As we roll into the second half of the 2025 NFL season, we have seen the great and unhealthy of offensive coordinators and playcallers throughout the league.
New England Patriots OC Josh McDaniels has helped elevate quarterback Drake Maye into the MVP dialog, and Indianapolis Colts coach Shane Steichen has referred to as performs which have put working again Jonathan Taylor on a probably historic tempo.
However in Detroit, coach Dan Campbell not too long ago took over playcalling duties from coordinator John Morton, and the New York Giants elevated OC Mike Kafka to move coach after firing Brian Daboll.
There are seven weeks left this season, and the stress will proceed to construct for coordinators and playcallers in search of successful formulation, whereas those that shine could be in place to turn into head coaches in 2026.
With that in thoughts, here’s what has gone proper, what has gone improper and the important thing to the second half for each offense within the NFL.
Leap to:
ARI | ATL | BAL | BUF | CAR | CHI | CIN
CLE | DAL | DEN | DET | GB | HOU | IND
JAX | KC | LAC | LAR | LV | MIA | MIN
NE | NO | NYG | NYJ | PHI | PIT | SF
SEA | TB | TEN | WSH
AFC EAST
Offensive coordinator: Joe Brady
Playcaller: Joe Brady
What has gone proper? The Payments’ speeding assault. Operating again James Cook dinner III is having a profession season to date, averaging 102.2 yards per recreation, whereas the Payments lead the league in speeding yards per recreation at 153.2. When this offense is at its greatest, it is with its working recreation, led by the offensive line.
What has gone improper? The passing recreation. The Payments have been unable to get the ball constantly downfield, by way of a scarcity of open receivers and play design, and it has resulted in Josh Allen forcing the ball in sure conditions. That has led to a rise in turnovers and sacks on Allen (20 heading into Week 11, six greater than all of final season).
Key to second half: Get the passing recreation in rhythm, as proven within the win versus the Buccaneers. The receivers have to be extra reliable for Allen, who has to make higher choices extra constantly. General, this offense has to search out methods to make the most of its greatest participant in Allen and all of his skills. — Alaina Getzenberg
Offensive coordinator: Frank Smith
Playcaller: Mike McDaniel
What has gone proper? The Dolphins scored on all 12 of their goal-to-go alternatives by way of the primary 10 video games after doing so 72% of the time in 2024. Operating again De’Von Achane can also be on tempo for a profession excessive in each speeding yards and scrimmage yards and has established himself as probably the most dynamic offensive gamers within the NFL.
What has gone improper? Primarily every thing else. Miami ranks among the many worst within the league in yards per recreation and scoring; quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is among the many league leaders in interceptions thrown and on tempo to set a profession excessive in that class; and Tyreek Hill nonetheless ranks third on the workforce in receiving yards regardless of taking part in solely 4 video games earlier than his season ended due to a knee damage.
Key to second half: Somebody exterior of receiver Jaylen Waddle and Achane must step up as a constant choice within the passing recreation. Tagovailoa mentioned he should additionally rediscover the “conviction” he performed with when he led the NFL in passing yards in 2023. There aren’t a ton of superlatives to play for anymore, however the gamers and coaches should show the core of this workforce continues to be value constructing round with a pivotal offseason approaching. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Offensive coordinator: Josh McDaniels
Playcaller: Josh McDaniels
What has gone proper? Just about every thing. QB Drake Maye is taking part in MVP-caliber soccer in his first season in McDaniels’ system and mentioned not too long ago: “He is executed it his entire life, and I really feel like he was placed on this earth to be an offensive coordinator. It is enjoyable to be within the headset with him.”
What has gone improper? The Patriots’ pink zone offense entered Week 11 ranked in the course of the pack (No. 18). That displays, partly, the dearth of a constant energy working recreation.
Key to second half: Offensive line continuity. The Patriots began the identical offensive line in 10 of their first 11 video games, permitting the group to construct chemistry in entrance of Maye. The OL was a high concern coming into the season, having ranked thirty first and thirty second in go block win price in 2023 and 2024, respectively. Although the stats do not essentially recommend it (twenty first in PBWR), the O-line has been decisively upgraded in 2025 and continuity helps. — Mike Reiss
Offensive coordinator: Tanner Engstrand
Playcaller: Tanner Engstrand
What has gone proper? The Jets predicted they’d be a great working workforce, they usually had been proper. They entered Week 11 fourth in speeding yards per recreation (142), because of Breece Corridor and a bodily offensive line. Opponents overplay the run, however the Jets nonetheless have success in opposition to eight-man bins.
What has gone improper? All the things else, particularly the Justin Fields-led passing recreation. The Jets are averaging solely 130.5 yards per recreation, which might be the worst mark for the reason that 2022 Bears. These Bears had been led by — you guessed it: Justin Fields. His shortcomings, mixed with a scarcity of playmakers, have made Engstrand’s job quite a bit more durable.
