Takeaways: Commanders win thriller, plus Winston's large day

NFL Nation, ESPNOct 27, 2024, 08:30 PM ET

Week 8 of the NFL season kicked off on Thursday with the Los Angeles Rams handing the Minnesota Vikings their second lack of the season.

On Sunday, the Detroit Lions blew out the Tennessee Titans and QB Jameis Winston lifted Cleveland Browns previous the Baltimore Ravens. Later, the Kansas Metropolis Chiefs moved to 7-0 on the season and QB Jayden Daniels launched a 52-yard Hail Mary to elevate the Washington Commanders previous the Chicago Bears.

Our NFL Nation reporters reacted to all of the motion, answering lingering questions popping out of every recreation and detailing every little thing else it’s essential to know for each staff. Let’s get to it.

Commanders

Do the Commanders now have protection? Washington has allowed a mixed 22 factors the previous two video games and had been the first cause for the win over Chicago, regardless of late scores. The Bears took almost three quarters to generate any offense and moved the ball higher within the fourth quarter. However Washington’s protection harassed QB Caleb Williams all recreation and compelled him into hurried throws. Fifteen factors will probably be good to win any recreation the remainder of the season. If the Commanders can proceed to play strong protection, they will be be arduous to beat within the NFC East.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Hail Mary. Washington quarterback Jayden Daniels delivered the play of the yr. Enjoying with an injured rib and towards a top-5 protection, by no means shied from taking part in his traditional type. And he capped it with an unreal Hail Mary landing move to receiver Noah Brown for 52 yards.

Greatest gap within the recreation plan: Crimson zone offense. The Commanders’ first three discipline targets all had been inside 30 yards. A false begin penalty impacted one drive; Zach Ertz failed to manage a move in the long run zone. Thankfully for the Commanders, kicker Austin Seibert has been computerized. He made all 4 discipline targets and is now 23-for-24 this season. — John Keim

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

Bears

What occurred to the Bears offense on the bye? It took the Bears three quarters to hit 100 yards of offense. The offense lastly began to click on late, regardless of a goal-line fumble by fullback Doug Kramer. D’Andre Swift scored a 56-yard landing to chop Washington’s result in 12-7 with 43 seconds left within the third, and Roschon Johnson barreled in from the one to place the Bears up 15-12 with 23 seconds left within the fourth, however the Bears’ luck ran out because the Commanders received on a Hail Mary on the buzzer.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Redzone protection. The one cause the rating displays a detailed recreation is due to how stout the Bears’ D was contained in the 20-yard line. Chicago’s third-ranked redzone protection held the Commanders to 4 discipline targets on 5 makes an attempt, the final of which — a 51-yard try — seemed to be tipped by defensive sort out Gervon Dexter Sr.

Greatest gap within the recreation plan: Early scoring. Chicago’s greatest takeaway from its bye week evaluations centered on getting off to quicker begins. The Bears have scored three factors all season on their opening drives (T-2nd fewest) and their 10 first quarter factors by seven video games are the third fewest within the NFL. — Courtney Cronin

Subsequent recreation: at Cardinals (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)

Chiefs

Even after buying DeAndre Hopkins, ought to the Chiefs pursue one other broad receiver earlier than the commerce deadline? It would not be a foul concept. Hopkins may have a much bigger presence, and most definitely extra manufacturing, because the season progresses than he did in his first recreation with the Chiefs. However the Chiefs nonetheless haven’t got quite a lot of depth, even after JuJu Smith-Schuster returns from his hamstring harm. Xavier Worthy is a rookie and hasn’t been a dependable presence from all the way down to down at this level. The Chiefs’ different receivers are good complementary gamers, however at crunch time, having one other risk would not harm.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Protection guidelines. Their protection saved the Chiefs on two drives early within the third quarter. The Raiders began their first drive of the interval on the Chiefs’ 28 and the second on the Kansas Metropolis 3. The Raiders got here away with only a discipline aim. The Chiefs stopped the Raiders on downs on the opposite drive, one in every of a number of such stops by the Kansas Metropolis protection this season. The Chiefs additionally compelled and recovered a QB Gardner Minshew fumble within the fourth quarter.

Most stunning efficiency: Hopkins caught solely two passes for 29 yards, however the true shock was that he performed as a lot as he did. He had 23 snaps, quantity for somebody who did not apply with the Chiefs till Thursday. — Adam Teicher

Subsequent recreation: vs. Buccaneers (Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Raiders

Why cannot the Raiders run the ball? What within the names of Josh Jacobs, Marcus Allen and Bo Jackson is happening with the Raiders’ (lack of a) working recreation? With two minutes to play towards the Chiefs, Las Vegas averaged simply 1.6 yards per carry (33 yards on 21 makes an attempt), and it was the second time this season they averaged underneath 2.0 yards per rush. You’ll be able to’t run if there are not any lanes, and rookie LG Jackson Powers-Johnson had a tough go of it with Chiefs DT Chris Jones. Design or need?

