Chargers-Patriots, Broncos-Bengals, Cardinals-Rams on NFL Network: What We Learned from L.A.’s, Cincinnati’s Wins
Week 1 of the NFL season kicked off with three exciting matchups on NFL Network, as the Los Angeles Chargers defeated the New England Patriots, the Cincinnati Bengals upset the Denver Broncos, and the Los Angeles Rams narrowly edged out the Arizona Cardinals.
Los Angeles Chargers 27, New England Patriots 24
The Chargers got their season off to a winning start with a thrilling victory over the Patriots. Justin Herbert threw for 250 yards and two touchdowns, while Keenan Allen led the receiving corps with 104 yards on eight receptions. The Chargers’ defense also made big plays, forcing three turnovers and sacking Mac Jones five times.
The Patriots, meanwhile, struggled to find their rhythm on offense. Jones threw for just 223 yards and one touchdown, and the running game was held to 78 yards. The defense also had its struggles, allowing the Chargers to convert 10 of 17 third downs.
Cincinnati Bengals 20, Denver Broncos 17 (OT)
The Bengals pulled off a stunning upset in Denver, defeating the Broncos in overtime. Joe Burrow threw for 194 yards and a touchdown, while Ja’Marr Chase had 129 receiving yards and a touchdown. The Bengals’ defense also played well, holding the Broncos to just 17 points and forcing three turnovers.
The Broncos, who were considered a Super Bowl contender entering the season, struggled on both sides of the ball. Russell Wilson threw for just 184 yards and one touchdown, while the running game was held to 66 yards. The defense also allowed the Bengals to convert 9 of 17 third downs.
Los Angeles Rams 20, Arizona Cardinals 12
The Rams started their season with a hard-fought victory over the Cardinals. Matthew Stafford threw for 249 yards and a touchdown, while Cooper Kupp had 136 receiving yards. The Rams’ defense also played well, sacking Kyler Murray five times and forcing two turnovers.
The Cardinals, meanwhile, struggled to keep up with the Rams. Murray threw for just 193 yards and one touchdown, while the running game was held to 81 yards. The defense also had its struggles, allowing the Rams to convert 9 of 17 third downs.
What We Learned
Week 1 of the NFL season provided some early insights into the strengths and weaknesses of several teams.
- The Chargers look like a legitimate contender in the AFC. Herbert is playing at a high level, and the defense is making big plays.
- The Patriots have some work to do. Jones is still struggling to find his rhythm, and the defense needs to improve.
- The Bengals could be a surprise team this season. Burrow is a rising star, and the defense is playing well.
- The Broncos have some concerns. Wilson is not playing at the level he was in Seattle, and the defense is struggling.
- The Rams are still a force to be reckoned with. Stafford is playing well, and the defense is making big plays.
- The Cardinals have some work to do. Murray is struggling to find his rhythm, and the defense needs to improve.
It is still early in the season, but Week 1 provided some early indications of what to expect in 2023.