Sunday Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their si...

Sunday Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.<h3>Nobody knows anything</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745294/cropped_GettyImages-2172194215.jpg?ts=1726431483" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745294/w220xh124_GettyImages-2172194215.jpg?ts=1726431483 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745294/w320xh180_GettyImages-2172194215.jpg?ts=1726431483 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745294/w640xh360_GettyImages-2172194215.jpg?ts=1726431483 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745294/w768xh432_GettyImages-2172194215.jpg?ts=1726431483 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745294/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2172194215.jpg?ts=1726431483 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Sam Hodde / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>A lot of pessimism surrounded the Saints heading into this season, and it's not difficult to understand why.A horrific cap situation once again gave them no choice but to run it back with a seemingly mediocre roster, and it seemed possible, if not probable, that an unproven offensive line would undermine anything the Saints tried to accomplish with a new scheme. Not exactly the most inspiring situation.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Yet here we are two weeks into the season, and New Orleans is the most interesting story in the league. The blowout win over the Panthers in Week 1 flew under the radar for obvious reasons, but it's impossible to overlook the Saints' similarly dominant effort against the Cowboys this week.New offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak is doing some phenomenal work scheming up big plays, and Derek Carr looks more comfortable than we've seen him at any other point in his 11-year pro career. He's thrown for five touchdowns through two games, leading the league with well over 11 yards per attempt.Crucially, the Saints have also put together an efficient run game despite the offensive line's perceived shortcomings. Alvin Kamara's four-touchdown day included 115 yards and three scores on the ground. His 5.6 yards per carry (in a very small sample) would be his most efficient mark since his rookie campaign in 2017.While we probably can't lump the Saints in with the NFC's other contenders just yet, their offensive resurgence, along with their always steady defense, makes them worth watching over the next few weeks. If New Orleans can keep performing at anything close to this level through an upcoming schedule that includes the Eagles and Chiefs, the hype train will be full steam ahead.<h3>LaFleur puts on a clinic</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745412/cropped_GettyImages-2172272066.jpg?ts=1726459233" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745412/w220xh124_GettyImages-2172272066.jpg?ts=1726459233 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745412/w320xh180_GettyImages-2172272066.jpg?ts=1726459233 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745412/w640xh360_GettyImages-2172272066.jpg?ts=1726459233 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745412/w768xh432_GettyImages-2172272066.jpg?ts=1726459233 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745412/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2172272066.jpg?ts=1726459233 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Stacy Revere / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>We all had the same thought when Jordan Love went down in Brazil; a star quarterback missing even a few weeks can derail a whole season in today's NFL. Matt LaFleur, however, wasn't interested in that scenario.The Packers head coach needed all of one week to successfully shift his team's offensive identity, putting together one of the best and most creative coaching jobs you'll see all season in Sunday's win over the Colts.While Malik Willis deserves credit for the way he handled his role in a big spot, the game plan was clear from the beginning: The Packers were going to run the ball in every possible manner, and it didn't really matter if Indy knew it was coming.Josh Jacobs led the way with 32 carries for 151 yards, and Green Bay got significant contributions from five other ball carriers, including Willis and breakout receiver Jayden Reed. In total, the Packers finished the day with 53 carries for 261 yards, their most since 2003.Succeeding under these circumstances should be appreciated. LaFleur has long been one of the game's best play-callers, and his status probably deserves another bump after his display of genius this week.This type of malleability, plus an opportunistic defense, will put the Packers in position to steal some wins until Love gets back. Once he returns, this period of run-game experimentation will keep paying off by giving the offense more ways to attack opponents. The Packers are very much alive.<h3>Fields needs to start</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745397/cropped_GettyImages-2172230974.jpg?ts=1726452391" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745397/w220xh124_GettyImages-2172230974.jpg?ts=1726452391 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745397/w320xh180_GettyImages-2172230974.jpg?ts=1726452391 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745397/w640xh360_GettyImages-2172230974.jpg?ts=1726452391 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745397/w768xh432_GettyImages-2172230974.jpg?ts=1726452391 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745397/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2172230974.jpg?ts=1726452391 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Justin Edmonds / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>The Steelers' offense has been anything but spectacular over the first two games of the season. They've managed 31 points in a pair of narrow victories, with Justin Fields throwing for just 273 yards and one touchdown.That may not look like the kind of production that should earn him the full-time starting job after Russell Wilson gets healthy, but this isn't a normal situation.Remember: Pittsburgh's commitment to Wilson is about as negligible as it gets for starting quarterbacks in today's NFL. He's on the books for a veteran's minimum salary this year - which was only possible because he was so disastrous with the Broncos that they moved on despite owing him a fully guaranteed $39 million this season. He never should have been expected to make a huge impact in this offense.In the best-case scenario, this post-post-prime version of Wilson would be able to avoid negative plays, take care of the ball, and not lose games while Pittsburgh's defense wins them. Look beyond the counting stats and that's exactly what Fields is doing while adding a bit of upside as a runner.Don't mess with success. And who knows? Perhaps Fields has more upside to unlock as he continues to grow within this offense. That seems a whole lot better than hoping an aging Wilson can somehow rediscover a level of play we haven't seen in four years.<h3>Quick slants</h3>Caleb getting no help<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745413/cropped_GettyImages-2172276453.jpg?ts=1726459346" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745413/w220xh124_GettyImages-2172276453.jpg?ts=1726459346 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745413/w320xh180_GettyImages-2172276453.jpg?ts=1726459346 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745413/w640xh360_GettyImages-2172276453.jpg?ts=1726459346 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745413/w768xh432_GettyImages-2172276453.jpg?ts=1726459346 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745413/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2172276453.jpg?ts=1726459346 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Alex Slitz / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>The popular idea that the Bears were a dream spot for a No. 1 pick at quarterback focused a little too much on the receiver group. Offensive line and scheme are also significant factors, and neither is doing much to set Caleb Williams up for early success. Chicago's front five was completely overmatched Sunday night in Houston, giving up seven sacks in a frustrating defeat. It was tough to watch the Bears keep trotting out the same basic protection plan only for their young quarterback to continue taking a beating from a ferocious Texans pass-rush. Something has to change if Williams is going to get on the right path as a rookie.Bengals deserved betterCincinnati is 0-2, but not all losses are created equal. Last week's defeat at the hands of the Patriots was cause for concern. This week's loss to the Chiefs, meanwhile, can arguably be considered a moral victory. The Bengals issued an important reminder that, if any team is built to beat Kansas City, they're it. Lou Anarumo's defense continued to give Andy Reid problems, and Joe Burrow was a late pass-interference call away from moving to 4-1 against Patrick Mahomes. The Bengals instead find themselves in a less-than-ideal hole to start the season, but they'll feel a lot better heading into next week after going shot for shot with the champs.Harbaugh cookingThe Chargers are 2-0 for the first time since 2012. Early-season wins over the Raiders and Panthers may not be enough for everyone to buy in just yet, but it sure seems like Jim Harbaugh is providing the kind of stability that has evaded this organization for well over a decade. J.K. Dobbins' sensational start continued this week with another 131 yards, and the Chargers even got two touchdowns out of Quentin Johnston. Keep an extra-close eye on the defense - new coordinator Jesse Minter has quickly brought this group up to speed on his Ravens/Michigan-style system. This team has a real chance to make some noise in the AFC playoff picture.wHaT's HiS tOp SpEeD?If you spend any time on Football Twitter, you're painfully aware that the discussion around Marvin Harrison Jr. following his dud of a debut focused on the No. 4 pick's top recorded speed being a paltry 16.7 mph. Some wondered whether Harrison, who declined to work out for teams leading up to the draft, was much slower than anyone had realized. Thankfully, it didn't take him long to dismantle that narrative in his second game. Harrison exploded for 130 yards and two long touchdowns in the first quarter alone as the Cardinals blew out the Rams. This generational draft prospect is going to be just fine.Kyler is back<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745350/cropped_GettyImages-2172226611.jpg?ts=1726440685" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745350/w220xh124_GettyImages-2172226611.jpg?ts=1726440685 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745350/w320xh180_GettyImages-2172226611.jpg?ts=1726440685 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745350/w640xh360_GettyImages-2172226611.jpg?ts=1726440685 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745350/w768xh432_GettyImages-2172226611.jpg?ts=1726440685 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745350/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2172226611.jpg?ts=1726440685 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Christian Petersen / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Speaking of the Cardinals, I'm pleased to inform you that Kyler Murray is extremely back. The former first overall pick had to ease his way back into action last year after recovering from a major knee injury, but after a complete offseason allowed him to return to full strength, he looks exactly like the electric quarterback we saw before he got hurt. Murray was back to making video game-like plays in Sunday's win over the Rams: He threw for 266 yards, ran for 59, and became the only quarterback this week to pass for three touchdowns. It may take some time for the Cardinals to emerge as consistent contenders, but they should be very fun to watch in the meantime.Hutch taking offAidan Hutchinson is the official way-too-early favorite for Defensive Player of the Year. The Lions edge rusher was unblockable Sunday afternoon against the Buccaneers, racking up 4.5 sacks to put him at 5.5 through two games. Hutchinson took a significant step toward elite status with 11.5 sacks as a sophomore last season, and this early dominance suggests he's lifting his game to yet another level. The Lions will have to budget for yet another market-setting contract - and they'll happily pay up.Vikings here to competeThe Vikings aren't NFC North afterthoughts. While they may lack the star power of their division rivals, this seems like a club that will defy expectations and work its way right into the mix by December. Brian Flores' defense can be a pesky matchup for even the best offenses in football, as six sacks and two turnovers from that group were key to this week's upset of the 49ers. But don't sleep on the offense either. Sam Darnold is proving more than capable of working around the occasional mistake to keep Kevin O'Connell's offense running at a more than acceptable level. His 97-yard touchdown strike to Justin Jefferson was a reminder of the talent that once made him a first-round pick.Seahawks ready to flySqueaking by Denver and New England for a pair of wins to start the season may not seem all that exciting. Look a little closer at Seattle's offense, though, and this thing is just about ready to take off. Geno Smith looked extremely comfortable in his second game in the Seahawks' new system, putting the team on his back with one big-time throw after another against the Patriots. Jaxon Smith-Njigba appears to be ready for a breakout too, as the second-year receiver tallied a team-high 12 catches for 117 yards on the day. Big plays were the selling point of Ryan Grubb's offense coming over from the University of Washington, and that's what we'll get when this group truly hits its stride. That unit working in tandem with a Mike Macdonald defense makes for an especially exciting pairing.Daniels has to protect himselfJayden Daniels has 26 rushing attempts through two games. That puts the Commanders rookie on an early 17-game pace for 221, which would shatter Lamar Jackson's quarterback record of 176. Some of those runs have been by design, while many have been scrambles under pressure. Either way, this volume isn't sustainable. Daniels has always been far too reckless about contact for a player of his size. The No. 2 overall pick getting banged up a bit in Sunday's win over the Giants, a game where he also took five sacks, should encourage the Commanders to do a better job of protecting him than they have so far. The team's future depends on it.<h3>Stat of the week</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence has now lost seven straight starts, the longest active streak in the NFL. He has gone 294 days since his last victory as a starter (Houston Nov. 26, 2023), which is longer than drought between his last college victory and first NFL victory (289 days).— Michael DiRocco (@ESPNdirocco) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNdirocco/status/1835448280639021358?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Quote of the week</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
LaFleur: “I asked Malik why he didn’t throw it on that third down and he told me Josh threw up on the ball.”— Matt Schneidman (@mattschneidman) <a href="https://twitter.com/mattschneidman/status/1835415770903499163?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28362736/related