Describe the sport in two phrases: Misplaced alternatives. Twice the Raiders had the ball contained in the Chiefs’ 5-yard line, and Las Vegas might muster solely three factors out of these possibilities. And with the Raiders on the Chiefs’ 3-yard line late within the third quarter, 4 performs resulted in 5 misplaced yards. In actual fact, per ESPN Analysis, the Raiders had been contacted at or behind the road of scrimmage on every play.

Early prediction for subsequent week: Desmond Ridder will get a major run in a Cincinnati homecoming, of kinds, for the brand new Raiders QB, who performed his school ball within the Queen Metropolis. With Aidan O’Connell (thumb) on injured reserve and Gardner Minshew having one other pricey turnover — his mid-fourth quarter fumble resulted in a Chiefs TD and was his league-leading eleventh turnover — the Raiders want a spark. Ridder took the sector for a designed play that was worn out by a false begin. — Paul Gutierrez

Subsequent recreation: at Bengals (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

DJ Turner pulls Raiders nearer with TD

Gardner Minshew takes an enormous hit whereas throwing and finds DJ Turner for the landing to chop into Kansas Metropolis’s lead.

Broncos

Is QB Bo Nix prepared for the robust a part of the schedule? Nix had 220 yards passing within the first half of Sunday’s win, greater than he is had in all however one recreation this season (he had 246 yards passing within the Week 2 loss to the Steelers). Now, Nix strikes to the thorny a part of the schedule, because the Broncos (5-3) are at Baltimore and at Kansas Metropolis the subsequent two weeks, a take a look at that present how prepared Nix is.

Most stunning efficiency: The Broncos’ tight ends had 17 receptions for 136 yards and no touchdowns as a bunch within the first seven video games. Sunday, that they had 5 receptions for 88 yards and two touchdowns within the first half alone. Adam Trautman, whose earlier profession excessive was 58 yards, had 4 receptions for 85 yards and an eyebrow-raising one-handed landing seize earlier than halftime. With Nix’s struggles within the intermediate zones in the course of the sector, the Broncos have wanted way more from the tight finish place.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Confidence recreation. Coach Sean Payton has constantly mentioned any questions on Nix’s confidence and skill to bounce again from errors are misplaced. In opposition to a tepid Panthers move rush, Payton included extra issues Nix is snug with (RPOs, rollouts, no huddle, in-breaking routes), and the rookie had his finest day of the season (4 complete TDs). Coupled with one other dominant efficiency from the Broncos’ protection, they need to have their collective head in a great place. — Jeff Legwold

Subsequent recreation: at Ravens (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Panthers

Does QB Bryce Younger deserve one other begin subsequent week versus the Saints? Sure, however he seemingly will not get it as a result of Andy Dalton will begin if his thumb is nice to go. Younger was mainly arrange for failure Sunday. He was lacking his high two receivers (Diontae Johnson and Adam Thielen) as a result of accidents and going through the league’s fourth-ranked protection. He truly seemed respectable on his first sequence, capped by a 6-yard landing, however rapidly needed to play catchup to get away from the ball-control recreation plan. He had no likelihood to win.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Teaching meltdown. It was a two-score recreation halfway by the third quarter when coach Dave Canales referred to as a faux punt from his personal 24 that did not work. The play might have succeeded if P Johnny Hekker’s move was respectable, however Carolina nonetheless would have been about 65 yards from the top zone.

Greatest gap within the recreation plan: Go protection. Carolina loaded as much as cease the run, leaving receivers broad open. Denver’s rookie QB Bo Nix’s 220 passing yards within the first half had been greater than he had in all however one recreation this season. The blitz did not work. Nix was 8-of-12 within the first half for 147 yards and two TDs. — David Newton

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

Chargers

Has Ladd McConkey established himself because the Chargers high receiver? The Chargers traded up within the second spherical of the 2024 draft for performances like Sunday. McConkey caught all six targets and completed with 111 yards and two touchdowns. He turned the primary Chargers rookie receiver with 100 receiving yards and a landing in a recreation since 2013, when Keenan Allen scored three. QB Justin Herbert lauded McConkey within the days main as much as the Saints recreation, saying that the broad receiver makes throwing the ball simple for him; Sunday might be the start of a dominant pairing for the Chargers.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Receiver redemption. After final week’s loss to the Cardinals, Chargers receivers gathered within the locker room and mentioned being extra constant. Joshua Palmer referred to as their efficiency “unacceptable” and McConkey mentioned “it sucks,” however vowed to be higher. They responded with season highs for McConkey (111) and Palmer (72).

