Tim Sports Report for 2018 NFL Week 3

Top 5

1. Browns win, Baker shines.

It has happened. The Cleveland Browns have won a football game. The Meme Fountain will likely continue, however. They are the Browns. Baker outplayed Darnold. Have to squeeze that in here.

2. QB Drew Brees 39/49 for 396, 3 TDs, 120.7 rating, 3 carries for 7, 2 TDs @ATL

Mr. Brees and Mr. Ryan had quite the gun show on Sunday but Brees gets the edge for a spin move past two defenders and dive into the end zone.

3. QB Matt Ryan 26/35 for 374, 5 TDs, 148.1 rating vs NO

A near perfect passer rating with five touchdowns and the Falcons still lose. Usually, this is where someone would say, “The offense needs to be better” but in this case, I don’t think it can be. You can only hide your problems for so long.

4. RB Christian McCaffrey 28 carries for 184, 2 receptions for 10 vs. CIN

Always gonna give a running back a shoutout when they explode on the stat sheet. McCaffrey is one of my favorite emerging stars. Dual-threat and has a chance to survive in this league long-term.

5. RB Alvin Kamara 16 carries for 66, 15 receptions for 124 @ATL

Speaking of dual-threats, another great performance from a back. The 2017 running back class has a chance to be one of the best ever.

Worst of the Worst

5. The Lions streak is over.

Kerryon Johnson ran for a hundred yards. Lions hadn’t done that in 70 games. Sad to see it go.

4. Defense, anyone?

Some really high scoring games thus far. At least we had Titans beating the Jags 9-6!

3. Sam Bradford started another football game and predictably cost his team the game.

Four turnovers on four consecutive possessions. Bravo!

2. Vikings blow game against Buffalo. Were favored by 17 points.

A complete stunner. Vikings defense didn’t show up and the Bills defensive line is the strength of the team. Still hard to believe this happened.

1. Jets knock Tyrod Taylor out of game, spawn Age of Baker, lose to Browns.

Hue Jackson is a very stubborn and very stupid man. The Jets were going to win this game. The Browns offense was anemic. It had been since the beginning and still Hue had not made a change. All the Jets had to do was not knock Tyrod out of the game and of course that’s exactly what the Jets did because they’re the Jets. Sam Darnold did not look threatening though that might speak more to the Browns defense than Darnold. Baker had quite the debut.

Steelers Recap

The Steelers beat Fitzmagic but earn no brownie points from me due to letting them own the second half and come roaring back into the game. All those takeaways and they still almost lost. The Steelers window is closing but I don’t know if anyone knew how fast it was coming until now. Gotta take Pittsburgh at home against the Ravens purely because it’s a divisional game at home. It’s a win they need.

Game of the Week: Vikings @ Rams

Vikings got upset by the Bills. I expect them to come pissed off into Los Angeles and make a statement. An upset win against McVay would mean a lot. Zimmer. McVay. Thursday Night. Yes, please. I’ve got the Vikings.

2018-2019 NFL Power Rankings: Week 3

1. Rams (-) (W 35-23 vs. LAC)

What we learned: The Rams, currently, are a few steps ahead of the pack.

Kansas City’s defense is too weak to be a nemesis. Los Angeles is on the throne.

What we learned again: The Rams have too much firepower.

Gurley, Cooks, Kupp, Woods and Goff is proving more than serviceable in McVay’s hands.

2. Chiefs (+2) (W 38-27 vs. SF)

What we learned: Patrick Mahomes is still throwing touchdown passes.

Tack another three on the chalkboard there, Jimmy.

What we learned again: Justin Houston can still play.

Two strip sacks. Well played, sir.

3. Eagles (+3) (W 20-16 vs. IND)

What we learned: Was not the Eagles best game.

They will more than likely fall in next week’s ranking but due to my top five getting sabotaged, Philly gets to sneak a few spots up the ladder. Wentz looked fine and I’m not concerned about how he’ll perform this season.

What we learned again: Eagles fans should be the most relaxed in the NFL.

The Rams could be holding that flag but they haven’t won a championship yet. The Eagles have and are still a very strong team. Most games this season will be exhibitions for Philly. They’re making the playoffs.

4. Jaguars (-1) (L 9-6 vs. TEN)

What we learned: I was right!

Blake Bortles cannot be counted on to carry the Jaguars offense on a regular basis. That is not their identity. No Fournette and the offense stutter steps. Hate to see this team lose a divisional game at home but Tennessee is no slouch. They’re moving up quick.

5. Falcons (+2) (L 43-37 vs. NO)

What we learned: Atlanta, despite occasional red zone problems, can still score.

