Week 4 of the 2025 NFL season kicked off Thursday night with an exciting matchup between the Seahawks and the Cardinals. Arizona tied the score at 20 with 28 seconds left in the fourth quarter, but Seattle drove down for a winning, 52-yard field goal by Jason Myers as time expired.

Sunday’s action kicked off in Dublin as the Steelers beat the Vikings 24-21 in the second international game of the season. Back in the United States, the Patriots and Falcons bounced back from Week 3 losses with victories over the Panthers and Commanders, respectively. Giants rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart shocked the Chargers in his debut, handing them their first loss of the season.

In the late window Sunday, the Rams ended the Colts’ hot start with two interceptions off quarterback Daniel Jones (both by Los Angeles cornerback Kam Curl). The Chiefs dominated against the Ravens, though quarterback Lamar Jackson left in the third quarter because of a hamstring injury. And the Bears blocked a field goal attempt in the final minute of play for a one-point win over the Raiders.

On Sunday night, the Green Bay Packers tied the Dallas Cowboys in an overtime thriller, as Micah Parsons returned to Dallas.

Our NFL Nation reporters reacted to all the action, answering lingering questions coming out of each game and detailing everything else you need to know for every team. Let’s get to it.

Jump to:
CHI-LV | BAL-KC | JAX-SF
IND-LAR | PHI-TB | NO-BUF
LAC-NYG | CLE-DET | TEN-HOU
CAR-NE | WSH-ATL | GB-DAL
MIN-PIT | SEA-ARI

Catch up on the action: Box score | Recap

Packers

What do the Packers need to fix during their bye week? The list is longer than it probably should be for such an early season bye after starting 2-1-1. The offensive line needs to get left guard Aaron Banks (groin) and right tackle Zach Tom (oblique) back after the break. Special teams coordinator Rich Bisaccia needs to fix the protection on place kicks after getting another one blocked. All of a sudden, they couldn’t pressure the quarterback on a consistent basis even with Micah Parsons getting a sack in overtime. And perhaps most importantly, they need to figure out a way to close out games. Who knows what this tie will mean down the road, but the Packers blew fourth-quarter leads in back-to-back games for the first time since Weeks 14-15 of the 2010 season against the Lions and Patriots. This after they blew a double-digit lead with four minutes to play last week against the Browns.

Trend to watch: The Packers couldn’t pressure quarteback Dak Prescott until late in the game, and when they did, it didn’t seem to affect him. He was pressured on only five of 24 dropbacks through three quarters, and while they ended up pressuring him on 14 of 41 dropbcks (34%), including four by Parsons, he was not rattled. He completed 10 of 13 passes for 121 yards and six first downs when pressured. — Rob Demovsky

Next game: vs. Bengals (Oct. 12, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Cowboys

Is there reason for hope in Dallas? Nobody wants to hear that right now, especially with the defense beaten up for a third straight game. The Cowboys have played two games against two of the best teams in the NFC. They lost by four points in the opener to the Philadelphia Eagles and they tied the Packers. Without question, the defense is culpable. Again. The Cowboys could not hold leads at the end of regulation or overtime. But if — and it might be a big “if” given the state of things — the Cowboys can find consistency, they have winnable games the next two weeks against the New York Jets (0-3) and Carolina Panthers (1-3). Parsons was mostly an afterthought in his return. The Cowboys have players coming back from injury. But they can’t afford ill-timed penalties (Sam Williams face mask; Marist Liufau unnecessary roughness), missed tackles and continue to give up the number of big plays they have been. This is the Cowboys’ first tie since 1969.

Most surprising performance: Prescott was near perfect. Statistically, he has had better games, but he was playing without his best playmaker, wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, who has a high ankle sprain. He was without two offensive linemen, right guard Tyler Booker (ankle) and center Cooper Beebe (foot). And he was facing a top Green Bay defense. He threw for three touchdowns, including a 28-yarder to wide receiver George Pickens with 43 seconds left in regulation. He ran for a third, his first of the season and the 30th of his career. He completed more than 70% of his passes for the second straight game and did what he could do to keep the Cowboys in the game. — Todd Archer

Next game: at Jets (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Catch up on the action: Box score | Recap

Bears

What adjustments do the Bears need to make during their Week 5 bye? The Bears’ defense came away with three interceptions, a critical red zone stop and gifted the offense multiple opportunities that they didn’t capitalize on until late. During the bye, coach Ben Johnson and his staff will have to find solutions to the struggles in the run game (2 rushing yards in the first half) and pre-snap penalties. A 2-2 record after the first month of the season is a solid place to be, but Johnson will be irked by how many points his team left off the board.