Key to second half: The Jets are doubtless doomed due to the poor QB play, however Engstrand will help issues by calling extra play-action passes. Regardless of a powerful speeding assault, they rank within the backside third in play-action utilization, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. One other key: Give newly acquired receiver Adonai Mitchell an opportunity to indicate what he can do. — Wealthy Cimini
AFC NORTH
Offensive coordinator: Todd Monken
Playcaller: Todd Monken
What has gone proper? The Ravens proceed to rank among the many NFL’s greatest speeding assaults, totaling the fourth-most yards on the bottom (142 per recreation) regardless of not a lot working by quarterback Lamar Jackson. With working backs Derrick Henry and Keaton Mitchell, Baltimore has been explosive by producing a run of 10 or extra yards on an NFL-high 15.7% of its carries.
What has gone improper? The Ravens’ offensive line, particularly guards Andrew Vorhees and Daniel Faalele, has been a disappointment. Baltimore already allowed extra sacks (30) by way of its first 9 video games than it did all of final season (24). When pressured, Jackson’s QBR has dropped to 14.2, which ranks twenty third within the NFL.
Key to second half: Holding Jackson wholesome. It is a totally different offense when Jackson has the ball in his palms. In seven video games with Jackson as their beginning quarterback, the Ravens have averaged 29.8 factors. Within the three video games Jackson was sidelined by a hamstring damage, Baltimore was held to 14.3 factors per recreation. — Jamison Hensley
Offensive coordinator: Dan Pitcher
Playcaller: Zac Taylor
What has gone proper? Getting Joe Flacco has been a masterclass for the Bengals. Since buying and selling for the veteran QB, Cincinnati had the No. 1 offense by way of Week 10. From Week 6 by way of Week 10, Cincinnati led the NFL in factors per recreation (32.8) and offensive anticipated factors added per play.
What has gone improper? Issues did not look nice initially, even when beginning quarterback Joe Burrow was wholesome. It is laborious guilty the entire workforce’s issues on backup QB Jake Browning, who was benched after struggling in three begins. The run recreation sputtered early earlier than discovering its groove later within the season.
Key to second half: Defending the beginning quarterback and working an offense that makes life simpler on the passing assault can be vital. Cincinnati has discovered success when lining up below heart, which appears to have helped the offense discover a rhythm with Flacco at quarterback. In Weeks 6 to 10, Cincinnati ranked nineteenth in go block win price and third in yards per carry (5.5). — Ben Child
Offensive coordinator: Tommy Rees
Playcaller: Tommy Rees
What has gone proper? Coach Kevin Stefanski has as soon as once more turned playcalling duties over to his offensive coordinator. The Browns scored solely 20 factors in Rees’ first recreation as playcaller, however Cleveland has restricted its turnovers. The Browns have had three giveaways with rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders below heart, in contrast with eight in veteran Joe Flacco’s 4 begins.
What has gone improper? The Browns throw the ball as a lot as any workforce within the NFL (36 makes an attempt per recreation by way of Week 10, sixth most within the NFL), however they can not push the ball downfield with any success (league-low 5 yards per try). Shoddy blocking hasn’t helped, as Cleveland ranks among the many worst in go block win price.
Key to second half: Operating the ball to take stress off the quarterback. The Browns have discovered a little bit of an identification behind rookie working again Quinshon Judkins, who leads the workforce in speeding yards. Cleveland, although, needs to be extra environment friendly than its 4-yard common, which ranks among the many worst within the NFL. — Daniel Oyefusi
Offensive coordinator: Arthur Smith
Playcaller: Arthur Smith
What has gone proper? It is laborious to nail down definitive issues which have gone proper for the Steelers’ offense due to the unit’s inconsistency by way of the primary half of the season. Outdoors of final week’s loss to the Chargers, quarterback Aaron Rodgers has performed properly in Smith’s system. He has been best utilizing quick throws to playmakers able to selecting up yards after the catch. In fact, the loss to the Chargers uncovered the 41-year-old’s weaknesses: inaccurate deep balls and reducing mobility. To make issues worse, the preliminary concern Sunday was that Rodgers suffered a slight break in his left wrist.
What has gone improper? Essentially the most recurring subject by far has been the Steelers’ third-down struggles and lack of ability to maintain drives. Heading into Week 11, the Steelers had transformed 36% of third downs, however from Weeks 8 to 10, the Steelers ranked thirty first in conversion share at 21%.
Key to second half: Get working again Jaylen Warren extra touches. Mike Tomlin mentioned that may’t occur until the Steelers begin changing extra third downs, however growing Warren’s utilization may result in higher conversion charges. Towards the Chargers, Warren averaged 5.7 yards per contact, however he had solely 16 touches (14 carries, 2 catches) and wasn’t on the sphere for a single third down. Together with his explosive and bodily model, Warren is able to being the Steelers’ most constant big-play maker, however he has to get extra alternatives to make these occur. — Brooke Pryor
AFC SOUTH
Offensive coordinator: Nick Caley
Playcaller: Nick Caley
What has gone proper? The Texans’ go blocking has improved. Heading into Week 11, that they had allowed 21 sacks (18th), in contrast with final season once they allowed quarterback C.J. Stroud to be sacked 52 occasions (second most). It isn’t excellent, however it’s extra competent.
