NFL Nation: 2011 Week 3 Wrap-ups
Thoughts on the Indianapolis Colts' 23-20 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers at Lucas Oil Stadium:
What it means: The Colts are capable of competing with a good team even without Peyton Manning. But they also have little room for error. They got a giant error from left tackle Anthony Castonzo and quarterback Curtis Painter in the fourth quarter, as James Harrison stripped the quarterback and Troy Polamalu picked the ball up on a bounce and scored. And while Indianapolis pulled even, the Colts couldn't keep the Steelers from marching to a game-winning field goal at the end that dropped them to 0-3.
Things I liked: The Colts ran the ball far better than many of us thought they could (for 97 yards) and stopped the run far better than they usually do (allowing 67 yards). It makes one wonder why they didn’t fare better in both departments in their first two games. Also makes one wonder about their commitment to both moving forward.
Big question lingering for me: Why did the Colts use Dallas Clark to help block Harrison so much early on? Clark is a pass-catcher first and foremost. Brody Eldridge is a far better blocking tight end. Yet the Colts put Clark in position to block the fierce Pittsburgh outside linebacker multiple times.
Stars: It’s easy to say the Colts need to rely on Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis in the absence of Manning. But a lot of other game elements have to go right for those two to dictate things. They did against the Steelers, with incredible rushing efforts and a strip sack each. Freeney also had a sack that took Pittsburgh out of field goal range.
Blame and credit: Painter was forced into action when Kerry Collins left the game with a concussion. Painter missed a wide open Pierre Garcon on a stop-and-go that beat Ike Taylor and would have been a long touchdown. And Painter didn’t sense Polamalu bearing down to strip the ball deep in the Colts’ own end. But he did orchestrate an excellent drive that produced the touchdown that pulled things to 20-20 with 5:13 remaining in the game.
Mea culpa, kinda: I wrote this week about how America was about to learn just how bad the Colts were with the first of their five prime-time appearances. They are not good. But they played a pretty good, and very entertaining, game.
What’s next: More quarterback uncertainty as Collins recovers from a concussion and the Colts sort through Painter’s performance. If Collins is out for the Oct. 3 "Monday Night Football" Game in Tampa, who’s the team’s second quarterback?
What it means: The Colts are capable of competing with a good team even without Peyton Manning. But they also have little room for error. They got a giant error from left tackle Anthony Castonzo and quarterback Curtis Painter in the fourth quarter, as James Harrison stripped the quarterback and Troy Polamalu picked the ball up on a bounce and scored. And while Indianapolis pulled even, the Colts couldn't keep the Steelers from marching to a game-winning field goal at the end that dropped them to 0-3.
Things I liked: The Colts ran the ball far better than many of us thought they could (for 97 yards) and stopped the run far better than they usually do (allowing 67 yards). It makes one wonder why they didn’t fare better in both departments in their first two games. Also makes one wonder about their commitment to both moving forward.
Big question lingering for me: Why did the Colts use Dallas Clark to help block Harrison so much early on? Clark is a pass-catcher first and foremost. Brody Eldridge is a far better blocking tight end. Yet the Colts put Clark in position to block the fierce Pittsburgh outside linebacker multiple times.
Stars: It’s easy to say the Colts need to rely on Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis in the absence of Manning. But a lot of other game elements have to go right for those two to dictate things. They did against the Steelers, with incredible rushing efforts and a strip sack each. Freeney also had a sack that took Pittsburgh out of field goal range.
Blame and credit: Painter was forced into action when Kerry Collins left the game with a concussion. Painter missed a wide open Pierre Garcon on a stop-and-go that beat Ike Taylor and would have been a long touchdown. And Painter didn’t sense Polamalu bearing down to strip the ball deep in the Colts’ own end. But he did orchestrate an excellent drive that produced the touchdown that pulled things to 20-20 with 5:13 remaining in the game.
Mea culpa, kinda: I wrote this week about how America was about to learn just how bad the Colts were with the first of their five prime-time appearances. They are not good. But they played a pretty good, and very entertaining, game.
What’s next: More quarterback uncertainty as Collins recovers from a concussion and the Colts sort through Painter’s performance. If Collins is out for the Oct. 3 "Monday Night Football" Game in Tampa, who’s the team’s second quarterback?
Wrap-up: Steelers 23, Colts 20
September, 25, 2011
9/25/11
11:41
PM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
Thoughts on the Pittsburgh Steelers' 23-20 win at the Indianapolis Colts:
What it means: It wasn't as easy as many expected, but Pittsburgh did just enough to improve to 2-1. The Steelers are in a three-team tie atop the AFC North with the Ravens and Browns.
Thumbs up: Ben Roethlisberger once again showed why he is one of the best clutch quarterbacks. On the game-winning drive, he completed 3 of 4 passes for 39 yards and scrambled for 11 yards to get the Steelers in range for Shaun Suisham's 38-yard field goal with four seconds left in the game.
