An Unpredictable Kickoff to the NFL Season

The NFL’s opening weekend was anything but dull, filled with highs and lows that promised an exhilarating season ahead. From rookie triumphs to shocking blunders, here are the ten standout stats that defined Week 1.

3: Vikings’ Late Surge

The Minnesota Vikings faced a rocky start, with quarterback J.J. McCarthy struggling mightily; he completed only 7 of 12 passes for a meager 56 yards, suffered three sacks, and threw a pick-six. However, the fourth quarter was a remarkable turnaround. Trailing 17-6, McCarthy ignited the team with three consecutive touchdown drives, finishing the final quarter 6 of 8 for 87 yards and two passing touchdowns, alongside a rushing touchdown. This explosive performance marks him as the first player since Cam Newton to achieve such numbers in his NFL debut. McCarthy’s resurgence gives Vikings fans a glimmer of hope.

2: Cleveland's Missed Opportunities

The Cleveland Browns were close to a win against the Bengals, but a combination of missed kicks and crucial interceptions sealed their fate. Kicker Andre Szmyt, unceremoniously dubbed ‘Schmidt’ for his blunders, missed an extra point and a crucial 36-yard field goal. On top of that, two bobbled passes resulted in interceptions, both of which proved pivotal. The Browns certainly racked up more statistics for poor luck than for good fortune.

6.2: Broncos' Defensive Domination

The Denver Broncos' defense was in top form against the Tennessee Titans, applying relentless pressure on rookie quarterback Cam Ward, forcing him into a 53% pressure rate. The Titans' offensive expected points added was grotesquely negative, and their rushing game was virtually non-existent. The result? Six sacks on Ward, culminating in a rough day at the office, effectively squashing any chance for Tennessee to make a comeback.

0: The Shielding of Joe Alt

Chargers tackle Joe Alt seamlessly transitioned from right to left, a daunting shift that proved beneficial. He allowed zero pressures against the Chiefs on 43 pass-blocking snaps, showcasing his talent and boding well for quarterback Justin Herbert's performance.

Minus-0.33: Bengals' Running Game Woes

Bengals running back Chase Brown struggled tremendously, averaging a dismal -0.33 yards before first contact— the lowest for any running back with 10 or more carries in Week 1. His lack of yardage was exacerbated by a formidable Browns defense, especially the formidable Myles Garrett.

4: Panthers’ Lack of Pressure

Against the Jaguars, the Carolina Panthers managed to pressure quarterback Trevor Lawrence only four times throughout the game. This shocking stat raises eyebrows, particularly given the offseason investments made to bolster their defense. With a lack of heat on Lawrence, it’s clear the Panthers have some major work to do.

17: Russell Wilson Under Fire

Russell Wilson faced a staggering 17 pressures against the Commanders, a daunting figure leading to an uninspired performance. His jittery play under pressure resulted in just 5 completions on 13 attempts. With Wilson's diminishing skills increasingly apparent, Giants fans might be yearning for a change sooner than expected.

100% Scoring Efficiency for Colts

The Indianapolis Colts made headlines by scoring on every single drive during Week 1—a perfect efficiency against the Dolphins. Quarterback Daniel Jones showcased impressive stats with 272 yards and three touchdowns, largely due to a lackluster Miami defense.

2.2: Falcons Ground Game Struggles

The Atlanta Falcons' running backs, Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier, averaged just 2.2 yards per carry against the Buccaneers' formidable front seven. While Robinson had a highlight reel moment with a 50-yard touchdown catch, the ground game was far from effective.

4: The Drops of CeeDee Lamb

Dallas star receiver CeeDee Lamb somehow dropped four passes in the thrilling opener against the Eagles, leading all players in drops for the week. His ineffectiveness included a missed slant and critical deep throws— a rare sight for one of the league’s brightest talents.