What has gone improper? The offense has been inconsistent. Some weeks, Houston has appeared good, equivalent to Week 5 in opposition to the Ravens when it scored 44 factors and Week 10 when it dropped 29 factors. However different weeks, equivalent to Week 9, it scores solely 15.
Key to second half: Taking part in higher in opposition to higher groups. The Texans have the Eleventh-hardest remaining schedule and wish their offense to play as much as their commonplace in these marquee matchups. Their protection entered Week 11 because the No. 1 unit within the NFL, so we will count on that to proceed. However to win these video games, the offense should reply the problem. — DJ Bien-Aime
Offensive coordinator: Jim Bob Cooter
Playcaller: Shane Steichen
What has gone proper? All the things, largely. By Week 10, quarterback Daniel Jones led the NFL in passing yards and working again Jonathan Taylor was the speeding chief. The offense is producing at ranges not seen since Peyton Manning & Co. had been rolling over opponents on a weekly foundation within the mid-2000s. Three passing targets — Tyler Warren, Alec Pierce and Michael Pittman Jr. — are inside attain of 1,000-yard seasons.
What has gone improper? These days, there was method an excessive amount of stress allowed in opposition to Jones. That has led to a pointy enhance in turnovers up to now two video games, which has put the Colts in some very robust positions. Shockingly, 12 of Jones’ 21 sacks have come up to now two video games in opposition to the Steelers and Falcons. He dedicated sack-fumbles in every of these in consequence.
Key to second half: Cleansing up the safety and maintaining the turnovers in test. The driving drive behind the Colts’ quick offensive begin was their turnover margin and clear QB pockets. Jones may function unimpeded, and that led to correct throws into massive passing home windows due to good play design. If the Colts maintain the turnover pattern taking place the stretch in opposition to the likes of Kansas Metropolis, Seattle and San Francisco, issues may take a flip. — Stephen Holder
Offensive coordinator: Grant Udinski
Playcaller: Liam Coen
What has gone proper? Offensive factors per recreation are up (20.6 in contrast with 17.9 in 2024) and turnovers are down (9 by way of 10 weeks in contrast with 15 by way of 10 weeks in 2024). RB Travis Etienne Jr. has been essentially the most constant and greatest participant, which has helped overcome a few of the passing recreation’s struggles. He entered Week 11 on tempo for a career-high 1,152 yards. Rookie backs Bhayshul Tuten and LeQuint Allen Jr. have flashed, and WR/CB Travis Hunter emerged as the highest go catcher till his season-ending knee damage.
What has gone improper? Yards per recreation, go safety numbers and third-down conversions are down in contrast with final season. The Jaguars led the NFL in drops (20) over the primary 10 weeks, and WR Brian Thomas Jr. has struggled with that (5) and fallen behind Hunter because the workforce’s high receiver. Accidents have been a significant subject, too. Hunter is completed for the season, and receivers Thomas, Dyami Brown, Parker Washington and Tim Patrick; tight finish Brenton Unusual; and offensive linemen Robert Hainsey, Patrick Mekari and Anton Harrison have additionally been harm.
Key to second half: QB Trevor Lawrence has to hold the offense. Coen has urged Lawrence to play extra freely — minimize it free and let it rip are the phrases he used — and stop worrying about errors and turning the ball over. It will not be straightforward with a banged-up group of go catchers, however that is what franchise QBs are imagined to do. — Michael DiRocco
Offensive coordinator: Nick Holz
Playcaller: Bo Hardegree
What has gone proper? The rookies on offense have proven flashes of a shiny future, although the interim teaching employees will not be round to reap the advantages. Receivers Elic Ayomanor and Chimere Dike and tight finish Gunnar Helm have constructed strong chemistry with quarterback Cam Ward. Every of them has caught a landing go from Ward. Left guard Peter Skoronski has taken a giant step towards establishing himself as an All-Professional participant and may anchor the offensive line going ahead.
What has gone improper? Properly, Brian Callahan — the top coach who was fired after six video games — began the season off because the playcaller earlier than relinquishing duties to Hardegree after an 0-3 begin. Quick ahead to Week 11, and the Titans entered the week final within the league in scoring (14.4 factors per recreation). Lack of success early in drives constantly places the Titans in third-and-long conditions, which is a significant component for Tennessee’s NFL-worst 3.7 third-down conversions per recreation. The Titans additionally allowed a league-high 38 sacks per recreation by way of Week 10.
