What we learned in NFL Week 10: We answered big questions and sized up every matchup

On Nov 11, 2024

NFL Nation, ESPNNov 12, 2024, 12:40 AM ET

Week 10 of the NFL season kicked off Thursday with the Baltimore Ravens defeating the Cincinnati Bengals 35-34. Then in Munich, the Carolina Panthers prevailed over the New York Giants 20-17 for an early start to Sunday football.

The Denver Broncos’ upset bid fell short against the Kansas City Chiefs, who moved to 9-0. San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey made his season debut against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and the New Orleans Saints got back on track, after firing coach Dennis Allen last week, with a win over the Atlanta Falcons.

Later Sunday, the Arizona Cardinals and Philadelphia Eagles blew out the New York Jets and Dallas Cowboys, respectively. And finally, on Monday night, the Miami Dolphins kept their playoff hopes alive by beating the Los Angeles Rams.

Our NFL Nation reporters reacted to all the action, answering lingering questions coming out of each game and detailing everything else you need to know for every team. Let’s get to it.

Dolphins

Can the Dolphins put together a playoff push? Of the 194 teams in the Super Bowl era (excluding 2024) to start a season 2-6, only three have made the playoffs. The Dolphins still have some ground to make up before they become the fourth, but Monday’s win over a hot Rams team was a critical start. With one of the easiest remaining schedules in the NFL, a push for the seventh seed is still possible.

Eye-popping stat: With 15 pressures of Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford, the Dolphins recorded their seventh game of the season with at least a 30% pressure rate. Perhaps more astonishing is the fact that even after Monday’s four-sack performance, Miami still ranks 30th in the NFL in sacks.

Early prediction for next week: Chop Robinson has recorded 16 quarterback pressures in four games since the Dolphins’ Week 6 bye and has a sack in each of his past two games. That streak will continue in Week 11 against a Raiders team that has allowed the fifth-most sacks in the NFL this season. — Marcel Louis-Jacques

Next game: vs. Raiders (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Rams

What does this mean for the Rams’ playoff chances? After the Cardinals and 49ers won Sunday, ESPN Analytics had the Rams’ chances to win the division at 11.5% and to make the playoffs at 18.4%. That will go down after their loss to the Dolphins, as Los Angeles fell back into a tie for last place in the NFC West with the Seahawks. The Rams are very much alive in the division but missed an opportunity to keep pace with the Cardinals, a team they’ve already lost to this season.

Biggest hole in the game plan: The offensive line. In the Rams’ past three games, Matthew Stafford had been sacked just once. But on Monday night, he was sacked four times, despite getting left guard Steve Avila (MCL sprain) and center Jonah Jackson (shoulder) back from injured reserve. The Rams were without right tackle Rob Havenstein, who was out with an ankle injury. The Dolphins’ defense did this despite entering the game with 10 sacks, the second fewest in the NFL.

Most surprising performance: After throwing six touchdown passes over the past two games, Stafford did not throw one against a Dolphins defense that entered the game ranked 26th in pass defense DVOA. Stafford completed 32 of 46 passes for 293 yards and an interception. Stafford has thrown an interception in six straight games, which is tied for the longest streak in his career, according to ESPN Research. — Sarah Barshop

Next game: at Patriots (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Lions

Is there reason for concern after Jared Goff’s 5 INT performance? It was a rough night at the office for Goff with a career-high five interceptions. Entering the game, Goff had four interceptions on the season and hadn’t thrown one since Week 3, while attempting 114 passes between picks. Against Houston, though, Goff faced heavy pressure, particularly in the first half. Although Goff struggled, he shouldn’t have any issue with getting back on track next week at home against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Most surprising performance: Jake Bates. In a return to his home state, the Lions kicker nailed a game-winning 52-yard field goal in dramatic fashion. Bates also had a 58-yard field goal to tie the score with 5:01 remaining. The last kicker to make two 50-plus yard field goals in the final six minutes of regulation was Matthew Wright in 2021 for the Jaguars.

