NFL Week 2: Biggest questions, takeaways for every recreation

NFL Nation, ESPNSep 15, 2024, 11:38 PM ET

Week 2 of the NFL season began Thursday night time time with a Buffalo Bills blowout win over the Miami Dolphins. Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa left the game throughout the third quarter with a concussion.

On Sunday, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers tamed the Detroit Lions, and the New Orleans Saints’ offense proved to be an extreme quantity of for the Dallas Cowboys. Packers quarterback Malik Willis helped lead Green Bay to its first win of the season, whereas the Lamar Jackson-led Baltimore Ravens fell to the Las Vegas Raiders.

The Arizona Cardinals’ 31-point win over the Los Angeles Rams was spearheaded by large performances from quarterback Kyler Murray and rookie broad receiver Marvin Harrison Jr.

Sunday night time time featured the Houston Texans blitzing their choice to a victory over Caleb Williams and the Chicago Bears.

Our NFL Nation reporters are reacting to the entire movement, answering lingering questions coming out of each recreation and detailing all of the items else it’s good to know for every workers. Let’s get to it.

Texans

How can the Texans get all three receivers involved? The Texans have a dynamic receiving trio of Stefon Diggs, Tank Dell and Nico Collins. While Collins had his second consecutive 100-yard recreation (135), Dell and Diggs blended for 30 yards. That’s been the theme by way of two weeks. Diggs has two touchdowns in 2024 nonetheless 70 yards receiving. Dell hasn’t made many performs each, totaling 33 receiving yards. Offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik ought to work out strategies to get completely different playmakers involved to achieve their potential.

Biggest hole throughout the recreation plan: Slowik strayed from a balanced offense. C.J. Stroud dropped once more 39 situations nonetheless Slowik known as 21 dashing performs for 76 yards. The Texans had success working the ball in Week 1 as Joe Mixon reached 159 dashing yards on 30 carries in the direction of the Colts. Mixon was battling an ankle hurt Sunday.

Eye-popping superior stat: Cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. guarded Bears receiver DJ Moore for 28 routes and allowed 52 yards whereas snagging an interception. Stingley adopted Moore for nearly the entire sport. — DJ Bien-Aime

Next recreation: at Vikings (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Bears

How can the offense greater help Caleb Williams? The No. 1 normal select regarded greater in his second outing (two of his most interesting passes received right here on Chicago’s lone scoring drive and have been negated by a penalty and a drop by WR Rome Odunze). Williams accomplished 23-of-37 for 174 yards, no touchdowns, 2 interceptions and a 51.0 passer rating. The Bears had no reply to Houston’s blitz and failed to protect Williams, who was sacked seven situations. After going 0-for-5 under pressure in the direction of the Titans, Williams was 2-of-9 for 20 yards with two interceptions whereas pressured in the direction of Houston.

Describe the game in two phrases: Costly errors. Chicago’s 9 penalties, along with three on specific teams, put the offense behind the chains. And two of those received right here on the offensive line for false begins after timeouts. Matt Eberflus threw two questionable drawback flags, and Williams pressured a throw into safety that resulted in his second interception.

Biggest hole throughout the recreation plan: Chicago’s run recreation was nonexistent for a second straight week. D’Andre Swift totaled 18 yards on 14 rushes (1.3 yards per carry). Williams’ scrambling (44 yards) accounted for most of the hurt on a night when play design and poor run blocking made the Bears one-dimensional offensively. — Courtney Cronin

Next recreation: at Colts (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Chiefs

What’s occurred to tight end Travis Kelce? Kelce has disappeared from the passing recreation. He had just one catch for 5 yards after a three-for-34 effectivity remaining week in the direction of the Ravens. The Chiefs are deeper at broad receiver than they’ve been recently and have receiving choices at tight end in Noah Gray and Jared Wiley, so they don’t persistently need large manufacturing from Kelce every week. But it’s robust to see them being as dynamic offensively with out getting further from Kelce.

Biggest hole throughout the recreation plan: Quarterback Patrick Mahomes threw merely 13 passes throughout the first half as a result of the Chiefs tried 18 working performs. They have been largely productive nonetheless generated merely 10 first-half components. The Chiefs need their working recreation to help take some pressure off Mahomes and the passing assault, nonetheless once they’re out of steadiness like this, they don’t appear to be maximizing their return from their most interesting participant.

Most surprising effectivity: Mahomes. He threw a pair of interceptions and had a third known as once more as a result of a Bengals’ penalty. Mahomes tried nonetheless didn’t get an infinite play downfield except for a 44-yard touchdown go to broad receiver Rashee Rice. Otherwise, the Chiefs had no go play of better than 16 yards. — Adam Teicher

Next recreation: at Falcons (Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET)

Bengals

What does this effectivity say about QB Joe Burrow’s wrist? Cincinnati couldn’t have requested for a further encouraging displaying from Burrow. After the downfield passing assault was absent in the direction of the highest of teaching camp and throughout the season opener, Burrow was further ready to push the ball deep. He moreover embraced contact with none reservations, which led to some important optimistic components (and likewise a fumble that was returned for a touchdown). But the outing bodes correctly for Burrow as he continues to return once more from the correct wrist hurt that ended his earlier season.

