The NFL has nearly reached the halfway point of the 2024 season.
By this stage, the standings in both conferences have mostly settled. Elite teams such as the Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens in the AFC, along with the Detroit Lions in the NFC, are well established, while a group of intriguing contenders, including the Minnesota Vikings, Buffalo Bills, Green Bay Packers, Houston Texans, Pittsburgh Steelers, Seattle Seahawks, and Washington Commanders, are vying for position.
Several projected playoff teams, including the Philadelphia Eagles, Cincinnati Bengals, Dallas Cowboys, and Atlanta Falcons, still need to resolve some issues. Meanwhile, teams like the San Francisco 49ers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers are grappling with injuries as they strive to keep their playoff hopes alive. Then there are the rest: a mix of teams around the .500 mark hoping for better luck, along with those at the bottom of the standings already considering roster changes.
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NFL Power Rankings Week 8: Distinguishing early contenders from pretenders; NFC North leads
The weekend’s action commenced Thursday in Los Angeles, where the Vikings fell to the Los Angeles Rams with a score of 30-20. The Rams welcomed back wide receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua from injuries and received four touchdown passes from Matthew Stafford.
This Sunday features eight early games, five afternoon matchups, and a Sunday night clash between the struggling Cowboys and the hosting 49ers. The Monday night duel between the Giants and Steelers—who thought New York deserved a primetime spot?—concludes the week’s games.
Here are five of the most compelling storylines from around the league in Week 8. (Check the full schedule here.)
1. Momentum Changes for Eagles and Bengals
After rocky starts to the season, both the Eagles and Bengals appear to be gaining momentum. The Eagles have bounced back from early injuries, and their adjusted offensive and defensive lines are starting to find their rhythm. Having improved to 4-2, the Eagles aim for their first three-game winning streak since 2023, when they secured five consecutive victories from Weeks 7 to 12. The Bengals, on the other hand, have climbed to 3-4 following a troubled start of 1-4 marred by injuries. Is it merely coincidental that both teams’ current two-game winning streaks occurred against the Browns and Giants?
This week, the Bengals and Eagles will see if increased offensive output and enhanced defensive performance arise from improved teamwork and execution, or if the issues that haunted them in the early part of the season persist. A win for Philadelphia would boost Nick Sirianni’s team in the NFC East standings, where they currently trail Washington (5-2). Cincinnati seeks to surpass the .500 mark before facing Baltimore again in Week 10. (Eagles at Bengals, 1 p.m. ET Sunday.)
Tua Tagovailoa hasn’t played since suffering a concussion in Week 2. (Sam Navarro / Imagn Images)
After enduring the third confirmed concussion of his NFL career six weeks ago, Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is set to make his return this Sunday at home against the Arizona Cardinals. The Dolphins have felt his absence acutely, managing to win only one of their last four games, or two of five if we include the first half of Week 2 when Tagovailoa was injured. Without him, their once explosive offense, known for its impact during Mike McDaniel’s first two seasons as head coach, has plummeted to an average of merely 10 points per game. Star receiver Tyreek Hill, often seen as one of the league’s biggest threats, has scored just one touchdown and accumulated 294 receiving yards over the past six games.
Tagovailoa has downplayed worries about facing another concussion and the potential effects it could have. He has expressed an unwavering passion for football and a commitment to his teammates. If the Dolphins can keep him healthy and on the field, their chances at contention appear significantly brighter. Currently standing at 2-4, they hold the second position in the AFC East behind the 5-2 Buffalo Bills and occupy the 10th slot in a conference dominated by only seven teams boasting winning records.
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How Tua Tagovailoa cleared the NFL concussion protocol to return to the Dolphins
Hill was enthusiastic when speaking to reporters earlier this week, declaring, “We’re back, baby! Strike up the f—ing band!” However, it raises the question of whether Tagovailoa can immediately energize his team against the 3-4 Cardinals or if he might need some time to shake off the rust. Hill’s availability for Sunday is uncertain due to a foot injury, making the primary concern whether Tagovailoa can stay on the field. (Cardinals at Dolphins, 1 p.m. ET Sunday.)
Meanwhile, former top draft pick and once-promising Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young is also making his return to the starting lineup this Sunday against the Denver Broncos, after being benched for six weeks in favor of veteran Andy Dalton by head coach Dave Canales. Following a car accident where Dalton sprained his thumb, this seems like an opportune moment for the Panthers to give Young another chance to shine. Canales initially wanted Young to learn by observing a veteran lead the offense while Dalton attempted to steer Carolina toward a competitive edge. However, the Panthers have suffered four consecutive losses under Dalton’s leadership, and with a dismal record of 1-6, the rookie head coach may need to reconsider any hopes for a remarkable resurgence.
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Andy Dalton is OK. Bryce Young gets another start. Who knows what happens next?
Two games were insufficient for Young to genuinely acclimate to the professional level.
