The NFL's first week of the 2023 season delivered a spectacular display of football across both conferences, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what the rest of the season has in store. From stunning upsets to standout performances, it was a wild opening weekend. Let's dive into the action, starting with the AFC, and make our way through the NFC, as we dissect the key highlights, surprises, and challenges faced by some of the league's most exciting teams.
Let's start off with the AFC. The top three AFC teams all suffered losses in week 1. The Chiefs heartbreaking loss to the Lions proved just how vital Travis Kelce is to that offense and that even Mahomes needs help. Both Kadarius Toney and Sky Moore had pretty awful performances, which leaves KC fans wondering if they need to acquire new talent out wide. However, Chiefs fans can breathe because despite horrible wr play, Mahomes still looked like his normal self.
As for Joe Burrow and Josh Allen, we can’t say the same. Joe Burrow was recently named the highest paid NFL player ever after signing a 5 year 275 million dollar contract. After getting paid like that, fans expected huge things from the main man, Joe Brrr. However, his 45% completion rating for only 82 yards left Bengals fans and Fantasy football players across the nation in shambles. And no, we can’t blame his o line for the embarrassing 24-3 loss. Sorry Who Dey nation, but this one was on Joe.
Is the Madden Curse actually real? After Josh Allens horrendous performance on Monday Night Football, NFL fans are inclined to believe so. He’s a turnover machine, and when the game is on the line he folds under the pressure. I mean 4 turnovers is a game like that is honestly ridiculous. Fans have put these turnovers aside for the past years of Allen's career, defending this play explaining that Allen “takes risk”. However, launching the ball downfield in to double coverage is not taking a risk, it's just terrible decision making. Obviously, Allen is still a great quarterback, but it is time that we hold him accountable for his poor decision making.
Speaking of the rest of the AFC East, you gotta feel for Jets fans. It was heartbreaking to see the interaction between the vet Aaron Rodgers and young star Garret Wilson. The "father-son" type duo seemed poised for an incredible season, especially after their divisional victory over the Bills. It highlighted just how promising this team could be. With Sauce Gardner and DJ Reed forming one of the league's top cornerback duos and a robust front seven, the Jets appeared to have one of the conference's premier defenses. After years of disappointment, there was finally a glimmer of hope for the Jets, but it all came crashing down in the span of about 40 seconds.
The game of the week undoubtedly belonged to the Dolphins and the Chargers. Whenever Tua and Herbert square off, you know it's going to be a thrilling matchup. I had mentioned at the start of the season that Tua was poised for a breakout year after bulking up, with my only concerns being his history of concussions. However, there was no sign of that as he delivered an absolutely insane performance. The Tua and Tyreek combo feels like a modern-day Mike Vick and DJax. I mean, the stats from that game looked like something straight out of a video game. The Dolphins mean business this year. Even though their defense has had a few shaky moments, that high-octane offense is simply too much for any defense to handle.
Lets venture on the NFC.
The Lions pulled off a shocker in the opening game of the 2023 season by taking down the reigning champions in Kansas City. Jared Goff and Amon-Ra St. Brown continued to showcase their excellent form from the previous season. What really caught my eye was Goff's decision-making and his absolute lack of hesitation in his throws. He seemed incredibly comfortable under center, even when facing a formidable KC defense.
But here's the real game-changer for Detroit: rookie RB Jahmyr Gibbs. On draft night, fans had their doubts about the pick. After all, the value of running backs has taken a hit in recent years. However, if there was ever a player to defy those doubts, it's Jahmyr Gibbs. Back in his Alabama days, he was one of the most electrifying players in the nation, but skeptics wondered if he could replicate that magic in the NFL. Well, after that jaw-dropping performance, it's safe to say he can. Despite his limited touches, it felt like every time Gibbs had the ball, a big play was imminent. It's mind-blowing how quickly he accelerates and how he shrugs off defenders. He's reminding me of a young Alvin Kamara with his playmaking prowess and sheer explosiveness. Lions fans have every reason to be excited.