Early prediction for next week: Lions WR Amon-Ra St. Brown will score a receiving touchdown for the eighth consecutive game. With a fourth-quarter touchdown against the Texans, St. Brown established a franchise mark at seven consecutive games with a receiving TD. He broke a tie with Leon Hart (1951), Herman Moore (1994) and himself (2021-22). — Eric Woodyard

Next game: vs. Jaguars (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Texans

Can the Texans fix their second-half lulls? Coming into “Sunday Night Football,” the Texans’ offense averaged 9.1 points in the second half, but this was a new low — scoring a season-worst zero points against the Lions. The Texans’ inability to score fueled the Lions’ comeback even though the defense forced five interceptions. The Texans’ second-half possessions: interception, punt, interception, punt, punt, punt and missed field goal. That’s a recipe for a loss. Instead of being 7-4 with a win over one of the best teams in the NFC, they’re losers in three of their past four games.

Describe the game in two words: Interception overload. There were seven interceptions between both teams, the most in a game since 2018. The Texans’ defense forced Goff into the most picks in a prime-time game since former Saints QB Drew Brees had the same total in 2012 against the Falcons.

Most surprising performance: CB Kamari Lassiter had two interceptions, bumping his season total to three. As a rookie, he’s holding opposing quarterbacks to a 62 passer rating and a 42.5% completion percentage when targeted. — DJ Bien-Aime

Next game: at Cowboys (Nov. 18, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Eagles

Is it time to start looking at the Eagles as a legit title contender? Not quite yet, but they’re building a compelling case after winning five straight. The only knock is all of those wins came against teams with sub-.500 records. Philadelphia has several quality opponents coming up, including the Commanders at home Thursday night in a game that could help the Eagles take command of the NFC East. Let’s see how they do in this upcoming stretch before elevating them to Super Bowl contenders, but they are emitting positive signs.

Describe the game in two words: Defensive dominance. The Eagles held overmatched quarterback Cooper Rush to 45 passing yards before he was replaced by Trey Lance. The defense generated five takeaways, four of which were fumble recoveries. Linebacker Zack Baun impressed, leading the team in tackles (8) and forcing a key red zone fumble. This unit is playing above preseason expectations.

Eye-popping stat: Quarterback Jalen Hurts was pressured on 13-of-21 first-half dropbacks (62%), the highest rate he has faced in a half during his career (minimum five dropbacks). He completed 5 of 6 passes for 101 yards and a touchdown to go with five sacks and a fumble on those plays. He elevated his play in the second half and finished with four total touchdowns (two passing, two rushing). — Tim McManus

Next game: vs. Commanders (Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Cowboys

Will it get worse for the Cowboys? Where are the winnable games on the schedule? Thanksgiving against the Giants? Potentially. Dec. 15 at the Panthers? But Carolina has won two straight. The other six remaining games are against teams in the playoff hunt or not far out (Cincinnati). Sunday’s loss marked the fifth straight home game the Cowboys have trailed by 20 or more points, including the playoffs. That is an NFL record and speaks to how the season has gone.

Biggest hole in the game plan: Not blocking the sun coming through the windows at AT&T Stadium. On second-and-goal in the second quarter, Rush threw to wide receiver CeeDee Lamb in the end zone, but he never saw the pass, pointing to his facemask to indicate he could not see the ball because of the sun. Instead of a touchdown and the lead, the Cowboys settled for a field goal. After that, the Eagles scored 27 unanswered points.

Most surprising performance: Maybe it shouldn’t be a surprise, but after a four-game absence because of a high left ankle sprain, Micah Parsons recorded two sacks. It was his first two-sack game of the 2024 season, in his fifth game. The sacks were the fourth and fifth Parsons has had against Hurts, which is his most against any quarterback. — Todd Archer

Next game: vs. Texans (Nov. 18, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Cardinals

How does this homestretch set up the Cardinals heading into their bye? The biggest question surrounding the Cardinals right now: When will they lose again? They’re playing the best football under coach Jonathan Gannon, with a 6-4 record, after winning their fourth straight and fifth in the past six games. The Cardinals return from their bye to face the Seahawks, Vikings and Seahawks again. They finish the season with the Patriots, Panthers, Rams and 49ers.

Describe the game in two words: Total domination. The Cardinals took it to the Jets. Quarterback Kyler Murray threw for 266 yards and a touchdown while three receivers had at least 50 yards. That’s on top of Arizona running for 147 yards and three touchdowns, including two from Murray. Then there was the defense, which had three sacks and five quarterback hurries.

