| Week 1 NFL Preview and Capsules |
NEW YORK — September 3, 2024 — The NFL returns this week and it’s time to get back to football. Kickoff Weekend presented by YouTube TV signals the start of a 272-game journey, one that promises hope for each of the league’s 32 teams as they set their sights on Super Bowl LIX, which will be played on Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025, at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. For the Week 1 capsules, click here. Here’s a look at a few interesting storylines entering Kickoff Weekend:
o Since 1990 – a streak of 34 consecutive seasons – at least four teams have qualified for the playoffs that were not in the postseason the year before. There were six new playoff teams last season – Cleveland, Detroit, Green Bay, Houston, the Los Angeles Rams and Pittsburgh. o In 20 of the past 21 seasons (2003-23), at least two teams have won their divisions the season after missing the playoffs. There were four new division winners in 2023 – Baltimore (AFC North), Dallas (NFC East), Detroit (NFC North) and Houston (AFC South). o At least one team has won its division the season after finishing in or tied for last place in 19 of the past 21 seasons (2001-23). Houston completed the ‘worst-to-first- turnaround last season and became the fourth team in NFL history to win a playoff game with a rookie head coach (DeMeco Ryans) and a rookie starting quarterback (C.J. Stroud).
o DYNAMIC KICKOFF: For the upcoming season, the NFL approved the implementation of the dynamic kickoff, a new design resembling a typical scrimmage play and more rigid zones on the field that players must occupy. The kicking team will now line up on the receiving team’s 40-yard line. The receiving team will line up in the Setup Zone, a five-yard area from the 35 to the 30-yard line, where at least nine players must line up, including at least seven with a foot on the 35. The play begins only when the ball either hits the landing zone or is touched by the receiving team. For more information on the dynamic kickoff, click here. o PENALTY FOR HIP-DROP TACKLE: With player health and safety always a priority, the league approved a personal foul penalty (loss of 15 yards and an automatic first down) to eliminate a potentially dangerous tackling technique, the hip-drop tackle. It is a foul if a player uses the following technique to bring a runner to the ground:
o Williams can join Kyle Orton (2005) as the only rookie quarterbacks to start for the Bears in Week 1 in the common-draft era. Since 1967, 18 quarterbacks have been selected with the first pick in the NFL Draft and started in Week 1 of their rookie season, including each of the past four quarterbacks chosen No. 1 overall [Bryce Young (2023), Trevor Lawrence (2021), Joe Burrow (2020) and Kyler Murray (2019)]. o Daniels can join Robert Griffin III (2012) as the only rookie quarterbacks to start for the Commanders in Week 1 since 1967. Rookie quarterbacks selected No. 1 and No. 2 overall in the NFL Draft have both started in Week 1 on seven previous occasions since 1967, including the 2023 season (Bryce Young and C.J. Stroud). o Nix can join Pro Football Hall of Famer John Elway (1983) as the only rookie quarterbacks to start for the Broncos in the common-draft era.
o Baltimore at Kansas City – 2023 AFC Championship rematch (Thursday, 8:20 p.m. ET, NBC): The Chiefs defeated the Ravens, 17-10, in Baltimore to advance to Super Bowl LVIII. In the contest, tight end Travis Kelce recorded 11 receptions for 116 yards and one touchdown and surpassed Pro Football Hall of Famer Jerry Rice (151 receptions) for the most postseason receptions by a player in NFL history. Should Baltimore’s Lamar Jackson (2019 and 2023 Most Valuable Player) and Kansas City’s Patrick Mahomes (2018 and 2022) both play, it will mark the first time in NFL history that a Week 1 matchup has featured opposing players each with multiple Most Valuable Player awards. It will also mark the first meeting in NFL history in any week to feature opposing players both under the age of 30, each with multiple Most Valuable Player awards. o L.A. Rams at Detroit – 2023 NFC Wild Card rematch (Sunday night, 8:20 p.m. ET, NBC): The Lions defeated the Rams, 24-23, to earn their first postseason win since 1991. In the contest, the Rams’ Matthew Stafford and the Lions’ Jared Goff became the first pair of quarterbacks to start in the same game against a team they previously played for. Despite the loss, Los Angeles’ Puka Nacua registered 181 receiving yards, the most by a rookie in a playoff game in NFL history. During the 2023 regular season, Nacua set NFL rookie records with 105 receptions and 1,486 receiving yards. Justin Jefferson holds the record for the most receiving yards by a player in his first two career seasons (3,016 receiving yards) while Jefferson, Michael Thomas and Detroit’s Amon-Ra St. Brown share the record for the most receptions by a player in his first two seasons (196 receptions). o Denver at Seattle – Super Bowl XLVIII rematch (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET, CBS): The Seahawks defeated the Broncos, 43-8, in Super Bowl XLVIII on Feb. 2, 2014. Malcolm Smith earned MVP honors with a 69-yard interception return for a touchdown and Percy Harvin opened the second half with a 87-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, one of 10 kickoff return touchdowns in Super Bowl history. Including this matchup, Denver and Seattle will have met on Kickoff Weekend three times in the past seven seasons, with each team winning at home in the previous two meetings (Broncos 27, Seahawks 24 in Denver in 2018; Seahawks 17, Broncos 16 in Seattle in 2022).
