprise activity. In particular, order weakness seems to have accelerated in the quarter, with management expecting peers with similar exposures to note similar headwinds later in the Fall.

(Source: Ciena Q3 Presentation)

Considering capital expenditure plans at major US telcos such as Verizon (VZ) and AT&T (T) are slowing heading into the second half of the year, the Q4 weakness makes sense in context. Aside from COVID-19-related headwinds in the telco business, the CBRS and C-Band wireless auctions, which have led to spending with Ciena being front-loaded in the year, likely played a part as well.

Ciena remains in pole position in 800G, although peers such as Infinera (INFN) are nipping at its heels. With a growing number of wins and an impressive list of trials, Infinera, for instance, appears to be getting close to its 800G rollout as well. There have also been reports of Verizon testing Infinera, which has led to speculation of a potential transition away from Ciena. However, there are high switching costs, and any transition will likely prove to be gradual.

For now, I think Ciena is well-positioned, having secured 50 design wins for WaveLogic 5 Extreme and shipping over 1,000 modems to 40 customers globally within months of commercial availability. The current slowdown is more skewed toward operationalization, which has been impacted by COVID-19. But RFPs have not slowed down, which is a key positive.

There is also a major opportunity for Ciena to gain share at the expense of Huawei, especially in Europe - Huawei held a c. 30% market share in the region pre-COVID-19. As many European countries move away from Huawei, however, there should be plenty of business up for grabs, and Ciena, as the market leader, is well-positioned to benefit. However, any share gains will likely be gradual - as management outlined, replacing an existing vendor, especially a major one, is a multi-step process involving extensive qualification and back-office integration testing, among other steps.

Source: Ciena Q3 Presentation

On balance, I believe Ciena remains the best play on the optical theme over the long term. With newer wins such as CenturyLink (CTL) and Windstream (OTCPK:WINMQ) yet to meaningfully contribute, there is still upside to earnings ahead, despite the near-term demand weakness from telco and webscale customers.

Pending a faster than expected recovery at key customers or signs of an accelerated Huawei displacement, the near-term outlook is admittedly cloudy, but this appears to be well reflected in the price at c.13-14x fiscal 2021 EPS. With the underlying longer-term growth potential largely intact, however, I believe shares should trade at a premium to peers instead. As such, I see current valuations as a buying opportunity.

Data by YCharts

Disclosure: I/we have no positions in any stocks mentioned, and no plans to initiate any positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.

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Ciena: Best-Positioned To Ride The Longer-Term Optical Growth Story - Seeking Alpha

SportsPulse: Mackenzie Salmon connected with Kansas City's Travis Kelce to see what he thinks will be the biggest challenge facing his team's quest to becoming the first back-to-back Super Bowl champion in 16 years. USA TODAY

There's nothing quite like the optimism of a fresh NFL season. Thirty-two teams all starting on an equal plane, with one goal in sight.

Perhaps more than any of the major American sports leagues, the NFL offers the most parity, where a team no one was counting on can rise to the top of their division and get into the playoffs. Just look at the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2017 season, on their way to a title in Super Bowl LII.

Here's one reason why each of the league's 32 teams will and won't win Super Bowl LV in Tampa on Feb. 7.

NFL HOT SEAT:Matt Patricia, Adam Gase already on notice ahead of Week 1

WHO WINS IT ALL?:Super Bowl, playoff and MVP predictions

NFL NEWSLETTER: Sign up now to get football news delivered to your inbox

Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes hoists the Vince Lombardi Trophy after defeating the 49ers in Super Bowl LIV at Hard Rock Stadium.(Photo: Robert Deutsch, USA TODAY Sports)

Buffalo Bills

The Bills could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Josh Allen takes a massive leap as a passer, continues his threat as a rusher and the defense remains dominant, and builds off of its second-best 16.2 points a game allowed last season.

The Bills won't win the Super Bowl if Allen regresses, if additions (receiver Stefon Diggs, cornerback Josh Norman and defensive linemen Mario Addison and Vernon Butler) don't produce, and if that defense doesn't shut down opponents.

Miami Dolphins

The Dolphins could win the Super Bowl if Fitzmagic gives way to an all-time rookie performance by quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, if receivers like Jakeem Grant and DeVante Parker become stars, and free-agent addition Byron Jones becomes a shutdown corner and elevates an already-talented secondary.

The Dolphins won't make the Super Bowl if this roster is still a few years from being legitimate contenders in the AFC, Tagovailoa needs time to assimilate into the NFL, and the defense doesn't improve from its league-worst 30.9 points allowed per game.

New England Patriots

The Patriots could win the Super Bowl if Cam Newton returns to his 2015 NFL MVP form, the team doesn't miss opt-outs (linebacker Dont'a Hightower, safety Patrick Chung and right tackle Marcus Cannon) too much, and the defense builds on last year's production.

The Patriots won't win the Super Bowl if offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels struggles to craft a system that fits Newton's unique skill set, lack of depth at wide receiver zaps the passing game, and the offense can't become a dominant rushing outfit.

New York Jets

The Jets could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Sam Darnold ascends to become one of the top young passers in the league, running back Le'Veon Bell's production mirrors what it was in his best seasons in Pittsburgh, and the offense sees a near-miracle turnaround inkey metrics that ranked among the league's worst last season.

The Jets won't win the Super Bowl if the roster can't overcome significant holes at receiver andedge rusher, the offensive line continues to yield far too much pressure (New York ranked 30th, allowing sacks on almost one out of every 10 pass attempts), and a lack of star talent dooms the team.

Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals could win the Super Bowl if rookie quarterback Joe Burrow picks up where he left off in terms of the ultra-efficiency he had at LSU, they score double the points they did last season (17.4 a game), and the defense stops giving up explosive plays.

The Bengals won't win the Super Bowl if Burrow has even an average season, andfree-agency acquisitions like cornerback Trae Waynes (who is on IR with a torn pectoral, but could return for the second half of the season), safety Vonn Bell and defensive tackle D.J. Reader don't drastically improve a defense that ranked worst in the league in yards per play allowed (6.09).