Eye-popping stat: Murray made 17 consecutive completions, the franchise’s longest such streak since 1978, before he was taken out of the game late in the fourth quarter. The odds of him completing each of his past 17 passes based on the probability for each attempt was 0.2453% (1 in 408), according to NFL Next Gen Stats. — Josh Weinfuss

Next game: at Seahawks (Nov. 24, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Kyler Murray weaves through traffic for 2nd rushing TD

Kyler Murray evades multiple Jets defenders en route to his second rushing touchdown of the game as the Cardinals continue to pile on in the third quarter.

Jets

Is it time to write the obituary for the 2024 Jets? Oh, yes. At 3-7, they’re done. Forget about a miracle turnaround. They will be remembered as an overrated team, flawed in many areas, lacking the mental toughness to withstand adversity. From quarterback Aaron Rodgers to the bottom of the roster, the Jets underachieved. Owner Woody Johnson’s decision to fire coach Robert Saleh after five games backfired and the midseason trade for receiver Davante Adams has been a bust. Interim coach Jeff Ulbrich fell to 1-4, as the defense — his pride and joy — played its worst game with everything at stake.

Biggest hole in the game plan: The defense was a total no-show. The coverage was poor, and the tackling was worse. The Jets allowed touchdown drives of 70, 70, 70 and 88 yards before forcing a punt. They were ill-prepared and lacked energy at times. Edge rusher Haason Reddick was invisible and star cornerback Sauce Gardner missed a critical tackle that led to a hurdle from tight end Trey McBride.

Eye-popping stat: Rodgers completed one pass that traveled at least 10 air yards, per NFL Next Gen Stats. You’re talking about a future Hall of Fame quarterback throwing to Adams and Garrett Wilson. And the Cardinals were ranked 24th in pass defense. Utterly mind-boggling. — Rich Cimini

Next game: vs. Colts (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Chargers

Are the Chargers legitimate playoff contenders? After Sunday’s win over the Titans, the Chargers (6-3) have eclipsed their win total from last season and have one of the NFL’s best defenses. Still, Los Angeles has beaten only one playoff team from last season, the struggling Browns. The final eight games of the season — where it faces Baltimore, Cincinnati and Kansas City — should prove whether this team is legitimate.

Most surprising performance: Quarterback Justin Herbert scrambling. Herbert ran seven times for 32 yards and a touchdown. He set the Chargers’ record for the most career rushing yards (1,028) by a quarterback. His 8-yard scramble in the fourth quarter, where he pump-faked and made cornerback Roger McCreary fall, drew joyous celebration from the sideline.

Describe the game in two words: Defensive depth. The Chargers had seven sacks, with All-Pro edge rushers Khalil Mack and Joey Bosa playing 22 snaps combined. They also allowed 17 points while missing both starting cornerbacks, as fifth-round rookies Cam Hart and Tarheeb Still started at outside corner. — Kris Rhim

Next game: vs. Bengals (Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET)

Titans

Will the Titans win another game this season? Four of the eight remaining games for the 2-7 Titans are against teams with winning records, and they aren’t favored in any of them, according to ESPN’s matchup predictors. The best chance for the Titans to get another victory will be against the Jaguars in Weeks 14 and 17. On Sunday, they continued to have breakdowns in all three phases of the game. The special teams unit gave up a 56-yard return after they pulled within three points in the third quarter. The offense struggled to score, and the defense got worn down. This is a common formula for Tennessee.

Biggest hole in the game plan: Right tackle continues to be a problem. Leroy Watson IV and John Ojukwu rotated, and the results weren’t good. Watson was penalized three times. The two of them cost the team 20 yards on a drive that ended with a missed 49-yard field goal. Ojukwu also gave up a sack.

Describe the game in two words: Ball control. The Titans couldn’t stop the Chargers from maintaining possession, starting with the opening drive when Los Angeles drove 68 yards over six minutes and 52 seconds. The Chargers tacked on another long drive from the 5-yard line that took a little over seven minutes off the clock, ending in a Hassan Haskins touchdown. — Turron Davenport

Next game: vs. Vikings (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Steelers

Was the offensive production in quarterback Russell Wilson’s first two starts an aberration? After consecutive 400-yard games, the Steelers’ offense slowed in the comeback win against the Commanders. At halftime, the Steelers had 97 yards of offense, though they finished with 312. Wilson (14-of-28 for 195 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT) was inconsistent. And the deep ball that was so effective in Wilson’s first two starts wasn’t as accurate. Wilson was 2-of-7 for 40 yards with a touchdown and an interception on passes with 15-plus air yards until picking up 40 air yards on the fourth-quarter touchdown to receiver Mike Williams, according to ESPN Research.