· Arizona at Buffalo (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS): In the last meeting between the two clubs (Week 10, 2020 in Arizona), the Cardinals overcame a 14-point second-half deficit to defeat the Bills, 32-30. With two seconds remaining, Kyler Murray connected with DeAndre Hopkins for a 43-yard game-winning touchdown pass. According to Next Gen Stats, the pass had a 16.9 percent completion probability. · Houston at Indianapolis (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS): Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud made five starts against AFC South opponents last season and completed 120 of 171 pass attempts (70.2 percent) for 1,445 yards (289 per game) with 10 touchdowns (nine passing, one rushing) and no interceptions for a 113.3 passer rating. · Jacksonville at Miami (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS): In Week 1 last season, the Dolphins defeated the Los Angeles Chargers, 36-34, as Tyreek Hill recorded the third-most receiving yards (215) in a season-opening game in NFL history and Tua Tagovailoa registered the fourth-most passing yards (466) in a season-opening game all-time. · Dallas at Cleveland (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET, FOX): Last season, Cleveland recorded the best home winning percentage (.889, 8-1) among AFC clubs while allowing the fewest points per game (13.9), fewest total yards per game (215.9) and fewest passing yards per game (126.3) among all teams at home. Dallas led the NFL with 29.9 points per game in 2023. · New York Jets at San Francisco (Monday night, 8:15 p.m. ET, ESPN/ABC): Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers enters the 2024 season with the fifth-most touchdown passes (475) and ninth-most passing yards (59,055) in NFL history. Since 2014, in his last 10 Monday starts, he has recorded 23 touchdown passes with three interceptions and a 113.6 passer rating, with his team compiling a 10-0 record in those games. Media Contact: Sam Drexler, NFL; Sam.Drexler@NFL.com |
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Week 1 NFL Preview and Capsules
For Release: 2024 AFCA FCS Coaches Poll, presented by Hudl – Week 1
MONTANA STATE MOVES TO NO. 3 IN AFCA FCS COACHES POLL, PRESENTED BY HUDL
WACO, TEX.– The Montana State defense allowed Utah Tech just 41 yards of offense through three quarters and didn’t give up a first down until the fourth quarter, allowing the Bobcats to cruise to a 31-7 victory. The win moves Montana State up one spot to No. 3 in this week’s AFCA FCS Coaches Poll, presented by Hudl. The Bobcats are 2-0 on the season after a week zero upset of New Mexico on August 24, 35-31.
South Dakota State remains No. 1 with 17 first place votes. The Jackrabbits lost to Big 12-member Oklahoma State, 44-20. No. 2 North Dakota State gave another Big 12 member a scare, losing to Colorado, 31-26. Montana dropped one spot to No. 4 despite beating Missouri State, 29-24. Villanova moved into the top five after upending then-No. 23 Youngstown State, 24-17.
There are two top 25 matchups this coming week with the biggest game being No. 1 South Dakota State playing host to No. 11 UIW. The Cardinals are 1-0 after beating Northern Colorado, 28-7. The final matchup has No. 4 Montana traveling to No. 20 North Dakota.
