Week 3 of the 2025 NFL season kicked off Thursday evening with the Payments heading off the Dolphins to remain undefeated. The early window Sunday was crammed with a number of surprising finishes. The Browns handed the Packers their first lack of the season on a subject purpose by kicker Andre Szmyt as time expired.
Each the Rams-Eagles and Buccaneers-Jets video games had blocked subject targets returned for touchdowns late, which gave the Eagles a victory after they trailed by 19 factors within the second half. The Jets weren’t in a position to maintain on to their lead after the Bucs marched for a game-winning subject purpose.
The late window Sunday had its personal share of last-minute finishes, with the 49ers and Chargers profitable on time-expiring subject targets. In the meantime, the Seahawks and Bears dominated of their wins over the Saints and Cowboys, respectively.
Our NFL Nation reporters reacted to all of the motion, answering lingering questions popping out of every recreation and detailing all the pieces else you could know for each group. Let’s get to it.
Bounce to:
DEN-LAC | ARI-SF | DAL-CHI
NO-SEA | LV-WSH | HOU-JAX
IND-TEN | TB-NYJ | CIN-MIN
LAR-PHI | GB-CLE | PIT-NE
ATL-CAR | MIA-BUF
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Chiefs
Did the Chiefs’ offense discover long-term options within the second half? After an odd begin to the season, the Chiefs’ offense lastly seemed like a reliable unit after halftime in opposition to the Giants. Following a sluggish first half, the Chiefs confirmed some creativity to handle a balanced assault. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes was poised within the pocket and accomplished fast passes to a number of teammates. One reply the Chiefs discovered was getting rookie working again Brashard Smith and receiver Nikko Remigio the ball on the perimeter. Tight finish Travis Kelce additionally did not have to hold a lot of the burden for the Chiefs’ passing recreation. As an alternative, Mahomes accomplished passes to seven teammates. Maybe essentially the most important change was within the trenches. The Chiefs’ offensive line, that includes rookie left sort out Josh Simmons and left guard Kingsley Suamataia, higher protected Mahomes, who wasn’t sacked within the second half.
Most shocking efficiency: The largest revelation to this point is that Mahomes has discovered high quality manufacturing from receiver Tyquan Thornton, who led the Chiefs with 5 receptions for 71 yards and a landing. The Chiefs signed Thornton, the New England Patriots’ 2022 second-round decide, to their observe squad in late November. With a full offseason within the Chiefs’ system, Thornton was one of the vital spectacular gamers within the preseason. His function elevated simply minutes into the season opener, when speedy receiver Xavier Worthy sustained a dislocated proper shoulder. If Worthy can return subsequent week, the Chiefs’ offense ought to be capable to present extra enchancment in a marquee showdown in opposition to the Baltimore Ravens. — Nate Taylor
Subsequent recreation: vs. Ravens (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)
Giants
How dangerous will it get for the 0-3 Giants? Effectively, it solely will get harder subsequent Sunday, when the undefeated Chargers come to MetLife Stadium. The Chargers have seemed like one of many league’s finest groups early this season. The Giants then play the Saints earlier than going through the undefeated Eagles. The warmth is barely going to construct on coach Brian Daboll and quarterback Russell Wilson. Followers had been already chanting “We would like Dart!” throughout Sunday’s 22-9 loss to the Chiefs. That is in reference to rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart. All the eye will likely be on when the Giants flip to Dart the extra the losses pile up.
Stat to know: Malik Nabers had no receptions by way of three quarters. The Giants could not get the ball to their star receiver one week after he had 9 receptions on 12 targets for 167 yards and two touchdowns. Nabers completed with two receptions for 13 yards on seven targets in opposition to the Chiefs. The shortage of manufacturing is a rarity. Nabers had caught at the least 4 passes in each recreation of his NFL profession coming into Sunday evening. — Jordan Raanan
Subsequent recreation: vs. Chargers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
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Chargers
If RB Najee Harris misses important time, how a lot will that change the Chargers’ offense? Not a lot. As Harris recovered from an eye fixed damage he sustained in a July 4 fireworks mishap, the Chargers went by way of all of coaching camp with out him. L.A. did not know if Harris can be taking part in Week 1 till the week of the sport. So, the Chargers have already been ready for all times with out him. Within the preseason, offensive coordinator Greg Roman stated first-round rookie Omarion Hampton would cut up carries with any of the group’s working backs no matter Harris’ standing. Nonetheless, Hampton was the primary again after Harris was carted off Sunday. One of many greatest storylines to comply with is that if Roman sticks to his phrase, splitting carries with Hampton and others, or if the remainder of the season appears to be like like Sunday.