Atlanta still has the most explosive receiver group in the league, the best backup running back (talked about that last week) and a quarterback who can sling.

What we learned again: For Dan Quinn being a former defensive coordinator, his defense is still a constant struggle.

Atlanta is hurting from the injury bug right now but Atlanta hasn’t had a great defense since Quinn has been there. I’m not calling for a firing or anything but if your offense is putting up 37 and losing, you need to make some changes.

6. Vikings (-4) (L 27-6 vs. BUF)

What we learned: We play the games for a reason.

Minnesota was a huge favorite, playing a home game against one of the worst teams in football. They were humiliated. Hopefully this is a wake-up call. This is a game that may come back to bite them.

What we learned again: Anyone seen Dalvin Cook?

Had a good start to last year and has remained mostly anonymous thus far.

7. Patriots (-2) (L 26-10 @DET)

What we learned: This is the first time the Patriots have lost back-to-back games by double digits since December 2002.

An interesting stat for sure but it’s too early for the panic button. New England’s defense is still bad. We already knew this. The offense has struggled, which is unheard of for New England but again, I think it’s just too small a sample size to run them out of the top ten just yet. We know the ceiling this franchise is capable of.

What we learned again: Bill Belichick has no time for fun.

Seeing Belichick walking past kids just looking for a high-five wasn’t a great look. It was also stereotypical Belichick.

8. Chargers (+3) (L 35-23 @LAR)

What we learned: The Chargers defense might officially be a problem.

I think I’ve already mentioned this but I am perturbed how Melvin Engram and Joey Bosa aren’t entering the dreams of opposing quarterbacks.

What we learned again: The Bolts might be trending in the wrong direction.

After starting 0-4 last year, Los Angeles looked like a competitor. Keenan Allen had a comeback player of the year. Melvin Gordon has been on fire this year and yet the Chargers sit at 1-2. A big win against the Rams or Chiefs would have made a huge difference. Kansas City looks like a playoff lock. If the Bolts want a shot at a playoff run, they have to come away with victories in some of these games. Eventually, keeping games close only means so much.

9. Bears (+1) (W 16-14 @ARI)

What we learned: I love the Bears defense.

Tenacity is back to Chicago. Looks like a playoff team.

What we learned again: The Bears offense isn’t great and it will be up to the defense to keep them in games.

16 points, let alone having to come back to win against Arizona, isn’t flattering.

10. Buccaneers (-1) (L 30-27 vs. PIT)

What we learned: There’s a reason they call him Fitzmagic.

Fitzpatrick is magical but like magic, it fades away eventually. Fitzmagic turned into Fitztragic in the first half. He performed some heroics in the second and nearly pulled a win out of his beard anyway. Cracks began to show but Fitzmagic isn’t done yet.

What we learned again: The Buccaneers can’t run worth a damn.

Peyton Barber has not been an acceptable option and Ronald Jones hasn’t made the progress management has hoped for.

11. Packers (-3) (L 31-17 @WAS)

What we learned: The Packers recipe of “Rodgers or Bust” is finally coming back to bite them.

Rodgers suffered a knee injury of some sort and playing on it as hampered his play. He’s still doing things other quarterbacks simply can’t do but he’s hobbling out there and the Packers and Aaron himself are putting his long-term health at risk by continuing to play on it. I understand that’s what a leader does but if I’m Aaron, I’m so disgusted with Packers management that if I’m Aaron, I’d tell them to screw off. If they’d built a team during the near decade he’s been on that field, they could at least win some games without him or, better yet, maybe he wouldn’t have got injured in the first place.

What we learned again: You need more than one player to play football.

Feel like we should all know this but Green Bay doesn’t.

12. Panthers (+5) (W 31-21 vs. CIN)

What we learned: Panthers have the most complete team in the NFC right now.

Not a Cam fan but Carolina is on the right track. Love McCaffrey. Their receiving core is iffy and their offensive line is prone to spurts. That front seven? Terrorizing.

What we learned again: Luke Kuechly is the Panthers most valuable player, not Cam.

If you’ve been living your life thinking Cam Newton is the MVP of the Panthers, you are incorrect. Cam is also prone to spurts. The defense has always been strong and Kuechly, the league’s best middle linebacker, is the reason why.

13. Giants (-) (W 27-22 @HOU)

What we learned: The Giants can score points when given protection.

I took Houston for this game. I expected Clowney and J.J. Watt to be all over Eli. Watt had three sacks, but otherwise, the Giants handled the Houston defense. At this point, I think that’s more a statement on Houston than New York. We’ll see.

