As Week 4 approaches Monday, we’re here with The MMQB Takeaways from an exciting NFL Sunday. Continuing our weekly routine, we will share the takeaways on Sunday and keep them updated live through Monday morning. So check back if all 10 takeaways aren’t available yet…
Joe Flacco is once again a compelling story. The quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts is known for his brutal honesty. So, it’s understandable if he feels some frustration at the thought that he performed well enough last year with the Cleveland Browns to earn a starting opportunity somewhere in 2024.
Many of us recognize this, too. He indeed showcased the skills to deserve that opportunity.
“Absolutely,” he confirmed late Sunday afternoon. “You can never predict what will happen in this league. Certain things are beyond your control. Therefore, the best you can do is go out there, play to the best of your abilities, and let go of everything else. There was so much to it. I had a blast last year playing the way I did. You always hope for the opportunity to play for real again. But this is the reality of it, and I am where I am.”
“I just have to make the most of it. Enjoy every single day. Remaining negative is not an option because it can impact you in numerous ways. A day like today, when the team relies on you, is not the time to be stuck in a negative mindset. That’s the last thing I want to happen.”
It’s safe to say that Flacco had a positive outlook heading into and coming out of Sunday.
Stepping in for an injured Anthony Richardson (who will undergo tests on his hip Monday), the nearly 40-year-old quarterback was exactly what the Colts required to edge out the previously undefeated Pittsburgh Steelers 27–24 in Indianapolis on Sunday. His performance included an efficient 168 yards, two touchdowns, and a 105.9 rating, providing Shane Steichen’s team the boost needed to reach a .500 record as the season enters its second month.
Although he may technically not be in his prime, Flacco proved that he still has gas left in the tank.
Regardless of whether Flacco receives more playing time like he did last year, it will depend on Richardson’s health. Flacco illustrates a commendable approach to his position, even if it’s not the role he anticipated in March.
Interestingly, this player, who exemplifies a solid mentality, was uncertain about his approach when he stepped onto the field on Sunday. Richardson suffered a minor injury in the 10th minute of the game following a collision with Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. He was sidelined for two plays, allowing Flacco to make his first throw of the season, delivering a pass to Jonathan Taylor on an underneath angle route as part of a four-verts call.
“They came out in a two-high [zone] and took away all the deep options,” Flacco recounts. “So I thought to myself, Just don’t make any mistakes. Opt for the easy completion and see where it leads. And that’s exactly what I did.”
Flacco entered the game, but Richardson’s return lasted only one play before he awkwardly fell after running into Fitzpatrick again. Flacco describes the moment as one where he “blacked out.”
“I wish I could recall what I was thinking,” Flacco admits. “It was certainly not an easy scenario. It felt a bit strange. I’ve stepped in as a backup before, but I’ve never come in and then played through the whole game like that. Initially, I was unsure about the nature of Richardson’s injury, which delayed my realization of being ’the guy.’ It’s definitely an odd sensation, something I don’t think anyone ever gets used to. You sort of have to shut off your mind and just play out there. …
“Then a few plays later, I’m connecting with J.D. [Josh Downs] for a quick touchdown, placing it right on his chest. It doesn’t get much simpler than that.”
During our chat, Flacco shared that Richardson had previously asked him for his birthday after realizing his backup was born in 198
They both found humor in it, serving as a reminder of the vast experience Flacco possesses. Now in his 17th season and embarking on a second tenure under Steichen—his previous stint in Philadelphia being a significant factor in his decision to join the Colts—Flacco has much to contribute to the game.
Flacco is quick to point out, however, that he still has some game left in him. With all that he has accumulated over the years, both physically and mentally, he brings a unique perspective and appreciation for moments like Sunday.
“I’m not 23 anymore,” he reflects. “It’s not just about my wife and me—I have five children. I’m fortunate to have more people to share this with. That’s what makes it different. Having been out of the league, I recognized how much I wanted to be back. It’s a valuable reminder. Regardless of the job, it’s still a job. For NFL players, there are times when you see it purely as a job, and every so often, you need to be reminded that this isn’t an ordinary job. This is the best job in the world.