Cleveland Browns

The Browns could win the Super Bowl if new coach Kevin Stefanski is exactly what quarterback Baker Mayfield and receiver Odell Beckham Jr. need to blossom into one ofthe top QB-WR duos in the league, and a fairly talented roster lives up to the hype that it drew last offseason.

The Browns won't win the Super Bowl unless Mayfield is elite, the defense doesn't do a better job of clamping offenses in the red zone, and they don't finish on the opposite end of the turnover margin (-8 in 2019, ranked 26th) scale.

Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Lamar Jackson doesn't drop off, newly acquired rusher Calais Campbell bolsters a pass rush that ranked 21st in the NFL with 37 sacks, and the rushing offense remains as productive as it was last year.

The Ravens won't win the Super Bowl if Jackson regresses or gets hurt, and the team's loss against the Titans in the divisional round of last year's playoffs proves to be an indicator of problems in stopping the run after Derrick Henry dominated with 195 yards.

Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Ben Roethlisberger returns to form after missing last season with a throwing elbow injury, they capitalize on their trips inside the 20 (Pittsburgh ranked last in red zone efficiency at 35%), and linebacker T.J. Watt wins defensive player of the year on a revitalized unit.

The Steelers won't win the Super Bowl if Roethlisberger doesn't play at previous levels, receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster doesn't have a monster bounce-back season, and the team doesn't fix its third-down struggles (converting just 34.36% of attempts).

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Indianapolis Colts

The Colts could win the Super Bowl if the offensive line remains dominant, marquee free-agency signingquarterback Philip Riversfinds the fountain of youth with coach Frank Reich, and the defense finally finds some consistency, especially in the secondary.

The Colts won't win the Super Bowl if Rivers and Reich can't match the success they had while Reich was the offensive coordinator with the Chargers in 2014-15, the secondary continues to get gashed for big plays, and the offensive line doesn't open up holes in the rushing game.

Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jaguars could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Gardner Minshew has an all-world performance, a sorely depleted roster just happens to be a group of unknown and inexperienced stars, and if miracles happen.

The Jaguars won't win the Super Bowl even if Minshew has a monster season, but a talent deficiency is far too much to overcome.

Houston Texans

The Texans could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Deshaun Watson enters the MVP race with a season loaded with career-highs, the offensive line actually protects him, and coach Bill O'Brien and the rest of the staff avoids critical game management errors.

The Texans won't win the Super Bowl if Watson, who has been sacked 120 times over the last two years 14 more than the next closest player continues to remain under duress, the departure of receiver DeAndre Hopkins is too big to make up for, and the defense, under new defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, ranks last again in red zone efficiency (71.43%).

Tennessee Titans

The Titans could win the Super Bowl if running back Derrick Henry plays like the offensive player of the year, quarterback Ryan Tannehill proves last yearwasn't a fluke and makes more plays when called to do so, and the defense does more than bend but not break.

The Titans won't win the Super Bowl if their remarkable red zone efficiency from last season (75.56%) and goal-to-go offense (88%) takes a serious step backward, Tannehill can't win games when defenses stifle Henry, and the pass rush remains average.

Denver Broncos

The Broncos could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Drew Lock leads the offense to unexpected levels in his second season, the receiver combo of rookie Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton becomes one of the best in the league, and running back Melvin Gordon stays healthy and is a threat on the ground and in the passing game.

The Broncos won't win the Super Bowl if Lock doesn't take drastic strides, the team cannot overcome the loss of edge rusher Von Miller, who suffered an apparent season-ending ankle injury Tuesday, and they don't improve on their sixth-ranked 17 giveaways from last season.

Los Angeles Chargers

The Chargers could win the Super Bowl if Tyrod Taylor serves as more than just a bridge quarterback with rookie Justin Herbert waiting in the wings, running back Austin Ekeler makes fans forget about Melvin Gordon, and the defense goes from being respectable to being elite.

The Chargers won't win the Super Bowl if their defense cannot make up for the loss of 2018 first-team All-Pro safety Derwin James (out for season with right knee injury), andthe notoriously efficient Taylor doesn't do more than simply protect the ball

Kansas City Chiefs

The Chiefs could repeat as Super Bowl champions if Patrick Mahomes simply stays the course and makes gradual improvements to his game, rookie running backClyde Edwards-Helaire becomes a force, and the defense continues to make strides under coordinator Steve Spagnuolo.

The Chiefs won't win the Super Bowl if they have a letdown from last season, the secondary becomes a problem that a potent offense can't mask, and a pass rush that was just slightly above average doesn't post gains.

Las Vegas Raiders

The Raiders could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Derek Carr improves on his decision making and takes a massive leap, the team's young weapons, second-year running back Josh Jacobs and rookie receiver Henry Ruggs III become dominant, and the pass rush finally breaks through.

The Raiders won't win the Super Bowl if Carr's play remains the same, the pass rush can't seem to rebound since the 2018 trade of Khalil Mack to the Bears, and the defense doesn't improve off of its 24th-ranked scoring defense (26.2)

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Dallas Cowboys

The Cowboys could win the Super Bowl if new coach Mike McCarthy's offense clicks right away with quarterback Dak Prescott and running back Ezekiel Elliott, receiver CeeDee Lamb takes off in a performance worthy of offensive rookie of the year, and if the defense gets a second reliable pass rusher to compliment Demarcus Lawrence.

The Cowboys won't win the Super Bowl if the secondary blows coverages and allows opponents to outscore Prescott and Co., depth at safety continues to plague the team, and McCarthy's scheme either doesn't work or takes too long to get going.

Philadelphia Eagles

The Eagles could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Carson Wentz stays healthy and plays as he did in 2017 before he tore his ACL, season-ending injuries to starting offensive linemen Brandon Brooks (Achilles) and Andre Dillard (biceps)are minimized, and the team's rebuilt secondary makes fans forget about the many blown coverages of 2019.