What we learned again: Eli Manning is still a feasible option if not an attractive one.

25/29 with two scores. Eli is not a quarterback that will win you games by talent alone. It’s too early to say whether taking Barkley was a mistake but I’m not as hard on the decision as others are.

14. Bengals (+1) (L 31-21 @CAR)

What we learned: Cincinnati might have a suspect run defense.

McCaffrey is an electrifying player but he’s not someone who’s great between the tackles so he’s often limited to traps or zone reads outside. McCaffrey had 184 yards rushing. Haven’t gotten to watch the tape but that’s a lot.

What we learned again: John Ross is a bust.

When John Ross does something, I will shut up. Until he does, I will keep talking.

15. 49ers (-3) (L 38-27 @KC)

What we learned: The 49ers are now in trouble.

With Jimmy G, San Fran was an intriguing team to watch. Without him, less so and the team is too young to compete for a wild card spot. There’s also now concern about Jimmy’s long-term health. No one can know how he’ll return from that knee injury.

What we learned again: $37 million quarterbacks are a bad idea.

*shrug

16. Ravens (+3) (W 27-14 vs. DEN)

What we learned: Ravens look fresh.

The Broncos defense was a true test for what was one of the league’s worst attacks last year. Baltimore came away with 27.

What we learned again: Ravens defense will do Ravens defense things.

Allowed under 300 yards offense and under 200 passing.

17. Dolphins (+5) (W 28-20 vs. OAK)

What we learned: Kenyan Drake looks awful.

His tape from last year looked good. A lot of analysts liked him as a dark horse fantasy pickup. He had five carries for three yards against the Raiders. Yes, the Raiders.

What we learned again: Miami is undefeated.

Still haven’t learned much about the Fins. They’ve played three mediocre opponents and so I have to take most of their stats thus far with a grain of salt.

18. Redskins (+9) (W 31-17 vs. GB)

What we learned: Redskins look improved.

Now that they have an actual starter at running back in AP, the Skins can better utilize Chris Thompson, forming a legitimate one-two punch combo in the backfield. Alex Smith is a downgrade from Kirk Cousins but will likely not force things down the field or make gunslinger-like decisions. Ball security will be a plus for this team. I have little confidence in the team’s receivers (Paul Richardson and Jamison Crowder both look better as slot options) and Jordan Reed is an injury bug.

What we learned again: AP has more juice.

19 for 120. He’s not done yet.

19. Browns (+2) (W 21-17 vs. NYJ)

What we learned: Cleveland won a football game.

Haven’t been able to say that in a long time. Let the record show I was rooting for the Jets.

What we learned again: Hue Jackson is an idiot.

Hue watched Baker this summer and decided Tyrod should start. That’s fine. I’m not a fan of starting rookie quarterbacks in openers, but by the end of the first quarter, it was readily apparent that Tyrod should not be in the game. Hue is a really dumb guy though and I can say with the utmost confidence that the Browns would have lost this game if it wasn’t for the Jets knocking Tyrod out of the contest.

20. Titans (+6) (W 9-6 @JAC)

What we learned: The Titans quietly knocked off Houston and Jacksonville.

Neither game was pretty but a win is a win. They’re gonna get a boost in the power rankings next week if this keeps up.

What we learned again: Tennessee doesn’t need Mariota.

Think I said this last week. Guess I want to make sure you’re listening.

21. Lions (+8) (W 26-10 vs. NE)

What we learned: Kerryon Johnson is the Lions first 100-yard rusher since Reggie Bush on Thanksgiving, 2013. Snaps 70 games without 100-yard rusher, fourth-longest drought.

I would get excited but this doesn’t mean that the Lions have finally acknowledged that running the ball exists. Blind squirrels find nuts, too.

What we learned again: Matt Stafford is underappreciated.

He plays for the Lions so this is kinda redundant. I just can’t imagine what Detroit would be like without him. I think once he’s gone we’ll begin to realize how good he really was. Not a HOFer or anything but a very good passer.

22. Saints (+1) (W 43-37 @ATL)

What we learned: The Saints can score a lot of points.

Drew Brees is more of a factor this year, Michael Thomas is a WR1 and Alvin Kamara is an MVP candidate.

What we learned again: The Saints defense is definitely back to being awful.

Matt Ryan had nearly a perfect passer rating and five touchdowns.

23. Broncos (-7) (L 27-14 @BAL)

What we learned: Denver’s No-Fly Zone is over.

Think this was already established last year but feel like losing to Flacco was a red flag.

What we learned again: When Case Keenum is your quarterback, teams like Baltimore aren’t a favorable matchup.

