Patriots Drake Maye faces tough test against Falcons

**Drake Maye’s Deep Passing Fuels Patriots’ Momentum Ahead of Clash with Falcons**

*FOXBOROUGH, Mass.* — Drake Maye hasn’t been afraid to throw the ball deep down the field during his NFL career. One of the Patriots second-year quarterback’s first memories as a pro comes from one of his initial practices last season, when he connected on a deep pass with receiver Kayshon Boutte that beat cornerback Christian Gonzalez.

“You just remember things of throwing deep throws, seeing him come up on the right side of it and it just makes you want to keep going back to it. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” Maye said.

In his sophomore season, Maye has embraced that ability to chuck it long. According to NFL Next Gen Stats, he has completed 13 of 17 passes (76.5%) that traveled 20 or more yards in the air, logging five touchdowns along the way.

It’s a skill that has helped the Patriots (6-2) win five straight games and take a step forward under offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels’ latest stint in New England. The timing couldn’t be better as the Patriots prepare to host the Atlanta Falcons (3-4), who boast the NFL’s top-rated passing defense this Sunday.

Through seven games, Atlanta is allowing only 149.1 passing yards per game. Meanwhile, Maye has passed for at least 200 yards in every game this season.

“He’s way better than I want him to be,” Atlanta defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich said of Maye. “He feels like a mini Josh Allen, a younger Josh Allen, in a lot of ways: his mobility, his arm, the way he can take the game over in both facets of the game. So, he’s going to be — he’s a problem.”

Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel noted that Maye’s confidence in airing it out has steadily increased since the preseason — a trend that starts with the trust placed in him by the coaching staff.

“I think he stays patient. I don’t think he panics and launches it or throws it seven yards out of bounds, but I think there’s been a lot of improvement from training camp and seeing some of those passes,” Vrabel said. “I don’t think there were as many completions in the preseason as there were in the regular season. I’m glad we saved them for the regular season.”

### Good Hands: Kayshon Boutte Shines

One of the main recipients of Maye’s deep balls has been Kayshon Boutte. A 2023 sixth-round draft pick by New England, Boutte is tied for the league lead with seven receiving touchdowns covering 20 or more air yards since 2024, alongside Ja’Marr Chase. Notably, AJ Brown, Quentin Johnston, and DK Metcalf each have six over that period.

### Injury Watch: Falcons’ Key Players Questionable

A major storyline this week is the availability of Atlanta quarterback Michael Penix Jr. and top receiver Drake London. Both missed last week’s 34-10 loss to Miami. Penix sat out with a bone bruise on his left knee and was replaced by Kirk Cousins. London was inactive due to a hip injury.

Both players were limited in the Falcons’ first practice of the week and are considered day-to-day, according to coach Raheem Morris. However, Morris expressed optimism about Penix’s availability.

“Obviously, he feels better than he did last week,” Morris said. “He obviously feels better than he did every single day with it being a bone bruise. That stuff gets better every day, so I feel really good about him.”

### Battle on the Ground Could Be Key

While the Patriots may challenge the Falcons through the air, this game could be decided by the ground game matchup.

New England is the only team in the NFL this season not to surrender 50 rushing yards to an opposing running back through eight games.

Atlanta running back Bijan Robinson, tied for fourth in the league, is averaging 79 yards per game. This includes a season-high 170-yard performance during Atlanta’s Week 6 win over Buffalo.

“A Vrabel-coached team is always going to be great. They’re always going to play sound. They’re always going to play really fundamentally fast, and we’ve got to be ready and prepared for that,” Morris said.

As the Patriots and Falcons prepare to face off, all eyes will be on Maye’s deep throws and the ground battle that could shape the outcome of this pivotal matchup.
https://www.sunjournal.com/2025/10/31/patriots-drake-maye-faces-tough-test-against-falcons/

CHP 12-hour Max-Enforcement period kicks off on Halloween night

CENTRAL VALLEY, Calif. (KFSN) — It’s the spookiest day of the year, and as neighborhoods fill with Trick-or-Treating children, drivers on the road are being urged to exercise extra caution.

“Even in areas where houses may seem more spread apart, still look out for pedestrians. Our ghosts and goblins are our most precious possessions out there. We want to make sure they enjoy themselves, get their treats, and not too many tricks from bad drivers,” said California Highway Patrol Officer Mike Salas.

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has all available officers on patrol statewide as part of their 12-hour Max-Enforcement period. Last year, over 120 people were arrested on suspicion of Driving Under the Influence (DUI). The CHP also investigated 500 crashes during this time, 90 of which involved impaired drivers. These incidents caused many injuries and claimed two lives.

“It’s alarming to us, and it should be alarming to our community. But again, we’re just trying to keep everyone safe, spreading the message of responsibility, and making sure we watch out for those pedestrians,” Officer Salas explained.

