Week 2 of the 2025 NFL season kicked off with a dominant Thursday night victory for the Green Bay Packers over the Washington Commanders. Sunday’s action began with the New England Patriots surpassing 30 points for the first time since 2021 in a narrow win against the Miami Dolphins. Following their Week 1 thriller, the Buffalo Bills and Baltimore Ravens both secured convincing wins, dominating the New York Jets and Cleveland Browns, respectively. The season’s first overtime game saw the Dallas Cowboys edge the New York Giants on a game-winning kick from Brandon Aubrey.
In the late afternoon slate, Indianapolis Colts kicker Spencer Shrader converted a game-winning field goal against the Denver Broncos after a penalty gave him a second chance. The Carolina Panthers rallied with 16 unanswered points against the Arizona Cardinals but failed to score on their final drive. In a rematch of Super Bowl LIX, the Philadelphia Eagles halted a late comeback attempt by the Kansas City Chiefs to secure the victory.
Monday night’s doubleheader featured two undefeated teams staying perfect. First, Baker Mayfield led the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on another late game-winning drive to defeat the Houston Texans. In the nightcap, Justin Herbert and the Los Angeles Chargers improved to 2-0 with a victory over the Las Vegas Raiders.
Chargers
The Chargers face a significant blow after outside linebacker Khalil Mack left Monday’s game in the first quarter with an elbow injury. Mack, the team’s top defender and a respected leader, appeared to be in considerable pain and later returned to the sideline with his arm in a sling. Any significant time missed would be a major setback for the Chargers’ defense. A troubling trend also continues for Los Angeles: their running game remains ineffective. The team averaged just 3.3 yards per carry, marking the second consecutive week of struggles on the ground as opposing defenses consistently penetrate their offensive line.
Next game: vs. Broncos (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)
Raiders
Concerns surrounding the Raiders’ offensive line intensified after a poor performance in the trenches on Monday night. The unit allowed 16 pressures and three sacks while the offense was held to under 100 rushing yards for the second straight week. It was clear entering the season that Las Vegas’s offensive success would depend on its line play, and the unit’s issues from last season have so far carried over into 2025.
Next game: at Commanders (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Buccaneers
The Buccaneers have started the season 2-0 for the third consecutive year, a feat no other team has accomplished in that span. Hot starts have been a hallmark under coach Todd Bowles, but midseason lulls have also plagued the team. This year’s start is particularly impressive, as Tampa Bay has achieved it without key players like left tackle Tristan Wirfs and receiver Chris Godwin. According to the Elias Sports Bureau, the Bucs are the fifth team since 1970 to win their first two games despite trailing in the final two minutes of both contests; however, the previous four teams all failed to make the playoffs.
Next game: vs. Jets (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Texans
The Texans’ defense will need to carry the team until the offense finds its rhythm. Through two games, the offense has scored only two touchdowns, with quarterback C.J. Stroud totaling 395 passing yards and one score. While the defense has allowed 34 points, the offense has managed to put up just 28. A key contributor on defense has been Danielle Hunter, who recorded two of Houston’s four sacks on Monday to reach 101 for his career, a milestone achieved by only seven other active players.
Next game: at Jaguars (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Falcons
Atlanta’s rookie defenders made an immediate and collective impact on Sunday. Fourth-round pick Billy Bowman Jr. recorded an interception, while first-rounders Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. each had at least half a sack. Third-rounder Xavier Watts added a late interception of his own. The franchise was committed to improving a poor 2024 defense, and the early returns from its rookie class have been overwhelmingly positive. Meanwhile, kicker Parker Romo, signed just five days prior, made five field goals, tying for the second-most in a single game in Falcons history.
Next game: at Panthers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Vikings
The Vikings’ offense struggled mightily on Sunday night, managing a touchdown in only one of their eight quarters this season. Rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy experienced growing pains, taking six sacks and throwing two interceptions with an off-target rate of 24%. The problems were widespread, however, as injuries forced Minnesota to finish the game with its second-string center and third-string left tackle. The team managed only two offensive possessions of more than four plays. Adding to the concern, starting center Ryan Kelly was ruled out with a concussion, leaving his short-term status in doubt.
Next game: vs. Bengals (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Eagles
Rookie safety Andrew Mukuba emerged as a potential difference-maker for the Eagles’ defense, showcasing his collegiate playmaking ability. He thwarted a go-ahead drive for Kansas City early in the fourth quarter by intercepting a pass near the goal line. While he was run over by Patrick Mahomes on a third-down run and yielded a key fourth-down catch, Mukuba bounced back with a strong second half, providing a needed spark for a secondary that lost key veterans in the offseason. Newly acquired edge rusher Za’Darius Smith also made an immediate impact, posting four tackles and half a sack in his team debut.
