September 12, 2021 at 8:48 PM EDT
Kravitz: Don’t put it on Carson Wentz this time
Back in Philadelphia, Eagles fans will catch a glance at what happened here in Indianapolis Sunday and they will nod their heads: See, this is what you get with Carson Wentz. He’s a sack waiting to happen. Now he’s Indy’s problem, not ours. Good luck with that. Thanks for the draft picks …
Honestly, they might turn out to be right about Wentz, who was sacked a league-high 50 times in 11 ½ games last year. It wasn’t all on the Eagles’ injured and underperforming offensive line — a lot was, but not all of it — with Wentz responsible for an unhealthy percentage of those sacks because he became gun-shy and held onto the ball too long during a disastrous final year in Philly.
Except that’s not what happened Sunday in the Colts’ 28-16 loss to the Seahawks at sold-out Lucas Oil Stadium.
Read all of Bob Kravitz’s thoughts below.
Bob Kravitz·Senior Writer, Indiana
GO FURTHER
Kravitz: Carson Wentz was good enough Sunday. His Colts teammates were not.
September 12, 2021 at 8:35 PM EDT
Why the Rams traded for Matthew Stafford, in one snap
Here’s what Sean McVay was envisioning.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 8:33 PM EDT
Justin Fields’ Bears cameo
The last NFL first-round rookie quarterback to make his debut Sunday didn’t have to wait long.
The Athletic’s Adam Jahns writes: Justin Fields’ first NFL snap in the regular season came on 2nd-and-10 from LA’s 12. He completed a 9-yard pass to WR Marquise Goodwin. What happened next for the Bears? False start, timeout and then Andy Dalton gets picked off in the end zone. Just play the kid or don’t, right?
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 8:28 PM EDT
The inevitability of the Kansas City Chiefs
The Browns-Chiefs game today was a reminder of what teams that want to challenge the Chiefs face. Everything can go right, you can be winning for 3+ quarters, but it only takes one mistake for Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs to capitalize. Chiefs didn’t exactly look terrifying, but they’re going to be able to come through in these type of close games.
Lindsay Jones·Senior Writer, NFL
September 12, 2021 at 8:25 PM EDT
A Sunday main event of sorts
A familiar voice graces the Rams’ new fan-filled surroundings.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 8:13 PM EDT
The Golden Boot, NFL style
One of the NFL’s fastest players has one of the league’s flashiest pairs of cleats.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 8:09 PM EDT
Alabama receivers are allowed to brag
For comparison between the rookie receivers and University of Alabama products, the Eagles’ DeVonta Smith caught six passes for 71 yards and one touchdown and the Dolphins’ Jaylen Waddle had four catches for 61 yards and one touchdown.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 7:47 PM EDT
Four keys for the Bears tonight against the Rams
-Get a “Khalil Mack Game.” He’s the one who can take over, and they might need it.
-Feed David Montgomery, and be patient with the run. Take some pressure off Andy Dalton.
-Stuff the run. That’s where the D has an edge, but the Rams ran all over them last season.
-Win time of possession. Stat can sometimes be misleading, but for this Bears team, they need to stay on schedule.
(Photo: Mike Dinovo / USA Today)
Kevin Fishbain·Staff Writer, Bears
September 12, 2021 at 7:45 PM EDT
How about that version of Teddy Bridgewater?
He wasn’t just executing the offense like a robot. He made some terrific second-reaction plays, finishing 28-for-36 for 264 yards.
The Broncos had the fourth-best performance of any offense that played Sunday, according to TruMedia’s Expected Points Added (EPA) per play model. And their defense was dominant. A great start for Denver.
Sheil Kapadia·Senior Writer, NFL
September 12, 2021 at 7:43 PM EDT
Chiefs hold off Browns
Tough, tough loss for the Browns. Loved their game plan and aggressiveness: 457 yards of offense and 24 first downs. But they botched a scoring opportunity at the end of the first half, had the special-teams turnover and then couldn’t string together one last TD drive.
It’s crushing now for Browns fans, but zooming out, this team showed it can hang with the reigning AFC champs.
Sheil Kapadia·Senior Writer, NFL
September 12, 2021 at 7:27 PM EDT
Pats fall to Dolphins
The Patriots lose 17-16, giving Dolphins an early lead in the division. Mac Jones had an impressive debut (29 of 39 for 281 yards and one touchdown). He wasn’t rattled by pressure. The defense had its moments, but too few big plays and a couple of costly mistakes hurt the Patriots in the end.
Matthew Fairburn·Staff Writer, Bills
September 12, 2021 at 7:23 PM EDT
Bad day for the Packers
The Packers’ season opener couldn’t have gone any worse.
After Aaron Rodgers returned following his offseason of frustration with the front office and the team entered this season as Super Bowl contenders, they looked anything but in a 38-3 loss to the Saints in Jacksonville on Sunday. Rodgers threw two bad interceptions and new defensive coordinator Joe Barry’s unit had an atrocious day.
Matt Schneidman·Staff Writer, Packers
September 12, 2021 at 7:18 PM EDT
Jameis Winston had an amazing day in more ways than one
Jameis Winston throwing for a career-high five touchdowns in his first start after succeeding Drew Brees as the Saints’ quarterback is remarkable enough.
Just as amazing is that he did it while throwing for only 148 yards in a 38-3 win against the Packers. Winston’s yardage total was the lowest for a QB who threw five TDs in a single game since at least 1948. The next fewest were from Dallas’ Eddie LaBaron, who had 158 yards and 5 TDs on Oct. 21, 1962 in a 42-27 win against Pittsburgh.
(Photo: Tommy Gilligan / USA Today)
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 7:17 PM EDT
Mahomes magic
Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has now broken Kurt Warner’s record for the most passing yards by an NFL QB in their first 50 starts (14,372), doing so in 47 games.
