NFL Week 1’s big questions and takeaways from every game: Huge days for Sam Darnold, Kenneth Walker, Jameson Williams

The 2024 NFL season is right here, and Week 1 has been wild. Within the early window, rookie quarterback Caleb Williams received his NFL debut, Jerod Mayo and Mike Macdonald earned their first wins as head coaches and Sam Darnold and the Minnesota Vikings close i’m sick the New York Giants.

Dak Prescott and the Dallas Cowboys got here out victorious over the Cleveland Browns, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers treated the Washington Commanders.

Within the Sunday evening match, the Detroit Lions received in additional time over the Los Angeles Rams.

Our NFL Crowd newshounds are reacting to the entire motion, answering lingering questions popping out of every match and detailing the entirety else you want to grasp for each crew. Let’s get to it.

Soar to:
DAL-CLE | LAR-DET | DEN-SEA
LV-LAC | WSH-TB | CAR-NO
JAX-MIA | PIT-ATL | ARI-BUF
HOU-IND | TEN-CHI | NE-CIN
MIN-NYG | GB-PHI | BAL-KC

Lions

Has Detroit’s secondary gotten higher? Bettering the protection, in particular the secondary, was once an emphasis this offseason, however Rams receiver Cooper Kupp nonetheless controlled to get 14 receptions for 110 receiving yards and a a very powerful fourth-quarter landing. The Lions secondary additionally gave up a 63-yard move to Rams wideout Tyler Johnson to finish the 1/3 quarter. The Lions did drive an interception within the purple zone on the finish of the primary half of, however Rams QB Matthew Stafford picked the secondary aside in the second one half of of legislation, posting 198 of his 306 passing yards over the 1/3 and fourth quarters. This can be an department to look at this season for the Lions.

Purchasing or promoting Jameson Williams‘ breakout efficiency: Purchasing. Later an ungainly begin to his NFL profession, interrupted via an ACL trauma and a playing suspense in his first two years, Williams appears prepared for a breakout season. It confirmed in opposition to the Rams. Williams stuck a 52-yard landing within the 1/3 quarter — the longest TD catch of his profession — and completed with 100-plus receiving yards in a match for the primary pace. He displayed why he’s anticipated to be a tremendous a part of the offense this season.

Describe the sport in two phrases: A tone-setter. The Lions, who entered the 2024 season with Tremendous Bowl aspirations, just about fell flat entrance of the spirited house population, however closed out the Rams with a robust farmland match in any case. Working backs David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs every scored touchdowns, together with Sir Bernard Law’s clincher in additional time. Alternatively, it was once a coarse evening for All-Professional wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown, who stuck 3 of his six objectives for simply 13 receiving yards. — Eric Woodyard

Later match: vs. Buccaneers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

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Rams

Can the Rams’ offense get well from accidents? The Rams misplaced a key a part of their passing match within the loss to the Lions when broad receiver Puka Nacua left within the first half of with a knee trauma. Los Angeles’ offensive wrinkle — already lacking its peak two tackles — additionally misplaced take on Joe Noteboom (ankle) and left safe Steve Avila (knee) all over the sport. The Rams scored 20 issues in opposition to a just right Lions protection, however may effort persistently if any of those are long-term accidents, particularly at the offensive wrinkle.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Defensive expansion. The Rams’ younger protection, enjoying its first match since Aaron Donald retired and below a untouched defensive coordinator, held its personal for lots of the match in opposition to the Lions. Los Angeles, with out initiation cornerback Darious Williams (who’s on IR), gave up 26 issues to Detroit in a match that going to additional time. The Rams sacked Lions QB Jared Goff two times and intercepted him as soon as within the loss.

Purchasing or promoting Tyler Johnson‘s breakout efficiency: Purchasing. Johnson gave the offense some future within the 1/3 quarter, with a 63-yard catch-and-run to place the Rams in place to kick a farmland purpose and get inside of a rating early within the fourth quarter. If Nacua misses pace with the knee trauma, Johnson must get alternatives because the 1/3 receiver on this offense. He completed with 5 catches for 79 yards. — Sarah Barshop

Later match: at Cardinals (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)

Cowboys

Was once this the script teacher Mike McCarthy desires to observe all season? The Cowboys were given manufacturing from in all places Sunday in what McCarthy would yelp an indication of complementary soccer. Dak Prescott threw for 156 yards within the first half of, which was once greater than what 5 quarterbacks had in opposition to the Browns in 5 video games final season. He additionally threw a landing. The protection was once dominant with Micah Parsons, DeMarcus Lawrence and Eric Kendricks recording sacks. Kendricks had his first interception since 2016. And for just right measure, KaVontae Turpin added a punt go back for a landing within the 1/3 quarter. It’s a difficult method to overcome.

Purchasing or promoting CeeDee Lamb‘s breakout efficiency: Purchasing. It’s difficult to name Lamb’s match a breakout efficiency, taking into account a yr in the past he led the NFL in receptions year surroundings Cowboys information for yards and catches in a season. However he had only a handful of practices to get in a position on account of his word holdout, so Sunday could be a hallmark of what’s to come back. Lamb completed with 5 receptions for 61 yards and had 3 jet-sweep carries for 25 yards, year enjoying greater than 70% of the snaps thru 3 quarters.