Next game: vs. Rams (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Chiefs
The Chiefs’ offense struggled to find solutions in the second half, a problem highlighted by a perplexing fourth-and-1 playcall from their own 36-yard line that was stuffed for a loss. With key receivers injured or suspended, Patrick Mahomes couldn’t consistently find open targets against man coverage, and the rushing attack failed to create lanes. Too often, Mahomes was forced to play the role of superhero just to give Kansas City a chance, finishing with 187 passing yards, 66 rushing yards, and two touchdowns while playing behind a reshuffled offensive line.
Next game: at Giants (Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET)
Colts
The Colts delivered a clutch performance, overcoming a second-half deficit with a game-winning final drive. After a 316-yard passing day, the quarterback has surpassed expectations through the first two weeks. Running back Jonathan Taylor was a dominant force, rushing for 165 yards with a career-high 114 yards coming after contact. His performance, highlighted by a 68-yard run, marked his 25th career 100-yard game, the second-most in franchise history behind only Edgerrin James.
Next game: at Titans (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Broncos
The Broncos’ defense, stout in Week 1, was unexpectedly dismantled by the Colts. Indianapolis quarterback Daniel Jones had 236 passing yards by halftime, and the Colts offense produced three pass plays of over 40 yards in the first half alone. By the time the game ended, Indianapolis had eclipsed 400 total yards without punting once. The turning point came on the final play, when a leverage penalty on Denver nullified a missed 60-yard field goal, giving Colts kicker Spencer Shrader a successful second chance from 45 yards out for the win.
Next game: at Chargers (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)
Cardinals
The Cardinals face a potential crisis at cornerback after starters Max Melton (knee) and Garrett Williams (leg) both sustained injuries. Their absences forced rookies Will Johnson and Denzel Burke into primary roles on the outside. If either starter misses significant time, Arizona’s secondary depth will be severely tested. The game’s turning point was a 29-yard punt return by Greg Dortch late in the first half, which flipped field position and set up a touchdown. The Cardinals scored again on their opening drive of the second half to seize control.
Next game: at 49ers (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)
Panthers
An 0-2 start raises questions about patience in Carolina, but Bryce Young’s second-half resurgence may have bought him and the coaching staff more time. After committing two first-quarter turnovers, Young settled down and led a comeback attempt, finishing with a career-high 328 passing yards and three touchdowns. While the comeback fell short, it provided a glimmer of hope. The team suffered another blow as center Austin Corbett, who has battled numerous injuries, went down with another knee injury. “Football sucks, but I love this game so much,” said a visibly emotional Corbett after the game.
Next game: vs. Falcons (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Cowboys
Facing the prospect of an 0-2 start, the Cowboys engineered a dramatic comeback victory. Quarterback Dak Prescott led a last-minute touchdown drive to force overtime, where kicker Brandon Aubrey connected on a 64-yard game-tying field goal before hitting the 46-yard game-winner as time expired. It was an inconsistent performance from Prescott, who managed the clock poorly at times and threw an interception, but he was clutch when it mattered most, delivering a 71-yard touchdown drive late in regulation and making key plays in overtime to secure the critical win.
Next game: at Bears (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)
Giants
Russell Wilson’s performance should temporarily quiet calls for rookie Jaxson Dart, despite a costly overtime interception. Wilson was far more efficient than in Week 1, finishing 30-of-41 for 450 yards. He was particularly effective on deep passes, going 7-of-11 for 264 yards and three touchdowns on throws of 20-plus air yards. However, a stunning lack of discipline plagued the team. The Giants committed 14 penalties for 160 yards, a trend that ultimately cost them a chance to win.
Next game: vs. Chiefs (Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET)
Rams
Despite the victory, the Rams’ offense remains unbalanced. While top receivers Davante Adams (101 yards, TD) and Puka Nacua (91 yards, rushing TD) had big games, the duo accounted for 22 of the team’s 32 targets. Outside of Nacua’s 45-yard scoring run, the ground game struggled to gain traction. A trend to watch is the increased involvement of rookie running back Blake Corum, who played 30.5% of the offensive snaps and gained 44 yards and a touchdown on five carries, cutting into Kyren Williams’ workload.
