In a thrilling matchup known as the “Elliss Bowl,” Christian Elliss and the New England Patriots narrowly defeated Kaden Elliss and the Atlanta Falcons 24-23 during NFL Week 9. This game highlighted the sibling rivalry between the two brothers, who both previously played for the Idaho Vandals.
Each brother contributed significantly on defense, with both recording five tackles. However, Christian had to exit the game due to a hip injury. The contest showcased not only their competitive spirits but also the emotional ties that come with family.
In another game that drew attention, former Washington State standout Daiyan Henley had a standout performance as the Los Angeles Chargers defeated the Tennessee Titans 27-20. Henley, who played just days after suffering a family tragedy, made his presence felt with nine tackles and one sack. He dedicated his performance to his brother, Jabari Henley, who was tragically killed a few days before the game.
After sacking Titans quarterback Cam Ward in the second quarter, Henley took a moment to pray on the field. In his heartfelt words, Henley expressed, “I just wanted to talk to my brother one more time. It was just an emotional moment for me just to be able to make a play on a day like this, just losing him so soon.” His resilience and dedication to honoring his brother”s memory were evident throughout the game.
Here”s a roundup of how other former Idaho Vandals and Washington State Cougars performed in Week 9:
- Christian Elliss, New England Patriots: Recorded five tackles (one solo) and a quarterback hit before leaving with a hip injury.
- Kaden Elliss, Atlanta Falcons: Tallied five tackles (four solo) and a quarterback hit.
- Hogan Hatten, Detroit Lions: Snapped for two field goals, three extra points, and averaged 47.6 yards on five punts in a loss to the Vikings.
- Marcus Harris, Tennessee Titans: Registered one solo tackle and a pass defended.
- Jaden Hicks, Kansas City Chiefs: Recorded two solo tackles in a loss to the Bills.
- Jaylen Watson, Kansas City Chiefs: Had five tackles (four solo) in the same loss.
- Gardner Minshew, Kansas City Chiefs: Did not see action in the loss.
- Chau Smith-Wade, Carolina Panthers: Made one solo tackle in a victory against the Packers.
- Daniel Ekuale, Pittsburgh Steelers: Did not play in a win over the Colts.
- Frankie Luvu, Washington Commanders: Recorded seven tackles, one forced fumble, and one pass defended in a loss to the Seahawks.
- Brennan Jackson, Las Vegas Raiders: On injured reserve, did not play in the loss to the Jaguars.
- Jalen Thompson, Arizona Cardinals: Registered five tackles in a victory against the Cowboys.
- Daiyan Henley, Los Angeles Chargers: Led the team with nine tackles, one sack, one tackle for loss, and one pass defended.
- Abraham Lucas, Seattle Seahawks: Contributed to a strong offensive effort in a victory.
- Kyle Williams, New England Patriots: Targeted once but did not record a catch.
- Cam Lampkin, Los Angeles Rams: On the practice squad, did not play.
- Esa Pole, Kansas City Chiefs: On the practice squad, did not play.
- Cam Ward, Tennessee Titans: Completed 12 of 21 passes for 145 yards.
- Jonah Elliss, Denver Broncos: Recorded one solo tackle in a win against the Texans.
This week showcased not only the competitive nature of football but also the profound personal stories that unfold within the sport.