Key to second half: The second half of the season is all about creating Ward. The employees must give attention to methods to emphasise what Ward does greatest: Discovering steadiness on offense will assist enhance the third-down conversion price and put collectively longer drives, which in flip will result in extra alternatives for everybody. — Turron Davenport
Offensive coordinator: Joe Lombardi Playcaller: Sean Payton What has gone proper? Begin with the Broncos being 9-2, tied for the very best report within the AFC, thanks largely to one of many league’s greatest defenses. They’re 4-0 in video games they trailed in the beginning of the fourth quarter, together with a exceptional 33-point fourth quarter within the 33-32 win over the New York Giants in Week 7. They have been productive sufficient offensively in crunch time to have six wins by eight or fewer factors. What has gone improper? Along with a particular groups unit that has had greater than its share of bobbles, this workforce’s offense is out of types. Quarterback Bo Nix’s spotty footwork has made him one of many least correct passers within the league (thirtieth in off-target makes an attempt coming into Week 11). The Broncos run the ball properly (high 10 in speeding) however select to not do it over prolonged intervals of time. They usually had the second-most penalized offense within the league over the primary 10 weeks with 52 penalties (together with declined penalties). Key to second half: Whether or not the workforce, together with Payton, is just grinding Nix more durable as a second-year starter or expects him to run extra of the playbook with extra proficiency, the Broncos are vulnerable to losing top-of-the-line defensive seasons within the franchise’s historical past if they do not get issues working extra easily on offense. Nix is clearly uncomfortable at occasions within the scheme, whereas his footwork and selections within the pocket aren’t as constant as they had been final season. So, perhaps the Broncos can run the ball extra, with some play-action, to settle issues down or maybe dial again to a menu of issues he’s snug doing. However the previous month has appeared suspiciously like all concerned on offense are beating their collective heads in opposition to the wall. — Jeff Legwold Offensive coordinator: Matt Nagy Playcaller: Andy Reid What has gone proper? In his twenty seventh season as a head coach, Reid has largely made the best determination to belief quarterback Patrick Mahomes and be ultra-aggressive on fourth down, particularly by his traditional commonplace. Coming into Week 11, the Chiefs had transformed 16 of their 20 fourth-down makes an attempt, a key to the offense’s success. What has gone improper? The Chiefs nonetheless have not found out a strategy to get extra manufacturing from their trio of working backs in Isiah Pacheco, Kareem Hunt and rookie Brashard Smith. Hunt has been best in short-yardage conditions, however the Chiefs ought to lean extra into display passes for Smith, who provides essentially the most dynamic means within the group. Key to second half: Rashee Rice has appeared like a No. 1 receiver since he returned following his six-game suspension. The offense ought to be constructed round Rice and tight finish Travis Kelce, who’s having a pleasant season at age 36. If Rice and Kelce may be constant and efficient, Mahomes ought to have extra alternatives to hit deep passes to receivers Xavier Worthy, Tyquan Thornton and Hollywood Brown. — Nate Taylor Offensive coordinator: Chip Kelly Playcaller: Chip Kelly What has gone proper? Nothing, actually. Even after the Raiders employed Kelly, the offense has continued to be one of many worst models in soccer. Rookie working again Ashton Jeanty has the potential to be an elite playmaker sooner or later. He has seven complete touchdowns. Vast receiver Tre Tucker is on the verge of a profession season. By 10 weeks, Tucker had 34 catches for 455 yards and 4 touchdowns. What has gone improper? Mainly every thing. Las Vegas entered Week 11 ranked thirty first in factors (15.4), thirtieth in complete yards (272.7), twenty ninth in speeding yards (87.4), thirtieth in EPA (minus-52.64) and twenty eighth in pink zone effectivity (47.8%). Quarterback Geno Smith had thrown the second-most interceptions (12). Tight finish Brock Bowers has been absolutely wholesome for under three video games, and the Raiders have two beginning offensive linemen on injured reserve (left deal with Kolton Miller and proper guard Jackson Powers-Johnson). Key to second half: First, Smith might want to restrict the turnovers so the Raiders can maintain drives and maintain the protection out of short-yardage conditions. Las Vegas ought to proceed to make use of 12 personnel (1 RB, 2 TE), creating alternatives for tight ends Bowers and Michael Mayer. The offense can even profit from Jeanty being extra concerned within the passing recreation, because it permits him to create in open area. — Ryan McFadden Offensive coordinator: Greg Roman Playcaller: Greg Roman What has gone proper? Passing offense. The Chargers have been one of many NFL’s greatest passing offenses, coming into Week 11 third in complete passing yards (2,454). Roman is understood for his traditionally dominant speeding offense. Nonetheless, with accidents to the working backs and the Chargers’ energy at receiver, he has adjusted and leads a surprisingly efficient passing assault. What has gone improper? Offensive line play. To no fault of Roman, the Chargers have been decimated on the offensive line this season, at occasions having to play their sixth- and seventh-string tackles. By 10 weeks, that they had the league’s second-worst go block win price and fifth-worst run block win price. That has compelled Roman to regulate and slowed down this offense. Key to second half: With deal with Joe Alt executed for