Describe the game in two words: Near self-destruction. It started early with a failed fake punt from their own 16 in the first quarter, setting up the Commanders’ first touchdown three plays later. Washington’s offense continued to capitalize on Steelers’ mistakes, including three costly penalties against cornerback Joey Porter Jr. Then, trailing by six and in spitting distance from the goal line in the fourth quarter, the Commanders recovered a fumble by running back Jaylen Warren.

Most surprising performance: Williams. On his ninth snap as a Steeler after being acquired less than a week ago, Wilson scored the go-ahead touchdown. He caught a deep corner shot from Wilson with 2:27 to go in the fourth quarter. With the offense faltering, he showed in one play why the Steelers made the deadline move to pluck him from the Jets. — Brooke Pryor

Next game: vs. Bengals (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Mike Williams hauls in amazing over-the-shoulder catch for 1st Steelers TD

Mike Williams scores his first touchdown for the Steelers and puts them ahead of the Commanders 28-27 in the fourth quarter.

Commanders

Did quarterback Jayden Daniels have his first subpar game? Daniels, who entered the game as an MVP candidate, did not have his best game, completing 16 of 33 passes for 194 yards. Pittsburgh did a good job keeping him in the pocket by blitzing more than usual. The result: Daniels was not as accurate. He missed on two crucial throws in the second half — one that would have gained 20 to 30 yards and another that might have resulted in a 96-yard touchdown. He was wide on one pass and needed to put more air under the second one. Those throws made a big difference in the outcome.

Describe the game in two words: Gut punch. Washington proved quite a bit about itself Sunday, matching Pittsburgh all day. But it had too many wasted chances and blew a 10-point lead, turning what could have been a terrific win into a tough loss. The Commanders needed newly acquired cornerback Marshon Lattimore, but he’s dealing with a hamstring injury.

Most surprising performance: Right tackle Trent Scott. The former Steeler, starting for injured Andrew Wylie (shoulder), was not a problem despite facing linebacker T.J. Watt most of the game. Washington provided Scott a lot of help — sometimes tight end John Bates was responsible for blocking him. But he did better than anticipated. — John Keim

Next game: at Eagles (Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Patriots

How can quarterback Drake Maye build off his first complete-game win? When Maye threw an interception toward the end of the first quarter, he immediately put his hands on his helmet in disbelief. He was struggling at that point, seemingly not sure what he was seeing coverage-wise. So to respond to that adversity with a 10-play, 71-yard touchdown drive later in the quarter — and then a turnover-free second half — was impressive. Maye reportedly addressed the Patriots as a team this week because he felt practice wasn’t as sharp as it needed to be, which shows he’s evolving into a leadership role.

Describe the game in two words: Containing Caleb. The Patriots totaled nine sacks against first overall pick Caleb Williams and a mix-and-match offensive line. For a much-maligned defense, it was the best performance of the season. It was the most Williams was sacked since Week 2 against the Texans.

Most surprising performance: Run defense. The Bears were without key players along the offensive line, but that hasn’t stopped opponents in recent weeks from running all over the Patriots. So for the Patriots to allow 3.6 yards per rush and hold their ground was a job well done. It allowed defensive coordinator DeMarcus Covington to scheme up some aggressive blitz calls in many passing situations. — Mike Reiss

Next game: vs. Rams (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Bears

How do the Bears stop quarterback Caleb Williams’ regression? Chicago’s offense is broken and Williams has looked worse in each of the Bears’ three straight losses. His accuracy issues were already a problem as he entered Week 10 with the second-highest off-target percentage in the NFL. And the issues caused by him holding onto the ball too long were evident in at least two of the sacks he took versus New England. This offensive approach is not tenable if the Bears want to develop a franchise quarterback. Chicago has gone 23 straight drives without scoring an offensive touchdown and averaged 2.6 yards per play.