Keenum against the Ravens or Flacco against the Broncos? I’ll take Flacco.

24. Steelers (-) (W 30-27 @TB)

What we learned: For the Steelers to win, their defense will have to force four turnovers. Even then, might still barely win.

The first half was great. The defense came up with big plays and the Steelers unloaded on Tampa Bay. Then they didn’t show up in the second half and let the Bucs claw their way back into it. That lost Pittsburgh any rungs in the power rankings they might have earned from the win.

What we learned again: At this point, feels like everything and then some has to go right for the Steelers to win a football game.

It’s not often that you watch a game and come away more frustrated after a win. Such was the case on that evening.

25. Texans (-11) (L 27-22 vs. NYG)

What we learned: Bill O’Brien is on the hot seat.

Now sitting at 0-3 with a healthy roster, O’Brien is out of excuses. No quarterback, not healthy and no money are all off the table. This team has a light schedule, too. Make a run for the wild card or get out of town.

What we learned again: J.J. Watt is still a freak.

Three sacks!

26. Jets (-8) (L 21-17 @CLE)

What we learned: Darnold did not look like the better quarterback on Thursday.

Baker was quite something. Looked diligent with a gunslinger attitude. Darnold looked like he was still learning.

What we learned again: The Jets are gonna Jet.

They were winning. All they had to do was not injure Tyrod. They, of course, injured Tyrod.

27. Seahawks (-2) (W 24-13 vs. DAL)

What we learned: Seattle’s only as good as Russ is that day.

Russ has to be playing great for Seattle to have a shot. Hard to see this team bailing him out if he has a rough night.

What we learned again: Earl Thomas is a top-five safety.

Thomas, Berry and Harrison Smith are the first three names that come to mind. Malcolm Jenkins, Devin McCourty, Eric Weddle and Keanu Neal are up there as well.

28. Cowboys (-8) (L 24-13 @SEA)

What we learned: Dak Prescott is now becoming a problem.

People hit the concern button earlier than I did and I’m hitting it now. Dak seems incapable of throwing for 200 yards right now. His receiving core sucks. Travis Frederick probably won’t play this season. Let’s not pretend Dak’s walking through an orchard. That said, if he’s the franchise quarterback Dallas believes him to be, he needs to show them more.

What we learned again: Scott Linehan needs to go.

In the first three weeks, Dallas has put up 8, 20 and 13. Time for a new offensive look.

29. Bills (+3) (W 27-6 @MIN)

What we learned: The Bills were pissed off.

They came out swinging and shocked the world. They were heavy underdogs.

What we learned again: Josh Allen is a bust.

Dude seems to be better at running than throwing. Maybe they should move him to running back.

30. Colts (-2) (L 20-16 @PHI)

What we learned: The Colts still struggle to run the ball.

It’s the Eagles so not a team that most run well against but you would’ve hoped Frank Reich would have brought a new philosophy to the Colts.

What we learned again: The Colts always seem to fall a step behind.

They seem to have a shot at a lot of big games but seem to lose each time. Close but no cigar seems to be a running joke.

31. Raiders (-1) (L 28-20 @MIA)

What we learned: Jordy Nelson’s still alive.

Six receptions for 173.

What we learned again: Hiring people who haven’t coached in a decade is a bad idea.

Signing them to a 10-year, $100 million contract is probably a bad idea, too.

32. Cardinals (-1) (L 16-14 vs. CHI)

What we learned: The Cards blew a 14-point lead.

Congratulations! You still suck! Least they’re starting Rosen next game.

What we learned again: Bradford just made a lot of money to suck and sit on the bench again.

Bad habits die hard, huh, NFL?

Tim Sports Report for NFL Week 2

Top 5

1. QB Patrick Mahomes 23/28 for 326, 6 TDs, 154.8 rating @PIT

That was quite something. The Steelers defense is atrocious and it’s important to try and keep that performance within that frame. That said, to do that in National Football League in your third professional start is brilliant.

2. QB Ryan Fitzpatrick 27/33 for 402, 4 TDs, INT, 144.4 rating vs. PHI

Back-to-back showings for Mr. Fitzmagic. It is not often that a player gets on my Top 5 twice in a row but what Mr. Fitzpatrick is doing right now is truly special. That postgame presser was hilarious.

3. QB Blake Bortles 29/45 for 376, 4 TDs, INT, 111.0 rating vs. NE

After bashing Bortles in my power rankings, he went off. Against a bad defense, sure, but it’s still New England and I will still give him a tip of the hat.

4. LB Darius Leonard 19 tackles, 15 solo, sack, forced fumble @WSH

That is a eye-opening stat line for a rookie linebacker.