Key takeaways and analysis from Week 2 in the NFL

Sunday Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.<h3>Bears win anyway</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744307/cropped_GettyImages-2170848039.jpg?ts=1725852964" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744307/w220xh124_GettyImages-2170848039.jpg?ts=1725852964 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744307/w320xh180_GettyImages-2170848039.jpg?ts=1725852964 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744307/w640xh360_GettyImages-2170848039.jpg?ts=1725852964 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744307/w768xh432_GettyImages-2170848039.jpg?ts=1725852964 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744307/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2170848039.jpg?ts=1725852964 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Stacy Revere / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>This is how you support a rookie quarterback, folks.Caleb Williams wasn't exactly spectacular in his long-awaited NFL debut, throwing for just 93 yards and failing to lead a single touchdown drive.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>In almost any other situation, a Week 1 dud from a No. 1 pick at quarterback would set Monday morning talk shows ablaze. Thankfully, we'll instead be discussing how this Bears team doesn't need its rookie signal-caller to be perfect.The special teams unit got Chicago in the end zone for the first time after a blocked punt in the third quarter, and the defense capped an outstanding performance with Tyrique Stevenson's go-ahead pick-6 in the fourth quarter.If you wanted to see more from a signal-caller who generated this much hype, you probably aren't alone. But remember: the transition from college to the NFL isn't seamless for most signal-callers. Sunday's result makes Williams the first quarterback since 2002 to win his debut after being selected No. 1 overall.The fact that the Bears were able to lift him up, rather than counting on him to single-handedly carry the franchise from the jump, should be considered promising for his chances at easing his way into the professional game. It's only a matter of time before his rare abilities become a factor as part of this team's impressive foundation.<h3>Richardson worth the wait</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744305/cropped_GettyImages-2168194116.jpg?ts=1725852899" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744305/w220xh124_GettyImages-2168194116.jpg?ts=1725852899 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744305/w320xh180_GettyImages-2168194116.jpg?ts=1725852899 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744305/w640xh360_GettyImages-2168194116.jpg?ts=1725852899 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744305/w768xh432_GettyImages-2168194116.jpg?ts=1725852899 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744305/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2168194116.jpg?ts=1725852899 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</figcaption></figure>Anthony Richardson was a fascinating draft prospect. Some evaluators were scared off by perceived (and overblown) accuracy issues at Florida. Others were mesmerized by the upside that came with unicorn-like athletic gifts.Doubters may feel vindicated by his 9-of-19 completion rate in the Colts' season opener. The believers, meanwhile, will point to the incredible 11.2 yards per attempt and, well, everything they saw with their eyes. If you're not in the latter category, now may be a good time to join.Richardson made the <a href="https://x.com/Colts/status/1832832736748327323">play of the week</a> early in Sunday's loss to the Texans, unloading under pressure for a monster touchdown strike to Alec Pierce. The 65.3 air yards on the pass represented the third-longest throw tracked by NextGenStats, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/BenjaminSolak/status/1832832962746040530">Benjamin Solak of ESPN</a>.His rare arm talent was also on display on <a href="https://x.com/Colts/status/1832863946098765969">this</a> impressive tight-window touchdown throw to Ashton Dulin.There are bound to be some ups and downs in the early stages of Richardson's game - nobody's denying that. And, if completion percentage is your definition of good quarterback play, perhaps you'll never truly respect his style.But it's these flashes - along with his dynamic abilities as a runner - that separate the good signal-callers from the great ones in today's game. If you want a difference-maker, you should be chasing this kind of upside. The Colts were bold enough to do it, and they may have a future MVP candidate as a result.<h3>No way out</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744306/cropped_GettyImages-2170884050.jpg?ts=1725852918" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744306/w220xh124_GettyImages-2170884050.jpg?ts=1725852918 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744306/w320xh180_GettyImages-2170884050.jpg?ts=1725852918 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744306/w640xh360_GettyImages-2170884050.jpg?ts=1725852918 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744306/w768xh432_GettyImages-2170884050.jpg?ts=1725852918 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744306/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2170884050.jpg?ts=1725852918 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Nick Cammett / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Hope springs eternal with every new NFL season, so it's no surprise that we were all forced to entertain the possibility that, by some miracle, Deshaun Watson would once again become a capable starting quarterback.While Watson's playing time has been sporadic since he joined the Browns in 2022, this season marks his third in Kevin Stefanski's system. Not only has he failed to progress in that time, but one could argue that fading arm talent is actually making him worse.Accuracy was a major issue for Watson in Sunday's loss to the Cowboys. He completed just 24 of 45 passes for 3.8 yards per attempt while also adding a pair of interceptions and taking six sacks. In any other situation, he'd soon find himself either on the bench or cut. But a truly unfathomable contract situation essentially gives the Browns no such option.A quarterback with two fully guaranteed $46-million salaries left on his deal is not going to be sitting on the sidelines. The Browns would take a dead-money hit of $173 million to move on from Watson before the 2025 season, so that almost certainly keeps him around for next year's $72.9 million cap hit, too.There's simply nothing Cleveland can do other than wait out this albatross of a contract and learn from what may be the worst trade and contract in NFL history. Pairing two mistakes of that magnitude together completely wasted an opportunity for a long-suffering organization to build a sustained competitor.<h3>New kickoff</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744308/cropped_GettyImages-2170458676.jpg?ts=1725853015" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744308/w220xh124_GettyImages-2170458676.jpg?ts=1725853015 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744308/w320xh180_GettyImages-2170458676.jpg?ts=1725853015 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744308/w640xh360_GettyImages-2170458676.jpg?ts=1725853015 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744308/w768xh432_GettyImages-2170458676.jpg?ts=1725853015 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744308/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2170458676.jpg?ts=1725853015 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Aaron M. Sprecher / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>It didn't take long for the dynamic kickoff to give us some excitement: Cardinals veteran DeeJay Dallas made history with his 96-yard score early on Sunday afternoon. The first touchdown will be what generates headlines in the coming days, but the real story is that the new format is trending toward being a bit of a letdown.Well under 40% of kickoffs so far this week have been returned. That may represent a higher rate than last season, but it's nowhere near the 70% we saw when teams were feeling out the new rules in the preseason.The probable reason: touchbacks bringing the ball out to the 30-yard line don't do enough to incentivize kickoff teams to keep it in the field of play.If return teams are already going to be bringing kicks back to that range when they get the opportunity, and at least pose the risk of ripping off an even longer return, it's only fair to assume that more and more kickoff teams will be content to send the ball through the end zone.Moving the touchback out to at least the 35-yard line could change the equation, but the league has suggested that any such change likely wouldn't be implemented during the season.So while all football fans should be happy with the player safety benefits of the dynamic kickoff, we may be a few further changes away from teams truly embracing it from a strategy standpoint.<h3>Quick slants</h3>Rough start for Cousins<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744310/cropped_GettyImages-2170257925.jpg?ts=1725854120" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744310/w220xh124_GettyImages-2170257925.jpg?ts=1725854120 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744310/w320xh180_GettyImages-2170257925.jpg?ts=1725854120 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744310/w640xh360_GettyImages-2170257925.jpg?ts=1725854120 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744310/w768xh432_GettyImages-2170257925.jpg?ts=1725854120 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744310/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2170257925.jpg?ts=1725854120 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</figcaption></figure>Kirk Cousins didn't have the expected impact in his Falcons debut, throwing for just 155 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions in a loss to the Steelers. It'll likely take some time for him to settle back in after working his way back from last year's Achilles tear, but the schedule isn't going to do him any favors. Atlanta could be looking at a disastrous 0-3 to start the season with prime-time games against the Eagles and Chiefs coming up over the next two weeks. While that may not be insurmountable in the NFC South, the Falcons would have little room for error from that point forward.Bengals (don't) do it againA stunning season-opening loss to the Patriots now makes the Bengals 1-10 in the first two weeks of the season under Zac Taylor. As we've seen in recent seasons, early stumbles are no reason to count this team out. But how does this keep happening? It's hard not to think that the offense would have been better prepared to hit the ground running if Ja'Marr Chase wasn't in and out of practice due to a contract standoff. The Bengals' front office seems dead set on outclassing the Cowboys in the business of needlessly delaying inevitable extensions.New year, same PanthersLast year couldn't have gone much worse for the Panthers, so it was easy to feel like they might be heading back in the right direction after a productive offseason. And maybe they are. It's tough to draw conclusions based on one game. But opening the season with a 47-10 loss to the Saints feels like a whole lot more of the same. The offense remained feckless, with Bryce Young posting a 10.7 QBR that would have been his second-worst output last year. Things didn't go any better on the other side of the ball, as Carolina couldn't force a punt until the Saints were pulling starters in garbage time. It might be another long year for Panthers fans.Marv's breakout delayedThe Cardinals' offense had some good moments in Sunday's loss to the Bills, but the lack of involvement for Marvin Harrison Jr. was rather jarring. The highly touted receiver had one catch for four yards on three targets in his NFL debut. If you were one of those fantasy managers drafting him as a top-10 receiver, don't get discouraged by a slow start. Justin Jefferson had two catches in his NFL debut before going on to finish his rookie year with 1,400 yards. The Cardinals are well aware of what they have in Harrison, so it shouldn't be long before he gets involved in a big way.DJ's disaster game<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744218/cropped_GettyImages-2170861938.jpg?ts=1725828224" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744218/w220xh124_GettyImages-2170861938.jpg?ts=1725828224 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744218/w320xh180_GettyImages-2170861938.jpg?ts=1725828224 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744218/w640xh360_GettyImages-2170861938.jpg?ts=1725828224 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744218/w768xh432_GettyImages-2170861938.jpg?ts=1725828224 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744218/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2170861938.jpg?ts=1725828224 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Mitchell Leff / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Football fans got a unique behind-the-scenes look at the Giants' roster-building process when the team was featured in the first-ever offseason edition of Hard Knocks. There's something extra mystifying about seeing a team talk itself into another year of Daniel Jones only to immediately end up looking delusional. Jones averaged 4.4 yards per attempt in Sunday's loss to the Vikings, posting a minus-17.3% completion percentage above expectation, according to Next Gen Stats. He also threw two interceptions and took five sacks, garnering merciless boos from the home crowd. The silver lining for Giants fans is that they may be in the poll position for the No. 1 pick and a new quarterback next spring.Mixon rejuvenatedIt seems the football world was sleeping on the Texans' offseason addition of Joe Mixon. The veteran back was a workhorse in his Texans debut, taking 30 carries for 159 yards, his highest total since 2021. The Texans' offense is tough enough to stop with C.J. Stroud on the doorstep of elite QB status and Stefon Diggs joining a dynamic receiving corps. A meaningful upgrade to last year's run game (26th EPA/play, 27th success rate) could send this offense through the roof.Dobbins is hereJ.K. Dobbins being forced to settle for a one-year, $1.6-million contract with the Chargers is already looking a little silly. The former Ravens second-round pick seemingly needed less than one game to pass Gus Edwards on the depth chart, spearheading a power run game with 135 yards and one touchdown on just 10 carries. Dobbins has always had top-10 running back potential, but poor injury luck consistently held him back in Baltimore. Now healthy, he could be in for a massive year as the lead back on an offense that is going to run the ball no matter what.All-time terrible decisionAntonio Pierce's first game as the Raiders' full-time head coach gave us one of the worst fourth-down decisions you'll ever see in a professional football game. Facing 4th-and-1 from the Chargers' 43-yard line, trailing 16-10 with 7:15 to play, Pierce opted to send in the punt team. The Chargers promptly put together an eight-play, 92-yard touchdown drive to put the game out of reach and seal Jim Harbaugh's first win. NFL coaching staffs have limitless resources - there is no excuse for being this bad at fourth-down calls. And yet here we are, in the year 2024, still talking about decisions that any teenage football fan could get right based on their Madden experience.<h3>Stat of the week</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Since signing a four-year, $160 million contract with Giants before last season, Daniel Jones has thrown more TD passes to the opposition (3 pick 6s) than to his own team (2 TD passes)— Josh Dubow (@JoshDubowAP) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoshDubowAP/status/1832974858705330347?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28290023/related