Greatest gap within the recreation plan: Cross safety. The Broncos’ line of defense beat up on the Chargers and quarterback Justin Herbert all recreation. Based on NFL Subsequent Gen Stats, Herbert was pressured 29 occasions and sacked 5 occasions. He spent many of the day evading Broncos edge rushers to finish passes, and he was on his again when he did not. If not improved, the Chargers’ offensive line struggles may considerably decrease this group’s ceiling. — Kris Rhim
Subsequent recreation: at Giants (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Broncos
How a lot harm have back-to-back blown leads achieved to the Broncos? Broncos coach Sean Payton spent an offseason pounding away on the significance of a quick begin to the season. Good groups, he stated, the true playoff threats, come out of the gate robust. Nonetheless, after the Broncos let leads slip away in opposition to the Colts and Chargers, they’re 1-2. That follows an 0-2 begin final 12 months and a 1-5 begin in 2023 — Payton’s first season in Denver. Complicating issues, the Broncos have two of their subsequent three video games on the highway and the Chargers now have three AFC West wins. So, the Broncos have some work to do.
Turning level: With a 20-13 lead and simply over 4 minutes left, the Broncos had the Chargers in a third-and-10 on the Los Angeles 24-yard line. Herbert accomplished an 11-yarder to receiver Keenan Allen for the primary down, and the Broncos added to the harm when security Talanoa Hufanga body-slammed Allen to the turf. Hufanga was flagged for the non-public foul, including 15 yards to the reception. It moved the ball to the 50-yard line. The Broncos by no means regained their stability, and the Chargers tied the sport at 20-20 4 performs later. The Chargers drove for the profitable subject purpose on their subsequent possession. — Jeff Legwold
Subsequent recreation: vs. Bengals (Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET)
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49ers
How lengthy can the 49ers maintain profitable amid all of the accidents? The 49ers entered the sport with out quarterback Brock Purdy, tight finish George Kittle and receivers Jauan Jennings and Brandon Aiyuk. Late within the first quarter, they misplaced star defensive finish Nick Bosa to a knee damage. Bosa is among the group’s most indispensable gamers, however the 49ers’ protection nonetheless managed to maintain them within the recreation and, finally, win it. The extent of Bosa’s damage is not clear, but it surely’s by no means an excellent signal when a participant leaves with a knee damage and does not return. For a group as top-heavy because the Niners, the celebs should be as wholesome and productive as attainable. The schedule goes to get harder in October, when the 49ers are on the highway for many of the month.
Turning level: Because the Cardinals tried to place the sport away, they confronted third-and-9 on the 50. A conversion would have sealed the win, and Kyler Murray’s cross for Zay Jones seemed like it will get the job achieved. However 49ers rookie cornerback Upton Stout managed to get his hand in and break the cross as much as power a punt. From there, the Niners shortly moved into Arizona territory to arrange kicker Eddy Pineiro’s profitable 35-yard subject purpose. — Nick Wagoner
Greatest quote from the locker room: “I believe anytime you open up 3-0 with two division video games, that is an enormous deal,” Christian McCaffrey stated. “I believe one of the best half about it’s we’re undoubtedly simply not happy with how we’re taking part in. However to not be happy and nonetheless discover methods to grit out some wins, it’s a large deal… We acquired a whole lot of guys shuffling round, this and that. All these could be excuses however on the finish of the day we now have discovered some methods to win the final three weeks and at the moment was an excellent instance of that.”
Subsequent recreation: vs. Jaguars (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)
0:41
49ers keep good after Eddy Pineiro hits walk-off subject purpose
Eddy Pineiro hits a 35-yard subject purpose because the 49ers outlast the Cardinals to enhance to 3-0.
Cardinals
What is going to the Cardinals do at working again with out James Conner? Because the Cardinals wait to seek out out the extent of Conner’s ankle damage that took him out of the sport, Arizona’s first possibility at working again will likely be Trey Benson. Behind Benson will likely be a rotation of Emari Demercado and Bam Knight, who was inactive Sunday. Earlier than Conner’s damage, Arizona used Benson to spell Conner and on third down. With Benson more likely to slide into the first function, Demercado may grow to be the third-down again.
Pattern to look at: Coach Jonathan Gannon stated final week that to ensure that Arizona’s offense to be at a premium, huge receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. wants to the touch the ball extra. However Harrison’s unassuming begin to the season continued with three catches on six targets for 44 yards. He now has 10 catches, 17 targets, 142 yards and a landing on the season. — Josh Weinfuss
Subsequent recreation: vs. Seahawks (Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET)
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Bears
What did the Bears’ offense work out in opposition to Dallas? Coach Ben Johnson made good on his plan to get Chicago’s tight ends concerned and put rookie WR Luther Burden III in place for his first 100-yard receiving day. QB Caleb Williams had the Bears taking part in from out entrance after throwing for 249 yards within the first half (a profession excessive in any half). Chicago’s two-minute drive earlier than halftime that resulted in a landing to TE Cole Kmet was trying like its better of the day. Then, the Bears put collectively a 19-play drive within the third quarter by which they ran the ball 11 straight occasions, ate up 9:54 of clock and capped it off with Williams throwing his fourth landing of the day to DJ Moore. It marked Chicago’s longest scoring drive this century and served because the exclamation level of Johnson’s first win as an NFL head coach.