AFCA FCS Coaches Poll, presented by Hudl – September 3, 2024
| Rank | School (1st votes) | Rec. | Pts. | Prev. | Week 1 | Next Game |
| 1 | South Dakota St. (17) | 0-1 | 630 | 1 | Lost to Oklahoma St., 44-20 | Sept. 7 vs. No. 11 UIW |
| 2 | North Dakota St. (5) | 0-1 | 624 | 2 | Lost to Colorado, 31-26 | Sept. 7 vs. Tennessee St. |
| 3 | Montana St. (4) | 2-0 | 589 | 4 | D. Utah Tech, 31-7 | Sept. 7 vs. Maine |
| 4 | Montana | 1-0 | 572 | 3 | D. Missouri St., 29-24 | Sept. 7 at No. 20 North Dakota |
| 5 | Villanova | 1-0 | 527 | 6 | D. No. 23 Youngstown St., 24-17 | Sept. 7 at Colgate |
| 6 | South Dakota | 1-0 | 493 | 5 | D. Northern St., 45-3 | Sept. 7 at Wisconsin |
| 7 | Idaho | 0-1 | 489 | 7 | Lost to Oregon, 24-14 | Sept. 7 at Wyoming |
| 8 | Sacramento St. | 0-1 | 397 | 10 | Lost to San Jose St., 42-24 | Sept. 7 at Fresno St. |
| 9 | Central Arkansas | 0-1 | 359 | 13 | Lost to Arkansas St., 34-31 | Sept. 7 at Lindenwood |
| 10 | Chattanooga | 0-1 | 342 | 8 | Lost to Tennessee, 69-3 | Sept. 7 at Georgia St. |
| 11 | UIW | 1-0 | 340 | 15 | D. Northern Colorado, 28-7 | Sept. 7 at No. 1 South Dakota St. |
| 12 | Southern Illinois | 0-1 | 331 | 11 | Lost to BYU, 41-13 | Sept. 7 at Austin Peay |
| 13 | UAlbany | 1-0 | 302 | 14 | D. LIU, 27-21 | Sept. 7 at West Virginia |
| 14 | William & Mary | 1-0 | 300 | 16 | D. VMI, 41-7 | Sept. 7 at Coastal Carolina |
| 15 | Richmond | 0-1 | 289 | 12 | Lost to Virginia, 34-13 | Sept. 7 vs. Wofford |
| 16 | Furman | 0-1 | 270 | 9 | Lost to Ole Miss, 76-0 | Sept. 7 vs. Charleston Southern |
| 17 | Western Carolina | 0-1 | 221 | 19 | Lost to NC State, 38-21 | Sept. 7 vs. Campbell |
| 18 | UC Davis | 0-1 | 197 | 17 | Lost to California, 31-13 | Sept. 7 vs. Texas A&M-Commerce |
| 19 | Lafayette | 0-1 | 156 | 18 | Lost to Buffalo, 30-13 | Sept. 7 at Monmouth (N.J.) |
| 20 | North Dakota | 0-1 | 152 | 22 | Lost to Iowa St., 21-3 | Sept. 7 vs. No. 4 Montana |
| 21 | Tarleton St. | 1-1 | 109 | 21 | Lost to Baylor, 45-3 | Sept. 7 at Houston Christian |
| 22 | Illinois St. | 0-1 | 95 | 20 | Lost to Iowa, 40-0 | Sept. 7 at North Alabama |
| 23 | Youngstown St. | 0-1 | 88 | 23 | Lost to No. 6 Villanova, 24-17 | Sept. 7 vs. Valparaiso |
| 24 | Florida A&M | 2-0 | 82 | 25 | D. South Carolina St., 22-18 | Sept. 7 at Miami (Fla.) |
| 25 | Nicholls | 0-1 | 74 | 24 | Lost to Louisiana Tech, 25-17 | Sept. 7 at LSU |
Dropped Out: None
Others Receiving Votes: Northern Iowa, 55; ACU, 43; Mercer, 41; Eastern Washington, 40; North Carolina Central, 33; Eastern Illinois, 30; Rhode Island, 26; Southeast Missouri St., 20; Weber St., 17; Delaware St., 14; Harvard, 14; Missouri St., 14; Princeton, 14; Elon, 13; McNeese, 13; Stephen F. Austin, 12; UT Martin, 11; Wagner, 10; Northern Arizona, 5; Wofford, 5; Indiana St., 3; Yale, 3; Tennessee St., 2; Alabama A&M, 1; Murray St., 1; North Carolina A&T, 1; Samford, 1.