Describe the game in two words: Depleted, defeated. The Bears were down four offensive linemen — including both starting tackles — before kickoff and lost left guard Teven Jenkins to an in-game ankle injury. They failed to hold the pocket, which played a role in Williams taking nine sacks. (He’s been sacked 18 times in three games.) Defensively, the loss of nose tackle Andrew Billings (pectoral injury), was clear by the Bears’ lack of pressure on Maye.

Biggest hole in the game plan: For as often as the Bears practice end-of-half situations, they’ve become one of the worst teams at the end of halves. The Patriots gained nearly 40 yards to kick a field goal in under 30 seconds before halftime. Chicago has allowed 300 yards in the final 30 seconds of a half this season, which is more than double any other team. (The Colts rank second with 160.) — Courtney Cronin

Next game: vs. Packers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

49ers

Even with running back Christian McCaffrey back, are the 49ers capable of a second-half surge? Whatever hopes the 49ers had McCaffrey’s return would jolt them back to juggernaut status sure didn’t show up Sunday. He had 107 scrimmage yards and should get better as the season progresses, but it’s fair to believe this team lacks the extra gear that it’s had in recent years. At 5-4, the 49ers remain in the mix in the middling NFC West, but the next three games — against Seattle, Green Bay and Buffalo — will likely determine if there’s any hope for a playoff push for this core. Either way, it doesn’t figure to be easy.

Describe the game in two words: Continued malaise. The bye week was supposed to bring the 49ers renewed health and fresh legs, especially against a team coming off an overtime loss from the previous Monday. Instead, they looked like the weary team, getting pushed around by Tampa Bay in the second half. They continued to come up short and make mistakes in the red zone.

Biggest hole in the game plan: There’s at least one significant special teams miscue every week, and it continues to lessen San Francisco’s margin for error. Kicker Jake Moody returned from an ankle injury, but he missed 44-, 49- and 50-yard field goals before making the game-winner. And the unit also muffed a punt that led to Tampa Bay’s first touchdown. — Nick Wagoner

Next game: vs. Seahawks (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)

McCaffrey runs underneath a floating Purdy pass for huge gain

Brock Purdy is hit as he’s throwing and it ends up in the hands of Christian McCaffrey for a large gain.

Buccaneers

Can the Bucs salvage their season after four straight losses? The Bucs have lacked a downfield passing threat the past three weeks, which is where receiver Mike Evans will come in when he returns from a hamstring injury. He told ESPN on Friday he expects to return after the Week 11 bye. The Bucs are 3-9 all-time without Evans since he was drafted in 2014. But he doesn’t cure all. Without starting cornerback Jamel Dean (hamstring), Josh Hayes has surrendered touchdowns to George Kittle this week and DeAndre Hopkins last week. Week 13 against the Panthers would be the earliest Dean could come off injured reserve. Now, they have to contend with injuries to left tackle Tristan Wirfs and cornerback Zyon McCollum.

Biggest hole in the game plan: The middle of the field continues to be a vulnerable spot for the defense, even as they try mixing in J.J. Russell for K.J. Britt at linebacker. Russell was on the field in zone coverage when quarterback Brock Purdy found rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall on a 46-yard touchdown. Purdy went 6-of-8 for 87 yards and a touchdown between the numbers in the first half.

Eye-popping stat: Despite losing Wirfs to what early indicators say is a sprained MCL, the Bucs averaged 4.6 yards per rush since he left the game, according to ESPN Research. Offensive coordinator Liam Coen pulled his offensive linemen and they got some good blocking from their receivers and tight ends. They averaged 2.5 yards per rush today prior to Wirfs’ injury. — Jenna Laine

Next game: at Giants (Nov. 24, 1 p.m. ET)

Bills

Can Bills fix sloppiness with Chiefs headed to town? The Bills could have forced far more than the four takeaways the defense had against the Colts — something that is fixable moving forward. On offense, some of the miscommunications and drops can be explained by the injuries at wide receiver. But with Keon Coleman (wrist) possibly out against Kansas City, mixing things up in the running game and finding ways to maximize the communication between the available receivers and quarterback Josh Allen will be key.

Biggest hole in the game plan: Waiting too long to get the running game going. James Cook had eight carries in the first half despite averaging 4.9 yards per carry. Straying from that put the Bills offense in some tough situations, which was especially evident on first downs. Allen was 4-of-10 for 25 yards with two interceptions while passing on first down.

