Home / Sports / NFL Week 2 takeaways – What we discovered, large response questions and staff self assurance scores for each and every sport

NFL Week 2 takeaways – What we discovered, large response questions and staff self assurance scores for each and every sport

Week 2 of the 2021 NFL season featured marvel performances and unlucky accidents around the board. Sam Darnold and the Panthers at the moment are 2-Zero after dominating a Saints staff that crushed Inexperienced Bay in Week 1. The Expenses bounced again with a resounding blowout win in Miami, the Rams squeezed out a win in Indianapolis and Derek Carr and the Raiders crowned the Steelers in Pittsburgh.

It used to be a difficult week for different quarterbacks across the league, too. Zach Wilson threw 4 interceptions towards New England; the Dolphins’ Tua Tagovailoa, Colts’ Carson Wentz, Bears’ Andy Dalton and Texans’ Tyrod Taylor exited with accidents; and Jalen Hurts could not lead the Eagles previous the 49ers.

Within the overdue video games, Tom Brady led the Tremendous Bowl champion Buccaneers to a large win over the Falcons and Russell Wilson and the Seahawks misplaced in additional time to the Titans. The Cowboys kicked a profitable box target as time expired, whilst the Vikings ignored a overdue box target and the Cardinals prevailed.

The Ravens’ Lamar Jackson were given his first victory over Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs within the Sunday night time sport.

Our NFL Country newshounds react to all of it, with the foremost takeaways and lingering questions from this week’s motion — and what all of it way going ahead. Plus, they each and every have a look at the larger image with their present staff self assurance ranking — a Zero-10 grade of ways they really feel concerning the staff’s long run outlook popping out of the week. Let’s get into it. (Video games can be added during Sunday and once more following Monday Evening Soccer.)

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

Ravens

What to understand: So long as the Ravens have Lamar Jackson, their season is not over. The fast-handed Ravens disillusioned the AFC’s very best staff — and Jackson’s self-described “kryptonite” — on account of his playmaking. It isn’t important that Baltimore used to be with out All-Professional left take on Ronnie Stanley, its best two working backs or 12 different gamers on injured reserve. Jackson put Baltimore on his again towards the Chiefs, throwing for 239 yards and speeding for 108 yards and two touchdowns. It gave the impression of the Ravens had no likelihood of profitable after Jackson threw a pick-six on his moment go of the sport. However Jackson sealed his first win over Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs with a run on fourth-and-1 with 1:05 closing. — Jamison Hensley

Can the Ravens’ go protection be mounted? For the 1st time of their 26-year historical past, the Ravens allowed greater than 30 issues in each and every in their first two video games of a season. That is what occurs when a protection provides up such a lot of large performs within the passing sport. Sure, the Ravens had been going towards Patrick Mahomes. However Baltimore has to give you the option to hide and take on higher. The Ravens surrendered 3 landing passes of greater than 30 yards. Thankfully, Baltimore’s protection acquitted itself by way of forcing two key turnovers within the fourth quarter. — Hensley

Hensley’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): 7.Eight, up from 6.Five. It used to be simple to jot down off the Ravens after an additional time loss in Las Vegas within the opener and the a lot of accidents, however the Ravens confirmed they nonetheless have sufficient to disillusioned the Chiefs.

Subsequent sport: at Lions (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)


Chiefs

What to understand: Their defensive issues seem like they are with the Chiefs to stick. For the second one instantly week, they needed to rating 30-plus so as to win however fell quick this time. The woeful play towards the Ravens is extra relating to for the Chiefs than it used to be within the opener towards the Browns. The Ravens had been depleted at working again and at the offensive line, however they nonetheless piled up greater than 30 issues and virtually 500 yards towards Ok.C. — Adam Teicher

How ceaselessly can the Chiefs outscore their woeful protection? They replied the problem towards the Browns with 3 second-half touchdowns, however Clyde Edwards-Helaire‘s fumble killed the possible go-ahead power towards the Ravens. It is going to be tricky for the Chiefs to proceed to perform on offense without a margin for error. That is beginning to seem like 2018 everywhere once more. — Teicher

Teicher’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): 7, down from 7.Five. There is not any explanation why to be bullish at the Chiefs, given their substantial defensive weak spot. They were not ready to outscore the Ravens and would possibly have a equivalent factor subsequent week towards the Chargers.

Subsequent sport: vs. Chargers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

play

Zero:30

Lamar Jackson fakes out the protection and flips into the tip zone to present the Ravens the lead overdue within the fourth quarter.

Titans

What to understand: Receiver Julio Jones and quarterback Ryan Tannehill appear to have labored out the kinks. The 2 hooked up six instances on 8 goals for 128 yards in Seattle. Probably the most incompletions used to be a straight-up drop, however the different one used to be a landing that used to be reversed. Tannehill constantly went to Jones when he wanted a play. Their very best connection used to be a 50-yard bomb during which Tannehill laid out the ball completely for Jones to trace it down at the publish. After suffering of their debut in combination final week, they appear to have discovered their timing. — Turron Davenport

Why is the protection giving up such a lot of bite performs? The Titans’ protection gave up 3 performs of 50 yards or extra towards the Seahawks. Tyler Lockett were given issues began with a 51-yard achieve within the first quarter after which he broke loose for a 63-yard landing in the second one. Freddie Swain broke loose for a wide-open 68-yard landing on a blown protection between Chris Jackson and Kristian Fulton. It comes down to at least one factor: self-discipline. Titans protection Bradley McDougald used to be stuck flat-footed on account of the play-action on Lockett’s first deep catch. Rookie Elijah Molden let Lockett move his face for the second one large catch. — Davenport

Davenport’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): 6.Five, up from Four.Five. The Titans went right into a adverse setting and gritted out a difficult win and all the time appear to upward thrust to the instance in moments like this.