The Eagles won't win the Super Bowl if Wentz misses time, promising young running back Miles Sanders doesn't take the step to become a consistent dual weapon, and the receiving corps doesn't produce more reliably.

Washington Football Team

Washington could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Dwayne Haskins elevates his play significantly, the talented defensive front becomes one of the top pass rushing groups in the NFL, and the team overcomes reports of internal dysfunction and organizational failures on the front office side from the offseason.

Washington won't win the Super Bowl if Haskins doesn't improve on his 58.62% completion rate and takes better care of the ball, if the receiving that lacks star talent struggles, and if the league's 31st-ranked rushing defense (146.2) from 2019 doesn't become a strength.

New York Giants

The Giants could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Daniel Jones owns the offense and does far more than simply manage games, running back Saquon Barkley wins the league MVP after a workhorse season, and new coach Joe Judge implements a culture that gets an unprecedented amount of production from a fairly talent-lacking defense.

The Giants won't win the Super Bowl if they don't massively reverse their minus-17 turnover differential that tied them for worst in the NFL, Jones doesn't enter the top tier of passers, and if a leaky defense continues to allow an unsustainable amount of yardage.

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Chicago Bears

The Bears could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Mitchell Trubisky resurrects his career and becomes a dependable and efficient passer, a pass rush that has Khalil Mack and new signing Robert Quinn generates more than a sack on just 5.6% of pass attempts, and coach Matt Nagy's offensive schemes run without a hitch.

The Bears won't win the Super Bowl if Trubisky doesn't take control of the offense and cedes the job to Nick Foles, Quinn disappoints, and an offense that gained a 31st-ranked 4.66 yards a playsputters yet again.

Detroit Lions

The Lions could win the Super Bowl if the offense doesn't drastically improve on a woeful goal-to-go offense that scored touchdowns just 58.33% (29th) of the time, they don't get more out of a pass rush that ranked second-to-last in sack rate (4.58%) and quarterback Matthew Stafford plays like an MVP.

The Lions won't win the Super Bowl if rookie No. 3 overall pick, cornerback Jeff Okudah, doesn't become an instant star, the pass rush remains dormant, and if former Patriots in linebacker Jamie Collins and Duron Harmon don't get this defense completely turned around.

Green Bay Packers

The Packers could win the Super Bowl ifYear 2 of coach Matt LaFleur's offense takes another stride, if quarterback Aaron Rodgers can get the most out of a receiving cast that lacks a star after top threat Davante Adams, and if coordinator Mike Pettine's defense builds on a group that tied for seventh with 25 forced turnovers.

The Packers won't win the Super Bowl if LaFleur's offense regresses, his relationship with Rodgers frays, and the NFL's third-best interception rate of 3.11% drops.

Minnesota Vikings

The Vikings could win the Super Bowl if their defense remains one of the most aggressive outfits in the entire NFL after it generated a fourth-best 31 turnovers, quarterback Kirk Cousins doesn't miss the loss of former offensive coordinator Kevin Stefanski (who became the coach of the Browns) too much, and running back Dalvin Cook builds on a solid 2019.

The Vikings won't win the Super Bowl if Cousins doesn't jibe with new coordinator Gary Kubiak, a very good red zone defense that ranked second last season (43.75%) allows more touchdowns this season, and rookie first-round receiver Justin Jefferson out of LSU doesn't become a consistent compliment to Adam Thielen.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Buccaneers could win the Super Bowl if all of their offseason additions starting with quarterback Tom Brady, running back Leonard Fournette and tight end Rob Gronkowski instantly click, the team gets a steady edge rusher to take pressure off linebacker Shaquil Barrett, and the team can get a consistent rushing game going.

The Buccaneers won't win the Super Bowl if Brady struggles to grasp coach Bruce Arians' offense, andTampa's turnover bug even though former quarterback Jameis Winston was largely responsible lingers and doesn't improve from last year's league-high mark of 41.

Atlanta Falcons

The Falcons could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Matt Ryan plays like he did during his during his MVP season in 2016, the team avoids inconsistent play like it did when it started last season 1-7, but instead gets much steadier offensive production like it did when it finished 6-2.

The Falcons won't win the Super Bowl if running back Todd Gurley II can't find his early career success, receiver Julio Jones finally starts to show signs of decline, and a defense that is built on speed plays like it did in the first half of lastyear.

Carolina Panthers

The Panthers could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Teddy Bridgewater shows Carolina was smart to invest in him and he plays like he did when he was last a team's unquestionedstarter, running back Christian McCaffrey both gets an ample amount of touches but stays healthy, and receiver DJ Moore blossoms into one of the league's most dangerous threats.

The Panthers won't win the Super Bowl if rookie coach Matt Rhule's system takes too long to implement, the team doesn't repair a turnover problem that was second-worst last season (35 giveaways), and Bridgewater doesn't elevate the play of everyone around him.

New Orleans Saints

The Saints could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Drew Brees has one last stellar run in him, the defense makes realistic improvements in red zone efficiency (59.57%), and the entire team enjoys good health to capitalize on what might be the last year to win in a rapidly closing window.

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Why all 32 NFL teams could and why they won't win Super Bowl LV - USA TODAY

Say what you will about 2020, but one things for sure: There has been no shortage of barbecue to consume, both as actual smoked meat and as entertainment.

To be sure, the restaurant industry is in dire straits because of the social and economic impact of the pandemic. Barbecue joints are not immune. Though Id say most in Houston are doing sales numbers similar to pre-pandemic levels, some are struggling.

Still, as someone whose job it is to keep up with the comings-and-goings in the barbecue business, I can say with confidence that 2020 has been one of the busiest times ever in Houston barbecue. Just in the past year, at least eight brick-and-mortar barbecue joints have opened: 3rd Coast BBQ, Bexar Barbecue, Big Bertha Barbeque, Fainmous BBQ (new location), Lonestar Sausage & BBQ, OMG Famous Barbque, Texas 202 Barbeque and Woodshed Smokehouse.