Perceptible-popping complex stat: Turpin is speedy. However even on his 60-yard punt go back for a landing, he didn’t succeed in his peak velocity. In line with NFL Later Gen Stats, he reached 19.62 mph, which speaks to how smartly the blockading opened lanes for Turpin to attain. It was once the Cowboys’ first punt go back for a landing since 2017 and the primary of Turpin’s profession. Turpin reached 19.66 mph on a kickoff previous within the match. — Todd Archer

Later match: vs. Saints (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

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Browns

The place do the Browns travel from right here later an uninspiring debut for his or her offense? The Browns’ made over offense seemed find it irresistible has for many of quarterback Deshaun Watson‘s earlier 12 begins in Cleveland: disjointed and inefficient. Watson by no means were given right into a rhythm, and an offensive wrinkle lacking tackles Jedrick Wills Jr. and Jack Conklin allowed 5 sacks and 21 pressures. However is their go back from knee accidents plenty to healing an offense that confirmed refuse indicators of growth in Future 1?

Describe the sport in two phrases: Offensive eyesore. The Browns ended the primary half of with 54 yards of offense and one first i’m sick. Watson didn’t whole a move that traveled greater than 5 wind yards within the first two quarters, and Cleveland couldn’t capitalize later their third-quarter landing power, turning the ball over on downs two times.

Perceptible-popping complex stat: Watson was once 2-of-11 on passes that traveled 10-plus wind yards. With the arriving of receiver Jerry Jeudy and offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey, the Browns had been hoping for a extra dynamic passing match. In lieu, Watson seemed out of varieties as he left downfield passes off-target and out of bounds. — Daniel Oyefusi

Later match: at Jaguars (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Seahawks

Can QB Geno Smith and the Seahawks resist a tremendous strike to their O-line? Getting into the season, the offensive wrinkle was once already the crew’s iffiest place staff, and now there’s one more reason for fear later proper take on George Fant went i’m sick with a knee trauma. He was once briefly dominated out, which is rarely a just right signal. Fant is without doubt one of the avid gamers the Seahawks can least have the funds for to lose, as they’ll be with out Abraham Lucas for no less than the primary 4 video games. If Fant’s trauma is severe, they’ll have to show to Stone Forsythe.

Perceptible-popping complex stat: Smith confronted power on 47% of his dropbacks within the first half of, consistent with ESPN Stats & Knowledge. For context, his power fee of 34.7% final season was once 7th perfect within the NFL. He was once 1-of-4 with an interception year below power within the first half of.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Unsightly win. The Seahawks are lucky they had been at house in opposition to a rookie quarterback making his NFL debut, as a result of below much less favorable cases, they more than likely wouldn’t have the ability to conquer the entire errors they made within the first half of. The 2 tremendous ones had been Smith’s early interception and Dee Williams‘ muffed punt, either one of which arrange Denver farmland objectives. — Brady Henderson

Later match: at Patriots (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

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Broncos

Are the Broncos in a position for QB Bo Nix‘s rising pains? The Seahawks annoyed Nix and frequently saved him throwing off his again base ahead of he sought after to. The truth is Payton may have to easily run greater than he desires to on account of the rookie quarterback. Nix was once obviously wobbly Sunday — an early interception, two alike misses on selections and two sacks within the first half of — however Payton saved calling passes. By means of halftime, Nix was once averaging round 3 yards in line with effort on 22 throws, and the Broncos had run 16 occasions. Nix’s perfect date didn’t come till overdue within the fourth quarter when he pressed for time for a 4-yard landing.

Describe the sport in two phrases: A grind. Till Nix unearths a greater relief point, the Broncos should slug it out on each side of the ball. And that implies they’ll need to guard the run higher than they did in the second one half of. Sunday is most probably a preview for the Broncos of the type of video games they’ll be in till they in finding some rhythm on offense.

Early prediction for later year: The Steelers will come later Nix — a dozen. The Steelers’ protection, which sacked Kirk Cousins two times and intercepted him two times Sunday, will for sure flip the push reduce to get to Nix. The Broncos may merely need to believe extra play-action than Nix, who performed out of the shotgun in faculty, is prone to need. But when the Broncos don’t sluggish the Steelers i’m sick higher than they did the Seahawks, it is going to be some other lengthy presen. — Jeff Legwold

Later match: vs. Steelers (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Chargers

Must the Chargers be curious about their offense? Within the first 3 quarters, the offense was once hideous. The Chargers ran six purple zone performs, which received most effective 6 yards, because the crew struggled to offer protection to quarterback Justin Herbert and assemble lanes for its operating backs. That modified within the fourth quarter when J.K. Dobbins pressed for time for a landing and a Ladd McConkey receiving rating closed out the win. Nonetheless, the way in which the offense struggled is slightly relating to, despite the fact that a lot of it might be attributed to starters getting at ease later now not enjoying within the preseason.

Purchasing or promoting Dobbins’ breakout efficiency: Purchasing. Dobbins was once the Chargers’ perfect offensive participant Sunday, having one of the vital perfect video games of a five-year profession that has been hampered via trauma. He completed with 135 yards on 10 carries, and his 61-yard scurry within the fourth quarter was once his second-longest play games from scrimmage in his profession.