the season, Roman must discover methods to assist this struggling offensive line with inventive blocking schemes and quicker-developing passing performs. If he is not in a position to maintain this offense efficient and quarterback Justin Herbert protected, the Chargers could have a troublesome time making a run on the AFC West title and advancing deep into the postseason. — Kris Rhim Offensive coordinator: Klayton Adams Playcaller: Brian Schottenheimer What has gone proper? QB Dak Prescott has performed a few of his greatest soccer. CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens have produced as top-of-the-line receiver duos. Operating again Javonte Williams is having a profession yr. The Cowboys have put up numbers taking part in backup linemen. Schottenheimer’s first foray into playcalling since 2020 has gone extraordinarily properly, however the unit has to indicate endurance. What has gone improper? The house/highway splits haven’t been good. Coming into Week 11, the Cowboys had been averaging 10.9 factors, 4.1 first downs and 64 yards fewer on the highway than at dwelling. Up to now two highway video games, they had been averaging solely 2.6 yards per carry. The outdated NFL adage of a great working recreation having the ability to journey has not held true. Key to second half: Maybe the protection’s stage of play picks up with the additions of defensive deal with Quinnen Williams and linebacker Logan Wilson, plus the return of DeMarvion Overshown, however the offense should put up a variety of factors every week to assist get some wins. Within the 4 video games main in to Week 11, the Cowboys had scored touchdowns on eight of 15 drives contained in the pink zone. That share should rise considerably as a result of discipline targets will not be sufficient. — Todd Archer Offensive coordinator: Tim Kelly Playcaller: Mike Kafka What has gone proper? The Giants’ offense has proven enchancment with rookie Jaxson Dart at quarterback. Coming into Week 11, it averaged 23.6 factors with him because the starter and with Kafka because the playcaller. It is a large enchancment from the earlier two seasons when the Giants had been thirty first and thirtieth, averaging fewer than 16 factors per recreation. What has gone improper? The Giants nonetheless have not executed sufficient to win video games, and it acquired head coach Brian Daboll fired final week. Dart additionally finally acquired injured working the soccer when he sustained a concussion in opposition to the Bears. It was the fourth time this season (relationship again to the preseason) that he underwent a concussion check. It additionally hasn’t helped the offense that it misplaced two of its greatest playmakers, star vast receiver Malik Nabers and rookie working again Cam Skattebo, to season-ending accidents. Key to second half: Kafka is now the interim head coach and playcaller. Tight ends coach Tim Kelly has taken over a few of the offensive coordinator duties. It will likely be attention-grabbing to see simply how a lot the offense adjustments with Kafka because the boss as a substitute of Daboll. Kelly additionally has a monitor report in that function from his time in Tennessee. — Jordan Raanan Offensive coordinator: Kevin Patullo Playcaller: Kevin Patullo What has gone proper? The Eagles focus on three key areas: defending the soccer, pink zone offense and deep throws. They entered Week 11 ranked No. 1 in pink zone offense with a landing price of 81% and a league-low 4 giveaways. Jalen Hurts excels on the lengthy ball, tossing six touchdowns and nil interceptions on throws of 20-plus yards for a passer score of 131.8. What has gone improper? They usually lean conservative, and whereas that helps with the turnover battle — a key metric to their success — it holds a high-powered offense again. Third-down effectivity has been an issue for the primary 10 weeks of the season: Philadelphia ranked twenty seventh with a conversion price of 42.4% and went three-and-out on 41% of its drives, rating twenty eighth. Key to second half: Discovering the steadiness between defending the soccer and maximizing the celebs. Receiver A.J. Brown’s frustrations communicate to an offense that may very well be far more dynamic. His main gripe is that the best way the Eagles are taking part in now will not be adequate come January. Patullo and Hurts have to be extra snug opening issues up for this offense to essentially shine. — Tim McManus Offensive coordinator: Kliff Kingsbury Playcaller: Kliff Kingsbury What has gone proper? Left deal with Laremy Tunsil, acquired in an offseason commerce, has performed properly. Veteran tight finish Zach Ertz and receiver Deebo Samuel mixed for 81 catches, 741 yards and eight touchdowns by way of Week 10. Washington wants extra explosiveness round them. Seventh-round working again Jacory Croskey-Merritt has proven flashes with 470 yards and 4 touchdowns heading into Week 11. What has gone improper? Accidents. Washington quarterback Jayden Daniels has missed 4 video games — and counting — with three totally different accidents. Receivers Terry McLaurin and Noah Brown have missed a mixed 15 video games — and counting. Operating again Austin Ekeler (Achilles) was misplaced for the season in Week 2. Washington performed solely two video games with all of those gamers wholesome. Key to second half: Well being. There’s uncertainty over whether or not Daniels (dislocated left elbow) will return — or if he ought to, significantly if the workforce is out of the playoff race. However even when solely McLaurin and Brown return, it is going to present a significant enhance. McLaurin would give Washington the downfield enhance it desperately wants. The Commanders’ offensive line must turn into extra of an element. — John Keim Offensive coordinator: Declan Doyle Playcaller: Ben Johnson What has gone proper? Johnson’s offense