Thumbs down: Pittsburgh struggled all game to protect Roethlisberger. Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis both forced fumbles in the first half, which led to a field goal and a 47-yard fumble return for a touchdown.
First takeaway: The Steelers defense finally forced a turnover this season, and it was a timely one. James Harrison stripped Colts backup quarterback Curtis Painter, and Troy Polamalu returned it for a 16-yard touchdown to take a short-lived 20-13 lead in the fourth quarter.
Banged-up line: Pittsburgh had three starters on the offensive line leave the game, including the entire right side at one point. Right guard Doug Legursky and right tackle Marcus Gilbert both had shoulder injuries and were replaced by guard Ramon Foster and tackle Trai Essex. When left tackle Jonathan Scott was forced out late in the fourth quarter with a leg injury, Gilbert had to come back into the game.
What's next: The Steelers play at Houston, which wraps up a stretch of three road games in the first four weeks of the season.
What it means: It wasn't as easy as many expected, but Pittsburgh did just enough to improve to 2-1. The Steelers are in a three-team tie atop the AFC North with the Ravens and Browns.
Thumbs up: Ben Roethlisberger once again showed why he is one of the best clutch quarterbacks. On the game-winning drive, he completed 3 of 4 passes for 39 yards and scrambled for 11 yards to get the Steelers in range for Shaun Suisham's 38-yard field goal with four seconds left in the game.
Thumbs down: Pittsburgh struggled all game to protect Roethlisberger. Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis both forced fumbles in the first half, which led to a field goal and a 47-yard fumble return for a touchdown.
First takeaway: The Steelers defense finally forced a turnover this season, and it was a timely one. James Harrison stripped Colts backup quarterback Curtis Painter, and Troy Polamalu returned it for a 16-yard touchdown to take a short-lived 20-13 lead in the fourth quarter.
Banged-up line: Pittsburgh had three starters on the offensive line leave the game, including the entire right side at one point. Right guard Doug Legursky and right tackle Marcus Gilbert both had shoulder injuries and were replaced by guard Ramon Foster and tackle Trai Essex. When left tackle Jonathan Scott was forced out late in the fourth quarter with a leg injury, Gilbert had to come back into the game.
What's next: The Steelers play at Houston, which wraps up a stretch of three road games in the first four weeks of the season.
Thoughts on the Baltimore Ravens' 37-7 win at the St. Louis Rams:
What it means: Any concern that the Ravens would struggle like they did at Tennessee last Sunday was gone by the end of the first quarter, when Baltimore rolled out to a 21-0 lead. The Ravens avoided consecutive losses for the first time since October 2009 and hold a share of first place in the division with a 2-1 record.
Thumbs up: Wide receiver Torrey Smith. He became the first rookie to score three touchdowns in a quarter. Smith's first three career receptions all went for touchdowns -- 74, 41 and 18 yards -- and all came in the first quarter. Not bad for a second-round pick who had been criticized for not having a catch in the first two games of the season. He stepped into the starting lineup for Lee Evans, who was sidelined with an ankle injury.
Joe Flacco on fire: His roller-coaster season continued with a 389-yard passing performance. It set a career mark and ranked second in franchise history behind Vinny Testaverde's 429 yards in 1996. This led to the Ravens establishing a team record with 550 yards of total offense.
Roughing up Bradford: The Ravens' defense was relentless with Rams quarterback Sam Bradford. Baltimore recorded 11 quarterback hits and five sacks (from five different players).
What's next: The Ravens return home to have a Sunday night showdown with the New York Jets and former defensive coordinator Rex Ryan.
What it means: Any concern that the Ravens would struggle like they did at Tennessee last Sunday was gone by the end of the first quarter, when Baltimore rolled out to a 21-0 lead. The Ravens avoided consecutive losses for the first time since October 2009 and hold a share of first place in the division with a 2-1 record.
Thumbs up: Wide receiver Torrey Smith. He became the first rookie to score three touchdowns in a quarter. Smith's first three career receptions all went for touchdowns -- 74, 41 and 18 yards -- and all came in the first quarter. Not bad for a second-round pick who had been criticized for not having a catch in the first two games of the season. He stepped into the starting lineup for Lee Evans, who was sidelined with an ankle injury.
Joe Flacco on fire: His roller-coaster season continued with a 389-yard passing performance. It set a career mark and ranked second in franchise history behind Vinny Testaverde's 429 yards in 1996. This led to the Ravens establishing a team record with 550 yards of total offense.
Roughing up Bradford: The Ravens' defense was relentless with Rams quarterback Sam Bradford. Baltimore recorded 11 quarterback hits and five sacks (from five different players).
What's next: The Ravens return home to have a Sunday night showdown with the New York Jets and former defensive coordinator Rex Ryan.
A look at a tremendous victory for the Raiders.
What it means: This was a monumental win for the Oakland organization. The Raiders accomplished much Sunday. First, they learned to finish a game. The Raiders gave up 35 points in the second half at Buffalo last week. Yet, this week, against a strong Jets’ team, the Raiders came back from a 17-7 deficit and took over the game. They had an impressive drive late in the game to seal the win. In the end, the Raiders, who were 2-8 outside the AFC West last year, showed they can beat a quality AFC opponent. If the Raiders are in the playoff conversation in December, this game will be looked upon as a catalyst.