5. RB Matt Breida 11 carries for 138, TD, 3 receptions for 21 vs. DET

It’s Breida’s backfield to lose after this. Morris seems to be a veteran journeyman more than a starter.

Worst of the Worst

5. QB Sam Bradford 17/27 for 90, INT, 53.0 rating @LAR

My favorite punching bag is an easy jab for me. I don’t feel bad throwing them this guy’s way.

4. New York Giants on Sunday Night Football

What was that? The Giants looked like disheveled man coming out of a highway wreck. Eli was dumping it off to Saquon nearly every play. The Giants offensive line looked like a sand castle.

3. Second tie in two weeks

I’m unsure what the basis was for shrinking the overtime clock to ten minutes but I’d like to kindly remind NFL leadership that no one wants to see tie football games.

2. Kicking

Is hard, apparently. Plenty of kickers cost their teams games this week, bringing us to…

1. K Zane Gonzalez

What a dumpster fire this guy was. Two missed extra points and two field goal tries on top of it. This guy couldn’t kick a flame off a cupcake. It was only another scene of a Brown Browning all over himself.

Steelers Recap

The Steelers defense is like a paper towel trying to prevent a running faucet from hitting the sink below. They could not do anything against Mahomes. Mahomes is playing excellent pigskin right now, sure, but it looked easy for him. Gifting the opposition 21 points before you start playing isn’t a recipe for success either.

Tampa Bay feels like a must-win but I’m not hitting the panic button just yet. A loss on Monday would be a push to the edge.

Game of the Week: Chargers @ Rams

The Battle of Los Angeles should be a fun time. I’ll take the Rams at home but this could be a legitimate Super Bowl preview.

2018-2019 NFL Power Rankings: Week 2

1. Rams (+1) (W 34-0 vs. ARI)

What we learned: Sean McVay has a legit shot at being one of the best coaches in the NFL for the next decade.

We didn’t learn much about the Rams as a team on Sunday but we did learn more about McVay, who continues to succeed with an average rookie quarterback behind center thanks to elite schemes and play calling. Don’t let his age make a fool of you. This guy knows football and in my eyes is already at the top of the game.

What we learned again: It is really hard imagining a future where the Rams don’t win the West.

Arizona is in a full rebuild, Seattle is hanging by a thread and while Shanahan and the 9ers have promise, it’s hard to see them meeting the Rams at eye level.

2. Vikings (-1) (T 29-29 @GB)

What we learned: The Vikings aren’t quite perfect yet.

On paper, there’s little reason why the Vikings shouldn’t have been able to handle Green Bay like a lesser. Green Bay is a weak roster, though improving and as great as Aaron Rodgers is, he’s still only one man. In Lambeau with a better team, the Vikings missed an opportunity to establish themselves as the kings of the North. On the other hand, they added Dan Bailey so they’re now closer to perfection.

What we learned again: The new roughing the passer rule is ridiculous.

The only reason the Vikings didn’t lose this game is because the referees called a phantom penalty on Clay Matthews, who made a routine, clean hit of Cousins. This rule needs changed as soon as possible. It’s hurting the game and turning fans off.

3. Jaguars (+2) (W 31-20 vs. NE)

What we learned: The Jaguars can win without Fournette.

After bashing Bortles last week, Bortles got onto my top-five this week, throwing for 376 yards and four touchdowns. Jacksonville can win without Fournette but what I said is still true: in most games, Jacksonville will struggle offensively without their workhorse.

What we learned again: Jacksonville’s defense is built to last for the long haul.

As dominant as Jacksonville is, it’s likely we’ll see this for at least the next three years. The roster is young and the front office is continuing to build upon it. A reminder Jacksonville took yet another defensive lineman in the first round this year.

4. Chiefs (+2) (W 42-37 @PIT)

What we learned: Patrick Mahomes looks really good.

It is not often you see a rookie quarterback throwing six touchdowns at the highest level. Mahomes earned my number one spot on my top-five this week. I’m not completely sold on him because of the sample size and because Andy Reid historically has managed to makes quarterbacks look a lot better than they really are but it’s very difficult to not be impressed with the young gun.

What we learned again: The Chiefs defense is hurting.

It’s not going to be talked about much because of how dominant Mahomes was, but the Chiefs defense looks like something that will come back to bite them in the future. When your rookie quarterback is playing as well as Mahomes is and you still only won by five, that’s got to be something in the back of your mind.

5. Patriots (-1) (L 31-20 @JAC)

What we learned: The Patriots might be in for a rough year.