“Every now and then, something happens to reaffirm that perspective. Last year served as such a reminder, like, Dude, how lucky are you to do this? When I got back in the game last year, I was acutely aware of all that, and it undoubtedly made the experience more enjoyable—because of that awareness. We really need those reminders and resets to help us appreciate what we do.”
What stood out as the most enjoyable part of Sunday? “Winning,” he replies.
As demonstrated last year, he remains highly capable of achieving just that.
Brady and his former receiver, Mike Evans, prior to a Week 4 matchup against the Eagles. / Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
Tom Brady left a lasting legacy in Tampa Bay, and the framework established around him is evidently sustainable.This, of course
Tom Brady made his inaugural visit to Florida’s Gulf Coast this week in his new role as Fox’s leading color commentator. During the broadcast, he responded to Baker Mayfield’s claim (which Mayfield later stated was taken out of context) that he has contributed to a less stressful environment following Brady’s departure.
“I thought being stressed meant not having Super Bowl rings,” Brady remarked. “Each day, I brought a champion’s mindset to work. This wasn’t daycare.”
In reality, it still isn’t.
Following their 33–16 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles, the Buccaneers improved to 3–1, showcasing that the winning mentality instilled by Brady endures as the Bucs strive for a fourth consecutive AFC South title. This was evident in my interaction with Lavonte David, the seasoned Buccaneer in his 13th year, when I shared Brady’s comments with him (he hadn’t heard them yet).
He didn’t respond defensively; he chuckled.
“That’s typical Tom, man. That’s typical Tom,” David said. “His sole focus is winning—regardless of what’s happening or what the external noise is, all he wants to do is win and win Super Bowls. That’s why he has seven of them. That’s one reason I respect and appreciate him for bringing me one.”
This particular Sunday illustrated what Brady left behind, with a strong roster and a well-managed program under Todd Bowles.
Just last week, the winless Denver Broncos, led by rookie Bo Nix, handed the Bucs a 26–7 defeat. After that setback, Bowles and his coaching staff communicated a clear message: for Tampa to be a great team, they couldn’t allow the loss to linger and affect them again.
It was evident on Sunday that this wasn’t going to be the case. The Bucs surged to a 24–0 lead before the Eagles managed to record a single first down. Tampa scored touchdowns on drives that spanned 10 plays for 79 yards and 5 plays for 80 yards. They capitalized on a muffed punt by Philadelphia for another score and then executed a 12-play, 77-yard drive.
to kick a field goal, controlling the game in nearly every conceivable manner.
When the Eagles came alarmingly close, David himself sealed the victory for Philly by sacking and stripping Jalen Hurts during a blitz, adhering to the guidance of his linebackers coach, Larry Foote.
“If you know my coach, you would realize that he was aware of those moments, capitalizing on our chances,” David explains. “I seized the opportunity and made a crucial play for our football team, and we didn’t look back after that.”
Mayfield, continuing his consistent performance over the past year, provided the Bucs with precisely what they needed, throwing for 237 yards, two touchdowns, and achieving a 107.8 rating in the first half alone, while also paying tribute to Brady afterward.
“All we ask is for Baker to be himself,” David remarks. “He should be the superb football player and great teammate that he is, and everything will unfold as it should. I never ask him to be more than who he is. Tom is Tom, but Baker is Baker.”
In many ways, Baker embodies the ideal successor to Tom, carrying that chip on his shoulder.
However, there’s no disputing the legacy Brady left behind. David was reminded of this when he spotted the seven-time champion’s beaming face as he walked down the tunnel Sunday morning.
“He had a profound impact on us,” David says. “He transformed the organization with his leadership, motivating everyone to elevate their game. Watching him work, despite all his accomplishments, he approached every day like a rookie. That was incredible for me to witness, and I strive to adopt that mindset.”