Most shocking efficiency: Cornerback Tyrique Stevenson’s tough stretch mirrored the Bears’ 0-2 begin, as he entered Week 3 permitting a 158.3 passer score into his protection. He performed Sunday like he had one thing to show, beginning with a pressured fumble and restoration within the first quarter that arrange Chicago’s first landing drive. Stevenson then broke up a cross within the pink zone to carry Dallas to a subject purpose and nearly picked off a cross earlier than halftime. He additionally recorded one other cross breakup. — Courtney Cronin
Subsequent recreation: at Raiders (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)
Cowboys
How dangerous is the Cowboys’ protection? Identical to final season, the Cowboys are 1-2. Identical to final season, they will level to their protection as a motive. Besides in 2024, the run protection was porous, giving up 190 and 274 yards on the bottom in losses to the Saints and Ravens. This season, it is the cross protection. Every week after Giants QB Russell Wilson threw for 450 yards and three scores, Williams lit up the Cowboys with 4 landing passes. However it was a soul-crushing, 19-play drive that did within the Cowboys throughout the third quarter. The Cowboys have not pressured the quarterback, have given up the large play and might’t get a cease when it issues. None of that may be a good factor.
Stat to know: Within the season-opening loss to the Eagles, the Cowboys gave up one cross play for 25 yards or extra. Of their previous two video games, they’ve given up 12 — seven final week and 5 in opposition to a Bears offense that might not be confused with the high-end items the Cowboys will face because the season goes alongside. Based on ESPN Analysis, it is essentially the most such performs the Cowboys have allowed by way of three video games over the previous 25 seasons. And to make it worse, the 5 landing passes allowed of 25 yards or extra lead the NFL, too. — Todd Archer
Subsequent recreation: vs. Packers (Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET)
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Seahawks
Are the Seahawks actually nearly as good as they seemed of their blowout win? One of many Seahawks’ most dominant performances in latest reminiscence got here in opposition to a group that arrived in Seattle with an 0-2 file, a rookie head coach, a second-year quarterback and a banged-up offensive line. Then once more, the Saints had an opportunity to win or tie on their final possession in losses to Arizona and San Francisco, so they may not be as dangerous because the Seahawks made them look. Both approach, it was an all-three-phases whupping by Seattle, and it was so thorough that the group was in a position to pull most of its starters early within the fourth quarter. That can assist with an NFC West recreation at Arizona in 4 days.
What to make of the QB efficiency: Among the many causes the Seahawks noticed Sam Darnold as an excellent slot in Klint Kubiak’s offense is the quarterback’s capability to throw on the run throughout designed rollouts. Darnold confirmed that ability all offseason, final week in Pittsburgh on a pivotal fourth-quarter play and once more on his first landing Sunday, throwing on the cash to receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba whereas rolling to his left. Darnold threw one other landing and accomplished 14 of 18 makes an attempt for 218 yards in three quarters earlier than giving method to Drew Lock. — Brady Henderson
Subsequent recreation: at Cardinals (Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET)
Saints
Have the Saints hit all-time low, or is the worst but to come back? The Saints had been terrible in all three phases, giving up a number of massive performs on particular groups, failing to cease something on protection and struggling on offense. They pulled all of their beginning lineup, together with quarterback Spencer Rattler, late within the recreation when issues had been out of hand. However with a recreation in opposition to the undefeated Payments subsequent, issues may worsen earlier than they get higher. If the Saints flip in the same efficiency subsequent week, they’re going to not solely be taking a look at an 0-4 begin, however doubtless contemplating personnel modifications as properly.
Stat to know: The Saints had 11 penalties in opposition to the Seahawks and at the moment are averaging 10.3 penalties a recreation, which is probably a symptom of an even bigger concern below a brand new head coach. Though Kellen Moore tried to seek out methods to repair this concern after Week 1, together with bringing officers to observe, the truth that it solely acquired worse in Week 3 is a troubling signal for the state of the group. — Katherine Terrell
Subsequent recreation: at Payments (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
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Commanders
How did Washington produce a lot with out QB Jayden Daniels? Explosive performs. Quarterback Marcus Mariota was environment friendly each working (40 yards) and passing (207 yards) instead of Daniels. However the Commanders made massive play after massive play. Large receiver Deebo Samuel’s 69-yard kickoff return arrange a rating on the primary possession, and punt returner Jaylin Lane returned a punt 90 yards for a landing. Operating again Jeremy McNichols scored on a 60-yard run. Receiver Terry McLaurin’s 59-yard catch to the 1-yard line arrange one other landing, and receiver Luke McCaffrey’s 42-yard reception capped the scoring.
