NFL 2023 Week 2: Biggest questions, risers and takeaways

Welcome to Week 2 of the NFL common season. Another week, one other painstaking means of making an attempt to determine which groups are amongst this season’s elite.

The Bills’ offense got here alive towards the Raiders, whereas Chris Jones was the difference-maker within the Chiefs’ win over the Jaguars. Colts rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson left Sunday’s recreation towards the Texans within the first half with a concussion, and the Seahawks and Titans each pulled off time beyond regulation victories.

In the late window, the Giants tied their franchise document for largest comeback towards the Cardinals after being down 20-0 at halftime, the 49ers outlasted the Rams and the Cowboys are 2-0 with a win over the Zach Wilson and the Jets. The Dolphins held on within the evening recreation to begin 2-0 and drop the Patriots to 0-2.

In the primary of two tilts on Monday evening, the Saints pulled away from the Panthers late in a defensive battle to go 2-0 on the season and drop the Panthers to 0-2.

Our NFL Nation reporters are reacting to all of the motion, answering lingering questions popping out of every recreation and selecting out who — or what — is rising and falling for each crew. Let’s get to it.

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

Steelers

Why cannot the Steelers’ offense transfer the ball? To quarterback Kenny Pickett, the factor that causes the Steelers to stall is considerably easy: When one play is stopped behind the sticks, the complete drive is derailed. Fixing it is not fairly as easy. The Steelers had minus-7 offensive yards within the fourth quarter, and every of their drives lasted solely three performs and fewer than two minutes. Each fourth-quarter drive had one negative-yardage play. Blame for the stagnation seems to fall on each the playcalling and the execution, however each have to get higher for the Steelers to have any hope of competing within the AFC.

Stock up after the win: OLB Alex Highsmith. Highsmith confirmed he was greater than definitely worth the four-year, $68 million extension he received within the offseason by scoring off an interception return lower than 10 seconds into the sport. Then he initiated the game-winning landing by forcing a fumble that T.J. Watt recovered for a scoop-and-score. Highsmith was the primary Steelers linebacker with an interception and compelled fumble in a single recreation since James Harrison in November 2010 towards the the Raiders.

Stock down after the win: RB Najee Harris. Outside of two back-to-back runs of 21 and 17 yards within the second half, Harris was largely ineffective towards the Browns. Not together with these two runs, Harris averaged 1.6 yards per carry. Playcalling was part of his struggles, although. — Brooke Pryor

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

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Browns

What do the Browns do at working again? Cleveland misplaced All-Pro RB Nick Chubb to what gave the impression to be a major left knee harm within the first half. To his credit score, backup working again Jerome Ford gained extra yards (69) on a second-half run that arrange a go-ahead TD than he had his complete profession (54 yards) coming into the sport. Ford confirmed why he is a promising prospect, however Chubb is irreplaceable. Cleveland might pursue different backs to assist, together with former Browns RB Kareem Hunt, who stays a free agent. Either manner, Chubb’s harm was devastating for a Browns season that was exhibiting a lot promise.

Stock up after the loss: Grant Delpit. The security had an interception within the first half and continues to surge three years after his season-ending Achilles harm.

Stock down after the loss: Deshaun Watson. The $230 million QB continues to be a shell of the participant who led the NFL in passing in 2020. — Jake Trotter

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

Saints

How can the Saints discover consistency on offense transferring ahead? The Saints’ offense has made performs late within the recreation when it counted, however it will not at all times have the ability to draw back with last-minute heroics. It’ll actually assist to get working again Alvin Kamara again after he finishes his three-game suspension, however within the meantime, the Saints might want to determine tips on how to shield quarterback Derek Carr higher after permitting eight sacks in two video games. The vivid facet: Wide receivers Chris Olave, Michael Thomas and Rashid Shaheed look pretty much as good as marketed.

Stock up after the win: The defensive position. The Saints added two extra sacks to their tally (4 in two video games) and, as soon as once more, each member of the defensive position regarded good, with Carl Granderson’s second-quarter strip sack being a key play.