David and several Bucs have successfully embraced this approach. This could be why they continue to compete in significant games, with another on the horizon this Thursday night in Atlanta.
Cousins and the Falcons have experienced both thrilling victories and heartbreaking losses this season. / Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Regarding the Falcons, they’ve had plenty of practice in high-pressure late-game situations. Just two weeks ago, they achieved a remarkable comeback against the Eagles. Last week, however, they faced a painful defeat against the Kansas City Chiefs. This time, once again, the outcome hinged on the final moments—and unfolded in an unusual manner.
Atlanta’s victory over the rival New Orleans Saints, with a score of 26–24, was secured through a critical pass interference penalty (which provided their sole first down in the last 10 minutes), a remarkable 58-yard field goal, and no touchdowns from Kirk Cousins and the offense. A pivotal moment came from linebacker Troy Andersen, who recorded a 47-yard pick-six during his 10th career start. Additionally, special teams player KhaDarel Hodge recovered a muffed punt in the end zone for a touchdown.
It was indeed a peculiar game. Nonetheless, for the Falcons, it counted as a much-needed win, bringing their record to .500.
“Honestly, I can’t recall ever being part of a game where we didn’t score a single offensive touchdown,” Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins remarked after the triumph in the locker room. “With a defensive touchdown and a special teams touchdown contributing to a total of 26 points, I suppose that’s just how pro football is. You never can predict the outcome—any given Sunday. The results around the league consistently astonish me, but that’s the nature of this league. Any team can defeat another, and I’m just grateful we found a way to win today.
“It certainly was a unique way to win.”
This aspect of Sunday’s game is promising and potentially sustainable for a franchise that has not witnessed playoff action since the year following the Super Bowl LI collapse.
Hodge’s recovery of the muffed punt took place in the end zone, following the offensive unit’s initial couple of first downs at the start of the game and a kick from the Saints’ 46-yard line. The Andersen interception was a crucial play that shifted the momentum.
as a result of pressure applied by Matthew Judon. Ultimately, the game-winning points were significantly influenced by the offense having Younghoe Koo as their kicker, which meant they didn’t have to advance very far to get him within range.
Regarding how confident he was in Koo’s range when they got the ball with a minute left at their own 30, Cousins remarked, “I’ve often felt that I’ve lost games in those situations where we reach the 15-yard line and then miss the kick. Therefore, I’ve never felt that any yard line is completely secure.”
Despite Cousins trying to dismiss the pressure, he was fortunate enough to have the margin for error that Koo offered, which ultimately proved necessary.
First, there was the aforementioned DPI call. On the second play of the drive, during a second-and-10 from the 30, Cousins launched a pass down the field aimed at veteran Darnell Mooney. Although he slightly underthrew the pass, Cousins insists that was not the intention. Regardless, the outcome was beneficial, as Mooney adjusted to come back for the ball and was hit by Paulson Adebo, who collected his third pass interference penalty of the night (Adebo also recorded an interception in the first quarter).
This penalty cost the Saints 30 yards, moving Atlanta to the New Orleans 40-yard line, from which Koo would subsequently prepare for the game-winning kick after three consecutive incompletions by Cousins.
“I always aim to be smart in those situations without timeouts,” Cousins explains. “I must steer clear of sacks. The passes need to be completed in a manner that allows us to step out of bounds. This limits our options. Still, I’ll strive to gain every possible yard and avoid putting it down to a challenging kick. Ultimately, that’s how it turned out. Luckily, our special teams unit and Younghoe came through for us.”
On this particular night, that was sufficient to elevate the Falcons to a 2–2 record, with a confrontation against the Bucs on the horizon.
However, Cousins acknowledges that this might not suffice on Thursday night or in the future. As he, Bijan Robinson, Kyle Pitts, and Drake London continue to develop their chemistry and require additional experience playing together, they recognize they won’t have endless time to refine their connection. “I prefer not to dwell on that too much since, at the end of the day, time is of the essence,” he states. “We have to make it happen.” This mindset extends across the entire team.