had the Bears averaging 26.6 factors per recreation (seventh) heading into Week 11. Chicago surpassed the 20-point mark in eight of 9 video games, which is another than it totaled in all of 2024. QB Caleb Williams’ progress by way of 10 weeks is tangible; he ranks thirteenth in passing (2,136 yards) and has taken the fourth-fewest sacks (14). That is a byproduct of a revamped offensive line that ranks second in go block win price (71%) and the steadiness the Bears achieved by lastly getting their working recreation established (which now ranks second at 147.3 yards per recreation), which has this offense in a rhythm. What has gone improper? The Bears have stored issues too shut for consolation in 5 of their seven wins. Williams’ 4 successful drives along with his workforce trailing are a web constructive, however Chicago has to learn to put opponents away earlier than the ultimate 5 minutes. Whereas Williams has proven enchancment in so many areas (taking part in inside construction, avoiding sacks, utilizing his legs), his success price (42.7%) ranks twenty eighth. Key to second half: Chicago has a tricky schedule the remainder of the best way. The defenses it is going to see will not be as forgiving because the Giants, Commanders, Cowboys and Bengals (who all rank among the many worst in complete protection), so getting a bounce on groups earlier is vital on condition that the Bears didn’t rating on their remaining possession earlier than halftime in Weeks 6 to 10. Chicago additionally must proceed to enhance its pink zone effectivity (twenty second) and ensure pre-snap penalties are stored at bay. — Courtney Cronin Offensive coordinator: John Morton Playcaller: Dan Campbell What has gone proper? Factors scored. After final season’s record-setting, 15-win marketing campaign wherein Detroit led the NFL with 33.2 factors per recreation, it has continued to place up factors. The Lions’ 30.4 factors per recreation ranked second after 10 weeks. Detroit has scored 35-plus factors in 4 video games, together with a 52-point output in Week 2 versus Chicago. What has gone improper? Campbell, the Lions’ head coach, took over the offensive playcalling duties from Morton in Week 10, coming off a 27-24 upset loss to Minnesota on Nov. 2. Detroit was among the many league leaders in complete factors per recreation however was nonetheless struggling to search out an offensive identification exterior of dwelling run performs. “I believe for us an offense, the phrase that stands proud to me is stream. I really feel like we’ve not been within the stream all yr,” receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown mentioned following follow Nov. 6. Key to second half: Holding receiver Jameson Williams concerned. In Weeks 9 and 10, Williams averaged 92.5 receiving yards and scored two receiving touchdowns. Nevertheless, previous to that, Williams was averaging 41.3 receiving yards and had two receiving touchdowns within the first seven video games. Detroit wants to search out methods for Williams to make a constant affect all through the again half of the season. — Eric Woodyard Offensive coordinator: Adam Stenavich Playcaller: Matt LaFleur What has gone proper? Josh Jacobs has been capable of finding the tip zone. Coming into Week 11, he ranked second within the NFL with 11 speeding touchdowns, behind solely Jonathan Taylor (15). They had been the one two backs within the league with double-digit speeding touchdowns by way of Week 10. LaFleur has successfully used Jacobs in goal-to-go conditions regardless of inconsistent blocking. Jacobs, coming into Week 11, had the longest lively streak of video games with a speeding landing (6) and earlier this season had a 10-game streak with a speeding landing relationship to final season. Nevertheless, he left Sunday’s win over the Giants due to a knee damage earlier than he may get an opportunity to attain. However backup working again Emanuel Wilson did his greatest Jacobs impersonation with an 11-yard landing run. What has gone improper? The Packers acquired away from the play-action recreation, which was as soon as a staple of LaFleur’s offense. They’d a play-action price of 21.5% from Week 7 to Week 10, which was sixth lowest within the NFL in that span. This after a 32.5% play-action price within the first six weeks of the season, which ranked second highest. They could be getting again to it, although, as a result of in Sunday’s win over the Giants, they used play-action on 34.5% of their dropbacks — their second-highest price of the season. Key to second half: Getting quarterback Jordan Love again on monitor. He was probably the most correct passers in the course of the first seven video games of the season, finishing 70.9% of his passes with 13 touchdowns and two interceptions. Up to now three video games, Love’s completion price dropped to 60.8% with two touchdowns. — Rob Demovsky Offensive coordinator: Wes Phillips Playcaller: Kevin O’Connell What has gone proper? The Vikings have gotten receiver Justin Jefferson 9.3 targets per recreation, seventh most within the NFL in the course of the first 10 weeks, regardless of going through often unique defenses designed to get quarterbacks to maneuver to a different learn. It is particularly notable as a result of the Vikings rank twenty second in go makes an attempt (286). O’Connell has additionally been left to navigate accidents to his high two quarterbacks with J.J. McCarthy’s proper ankle damage and Carson Wentz’s season-ending left shoulder surgical procedure. What has gone improper? The Vikings hoped to lean closely on their run recreation to take stress off McCarthy, however their calls usually have built-in run/go choices that give quarterbacks an opportunity to vary to a play that higher suits the defensive alignment. That is a part of the explanation the Vikings have a designed go price of 