Tomorrow’s talker: That was a very good defense Oakland just torched. The Raiders’ offense is playing great. It has scored 69 points in the past two games. Head coach Hue Jackson and offensive coordinator Al Saunders are doing a terrific job. It doesn’t hurt to have Darren McFadden. He had 170 yards on 19 carries, McFadden is a legitimate threat to win the NFL rushing title this season.
Trending: Oakland kicker Sebastian Janikowski, who tied the NFL record with a 63-yard field goal in Week 1, is getting better with age. In 13th NFL season, Janikowski is bombs away. He nailed field goals of 54 and 49 yards. To have that type of a consistent weapon is going to help this offense.
What’s next: The Raiders host New England, fresh off a frustrating loss at Buffalo. What are the odds of Tom Brady throwing four more interceptions next week?
What it means: This was a monumental win for the Oakland organization. The Raiders accomplished much Sunday. First, they learned to finish a game. The Raiders gave up 35 points in the second half at Buffalo last week. Yet, this week, against a strong Jets’ team, the Raiders came back from a 17-7 deficit and took over the game. They had an impressive drive late in the game to seal the win. In the end, the Raiders, who were 2-8 outside the AFC West last year, showed they can beat a quality AFC opponent. If the Raiders are in the playoff conversation in December, this game will be looked upon as a catalyst.
Tomorrow’s talker: That was a very good defense Oakland just torched. The Raiders’ offense is playing great. It has scored 69 points in the past two games. Head coach Hue Jackson and offensive coordinator Al Saunders are doing a terrific job. It doesn’t hurt to have Darren McFadden. He had 170 yards on 19 carries, McFadden is a legitimate threat to win the NFL rushing title this season.
Trending: Oakland kicker Sebastian Janikowski, who tied the NFL record with a 63-yard field goal in Week 1, is getting better with age. In 13th NFL season, Janikowski is bombs away. He nailed field goals of 54 and 49 yards. To have that type of a consistent weapon is going to help this offense.
What’s next: The Raiders host New England, fresh off a frustrating loss at Buffalo. What are the odds of Tom Brady throwing four more interceptions next week?
Let's take a look at the Miami Dolphins' 17-16 loss to the Cleveland Browns.
What it means: The pressure is on the Dolphins organization as this was a must-win game for Miami. They are now 0-3 and this abysmal start could signal the beginning of a lot of changes. Expect there to be plenty of speculation on the job status of Miami head coach Tony Sparano. He went into the season with questions and hasn't won a game in the month of September. Two losses at home and a road loss against Cleveland doesn't help his standing.
What I didn't like: The Dolphins controlled most of the game. But red zone woes kept the Browns in it -- and that eventually cost Miami. The Dolphins scored one touchdown in three trips to the red zone. On the other two trips, Miami settled for a field goal and running back Reggie Bush fumbled. Red zone issues have been a season-long trend for Miami thus far and a major reason the Dolphins remain winless.
What I liked: Dolphins rookie running back Daniel Thomas played well for the second straight week. Thomas churned out 95 rushing yards on 23 carries. Despite being a rookie, he's been a consistent force the past two weeks. Dolphins receiver Brian Hartline also played well (four catches, 87 yards) in his homecoming. Hartline is from Canton, Ohio.
What's next: The Dolphins have a tough road game next week against the San Diego Chargers. The Dolphins will be sizable underdogs in that game. Another loss will only fuel more talk of Sparano being on the hot seat.
What it means: The pressure is on the Dolphins organization as this was a must-win game for Miami. They are now 0-3 and this abysmal start could signal the beginning of a lot of changes. Expect there to be plenty of speculation on the job status of Miami head coach Tony Sparano. He went into the season with questions and hasn't won a game in the month of September. Two losses at home and a road loss against Cleveland doesn't help his standing.
What I didn't like: The Dolphins controlled most of the game. But red zone woes kept the Browns in it -- and that eventually cost Miami. The Dolphins scored one touchdown in three trips to the red zone. On the other two trips, Miami settled for a field goal and running back Reggie Bush fumbled. Red zone issues have been a season-long trend for Miami thus far and a major reason the Dolphins remain winless.
What I liked: Dolphins rookie running back Daniel Thomas played well for the second straight week. Thomas churned out 95 rushing yards on 23 carries. Despite being a rookie, he's been a consistent force the past two weeks. Dolphins receiver Brian Hartline also played well (four catches, 87 yards) in his homecoming. Hartline is from Canton, Ohio.
What's next: The Dolphins have a tough road game next week against the San Diego Chargers. The Dolphins will be sizable underdogs in that game. Another loss will only fuel more talk of Sparano being on the hot seat.