Early prediction for later year: Herbert will throw for greater than 250 yards. The Chargers got here into this match with out a lively receiver who had greater than 1,000 yards in a season of their profession. That inexperience confirmed within the first half of, because the Chargers struggled to throw the ball, with Herbert’s 67 passing yards being the second one fewest within the first half of in his profession. However he did quite higher in the second one half of, completing the sport 17-of-26 for 144 yards and a landing. He’ll have a a lot more favorable matchup later year in opposition to the Panthers, who surrendered 3 first-half landing passes to Derek Carr of their opener Sunday. — Kris Rhim

Later match: at Panthers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

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Raiders

How can the Raiders get their work-in-progress offense going later year in opposition to an indignant Ravens crew? Oppose turning the ball over, for something. Fumbles via QB Gardner Minshew — who misplaced a second-quarter fumble on a pump pretend long past flawed — and RB Zamir White, who was once stripped within the 1/3 quarter as he unpriviledged thru a hollow on a possible tremendous gainer, all set the Chargers up for a couple of farmland objectives. Minshew additionally threw an interception overdue within the fourth quarter to seal the Raiders’ destiny. Those yields had been expensive in opposition to a Chargers crew that still struggled offensively. Repeating it in opposition to a Tremendous Bowl contender such because the Ravens can be a killer.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Unsightly, uglier. A matchup between two of the prettiest, maximum iconic uniforms within the league deserved higher, proper? A defensive fight devolved right into a match of attrition, and the Raiders’ protection, which ruled the primary half of, in the end gave approach. The Raiders in truth led the pace of ownership fight 31:44 to twenty-eight:16, however some explosive performs via the Chargers overdue sealed the offer.

Early prediction for later year: Dealing with a cell QB in Baltimore’s Lamar Jackson, the Raiders wish to signal an spare edge rusher. The Raiders are slim at the edge later transferring Malcolm Koonce to IR on Saturday with a possible season-ending knee trauma at observe, nearest dropping Tyree Wilson to a knee trauma Sunday. The Raiders completed with most effective 3 defensive ends — Maxx Crosby, observe squad call-up Charles Snowden and Janarius Robinson — and can wish to scour the waiver cord for reinforcements, particularly if Wilson’s trauma reasons him to leave out spare video games. — Paul Gutierrez

Later match: at Ravens (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Buccaneers

What’s going to the secondary appear to be in Future 2 at Detroit? The protection performed smartly within the opening victory, however it completed with only one wholesome nook in Jamel Dean. Zyon McCollum (concussion), Josh Hayes (ankle) and Bryce Hall (ankle) all exited with accidents. Nickelback/protection Christian Izien stepped in. Out of doors of Izien, rookie undrafted isolated agent Tyrek Funderburk can be later up, and he was once idle Sunday.

Greatest hollow within the match plan: Preventing Commanders’ QB Daniels at the farmland. All year, Bucs defenders talked in regards to the wish to comprise Daniels within the region, and but he gashed them on runs of 16, 22 and 12 yards on a unmarried power in the second one quarter. The Bucs selected to not deploy a secret agent on Daniels, regardless of the rookie speeding for 1,134 yards final season at LSU. He completed with 88 yards and two touchdowns on 16 carries.

Purchasing or promoting offensive coordinator Liam Coen’s breakout efficiency: Purchasing. The Bucs punted simply as soon as all match. Mayfield threw two touchdowns to Mike Evans, together with TDs to Chris Godwin and rookie Jalen McMillan. Godwin seemed reinvigorated again within the slot and was once a third-down gadget, and the one-two punch of Rachaad White and Bucky Irving averaged 5.76 yards in line with contact. — Jenna Laine

Later match: at Lions (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

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Commanders

Does Washington have plenty skill round Jayden Daniels? The Commanders had one offensive play games for greater than 30 yards, and it got here off a trim move to Brian Robinson Jr. The receivers struggled to get visible and the operating match had a couple of holes. Washington made a tremendous offer of now not in need of Daniels to do extra, however he’ll need to proceed to do greater than desired if the ones round him don’t reinforce. It’s a sinister method.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Tough get started. The vibe was once higher this offseason below teacher Dan Quinn. However the play games was once the similar as 2023. The Commanders, with most effective 21 holdovers from final yr, struggled to run (50 yards from the backs); the protection was once sinister on 1/3 i’m sick (9-for-13); kicker Cade York neglected two farmland objectives. The sport was once all-around sinister.

Greatest hollow within the match plan: The lack to get receiver Terry McLaurin extra concerned. McLaurin had two objectives till overdue within the 1/3 quarter — together with a deep ball that was once overthrown and must have ended in a landing. He stuck his first move with 3:35 left within the 1/3. The offense is healthier when he’s concerned early. — John Keim

Later match: vs. Giants (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Saints

Is that this Saints offense the true offer? It was once a forged debut for Klint Kubiak and the untouched Saints offense. Brandnew Orleans had 30 issues via halftime for the primary pace because the Drew Brees pace ended. Taysom Hill was once old closely, Rashid Shaheed confirmed off his velocity and the security held up for quarterback Derek Carr. Did the Saints merely collection at the hapless Panthers, or will this be the untouched standard? They’ll need to turn out that once more in Dallas later year.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Incorrect errors. Carr had 3 touchdowns, Blake Grupe made all of his farmland purpose makes an attempt and the protection compelled a couple of yields. The Saints badly wanted a quick get started in Pace 3 of teacher Dennis Allen’s tenure, they usually had been nearly best in that regard, leaping everywhere the Panthers and not letting up. The Saints all set a franchise document for many issues in a season opener.