Subsequent sport: vs. Colts (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)


Seahawks

What to understand: This used to be as tricky of a loss because the Seahawks have suffered in fresh reminiscence. They had been at house, with lovers at Lumen Box for the 1st time in 630 days. They had been taking part in a staff with O-line problems, which made it a good matchup for Seattle’s robust go rush. And so they led 24-Nine at halftime best to permit 17 unanswered issues within the fourth quarter and additional time. It is something to haven’t any resolution for Derrick Henry. However the Seahawks shot themselves within the foot — lacking a PAT that will have have shyed away from OT and committing 10 consequences for 100 yards. And this time, they did not have any overdue Russell Wilson magic to bail them out as their offense meekly went three-and-out on its last power. With as robust because the NFC West appears to be like — each and every different staff gained Sunday to toughen to 2-Zero — the Seahawks shouldn’t have a margin for error to lose video games like this that they must have gained. — Brady Henderson

Will cornerback play hang the Seahawks’ protection again? That is been their iffiest-looking place workforce since they let Shaquill Griffin stroll in loose company. The roster and lineup shuffling the Seahawks did prior to the opener did not alternate that. Nor did the way in which Tre Plant life and D.J. Reed performed in Week 1 after they were given a comfortable touchdown towards a Colts receiver corps that used to be with out T.Y. Hilton. They did not hang up as smartly towards the a lot better duo of Julio Jones and A.J. Brown. Plant life used to be in protection on Jones’ 51-yard catch and whiffed on a take on strive on Derrick Henry’s 60-yard landing run, although Jamal Adams will have additionally erred at the play. Reed’s large mistake used to be psychological — a 15-yard taunting penalty. Pete Carroll has stated the contest remains to be on at cornerback. And by way of this level, Sidney Jones must be getting comfy sufficient in Seattle’s protection to push Plant life for taking part in time. — Henderson

Henderson’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): 7.Five, down from Eight.7. Wilson and the offense faltered overdue Sunday, however he nonetheless looks as if the most efficient quarterback within the department, and the season is best two weeks outdated.

Subsequent sport: at Vikings (Sunday, Four:25 p.m. ET)

Cowboys

What to understand: What Dak Prescott ignored maximum in his absence because of a compound fracture and dislocation of his proper ankle 11 months in the past had been moments like Sunday with the sport at the line. It wasn’t the prettiest of game-winning drives, however Greg Zuerlein‘s 56-yard box target without a time left at the clock gave Prescott his 11th fourth-quarter win of his profession and a 20-17 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers. How the Cowboys gained this sport can be as much as people to make a decision, however Prescott finished all 5 of his passes for 35 yards at the last power. The Cowboys have shyed away from their first Zero-2 get started since 2010 and a win is a win, particularly for a staff that had gained simply six of Mike McCarthy’s first 17 video games. — Todd Archer

Can the Cowboys proceed to are living this fashion? The offense has to play just about easiest for them to win. Tony Pollard had greater than 100 yards at the floor, and Ezekiel Elliott had a speeding landing. The Cowboys scored touchdowns on two of 3 purple zone alternatives. That they had 13 first downs within the first quarter, a staff report, however slightly had the ball in the second one 1/2. It is a one-possession league, as Mike McCarthy likes to mention, however there is no manner they may be able to are living like this for 15 extra video games. — Archer

Archer’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): 6.1, down from 7.Five. The Cowboys had been helped a great deal by way of the Chargers. A great deal. The Chargers had two passing touchdowns burnt up by way of consequences and Justin Herbert used to be picked off finally zone.

Subsequent sport: vs. Eagles (Monday, Eight:15 p.m. ET)


Chargers

What to understand: How on this planet did the Chargers lose this sport? In spite of controlling the ball for lots of the moment 1/2, the Chargers had been finished in by way of consequences and ill-timed turnovers. The Chargers had been flagged 12 instances for 99 yards, two of which value them touchdowns and 6 that took away first downs. To not point out an interception by way of quarterback Justin Herbert finally zone and a ignored box target that bounced off the upright on the finish of the 1st 1/2. — Shelley Smith

How can the Chargers higher execute within the purple zone after they play in Kansas Town subsequent week? Their self assurance must be shot after two video games of turnovers and consequences in scoring territory. Justin Herbert made just right performs to get the Chargers in place to attain, finishing 31 of 41 passes for 313 yards, and working again Austin Ekeler used to be a larger a part of the offense, catching 9 passes for 61 yards and speeding for some other 54 yards. If no longer for the errors, they’d be 2-Zero now, so higher focus and execution is vital. — Smith

Smith’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): Four.Zero, down from Five.Four. Consequences and turnovers are a killer and retaining this staff again.

Subsequent sport: at Chiefs (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Cardinals

What to understand: Kyler Murray is taking part in at an MVP stage. He put this Cardinals offense on his shoulders Sunday and carried it, throwing for 400 yards and 3 touchdowns — and two interceptions — whilst working for some other 31 yards. Murray made large performs when Arizona maximum wanted them, like spinning out of a sack to throw a 77-yard landing to Rondale Moore. With out that, Arizona loses. Or getting out of some other sack to search out DeAndre Hopkins for a landing early within the sport. There may well be different gamers taking part in higher, none could also be as precious to their groups as Murray is to the Cardinals. — Josh Weinfuss

Is the Cardinals’ offense just right sufficient to hold this staff to the playoffs? In a single phrase: sure. Nevertheless it wishes lend a hand. Arizona’s offense has proved via two video games that it stacks up towards any within the league this season. It is that just right. Kyler Murray is taking part in at an MVP stage and he has sufficient guns round him to stay defenses on their heels all sport. The Cardinals can rating with any individual within the NFL, hanging up 38 in Week 1 and 34 Sunday in a win over the Vikings. — Weinfuss

Weinfuss’ self assurance ranking (Zero-10): Eight.6, down from Nine. The Cardinals’ offense persevered to seem spectacular, even dominant every now and then, however the protection led to Arizona’s self assurance ranking to drop just a little.

