Tuesday Morning Football: NFL Week 1
NFL Week 1: News, notes, takeaways and quick-hitters
Absolutely thrilled to be launching this new weekly column in which we’ll dive into all that occurred in the NFL, every week throughout the NFL season. Each week we’ll be talking news, notes, quick-hitters, our takeaways, and answering your questions as the season progresses.
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TEN TAKEAWAYS FROM WEEK 1:
Mac Jones looked the part in his first NFL game. The Patriots historically start the season slow, and this year is no exception. Of course, they have kinks to iron out on both sides of the ball. But Mac demonstrated an ability to make enough plays for his team to win. And I expect the Patriots to win a lot of games this season because of him.
Aaron Rodgers looked like a guy that hasn’t played a meaningful snap in some time. He lingered and was late on numerous throws; delaying his receivers the ability to pick up yards after the catch. It’s only one game, but still worth noting considering the offseason Rodgers and Green Bay just had.
Patrick Mahomes is very good. I finally had the opportunity to see him live and in person Saturday afternoon at Arrowhead.
Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes celebrating his 5-yard touchdown run in the second quarter of the Chiefs 33-29 win over the Browns. (Video by Corey Seeley)
And yes, he’s remarkable. In fact, I emphatically believe that Mahomes is the best quarterback in the NFL – by a large margin at that. I understand this is not a hot take.
Dak Prescott didn’t look to be 100% healthy in Thursday night’s opener. But he was still extremely good. Dallas has a great deal to improve on if they’re going to be a playoff team. But if healthy, Dak will put up massive numbers this year regardless.
Tell me you haven’t heard this story before: Tom Brady needs X number of yards in X amount of time to win the game. Yeah, we know how the story ends. Tom Brady was Tom Brady in Thursday night’s opener against Dallas.
It’s early, but I have real concerns – even fears – for Trevor Lawrence. I don’t love what I’ve seen from Urban Meyer; and my concerns were on full display in the Jaguars 37-21 loss to the Texans. Could we see yet another talented quarterback who sees multiple head coaches within their first few years in the league? Not ideal.
In the fourth quarter of the Bears 34-14 loss to the Rams, Justin Fields stood on the sidelines – helmet on – staring at a team in need of a new identity on offense. Fields seems to be the ultimate pro, but if I were him, I’d be knocking on Coach Nagy’s door immediately after that game.
Daniel Jones opened the season playing in a similar fashion we’re accustomed to seeing; inconsistencies compiled of brilliant moments mixed with dreadful mistakes. If this team doesn’t improve in a big way this season, The New York Giants might need a new quarterback and head coach next year.
Sam Darnold looked calm and relaxed in his Carolina Panthers debut. Panthers’ offensive coordinator Joe Brady did a nice job of easing Darnold in and making him feel comfortable quickly. If Brady can ‘fix’ Darnold, and the Panthers find their stride; this Panthers squad could be a sneaky sleeper for the playoffs.
The Rams look invigorated behind Matt Stafford. And Sean McVay looks to be enjoying every bit of it. The Rams can be a real threat this season if they continue to build off their week one win. They are rich with talent on both sides of the ball, and now have a quarterback who can actually execute the offensive scheme the way the head coach wants. Good recipe for success if you ask me.
TWO-MINUTE DRILL: Quick Hitters from the week
It’s extremely hard – maybe even downright impossible – to not root for Joe Burrow
The Buffalo Bills will be fine
But the Atlanta Falcons might not be
Dear Matt Nagy,
Start Justin Fields week two.
Respectfully,
A fan of watching talented players actually play.
Matthew Stafford’s MVP odds should be higher
The Philadelphia duo of Jalen Hurts and DeVonta Smith could be a fun watch this season
Packers’ fans should not panic, but they may not want to ‘relax’ either
Taylor Heinicke will get his shot in Washington Thursday night against the Giants, but if he struggles – Rivera should give Cam Newton a call the next day
Should we be concerned with the 49ers defensive performance after allowing 33 points to Goff and the Lions? Maybe, but it’s early; and getting Javon Kinlaw back will certainly help
Chandler Jones is a monster – and he deserves to be paid handsomely with a new deal in Arizona
ASK ME ANYTHING: NFL WEEK 1
Beginning next week, I’ll be answers five questions from you related to that specific NFL week, or other NFL team/player questions in general. You can send me your questions via twitter @coreyalex or by emailing me at corey@thedraftscout.com.
4TH & LONG: Final Thoughts Heading Into Week 2
Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers need to turn things around, and quickly. They’ll have the perfect opportunity to do so next Monday night when they meet the Detroit Lions in week 2.
Monday Night Football did not disappoint as the Las Vegas Raiders topped the Baltimore Ravens in a thrilling 33-27 overtime victory. Quarterbacks Derek Carr and Lamar Jackson went back and forth in this one, with Carr ultimately coming out on top with a game-winning touchdown pass to Zay Jones. Both the Ravens and Raiders made countless mistakes throughout the game – so I’m not sure I’m ready to overreact to this one just yet.
After his five-sack performance on Sunday against the Titans, Arizona Cardinals edge rusher Chandler Jones is currently on pace for 85 sacks. Yes, you read that correctly.
Ja’Marr Chase caught a football – shocking, I know – in his rookie debut. The concerns surrounding Chase this offseason were warranted, regardless of what Joe Burrow tells us. But, Chase proved the doubters wrong in his Bengals debut with five receptions for 101 yards and a touchdown. Not too shabby.
Lamar Jackson should want a new contract now – and for good reason. Jackson is reportedly focused on this season rather than signing a new deal with the Ravens. Now, on one hand we should praise him for not letting contract negotiations get in his head. However, on the other hand, Jackson deserves a new contract. And given the position he plays and the way he plays it – he should want the new deal done as soon as possible.
In their dominating 38-3 week one win over the Green Bay Packers, the New Orleans Saints looked as dangerous as any team in the NFL. Will Jameis Winston and the Saints continue that momentum as the season moves forward? That’s the question on everyone’s mind. We’ve seen flashes of greatness from Winston throughout his time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. But If Winston can truly limit his mistakes while capitalizing on Sean Payton’s brilliant offensive mind – the Saints could definitely be a contender in the NFC this season.
On the Giants. Daniel Jones and Gettleman can both definitely be gone next year. But unless the Giants season is an abject disaster, don't expect Judge to be going anywhere. More then likely, they'll bring in a GM who aligns with him and they'll use their two 1's to get a top QB.
I know its early but my Vikes could be staring down an 0-4 start if Darrisaw doesn't get healthy. Chandler Jones is going to abuse Hill and Myles Garret will do the same in week 4. UGH!!!