Barbecue trailers and pop-ups have been busy, too. Chef Sloan Rinaldi recently announced her partnership with Houston restaurateur Ken Bridges to open the Texas Q barbecue truck in Kingwood. And one of the highest-profile openings of 2020 is the Houston Sauce Pit barbecue trailer, which features, of all things, vegan barbecue.

On the pop-up side, longtime weekend warriors Eddie Os BBQ, JQs Tex Mex BBQ and Khoi Barbecue are still going strong. New additions to the pop-up scene include AM BBQ, MoCo Barbeque and Heights BBQ.

Two additional venues where Houston barbecue fanatics can get their fix are grocery stores and farmers markets. Both Burns Original BBQ and Tejas Chocolate & BBQ have partnered with Kroger to open weekly pop-ups at supermarket locations throughout the area.

Grocery stores and barbecue are a natural pairing. H-E-B continues to open its True Texas BBQ locations in many of its supermarkets, and the Tejas and Burns pop-ups at Kroger have been wildly successful. Check their corresponding Facebook pages for dates and times of future pop-ups.

Barbecue fans will also see smoked-meat offerings at local farmers markets. Feges BBQ has been a cautionary tale in the age of pandemic its brick-and-mortar location in a mostly deserted office-complex food hall has complicated the business model. But Erin and Patrick Feges have responded by upping their takeout service, as well as offering weekend pop-ups of their own.

Recently, theyve had a booth at the Urban Harvest Farmers Market and going forward will be selling their wares at the Heights Mercantile Farmers Market every second and fourth Sunday of the month.

And if eating barbecue isnt enough, there are other ways to consume smoked meats. The acclaimed Chefs Table series on Netflix recently featured Snows BBQ in Lexington, telling the foundational story of pitmaster Tootsie Tomanetz and owner Kerry Bexley.

The current issue of Food & Wine magazine is cover-to-cover barbecue, with a solid list of the best barbecue in every state, among other diverse barbecue stories.

And coming in early October is a revised and expanded edition of the canonical history book Barbecue: The History of an American Institution by smoked-meat scholar Robert Moss.

One area of barbecue thats taken it on the-chin in the pandemic era is events and festivals. The Houston Rodeo Worlds Championship Bar-B-Que Contest was probably the last big event to take place in 2020. Other high-profile competitions such as Jack Daniels, Memphis in May and the American Royal all canceled or postponed.

Festivals including Windy City Smokeout, Red Dirt BBQ Festival and the Houston Barbecue Festival (which I co-founded) were all forced to cancel, though the Texas Monthly BBQ Festival is going virtual this year, selling an at-home BBQ Box to go with an online event hosted by barbecue editor Daniel Vaughn on Nov. 1.

It is certainly the best of times and the worst of times in the barbecue world. We take comfort where we can, and barbecue fits that bill nicely.

jcreid@jcreidtx.com

twitter.com/jcreidtx

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Boom of 2020: One of the busiest times ever in Houston barbecue - Houston Chronicle

Lindsay Patterson and Tyler Dragon discuss the upcoming game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the L.A. Chargers. Cincinnati Enquirer

In the midst of a ragging pandemic, the Cincinnati Bengals wereuncharacteristicallyaggressive this offseason. Bengals director of player personnel Duke Tobin and company constructed a roster that the franchise and fan base feel optimistic about. The Bengals spent over $140 million on free agents and all seven members of the teams 2020 draft class made the 53-man roster.

No. 1 overall pick quarterback Joe Burrow and defensive tackle D.J. Reader headline the teams offseason acquisitions. Plus, the club welcomes back seven-time Pro Bowl wide receiver A.J. Green, who hasnt appeared in a game since Dec. 2, 2018.

Excitement for the Bengals is legitimate.

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow calls out a play during a scrimmage at Paul Brown Stadium Sunday August 30, 2020.(Photo: Cara Owsley/The Enquirer)

Cincinnati has seven new starters entering Week 1. But, do the Bengals have enough talent overall to get out of the AFC North basement?

The Enquirer previews the Bengals offense and defense

Zac Taylors 11-personnel-centric offense was dealt debilitating blows last season due to injuries, A.J. Green (ankle) and Jonah Williams (shoulder) being chief among them. Taylors second season at the helm begins with a healthy squad on offense and a starting quarterback who he had heavy influence in drafting.

The Bengals offense lined up in 11-personnel 77% of the time last season, the most in all of football. For 11-personnel to function effectively, a team needs a playmaking X wide receiver, a reliable slot receiver, a deep threat and a running back who can run the football and catch passes out of the backfield. Most importantly though, its a requirement for the club to have a good quarterback and a stout offensive line.

Taylor and the Bengals believe they possess all of the above when all their starters are healthy. Returning players have expressed confidence in Taylors system. Several Bengals say they are more comfortable with his offensive philosophy and have intimate knowledge of what the team wants to do.

There are just so many pieces were finally putting together that we didnt have in place last year. Now that we have everybody rolling, guys dont have to overthink it or be confused about what their role is and where theyre playing at, Bengals wide receiver Tyler Boyd said. With all the pieces in place, the skys the limit.

Burrow has sky-high expectations, but hell only be as good as his surrounding parts. He does have the luxury of having one of the best wide receiving corps in the AFC, if they can stay healthy. Plus, a Pro-Bowl-caliber running back in Joe Mixon. Although, Cincinnatis offensive line is a question mark even with the additions of Williams at left tackle and right guard Xavier Su'a-Filo.

Anticipate the team to make a more concerted effort to establish the run to ease the burden off Burrow. When Burrow does drop back to pass, most of his first reads will go to Boyd, who he has a solid connection with already, and Green, who the team wants to get going.