Subsequent sport: at Jaguars (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)


Vikings

What to understand: The Vikings are in dire straits simply two weeks into the 2021 season. A 34-33 loss to the Arizona Cardinals put them in an Zero-2 hollow, and with Seattle and Cleveland coming to Minnesota in Weeks Three and four, the outlook for this staff and its postseason probabilities already appears to be like bleak. In line with ESPN Stats & Data analysis, 50 of 59 groups within the Tremendous Bowl generation to start out the season with two losses at the street have ignored the playoffs, together with the Vikings again in 2013. — Courtney Cronin

How can the Vikings’ protection prevent giving up large performs? Kyler Murray torched Minnesota’s secondary along with his deep ball, going 6-of-7 for 200 yards, two touchdowns and one interception on throws of 15-plus yards downfield. who else loves to throw it deep? Russell Wilson, the quarterback the Vikings face at house subsequent week. Wilson mirrors such a lot of what Murray did to frustrate Minnesota’s D, together with his skill to flee the pocket and make huge, correct throws at the run and stay unfazed with defenders barreling down on him. Murray used to be 6-of-10 for 140 yards, two TDs and an INT when stressed. — Cronin

Cronin’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): Four.Five, down from Five. The Vikings had each and every alternative to overcome Arizona and failed to take action, and special-teams miscues proved pricey.

Subsequent sport: vs. Seahawks (Sunday, Four:25 p.m. ET)

Buccaneers

What to understand: Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady threw 5 touchdowns towards the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday, with protection Mike Edwards serving to to seal the victory with two fourth-quarter pick-sixes of Matt Ryan. However the Buccaneers additionally fell asleep on the wheel in the second one 1/2 — permitting the Falcons to chop a 28-10 result in 28-25 within the 0.33 quarter. Hanging 4 quarters in combination and slicing out turnovers — Brady coughed up the ball on a sack-fumble within the first quarter — will proceed to be some extent of emphasis as their agenda heats up over the following two weeks, with street journeys to the Los Angeles Rams subsequent week after which the New England Patriots in Week Four. — Jenna Laine

How will the Bucs’ go protection reply after giving up over 300 yards in back-to-back weeks? With out starter Sean Murphy-Bunting and with their different starter, Carlton Davis, nursing a hamstring damage, plus their 0.33 nook Jamel Dean leaving in short on account of damage, the Bucs’ secondary held it in combination. In spite of surrendering over 300 passing yards, the protection intercepted Ryan 3 times (Shaq Barrett had one along with Edwards’ two alternatives). Issues unraveled with cornerback Ross Cockrell suffering towards Falcons famous person receiver Calvin Ridley on guy protection on a Three-yard landing, however Edwards, a backup protection and large nickel, lived as much as the billing this training workforce had for him all summer time: a ball hawk. He’s going to have extra alternatives with the rash of accidents. — Laine

Laine’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): 7, similar as Week 1. This were given uncomfortably shut, however the Bucs confirmed they are finishers. Can they do it towards more difficult pageant at the street over the following two weeks?

Subsequent sport: at Rams (Sunday, Four:25 p.m. ET)


Falcons

What to understand: If there used to be any query prior to, there should not be now. The Falcons have necessarily no margin for error in the event that they wish to be aggressive towards the easier NFL groups this season. Atlanta hung in for many of Sunday’s loss to the Buccaneers — slicing it to a Three-point sport firstly of the fourth quarter. However a vital mistake right here (a Matt Ryan pick-six), some other vital error there (some other Ryan pick-six) and the shut sport changed into some other blowout. There used to be extra promise for the Falcons in Week 2 than Week 1 — the offense moved the ball, the protection created power on Tom Brady — however simply no longer sufficient for it to topic. Thankfully for Atlanta, it faces 3 midlevel or worse groups subsequent within the Giants, Washington and the Jets. How the Falcons fare there’ll resolve the remainder of the season. — Michael Rothstein

How does the protection cope if CB A.J. Terrell misses any time? Terrell, who had two diving go breakups and is Atlanta’s best defensive again, left the sport within the 0.33 quarter with a concussion. If he is pressured to pass over time, it is going to be an enormous blow for the Falcons’ already-thin protection. On Sunday, Atlanta used converted-in-camp protection T.J. Inexperienced as an out of doors nook. That didn’t cross smartly. Atlanta has gamers to construct on — however relying on Terrell’s development, it will have a large hollow within the secondary. — Rothstein

Rothstein’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): Four.Eight, up from Four.2. Sure, that is upper than every week in the past. Even in some other final-score dangerous loss for the Falcons there have been extra positives than in Week 1 towards Philadelphia — which most probably says precisely the place Atlanta is up to now this season.

