Everything we learned in NFL Week 2: Takeaways, big questions and who impressed most

Date 2 of the NFL season started Thursday evening with a Buffalo Bills blowout win over the Miami Dolphins. Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa left the sport within the 1/3 quarter with a concussion.

On Sunday, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers tamed the Detroit Lions, and the New Orleans Saints‘ offense proved to be difference for the Dallas Cowboys. Packers quarterback Malik Willis helped supremacy Inexperienced Bay to its first win of the season, age the Lamar Jackson-led Baltimore Ravens fell to the Las Vegas Raiders.

The Arizona Cardinals‘ 31-point win over the Los Angeles Rams used to be spearheaded by means of heavy performances from quarterback Kyler Murray and rookie broad receiver Marvin Harrison Jr.

Sunday evening featured the Houston Texans blitzing their option to a victory over Caleb Williams and the Chicago Bears.

Our NFL Folk newshounds are reacting to all of the motion, answering lingering questions popping out of every contest and detailing the entirety else you want to grasp for each and every staff. Let’s get to it.

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

Texans

How can the Texans get all 3 receivers concerned? The Texans have a dynamic receiving trio of Stefon Diggs, Tank Dell and Nico Collins. Occasion Collins had his moment consecutive 100-yard contest (135), Dell and Diggs blended for 30 yards. That’s been the theme via two weeks. Diggs has two touchdowns in 2024 however 70 yards receiving. Dell hasn’t made many performs both, totaling 33 receiving yards. Offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik will have to determine the right way to get alternative playmakers concerned to achieve their attainable.

Greatest hollow within the contest plan: Slowik strayed from a balanced offense. C.J. Stroud dropped again 39 instances however Slowik referred to as 21 speeding performs for 76 yards. The Texans had good fortune operating the ball in Date 1 as Joe Mixon reached 159 speeding yards on 30 carries in opposition to the Colts. Mixon used to be combating an ankle shock Sunday.

Optic-popping complex stat: Cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. preserved Bears receiver DJ Moore for 28 routes and allowed 52 yards age snagging an interception. Stingley adopted Moore for almost all of the sport. — DJ Bien-Aime

Then contest: at Vikings (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

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Bears

How can the offense higher aid Caleb Williams? The Negative. 1 general choose seemed higher in his moment day trip (two of his excellent passes got here on Chicago’s lone scoring pressure and had been negated by means of a penalty and a let fall by means of WR Rome Odunze). Williams completed 23-of-37 for 174 yards, refuse touchdowns, 2 interceptions and a 51.0 passer score. The Bears had refuse solution to Houston’s blitz and failed to offer protection to Williams, who used to be sacked seven instances. Upcoming going 0-for-5 underneath drive in opposition to the Titans, Williams used to be 2-of-9 for 20 yards with two interceptions age harassed in opposition to Houston.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Pricey errors. Chicago’s 9 consequences, together with 3 on particular groups, put the offense at the back of the chains. And two of the ones got here at the offensive order for fraudelant begins later timeouts. Matt Eberflus threw two questionable problem flags, and Williams pressured a throw into protection that ended in his moment interception.

Greatest hollow within the contest plan: Chicago’s run contest used to be nonexistent for a moment directly era. D’Andre Swift totaled 18 yards on 14 rushes (1.3 yards in line with lift). Williams’ scrambling (44 yards) accounted for lots of the harm on an evening when play games design and penniless run blocking off made the Bears one-dimensional offensively. — Courtney Cronin

Then contest: at Colts (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Chiefs

What’s took place to tight finish Travis Kelce? Kelce has disappeared from the passing contest. He had only one catch for five yards later a three-for-34 efficiency final era in opposition to the Ravens. The Chiefs are deeper at broad receiver than they’ve been lately and feature receiving possible choices at tight result in Noah Gray and Jared Wiley, in order that they don’t constantly want heavy manufacturing from Kelce each and every era. Nevertheless it’s tough to peer them being as dynamic offensively with out getting extra from Kelce.

Greatest hollow within the contest plan: Quarterback Patrick Mahomes threw simply 13 passes within the first half of because the Chiefs tried 18 operating performs. They had been most commonly fertile however generated simply 10 first-half issues. The Chiefs want their operating contest to backup whisk some drive off Mahomes and the passing assault, but if they’re out of steadiness like this, they’re no longer maximizing their go back from their excellent participant.

Maximum sudden efficiency: Mahomes. He threw a couple of interceptions and had a 3rd referred to as again on account of a Bengals’ penalty. Mahomes attempted however did not get a heavy play games downfield alternative than a 44-yard landing move to broad receiver Rashee Rice. In a different way, the Chiefs had refuse move play games of greater than 16 yards. — Adam Teicher

Then contest: at Falcons (Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET)

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Bengals

What does this efficiency say about QB Joe Burrow‘s wrist? Cincinnati couldn’t have requested for a extra encouraging appearing from Burrow. Upcoming the downfield passing assault used to be absent towards the tip of coaching camp and within the season opener, Burrow used to be extra prepared to push the ball deep. He additionally embraced touch with none reservations, which led to a couple impressive positive factors (and likewise a fumble that used to be returned for a landing). However the day trip bodes neatly for Burrow as he continues to return again from the fitting wrist shock that ended his earlier season.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Some other vintage. It gave the look of the Bengals had been getting ready to pulling out an not likely victory in opposition to in spite of being 6.5-point underdogs. However a past due penalty by means of rookie Daijahn Anthony on fourth-and-16 put Kansas Town in place for the successful garden function.

