Highlights from NFL Week 1 action caused fans to grow more anxious for the rest of the NFL season. Multiple overtime finishes, explosive receptions, and missed field goals added excitement to Sunday’s slate of games. With an intense Monday night matchup pending, what did we learn on the first day of football?
Opening Sunday served its share of exciting moments – causing fans to not be able to leave their seats throughout the day. Scoring remained moderate and most games remained close. Wild finishes to multiple games early in the season sent spectators in a frenzy. Experiencing these performances could cause an addiction. Expecting great football isn’t a crime, but Sunday’s games provided enough for viewers to chew on until the following week.
NFL Week 1 Recap: Pittsburgh Steelers Defense is the real deal
Brian Callahan’s offense received a boost in confidence after their magical playoff ride last season. Cincinnati’s scoring success was the result of a lethal quarterback and receiver duo. A new season presented Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase a chance to build on their legacy. Winning against their divisional rivals would be a great way to remind the league of their dominance.
Minkah Fitzpatrick had different plans for Burrow’s first time back on the gridiron. An interception on the first play from scrimmage resulted in Pittsburgh’s first score of the season. Turnovers continued to haunt Cincinnati’s franchise quarterback. T.J Watt, Cameron Sutton, and Ahkello Witherspoon contributed to the Steelers’ interception total.
If Burrow was not throwing an interception, he was on the ground. Relentless pursuits from Alex Highsmith and Cameron Heyward dismantled Cincinnati’s pocket. Highsmith’s forced fumbled increased Pittsburgh’s takeaway total to five – sending a statement to offenses across the league. Unfortunately, it appears they’ve lost their star Watt to a season-ending pectoral injury.
NFL Recap: Indianapolis Colts tie with Houston Texans
Deshaun Watson’s departure took a toll on Houston’s pre-season predictions. Without an experienced quarterback, Lovie Smith’s team was considered a project. A few missing pieces could not prolong the opening day. Houston’s first assignment for the year was simple – defend the home field against the Indianapolis colts.
Offseason transactions impacted the Colts – just in a different way. Their decision to part ways with Carson Wentz opened the door for Matt Ryan to find a new home. His experience under center convinced fans of greener pastures. Ryan’s first performance was not convincing. Indianapolis struggled to push the ball downfield – trailing the Texans 20-3 entering the fourth quarter.
With help from Jonathan Taylor, Indianapolis scored 17 unanswered points in the final quarter. His 161 yards on 31 carries helped a struggling Colts offense – forcing the game into overtime. An extra quarter resulted in zero points, ending the game in a tie. As the Colts prepare for the Jaguars, Matt Ryan must figure out how to get the offense moving.
NFL Week 1 Recap: Aaron Rodger’s struggles without his former No.1 Receiver
Trade with the Las Vegas Raiders could be why Adam Stenavich’s offense performed horribly on the road in their season opener. Davante Adams’ absence was evident, and Aaron Rodgers felt it all. An intense off-season of cleansing and rehabilitation did not help Rodgers pull out a win in NFL Week 1. The outcome was shocking – causing panic among cheeseheads everywhere.
Minnesota’s defensive line kept Rodgers on his toes throughout the game. At the final whistle, Ed Donatell’s defense accounted for four sacks. Consistent pressure kept Green Bay’s aerial attack out of the endzone. AJ Dillon served as the Packers’ leading receiver. His fort-six yards on five receptions did not contribute to points on the board.
Defending the pass was an issue for the Packers from start to finish. Quarterback Kirk Cousins found chemistry with Justin Jefferson early – resulting in career-high numbers. Minnesota’s second-year receiver finished with nine receptions for 184 yards. His two scores were the Vikings’ only touchdowns for the afternoon. A 23-7 victory changed the dynamic of the NFC North – leaving Rodgers to figure out where he fits in.
NFL Week 1 Recap: Jameis Winston and Michael Thomas find chemistry
Success has been hard to find for New Orleans’ newest man under center. After working the depth chart, Jameis Winston finally has his shot. An impressive off-season caused analysts to keep an eye on Dennis Allen’s squad. Additions like Jarvis Landry, Chris Olave, and Tyrann Mathieu were a great start to the pre-season.
Alvin Kamara and Michael Thomas have been reliable players for the Saints franchise. Their veteran presence was needed in the teams opening win against the Falcons. Thomas’ two touchdowns reminded fans of his dominance after missing consecutive seasons due to injury. On the ground, it was Kamara who did what he could. His 4.3 yards per carrying help the Saints offense sustain balance in a close game.
A 51-yard field goal helped the Saints start the season victorious. A turnover-free performance from Winston showed spectators his promise – gaining their trust for the season to come. If healthy, the Saints could become a team to watch as the season progresses.
Week one was an exciting way to introduce football into our lives. Explosive offensive performances gave fans the excitement they were seeking. While coaches prepare for another week of competition, fans at home will discuss Sunday’s events – eager for a great Monday night matchup.