Subsequent sport: at Giants (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Patriots

What to understand: Win the turnover fight, win the sport. After a disappointing season-opening loss during which the Patriots fumbled 4 instances (dropping two), they had been the recipients of a few items from rookie Jets QB Zach Wilson (4 INTs) and in the long run did sufficient to benefit from them. On the similar time, they wiped clean up their ball-security problems (for probably the most phase) and did not have a turnover. The Patriots are 167-18 underneath Invoice Belichick (2000-present) when they’ve a favorable turnover differential. — Mike Reiss

How a lot is the Patriots’ offense retaining issues again with rookie QB Mac Jones? The ones hoping to peer the Patriots open issues up in Jones’ moment profession get started had been disenchanted, because it used to be most commonly a conservative manner. Jones used to be 22-of-30 for 186 yards with out a landing or interception. He hasn’t had many lengthy downfield throws. There are causes for this, in fact, beginning with some shaky go coverage — in particular at proper take on. (Yasir Durant began and used to be changed by way of Justin Herron.) The go back of beginning proper take on Trent Brown (calf) subsequent week can be an important spice up. — Reiss

Reiss’ self assurance ranking (Zero-10): 6.2, down from 6.Five. Till the Patriots get their struggles in go coverage taken care of out, it is exhausting to believe them competing with one of the vital best groups within the NFL.

Subsequent sport: vs. Saints (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)


Jets

What to understand: QB Zach Wilson used to be brutal. The ballyhooed rookie threw 4 interceptions, all coming in his first 10 go makes an attempt — a efficiency that conjured up frightening recollections of Sam Darnold‘s “ghost” sport towards the Patriots in 2019. Wilson used to be too competitive, forcing passes downfield as a substitute of taking secure checkdowns. He were given away with that at BYU; he isn’t in Utah anymore. Essentially the most disconcerting factor: In contrast to final week, he wasn’t underneath heavy power. No, this used to be all on Wilson, who delivered an all-time clunker. — Wealthy Cimini

How will trainer Robert Saleh care for his first style of adversity? The primary-year trainer is Zero-2 and his staff hasn’t performed sound, complementary soccer in six of 8 quarters. And now he has to move at the street to stand the Broncos, some other tricky defensive staff. Welcome to the Jets, Trainer. Ahead of coaching camp, Saleh stated he would not know about his staff’s persona till it confronted adversity. He welcomed it. He simply were given a heavy dose. Nobody expects the Jets to make the playoffs; they’ll be measured by way of development. This is not development. — Cimini

Cimini’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): Three.Zero, down from Three.Five. Robert Saleh and Zach Wilson were given schooled by way of Invoice Belichick & Co., becoming a member of an extended record of predecessors.

Subsequent sport: at Broncos (Sunday, Four:05 p.m. ET)

Browns

What to understand: It wasn’t beautiful, however the Browns in the end took care of what used to be left of the Houston Texans, who suffered a lot of accidents over the process the sport. More difficult exams for Cleveland watch for. And the Browns — in particular a protection that struggled to get off the sector Sunday — must be higher if they’re to make noise within the AFC this season. — Jake Trotter

When will Jarvis Landry go back? The Professional Bowl receiver left the sport within the first quarter with a knee damage. The Browns already are with out their different beginning wideout, Odell Beckham Jr., who has but to make his debut off final 12 months’s knee surgical procedure. To stay the passing sport afloat, Cleveland will want Rashard Higgins, Donovan Peoples-Jones and beginners Anthony Schwartz and Demetric Felton to step up for so long as its big-money wideouts are out. — Trotter

Trotter’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): 7.Five, down from Eight.Zero. With 8 new starters, it isn’t a marvel to peer Cleveland’s protection bear some struggles early on within the season, even towards the Texans.

Subsequent sport: vs. Bears (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)


Texans

What to understand: Going into halftime, the Texans needed to really feel assured tied at 14 towards a just right Cleveland Browns staff. But if they ran again out onto the sector, it used to be rookie quarterback Davis Generators underneath heart, as Taylor used to be dominated out with a hamstring damage. It is still noticed how lengthy Tyrod Taylor will pass over, however Generators used to be inconsistent in his 1/2 as a starter, completing Eight-of-18 for 102 yards, a landing and an interception. — Sarah Barshop

Can the Texans win with Generators? Generators struggled on his first two sequence prior to settling in for a cast 0.33 power, which were given the Texans to inside of a box target. However with a brief week to organize for a 2-Zero Panthers staff that beat the Saints on Sunday, he’ll face some other take a look at. Generators struggled within the preseason, however this would be the Texans’ likelihood to present him what may well be a longer appearance to resolve whether or not he must be of their long run plans on the place. — Barshop

Barshop’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): 2.Zero, down from Three.Five. The Texans confirmed they may be able to play with an excellent staff within the loss, however it is exhausting to be assured that this staff can win constantly with out Taylor.

Subsequent sport: vs. Panthers (Thursday, Eight:20 p.m. ET)

Broncos

What to understand: The quick get started towards two younger quarterbacks, with yet one more at the horizon. The Broncos, now 2-Zero after Sunday’s win in Jacksonville, annoyed the Giants’ Daniel Jones within the season opener and proved to be a troublesome puzzle for Jaguars rookie Trevor Lawrence on Sunday, too — Lawrence had 99 yards passing firstly of the fourth quarter with an interception. The Broncos have New York Jets rookie Zach Wilson at the docket subsequent for an opportunity at what may well be their first Three-Zero get started since they began Four-Zero in 2016. Ahead of the wins the previous two weeks, the Broncos were Zero-for-September in trainer Vic Fangio’s first two seasons. — Jeff Legwold

When will the Broncos see Von Miller and Bradley Chubb, at their very best, within the protection on the similar time? Since Chubb tore his ACL in a Week Four sport in 2019 towards the Jacksonville Jaguars, the coveted pass-rush pairing of Miller and Chubb has been a star-crossed affair. On Sunday, Chubb and Miller performed in the similar sport for the 1st time since 2019 — Miller ignored the entire 2020 season after ankle surgical procedure, and Chubb ignored the season opener final week with an ankle damage — however Chubb didn’t play in the second one 1/2 on account of an damage. He’s going to be evaluated Monday in Denver. The Broncos’ protection treated its trade after Chubb’s departure, however the quantity that continues to turn what the Broncos have was hoping to get again to is that within the 21 video games the 2 have performed a minimum of some in combination, they’ve 30.Five blended sacks. — Legwold

Legwold’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): Eight.Zero, up from 7.Eight. The Broncos did not all the time appearance clean on offense, however quarterback Teddy Bridgewater continues to push them via tough spots, and the protection is best than it is been at any level since Tremendous Bowl run in 2015.