Last week, I joked New England could start your neighbor at receiver and still win, poking at the lack of playmakers on this offense. I like Chris Hogan and I like James White. I’m sure Edelman’s return will be a big boost. Gronk is still gonna do Gronk things. That unit didn’t look exemplary in Florida.

What we learned again: The Patriots defense is still suffering.

Bortles played really good on Sunday. I’m not going to take that away from him. That said, you got blown up by Blake Bortles and a Jaguars offense without their best player.

6. Eagles (-3) (L 27-21 @TB)

What we learned: The Eagles secondary is prone to getting scorched.

Malcolm Jenkins is an underappreciated talking point on this defense. Philly has no elite corners and it showed on Sunday as Fitzmagic performed more deep ball theatrics.

What we learned again: Philly should be three rooms away from the panic button.

All teams are constantly adjusting, trying to make tweaks to improve from week to week, some more than others. If I’m a Philly fan, I’m very comfortable with how my team has performed and where it’s headed.

7. Falcons (-) (W 31-24 vs. CAR)

What we learned: Matt Ryan will do it all himself if need be.

Ryan ran it in twice last week and threw two more.

What we learned again: Tevin Coleman is probably the best RB2 in football.

There are other candidates (James White, Bilal Powell, Dion Lewis, Chris Thompson) but with Freeman out of the game, the Falcons don’t lose much of a beat without him. Coleman, a free agent in 2019, is all but an assured starter next year.

8. Packers (+1) (T 29-29)

What we learned: That defense is still a problem.

Green Bay gave up 22 points in the fourth at home. Yes, that penalty played a large role in the events following it, but if the defense doesn’t crumble earlier in the fourth, that play never happens.

What we learned again: The roughing the passer rule is ridiculous.

Said it earlier: Packers got hosed by that Matthews penalty. This should have been a win against a better team for Green Bay and I’m gonna treat it that way. I still think Minnesota is the best in the North but Green Bay came to play.

9. Buccaneers (+7) (W 27-21 vs. PHI)

What we learned: Ryan Fitzpatrick deserves one last shot at a starting role.

Fitzmagic is simply too good to be sitting on the bench. We’ve seen what Fitztragic can do but what Fitzpatrick is doing right now has earned him that shot.

What we learned: Jameis needs to go.

The Buccaneers look better than they’ve ever looked with Jameis and with Jameis due for an extension, moving on from him would be the right move. He’s also become too much of a problem off the field. Stick with Fitzmagic.

10. Bears (-) (W 24-17 vs. SEA)

What we learned: The NFC North looks like the strongest division in football.

I currently have Minnesota, Green Bay and Chicago in my top ten and Detroit is too strong of a roster to stay near the bottom for long. The NFC South and East are both strong as well, but the North is currently outpacing them.

What we learned again: Khalil Mack is by far the best move the Bears made this offseason.

Chicago added a lot of playmakers to aid Trubisky: Allen Robinson, Trey Burton, Taylor Gabriel, a new coach and drafted one of the best available centers in James Daniels from Iowa. None of it has made as big a difference in the Bears’ fortunes as Khalil Mack.

11. Chargers (+2) (W 31-20 @BUF)

What we learned: The Bills suck.

I’d love to put something about the Chargers in this spot but I really didn’t learn anything about the Bolts in this game.

What we learned again: Is Keenan Allen finally good to go?

A career decimated by injuries has placed a lot of red flags around his camp. If Keenan puts up similar numbers to last year and doesn’t suffer a major injury, it might be time to start removing some of those flags.

12. 49ers (-) (W 30-27 vs. DET)

What we learned: It appears Matt Breida has earned the starting nod.

Nothing has been reported to confirm this but Breida has done more in back-to-back games. He had 11 carries for 138 yards. Remove the long 66-yard scamper and he was still 10 for 72.

What we learned again: Jimmy G is not a god. He’s a game manager.

This is only another reason why I have a problem giving Jimmy G all the money. His stats thus far are that of an Alex Smith. Nothing overly flashy but protects the ball and doesn’t do anything obnoxiously stupid. His stats against Detroit were rather pedestrian: a smidge over 200 and two scores.

13. Giants (-5) (L 20-13 @DAL)

What we learned: All the playmakers in the world won’t help offensive line woes.

Odell did little against Dallas, as did Evan Engram and Sterling Shepard. For the majority of the evening, the Giants game plan read “Dish to Saquon.” He ended the day with 14 receptions. Running the ball wasn’t an option. The Dallas front seven was all over him.

What we learned again: Sometimes, you’re only as good as you’re offensive line.

Eli looked frazzled all night. Nate Solder is a big upgrade to this unit but is only one guy.