Key takeaways and analysis from Week 1 in the NFL

The 2024 NFL Draft began Thursday with a drama-filled first round. But this party's only getting ...

The 2024 NFL Draft began Thursday with a drama-filled first round. But this party's only getting started.Day 2 begins Friday at 7 p.m. ET. Here's our best guess as to how things could shake out when teams are back on the clock for Rounds 2-3.<h3>Round 2</h3>33. Buffalo Bills: Adonai Mitchell, WR, Texas<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Bills finally stay put and draft the biggest playmaker at wide receiver on the board after moving back twice in the first round.34. New England Patriots: Troy Franklin, WR, OregonThe Patriots have their quarterback of the future in Drake Maye. The next order of business: Making sure he gets a better supporting cast than Mac Jones.35. Arizona Cardinals: Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, AlabamaMcKinstry should come into Arizona as a starting-caliber cornerback opposite Sean Murphy-Bunting.36. Washington Commanders: Kingsley Suamataia, OL, BYUThe Commanders are in the market for multiple upgrades at offensive line in an effort to set up Jayden Daniels for success. Suamataia is a future starter at left tackle.37. Los Angeles Chargers: Roman Wilson, WR, MichiganIt's only a matter of time before Jim Harbaugh picks a Michigan prospect. Wilson helps the Chargers' receiving corps and reunites with his former college coach.38. Tennessee Titans: Adisa Isaac, EDGE, Penn StateThe Titans need to upgrade their edge-rush spot opposite Harold Landry III. Isaac can compete to start from Day 1.39. Carolina Panthers: Jackson Powers-Johnson, OL, OregonArguably the best true center in the draft, Powers-Johnson beefs up the Panthers' offensive line and serves as a wall for Bryce Young.40. Commanders: Cooper DeJean, CB, IowaWashington gets a steal in DeJean, an instinctive and versatile defensive back who many considered to be a first-round lock.41. Green Bay Packers: Payton Wilson, LB, NC StateWilson has a bunch of medical concerns, but he'll give the Packers a dangerous 1-2 pairing at linebacker with Quay Walker - if he can avoid the blue tent.42. Houston Texans: Edgerrin Cooper, LB, Texas A&amp;MCooper plays 100 miles per hour and that kind of intensity feels perfect for a DeMeco Ryans defense that could use help at linebacker.43. Atlanta Falcons: Marshawn Kneeland, EDGE, Western MichiganNo pass-rusher on the Falcons posted more than 6.5 sacks last season. Kneeland's exactly the injection Atlanta needs in that department.44. Las Vegas Raiders: Jer'Zhan Newton, DL, IllinoisThe Raiders went with the best player available when they took Brock Bowers on Day 1 and that continues here. Newton's an outstanding interior pass-rusher who should have been a first-round pick.45. New Orleans Saints: Keon Coleman, WR, Florida StateDerek Carr could use a big, freakish receiving threat. There isn't one better than Coleman, who was a contested-catch monster at Florida State.46. Indianapolis Colts: Max Melton, CB, RutgersConnecting high-end athletes to the Colts is always a pretty safe bet. Melton fills a need at cornerback with impressive physical gifts.47. New York Giants: Jonathon Brooks, RB, TexasThe first running back comes off the board at last. Brooks has Saquon Barley-sized shoes to fill but if there's any back in this draft class who can be a game-changer, it's him.48. Jacksonville Jaguars: T.J. Tampa, CB, Iowa StateThe Jaguars got their big-play receiver in Round 1, but they can't afford to ignore their cornerback needs much longer.49. Cincinnati Bengals: Ladd McConkey, WR, GeorgiaThere's no telling what'll happen with Bengals receiver Tee Higgins' trade request. A high-floor insurance policy like McConkey would be a wise investment.50. Philadelphia Eagles: Jeremiah Trotter Jr., LB, ClemsonPhilly has to find a way to improve at linebacker. Trotter's an instinctive player who could follow in his father's footsteps and emerge as a long-term leader in the middle for the Eagles.51. Pittsburgh Steelers: Zach Frazier, OL, West VirginiaThe Steelers aren't done rebuilding their offensive line just yet. Pittsburgh grabs Frazier to shore up the center position - a major weakness last year for the AFC North team.52. Los Angeles Rams: Tyler Nubin, S, MinnesotaThe Rams continue to upgrade defensively by taking the class' No. 1 safety. Nubin's a well-rounded prospect who can contribute in all areas of the defensive game.53. Eagles: Blake Fisher, OL, Notre DameFisher's a great choice as a developmental offensive tackle who already comes with starting experience. Perhaps he can take over for Lane Johnson in the future.54. Cleveland Browns: Braden Fiske, DL, Florida StateFiske doesn't have ideal size, but opposing linemen will have a tough time dealing with his explosiveness as a pass-rusher. He's the kind of player the Browns need as an interior complement to Myles Garrett.55. Miami Dolphins: Christian Haynes, OL, ConnecticutThe Dolphins suffered a massive departure on the interior after losing Robert Hunt in free agency. Haynes could very well become a starter with some polish.56. Dallas Cowboys: Trey Benson, RB, Florida StateThe Cowboys miss out on Brooks to address their running back need, but Benson has superstar potential, too. His combination of speed and contact balance could make him a threat to take any play to the house.57. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB, MissouriThe Buccaneers' cornerback room got seriously thin after the loss of Carlton Davis. Rakestraw beefs up a group headlined by Jamel Dean.58. Packers: Jaden Hicks, S, Washington StateAnother defensive selection, Hicks gives the Packers two intriguing safeties along with Xavier McKinney.59. Texans: Mike Sainristil, CB, MichiganDeMeco Ryans would love to add a blue-chip defensive prospect like Sainristil. It's not hard to imagine Sainristil taking the starting nickel cornerback role from Desmond King.60. Bills: Kamari Lassiter, CB, GeorgiaThe Bills turn their attention to the defensive backfield after opening Day 2 with a receiver. Lassiter has the instincts to overcome anything he may lack in athleticism.61. Detroit Lions: Kris Jenkins, DL, MichiganA stout run defender with NFL bloodlines and a championship with Michigan sounds like the perfect fit for Dan Campbell.62. Baltimore Ravens: Cooper Beebe, OL, Kansas StateBeebe's a powerful player who slides in nicely as the starting left guard for a Ravens offensive line that lost a few key pieces this offseason.63. San Francisco 49ers: Andru Phillips, CB, KentuckyThe 49ers take a flyer on a physical cornerback who adds valuable depth to their secondary.64. Kansas City Chiefs: Patrick Paul, OL, HoustonThe Chiefs made their big addition at receiver with Xavier Worthy in Round 1. A left tackle is the next priority, and Paul has the size and athletic gifts to develop into a solid starter at the spot.<h3>Round 3</h3>65. Panthers: Chris Braswell, EDGE, Alabama66. Cardinals: Javon Baker, WR, UCF67. Commanders: Bralen Trice, EDGE, Washington68. Patriots: Kiran Amegadjie, OL, Yale69. Chargers: Blake Corum, RB, Michigan70. Giants: Ja'Tavion Sanders, TE, Texas71. Cardinals: Mason McCormick, OL, South Dakota State72. New York Jets: Malachi Corley, WR, Western Kentucky73. Cowboys: Tanor Bortolini, OL, Wisconsin74. Falcons: Kris Abrams-Draine, CB, Missouri75. Bears: Jonah Elliss, EDGE, Utah76. Denver Broncos: Ja'Lynn Polk, WR, Washington77. Raiders: Spencer Rattler, QB, South Carolina78. Commanders: Caelen Carson, CB, Wake Forest79. Falcons: Jermaine Burton, WR, Alabama80. Bengals: Michael Hall Jr., DL, Ohio State81. Seattle Seahawks: Renardo Green, CB, Florida State82. Colts: Devontez Walker, WR, North Carolina83. Rams: Brandon Coleman, OL, TCU84. Steelers: Jalen McMillan, WR, Washington85. Browns: Junior Colson, LB, Michigan86. Texans: Brandon Dorlus, DL, Oregon87. Cowboys: Johnny Wilson, WR, Florida State88. Packers: Mekhi Wingo, DL, LSU89. Buccaneers: Ben Sinnott, TE, Kansas State90. Cardinals: Jaylen Wright, RB, Tennessee91. Packers: Jarrian Jones, CB, Florida State92. Buccaneers: Trevin Wallace, LB, Kentucky93. Ravens: Austin Booker, EDGE, Kansas94. 49ers: Roger Rosengarten, OL, Washington95. Bills: Maason Smith, DL, LSU96. Jaguars: T'Vondre Sweat, DL, Texas97. Bengals: Braelon Allen, RB, Wisconsin98. Steelers: Javon Bullard, S, Georgia99. Rams: Ruke Orhorhoro, DL, Clemson100. Commanders: Theo Johnson, TE, Penn State

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/27100082/related

Day 2 NFL mock draft: Picks for Rounds 2-3

Draft day is finally here.  We've got you covered with all the mock scenarios you could possibly ...