Trend to watch: Before the season, Johnson hinted that the Bears would not hesitate to make a switch at left tackle if the position reflected a weak link along the offensive line. Left tackle Braxton Jones, who entered Week 3 with 43 career starts, was replaced by guard Theo Benedet late in the second quarter, a move that could be permanent. Benedet was starting in place of Darnell Wright (elbow) at right tackle and once he slid over to left, rookie Ozzy Trapilo played his first NFL snaps at the position.

Best quote from the locker room: “It’s an incredible win and that’s just a testament to the team we have. I think we stacked a good week of practice and we kind of got this quote-unquote monkey off our back that we’re not the ‘same old Bears’, we’re different,” said cornerback Josh Blackwell, who blocked the 54-yard field goal attempt to end the game.— Courtney Cronin

Next game: at Commanders (Oct. 13, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Raiders

Is it time to worry about QB Geno Smith? The Smith experience hasn’t gone as expected. He threw three interceptions, with two resulting in points for Chicago. His first pick helped set up a field goal in the first quarter. Later, Smith was picked off by cornerback Tyrique Stevenson, leading to Bears quarterback Caleb Williams completing a touchdown pass to wide receiver Rome Odunze. Smith was given a chance to ice the game, but his throw to wide receiver Dont’e Thornton Jr. was slightly underthrown, resulting in an incompletion and a field goal. Smith’s turnover issues should be a cause for concern moving forward.

Key stat to know: Running back Ashton Jeanty became the first Raiders rookie with three touchdowns in a game since Bo Jackson (1987). He is also the fifth player age 21 or younger to have a three-touchdown game in the past decade, joining De’Von Achane, Ja’Marr Chase, Saquon Barkley and Ezekiel Elliott. Jeanty had 21 carries for 138 total yards, two receiving touchdowns and a rushing score. — Ryan McFadden

Next game: at Colts (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Catch up on the action: Box score | Recap

Chiefs

Did Xavier Worthy’s return unlock the Chiefs’ offense? For one game at least, the answer was an emphatic yes. Worthy’s speed and presence created several advantageous matchups for quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who put together an excellent performance. The speedy receiver ignited the offense with a career-high 83 receiving yards. With Worthy on the field, Mahomes was still able to spread around his targets, completing a pass to nine teammates. Another reason the Chiefs had so much success was because of the Ravens’ defensive injuries. The more revealing test will be next week against the Jaguars, who are 3-1.

Most surprising performance: Unlike the rest of his teammates, defensive tackle Chris Jones woke up Sunday in his home state of Mississippi. He spent Saturday with his family to attend the funeral of his aunt. Jones’ flight to Kansas City landed at 2:40 p.m. and he arrived at the stadium less than 30 minutes before kickoff. He started the game and his impact was still quite sizable. He pressured Jackson early, stuffed running back Derrick Henry on a short-yardage play and won most one-on-one matchups. — Nate Taylor

Next game: at Jaguars (Oct. 6, 8:15 p.m. ET)

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Puka Nacua hauls in late TD catch to help Rams even the score

Puka Nacua helps the Rams tie the score late in the fourth quarter with a touchdown catch.

Ravens

Is the Ravens’ season over at 1-3? It’s definitely teetering. The Ravens have been 1-3 in only two previous seasons (2005 and 2015) and they failed to reach the postseason each time. There is always hope with quarterback Lamar Jackson, who has led Baltimore to the playoffs in all five seasons that he has finished, but he left in the third quarter because of a hamstring injury. The biggest hurdle for the Ravens is a reeling defense, which has given up 133 points — the most in the first four games of a season in franchise history. To make matters worse, middle linebacker Roquan Smith (hamstring) and cornerbacks Nate Wiggins (elbow) and Marlon Humphrey (calf) left the game because of injuries and didn’t return. That means Baltimore is currently without seven defensive starters because of injuries.

