Chicago Bears–Tennessee Titans: 23-17
Justin Fields (3/3, 129 yards, 2 TD) experienced what he had never had in his career: he got help! Two short passes turned into a long distance touchdown is the good news of the evening for Chicago. DJ Moore and Khalil Herbert are the scorers, the first confirming that he may be the blaster that was missing in this attack. The running game also showed a sign of life thanks to rookie Roschon Johnson, in a generally positive evening on this side of the field.
Tennesse showed great things, but the pitchers made too many mistakes. Malik Willis (11/17, 102 yards, 1 INT, 22 yards on the ground, 1 TD) blew hot and cold but was able to advance his attack, as did rookie Will Levis (9/14, 85 yards, 1 TD). Willis will however have to avoid the loss of balls (2 this evening), a recurring fault with him. The race to become a quarterback is in any case still lively and tonight’s game does not provide a definitive answer.
Chicago can also rejoice in the performance of the front seven, with 8 sacks including 2 for Terrell Lewis. In a wide-open NFC North, Chicago made an encouraging first outing.
Buffalo Bills–Indianapolis Colts: 23-19
The baptism of Anthony Richardson at the highest level was the main interest of this match. The former Florida quarterback had a tough night, with a nasty interception that led to the Bills’ first touchdown from James Cook. He finally made a correct record (7/12, 67 yards, 1 TD), and seemed to pick up the pace as he went.
He is not the only quarterback to have faulted, since Kyle Allen threw him a “pick six”, a defensive touchdown from defensive rookie Darius Rush. Luckily for Buffalo, Matt Barkley(x) donned the hero costume. The receivers were able to show themselves, in particular Dezmon Patmon (35 yards, 1 TD), Tyrell Shavers or even the ghost Andy Isabella (42 yards).
The defenses bent without completely breaking, with no player standing out apart from interceptions. The Colts can however rejoice in the development of young players in the front seven, including the promising Dayo Odeyingbo.
Carolina Panthers – New York Jets: 0-27
The Jets’ defense is in good shape, as this XXL performance proves: 20 pressures, 8 contact from the quarterback and 5 sacks, Carolina’s offensive line has not seen the light of day. The rookie Will McDonald is currently the star of the month for August with a new sack. He could get significant playing time early in the season. Bryce Young limits the breakage (4/6, 21 yards) but was certainly not reassured to see four holders of his line in so much difficulty.
Offensively the Jets were also solid, with a good Zach Wilson (14/20, 123 yards, 1 TD) and above all an electrifying performance from Israel Abanikanda. The rookie from Pittsburgh had 56 yards rushing and 31 yards through the air, and should be able to battle with Michael Carter for the No. 2 runner spot.
Dallas Cowboys–Jacksonville Jaguars: 23-28
Often, the pre-season is a way for “unknown” players to become the hero of an evening. Quarterback Nathan Rourke (153 passing yards, 20 rushing yards, 2 TDs) took advantage, leading his team to victory in a game where the defenses did not show themselves in a good light.
As a bonus, he succeeded in the action of the year, with this little candy to be enjoyed in the morning.
It’s not over until Nathan says it’s over.@nathan_rourke | #JAXvsDAL on CBS pic.twitter.com/LGOpiBRvOw
—Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) August 12, 2023
This game also marked for Jacksonville the return of Calvin Ridley (21 yards) in the air and the outbreak of Tank Bigsby on the ground (52 yards). Speaking of runners, it was Deuce Vaughn who managed to stand out with 56 yards and a touchdown. Although historically small, his explosiveness makes him a threat. Also in Dallas, John Stephens (56 yards) had a nice performance and can fit into the rotation of tight ends.
Baltimore Ravens-Philadelphia Eagles: 20-19
It’s tradition, Baltimore is invincible in pre-season. In a match marked by the ground game, a runner scored points in each camp: the crow Justice Hill (48 yards) and the eagle D’Andre Swift (24 yards). The first can take the place of holder in the absence of JK Dobbins, and the second will be in the fight with Kenneth Gainwell. In attack always good performance of Pro Bowler Tyler Huntley (8/11, 88 yards, 1 TD), already in the leg if we need him.
But this match also gave defenders the opportunity to show themselves. Daryl Worley had 2 sacks for the Ravens, while Jalen Carter pressured the quarterback on his first snap. Honorable mention for Eli Ricks, author of a defensive touchdown after an interception, and who is fighting for a starting spot after a poorly managed college career.
Los Angeles Rams–Los Angeles Chargers: 17-34
A position that is traditionally won or se loses in pre-season is that of turner. Derius Davis may have earned his place with a touchdown return from 81 yards, which is the highlight of this game. The other star of this game is still with the Chargers, since runner Elijah Dotson managed 92 yards and 2 TDs.
In trouble early in the game, Stetson Bennett finally made a correct copy (191 yards, 1 TD) for his first game. The double national champion should be, except surprise, the lining of Matthew Stafford. In defense the Rams counted on Keir Thomas, author of a sack and a half and best defender of his team.