Greatest gap within the recreation plan: Go safety. Herbert was sacked thrice Sunday, the fifth straight recreation he is been sacked a number of occasions, which is tied for the fifth-longest lively streak within the NFL. Herbert escaped many would-be-sacks Sunday and scrambled for 49 yards. Because the Chargers look to make a playoff push, defending Herbert will probably be paramount. — Kris Rhim

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

Ladd McConkey climbs the ladder for his 2nd TD of the sport

Justin Herbert rolls out and finds Ladd McConkey in the long run zone for a Chargers landing.

Saints

Can something save the Saints season? The Saints touted the return of a number of injured gamers all week, hoping it might give them a lift to cease their shedding skid. However New Orleans wasn’t any higher towards the Chargers, committing penalties, giving up large performs and failing to maneuver the ball on offense. Except for QB Derek Carr’s (indirect) potential return subsequent week, there would not appear to be a lot hope this staff can flip issues round.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Anemic offense. The Saints tried to show to QB Jake Haener late within the recreation after rookie Spencer Rattler did not get something going, however it wasn’t a magic repair for New Orleans’ points. It is clear the staff’s issues transcend one place, and even the return of Taysom Hill and Chris Olave did not appear to encourage a lot change.

Greatest gap within the recreation plan: The Saints conservative recreation plan. New Orleans did not appear to have a lot belief in Rattler’s potential to throw downfield, as solely six of his 24 move makes an attempt went 10 or extra yards by the air. That did not assist transfer the ball within the early going and the Saints ultimately made a quarterback change. — Katherine Terrell

Subsequent recreation: at Panthers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Payments

Are the Payments one of the best staff within the AFC? The Payments are definitely within the dialog and have made a case for being the convention’s high squad. With the remainder of the AFC East sitting at two wins, the division is the Payments’ for the taking. After that, there are some issues for them to show towards the AFC’s finest, however on this lopsided win — the staff’s fourth 20-point win of the season — the Payments confirmed why they are often thought-about among the many AFC’s elite. They put collectively a well-rounded efficiency in all three phases, turning QB Josh Allen’s first interception of the season — on a play WR Amari Cooper appeared to slide — right into a minor notice on the stat sheet, whereas decisively beating a staff that entered Sunday atop the NFC West.

Most stunning efficiency: Run protection. The Payments did properly in stopping the run final week towards the Titans, however this was a fair higher efficiency. The Seahawks had minus-1 speeding yard within the first half on 10 makes an attempt and completed with a season-low 32 yards. They had been contacted at or behind the road of scrimmage on 9 of 17 rush makes an attempt within the recreation, with seven of these approaching first down.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Supporting Allen. This recreation was an instance of how a robust speeding assault can help the Payments’ QB as RB James Prepare dinner rushed for 111 yards and two touchdowns. Prepare dinner now has seven speeding touchdowns, essentially the most by a Payments participant within the first eight video games of a season since Travis Henry had eight in 2003. Prepare dinner helped Buffalo prolong drives and put the Payments in place to transform eight of 14 third downs. — Alaina Getzenberg

Subsequent recreation: vs. Dolphins (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Seahawks

Why are the Seahawks so up and down? A clear efficiency led to a 20-point street win final week over a Falcons staff that had received three straight video games, giving the Seahawks a 4-3 document and first place within the NFC West. Seven days later, they acquired hammered at dwelling amid a sloppy mess of unforced errors and missed alternatives. QB Geno Smith tripped over a teammate close to the aim line for a turnover on downs on the 1, whereas one other drive deep into Buffalo territory was thwarted by a foul snap. Seattle dedicated 11 penalties for 82 yards, together with a roughing penalty on LB Derick Corridor that led to a short scuffle between DL Jarran Reed and the second-year exterior linebacker. WR DK Metcalf (knee) did not play, however that in all probability would not have made a lot of a distinction given how badly the Seahawks harm themselves Sunday.

Most stunning efficiency: The Seahawks acquired little or no out of their move rush, which didn’t document a single hit on Allen regardless of the QB dropping again 36 occasions. They technically had a sack, however it got here on a play by which Allen fumbled whereas working untouched. Per ESPN Analysis, Seattle generated strain on simply 19% of Allen’s dropbacks (seven of 36), the bottom price Allen has confronted since Week 12 final season towards the Eagles (18%).

Early prediction for subsequent week: Josh Jobe and Tre Brown will battle it out for snaps because the third cornerback. That can basically be a beginning function given how usually the Rams use three-receiver units, and it will be an vital one now that WRs Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua are again within the lineup. Jobe was up and down Sunday whereas taking part in forward of Brown. He recorded his first profession interception however dedicated a retaliation penalty and allowed a number of completions in protection. — Brady Henderson

Subsequent recreation: vs. Rams (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Texans

Can the Texans survive wideout Stefon Diggs’ knee harm? The Texans are already with out wideout Nico Collins (hamstring), so being down Diggs would drastically hinder the offense. The brand new No. 1 can be Tank Dell, who had 4 catches for 35 yards and a landing Sunday. For an offense that is struggling to guard QB C.J. Stroud, shedding Diggs and Collins for an additional week makes life for Stroud a lot more durable. The Jets, Houston’s Week 9 opponent, ranks within the high 10 in fewest passing yards allowed.