Thoughts on the St. Louis Rams' Week 3 defeat to the Baltimore Ravens in the Edward Jones Dome:
What it means: The Rams are 0-3 and falling far short of reasonable expectations, even when taking into account significant injury issues. They are 0-2 at home and already two games behind in the NFC West race. Their late-season schedule is packed with division games, so there's no sense in writing off the Rams at this early stage. But there have been too few signs the Rams are close to getting things going. They are floundering. This was a big step backward for a team already heading in the wrong direction to open the season.
What I liked: Steven Jackson was active for the first time since suffering a quadriceps strain early in the season opener. Rookie first-round pick Robert Quinn had two quarterback hits, as did Chris Long. Long now has three sacks in three games. Sam Bradford found Brandon Gibson for a 34-yard scoring reception.
What I didn't like: The Rams looked like a lost cause on both sides of the ball. This was the third consecutive game a Rams' opponent has returned a Bradford fumble for a touchdown. The Rams' 32nd-ranked run defense continued giving up far too many yards, including runs of 53 and 28 yards. Their pass defense was worse, making Ravens rookie Torrey Smith look more like retired Rams legend Torry Holt. Smith's three first-quarter scoring receptions from Joe Flacco covered 74, 41 and 18 yards, blowing open the game. Smith had never caught a pass in the regular season before Sunday. He caught four passes for 20 yards during the preseason. Sure, the Rams have injury-related issues in their secondary. The occasional breakdown is going to happen. This performance was inexcusable.
Playing from behind: The Rams' offense has yet to take a snap this season while the team led its opponent on the scoreboard.
Disappearing Danario: Rams receiver Danario Alexander made big plays downfield against the New York Giants on Monday night. The Rams targeted him frequently in this game, with disappointing results.
What's next: The Rams face the Washington Redskins at the Edward Jones Dome in Week 3.
What it means: The Rams are 0-3 and falling far short of reasonable expectations, even when taking into account significant injury issues. They are 0-2 at home and already two games behind in the NFC West race. Their late-season schedule is packed with division games, so there's no sense in writing off the Rams at this early stage. But there have been too few signs the Rams are close to getting things going. They are floundering. This was a big step backward for a team already heading in the wrong direction to open the season.
What I liked: Steven Jackson was active for the first time since suffering a quadriceps strain early in the season opener. Rookie first-round pick Robert Quinn had two quarterback hits, as did Chris Long. Long now has three sacks in three games. Sam Bradford found Brandon Gibson for a 34-yard scoring reception.
What I didn't like: The Rams looked like a lost cause on both sides of the ball. This was the third consecutive game a Rams' opponent has returned a Bradford fumble for a touchdown. The Rams' 32nd-ranked run defense continued giving up far too many yards, including runs of 53 and 28 yards. Their pass defense was worse, making Ravens rookie Torrey Smith look more like retired Rams legend Torry Holt. Smith's three first-quarter scoring receptions from Joe Flacco covered 74, 41 and 18 yards, blowing open the game. Smith had never caught a pass in the regular season before Sunday. He caught four passes for 20 yards during the preseason. Sure, the Rams have injury-related issues in their secondary. The occasional breakdown is going to happen. This performance was inexcusable.
Playing from behind: The Rams' offense has yet to take a snap this season while the team led its opponent on the scoreboard.
Disappearing Danario: Rams receiver Danario Alexander made big plays downfield against the New York Giants on Monday night. The Rams targeted him frequently in this game, with disappointing results.
What's next: The Rams face the Washington Redskins at the Edward Jones Dome in Week 3.
Thoughts on the Jaguars’ 16-10 loss to the Panthers at Bank of America Stadium:
What it means: The Jaguars are 1-2 after losing the first start of quarterback Blaine Gabbert’s career. While they fared much better against another rookie quarterback, Cam Newton, than Carolina’s first two opponents did, they couldn’t beat him like those teams did. Incredible rains had a huge bearing on things, but with Maurice Jones-Drew, who turned 24 carries into 122 rushing yards, they are equipped to handle such conditions.
What I didn’t like: Jacksonville held Newton to 53 percent passing, 158 yards and nothing longer than 18, but still couldn’t beat him. No picks. No sacks. Just one recorded hit on him and five passes defensed. A defense that added five key veterans in the offseason needs to fare better against a rookie quarterback, but the stat sheets shows a lack of plays.
What I liked: It was a somewhat manageable Hail Mary situation, and Gabbert threw his first career touchdown pass just before the half on a 36-yard connection to Mike Thomas. Jack Del Rio shook things up with a news starter on each side of the ball, inserting Dwight Lowery as one of the safeties and a healthy Eben Britton at left guard. We’ll have to wait on reviews of their play.
Good fortune: The Jaguars fumbled five times, but didn’t lose any of them. That’s good luck none were turnovers. But it’s five plays that didn’t have a chance to turn into much.
Poor production: Twenty-one percent on third down for the offense is a huge issue. To win a game with that number, you've got to have some big plays and the Jaguars didn't have enough.