Perceptible-popping complex stat: In line with NFL Later Gen Stats, cornerback Alontae Taylor had the crew’s peak velocity in one in all its blitzes, topping out at 20.64 miles in line with life. It’s a just right indicator of the way Taylor, who had 3 sacks, may remove a step ahead in his 1/3 season. — Katherine Terrell

Later match: at Cowboys (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

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Panthers

Are the Panthers and second-year quarterback Bryce Young truly as sinister as they seemed? Perhaps worse. The Saints aren’t some of the elite and ruled all stages. Younger confirmed slight growth from final season below untouched teacher Dave “Quarterback Whisperer” Canales. He was once intercepted on his first play games and began the second one half of with some other. His untouched objectives didn’t backup. The protection stunk it up, too. The Saints had a 59-yard landing move on their opening power. The move scurry was once nonexistent. The run protection was once porous. What a meltdown.

Greatest hollow within the match plan: Failing to all set the accentuation with their speeding assault. Throwing at the first play games (an interception) and falling in the back of 23-0 didn’t backup. It put extra power on Younger, who was once useless regardless of untouched ideas to get him out in area. Younger completed with a 36.2 passer ranking, finishing 13 passes on 30 makes an attempt for 161 yards, two interceptions and 0 passing TDs. Carolina mustered most effective 58 yards at the farmland.

Describe the sport in two phrases: General embarrassment. The 31-3 halftime lack for Canales was once the second one biggest for a teacher in his first match since Brian Flores and the Dolphins trailed 42-10 to Baltimore in 2019. It might most effective travel up from right here. — David Newton

Later match: vs. Chargers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Expenses

Can the Expenses prolong this second-half efficiency to Future 2? The Expenses didn’t have the ball for a protracted pace within the first half of, however it was once a landing power proper ahead of halftime and one in an instant later that began to journey the sport in Buffalo’s partial. Quarterback Josh Allen led the Expenses to attain 3 second-half touchdowns with 9 avid gamers catching a move and 10 centered. Allen joined QB Steve Younger as the one avid gamers to have a couple of speeding and passing touchdowns in 4 video games, later a fumble at the first power of the sport. It took a bit of for the Expenses’ offense to get in a groove and decrease the consequences. Proceeding the second-half efficiency on a trim year can be remarkable.

Purchasing or promoting Greg Rousseau‘s breakout efficiency: Purchasing. Rousseau’s 3 sacks, together with one strip-sack, was once a profusion begin to his fourth season and the step ahead that the Expenses had been in search of from him. Rousseau had a career-high six pressures within the match, as his teammates blended for 8.

Early prediction for later year: Cornerback Taron Johnson left the sport with a forearm trauma within the first half of, and that leaves some dubiousness with a Thursday assembly in opposition to the Dolphins in Future 2. The Expenses are most probably going to want Cam Lewis to once more step up in a tremendous approach like he did in the second one half of in opposition to the Cardinals (8 tackles) as Johnson is a key a part of this unit. — Alaina Getzenberg

Later match: at Dolphins (Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

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Cardinals

How do the Cardinals healing their protection in a year? It’s now not a very easy healing, however adjustments are wanted, each to the body of workers and match plan, if the Cardinals need their protection to compare the output in their offense. The Cardinals wish to have the ability to hold the perimeters contained and stop cell quarterbacks from making performs occur in area when the region collapses. Arizona gave up 14 performs of 10 yards or longer, so proscribing explosive performs might be the too much between protective tremendous leads and dropping them.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Soften i’m sick. The Cardinals had regulate of the sport till 25 seconds remained within the first half of. They led 17-3 when the Expenses scored a landing proper ahead of the half of. The Expenses nearest outscored Arizona 21-3 over the primary 21 mins of the second one half of, ahead of DeeJay Dallas‘ kickoff go back helped Arizona snatch inside of 3.

Early prediction for later year: Arizona will reshape the way it rushes the passer with an emphasis on protective the threshold to comprise the Rams’ offense from getting out of doors. Alternatively, to get there, the Cardinals may travel thru some rotational adjustments on protection, with extra enjoying pace from Dennis Gardeck as a imaginable exchange. — Josh Weinfuss

Later match: vs. Rams (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)

Steelers

Who will get started at quarterback for the Steelers in opposition to Denver? Russell Wilson‘s irritated calf trauma gave Justin Fields a tremendous alternative in opposition to the Falcons, which he changed into a 17-of-23 efficiency for 156 yards. Grounds additionally pressed for time 14 occasions for 57 yards. Regardless that he aired it out sparingly and waited till the second one quarter to remove his private pictures, Grounds nonetheless seemed extra at ease as the sport went on. The offense, which pressed for time for greater than 130 yards, most commonly hummed with Grounds, however Steelers starters have now not historically misplaced jobs on account of trauma. Grounds’ playmaking, mobility and secure growth all through the sport may problem that precedent.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Well timed protection: Week self-inflicted wounds saved the Steelers from capitalizing on tremendous performs with touchdowns, the protection swarmed Kirk Cousins and restricted the wear and tear. The secondary were given large interceptions from rookies DeShon Elliott and Donte Jackson to destroy Cousins’ Falcons debut, and T.J. Watt gave the look to be in midseason mode with a fumble healing, two quarterback hits and a take on for loss. He had a handful of alternative would-be game-changing performs wiped away via consequences, too.