Stock down after the win: CB Paulson Adebo. While the general defensive efficiency was wonderful, Adebo had two key penalties within the recreation, one which took away a Bryan Bresee strip sack that may’ve given the Saints wonderful area place and a defensive go interference name within the fourth quarter that led to a area aim. — Katherine Terrell

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

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Panthers

What does Bryce Young need to do to enhance his efficiency underneath strain? The prime decide of the draft has been strong when not pressured, however underneath strain, he has struggled badly. He was 4-for-9 passing for 20 yards with 4 sacks when pressured in Monday evening’s loss to New Orleans after going 2-for-10 with a sack within the Week 1 loss to Atlanta. Until he responds, groups will proceed to extend the strain fee and the Panthers will proceed to wrestle offensively.

Stock up after the loss: Linebacker Frankie Luvu. He had two first-half sacks for his second profession multisack recreation, and his means to generate strain from inside and outdoors has been a key for the protection up to now — and perhaps going ahead if inside linebacker Shaq Thompson (ankle) misses prolonged time.

Stock down after the loss: Left sort out Ikem Ekwonu. He gave up a strip sack late within the first half that took Carolina out of scoring place and was a part of an offensive line that allowed fixed strain on Young out of the Saints’ four-man rush. — David Newton

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

Dolphins

Did the Dolphins present a glimpse of how good they might be? Sunday’s win wasn’t excellent — the Dolphins had a area aim blocked, and their protection largely stalled out within the second half — however for no less than a half, Miami confirmed what it might be when it is firing on either side of the ball. Its protection pressured Mac Jones 20 occasions for 4 sacks, forcing two turnovers within the course of. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa led an environment friendly offensive assault till hitting a snag within the second half. It’s September, and no crew is anticipated to be a remaining product, however the Dolphins supplied a glimpse.

Stock up after the win: The rush protection. After permitting 235 dashing yards to the Chargers in Week 1, Miami held the Patriots to 88 yards on the bottom and an inefficient 3.5 yards per carry.

Stock down after the win: Mike McDaniel’s problem document. The Dolphins coach tossed the pink flag early within the first half on what he thought was a fumble, however it was confirmed to be an incomplete go. His document in coach’s challenges dropped to 1-for-6 for the reason that begin of final season. — Marcel Louis-Jacques

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

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Patriots

At 0-2, are the Patriots in bother? It appears that manner. After dropping their first two video games at residence, the subsequent two are on the street (Jets, Cowboys), and historical past is not on their facet. Since 1990, 31 of 270 groups that started a season 0-2 certified for the postseason — though the 17-game NFL schedule adopted in 2021 gives a little bit extra margin for error. The distinction in explosiveness between the Patriots and Dolphins stood out, as one other fourth-quarter rally fell brief.

Stock up after the loss: Brenden Schooler, who received a working begin and blocked a kick. The second-year participant out of Texas was touring 12.7 mph when the ball was snapped and 13.19 mph when the kick was blocked.

Stock down after the loss: Offensive line. The lack of ability to constantly open holes within the working recreation towards a Dolphins’ protection that surrendered 233 dashing yards within the opener was telling (88 yards/3.5 common), because the Patriots struggled to create steadiness and QB Mac Jones (4 sacks) as soon as once more took some massive hits as rushers got here free towards a unit that was taking part in with out beginning left sort out Trent Brown (concussion). — Mike Reiss

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

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Commanders

What’s completely different about this crew in comparison with the previous? Washington has a younger quarterback with moxie who makes big-time throws. Sam Howell threw for 299 yards and two touchdowns in his third NFL begin, and first on the street. He shakes off unhealthy performs and has the expertise to get scorching. But the protection is also making performs. Tackle Daron Payne is taking part in at an elite degree, and the unit has compelled 4 turnovers in two video games and had probabilities for extra.

Stock up after the win: Running backs. Brian Robinson Jr. rushed for 87 yards and two touchdowns, displaying the ability and fast toes Washington preferred when it drafted him within the third spherical final yr. The backs had been additionally concerned within the display recreation. Robinson caught two passes for 42 yards whereas Antonio Gibson added three for 44 yards.

Stock down after the win: Kicking recreation. Washington’s Joey Slye missed two area objectives — the primary was a results of one other unhealthy snap by Camaron Cheeseman; the second miss was huge proper from 59 yards. Cheeseman, a third-year participant, has struggled together with his snaps since coaching camp. — John Keim

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

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Broncos

When will the Broncos play the complementary soccer they’ve promised? The season-opening loss to the Raiders was irritating, however Sunday’s loss was alarming, late 50-yard Hail Mary landing however. The Broncos let an 18-point lead get away. The protection let the Commanders go on a 32-12 run during the last three quarters. So, the hoped-for new tradition underneath Sean Payton and employees hasn’t revealed what the Broncos can lean on with the Dolphins, Chiefs (twice), Packers and Bills on the schedule earlier than mid-November.