For more information on the AFCA and its programs, visit www.afca.com or follow us on social media @WeAreAFCA.
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Ravens at a Crossroads: Time for Change or a Super Bowl Run?
After a narrow one-point loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, the Baltimore Ravens find themselves at a critical juncture. Once considered a strong contender to challenge the Chiefs’ dominance, the Ravens fell short. The 17-16 defeat highlighting more of Baltimore’s shortcomings than Kansas City’s prowess. This loss has prompted a reevaluation of what needs to change and the potential repercussions of failing to make necessary adjustments.
Time’s Up?
Photo Cred: CBS Sports
John Harbaugh remains a beloved figure in Baltimore, but his post-Super Bowl playoff record tells a different story. Since leading the Ravens to a Super Bowl victory in 2013, Harbaugh has overseen only three playoff wins and six losses. Last year’s playoff defeat was especially crushing, marking the most painful moment in his sixteen-year coaching career. Despite his past success and delivering the franchise’s first Super Bowl under team owner Steve Bisciotti, Harbaugh’s extended grace period may be running out. This season could be the turning point where his long-standing job security is tested.
Nightmare Scenario
Photo Cred: USA Today
Recent speculation suggests that the Ravens might be overrated, a notion that doesn’t hold up under scrutiny. The presence of a two-time MVP like Lamar Jackson is far from overrated. Jackson’s exceptional play, improved passing, and comprehensive understanding of the offense have been vital.
However, the Ravens’ decision to deviate from their successful game plan in the AFC Championship, opting for a strategy that clearly wasn’t working, was puzzling. Instead of leveraging their leading rushing offense, they attempted to attack the Chiefs with a limited ground game. They had sixteen carries for just eighty-one yards—against a team that was weak against the run but strong in pass defense. This misstep was not adequately scrutinized by the media, which failed to hold Harbaugh accountable for the tactical blunder.
547 Pounds of No Excuses
Photo Cred: New York Times
With the addition of Derrick Henry, the Ravens now have the opportunity to impose their will on opponents, creating vertical openings for their passing game through effective play-action. Henry will benefit from running behind Patrick Ricard, whose blocking will help preserve Henry’s effectiveness and potentially extend his career. The Ravens’ running game, on paper, is one of the most formidable in the NFL, and they should leverage this strength more effectively. The backfield depth, including Justice Hill and rookie Rasheen Ali, adds both talent and athleticism. Once Keaton Mitchell returns from the PUP list, the Ravens should be able to dominate opponents with their ground game.
No Sleep to New Orleans
The Ravens should be making serious preparations for a Super Bowl run, possibly booking those Mardi Gras plans early. If they fail to secure a Super Bowl victory, significant changes are warranted. Historically, the Ravens have shown a willingness to make tough decisions, as seen when they parted ways with Brian Billick after a series of losing seasons following Super Bowl XXXV.
There should be no room for excuses or justifications if the team falls short. The general manager has assembled a team capable of contending for a title. If the Ravens do not win the Super Bowl, they face a stark choice: either pay Harbaugh for the final year of his contract and part ways, or retain him while overhauling the coaching staff and revamping the roster. Excuses will not be tolerated; it’s time for either significant changes or a championship.
Do the Blazers Have a Rising Star in Lee Beebe Jr?
For several years, the UAB Blazers have established themselves as an offensive powerhouse within the American Athletic Conference. Their reputation for developing talent is well-known, with numerous alumni finding success across various professional leagues. Among their many standout positions, the running back role has consistently been a hallmark of the Blazers’ program. DeWayne McBride, a former star from Birmingham, epitomizes the success of UAB’s developmental scheme.
This year, the spotlight is on Lee Beebe Jr. He has stepped up from a backup role last season to claim the starting position. Standing at five-foot-ten and weighing 220 pounds, Beebe Jr. is a formidable force on the field. His ability to break through defenses is enhanced by his impressive burst and speed. It allows him to navigate and slice through even the toughest defensive lines. As he began receiving more significant reps towards the end of the 2023 season, it quickly became evident to the coaching staff that they had unearthed a potential superstar.