Subsequent sport: vs. Jets (Sunday, Four:05 p.m. ET)

play

Zero:24

Noah Fant finishes off a 75-yard scoring power with a 14-yard TD go from Teddy Bridgewater.


Jaguars

What to understand: The Jaguars want to get QB Trevor Lawrence much more lend a hand — at large receiver, tight finish and alongside the offensive line. Lawrence did not play smartly towards Denver, so let’s get that out of the way in which first. However the Jaguars shouldn’t have a playmaker whom defenses have to plot to prevent. Marvin Jones Jr. is a cast receiver, however Laviska Shenault Jr. is not a game-breaker and DJ Chark Jr. had only one catch. The tight ends do not lend a hand a lot within the passing sport. Upgrading each take on spots is a significant want. The Jaguars cannot deal with the ones problems till the offseason and feature defensive problems to mend. However in case you are development round Lawrence, the offense must be the concern. — Mike DiRocco

What is fallacious with Ok Josh Lambo? He is not coping with an damage this season however may well be feeling the residual results of a hip damage that value him a lot of final season. The participant lovers nicknamed “Lambomatic” as a result of he hardly ever ignored hasn’t hit in any respect but in 2021. He went Zero-for-2 towards the Broncos and is Zero-for-Three this season. Even if two misses had been from 50-plus yards, he had made 12 of 13 kicks from 50-plus getting into his fourth season with the Jaguars. When your offense struggles to attain issues — particularly when it is shut early in video games — you’ll’t have an inconsistent kicker. Be expecting the Jaguars to herald some kickers for exercises this week. — DiRocco

DiRocco’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): 2.6, up from 2.Five. The Jaguars a minimum of mounted the procedural problems that they had in Week 1 (everyone used to be ready to line up appropriately and they did not need to burn a few timeouts within the first quarter), however the offense remains to be a significant paintings in development.

Subsequent sport: vs. Cardinals (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Bears

What to understand: Rookie quarterback Justin Fields took each and every offensive snap after halftime as Andy Dalton (knee damage) watched from the sideline. Fields had modest numbers (6-of-13 for 60 yards and 7 speeding makes an attempt for 35 yards), however he brings a component of pleasure Dalton does no longer. Fields is the sort of danger to run that he ceaselessly freezes defenders. A few of Fields’ very best performs towards the Bengals befell when he used to be working outdoor the pocket. The primary-round decide additionally had a positive landing go dropped by way of Allen Robinson within the fourth quarter. The disadvantage: Fields threw a in point of fact dangerous decide overdue within the sport. A completed product he isn’t … but. — Jeff Dickerson

Can the offense significantly toughen underneath Fields? The offense nonetheless struggles regardless of which quarterback is underneath heart. The gang is closely penalized and ceaselessly sloppy. That being stated, Fields is a playmaker, and the Bears desperately want extra playmakers on offense. On account of Fields’ dynamic athleticism, it’s affordable to be expecting the offense to toughen, however most probably no longer by way of leaps and limits. Alternatively, if the Bears’ protection will get after the quarterback and takes the ball away in bunches like in Week 2 — coupled with Fields’ emergence — then the Bears are in a a lot better place to be successful this 12 months. — Dickerson

Dickerson’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): Five.Zero, up from 2.Zero. Protection, protection, protection.

Subsequent sport: at Browns (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)


Bengals

What to understand: Cincinnati squandered a possibility to start out the season with just right momentum. After a dramatic Week 1 additional time win over the Vikings, the Bengals had been in place to start out 2-Zero in a 12 months during which they had been anticipated to show the nook. As an alternative, towards Bears rookie backup quarterback Justin Fields, the Bengals had a flat efficiency that resulted in a deep hollow the staff could not dig out of. That places extra power at the Bengals and third-year trainer Zac Taylor heading right into a Week Three street sport at Pittsburgh. — Ben Child

Was once the Bengals’ offensive growth they displayed in Week 1 for actual? Sunday’s sport confirmed all of the outdated flaws the Bengals have displayed the previous two seasons — shaky play alongside the offensive line and an overly stagnant offense. The efficiency shared too many similarities with a Bengals staff that has been one of the crucial worst within the league the previous two seasons. — Child

Child’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): Five.Five, down from 7.Zero. Fluky end that featured two overdue TDs apart, Cincinnati regarded flustered offensively towards a Bears protection that surrendered 34 issues in a Week 1 loss to the Rams.

Subsequent sport: at Steelers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Rams

What to understand: The Rams’ protection is on tempo for some other dominant season. In spite of permitting quarterback Carson Wentz and the Colts to march to the target line two times within the first 1/2, defensive lineman Aaron Donald & Co. proved they may get a hold of two big-time stops, which incorporated an interception by way of linebacker Troy Reeder and a turnover on downs. To seal the victory, cornerback Jalen Ramsey intercepted backup quarterback Jacob Eason with 2:13 to play. First-year defensive coordinator Raheem Morris has stated since his arrival in L.A. that stats are for losers, whilst imploring his unit to supply “make a distinction” performs. They have got for sure embraced the message. — Lindsey Thiry

What’s the standing of working again Darrell Henderson Jr.? After the Rams misplaced working again Cam Akers to a season-ending damage prior to coaching camp, trainer Sean McVay expressed self assurance in Henderson’s skill to take over the beginning position, although he voiced worry about Henderson’s sturdiness. The ones issues proved prophetic when Henderson used to be sidelined overdue within the 0.33 quarter after struggling a rib damage. Sony Michel, who used to be got in a overdue preseason industry with the New England Patriots, and rookie Jake Funk took over in his absence. — Thiry

Thiry’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): Eight.Zero, similar as Week 1. Protecting secure at Eight.Zero, given the Rams carried out inconsistently throughout all 3 stages however proved they may grind out a street win in entrance of a adverse crowd.