Optic-popping complex stat: Burrow had a median of two.88 seconds to throw in opposition to Kansas Town, in line with NFL Then Gen Stats. Cincinnati’s offensive order merits a ton of credit score for giving Burrow enough life within the patch. — Ben Child

Then contest: vs. Commanders (Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Steelers

Is the protection as just right because it has proven within the first two weeks? The Steelers’ protection has give up 16 issues this season, the fewest issues it has allowed during the first two weeks since 2007. However the second-half defensive efficiency didn’t somewhat fit up with the probably the most first, the place the Steelers held the Broncos to 62 overall yards and 29 passing yards. The Broncos discovered second-half good fortune with Bo Nix within the move contest and moved the ball via bite performs. However the protection nonetheless got here up with well timed performs as Cory Trice Jr. hauled in an interception later back-to-back move performs of 26 and 49 yards. With the Chargers coming to Pittsburgh in Date 3, the Steelers will face their largest problem to presen.

Early prediction for nearest era: QB Justin Fields begins in opposition to within the Steelers’ house opener. Despite the fact that Grounds had an asymmetric efficiency, he performed neatly plenty for the Steelers to proceed to be wary with Russell Wilson‘s calf shock. Grounds finished 10 of 12 makes an attempt for 101 yards and a landing move — his first as a Steeler — within the first half of.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Inconsistent offense. The Steelers adopted the sport plan to similar perfection — save for a slew of offensive order consequences — within the first half of by means of dominating the life of ownership, making sly throws and getting robust operating again play games. They entered the split with a 10-0 supremacy and transformed 4 of 6 1/3 downs. It didn’t proceed in the second one half of. Consequences put the offense at the back of the chains and the Steelers did not maintain drives. — Brooke Pryor

Then contest: vs. Chargers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

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Broncos

What can the Broncos do on offense to backup QB Bo Nix? The Broncos had 3 first downs and 62 yards at halftime, Nix had 39 yards passing halfway during the 1/3 quarter and the Denver offense couldn’t handover a lot en path to a 0-2 begin. For the second one consecutive era, tutor Sean Payton stored Nix in a bevy of 3 broad receiver units and didn’t make the most of the run contest a lot (simplest seven rushes within the first half of). The one occasion the Broncos’ offense confirmed used to be on 50-yard trick play games between Nix and Josh Reynolds within the 1/3 quarter, however Nix threw an interception in spite of everything zone one play games then. Denver may wish to play games out of bulkier team of workers groupings and grind it out till Nix reveals his foundation.

Early prediction for nearest era: The Buccaneers’ move quicken will come later Nix. The league’s time table maker did Nix refuse favors, along with his first 4 video games coming in opposition to head coaches with lengthy, fertile defensive resumes. Mike Macdonald (Seahawks) and Mike Tomlin (Steelers) have held the Broncos to 26 issues in two video games, and now Tampa Bay’s Todd Bowles lurks in Date 3. Bowles mechanically assaults opposing quarterbacks, and it’d be sudden if he didn’t ship ordinary drive at Nix.

Maximum sudden efficiency: Cornerback Pat Surtain II. It used to be extra surprising than sudden, however Surtain may have had his maximum tough hour as a professional. He had two protecting consequences — one on particular groups — and a move interference penalty. He additionally surrendered a third-down catch to George Pickens within the first half of. It used to be out of persona for Surtain, who has been the Broncos’ maximum constant, impactful participant since coming into the NFL in 2021. — Jeff Legwold

Then contest: at Buccaneers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Cardinals

Is that this what the Cardinals’ offense can seem like each and every era? It positive seems to be find it irresistible. Snatch what Arizona did in Buffalo in Date 1 and compound that with the appearing Sunday in opposition to the Rams, through which the Cardinals publish 41 issues and 489 yards age that includes a 100-yard receiver in Marvin Harrison Jr. and 100-yard rusher in James Conner. The Cardinals are averaging 34.5 issues in line with contest and 374 yards of their two video games and feature proven the facility to place up issues and yards in a rush.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Rookie breakout. The Cardinals’ rookie broad receiver adopted a one-catch efficiency in his NFL debut with 130 yards and two touchdowns within the first quarter of his first house contest. Either one of his rankings had been electrical, showcasing his versatility with a toe-drag catch at the back of the tip zone in addition to person who ended with him outrunning a defensive again for a diving landing.

Early prediction for nearest era: Harrison will do it once more nearest era in opposition to the Lions in the second one of 3 directly house video games, however he’ll be worn extra all over the sport. — Josh Weinfuss

Then contest: vs. Lions (Sunday, 8 p.m. ET)

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Rams

What’s going to the Rams’ passing offense seem like if WR Cooper Kupp misses life along with his ankle shock? The Rams’ intensity on the place is already being examined with broad receiver Puka Nacua happening injured accumulation with a knee shock. If Kupp misses life along with his shock and Los Angeles doesn’t upload to the room, the Rams will depend on a height 3 receiving corps of Demarcus Robinson, Tyler Johnson and both Tutu Atwell or rookie sixth-round choose Jordan Whittington. Quarterback Matthew Stafford and the offense struggled to exit the ball in opposition to the Cardinals, completing with 245 overall yards.