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/27087620/related

2024 NFL mock draft: Final picks ahead of Round 1

theScore's prospect rankings series takes a position-by-position look at the top players in the 2...

theScore's prospect rankings series takes a position-by-position look at the top players in the 2024 NFL Draft.Top 50 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2877628" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2877628">QB</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2884554" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2884554">RB</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2884479" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2884479">WR</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2884485" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2884485">TE</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2884555" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2884555">OL</a> <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2884550" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2884550">ED</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2884556" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2884556">DL</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2884552" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2884552">LB</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2884551" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2884551">CB</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2884553" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2884553">SAF</a><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Top 50 big board" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-TBijB" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/TBijB/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="1738" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>
Top 50 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2877628" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2877628">QB</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2884554" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2884554">RB</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2884479" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2884479">WR</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2884485" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2884485">TE</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2884555" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2884555">OL</a> <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2884550" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2884550">ED</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2884556" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2884556">DL</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2884552" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2884552">LB</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2884551" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2884551">CB</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2884553" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2884553">SAF</a>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/27062209/related

2024 NFL Draft prospect rankings: Top 50

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/27005720/related

2024 NFL Draft prospect rankings: DL

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/26988346/related

2024 NFL Draft prospect rankings: OL

The 2024 NFL Draft kicks off two weeks from tonight.  While the first pick seems to have been loc...

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/26957118/related

NFL mock draft: Updated projections 2 weeks out

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/26938830/related

2024 NFL Draft prospect rankings: RBs

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/26930626/related

2024 NFL Draft prospect rankings: QBs

The NFL looks a whole lot different than it did this time last week.  A busy first wave of free a...

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/26730345/related

2024 NFL mock draft: Post-free agency edition

The Minnesota Vikings are expected to sign free-agent quarterback Sam Darnold to a one-year, $10-...

The Minnesota Vikings are expected to sign free-agent quarterback Sam Darnold to a one-year, $10-million contract, according to <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1767416315935953277?s=20">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero</a>.News of the agreement with Darnold comes the same day Minnesota saw longtime starter Kirk Cousins reach a deal to join the Atlanta Falcons.The No. 3 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, Darnold lasted only three seasons with the New York Jets before being traded to the Carolina Panthers. His struggles continued after the change of scenery, however, as he started only 17 games across two years in Carolina before departing as a free agent.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Darnold settled for a backup role with the San Francisco 49ers last season, serving as the No. 2 quarterback behind Brock Purdy. He started one game for the NFC champions, finishing the year completing 28 of 46 passes for 297 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception.The 26-year-old could temporarily be penciled in as Minnesota's starting quarterback, pending a significant addition in April's draft. The Vikings currently hold the No. 11 overall pick after posting a 7-10 record in 2023.

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 07: Sam Darnold #14 of the San Francisco 49ers looks to pass in the first half during a game against the Los Angeles Rams at Levi's Stadium on January 07, 2024 in Santa Clara, California.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/26671891/related

Report: Vikings signing Darnold to 1-year, $10M deal

NFL free agency kicks off Monday with the beginning of the negotiating period.  After starting wi...

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/26655397/related

NFL free-agency predictions: Top defensive players

NFL free agency is almost here.  The festivities get underway with the beginning of the negotiati...

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/26641873/related

NFL free-agency predictions: Top offensive players

The conclusion of the NFL Scouting Combine means it's time for another mock draft.  Here's our la...

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/26596569/related

2024 NFL mock draft: Post-combine edition

Draft season is officially here.  The conclusion of the 2023 campaign turns our focus to offseaso...

