Optimism Turns to Disappointment: NFL Week 1 Recap
The 2024 NFL regular season commenced with high hopes, but for 16 teams, the reality was a disappointing start as they faced defeat. Some teams experienced heartbreaking losses, such as the Indianapolis Colts and Los Angeles Rams, while others delivered lackluster performances, including the Carolina Panthers and New York Giants.
However, it’s important to remember that the season is long, and there is still time for teams to rebound. Some will continue their pursuit of the Super Bowl, while others may take small steps towards improvement, even if their championship aspirations seem far-fetched. Then there are those who might struggle to overcome their early-season woes, potentially aiming for a high draft pick instead.
So, if your team lost, what should you do? How worried should you be? Is there a legitimate cause for concern, or were these defeats merely minor setbacks? Here’s a detailed analysis of each of the 16 teams that faced losses in Week 1 and their outlook moving forward.
Baltimore Ravens
Result: Lost 27-20 to Kansas City Chiefs.
Reaction: Relax. Despite yet another loss to the Chiefs, the Ravens have shown they can compete at a high level. They have areas to improve to reach championship form, but a bounce-back performance is likely against the Raiders in Baltimore. Their chances for a top playoff seed in the AFC remain promising.
Cincinnati Bengals
Result: Lost 16-10 to New England Patriots.
Reaction: Relax. The Bengals are notorious for slow starts, especially this season with Ja’Marr Chase’s contract dispute and Tee Higgins sidelined with a hamstring injury. While the Patriots’ defense was effective, the Bengals were not at full strength. Historically, they have been able to recover from early-season struggles, and there’s hope they can do it again this year.
Indianapolis Colts
Result: Lost 29-27 to Houston Texans.
Reaction: Be encouraged. The Colts showed resilience against a tough division rival. Second-year quarterback Anthony Richardson dazzled with two passing touchdowns and a rushing touchdown. Despite the loss, there were many bright spots, including his impressive long throws. The future looks promising for the Colts.
Atlanta Falcons
Result: Lost 18-10 to Pittsburgh Steelers.
Reaction: Reserve judgment. New coach Raheem Morris’s debut was marred by rust, particularly with Kirk Cousins returning from an Achilles injury. The offensive line struggled, but the defense held the Steelers to zero touchdowns. The Falcons have a roster rich in young talent, and it may just take time to build coherence.
Arizona Cardinals
Result: Lost 34-28 to Buffalo Bills.
Reaction: Reserve judgment. Leading 17-3 at halftime showcased the Cardinals’ potential, but a second-half collapse highlighted ongoing defensive issues. Kyler Murray’s performance waned, and rookie Marvin Harrison Jr. was underutilized. Patience is key, as the team is still rebuilding, and improvement may come midseason.
Denver Broncos
Result: Lost 26-20 to Seattle Seahawks.
Reaction: Reserve judgment. Head Coach Sean Payton’s strategy must evolve to support rookie Bo Nix. The Broncos showed promise in the first half but need a more balanced attack going forward. Nix’s development is crucial, and criticism should be tempered as he adjusts to the NFL.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Result: Lost 20-17 to Miami Dolphins.
Reaction: Reserve judgment. The Jaguars squandered a 17-7 halftime lead, yet they moved the ball effectively before a critical fumble. Trevor Lawrence needs to step up, but it’s too early to panic. If struggles persist beyond Week 3 or 4, then concern will be warranted.
Tennessee Titans
Result: Lost 24-17 to Chicago Bears.
Reaction: Temper expectations. The Titans’ young team displayed potential but Will Levis’s turnovers were costly. Improvement in his decision-making is essential for the Titans to remain competitive in the AFC South.
Carolina Panthers
Result: Lost 47-10 to New Orleans Saints.
Reaction: Worry. The Saints’ offensive explosion raised eyebrows, and even more concerning was Bryce Young’s performance. With a lack of production and mounting pressure, it’s clear that the Panthers have a long road ahead.
Cleveland Browns
Result: Lost 33-17 to Dallas Cowboys.
Reaction: Worry. Deshaun Watson’s struggles raise significant concerns. His performance was lackluster, and the Browns must hope he can rediscover his form quickly. With a massive contract weighing heavily, the team faces difficult decisions if improvement isn’t seen soon.
Green Bay Packers
Result: Lost 34-29 to Philadelphia Eagles.
Reaction: Worry. Jordan Love’s MCL sprain complicates matters for the Packers. The prospect of relying on Malik Willis, who has limited experience, raises concerns about the team’s ability to stay competitive in Love’s absence.
Las Vegas Raiders
Result: Lost 22-10 to Los Angeles Chargers.
Reaction: Worry. Antonio Pierce’s debut as head coach was underwhelming, with a disorganized performance from the team. Despite some bright spots, the overall execution was concerning, and the Raiders will need to regroup quickly.
Los Angeles Rams
Result: Lost 26-20 (OT) to Detroit Lions.
Reaction: Worry. The Rams demonstrated resilience despite injuries, but losing key players like Puka Nacua will test their depth. Matthew Stafford’s health is critical, and continued injuries could derail their season.
New York Giants
Result: Lost 28-6 to Minnesota Vikings.
Reaction: Worry. Daniel Jones’s struggles raise serious questions about his future. With a lack of offensive production and mounting pressure, the Giants may face a long season ahead.
New York Jets
Result: Lost 32-19 to San Francisco 49ers.
Reaction: Worry. Aaron Rodgers’s struggles and a poorly performing defense against the 49ers highlighted significant issues. The Jets must address these concerns quickly if they want to remain Super Bowl contenders.
Washington Commanders
Result: Lost 37-20 to Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Reaction: Worry. Jayden Daniels showed flashes of potential, but the Commanders’ defense remains a significant concern. The team is still in a rebuilding phase, and quick improvement seems unrealistic given their long-standing struggles.
(Top photos of Joe Burrow and Brian Daboll: Jason Mowry and Ed Mulholland / Getty Images)