Describe the game in two words: Good enough. It wasn’t the prettiest game the Bills have played, with the run defense issues highlighted yet again and offensive inconsistencies on display. But thanks to 10 early points off turnovers and late adjustments, it was enough for the Bills’ best start to a season since 1993 (8-2). — Alaina Getzenberg

Next game: vs. Chiefs (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Colts

What’s next at quarterback for the Colts? Coach Shane Steichen said he made the quarterback change from Anthony Richardson to Joe Flacco because it would give them the best chance to win. But now the Colts are 1-3 with Flacco starting, including 0-2 since the official change. Will Steichen reevaluate? Flacco threw three interceptions Sunday, surpassing his season total of two entering the game. While he completed 26 of 35 attempts for 272 yards, his four total turnovers (he added a lost fumble) played a big role in the Colts’ largest margin of defeat this season.

Biggest hole in the game plan: Abandoning the run game. The Colts ran rampant over the Bills in the first half, with Jonathan Taylor rushing for 107 yards on 16 carries. Oddly, Taylor had five carries in the second half and the Colts made few attempts to regain their early traction. This was the case in spite of the game being a one-score contest until 10:28 remained in the fourth quarter.

Eye-popping stat: Flacco became the first player in the past five seasons to throw a pick-six on his team’s first offensive play of a game, joining Cleveland’s Deshaun Watson in 2023. He is also the first player this season to throw an interception on each of his team’s first two possessions of a game. — Stephen Holder

Next game: at Jets (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Saints

Can the Saints keep the Darren Rizzi momentum going? The Saints had new energy around their facility after Rizzi was named interim coach following Dennis Allen’s firing on Monday. It won’t be easy for them to dig out of a 3-7 hole, but beating a division rival was a start. The Saints need to figure out how to keep up that energy through their upcoming three-game homestand.

Early prediction for next week: The Saints get back-to-back wins for the first time since Weeks 1 and 2 by beating the Browns next week. The Saints rebounded in a big way against the Falcons, and the 2-7 Browns have many problems of their own. New Orleans’ confidence is likely back after snapping its losing streak, and it can potentially use that for another big performance at home next week.

Describe the game in two words: Stepping up. Without receivers Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed, the Saints turned to Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Kevin Austin Jr. and Dante Pettis. Valdes-Scantling, who was signed a few weeks ago, became the first Saints player since Brandin Cooks in 2016 to score two touchdowns and have more than 100 receiving yards in a half. — Katherine Terrell

Next game: vs. Browns (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Tyrann Mathieu gets huge INT for Saints

Tyrann Mathieu picks off Kirk Cousins for a huge turnover late in the fourth quarter.

Falcons

How can the Falcons fix their first-half woes? The Falcons have come out flat on several occasions in the first half, specifically struggling with time of possession. On Sunday, they had 26 yards of offense in the first quarter and their defense made quarterback Derek Carr and receiver Marquez Valdez-Scantling look like an elite tandem. Quarterback Kirk Cousins and defensive adjustments have bailed them out before, but it didn’t happen in Week 10.

Eye-popping stat: The Falcons’ usually reliable kicker Younghoe Koo went 1-of-4 on field goal attempts, including one that was blocked and another tying kick that hit the post in the fourth quarter. He has made 70.8% of his field goals this season, which is his worst percentage since becoming the team’s full-time kicker in 2020.

Biggest hole in the game plan: The prevailing topic among Falcons defenders this past week was about stopping Saints running back Alvin Kamara. That was a goal that did not pan out. Kamara had 109 yards from scrimmage, including five receptions for 54 yards. — Marc Raimondi

Next game: at Broncos (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)

Chiefs

What does this win mean for the Chiefs’ No. 1 seed hopes? With a victory against the Bills next week, the Chiefs can start making plans for how they will handle the first-round playoff bye that comes with the No. 1 seed. By beating Buffalo, the Chiefs would be at least three games ahead of the Bills and all other AFC teams. It would take an epic collapse for them not to get the top playoff seed and the accompanying week of rest.

Most surprising performance: The Chiefs’ rushing attack, which was productive since running back Kareem Hunt arrived early in the season, gave the Chiefs little to work with. Hunt rushed for 35 yards on 14 carries. The Chiefs have been good in the red zone because they were running the ball well inside the 20. But they scored one touchdown on four red zone trips.

