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 employees. 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 through two weeks. Diggs has two touchdowns in 2024 nevertheless 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 nevertheless Slowik known as 21 rushing performs for 76 yards. The Texans had success working the ball in Week 1 as Joe Mixon reached 159 rushing 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 common select regarded greater in his second outing (two of his best passes obtained 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 beneath 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 explicit teams, put the offense behind the chains. And two of those obtained right here on the offensive line for false begins after timeouts. Matt Eberflus threw two questionable downside 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 closing 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 nevertheless generated merely 10 first-half components. The Chiefs need their working recreation to help take some pressure off Mahomes and the passing assault, nevertheless once they’re out of steadiness like this, they don’t appear to be maximizing their return from their best participant.

Most surprising effectivity: Mahomes. He threw a pair of interceptions and had a third known as once more resulting from a Bengals’ penalty. Mahomes tried nevertheless didn’t get an unlimited play downfield other than a 44-yard touchdown go to broad receiver Rashee Rice. Otherwise, the Chiefs had no go play of larger 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 constructive 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 identical 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 intention.

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 through the first two weeks since 2007. But the second-half defensive effectivity didn’t pretty match up with the certainly one of 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 through chunk performs. But the safety nonetheless obtained 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 best downside up to now.

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 enough 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 wise throws and getting strong 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 keep 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 through the third quarter and the Denver offense couldn’t current loads 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 loads (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, nevertheless Nix threw an interception finally zone one play later. Denver may 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 together 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 might be surprising if he didn’t ship frequent pressure at Nix.

Most surprising effectivity: Cornerback Pat Surtain II. It was further shocking than surprising, nevertheless Surtain might have had his most robust day as knowledgeable. He had two holding penalties — one on explicit 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 constructive 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 facility 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 behind 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, nevertheless 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 together 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 together with his hurt and Los Angeles wouldn’t add to the room, the Rams will depend upon a chief 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 dimensions of the sector for the beyond regular time 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 every single place within the topic, the Rams didn’t. Williams scored a touchdown late throughout the third quarter, nevertheless the Rams struggled to maneuver the ball on the underside for most of the recreation. Williams ran for 25 yards on 12 carries. His frequent of two.1 yards per carry presently is his lowest mark in a recreation since becoming the starter closing 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. obtained 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 rushing for 4 yards throughout the first half? Offensive coordinator Luke Getsy authored the NFL’s top-ranked rushing assault in 2022 for the Bears and was No. 2 closing 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 function. 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 mainly 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 employees accomplished with its worst file beneath 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 spot. 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 certainly one of many prime Super Bowl contenders.

Describe the game in two phrases: Another collapse. This marks the Ravens’ fourth loss after major by double digits throughout the fourth quarter since 2022. This ties the Bears for in all probability essentially 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 essentially the most appropriate 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 aims 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, nevertheless 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, nevertheless 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 were accepted Sunday. They have been significantly undisciplined late, with three infractions negating a potential 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 nevertheless confirmed indicators of life throughout the first half. The Browns might 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 following week. There has been only one employees make the playoffs after an 0-4 start: The 1992 San Diego Chargers. This employees 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 said 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 control their recreation plan decrease than two hours sooner than kickoff. Second-year participant Brenton Strange acquired further work nevertheless Engram is a critical part of the offense, significantly when the Jaguars must execute transient, quick throws to mainly carry out as part of the run recreation or decelerate the go rush. There shouldn’t be one different tight end on the roster which 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 an excellent larger part of the offense. He delivered an unlimited 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 closing week and three this week, nevertheless 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 intention in beyond regular time

Jason Myers completes 31-yard topic intention to solidify the Seahawks win over the Patriots in beyond regular time.

Commanders

Did Washington uncover its run recreation? Quarterback Jayden Daniels needs further help, and the run recreation provided it Sunday. Running once more Brian Robinson Jr. had the two longest runs of his occupation (32 and 40 yards) en path to 133 yards. His power inside made an unlimited 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 would 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 constructive beats a reasonably loss for a gaggle that is attempting to rebuild the franchise. Daniels was sacked 5 situations nevertheless led a game-winning drive — resulting from a 34-yard go and 14-yard run — that was capped by Austin Seibert’s seventh topic intention.

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 occupation. 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 mainly occurred. They couldn’t even try to kick a topic intention to take the lead with merely over two minutes remaining because 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, nevertheless what’s surprising is his 18 targets — in all probability essentially the most for a rookie since Rams receiver Puka Nacua’s 20 in Week 2 closing 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 occupation 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 certainly one of many NFL’s most clutch quarterbacks? Smith routinely obtained right here through in crunch time closing season, throwing a single-season file seven go-ahead touchdown passes throughout the fourth quarter or beyond regular time. He did it as soon as extra Sunday, major topic intention 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 following 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 obtained right here merely open air 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 seen this large of a day coming? Smith-Njigba’s 12 catches for 117 yards on 16 targets have been all occupation 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 nevertheless 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, nevertheless it wasn’t with out self-inflicted wounds, too. The one TD looked 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 intention in OT. The Patriots might 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 purchased the opening kickoff of beyond regular time to offer themselves a chance 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 beyond regular time, the Patriots didn’t have a receiver register one different catch. That’s potential a outcomes of the Patriots working further two-TE packages — and TE Hunter Henry had an unlimited 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 score on the following 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 closing yr. He brings the type of worthwhile mentality they’ve lacked for … correctly, a few years. But it would seemingly be robust to maintain up till the offense achieves further common consistency.