AAA warns that Halloween is one of the most dangerous nights of the year for both pedestrians and drivers. This year, the risks are even higher since Halloween falls on a Friday, a night typically associated with increased traffic and festivities.

People are encouraged to plan ahead and be prepared for more traffic than usual. “Time pressure is definitely one of the biggest factors for accidents. No matter where you’re going tonight, give yourself plenty of extra time so you’re not rushing. Plan for delays and allocate extra travel time. That’ll help keep everyone safe — other drivers and pedestrians alike,” said Julian Paredes, a spokesperson with AAA.

AAA also reminds everyone that impaired driving and distracted driving remain among the leading causes of crashes, especially on busy nights like Halloween.

The CHP Max-Enforcement period will continue through tomorrow morning to help keep roads safe during this festive time. Stay alert, drive responsibly, and have a safe Halloween!
https://abc30.com/post/chp-12-hour-max-enforcement-period-kicks-off-halloween-night/18096673/

Work Advice: Noisy colleague makes it impossible to concentrate at work

Karla L. Miller offers weekly advice on workplace dramas and traumas.

If you have questions or need guidance, feel free to send them to her at karla.miller@washpost.com.
https://www.unionleader.com/news/business/columns/work-advice-noisy-colleague-makes-it-impossible-to-concentrate-at-work/article_72853e91-bb49-4635-b5a9-dbf24f9a9b72.html

Where you can volunteer in L.A. to help those affected by disruptions to SNAP benefits

Beginning November 1, roughly 5.5 million Californians—including more than 1.5 million residents in Los Angeles County—will experience delays in receiving their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits due to the ongoing government shutdown.

While the situation is evolving, Governor Gavin Newsom is fast-tracking funds to support food banks. Additionally, judges ordered the USDA on Friday to restart SNAP funding. However, families in need won’t see immediate relief.

In response, community leaders and local nonprofits have been stepping up to fill the gap by hosting free grocery pop-up markets and other events to assist neighbors who need food now, not later.

The Times has compiled an ongoing list of ways to volunteer in these efforts. This story will be updated as new opportunities arise.
https://www.latimes.com/travel/list/volunteer-opportunities-snap-benefits-calfresh-food-pantries

Ethereum Price Nears Key Support as Analysts Eye a Potential Rebound

Ethereum Struggles to Regain Bullish Momentum Amid Consolidation Phase

Ethereum continues to trade under pressure as the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency struggles to regain bullish momentum. After weeks of sideways action, ETH remains trapped in a consolidation range, sparking uncertainty among traders who await signs of a trend reversal.

At the time of writing, Ethereum trades around $3,846, hovering just above the crucial $3,802 support area. Market observers note that this level has become a focal point for both short-term traders and long-term investors, with many waiting to see if the asset can hold firm before the next decisive move.

### Testing a Crucial Technical Zone

Prominent crypto analyst Michaël van de Poppe shared his outlook on X, pointing out that Ethereum is currently testing its 20-week moving average — a technical region that has historically marked strong accumulation phases. He emphasized that ETH’s current setup offers a favorable risk-reward ratio for long-term portfolios, describing it as “a tremendous spot to be added to portfolios.”

According to van de Poppe, the confluence between the moving average and a higher timeframe support level may provide the foundation for Ethereum’s next rally. “Corrections don’t last forever,” he added, suggesting that the ongoing pullback could be nearing its conclusion.

If Ethereum manages to defend this zone, analysts believe the next resistance to watch will be near $4,150. A breakout above that threshold could signal renewed buying strength and a potential return toward the $4,300-$4,400 range.

### On-Chain Data Shows Investor Strain

Beyond the charts, blockchain data paints a mixed picture. The Net Unrealized Profit/Loss (NUPL) indicator — a metric used to gauge overall market profitability — has recently dipped into the capitulation zone. This range often appears when many holders are near breakeven or experiencing slight losses, typically preceding short-term rebounds as selling pressure begins to ease.

Such periods of capitulation tend to reset market expectations. Short-term holders, known for reacting quickly to price swings, often become reluctant to sell at a loss. Historically, this behavior creates conditions for brief relief rallies as traders push prices upward in search of quick recoveries before taking profits again.

If this pattern holds, Ethereum could experience another short-term bounce similar to those observed earlier in the month, where the asset briefly regained strength before returning to consolidation.

### Sentiment Hits Nine-Month Low

From a broader perspective, investor sentiment around Ethereum has turned notably bearish. Data from Santiment reveals that Ethereum’s weighted sentiment has fallen to its lowest level since February, reflecting increased caution and fatigue among market participants.