Stock up after the loss: WR Marvin Mims Jr. Mims had 113 yards on his first two receptions of the sport, together with a 60-yard landing, and inexplicably wasn’t thrown to once more within the recreation. The rookie must be a far greater a part of what the Broncos do.

Stock down after the loss: S Kareem Jackson. Jackson’s savvy and fiery management are at all times wanted on the protection, however he now has had two consecutive video games with a late hit — pointless roughness penalties that modified the complexion of video games. He had one within the season opener that saved a late Raiders drive going, and Sunday he was ejected simply earlier than halftime for a success on tight finish Logan Thomas. The Broncos led 21-9 after Thomas’ catch, however Washington dominated the sport after the play. — Jeff Legwold

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

Cowboys

Are we seeing the Cowboys’ new offensive identification? When coach Mike McCarthy stated in February that former offensive coordinator Kellen Moore “wants to light up the scoreboard, but I want to run the damn ball so I can rest my defense,” he was killed by the analytics world. But what he truly meant was he wished to handle the sport. Consider it managed. Quarterback Dak Prescott had two landing passes, however he did one thing he didn’t do a yr in the past: He went back-to-back video games with out an interception.

Stock up after the win: WR CeeDee Lamb. He completed with 11 catches for 143 yards, however he had greater than 100 yards within the first two quarters. It was the third time in his profession he recorded greater than 100 yards in a half.

Stock down after the win: Red zone offense. The Cowboys scored 30 factors, bolstered by kicker Brandon Aubrey’s 5 area objectives, however transformed 2 of 6 alternatives contained in the Jets’ 20. In the opener, the Cowboys transformed 3 of 4 probabilities, with Tony Pollard scoring two dashing touchdowns, however Pollard completed with 4 carries for minus-1 yard on carries contained in the 10-yard line towards the Jets. — Todd Archer

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

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Jets

Can the Jets be a profitable crew with QB Zach Wilson? It’s going to be onerous, actually onerous, to win with Zach Wilson. Wilson accomplished 12 of 27 passes for 170 yards and three interceptions — and 68 yards got here on a slant that Garrett Wilson changed into a landing. Zach Wilson is not on the stage in his growth the place he can carry a crew to the playoffs. If this continues, the entrance workplace should decide: Ride it out with Wilson or commerce for a starting-caliber QB. The Jets did not lose due to Wilson, however he did not make sufficient performs to win. That’s a difficulty.

Stock up after the loss: WR Garrett Wilson. He scored on a spectacular catch-and-run for his second landing of the season. But for the Jets, it was their lone landing on the day.

Stock down after the loss: The Jets’ secondary. Supposedly “one of the best secondaries in the league” received destroyed by CeeDee Lamb. Most of the harm got here towards D.J. Reed, however Sauce Gardner did not assist by dropping a possible pick-six. — Rich Cimini

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

Giants

Is there nonetheless motive for concern for the Giants? The crew that confirmed up within the second half was completely different from the one from the primary six quarters of the season, when the Giants had been outscored 60-0. This is what the Giants’ offense was imagined to appear to be, with 358 yards of complete offense within the second half after 81 within the first. The 21-point comeback matched the most important in franchise historical past. Now it is a matter of whether or not there are nonetheless too many holes and deficiencies (offensive line, lack of go rush) — plus the potential for RB Saquon Barkley to overlook time due to an ankle harm — for this to proceed.

Stock up after the win: WR Jalin Hyatt. His 58-yard reception on the primary play of the second half gave the Giants life, and his 31-yard catch late within the fourth quarter set them up for the tying rating.

Stock down after the win: OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux. After a quiet opener, the fifth total decide in final yr’s draft was invisible but once more on Sunday in Arizona, with zero tackles, no sacks and one strain within the contest, per NFL Next Gen Stats. — Jordan Raanan

Next recreation: at 49ers (Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

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Cardinals

Can the Cardinals’ offense construct on their progress? It will not be straightforward going through the Cowboys’ and 49ers’ defenses the subsequent two weeks, however the Cardinals confirmed Sunday they will produce a balanced and productive offense — for a half. The offense stalled within the second half — gaining 119 yards after 241 yards with 20 factors within the first half — which put extra strain on a protection that was on the sphere about 9 minutes longer within the second half than the primary.