Photo Cred: UAB
In the final game of the 2023 season, Beebe Jr. showcased his prowess against the North Texas Mean Green. His performance turned heads. With seven carries for 102 yards and two touchdowns, including a standout 66-yard run to open the second quarter, he demonstrated his explosive playmaking ability. Head Coach Trent Dilfer, recognizing Beebe Jr.’s potential, made a concerted effort to give him more opportunities to shine. Over the course of the season, Beebe Jr. racked up 52 rushes, four touchdowns, and nearly 500 yards from scrimmage in just 11 games.
As the 2024 season began with a home opener against Alcorn State, Beebe Jr. continued to validate the coaching staff’s confidence in him. His performance was dominant, showcasing his ability to excel both inside and outside the tackles. By the end of the game, Beebe Jr. had accumulated 82 rushing yards and two touchdowns, averaging an impressive 5.5 yards per carry. These stats are particularly noteworthy considering the increased workload and adjustments made by the coaching staff.
Photo Cred: UAB
Pound for pound, Beebe Jr. is quickly emerging as one of the top running backs in the American Athletic Conference. His contributions are not just a boon for the Blazers’ offense but also a key factor in their aspirations for a strong season. Opposing teams will undoubtedly focus on containing the former walk-on. Which may, in turn, open up opportunities for the rest of the offense to advance the ball effectively. Beebe Jr. is poised to earn multiple honors for his outstanding performances on and off the field. It furthers cementing his place in UAB’s storied football legacy.
Ducks Defeat Idaho 24-14 in Shaky Opener
On Saturday afternoon, the #3 ranked Oregon Ducks narrowly avoided a major upset against the unranked Idaho Vandals. The game opened with a strong defensive display from the Ducks, who quickly forced the Vandals into a three-and-out. This was swiftly followed by a methodical drive down the field. It culminated in an early touchdown on a flat route to standout receiver Tez Johnson, marking Oregon’s first score of the new season.
Photo Cred: USA Today
The rest of the first quarter saw limited action, with the only notable play being a sack by Jordan Burch. The momentum shifted when new transfer Brandon Johnson made a pivotal interception in the end zone. This clutch play energized the Ducks, allowing them to open up their running game and find Tez Johnson for additional receiving yards. Jordan James then capped off the drive with a touchdown run, pushing the score to 14-0.
Despite a lackluster first half where they struggled to put any points on the board, the Vandals came roaring back in the second half. A beautifully executed double flea-flicker play resulted in a touchdown reception by tight end Jake Cox. Undeterred, Oregon running back Noah Whittington showcased his skill on the next drive. He sliced through the Vandals’ defense and advancing the Ducks into the red zone. However, a holding penalty on 3rd and 13 forced Oregon to settle for a field goal, adding to their lead.
As the game moved into the fourth quarter, Idaho’s offense began to find its rhythm. Receiver Mark Hamper made a brilliant catch to set up a drive. It was further advanced by a screen play from running back Elijah Cummings. Quarterback Jake Layne then completed a short scamper into the end zone closing the gap to just three points with a touchdown. Though they struggled throughout the game, particularly with their offensive line, the Ducks showed they could rise to the occasion when it mattered most.
Postgame, Oregon Head Coach Dan Lanning reflected on the team’s underwhelming performance, stating, “It was different from what we anticipated. Give credit to Idaho. We didn’t hit some of the explosive plays we thought we would. We need to be a team that can generate big plays, and we weren’t able to do that today.”
Photo Cred: SI
Jordan James delivered a series of impressive runs, setting up Tez Johnson’s second touchdown of the game, which brought the score to 24-14 with 5:36 remaining on the clock. In the game’s critical moments, the Oregon defense stepped up remarkably. Matayo Uigaleleilei delivered a crucial sack on Jake Layne, creating a long third down that Idaho failed to convert. After the Ducks’ offense couldn’t run out the clock and had to give the ball back to Idaho, cornerback Nikko Reed made a spectacular circus interception to seal the victory for Oregon.