Concerns are growing that Carolina may have made a mistake in drafting him. However, if team decision-makers believe they misstepped with Young, it would be prudent to play him now to see if he can generate enough promise to attract a trade offer prior to the Nov. 5 deadline. (Panthers at Broncos, 4:25 p.m. ET Sunday.)
Caleb Williams returns to his native D.C. area to face the Commanders. (Kirby Lee / Imagn Images)
If luck is on their side, the top two picks from this year’s draft will square off for the first time. Caleb Williams guides his Chicago Bears to Washington, where they will put their three-game winning streak to the test against the 5-2 Commanders and possibly quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Daniels, the No. 2 pick, sustained a rib injury early in last week’s victory over Carolina and spent much of the game watching from the sideline. Listed as questionable, he missed practice on both Wednesday and Thursday but was a limited participant on Friday. He has been pivotal for the Commanders, currently tied with the Ravens for the league’s top scoring offense at 31.1 points per game. Daniels boasts the NFL’s highest completion percentage at 75.6, with six touchdowns and just two interceptions, in addition to rushing for four scores.
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Hope is dangerous in D.C., but Jayden Daniels has the Commanders believing
Meanwhile, Williams has begun to resemble the star the Bears envisioned when they selected him first overall. He currently completes 74.1 percent of his passes and has thrown for seven touchdowns.
With just one interception and numerous touchdown passes during this three-game winning streak, the Chicago Bears’ previously struggling offense has managed to outperform their competitors by an average of 17 points each game.
Currently, the Bears stand at 4-2 in a competitive NFC North, which also features Detroit (5-1), Minnesota (5-2), and Green Bay (5-2). Meanwhile, Washington is eager to maintain its advantage in the NFC East amid the rise of Philadelphia. (Bears at Commanders, 4:25 p.m. ET Sunday.)
Few teams have faced injury challenges to the extent that the Kansas City Chiefs have, as they recently placed a third wide receiver on injured reserve and lost a fourth to injury as well. Nevertheless, the reigning Super Bowl champions continue to hold the impressive title of the NFL’s only undefeated team at 6-0. With Patrick Mahomes leading the team and a defense ranked among the league’s best, Kansas City always has a shot. However, the Chiefs are in dire need of offensive reinforcements and may have found their solution in DeAndre Hopkins.
This Wednesday, the Chiefs traded for the five-time Pro Bowl and three-time All-Pro receiver from the Tennessee Titans, hoping he can collaborate with Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and Xavier Worthy to enhance their offensive big-play potential and consistency. After achieving his seventh 1,000-yard season in 2023, Hopkins has faced a challenging beginning to the 2024 season. Catching passes from Tennessee quarterback Will Levis, who has accumulated just 699 yards, five touchdowns, and seven interceptions this year, Hopkins has recorded 15 receptions for 173 yards and one touchdown. At 32 years old, he may not possess the same explosiveness as in his prime, but he remains a skilled route-runner and can still capture contested passes effectively.
While Hopkins may have limited understanding of the Chiefs’ offense before their upcoming game against the struggling Raiders, Andy Reid has a remarkable ability to position players for quick success. (Chiefs at Raiders, 4:25 p.m. ET Sunday.)
(Top photo of Bryce Young: Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images)
# Midseason NFL Outlook: Teams on the Rise and Fall as 2024 Season Approaches Key Matchups
As we hit the midpoint of the NFL season, the race for the playoffs is heating up, and teams are either solidifying their standing or spiraling downwards. This midseason NFL outlook provides an in-depth analysis of teams on the rise and those struggling as the 2024 season approaches its pivotal matchups. We’ll delve into key performances, player impacts, and the implications for the playoff landscape.
## Teams on the Rise
### 1. San Francisco 49ers
**Current Record:** 7-2
**Key Players:** Christian McCaffrey, Brock Purdy, Nick Bosa
The San Francisco 49ers have emerged as one of the strongest contenders in the NFC. Their dynamic offense, spearheaded by Christian McCaffrey and a burgeoning Brock Purdy, has been prolific. With Nick Bosa leading a ferocious defense, the 49ers look poised to make a deep playoff run.
**Key Matchups Ahead:**
– Week 12 vs. Philadelphia Eagles
– Week 15 vs. Seattle Seahawks
### 2. Cincinnati Bengals
**Current Record:** 6-3
**Key Players:** Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins
The Cincinnati Bengals have found their rhythm after a rocky start. Joe Burrow’s health has significantly improved, allowing him to connect with star wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins effectively. Their defense has also stepped up, making the Bengals a formidable opponent.
**Key Matchups Ahead:**
– Week 11 vs. Baltimore Ravens
– Week 14 vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
### 3. Jacksonville Jaguars
**Current Record:** 5-4
**Key Players:** Trevor Lawrence, Travis Etienne, Josh Allen
The Jacksonville Jaguars are making a push for the playoffs, thanks in part to Trevor Lawrence’s growth and Travis Etienne’s explosive running. With a solid defense led by Josh Allen, the Jaguars are starting to click at the right time.