Stock up after the loss: QB Joshua Dobbs. The quarterback confirmed a greater command of the scheme and wasn’t afraid to make performs together with his toes (41 dashing yards and a landing) together with throwing the ball everywhere in the yard (21-of-31 for 228 yards, one landing).

Stock down after the loss: DT Dante Stills. The rookie was flagged for pointless roughness on a late hit on Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, with the unhealthy determination coming every week after Arizona was flagged for 2 comparable penalties in Washington. — Josh Weinfuss

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

49ers

Is this a blip on the radar for the protection or motive for concern? It feels extra like a blip. For an enormous chunk of the sport, the Rams managed to slowly transfer down the sphere, which was efficient in preserving the sport shut with the Niners’ offense on the sideline. Much of that may be attributed to a fast passing recreation that neutralized the go rush, because the Rams took benefit of soppy zone coverages. The Rams’ familiarity with the Niners undoubtedly helped, however it’s additionally truthful to imagine new coordinator Steve Wilks is discovering his footing. Make no mistake, the Rams did not pile up the yards or factors. And Wilks will get credit score for dialing up extra strain down the stretch because the Niners’ protection delivered when it was wanted most to flee with the win.

Stock up after the win: CB Isaiah Oliver. The much-maligned nickel nook delivered massive performs when the Niners’ protection desperately wanted them, developing with a pair of key tackles to get stops and an interception on a deflection for the sport’s first takeaway. One of these stops was on Kyren Williams on fourth down late within the recreation to extinguish any probability of a Rams comeback.

Stock down after the win: QB Brock Purdy’s deep ball. Although he hit an enormous one late to Jauan Jennings, Purdy struggled pushing the ball downfield towards the Rams, lacking open wideouts Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk for would-be touchdowns and Jennings for a key third-down conversion. — Nick Wagoner

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

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Rams

Can the offense proceed to maneuver the ball with out Cooper Kupp? The Rams performed effectively towards a troublesome 49ers protection within the first half, however two turnovers within the second half stopped an offense that was rolling. Rookie receiver Puka Nacua set the document for many receptions by a participant by way of his first two video games, in response to ESPN Stats & Information. For the second recreation in a row, Nacua has taken on a heavy load of the goal share, turning 20 targets into 15 catches for 147 yards. The Rams’ efficiency wasn’t sufficient to beat the 49ers on Sunday, however it actually gives extra hope with Kupp out for no less than the primary 4 video games.

Stock up after the loss: RB Kyren Williams. Williams, a 2022 fifth-round decide, was named the Rams’ lead again this week and impressed within the function. He completed with 52 yards and a landing on 14 carries and had six receptions for 48 yards and a landing, turning into the primary Rams participant to attain by way of the air and on the bottom since Week 8 of the 2021 season.

Stock down after the loss: RB Cam Akers. Akers was a wholesome scratch for Week 2, every week after dashing for 29 yards and a landing on 22 carries. Akers additionally fell out of favor for some time final season, however Williams’ emergence may make it powerful for him to get again within the lineup. — Sarah Barshop

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

Buccaneers

Can the Bucs proceed to win with Baker Mayfield? After listening to all offseason how unhealthy it will be with out Tom Brady, the Bucs are 2-0. Between Mayfield’s quarterback scramble performs, the deep-ball connections to Mike Evans, and the sacks and takeaways by the protection, this group has established itself and received. Tampa Bay might be examined the subsequent two weeks, although, with two top-five defenses from final season on deck: the Eagles on “Monday Night Football” and the Saints in Week 4.

Stock up after the win: Pass rush. After sacking Kirk Cousins twice final week, the Bucs sacked Justin Fields six occasions, with two sacks every from Vita Vea and Joe Tryon-Shoyinka (who recovered a fumble final week), and Shaquil Barrett sealing the victory with a pick-six.