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/26408921/related

2024 NFL Mock Draft: Post-Super Bowl edition

Sunday Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.<h3>A rare opportunity</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611578/cropped_GettyImages-1925911478.jpg?ts=1705281189" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611578/w220xh124_GettyImages-1925911478.jpg?ts=1705281189 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611578/w320xh180_GettyImages-1925911478.jpg?ts=1705281189 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611578/w640xh360_GettyImages-1925911478.jpg?ts=1705281189 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611578/w768xh432_GettyImages-1925911478.jpg?ts=1705281189 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611578/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1925911478.jpg?ts=1705281189 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</figcaption></figure>How 'bout them Cowboys?This was supposed to be the year. Entering the playoffs as the No. 2 seed and fresh off posting their best point differential since 1968, anything short of a trip to the NFC title game was going to be a disappointment for Dallas. Yet that somehow doesn't even begin to describe what happened Sunday afternoon.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Green Bay raced out to a 27-0 lead before Dallas could get its bearings on either side of the ball. The offense made a charge in the second half, but it was too little, too late - there was no coming back from that start. The 48-32 loss makes the Cowboys the first team to fall to a No. 7 seed since the NFL's playoff expansion. And it was also their first home defeat of the season.Naturally, the football world is now waiting to hear about Mike McCarthy's future. Fans were calling for his job before halftime, and Jerry Jones dodging coaching questions postgame only added to the speculation.It would be wildly unfair to pin all of this on McCarthy alone. He's led Dallas to three consecutive 12-win seasons, the organization's most victories over three years since the Super Bowl teams of the '90s. And it should be noted that Jones has stood by his coaches amid much less regular-season success before. But this one still feels different.Even the biggest Cowboys haters will admit this team is close. The pieces are in place. McCarthy might get them there; he might not. But the mounting pressure to get it done now, combined with a truly historic crop of available coaches, should lead to Jones making a change.Whether it's Bill Belichick, Jim Harbaugh, Mike Vrabel, Pete Carroll, or one of the rising star assistants, there is no shortage of candidates for ownership to make a meaningful upgrade at head coach. Even if Jones hasn't lost complete faith in McCarthy, the time is now.Running it back isn't an option if you can get one of the best coaches in the game.<h3>Implosion complete</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611767/cropped_GettyImages-1935944406.jpg?ts=1705381782" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611767/w220xh124_GettyImages-1935944406.jpg?ts=1705381782 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611767/w320xh180_GettyImages-1935944406.jpg?ts=1705381782 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611767/w640xh360_GettyImages-1935944406.jpg?ts=1705381782 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611767/w768xh432_GettyImages-1935944406.jpg?ts=1705381782 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611767/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1935944406.jpg?ts=1705381782 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Julio Aguilar / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Speaking of coaches on the hot seat: Nick Sirianni might be in trouble.The Eagles were 10-1 at the end of November. They went 1-6 from that point forward, with the dagger being a blowout loss to the Bucs in wild-card action on Monday night. It's not often we see a team go from Super Bowl favorite to colossal embarrassment in seven short weeks.We could say it came out of nowhere, but that wouldn't quite be true. Despite the impressive start, it always felt like the defending NFC champs were missing something.Jalen Hurts wasn't playing at the level he had enjoyed last season, even though some all-important QB wins were vaulting him to the top of the MVP conversation. By the end of the year, he looked lost in the pocket. While the Eagles would like to get more out of their $51-million quarterback, a milquetoast offense so regularly asking him to create his own answers for the blitz, among other things, certainly isn't helping.Sirianni did attempt to make adjustments on the defensive side of the ball, installing Matt Patricia as the play-caller down the stretch. But the issues only snowballed from there. Coverage busts and tackling calamities saw Philly's defense get picked apart by Tampa Bay's 17th-ranked passing attack.Firing Sirianni so soon after a Super Bowl appearance would be bold. It's entirely possible that the front office isn't even willing to consider it. But after a meaningful stretch in which the Eagles were legitimately one of the worst teams in football, and the coaching staff was doing nothing to help pull them out of the funk, how can you have any confidence that he's the one to salvage this mess?There are a number of star coaches on the market, many of whom would likely jump at the opportunity to coach this roster. Can the Eagles afford to pass that up?There's no time for patience when you're chasing a Super Bowl.<h3>Love ascending</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611568/cropped_GettyImages-1925910571.jpg?ts=1705275287" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611568/w220xh124_GettyImages-1925910571.jpg?ts=1705275287 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611568/w320xh180_GettyImages-1925910571.jpg?ts=1705275287 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611568/w640xh360_GettyImages-1925910571.jpg?ts=1705275287 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611568/w768xh432_GettyImages-1925910571.jpg?ts=1705275287 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611568/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1925910571.jpg?ts=1705275287 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Cooper Neill / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Don't let Dallas choking in the playoffs steal all the spotlight from Sunday's blowout - that's not exactly a new development.The Packers going on the road to beat the Cowboys on Wild Card Weekend was also, and perhaps more importantly, the confirmation of everything we saw from their young quarterback down the stretch. Jordan Love is a budding superstar.It hasn't been the cleanest of seasons for the first-time starter. After a spectacular debut against the Bears, I wrote about how Green Bay could be transitioning to a third straight franchise-caliber quarterback. That notion seemed a little premature by the end of October when some offensive struggles resulted in the Packers dropping to 2-5.As it turns out, though, there was bound to be some growing pains with such a young roster. The flashes were the real indicator of what was to come. The Packers offense started to clean up some rookie-like mistakes in November, and the wins soon followed.Love has been the key to it all, showing exactly why the Packers were willing to make him a first-round pick in 2020 despite Aaron Rodgers' presence. He was near perfect in Dallas, completing 16 of 21 passes for 272 yards (13 yards per attempt!), three touchdowns, and no turnovers.The Utah State product has always had top-end arm talent and the athleticism to create outside of structure. After taking a few years to develop behind Rodgers, he's also now demonstrating the accuracy, poise, and vision to put it all together.The Packers have their work cut out for them next week in San Francisco, but that's more about Joe Barry's responsibilities to slow down Kyle Shanahan's offense. This season is an enormous victory for Green Bay, no matter what happens from here on out.Love might be a top-10 quarterback heading into next season. How in the world do the Packers keep doing this?<h3>Texans vindicated</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611419/cropped_GettyImages-1923329713.jpg?ts=1705188442" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611419/w220xh124_GettyImages-1923329713.jpg?ts=1705188442 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611419/w320xh180_GettyImages-1923329713.jpg?ts=1705188442 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611419/w640xh360_GettyImages-1923329713.jpg?ts=1705188442 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611419/w768xh432_GettyImages-1923329713.jpg?ts=1705188442 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611419/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1923329713.jpg?ts=1705188442 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Cooper Neill / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>This space could again be used to talk about how fun the Texans are right now. Houston seems destined for great things with DeMeco Ryans and C.J. Stroud leading the way, and a playoff victory in Year 1 of this new era is only the beginning of that journey.But Houston's resurgence has been clear for the better part of the last few months. Instead, let's take it back to April's draft.The Texans stole the show in the first round by following up the Stroud pick by striking a blockbuster deal, moving from No. 12 to No. 3 to get Will Anderson Jr. While the Alabama pass-rusher certainly deserved such a high selection, the Texans drew some intense criticism for surrendering a package of picks that, among other assets, included their 2024 first-rounder.Even with Stroud and Anderson in the mix, it seemed reasonable to suggest that this team was still at least another year away from opening a competitive window. Had that pick ended up in the top five, for example, Houston could have been passing up an opportunity to land a generational receiver talent like Marvin Harrison Jr.Well, so much for that.The Texans eliminating the Browns in the wild-card round guarantees that the pick sent to Arizona will be later than the 2024 first-rounder they still own from Cleveland in the Deshaun Watson trade.Did the Texans make the Anderson trade knowing they'd be in this position? Probably not. But it sure seems like they did so with supreme confidence that they'd be competitive enough to have no regrets next April. And they were right.It's been an incredible year in Houston, and it's not done yet.<h3>Quick slants</h3>Right on time<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611461/cropped_GettyImages-1931251400.jpg?ts=1705204115" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611461/w220xh124_GettyImages-1931251400.jpg?ts=1705204115 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611461/w320xh180_GettyImages-1931251400.jpg?ts=1705204115 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611461/w640xh360_GettyImages-1931251400.jpg?ts=1705204115 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611461/w768xh432_GettyImages-1931251400.jpg?ts=1705204115 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611461/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1931251400.jpg?ts=1705204115 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Jamie Squire / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>We've been waiting all year for this. No matter what Patrick Mahomes did, this offense was always going to need another reliable target for the Chiefs to make a run. Enter Rashee Rice. The second-round rookie proved more than capable of a high-volume role in Saturday's win over the Dolphins, turning his 12 targets into eight catches for a season-high 130 yards and one touchdown. You didn't think the Chiefs would go away that quietly, did you?Lions won the trade, tooThe Rams will forever be seen as the big winners of the Matthew Stafford-Jared Goff trade. That's how it works when you swing big for the quarterback who leads you to a Super Bowl. But that deal was every bit as crucial for the Lions. Detroit received a pair of first-round picks that, through some savvy trade work, helped it land key pieces like Jameson Williams, Jahmyr Gibbs, and Sam LaPorta. And while it seemed like Goff was a throw-in, the veteran quarterback has been a key figure in revitalizing this organization. Goff and the Lions outdueling Stafford and the Rams for the franchise's first playoff win in 32 years is as good as it gets for playoff football. Detroit is going to be an incredible postseason atmosphere for years to come.Rams back in the mixThe Rams' short- and long-term future was decidedly murky this time last year. Sean McVay was worn out and considering retirement after a 5-12 season, injuries were mounting for an aging Stafford, and some ultra-aggressive personnel moves left the roster in shambles. And yet here they were, a few plays away from knocking off an outstanding Lions team on the road in the playoffs. McVay recommitted himself early in the offseason and teamed up with Les Snead to rebuild the roster with a loaded draft class. The on-field work was equally impressive, and turning such a young group into a legitimate contender should be considered McVay's best work yet. The Rams can expect to be back here next year. And they'll likely be there more often than not for as long as McVay leads the way.Bills injuries piling upThe Bills are an absolute wagon. They've completely righted the ship after some midseason turmoil, and Josh Allen is playing as well as any quarterback in the league. This season could very well be Buffalo's best opportunity to chase down its first Super Bowl in franchise history. Keep an eye on the injury situation, though. An already thin defense lost several more starters in Monday's win over the Steelers, with Taron Johnson, Christian Benford, and Terrel Bernard among those sidelined. That's not how you want to head into a divisional-round matchup with Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs. The Bills will have to hope that at least a few of their banged-up starters can get back in time for Sunday night.Decision time in Miami<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611486/cropped_GettyImages-1931130250.jpg?ts=1705237308" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611486/w220xh124_GettyImages-1931130250.jpg?ts=1705237308 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611486/w320xh180_GettyImages-1931130250.jpg?ts=1705237308 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611486/w640xh360_GettyImages-1931130250.jpg?ts=1705237308 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611486/w768xh432_GettyImages-1931130250.jpg?ts=1705237308 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611486/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1931130250.jpg?ts=1705237308 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Jamie Squire / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Tua Tagovailoa is a productive player. He's also been a good fit for Mike McDaniel's system. After leading the league in passing this season, Tagovailoa will be looking for an extension that makes him one of the NFL's highest-paid quarterbacks. Saturday's loss to the Chiefs all but confirms that the Dolphins should have no interest in such a deal. Those contracts are difficult to justify if your quarterback hasn't shown the ability to elevate the offense around him. To this point, that's where we are with Tagovailoa. While letting him play out the last year of his deal is the most likely scenario, there should be nothing stopping Miami from going in a new direction as soon as next season. It's worth considering whether veteran quarterbacks like Kirk Cousins or Geno Smith could be the final piece for this team.Don't blame TomlinSteelers fans are going to be annoyed at the continued lack of playoff success. That's a fair gripe. But let's be honest: Pittsburgh had no business even being in the postseason with the quarterbacks on this roster. Looking beyond the final game, this was yet another year of the Steelers outperforming their talent level and willing their way into the playoffs. That's a credit, first and foremost, to Mike Tomlin. There have been rumblings that his future with the team is somewhat unsettled, and the longtime head coach walking out of his postgame presser won't exactly put those questions to bed. But the Steelers need to find a way to get this sorted out. There aren't many teams in the league who wouldn't jump at the chance to hire one of the best coaches in football.Bucs defy the oddsThe Bucs are off to the divisional round after putting the Eagles out of their misery on Monday night. Philly's collapse will be the main talking point from the wild-card finale, but be sure to give Tampa Bay its credit, too. An all-in approach to win with Tom Brady left the organization carrying more than $81 million in dead money on the salary cap this season. That would have been a totally reasonable excuse for a rough year. Except the Bucs, led by a resurgent Baker Mayfield on a $4-million deal, went on to win the NFC South. It'll be fascinating to see what this team can do with some money to spend in the offseason ahead.Browns' road failuresThe Browns defense getting shredded by the Texans was a surprising development over the weekend. Maybe it shouldn't have been. In one of the most bizarre statistical splits you'll ever see, Cleveland's defense finished the year allowing 13.9 points per game at home and 31.3 points per contest on the road. That's the NFL's largest home-road differential since 1982, according to <a href="https://x.com/Jake_Trotter/status/1746630898366255140?s=20">ESPN</a>. How could this possibly happen? Your guess is as good as mine.<h3>Stat of the week</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Jordan Love in December and January 🏈 69.4% completion (3rd in NFL) 🏈 14 TDs (1st) 🏈 90.7 <a href="https://twitter.com/PFF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PFF</a> OFF grade (1st) 🏈 90.3 <a href="https://twitter.com/PFF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PFF</a> PASS grade (1st) 🏈 15 Big Time Throws (2nd) 🏈 0.328 EPA/play (1st) 🏈 7.4 CPOE (1st) 🏈 53.5% success rate (2nd) <a href="https://t.co/8BHHdurWXU">pic.twitter.com/8BHHdurWXU</a>— Ross Uglem (@RossUglem) <a href="https://twitter.com/RossUglem/status/1746936958582980921?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/26200934/related

Key takeaways and analysis from Wild Card Weekend

The NFL coaching carousel is already off to the most chaotic of starts. Bill Belichick is out in ...