**Key Matchups Ahead:**
– Week 13 vs. Tennessee Titans
- Week 15 vs. Miami Dolphins
## Teams on the Decline
### 1. Green Bay Packers
**Current Record:** 3-6
**Key Players:** Jordan Love, Aaron Jones
The Green Bay Packers are facing challenges this season, primarily due to inconsistent quarterback play from Jordan Love. Injuries to key players like Aaron Jones have further hindered their offensive output. As they look to turn things around, their remaining schedule does not offer much relief.
**Key Matchups Ahead:**
– Week 12 vs. Chicago Bears
– Week 16 vs. Minnesota Vikings
### 2. New England Patriots
**Current Record:** 2-7
**Key Players:** Mac Jones, Rhamondre Stevenson
The New England Patriots are experiencing a significant downturn, with Mac Jones struggling to find his form and the team’s overall performance faltering. Rhamondre Stevenson has been a bright spot, but the lack of offensive firepower makes it hard to see them clawing back into contention.
**Key Matchups Ahead:**
– Week 11 vs. New York Jets
– Week 15 vs. Las Vegas Raiders
### 3. Arizona Cardinals
**Current Record:** 3-6
**Key Players:** Kyler Murray, James Conner
The Arizona Cardinals entered the season with high hopes, but injuries have plagued their campaign. With Kyler Murray’s return still uncertain, the Cardinals face an uphill battle to turn their season around. Their performance in the second half will be crucial to assessing their future trajectory.
**Key Matchups Ahead:**
– Week 12 vs. Los Angeles Rams
– Week 14 vs. Philadelphia Eagles
## Key Midseason Matchups to Watch
The second half of the NFL season features several critical matchups that could significantly influence playoff positioning. Here’s a look at the most anticipated games:
| **Date** | **Matchup** | **Significance** |
|————–|————————————–|————————————————|
| November 10 | San Francisco 49ers vs. Jacksonville Jaguars | Potential playoff implications for both teams |
| November 19 | Cincinnati Bengals vs. Baltimore Ravens | AFC North supremacy on the line |
| December 3 | Philadelphia Eagles vs. San Francisco 49ers | A likely NFC Championship preview |
| December 10 | Kansas City Chiefs vs. Miami Dolphins | AFC playoff seeding implications |
## Player Impact: Rising Stars
### Christian McCaffrey (RB, 49ers)
Christian McCaffrey has been a game-changer for the 49ers this season. His ability to impact both the running and passing game makes him a dual threat that defenses struggle to contain. His performance will be pivotal as the 49ers head into key matchups.
### Trevor Lawrence (QB, Jaguars)
Trevor Lawrence’s development has been a focal point for the Jaguars. His improved decision-making and accuracy have allowed the Jaguars to play at a higher level. As he continues to mature, he could lead his team deep into the playoffs.
### Ja’Marr Chase (WR, Bengals)
Ja’Marr Chase continues to establish himself as one of the elite wide receivers in the league. With explosive speed and reliable hands, he is a constant threat. His ability to stretch the field will be crucial in tight playoff scenarios.
## Practical Tips for Following the NFL Season
1. **Stay Updated on Injury Reports:** Player availability can drastically affect game outcomes. Keeping an eye on injury reports will help you predict team performances better.
2. **Watch for Trends:** Pay attention to how teams perform in specific conditions (home/away, weather) and against certain types of opponents. This data can provide insights into upcoming matchups.
3. **Engage with Analytics:** Utilizing advanced statistics can give you a deeper understanding of team strengths and weaknesses, enhancing your viewing experience.
4. **Follow Expert Analysis:** Engaging with expert opinions and analyses can offer additional perspectives on team dynamics and strategies.
## Case Studies: Teams Turned Around
### Tennessee Titans (2022)
After a rough start in the 2022 season, the Tennessee Titans found their footing by focusing on a strong running game and a resilient defense. This turnaround led them to clinch a playoff spot, showcasing the importance of adaptability midseason.
### Miami Dolphins (2023)
The Miami Dolphins entered the 2023 season with a young roster and high expectations. After a midseason coaching adjustment, they employed a more aggressive offensive strategy, leading to a string of victories and positioning them for a playoff run.
## First-Hand Experience: Fan Perspective
From a fan’s viewpoint, the midseason outlook has brought both hope and frustration. Watching teams like the 49ers and Bengals rise in the rankings is exhilarating, while the struggles of the Packers and Patriots have been a source of disappointment.
Engaging with fellow fans and discussing strategies, player performances, and potential playoff matchups adds to the thrill of the season. Whether you are attending games, watching from home, or participating in fantasy leagues, each interaction enhances the overall experience.
#### Key Takeaways
- The NFL season is dynamic, with teams continuously evolving.
– Keeping track of rising and falling teams is crucial for predicting playoff outcomes.
– Engaging with analytics and expert insights can enrich your understanding of the game.
As the 2024 NFL season approaches its climax, all eyes will be on how the teams handle the pressure of key matchups and whether they can maintain their momentum or stave off decline. Whether you are a die-hard fan or a casual observer, the journey is sure to be thrilling.