The Bengals defense played in nickel 48.5% of the time in defensive coordinator Lou Anarumos system. Expect more of the same in year No. 2 under Anarumo. Similar to the offensive side, returning players claim they are feeling much more relaxed hearing the same terminology.

We are just growing. Growing together as a defensive group. This is year two for Lou (Anarumo) and me, Bengals linebacker Germaine Pratt said. We are improving and trying to work on things that we needed to do last year.

It wont be season two under Anarumo for some Bengals defenders, though. Cincinnati revamped their defense this offseason and will trot out four new starters who they acquired in free agency defensive tackle D.J. Reader, linebacker Josh Bynes, slot corner Mackensie Alexander and strong safety Vonn Bell (the defensive wouldve had five new Week 1 starters if Trae Waynes were healthy).

Credit Bengals director of player personnel Duke Tobin and the club for being proactivein free agency in an attempt to upgrade their defense. The Bengals were at the very bottom of the NFL in run defense last season and were in the bottom half of the league in pass defense. Staying stagnant wouldve been catastrophic in a division with the reining MVP and the run-oriented Baltimore Ravens, in addition to Nick Chubb and the Cleveland Browns and Ben Roethlisberger and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Cincinnati finished 1-5 in the AFC North in 2019. The division figures to be better this go around.

In his second season leading the defense, Anarumo wants his bunch to impose their will upfront and stop the run, plus create more turnovers. Cincinnati had a -14-turnover differential in Anarumo's first year as coordinator. The New York Giants and Los Angeles Chargers were the only teams with a worse turnover differential.

We need to not let people run the ball. It has to start there. From there, we have to take advantage of turnovers, Anarumo said to The Enquirer. Interceptions and causing more fumbles, which we have to do. You stop the run, you turn the ball over, then that helps everything else.

Stopping the run and creating turnovers are major points of emphasis for the Bengals re-tooled defense heading into the season. Cincinnatis success in both areas will have a big influence on its win total.

Darrin Simmons returns for his 18th season in Cincinnati. He is the Bengals' longest-tenured coach. The Bengals promoted Simmons to assistant head coach over the offseason, adding to his role as special teams coordinator.

Simmons is one of the most respected special teams coaches in the NFL.

The Bengals'special teams was one of the few bright spots for the club last season. Kicker Randy Bullock converted on83.5% of his field goals, punter Kevin Huber had a team record 42.11-yard net average,Brandon Wilson averaged an NFL-best31.3 yards per kick return attempt and long snapper Clark Harris had no unplayable snaps. The four of them will lead the wayonce again for Cincinnati's special teams.

More here:
Here's what to expect from the Bengals offense and defense - The Cincinnati Enquirer

The National League playoff race is a mess. If you like "Hoarders," "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" or the finale of "Game of Thrones," you are certainly enjoying this mad scramble of mediocrity in Major League Baseball's senior circuit. With less than three weeks left in the season -- and many doubleheaders to be played -- it seems that only four teams have locked up playoff spots: the Dodgers, Braves, Cubs and Padres. Only the Pirates and Diamondbacks can safely be eliminated, which leaves nine teams fighting for the four spots in the bottom half of the bracket.

Let's check in on those nine teams, ranked by their odds of making the playoffs. First, however, remember the postseason rules:

(1) Eight teams will advance to the postseason.

(2) The top two teams in each division make it, plus two wild cards.

(3) There will be no tiebreaker games. Any ties will be settled by head-to-head record, then record within the team's division, then record over the final 20 games within the division (then 21, 22 and so on until the tie is broken).

Current playoff odds: 89.8%

Strength: The Phillies are fourth in the majors in runs per game, trailing only the Dodgers, Padres and Braves. Bryce Harper and J.T. Realmuto have been steady all season, but Rhys Hoskins has been on a tear, hitting .310/.403/.793 with eight home runs in 14 games heading into Tuesday's doubleheader.

2 Related

Weakness: The bullpen is last in the majors with a 7.02 ERA, even though only the Cardinals have needed fewer innings from their relievers. Opponents are hitting .328/.402/.579 against Phillies relievers. Only two other teams have allowed an average higher than .265.

Overachiever: Zack Wheeler is 4-0 with a 2.47 ERA, but how he has done it is interesting, as he's averaging just 6.4 strikeouts per nine. He has cut down on his walks compared to previous seasons and has allowed just two home runs in 51 innings. It has worked so far, even with a mediocre strikeout rate.

Needs to get going: In general, everybody in the bullpen. The Phillies acquired Brandon Workman to take over as closer, but he has allowed 19 baserunners in 9 innings (though he has managed to save five of his six chances).

Series to watch: The Phillies play seven games against the Marlins from Thursday through Monday in Miami, including doubleheaders Friday and Sunday.

Final thought: The Phillies have a little margin to play with, thus their high playoff odds, but even after Tuesday's doubleheader, they have four more doubles on the schedule. They are finished with the Braves, but they end the season with a road trip to Washington and Tampa Bay. The Rays will be worried about getting their staff ready for the postseason by then, however, so the Phillies look pretty good. Don't rule out their catching the Braves for the NL East title.

Current playoff odds: 80.6%

Strength: The Cardinals have the fifth-best rotation ERA in the majors, the lowest batting average allowed and the third-lowest wOBA allowed.

Weakness: The offense is 22nd in the majors in runs per game and 27th in home run rate. Cardinals outfielders are hitting just .214/.294/.377.

Baseball is back! You can watch 2020's 60-game sprint all season on ESPN.

Sunday, Sept. 13Astros at Dodgers, 8 p.m.

Wednesday, Sept. 16Dodgers at Padres, 4 p.m.Mets at Phillies, 7 p.m.

On ESPN and the ESPN App; all times ET.Don't have ESPN? Get instant access.

Overachiever: Brad Miller has taken over the DH duties and is hitting .282/.404/.541 with nearly as many walks (17) as strikeouts (22).

