Table of Content
The Minnesota Vikings saw their undefeated start come to an end with a 19-15 loss to the Detroit Lions in the NFC North. Jahmyr Gibbs recorded 168 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown, while Jared Goff threw the game-winning touchdown pass to Jameson Williams.
Vikings Should Bench Kyler Murray
The defeat brought lingering questions about quarterback Kyler Murray to the forefront. Murray struggled again on Sunday, completing 17 of 29 passes for 210 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, while absorbing three sacks. According to TruMedia, 17.2% of his passes were off-target, including missed throws to Justin Jefferson, and he frequently threw low-percentage perimeter balls. Murray also holds a 3.20 average time to throw, which is the highest of his career, and his EPA per dropback, off-target rate, and passing success rate have all hit career worsts this season.
Following the game, wide receiver Justin Jefferson declined to speak to the media, while head coach Kevin O’Connell noted multiple missed opportunities. With a championship-level defense, the Vikings face mounting pressure to evaluate their options, whether utilizing backup Carson Wentz or exploring a trade.
Colts Need to Move On From Jonathan Taylor and Shane Steichen
The Indianapolis Colts suffered a 42-7 defeat against the Jacksonville Jaguars, managing a first-half drive chart of a punt, a fumble, a pick-six, and a kneel. Trevor Lawrence threw for 210 yards and three touchdowns on just 14 attempts, while the Jaguars averaged 5.5 yards per carry.
The loss follows a week where Indianapolis traded Quenton Nelson and DeForest Buckner and fired general manager Chris Ballard. Pointing to a lack of leadership and a team that did not look interested in playing, the blame falls on head coach Shane Steichen. Meanwhile, running back Jonathan Taylor is reportedly commanding significant offers as the team faces a multi-year rebuild, making a trade vital for owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon.
Browns and Buccaneers Week 8 Outlook
The Cleveland Browns fell to a 27-6 defeat against the Pittsburgh Steelers, continuing a drought in Pittsburgh that dates back to 2003. Deshaun Watson struggled by taking eight sacks, bringing his total to 22 sacks over his last four games. Despite a negative EPA per play in three of his past four outings, the 5-3 Browns lack a better alternative at quarterback.
Elsewhere, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Atlanta Falcons 16-0 in a downpour without completing a single pass. Baker Mayfield attempted only three passes as the team rushed for over 300 yards. Backed by a defense that ranks first in EPA per play and turnovers forced, the Buccaneers are positioning themselves to contend in the NFC South.
Bengals Defense and Andy Reid’s Decisions
The Cincinnati Bengals secured a 43-36 overtime victory over the Tennessee Titans behind six touchdowns from Joe Burrow. Despite defensive struggles that place them 30th in explosive play rate allowed, the Bengals rank in the top 10 in turnovers forced and feature offseason acquisition Dexter Lawrence.
In Kansas City, the Denver Broncos rallied from a 24-13 fourth-quarter deficit to defeat the Chiefs 28-24, erasing Kansas City’s head-to-head advantage from Week 1. Head coach Andy Reid faced criticism for his late-game decisions, including opting to punt on fourth-and-inches after a delayed spot, and calling a rollout that resulted in a 6-yard sack on third-and-2. That sequence led to a missed 54-yard field goal by Harrison Butker in the rain, and the Chiefs’ lack of urgency late in the game ultimately sealed their defeat.