Describe the game in two words: No mistakes. The Chiefs and their defense, which is based on getting pressure, couldn’t force Denver rookie quarterback Bo Nix into any game-altering errors. They sacked Nix twice but never took the ball away from him. — Adam Teicher

Next game: at Bills (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Broncos

Did the Broncos show they are serious contenders in the AFC playoff race? The Broncos’ defense has consistently played at a playoff level, and their pressure on quarterback Patrick Mahomes was next-level. The key will be the offense, which had two touchdown drives in its first four possessions and then couldn’t match that gear the rest of the way. Rookie quarterback Bo Nix avoided turnovers and was effective on the final drive, but in the Broncos’ quest to give him clean looks at coverages, they are consistently in a smaller menu of three-wide-receiver sets. When they diversify a bit, as they did more Sunday, they move the ball far more effectively.

Most surprising performance: Rookie running back Audric Estime. He had a season-high 14 carries Sunday as the Broncos’ leading rusher — his previous high was five — working mostly between the hashmarks, where the Broncos have struggled to run. He showed he’s an option the Broncos need in their run game, as he’s quick to the hole and has the power to break tackles.

Eye-popping stat: Sunday marked the first time the Broncos have ever sacked Mahomes more than three times in the 14 games they’ve faced him. They had four sacks before the end of the third quarter, and outside linebacker Nik Bonitto made life miserable for Chiefs backup left tackle Kingsley Suamataia. — Jeff Legwold

Next game: vs. Falcons (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)

Vikings

Did the Vikings’ defense bail out quarterback Sam Darnold? Yes, it most certainly did. While Darnold was throwing three interceptions, including two in the end zone, the defense held the Jaguars to one scoring drive and forced three fourth-quarter turnovers. Darnold will have some explaining to do after forcing the ball on all three interceptions to receiver Justin Jefferson and causing coach Kevin O’Connell to shift to the running game wherever possible in the fourth quarter.

Describe the game in two words: Clutch kicks. In his first NFL game, place-kicker Parker Romo converted all four of his field goal attempts to account for all of the Vikings’ scoring. Romo replaced the injured Will Reichard (quadriceps) last week, and the Vikings needed every one of his kicks Sunday. His longest came from 45 yards.

Most surprising performance: The Vikings targeted blocking tight end Josh Oliver six times, tying his career high just one week after he was targeted on five passes. It has been an unexpected focus following the return of starter T.J. Hockenson, but Oliver has come through with catches on nine of those targets. — Kevin Seifert

Next game: at Titans (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Mac Jones throws an INT late in the 4th

Mac Jones underthrows his receiver and is picked off by the Vikings’ Byron Murphy Jr.

Jaguars

Is the Jaguars’ offense broken? The Jaguars had 143 yards — the lowest under coach Doug Pederson — and quarterback Mac Jones committed three turnovers. They had 70 yards on their only touchdown drive and 73 the rest of the game. It’s not the quarterback, because the Jaguars gained just 215 yards in a 28-23 loss at Philadelphia with Trevor Lawrence the week before. Injuries are an issue, as they’re on their third left guard and receiver Christian Kirk is out for the year with a broken collarbone. But they haven’t found any kind of consistent rhythm in the past two weeks.

Most surprising performance: The defense picked off Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold three times, the first time the defense has forced more than two turnovers in a game since Week 14 of 2023. They held Minnesota to zero touchdowns in five red zone trips and kept the Jaguars in the game until Jones’ three fourth-quarter turnovers.

Biggest hole in the game plan: Receiver Brian Thomas Jr. didn’t get his first target until 58 seconds remained in the third quarter, and his first catch didn’t come until 4:12 remained in the game. Thomas is dealing with a chest injury and the Vikings had a safety over the top to account for his speed, so both were a factor in his quiet afternoon. But he needs to be more involved. — Mike DiRocco

Next game: at Lions (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Panthers

Is quarterback Bryce Young proving worthy of the top pick in 2023? Hold on. He’s beaten the beleaguered Saints and Giants in consecutive weeks. He didn’t light it up Sunday (15-of-25 for 126 yards), but he showed enough promise and poise. Coach Dave Canales didn’t name a starter to face the Chiefs after the bye but said, “Certainly Bryce made a great statement for himself today.” Young has shown glimpses to suggest he can be a franchise quarterback, which is why Carolina didn’t entertain trade offers despite calls before the deadline.