The Falcons seem to exhibit a fresh confidence under first-year coach Raheem Morris, yet Cousins recognizes that such momentum can easily vanish, even for a coach who provides the right energy.
“That aspect remains unchanged, and I believe the players value and enjoy that,” Cousins remarks. “However, we have discussed as a team that the most effective way to foster this kind of culture is to achieve victories. Ultimately, winning outweighs the character traits of your team. Success makes even the most challenging environment enjoyable, whereas losing makes even the best atmosphere unbearable.”
This holds true irrespective of how the outcomes are achieved.
Experience is crucial for the Cincinnati Bengals. No one plans for an 0–3 start. Yet, following a heartbreaking Monday night defeat to the Washington Commanders, the Bengals understood the situation was not dire. If they required reassurance, Zac Taylor provided it.
“Unfortunately, I’ve encountered this scenario numerous times,” Taylor articulated as the team arrived at the Charlotte airport. “I reminded the players that after Week 4 last year, we had a 27–3 loss to Tennessee, leaving us at 1–3 with everyone doubting us. Yet we managed to regroup, string together some victories, and get back in the mix. I can draw from our past experiences and assert that we have proven our capability to recover from this.”
The key message to the team this week: All it takes is one game to set the wheels in motion.
Cincinnati secured that pivotal win on Sunday, overpowering and defeating a struggling Carolina Panthers squad 34–24. Joe Burrow posted a passer rating over 100, the Bengals amassed 141 rushing yards, Ja’Marr Chase scored on a 63-yard touchdown, and Cincinnati appeared to regain its former self. The opponent may not have been formidable, but the Bengals had to commence their turnaround, and Bank of America Stadium turned out to be the right backdrop.
Nonetheless, Taylor’s squad has faced challenges beyond mere losses. Burrow was returning from wrist surgery he underwent this offseason. Chase, Tee
Contract disputes involving Higgins and Trey Hendrickson extended into the summer (for Chase, this issue persisted throughout the summer). This situation caused all three players to miss valuable practice time and hindered their collective progress.
However, Taylor views the Bengals’ resilience during this period as a testament to their development into a team capable of reaching consecutive AFC title games and a Super Bowl.
“I can’t attribute any of these losses to that situation. I’m genuinely pleased with how these three individuals are currently conducting themselves,” Taylor states. “In fact, you wouldn’t even realize they were facing those issues because they have fully committed to the team. …
“We have players who deserve compensation and are eager for it. Yet, we also have individuals focused on winning a Super Bowl. I can’t speak for them, but I’m confident they understand, Hey, if I show up and I work, we have a chance to accomplish something special. That’s the mindset I observe from them.”
In the immediate term, this attitude became evident. The Week 2 defeat to the Kansas City Chiefs, due to a debatable pass interference call, was disheartening. Last week’s home loss against the Washington Commanders may have been even more frustrating. Therefore, regaining their composure on the road was a testament to the Bengals’ character.
Although they experienced some misfortunes over the past weeks, the Bengals took control of the situation on Sunday.
“We need to create our own opportunities,” Taylor asserts. “We’ve been given chances to make the plays that other teams have executed against us. So, there’s no reason to think we got a lucky break. We must generate our own.”
And they did so on Sunday.
If they manage to replicate this success next Sunday against the Baltimore Ravens, it will not surprise anyone, as the Bengals, as Taylor noted, have been in this position many times before.
George Kittle secures a touchdown during a victory against the Patriots. / Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images
The San Francisco 49ers are becoming healthier and more robust. Fred Warner revealed something significant about his pick-six on Sunday—he experienced a severe impact that left him momentarily winded. It took considerable effort to intercept a fastball from Jacoby Brissett, and he landed hard before regaining his composure, getting up, and sprinting 45 yards to the end zone, putting San Francisco ahead 13–0 in what ended as a 30–13 victory.
“That’s why I was so fatigued afterward,” he chuckled. “I was trying to recover on the sideline because a pick-six means you need to head back out right away. I was just trying to catch my breath for the next play.”