Eye-popping stat: When the Texans made Colts QB Anthony Richardson drop again and move with out play-action, they locked him down. Richardson went 5-of-20 for 71 yards with an interception and a passer ranking of 21.

Greatest gap within the recreation plan: The Texans know G Kenyon Inexperienced is the weak hyperlink in permitting the passing assault to thrive — Inexperienced allowed seven pressures and a sack Sunday. They benched him midgame for C/G Jarrett Patterson however that lasted one drive as Patterson suffered a concussion. — DJ Bien-Aime

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

Colts

What’s subsequent for QB Anthony Richardson? Not all of Richardson’s points are self-inflicted — i.e. the questionable playcalling, the drops from his passing targets and the move safety. However there is no such thing as a query Richardson’s lack of consistency is making it tough for the Colts to maintain drives. He has nonetheless made simply 10 begins and stays a developmental quarterback. He was higher than his numbers steered — 10-of-32 passing for 132 yards — however he’ll want to point out enchancment for the Colts to withstand strain to think about taking part in veteran backup Joe Flacco.

Most stunning efficiency: WR Michael Pittman (again) continues to be taking part in harm, however the Colts’ incapability to get him going is turning into problematic. He caught one move for 16 yards on Sunday on six targets. That is not sufficient manufacturing for a participant who has been a quantity receiver for Indianapolis and acquired paid accordingly this offseason. Indy badly must discover a answer.

Early prediction for subsequent week: Richardson and the Colts offense may have their fingers full with the Vikings’ Brian Flores-led protection. With Richardson and an offensive line that struggled with the noise on Sunday touring to face a loud surroundings and artful protection that’s high 10 in scoring protection, Minnesota’s defensive anticipated factors added and speeding protection is regarding. — Stephen Holder

Subsequent recreation: at Vikings (Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET)

Jonathan Taylor barrels into the top zone for a Colts TD

Jonathan Taylor rushes for a 1-yard landing to chop into the Texans’ lead.

Packers

How are the Packers going to beat the Lions subsequent week? Sunday’s recreation towards the Jaguars was a battle even earlier than QB Jordan Love left the sport with a groin harm. The Packers trailed late within the third quarter earlier than a Malik Willis-led drive — capped by a 38-yard RB Josh Jacobs landing run — put them again within the lead solely to see the Jaguars tie it once more late. For the second week in a row, the Packers wanted a last-second discipline aim by Brandon McManus to win it. In the meantime, the Lions — who come to Lambeau Subject subsequent Sunday — seemed almost unstoppable of their rout of the Titans, placing up 52 factors.

Most stunning efficiency: Willis. Possibly it ought to not be a shock, provided that Willis already received two begins rather than Love. However this time, he did not have every week to organize for it. He had a halftime discuss to take action. He seemed as poised as might be as he stood within the pocket and lofted a deep ball to WR Jayden Reed for a 51-yard completion on the game-winning drive. Willis was 4-of-5 for 56 yards and a landing, plus a key 2-yard scramble.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Staff takeaways. That is what the Packers’ protection ought to be recognized for within the first half of this season. With CB Xavier McKinney’s first-half interception (his league-leading sixth of the season), plus LB Edgerrin Cooper’s compelled fumble that DT Devonte Wyatt recovered within the second half, the Packers now have 19 takeaways by eight video games — another than that they had all of final season. It is the Packers’ most takeaways within the first eight video games of a season since 2011 (when additionally they had 19). — Rob Demovsky

Subsequent recreation: vs. Lions (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Jaguars

Is the Jaguars’ season basically over? They did rally from a 2-6 begin to make the playoffs in 2022, however this can be a a lot completely different state of affairs. They’d six starters depart the sport with accidents — together with the highest three receivers — and face Philadelphia, Minnesota, Detroit and Houston of their subsequent 4 video games. Now the query turns to what occurs to teach Doug Pederson and GM Trent Baalke. Proprietor Shad Khan mentioned he anticipated the playoffs this season and their jobs could also be in jeopardy, particularly if they cannot overcome the accidents.

Describe the sport in two phrases: M.A.S.H. unit. The Jaguars had six starters depart the sport with accidents, and solely RG Brandon Scherff (knee) returned. The highest three receivers went down: Christian Kirk (shoulder), Gabe Davis (shoulder) and Brian Thomas Jr. (chest). Kirk’s harm appeared essentially the most severe (he went straight to locker room). LG Ezra Cleveland (ankle) and CB Ronald Darby (hip) additionally acquired harm.