Greatest hollow within the contest plan: A era later the Lions ran the ball seven instances to move the dimension of the garden for the additional time win, the Rams’ protection struggled to ban the run in opposition to Arizona. The Cardinals ran with sleep, completing with 231 yards, together with 59 yards on 5 carries for quarterback Kyler Murray.

Maximum sudden efficiency: Operating again Kyren Williams. Occasion the Cardinals ran in all places the garden, the Rams didn’t. Williams scored a landing past due within the 1/3 quarter, however the Rams struggled to exit the ball at the garden for lots of the contest. Williams ran for 25 yards on 12 carries. His moderate of two.1 yards in line with lift these days is his lowest mark in a contest since turning into the starter final season. — Sarah Barshop

Then contest: vs. 49ers (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Raiders

So THIS is what the offense is meant to seem like? Upcoming an anemic six-plus quarters of soccer — the Raiders had simplest 48 yards of offense at halftime in Baltimore — quarterback Gardner Minshew, broad receiver Davante Adams & Co. got here to occasion. Trailing by means of 10 issues with 12 mins to play games, Las Vegas become a juggernaut as Adams completed with 9 catches, 110 receiving yards and a landing. The offense’s awakening gave the protection a breather and complementary soccer that resulted in the win.

Greatest hollow within the contest plan: The Raiders forgot to bundle their operating contest on offense. Or did you pass over Las Vegas speeding for 4 yards within the first half of? Offensive coordinator Luke Getsy authored the NFL’s top-ranked speeding assault in 2022 for the Bears and used to be Negative. 2 final season. What provides?

Maximum sudden efficiency: Defensive finish Maxx Crosby. When he wasn’t in Ravens QB Lamar Jackson‘s face — he sacked the elusive QB two times — the talkative Raiders edge rusher used to be in Jackson’s ear. And for just right reason why. Upcoming Jackson ran for 122 yards and 7 first downs all over the Ravens’ season-opening loss at Kansas Town, Crosby helped prohibit Jackson to simply 20 yards at the garden. — Paul Gutierrez

Then contest: vs. Panthers (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)

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Ravens

Can the Ravens rebound from an 0-2 begin? That is necessarily uncharted area for the Ravens. The one life Baltimore has began 0-2 in tutor John Harbaugh’s earlier 16 seasons used to be in 2015, when the staff completed with its worst listing underneath him (5-11). Upcoming failing to store a 10-point supremacy in opposition to the Raiders with 12 mins residue Sunday, Baltimore has dug itself in a hollow. The Ravens’ nearest 3 video games are in opposition to two protecting section champions — at Dallas and residential in opposition to Buffalo — and at Cincinnati. QB Lamar Jackson has paintings to do to get Baltimore again on course as probably the most height Tremendous Bowl contenders.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Some other faint. This marks the Ravens’ fourth loss later well-known by means of double digits within the fourth quarter since 2022. This ties the Bears for probably the most within the NFL in that span, in step with ESPN Analysis. The Ravens can simplest blame themselves for that fourth-quarter faint. A fraudelant begin by means of operating again Derrick Henry at the Ravens’ model of the “tush push” prohibited Baltimore from changing a third-and-1. A move interference penalty by means of cornerback Brandon Stephens arrange the Raiders’ game-tying landing.

Optic-popping complex stat: Justin Tucker, probably the most correct kicker in NFL historical past, is having hassle with longer kicks. Tucker, 34, ignored broad left from 56 yards, which makes him 1-for-7 from 50 yards over the date two seasons. He were probably the most excellent from distance. In his first 11 seasons, Tucker’s 57 garden objectives from 50 yards or longer ranked moment over that span. — Jamison Hensley

Then contest: at Cowboys (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Browns

Is that this nearer to what the Browns’ fresh offense desires to be? The Browns’ offense wasn’t best in any respect, nevertheless it set off a significantly better aim than its Date 1 no-show. Cleveland ran the ball neatly and regularly introduced in residue linemen to get the garden contest going. Consequences endured to be a topic, however the Browns were given cleaner play games from quarterback Deshaun Watson, who didn’t flip the ball over and i’m in a hurry for a landing within the first quarter.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Undisciplined soccer. Upcoming the Browns had been flagged for 11 permitted consequences in Date 1, they dedicated 13 consequences that had been permitted Sunday. They had been particularly undisciplined past due, with 3 infractions negating a possible game-sealing landing pressure and giving the ball again to the Jaguars.

Early prediction for nearest era: The Browns’ offense will split out in opposition to the Giants. The unit wasn’t splendid in opposition to Jacksonville however confirmed indicators of occasion within the first half of. The Browns may in the end get one or either one of their height tackles again nearest era in Jedrick Wills Jr. and Jack Conklin, which might backup jump-start the unit. — Daniel Oyefusi

Then contest: vs. Giants (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

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Jaguars

Can the Jaguars salvage September? Upcoming an 0-2 begin, they nonetheless have highway video games at Buffalo nearest Monday evening and Houston please see era. There was just one staff manufacture the playoffs later an 0-4 begin: The 1992 San Diego Chargers. This staff has to triumph over some main problems, inauguration with an offense that used to be lacking for just about 3 quarters in opposition to the Browns. Proprietor Shad Khan had stated sooner than the season that the life to win used to be now, and lacking the playoffs places the potential of adjustments at the desk.