Most shocking efficiency: The Commanders’ entrance seven. Enjoying properly wasn’t shocking, however the stage of dominance was greater than anticipated. They sacked Raiders QB Geno Smith 5 occasions, attending to him all recreation with a wide range of pressures — 4 gamers recorded sacks, with linebacker Bobby Wagner doing it twice. They restricted RB Ashton Jeanty to 63 yards, with 45 approaching three carries. — John Keim
Subsequent recreation: at Falcons (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Raiders
What is the concern stage for the Raiders’ offensive line? There’s nothing however pink flags surrounding Las Vegas’ offensive line. The Raiders struggled to achieve momentum within the cross or run recreation as a result of they had been getting crushed within the trenches. Smith was below duress all through the afternoon, getting pressured 19 occasions and sacked 5 occasions. Jeanty (3.7 yards per carry) hardly had any open area to take advantage of. There have been a number of occasions when Jeanty was greeted by Washington defenders as quickly as he was given the ball. Going into the season, it was evident that Las Vegas’ offensive success can be dictated by its efficiency up entrance. By means of three video games, the unit has struggled to ship.
Most shocking efficiency: Edge rusher Maxx Crosby had a tough time getting something going in opposition to Commanders rookie offensive sort out Josh Conerly Jr. The Raiders’ star defender had a sack in 11 matchups in opposition to the first-round decide. However the sack got here late within the fourth quarter when the sport was out of attain. — Ryan McFadden
Subsequent recreation: vs. Bears (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)
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Jaguars
Did WR Brian Thomas Jr. get his spark again? After an terrible 58 minutes, Thomas produced one of many greatest performs of the season to arrange the profitable landing. The second-year receiver had three drops, together with one on third down within the fourth quarter, to go together with just one catch for 9 yards till lower than two minutes remained. However his late 46-yard catch-and-run arrange working again Travis Etienne Jr.’s 10-yard landing. After the third-down drop, Thomas went to the sideline, slammed his helmet to the bottom twice and put his head in his palms on the bench. However after his closing catch, he threw the ball into the wall to have fun — and vent some frustration about his tough begin to the season.
Pattern to look at: The Jaguars’ protection is fairly good at forcing turnovers. It acquired three extra Sunday, together with security Antonio Johnson’s game-clinching interception with 20 seconds remaining, and the unit now has 9 — tying its complete from all the 2024 season. Cornerback Jourdan Lewis additionally had an interception and linebacker Devin Lloyd had a fumble restoration (pressured by cornerback Tyson Campbell). The 9 turnovers are essentially the most in franchise historical past by way of the primary three video games. — Mike DiRocco
Subsequent recreation: at 49ers (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)
0:47
Eagles seal win on blocked FG
The Eagles snuff out Joshua Karty’s 44-yard subject purpose try as time expires to safe a comeback win over the Rams.
Texans
Is it getting late early for the Texans? The Texans dropped to 0-3 as their offense struggled once more, scoring solely 10 factors. It is the third straight recreation by which the offense fell wanting 20 factors, and the blame goes throughout the board. There have been drops, penalties, an interception, questionable playcalling, sacks, strain, restricted separation — you identify it. And now, the Texans discover themselves three video games behind the Colts and two video games behind the Jaguars within the AFC South. There are 14 video games remaining, however Houston has dug itself an enormous early gap.
Turning level: Large receiver Nico Collins’ fumble after a 13-yard reception that reached the Jaguars’ 18-yard line proved to be expensive. The sport was tied 10-10 with 3:57 remaining, and Houston was in nice place to take the lead. However Collins’ fumble finally led to Jacksonville’s profitable landing. — DJ Bien-Aime
Subsequent recreation: vs. Titans (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
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Colts
What’s behind the Colts’ offensive effectivity? The Colts entered Week 3 tied for the lead in yards per play and ranked second in offensive anticipated factors added. That development continued in Sunday’s efficiency. How? Turnover margin, for one. The Colts are certainly one of 4 groups to not commit a turnover, and that’s preserving drives alive. Moreover, QB Daniel Jones is spreading the ball round, stopping defenses from locking in on anyone participant (4 receivers had 4 or extra targets within the recreation). In the meantime, RB Jonathan Taylor continues to roll, main the NFL in speeding after a three-score day.