Mahomes also has 35 career touchdowns to zero interceptions in September — the most in league history.
Mahomes is 25 of 33 for 319 yards and three touchdowns as the Chiefs hold a 33-29 lead late in the fourth quarter.
(Photo: Jay Biggerstaff / USA Today)
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 7:03 PM EDT
Packers pull Aaron Rodgers, Jordan Love sees first NFL action
The Packers sat quarterback Aaron Rodgers as they trailed 38-3 against the Saints. Jordan Love saw his first NFL action.
Rodgers completed 15 of 28 passes for 133 yards and two interceptions.
(Photo: Tommy Gilligan / USA Today)
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 6:59 PM EDT
What does Jalen Hurts’ performance mean for the Eagles going forward?
The Athletic’s Zach Berman breaks down quarterback Jalen Hurts’s performance on Sunday, which is exactly what the Eagles wanted to see as his first full season as starter begins.
Hurts was 27 of 35 for 264 yards and three touchdowns in the win over Atlanta.
(Photo: Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images)
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 6:47 PM EDT
Rookies show up for Steelers
Pittsburgh started five rookies today, including C Kendrick Green, TE Pat Freiermuth, LT Dan Moore Jr., RB Najee Harris and DB Tre Norwood. It marked the first time since at least 1991 that the Steelers have started as many as five rookies in a game. They started four rookies on offense for the first time since Dec. 30, 2012, vs. Cleveland (RT Kelvin Beachum, RG David DeCastro, FB Will Johnson, TE Dave Paulson).
The Steelers were the only team in the NFL to start a rookie at left tackle (Moore) and center (Green) in the season opener. Green is the lone rookie center to start, while Moore is one of two rookies to start at left tackle in the season opener. Moore is believed to be the first Steelers rookie to start at left tackle since the 1970 AFL-NFL merger.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 6:43 PM EDT
Broncos’ Jerry Jeudy carted off with apparent ankle injury vs. Giants
Broncos wide receiver Jerry Jeudy was carted off the field with an apparent ankle injury in the third quarter of Sunday’s game against the Giants.
Quarterback Teddy Bridgewater connected with Jeudy on a pass deep left for 20 yards when the Giants’ James Bradberry tackled Jeudy on what was ruled a fumble. Jeudy was injured on the play after his foot got caught under several players around him.
What’s the Broncos’ depth chart at receiver should Jeudy miss significant time? The Athletic’s Nick Kosmider writes, the Broncos’ depth at the position helps.
(Photo: Vincent Carchietta / USA Today)
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 6:23 PM EDT
Clutch INT for Saints’ Paulson Adebo
Saints rookie CB Paulson Adebo, who picked off Aaron Rodgers in the third quarter, showed a knack for being around the ball during camp, which was something I really liked about him.
I didn’t know if he was ready to be a starter (he had no choice today), but I thought the rookie showed some positive things during camp.
Katherine Terrell·Staff Writer, Saints
September 12, 2021 at 6:21 PM EDT
The rookies make history
Four of the five first-round quarterbacks from the 2021 NFL Draft — New England’s Mac Jones, San Francisco’s Trey Lance, Jacksonville’s Trevor Lawrence and the New York Jets’ Zach Wilson — made a little bit of history on Sunday.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 6:16 PM EDT
Mac Jones has first NFL TD pass
New England Patriots rookie quarterback Mac Jones found Nelson Agholor for 7 yards in the second quarter against the Dolphins for his first career TD pass.
Jones is 14 of 19 for 133 yards and one touchdown. However, the Dolphins lead 17-10 thanks to rookie receiver Jaylen Waddle’s first career touchdown catch on a 3-yarder from Tua Tagovailoa in the third quarter.
(Photo: Bob DeChiara / USA Today)
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 6:08 PM EDT
Browns lead Chiefs at half
The Browns have a 22-10 lead over the Chiefs in Kansas City at halftime.
Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield is 13 of 17 for 231 yards Nick Chubb has two touchdowns on six carries for 35 yards and Jarvis Landry has a 5-yard touchdown run.
Cleveland is outgaining Kansas City 318-183. Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is 15 of 20 for 169 yards. The Chiefs’ defense is without Frank Clark and Tyrann Mathieu.
The Browns have not won on opening week since 2004, the longest winless streak in season openers all-time (16 straight).
(Photo: Jay Biggerstaff / USA Today)
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 5:53 PM EDT
Browns LT Jedrick Wills Jr. suffers injury
Browns LT Jedrick Wills Jr. was injured on Jarvis Landry’s TD run against the Chiefs and was carted to the locker room. Veteran Chris Hubbard came in as his replacement. The Browns are saying it’s an ankle injury for Wills.
The Athletic’s Mike Sando adds: It’s terrible when anyone is carted off with an injury, but for the Browns, losing left tackle Jedrick Wills is really tough. Even though Cleveland leads 15-3, there’s a decent chance any team facing Kansas City will eventually need to be in two-minute situations, drop-back pass situations. Having your starting left tackle on the field for those situations can be even more important.
Zac Jackson·Staff Writer, Browns
September 12, 2021 at 5:09 PM EDT
Titans OT Taylor Lewan is honest
Arizona’s Chandler Jones had five sacks in the 38-13 win over Tennessee.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 5:05 PM EDT
Falcons analysis in loss vs. Eagles
The Arthur Smith era begins ugly in Atlanta as the Falcons fall 32-6 to the Eagles.
Atlanta never touched the end zone, committed 12 penalties for 99 yards and turned Jalen Hurts into Tom Brady (who, by the way, is on the schedule next). Atlanta was outgained 434-260. Kyle Pitts’ NFL debut results in four catches for 31 yards.