Stock down after the win: Red zone offense. While the Tampa Bay offense moved the ball significantly better this week and confirmed a considerable enchancment on third down — a degree of emphasis for OC Dave Canales — it was 1-for-4 on journeys to the pink zone, so the Bucs missed scoring alternatives. — Jenna Laine

Next recreation: vs. Eagles (Monday, 7:15 p.m. ET)

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Bears

Will Bears remedy Justin Fields’ inconsistent play? Fields was in command on the primary drive, marching the Bears 75 yards earlier than dashing for a landing. The subsequent six drives had been a catastrophe, nevertheless, with 5 sacks — a number of brought on by holding on to the ball too lengthy — and bother throwing downfield. The quarterback put collectively a 90-yard TD drive within the fourth quarter and went 2-of-3 on throws of 10-plus air yards, together with a 20-yard TD to Chase Claypool, however on the ultimate drive, he threw a pick-six. He faces the Chiefs on the street in Week 3.

Stock up after the loss: WR Chase Claypool. Per week after he was known as out for his lack of effort, which put his Week 2 availability into query, Claypool caught his first landing go as a Bear and turned eight targets into three receptions for 36 yards.

Stock down after the loss: Third-down protection. Chicago did not get off the sphere towards Green Bay (9-of-16 on third downs) and continued that worrying development in Tampa, the place the Bucs went 7-of-11 on third downs, together with two touchdowns. — Courtney Cronin

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

Falcons

What can Desmond Ridder do to enhance? Sunday was a combined bag. Ridder led some lengthy drives and had a landing throw on the run to Drake London. But there have been no less than three passes — one which was intercepted and two that simply might have been — wherein Ridder confirmed his inexperience. He dealt with the read-option recreation effectively, ending with 9 carries for 40 yards, together with a landing. He has loved a degree of consolation late in video games; if he can do the identical in first halves and enhance his accuracy on intermediate and deep passes, he could make positive factors.

Stock up after the win: RB Bijan Robinson. Robinson adopted up his robust debut together with his first 100-yard dashing recreation (124 yards on 19 carries), which included two highlight-reel runs: one wherein he made three jukes, and one other wherein he jumped over a Packers defender on the bottom. He additionally added 4 catches for 48 yards, exhibiting off his versatility.

Stock down after the win: WR/RB Cordarrelle Patterson. The crew’s do-it-all participant was inactive Sunday with a thigh harm regardless of training in full all week and never being listed as questionable on the harm report. — Michael Rothstein

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

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Packers

Does dropping this recreation imply something within the massive image? The Packers took a double-digit lead into the fourth quarter with out wideout Christian Watson, working again Aaron Jones and left sort out David Bakhtiari, plus they misplaced left guard Elgton Jenkins to a first-half knee harm. The downside was, Bijan Robinson wore down the Packers’ protection and Jordan Love — regardless of three touchdowns for the second straight week — did not get a primary down on their remaining three drives to mark their first loss with a double-digit fourth-quarter lead for the reason that 2014 NFC Championship Game.

Stock up after the loss: The receivers. Second-round decide Jayden Reed and fifth-rounder Dontayvion Wicks mixed for 3 TD catches. Reed caught two — together with a 9-yarder within the second quarter on a jet-sweep movement shovel go wherein he hit 20.54 miles per hour, in response to NFL Next Gen Stats.

Stock down after the loss: Forcing turnovers. The Packers dropped two gimme interceptions — one by Jaire Alexander and one other by Quay Walker. What regarded like a pick-six proper into Alexander’s palms changed into a area aim on the subsequent drive. — Rob Demovsky

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

Seahawks

Who are the true Seahawks? This Seattle crew on Sunday could not have regarded extra completely different from the crew that performed Week 1. After getting blown out at residence to the Rams, the Seahawks delivered an upset win amid powerful circumstances. They had been with out each beginning offensive tackles and going through Lions go rush at a raucous Ford Field. They additionally misplaced No. 1 CB Riq Woolen to a chest harm. His substitute, Tre Brown, finest symbolized the one-week turnaround. Picked on within the opener, Brown got here off the bench and had a pick-six within the fourth quarter in addition to a sack and two passes defensed vs. Detroit.

Stock up after the win: QB Geno Smith. Smith was wonderful underneath duress. He dealt with the noise and absence of his beginning tackles, made performs and averted expensive errors — till the 17-yard sack he took to arrange the Lions’ game-tying area aim on the finish of regulation. Smith (32-of-41, 328 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs) atoned by main the game-winning OT drive.