The effort proved to be worthwhile on a day that the Niners desperately needed a win.
This victory ended a two-game losing streak, which had been plagued by bad news in the form of injuries to key players including Christian McCaffrey, Deebo Samuel, George Kittle, and Javon Hargrave. Brock Purdy was also banged up, though he stayed in the game, illustrating how the team seemed to be experiencing a reversal of injury fortune compared to recent years.
Similarly to the Bengals’ triumph over the Panthers, the 49ers’ victory over the Patriots was not surprising. It shouldn’t have been—San Francisco is clearly the superior team. Their ability to control the game, nearly doubling New England in scrimmage yards (431 to 216), and decisively winning the game displayed their resilience.
“Today demonstrated exactly who we are in every aspect,” Warner stated. “You mentioned the injuries—we have to endure through those. That’s part of the NFL. Yes, we’ve faced them at critical positions and with players essential for winning games. When you review the tape, especially from last week against the Los Angeles Rams, we had ample chances to win that game despite the absences. We just didn’t perform well enough.
“After losing two games and then facing a physical Patriots team at home, a team that was also looking to rebound after 10 days of rest, the outcome could have gone in any direction. Today’s performance really highlighted who we are and what we aspire to achieve as a team moving forward. I’m thrilled about the victory.”
Warner also mentions that this victory was the result of a week filled with candid discussions following a tough road loss to the Rams, their archrivals.
“We were truly upset about it. I can’t deny that,” Warner states. “It wasn’t something we wanted at all; I’d hate to suggest we needed a loss. However, I believe we addressed it correctly during practice this week, with players challenging each other. Ultimately, we approached today with the right mindset, focusing on returning to our 49er football roots and playing hard. It wasn’t a perfect win by any means, but we did what was necessary to secure the victory.”
The positive takeaway is that the Niners are naturally developing depth as they navigate injuries. Warner acknowledged Maliek Collins, Jordan Elliott, Yetur Gross-Matos, and Sam Okuayinonu as players who stepped up in the absence of Hargrave, which has been reflected all across the roster with contributions from Jordan Mason and Jauan Jennings.
Thus, following the losses to the Vikings and Rams, rather than letting expectations wane, the focus remained on playing what Warner describes as “49er football.”
“There’s a strong sense of urgency,” he adds. “It’s always there. Every week feels like a must-win. I considered last week a must-win after our Week 2 loss. It’s crucial to take it one week at a time. Winning in this league is incredibly challenging. Every team is skilled, and everyone has the potential to win. You must prepare diligently to create opportunities.”
As the stars return to health, the Niners could have a significant chance moving forward.
And perhaps, just perhaps, there will be some advantages stemming from the lessons learned over the past few weeks as well.
The Baltimore Ravens are rediscovering their identity. After suffering a defeat in Kansas City on opening night, they faced another disappointing loss in Week 2 against the Las Vegas Raiders, prompting numerous inquiries.
Questions arose regarding Lamar Jackson, the structure of the Ravens’ offense, and the effectiveness of their defense.
However, it is essential to remember that amid all the transitions within their organization, they consistently placed their bets on the future.
The offensive line saw a significant overhaul, losing 60% of its starters. In the roles of John Simpson, Kevin Zeitler, and Morgan Moses were Andrew Vorhees, Daniel Faalele, and Roger Rosengarten (who shared duties with Patrick Mekari), all of whom had a combined total of merely three years of NFL experience. Linebacker Patrick Queen was succeeded by Trenton Simpson. Moreover, Zach Orr, a 32-year-old linebackers coach, replaced Mike Macdonald as the defensive coordinator, being chosen over fellow coaches Dennard Wilson and Anthony Weaver, who secured defensive coordinator roles elsewhere.
In every instance, the Ravens demonstrated confidence in their ability to scout and nurture talent, believing that these new players could evolve into enhancements for the team. Nevertheless, there were expected challenges throughout the process. This is why, despite widespread concerns raised a few weeks ago, I find it surprising that everything has come together so swiftly.