Texas Longhorns Set the Tone for Upcoming Season in the SEC
Texas fans are brimming with optimism for the upcoming SEC season following a dominant 52-0 victory over Colorado State. The game was a one-sided affair, with the Rams failing to score in the sweltering Texas heat. Fans began filing into DKR Stadium as early as 11:30 a.m. for the 2:30 p.m. kickoff. Their anticipation is palpable after a long offseason. The excitement of Texas’ first game of the season and the return of College Football was evident throughout the stadium.
The Longhorns wasted no time asserting their dominance. A precise pass from quarterback Quinn Ewers (#3) to tight end Gunnar Helm (#85) set up a first down at the three-yard line. Running back Quintrevion Wisner (#26) then powered through for the game’s opening touchdown. Kicker Bert Auburn (#45) converted the extra point and continued his perfect performance throughout the game. With less than 30 seconds remaining in the first quarter, Colorado State’s Chase Wilson (#30) intercepted a pass from Ewers. Although the Rams had a brief opportunity to capitalize, Texas quickly regained control.
Photo Cred: UT
The second quarter was particularly productive for Texas. Wide receiver Matthew Golden (#2) scored two touchdowns, with the first set up by a key interception from Texas defensive back Jahdae Barron (#7), who picked off a pass from Colorado’s quarterback Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi (#16). Isaiah Bond (#7) also added a touchdown reception, further extending the Longhorns’ lead. By the start of the third quarter, the score stood at 31-0. Running back Jerrick Gibson (#9) added another touchdown for Texas, and soon after, freshman Arch Manning (#16) made his debut on the field.
Manning’s entrance was met with enthusiasm, and he quickly demonstrated his potential with a precise 40-yard pass to Johntay Cook II (#1). Manning’s impact was further felt in the fourth quarter when he threw his first collegiate touchdown pass to Silas Bolden (#11). With Auburn adding another field goal, the score climbed to 44-0. Manning continued to impress, scoring a touchdown with a one-yard run early in the fourth quarter.
Photo Cred: Emily
The defense also made its mark, with Wardell Mack (#27) intercepting another Colorado pass. Texas sealed the game with a final score of 52-0. As the game concluded, the entire stadium joined in singing “The Eyes of Texas,” celebrating the team’s impressive debut in the Southeastern Conference. With this emphatic win, the Longhorns have set a positive tone for their SEC journey. Texas will look to build on this momentum when they face the University of Michigan on September 7 at 11 a.m. CT.
Kyle McCord Shines & Run Defense Struggles Against Ohio
Despite a slow start, Syracuse Football managed to open their season on a high note with a 38-22 victory over Ohio. They showcased a promising debut from quarterback Kyle McCord.
McCord Impresses:
Photo Cred: Syracuse.com
Kyle McCord’s first game in a Syracuse uniform began with some early struggles. On his initial drive, he completed just 1 of 3 passes and came close to throwing an interception. However, the Ohio State transfer quickly found his rhythm and settled into the game. After trailing 6-0 at the end of the first quarter, McCord demonstrated resilience and skill. He threw two touchdown passes that propelled Syracuse to a 17-9 lead at halftime. Notably, McCord engineered a key scoring drive in the final minute of the first half, underscoring his ability to perform under pressure.
McCord’s impressive performance continued into the third quarter. He added two more touchdown passes, helping to extend Syracuse’s lead to 31-16. By the end of the game, McCord had accumulated a career-high four touchdown passes and 354 passing yards, completing nearly 70% of his throws. His standout performance was a crucial factor in Syracuse’s victory, and he showed why he was a highly sought-after transfer.
Offensive Contributions:
McCord’s success was bolstered by strong performances from his receiving corps. Tight end Oronde Gadson II emerged as a key offensive weapon, amassing over 100 yards on just seven receptions. Meanwhile, wide receiver Trevor Peña was instrumental in Syracuse’s offensive output, catching six passes for 78 yards and two touchdowns. Peña’s contributions included a critical touchdown at the end of the first half, and he also added a rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter to solidify the win.
Run Defense Disappoints:
Despite the offensive fireworks, Syracuse’s defense struggled, particularly in stopping the run. Ohio remained competitive largely due to Syracuse’s inability to contain their rushing attack. Ohio managed to sustain several long drives, converting them into field goals due to Syracuse’s porous run defense.