The NFL coaching carousel is already off to the most chaotic of starts. Bill Belichick is out in New England, Pete Carroll is done in Seattle, and Jim Harbaugh is seemingly itching to get back in the league.In total, one-quarter of the NFL is looking for a new head coach. Let's play matchmaker with the current openings, identifying possible candidates for all eight teams.<h3>Chargers</h3>Jim Harbaugh<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610561/cropped_GettyImages-1910723722.jpg?ts=1704824847" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610561/w220xh124_GettyImages-1910723722.jpg?ts=1704824847 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610561/w320xh180_GettyImages-1910723722.jpg?ts=1704824847 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610561/w640xh360_GettyImages-1910723722.jpg?ts=1704824847 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610561/w768xh432_GettyImages-1910723722.jpg?ts=1704824847 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610561/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1910723722.jpg?ts=1704824847 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</figcaption></figure>Notoriously hesitant to spend big money on their coaches, it isn't difficult to envision a scenario where the Chargers find themselves losing out on the top candidates. This isn't exactly an organization known for bold moves. But if ever there were a season that could finally push ownership to step up, it's probably the embarrassing final year of the Brandon Staley era. The Chargers desperately need to nail this hire, and Harbaugh should be their No. 1 target.Harbaugh, now a national champion, has accomplished everything he set out to do at Michigan. With NFL interest seemingly at an all-time high and the threat of further NCAA sanctions looming, there would be no better time to make his return to the professional level. And in case you forgot about his four years in San Francisco, there should be no question about his ability to coach in the NFL. The Chargers job will come with some challenges, including a salary cap situation that's going to necessitate the departure of some key players. But the opportunity to team up with Justin Herbert and return to the West Coast should make this Harbaugh's top landing spot.<h3>Falcons</h3>Bill BelichickThe greatest coach in NFL history roaming the sidelines in a cutoff Falcons hoodie? Yeah, it's a little bizarre. But the idea of Belichick coaching any other team after 24 years in New England is going to require an adjustment period for all of us. Once we get past the weirdness of it all, it's easy to see how this could be a match.Belichick is going to need a situation where he's given full control of the football operations, much like he had with the Patriots. The Falcons, fresh off a third straight 7-10 season, should have no hesitations about ceding such power to someone with this kind of resume. At some point, Arthur Blank has to take a big swing to drag this organization away from eternal mediocrity. He can offer Belichick a talented roster, full autonomy, all the money he wants, and the opportunity to coach in the NFC South. It wouldn't be long before he gets the 15 wins he needs to pass Don Shula for the all-time record, including playoffs.The Falcons would be wise to get this thing done as soon as possible. They're the best fit for Belichick right now, but that could change as certain teams start bowing out of the playoffs. (More on that below)<h3>Patriots</h3>Mike Vrabel<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610477/cropped_GettyImages-1915090052.jpg?ts=1704753362" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610477/w220xh124_GettyImages-1915090052.jpg?ts=1704753362 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610477/w320xh180_GettyImages-1915090052.jpg?ts=1704753362 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610477/w640xh360_GettyImages-1915090052.jpg?ts=1704753362 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610477/w768xh432_GettyImages-1915090052.jpg?ts=1704753362 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610477/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1915090052.jpg?ts=1704753362 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Wesley Hitt / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>It was time for change in New England. That reality could, in theory, lead to Robert Kraft going off the board and embracing an entirely new approach throughout the organization. But does anyone really believe this hire isn't going to be someone who already has ties to the organization? The "Patriot Way" has been far too successful - in Foxboro, specifically - for ownership to abandon it completely.Fortunately for Kraft, the Titans making the surprise decision to dump Vrabel presents him with a dream transition scenario. Vrabel played eight seasons in New England, winning three Super Bowls in the early stages of the Patriots dynasty. He was inducted into the team's Hall of Fame during his bye week this season, and his overwhelming praise for the organization <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2818922" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2818922">reportedly</a> wasn't well-received by Titans ownership. Most importantly of all, it just so happens that Vrabel is, at worst, one of the top 10 coaches in the game today. He's the perfect candidate to provide a new voice while also understanding everything that's long made this organization great. Vrabel would be a home-run hire.Editor's note: The Patriots <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2819921" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2819921">hired</a> linebackers coach Jerod Mayo to succeed Belichick.<h3>Seahawks</h3>Mike MacdonaldPete Carroll moving on was another shocker. He'd been one of the NFL's best coaches for the extent of his 14 years in Seattle, and the organization now has some pretty big shoes to fill in the coming weeks. Dan Quinn has already been reported as a possible front-runner, and it wouldn't be a surprise to see the Seahawks take that route, opting for a familiar face by hiring their former defensive coordinator. But it shouldn't be that simple.This will be a desirable job with the potential to attract a number of qualified candidates around the league. While Quinn belongs in that conversation after continued success in Dallas, the ceiling seems significantly higher with an up-and-coming defensive mind like Macdonald. The Ravens coordinator has needed only two seasons to build the NFL's best defense since arriving from Michigan. And after statement performances against previously unstoppable offenses like that of the 49ers and Dolphins, his system may well be the future of the league. Macdonald and general manager John Schneider could be an extremely successful tandem.<h3>Raiders</h3>Antonio Pierce<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/599911/cropped_GettyImages-1777157317.jpg?ts=1699246108" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/599911/w220xh124_GettyImages-1777157317.jpg?ts=1699246108 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/599911/w320xh180_GettyImages-1777157317.jpg?ts=1699246108 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/599911/w640xh360_GettyImages-1777157317.jpg?ts=1699246108 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/599911/w768xh432_GettyImages-1777157317.jpg?ts=1699246108 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/599911/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1777157317.jpg?ts=1699246108 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Ian Maule / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>The Raiders are going to cast a wide net in their search for their next head coach. Mark Davis has expressed a desire to be open to any and all candidates after previously zeroing in on those he wanted from the jump. While his affinity for big names will lead to some intriguing possibilities, this is a process that should mostly be carried out in the name of due diligence. Pierce deserves the job.A surprise midseason promotion after the firing of Josh McDaniels, Pierce took over as head coach with minimal expectations. The Raiders took on a completely new identity in his nine games, however, posting a 5-4 record that included a road win over the Chiefs and a 63-21 rout of the Chargers. The defense, most notably, was second only to the Browns in EPA/play allowed during Pierce's time as head coach, according to <a href="https://rbsdm.com/stats/stats/">Ben Baldwin's database</a>. While he may be short on experience, the locker room completely bought into his leadership style. Can Davis afford to make the same mistake as last time and look elsewhere when his players are so vocally in support of a beloved interim?<h3>Commanders</h3>Ben JohnsonJohnson is seen by many as the most promising young coaching candidate in football. He had earned that distinction by this time last year before turning away the Panthers' overtures and opting to stay in Detroit. The intrigue around his name has only intensified after another year at the controls of a high-powered Lions offense. While that may make you wonder why he'd choose the Commanders of all teams, it's a new day in Washington.The stench of the Dan Snyder era is slowly but surely wearing off. New owner Josh Harris seems committed to reshaping the organization from the ground up, and we have every reason to believe he'll pay top dollar to get the right people in the building. That'll be an important factor with coaching contracts on the rise and Johnson <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2800573" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2800573">reportedly</a> seeking $15 million per year. The Commanders can also offer the ideal situation for a long-term rebuild. They've got the No. 2 pick in the draft, giving them the opportunity to select either Caleb Williams or Drake Maye as the quarterback of the future, and Washington heads into free agency with a projected $75 million in cap space, more than any other team, according to <a href="https://overthecap.com/">Over the Cap</a>. This has become an especially interesting job, and Johnson should be the top candidate for a front office that appears poised to embrace analytics.<h3>Panthers</h3>Frank Smith<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611109/cropped_GettyImages-1770540106.jpg?ts=1705009270" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611109/w220xh124_GettyImages-1770540106.jpg?ts=1705009270 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611109/w320xh180_GettyImages-1770540106.jpg?ts=1705009270 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611109/w640xh360_GettyImages-1770540106.jpg?ts=1705009270 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611109/w768xh432_GettyImages-1770540106.jpg?ts=1705009270 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611109/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1770540106.jpg?ts=1705009270 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Alex Grimm / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>The Panthers job is one of the few available that really isn't all that attractive. No. 1 pick Bryce Young is coming off a disastrous first season. While the disappointing start was likely more about the rest of the team than it was Carolina's young quarterback, that only drives home the point that this rebuild is going to be a grind. Making matters even more difficult: The 2-15 Panthers don't have the benefit of selecting No. 1 overall because the pick was traded to Chicago in last year's deal for Young. Add in the fact that working under David Tepper seems like the biggest drawback of all, and it could be tough for the Panthers to attract top candidates.Carolina's best course of action might be to take a shot on a coach who's perhaps a year or two away from skyrocketing up the ranks. It's still one of 32 jobs, no matter the challenges, and the Panthers can offer the rare opportunity to accelerate a young coach's timeline. Smith, the Dolphins offensive coordinator, is a potential star in the making. He'll fly under the radar because Mike McDaniel handles play-calling duties in Miami, but Smith isn't merely along for the ride. Bringing a Dolphins-style RPO offense to Carolina could be a great way for the organization to set Young up for success. This move could prove genius before long.<h3>Titans</h3>Bobby SlowikNobody really understands what the Titans were thinking in moving on from Vrabel this offseason. At the very least, they should have been exploring opportunities to trade him for premium draft picks. Nevertheless, Tennessee is back in the market for a new head coach. This seems like another team that'll be hard-pressed to attract the biggest names, but there'll still be plenty of options.Some may consider it to be too early for Slowik. Maybe it is. But Texans fans will be terrified of losing him as their offensive coordinator, and that should tell you everything you need to know. Slowik has done some remarkable work in overseeing the rookie development of C.J. Stroud and leading a top-12 offense in his first year in Houston. Another member of the Kyle Shanahan coaching tree, Slowik also has familiarity with general manager Ran Carthon from his time in San Francisco. This could be a sensible pairing for all parties.<h3>Playoff teams to watch</h3>Cowboys<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609033/cropped_GettyImages-1896146036.jpg?ts=1705009336" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609033/w220xh124_GettyImages-1896146036.jpg?ts=1705009336 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609033/w320xh180_GettyImages-1896146036.jpg?ts=1705009336 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609033/w640xh360_GettyImages-1896146036.jpg?ts=1705009336 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609033/w768xh432_GettyImages-1896146036.jpg?ts=1705009336 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609033/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1896146036.jpg?ts=1705009336 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Richard Rodriguez / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Jerry Jones desperately wants another Super Bowl. This year is perhaps his best chance since Dallas' last one in 1995. Nothing should be considered off the table if Mike McCarthy once again fails to get the Cowboys past the first two rounds. An opening in Dallas would throw the coaching carousel for a loop, as this remains one of the premier jobs in football. Could an early playoff exit result in the Cowboys swooping in to steal Belichick from another team?EaglesThis seems crazy. Irrational, even. But the Eagles have been a disaster over the second half of the season. Nick Sirianni's team getting so thoroughly outplayed and outcoached with this kind of roster is jarring. The departures of coordinators Shane Steichen and Jonathan Gannon proving this costly doesn't exactly reflect well on the head coach. Sirianni probably earned more patience than this - as he's one year removed from a Super Bowl appearance. But it isn't certain he's going to get it.ChiefsNo, the Chiefs aren't going to fire Andy Reid. But this will continue to be a situation worth monitoring after the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2569880" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2569880">retirement talk</a> that preceded last year's Super Bowl. Reid later denied those rumors and continues to say he isn't thinking about retiring. The future Hall of Famer walking away any time soon would immediately make the Chiefs job, and the opportunity to work with Patrick Mahomes, the most coveted position in the league.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/26163411/related