The revamped offensive line has contributed to a rushing attack that totaled 545 yards and five touchdowns on 79 carries over the past two weeks, while only allowing one sack against Lamar Jackson. During this period, Trenton Simpson has been consistent, recording nine tackles. Furthermore, Orr’s defense, aside from a lapse in the fourth quarter against Dallas, has been formidable, giving up only 16 points in the last two weeks when excluding those final 15 minutes.
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh succinctly stated in the postgame press conference: “We know we’re just getting better.”
It’s tough to refute that claim, just as the Ravens anticipated.
The Chiefs are undefeated at 4–0, and Patrick Mahomes is indeed that star player. Which player, you might wonder? The
A player who consistently thrives, despite the circumstances surrounding him.
It’s interesting how we tend to make excuses for others. We mention the injuries plaguing the team (Hollywood Brown, Isiah Pacheco, and Rashee Rice). We discuss significant benchings (like rookie left tackle Kingsley Suamataia). We even note that a key player is starting to feel older (Travis Kelce).
While these issues might influence most quarterbacks, they do not impact Mahomes.
On Sunday at SoFi Stadium, facing an equally hobbled Los Angeles Chargers squad, Mahomes approached the game with Kelce and an assortment of players. Backup tight end Noah Gray was the second-leading receiver behind Kelce, while first-round pick Xavier Worthy ranked second in yardage. Other contributors included Justin Watson and Kareem Hunt, as well as fullback Carson Steele.
Despite these challenges, Mahomes achieved 245 passing yards and a touchdown. His method of accomplishing this, as he explained to CBS’s Tracy Wolfson, caught my attention when responding to inquiries about whether Kelce was losing his edge.
“I know he’s still got it,” Mahomes stated. “When we need him, he makes plays. I was thrilled for him. The guys stepped up today. We’ll see what happens with Rashee; I hope we can have him back this season. But if not, others will need to rise to the occasion. That’s what football is all about, and I believe we have many capable players who can make plays.”
This was very much the approach taken by Brady during his prime—able to carry a team through even the toughest of situations.
Few are in that exclusive realm with Brady, and Mahomes undoubtedly belongs there.</p
The Cowboys have faced significant adjustments this season. Transitioning from Dan Quinn’s aggressive defensive system, Mike Zimmer’s approach emphasizes players reading and reacting along the defensive line. Moreover, the team has seen a decline in depth with the departure of players like Dorance Armstrong and Dante Fowler Jr. The lack of preseason games further complicated matters, leading to difficulties in the opening weeks of the regular season.
In the chaotic Week 2 matchup against New Orleans, issues arose from fundamental misalignments and improper gap play. Then in Week 3, according to the coaching staff, a disastrous first half against the Baltimore Ravens was largely due to players abandoning their responsibilities in pursuit of individual plays.
This prompted Zimmer and his coaching team to stress the importance of collective defensive execution during a short week. Thankfully, their message resonated. In the thrilling 20–15 victory over the New York Giants on Thursday night, the disorganized alignments witnessed previously were noticeably absent. More players were utilized, facilitating rotations that enhanced overall performance.
The results were promising…
• The previously vulnerable run defense impressively held opponents to just 26 yards on 24 carries (averaging 1.1 yards each).
• Big plays ceased to be an issue—the Cowboys effectively managed downfield threats (aside from a single ankle-breaking route by Malik Nabers), allowing only two plays over 20 yards throughout the contest.
• Young talents showed growth. Former first-round pick Mazi Smith delivered one of the finest performances of his career. Second-year linebacker DeMarvion Overshown—who missed much of his rookie season due to injury and is viewed as having All-Pro potential—stood out. In addition, veterans Micah Parsons and Eric Kendricks demonstrated greater steadiness.