Describe the game in two phrases: Another fundamental. It regarded similar to the Bengals have been on the purpose of pulling out an unlikely victory in the direction of no matter being 6.5-point underdogs. But a late penalty by rookie Daijahn Anthony on fourth-and-16 put Kansas City in place for the worthwhile topic purpose.

Eye-popping superior stat: Burrow had a imply of two.88 seconds to throw in the direction of Kansas City, per NFL Next Gen Stats. Cincinnati’s offensive line deserves a ton of credit score rating for giving Burrow ample time throughout the pocket. — Ben Baby

Next recreation: vs. Commanders (Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Steelers

Is the safety just about pretty much as good as a result of it has confirmed throughout the first two weeks? The Steelers’ safety has given up 16 components this season, the fewest components it has allowed by way of the first two weeks since 2007. But the second-half defensive effectivity didn’t pretty match up with the one among many first, the place the Steelers held the Broncos to 62 complete yards and 29 passing yards. The Broncos found second-half success with Bo Nix throughout the go recreation and moved the ball by way of chunk performs. But the safety nonetheless received right here up with properly timed performs as Cory Trice Jr. hauled in an interception after back-to-back go performs of 26 and 49 yards. With the Chargers coming to Pittsburgh in Week 3, the Steelers will face their biggest drawback to date.

Early prediction for subsequent week: QB Justin Fields begins in the direction of throughout the Steelers’ residence opener. Though Fields had an uneven effectivity, he carried out correctly adequate for the Steelers to proceed to be cautious with Russell Wilson’s calf hurt. Fields completed 10 of 12 makes an try for 101 yards and a touchdown go — his first as a Steeler — throughout the first half.

Describe the game in two phrases: Inconsistent offense. The Steelers adopted the game plan to shut perfection — save for a slew of offensive line penalties — throughout the first half by dominating the time of possession, making smart throws and getting sturdy working once more play. They entered the break with a 10-0 lead and remodeled 4 of 6 third downs. It didn’t proceed throughout the second half. Penalties put the offense behind the chains and the Steelers didn’t preserve drives. — Brooke Pryor

Next recreation: vs. Chargers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Broncos

What can the Broncos do on offense to help QB Bo Nix? The Broncos had three first downs and 62 yards at halftime, Nix had 39 yards passing midway by way of the third quarter and the Denver offense couldn’t current lots en path to a 0-2 start. For the second consecutive week, coach Sean Payton saved Nix in a bevy of three broad receiver models and didn’t benefit from the run recreation lots (solely seven rushes throughout the first half). The solely life the Broncos’ offense confirmed was on 50-yard trick play between Nix and Josh Reynolds throughout the third quarter, nonetheless Nix threw an interception in the end zone one play later. Denver might should play out of bulkier personnel groupings and grind it out until Nix finds his footing.

Early prediction for subsequent week: The Buccaneers’ go rush will come after Nix. The league’s schedule maker did Nix no favors, alongside along with his first 4 video video games coming in the direction of head coaches with prolonged, productive defensive resumes. Mike Macdonald (Seahawks) and Mike Tomlin (Steelers) have held the Broncos to 26 components in two video video games, and now Tampa Bay’s Todd Bowles lurks in Week 3. Bowles routinely assaults opposing quarterbacks, and it could be surprising if he didn’t ship widespread pressure at Nix.

Most surprising effectivity: Cornerback Pat Surtain II. It was further shocking than surprising, nonetheless Surtain might have had his most robust day as an expert. He had two holding penalties — one on specific teams — and a go interference penalty. He moreover surrendered a third-down catch to George Pickens throughout the first half. It was out of character for Surtain, who has been the Broncos’ most fixed, impactful participant since coming into the NFL in 2021. — Jeff Legwold

Next recreation: at Buccaneers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Cardinals

Is this what the Cardinals’ offense can seem like every week? It optimistic appears choose it. Take what Arizona did in Buffalo in Week 1 and compound that with the airing Sunday in the direction of the Rams, whereby the Cardinals put up 41 components and 489 yards whereas that features a 100-yard receiver in Marvin Harrison Jr. and 100-yard rusher in James Conner. The Cardinals are averaging 34.5 components per recreation and 374 yards of their two video video games and have confirmed the ability to put up components and yards in a rush.

Describe the game in two phrases: Rookie breakout. The Cardinals’ rookie broad receiver adopted a one-catch effectivity in his NFL debut with 130 yards and two touchdowns throughout the first quarter of his first residence recreation. Both of his scores have been electrical, showcasing his versatility with a toe-drag catch in the back of the highest zone along with one which ended with him outrunning a defensive once more for a diving touchdown.

Early prediction for subsequent week: Harrison will do it as soon as extra subsequent week in the direction of the Lions throughout the second of three straight residence video video games, nonetheless he shall be used further all by the game. — Josh Weinfuss

Next recreation: vs. Lions (Sunday, 8 p.m. ET)

Rams

What will the Rams’ passing offense seem like if WR Cooper Kupp misses time alongside along with his ankle hurt? The Rams’ depth on the place is already being examined with broad receiver Puka Nacua occurring injured reserve with a knee hurt. If Kupp misses time alongside along with his hurt and Los Angeles wouldn’t add to the room, the Rams will depend upon a main three receiving corps of Demarcus Robinson, Tyler Johnson and each Tutu Atwell or rookie sixth-round select Jordan Whittington. Quarterback Matthew Stafford and the offense struggled to maneuver the ball in the direction of the Cardinals, ending with 245 complete yards.