Eye-popping stat: Three days after getting a four-year, $33 million extension, running back Chuba Hubbard had a career-high 103 rushing yards after first contact on his way to a career-high 153 yards and a touchdown. It validated the toughness he has shown to warrant the new deal.

Most surprising performance: The defense. It had its first shutout of any half since Week 15 of 2023. It had its first interception since Week 4. Then another. It finally created pressure with OLB D.J. Wonnum debuting. And it got an overtime fumble recovery to set up the win. The run defense was suspect, but the rest outweighed that. — David Newton

Next game: vs. Chiefs (Nov. 24, 1 p.m. ET)

Giants

What kind of changes will the Giants make during the bye week? Something has to happen. They are 2-8 for the second straight season with five straight losses. A change at quarterback is the obvious choice, especially after coach Brian Daboll benched Daniel Jones four weeks ago. Jones has an injury guarantee in his contract that must be a factor down the stretch, and he’s not playing well. He missed a wide-open Malik Nabers on the opening drive and threw two costly interceptions deep in Carolina territory in the contest. It seems to be over after six years as the starter.

Describe the game in two words: Utter disaster. It’s the same phrase used after a Week 1 loss to the Vikings, but it’s still applicable — more so now. The Giants were shut out in the first half by the league’s 32nd-ranked defense while many fans were eating their breakfast. They also couldn’t stop the run … again. One of the league’s worst run defenses allowed Chuba Hubbard 153 yards on the ground.

Eye-popping stat: Three 10-plus-yard runs for Tyrone Tracy Jr. This is the fourth time in six starts that the rookie running back had at least three runs of 10 or more yards. He has added an explosiveness in the run game to the Giants’ offense starting ahead of Devin Singletary. Tracy finished with 103 yards rushing on 18 carries, but his final one resulted in the fumble that cost the Giants the game. For the most part, he’s been a rare bright spot this season. — Jordan Raanan

Next game: vs. Buccaneers (Nov. 24, 1 p.m. ET)

Ravens

Is Lamar Jackson playing his best football ever? Absolutely, and it’s proved by stats and the way he’s playing. In his past two games, Jackson has produced a perfect 158.3 passer rating in a win over the Broncos and a perfect passer rating in the fourth quarter of a comeback win over the Bengals. He is showing more poise in the passing game, throwing 24 touchdowns and two interceptions. A two-time NFL MVP, Jackson is on pace to pass for a career-best 4,500 yards and rush for 900 yards.

Eye-popping stat: Wide receiver Tylan Wallace picked an opportune time to record his first career touchdown catch. With Baltimore down 21-14 in the fourth quarter, he took a short out pass from Jackson and turned it into an 84-yard touchdown. He gained 78 yards after catch over expected, which is the second-most YACOE on a reception since 2018, according to NFL Next Gen Stats.

Biggest hole in the game plan: Failing to defend Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase. With Tee Higgins inactive, the Ravens knew Joe Burrow would be targeting Chase even more and still couldn’t slow him down. Chase scored on touchdown catches of 67 and 70 yards. For the season, Baltimore has now given up a league-high 28 completions of 25 or more yards, which explains why the Ravens have the 32nd-ranked pass defense. — Jamison Hensley

Next game: at Chargers (Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET)

Bengals

What does this loss mean for the Bengals? It would have been great for the Bengals’ playoff chances to win this game on the road. However, Cincinnati was a big underdog entering Thursday night. And the way the rest of the schedule shapes up, the contests against the Chargers and two matchups against the Pittsburgh Steelers were always going to be critical to their playoff chances, no matter what happened Thursday.

Describe the game in two words: Crushing collapse. The Bengals were in control and led by 14 points halfway through the third quarter but made enough mistakes that allowed the Ravens to roar back for a season sweep of Cincinnati.

Biggest hole in the game plan: Doing the little things right. A third-quarter fumble by Chase Brown and missed tackles that led to a long touchdown by Tylan Wallace were crucial. A missed interception by Cam Taylor-Britt and a crucial missed fourth down by Joe Burrow were among many mistakes. — Ben Baby

Next game: at Steelers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

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