Perceptible-popping complex stat: With the Steelers’ offense not able to complete drives in any case zone, kicker Chris Boswell took serve of commercial with six farmland objectives — together with ones of 51, 56 and 57 yards — to change into the primary Pittsburgh kicker to create 3 farmland objectives of 50-plus yards in a match in franchise historical past, consistent with ESPN Stats & Information. The six farmland objectives additionally secured a franchise document for many farmland objectives made in a match. — Brooke Pryor

Later match: at Broncos (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

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Falcons

Will this offense want extra pace to click on than in the beginning concept? The Falcons gave Cousins $100 million assured coming off a torn Achilles to top an offense that includes top-10 draft selections in Bijan Robinson, Drake London and Kyle Pitts. And Atlanta introduced again its whole offensive wrinkle. But it surely didn’t appear to be the Falcons had absorbed untouched offensive coordinator Zac Robinson’s gadget. Cousins threw two interceptions, the last crushing a fourth-quarter power. The Falcons controlled most effective 45 yards in the second one half of and fumbled a sinister snap to squash a first-half power.

Perceptible-popping complex stat: Atlanta labored out of the pistol all set on 52% of its performs, consistent with NFL Later Gen Stats. Cousins had by no means taken greater than 10 snaps out of the pistol in a match all over his 13-year profession. He was once 2-of-4 for 15 yards and an interception throwing out of the pistol.

Describe the sport in two phrases: In growth: All the Falcons’ offseason adjustments — together with post-camp acquisitions of edge rusher Matthew Judon and protection Justin Simmons — made for an asymmetric efficiency on each side of the ball. The Steelers had been 8-of-17 on 1/3 i’m sick and issues may have been worse had Pittsburgh now not had 9 consequences for 60 yards. — Marc Raimondi

Later match: at Eagles (Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Dolphins

How involved must the Dolphins be about their run match? The backfield of Raheem Mostert and De’Von Achane was once outgained via QB Tua Tagovailoa‘s 11-yard scramble for many of Sunday’s match as Miami’s offensive wrinkle struggled to visible holes for both again. Jacksonville was once the NFL’s ninth-best protection in opposition to the run final season, however this was once a destitute efficiency for a Dolphins offense that averaged the sixth-most speeding yards in line with match in 2023. Miami’s inside offensive wrinkle misplaced two starters from a season in the past, and Sunday didn’t upload extra self belief within the unit transferring ahead.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Megastar dependent. The Dolphins spent the offseason hoping to diversify their offense and now not be overly reliant on wideouts Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. But Hill and Waddle accounted for 211 of Miami’s 400 yards in opposition to the Jaguars — together with Hill’s game-changing 80-yard landing to short Miami’s lack to a few issues. When all else failed, the Dolphins seemed to their two house run hitters, who salvaged an another way unproductive presen offensively.

Perceptible-popping complex stat: The Dolphins’ protection recorded 10 quarterback pressures, consistent with NFL Later Gen Stats. It additionally recorded 3 sacks, none larger than Emmanuel Ogbah‘s and Jaelan Phillips‘ all over the Jaguars’ first power later Miami secured the sport overdue within the fourth quarter. In his first match since tearing an Achilles final November, Phillips recorded a sack and 3 pressures. — Marcel Louis-Jacques

Later match: vs. Expenses (Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

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Jaguars

Can the offensive wrinkle store up? That was once the largest query getting into the season, and it didn’t exchange later Sunday. With the sport secured and the Jaguars having a probability at a game-winning power, OTs Anton Harrison and Cam Robinson gave up sacks on consecutive performs. Trim yardage was once a subject matter as smartly. The playmakers are in playground for the offense to achieve success — particularly with the addition of receiver Brian Thomas Jr. — however there’s refuse probability at consistency if the wrinkle, which ranked twenty ninth in move cancel win fee in 2023, continues to effort.

Purchasing or promoting operating again Tank Bigsby‘s breakout efficiency: Purchasing. The Jaguars talked all offseason in regards to the wish to get second-year again Bigsby extra office. They stated it final season, too, however it by no means took place. It did on Sunday: He had profession highs in carries (12) and yards (73). He additionally delivered tremendous performs, ripping off runs of 17 and 26 yards. Travis Etienne Jr. remains to be the top again, however Bigsby confirmed he merits a larger position. It is probably not a 50-50 fracture, however Bigsby can be a vital a part of the offense.