What’s next: The Jaguars host high powered New Orleans, which is coming off a strong come-from-behind win against Houston.
What it means: The Jaguars are 1-2 after losing the first start of quarterback Blaine Gabbert’s career. While they fared much better against another rookie quarterback, Cam Newton, than Carolina’s first two opponents did, they couldn’t beat him like those teams did. Incredible rains had a huge bearing on things, but with Maurice Jones-Drew, who turned 24 carries into 122 rushing yards, they are equipped to handle such conditions.
What I didn’t like: Jacksonville held Newton to 53 percent passing, 158 yards and nothing longer than 18, but still couldn’t beat him. No picks. No sacks. Just one recorded hit on him and five passes defensed. A defense that added five key veterans in the offseason needs to fare better against a rookie quarterback, but the stat sheets shows a lack of plays.
What I liked: It was a somewhat manageable Hail Mary situation, and Gabbert threw his first career touchdown pass just before the half on a 36-yard connection to Mike Thomas. Jack Del Rio shook things up with a news starter on each side of the ball, inserting Dwight Lowery as one of the safeties and a healthy Eben Britton at left guard. We’ll have to wait on reviews of their play.
Good fortune: The Jaguars fumbled five times, but didn’t lose any of them. That’s good luck none were turnovers. But it’s five plays that didn’t have a chance to turn into much.
Poor production: Twenty-one percent on third down for the offense is a huge issue. To win a game with that number, you've got to have some big plays and the Jaguars didn't have enough.
What’s next: The Jaguars host high powered New Orleans, which is coming off a strong come-from-behind win against Houston.
Thoughts on the Titans' 17-14 win over the Broncos at LP Field:
What it means: The Titans share the lead in the AFC South with Houston at 2-1, though Tennessee's divisional loss gives the Texans an edge. Matt Hasselbeck had his second 300-yard passing game in a row and has shown he’s in control of an offense that can find ways to win even when its primary pieces are not working the way they might hope for.
What I liked: Hasselbeck found 11 different pass receivers as he completed 27 of 36 throws for 311 yards and two touchdowns. Tight end Daniel Graham’s hardly been a prominent guy to this point, but his 4-yard touchdown catch late in the fourth quarter provided the winning margin against his former team.
What I didn’t like: A wrenching of Kenny Britt’s right knee which could be a season-ending injury. The team’s most dynamic pass catcher fumbled his catch after twisting awkwardly. If he’s gone for an extended period of time, the offense will be without a guy who’s been as explosive a receiver as just about anyone in the league so far.
What I can’t figure out: Another zero game for Chris Johnson on the ground, with a 1.6-yards per carry average. Javon Ringer, the primary alternative, took six carries for negative-6 yards. The Titans are struggling to move it on the ground. But at least they’ve won consecutive games while enduring the struggle. Johnson did contribute as a pass-catcher.
Defensive forces: Will Witherspoon had the Titans’ lone sack and picked off a ball batted by Jason Jones to seal up the game. Jason McCourty also had an interception. And the defense made a strong goal-line stand.
What’s next: The Titans hit the road and head for Cleveland to see if they can stop the Browns on the ground and to try again to get Johnson going.
What it means: The Titans share the lead in the AFC South with Houston at 2-1, though Tennessee's divisional loss gives the Texans an edge. Matt Hasselbeck had his second 300-yard passing game in a row and has shown he’s in control of an offense that can find ways to win even when its primary pieces are not working the way they might hope for.
What I liked: Hasselbeck found 11 different pass receivers as he completed 27 of 36 throws for 311 yards and two touchdowns. Tight end Daniel Graham’s hardly been a prominent guy to this point, but his 4-yard touchdown catch late in the fourth quarter provided the winning margin against his former team.
What I didn’t like: A wrenching of Kenny Britt’s right knee which could be a season-ending injury. The team’s most dynamic pass catcher fumbled his catch after twisting awkwardly. If he’s gone for an extended period of time, the offense will be without a guy who’s been as explosive a receiver as just about anyone in the league so far.
What I can’t figure out: Another zero game for Chris Johnson on the ground, with a 1.6-yards per carry average. Javon Ringer, the primary alternative, took six carries for negative-6 yards. The Titans are struggling to move it on the ground. But at least they’ve won consecutive games while enduring the struggle. Johnson did contribute as a pass-catcher.
Defensive forces: Will Witherspoon had the Titans’ lone sack and picked off a ball batted by Jason Jones to seal up the game. Jason McCourty also had an interception. And the defense made a strong goal-line stand.
What’s next: The Titans hit the road and head for Cleveland to see if they can stop the Browns on the ground and to try again to get Johnson going.
Wrap-up: Browns 17, Dolphins 16
September, 25, 2011
9/25/11
5:38
PM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
Thoughts on the Cleveland Browns' 17-16 win against the Miami Dolphins at Cleveland Browns Stadium:
What it means: The Browns are 2-1 for the first time since 2002, and they did it in impressive style with a comeback victory. These are the types of wins that get a fan base buzzing. Now, they are assured of at least a share of the division lead three weeks into the season.
