The 2024 NFL season kicked off with an exhilarating Week 1, showcasing thrilling performances and surprising results. Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams started strong in his NFL debut, while head coaches Jerod Mayo and Mike Macdonald celebrated their first wins. The Minnesota Vikings, led by Sam Darnold, triumphed over the New York Giants.
The Dallas Cowboys defeated the Cleveland Browns, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers secured a victory against the Washington Commanders. In a thrilling Sunday night matchup, the Detroit Lions edged out the Los Angeles Rams in overtime.
NFL reporters offered insights into each game, addressing key questions and highlighting essential details for every team.
Lions
Has Detroit’s secondary improved? This offseason, the Lions focused on enhancing their defense, especially the secondary. However, Rams receiver Cooper Kupp still achieved 14 catches for 110 yards, along with a crucial fourth-quarter touchdown. Despite forcing an interception, the Lions’ secondary struggled against quarterback Matthew Stafford, who amassed significant passing yards in the second half.
Is Jameson Williams ready for a breakout? Absolutely. After dealing with injuries and a suspension, Williams shined against the Rams, catching a 52-yard touchdown—a personal record—and finishing with over 100 receiving yards in a game for the first time.
In two words: A tone-setter. The Lions, aiming for a Super Bowl run, prevailed against the Rams, thanks to a solid ground game in overtime, highlighted by touchdowns from David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs. However, Amon-Ra St. Brown had a challenging night, managing only three catches for 13 yards.
Next game: vs. Buccaneers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Rams
Can the Rams overcome injuries on offense? Los Angeles suffered a blow when wide receiver Puka Nacua exited with a knee injury. Their offensive line, already missing key tackles, lost more players during the game. Despite scoring 20 points against a tough Lions defense, the Rams face challenges if these injuries are severe.
Describe the game in two words: Defensive growth. The Rams’ young defense held its ground well, managing to sack Lions QB Jared Goff twice and intercept him once, even without starting cornerback Darious Williams.
Is Tyler Johnson’s performance for real? Definitely. Johnson energized the offense with a impressive 63-yard play that helped close the gap late in the game, finishing with five catches for 79 yards.
Next game: at Cardinals (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)
Cowboys
Was the Cowboys’ performance what coach Mike McCarthy envisions? The team showcased a well-rounded effort, with Dak Prescott throwing for 156 yards and a touchdown before halftime. The defense, led by star players Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence, shone bright, and KaVontae Turpin added a touchdown through a punt return.
Is CeeDee Lamb’s performance indicative of a breakout? Possibly. Although leading the NFL in receptions last season, Lamb’s limited preseason practice time suggests he may be hitting his stride, finishing with five receptions for 61 yards and additional rushing yards.
Eye-popping stat: Turpin’s well-executed 60-yard punt return for a touchdown demonstrated exceptional blocking, marking a milestone for the Cowboys, who had not achieved a punt return touchdown since 2017.
Next game: vs. Saints (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Browns
What’s next for the Browns following a disappointing offensive showing? Cleveland’s revamped offense struggled to find rhythm, with quarterback Deshaun Watson facing significant pressure and the offensive line allowing multiple sacks. The team’s lack of production raises concerns heading into next week.
Describe the game in two words: Offensive eyesore. The Browns finished the first half with alarmingly low offensive production and failed to capitalize on opportunities.
Significant stat: Watson’s inability to connect on deeper throws, completing only 2-of-11 passes over 10 yards, highlights the need for improvement in the passing game.
Next game: at Jaguars (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Seahawks
Can the Seahawks manage their offensive line concerns? Right tackle George Fant’s knee injury adds to the existing worries about the offensive line. Fant’s absence could impact the team’s performance, particularly with the looming challenge of facing a strong Steelers defense.
Eye-popping stat: Geno Smith faced pressure on almost half of his dropbacks in the first half, forcing him into difficult situations and impacting his performance.
Describe the game in two words: Ugly win. Thanks to the home-field advantage and the Rams’ rookie quarterback making his debut, the Seahawks managed to secure a win despite numerous early mistakes.
Next game: at Patriots (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Broncos
Is rookie quarterback Bo Nix ready for the challenges ahead? Nix faced difficulties against the Seahawks, with a shaky start including an interception and multiple near misses. His best play came late with a rushing touchdown, but the Broncos need more consistency as the season unfolds.
Describe the game in two words: A grind. The Broncos may continue to struggle until Nix finds his groove. Improving their defense will also be crucial going forward.
Early prediction for next week: The Steelers will apply heavy pressure on Nix, necessitating preparation for more complex offensive strategies.
Next game: vs. Steelers (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)
Chargers
Should there be concerns about the Chargers’ offense? A tough first three quarters raised questions about the team’s ability to protect quarterback Justin Herbert. After struggling in the red zone initially, the offense finally clicked in the fourth quarter.
Is J.K. Dobbins’ performance sustainable? Yes. Dobbins emerged as the Chargers’ standout player, boasting significant rushing yards and showcasing his potential as a leading force in their offense.
Early prediction for next week: Herbert is likely to surpass 250 passing yards as the team faces a more favorable matchup against the Panthers.
Next game: at Panthers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Raiders
How can the Raiders improve their offense facing the Ravens? Reducing turnovers is key. Several mistakes by quarterback Gardner Minshew and running back Zamir White contributed to their defeat against the Chargers. The team must strengthen their gameplay before taking on a tougher opponent.
Describe the game in two words: Ugly, uglier. The defensive match turned into a struggle, with the Raiders failing to maintain momentum despite assertions in possession time.
Early prediction for next week: To counter the Ravens’ mobile quarterback Lamar Jackson, the Raiders may need to bolster their defense with additional resources, given their current injuries.
Next game: at Ravens (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Buccaneers
What adjustments are needed for the secondary heading into Week 2? The Buccaneers performed well but faced injury issues in their secondary, leaving only one healthy cornerback. Finding effective replacements will be crucial against the Lions.
What was lacking in the game plan? The team struggled to contain Commanders’ quarterback Jayden Daniels on the ground, allowing him significant rushing yards that impacted the game outcome.
Is offensive coordinator Liam Coen’s performance a positive sign? Yes. The Buccaneers displayed impressive offensive execution, with quarterback Baker Mayfield connecting with several key receivers for touchdowns, highlighting the effectiveness of their attacking strategy.
Next game: at Lions (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Commanders
Does Washington have enough support for Jayden Daniels? The Commanders’ offensive strategy struggled, with minimal production and difficulties in creating opportunities for their receivers, posing challenges for Daniels moving forward.
Describe the game in two words: Rough start. The Commanders’ new roster struggled to perform effectively, with notable defensive shortcomings and missed scoring opportunities.
What was a critical hole in the game plan? Failing to engage receiver Terry McLaurin early hindered the offense, emphasizing the need for better targeting in upcoming games.
Next game: vs. Giants (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)