NFL matchmaker: Predicting hires for open coaching jobs

Sunday Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.<h3>Bills keep rolling</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610369/cropped_GettyImages-1916230909.jpg?ts=1704689632" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610369/w220xh124_GettyImages-1916230909.jpg?ts=1704689632 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610369/w320xh180_GettyImages-1916230909.jpg?ts=1704689632 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610369/w640xh360_GettyImages-1916230909.jpg?ts=1704689632 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610369/w768xh432_GettyImages-1916230909.jpg?ts=1704689632 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610369/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1916230909.jpg?ts=1704689632 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Megan Briggs / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Is this finally the year in Buffalo?It would have been tough to believe two months ago. A disastrous Monday night loss to the Broncos dropped the Bills to 5-5, and offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey was scapegoated as a result. Frankly, it wasn't looking good.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>But the second half of the season has been a completely different story. Heading into the playoffs, there may not be a hotter team league-wide.The Bills secured a fourth consecutive division title with an emphatic victory over the Dolphins on Sunday night. That makes five straight wins to close out the regular season, and six wins in their last seven games. The only loss in that frame came courtesy of an overtime defeat in Philadelphia.Joe Brady will get a lot of the credit for the turnaround - the Bills are 6-1 since the OC change - but the truth is that Buffalo's offense has been this dangerous throughout the season. The more likely explanation - albeit decidedly less juicy - is that it was only a matter of time before a team with this much talent took off.Despite a slew of injuries, the Bills have managed to uphold a remarkable standard on the defensive side. Holding the Dolphins to 14 points and 275 yards - their second-lowest output of the season - is the statement of all statements on that front.And we know the deal on offense by now. Josh Allen is nothing if not chaotic. But the risk for backbreaking plays also comes with the upside of plays that few in the history of this game could even dream of pulling off. When he's hot, he's hot. Putting up 400 total yards in a big spot in Miami could very well be the start of a special run in January.Nobody wants to see the Bills right now.<h3>An all-time collapse</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610372/cropped_GettyImages-1915346461.jpg?ts=1704689942" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610372/w220xh124_GettyImages-1915346461.jpg?ts=1704689942 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610372/w320xh180_GettyImages-1915346461.jpg?ts=1704689942 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610372/w640xh360_GettyImages-1915346461.jpg?ts=1704689942 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610372/w768xh432_GettyImages-1915346461.jpg?ts=1704689942 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610372/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1915346461.jpg?ts=1704689942 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Justin Ford / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>The Jaguars are not who we thought they were.Fresh off an unexpected playoff run, Jacksonville entered this season widely expected to take the next step. Doug Pederson had successfully pulled the organization from the depths of Urban Meyer despair, and Trevor Lawrence was on the cusp of elite quarterback status. The arrow was seemingly pointed skyward.There were certainly flashes of potential after an up-and-down start. And with an 8-3 record at the end of November, the Jaguars even entered the final month in possession of the AFC's No. 1 seed. The good vibes didn't last long, though.Jacksonville went into free fall from that point forward, dropping four straight games to lose control of the division. A cupcake Week 17 matchup against the Panthers finally allowed the team to stop the bleeding, but the damage had been done. The Jaguars needed a win over the Titans to get into the playoffs, and even that was too much to ask.Another mistake-filled game on both sides of the ball saw Jacksonville come up short in Tennessee, ending the team's season and handing the division to Houston.Lawrence wasn't at his best down the stretch, but he's the least of the Jaguars' concerns. Putting your young quarterback in a position where he needs to drag a team to the playoffs while overcoming a bad defense, a porous offensive line, and, at times, questionable play-calling, is the more pressing matter.As it turns out, this roster is nowhere near ready to contend. And with the Texans and Colts primed to take off, the Jaguars suddenly find themselves back in a position where they're chasing their AFC South rivals.Things sure do change quickly in this league.<h3>Lions get burnt</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610370/cropped_GettyImages-1908156469.jpg?ts=1704689710" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610370/w220xh124_GettyImages-1908156469.jpg?ts=1704689710 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610370/w320xh180_GettyImages-1908156469.jpg?ts=1704689710 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610370/w640xh360_GettyImages-1908156469.jpg?ts=1704689710 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610370/w768xh432_GettyImages-1908156469.jpg?ts=1704689710 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610370/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1908156469.jpg?ts=1704689710 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> NurPhoto / NurPhoto / Getty</figcaption></figure>You know what they say about playing with fire.Lions head coach Dan Campbell decided that an unlikely chance to climb to the No. 2 seed - which required upset losses from both the Cowboys and Eagles - made it worth playing his starters in an otherwise meaningless regular-season finale. Unfortunately, the reckless move came with some consequences.Detroit's offense took a massive hit when star tight end Sam LaPorta left with a knee injury late in the second quarter. Campbell said postgame that the injury wasn't as bad as it looked but admitted that "it's not good news." LaPorta is reportedly expected to miss time with a hyperextended knee and a bone bruise.Any sort of absence heading into the postseason could be a crushing blow to a potent Lions scoring attack. While this group may well have enough playmakers to pick up the slack, at least in the early rounds, LaPorta is no regular rookie pass-catcher.Prior to leaving Sunday's game, the Iowa product had reached 86 catches, breaking the all-time rookie record for a tight end. His first-quarter score also made him only the third first-year tight end to post double-digit touchdowns. Rookie or not, he's already one of the best at his position.That's not the kind of player you can afford to lose heading into a wild-card matchup with Matthew Stafford and a high-powered Rams offense. The decision to go all-out in a meaningless Week 18 contest could have major ramifications for Detroit's first home playoff game since 1993.<h3>Quick slants</h3>Eagles are broken<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610363/cropped_GettyImages-1908163532.jpg?ts=1704689189" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610363/w220xh124_GettyImages-1908163532.jpg?ts=1704689189 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610363/w320xh180_GettyImages-1908163532.jpg?ts=1704689189 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610363/w640xh360_GettyImages-1908163532.jpg?ts=1704689189 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610363/w768xh432_GettyImages-1908163532.jpg?ts=1704689189 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610363/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1908163532.jpg?ts=1704689189 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Cooper Neill / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>This team is officially painful to watch. Nobody has wanted to count them out, myself included, but it's time to look past the talent we see on paper. Sunday's blowout loss to the Giants was further confirmation that this is not the same club we saw make a run to the Super Bowl last season. The defense is the primary offender here, ranking 29th in EPA/play and 27th in success rate, according to Ben Baldwin's database. But the offense spends a lot of time stinking it up, too. Jalen Hurts had been struggling through his worst game of the season when Philly pulled its starters, completing seven of 16 passes for 55 yards and an interception. A road matchup with the 9-8 Bucs gives the Eagles a favorable first-round draw, but even that may prove to be a challenge with the way they're playing.Texans only getting startedWhat a ride. The Texans winning the AFC South one season after drafting No. 2 overall is an incredible accomplishment. C.J. Stroud is already a top-10 quarterback, and DeMeco Ryans has immediately changed the culture in a previously terrible organization. The best part? This is only the beginning. No matter what happens in the postseason, which starts with a wild-card game against the Browns, the Texans have the makings of a perennial contender. A stellar rookie class would appear to suggest that this regime knows what it's doing in the scouting department, and there are only three teams with more projected salary cap space in 2024. Houston could be in for another major leap in the years ahead.Winfield saves the dayAntoine Winfield not being included on the initial Pro Bowl roster was an inexcusable snub. And that was before he saved the Bucs' season this week against the Panthers. The Bucs' safety took an early touchdown off the board when he chased down DJ Chark and forced a fumble that Tampa Bay would recover in the end zone. The 9-0 final, which secured the NFC South for the Bucs, could have looked a lot different were it not for Winfield's heroics. The former second-round selection has emerged as one of the league's premier playmakers on the back end, and he'll be paid like it this offseason.Brown's monster year<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610364/cropped_GettyImages-1915362747.jpg?ts=1704689225" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610364/w220xh124_GettyImages-1915362747.jpg?ts=1704689225 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610364/w320xh180_GettyImages-1915362747.jpg?ts=1704689225 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610364/w640xh360_GettyImages-1915362747.jpg?ts=1704689225 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610364/w768xh432_GettyImages-1915362747.jpg?ts=1704689225 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610364/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1915362747.jpg?ts=1704689225 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>The Panthers' season was an absolute nightmare across the board. Derrick Brown is perhaps the lone exception. The star defensive tackle has quietly put together one of the most ridiculous campaigns we've ever seen from a player at his position. Brown posted another seven tackles in Sunday's loss to the Bucs to finish the year with 103, a new record for a defensive lineman. He somehow didn't end up on the NFC Pro Bowl roster, but his dominance up front is well-established. He's in line for a big-money extension heading into his fifth-year-option season.GOAT division?The entire football world seemed to have a pretty good idea that the AFC North was going to be a bloodbath this season. But who could have seen this coming? The Bengals knocking off the Browns on Sunday officially secured a winning record for all four teams. That marks the first time since 1935 that an entire division has finished a season above .500. Add in the fact that this year's AFC North is topped by the Super Bowl favorite Ravens, and there are few divisions in the history of the NFL that can compare.Sweat dominates everywhereLost in the chaos of the final week of the regular season is one of the coolest records you'll ever see. Montez Sweat totalled 6.5 sacks across eight games with the Commanders prior to this year's trade deadline. After the Oct. 31 deal that sent him to Chicago, he recorded another six. The impressive consistency makes him the first player in NFL history to lead two different teams in sacks during the same season. The Bears earned plenty of criticism for giving up a second-round pick for an impending free-agent pass-rusher at the deadline. If this is the player they got, though, it'll be hard to call this move anything but a win.<h3>Stat of the week</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The Carolina Panthers finish the season 2-15. They did not call an offensive play while holding a fourth-quarter lead all season long.— Jonathan Jones (@jjones9) <a href="https://twitter.com/jjones9/status/1744095998622732781?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Playoff Picture</h3>The NFL playoffs are officially set. The Bills, Texans, Packers, Steelers, and Bucs each locked up postseason spots in the final week of regular-season action. Wild Card Weekend will feature several blockbuster games, including the Chiefs hosting the Dolphins and the Cowboys hosting the Packers. Check out the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2800380" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2800380">NFL Playoff Picture</a> for first-round matchups and start times.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/26139581/related

