Nothing is easy in the NFL (part 1)
Five victories in five matches, full of confidence and a clash against the Browns who fielded the number 3 quarterback. Everything seemed to go in the direction of the Niners. But the NFL is such a homogeneous league that every average week can cost a loss.
San Francisco had bad luck, multiplying injuries (Deebo Samuel, Trent Williams, Christian McCaffrey), and Brock Purdy was unable to save his team this time. While there is no cause for concern, it is a useful reminder for the favorites that every match is a potential pitfall.
Nothing is easy in the NFL (part 2)
The Eagles were also undefeated, and the clash against Zach Wilson’s Jets should not represent an obstacle. But Jalen Hurts collapsed against a beaming defense, and the Jets took advantage of four Philadelphia turnovers to earn a valuable victory.
There are no longer perfect records in the NFL, a demonstration once again of the homogeneity of this league.
The Saints are a constant disappointment
With the arrival of Derek Carr, expectations were high for the Saints offense. However, week after week the observation is the same: poor use of the running game, lack of audacity and risk-taking. The boat’s crew is good, but the captain is lost.
We must change, and quickly, at the risk of seeing the hopes of winning a division largely within the reach of this group disappear. The Saints are running out of time, everything moves quickly in the NFL.
Texans are fun
An electrifying young quarterback (CJ Stroud), a young runner (Dameon Pierce), a young receiver (Nico Collins). The Texans offense no longer looks like that parody of football we’ve seen in recent seasons. The youth of the squad coupled with an inspired coach offers an explosive cocktail that makes you want to see this team.
The defense is not left out with the same recipe: coaching and youth. If this team perhaps does not yet have the weapons to dream of the playoffs in 2023, hope is back in Texas for the future.
Jacksonville is indeed the King of the South
After a disappointing start to the season, Jacksonville has struck a major blow in the race for the AFC South. Taking advantage of the Titans’ defeat in London, Jacksonville personally took care of the Colts. In a match controlled from start to finish, they demonstrated that they are indeed the new leaders of the division.
Both in the air and on the ground, this young Jaguars team has the leaders necessary for long-term success. Since the defense also finds an identity, punishing each error with a loss of ball, this team is now ultra complete.
Cincinnati begins its season in October
Like the last two seasons, the Bengals disappointed in September, with a series of poor performances. But like every year, October seems to mark a turning point. Winner of a solid Seahawks team, Cincinnati is full of confidence before a decisive clash against the 49ers.
Paradoxically, it is the defense which is the engine of this team. The attack still needs to work, but the horizon appears clearer than a few weeks ago. Joe Burrow in particular seems to have regained mobility.
Commanders are unpredictable
Humiliated by the Bears in week 5, after holding off the Eagles a week before, the Commanders defeated the Falcons after a high-intensity match. Sam Howell showed his good face, with 3 touchdowns for no loss of ball.
The defense was able to control the Falcons’ attack, bending but never giving in. This Commanders team is not that far from the NFC playoffs, despite an XXL schedule. The problem remains that we never know if it is Mr Hyde or Doctor Jekyll who will introduce himself to us.
The Chiefs are a defensive team
Week after week, the Chiefs pile up victories without convincing in attack, particularly in redzone. The locomotive of this team is the defense, which again conceded less than 200 yards by causing three turnovers. Steve Spagnuolo gets the best out of this young group, and it shows every week.
Long considered a group that bends but does not break, the Chiefs defensive squad is now a dominant force. Very good news for Andy Reid’s men.
The Giants so close, so far
One yard, 0.9144 meters. This is what separates a victory from a defeat.
THE BILLS WIN #NYGvsBUF pic.twitter.com/uLwamFkT4N
— NFL (@NFL) October 16, 2023