Needs to get going: Somebody from the Matt Carpenter/Tyler O'Neill/Dylan Carlson/Lane Thomas group. All are hitting under .200, and only Carpenter has an OBP over .300. He hasn't hit for any power, though, and rookie Carlson has been optioned to the alternate site after looking overmatched (.162, 23 K's in 79 PAs).

Series to watch: Five games in Milwaukee from Sept. 14 to Sept. 16. That series features two doubleheaders -- two of the six the Cardinals have remaining (beginning with Tuesday's doubleheader against the Twins). Note that the Cardinals have only 58 games scheduled. We'll see if that ends up playing to their advantage.

Final thought: All those doubleheaders will be difficult, but the good news is that after the Twins games on Tuesday, the Cardinals don't play another series against a team currently above .500. They face the Tigers, Reds, Brewers, Pirates, Royals and then the Brewers again. Given the team's pitching depth and good defense, the Cardinals should be able to handle their business and return to the postseason.

Current playoff odds: 67.3%

Strength: Mike Yastrzemski has been one of the best players in the majors, ranked behind only Fernando Tatis Jr. in FanGraphs WAR and behind Mookie Betts and Tatis in Baseball-Reference WAR.

Weakness: Closers Trevor Gott and Tyler Rogers are a combined 2-5 with a 7.44 ERA. Rogers has pitched better than his 5.73 ERA indicates, but the late game remains a bit nerve-wracking for manager Gabe Kapler.

Overachiever: Yaz is certainly unexpected, but so is longtime first baseman Brandon Belt, who is hitting .337/.432/.653. Throw in Donovan Solano's .353 average, and the Giants' top of the order has been one of the best in the majors.

Needs to get going: The only starter with a sub-4.00 ERA is Trevor Cahill, and he has pitched just 17 innings in five outings. The Giants need a couple of other guys -- Johnny Cueto, Kevin Gausman, Tyler Anderson, Logan Webb -- to have a hot two-week stretch.

Series to watch: Sept. 10-13 at San Diego. The Giants then finish with three games against the Padres and have a three-game series against the A's as well, which makes for a tough final stretch, even though they're finished with the Dodgers.

Final thought: The Giants cleaned up against Arizona (8-2), and that's why they're here and the Diamondbacks are looking ahead to 2021. The offense has obviously been much better than expected, with basically everybody performing better than they did last season -- a huge surprise given that this is the oldest group of position players in the league. The playoff odds like the Giants to get the No. 7 seed, but I'm not quite as confident.

Current playoff odds: 44.6%

Cracking the great Don Mattingly mystery. Sam Miller

Strength: Really, their biggest strength is that nobody expected them to be here after last season's 105 losses and their COVID-19 outbreak after the first series of 2020. The starting pitching has been solid, with a 3.94 ERA, and the bullpen has been clutch in the late innings (the Marlins are 17-0 when leading after six innings).

Weakness: They don't hit much. They're 23rd in the majors in runs per game, and that's with their numbers being much better with runners in scoring position.

Overachiever: Rookie starters Sixto Sanchez and Trevor Rogers have combined for a 2.25 ERA through seven starts. Can they keep it going?

Needs to get going: Corey Dickerson has six home runs but is hitting just .232/.294/.416. Adding Starling Marte should help the meager outfield production, but this team needs more from Dickerson as one of the veterans with a track record.

Series to watch: That seven-game series against the Phillies will do a lot in determining who finishes second in the NL East.

Final thought: What's interesting is that the Marlins aren't really a young team. Their average adjusted age for their position players is fifth oldest in the NL. The pitching is younger and the better part of the team, but this is mostly a lineup of players other teams didn't want. Also, the team has had to use 35 pitchers -- eight more than any other team -- because of the early COVID outbreak. A season-ending road trip against the Braves and Yankees will be a tough finish, but the Marlins keep overcoming various bumps, and Sanchez and Rogers have looked really good. I say the Marlins will find a way to squeeze in.

Current playoff odds: 37.6%

Strength: The bullpen is 13th in the majors in ERA, but it is sixth in Win Probability Added, so it's been good when games are close. That's mostly thanks to Josh Hader and Devin Williams (although Hader's 10 walks in 11 innings is a concern).

Weakness: The Brewers are hitting a pathetic .221, with none of their eight players with the most PAs hitting even .250 after Tuesday.

Overachiever: Williams appeared in a few games last season and had an excellent strikeout rate at Double-A, but he's one of the best relievers in the game with a 35 K's and just one run in 17 innings. He looks like the real deal thanks to a devastating changeup: Batters are 0-for-39 against it with 26 strikeouts.

Needs to get going: You hate to pick on the team's best player, and while Christian Yelich has nine home runs, he's hitting just .213/.348/.463. He's hardly the biggest problem, but the offense was mediocre even when he MVP-level last year, so he needs to carry them these final two-plus weeks.

Series to watch: They end the season with five games in St. Louis, including a Friday doubleheader.

Final thought: I'm not sure how the Brewers are even in this race. The rotation has a 5.15 ERA. The offense is terrible. They're 8-4 in one-run games, so that's been a key to keep them close to .500. They're 29th in the majors in strikeout rate, so that helps explain the low batting average. They need to make more contact to score more runs and have a chance at the postseason.

Current playoff odds: 32.0%

Strength: Well, Jacob deGrom is the best pitcher in baseball with a 1.69 ERA -- although he's won just three of his eight starts. The offense actually leads the majors in OBP and is tied with the Braves for the lead in wOBA, but it has underperformed its expected run total due to a .238 average with RISP (ranking just 27th in wOBA).

Since he was a child, Fernando Tatis Jr. has lived to play. This year, the game needs him just as much as he needs it. Jeff Passan

Weakness: The rest of the rotation minus deGrom is 6-12 with a 6.64 ERA.

Overachiever: Dominic Smith didn't really have a role at the beginning of the season but has bashed his away into regular playing time with .322/.390/.636 line that includes 32 RBIs and 23 extra-base hits.