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Photo Creid: USA Today
Ohio running back Anthony Tyus III was a standout performer. He ran for 203 yards and two touchdowns on just 16 carries. His impressive 12.7 yards-per-carry average allowed Ohio to control the time of possession and keep the game closer than it might have otherwise been. While Syracuse’s offense managed to overcome these defensive lapses this time, the poor run defense could present more significant challenges against stronger opponents later in the season.
Fran Brown’s Debut:
The game also marked Fran Brown’s debut as Syracuse’s head coach. Hired in the offseason from Georgia, where he served as a defensive backs coach and contributed to the National Championship team, Brown demonstrated his potential with strong clock management. His decision-making was evident during a crucial final drive before halftime, which helped secure the lead.
Photo Cred: USA Today
Nevertheless, Brown faces several challenges moving forward. Improving the defensive play, especially against the run, and minimizing penalties will be key areas of focus. Syracuse committed six penalties for 47 yards, including a particularly costly running-into-the-kicker foul that extended an Ohio drive. Addressing these issues will be critical for maintaining and building on the team’s early success.
Syracuse’s next challenge will be a matchup against Georgia Tech on September 7th. As they prepare for this game, Fran Brown will need to refine his strategies and continue to leverage McCord’s strengths to ensure sustained success throughout the season.
Top 5 Must-Watch Giants Games for the 2024 Season
With the NFL regular season rapidly approaching, the New York Football Giants are gearing up to celebrate their 100th year. The team faces pivotal decisions, with Daniel Jones entering his sixth and most crucial season. Saquon Barkley now in Philadelphia, and the Giants coming off a disappointing 6-11 record after a playoff win the previous year. This season, Giants fans hope to see clarity on Daniel Jones’s potential. The team has an improved offensive line and receiving corps, including first-round pick Malik Nabers, as well as the team’s overall identity.
With a solid defense led by Kayvon Thibodeaux, Dexter Lawrence, and new addition Brian Burns, a running game featuring Devin Singletary and Eric Gray, tight ends Theo Johnson and Daniel Bellinger, and a revamped offensive line with free-agent signings like Jermaine Elumenour, Greg Van Roten, and John Runyan, it’s time for the Giants to accelerate their rebuild and vie for a playoff spot. Here are the top five games that will shape the Giants’ season.
September 8th- New York Giants vs Minnesota Vikings
Photo Cred: New York Times
The season opener is crucial for setting the tone, and this year is no exception. The Giants defeated the Vikings in Wild Card Weekend during the 2022 season, but both teams have changed since then. With rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy out for the year, the Vikings are turning to Sam Darnold to stabilize the position.
Featuring a high-powered offense with Justin Jefferson and Aaron Jones, along with a solid defense including Stephon Gilmore and Harrison Smith, the Vikings will be a challenge. However, the Giants have a chance to start strong at home with their new-look offense and formidable defense, particularly their front seven. Against an inexperienced Darnold making his debut with a new team, the Giants should aim for an opening victory and a 2-0 start before tougher matches lie ahead.
October 13th- New York Giants vs Cincinnati Bengals
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Photo Cred: big blue View
After facing the Browns, Cowboys, and Seahawks, the Giants return home from Seattle to face the Bengals in a primetime Sunday Night Football game. Joe Burrow returns for the Bengals with star receivers Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase and running back Joe Mixon. The Giants’ defense and revamped offense will need to step up. Can Malik Nabers, Darius Slayton, Jalin Hyatt, and the run game match the Bengals’ offense? While it won’t be easy, the Giants need at least one win in this tough four-game stretch. A potentially weaker Bengals defense might give the Giants a chance to surprise and secure a crucial win.
October 20th- New York Giants vs Philadelphia Eagles
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Photo Cred: USA Today
A key game in the Giants’ season will be their divisional matchup against the Eagles one week after the Bengals. This rivalry game gains extra significance with former Giants running back Saquon Barkley now on the Eagles. The crowd will be electric, with Giants fans eager to see Barkley return and a strong contingent from Philadelphia backing their team. The Eagles, bolstered by receivers A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, and Jahan Dotson, as well as a revamped secondary, will be tough opponents. The Giants will need to disrupt Jalen Hurts and Barkley to stay competitive. This game will test the Giants’ ability to challenge division favorites and keep their playoff hopes alive.