Stock down after the win: Ok Jason Myers. Myers has alternated good seasons and unhealthy ones since rejoining the Seahawks in 2019, and 2023 is off to a shaky begin. After going 2-of-3 within the opener, he went 1-of-3 vs. Detroit, lacking from 45 and 56 yards within the first half. — Brady Henderson

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

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Lions

Did Seattle expose the Lions’ defensive weaknesses? Coming off a season-opening victory towards the Chiefs, the Lions laid an egg of their residence opener with an time beyond regulation loss to Seattle wherein they gave up three touchdowns within the fourth quarter and time beyond regulation. The protection struggled as a complete, permitting two dashing touchdowns to RB Kenneth Walker III, two receiving touchdowns to Tyler Lockett and 328 receiving yards.

Stock up after the loss: QB Jared Goff. His streak with out an INT ended after 383 consecutive makes an attempt, however the veteran now has a number of landing passes in six straight residence video games going again to Week 9 in 2022 — the longest energetic streak within the NFL.

Stock down after the loss: Offensive ball safety. Goff threw his first decide since November. WR Amon-Ra St. Brown and working again David Montgomery had been each stripped for misplaced fumbles. — Eric Woodyard

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

Chiefs

Was Chris Jones definitely worth the wait? Though the Chiefs might have used him within the opener towards the Lions, he made up for it towards the Jaguars. Jones, in restricted taking part in time, had 5 pressures, 1.5 sacks and a batted go. He had just one recreation with greater than 4 pressures final season. The Chiefs had 4 sacks from an energized go rush.

Stock up after the win: RB Isiah Pacheco. He perked up a dormant working recreation. His 31-yard run jump-started a landing drive to begin the third quarter. He rushed for 16 yards on a area aim drive within the fourth quarter, together with changing on a fourth-and-1 play with the Chiefs struggling in such conditions.

Stock down after the win: Wide receivers. They did not have an enormous downside with dropped passes, as they did within the season opener, however they mixed to fumble thrice, dropping two. Dropped passes and turnovers are two issues that may kill even the Chiefs’ offense. — Adam Teicher

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

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Jaguars

Is OC Press Taylor’s playcalling hurting the offense? The offensive line has been a difficulty, however there have been probabilities to make performs, and the Jaguars simply missed them. QB Trevor Lawrence overthrew an open Zay Jones ultimately zone, Lawrence missed Calvin Ridley at the back of the tip zone, Christian Kirk dropped a third-down go, and Jamal Agnew fumbled a lateral. The unit did not play cleanly (simply 4.2 yards per play), however it was associated extra to OL points and execution than playcalling.

Stock up after the loss: DC Mike Caldwell. His protection compelled two turnovers out of the Chiefs (the Jaguars additionally received one on a muffed punt) and held Patrick Mahomes out of the tip zone within the first half till lower than a minute remained. That saved the Jaguars within the recreation whereas the offense stumbled round for 3 quarters.

Stock down after the loss: The offensive line. It had bother preserving the Chiefs off Lawrence: He was pressured on 25% of his dropbacks and in addition was sacked thrice into the early a part of the fourth quarter. Rookie RT Anton Harrison had bother with Chris Jones (5 pressures and 1.5 sacks). — Mike DiRocco

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

Colts

How will QB Anthony Richardson’s concussion influence the subsequent week? With the rookie quarterback leaving the sport with a concussion within the second quarter, the Colts’ preparations for subsequent week’s recreation towards the Baltimore Ravens turns into sophisticated. Even if he clears the concussion protocol by the tip of the week, Richardson’s observe reps might be considerably lowered and his preparation negatively impacted. And balancing the necessity to put together backup Gardner Minshew might be delicate, too, as Minshew performs the place a lot otherwise and would require a unique recreation plan. Coach Shane Steichen could have his work lower out for him.

Stock up after the win: RB Zack Moss. Moss rushed for 88 yards and a landing on 18 carries in his first motion of the season, offering a wanted increase to a working recreation that struggled mightily in Week 1. The Colts’ working backs averaged 1.6 yards per try final week behind lead again Deon Jackson, who didn’t contact the ball Sunday.

Stock down after the win: CB Darrell Baker Jr. He gave up a number of key first-down completions — together with a 32-yard connection from C.J. Stroud to Nico Collins — and a 23-yard landing to Tank Dell. — Stephen Holder

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

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Texans

Can the Texans’ offense maintain up with its line accidents? The Texans had been with out 4 starters on the offensive line as left sort out Laremy Tunsil, middle Juice Scruggs, proper sort out Tytus Howard and left guard Kenyon Green had been out. As a outcome, the Texans’ offense could not successfully run the ball, totaling 52 dashing yards on 26 carries. Quarterback C.J. Stroud additionally was sacked six occasions.