14. Texans (-3) (L 20-17 @TEN)

What we learned: Blaine Gabbert started for the Titans and you still lost.

That’s a red flag especially given the Texan personnel on defense.

What we learned again: Lamar Miller looks old.

Unsure where D’Onta Foreman is or the Texans run game that used to be an identity of this team. DeShaun Watson is really fun to watch but is still budding and a complimentary run game would be a nice comfort.

15. Bengals (+4) (W 34-23 vs. BAL)

What we learned: The Bengals have the Ravens number.

After Thursday, the Bengals are 8-3 in their last 11 against Baltimore.

What we learned again: Even when the Bungles win, they’re still Bungling.

After a strong win against a divisional opponent, it was reported starting back Joe Mixon had torn cartilage and would have to undergo arthroscopic surgery.

16. Broncos (-1) (W 20-19 vs. OAK)

What we learned: Phillip Lindsay is the first undrafted players to get 100 scrimmage yards in his first two games.

Looks like the starting back right now but will likely struggle against power defenses like Baltimore next week.

What we learned again: You can complete 29/32 and still lose.

Carr was 29/32 for 288 and a touchdown.

17. Panthers (-) (L 31-24 @ATL)

What we learned: Christian McCaffrey has a legit shot to be the first running back to have 100 catches in a season since Matt Forte had 102 in 2014.

Forte was fourth in receptions that year behind Antonio Brown, Demaryius Thomas and Julio Jones.

What we learned again: Christian McCaffrey is a beast.

He is a PPR dream and a playmaker who’s gonna have a long career in this league.

18. Jets (-4) (L 20-12 vs. MIA)

What we learned: Darnold is not a finished product.

Last week I said it appeared that starting Darnold was the right move. I still think it was, even though I’m against starting rookie quarterbacks week one. That said, Darnold isn’t a trailblazer. He’s not rookie Andrew Luck. He will have growing pains.

What we learned again: The Jets aren’t there yet.

I like the direction the program is headed but this isn’t a playoff team. Still would’ve liked to see them win a divisional game at home.

19. Ravens (-1) (L 34-23 @CIN)

What we learned: The Ravens are 23-27 since 2015.

I still think John Harbaugh is a good coach but he’s on the hot seat. It’s looking like a change might be on the way.

What we learned again: The Ravens don’t have a run game and that speaks bad news for the offense.

If you have Alex Collins in fantasy, you’re probably not concerned. He’s gonna get you touchdowns. The Ravens had 66 yards rushing against Cincy.

20. Cowboys (+5) (W 20-13 vs. NYG)

What we learned: Dallas’ front seven can show up at any moment.

The team is noticeably weaker when Sean Lee isn’t in the lineup but is strong when he is. Dallas was 8th in total defense last year and averaged 20.8 against.

What we learned again: The Cowboys literally can’t score.

If you watched the game on Sunday night, it felt like a game that could have blown off its hinges. It did not. The Giants defense is going to be above average this year but the amount of chances Dallas had, you would have liked to see them put some points on the board.

21. Browns (+3) (L 21-18 @NO)

What we learned: The Browns defense is for real.

I honestly expected a Saints win by 10. Instead, Drew Brees, an all-time great, was bottled by Cleveland. Stunning.

What we learned again: The Browns are still gonna Brown.

Kicker Zane Gonzalez earned the number one spot on my worst of the worst, missing two extra points and two field goals.

22. Dolphins (+4) (W 20-12 @NYJ)

What we learned: The Dolphins might not be in full tank mode after all.

It’s honestly hard to tell how good this team is given their schedule early (vs. TEN, @NYJ, vs. OAK) but 2-0 is 2-0. If you win the games you should win, you are at least putting yourself in a position to compete.

What we learned again: Ryan Tannehill is serviceable.

Tannehill is not the first-round talent he was drafted to be but he is serviceable at a financially responsible price tag. He is not going to win you games by himself and he may lose you some because of his mistakes, but generally, Tannehill isn’t flashy. Sometimes serviceable and boring is fine.

23. Saints (-2) (W 21-18 vs. CLE)

What we learned: We should absolutely be hitting the panic button in New Orleans.

You start the season by getting obliterated by Ryan Fitzmagic. You follow that up by playing a nail-biter at home against the Browns, who, if not for Lord Incompetence himself at kicker, would have beaten you. Given the talent on your roster, this is unacceptable.

What we learned again: Sean Payton is overrated.

I’ll be singing this song till the day I die. Cleveland is improved yes, but you have Brees, Kamara, Michael Thomas, Marshon Lattimore and Cameron Jordan on your team. Figure it out.