Key stat to know: The Ravens are 7-11 (including the playoffs) when Jackson turns the ball over multiple times. After no turnovers in the first three games, Jackson threw an interception and then fumbled when he ran into center Tyler Linderbaum. The last time Baltimore won when Jackson had multiple turnovers was the 2023 season opener against the Texans. Sunday also marked the first time since 2021 that Jackson lost a game by more than one score.

Best quote from the locker room: Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton on the Ravens’ 1-3 start: “I just want to apologize to the fans. The product that we’re putting on the field right now is not up to par with what the Ravens have been in the past and recent past. We’re trying our best to correct it, but obviously something’s wrong.”— Jamison Hensley

Next game: vs. Texans (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Catch up on the action: Box score | Recap

Jaguars

Is the Jaguars’ defense for real? It’s unrealistic to expect the defense to force three (or more) turnovers game after game, yet the Jags have done it for four consecutive weeks. The 13 takeaways they’ve had lead the league and are the most in the first four games of a season in franchise history. And they’re also doing it at critical times: safety Antonio Johnson‘s interception (off a pass deflected by defensive end Josh Hines-Allen) to seal the victory over Houston last week and linebacker Foyesade Oluokun‘s fumble recovery (forced by defensive tackle Arik Armstead) late in game against the 49ers. Though the turnovers might decrease, the fact that the defense is coming up big in clutch moments is a sign the unit could be legit.

Trend to watch: Injuries hit hard Sunday, with eight starters or key reserves leaving the game at one point or another. Defensive end Travon Walker (wrist) and safety Eric Murray (neck) did not return. Those would be critical losses if they turn out to be long-term absences. Not having Walker would allow teams to concentrate on stopping Hines-Allen. Murray has been praised for his on-field communication and settling down a secondary that had trouble with big plays last season. — Mike DiRocco

Next game: vs. Chiefs (Oct. 6, 8:15 p.m. ET)

49ers

After a bad loss, are the 49ers as good as their 3-1 record? Though the Niners escaped with wins in the first three weeks, Sunday’s loss revealed a lot of warts that have been bubbling under the surface. Four turnovers on offense, none on defense, red zone woes on both sides, poorly timed penalties and continued special teams struggles all contributed to the Niners’ worst performance of the season. Without star defensive end Nick Bosa, it’s understandable that the defense would take a step back, but the offense didn’t pick up any slack against Jacksonville. And the special teams gave up an 87-yard punt return for a touchdown. The next two games — against the Rams and Bucs — should offer more definitive evidence on who these Niners really are.

Trend to watch: Despite a slow start, the 49ers insist their running game is close to breaking through. But Sunday offered more evidence that it’s not really taking off. San Francisco averaged just 3.5 yards per carry, and it’s the third straight game they’ve been outrushed by their opponent. As of Sunday night, the 49ers rank 31st in the NFL in yards per carry (3.3).

Best quote from the locker room: Trent Williams on how he feels about the 3-1 start and if the Niners feel like a 3-1 team: “What does a 3-1 team feel like? I mean, we’ve got 17 games, so four weeks in, it don’t matter. We’ve got a Thursday night game. We’ve got a big divisional rival. That’s all we’re focused on. The record will speak for itself at the end of the year.” — Nick Wagoner

Next game: at Rams (Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Catch up on the action: Box score | Recap

Rams

Is Puka Nacua the best wide receiver in the NFL right now? With 42 catches for 503 yards this season, he’s sure playing like one of the best. Against the Colts, Nacua had 13 catches for 170 yards, furthering his NFL lead in both categories. He also caught a touchdown pass to tie the score. Nacua has been consistent and a focal point of this offense. On Sunday, he became only the second player in NFL history to have 40 receptions for 500 yards in his team’s first four games, according to ESPN Research.

Trend to watch: The Rams again struggled on third down, going 4-of-12 (33%). When talking about the Rams’ third-down issues in their Week 3 loss to the Eagles, offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur said “there were a few things that were a tick off and that’s what happens.” Though the Rams won their first two games against teams who now have a combined 1-7 record, they’ve realized they need to find more consistency on offense against good teams.