Key takeaways and analysis from Week 18 in the NFL

Sunday Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.<h3>Case closed</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609049/cropped_GettyImages-1897632531.jpg?ts=1704050170" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609049/w220xh124_GettyImages-1897632531.jpg?ts=1704050170 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609049/w320xh180_GettyImages-1897632531.jpg?ts=1704050170 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609049/w640xh360_GettyImages-1897632531.jpg?ts=1704050170 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609049/w768xh432_GettyImages-1897632531.jpg?ts=1704050170 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609049/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1897632531.jpg?ts=1704050170 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Rob Carr / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>It's been a strange season for MVP discourse. Odds are shifting each week. At times, it's felt like we've been rotating between whichever quarterback is coming off the biggest win (you know, a team stat). Thankfully, the most deserving candidates tend to separate themselves by the end of a long year.And now we can all say it together: It was always Lamar Jackson.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Turn on the tape, and it's not difficult to see that the Ravens superstar has been the most consistently great quarterback throughout the regular season. A new offensive system, along with an improved supporting cast, has allowed Lamar to showcase his talents from the pocket like never before. Pair that often disrespected ability with his unique skill set as a runner, and you get the league's most unstoppable weapon.But in a world where we've got data for everything, it can be easy to build a case against someone who isn't quite satisfying arbitrary statistical thresholds. Case in point: Heading into this week, Lamar having only 19 passing touchdowns wasn't quite doing it for the Brock Purdy truthers.One monster performance later, and the statistical arguments aren't quite as compelling. In the biggest spot of the season, with the Ravens needing to beat the Dolphins to clinch the AFC's No. 1 seed, Lamar delivered everything you could possibly want from an MVP quarterback.Jackson played out of his mind in the 56-19 rout, completing 18 of 21 passes for 321 yards (15.3 yards per attempt) and five touchdowns. He now joins Ben Roethlisberger as the <a href="https://x.com/NFL345/status/1741581738814370174?s=20">only players</a> in NFL history with a perfect passing rating and five-plus touchdowns in multiple games.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Lamar Jackson averaged +1.13 EPA per dropback against the Dolphins, the 3rd-most by a QB in the NGS era (since 2016). The top 3 games by EPA per dropback in the NGS era all belong to Lamar Jackson (min. 14 attempts).<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIAvsBAL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIAvsBAL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RavensFlock?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RavensFlock</a> <a href="https://t.co/40YioEKe7J">pic.twitter.com/40YioEKe7J</a>— Next Gen Stats (@NextGenStats) <a href="https://twitter.com/NextGenStats/status/1741568486324015402?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2023</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Dominating in this big of a spot effectively ensures, barring some voter malpractice, that Lamar will become the 11th player in NFL history with multiple MVP awards. In case you're wondering, the only others on that list are some of the best this game has ever seen.That's the company Lamar deservedly finds himself in right now. And with a defense capable of putting the clamps on teams like the 49ers and Dolphins, it may only be a matter of time before he adds a Lombardi Trophy to his resume.<h3>Eagles melting down</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609164/cropped_GettyImages-1890716552.jpg?ts=1704084729" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609164/w220xh124_GettyImages-1890716552.jpg?ts=1704084729 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609164/w320xh180_GettyImages-1890716552.jpg?ts=1704084729 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609164/w640xh360_GettyImages-1890716552.jpg?ts=1704084729 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609164/w768xh432_GettyImages-1890716552.jpg?ts=1704084729 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609164/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1890716552.jpg?ts=1704084729 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Kathryn Riley / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>The Eagles really might be cooked. I don't have it in me to say so definitively, because everything about this roster still screams super team. If anyone is going to get hot and look completely different in the playoffs, it's probably Philly. But that shouldn't be the extent of the case for a club with this much talent.Finishing the regular season with three games against the Giants, Cardinals, and Giants again was supposed to be a cakewalk for the Eagles to bounce back from a three-game losing streak and establish some momentum. Last week's win over New York was the first sign that it wouldn't be that simple. Sunday's inexplicable loss to the Cardinals all but confirms this team simply doesn't have it.While each phase of the game has taken a turn holding Philly back this season, including Jalen Hurts and a star-studded offense, it was a helpless defense taking center stage in the latest crushing letdown.Arizona's offense entered this week ranked 24th in yards, 26th in scoring, 26th in EPA/play, and 28th in success rate. While those numbers have ticked up slightly since Kyler Murray's return, this unit isn't to be confused with one that strikes fear into the NFL's true contenders.Yet the Eagles' defense couldn't do a thing to get off the field for much of the day. Arizona controlled the ball for nearly 40 minutes of game time en route to 449 total yards, including 221 on the ground, and a season-best 35 points. Murray and James Conner delivered the dagger with a seven-play, 70-yard touchdown drive to win it in the final minute, capping a second half in which Philly was outscored 29-10.This kind of alarming defensive performance coming against Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon, whom Eagles fans were so happy to see replaced as defensive coordinator after the Super Bowl, is the most damning sign yet that this thing isn't working.While it's difficult to imagine Nick Sirianni being put on the hot seat any time soon, perhaps we shouldn't rule anything out. Getting so consistently outcoached after your star coordinators depart for lead jobs elsewhere isn't a great look.There's no reason for us to be talking about this team the way we are.<h3>Quick slants</h3>More of the same<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609103/cropped_GettyImages-1898004756.jpg?ts=1704062351" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609103/w220xh124_GettyImages-1898004756.jpg?ts=1704062351 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609103/w320xh180_GettyImages-1898004756.jpg?ts=1704062351 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609103/w640xh360_GettyImages-1898004756.jpg?ts=1704062351 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609103/w768xh432_GettyImages-1898004756.jpg?ts=1704062351 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609103/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1898004756.jpg?ts=1704062351 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> David Eulitt / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>The Chiefs got a big win over the Bengals to clinch their eighth consecutive division title. They'll take a day to enjoy that impressive accomplishment before getting back to work and trying to figure out what in the world is going on with this offense. The Chiefs took their first lead of the game when an Isiah Pacheco touchdown capped a seven-play, 75-yard drive. From there, they could only muster six field goals from Harrison Butker. It was all they needed to win on this day, but that won't get it done in the playoffs. As things stand, the Chiefs would host the Bills on Wild Card Weekend. The offense needs to be better for Kansas City to stand a chance in that matchup.McCaffrey banged upThe 49ers locking up the No. 1 seed, and the first-round bye that comes with it, took on a new level of importance after Christian McCaffrey exited Sunday's win over the Commanders with a calf injury. Kyle Shanahan didn't seem worried after the game. Maybe it's nothing. But calf injuries are notoriously tricky, so keep an eye on this one heading into the playoffs. McCaffrey is the key to everything San Francisco does on offense. If there were a 49ers player in the running for MVP, he had the best case of anyone. The bye now gives him three weeks to get back to 100% for the playoff run.Vikings head-scratcherThe Vikings benching Nick Mullens coming off a four-interception loss to the Lions didn't cause much of a stir in the football world. Generally speaking, a journeyman quarterback coughing the ball up that much isn't going to fly. But the benefit of hindsight allows us to ask what exactly they were thinking. Yes, turnovers are bad. But Mullens at least proved capable of moving the ball with 411 yards last week. That's more than we can say for Jaren Hall, who looked exactly like a fifth-round rookie who entered Sunday night with 10 career pass attempts. The offense was predictably awful early against the Packers, and a 23-3 deficit was too much for Mullens to overcome after a half-time change. Turning to an inexperienced rookie quarterback was not the way to handle a must-win game.Fields still trending up<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609165/cropped_GettyImages-1897651488.jpg?ts=1704084865" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609165/w220xh124_GettyImages-1897651488.jpg?ts=1704084865 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609165/w320xh180_GettyImages-1897651488.jpg?ts=1704084865 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609165/w640xh360_GettyImages-1897651488.jpg?ts=1704084865 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609165/w768xh432_GettyImages-1897651488.jpg?ts=1704084865 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/609165/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1897651488.jpg?ts=1704084865 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Quinn Harris / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Another Panthers loss officially secured the No. 1 pick for the Bears. That almost certainly means Chicago will be taking a quarterback at the top of this year's draft. While some will take that as an indictment of Justin Fields' development, let's not get too carried away. This is more about the opportunity to reset with a generational quarterback talent on a rookie deal. Fields continued his strong second half in Sunday's win over the Falcons, accounting for over 300 total yards, a pair of touchdowns, and no turnovers. Quarterback-needy teams should be lining up to take a chance on Fields next season, and it may only cost them in the ballpark of a third-round pick. If he continues on this path, that'll be a steal.Douglas paying offThe Bills parting with a third-round pick to bring in cornerback Rasul Douglas at the trade deadline looked like a panic move at first glance. Douglas is a proven talent, to be sure, but the price tag wasn't exactly in line with the going rate for non-elite veterans. As it turns out, the Bills knew exactly what they were doing. Douglas has had a major role in salvaging the Buffalo defense at a time when injuries threatened to ruin the season. He was the star of Sunday's win over the Patriots, recording a pair of interceptions for the second time since his arrival. The Bills won't miss that third-round pick one bit.Too little, too lateThe Saints looked like a playoff team in Sunday's win over the Buccaneers. Derek Carr took care of the ball, the run game topped 100 yards for the first time since Dec. 3, and the defense forced four turnovers in shutting down Baker Mayfield. Finally. The crucial win, which improved the Saints to 8-8, was a reminder of what this team could be when everything is clicking. Unfortunately, the consistency has been nonexistent. Now, the clearest path to the playoffs is with a Week 18 win over the Falcons (doable) and a Bucs loss to the Panthers (less doable). They could also sneak into a wild-card spot, but that would require losses from both the Packers and Seahawks. The Saints need a miracle to avoid missing the postseason for the third straight year.<h3>Stat of the week</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Jordan Love is now at 3,849 passing yards and 30 TD passes this season. No Chicago Bears QB has ever reached either of those marks in a single season.— Matt Schneidman (@mattschneidman) <a href="https://twitter.com/mattschneidman/status/1741668891518963843?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Playoff Picture</h3>The Chiefs and Rams each clinched playoff spots during Sunday's action, while the Ravens and 49ers locked up the No. 1 seeds in their respective conferences. There's still plenty to be sorted out when the regular season wraps up next week, including the final selection order for the 2024 NFL Draft. Check out this week's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2805623" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2805623">Playoff Picture</a> for everything you need to know.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/26087381/related

Key takeaways and analysis from Week 17 in the NFL

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/dan-wilkins/content_cards

Dan Wilkins

Supervising Editor

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/daniel-valente/content_cards

Daniel Valente

News Editor

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/andrew-dixon/content_cards

Andrew Dixon

Associate new editor

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/dane-belbeck/content_cards