Stat to know: Taylor had his ninth profession speeding landing of 40-plus yards within the third quarter, tying Professional Soccer Corridor of Famer Lenny Moore for essentially the most by any participant in Colts franchise historical past. Taylor has 5 “explosive” runs — outlined as performs of 12 yards or longer — to this point this season, good for second most within the NFL by way of Sunday’s early video games. He additionally had a 43-yard cross reception in Week 2. — Stephen Holder
Subsequent recreation: at Rams (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)
Titans
How for much longer can Brian Callahan survive this disastrous begin? The pinnacle coach’s future is on life help. Minimizing penalties was one of many issues Callahan centered on essentially the most this offseason. But, Tennessee’s 23 penalties had been essentially the most within the league coming into Week 3. The Titans had eight extra this week. The delay of recreation name simply earlier than halftime was the worst. It got here after consecutive timeouts from Indianapolis and Tennessee on fourth-and-1 with 42 seconds left within the half. A delay of recreation penalty after the Titans’ timeout turned a 57-yard subject purpose try right into a 62-yard attempt. Joey Slye missed it, and the Colts acquired a simple subject purpose because the half ended. “Fireplace Callahan” chants erupted because the group went in for halftime. A highway recreation at Houston after which back-to-back West Coast video games are subsequent earlier than former coach Mike Vrabel returns to Nissan Stadium with the Patriots in Week 7.
What to make of the QB efficiency: A nasty determination by rookie Cam Ward on the Titans’ first drive resulted in a fast pick-six by Kenny Moore II. Ward tried 38 passes and had 219 passing yards, each profession highs. He is nonetheless not seeing the sphere as properly, but it surely’s robust being below duress on nearly each dropback. The one constructive is that he related with fellow rookie Elic Ayomanor for his or her second landing in as many video games. — Turron Davenport
Subsequent recreation: at Texans (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
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Buccaneers
Can the Bucs proceed to make issues work with a makeshift offensive line? The offensive line state of affairs wasn’t fairly, however the Bucs made it work with Luke Haggard at proper guard, Elijah Klein at left guard and Charlie Heck at proper sort out. Haggard struggled in opposition to the Jets’ Quinnen Williams, as Haggard and Klein accounted for 4 holding penalties. Additionally they struggled to create holes for working again Bucky Irving. There have been hardly any deep throws for quarterback Baker Mayfield, and so they used Irving in area. The excellent news is there is a good probability All-Professional left sort out Tristan Wirfs comes again from his knee surgical procedure in Week 4, which might give the Bucs three of their authentic 5 beginning offensive linemen. There’s additionally the chance receiver Chris Godwin comes again, and he is one other security valve for Mayfield, particularly if Mike Evans’ hamstring damage retains him out.
Turning level: The Bucs’ protection went from dominant to a fourth-quarter meltdown, surrendering two touchdowns with a 3rd approaching particular groups after a blocked subject purpose returned for a landing by Will McDonald IV — giving the Jets a one-point lead with 1:49 left. But someway, miraculously, the Bucs managed a come-from-behind win within the closing minute of a recreation three weeks in a row to succeed in 3-0 for the primary time since 2005. — Jenna Laine
Subsequent recreation: vs. Eagles (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Jets
Will the Jets take something constructive out of a heartbreaking defeat? They did not give up, making a dramatic comeback within the fourth quarter, however there are not any ethical victories within the NFL. If that had been the case, the Jets would have two already. The underside line is that they misplaced a recreation they simply may’ve gained. The Jets at the moment are 0-3 for the fourth time in seven years, and so they seemed like a nasty group for 3 quarters. They’ve loads to wash up. The very best factor they’ve going for them is a schedule that will get softer within the coming weeks.
Greatest gap within the recreation plan: Quarterback Tyrod Taylor, who made his first begin since 2023, was below siege as a result of the Jets had been flummoxed by the Bucs’ blitz. The cross safety was poor, and Taylor did not assist by holding the ball too lengthy at occasions. He was pressured on 44% of his dropbacks, together with a cornerback blitz on a game-changing pick-six late within the first half, and was sacked 4 occasions. The Jets had been ill-prepared for the Bowles blitz. — Wealthy Cimini
Subsequent recreation: at Dolphins (Monday, 7:15 p.m. ET)
0:17
Bhayshul Tuten powers into the top zone for Jaguars
Bhayshul Tuten places the Jaguars on the board first vs. the Texans.
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Vikings
The place did cornerback Isaiah Rodgers come from? Rodgers grew to become the primary NFL participant since at the least 2000 to return an interception for a landing, power two fumbles and return a type of for a second landing. What’s wild is that Rodgers, a sixth-round decide in 2020 by the Colts, is in his first season as a full-time starter. Defensive coordinator Brian Flores focused him in free company, believing his ball expertise and velocity would make him an ideal match for his scheme. Rodgers’ touchdowns, each within the first half, coated for a sluggish begin by the Vikings’ offense.