Greatest hollow within the contest plan: Shedding tight finish Evan Engram in pregame warmups to a hamstring injury pressured the Jaguars to regulate their contest plan not up to two hours sooner than kickoff. 2nd-year participant Brenton Strange were given extra paintings however Engram is a significant a part of the offense, particularly when the Jaguars need to blast brief, fast throws to actually serve as as a part of the run contest or decelerate the move quicken. There isn’t any other tight finish at the roster that may do what Engram does, although Unusual did step up within the intermediate move contest with 3 receptions for 65 yards.

Early prediction for nearest era: Rookie receiver Brian Thomas Jr. will turn into a larger a part of the offense. He delivered a heavy play games for the second one era in a row — catching a 66-yard move on a submit development to eager the Jaguars up within the 10-yard order for his or her simplest landing. He had simplest 4 goals final era and 3 this era, however he’s averaging 22.6 yards on his 5 catches. — Mike DiRocco

Then contest: at Expenses (Monday, 7:30 p.m. ET)

Commanders

Did Washington uncover its run contest? Quarterback Jayden Daniels wishes extra backup, and the run contest supplied it Sunday. Operating again Brian Robinson Jr. had the 2 longest runs of his profession (32 and 40 yards) en path to 133 yards. His energy inside of made a heavy extra, and Austin Ekeler‘s contributions within the move contest fueled the offense. Ekeler stuck 3 passes for 47 yards and ran 8 instances for 38 extra. Washington wishes to search out its id and lacks firepower within the move contest, but when the run contest produces it may a minimum of keep an eye on the sport and prohibit the protection’s life at the garden.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Unpleasant win. Nevertheless it positive beats a good-looking loss for a bunch that’s looking to rebuild the franchise. Daniels used to be sacked 5 instances however led a game-winning pressure — due to a 34-yard move and 14-yard run — that used to be capped by means of Austin Seibert‘s 7th garden function.

Greatest hollow within the contest plan: Washington’s protection plan vs. Malik Nabers. Washington worn extra Mike Davis in opposition to the Giants rookie for the primary half of and it didn’t move neatly as Nabers stuck 5 passes for 73 yards. The Commanders stored enjoying guy in opposition to Nabers in key spots, and he’d beat them on crossers. — John Keim

Then contest: at Bengals (Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

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Giants

Is that this in the end a take the appropriate action for QB Daniel Jones? It’s hardened to inform. Why? Jones all the time turns out to play games neatly in opposition to Washington. He threw a couple of landing passes Sunday and now has 12 TD tosses and 3 interceptions in opposition to the Commanders in his profession. Jones endured the rage by means of enjoying neatly on this matchup, making just right performs even past due within the fourth quarter. It needed to be just right for his self assurance. That’s profusion taking into consideration it used to be a priority coming into Date 2.

Greatest hollow within the contest plan: The Giants didn’t have a kicker. Sure, that in point of fact took place. They couldn’t even aim to kick a garden function to whisk the supremacy with simply over two mins residue as a result of Graham Gano pulled his hamstring chasing ill the outlet kickoff. Weakness used to be that the Giants knew Gano used to be already harm coming into Sunday (they added him to the shock file Saturday with a groin disorder) and didn’t loose themselves with a contingency.

Maximum sudden efficiency: Broad receiver Malik Nabers. It’s no longer that sudden that the Negative. 6 draft choose is enjoying neatly, however what’s sudden is his 18 goals — probably the most for a rookie since Rams receiver Puka Nacua‘s 20 in Date 2 final season. Nabers wasn’t simply a part of the sport plan, he used to be the sport plan for the Giants. He completed with 10 catches for 127 yards and his first profession landing. Most effective disorder is that his fourth-down let fall with simply over two mins residue deep in Washington area used to be expensive. — Jordan Raanan

Then contest: at Browns (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Seahawks

Is QB Geno Smith probably the most NFL’s maximum take hold of quarterbacks? Smith mechanically got here via in crunch life final season, throwing a single-season listing seven go-ahead landing passes within the fourth quarter or additional time. He did it once more Sunday, well-known garden function drives to join the sport past due in law and win it in OT. Smith completed 33-of-44 for 327 yards, a landing move and refuse giveover in spite of 5 drops and nearest to refuse backup from his run contest, which produced 46 yards.

Early prediction for nearest era: The Seahawks will put on out the passing machines over the nearest few days in preparation to stand the Dolphins. That they had 5 drops in opposition to Untouched England — two apiece by means of DK Metcalf and Noah Fant plus any other by means of Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Fant’s moment let fall got here simply outdoor the pink zone on their second-to-last pressure of law.