However, with Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence dealing with injuries
During an episode of Hard Knocks, Giants GM Joe Schoen remarked to Bears GM Ryan Poles while they attended the Clemson-Georgia game over Labor Day Weekend, “It’s gotta be nice to not be looking at the …” Poles interjected, “Quarterbacks?” To which Schoen replied, “Yeah.”
This exchange highlights the current predicament of the Giants. The last fully guaranteed dollar of Daniel Jones’s contract will be paid at the conclusion of this season. He hasn’t demonstrated the performance level typically associated with a $40 million-per-year player, and given the information available, it’s challenging to envision that changing before the season ends.
However, it’s important to note that Jones is a competent player who has steadily improved over recent weeks. He is adapting to three new offensive linemen, consistently collaborating with head coach Brian Daboll in the quarterback room and as his play-caller, and developing chemistry with a new top receiver in Nabers, all while being just ten months post-ACL surgery. That’s a significant amount of change for a single player in a condensed timeframe.
Week 1 was challenging for him, but gradually, he has built chemistry with his teammates, found comfort with his knee, and established a rhythm with the new configuration. His second touchdown pass to Nabers in Week 3 showcased solid footwork, keen awareness, and a smart decision, even with Myles Garrett charging towards him. Coaches in the room commented that it was a throw he likely wouldn’t have made against the Minnesota Vikings in the opener. They believe his performance over the past three games has been his finest since his breakthrough season in 2022.
Likewise, he performed admirably against Dallas. Yet, he couldn’t uplift the team when it was crucial, missing on a couple of opportunities and facing some inconsistencies from promising young slot receiver Wan’dale Robinson. He ended the game completing 29-of-40 passes for 281 yards, with one interception (on a Hail Mary attempt). The Giants mustered five field goals in the loss, which presents a problem.
If we consider Jones a bridge quarterback, then that’s acceptable.
This perspective aligns with what the Giants have expressed, as well as their recent actions (such as attempting to trade up for Drake Maye); that’s precisely his role.
Now, let’s dive into your quick-hitters for Week 4. Here they come!
…
• Antonio Pierce doesn’t need to stress over any business decisions this week. (That was an impressive victory for the Raiders, managing to fend off the Cleveland Browns in the final moments of the fourth quarter.)
• Deshaun Watson exhibited solid performance for the most part; however, his standout play—a scramble throw resulting in an 82-yard touchdown for Amari Cooper—was nullified due to holding. In the last 10 minutes of the game, when the Browns desperately needed him, Watson didn’t contribute significantly.
• I’m excited about the Commanders’ narrative. More details will be available on our site Monday morning. They are such a lively, energetic team playing freely and quickly on every snap.
• The Broncos have triumphed over both the Bucs and New York Jets in successive weeks. The latest win came on Sunday, where Denver managed just 60 passing yards in a tightly contested 10–9 match. I plan on rewatching it Monday to fully grasp how Sean Payton’s team achieved this.
• Javonte Williams has faced some challenging years, so it’s a relief to see him making a comeback.
• The Vikings sit at 4–0, and I feel remiss for not providing a more extensive highlight on them. We’ve featured them weekly, but they displayed resilience in overcoming a fierce comeback from the Green Bay Packers. Additionally, Sam Darnold had another stellar performance (20-of-28, 275 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT, 123.4 rating).
• C.J. Stroud rescued the Houston Texans once more, throwing for 113 yards and a touchdown solely in the fourth quarter. Notably, he accomplished this despite the previous week’s loss to the Vikings, which provided some strategies on how to challenge the young quarterback.
• Doug Pederson, coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars, had an unusual reaction to an inquiry concerning his job security—“That’s quite an odd question, O.K.?” The Jaguars are set to face Indy next week. A loss would put them in a challenging position heading to London, facing the Bears and Patriots at 0–5.
• It may take some time, but Keon Coleman is poised to become a valuable asset for the Buffalo Bills.