What to make of the QB efficiency: Carson Wentz led a pointy opening drive, capped by a 12-yard landing cross to tight finish Josh Oliver, earlier than the offense slowed down for many of the first half. However he caught hearth late within the second quarter and led the Vikings to a rating on 5 of his closing six possessions. In complete, he confirmed greater than sufficient competence to reassure the Vikings that he could make at the least one and possibly two extra begins earlier than J.J. McCarthy returns from a proper ankle damage. — Kevin Seifert
Subsequent recreation: at Steelers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Bengals
How can the Bengals shake off the worst loss in franchise historical past? Maybe some type of cleanse? A sauna session? Or, by simply not committing a ton of turnovers. The Bengals misplaced the ball 5 occasions — three fumbles and two interceptions. Two of them had been returned for touchdowns. That does not embody two different fumbles the Bengals had been in a position to get well. Cincinnati takes a whole lot of satisfaction in defending the ball. That was certainly one of a number of issues missing throughout a shellacking in Minneapolis.
Stat to know: Bengals working again Chase Brown continued his tough begin to the season. Brown had minus-22 speeding yards over expectation, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. Meaning Brown didn’t get practically as many yards as he ought to have on his 10 carries, which did not assist the Bengals’ tough offensive efficiency. He completed with 3 yards complete. — Ben Child
Subsequent recreation: at Broncos (Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET)
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Eagles
What ought to we make of the Eagles’ offense after Sunday’s uneven efficiency? Frustration has been mounting in Philly over the previous couple of weeks as an ultratalented unit struggled to seek out its footing below new offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo, notably within the passing recreation. The primary half represented a low level, because the Eagles managed simply 33 yards (together with negative-1 yards passing), their lowest output in any half since 2015. The offense sprang to life within the second half, thanks largely to a breakout efficiency from receiver A.J. Brown. This group is approach too loaded to be caught in impartial for lengthy stretches. The hope is that one thing sustainable clicked into place late in opposition to the Rams that may be carried into subsequent week.
Most shocking efficiency: Davis offered one of the vital unbelievable finishes in Eagles historical past, blocking a 44-yard subject purpose try by Joshua Karty and returning it 61 yards for a landing within the closing seconds. It was the unit’s second subject purpose block of the sport, turning what would have been an Eagles loss right into a one-of-a-kind win. — Tim McManus
Subsequent recreation: at Bucs (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Rams
How far-off from the Eagles are the Rams? Within the week main as much as this divisional-round rematch, a number of Rams gamers pushed again on the concept that this was a “measuring stick recreation” for Los Angeles in opposition to the defending Tremendous Bowl champions. However though the Rams managed the sport within the first half, the offense was stagnant after they led 26-7 simply after halftime. Los Angeles was proper there with the Eagles, however this recreation confirmed the Rams should not fairly within the dialog for one of the best within the NFC.
Stat to know: Getting into the sport, groups trailing by 19 or extra factors prior to now two seasons (together with the playoffs) had been 2-193, in accordance with ESPN Analysis. After the Rams went up 26-7 early within the third quarter, they failed to attain once more. — Sarah Barshop
Subsequent recreation: vs. Colts (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)
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Browns
Did the Browns discover a components to win video games? For 3 quarters, the Browns’ offense seemed lifeless as its protection did all it may to maintain Cleveland within the recreation. Then, the group began taking part in the complementary ball it has preached. The offense discovered a run recreation, security Grant Delpit made a clutch interception and particular groups capitalized with a blocked kick and Andre Szmyt’s walk-off 55-yard subject purpose. It wasn’t fairly, but it surely’s the way in which the Browns might should play to win.
Stat to know: Rookie working again Quinshon Judkins’ 38-yard run within the fourth quarter offers him two of the Browns’ longest performs of the season. He completed with 94 yards and a TD on 18 carries. It was Judkins’ second profession recreation after a two-month layoff as he went unsigned amid a authorized matter. — Daniel Oyefusi
Greatest quote from the locker room: “We talked all week about taking part in complementary soccer, and I do not assume till you expertise it, you really perceive what that would probably imply,” Browns QB Joe Flacco stated. “However at the moment, I really feel like we spoke it into existence and we got here out of it with a win due to it.”
Subsequent recreation: at Lions (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
0:24
Will McDonald returns blocked FG for a Jets TD
Will McDonald blocks the field-goal try and goes all the way in which to the opposite finish for a Jets landing.