Maximum sudden efficiency: Broad receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba. He gave the impression set for a breakout all offseason, and this used to be a matchup that gave the impression to swimsuit him. However who noticed this heavy of a hour coming? Smith-Njigba’s 12 catches for 117 yards on 16 goals had been all profession highs, simply topping his earlier bests (seven catches, 11 goals, 63 yards). — Brady Henderson

Then contest: vs. Dolphins (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)

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Patriots

Do the Patriots have a susceptible move protection? The Patriots’ protection used to be noteceable in Date 1 in opposition to the Bengals however sprang some leaks as QB Geno Smith completed 33-of-44 for 327 yards and one landing. Some credit score must move to the Seahawks and their finest WR corps, nevertheless it wasn’t with out self-inflicted wounds, too. The only TD gave the impression to be a communique breakdown involving cornerback Christian Gonzalez and protection Kyle Dugger. There have been additionally defensive move interference consequences on CBs Marco Wilson and Jonathan Jones that resulted in a landing and the successful garden function in OT. The Patriots can have tiny life to get well with a Thursday evening contest in opposition to Aaron Rodgers and the Jets.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Time beyond regulation heartbreaker. The Patriots performed true to their id in operating for 185 yards and won the outlet kickoff of additional time to present themselves a prospect to win the sport. After all, their rarity of explosiveness within the passing contest and inconsistent move protection had been the extra.

Greatest hollow within the contest plan: Manufacturing from WRs in passing contest. Out of doors of rookie Ja’Lynn Polk‘s 5-yard landing catch, a 7-yard Polk catch past due within the fourth quarter and a 7-yard catch by means of K.J. Osborn in additional time, the Patriots didn’t have a receiver check in any other catch. That’s most probably a results of the Patriots operating extra two-TE programs — and TE Hunter Henry had a heavy hour. — Mike Reiss

Then contest: at Jets (Thursday , 8:15 p.m. ET)

Jets

Can QB Aaron Rodgers proceed to bail out the Jets? Rodgers collision some take hold of passes within the fourth quarter to save lots of the Jets from a crushing loss and an 0-2 begin, going 5-for-5 on a 74-yard pressure for the game-winning landing. Regardless of pedestrian numbers — 18-of-30 for 176 yards — Rodgers delivered when it mattered maximum and didn’t flip the ball over, the explanation the Jets traded for him final yr. He brings the type of successful mentality they’ve lacked for … neatly, a long time. However it is going to be tough to preserve until the offense achieves extra general consistency.

Greatest hollow within the contest plan: Broad receiver Garrett Wilson used to be centered simplest six instances and had 4 receptions. Rodgers stated he sought after to get Wilson extra touches than final era (six), however they went within the fallacious route. He used to be coated a accumulation by means of cornerback L’Jarius Sneed, which used to be an element, however there have been techniques (see: pre-snap movement) to assemble favorable matchups. Reality learn, Rodgers struggled to get the ball to each and every broad receiver. The passing assault used to be dink-and-dunk to the max. Rodgers needed to depend on his operating backs, Breece Hall and Braelon Allen, either one of whom stuck touchdowns.

Maximum sudden efficiency: Defensive finish Will McDonald IV. He had 3 sacks, equaling his profession overall. The largest got here with 23 seconds left, a third-down play games within the pink zone. The previous first-round choose got here up profusion on a hour through which the Jets may have misplaced defensive finish Jermaine Johnson to a season-ending Achilles injury — which places extra drive at the Jets to unravel the Haason Reddick holdout. — Lavish Cimini

Then contest: vs. Untouched England (Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

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Titans

How a lot are QB Will Levis‘ expensive giveover hurting the Titans? Levis single-handedly destroyed the Titans’ momentum early within the contest in opposition to the Jets. Tennessee used to be en path to consecutive scoring drives till Levis made a clumsy play games that resulted in a submit for the second one era in a row. Levis attempted to tone the ball backward rather of taking a sack on 1/3 ill, and rather, it used to be a fumble recovered by means of the Jets on their very own 12-yard order. A ranking would have put the Titans up double digits. This comes a era later Tennessee wasn’t ready to get well from some awful mistakes.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Momentum swings. The momentum used to be swinging from side to side on this contest. Levis’ fumble and interception on consecutive drives gave the Jets occasion. The Titans fought again to join it up, due to a miraculous landing catch by means of WR Calvin Ridley. In overall, the Jets misplaced and regained the supremacy thrice sooner than arising with the win.

Maximum sudden efficiency: Linebacker Harold Landry III. He had two sacks in opposition to the Jets and now has a complete of 3 later two video games. Landry isn’t typically a quick starter, as proven by means of his 3.5 overall sacks during the first two video games of his 5 earlier seasons. The veteran outdoor linebacker is off to the most efficient begin of his profession. — Turron Davenport

Then contest: vs. Packers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Vikings

What bodily situation will the Vikings be in for Date 3? As thrilling as Sunday’s victory used to be, the Vikings had been enjoying with out maximum in their offensive playmakers by means of the tip of the sport. Broad receiver Justin Jefferson departed within the 1/3 quarter on account of a proper quad shock, age wideout Jordan Addison (ankle) used to be idle and T.J. Hockenson (knee) used to be at the PUP record. Operating again Aaron Jones, in the meantime, gave the impression gradual within the fourth quarter later a go back and forth to the blue tent. Except there are some fast healings, the Vikings may well be short-handed heading into nearest Sunday’s matchup in opposition to Houston.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Brian Flores. The Vikings’ defensive coordinator spun up a scheme that harassed QB Brock Purdy on 13 of his dropbacks and sacked him six instances, that are each probably the most taken by means of Purdy in his profession. The Vikings additionally intercepted him as soon as and recovered his lone fumble. There might be plethora of adulation across the group for this 2-0 begin, however Flores has discovered techniques to impact each victories by way of move protection and compelled giveover.