Shifting our focus to the NFC North, the Packers unveiled a dynamic new offense with young quarterback Jordan Love at the helm. According to lifelong Packers fan and high school quarterback Aryan Mehta, "Jordan Love sometimes resembled A-Rod out there. I loved witnessing his growth in pocket presence and his ability to keep his eyes downfield." Mehta went on to express his belief that, "As we face tougher opponents, the Packers may have to lean more on the experience of our defense." With confidence, Aryan is looking ahead to a potential win against the Falcons in the upcoming week.
Both the Packers and the Lions have sent a clear message—they're legitimate contenders for the NFC North crown, a division that many fans initially thought the Vikings would easily dominate. It's going to be incredibly intriguing to watch this division unfold throughout the rest of the season.
Now, let's venture into the NFC East, which many believe is the most competitive division in the NFC. The reigning NFC Champion Philadelphia Eagles came out swinging in Foxborough against the Patriots, building an impressive 17-0 lead early on. However, things took a turn for the shaky in the second quarter. The Eagles went through a frustrating stretch with multiple three and outs, leaving Philly fans exasperated. Jalen Hurts seemed to lose his rhythm, and Goedert was virtually invisible on the field. Despite these offensive struggles, the Eagles' defense showcased its brilliance. How in the world did Jaylen Carter fall into this team's lap? Both Slay and Bradberry held their own, and promising young talents like Jobe stood out.
The game ultimately came down to the wire, despite the Eagles looking like they had it in the bag in the first quarter. In my book, a glaring issue stood out - the playcalling. New offensive coordinator Brian Johnston faced severe backlash for his questionable play calling, prompting questions about whether Shane Steichen was the secret sauce behind this offense's success. With so much depth and talent on this offense, the underwhelming performance was hard to swallow. New additions like Deondre Swift and the veteran Goedert seemed to be missing in action, left untapped. I wouldn't hit the panic button just yet, but if the play calling doesn't improve, it might start raising some serious questions.
A team that definitely looked rock-solid was the Eagles' division rivals, the Dallas Cowboys. I mean, wow, that defense was absolutely incredible. I'm not sure if it was just Danny Dimes having a terrible day or the genius of the Cowboys' scheme, but those 35 fantasy points they racked up must have crushed many people's night. On the offensive side, everything seemed to click, and it appears that Tony Pollard is poised for a breakout season, firmly securing the RB1 spot. The battle for the division title is shaping up to be a real slugfest between the Birds and the Cowboys, and NFL fans everywhere are eagerly awaiting their showdown later in the season.
Now, let's shift our attention to San Francisco. The 49ers might just be the most well-rounded team in the entire NFL. Even without an elite quarterback, they manage to dominate nearly every game they play. When it comes to this team, one word truly captures their essence - consistency. Kyle Shanahan is a mastermind, and his offensive scheme is nothing short of impressive. Christian McCaffrey continues to showcase his elite skills, proving that running backs still hold immense value in this league. Brandon Aiyuk is making a strong case for being the WR1 on this team, especially after his standout performance against the Steelers. I mean, Pat Pete might want to consider retirement after being torched like that. Defensively, the 49ers remain a cut above the rest in the NFL. The only thing that could derail their season is injuries, as they've experienced before. If this team can stay healthy, they will undoubtedly be a formidable force to contend with.
As we wrap up our journey through the NFL's opening week, it's clear that this season promises to be one for the books. From the AFC's top dogs facing unexpected challenges to the NFC's rising stars making their mark, football fans can't help but be thrilled by the uncertainty and excitement that each game brings.
As the season unfolds, we'll continue to witness the ebbs and flows of the game, the triumphs and tribulations of our favorite teams, and the emergence of new heroes on the gridiron. So, buckle up, because the NFL's 2023 season is well underway, and there are countless more touchdowns, upsets, and unforgettable moments yet to come. Stay tuned for all the action and drama the league has in store!