Best quote from the locker room: When asked about Tutu Atwell‘s role in the Rams’ offense in the week leading up to the game, coach Sean McVay said although Atwell had only one catch, the 2021 second-round pick had done “everything that has been asked” and “his time is going to come.” His time came in a big way against the Colts, when he caught the game-winning 88-yard touchdown pass with less than two minutes to go. “I almost cried, to be honest with you,” Davante Adams said. “As hard as he works and as much as he does for this team, you can only be excited for him and real happy for him when he can make a play like that.” — Sarah Barshop

Next game: vs. 49ers (Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Colts

What did this game reveal about the Colts’ defense? Indianapolis had one of its best pass-rush performances of the season, but the game was marred by a woeful pass defense and some big lapses in the running game. The Colts gave up 462 total yards, their most since Week 5 of last season. Meanwhile, the personnel in the secondary is becoming troublesome given the injuries to cornerbacks Kenny Moore II (Achilles) and Jaylon Jones (injured reserve). Even the signing of veteran cornerback Mike Hilton last week didn’t mitigate Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford‘s huge day (29-for-41, 375 yards, 3 TDs).

Biggest hole in the game plan: Cornerback Xavien Howard was no match for Nacua, something the Colts should have anticipated coming into the game. Nacua repeatedly beat Howard on in-breaking routes, getting inside position on the veteran who was a late addition in the preseason after a year out of football in 2024. If Moore’s injury lingers, the Colts will need to consider a lineup change.

Best quote from the locker room: WR Adonai Mitchell on his would-be 75-yard touchdown reception in the third quarter, a play on which he fumbled the ball out of the end zone, giving possession to the Rams. “It was a matter of losing focus and [it’s] just a play that can’t happen. Just unacceptable. I just got to be better for the team and for the organization.” — Stephen Holder

Next game: vs. Raiders (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Catch up on the action: Box score | Recap

Eagles

How did the Eagles almost let that one slip away? The Bucs cut into Philly’s 24-3 lead thanks in large part to touchdown passes of 77 and 72 yards by Bucs quarterback Baker Mayfield, marking the two longest plays against the Eagles’ defense since Vic Fangio became defensive coordinator, per ESPN Research. Add that to an Eagles offense that went largely quiet — they had five three-and-outs in the second half — and you have a recipe for a near meltdown. The defense came up with some big plays late to keep the Eagles undefeated.

What to make of the QB performance: Quarterback Jalen Hurts looked like he had fully overcome his struggles against Bucs coach Todd Bowles, going 8-of-9 for 56 yards and two touchdowns against the blitz in the first half to help stake the Eagles to a sizable lead. The tide changed in the second half, however, as Hurts went 0-for-8 while the Bucs mounted their comeback. — Tim McManus

Next game: vs. Broncos (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

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Patrick Mahomes throws 250th career TD pass

Patrick Mahomes surpasses Aaron Rodgers as the fastest player to reach 250 career passing touchdowns after his toss to Isiah Pacheco.

Buccaneers

Why couldn’t the Bucs come back this time? There’s certainly no quit in this group, but they continue to have costly early mistakes. The defense surrendered two touchdowns on shovel passes to Eagles tight end Dallas Goedert in the first half, on top of a blocked punt returned for a touchdown to fall into a 21-point deficit. Yet somehow, those plays, plus running back Bucky Irving‘s fumble and Mayfield’s fourth-quarter pick, didn’t put the game out of reach. Bowles cut back on the blitzes that Hurts had carved up in the first half, holding him to 0-for-8 in the second. They fought back with touchdown receptions by wide receiver Emeka Egbuka and Irving — each of which covered 70-plus yards. And once again, Mayfield used his legs to keep things alive.

Biggest hole in the game plan: Last week, it was a blocked field goal returned for a touchdown in the fourth quarter. This week, it was a blocked punt returned for a score — the second blocked punt the Bucs have allowed this season. No other team in the league has more than one. Punter Riley Dixon also shanked a punt for 18 yards. There’s work to do for this group, though kicker Chase McLaughlin‘s 65-yard field goal — one yard off the league record and the longest outdoor kick in league history — was impressive. — Jenna Laine

Next game: at Seahawks (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)

Catch up on the action: Box score | Recap

Bills

How concerning is the Bills’ sloppiness? The Bills came into this game with 10 days of rest, but it didn’t show in the performance. There were a season-high 11 penalties, allowing the Saints to start four drives in Buffalo territory, and both the offense and defense stalled out midgame. New Orleans got a lot of help from Buffalo’s missed tackles, which is an area the Bills need to correct. Once again, Buffalo pulled out the win in the fourth quarter, but the issues that stood out, especially on defense, will be a priority to clean up.