63.2% in McCarthy’s first 4 begins. O’Connell mentioned not too long ago that he is not going to name run performs for the sake of statistics. Key to second half: O’Connell might want to give McCarthy as a lot of the offense as he can deal with, and perhaps a bit greater than that, whereas nonetheless recognizing that this workforce was constructed to contend for a 2025 playoff spot. Can O’Connell steadiness these two worlds and obtain each goals? — Kevin Seifert Offensive coordinator: Zac Robinson Playcaller: Zac Robinson What has gone proper? Star working again Bijan Robinson has been a part of the Falcons’ passing recreation greater than in previous years. Coming into Week 11, Robinson was second on the workforce in receiving yards (467) and 20 yards away from tying his profession excessive. Robinson was third within the NFL in yards from scrimmage (1,146) by way of 10 weeks. What has gone improper? When the Falcons’ working recreation is taken away, they have not had a solution. Atlanta is 0-5 when Robinson does not hit the 75-yard mark on the bottom. As anticipated, second-year quarterback Michael Penix Jr. had ups and downs earlier than struggling a knee damage that’s anticipated to finish his season. Coming into Week 11, he ranked nineteenth within the league in QBR (53.4) and the Falcons had been twenty seventh in factors per recreation (18.7). Key to second half: It will have been Penix’s continued development, and he was taking part in properly in opposition to the Panthers on Sunday earlier than the third-quarter hit that brought on his knee damage. Vast receiver Drake London (knee) additionally would possibly miss time. So, Zac Robinson can be coping with a banged-up core. He’ll have to get Kirk Cousins on top of things because the beginning QB so the Falcons stay aggressive. — Marc Raimondi Offensive coordinator: Brad Idzik Playcaller: Dave Canales What has gone proper? Carolina stumbled into its greatest playmaker when working again Rico Dowdle changed injured Chuba Hubbard because the starter. Dowdle had 479 scrimmage yards in his first two begins. Coming into Week 11, he was third within the NFL in speeding (788 yards). When he is on, QB Bryce Younger is efficient. What has gone improper? No deep menace. By Week 10, Younger had accomplished solely 35% of his passes of 20-plus yards and ranked thirty second out of 33 certified quarterbacks on completion share over expectation on deep balls with a price of minus-13.7. Load up the field to cease the run because the Saints did final week, and Carolina has largely been ineffective. Key to second half: Discover steadiness and a strategy to stretch the sphere. The shortage of explosive performs is a giant cause Carolina had averaged fewer than 12 factors over its 4 video games previous to Sunday when the Panthers beat Atlanta 30-27. Younger must unfold the ball round extra. He is too depending on rookie receiver Tetairoa McMillan, who has accounted for greater than 50% of the Panthers’ receiver manufacturing. — David Newton Offensive coordinator: Doug Nussmeier Playcaller: Kellen Moore What has gone proper? The Saints have been very affected person with rookie Tyler Shough and selected to take a seat him within the first half of the season. That may have paid off, as Shough seems to have developed below Moore and Nussmeier throughout that point. He handed for 2 touchdowns final week in his second begin, in opposition to the Panthers. What has gone improper? Moore has made some puzzling recreation administration choices. He didn’t name a timeout within the first half of the Saints’ season opener in opposition to the Cardinals. On the finish of the primary half in opposition to the Panthers, the Saints had the ball with 3:54 remaining; Moore referred to as just one timeout after the 2-minute warning; and the Saints had been penalized popping out of that timeout, resulting in a punt with 27 seconds left on the Panthers’ 45. Key to second half: The Saints want to enhance their working recreation. Versatile 35-year-old Taysom Hill’s manufacturing has been sporadic getting back from a severe knee damage, and the Saints have to get extra out of working backs Alvin Kamara and Devin Neal. Kamara had his greatest recreation in a number of weeks versus the Panthers regardless of taking part in behind a backup offensive line. — Katherine Terrell Offensive coordinator: Josh Grizzard Playcaller: Josh Grizzard What has gone proper? Although the Bucs’ offense hasn’t been as excessive flying this season as in 2024, Baker Mayfield continues to be posting respectable numbers — even with various accidents to his line and ability place gamers. Coming into Week 11, he ranked tenth in complete passing yards and was creating a powerful reference to rookie receiver Emeka Egbuka, who led the workforce with 677 receiving yards and 6 landing catches. What has gone improper? The aforementioned accidents have brought on a giant headache for the first-year playcaller. Receivers Mike Evans, Chris Godwin and Jalen McMillan; working again Bucky Irving; and offensive linemen Tristan Wirfs, Luke Goedeke and Cody Mauch have all missed a number of video games. Past that, the Bucs’ offense has particularly struggled on third down the place they rank within the backside third, changing 36.2%. Key to second half: Well being. The Bucs cannot afford any extra accidents to their offense, and Mayfield is already taking part in by way of knee and indirect accidents. He is the engine of the offense, and with out him, the Bucs’ postseason hopes are all however within the tank. Plus, when — or even when — a few of the ability gamers return, that would assist stabilize Grizzard’s uneven playcalling. — Brooke Pryor Offensive coordinator: Drew Petzing Playcaller: Drew Petzing What has gone proper? When the Cardinals cook dinner, as the youngsters say, they cook dinner. There have been