Packers
How involved ought to the Packers be about their offensive struggles? The Browns’ protection isn’t any joke; Cleveland got here in with the No. 1 general protection. However not scoring a landing till 3:23 left within the third quarter after which turning the ball over late within the fourth quarter on a horrible interception by Jordan Love, who hadn’t thrown a decide for the primary 11 quarters of the season, needs to be thought of troubling. Even on the drive that put them in place to try a go-ahead subject purpose — which was blocked — with 27 seconds left, their finest play was a 20-yard cross interference penalty. Plus, the Packers misplaced two beginning offensive linemen — proper sort out Zach Tom (indirect) after only one play and left guard Aaron Banks (groin) after the primary half.
Pattern to look at: Edge rusher Rashan Gary is perhaps on his method to his first double-digit sack season. The 2019 first-round decide sacked Browns QB Joe Flacco twice Sunday to convey his three-game complete for the season to 4.5. Little doubt the presence of Micah Parsons has helped Gary maybe greater than anybody.
Greatest quote from the locker room: “Typically, identical to at the moment, you s— the mattress,” Packers edge rusher Micah Parsons stated. “That is simply the fact of it. It occurs to one of the best groups. Even one of the best Tremendous Bowl champs make errors, and so they pay for it early. You return to the historical past of the champions and who’ve they’ve performed and video games they need to’ve gained. It is simply that aggressive.” — Rob Demovsky
Subsequent recreation: at Cowboys (Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET)
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Steelers
What’s preserving the Steelers from discovering offensive consistency? Typically it is about the way you begin and the way you end — and never as a lot about what occurred between these two issues. That was the case Sunday afternoon, when the Steelers scored touchdowns on back-to-back drives, went chilly for the higher a part of two quarters after which went on a nine-play, 67-yard drive. The possession was capped by a 17-yard dime from quarterback Aaron Rodgers to huge receiver Calvin Austin III. The Steelers offense struggled to seek out any form of rhythm or consistency for many of the recreation — gaining simply 31 yards within the second and third quarters after 102 within the first — and squandered three takeaways. However Rodgers, who threw an interception himself, made the clutch play when it mattered most.
Stat to know: Fourteen factors scored off 5 takeaways. The Steelers protection introduced the splash performs by forcing six turnovers, together with a fumble on back-to-back third-quarter drives and a sack fumble. Additionally they pressured a turnover on downs on the Patriots’ potential game-winning after which game-tying fourth-quarter drives. However the protection nonetheless busted too typically on massive performs, permitting greater than 10 performs of at the least 10 yards, and the offense did not capitalize on the alternatives.
Greatest quote from the locker room: Steelers security Jabrill Peppers was surprisingly minimize from the Patriots final month. On Sunday, he had six tackles and recovered a fumble. “I envisioned it final evening. Let the followers know I miss them, however I am down with the Metal Curtain now.” — Brooke Pryor
Subsequent recreation: vs. Vikings (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Patriots
Will Rhamondre Stevenson’s two misplaced fumbles result in a change because the Patriots’ lead RB? After shedding a fumble on the opening drive of the sport, after which on the purpose line at the beginning of the second half, Stevenson was used sparingly for the rest of the sport. Coach Mike Vrabel notably stored Stevenson on the sideline for 11 straight snaps after the second fumble. He then turned nearly completely to rookie TreVeyon Henderson and Antonio Gibson at working again the remainder of the way in which. (Stevenson performed simply two snaps after his second misplaced fumble). Stevenson’s 5 misplaced fumbles for the reason that begin of the 2024 season are essentially the most of any NFL working again, in accordance with ESPN Analysis. Stevenson additionally grew to become the primary Patriots participant to lose two fumbles in a recreation since Tom Brady on Sept. 7, 2014 on the Dolphins.
Stat to know: Tight finish Hunter Henry (tenth season) had his fifth profession recreation with a number of landing receptions, and his first since Week 14 of 2023 (additionally versus the Steelers). Three of Henry’s multiple-TD video games have come in opposition to Pittsburgh. Additionally, Henry moved into third place on the Patriots’ all-time checklist for receptions for a decent finish (211), passing Marv Prepare dinner, with solely Rob Gronkowski and Ben Coates forward of him.
Greatest quote from the locker room: “I may have given him a distinct ball flight, within the again nook of the top zone for a landing,” Maye stated of his late second-quarter interception meant for huge receiver Kayshon Boutte that was tipped by Steelers defensive sort out Cameron Heyward for an interception. The Patriots had been amid a 17-play, 94-yard drive that lasted 7:13. — Mike Reiss
Subsequent recreation: vs. Panthers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Compensate for the motion: Field rating | Recap
Panthers
Are the Panthers’ offseason strikes to improve the league’s worst protection paying off? It helped that quarterback Bryce Younger did not have any turnovers within the first half (as he had 4 over the primary two video games) and Carolina wasn’t taking part in from behind. It additionally helped that Atlanta missed two early subject targets and particular groups managed subject place. That being stated, the protection made performs. Cornerback Chau Smith-Wade had a pick-six. Mike Jackson had a decide. Linebacker Christian Rozeboom was in every single place. Backside line, this is not the NFL’s worst protection anymore.