Key stat to know: Running back James Cook broke the franchise record for consecutive regular-season games with a touchdown (eight). Cook continues to be a highlight, recording over 100 rushing yards for a third straight game (117 yards) and playing a large role in the team going 4-0 for the first time since 2020.

Best quote from the locker room: Cook was asked after the game if his role will increase with his strong performances. “I’m the star running back, why [wouldn’t it]… you know?… I’m the star running back, so it’s gonna happen,” he said. — Alaina Getzenberg

Next game: vs. Patriots (Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET)

Saints

Is this a turning point for the Saints? Some of the Saints’ usual issues still showed up — they gave up big plays and had a key special teams penalty that snuffed out any chances of a comeback. But overall, the Saints played much better than they have been this season against a very good Bills team. They cut down on the penalties, showed improvement in all three phases and also showcased young players such as Jonas Sanker and Kendre Miller. It was a big turnaround from last week’s blowout loss. The Saints haven’t been able to win a game yet, but they face the 1-3 Giants and a rookie quarterback at home next week, giving them hope to get out of their winless slump.

Most surprising performance: Running back Kendre Miller. Miller had 65 rushing yards against the Bills, the second-most in his career. He also had his first touchdown of the season and a third-down conversion. Miller played in only six games last year, so this game could represent an upward trend for his usage.

Best quote from the locker room: Saints defensive end Cameron Jordan was asked if he felt like the team bounced back after its blowout loss to the Seahawks last week. “Losing is not bouncing back,” he said. “At the end of the day, it’s the same feeling. We’ve just got to find a way to get in the Dub column, gah-lee.” — Katherine Terrell

Next game: vs. Giants (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Catch up on the action: Box score | Recap

Giants

What’s next for Jaxson Dart and the Giants without Malik Nabers? It appears Dart and the Giants will have to move forward without Nabers. The early fear is the star receiver tore the ACL in his right knee, according to a source. An MRI is scheduled for Monday. But Dart managed to do good things in his first career start, and the Giants’ offense looked different with his ability to run. Dart went 13-of-20 for 111 yards with a touchdown. He ran for another 54 yards and a score. They’ll continue to use his legs to create offense without Nabers.

Key stat to know: Five QB hits by edge rusher Abdul Carter. The rookie had the best game of his young career. He was constantly in the Chargers’ backfield, hitting quarterback Justin Herbert. But this year’s No. 3 draft pick wasn’t alone. Brian Burns had four QB hits and a sack. The Giants’ edge rushers — Carter, Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux — combined for 20 pressures, per NFL Next Gen Stats. Domination. — Jordan Raanan

Next game: at Saints (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

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Eagles take blocked punt to the crib on opening drive

Eagles start off hot as Sydney Brown takes the blocked punt to the house for an Eagles touchdown.

Chargers

What does this Chargers offense look like if Joe Alt is out for an extended time? If Alt does miss multiple weeks, the Chargers might have to consider bringing an additional lineman to compete for the left tackle spot or move right tackle Trey Pipkins III to protect Herbert’s blind side. Alt’s replacement, Austin Deculus, struggled mightily Sunday. According to NFL Next Gen Stats, he allowed six pressures on 36 pass blocking snaps — no other lineman allowed more than four. Before looking for help via trade or free agency, the Chargers could elevate practice squad tackles David Sharpe and Foster Sarell to the active roster.

Trend to watch: Omarion Hampton‘s emergence. After enjoying the best game of his career in Week 3, the rookie running back followed it up with an even better one against the Giants. He finished with a career-high 128 rushing yards, a touchdown and 37 receiving yards. Hampton’s best highlight was a 54-yard rushing touchdown in the third quarter; it was the longest rushing touchdown by a rookie in franchise history. — Kris Rhim

Next game: vs. Commanders (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Catch up on the action: Box score | Recap

Lions

How does the Lions’ offense improve from here on out? Detroit’s explosive offense knew it would face a difficult test against the Browns’ defensive front, but it passed the test with ease. The Lions registered 277 yards of total offense, which was their fewest since their Week 1 loss at Green Bay, but they controlled the game despite struggling to get a consistent run game going. Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs logged 91 of Detroit’s 109 rushing yards on 15 carries and scored a touchdown, while David Montgomery struggled with nine carries for 12 yards. Wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown also scored two touchdowns. Montgomery, a Cincinnati native, should be more of a factor next week in his return to his hometown to face the Bengals.