Needs to get going: Look, the Mets aren't going to find 2015 Matt Harvey and Noah Syndergaard in this current crop of rotation options, so they simply need to hit more. Amed Rosario is hitting just .223/.243/.339 with 26 K's and just three walks and has apparently lost his job to Andres Gimenez, who has hit well enough and is better in the field. But nothing would get the Mets going like a hot Pete Alonso and he hit four home runs in five games heading into Tuesday.

Series to watch: At Philadelphia, Sept. 15-17. This is the only series the Mets have remaining against the Phillies and Marlins, the two teams they're trying to run down for second place. They're 2-5 against the Phillies and may need to sweep this series.

Final thought: It has been a frustrating 40-something games for the Mets, from the injuries to the rotation, to a couple of huge blown saves, to the offense struggling with runners on base. Seth Lugo has moved to the rotation, a necessary step even if it weakens the bullpen. There's no reason the numbers with runners in scoring position won't improve, and if that happens, the Mets just may hit their way into the playoffs. Put it this way: The Dodgers don't want to face deGrom in Game 1 of a best-of-three series.

Current playoff odds: 26.8%

With only 60 games on the schedule and 16 teams headed to the playoffs, the races are already heating up.MLB standings

Latest MLB Power Rankings

Strength: Umm ... well, they've been outscored by 45 runs and yet are just 1.5 games out of the playoff race. OK, maybe the starting rotation is better than you think. In fact, according to FanGraphs WAR, Colorado's rotation has matched the Dodgers' rotation with 3.0 WAR (even though the Dodgers have a 3.25 ERA versus 4.81 for the Rockies).

Weakness: As usual, the Rockies struggle to score away from Coors Field, hitting just .223/.296/.361 on the road. That's even worse than normal -- last year they hit .230/.289/.388 on the road (with pitchers hitting). Their home OPS is also down 59 points, so it's not a good offensive team.

Overachiever: Daniel Bard has been one of the best stories of the season. The 35-year-old had last pitched in the majors in 2013, his career undone by an extreme inability to throw strikes. Now he's throwing strikes, still throwing 97 mph, and he's the closer.

Needs to get going: The Rockies' offense needs Trevor Story, Nolan Arenado and Charlie Blackmon to all produce big numbers, but Arenado has really struggled (for him), with an adjusted OPS well below the league average. He hit his first road home run (of eight total) on Tuesday and is hitting just .222 on the road. His BABIP is low, but his expected batting average is just .250, so the Statcast numbers don't actually suggest he's been hitting in bad luck. He just hasn't been hitting.

Series to watch: At San Francisco, Sept. 21-24. This four-game series could decide third place in the NL West -- and who goes to the playoffs.

Final thought: The Rockies are 9-19 since an 11-3 start, but maybe taking two of three from the Dodgers over the weekend will get them going again. German Marquez (other than one 10-run start), Kyle Freeland and Antonio Senzatela have been solid, while Jon Gray (now on the IL) has not. Despite those road batting woes, they're 11-10 on the road. So maybe the key is they have to hit more at Coors Field.

Current playoff odds: 20.7%

Strength: Led by Trevor Bauer's 2.05 ERA, the Reds have four starters with a sub-4.00 ERA. Overall, the Reds are eighth in the majors in rotation ERA and second in strikeout rate -- and yet the rotation is just 11-18.

Weakness: As you can guess, the offense. Despite all the offseason additions that were supposed to deepen the lineup, the Reds are 29th in the majors in runs per game. Here's the weird thing. They're second in walk rate and fifth in isolated power. The problem? They don't hit singles. They're batting .210, getting shut out Tuesday, while hitting just .228 with RISP.

Overachiever: Jesse Winker is hitting .286/.406/.588, although his Statcast measurements support that level of production. Those 10 home runs have produced just 18 RBIs, however -- even though he's hit .316 with RISP and .378 with men on. He just hasn't batted often enough with runners on.

Needs to get going: Shogo Akiyama has soaked up 122 plate appearances with a dreadful OPS+ of 48. Newcomer Brian Goodwin will get an opportunity and Nick Senzel should return this weekend, but they need to get more from their outfield.

Series to watch: At St. Louis this weekend. They have two more this week against the Cubs at Wrigley and then the St. Louis series. It's time to go 4-1 and get closer to that eighth seed.

Final thought: There was a lot of optimism in Cincinnati based on the strength of the rotation and the power potential in the lineup. Instead, they have a chance to challenge the lowest batting average ever -- the 1968 Yankees hit .214 in the year of the pitcher. Their second-line players killed them (Phil Ervin, Matt Davidson, Josh VanMeter, Jose Garcia, Christian Colon, Travis Jankowski and Mark Payton are a combined 24-for-199 (.121), so maybe that's reason to think they can reel off a 8-2 stretch and sneak into the playoffs.

Current playoff odds: 3.6%

Beer flights. Knife fights. Planes, trains ... and parachutes? The most meme-worthy moments ever for all 30 MLB teams. Sam Miller

Strength: Juan Soto and Trea Turner have been perhaps the best 1-2 punch in the league.

Weakness: Pretty much everything else.

Overachiever: Tanner Rainey has been the one reliable pitcher in the bullpen as he's finally learned to throw enough strikes. He's fanned 30 in 19 innings and has allowed just seven hits.

Needs to get going: Anibal Sanchez, Erick Fedde and Austin Voth have allowed 27 home runs in 104 innings and are a combined 3-12. That's three-fifths of the rotation. I think they might be missing Stephen Strasburg.

Series to watch: They host the Braves for four games this weekend. They need to win ... well, at least three to get going in the right direction.

Final thought: We included the Nats out of respect as the reigning champs, although their odds are certainly slim. Their win over Tampa Bay on Tuesday is a start, but even if we say 28-32 makes the postseason, they have to go 12-7 the rest of the way. OK, that's not impossible. Look, you had a feeling this might when Strasburg went down and Soto missed the start of the season (on top of losing Anthony Rendon). In this short season, no team had less incentive than the Nationals, given they just won the World Series. That's not an excuse and it's disappointing that some of the young players like Victor Robles and Carter Kieboom have played so poorly, but at least flags fly forever.