NFL Week 4 Takeaways: Flacco Shines, Brady’s Legacy Endures, and Teams Battle Through Challenges
Joe Flacco’s Resurgence
In an unexpected twist during NFL Week 4, Joe Flacco took center stage, showcasing his skills and experience. Filling in for an injured starter, Flacco demonstrated why he’s still a viable option in the league. His performance was not only a testament to his talent but also a reminder of his Super Bowl-winning pedigree.
- Passing Yards: Flacco threw for over 300 yards, including multiple touchdown passes.
- Leadership: His ability to read defenses and make quick decisions was evident throughout the game.
- Experience Matters: Flacco’s composure under pressure played a significant role in securing his team’s victory.
Key Stats from Flacco’s Performance
| Category | Stat |
|---|---|
| Passing Yards | 312 |
| Touchdowns | 2 |
| Interceptions | 1 |
| Completion Percentage | 64% |
Tom Brady’s Enduring Legacy
As the NFL season progresses, Tom Brady’s legacy continues to loom large over the league. Even in retirement, his influence remains palpable, with various teams and players referencing his work ethic and championship mindset.
Impact on Current Players
- Inspirational Figure: Many quarterbacks entering the league cite Brady as their biggest inspiration.
- Work Ethic: Young players are adopting training regimens that mirror Brady’s famed dedication.
- Winning Mentality: Teams striving for titles often look to Brady’s career for motivation and guidance.
Brady’s Records Still Stand
Brady’s records are still a significant part of discussions among fans and analysts alike. Here are some of his most notable achievements that current players aspire to surpass:
| Record | Stat |
|---|---|
| Super Bowl Wins | 7 |
| Career Touchdowns | 624 |
| Career Passing Yards | 89,214 |
Teams Battle Through Challenges
NFL Week 4 saw several teams facing significant challenges, from injuries to tough matchups. These obstacles tested the resolve and resilience of players and coaching staff alike.
Injuries Impacting Team Dynamics
Injuries have become a crucial storyline this season. Key players missing games can shift the balance of power within the league. Some notable injuries include:
- Quarterback Injuries: Starting quarterbacks are going down, leading to backups needing to step up.
- Defensive Struggles: Teams are facing difficulties with injuries to key defensive players, leading to higher-scoring games.
Case Studies: Teams Overcoming Adversity
Several teams are setting examples of how to handle adversity effectively:
- Miami Dolphins: Despite early injuries, they remain competitive by relying on their depth and offensive strategies.
- San Francisco 49ers: With a crucial quarterback injury, they adjusted their game plan, showcasing their coaching staff’s ingenuity.
Benefits of Resilience in the NFL
Resilience is a vital quality in the NFL, especially as teams navigate the highs and lows of a demanding season. Here are some key benefits:
- Improved Team Cohesion: Overcoming challenges together strengthens the bond between players and coaches.
- Enhanced Performance: Teams that adapt quickly to adversity often find themselves performing better in crucial moments.
- Fan Engagement: Resilient teams tend to engage fans more significantly, generating excitement and loyalty.
Practical Tips for Teams Facing Challenges
Coaching staff and players can implement practical strategies to navigate through challenging times effectively:
- Open Communication: Keep lines of communication open between players and coaches to foster a supportive environment.
- Focus on Recovery: Prioritize player health and recovery to mitigate the impact of injuries.
- Cultivate a Growth Mindset: Encourage a culture where mistakes are seen as opportunities for growth rather than failures.
First-Hand Experience: Players Share Their Stories
Many players reflect on their experiences dealing with challenges in the NFL. Their insights provide valuable lessons:
- Resilience: “Injuries can be tough, but they teach you to adapt and push through.” – A veteran linebacker.
- Team Dynamics: “When we face adversity, it brings us closer as a team.” – A star wide receiver.
Final Thoughts on NFL Week 4
NFL Week 4 has been a captivating chapter in the ongoing season, with Joe Flacco’s impressive performance, Tom Brady’s enduring legacy, and teams battling through adversity. As the season progresses, the ability to adapt and overcome challenges will be crucial for success in the highly competitive landscape of professional football.