occasions this season when the Cardinals’ offense has appeared unstoppable and like one of many NFL’s greatest models. Nevertheless, all through the ups and downs this season, Petzing has executed a great job of getting tight finish Trey McBride concerned greater than he has ever been, which has put stress on defenses and opened issues up for the remainder of the offense. And when Jacoby Brissett changed Kyler Murray at quarterback, the offense discovered a rhythm, particularly in transferring the ball down discipline. What has gone improper? There isn’t any sugar coating it: quite a bit. One main subject within the first half of the season was the Cardinals’ lack of ability to shut out video games. Even in its first two wins, Arizona could not get key third-down conversions to expire the clock. Arizona has additionally struggled to get receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. concerned constantly (he missed Week 11 due to an appendectomy). And the run recreation, down its high two backs, has struggled to get a lot going. Key to second half: If the Cardinals can keep constant on third down, the place they have been top-of-the-line groups within the NFL with Brissett at quarterback, and maintain getting their major playmakers, particularly Harrison and McBride, concerned frequently, the offense can be OK, if not potent. It is a matter of consistency at this level. — Josh Weinfuss Offensive coordinator: Mike LaFleur Playcaller: Sean McVay What has gone proper? Matthew Stafford is taking part in a few of the greatest soccer of his profession, with 27 touchdowns and two interceptions by way of 10 video games. Throughout the offseason, McVay mentioned he needed to construct a extra versatile offense. A technique that has proven up is the Rams — who had performed a excessive quantity of 11 personnel (three receivers) below McVay — main the league in snaps with 13 personnel (three tight ends) by way of the primary 11 weeks. What has gone improper? Not a lot recently. Even with a recreation that vast receiver Davante Adams referred to as “to not our commonplace” for the offense in opposition to a superb Seattle protection in Week 11, the Rams nonetheless scored 21 factors and had been 3-for-4 within the pink zone. Within the three video games prior, Los Angeles, which scored 111 factors in these video games, was 13-for-15 within the pink zone throughout that span. Key to second half: Holding Stafford upright. The Rams’ offensive line has had a variety of success defending Stafford, who missed most of coaching camp due to a again damage. Stafford had been sacked solely 14 occasions by way of Week 10 and has not missed a follow due to damage since his return throughout coaching camp. — Sarah Barshop Offensive coordinator: Klay Kubiak Playcaller: Kyle Shanahan What has gone proper? Regardless of taking part in with out quarterback Brock Purdy and two of their greatest receivers in Brandon Aiyuk and Ricky Pearsall, the 49ers have handed the ball in addition to any workforce. Coming into Week 11, the Niners had been first within the NFL in passing yards per recreation (261.4) and working again Christian McCaffrey had reemerged as one of many league’s most dynamic dual-threat choices, rating second in scrimmage yards per recreation (131.8). What has gone improper? With solely a few exceptions, the 49ers’ as soon as vaunted run recreation has struggled mightily. By Week 10, they averaged 94.8 speeding yards per recreation (twenty seventh) and three.5 yards per carry (thirty second). That has contributed to a disconnect between how properly the 49ers moved the ball (twelfth in yards per recreation) and the way constantly they rating touchdowns (18th in scoring offense). Key to second half: The Niners’ offense has confirmed indicators of life, significantly since tight finish George Kittle returned from damage and working again Brian Robinson Jr. acquired extra concerned. Their hope is that getting Purdy, Pearsall and probably Aiyuk again can take their offense to a different stage they usually can constantly rating 30-plus factors to assist offset the inevitable struggles of a younger and banged-up protection. — Nick Wagoner Offensive coordinator: Klint Kubiak Playcaller: Kubiak What has gone proper? By 10 video games, the Seahawks’ offense is averaging 26.6 factors (sixth most) largely due to its passing recreation. Earlier than his four-interception efficiency Sunday, Sam Darnold led the NFL in Complete QBR (77.6) and performed his method into the MVP dialog. He has been sacked solely 10 occasions this season. Jaxon Smith-Njigba leads the league in receiving (1,146) and has an opportunity to make a run at Calvin Johnson’s single-season report. What has gone improper? The Seahawks are averaging solely 3.8 yards per carry (fourth lowest). That’s regardless of main the league in designed speeding share (49.8%) by a large margin. Their dedication to the run has paid off in some methods, although. They’ve confronted the second-most loaded bins of any workforce — which has opened issues up for his or her passing recreation — and their 333 speeding yards over the previous two video games appears to be like like an indication of a possible breakthrough. Key to second half: Receiver Rashid Shaheed, acquired through a commerce with the Saints, has the potential to spice up Seattle’s offense in a number of methods. If defenses decide to taking away Smith-Njigba, Shaheed provides the Seahawks one other established various — and a speedy one at that. As one of many league’s high deep threats, Shaheed’s presence ought to compel defenses to drop a defender again in protection, probably opening up speeding lanes. He confirmed in his Seahawks debut that he may line up the backfield and assist out their run recreation instantly. — Brady HendersonAFC WEST
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