Ian Hacek
Co-editor-in-Chief
We are two weeks into the NFL season and already there are many storylines to recap and keep an eye on moving forward. From rookie surprises to dynasties unraveling, here’s what you may have missed and what to keep an eye on in the weeks ahead.
Chiefs Cookin’: The Kansas City Chiefs came out blazing hot in their first two games with massive offensive production from young stars, Patrick Mahomes and Tyreek Hill. Quarterback Mahomes recorded ten touchdowns with only one turnover in their wins against the Chargers and the Steelers. Three of those scores went to Hill who is averaging 129.5 yards per game.
Two Ties: For the first time since 1971, there have been tie games in consecutive weeks. First, the Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers ended their game locked at 21-21. Week Two saw the Green Bay Packers and Minnesota Vikings tie 29-29.
Pats Struggle: After a 27-20 win over the Houston Texans, Tom Brady and the New England Patriots traveled to Jacksonville. The Jaguars torched the Patriot’s defense and scored three touchdowns in the first half while only conceding a field goal. The final score was 31-20 and New England no longer seem like a lock for the AFC Championship Game.
Falcon’s Find their Way: After a disappointing loss to Philadelphia in Week One, the Atlanta Falcons rebounded with a home win over the Carolina Panthers. Matt Ryan accounted for four touchdowns after underperforming in the redzone against the Eagles.
Fitz Leads the Bucs: Perhaps the biggest surprise of the young season has been Ryan Fitzpatrick’s outstanding quarterback play resulting in two wins for the Buccaneers. The veteran passed for 819 yards with eight touchdowns in his first couple of games replacing Jameis Winston who is sidelined due to injury. Because of Fitzpatrick’s heroics, many think that Winston will not immediately start at quarterback when he becomes healthy.
There you have the top five storylines from the first couple of weeks on the NFL season. Only seven teams are still unbeaten and untied so expect some mayhem ahead.
Trojan Times 