Thumbs up: Colt McCoy. The Browns quarterback didn't have a great game but he sure did have a great finish. He completed nine of 13 passes to account for all 80 yards on the Browns' final drive, including the game-winning 14-yard touchdown pass to a leaping Mohamed Massaquoi with 43 seconds remaining. The interesting part was that McCoy, who has made a name for himself recently with his rollouts, did it while standing in the pocket.
Thumbs down: The Browns' run defense. Cleveland gave up 95 yards to Daniel Thomas and failed to stop the rookie when he scored a touchdown off a short pass. Still, the Browns were able to consistently make Reggie Bush put the ball on the ground.
No Hillis: With Peyton Hillis out with an illness, backup running back Montario Hardesty contributed 67 yards on 14 carries.
What's next: The Browns remain at home where they'll face the Tennessee Titans. This is Cleveland's third home game in the first four weeks of the 2011 season.
What it means: The Browns are 2-1 for the first time since 2002, and they did it in impressive style with a comeback victory. These are the types of wins that get a fan base buzzing. Now, they are assured of at least a share of the division lead three weeks into the season.
Thumbs up: Colt McCoy. The Browns quarterback didn't have a great game but he sure did have a great finish. He completed nine of 13 passes to account for all 80 yards on the Browns' final drive, including the game-winning 14-yard touchdown pass to a leaping Mohamed Massaquoi with 43 seconds remaining. The interesting part was that McCoy, who has made a name for himself recently with his rollouts, did it while standing in the pocket.
Thumbs down: The Browns' run defense. Cleveland gave up 95 yards to Daniel Thomas and failed to stop the rookie when he scored a touchdown off a short pass. Still, the Browns were able to consistently make Reggie Bush put the ball on the ground.
No Hillis: With Peyton Hillis out with an illness, backup running back Montario Hardesty contributed 67 yards on 14 carries.
What's next: The Browns remain at home where they'll face the Tennessee Titans. This is Cleveland's third home game in the first four weeks of the 2011 season.
Wrap-up: Lions 26, Vikings 23 (OT)
September, 25, 2011
9/25/11
5:00
PM ET
By
Kevin Seifert | ESPN.com
A few thoughts on yet another amazing second half in the NFC North:
What it means: The Detroit Lions won at the Metrodome for the first time in 14 games, giving the Lions their first 3-0 start since 1980. The Vikings stunningly gave up their third consecutive halftime lead, this one a 20-0 advantage earned by thoroughly trashing the Lions in the first half. The Vikings have now been outscored 87-6 after halftime this season.
What happened?!: The Lions deserve all the credit in the world for coming back from such a big deficit, but it takes two to tango when one team outscores the other 26-3 after halftime. We'll have plenty of time for post-mortem, but there was one play I really didn't like for the Vikings. It was giving Toby Gerhart the handoff on a fourth-and-1 play at the Lions' 17-yard line in the fourth quarter. Even if you don't kick the field goal, I prefer to come up short with the ball in Adrian Peterson's hands.
MegatronWatch: I didn't see every play of this game, but it sure looked like the Lions got receiver Calvin Johnson in single coverage a lot in this game. Vikings cornerback Chris Cook made some nice plays on the ball, but in the end Johnson had his third consecutive two-touchdown game, including a leaping 32-yarder in the third quarter that got the Lions on the scoreboard. That gives Johnson six touchdowns in three games.
Injury report: It appeared that Vikings receiver Percy Harvin wasn't on the field late in the fourth quarter. Harvin, who missed a day of practice with the stomach flu, was reportedly vomiting on the sidelines.
Lions pass protection: Quarterback Matthew Stafford threw for 378 yards but was sacked five times. Tackles Jeff Backus, Gosder Cherilus and Corey Hilliard couldn't slow down Vikings defensive ends Jared Allen (three sacks) and Brian Robison (two). Stafford hadn't been sacked before Sunday's game, but it's clear the Lions have an issue on the edge. It might be their biggest vulnerability as they move into unchartered waters of competitiveness this season.
PonderWatch: Vikings quarterback Donovan McNabb hasn't played horribly this season, and on Sunday he threw for 211 yards. But should an 0-3 team be playing a 34-year-old quarterback while the future of the position stands on the sidelines? You'll hear that question a few times about Christian Ponder this week.
What's next: The Lions will play at the Dallas Cowboys next Sunday. The Vikings will travel to play the Kansas City Chiefs.
What it means: The Detroit Lions won at the Metrodome for the first time in 14 games, giving the Lions their first 3-0 start since 1980. The Vikings stunningly gave up their third consecutive halftime lead, this one a 20-0 advantage earned by thoroughly trashing the Lions in the first half. The Vikings have now been outscored 87-6 after halftime this season.
What happened?!: The Lions deserve all the credit in the world for coming back from such a big deficit, but it takes two to tango when one team outscores the other 26-3 after halftime. We'll have plenty of time for post-mortem, but there was one play I really didn't like for the Vikings. It was giving Toby Gerhart the handoff on a fourth-and-1 play at the Lions' 17-yard line in the fourth quarter. Even if you don't kick the field goal, I prefer to come up short with the ball in Adrian Peterson's hands.
MegatronWatch: I didn't see every play of this game, but it sure looked like the Lions got receiver Calvin Johnson in single coverage a lot in this game. Vikings cornerback Chris Cook made some nice plays on the ball, but in the end Johnson had his third consecutive two-touchdown game, including a leaping 32-yarder in the third quarter that got the Lions on the scoreboard. That gives Johnson six touchdowns in three games.
Injury report: It appeared that Vikings receiver Percy Harvin wasn't on the field late in the fourth quarter. Harvin, who missed a day of practice with the stomach flu, was reportedly vomiting on the sidelines.
Lions pass protection: Quarterback Matthew Stafford threw for 378 yards but was sacked five times. Tackles Jeff Backus, Gosder Cherilus and Corey Hilliard couldn't slow down Vikings defensive ends Jared Allen (three sacks) and Brian Robison (two). Stafford hadn't been sacked before Sunday's game, but it's clear the Lions have an issue on the edge. It might be their biggest vulnerability as they move into unchartered waters of competitiveness this season.
PonderWatch: Vikings quarterback Donovan McNabb hasn't played horribly this season, and on Sunday he threw for 211 yards. But should an 0-3 team be playing a 34-year-old quarterback while the future of the position stands on the sidelines? You'll hear that question a few times about Christian Ponder this week.
What's next: The Lions will play at the Dallas Cowboys next Sunday. The Vikings will travel to play the Kansas City Chiefs.
A look at a game Denver saw slip away late.
What does it mean: There was hope Denver could sneak out a winning record after the first three games of the season. They opened the season with home games against Oakland and Cincinnati and before having a manageable road game against the Titans. However, the Broncos are now 1-2 after the Titans scored the game-winning touchdown late in the game. The banged-up Broncos’ schedule now stiffens. It has a road game at Green Bay next week and then goes back home to host San Diego in Week 5.
Take that, Denver’s front office: The Titans made it a 17-14 game with 4:28 to go in the game when tight end Daniel Graham scored on a 4-yard pass. Denver cut Graham, a Denver native, shortly before the lockout started.
Tomorrow’s talker: The Broncos run game is a problem. Willis McGahee had 52 yards on 22 carries. All told, Denver had 59 yards on 23 carries. Knowshon Moreno missed second-straight game with a hamstring injury. McGahee had 101 yards last week on 28 carries. McGahee will turn 30 next month. He had 209 carries combined in the past two seasons. He is not going to be able to keep up this pace. Moreno needs to get healthy and become a factor quickly.
What’s next: Going to Lambeau Field will not been easy for Denver. This one has a chance to be fairly lopsided. I wouldn’t be shocked if the Packers are two-touchdown favorites.
Thoughts on New Orleans’ 40-33 victory against the Houston Texans at the Superdome:
What it means: No matter what happens in the later game between Tampa Bay and Atlanta, the Saints still will have at least a share of first place in the NFC South and that’s the most important thing to come out of Sunday. This game was far from pretty for the defense, which is showing a trend of struggling against good offenses.
The streak continues: For the first time in franchise history, the Saints have started a season by scoring 30 points or more in each of their first three games.
The streak continues II: Drew Brees threw for three touchdowns. He now has thrown at least one touchdown pass in 30 consecutive games. That ties him with Dan Marino for the third-longest streak of games with a touchdown pass in NFL history.
What I didn’t like: After throwing a career-high 22 interceptions last season, Brees started this year by going through the first two games without an interception. That streak ended against Houston as Brees was picked off twice.
Unsung heroes: With top receiver Marques Colston out, the Saints continued to get good production from elsewhere. Lance Moore led the way with nine catches for 88 yards and tight end Jimmy Graham had four catches for 100 yards and a touchdown. Running back Darren Sproles added six catches and Robert Meachem had five catches, including a touchdown.
What’s next: The Saints will play at Jacksonville next week. They won’t be back in the Superdome until Oct. 23 when they host the Indianapolis Colts. After Jacksonville, the Saints have road games at Carolina and Tampa Bay.
Thoughts on the San Francisco 49ers' road victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 3:
What it means: The 49ers assured themselves at least a share of first place in the NFC West. They needed until Oct. 31 to win for the second time last season. They're 2-1 under coach Jim Harbaugh, giving them some margin for error heading into a difficult road game against Philadelphia.
What I liked: The 49ers' offense came to life with the game on the line, driving for the tie-breaking touchdown in the fourth quarter. Vernon Davis asked for a bigger role in the offense and delivered by exceeding 100 yards receiving. He made key receptions on the winning drive. The 49ers' defense performed as expected against the Bengals and their young quarterback, Andy Dalton. Holding any NFL opponent to a field goal deep into the fourth quarter should be good enough to win comfortably. The 49ers could not rest until the end, but they'll take the victory and 2-1 record. Late interceptions by Carlos Rogers and Reggie Smith came as a welcome sight for the 49ers after their secondary faltered during critical moments of a defeat to Dallas a week earlier.
What I didn't like: The 49ers' offense continued to struggle for most of the game. Quarterback Alex Smith took five sacks, giving him 11 over the past two games. Frank Gore found little running room. He lost a critical fumble that set up Cincinnati for a go-ahead field goal in the fourth quarter. He also let a pass bounce off his helmet on the 49ers' winning drive. Earlier, officials called receiver Michael Crabtree for illegal touching, wiping out a touchdown reception. Watching on TV, it was tough to see evidence the call was correct. Former NFL officiating director Mike Pereira, now an analyst for Fox, said he saw no evidence Crabtree had stepped out of bounds before catching the ball in the end zone. He also indicated the 49ers would have had to challenge the play for there to be a review. Perhaps 49ers coaches saw something we could not see watching on TV. If not, they should have challenged this play.
What's next: The 49ers visit the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 4.
What it means: The 49ers assured themselves at least a share of first place in the NFC West. They needed until Oct. 31 to win for the second time last season. They're 2-1 under coach Jim Harbaugh, giving them some margin for error heading into a difficult road game against Philadelphia.
What I liked: The 49ers' offense came to life with the game on the line, driving for the tie-breaking touchdown in the fourth quarter. Vernon Davis asked for a bigger role in the offense and delivered by exceeding 100 yards receiving. He made key receptions on the winning drive. The 49ers' defense performed as expected against the Bengals and their young quarterback, Andy Dalton. Holding any NFL opponent to a field goal deep into the fourth quarter should be good enough to win comfortably. The 49ers could not rest until the end, but they'll take the victory and 2-1 record. Late interceptions by Carlos Rogers and Reggie Smith came as a welcome sight for the 49ers after their secondary faltered during critical moments of a defeat to Dallas a week earlier.
What I didn't like: The 49ers' offense continued to struggle for most of the game. Quarterback Alex Smith took five sacks, giving him 11 over the past two games. Frank Gore found little running room. He lost a critical fumble that set up Cincinnati for a go-ahead field goal in the fourth quarter. He also let a pass bounce off his helmet on the 49ers' winning drive. Earlier, officials called receiver Michael Crabtree for illegal touching, wiping out a touchdown reception. Watching on TV, it was tough to see evidence the call was correct. Former NFL officiating director Mike Pereira, now an analyst for Fox, said he saw no evidence Crabtree had stepped out of bounds before catching the ball in the end zone. He also indicated the 49ers would have had to challenge the play for there to be a review. Perhaps 49ers coaches saw something we could not see watching on TV. If not, they should have challenged this play.
What's next: The 49ers visit the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 4.
Thoughts on Carolina’s 16-10 victory against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Bank of America Stadium.
What it means: This was the first victory of the Ron Rivera/Cam Newton era. Newton already had energized the fan base with dynamic performances in the first two games. This game wasn’t as impressive statistically, but it showed that Newton can win in this league. He led a late touchdown drive and finished it with a scoring pass to Greg Olsen to seal the victory.
What I liked: The Panthers at least attempted to run the ball. DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart didn’t put up huge numbers, but they got a fair amount of carries. Part of it might have been because there was heavy rain for much of the game and that made it difficult to throw the ball. The mere fact that the Panthers were at least attempting to run kept the Jacksonville defense honest.
What else I liked: The play of linebacker James Anderson. With linebackers Jon Beason and Thomas Davis out for the season with injuries, Anderson needs to become the leader of this defense. He stepped up to the challenge and led the Panthers in tackles.
Unsung hero: Due to the injuries at linebacker, Thomas Williams got some playing time. He made a great play, batting down a Blaine Gabbert pass on the final play of the game.
What’s next: The Panthers travel to Soldier Field to play the Chicago Bears next Sunday.
What it means: This was the first victory of the Ron Rivera/Cam Newton era. Newton already had energized the fan base with dynamic performances in the first two games. This game wasn’t as impressive statistically, but it showed that Newton can win in this league. He led a late touchdown drive and finished it with a scoring pass to Greg Olsen to seal the victory.
What I liked: The Panthers at least attempted to run the ball. DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart didn’t put up huge numbers, but they got a fair amount of carries. Part of it might have been because there was heavy rain for much of the game and that made it difficult to throw the ball. The mere fact that the Panthers were at least attempting to run kept the Jacksonville defense honest.
What else I liked: The play of linebacker James Anderson. With linebackers Jon Beason and Thomas Davis out for the season with injuries, Anderson needs to become the leader of this defense. He stepped up to the challenge and led the Panthers in tackles.
Unsung hero: Due to the injuries at linebacker, Thomas Williams got some playing time. He made a great play, batting down a Blaine Gabbert pass on the final play of the game.
What’s next: The Panthers travel to Soldier Field to play the Chicago Bears next Sunday.
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