Stock up after the loss: Stroud. Despite the offensive line struggles, Stroud went 30-of-47 for 384 yards with two touchdowns, and he has but to throw an interception by way of two video games.

Stock down after the loss: RB Dameon Pierce. After a promising rookie yr, Pierce is off to a sluggish begin with 31 yards on 15 carries in Week 2 and 38 yards on 11 carries in Week 1. — DJ Bien-Aime

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

Bills

Is the multidimensional offense the Bills confirmed for actual? It positive could be. After a turnover-heavy efficiency in Week 1, the Bills confirmed how the offense can take over a recreation. QB Josh Allen put collectively landing drives of 11 and 15 performs, and unfold the ball round to 9 pass-catchers. The Bills averted turnovers and Allen decreased his common air yards per play from 7.4 in Week 1 to three.9 vs. the Raiders, and the offense benefited because of this. The run recreation got here up massive, too. After dashing for 97 complete yards final week, the Bills racked up 183 Sunday.

Stock up after the win: The Bills’ linebackers. Matt Milano has an interception in three straight regular-season video games, and second-year center linebacker Terrel Bernard had some good moments towards the Raiders, together with an interception, together with a team-high six tackles.

Stock down after the win: Third-down manufacturing. There’s not a simple candidate right here as virtually all the pieces trended in a extra constructive path for the Bills, however the offense went 7-of-13 on third down, resulting in 4 fourth-down makes an attempt, and might be an space to scrub up. — Alaina Getzenberg

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

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Raiders

What is happening with former Pro Bowl receiver Hunter Renfrow? Per week after not getting a single goal for the primary time in his profession, Renfrow was once more an invisible man. The 2021 Pro Bowler, who caught 103 passes that season, was not focused by quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo till there have been lower than 4 minutes to play. There had been no less than a number of different events wherein Renfrow was working free however Garoppolo didn’t see him. If Garoppolo, who has extra interceptions (three) than throws to Renfrow (one), doesn’t wish to change into too predictable, he must get the receiver extra concerned.

Stock up after the loss: WR Davante Adams. Adams caught six passes for 84 yards, together with a 16-yard catch-and-run rating to begin the day. Adams was being evaluated for a concussion after the sport.

Stock down after the loss: RB Josh Jacobs. The All-Pro ran for a career-low minus-2 yards on 9 carries. — Paul Gutierrez

Next recreation: vs. Steelers (Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET)

Titans

Can the secondary discover a option to cease opposing quarterbacks? The Titans’ secondary gave up one more 300-plus yards of passing regardless of the win. Justin Herbert threw for 305 yards and two touchdowns. Tennessee was with out beginning proper cornerback Kristian Fulton and Herbert picked on his substitute Tre Avery. The Chargers drove 60 yards, largely passing the ball earlier than a Harold Landry sack saved the day and compelled a 33-yard area aim to ship the sport to time beyond regulation. The go protection, after rating lifeless final within the NFL final season, is not off to a significantly better begin.

Stock up after the win: Red-zone offense. The Titans bounced again and scored touchdowns three of their 4 occasions contained in the 20-yard line after failing to take action final week.

Stock down after the win: The offensive line. Tennessee allowed 5 sacks, with two approaching unhealthy miscommunication. Ryan Tannehill was constantly underneath strain. — Turron Davenport

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

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Chargers

Which model of the Chargers’ go rush will present up transferring ahead? In final week’s loss to the Dolphins, the Chargers struggled to get a lot strain on quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who threw for 466 yards and wasn’t sacked. Chargers coach Brandon Staley dismissed the shortage of strain, pointing to how shortly Tagovailoa threw the ball. With All-Pro edge rusher Joey Bosa nursing a hamstring harm, the go rush was in query heading into this recreation. But that unit regarded like a unique group this week, because it sacked Titans quarterback Ryan Tannehill 5 occasions.

Stock up after the loss: LB Tuli Tuipulotu. The Chargers’ second-round decide began at edge rusher rather than Bosa, who was restricted with a hamstring harm. Tuipulotu completed with a sack and beat offensive lineman for strain often.