Read more here:
Handicapping the MLB teams battling for the final NL playoff spots - ESPN

The Senate is back from its summer recess this week, though its unclear what if anything that means for progress on more stimulus for Americans dealing with the economic fallout of the coronavirus pandemic.

On the one hand, there is some movement: Senate Republicans have announced a vote on a new skinny stimulus bill, which is much narrower than what Democrats have proposed, that could take place as early as Thursday. According to Bloomberg, this bill is slated to include $500 billion to $700 billion in aid, a far cry from the $2.2 trillion Democrats have said theyre interested in allocating. That figure is down from the more than $3 trillion opening bid Democrats proposed in May.

Republicans proposal contains funding for a weekly $300 unemployment insurance supplement as well as support for school reopenings, the US Postal Service, small businesses and coronavirus testing. It does not include, however, additional money for state and local governments, or another stimulus check similar to the one-time $1,200 payment issued to all Americans making $75,000 or less in adjusted gross income.

Republicans introduced their new skinny bill Tuesday afternoon, and the vote on it will mark the most significant action the upper chamber has taken on a stimulus proposal in months. However, the bill is effectively a messaging vehicle, allowing Republicans to point to a tangible effort theyve made to get aid out to people, and to put pressure on Democrats, who are expected to vote against it. (The House passed the HEROES Act in May, but the Senate has declined to take it up since.)

Because of Democratic opposition, the bill likely wont get the 60 votes it needs to clear a filibuster threshold and advance. If it fails, Congress will ultimately be left at the same impasse it has been stuck at for weeks. And against this backdrop, this weeks vote functions primarily as a way for Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to squeeze Democrats on a reduced aid proposal, while ginning up campaign material for battleground lawmakers.

Working families must not suffer more than necessary because Democrat leaders think citizens pain may help their political fortunes, McConnell said in a statement on Tuesday. The Senate will vote and the American people will be watching.

Democrats have long said that the scope of the current economic crisis, which has resulted in more than 30 million people filing for unemployment, over 100,000 small businesses closing permanently, and thousands of evictions, requires an expansive solution, which Republicans have balked at. Democrats have also emphasized that they passed stimulus legislation in the House three months ago and arent the ones dragging their feet.

This emaciated bill is only intended to help vulnerable Republican Senators by giving them a check the box vote to maintain the appearance that theyre not held hostage by their extreme right-wing that doesnt want to spend a nickel to help people, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said in a Tuesday statement responding to Republicans plans.

While its possible a failed vote on the Republican bill this week could inject new energy into ongoing stimulus negotiations, and push both parties to offer fresh concessions, its also likely that the current stalemate will simply continue. In the meantime, millions of Americans are still waiting on much-needed aid.

Republicans vote on their skinny bill this week is an effort to put further heat on the Democrats as Novembers general election approaches. According to a CNBC/Change Research survey that came out in early August, voters in swing states have blamed both parties roughly equally for the expiration of enhanced unemployment insurance. More Republican senators than Democrats, however, are vulnerable this cycle, according to Cook Political Report, meaning equal blame could nevertheless result in greater electoral losses for the GOP come November.

Since Democrats are expected to vote down Republicans bill this week, the GOP could use this fact as campaign fodder in key swing states including Arizona and North Carolina, two of the places that are seen as narrow toss-ups that could ultimately determine which party controls the Senate next term. As Schumer and Pelosi noted, incumbent Republicans in battleground states could use this vote to argue that theyre focused on helping their constituents while Democrats are obstructing aid.

The issue with this framing, though, is that it omits Republicans longstanding role in blocking a more expansive aid package including the extension of a weekly $600 in supplementary unemployment insurance.

For months, Republicans have resisted supporting a more generous stimulus package because a notable faction in their conference, led by critics including Sens. Rand Paul and Ted Cruz, is averse to any additions to the deficit. Earlier this summer, for example, McConnell offered up a trillion-dollar proposal that garnered internal pushback.

The amount any package allocates for unemployment insurance as well as funding for state and local governments is a recurring point Republicans have cited in their opposition to more stimulus. Theyve argued that the weekly supplement should be reduced, so people arent incentivized to stay on unemployment instead of returning to work, and have suggested that states will use federal funding to address budget gaps they were facing before the coronavirus pandemic. Democrats, meanwhile, note that there arent presently enough jobs for people to return to and argue states are in desperate need of funds because of the pandemic itself, pointing to cuts to key social services that states have already had to make due to revenue shortfalls.

The expected failure of the bill vote this week will likely add some pressure to both parties, with Republicans compelled to continue working toward a compromise and Democrats forced to continue explaining their opposition to the limited funding thats been offered.

While the vote this week could help spur new action, it could also leave lawmakers in pretty much the same place theyve been for some time. If the outcome is the latter, Congress has a few weeks until its set to leave for recess yet again in early October to attempt another round of negotiations and get something done. Recently, there has been some indication that both Republicans and Democrats are willing to negotiate further.

The president and I believe we should do more stimulus, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, one of the main negotiators for the White House, said during an appearance on Fox News Sunday over the weekend. Democrats, too, have said theyre eager to approve more funding, though theyve stood firm on avoiding narrower measures.

Democrats want to work on bipartisan legislation that will meet the urgent needs of the American people but Republicans continue to move in the wrong direction, Schumer and Pelosi said Tuesday.

The negotiations on the stimulus are also taking place as a deadline over government funding looms at the end of this month. If that deadline isnt met, the federal government will be forced to shut down, lacking the funds needed to pay worker salaries and maintain services run by agencies including the IRS and the Food and Drug Administration.

Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have signaled, however, that theyre open to advancing a continuing resolution that would keep the government funded in the short term, preventing any potential government shutdown.

At the very least, they appear keen to avoid that particular disagreement for now.

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