November 10th- New York Giants vs Washington Commanders
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Photo Cred: Hog Heaven
Another crucial late-season game will be the rematch against the Washington Commanders. Despite past struggles, the Giants have generally fared well against Washington, leading the decade series 5-2-1. Daniel Jones has often excelled against them, and the Giants will need him to continue this trend. A
fter a tough midseason, the Giants will look to rebound with games against Washington and the Carolina Panthers, who had the NFL’s worst record last season. The Commanders will be led by #2 overall pick Jayden Daniels, and while his inexperience might show early, they will be formidable by this point in the season. Both teams feature strong defenses, likely making for a low-scoring game where the Giants must secure the home win to stay in the Wild Card race.
December 22nd- New York Giants @ Atlanta Falcons
Photo Cred: Giants
This late-season matchup could have significant playoff implications for both teams. The Giants will aim to remain in the Wild Card hunt. While the Falcons are expected to contend for the NFC South. They have added Kirk Cousins and key offensive weapons like Drake London and Bijan Robinson. The Falcons’ defense has improved with the addition of Matthew Judon and Justin Simmons.
With the Eagles and Cowboys likely ahead in the division standings, the Giants may need a win to reach the sixth or seventh seed. A victory over the Falcons could propel the Giants into a strong finish. And potentially setting up a final game against the Eagles with playoff stakes. The Falcons game will be crucial in determining if the Giants rise to the occasion or falter in their playoff pursuit.
Colorado Escapes in Thrilling Season Opener: Week 1 Recap
It was an intense, stress-filled night in Boulder on Thursday as the Colorado Buffaloes, spearheaded by the dynamic duo of Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter. They narrowly edged out the formidable FCS powerhouse North Dakota State. The thrilling contest came down to a dramatic Hail Mary attempt by the Bison on the final play, which agonizingly fell just a few yards short of the end zone, allowing the Buffs to escape with a hard-fought 31-26 victory.
The win underscored the brilliance of Colorado’s usual stars. Shedeur Sanders delivered an exceptional performance, throwing for a remarkable 445 yards and four touchdowns. Three of those touchdowns were caught by the versatile Travis Hunter. He dazzled throughout the game. Hunter, who played a grueling 78 snaps—more than half of which were on defense—captivated the audience with his offensive contributions. He made seven receptions for 132 yards and scored the go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter with an extraordinary catch that left spectators and analysts alike in awe.
Photo Cred: USA Today
Yet, it was Jimmy Horn Jr., returning to action, who stole the show as the top receiver of the night. Horn Jr. put on an electrifying display, hauling in seven passes for a staggering 198 yards and a touchdown. His early impact was undeniable, including a thrilling 69-yard touchdown reception in the first quarter that briefly put the Buffs ahead 14-10. However, North Dakota State quickly retaliated with ten unanswered points, reclaiming the lead at 20-14. Bison quarterback Cam Miller turned in an impressive performance. He completed over 80% of his passes for 277 yards and a touchdown, while also contributing 81 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
Despite Miller’s standout efforts, the Buffs’ offensive potency proved too overwhelming for the Bison’s defense to contain. Colorado’s offense, despite its high points, was not without its imperfections. They faced setbacks including a crucial fourth-down stop and a pivotal interception that resulted from a deflected pass landing into the hands of a Bison defender. Additionally, their running game struggled to gain traction, failing to surpass 60 rushing yards.
Photo Cred: Yahoo Sports
On the defensive side, the Buffaloes had difficulty containing the middle of the field. It was a repeat of last year. They made several mental errors that led to costly penalties. A glaring example was a third-down red zone stop that was nullified by an unnecessary roughness penalty on Shilo Sanders. The offense also encountered challenges with clock management, highlighted by a late-game pass to Horn Jr. that fell incomplete. This misstep allowed the Bison to retain possession with 38 seconds left, setting up their dramatic final Hail Mary attempt, which was ultimately thwarted.
With this narrow victory, Colorado begins their season at 1-0 and will next face their rival Nebraska in Lincoln. The Huskers, seeking redemption after a 22-point defeat last year, have demonstrated significant improvements and promise a high-stakes, action-packed showdown. Fans can anticipate a thrilling contest as both teams prepare for what is sure to be a memorable clash.
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