Optic-popping complex stat: Jefferson ran a complete of 127.5 yards on a 97-yard touchdown reception in the second one quarter, probably the most by means of a ball provider on an offensive landing since 2016, in step with NFL Then Gen Stats. Darnold despatched the move 50 yards within the wind, however Jefferson needed to ban later catching it, pivot and outrace Ji’Ayir Brown and George Odum to the a ways nook of the tip zone for the ranking. — Kevin Seifert

Then contest: vs. Texans (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

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49ers

Will the 49ers ever win in Minnesota once more? Regardless of how just right they’ve been, the Niners merely can’t get it executed within the Dual Towns. Sunday’s loss used to be their 8th directly at Minnesota with their final win coming in 1992. This loss used to be extra alarming for the truth that the Vikings had been lacking more than one key offensive avid gamers for many or all the contest and nonetheless rang up 407 overall yards. Save for linebacker Fred Warner, the Niners have a accumulation of growth to do defensively in the event that they need to get again to the staff they’ve been lately.

Greatest hollow within the contest plan: It’s refuse undercover that Justin Jefferson is the most efficient receiver within the league, and with Jordan Addison and T.J. Hockenson unavailable for Minnesota, it stood to reason why the Niners would whisk particular serve to power any individual else to overcome them. In lieu, Jefferson posted 4 catches for 133 yards, together with a 97-yard landing, sooner than depart with an shock. San Francisco desires to persist with its defensive rules of speeding 4 and enjoying zone protection, but when the move quicken isn’t getting house constantly, there needs to be a greater plan for avid gamers of Jefferson’s caliber.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Error-filled. Enjoying at the highway and at 10 a.m. PT for the primary life this season, the Niners had been reputedly sleepwalking for far of the sport. It resulted in diverse expensive errors, akin to a forbidden punt, a muffed punt and Purdy merely dropping the ball for a fumble sooner than he may throw it. In a park as tough to win as Minnesota, that’s no longer committing to get it executed. — Nick Wagoner

Then contest: at Rams (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Buccaneers

Are we having a look at a career-best season for QB Baker Mayfield? Mayfield’s 5 passing touchdowns (with a 6th at the garden) are probably the most ever for him over the primary two video games of a season. His skill to thrive underneath duress (he used to be sacked 5 instances) and join with wideout Chris Godwin — who has accumulated 200 receiving yards and two touchdowns during the first two video games — used to be the extra maker in opposition to the Lions.

Greatest hollow within the contest plan: With out inauguration proper take on Luke Goedeke (concussion), Lions defensive finish Aidan Hutchinson ruled Tampa Bay’s offensive order, registering 4.5 sacks. The Bucs had all era to arrange for the 2022 Negative. 2 draft choose. Occasion the primary sack got here on a stunt with DT Alim McNeill, Hutchinson simply man-handled extra Justin Skule at the nearest two, and it wasn’t till later that Skule were given some backup from any other blocker. Even later, Hutchinson rattled off 1.5 extra sacks.

Maximum sudden efficiency: The Bucs’ battered secondary grabbed two takeaways off Lions QB Jared Goff with out Antoine Winfield Jr. and Josh Hayes. Cornerback Zyon McCollum, who’d simply cleared the concussion protocol, connect his first profession interception within the first quarter, which arrange a 55-yard garden function. Supplementary protection/nickelback Christian Izien picked off Goff within the fourth quarter and likewise made a touchdown-saving play games in opposition to RB Jahmyr Gibbs. Protection Jordan Whitehead used to be a tackling system and allowed simplest 4 catches on seven goals with a team-high 3 run stuffs. Each Izien and Whitehead tackled Gibbs on a important fourth-and-8 on the Bucs’ 6-yard order with 1:01 left. — Jenna Laine

Then contest: vs. Broncos (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

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Lions

Will have to the Lions be fascinated with QB Jared Goff? Sunday wasn’t his biggest efficiency. Occasion Goff completed with 307 yards passing, he threw two expensive interceptions, together with a choose on Detroit’s first offensive play games of the sport. He has now thrown an interception in every of the primary two video games of a season for simply the second one life in his profession. On a hour the Lions’ offense recorded 463 yards, Goff’s efficiency used to be a key issue within the loss.

Maximum sudden efficiency: Hutchinson form a sack hat trick within the opening quarter sooner than finishing with a career-high 4.5 sacks. It used to be the second one maximum in a contest by means of a Lions participant since sacks become an legitimate stat in 1982. Hutchinson used to be additionally the primary participant with 3 sacks in 1 / 4 this NFL season and now has a sack in 4 consecutive video games, tying the longest streak by means of a Lions participant.

Early prediction for nearest era: The Lions scored only one landing on seven pink zone journeys in opposition to the Buccaneers, which is uncharacteristic for an offense with such a lot of guns. Detroit will wish to blank up its errors coming into nearest era’s matchup in Arizona. — Eric Woodyard

Then contest: at Cardinals (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Packers

Can the Packers win once more with out QB Jordan Love? Taking into account they’re enjoying but any other offensively challenged AFC South staff within the Titans nearest era, why no longer? Occasion it appeared like Love used to be close to being able to play in opposition to the Colts, the Packers might need to purchase any other era of fix now that they’ve a minimum of one win with out him. An 0-3 begin would’ve been tricky — however no longer unattainable — to triumph over and a loss may have pressured the Packers to push Like to play games. However at 1-1 early in a 17-game time table, they are able to higher manage to pay for to roll the cube with Malik Willis and any other run-heavy contest plan.

Describe the sport in two phrases: . The Packers slightly even fauxed to throw the ball within the first half of. Willis threw simply 5 instances in comparison to 34 speeding makes an attempt for the Packers sooner than halftime. In simply his moment contest with the Packers, Josh Jacobs carried 32 instances for 151 yards. Willis used to be efficient when he used to be requested to throw and completed 12-of-14 for 122 yards and a landing.

Optic-popping complex stat: The Packers’ 237 yards speeding within the first half of used to be the 1/3 maximum by means of an NFL staff within the first half of of a contest since 2000. It used to be 14 at the back of probably the most, which used to be by means of the Jaguars in 2006 additionally in opposition to the Colts. In all, the Packers i’m in a hurry 53 instances for 261 yards. — Rob Demovsky

Then contest: at Titans (Sunday , 1 p.m. ET)

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Colts

What took place to the Colts’ run protection? For the second one era in a row, the Colts had been bodily ruled up entrance by means of an opponent’s operating contest. The Packers posted historical first-half speeding totals with 237 yards. And age the Colts were given the speeding assault underneath keep an eye on in the second one half of, the Packers nonetheless controlled to transform some important 1/3 downs. Inexperienced Bay additionally beat the Colts with splendid usefulness of misdirection, the usage of Indianapolis’ aggressiveness in opposition to it. The Colts have now allowed 405 speeding yards this season.

Greatest hollow within the contest plan: Quarterback Anthony Richardson used to be the Colts’ well-known rusher with six carries for 56 yards in Date 1. However the Colts had been reputedly disinterested in the usage of Richardson on designed runs Sunday, opting to accumulation him within the patch although the Packers’ coverages had been intent on no longer permitting him to throw downfield. Richardson had one designed run Sunday later a number of had been referred to as in Date 1.

Maximum sudden efficiency: Rookie receiver Adonai Mitchell had a promising coaching camp and has created a lot optimism, however he harm the Colts on Sunday with a important pair of performs. Mitchell dedicated a psychological error with an unlawful formation penalty in the second one quarter, negating a profusion third-down conversion. Nearest, Mitchell dropped a great move from Richardson that will have transformed a important 1/3 ill all over the Colts’ failed comeback. Mitchell noticed fewer snaps the residue of the sport, possibly because of this. — Stephen Holder

Then contest: vs. Bears (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Saints

Can the Saints accumulation up this offensive generation? The Saints proved their fresh offense is for actual later blowing out each the Panthers and Cowboys. However how lengthy can they accumulation up this record-setting generation? The Saints’ inauguration offense scored on its first 16 possessions of the season, gave operating again Alvin Kamara his moment profession four-touchdown contest and seemed unstoppable. The Saints didn’t stall on a ownership till a Derek Carr interception within the fourth quarter.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Grasp efficiency. It’s hardened to whisk factor with the rest Carr or the offense did in opposition to the Cowboys. They eager the pitch early and not let off the gasoline, the usage of Rashid Shaheed‘s velocity and Kamara’s versatility age deploying more than one avid gamers as blockers to permit Carr to play games most commonly error-free.

Optic-popping complex stat: 91 issues. The Saints made a heavy exit this offseason by means of shifting clear of the Sean Payton offense that gained a Tremendous Bowl identify within the 2009 season. That staff publish 93 issues in its first two video games, the second one maximum in NFL historical past. This season’s Saints are tie for 6th in NFL historical past with 91 issues via Date 2. — Katherine Terrell

Then contest: vs. Eagles (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

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Cowboys

What must be product of the Cowboys’ protection? Dominant in opposition to the Browns. Ruled by means of the Saints. Via 3 quarters, the Saints averaged 9.7 yards in line with play games. The 35 issues allowed within the first half of tie for probably the most give up during the first two quarters in staff historical past. Utmost yr, the Cowboys allowed greater than 35 issues in a contest simply as soon as. Carr used to be hardly ever touched and neither used to be Kamara, who had 4 touchdowns. Mike McCarthy used to be round for the final life an opponent had 4 touchdowns in opposition to Dallas with Packers operating again Aaron Jones scoring 4 in a Inexperienced Bay win at AT&T Stadium.

Early prediction for nearest era: It’s no longer committing to get any more uncomplicated. The Ravens have traditionally been probably the most higher speeding groups within the NFL, partially as a result of quarterback Lamar Jackson is a game-changer. He can manufacture defenses glance malicious on his personal. Derrick Henry has but to move off in his first two video games with the Ravens, however the Cowboys had been bludgeoned by means of the Saints in each and every means, given up greater than 5 yards in line with lift on their first six possessions.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Over early. This wasn’t as malicious because the 48-32 wild-card loss to the Packers final season, however simplest as a result of this wasn’t a playoff loss. The Cowboys allowed touchdowns at the Saints’ first six possessions. The offense moved the ball however failed on two pink zone journeys, settling for too many Brandon Aubrey garden objectives. — Todd Archer

Then contest: vs. Ravens (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Chargers

Will have to the Chargers ban splitting caries between Gus Edwards and J.K. Dobbins? Dobbins had any other record-setting Sunday, completing with 17 carries for 131 yards and one landing. Dobbins is the primary Chargers participant to hurry for 100 yards in every of his staff’s first two video games of a season, and he somersaulted into the tip zone for his lone ranking of the hour. Offensive coordinator Greg Roman stated they’d roll with the “hot hand” because the season stepped forward, nevertheless it’s sunny that the speeding offense is best with Dobbins. Edwards had 18 carries for 59 yards.

Maximum sudden efficiency: Quentin Johnston‘s two touchdowns: Johnston had scored two touchdowns over the primary 18 video games of his profession sooner than he stuck two within the first half of on Sunday. Johnston’s first ranking, a 29-yard catch over CB Jaycee Horn, used to be his maximum noteceable play games of the hour. Johnston ran by means of Horn and changed because the ball used to be within the wind to reel within the move for the ranking.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Defensive domination. The Chargers held Panthers quarterback Bryce Young to simply 22 passing yards and an interception within the first half of, the bottom first-half overall of his profession. The Chargers’ protection has allowed simply 13 issues over the primary two weeks of the season. — Kris Rhim

Then contest: at Steelers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

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Panthers

When will tutor Dave Canales sit down quarterback Bryce Younger? Carolina has far more issues than Younger, however gradual begins are killing the Panthers. Younger is an element. He used to be 8-of-10 for 22 yards and a choose within the first half of Sunday. He used to be 6-of-12 for fifty yards with a choose within the first half of final era. Andy Dalton may give Carolina a greater prospect. But if not too long ago requested about converting, Canales stated: “The best experience you can have is to be on the field, and just to live it.”

Describe the game in two words: Déjà vu. The 20-0 first-half deficit looked eerily similar to last week, when they fell behind 30-3 against New Orleans. The inability to stop the run against L.A. (44 rushes for 219 yards) mirrored the inability to stop it against the Saints (180 yards). Young’s ineffectiveness … yes, a lot of bad similarities.

Early prediction for next week: Canales will take a chance by switching to Dalton either before Sunday’s game at Las Vegas or during it. It was this time last season that Young sat because of an ankle injury, and the Panthers had their best offensive output. — David Newton

Next game: at Raiders (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)

Expenses

What does the moment store at linebacker? Terrel Bernard left the game in the first half with a pectoral injury, meaning both of the team’s starting linebackers are injured, in addition to starting nickel cornerback Taron Johnson. Baylon Spector performed the residue of the sport for Bernard, age Dorian Williams is in for the Matt Milano. With Bernard set to miss time — the team is deciding whether to place him on injured reserve — a position that has dealt with injuries since the offseason will have to overcome even more, with coach Sean McDermott anticipating Spector taking over the middle linebacker role in Bernard’s absence.

Eye-popping advanced stat: On quarterback Josh Allen‘s throw to operating again Ty Johnson that arrange James Cook‘s 1-yard touchdown run, Allen was running 14.87 mph at the time of his throw. In the past five seasons, Allen has completed 50 passes on 113 attempts when running at least 14 mph. That is the most such completions in the NFL over that span (Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts is nearest with 40).

Maximum sudden efficiency: Cornerback Ja’Marcus Ingram. The previous undrafted unfastened agent took benefit of alternatives and got here away with two interceptions, together with a pick-six. Ingram got here into the sport with out ever recording an interception. — Alaina Getzenberg

Then contest: vs. Jaguars (Monday, 7:30 p.m. ET)

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Dolphins

What’s going to the Dolphins do at quarterback shifting ahead? Tua Tagovailoa’s unedited concussion will most probably accumulation him out of nearest era’s contest in opposition to the Seahawks, tutor Mike McDaniel stated. The Dolphins have the “utmost confidence” in third-year quarterback Skylar Thompson, who will in all chance begin till Tagovailoa is in a position to go back. McDaniel stated Miami will upload any other quarterback to its roster, however don’t be expecting a participant like Ryan Tannehill or Jimmy Garoppolo, who would are available in anticipating to begin.

Maximum sudden efficiency: The Dolphins’ efficiency as a complete used to be sudden, however for my part, Tyreek Hill recorded simply 3 catches for twenty-four yards. Jaylen Waddle, Jonnu Smith and De’Von Achane had been all extra fertile as Hill’s struggles in opposition to the Expenses proceed. If Thompson is to begin nearest era, Hill has to say himself as probably the most league’s excellent avid gamers — irrespective of his staff’s quarterback status.

Optic-popping complex stat: In step with NFL Then Gen Stats, Tagovailoa finished simplest two of his 8 makes an attempt of 10-plus wind yards, make happen 38 yards and two interceptions. It used to be the bottom final touch proportion of his profession in video games the place he’s tried a minimum of 8 such passes. Taking into account the Expenses’ unproven safeties, no longer with the ability to profit from that matchup used to be a profusion pass over for Miami’s offense. — Marcel Louis-Jacques

Then contest: at Seahawks (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)