Greatest gap within the recreation plan: Weak begin on offense. The Jaguars had no factors and 15 yards of offense within the first quarter — the fifth time they’ve put up 15 yards or much less in 1 / 4 this season. Sluggish begins have been an issue: They’ve scored simply 20 first-quarter factors in eight video games this season. It is simpler to play from forward than from behind. — Mike DiRocco

Subsequent recreation: at Eagles (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)

Falcons

Does this win all however seal the NFC South for the Falcons? Not fairly. However the Falcons have had a stranglehold on the division up to now. Atlanta is 4-0 towards its division rivals and now has two wins over the Bucs, the staff most definitely to be there on the finish of the season with the Falcons for division supremacy. Atlanta has the struggling Saints on the street in two weeks after which the woeful Panthers in Week 18. There’s rather more soccer to play, however the Falcons are definitely in pole place.

Eye-popping stat: Cousins has extra touchdowns towards the Buccaneers this season (eight) in two video games than he does towards the remainder of the league (six) in six video games. Cousins threw for a franchise-record 509 yards towards Tampa Bay in Week 5. On Sunday, Cousins was the primary Falcons QB with three touchdowns in a primary half since Matt Ryan in 2020.

Most stunning efficiency: Falcons followers — and fantasy soccer aficionados — have been ready for a breakout recreation from TE Kyle Pitts for a very long time. It got here Sunday. Pitts tied his career-longest landing move with a 36-yard seize after which adopted with a 49-yard TD catch to set his private document. — Marc Raimondi

Subsequent recreation: vs. Cowboys (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Buccaneers

Can the Bucs survive with out WRs Mike Evans and Chris Godwin? QB Baker Mayfield leaned closely on his working backs and TE Cade Otton, who scored two touchdowns. The downfield passing recreation wasn’t there — Mayfield was intercepted twice on passes meant for WRs Ryan Miller and Jalen McMillan — though Rakim Jarrett emerged within the second half. They might get by dinking-and-dunking till Evans returns, if the protection stops giving up so many explosive performs. However their likelihood at profitable the division could have slipped away.

Greatest gap within the recreation plan: The Bucs’ move protection struggled mightily defending WRs Darnell Mooney and Drake London and TE Kyle Pitts. Even worse was the move rush’s incapability to get dwelling towards QB Kirk Cousins. DT C.J. Brewer had the Bucs’ solely two sacks of the sport. Pitts beat S Kaevon Merriweather on a 36-yard landing, after which three defenders missed tackles on a 49-yard rating on a slant route. CB Tyrek Funderburk acquired crushed by Mooney on a 30-yard rating (he was changed within the second half by S Josh Hayes) and RB Bijan Robinson went untouched into the top zone going into the flat.

Early prediction for subsequent week: We might see one other large week from Otton. The Chiefs had been surrendering a median of 83.5 yards per recreation to opposing tight ends going into Week 8 — that is essentially the most given up by any staff within the league. However they’ve additionally boasted one of many league’s finest run defenses this season, giving up simply 3.8 yards per carry and 90.5 yards per recreation by the primary seven weeks. — Jenna Laine

Subsequent recreation: at Chiefs (Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Cade Otton hauls in his 2nd TD of the sport

Baker Mayfield fires a brief move to Cade Otton for a Buccaneers landing.

Patriots

Did coach Jerod Mayo’s criticism of the staff final week work? The Patriots answered the decision. They did not play mushy and, in reality, confirmed the psychological toughness to drag out a dramatic win late within the fourth quarter. QB Jacoby Brissett took over for rookie Drake Maye (concussion) within the second quarter and led the staff to a 12-play, 70-yard landing drive to place the Patriots forward with lower than 30 seconds to go. This was a giant response by the staff after Mayo ran the danger of presumably shedding the locker room by publicly calling out his gamers for “taking part in mushy” final week. They seemed like a distinct staff this week.

Eye-popping stat: Earlier than his harm, Maye reached a high velocity of 20.33 miles per hour on a 17-yard TD run, the second-fastest high velocity by a QB on a landing this season (Arizona’s Kyler Murray hit 21.27). Maye tied for the fourth-fastest time on a TD run by a quarterback over the previous 5 seasons.

Greatest gap within the recreation plan: Catching the ball. Patriots WRs let the staff down for many of the afternoon. Kayshon Boutte, who talked about his sure-handed strategy this week, had two drops. Veteran Kendrick Bourne had two drops, whereas Tyquan Thornton additionally had a pricey drop on a good looking ball from Maye. Security Jaylinn Hawkins additionally dropped a would-be choose within the fourth quarter. — Mike Reiss

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

Jets

Can the Jets be declared the league’s greatest bust of 2024? Completely. They started the season with Tremendous Bowl aspirations, and now their playoff goals are cooked at 2-6 with a five-game shedding streak. Closely favored, the Jets got here unraveled in each means potential, falling to 0-3 underneath interim coach Jeff Ulbrich. Proprietor Woody Johnson’s gambit in firing Robert Saleh after solely 5 video games has backfired. The Jets had been so unprepared that they needed to burn three timeouts within the first quarter as a result of the play clock was about to run out. Three weeks in the past, that they had an opportunity to maneuver into first place. Now they’re tied for final place with the Patriots. Brutal.