This decline in optimism mirrors the broader crypto landscape, where traders are becoming increasingly selective about new positions. Prolonged bearish sentiment can discourage fresh inflows, ultimately weighing on price stability.

However, such negative readings have also been known to act as contrarian signals — often preceding market recoveries once pessimism peaks.

### Rangebound Conditions Persist

For now, Ethereum appears rangebound between $3,802 and $4,154. Analysts suggest that until volatility returns or trading volume picks up, ETH may continue oscillating within this band.

A decisive close above $4,150 would be needed to confirm the start of a stronger upward move, while a drop below $3,800 could open the door to deeper losses.

Despite current headwinds, van de Poppe and several other market strategists maintain that Ethereum remains fundamentally strong, supported by ongoing developments in staking, scaling solutions, and institutional interest. Many believe that the current correction phase is part of a broader accumulation process rather than the beginning of a prolonged downturn.

### Outlook: Patience May Be Key

Ethereum’s long-term trajectory continues to depend on macroeconomic factors, investor sentiment, and broader market liquidity. As traders await stronger signals from the Federal Reserve and risk assets, ETH’s consolidation could serve as a necessary cooldown before its next significant move.

While short-term uncertainty prevails, technical confluence and historical data suggest that Ethereum may be approaching a point of stabilization — one that could set the stage for renewed upside once market confidence returns.

*The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or trading advice. Coindoo.com does not endorse or recommend any specific investment strategy or cryptocurrency. Always conduct your own research and consult with a licensed financial advisor before making any investment decisions.*

**Author**
Alex is an experienced financial journalist and cryptocurrency enthusiast with over 8 years of experience covering the crypto, blockchain, and fintech industries. His insightful and thought-provoking articles provide readers with a clear picture of the latest developments and trends in the market. Alex’s approach allows him to break down complex ideas into accessible, in-depth content. Follow his publications to stay up-to-date with the most important trends and topics.
https://coindoo.com/market/ethereum-price-nears-key-support-as-analysts-eye-a-potential-rebound/

Syracuse walk-on set to make first career start vs. Bill Belichick, North Carolina

Syracuse football (3-5) has been searching for answers since quarterback Steve Angeli suffered a torn Achilles in a huge road win versus Clemson on Sept. 20. Orange head coach Fran Brown is turning to an unlikely player to help lift the team out of the doldrums and back into the win column.

True freshman and walk-on Joseph Filardi will make his first start under center in Friday night’s game against North Carolina (2-5), according to ESPN’s Pete Thamel. Filardi, a lauded lacrosse recruit, has only logged one offensive snap this season entering the ACC showdown.

While the Tar Heels have yet to earn a conference victory, inexperienced signal-callers do not tend to fare well against all-time great NFL head coach Bill Belichick. However, perhaps Brown is looking to use the unknown to his advantage. Syracuse clearly feels like it has nothing left to lose at this stage of the season.

The Orange have been painfully outmatched without Angeli, losing five consecutive games all by double digits and failing to score 20 points. Rickie Collins posted a sub-50% completion percentage twice while occupying the starting role and has thrown more interceptions than touchdown passes. Change was needed.

Filardi has a chance to rejuvenate a dejected fan base that is doing its best to remember what it felt like trouncing Clemson in Death Valley. He can also put the Belichick regime under even more scrutiny.

The JMA Wireless Dome may need to prop up the Dix Hills, New York native, as nerves are bound to be high in this televised matchup. Whether or not the move works, Fran Brown is displaying a notable amount of fearlessness in the face of Bill Belichick.

The opening kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN.
https://clutchpoints.com/ncaa-football/syracuse-football-news-walk-on-first-career-start-vs-bill-belichick-north-carolina

Trump signals he’ll fund SNAP

President Trump on Friday indicated he would fund the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) if given “the appropriate legal direction.” This statement came after a federal judge ordered officials to spend an emergency fund allocated for the program.

SNAP benefits are set to lapse on Saturday amid the ongoing government shutdown. Meanwhile, Trump administration officials have remained adamant in their stance regarding the funding and management of the program during this period.
https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5584184-trump-snap-benefits-government-shutdown/

Boy, 15, fatally wounded in Near West Side shooting

A 15-year-old boy was tragically gunned down in a drive-by shooting on Chicago’s Near West Side Friday afternoon.

The teen was standing on the sidewalk in the 1300 block of West Grenshaw Street, located in the Little Italy/UIC neighborhood, at approximately 4:15 p.m. when an unknown vehicle pulled up and someone inside opened fire.

According to Chicago police, the boy was struck in the chest and leg. He was immediately taken to Stroger Hospital, where he was sadly pronounced dead.

As of 6 p.m. Friday, no arrests had been made. Belmont area detectives are actively investigating the incident.
https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/10/31/chicago-little-italy-shooting-police/

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