Every Sunday, The Athletic’s NFL writers analyze the biggest news and performances from the day’s games.
The first Sunday of the NFL season showcased Dallas’ dominant defense and a standout QB, a significant upset, a shaky day for the top draft pick, and familiar results for the Giants, Panthers, and Falcons despite changes in coaches and players.
The Athletic NFL writers Mike Jones, Ted Nguyen, and Dan Pompei offer insights on the noteworthy storylines.
Are the Dallas Cowboys this good, or are the Cleveland Browns this bad?
Jones: The Cowboys are a strong team built to contend, but the Browns’ offense faltered despite continuity. Deshaun Watson struggled without key players like Nick Chubb and David Njoku, and the offensive line underperformed. Adjustments are necessary for improvement.
Nguyen: Dallas’ high-end talent and Mike Zimmer’s defensive tactics overpowered Cleveland. Watson, looking rusty and pressured, couldn’t elevate the team. Improvement seems unlikely soon.
Pompei: The Cowboys might be underestimated due to their offseason moves. With regular-season success and resolved contract issues, they should be seen as Super Bowl contenders.
How optimistic are you about the Los Angeles Chargers’ formula in Jim Harbaugh’s first win?
Nguyen: The Chargers exemplified “Harbaugh football” with a strong defense and persistent run game. Jesse Minter’s defensive strategies shined, and Harbaugh’s approach could lead to future successes.
Pompei: The Chargers, while not the most talented, will stay competitive due to Harbaugh’s ability to maximize talent and scheme effectively.
Jones: The formula works against rebuilding teams, but the Chargers need more than defensive prowess and a strong run game to challenge top teams like the Chiefs.
Was Sunday’s loss to the Patriots more concerning for the Bengals or a testament to Jerod Mayo’s coaching?
Jones: Not necessarily a red flag given Joe Burrow’s missing key players and the Bengals’ typical slow starts. Mayo’s coaching was impressive, but results should not be over-interpreted.
Nguyen: The Bengals are overly reliant on their top WRs, and without Higgins and a practiced Chase, they lack depth. They need more offensive weapons.
Pompei: The Bengals’ uncharacteristic performance can be attributed to early-season adjustments and Chase’s contract issues. Burrow’s talent should prevent prolonged struggles.
What should we make of Caleb Williams’ debut for the Bears?
Nguyen: Williams struggled, particularly against the NFL pass rush. The Bears’ defense was the saving grace, but Williams needs to learn and adapt quickly.
Jones: Week 1 is not indicative of long-term success or struggles, especially for rookies. Williams has potential and is a quick learner. Improvement is expected with time and experience.
Pompei: The Bears’ offense underperformed, relying on their defense to secure the win. Offensive improvement is crucial for future success.
Which veteran QB should feel more uneasy after Sunday: Russell Wilson or Kirk Cousins?
Pompei: Cousins’ position seems secure, with Penix expected to develop over time. Wilson might feel more pressure, but Fields hasn’t solidified his position yet.
Nguyen: Wilson could be uneasy as Fields demonstrated his athleticism. Atlanta is likely to be patient with Cousins.
Jones: Neither veteran should feel very uneasy. Fields’ performance wasn’t remarkable enough to guarantee a starting role, and Cousins’ struggles were partially due to a strong Steelers defense.
Which fan base should be more concerned: Panthers’ or Giants’?
Jones: Both. Giants need a quarterback, and Panthers face broader team issues. Improvement is required for both teams to meet expectations.
Nguyen: The Giants should explore quarterback options, while the Panthers need to reassess both offense and defense critically.
Pompei: The Panthers and Giants both need significant upgrades. Impatient ownership could push the Panthers’ focus towards a new QB, while the Giants might face sweeping changes if current struggles persist.
(Top photo: Nick Cammett / Getty Images)
#NFL #Cowboys #Browns #Chargers #JimHarbaugh #Patriots #Bengals #CalebWilliams #Bears #RussellWilson #KirkCousins #Panthers #Giants