Josh Kendall·Staff Writer, South Carolina
September 12, 2021 at 5:01 PM EDT
Browns safety Ronnie Harrison ejected
Browns safety Ronnie Harrison was ejected after pushing a coach on the Chiefs’ bench.
Harrison stepped on Kansas City’s Clyde Edwards-Helaire, which led Kansas City coaches to intervene. Coaches tried to push Harrison off Edwards-Helaire and Harrison pushed back. Harrison then was ejected from the game.
Cleveland leads 8-3 in the first quarter.
The Athletic’s Mike Sando writes: Tough one for the Browns there. Clearly, the Chiefs assistant coach shoved Harrison first. The initial call was against the Chiefs’ sideline. Ultimately, the play-by-play lists only the DQ for Harrison, upon further discussion. I’d like a fuller explanation of what was ruled upon from start to finish of that play.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 4:54 PM EDT
Von Miller back in a big way
Broncos LB Von Miller has a sack in his first game back after missing last season with a dislocated peroneal tendon.
The Broncos and Giants are tied 0-0 in the second quarter.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 4:47 PM EDT
Browns aggressive vs. Chiefs
The Browns rolled downfield for a touchdown on their opening drive, which went for 13 plays and 75 yards. They converted a fourth-and-3 along the way and then a two-point conversion.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 4:41 PM EDT
Russell Wilson, Seahawks roll vs. Colts
The Seahawks beat the Colts, 28-16. Russell Wilson was 18-of-23 for 254 yards and four touchdown passes.
Colts quarterback Carson Wentz remains winless against the Seahawks.
(Photo: Trevor Ruszkowski / USA Today)
Michael-Shawn Dugar·Staff Writer, Seahawks
September 12, 2021 at 4:36 PM EDT
Washington analysis in loss vs. Chargers
From The Athletic’s Ben Standig:
Washington loses the home opener 20-16. Taylor Heinicke went 11 of 15 for 122 yards and a touchdown pass after Ryan Fitzpatrick left with a hip injury. Justin Hebert was too much. Washington couldn’t stop the Chargers on third down. Rough time for a short week: Washington meets the Giants on Thursday.
Rhiannon Walker adds: Washington couldn’t get a third-down stop when the team needed. The lone turnover of the game was a killer. As my colleagues pointed out, 14 third down conversions conceded by Washington ties a franchise record.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 4:07 PM EDT
Chandler Jones has banner day
Arizona’s Chandler Jones’ five sacks are the most of any player in a Week 1 game in the past 20 years.
Jacksonville’s Calais Campbell had the previous high of 4 on Sept. 10, 2017 in a 29-7 win at the Texans. Derrick Thomas has the most sacks in a game, with seven against the Seahawks on Nov. 11, 1990.
(Photo: Christopher Hanewinc / USA Today)
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 3:58 PM EDT
Even LeBron can’t stay away from NFL Sunday
Lakers star LeBron James chose a good one to watch.
Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson is 18 of 23 for 254 yards and four touchdowns against the Colts today and had more touchdown passes than incompletions at one point.
Adam Coleman·Staff Editor, NFL
September 12, 2021 at 3:43 PM EDT
Jimmy Garoppolo tops 300 yards
Jimmy Garoppolo just topped 300 yards passing for the first time since Week 14 of the 2019 season, the 49ers’ wild 48-46 win over the Saints.
He is 16 of 23 for 303 yards and one touchdown against the Lions. The 49ers are up big, 41-17 in the fourth quarter.
(Photo: Raj Mehta / USA Today)
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 3:36 PM EDT
Steelers take the lead in Buffalo
Ben Roethlisberger connected with Diontae Johnson on a 5-yard touchdown pass for the Steelers, who now have a 13-10 lead early in the fourth quarter against the Bills.
It’s interesting in Buffalo.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 3:34 PM EDT
Zach Wilson gets first NFL TD pass
Jets rookie QB Zach Wilson had to wait for it, but he got his first NFL touchdown pass on a 22-yarder to Corey Davis.
Wilson is 13 of 26 for 150 yards and one touchdown with one interception, but the Panthers lead 16-8 in the third quarter.
But later, more bad injury news for the Jets. Mekhi Becton was carted off the field.
https://theathletic.com/news/jets-tackle-mekhi-becton-injured-after-zach-wilsons-first-touchdown-pass/yAgGFp1McTfO
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 3:25 PM EDT
Kyler Murray, Cardinals making a statement
It seems like every time I check out the Arizona game, Kyler Murray is making an excellent pass and/or an Arizona receiver is making a good catch.
What a great start to the season for the Cardinals, up 30-13 on the Titans early in the third quarter. And if you’re a Titans fan, hopefully you were taking a believe-it-when-you-see-it approach to their defense (and offense for that matter).
UPDATE: Murray threw his 50th career touchdown pass today and has four touchdown passes for the first time in his career. Murray has a rushing TD, too.
(Photo: Christopher Hanewinc / USA Today)
Mike Sando·Senior Writer, NFL
September 12, 2021 at 3:17 PM EDT
Browns WR Odell Beckham Jr. among notable inactives from NFL’s 4:25 p.m. ET kickoffs
Browns WR Odell Beckham Jr. is inactive for Sunday’s game in Kansas City. Donovan Peoples-Jones will start in his place. Browns kicker Chase McLaughlin, who had been questionable with a hamstring issue, is active and will handle the kicking duties.
Frank Clark and Tyrann Mathieu are also out for Chiefs.
LB Bradley Chubb is out for the Broncos while nursing an ankle injury.
Meanwhile, Packers DE Za’Darius Smith is active after battling a back injury, and the Saints have CB Marshon Lattimore active as well. He had been questionable.
(Photo: Jason Getz / USA Today)
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 3:14 PM EDT
Incompletion or forced fumble?