Subsequent sport: vs. Buccaneers (Sunday, Four:25 p.m. ET)


Colts

What to understand:Wentz’s proper ankle damage is the most important factor that the Colts have to fret about now and going ahead, however they wouldn’t be Zero-2 for the 1st time underneath trainer Frank Reich had they been a greater purple zone staff. The Colts had two drives within the Rams’ 20-yard line best to return away without a issues on both ownership. Essentially the most embarrassing of the 2 drives used to be at the opening sequence, when the Colts had the ball first-and-goal from the Rams’ 1-yard line. They tried to run up the center 3 instantly instances best to get crammed on each and every one, after which Wentz used to be sacked when the Eagles went for it on fourth down. There have been best 3 times a staff ran 4 performs from the 1-yard line and failed to attain on a power final season, in line with ESPN Stats & Data. The Colts have come away without a issues 3 times when achieving the opponent’s purple zone within the first two video games of the season. Reich is meant to be an cutting edge playcaller, however he continues to combat in that house with the Colts. — Mike Wells

Can Carson Wentz continue to exist the season taking a continuing pounding? To Wentz’s credit score, he prolonged a variety of performs by way of having the ability to scramble to make issues occur for the Colts. However for up to Wentz scrambled, he additionally took manner too many useless hits, together with on a play during which he suffered an ankle damage halfway in the course of the fourth quarter when his proper leg used to be twisted whilst being taken to the bottom by way of Rams All-Professional defensive lineman Aaron Donald. Wentz used to be sacked 3 times and hit an extra 11 instances to convey his season general as much as six sacks and 21 hits. That isn’t what Wentz and the Colts envisioned after they introduced him to Indianapolis throughout the offseason. — Wells

Wells’ self assurance ranking (Zero-10): Five.Zero, down from Five.Eight. Their ranking drops because of Wentz’s well being and the truth that the Colts are about to play 3 instantly street video games towards groups that made the playoffs final season. They may well be Zero-Five the following time they play a sport in Indianapolis.

Subsequent sport: at Titans (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Raiders

What to understand: The Raiders, off to a 2-Zero get started, are for actual. How else to explain a staff that traveled around the nation on a brief week to play within the NFL’s early window with out injured Professional Bowl working again Josh Jacobs and with a makeshift offensive line that wanted extra duct tape? Derek Carr used to be extraordinarily sharp, going 28-of-37 for 382 yards and two TDs, together with a 61-yarder to Henry Ruggs III within the fourth quarter after he had his surgically repaired proper ankle rolled up on a Nine-yard landing go to Foster Moreau within the 0.33. — Paul Gutierrez

How will the Raiders deal with their offensive line accidents? Neatly, getting left guard Richie Incognito up and working this week would do wonders for one. However the larger deal is at proper take on, the place first-rounder Alex Leatherwood used to be misplaced at halftime with an indirect damage … after having a coarse cross of it towards T.J. Watt with a hang, a false get started and a sack allowed. The Raiders’ O-line had 3 backups in play — John Simpson at left guard, Jermaine Eluemunor at proper guard and Brandon Parker, who acquitted himself smartly rather than Leatherwood. — Gutierrez

Gutierrez’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): Eight.2, up from Eight.1. Sure, simply one-tenth of 1 level greater than final week, however even with such a lot of accidents, issues are trending undoubtedly for the Raiders, who play host to the Dolphins on common relaxation subsequent week.

Subsequent sport: vs. Dolphins (Sunday, Four:05 p.m. ET)


Steelers

What to understand: With the offense sputtering for the second one week in a row, the Steelers’ protection, now down 4 starters because of damage, could not decide up the slack to close down the Raiders’ passing sport. Joe Haden and Devin Bush had been inactive previous to kickoff, and T.J. Watt joined them at the sideline overdue within the first 1/2 with a groin damage. Nostril take on Tyson Alualu went out early with an ankle damage that gave the look to be critical. The Steelers completed their target of most commonly neutralizing Darren Waller, however Derek Carr, with 382 yards passing, made them pay with a 61-yard landing to Henry Ruggs III and a Nine-yard rating to Foster Moreau. — Brooke Pryor

The place is the new-look offense? The Steelers fired coordinator Randy Fichtner and promoted quarterbacks trainer Matt Canada to offensive coordinator within the offseason, however the hallmarks of a Canada offensive scheme — the misdirection, the pre-snap movement — had been in large part absent for the second one week in a row. Canada’s most blatant affect used to be on JuJu Smith-Schuster‘s first profession speeding landing, when he scored on a Three-yard run off an within handoff on an end-around. The offensive line, a identified paintings in development, did not appearance stepped forward from Week 1 and allowed Roethlisberger to be hit 10 instances. Trai Turner used to be additionally ejected within the fourth quarter for unsportsmanlike habits after spitting towards a Raiders participant. Out of doors of spurts of explosive performs, particularly after they went no-huddle, the offense regarded disjointed and uninspiring — issues which may be mounted in time, however have not stepped forward two video games into the season. — Pryor

Pryor’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): Five.7, down from 6.Eight. The Steelers confirmed they may be able to win with a dominant protection every week in the past, but if the protection used to be battered and no longer taking part in lights-out towards the Raiders, it could not make up for the offensive shortcomings.