What to make of the QB efficiency: No turnovers was large, as Younger had 5 within the first 5 quarters of the 2025 season. Two of them final week in opposition to the Cardinals resulted in an early 10-0 gap. Younger performed inside the offense, scrambling for a landing and making sufficient good throws to maintain the offense transferring regardless of a couple of errant throws.
Greatest quote from the locker room: Sunday marked the Panthers’ first shutout since 2020, and most lop-sided win since 2015. “We had been all fed up,” Smith-Wade stated. “Our bond is simply so tight. We wished to go on the market and do it proper.” — David Newton
Subsequent recreation: at Patriots (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Falcons
What’s unsuitable with what was presupposed to be a high-powered Falcons offense? The Falcons had a purpose of being one of the best offense within the league this season. They haven’t been shut. Atlanta has scored only one landing the previous two video games. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. had the worst outing of his younger profession Sunday. Performs appear to be getting in too late, and receivers dropped a number of passes. The working recreation, led by Bijan Robinson, was taken away on account of taking part in from behind. Offensive coordinator Zac Robinson wants to determine what’s unsuitable earlier than it is too late.
What to make of the QB efficiency: Younger quarterbacks can have video games once they wrestle. That was the case Sunday with Penix, who had two interceptions, together with giving up his first profession pick-six. He handled headset audio points early on, seemed pissed off and went 18-for-36 on passes. Backup Kirk Cousins took over when the sport was out of hand.
Greatest quote from the locker room: The Falcons had been driving excessive after a 22-6 win over the Vikings in primetime final week, however issues got here crashing down shortly in a disastrous loss to a divisional opponent. “That emotional win we had [last week], we experience that emotional curler coaster. Right now, we hit an all-time low,” coach Raheem Morris stated. — Marc Raimondi
Subsequent recreation: vs. Commanders (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Compensate for the motion: Field rating | Recap
Payments
Can the Payments’ capability to shut out video games make up for different deficiencies? It certain appears to be like that approach. The Payments cannot have struggles like they did defensively — permitting conversions on 10-of-15 third downs — and pull out the win each time, however that is the second of three video games the Payments had a game-changing takeaway late. Persevering with to be efficient in that space will likely be key. “The ball is crucial factor,” linebacker Terrel Bernard stated. “And we all know it is not going to be good. Offenses across the league are good. That is a recognized reality. However for us, it comes right down to taking the ball away.”
What to make of the QB efficiency: General, Allen had one other robust day, not turning the ball over and orchestrating spectacular drives — along with throwing three landing passes to get to 200 on his profession. The Dolphins, nonetheless, took away the Payments’ capability to get the ball downfield. Allen tried just one cross greater than 10 yards downfield, which wasn’t accomplished. That is the primary time in his profession Allen has failed to finish one in a recreation (minimal of 10 cross makes an attempt), per ESPN Analysis. — Alaina Getzenberg
Subsequent recreation: vs. Saints (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Dolphins
Was Thursday evening sufficient of a spark to show the Dolphins’ season round? Historical past shouldn’t be on Miami’s facet right here — of the 117 NFL groups since 2000 to lose its first three video games of a season, solely the 2018 Texans truly made the playoffs. The loss was nearer than the ultimate rating, however the Dolphins nonetheless have evident points to repair. Their protection allowed factors on 5 of eight possessions, excluding a kneel-down to finish the primary half, and that quantity would’ve been larger had been it not for a missed subject purpose within the second quarter. Additionally they allowed greater than 150 speeding yards for the second time this season. However Miami did set a season excessive with 130 speeding yards of its personal with a strong backfield efficiency from De’Von Achane and rookie Ollie Gordon II.
Turning level: A Dolphins protection that had simply two true defensive stops coming into Week 3 all of the sudden pressured punts on three consecutive drives within the second half. However defensive sort out Zach Sieler was flagged for roughing the punter on Buffalo’s third punt of the half, paving the way in which for the game-winning landing. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa did lead a spirited drive on the next possession, however he threw his fourth interception of the season to seal the sport. An in any other case clear recreation was spoiled by these two disastrous drives within the fourth quarter. “I’ve acquired to be higher,” Sieler stated. “I can not be making silly errors like that.” — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Subsequent recreation: vs. Jets (Monday, 7:15 p.m. ET)