Here’s a weird one: This is actually a fumble that gives possession to Washington because the ball squirted out of the back of the end zone. Play was reviewed and upheld.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 3:08 PM EDT
Denver looking to break streak
The Broncos have not won a game in September since a 20-19 squeaker over Raiders during Week 2 of the 2018 season.
One week after that — Sept. 23, 2018 — is the last time the Broncos scored a touchdown on their opening drive in a September game. That was a 6-yard TD run by Royce Freeman after a blocked punt.
Breaking the latter streak today could go a long way toward snapping the former.
Nick Kosmider·Staff Writer, Broncos
September 12, 2021 at 3:05 PM EDT
Dolphins inactives vs. Patriots
Wide receiver Preston Williams and cornerback Noah Igbinoghene are inactive for the Dolphins’ season opener at the Patriots.
Williams was listed as questionable on the injury report as he recovers from the foot injury that ended his last season prematurely. He was on the PUP list at the start of training camp and only returned to action in the final preseason game against the Bengals.
Igbinoghene, a first-round pick a year ago, played in all 16 games as a rookie. But Igbinoghene doesn’t play in the slot, and the Dolphins are choosing to go with slot corners Justin Coleman and Nik Needham. Jamal Perry is also active.
Left tackle Austin Jackson, who was on the reserve/COVID-19 list last week but was removed from it Saturday, was upgraded from questionable and is expected to play today. Offensive tackle Greg Little is inactive, as are cornerbacks Trill Williams and Elijah Campbell.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 3:04 PM EDT
Washington quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick out with injury
Washington quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick is done for the day after absorbing a hit from Chargers linebacker Uchenna Nwosu in the second quarter on Sunday, resulting in a right hip injury, per the team. He was downgraded from questionable to out.
Backup Taylor Heinicke is in at quarterback.
(Photo: Brad Mills / USA Today)
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 2:54 PM EDT
NFC West is the best
At 11:40 a.m. PT — yes, PT, as we live in an NFC West world — teams from that division lead their opponents by a combined 76-26. Any questions?
Mike Sando·Senior Writer, NFL
September 12, 2021 at 2:53 PM EDT
Not great for Jared Goff …
A pretty miserable first half for Jared Goff in his Detroit debut.
A brutal pick-6, one play after refusing to take a chance on a shot play. He’s been late with the ball, too slow with his reads and not accurate. Also missed Amon-Ra St. Brown on what should’ve been a TD. Brutal. This game’s closer if Goff’s decision making is better. Defense for Detroit still a mess — nothing new there.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 2:52 PM EDT
Kyler Murray impressing vs. Titans
Kyler Murray is doing Kyler Murray things, of the good variety, and the Cards are rolling against the Titans
He just ran in a bootleg for a touchdown to make it 24-6. It got to that because of an outrageous third down scramble early in the 75-yard drive, somehow eluding multiple defenders and getting the ball for an 18-yard gain to Rondale Moore. That was silly. This is ugly.
Joe Rexrode·Senior Writer, Tennessee
September 12, 2021 at 2:48 PM EDT
Sam Darnold revenge game?
Panthers QB Sam Darnold is having himself a day against his former team, the New York Jets.
Through one half, he is 17 of 22 for 235 yards, and a touchdown along with a 5-yard TD run on a QB draw with 35 seconds left in the half. Side note: It’s good to have Christian McCaffrey, who has eight receptions for 92 yards and eight carries for 33 yards in the first half.
The Panthers lead 16-0 at halftime.
(Photo: Jim Dedmon / USA Today)
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 2:36 PM EDT
Joe Burrow looks solid, Ja’Marr Chase gets first TD catch
Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow is 11 of 13 for 134 yards and two touchdowns, looking solid after coming off ACL and MCL tears in his left knee in 2020.
One of those touchdown passes is a 50-yarder to first-round pick Ja’Marr Chase. The Bengals lead Minnesota 14-7 at halftime.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 2:27 PM EDT
Russell Wilson being Russell Wilson
Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson is 9 of 11 for 166 yards and three touchdowns with a 158.3 quarterback rating against the Colts so far.
Yes, he has more touchdowns than incompletions.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 2:25 PM EDT
Carolina’s Shaq Thompson picks off Jets’ Zach Wilson
The jersey number shenanigans the Panthers pulled today — changing the numbers of two starting linebackers only hours before kickoff vs the Jets — isn’t illegal.
There isn’t anything in the football operations manual preventing it. But now that it’s happened, I expect other coaches will complain, and this will be addressed at future NFL competition committee meetings.
Lindsay Jones·Senior Writer, NFL
September 12, 2021 at 2:11 PM EDT
Wentz finds footing in Indy
From The Athletic’s Zak Keefer: Facing pressure on almost every snap, Carson Wentz is handling it really well. Threw a bullet there to Zach Pascal for his first TD as a Colt. Exactly what this team needed. Seattle 14, Colts 10. Now, the D needs to step it up.
Mike Sando adds: The Colts need explosive plays. Duh, you say, and I get it, but what I mean is, I just don’t think you want Carson Wentz having a bunch of really long drives, because I think he sprinkles in enough mistakes to kill drives (fumbles, sacks, interceptions, whatever). Perhaps the Colts can coach that out of him. I just worry about it from a Colts perspective.
(Photo: Trevor Ruszkowski / USA Today)
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 2:07 PM EDT
Trevor Lawrence throws first NFL TD pass
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 2:00 PM EDT
Chandler Jones off to hot start for Cardinals
The early leader for Defensive Player of the Week is Cardinals OLB Chandler Jones, who has THREE (yes, three!) sacks in the first half against the Titans. Tennessee’s offense has been quite sloppy, but Jones is helping make things miserable for Ryan Tannehill.
(Photo: Christopher Hanewinc / USA Today)
Lindsay Jones·Senior Writer, NFL
September 12, 2021 at 1:48 PM EDT
Tyrod Taylor, Texans lead Jags 14-0
Through three possessions, Tyrod Taylor is 7 of 12 for 114 yards (9.5 YPA). On the third drive, he was 3-4 for 49 yards. The Texans lead 14-0 after David Johnson’s 7-yard touchdown catch.
The Athletic’s Mike Sando writes: Houston is leading 14-0, which is even better than I thought things might go. Texans were — brag alert — one of my picks on The Football GM Podcast this past Friday. I just loved getting three points in a game between bad teams that were largely new and unknown teams. Why would the Jaguars be favored? Seemed like that was narrative based. We shall see how the rest of this game goes.
(Photo: Troy Taormina / USA Today)
Aaron Reiss·Staff Writer, Texans
September 12, 2021 at 1:37 PM EDT
How, DeAndre Hopkins? How?
Actually, we shouldn’t be surprised by this. Hopkins has a long list of world-class catches.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 1:33 PM EDT
DeVonta Smith opens account
Eagles rookie wide receiver and Heisman Trophy winner DeVonta Smith’s first NFL catch is a touchdown. The 18-yard score has Philadelphia ahead 7-3 in the first quarter.
The Athletic’s Zach Berman: DeVonta Smith has been as advertised. Eagles haven’t had a WR run routes like this to get open since Jeremy Maclin left after the 2014 season. He’s going to have volume and production this year.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 1:25 PM EDT
Ekeler gets Chargers started
What an opening drive from Justin Herbert and the Chargers offense: 10 plays for 75 yards and capped off by an Austin Ekeler’s 3-yard TD run.
The Chargers passed on their opening four first downs of the game. Herbert is 6-for-6 for 40 yards. The offense had success running behind LT Rashawn Slater and LG Matt Feiler.
Meanwhile, Washington’s defense picks up where it left off last season: giving up gobs of yards and points.
Teams that scored touchdowns on their first drives last season went 87-44 (.664), according to TruMedia. That included 3-2 by the Chargers.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 1:17 PM EDT
Rough start for 49ers
The first in-game snap between center Alex Mack and quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo was fumbled and the Lions recovered. Center-quarterback exchanges were an issues during training camp for the 49ers.
But the Lions can’t take advantage. Detroit lost eight yards on a screen and then missed a field goal.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 1:12 PM EDT
Bills waste no time
Buffalo’s Isaiah McKenzie took the opening kickoff back for a 75 yards against the Steelers.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 1:01 PM EDT
Keys today for Colts vs. Seahawks
- Lean heavy on Jonathan Taylor.
- Get Nyheim Hines the ball in space.
- Expect lots of zone against Russell Wilson. Julian Blackmon and Khari Willis have a lot on their plate as the Colts are low on cornerbacks. They can’t let DK Metcalf or Tyler Lockett get big plays over the top.
- If Carson Wentz has the protection, take some shots.
Zak Keefer·Staff Writer, Colts
September 12, 2021 at 12:59 PM EDT
Expect Lions to run the ball a lot against 49ers
The Lions no longer have Kenny Golladay or Marvin Jones. That’s a bare-bones group of wide receivers. New Lions offensive coordinator Anthony Lynn is going to run the ball a lot. This isn’t a bad time for 49ers rookie Deommodore Lenoir to get his first start. And Dontae Johnson, though he isn’t a fan favorite, gives the 49ers a steady floor as a backup corner.
David Lombardi·Staff Writer, 49ers
September 12, 2021 at 12:57 PM EDT
Steelers will throw rookies into the fire vs. Bills
A lot is being made of the Steelers starting three rookies on offense: running back Najee Harris, left tackle Dan Moore Jr. and center Kendrick Green. (If tight end Pat Freiermuth is on the field at the start, he’ll make it four.) The Steelers will play a lot of nickel against the Bills’ spread, and it’s possible Tre Norwood, a seventh-round pick, will open in the slot/nickel role. The punter is another seventh-rounder, Pressley Harvin III.
Ed Bouchette·Senior Writer, Steelers
September 12, 2021 at 12:54 PM EDT
Panthers’ Thompson, Carter pull one over on the Jets
The Panthers are pulling out all the stops to try to confuse Jets rookie quarterback Zach Wilson. Linebackers Shaq Thompson (from No. 54 to No. 7) and Jermaine Carter (from No. 56 to No. 4) changed their jersey numbers. Offenses often identify defenses based on where linebackers line up.
I was told today was the last day for players to change numbers. Is that a bush-league move or just the Panthers working every angle for a competitive edge?
Joseph Person·Staff Writer, Panthers
September 12, 2021 at 12:52 PM EDT
Texans’ O-line ready to protect Taylor
The Texans’ starting offensive line in front of quarterback Tyrod Taylor based on warmups: left tackle Laremy Tunsil, left guard Tytus Howard, center Justin Britt, right guard Max Scharping, right tackle Marcus Cannon.
Cannon spent all of camp on the PUP list. Fellow right tackle Charlie Heck is on the reserve/COVID-19 list.
Aaron Reiss·Staff Writer, Texans
September 12, 2021 at 12:50 PM EDT
Rookies of the Year say hey
The NFL’s two reigning rookies of the year exchanged a quick hello as Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert shook hands with Washington defensive end Chase Young prior to the start of today’s game.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 12:40 PM EDT
Washington’s Fitzpatrick set to start for his ninth team
Washington quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick is set to begin his 17th season and will suit up for his ninth team today. He has also played and started a game for the Rams, Bengals, Bills, Titans, Texans, Jets, Buccaneers and Dolphins.