Subsequent sport: vs. Bengals (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

49ers

What to understand: It is early, however the 49ers are already appearing they may be able to win video games in hugely alternative ways, which is normally the signal of a staff in a position to contending. One week after profitable a high-scoring sport in Detroit, the 49ers outslugged the Eagles in an unsightly fistfight, the kind of sport that local Philadelphia son Rocky Balboa would in reality recognize. San Francisco’s offense slept via lots of the first 1/2, and despite the fact that the 49ers’ protection gave up some large performs, it time and again discovered techniques to stay the Eagles out of the tip zone. Sunday’s win marked the 5th time in franchise historical past that the 49ers went to 2-Zero with each wins at the street. — Nick Wagoner

Will the 49ers run out of working backs? After dropping Raheem Mostert final week, the 49ers grew to become to rookie Elijah Mitchell because the starter, and he were given lots of the paintings prior to a overdue shoulder damage despatched him to the sideline. JaMycal Hasty changed him and used to be working smartly prior to he departed on account of an ankle factor. Rookie Trey Sermon suffered a head damage on his first elevate, forcing Mitchell to intestine it out to the end. It is already been an unsightly get started at the damage entrance for this workforce, which cannot welcome veteran Jeff Wilson Jr. again from his knee damage quickly sufficient. — Wagoner

Wagoner’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): 6.Eight, up from 6.Five. It is exhausting to reinforce this quantity an excessive amount of given the ongoing damage questions, however to return out of this lengthy east shuttle 2-Zero is value a little bit bump prior to the contest ramps up within the coming weeks.

Subsequent sport: vs. Packers (Sunday, Eight:20 p.m. ET)


play

Zero:17

The Eagles check out the well-known “Philly Particular” play once more, however the 49ers sniff it out and get the fourth-down prevent.

Eagles

What to understand: The Eagles nonetheless have some rising as much as do. An overly winnable sport slipped via their palms. There have been technical errors, akin to Jalen Reagor stepping out of bounds to negate a would-be landing. And so they did not capitalize on alternatives, in particular following Quez Watkins‘ 91-yard reception that resulted in 0 issues. In the meantime, one of the vital younger playmakers akin to Jalen Hurts (12-of-23, 190 yards) and DeVonta Smith (two catches on seven goals) cooled after robust performances in Week 1. Philadelphia nonetheless looks as if a greater staff than anticipated via two weeks — in particular on protection — however Sunday used to be a reminder that rising pains are nonetheless forward. — Tim McManus

How will they reply to their first little bit of adversity? Now not best used to be it a stinging loss, however a few key veterans in guard Brandon Brooks (chest) and defensive finish Brandon Graham (ankle) suffered worrisome accidents. Novices Landon Dickerson and Tarron Jackson noticed greater roles of their absence, with combined effects. Trainer Nick Sirianni likens each and every week within the NFL to a around in a boxing fit. We will see how they reply to a chain of frame blows after they shuttle to take at the rival Dallas Cowboys subsequent Monday night time. — McManus

McManus’ self assurance ranking (Zero-10): Five.Nine, down from 6.Three. Two Professional Bowl gamers were given harm. The Eagles want their key vets to stick wholesome and give a contribution this season. Now not a really perfect get started towards that purpose.

Subsequent sport: at Cowboys (Monday, Eight:15 p.m. ET)

Panthers

What to understand: The industry for quarterback Sam Darnold continues to seem sensible. Surrounded by way of just right training and loyal guns, he has turn out to be constant and environment friendly. On considered one of Darnold’s many giant performs Sunday, he confirmed endurance, performed it sensible and checked all the way down to Christian McCaffrey in stride. Darnold crowned 200 yards passing within the first 1/2 for the second one instantly week, one thing no Carolina quarterback had finished. Self belief is development. — David Newton

How a lot of Carolina’s 2-Zero get started is because of taking part in a foul Jets staff and an undermanned Saints staff? You’ll’t cut price that, and subsequent up is a vulnerable Houston staff on Thursday night time. However you can also’t cut price Darnold’s play blended with the contributions of working again Christian McCaffrey and a protection that has numerous younger, proficient items. That provides the Panthers an opportunity each and every week. They wanted a quick begin to the season. Thus far, so just right. — Newton

Newton’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): 6.Four, up from Five.1. The protection has come in combination briefly and has the skill to disrupt any offense. It is no fluke.

Subsequent sport: at Texans (Thursday, Eight:20 p.m. ET)


Saints

What to understand: The Saints have now had two surprising effects the 1st two weeks, following a dominant win over Inexperienced Bay in Week 1 with a nerve-racking flop at Carolina. The reality most probably lies someplace within the center, taking into consideration how a lot attrition they confronted this week (lacking 9 starters on account of accidents/suspension, lacking 8 assistant coaches on account of COVID-19 and being displaced for 3 weeks by way of Storm Ida). However the intensity issues we had getting into the 12 months are actual issues, particularly on offense. — Mike Triplett

Was once this an anomaly for Jameis Winston and the Saints’ offense? Now not totally. Winston used to be underneath relentless power all day, resulting in his first two interceptions and primary 4 sacks of the season. (“Dangerous Jameis” got here out when he attempted to drive determined deep balls on the finish of each and every 1/2.) We think higher from New Orleans’ confirmed offensive line — regardless of heart Erik McCoy being sidelined by way of a calf damage. And we understand how a lot better the offense can also be after Winston threw 5 touchdowns final week. However there are reliable issues concerning the Saints’ loss of dynamic playmakers at large receiver and tight finish after they have got struggled to get open constantly. — Triplett

Triplett’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): 6.Eight, down from Eight.1. There’s hope if the Saints can keep afloat the following couple of weeks, with such a lot of key gamers anticipated again by way of Week 7 or Eight. However we all know now that they may be able to’t triumph over each and every hurdle.