24. Steelers (-4) (L 42-37 vs. KC)

What we learned: The Steelers might not make the playoffs.

After tying with Cleveland in a game ripe with ineptitude, you give up 21 straight points to start your home opener. You fight back and tie it at half and I’ll give you credit for that. You then finish the day by giving up six touchdown passes to a rookie quarterback on your home turf. Monday night against Tampa Bay feels like a must-win.

What we learned again: The Steelers defense might be bottom-ten this year.

Pittsburgh brass made no significant upgrades on the defense, instead going almost exclusively offense at the draft. These are the fruits that come with that.

25. Seahawks (-4) (L 24-17 @CHI)

What we learned: Russ is gonna have a rough year.

Russ is an elite quarterback and will have elite games but that offensive line, which believe it or not has actually improved, is simply not good enough for sustained success.

What we learned again: Drafting a running back in the first round was really, really stupid.

Unless Rashaad Penny is a perennial Pro-Bowler, this makes no sense. Hard to see this guy doing much of anything behind that offensive line. Here are the things this team needed more than a running back: Offensive line, safety, defensive line, cornerback, receiver, tight end. You went with running back. Bravo.

26. Titans (+1) (W 20-17 vs. HOU)

What we learned: The Titans can win games with Blaine Gabbert at quarterback.

This is not an endorsement of Gabbert but of rookie head coach Mike Vrabel, who’s doing things in Tennessee. He got Clowney’s career back on track and likely should have been given the reins in Houston, a decision the Texans may regret by season’s end.

What we learned again: Tennessee doesn’t need Mariota extended.

Sunday was yet another reminder of what Tennessee can do without Mariota. They have a legit running back duo with Derrick Henry and Dion Lewis. Delanie Walker is a top tight end who is out for the year but will likely return next year. Corey Davis is a rookie receiver that’s growing and Tennessee will likely target pass catcher in the next collegiate selection ceremony. They improved the defense with two of college’s best linebackers. This team simply doesn’t need Marcus.

27. Redskins (-4) (L 21-9 vs. IND)

What we learned: Chris Thompson is a weapon for this offense.

Jordan Reed is an injury magnet. Jamison Crowder and Paul Richardson are better flex options than outside receivers. Thompson out of the backfield? Get ready for all the catches. Had 13 this week.

What we learned again: The Redskins still aren’t consistent.

A strong start against Arizona is offset by a missed opportunity against Indy at home. No excuse for this team not being 2-0 right now.

28. Colts (-) (W 21-9 @IND)

What we learned: Linebacker Darius Leonard, a second-rounder out of North Carolina State, might be a steal.

19 tackles, 15 solo, sack and a forced fumble. That’s a helluva stat line for a rookie.

What we learned again: Luck’s not really back yet.

Andrew Luck was a potential HOFer before Indy let him get smashed by mammoths for two years. It will take him time to recover his form. I’m hoping he gets back to his normal self, but there’s no guarantee he ever returns to being the force he once was.

29. Lions (+1) (L 30-27 @SF)

What we learned: The Lions aren’t this bad.

It’s hard to see them at 29 next week. I honestly am just more impressed with what I’ve seen with other teams thus far. It was too little too late but Detroit almost got a win out of this. They’ll probably be in low 20s next week, depending on how they play New England.

What we learned again: Stafford is the engine.

As has been the case since he was drafted, the Lions go where Stafford goes. He wasn’t good week one and Lions were smashed. Lot better this week and a lot more competitive.

30. Raiders (-1) (L 20-19 @DEN)

What we learned: “Great pass rushers are hard to find.”

Those are the words of Jon Gruden, a man grossly unaware of his own actions.

What we learned again: Trading Khalil Mack was stupid.

I’m honestly so dumbfounded by the Raiders stupidity that I might just put this here for the rest of the season. The Bears being a top-ten team right now is not a coincidence.

31. Cardinals (-) (L 34-0 @LAR)

What we learned: David Johnson might not be a star just yet.

He had a great rookie year but 2018 is not being kind to DJ, even in the new coach’s run-first offense.

What we learned again: Sam Bradford is terrible.

Getting paid $20 million to suck every year is great work if you can get it.

32. Bills (-) (L 31-20 vs. LAC)

What we learned: Allen has been welcomed to the depths of gridiron hell.

Rest in pieces, young pup.

What we learned again: Offensive lines are needed to football.

Buffalo lost three starters this offseason. Coincidentally, Buffalo is god awful and LeSean McCoy is helpless to stop the bleeding.

Biggest Climb: Buccaneers (+7)

Biggest Drop: Giants (-5)