He’s the ninth quarterback to start for Washington since the start of the 2018 season. The others? Kirk Cousins, Mark Sanchez, Josh Johnson, Alex Smith, Case Keenum, Colt McCoy, Dwayne Haskins, Kyle Allen and Taylor Heinicke.
(Photo: Geoff Burke / USA Today)
The Athletic NFL Staff
GO FURTHER
Nine teams, hundreds of teammates and a lifetime of stories: Ryan Fitzpatrick is a ‘next-level leader’
September 12, 2021 at 12:31 PM EDT
Schneider: Scheme change the reason Collier is out
When asked about defensive end L.J. Collier being a healthy scratch on the pregame radio show, Seahawks GM John Schneider cited Seattle switching schemes defensively (compared to last year, I’m assuming) and the depth and health on the defensive line.
Collier started every game for the Seahawks last season and was practicing with the first team throughout training camp.
(Photo: Mitchell Leff / Getty Images)
Michael-Shawn Dugar·Staff Writer, Seahawks
September 12, 2021 at 12:27 PM EDT
Could Colts’ Pascal be an emergency QB?
Colts wide receiver Zach Pascal showed off his arm while throwing a football to fans before the game against the Seahawks.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 12:23 PM EDT
Steelers’ Spillane inactive because of pregame shin injury
Steelers inside linebacker Robert Spillane is inactive for the season opener against the Bills because he injured a shin during pregame warm-ups.
That means Buddy Johnson, a rookie drafted in the fourth round out of Texas A&M, is active and could make his debut.
Also inactive for the Steelers are third quarterback Dwayne Haskins; cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon, who was acquired in a trade with the Seahawks last week; guard Rashaad Coward; and rookie defensive lineman Isaiahh Loudermilk.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 12:11 PM EDT
Washington’s Reyes, from Chile, inactive for opener
Tight end Sammis Reyes is inactive for the Washington Football Team’s season opener against the Chargers.
Reyes, a rookie who once played college basketball at Tulane and for Chile’s national team, began playing football last season and signed with Washington in the spring. He surprisingly made the team’s initial 53-man roster but will not make his debut today. Logan Thomas, rookie John Bates and Ricky Seals-Jones will be the tight ends.
Also inactive are quarterback Kyle Allen, tackle/guard Saahdiq Charles, defensive end Shaka Toney and cornerback Darryl Roberts.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 12:03 PM EDT
Seahawks bench Collier for opener vs. Colts
Defensive end L.J. Collier, the Seahawks’ top draft pick in 2019, is surprisingly inactive today for the game against the Colts.
Collier started every game last season and worked with the first team throughout training camp.
Also inactive for the Seahawks are quarterback Jake Luton, cornerback Bless Austin, running back Alex Collins and offensive linemen Dakoda Shepley and Stone Forsythe.
Michael-Shawn Dugar·Staff Writer, Seahawks
September 12, 2021 at 11:59 AM EDT
Jets without RBs Adams, Perine against Panthers
Running backs Josh Adams and La’Mical Perine are inactive and will not play for the Jets against the Panthers this afternoon.
New York’s only active running backs are Tevin Coleman, Ty Johnson and Mike Carter.
Wide receiver Keelan Cole is also inactive, and Jamison Crowder had already been ruled out.
Connor Hughes·Staff Writer, Jets
September 12, 2021 at 11:57 AM EDT
Ekeler active, will face WFT despite hamstring injury
Chargers running back Austin Ekeler (hamstring) is active for the season opener against the Washington Football Team.
Brandon Staley said Friday he expected Ekeler to play and was “optimistic.” It appears nothing changed during the Chargers’ cross-country trip to Washington. Ekeler first tweaked the hamstring in Monday’s practice and missed practice on Wednesday and Thursday.
Daniel Popper·Staff Writer, Chargers
September 12, 2021 at 11:54 AM EDT
49ers’ Sermon, Norman inactive for opener
Rookie running back Trey Sermon, drafted in the third round out of Ohio State, is surprisingly inactive and will not play for the 49ers today against the Lions.
Sermon was essentially the 49ers’ No. 2 running back from OTAs onward. He was not on an injury list this week or at any point through training camp and was expected to split carries with starter Raheem Mostert. The 49ers’ backups will be rookie Elijah Mitchell and JaMycal Hasty.
Also inactive for the 49ers is cornerback Josh Norman, who is still working into game shape after he signed with the team on Monday.
Defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw, cornerback Emmanuel Moseley and guard Aaron Banks also will not play.
(Photo: Darren Yamashita / USA Today)
David Lombardi·Staff Writer, 49ers
September 12, 2021 at 11:49 AM EDT
Titans rookie Farley active, will make debut against Cardinals
Titans rookie cornerback Caleb Farley is active and could make his NFL debut today against the Cardinals.
Farley, considered one of the top cornerback prospects last season, has undergone two back surgeries since he last played for Virginia Tech in 2019 (he opted out of playing last season because of the pandemic). He was drafted by the Titans at No. 22 and played in their final two preseason games.
Cam Batson and Josh Reynolds are sitting, meaning the active wide receivers will be AJ Brown, Julio Jones, Chester Rogers, Nick Westbrook-Ikhine and Racey McMath. Outside linebacker Rashad Weaver is surprisingly inactive. Second-round offensive lineman Dillon Radunz is sitting, as are cornerback Chris Jackson and tight end Tommy Hudson. Rookie cornerback Elijah Molden will start.
Joe Rexrode·Senior Writer, Tennessee
September 12, 2021 at 11:44 AM EDT
Former Vikings starting CB Dantzler inactive vs. Bengals
Cornerback Cameron Dantzler is inactive for the Vikings’ opener against the Bengals. It’s a big fall for Dantzler as he went from being the Vikings’ top cornerback a year ago to now being inactive.
Also inactive for the Vikings are rookie quarterback Kellen Mond, tight end Ben Ellefson, defensive tackle James Lynch and defensive end Patrick Jones II. Linebacker Anthony Barr (knee) and rookie offensive tackle Christian Darrisaw (groin) had previously been ruled out.
(Photo: Brad Rempel / USA Today)
Chad Graff·Staff Writer, Vikings
September 12, 2021 at 11:40 AM EDT
Texans deactivate TE Jordan vs. Jaguars
The Texans’ inactives for Week 1 against the Jaguars: safety Lonnie Johnson, tight end Brevin Jordan, cornerback Jimmy Moreland, running back Scottie Phillips, defensive end Jon Greenard, linebacker Kevin Pierre-Louis and quarterback Deshaun Watson.
I’m surprised Jordan isn’t active, though the team elevated blocking tight end Antony Auclair from the practice squad. Phillips is the odd man out among five running backs. Pierre-Louis is a starter in the base defense, so who replaces him?
Aaron Reiss·Staff Writer, Texans
September 12, 2021 at 11:39 AM EDT
Bengals’ Prince surprisingly active vs. Vikings
The Bengals have made Isaiah Prince their backup offensive tackle and Fred Johnson is a healthy scratch today against the Vikings.
That leaves second-round rookie Jackson Carman at guard, sixth-round rookie Trey Hill at center and Prince at tackle as the three offensive line backups.
Paul Dehner Jr.·Senior Writer, Bengals
September 12, 2021 at 11:37 AM EDT
Lions’ Onwuzurike out for opener vs. 49ers
Lions rookie defensive end Levi Onwuzurike, who was listed as questionable with a hip injury, is inactive and will not play today against the 49ers.
Onwuzurike, drafted in the second round out of Washington, spent a good 40 minutes working out with the Lions’ athletic training staff and defensive line coach Todd Wash and testing his fitness level.
Chris Burke·Staff Writer, Lions
September 12, 2021 at 11:35 AM EDT
Bills’ Sanders active; Moss out against Steelers
Bills wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders, who was limited in practice all week with a foot injury, is active and will play against the Steelers today. Sanders is in his first season with the Bills and had been listed as questionable on the injury report.
Running back Zack Moss is not injured and is also surprisingly inactive.
(Photo: Timothy T Ludwig / Getty Images)
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 11:23 AM EDT
Vikings’ Vigil to start for injured Barr
With Anthony Barr out for today’s game against the Bengals because of a knee injury, the Vikings will start linebacker Nick Vigil in his place. Vigil will also handle “green dot” duties and relay plays for the defense. When in three-linebacker sets, the Vikings will go to Blake Lynch, an undrafted second-year player. He likely won’t play much because of the Bengals’ preference for three-receiver sets.
Arif Hasan·Staff Writer, Vikings
September 12, 2021 at 11:14 AM EDT
Colts’ Wentz, Nelson ready to face Seahawks
As expected all week, Colts quarterback Carson Wentz and left guard Quenton Nelson will play today against the Seahawks. Wentz will be starting 41 days after foot surgery, Nelson 40 after a near-identical procedure.
The only key injury for the Colts is cornerback Xavier Rhodes, which means they will likely play heavy zone coverage to keep DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett in front of them as best they can.
Zak Keefer·Staff Writer, Colts
September 12, 2021 at 11:05 AM EDT
Chaka set to be first Black woman to officiate NFL game
Maia Chaka, who has officiated in the Pac-12 and Conference USA, will be the first Black woman to officiate an NFL game today when she is part of the crew for the game between the Jets and the Panthers. Chaka is a high school physical education teacher in Virginia Beach, Va.
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 10:59 AM EDT
Dolphins’ Tagovailoa ready to start Year 2 vs. Patriots
Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is set to begin his second season — and his first as the unquestioned starter — this afternoon when the Dolphins visit the Patriots.
The No. 5 pick in the draft a year ago, Tagovailoa split time with Ryan Fitzpatrick as a rookie and wasn’t handed the reins to the offense until Fitzpatrick signed a one-year contract with Washington in March.
The Dolphins took steps toward helping Tagovailoa succeed this season by drafting his former Alabama teammate, Jaylen Waddle, and signing Will Fuller, who will not play today as he finishes a six-game suspension handed down last season.
Tagovailoa completed 70 percent of his passes in the preseason with one touchdown, one interception and one sack.
One bonus: Left tackle Austin Jackson, who was removed from the reserve/COVID-19 list on Saturday, is no longer considered questionable and is expected to play.
(Photo: Michael Reaves / Getty Images)
The Athletic NFL Staff
GO FURTHER
It’s finally Tua Tagovailoa’s time with the Dolphins, and his confidence is clear
September 12, 2021 at 10:44 AM EDT
Team streaks on the line today
- The Ravens have won their past five season openers and haven’t given up more than 10 points in any of those games. They have outscored Week 1 opponents 177-26 in that span.
- The Chiefs and Packers have won their past six season openers, the longest active streaks in the league.
- The Rams have won their past four season openers, second only to the Packers in the NFC.
- Chiefs coach Andy Reid, who leads his team against the Browns on Sunday, is 8-0 as a coach against Cleveland. He went 4-0 with the Eagles and is 4-0 with the Chiefs.
- Seattle is one West Coast team that doesn’t seem fazed by playing in the Eastern time zone. The Seahawks have won 12 of their past 13 games in the East.
(Photo: Maddie Meyer / Getty Images)
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 10:25 AM EDT
Chasing greatness
- With 231 yards passing Sunday, Packers QB Aaron Rodgers would pass John Elway for the 10th-most passing yards in NFL history. Rodgers opens the season at 51,245, just behind Elway’s 51,475.
- With at least four TD passes Sunday, Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger would become the eighth player all time with 400 career TD passes.
- With at least 119 receiving yards Sunday, Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce would become the fastest player at his position to 8,000 career receiving yards. Rob Gronkowski holds the record at 120 games. Kelce will play in his 112th career game Sunday when Kansas City hosts the Browns.
- New Titans wide receiver Julio Jones needs 104 yards to become the fastest player ever to 13,000 career receiving yards. Jones has 12,896 yards in 135 games. The fastest to 13,000 yards, Jerry Rice, did it in 154 games.
- With a TD rushing and receiving Sunday, Panthers running back Christian McCaffrey would surpass Chuck Foreman for the most such games (10) through his first five seasons. McCaffrey already holds the record for the most games with a rushing and receiving TD in a player’s first four seasons (nine).
- With a 100-yard outing against Chicago on Sunday night, new Rams wide receiver DeSean Jackson would surpass Michael Irvin (six) for the most 100-yard receiving games in season openers.
- Only six players have 700 or more yards rushing each of the past three seasons, and two of the six will go head-to-head Sunday when the Packers’ Aaron Jones and Saints’ Alvin Kamara meet in Jacksonville. They rank fourth and sixth, respectively in rushing yards from 2018-20.
(Photo: Jonathan Daniel / Getty Images)
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 10:09 AM EDT
To the wolves … and Texans, Panthers and Dolphins
Trevor Lawrence, Zach Wilson and Mac Jones figure to give the NFL its second opening weekend with three rookie starting QBs since 1970 and the first since 2012, when there were five. Their debuts will mean a rookie QB has started a season opener for 14 consecutive seasons, the longest streak since at least 1950.
Dallas’ Dak Prescott has the best rookie-season record of any QB since 2008 at 13-3. Joe Flacco, Matt Ryan, Andrew Luck and Russell Wilson are next up at 11-5.
Though they aren’t all rookies, every AFC East QB starting Sunday will be 25 or younger. It will be the first time since 1983 that any division had four starting QBs younger than 26. That season, also in the AFC East, the Dolphins’ Dan Marino, the Patriots’ Tony Eason, the Jets’ Ken O’Brien and the Colts’ Art Schlichter were all 25 or younger.
(Photo: Tim Heitman / USA Today)
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 9:52 AM EDT
How important is winning in Week 1?
From the inception of the 16-game schedule in 1978 through the final 16-game season in 2020 (excluding the strike-shortened 1982 season), teams that won their first game are more than twice as like to reach the playoffs as those that didn’t. Of 633 teams that won openers, 333 went to the playoffs and 204 won their divisions. Of 632 teams that lost openers, 151 went to the playoffs and 86 won their divisions.
Of note, last season’s Super Bowl champion, Tampa Bay, lost its season opener, becoming the first eventual champion to do that since the Patriots in 2014. The Buccaneers, 31-29 winners against Dallas on Thursday night, are seeking to become the first repeat Super Bowl champ since the Patriots won in 2003 and 2004.
(Photo: Kim Klement / USA Today)
The Athletic NFL Staff
September 12, 2021 at 9:36 AM EDT
Bengals’ Joe Burrow, Browns’ Nick Chubb offer betting intrigue in Week 1
Even though The Athletic’s NFL experts believe the Vikings will beat the Bengals fairly handily, with all eight writers on the panel picking them to win, Michael Beller is bullish on the return of Joe Burrow from a torn ACL. Beller firmly believes the Bengals quarterback will lead the NFL in passing yards this season, and when BetMGM offered a prop on Burrow going over 264.5 passing yards against the Vikings, he had to take it.
“It’s safe to expect the Bengals to have to lean on the passing attack to stay in games against good teams, and it’s reasonable to expect Zac Taylor to want to win in that fashion anyway, given the way this front office has built the offense,” Beller wrote in his Props Culture column. “Burrow’s going to put the ball in the air 35-plus times more often than not, and he’ll only need 7.5 yards per attempt at 35 attempts to get to the over in this bet. That’s not asking very much at all from a star-in-the-making with one of the league’s best trio of receivers at his disposal.”
Aaron Reiss and Katherine Terrell stayed away from making projections on that game, but Reiss put $40 of his potentially imaginary $100 on the Browns’ Nick Chubb to go over 71.5 rushing yards against the Chiefs with the money line at -110. Ethan Douglas’ distributed power rating, which debuted this week, gives the Chiefs a 70 percent chance to win that game, so Chubb’s performance may inject a little bit of excitement into something that may end up a bit one-sided. (Terrell, meanwhile, has Falcons rookie Kyle Pitts under 3.5 receptions on a -110 money line in his debut.)
And even though The Athletic’s panel of eight experts unanimously expects the Bills to beat the Steelers, Vic Tafur does not. He went the other way, taking the Steelers getting 6.5 points. “Ben Roethlisberger looked really good this preseason, whatever that’s worth, and I think the Steelers feed off everyone thinking they’re not very good after getting embarrassed by the Bills last season,” he wrote in his weekly Vic’s Picks column.
(Photo: Katie Stratman / USA Today)
The Athletic NFL Staff
GO FURTHER
2021 NFL odds, lines, picks: Expert predictions for the week 1 schedule including Rams vs. Bears and Ravens vs. Raiders
September 12, 2021 at 9:22 AM EDT
Best on best
The Chargers’ matchup at Washington features the two reigning NFL rookies of the year in the AFC Offensive ROY Justin Herbert and the NFC Defensive ROY Chase Young. This is only the fourth opening-weekend matchup of reigning rookies of the year in NFL history but the second in two years. (Kyler Murray faced Nick Bosa in their 2020 opener, a 24-20 Cardinals win.)
(Photo: Joe Nicholson / USA Today)
The Athletic NFL Staff
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Justin Herbert and Keenan Allen: The NFL’s next great QB-WR duo?
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