Subsequent sport: at Patriots (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Expenses

What to understand: The Expenses’ protection confirmed up towards Miami. Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa used to be knocked out of the sport early with a rib damage, and Buffalo made lifestyles tricky for backup Jacoby Brissett, retaining the Dolphins scoreless. The Expenses had an all-around dominant efficiency with 6 sacks, 11 quarterback hits, Nine tackles for loss and three takeaways. In rookie Greg Rousseau‘s go back to his faculty stadium, the first-round decide placed on a display with 2 sacks, Five tackles, 2 quarterback hits and a couple of tackles for loss. The win ties the Expenses’ greatest margin of victory up to now 25 seasons (the former time used to be in 2014 vs. Jets) and used to be their first shutout since a 16-Zero win in 2016 towards a New England Patriots staff additionally quarterbacked by way of Brissett. — Alaina Getzenberg

Are Josh Allen‘s inconsistencies a priority going ahead? The Expenses took an early lead within the first quarter with two landing drives. After that, the staff stumbled to 30 web yards blended at the subsequent 4 possessions. Probably the most problems got here from Allen proceeding to have hassle connecting along with his receivers, particularly downfield. Within the first 1/2, on passes thrown greater than 10 yards downfield, he finished 1 of five passes for 35 yards and an interception, in line with ESPN Stats & Information. Via two video games, Allen has finished 6 of 14 passes supposed for Emmanuel Sanders, and his blended finishing touch proportion (56%) ranks a ways under final season’s 69%. — Getzenberg

Getzenberg’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): 7.Three, up from 6.Three. It wasn’t beautiful every now and then, however the Expenses put in combination a whole sport towards the Dolphins due to robust video games from their younger pass-rushers and a cast day for the staff’s speeding offense (143 yards on 30 carries), after a disappointing opener.

Subsequent sport: vs. Washington (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)


Dolphins

What to understand: Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa used to be knocked out of the sport with a rib damage early within the first quarter and didn’t go back. His departure appeared to suck the lifestyles out of Miami’s sideline prior to it would ever get going. Jacoby Brissett used to be admirable as his substitute, however the Dolphins’ offense fell flat in its first shutout loss since 2019. — Marcel Louis-Jacques

What went fallacious with the Dolphins’ offense? Tagovailoa used to be stressed on 4 of his six snaps prior to his damage — together with two sacks at the Dolphins’ opening power. Issues did not essentially toughen from there, because the Expenses completed the sport with six sacks and 11 QB hits. Miami’s offensive line is readily materializing as its weakest unit, which is particularly disappointing taking into consideration the draft capital spent on it over the last two drafts. If the Dolphins cannot toughen up entrance, the ceiling for his or her offense is proscribed shifting ahead. — Louis-Jacques

Louis-Jacques’ self assurance ranking (Zero-10): Five.Zero, down from 6.Five. The only real explanation why it is even this excessive is the stellar play of Miami’s protection — which used to be exceptional taking into consideration it held the Expenses to 6 consecutive empty drives to finish the 1st 1/2 prior to the wheels fell off in the second one. The Dolphins’ offense has turn out to be a sound worry this season.

Subsequent sport: at Raiders (Sunday, Four:05 p.m. ET)

Washington

What to understand: Taylor Heinicke does not have a large arm, is small and has sturdiness problems. However what he does have is that this: It. And whilst it may well be exhausting to explain, when gamers fall in love with a man’s sport and level to his swagger, you understand that is what he has. Whether or not Heinicke magic continues for a few video games or a lot more is still noticed. The ones different attributes will topic over the lengthy haul. However that does not alternate the truth that gamers reply to him and are assured in him — and that he continues to ship. — John Keim

Is the protection OK? The unit must play way more disciplined or it will have problems when it faces higher offenses than New York’s. It is about staying in gaps, doing its process and taking part in with extra adulthood. Washington’s protection — the entrance specifically — entered the season with excessive expectancies. It is intended to be the explanation this staff contends within the NFC East. After two video games, this workforce has did not are living as much as the hype. — Keim

Keim’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): Five.2, up from Five.Zero. Heinicke has supplied a shot of hope, however the protection’s problems — understanding the remainder quarterbacks at the agenda — will have to get mounted.

Subsequent sport: at Expenses (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)


Giants

What to understand: The Giants simply do not appear to understand how to win. This time they let the sport slip away on a couple of events, with the general mistake being after they jumped offsides on a last-second box target strive, giving Washington the second one likelihood it had to win. “Yeah, it used to be an attractive tricky one,” large receiver Sterling Shepard stated. That is an irony. The Giants are Zero-2 for the 5th instantly 12 months, and want to learn to win. Or as Joe Pass judgement on likes to fret, find out how to not lose. — Jordan Raanan

What’s fallacious with the Giants’ protection? This workforce isn’t pressuring the quarterback and is permitting large performs everywhere the sector. The Giants had simply 4 pressures towards Washington and feature allowed 57 issues within the first two video games. They allowed 27 or extra issues best 3 times all of final season. — Raanan

Raanan’s self assurance ranking (Zero-10): Three.2, down from Four.2. It is not shopping just right after two weeks. An Zero-2 hollow isn’t one thing the Giants cannot get away in a 17-game season, however it positive is prohibitive and acquainted.

Subsequent sport: vs. Falcons (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

About admin

Check Also

The key area Arsenal must address in January transfer window

The important thing house Arsenal will have to deal with in January switch window

Arsenal spend smartly Arsenal had a relatively lively summer season switch window during which quite …

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *