NFL: Biggest takeaways from Week 2’s Early Games

The NFL Week 2 was heavy with divisional games so we’ll dive right in.

San Fran vs Cincy: 41-17

The NFL has been a roller coaster for 49ers fans the past 5 seasons. The controversy, the trade for Jimmy G, then the injury, and now Garoppolo has returned just in time to give the 9ers hope. Sitting at 2-0 shows promise, while Cincy falling to 0-2 might be signaling the end of the Dalton era.

LAC vs Det: 10-13

The Lions were a mixed bag last season but had a few games of hopeful moments. Matt Patricia came over from New England and did about as well as a first year coach could do. Facing an always tough Philip Rivers, beating the Chargers might be his first moment of proving himself long term. Lions improve to 1-0-1, Chargers fall 1-1.

Vikings vs Packers: 16-21

Speaking of proving himself, this would’ve been prime time for Kirk Cousins to make a statement yet the Vikings struggled against the Packers. A balanced run game should’ve helped the passing attack but Cousins turned in a pedestrian outing in a losing effort. Vikings fall to 1-1, Packers stay undefeated 2-0.

Colts vs Titans: 19-17

Division games will always be the toughest. While the Titans rolled last week, this week they were brought back down to Earth. With Jacoby Brissett not firmly in control of the Colts offense just yet, squeaking out a divisional game is always a plus early in the season. Both teams are now 1-1.

Patriots vs Dolphins: 43-0

In a comedy of errors, the Dolphins looked somehow worse than last week. Going into the 4th quarter they had 38 yards on 28 plays. Everyone can point to their desire to tank, but not to an embarrassing degree. They can tank and still keep games close. There’s no style points along the way that help their pick. They’re in firm control of the #1 overall no matter how bad they lose. Pats again start 2-0, Dolphins 0-2.

Bills vs Giants: 28-14

For their second road game in a row against a NY team the Bills made another statement in the battle for NY. Even if the Jets and Bills play in New Jersey, they still own the title of New York. The Bills have been on the rise as of late, while the Jets and Giants can’t get out of their own way. Bills improve to 2-0, Giants fall 0-2.

Seahawks vs Steelers

With Roethlisberger out, Mason Rudolph would get his time to shine. Rudolph was supposed to be the Ben’s eventual replacement, his 12/19 and two touchdowns has to give fans hope. If Roethlisberger is out for an extended period of time and the Steelers continue to fail, it might be time to transition sooner. Steelers are now 0-2, Seahawks2-0.

Cowboys vs Redskins: 31-21

The Cowboys continue to impose their will against their NFL divisional counterparts. Two games against division opponents, two victories. Throwing money around this offseason proved to pay off as they seem to be worth the price. If they continue this success they’ll make their money back in playoff tickets. Cowboys 2-0, Redskins 0-2.

Cardinals vs Ravens: 17-23

Ravens fans might’ve had a better judge of their teams strengths against a team that’s not as bad as the Dolphins. Ravens defense allowed almost 400 yards to a rookie QB, but Lamar Jackson still threw for 2 touchdowns in a win. Cardinals 0-1-1, Ravens 2-0.

Jaguars vs Texans: 12-13

With their offense the focus after the trades just before the season started, you’d expect the Texans to be better. Lamar Miller might be out for the season but there’s no reason they shouldn’t show up. Jags have a tough defense but can be warn down. Another divisional game that was closer than it should’ve been. Jags 0-2, Texans 1-1.

One more is a winning streak, just how many of these 2-0 teams will stay that way next week?