Most stunning efficiency: The Jets’ protection fell aside in crunch time, permitting the Patriots to march for a 70-yard landing drive within the closing seconds with a backup quarterback on the helm. New arrival DE Haason Reddick made no impression in anyway, managing solely two pressures on 26 snaps. Star CB Sauce Gardner allowed a giant play late within the recreation, resulting in their demise. As soon as upon a time, the protection was a vaunted unit. Not anymore.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Vast left. Struggling Okay Greg Zuerlein could have secured a pink slip by lacking a discipline aim and a PAT — each pulled to the left. He now leads the league with six discipline aim misses. Zuerlein’s surprising decline has performed a key function in three losses. The Jets auditioned kickers two weeks in the past. It is perhaps time to exchange Zuerlein. — Wealthy Cimini

Subsequent recreation: vs. Texans (Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Cardinals

Is that this the beginning of a run for Arizona? It very properly ought to be. The way in which the Cardinals performed within the fourth quarter to provide them their first back-to-back wins of the season is the kind of soccer wanted to win one other recreation or two — which, with video games towards the Bears and Jets arising, is feasible. Arizona lastly acquired Marvin Harrison Jr. concerned all through the sport and closely within the fourth quarter, one thing it had hardly carried out all season. When Arizona wanted a cease essentially the most, its protection held on third-and-long late within the fourth quarter, resulting in a punt, which led to Arizona’s game-winning drive.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Howdy, Marvin! Harrison had his finest recreation since Week 2, with 111 yards and a diving landing on 5 catches, together with 38 yards within the fourth quarter. He helped the Cardinals march down the sector within the fourth quarter to drag inside two, showcasing his potential to perform a little of every little thing.

Most stunning efficiency: Every week after speeding for 101 yards and averaging 5.3 yards per carry, RB James Conner could not get going Sunday in Miami. He completed with 53 yards on 20 carries for a 2.7 yards-per-carry common. — Josh Weinfuss

Subsequent recreation: vs. Bears (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)

Chad Ryland’s FG walks it off for Cardinals once more

Chad Ryland comes up clutch as soon as once more to stroll the sport off for the Cardinals vs. the Dolphins.

Dolphins

Is that this a constructive signal of issues to come back for the Dolphins’ offense? The NFL’s worst-scoring offense put up a season-high 27 factors and a season-high 377 yards in QB Tua Tagovailoa’s return — however it was towards a Cardinals protection permitting the sixth-most yards per recreation. Miami seemed worlds higher than it did in its 4 video games with out Tagovailoa however faces a much bigger take a look at subsequent week towards a Payments staff that has received 12 of its previous 15 video games towards the Dolphins.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Tua Time. The Dolphins quarterback returned from a four-game absence (concussion) and led his staff to a season-high in factors and touchdowns in his first recreation again. He wasn’t flawless (28-of-38 for 234 yards and 1 TD), however his command of Miami’s offense was at a degree we merely didn’t see from any of the three quarterbacks who changed him over the previous month.

Most stunning efficiency: Dolphins LB Chop Robinson recorded a game-high 4 quarterback pressures towards the Cardinals and constantly harassed QB Kyler Murray. In three video games with out Jaelan Phillips (knee), Robinson has recorded a team-leading 12 QB pressures. He is nonetheless searching for his first sack, however the lightbulb is approaching for the 2024 first-rounder. — Marcel Louis-Jacques

Subsequent recreation: at Payments (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Browns

Can QB Jameis Winston present a spark for the remainder of the season? With Winston beginning for the injured QB Deshaun Watson, the Browns’ offense seemed like a totally completely different unit. Cleveland reached 20 factors for the primary time all season and had a rhythm and circulate to it that hadn’t been current. Winston was on the verge of giving the ball away a couple of occasions however offered far more good than dangerous as he led a game-winning drive in his first begin because the 2022 season.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Flacco-esque magic. Winston’s first recreation as starter was harking back to when Joe Flacco stepped in final yr and settled the quarterback place for the Browns. It seemingly injected life into each section of the staff because the Browns pulled off one of many greatest upsets of the season.

Early prediction for subsequent week: RB Nick Chubb will document his first 100-yard recreation of the season. It was additionally a strong second recreation for Chubb, who offered some robust runs towards one of many NFL’s finest run defenses. With Cleveland’s offensive line getting more healthy, Chubb might have a breakout recreation towards the Chargers. — Daniel Oyefusi

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

Ravens

How did the Ravens lose to the one-win Browns? Nothing ought to come as a shock. The profitable landing allowed by the Ravens — a 38-yarder from Jameis Winston with 59 seconds left — was the twenty first completion of 25 or extra yards given up by Baltimore, which leads the NFL. This was a secondary that was lacking two of its high cornerbacks in Marlon Humphrey (knee) and Nate Wiggins (shoulder/sickness) and had benched security Marcus Williams. Plus, the Ravens have a historical past of taking part in all the way down to their competitor’s degree. Earlier than reeling off 5 straight wins, Baltimore misplaced to the last-place Raiders. The Ravens had been due for a hiccup like this.

Describe the sport in two phrases: One other collapse. This marked the Ravens’ eighth loss when main inside the ultimate two minutes of the fourth quarter because the begin of the 2022 season. That is essentially the most such losses within the NFL over that span. Ending has been an issue for the Baltimore protection, which entered this recreation with essentially the most factors allowed within the fourth quarter (84).

Most stunning efficiency: Dropped passes. The Ravens’ broad receivers dropped a season-worst three throws from QB Lamar Jackson, all of which got here on third down. Baltimore entered this recreation because the second-most environment friendly offense on third downs, changing 50% of the time. On Sunday, the Ravens failed on 8-of-10 third downs (20.0%). — Jamison Hensley

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

Lions

Can the Lions carry their momentum into the divisional showdown with the Packers? The Lions had been spectacular in all three phases, notably on particular groups, the place Kalif Raymond returned a punt 90 yards for a landing. CB Khalil Dorsey additionally had a 72-yard kick return because the Lions snapped their six-game shedding streak to Tennessee. It will be arduous to discover a staff extra gifted than Detroit proper now, and so they’re exhibiting no indicators of slowing down as they enter Inexperienced Bay on a roll. Even with out its second-leading receiver, Jameson Williams, who was suspended for 2 video games for violating the NFL’s performance-enhancing substances coverage, Detroit put up 35 factors within the first half for the primary time since 1970.

Eye-popping stat: RB Jahmyr Gibbs reached a max velocity of twenty-two.03 mph on his career-long 70-yard speeding landing within the first quarter, which is the quickest high velocity any Lion has reached as a ball service since 2016, based on NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. It was additionally the longest speeding landing scored at Ford Subject since former Lions RB Jahvid Greatest rushed for an 88-yard landing on Oct. 10, 2011.

Most stunning efficiency: The Lions’ offensive line. Detroit allowed veteran QB Jared Goff to get sacked thrice within the opening quarter for the primary time in his profession, per ESPN Analysis. Goff was additionally underneath strain on three of his first six dropbacks (50%), and he fumbled after being sacked within the first quarter, however teammate Kevin Zeitler recovered it. — Eric Woodyard

Subsequent recreation: at Packers (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Kalif Raymond takes a 90-yard punt return to the home

Kalif Raymond outruns everybody on the Titans for a 90-yard punt-return landing for the Lions.

Titans

Are the Titans the worst staff within the NFL? The Titans entered the week in an intense competitors with the Panthers, Browns and Patriots for the worst staff, however the Patriots and Browns had been victorious this week. The identical cannot be mentioned for the Titans who suffered a lopsided loss to the Lions. The protection is perhaps the one factor that elevates Tennessee. Coming into this week, they had been tops within the NFL, permitting 272 yards per recreation. Though Detroit scored 52 factors, they solely gained 225 yards.

Most stunning efficiency: WR Calvin Ridley turned within the first 100-yard receiving efficiency of the season for the Titans. Within the first quarter. Two of Ridleys’ first three catches went for over 20 yards. The primary seven occasions QB Mason Rudolph focused Ridley resulted in completions which was a lot larger than his 30% catch price coming into this week. Ridley completed the sport with 10 receptions for 143 yards.

Greatest gap within the recreation plan: Colt Anderson’s particular groups unit was horrible. Khalil Dorsey began with a 72-yard kickoff return, and Kalif Raymond, a former Titan, exploded for a 64-yard punt return within the second quarter and a 90-yard return for a landing later. Raymond is the primary participant with a number of 60-yard punt returns in a recreation since Gunner Olszewski for the Patriots in 2020. — Turron Davenport

Subsequent recreation: vs. Patriots (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Eagles

Is it time to purchase into this Eagles protection? It seems Vic Fangio’s group has arrived. After holding the Browns and Giants to a complete of 12 factors the previous two weeks, questions remained about whether or not the Eagles’ protection might maintain up towards a stronger assault. They stabilized after a gradual begin towards Cincinnati and got here up with two big, game-defining performs: A fourth-and-1 stick by CB Cooper DeJean on WR Ja’Marr Chase late within the third quarter that saved the Bengals wanting the first-down marker, and a pleasant tip-drill interception from cornerback Isaiah Rodgers to security C.J. Gardner-Johnson on a quarterback Joe Burrow deep ball early within the fourth quarter — one in every of two takeaways on the day. If Philadelphia can proceed to play this type of complementary soccer, it will be a troublesome staff to beat.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Sluggish begin. Due to a gap drive by Cincinnati that ate up greater than 10 minutes, the Eagles failed to attain within the first quarter for the eighth consecutive recreation, marking the longest first-quarter drought for the staff previously 25 years. Philadelphia put up simply 55 yards of offense. Jalen Hurts helped lead the cost from there, nonetheless, posting 4 complete touchdowns, together with three speeding scores. It’s his third profession recreation with three speeding TDs, which is essentially the most by any QB because the begin of 1950.

Eye-popping stat: Hurts’ 45-yard TD move to WR DeVonta Smith late within the third quarter had a completion chance of 21.6%, based on NFL Subsequent Gen Stats, the least seemingly TD move for Hurts this season. It is the fifth-least seemingly TD of Hurts’ profession, with three of these going to Smith. It is the second-longest TD move of Hurts’ profession by air yards (45). — Tim McManus

Subsequent recreation: vs. Jaguars (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)

Bengals

Have been the final two weeks idiot’s gold? Sure. Seems, beating a scuffling Giants squad that benched its quarterback every week later and a Browns staff led by QB Deshaun Watson weren’t high-caliber wins. In a recreation towards a possible playoff contender and up to date convention champion, Cincinnati struggled. The offense could not produce a lot exterior of a robust drive to open the sport, and the protection could not get sufficient stops. As an alternative of shifting to .500, the Bengals are 3-5 and winless in 4 dwelling video games.

Greatest gap within the recreation plan: Cincinnati could not get the run recreation going. At one level, the Bengals had 48 speeding yards on 17 carries. The shortage of religion within the potential to get a yard wanted was evident when coach Zac Taylor dialed up a swing move for WR Ja’Marr Chase on fourth-and-1 that was stopped wanting the sticks. What had been a brilliant spot at occasions this season was ineffective when Cincinnati wanted it.

Eye-popping stat: The Bengals could not discover a solution to disrupt Eagles QB Jalen Hurts. In keeping with NFL Subsequent Gen Stats, Hurts was pressured on simply two of his first 20 dropbacks. He accomplished each of them. That is not a profitable metric when Cincinnati did not blitz on 72.7% of these dropbacks. — Ben Child

Subsequent recreation: vs. Raiders (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Rams

With WRs Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua again, might the Rams take the NFC West? Profitable the division is completely nonetheless in play, and Los Angeles confirmed Thursday evening how good their offense might be when wholesome. That is the offense the Rams envisioned this offseason, and it offers coach Sean McVay many choices as a playcaller. The Rams are nonetheless within the combine in a crowded NFC West, and so they play in Seattle in Week 9 for an opportunity to maneuver even nearer to the highest of the division.

Most stunning efficiency: The Rams saved Nacua’s return quiet, activating him from injured reserve even though he could not apply due to the brief week. QB Matthew Stafford went to Nacua early and sometimes on Thursday evening, and the second-year receiver led the Rams with seven catches for 106 yards on 9 targets.

Greatest gap within the recreation plan: Stopping Justin Jefferson. Jefferson, the receiver Rams defensive coordinator Chris Shula referred to as “one of the best on this planet” main as much as the sport, had eight catches for 115 yards Thursday evening. The Rams’ move protection entered the sport ranked thirtieth in DVOA, and the group struggled to cease the Vikings’ finest participant on what was in any other case a robust evening for the protection. — Sarah Barshop

Subsequent recreation: at Seahawks (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Vikings

Who’re these Vikings? Shut observers left SoFi Stadium questioning whether or not these Vikings are the identical staff that dominated the primary 5 video games of the season, with the largest level differential within the NFL. Or whether or not they’re the one which allowed 61 factors in two losses over 5 days. This was definitely a more durable stretch of the season than some realized, having performed arguably one of the best and most bodily staff within the NFL (Detroit) after which touring to the West Coast to play on a brief week. The Vikings have put themselves in place for a playoff run, however they will have to tighten as much as keep on it.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Overblown controversy. There isn’t any doubt that referee Tra Blake and his crew missed a face masks foul late within the fourth quarter that may have reversed a security and given the Vikings a primary down on their closing possession. But it surely’s arduous to say that decision price the Vikings the sport. They nonetheless would have needed to transfer almost 80 yards in 1:36 with no timeouts for a landing, after which get a 2-point conversion simply to drive time beyond regulation. It was a foul miss, however the Vikings cannot (and did not) blame it for his or her loss.

Greatest gap within the recreation plan: The Vikings could not discover a solution to get to Rams QB Matthew Stafford. They pressured him on solely three of his 34 dropbacks; that 9% strain price was their lowest in a recreation since 2020. And even then, Stafford accomplished a move towards all three of these pressures, together with a 7-yard landing move to WR Cooper Kupp after eluding DT Harrison Phillips and LB Jonathan Greenard. The move rush had been key to the Vikings’ scorching begin this season, and earlier than Thursday that they had posted not less than a 24.6% strain price in each recreation. — Kevin Seifert

Subsequent recreation: vs. Colts (Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET)