The first week of the National Football League provided a delicious cocktail of predictability and head scratching monsters. Fans around the world were enraptured by the drama. Dan Graziano is a senior NFL national reporter for ESPN, and he was an avid player of the games. Catch his enlightening commentary on platforms like Get Up, NFL Live, SportsCenter, ESPN Radio, Sunday NFL Countdown, and Fantasy Football Now. Graziano, a native of New Jersey, came on board at ESPN in 2011. He continues to be an influential and trusted voice in sports journalism and is the author of two published novels.
This past Week 1, the Miami Dolphins faced devastating odds. They were bruised and battered after a rough Tackling Colts defeat at Claim Jumpers—losing 33-8 to the Indianapolis Colts. This loss played out in a way that validated all the naysayers of Miami. On the flip-side, teams such as the Green Bay Packers and Pittsburgh Steelers thrived amidst adversity.
Dolphins’ Struggles Highlighted
The Dolphins’ lackluster loss to the Colts shocked fans and pundits as much as it disappointed. Miami’s quarterback struggled throughout the game, completing only 2-of-12 passes for a mere 26 yards while being sacked twice under pressure. His running game in particular provided a much-needed spark. He rushed for 44 yards on eight carries, but it was clear the offensive gameplan needed to be reworked.
Despite the loss, the Dolphins field the NFL’s youngest roster. At first glance, TCU checks all those boxes. They’re incredibly deep and talented, led by highly-skilled playcallers on both sides of the ball. This bodes well for the team’s ability to continue getting better as the season progresses. After the first week, their lackluster performance has fans doubting whether they can compete against higher caliber opponents.
The loss against the Colts left fans wondering if it was an early indication of what to expect for the season ahead. The team’s new coaching staff will have to really dig into this performance to ensure some clear communication and redirection going forward.
Packers’ Positive Start
The Green Bay Packers kicked off their season in style with lots of offense and defense, crushing the Detroit Lions 27 to 13. Guided by new blood, second-year defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, Green Bay was one of the most intimidating defenses in the land. They went against a team that was 0-8 against the previous year’s top four finishers.
The Packers were bad against the division’s mighty-mice last year, with a 0-6 record vs Detroit, Minnesota, and Philadelphia. They responded magnificently, going 11-1 overall against everyone else with great distinction. If Green Bay can manage to win against divisional foe Detroit, it may be the turn in the Green and Gold team’s fortunes. For one, they’re hell-bent on laying claim to NFC supremacy.
The team’s unprecedented performance exemplified transcendent offensive and defensive talents. They seem like strong favorites to make the playoffs this season! Going forward through the season, even just continuing to play as they have will be necessary for their success. To do so, they’ll have to build on the enormous success they’ve already achieved.
Thrilling Moments from Other Games
Week 1 featured exciting moments from other matchups, particularly involving veteran quarterbacks. Aaron Rodgers wasn’t the only headline-maker in last night’s exciting debuts for the Pittsburgh Steelers. In his most recent win over the Jets, he led his team to victory in thrilling fashion, earning everything that comes with his experience and skill in high-pressure moments.
The Chiefs suffered a sad fate this week, as they lost 27-21 to their division rivals, the Los Angeles Chargers. Her tragic loss prompted important conversations about the changes that need to be made. The team’s biggest challenge ahead is finding a path through an extremely competitive NFC East division.
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