Biggest hole in the game plan: Matching up against one of the NFL’s stingiest run defenses, Lions quarterback Jared Goff attempted to air it out with wide receiver Jameson Williams, his top deep ball threat, but the connection wasn’t there early on. Williams was targeted by Goff eight times, but was able to connect only twice; Williams also had a crucial drop that could have been a huge gain at 6:17 in the second quarter. Goff also threw an interception to Browns cornerback Denzel Ward while trying to hit Williams on a deep pass in the third quarter. Williams also lost 3 yards on an end-around carry in the fourth quarter. — Eric Woodyard

Next game: at Bengals (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

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Jaxson Dart scores his first NFL TD

Jaxson Dart keeps the ball and gets the home crowd going by running in his first NFL touchdown.

Browns

How much longer can the Browns stick with Browns QB Joe Flacco? Flacco threw a pair of first-half interceptions and lost a fumble in the second half, increasing his season total to a league-high eight giveaways. All the turnovers haven’t been Flacco’s fault, but they contributed to 17 points for the Lions and have been at the center of Cleveland’s 1-3 start. Flacco’s six interceptions are the most by a Browns quarterback through the first four games of a season since Baker Mayfield‘s six in 2019.

Biggest hole in the game plan: The Browns didn’t give their backup tackles help against Lions edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson. Cleveland left Cornelius Lucas, filling in for injured right tackle Jack Conklin, alone for all 17 of his matchups with Hutchinson, per NFL Next Gen Stats. Hutchinson made Cleveland pay, recording two sacks and five pressures when matched up against Lucas. — Daniel Oyefusi

Next game: vs. Vikings in London (Sunday, 9:30 a.m. ET)

Catch up on the action: Box score | Recap

Texans

Is Woody Marks positioning himself to take over the RB1 role? Against the Titans, the rookie had a career day. He had career-highs in carries (17), overall touches (21), offensive snaps (41), receiving yards (50) and touchdowns (2). Marks outperformed starting running back Nick Chubb (11 carries for 47 yards) and got a bulk of the snaps and carries.

Turning point: Quarterback C.J. Stroud found wideout Nico Collins for a 37-yard gain on second-and-33. At this point in the game, the score was 6-0 with 4:06 remaining in the third quarter. But after Stroud found Collins down the sidelines, the Texans scored touchdowns on three straight drives. — DJ Bien-Aime

Next game: at Ravens (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Titans

Where do the Titans go from here? This team is a disaster four weeks in. There is no rhythm on offense, and the defense continues to wear down at the end. This was the fourth consecutive game in which Tennessee allowed an explosive run to the end zone that was littered with missed tackles. The offense has gone without a touchdown in two of its four games, and kicker Joey Slye missed two field goals. It’s hard to imagine things getting any worse for the Titans. But back-to-back road trips to the West Coast, followed by former coach Mike Vrabel and the Patriots at home, could spell disaster.

Stat to know: This was the first time the Titans were shut out in the first half under coach Brian Callahan. It was their first shutout in a game since Oct. 13, 2019, when they lost 16-0 to the Broncos. They had only been shut out twice in franchise history before Sunday. Neither team made it to the red zone until the fourth quarter. — Turron Davenport

Next game: at Cardinals (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)

Catch up on the action: Box score | Recap

Patriots

Have the Patriots found their new running back snap distribution? One week after Rhamondre Stevenson lost two fumbles and backup Antonio Gibson lost one, the Patriots altered the snaps played by running backs by lessening Stevenson’s workload with more of an even split. At halftime, Stevenson still led the way with 11 snaps, followed closely by TreVeyon Henderson‘s 10 and Gibson’s five. The Patriots held a 28-6 lead at that point. Patriots running backs didn’t lose any fumbles this week, which could foreshadow a similar approach with snaps moving forward.