Biggest hole throughout the recreation plan: Per week after the Lions ran the ball seven situations to go the scale of the sector for the overtime win, the Rams’ safety struggled to stop the run in the direction of Arizona. The Cardinals ran with ease, ending with 231 yards, along with 59 yards on 5 carries for quarterback Kyler Murray.

Most surprising effectivity: Running once more Kyren Williams. While the Cardinals ran in all places within the topic, the Rams didn’t. Williams scored a touchdown late throughout the third quarter, nonetheless the Rams struggled to maneuver the ball on the underside for most of the recreation. Williams ran for 25 yards on 12 carries. His widespread of two.1 yards per carry right now is his lowest mark in a recreation since turning into the starter remaining season. — Sarah Barshop

Next recreation: vs. 49ers (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Browns convert on 4th down behind Jerome Ford’s 36-yard rush

Jerome Ford bursts down the sideline for a 36-yard run to take care of the drive alive for the Browns in the direction of the Jaguars.

Raiders

So THIS is what the offense is supposed to seem like? After an anemic six-plus quarters of soccer — the Raiders had solely 48 yards of offense at halftime in Baltimore — quarterback Gardner Minshew, broad receiver Davante Adams & Co. received right here to life. Trailing by 10 components with 12 minutes to play, Las Vegas grew to change into a juggernaut as Adams accomplished with 9 catches, 110 receiving yards and a touchdown. The offense’s awakening gave the safety a breather and complementary soccer that led to the win.

Biggest hole throughout the recreation plan: The Raiders forgot to pack their working recreation on offense. Or did you miss Las Vegas dashing for 4 yards throughout the first half? Offensive coordinator Luke Getsy authored the NFL’s top-ranked dashing assault in 2022 for the Bears and was No. 2 remaining season. What affords?

Most surprising effectivity: Defensive end Maxx Crosby. When he wasn’t in Ravens QB Lamar Jackson’s face — he sacked the elusive QB twice — the talkative Raiders edge rusher was in Jackson’s ear. And for good goal. After Jackson ran for 122 yards and seven first downs in the midst of the Ravens’ season-opening loss at Kansas City, Crosby helped limit Jackson to easily 20 yards on the underside. — Paul Gutierrez

Next recreation: vs. Panthers (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)

Ravens

Can the Ravens rebound from an 0-2 start? This is principally uncharted territory for the Ravens. The solely time Baltimore has started 0-2 in coach John Harbaugh’s earlier 16 seasons was in 2015, when the workers accomplished with its worst file under him (5-11). After failing to hold a 10-point lead in the direction of the Raiders with 12 minutes remaining Sunday, Baltimore has dug itself in a niche. The Ravens’ subsequent three video video games are in the direction of two defending division champions — at Dallas and residential in the direction of Buffalo — and at Cincinnati. QB Lamar Jackson has work to do to get Baltimore once more on monitor as one among many prime Super Bowl contenders.

Describe the game in two phrases: Another collapse. This marks the Ravens’ fourth loss after principal by double digits throughout the fourth quarter since 2022. This ties the Bears for in all probability probably the most throughout the NFL in that span, in response to ESPN Research. The Ravens can solely blame themselves for that fourth-quarter collapse. A false start by working once more Derrick Henry on the Ravens’ mannequin of the “tush push” stopped Baltimore from altering a third-and-1. A go interference penalty by cornerback Brandon Stephens organize the Raiders’ game-tying touchdown.

Eye-popping superior stat: Justin Tucker, in all probability probably the most right kicker in NFL historic previous, is having trouble with longer kicks. Tucker, 34, missed broad left from 56 yards, which makes him 1-for-7 from 50 yards over the earlier two seasons. He had been top-of-the-line from distance. In his first 11 seasons, Tucker’s 57 topic goals from 50 yards or longer ranked second over that span. — Jamison Hensley

Next recreation: at Cowboys (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Browns

Is this nearer to what the Browns’ new offense must be? The Browns’ offense wasn’t good by any means, nonetheless it put forth a considerably higher effort than its Week 1 no-show. Cleveland ran the ball correctly and ceaselessly launched in additional linemen to get the underside recreation going. Penalties continued to be an issue, nonetheless the Browns acquired cleaner play from quarterback Deshaun Watson, who didn’t flip the ball over and rushed for a touchdown throughout the first quarter.

Describe the game in two phrases: Undisciplined soccer. After the Browns have been flagged for 11 accepted penalties in Week 1, they devoted 13 penalties which have been accepted Sunday. They have been notably undisciplined late, with three infractions negating a attainable game-sealing touchdown drive and giving the ball once more to the Jaguars.

Early prediction for subsequent week: The Browns’ offense will get away in the direction of the Giants. The unit wasn’t good in the direction of Jacksonville nonetheless confirmed indicators of life throughout the first half. The Browns could lastly get one or every of their prime tackles once more subsequent week in Jedrick Wills Jr. and Jack Conklin, which can help jump-start the unit. — Daniel Oyefusi

Next recreation: vs. Giants (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Jaguars

Can the Jaguars salvage September? After an 0-2 start, they nonetheless have freeway video video games at Buffalo subsequent Monday night time time and Houston the subsequent week. There has been only one workers make the playoffs after an 0-4 start: The 1992 San Diego Chargers. This workers has to beat some details, starting with an offense that was missing for virtually three quarters in the direction of the Browns. Owner Shad Khan had acknowledged sooner than the season that the time to win was now, and missing the playoffs locations the potential for changes on the desk.