Stock down after the loss: Pass protection. The Chargers struggled once more to cease deep throws. Sunday was the primary time since 2013 that Tannehill accomplished two passes of no less than 45 air yards in a recreation, probably the most notable being a 70-yard strike to receiver Treylon Burks. — Kris Rhim

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

Ravens

How are the Ravens overcoming accidents? Baltimore was with out six injured starters, however it had a wholesome Lamar Jackson. It was Jackson’s clutch play that led Baltimore to beat the Bengals on the street. In the second half, Jackson threw two landing passes on third down after which helped seal the victory with a 12-yard scramble on third down. The odds had been actually towards the Ravens, who had been with out working again J.Ok. Dobbins, offensive sort out Ronnie Stanley, middle Tyler Linderbaum, cornerback Marlon Humphrey and security Marcus Williams. Then, Baltimore dominated out huge receiver Odell Beckham Jr. with an ankle harm. But Jackson was the difference-maker.

Stock up after the win: TE Mark Andrews. In his first recreation again after lacking the opener with a quad harm, Andrews caught his first landing go from Lamar Jackson since Week 6 of final season — a span of 12 video games.

Stock down after the win: Punt protection. The Ravens’ solely landing allowed within the first half got here on an 81-yard punt return, which was the primary one given up by Baltimore since 2016. — Jamison Hensley

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

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Bengals

What’s most regarding concerning the Bengals’ 0-2 begin? At this level, it is the run protection. It had some tough moments in Week 1 towards the Browns on a day when Cleveland racked up 206 dashing yards. In Week 2, the Ravens had comparable success (178 yards) irrespective of who was working it: Gus Edwards, Lamar Jackson or Justice Hill. That performed a job in Cincinnati’s lack of ability to cease Baltimore on a few key first downs. The offense ought to determine issues out as Joe Burrow will get extra reps. But Cincinnati must cease the run.

Stock up after the loss: WR Tee Higgins. After no catches in Week 1, Higgins bounced again towards Baltimore with eight catches for 89 yards and two touchdowns.

Stock down after the loss: Rush protection. Cincinnati struggled towards the run as Baltimore gained 178 yards. Gus Edwards averaged 6.2 yards per carry. — Ben Baby

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

Thursday

Eagles

What’s behind the passing recreation struggles? Center Jason Kelce stated the Eagles’ offense has been seeing some “crazy things” from opposing coordinators over the primary two weeks in an try and create confusion and sluggish the passing assault. Kelce believes it’s going to keep that manner, predicting “chaos” the remainder of the way in which. One level of emphasis for opposing defenses has been to restrict the explosive performs. It falls to the teaching employees and quarterback Jalen Hurts to decode the myriad seems to be they’re getting and discover a option to get the passing recreation again on observe.

Stock up after the win: RB D’Andre Swift. The Philadelphia native made probably the most of his homecoming, dashing for a career-high 175 yards and a landing within the residence opener.

Stock down after the win: WR A.J. Brown. He had 4 catches for 29 yards. Frustration led to a heated dialog on the sideline with Hurts. Hurts known as him a “great player, great teammate, great friend” and stated he is not anxious about Brown, however it wasn’t the perfect look on a profitable evening for the Eagles. — Tim McManus

Next recreation: at Bucs (Sunday, 7:15 p.m. ET)

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Vikings

Have the Vikings already given away their season? They dedicated 4 turnovers Thursday evening and have a complete of seven by way of the primary two video games, which have been determined by 9 factors mixed. Who is aware of how their losses to the Eagles and Buccaneers would have been completely different with out a minus-6 turnover margin? But whether or not it has been by fluke or it’s deserved, the Vikings have fallen into an 0-2 gap that, traditionally, many groups have struggled to get out of.

Stock up after the loss: QB Kirk Cousins to WR Justin Jefferson. Despite the 2 losses, Cousins and Jefferson are clicking like by no means earlier than, with Jefferson turning into the primary NFL participant in 12 years to place up consecutive 150-yard receiving video games to open a season and Cousins throwing for a franchise-record 708 yards over that stretch.

Stock down after the loss: Run recreation. The Vikings had 28 dashing yards, on 9 makes an attempt, a continuation of a theme that started in Week 1 and a weird twist following an offseason spent trying to enhance dashing effectivity. — Kevin Seifert

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