Turning point: Cornerback Marcus Jones‘ 87-yard punt return for a touchdown in the first quarter changed everything. The Patriots had another slow start on defense by giving up an early touchdown, then went three-and-out on offense; that left no energy in Gillette Stadium. Jones’ catch was impressive, as he broke an initial tackle, took off up the left side and then cut back in the middle to cap it off. His 167 punt return yards are the most by a Patriots player in a game in franchise history.

Best quote from the locker room: “I’m pretty ruthless back there,” Jones said of his decision to forgo a fair catch on his 87-yard punt return for a touchdown. — Mike Reiss

Next game: at Bills (Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET)

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Jahmyr Gibbs slips his way in for a Lions TD

Jahmyr Gibbs finds an opening and weaves his way in for an 8-yard touchdown.

Panthers

What happened to the chemistry between QB Bryce Young and WR Tetairoa McMillan? They had an almost magical chemistry all offseason and through Week 2. But it has been off since. Before this game became embarrassing, Young missed an open McMillan down the left side. And he later missed the rookie with room to run down the right side. McMillan had three catches for 40 yards before Andy Dalton replaced Young. The offense needs that magic to keep pace.

Most surprising performance: Carolina’s special teams unit. First, there was a missed PAT. Then, an 87-yard punt return allowed for a touchdown. Then, a badly missed 55-yard FG attempt. Then, a 61-yard punt return that almost went for a touchdown. The special teams group that was spectacular in last week’s 30-0 victory were dreadful Sunday.

Best quote from the locker room: Panthers coach Dave Canales took complete ownership of the loss because it was such a complete team fail. “When it happens in all phases, I’m the common denominator, and I have to take responsibility for that,” he said. Players defended Canales and said the blame is on them to perform, but the coach repeatedly said “I’m the common denominator.” — David Newton

Next game: vs. Dolphins (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Catch up on the action: Box score | Recap

Falcons

Was this the real Falcons offense all along? Running back Bijan Robinson had a career-high 181 yards from scrimmage. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. threw his first touchdown passes this season to a wide receiver (Drake London) and tight end (Kyle Pitts Sr.). Even running back Tyler Allgeier got in on the action with a rushing touchdown. After being shut out by the Panthers last week, firing wide receivers coach Ike Hilliard and moving offensive coordinator Zac Robinson down to the field, the Falcons came out firing in an encouraging win.

What to make of the QB performance: Penix hit London in stride on a deep shot in the second quarter that went for 43 yards, the longest pass play to a wide receiver of the season for the Falcons. That’s the kind of throw and performance — more than 300 yards passing — Atlanta expected out of Penix when it drafted him at No. 8 in 2024. — Marc Raimondi

Next game: vs. Bills (Oct. 13, 7:15 p.m. ET)

Commanders

Was this just a bad game by the defense, or reason to be concerned? With the offense banged up, the Commanders needed their defense to play well. Instead, the Falcons gained 15 or more yards on 10 plays and had a season-high 436 yards overall. Washington’s coverage continues to have issues when teams use motion, leading to confusion and a free target. The problem is the big plays have been allowed all season. Washington’s inconsistency against the pass — it had allowed 20 pass plays of 15 yards or more, tied for 27th entering the game — will be the team’s undoing if that doesn’t get fixed.

What to make of the QB performance: The Commanders lack explosion minus quarterback Jayden Daniels and injured receivers Terry McLaurin and Noah Brown. The result was backup quarterback Marcus Mariota‘s most pedestrian outing since signing with Washington ahead of last season. He threw for 156 yards and had one ill-advised deep ball picked off, but did manage a total of two touchdowns. Had Washington’s defense helped Sunday, that might have been good enough. There is hope that Daniels will return for Week 5, but it remains to be seen if McLaurin and Brown will do the same. — John Keim

Next game: at Chargers (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Catch up on the action: Box score | Recap

Steelers

Is this version of the Steelers’ defense here to stay? The Steelers’ defense put together its best showing of the season, collecting six sacks and 10 tackles for loss against QB Carson Wentz. The return of S DeShon Elliott was crucial in thwarting RB Jordan Mason and the rushing attack, and Elliott also came up with a big second-quarter interception. LB T.J. Watt dramatically affected the game, too, with a third-quarter interception when he deflected the ball at the line of scrimmage and grabbed it out of the air. Even DT Keeanu Benton, who had a tough start to the season, got two sacks. Big plays still came back to bite the defense late, as Jordan Addison‘s 81-yard catch-and-run set up Jalen Nailor‘s late fourth-quarter touchdown.

Most surprising performance: With starting running back Jaylen Warren a surprise inactive with a knee injury, the already woeful Steelers’ run game seemed dead on arrival at Croke Park. But veteran Kenneth Gainwell quickly revived it with two touchdowns, averaging 5.2 yards on 19 carries for 99 yards to go with six catches for 35 yards. The Steelers also used OL Spencer Anderson and TE Darnell Washington as extra blockers to help unlock the run game. — Brooke Pryor

Next game: at Browns (Oct. 12, 1 p.m. ET)

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Hunter Henry breaks free for 31-yard Patriots TD

Hunter Henry sprints in for New England’s fifth touchdown against the Panthers.

Vikings

Where does the Vikings’ offense go from here? The Vikings showed some life with two fourth-quarter touchdowns, but by the end of Sunday’s game, they were playing with more backup offensive linemen (three) than starters (two). And their results reflected it, with Wentz taking six sacks and facing pressure for most of the game. From a personnel perspective, there aren’t many reinforcements on the way. QB J.J. McCarthy (ankle) has missed two consecutive weeks of practice, making his return in Week 4 a long shot. Left guard Donovan Jackson (wrist) is going to miss at least one more game, and it’s difficult to project either right tackle Brian O’Neill (knee) or center Ryan Kelly (concussion) to be ready.

What to make of the QB performance: It was hard not to compare the Vikings’ struggling offense with the Steelers’ offense, quarterbacked by Aaron Rodgers, whom the Vikings decided against signing during the offseason. Rodgers’ nearly perfect afternoon (18-of-22, 200 yards) came mostly on the kind of timing-based, quick-pass offense that would work well for a team like the Vikings, who have protection issues. Instead, the Vikings were left with Wentz, whom the Vikings signed last month as a backup for McCarthy. — Kevin Seifert

Next game: vs. Browns in London (Sunday, 9:30 a.m. ET)

Catch up on the action: Box score | Recap

Seahawks

Where does Jaxon Smith-Njigba rank among the best receivers in football? Smith-Njigba got off to the best three-game start in franchise history with 323 receiving yards — second most in the NFL this season to that point. It took him a while to get going against Arizona on Thursday, but he finished with four catches for 79 yards, including a 22-yarder that set up the Seahawk’s winning field goal. Smith-Njigba, who also rushed for 11 rushing, was Seattle’s best receiver last season, even with DK Metcalf still in the fold. Now, Smith-Njigba has a case to be among the best in football.

What to make of the QB performance: Sam Darnold has been getting it done with his arm and his legs. In this contest, his poise on key drives was a factor, as well. In addition to the throw to Smith-Njigba that set up the winning kick, Darnold (18-of-26, 242 yards, one TD) threw a dime to his No. 1 receiver on the previous drive for 36 yards. Late in the first half, Darnold scrambled and hit rookie tight end Elijah Arroyo for 32 yards; on the next play, he found an open swath of turf and ran for 24 yards. That drive ended with a touchdown that put Seattle up 14-3 at halftime. — Brady Henderson

Next game: vs. Buccaneers (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)

Cardinals

How do the Cardinals fix their offense? It won’t be easy or quick, but the Cardinals need to address a few issues to their offense: how to get the entire scheme and key players in a rhythm early; how to reduce the number of plays that are losses, no gain or gains of a yard or two; and how to complete “got to have it” plays on third down and in the red zone. If they can improve in those three areas, Arizona’s offense will look more like the one that scored two touchdowns in the fourth quarter against Seattle.

What to make of the QB performance: Kyler Murray did what he could with what he had available to him, finishing with his lowest adjusted QBR this season (27.8). Both of his interceptions were on throws to Marvin Harrison Jr., and the wide receiver was likely more at fault for each of them. However, after going 1-of-5 when targeting Harrison in the first half, the duo was 5-of-5 for 58 yards and a touchdown in the second half. Murray finished 27-of-41 passing for 200 yards. — Josh Weinfuss

Next game: vs. Titans (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)