Week 5 of the NFL season kicked off on Thursday night with an impressive performance by the Chicago Bears. Justin Fields led the way with four touchdown passes, securing the Bears’ first win as they defeated the Washington Commanders.
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Sunday brought more exciting matchups, including a surprising victory by the Jacksonville Jaguars over the high-powered Buffalo Bills in London. In the United States, the Detroit Lions continued their impressive run, improving to a 4-1 record. The New Orleans Saints delivered a shutout against the New England Patriots, and the Pittsburgh Steelers’ defense stepped up in the fourth quarter against the Baltimore Ravens.
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The Cincinnati Bengals’ offense found its groove against the Arizona Cardinals, and the Philadelphia Eagles maintained their undefeated status by defeating the Los Angeles Rams.
Sunday night featured a dominant performance by the San Francisco 49ers, who routed the Dallas Cowboys. Brock Purdy and George Kittle connected for three touchdowns in a memorable game. To cap off the week, the Las Vegas Raiders secured a narrow victory over the Green Bay Packers, marking their first win over Green Bay in 36 years.
Our NFL Nation reporters have analyzed all the action, addressing key questions arising from each game and highlighting the teams and factors on the rise and fall. Let’s dive into the insights from the week’s NFL matchups.
Can this somewhat unattractive victory provide the momentum the Raiders need for a winning streak? If it’s driven by strong defensive play and creating turnovers, then the answer is a resounding yes. When you take a look at the next two opponents on the Raiders’ schedule, the Patriots and the Bears, who have a combined record of 2-8 and appear to be struggling, it becomes even more promising. Linebacker Robert Spillane’s two interceptions, his first in his five-year career, were crucial for the Raiders. Amik Robertson’s interception in the end zone on a deep pass sealed the victory. Whether it’s a pretty win or not, confidence is on the rise with each victory, and as the Raiders prepare to face Bill Belichick’s Patriots on a short week, any boost is welcome.
Stock on the rise after the win: The defense. Allowing only 13 points, which is tied for the fewest the defense has allowed in the past three seasons, is a significant improvement. The defense also had three interceptions, a feat not accomplished in the past 33 games. Additionally, it marked the 23rd game with four or more pressures for Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby, who also had four tackles for a loss.
Stock on the decline after the win: Josh McDaniels’ playcalling. Several questionable decisions, including the limited first-half involvement of All-Pro receiver Davante Adams (only one target), failing to use a timeout at the end of the first half (resulting in a blocked 52-yard field goal attempt), and opting for a missed field goal late instead of going for a game-sealing first down on fourth-and-1, left much to be desired. — Paul Gutierrez
Next game: vs. Patriots (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)
Green Bay Packers Can running back Aaron Jones solve the problems plaguing the Packers’ offense? There’s no denying his impact, especially on a team with young offensive skill players. However, the absence of one player who isn’t a quarterback should not completely cripple an offense. With the upcoming bye week, there may be enough time to nurse Jones’ hamstring injury back to health.
Stock on the rise after the loss: Safety Rudy Ford. He secured an interception for the second consecutive game. While last week’s interception led to only a field goal, this week running back AJ Dillon capitalized on it with six carries for 34 yards, including a 5-yard touchdown on the ensuing drive.
Stock on the decline after the loss: Coaching. Matt LaFleur struggled to find consistent offensive movement, and defensive coordinator Joe Barry inexplicably had linebacker Preston Smith covering Davante Adams in the slot for a play in the second half, resulting in a 21-yard gain during the Raiders’ go-ahead drive. — Rob Demovsky
Next game: at Broncos (Sunday, October 22, 4:25 p.m. ET)
San Francisco 42, Dallas 10
San Francisco 49ers When will the 49ers suffer their first loss? It might be premature to discuss an undefeated season, but the 49ers’ dismantling of the Dallas Cowboys sends a clear message that defeating them will require a special effort. Led by quarterback Brock Purdy, who managed a talented offense, and a stingy defense that had its best performance of the season, the 49ers have now won 15 consecutive regular-season games, tying a franchise record. There doesn’t appear to be an obvious potential loss on their schedule until late November, if at all.
Stock on the rise after the win: LB Fred Warner. It’s challenging to improve when you’re already the best player at your position in the league, but Fred Warner deserves recognition for his exceptional performance on Sunday night. He became the first 49er since NaVorro Bowman in 2013 to record a sack, an interception, and a forced fumble in a single game.
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