Biggest hole throughout the recreation plan: Wide receiver Garrett Wilson was centered solely six situations and had 4 receptions. Rodgers said he wished to get Wilson further touches than closing week (six), nevertheless they went throughout the fallacious course. He was coated a lot by cornerback L’Jarius Sneed, which was a component, nevertheless 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 occupation complete. The best obtained right here with 23 seconds left, a third-down play throughout the purple zone. The former first-round select obtained 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 loads 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 as an alternative of taking a sack on third down, and as an alternative, it was a fumble recovered by the Jets on their very personal 12-yard line. A score would have put the Titans up double digits. This comes each week after Tennessee wasn’t able 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, resulting from a miraculous touchdown catch by WR Calvin Ridley. In complete, the Jets misplaced and regained the lead thrice sooner than growing 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 shouldn’t be often a fast starter, as confirmed by his 3.5 complete sacks through the first two video video games of his 5 earlier seasons. The veteran open air linebacker is off to top-of-the-line start of his occupation. — 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 resulting from 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 might 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 might be every in all probability essentially the most taken by Purdy in his occupation. 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, nevertheless Flores has found strategies to impact every victories by the use 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 essentially 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, nevertheless 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 score. — 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 closing win coming in 1992. This loss was further alarming for the reality that the Vikings have been missing a variety of 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 lot of enchancment to do defensively within the occasion that they should get once more to the employees they’ve been recently.

Biggest hole throughout the recreation plan: It’s no secret that Justin Jefferson is likely one of the finest receiver throughout the league, and with Jordan Addison and T.J. Hockenson unavailable for Minnesota, it stood to function the Niners would take explicit 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 rushing 4 and having fun with zone safety, however when the go rush shouldn’t be getting residence persistently, there should be a larger 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 might 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 looking at a career-best season for QB Baker Mayfield? Mayfield’s 5 passing touchdowns (with a sixth on the underside) are in all probability essentially the most ever for him over the first two video video games of a season. His talent to thrive beneath duress (he was sacked 5 situations) and be a part of with wideout Chris Godwin — who has amassed 200 receiving yards and two touchdowns through 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 obtained right here on a stunt with DT Alim McNeill, Hutchinson merely man-handled backup Justin Skule on the following 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 occupation interception throughout the first quarter, which organize a 55-yard topic intention. 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 largest 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 occupation. On a day the Lions’ offense recorded 463 yards, Goff’s effectivity was a key challenge 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 wish 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 one more offensively challenged AFC South employees throughout the Titans subsequent week, why not? While it gave the look of 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 — nevertheless 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 rushing 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 rushing throughout the first half was the third most by an NFL employees throughout the first half of a recreation since 2000. It was 14 behind in all probability essentially 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 rushing totals with 237 yards. And whereas the Colts acquired the rushing assault beneath administration throughout the second half, the Packers nonetheless managed to rework some very 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 rushing yards this season.

Biggest hole throughout the recreation plan: Quarterback Anthony Richardson was the Colts’ major 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 a variety of have been known as in Week 1.

Most surprising effectivity: Rookie receiver Adonai Mitchell had a promising teaching camp and has created loads optimism, nevertheless 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 unlimited third-down conversion. Later, Mitchell dropped a great go from Richardson that may have remodeled an important third down in the midst of the Colts’ failed comeback. Mitchell seen fewer snaps the rest of the game, possibly 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 occupation 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 on no account let off the gas, using Rashid Shaheed’s velocity and Kamara’s versatility whereas deploying a variety of players as blockers to allow Carr to play largely error-free.

Eye-popping superior stat: 91 components. The Saints made an unlimited switch this offseason by transferring away from the Sean Payton offense that obtained a Super Bowl title throughout the 2009 season. That employees 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 through Week 2. — Katherine Terrell

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

Cowboys

What must be constituted 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 essentially the most given up through the first two quarters in employees historic previous. Last yr, the Cowboys allowed larger 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 less complicated. The Ravens have historically been certainly one of many greater rushing teams throughout the NFL, partially because of quarterback Lamar Jackson is a game-changer. He might make defenses look unhealthy on his private. Derrick Henry has however to go off in his first two video video games with the Ravens, nevertheless the Cowboys have been bludgeoned by the Saints in every means, giving up larger 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 closing season, nevertheless solely because of this wasn’t a playoff loss. The Cowboys allowed touchdowns on the Saints’ first six possessions. The offense moved the ball nevertheless failed on two purple zone journeys, settling for too many Brandon Aubrey topic aims. — 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 employees’s first two video video games of a season, and he somersaulted into the highest zone for his lone score of the day. Offensive coordinator Greg Roman said they’d roll with the “hot hand” as a result of the season progressed, nevertheless it’s clear that the rushing 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 occupation sooner than he caught two throughout the first half on Sunday. Johnston’s first score, 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 score.

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 occupation. 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 way more points than Young, nevertheless 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 closing week. Andy Dalton may give Carolina a larger chance. But when simply recently requested about altering, Canales said: “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 lack to cease it towards the Saints (180 yards). Young’s ineffectiveness … sure, a variety of dangerous 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 finest 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 workforce’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 workforce is deciding whether or not to put him on injured reserve — a place that has handled accidents for the reason that offseason must overcome much more, with coach Sean McDermott anticipating Spector taking up 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 not less than 14 mph. That is essentially 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 obtained right here away with two interceptions, along with a pick-six. Ingram obtained 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 potential protect him out of subsequent week’s recreation in the direction of the Seahawks, coach Mike McDaniel said. 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 said Miami will add one different quarterback to its roster, nevertheless don’t rely on a participant like Ryan Tannehill or Jimmy Garoppolo, who would can be found anticipating to begin out.

Most surprising effectivity: The Dolphins’ effectivity as a whole was surprising, nevertheless 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 begin out subsequent week, Hill has to say himself as certainly one of many league’s best players — regardless of his employees’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 occupation 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 unlimited miss for Miami’s offense. — Marcel Louis-Jacques

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

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