Biggest hole throughout the recreation plan: Losing tight end Evan Engram in pregame warmups to a hamstring hurt pressured the Jaguars to manage their recreation plan decrease than two hours sooner than kickoff. Second-year participant Brenton Strange acquired further work nonetheless Engram is a critical part of the offense, notably when the Jaguars must execute transient, quick throws to principally carry out as part of the run recreation or decelerate the go rush. There isn’t one different tight end on the roster that will do what Engram does, though Strange did step up throughout the intermediate go recreation with three receptions for 65 yards.

Early prediction for subsequent week: Rookie receiver Brian Thomas Jr. will develop to be a fair greater part of the offense. He delivered an infinite play for the second week in a row — catching a 66-yard go on a submit pattern to set the Jaguars up contained within the 10-yard line for his or her solely touchdown. He had solely 4 targets remaining week and three this week, nonetheless he’s averaging 22.6 yards on his 5 catches. — Mike DiRocco

Next recreation: at Bills (Monday, 7:30 p.m. ET)

Seahawks win on topic purpose in overtime

Jason Myers completes 31-yard topic purpose to solidify the Seahawks win over the Patriots in overtime.

Commanders

Did Washington uncover its run recreation? Quarterback Jayden Daniels needs further help, and the run recreation supplied it Sunday. Running once more Brian Robinson Jr. had the two longest runs of his career (32 and 40 yards) en path to 133 yards. His vitality inside made an infinite distinction, and Austin Ekeler’s contributions throughout the go recreation fueled the offense. Ekeler caught three passes for 47 yards and ran eight situations for 38 further. Washington needs to go looking out its identification and lacks firepower throughout the go recreation, however when the run recreation produces it should in all probability not lower than administration the game and limit the safety’s time on the sector.

Describe the game in two phrases: Ugly win. But it optimistic beats a reasonably loss for a gaggle that is attempting to rebuild the franchise. Daniels was sacked 5 situations nonetheless led a game-winning drive — as a result of a 34-yard go and 14-yard run — that was capped by Austin Seibert’s seventh topic purpose.

Biggest hole throughout the recreation plan: Washington’s safety plan vs. Malik Nabers. Washington used backup Mike Davis in the direction of the Giants rookie for the first half and it didn’t go correctly as Nabers caught 5 passes for 73 yards. The Commanders saved having fun with man in the direction of Nabers in key spots, and he’d beat them on crossers. — John Keim

Next recreation: at Bengals (Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Giants

Is this lastly a step within the correct course for QB Daniel Jones? It’s onerous to tell. Why? Jones on a regular basis seems to play correctly in the direction of Washington. He threw a pair of touchdown passes Sunday and now has 12 TD tosses and three interceptions in the direction of the Commanders in his career. Jones continued the sample by having fun with correctly on this matchup, making good performs even late throughout the fourth quarter. It wanted to be good for his confidence. That’s giant considering it was a precedence coming into Week 2.

Biggest hole throughout the recreation plan: The Giants didn’t have a kicker. Yes, that principally occurred. They couldn’t even try and kick a topic purpose to take the lead with merely over two minutes remaining on account of Graham Gano pulled his hamstring chasing down the opening kickoff. Problem was that the Giants knew Gano was already harm coming into Sunday (they added him to the hurt report Saturday with a groin draw back) and didn’t go away themselves with a contingency.

Most surprising effectivity: Wide receiver Malik Nabers. It’s not that surprising that the No. 6 draft select is having fun with correctly, nonetheless what’s surprising is his 18 targets — in all probability probably the most for a rookie since Rams receiver Puka Nacua’s 20 in Week 2 remaining season. Nabers wasn’t merely part of the game plan, he was the game plan for the Giants. He accomplished with 10 catches for 127 yards and his first career touchdown. Only draw back is that his fourth-down drop with merely over two minutes remaining deep in Washington territory was dear. — Jordan Raanan

Next recreation: at Browns (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Seahawks

Is QB Geno Smith one among many NFL’s most clutch quarterbacks? Smith routinely received right here by way of in crunch time remaining season, throwing a single-season file seven go-ahead touchdown passes throughout the fourth quarter or overtime. He did it as soon as extra Sunday, principal topic purpose drives to tie the game late in regulation and win it in OT. Smith accomplished 33-of-44 for 327 yards, a touchdown go and no turnovers no matter 5 drops and subsequent to no help from his run recreation, which produced 46 yards.

Early prediction for subsequent week: The Seahawks will placed on out the passing machines over the next few days in preparation to face the Dolphins. They had 5 drops in the direction of New England — two apiece by DK Metcalf and Noah Fant plus one different by Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Fant’s second drop received right here merely outside the purple zone on their second-to-last drive of regulation.

Most surprising effectivity: Wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba. He appeared poised for a breakout all offseason, and this was a matchup that appeared to go properly with him. But who observed this large of a day coming? Smith-Njigba’s 12 catches for 117 yards on 16 targets have been all career highs, merely topping his earlier bests (seven catches, 11 targets, 63 yards). — Brady Henderson

Next recreation: vs. Dolphins (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)

Patriots

Do the Patriots have a prone go safety? The Patriots’ safety was spectacular in Week 1 in the direction of the Bengals nonetheless sprang some leaks as QB Geno Smith accomplished 33-of-44 for 327 yards and one touchdown. Some credit score rating must go to the Seahawks and their great WR corps, nonetheless it wasn’t with out self-inflicted wounds, too. The one TD seemed to be a communication breakdown involving cornerback Christian Gonzalez and safety Kyle Dugger. There have been moreover defensive go interference penalties on CBs Marco Wilson and Jonathan Jones that led to a touchdown and the worthwhile topic purpose in OT. The Patriots may have little time to recuperate with a Thursday night time time recreation in the direction of Aaron Rodgers and the Jets.

Describe the game in two phrases: Overtime heartbreaker. The Patriots carried out true to their identification in working for 185 yards and bought the opening kickoff of overtime to supply themselves a possibility to win the game. In the highest, their lack of explosiveness throughout the passing recreation and inconsistent go safety have been the excellence.

Biggest hole throughout the recreation plan: Production from WRs in passing recreation. Outside of rookie Ja’Lynn Polk’s 5-yard touchdown catch, a 7-yard Polk catch late throughout the fourth quarter and a 7-yard catch by Okay.J. Osborn in overtime, the Patriots didn’t have a receiver register one different catch. That’s attainable a outcomes of the Patriots working further two-TE packages — and TE Hunter Henry had an infinite day. — Mike Reiss

Next recreation: at Jets (Thursday , 8:15 p.m. ET)

Vikings flip a Purdy INT proper right into a TD

Josh Metellus will get the interception off the deflection. Vikings would ranking on the next play with a Jalen Nailor touchdown.

Jets

Can QB Aaron Rodgers proceed to bail out the Jets? Rodgers hit some clutch passes throughout the fourth quarter to keep away from losing the Jets from a crushing loss and an 0-2 start, going 5-for-5 on a 74-yard drive for the game-winning touchdown. Despite pedestrian numbers — 18-of-30 for 176 yards — Rodgers delivered when it mattered most and didn’t flip the ball over, the rationale the Jets traded for him remaining yr. He brings the type of worthwhile mentality they’ve lacked for … correctly, a few years. But it should probably be robust to maintain up till the offense achieves further normal consistency.

Biggest hole throughout the recreation plan: Wide receiver Garrett Wilson was centered solely six situations and had 4 receptions. Rodgers acknowledged he wished to get Wilson further touches than remaining week (six), nonetheless they went throughout the fallacious course. He was coated a lot by cornerback L’Jarius Sneed, which was a component, nonetheless there have been strategies (see: pre-snap motion) to create favorable matchups. Truth be suggested, Rodgers struggled to get the ball to every broad receiver. The passing assault was dink-and-dunk to the max. Rodgers wanted to depend upon his working backs, Breece Hall and Braelon Allen, every of whom caught touchdowns.

Most surprising effectivity: Defensive end Will McDonald IV. He had three sacks, equaling his career complete. The biggest received right here with 23 seconds left, a third-down play throughout the purple zone. The former first-round select received right here up giant on a day whereby the Jets might have misplaced defensive end Jermaine Johnson to a season-ending Achilles hurt — which locations further pressure on the Jets to resolve the Haason Reddick holdout. — Rich Cimini

Next recreation: vs. New England (Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Titans

How lots are QB Will Levis’ dear turnovers hurting the Titans? Levis single-handedly destroyed the Titans’ momentum early throughout the recreation in the direction of the Jets. Tennessee was en path to consecutive scoring drives until Levis made a careless play that led to a turnover for the second week in a row. Levis tried to pitch the ball backward in its place of taking a sack on third down, and in its place, it was a fumble recovered by the Jets on their very personal 12-yard line. A ranking would have put the Titans up double digits. This comes each week after Tennessee wasn’t ready to recuperate from some lethal errors.

Describe the game in two phrases: Momentum swings. The momentum was swinging forwards and backwards on this recreation. Levis’ fumble and interception on consecutive drives gave the Jets life. The Titans fought once more to tie it up, as a result of a miraculous touchdown catch by WR Calvin Ridley. In complete, the Jets misplaced and regained the lead thrice sooner than creating with the win.

Most surprising effectivity: Linebacker Harold Landry III. He had two sacks in the direction of the Jets and now has an entire of three after two video video games. Landry isn’t normally a fast starter, as confirmed by his 3.5 complete sacks by way of the first two video video games of his 5 earlier seasons. The veteran outside linebacker is off to top-of-the-line start of his career. — Turron Davenport

Next recreation: vs. Packers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Vikings

What bodily state of affairs will the Vikings be in for Week 3? As thrilling as Sunday’s victory was, the Vikings have been having fun with with out most of their offensive playmakers by the highest of the game. Wide receiver Justin Jefferson departed throughout the third quarter as a result of a correct quad hurt, whereas wideout Jordan Addison (ankle) was inactive and T.J. Hockenson (knee) was on the PUP document. Running once more Aaron Jones, within the meantime, appeared sluggish throughout the fourth quarter after a go to to the blue tent. Unless there are some quick recoveries, the Vikings may probably be short-handed heading into subsequent Sunday’s matchup in the direction of Houston.

Describe the game in two phrases: Brian Flores. The Vikings’ defensive coordinator spun up a scheme that pressured QB Brock Purdy on 13 of his dropbacks and sacked him six situations, which are every in all probability probably the most taken by Purdy in his career. The Vikings moreover intercepted him as quickly as and recovered his lone fumble. There shall be a great deal of adulation throughout the group for this 2-0 start, nonetheless Flores has found strategies to impact every victories by means of go safety and compelled turnovers.

Eye-popping superior stat: Jefferson ran an entire of 127.5 yards on a 97-yard touchdown reception throughout the second quarter, in all probability probably the most by a ball service on an offensive touchdown since 2016, in response to NFL Next Gen Stats. Darnold despatched the go 50 yards throughout the air, nonetheless Jefferson wanted to stop after catching it, pivot and outrace Ji’Ayir Brown and George Odum to the far nook of the highest zone for the ranking. — Kevin Seifert

Next recreation: vs. Texans (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

49ers

Will the 49ers ever win in Minnesota as soon as extra? No matter how good they’ve been, the Niners merely can not get it achieved throughout the Twin Cities. Sunday’s loss was their eighth straight at Minnesota with their remaining win coming in 1992. This loss was further alarming for the reality that the Vikings have been missing various key offensive players for a lot of or all of the recreation and nonetheless rang up 407 complete yards. Save for linebacker Fred Warner, the Niners have a number of enchancment to do defensively within the occasion that they should get once more to the workers they’ve been recently.

Biggest hole throughout the recreation plan: It’s no secret that Justin Jefferson is without doubt one of the greatest receiver throughout the league, and with Jordan Addison and T.J. Hockenson unavailable for Minnesota, it stood to goal the Niners would take specific care to drive anyone else to beat them. Instead, Jefferson posted 4 catches for 133 yards, along with a 97-yard touchdown, sooner than leaving with an hurt. San Francisco wants to remain to its defensive concepts of dashing 4 and having fun with zone safety, however when the go rush isn’t getting residence persistently, there should be a better plan for players of Jefferson’s caliber.

Describe the game in two phrases: Error-filled. Playing on the freeway and at 10 a.m. PT for the first time this season, the Niners have been seemingly sleepwalking for lots of the game. It led to fairly just a few dear errors, paying homage to a blocked punt, a muffed punt and Purdy merely dropping the ball for a fumble sooner than he could throw it. In a spot as robust to win as Minnesota, that isn’t going to get it achieved. — Nick Wagoner

Next recreation: at Rams (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Quentin Johnston secures his second TD with a 5-yard seize

Quentin Johnston hauls in a 5-yard touchdown go to extend the Chargers’ lead vs. the Panthers.

Buccaneers

Are we having a look at a career-best season for QB Baker Mayfield? Mayfield’s 5 passing touchdowns (with a sixth on the underside) are in all probability probably the most ever for him over the first two video video games of a season. His talent to thrive under duress (he was sacked 5 situations) and be a part of with wideout Chris Godwin — who has amassed 200 receiving yards and two touchdowns by way of the first two video video games — was the excellence maker in the direction of the Lions.

Biggest hole throughout the recreation plan: Without starting correct kind out Luke Goedeke (concussion), Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson dominated Tampa Bay’s offensive line, registering 4.5 sacks. The Bucs had all week to rearrange for the 2022 No. 2 draft select. While the first sack received right here on a stunt with DT Alim McNeill, Hutchinson merely man-handled backup Justin Skule on the next two, and it wasn’t until then that Skule acquired some help from one different blocker. Even then, Hutchinson rattled off 1.5 further sacks.

Most surprising effectivity: 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 merely cleared the concussion protocol, secured his first career interception throughout the first quarter, which organize a 55-yard topic purpose. Backup safety/nickelback Christian Izien picked off Goff throughout the fourth quarter and likewise made a touchdown-saving play in the direction of RB Jahmyr Gibbs. Safety Jordan Whitehead was a tackling machine and allowed solely 4 catches on seven targets with a team-high three run stuffs. Both Izien and Whitehead tackled Gibbs on an important fourth-and-8 on the Bucs’ 6-yard line with 1:01 left. — Jenna Laine

Next recreation: vs. Broncos (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Lions

Should the Lions be concerned about QB Jared Goff? Sunday wasn’t his greatest effectivity. While Goff accomplished with 307 yards passing, he threw two dear interceptions, along with a select on Detroit’s first offensive play of the game. He has now thrown an interception in each of the first two video video games of a season for merely the second time in his career. On a day the Lions’ offense recorded 463 yards, Goff’s effectivity was a key situation throughout the loss.

Most surprising effectivity: Hutchinson put collectively a sack hat trick throughout the opening quarter sooner than ending with a career-high 4.5 sacks. It was the second most in a recreation by a Lions participant since sacks grew to change into an official stat in 1982. Hutchinson was moreover the first participant with three sacks in 1 / 4 this NFL season and now has a sack in 4 consecutive video video games, tying the longest streak by a Lions participant.

Early prediction for subsequent week: The Lions scored just one touchdown on seven purple zone journeys in the direction of the Buccaneers, which is uncharacteristic for an offense with so many weapons. Detroit would possibly need to clear up its errors coming into subsequent week’s matchup in Arizona. — Eric Woodyard

Next recreation: at Cardinals (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Packers

Can the Packers win as soon as extra with out QB Jordan Love? Considering they’re having fun with but yet another offensively challenged AFC South workers throughout the Titans subsequent week, why not? While it appeared like Love was close to being able to play in the direction of the Colts, the Packers would possibly must buy one different week of restoration now that they’ve not lower than one win with out him. An 0-3 start would’ve been highly effective — nonetheless not unattainable — to beat and a loss might have pressured the Packers to push Love to play. But at 1-1 early in a 17-game schedule, they’ll greater afford to roll the dice with Malik Willis and one different run-heavy recreation plan.

Describe the game in two phrases: Run over. The Packers barely even pretended to throw the ball throughout the first half. Willis threw merely 5 situations as compared with 34 dashing makes an try for the Packers sooner than halftime. In merely his second recreation with the Packers, Josh Jacobs carried 32 situations for 151 yards. Willis was environment friendly when he was requested to throw and accomplished 12-of-14 for 122 yards and a touchdown.

Eye-popping superior stat: The Packers’ 237 yards dashing throughout the first half was the third most by an NFL workers throughout the first half of a recreation since 2000. It was 14 behind in all probability probably the most, which was by the Jaguars in 2006 moreover in the direction of the Colts. In all, the Packers rushed 53 situations for 261 yards. — Rob Demovsky

Next recreation: at Titans (Sunday , 1 p.m. ET)

Colts

What occurred to the Colts’ run safety? For the second week in a row, the Colts have been bodily dominated up entrance by an opponent’s working recreation. The Packers posted historic first-half dashing totals with 237 yards. And whereas the Colts acquired the dashing assault under administration throughout the second half, the Packers nonetheless managed to remodel some important third downs. Green Bay moreover beat the Colts with good use of misdirection, using Indianapolis’ aggressiveness in the direction of it. The Colts have now allowed 405 dashing yards this season.

Biggest hole throughout the recreation plan: Quarterback Anthony Richardson was the Colts’ principal rusher with six carries for 56 yards in Week 1. But the Colts have been seemingly disinterested in using Richardson on designed runs Sunday, opting to take care of him throughout the pocket regardless that the Packers’ coverages have been intent on not allowing him to throw downfield. Richardson had one designed run Sunday after various have been known as in Week 1.

Most surprising effectivity: Rookie receiver Adonai Mitchell had a promising teaching camp and has created lots optimism, nonetheless he harm the Colts on Sunday with an important pair of performs. Mitchell devoted a psychological error with an illegal formation penalty throughout the second quarter, negating an infinite third-down conversion. Later, Mitchell dropped a great go from Richardson that can have remodeled an important third down in the midst of the Colts’ failed comeback. Mitchell observed fewer snaps the rest of the game, perhaps in consequence. — Stephen Holder

Next recreation: vs. Bears (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Sam Darnold, Justin Jefferson hook up for 97-yard TD

Sam Darnold heaves one downfield to Justin Jefferson for a 97-yard touchdown.

Saints

Can the Saints maintain this offensive tempo? The Saints proved their new offense is for precise after blowing out every the Panthers and Cowboys. But how prolonged can they maintain this record-setting tempo? The Saints’ starting offense scored on its first 16 possessions of the season, gave working once more Alvin Kamara his second career four-touchdown recreation and regarded unstoppable. The Saints didn’t stall on a possession until a Derek Carr interception throughout the fourth quarter.

Describe the game in two phrases: Master effectivity. It’s onerous to take state of affairs with one thing Carr or the offense did in the direction of the Cowboys. They set the tone early and not at all let off the gasoline, using Rashid Shaheed’s velocity and Kamara’s versatility whereas deploying various players as blockers to allow Carr to play largely error-free.

Eye-popping superior stat: 91 components. The Saints made an infinite switch this offseason by transferring away from the Sean Payton offense that acquired a Super Bowl title throughout the 2009 season. That workers put up 93 components in its first two video video games, the second most in NFL historic previous. This season’s Saints are tied for sixth in NFL historic previous with 91 components by way of Week 2. — Katherine Terrell

Next recreation: vs. Eagles (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Cowboys

What must be made out of the Cowboys’ safety? Dominant in the direction of the Browns. Dominated by the Saints. Through three quarters, the Saints averaged 9.7 yards per play. The 35 components allowed throughout the first half tied for in all probability probably the most given up by way of the first two quarters in workers historic previous. Last yr, the Cowboys allowed better than 35 components in a recreation merely as quickly as. Carr was hardly touched and neither was Kamara, who had 4 touchdowns. Mike McCarthy was spherical for the ultimate time an opponent had 4 touchdowns in the direction of Dallas with Packers working once more Aaron Jones scoring 4 in a Green Bay win at AT&T Stadium.

Early prediction for subsequent week: It’s not going to get any easier. The Ravens have historically been one among many greater dashing teams throughout the NFL, partially on account of quarterback Lamar Jackson is a game-changer. He may make defenses look unhealthy on his private. Derrick Henry has however to go off in his first two video video games with the Ravens, nonetheless the Cowboys have been bludgeoned by the Saints in every means, giving up better than 5 yards per carry on their first six possessions.

Describe the game in two phrases: Over early. This wasn’t as unhealthy as a result of the 48-32 wild-card loss to the Packers remaining season, nonetheless solely on account of this wasn’t a playoff loss. The Cowboys allowed touchdowns on the Saints’ first six possessions. The offense moved the ball nonetheless failed on two purple zone journeys, settling for too many Brandon Aubrey topic goals. — Todd Archer

Next recreation: vs. Ravens (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Chargers

Should the Chargers stop splitting caries between Gus Edwards and J.Okay. Dobbins? Dobbins had one different record-setting Sunday, ending with 17 carries for 131 yards and one touchdown. Dobbins is the first Chargers participant to rush for 100 yards in each of his workers’s first two video video games of a season, and he somersaulted into the highest zone for his lone ranking of the day. Offensive coordinator Greg Roman acknowledged they’d roll with the “hot hand” as a result of the season progressed, nonetheless it’s clear that the dashing offense is more healthy with Dobbins. Edwards had 18 carries for 59 yards.

Most surprising effectivity: Quentin Johnston’s two touchdowns: Johnston had scored two touchdowns over the first 18 video video games of his career sooner than he caught two throughout the first half on Sunday. Johnston’s first ranking, a 29-yard catch over CB Jaycee Horn, was his most spectacular play of the day. Johnston ran by Horn and adjusted as a result of the ball was throughout the air to reel throughout the go for the ranking.

Describe the game in two phrases: Defensive domination. The Chargers held Panthers quarterback Bryce Young to easily 22 passing yards and an interception throughout the first half, the underside first-half complete of his career. The Chargers’ safety has allowed merely 13 components over the first two weeks of the season. — Kris Rhim

Next recreation: at Steelers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Panthers

When will coach Dave Canales sit quarterback Bryce Young? Carolina has much more points than Young, nonetheless sluggish begins are killing the Panthers. Young is a component. He was 8-of-10 for 22 yards and a select throughout the first half Sunday. He was 6-of-12 for 50 yards with a select throughout the first half remaining week. Andy Dalton might give Carolina a better probability. But when simply recently requested about altering, Canales acknowledged: “The best experience you can have is to be on the field, and just to live it.”

Describe the sport in two phrases: Déjà vu. The 20-0 first-half deficit regarded eerily just like final week, once they fell behind 30-3 towards New Orleans. The incapacity to cease the run towards L.A. (44 rushes for 219 yards) mirrored the shortcoming to cease it towards the Saints (180 yards). Young’s ineffectiveness … sure, plenty of unhealthy similarities.

Early prediction for subsequent week: Canales will take an opportunity by switching to Dalton both earlier than Sunday’s recreation at Las Vegas or throughout it. It was this time final season that Young sat due to an ankle damage, and the Panthers had their greatest offensive output. — David Newton

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

Josh Jacobs breaks off spectacular 34-yard run

Josh Jacobs bounces a run to the surface and takes it 34 yard for a Packers first down.

Bills

What does the longer term maintain at linebacker? Terrel Bernard left the sport within the first half with a pectoral damage, which means each of the staff’s beginning linebackers are injured, along with beginning nickel cornerback Taron Johnson. Baylon Spector performed the remainder of the sport for Bernard, whereas Dorian Williams is in for the Matt Milano. With Bernard set to overlook time — the staff is deciding whether or not to put him on injured reserve — a place that has handled accidents for the reason that offseason should overcome much more, with coach Sean McDermott anticipating Spector taking on the center linebacker position in Bernard’s absence.

Eye-popping superior stat: On quarterback Josh Allen’s throw to working again Ty Johnson that arrange James Cook’s 1-yard landing run, Allen was working 14.87 mph on the time of his throw. In the previous 5 seasons, Allen has accomplished 50 passes on 113 makes an attempt when working no less than 14 mph. That is probably the most such completions within the NFL over that span (Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts is subsequent with 40).

Most surprising effectivity: Cornerback Ja’Marcus Ingram. The former undrafted free agent took good thing about alternate options and received right here away with two interceptions, along with a pick-six. Ingram received right here into the game with out ever recording an interception. — Alaina Getzenberg

Next recreation: vs. Jaguars (Monday, 7:30 p.m. ET)

Dolphins

What will the Dolphins do at quarterback transferring forward? Tua Tagovailoa’s latest concussion will attainable protect him out of subsequent week’s recreation in the direction of the Seahawks, coach Mike McDaniel acknowledged. The Dolphins have the “utmost confidence” in third-year quarterback Skylar Thompson, who will in all likelihood start until Tagovailoa is able to return. McDaniel acknowledged Miami will add one different quarterback to its roster, nonetheless don’t rely on a participant like Ryan Tannehill or Jimmy Garoppolo, who would can be found anticipating to start out out.

Most surprising effectivity: The Dolphins’ effectivity as a complete was surprising, nonetheless individually, Tyreek Hill recorded merely three catches for 24 yards. Jaylen Waddle, Jonnu Smith and De’Von Achane have been all further productive as Hill’s struggles in the direction of the Bills proceed. If Thompson is to start out out subsequent week, Hill has to say himself as one among many league’s most interesting players — regardless of his workers’s quarterback state of affairs.

Eye-popping superior stat: According to NFL Next Gen Stats, Tagovailoa completed solely two of his eight makes an try of 10-plus air yards, resulting in 38 yards and two interceptions. It was the underside completion proportion of his career in video video games the place he’s tried not lower than eight such passes. Considering the Bills’ unproven safeties, not being able to reap the advantages of that matchup was an infinite miss for Miami’s offense. — Marcel Louis-Jacques

Next recreation: at Seahawks (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)

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