Perceptible-popping complex stat: In line with ESPN Analytics, the Jaguars had a 92% probability of profitable the sport ahead of Etienne fumbled the ball throughout the 5-yard wrinkle that the Dolphins recovered in any case zone. That will have given the Jaguars a three-score top. In lieu, the Dolphins scored on an 80-yard landing move at the later play games, and the Jaguars by no means complex future their very own 48-yard wrinkle on their ultimate 3 possessions. — Mike DiRocco

Later match: vs. Browns (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Texans

May just the explosive performs allowed change into a pattern? The Texans scored 29 issues, however the protection allowed Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson to have 3 50-plus-yard completions. Richardson had a 60-yard landing to broad receiver Alec Pierce and a 54-yard rating to Ashton Dulin within the fourth quarter. With the lengthy listing of Professional Bowl-level quarterbacks at the agenda, it’s a subject matter that would stop the Texans from attaining their ceiling.

Perceptible-popping complex stat: Stroud was once careworn on 38% of his dropbacks and sacked 4 occasions. That’s one thing that must be mounted if the Texans need to hold Stroud wholesome all through the season. It’ll additionally prohibit the effectiveness of avid gamers round Stroud in Stefon Diggs, Nico Collins and Tank Dell.

Purchasing or promoting operating again Joe Mixon‘s breakout efficiency: Purchasing. Mixon was once the most productive participant on offense for the Texans as he completed with 159 speeding yards and a landing. He helped hold the Texans’ offense on agenda when the passing match was once a slight shaky as Stroud completed with 234 yards, smartly trim of his 2023 reasonable of 274. — DJ Bien-Aime

Later match: vs. Bears (Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET)

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Colts

What took place to the Colts’ run protection? The Colts allowed their maximum speeding yards since Future 17 of the 2022 season (213), an alarming statistic taking into account Indy’s run protection has been a power. Houston’s offensive wrinkle persistently moved the Colts’ defenders up entrance and created operating lanes for Joe Mixon. That allowed Mixon to reasonable greater than 4 yards ahead of touch in line with scurry at one level all over the sport. The Colts allowed 5.3 speeding yards in line with elevate on Sunday later proscribing warring parties to 4.1 in 2023.

Purchasing or promoting broad receiver Alec Pierce’s breakout efficiency: Purchasing. The 2022 second-round choose have been maligned from time to time within the future two seasons for his underwhelming play games. However as a deep warning who lacked a big-armed quarterback, it was once difficult to peer his actual worth. With Richardson again within the lineup, Pierce tapped into his deep-ball doable and stuck passes of 60 and 57 yards.

Perceptible-popping complex stat: Richardson is the 5th quarterback to have a couple of completions of 50-plus wind yards in a match since ESPN started monitoring wind yards in 2006. Richardson’s completions to Pierce traveled 58 and 56 yards, respectively. The Colts had was hoping in order again the warning of the deep ball with Richardson’s go back. And he demonstrated that talent in a noteceable approach in his first match of the season. — Stephen Holder

Later match: at Packers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Bears

What went flawed for the offense in Caleb Williams’ debut? Williams was the primary quarterback drafted at Incorrect. 1 to win his NFL debut since 2002 however he didn’t glance very at ease. That was once mirrored within the first half of via 3 off-target incompletions on throws of 15 or extra yards and a couple of passes that had been batted i’m sick via defenders. The Bears received the sport regardless of producing simply 148 yards of offense and needed to depend on particular groups (3 farmland objectives via Cairo Santos and a cancelled punt that protection Jonathan Owens returned for a touchdown) and a pick-six to generate their scoring output.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Overdue step forward. Chicago’s protection put the completing touches at the win when a third-down blitz within the fourth quarter ended in a 43-yard pick-six via Tyrique Stevenson. The defensive step forward got here later the unit, which ranked Incorrect. 1 in opposition to the run final season, allowed Tennessee to hurry for 115 yards within the first half of. There’s plethora to wash up, however the protection delivered on the finish.

Greatest hollow within the match plan: Now not plenty run aid. The coaches implored Williams to play games level safe on early downs. It’s difficult to try this when the run match didn’t grant the rookie with a lot aid. Chicago totaled 84 speeding yards (3.8 yards in line with effort), and it wasn’t till Williams scrambled for a primary i’m sick within the 1/3 quarter that the run match had an have an effect on in opposition to the Titans. — Courtney Cronin

Later match: at Houston (Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET)

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Titans

The place was once the passing match later including two big-time WRs? The Titans’ passing assault fell trim of expectancies within the season opener later including the peak isolated agent receiver in Calvin Ridley and veteran slot specialist Tyler Boyd. Unholy coverage and a banged-up DeAndre Hopkins had been a part of the disorder. Quarterback Will Levis neglected a tremendous alternative on a deep throw to Ridley in the second one quarter, and the offense went chilly later finishing the primary half of with a 17-3 top. Levis completed 19-of-32 passing for 127 yards and a landing. He additionally threw two interceptions, and refuse receiver stuck greater than 5 passes.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Oh refuse! That’s what Titans teacher Brian Callahan was once pondering later 3 performs modified the sport. The final one was once a pick-six later Levis attempted to throw the ball away. Chicago were given some other landing on a punt that was once cancelled. The momentum began to shift in the second one quarter on DeAndre Carter‘s 66-yard punt go back.

