NFL Week One Early Takes

Week 1 of the NFL season has come and gone. Week 1’s slate included some great contests and rivalry games. In fact, there were four games decided by a point and two others decided by two points. All but three games played this weekend was decided by less than ten points. Overall, it was a very exciting weekend of football.

After one week, it is only logical that analysts and writers will jump to conclusions, and this case is no different. However, the games were not the only topic of attention as the anthem controversy, spurred by Colin Kaepernick has continued with multiple players kneeing and even raising their fists during the anthem. Interestingly, the Seahawks did not take a stance like this as they locked arms during the anthem on September 11th. Likewise, some impressive performances and disappointments caught the attention of fans. I chose to highlight three impressive performances and three disappointments.

Impressive Performances:

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

In a convincing 31-24 win over Falcons, Bucs coach Dirk Koetter started off his tenure strong. He saw his sophomore quarterback, Jameis Winston throwing for 281 yards and four touchdowns. All four touchdowns were caught by different receivers showing a deep core behind young star Mike Evans. After getting ahead 31-13, the Bucs let up on the Falcons and are not looking towards a meeting against the Arizona Cardinals.

Jacksonville Jaguars

For Jacksonville, in week 1 against the Packers, a solid game was needed to show the young team could compete with playoff squads. Even in a 27-23 loss, they showed that they are an improved and resilient enough to compete this year and for years to come. Even still, the Jaguars could have won that game as their fourth quarter comeback fell short, even with strong performances from Blake Bortles (320 yds) and Allen Robinson (6 rec, 72 yds).

Will Fuller (WR Houston)

Rookie Will Fuller also impressed lining up opposite of star wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. In week 1, he had 5 receptions, 107 yards, and a touchdown. He presents another option for QB Brock Osweiler on a Texans team with playoff hopes.

Disappointments:

Buffalo Bills

The Ravens defense came to life, and the Bills were unfortunate to be on the other end, losing 13-7. Either way, mustering only 160 yards of total offense will not win any games. It was discouraging to see Tyrod Taylor have a poor start after a strong season last year.

Los Angeles Rams (New City, Same Old Rams)

New city, same old Rams. In week 1, the Rams lost 28-0 against a 49ers that had Blaine Gabbert at quarterback. The Rams offense sputtered, not putting up a single point as Gurley picked up only 47 yards (2.8yd/carry) and Case Keenum completed less than half of his passes. Their usually stout defense was not able to keep this game close, and it was a poor start for this team.

Keenan Allen Injury

With a torn ACL, Keenan Allen is possibly done for the season, and chances of the Charges reaching the playoffs have been dashed with their best wideout injured. Before his injury, Allen was having a fantastic game, tallying six catches for 63 yards in under two-quarters of play. To make matters worse, after his injury, the Chargers went downhill and blew an 18 point lead.