Greatest hollow within the match plan: Particular groups execution. The unit was once a tremendous disorder, which led to 2 rankings for Chicago. — Turron Davenport

Later match: vs. Jets (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Patriots

What can the Patriots do to generate extra explosive performs? With out an elite separator amongst their talent place avid gamers, the Patriots’ perfect probability at luck is to thread in combination sustained drives and put on i’m sick the opposition. That was once the plan in opposition to the Bengals, and in opening a 10-0 first-half top and completing plus-two within the submit differential, they performed lots of the match on their phrases. However this can be a tricky solution to reside within the NFL over a 17-game season. Their longest final touch to a receiver was once to Tyquan Thornton for 17 yards.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Mayo mentality. The Patriots need to be a hard-nosed, disciplined and basically tone crew below untouched teacher Jerod Mayo, and the ones had been the substances that contributed to Mayo incomes his first profession victory.

Purchasing or promoting defensive finish Keion White‘s breakout efficiency: Purchasing. The second one-year flexible defensive lineman/edge rusher, who’s raising into an expanded position following the business of Matthew Judon, totaled 2.5 sacks. The move scurry, led via White, made future difficult for Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow. — Mike Reiss

Later match: vs. Seahawks (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

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Bengals

Can quarterback Joe Burrow push the ball downfield extra frequently? The preseason carried over into Future 1. Coming off a wrist surgical treatment that ended his season a yr in the past, Burrow was once unclear to push the ball downfield towards the top of coaching camp. On Sunday, 16 of his first 20 move makes an attempt had been inside of 5 yards of the wrinkle of scrimmage, in line with ESPN Stats & Knowledge. Within the 1/3 quarter, he in the end unleashed a deep move i’m sick the best sideline to Andrei Iosivas, which brought about a move interference penalty.

Greatest hollow within the match plan: Making plans for Future 1. The Bengals began out stale once more. For the second one immediately season opener, the Bengals had been held scoreless within the first half of. Actually, they trailed via 10 or extra for the 1/3 immediately season opener and haven’t scored a landing within the first half of of Future 1 since 2021. The chemistry, particularly on offense, wasn’t there — with the a lack of WR Tee Higgins (hamstring) observable.

Perceptible-popping complex stat: At one level, Patriots operating again Rhamondre Stevenson had greater than 24 speeding yards over expectation, in line with NFL Later Gen Stats. Cincinnati was once not able to cancel Brandnew England’s speeding assault early within the match, which allowed the Patriots to assemble and give protection to a top. — Ben Child

Later match: at Chiefs (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Justin Jefferson and protecting his cool in opposition to an lively Giants move scurry. It was once the type of match that are supposed to remind everybody why Darnold was once the Incorrect. 3 choose of the 2018 draft.

Purchasing or promoting Andrew Van Ginkel‘s breakout efficiency: Purchasing. The linebacker didn’t get a lot consideration amongst a flurry of isolated agent signings this spring, however Sunday confirmed how worthy he may also be to Brian Flores’ protection. He recorded a sack and a pick-six, sniffing out QB Daniel Jones‘ trim move year gearing i’m sick his move scurry accordingly. It was once refuse miracle to people who have unmistakable him create related performs in coaching camp.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Brandnew starting. The 22-point win was once the Vikings’ biggest margin of victory since teacher Kevin O’Connell was once rented to start out the 2022 season. They have got received 20 video games over that reach, however 17 of them were via one rating. In a yr when pundits have universally picked them to complete final within the NFC North, it was once a noteceable construction. — Kevin Seifert

Later match: vs. 49ers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

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Giants

Is that this an indication of what’s to come back for the Giants this season? The Giants had been blown off the farmland via Minnesota within the opener. They heard boos later their moment offensive play games, once more year escape the farmland at halftime and persistently all through the second one half of. The disorder is Brandnew York and Jones seemed very just like final season with their offensive struggles, which incorporated one pick-six and some other interception. There’s no getting future this fact: Later year vs. Washington is already a must-win match, or else this season gets unsightly.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Profoundly disappointing. How else are you able to describe getting smoked at house via Darnold and the Vikings? It took the Giants’ protection till 1:15 residue within the first half of to drive an incompletion. The destiny of this crew (particularly the protection) rests on its move scurry. Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux blended for 4 tackles, one QB strike and refuse sacks.

Greatest hollow within the match plan: The place had been the downfield passes the Giants spent all summer time training? They didn’t effort a unmarried move over 20 wind yards within the first 3 quarters. That they had six makes an attempt (3 completions) on intermediate routes (10-20 yards). The offense didn’t glance any other with Brian Daboll because the playcaller than it did final season with Mike Kafka. — Jordan Raanan

Later match: at Commanders (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Eagles

Is that this what we must be expecting from RB Saquon Barkley transferring ahead? It was once as just right of a debut because the Eagles may have was hoping for with Barkley speeding for over 100 yards and scoring 3 touchdowns. He impacted the sport as a runner and a receiver, highlighted via his 18-yard landing reception alongside the left sideline in the second one quarter. With top-end playmakers like Jalen Hurts, A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith at the roster, Barkley is aware of there can be quieter nights forward, for my part, to permit for others to glow. However Friday despatched a message to the league that Barkley intends to create his 7th NFL season one to keep in mind.

Perceptible-popping complex stat: Hurts and the Eagles struggled in opposition to the blitz final season, however Friday’s efficiency presented contract that issues might be turning round. Hurts was once 6-of-8 for 91 yards and a landing in opposition to the blitz year additionally scrambling as soon as for 8 yards and a primary i’m sick. With heart Jason Kelce retired, Hurts has assumed extra of the security tasks. He handed his first take a look at.

Purchasing or promoting linebacker Zack Baun‘s breakout efficiency: Purchasing. Baun led the way in which with 15 tackles, two sacks and a couple of quarterback hits. His takedown of QB Malik Willis with 3 seconds residue sealed the win for Philly. The previous Saint performed most commonly at the out of doors in Brandnew Orleans, however defensive coordinator Vic Fangio believed he had the talent all set to excel at off-ball linebacker. Early returns recommend his instincts had been on level. — Tim McManus

Later match: vs. Falcons (Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

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Packers

Can the Packers win with out QB Jordan Love? Basic supervisor Brian Gutekunst didn’t assume they may with Sean Clifford because the alternative popping out of coaching camp — or on the very least, he concept Malik Willis was once a more sensible choice as a result of he traded for him on the finish of camp. Week Clifford was once re-signed to the observe squad, Willis served because the alternative within the opener and took the overall two snaps later Love left injured. Whoever fills in for Love over the later 3 to 6 weeks, year he recovers from an MCL sprain in his left knee, will no less than have playmaking talent place avid gamers round him in operating again Josh Jacobs (18 touches for 104 overall yards) and receivers Jayden Reed (4 catches for 138 yards plus a 33-yard landing run), Romeo Doubs (4 catches for fifty yards) and Christian Watson (one landing).

Describe the sport in two phrases: Global trauma. The Packers have performed two video games as a part of the NFL’s global line, and each occasions left that nation with an injured quarterback. Two years in the past, Aaron Rodgers sustained a damaged thumb at the ultimate play games of the Packers’ Week 5 loss to the Giants in London, and it impacted him for far of the left-overs of the season. Later enjoying two global video games over 3 seasons, the Packers more than likely hope they keep stateside for the later a number of years.

Perceptible-popping complex stat: Brandnew Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley has preached an competitive taste, however from time to time it backfired. He blitzed Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts 9 occasions, consistent with ESPN Stats & Knowledge, and on the ones performs, Hurts finished 75% % of his passes for 91 yards and a landing and scrambled for 8 yards and a primary i’m sick. Endmost season, Hurts threw 8 interceptions in opposition to the blitz. — Rob Demovsky

Later match: vs. Colts (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Chiefs

Is the tremendous play games truly again? The Chiefs are off to a just right get started in that section. That they had 5 move performs of 23 yards or extra in opposition to Baltimore, most commonly thru yards later the catch. Kansas Town must receive advantages when it will get Marquise Brown again within the lineup. One in all its sooner receivers, Brown didn’t play games in opposition to the Ravens on account of trauma. Xavier Worthy‘s 21-yard landing run was once longer than all however one of the vital Chiefs’ speeding TDs final season.

Purchasing or promoting Significance’s breakout efficiency: Purchasing. Significance scored a landing on a 21-yard run the primary pace he were given the ball in an NFL match. He next stuck a 35-yard landing move. Week he received’t at all times rating two times in a match, search for Significance to have this type of have an effect on. He received’t essentially get a imposing quantity of touches, however he’s going to create essentially the most of the ones he will get.

Perceptible-popping complex stat: Extensive receiver Rashee Rice, who stuck seven passes for 103 yards, had 69 of the ones yards later the catch. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes was once frequently in a position to search out him when he was once transferring up the farmland with a defender trailing him. — Adam Teicher

Later match: vs. Bengals (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

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Ravens

How do the Ravens rebound from an emotional last-second loss to the Chiefs? Baltimore has to journey on briefly on account of its tricky early agenda. The Ravens’ later 4 warring parties blended for a 40-28 document (.588) final season. Later later year’s house opener in opposition to the Raiders, the Ravens play games two category winners: on the Cowboys and residential in opposition to the Expenses. Baltimore nearest performs on the Bengals, who’re thought to be the Ravens’ leading festival within the AFC North. There’s slight margin for error for the Ravens, who historically get started sturdy below teacher John Harbaugh.

Are you purchasing or promoting tight finish Isaiah Likely‘s breakout efficiency? Purchasing. Most likely was once QB Lamar Jackson‘s favourite goal within the opener, surroundings profession highs in receptions (9) and receiving yards (111). Most likely just about stuck his moment landing with out a pace residue to probably win the sport for the Ravens, however his proper base was once dominated out of bounds. This efficiency was once a carryover from final season, when Most likely scored six touchdowns in his ultimate seven video games.

Greatest hollow within the match plan: The Ravens’ trim passing match. Within the first half of, Jackson removed the ball briefly within the apartments to reasonable 1.3 wind yards in line with move effort, which restricted big-play alternatives. But if trailing in the second one half of, Jackson started to stretch the farmland extra, averaging 10.7 wind yards in line with effort, to ten issues within the fourth quarter. — Jamison Hensley

Later match: vs. Raiders (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)