Next game: at Eagles (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Titans
Rookie quarterback Cam Ward showed flashes of playmaking ability, highlighted by a touchdown pass where he scrambled 36 yards before finding receiver Elic Ayomanor. However, coach Brian Callahan leaned heavily on the run game until the Titans fell behind, suggesting he is not yet ready to expand Ward’s workload. Penalties continue to be a major issue, as Tennessee was flagged 10 times for 62 yards after committing 13 penalties in Week 1. A costly blindside block negated what would have been the franchise’s first punt return touchdown since 2012.
Next game: vs. Colts (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Lions
The Lions’ offense silenced doubters with a 52-point explosion, showcasing the high-powered unit many expected this season. After a lackluster Week 1, Detroit responded in dominant fashion against Chicago. Receivers Jameson Williams and Amon-Ra St. Brown both surpassed 100 receiving yards, with St. Brown finishing with nine catches for 115 yards and three touchdowns. With the win, Detroit has now won 16 straight regular-season games when leading at halftime, the longest active streak in the NFL.
Next game: at Ravens (Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET)
Bears
A 0-2 start has exposed significant issues for the Bears, highlighted by an embarrassing loss in Detroit. Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams was pulled for Tyson Bagent midway through the fourth quarter after an ineffective day. Penalties continue to plague the team, particularly along the offensive line, and the defense was gashed for numerous explosive plays. The 52 points allowed were the most the franchise has surrendered in a game since 2014, a troubling sign for a defense that was expected to improve.
Next game: vs. Cowboys (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)
Bengals
The Bengals secured a victory, but the status of quarterback Joe Burrow is the primary concern after he suffered a toe injury that will require surgery. In his absence, backup Jake Browning stepped in and, despite three interceptions, delivered two touchdown passes and a rushing score to keep the offense moving. If Burrow misses extended time, Browning has the experience to lead the offense. A lingering issue for Cincinnati is the run game, where Chase Brown has struggled to get going through the first two weeks.
Next game: at Vikings (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Jaguars
The Jaguars are still searching for ways to unlock receiver Brian Thomas Jr., who saw a team-high 12 targets but produced just 49 yards. The game’s turning point came with under four minutes remaining when, on fourth-and-5 from the Cincinnati 7-yard line, Thomas dropped a pass from Trevor Lawrence that would have resulted in a first down. Instead of attempting a field goal to extend their lead, the Jaguars turned the ball over on downs, and the Bengals subsequently drove 92 yards for the winning touchdown.
Next game: vs. Texans (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Seahawks
After a sluggish opener, the Seahawks’ offense came alive against the Steelers, raising hopes that their Week 1 struggles were an anomaly. Seattle’s run game found its footing, with Kenneth Walker III rushing for 105 yards and a touchdown, while quarterback Sam Darnold effectively spread the ball around. On defense, a potential breakout season is brewing for tackle Byron Murphy II, who recorded 1.5 sacks and three QB hits. The 2024 first-round pick appears poised to build on a solid rookie campaign.
Next game: vs. Saints (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)
Steelers
The Steelers’ Week 1 victory now looks more like an aberration after an error-prone performance against Seattle. The offense failed to capitalize on key opportunities, turning three turnovers and a missed field goal into just 10 points. Meanwhile, the defense was gashed on the ground and through the air. A massive mental lapse on a fourth-quarter kickoff, where a live ball was recovered by Seattle in the end zone for a touchdown, sealed the team’s fate and highlighted a day of self-inflicted wounds.
Next game: at Patriots (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
49ers
With Brock Purdy sidelined by toe and shoulder injuries, backup Mac Jones delivered a capable performance that should give the 49ers confidence. Jones finished 26-of-39 for 279 yards with three touchdowns and one lost fumble, proving more than good enough to secure the win. The game’s pivotal moment came from linebacker Fred Warner, who flew in to knock the ball loose from Saints running back Alvin Kamara and recover the fumble, stopping a promising New Orleans drive and preserving San Francisco’s lead.
Next game: vs. Cardinals (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)
Saints
An 0-2 start and a tough upcoming schedule put the Saints in danger of a winless September. While quarterback Spencer Rattler improved with three passing touchdowns, the team was once again plagued by self-inflicted wounds, including costly penalties, a missed field goal, and two fumbles. The defense failed to pressure Mac Jones and couldn’t get a stop on two late drives that could have won the game. A positive trend was the increased involvement of Alvin Kamara, who responded to a quiet Week 1 with 100 rushing yards and six catches.
Next game: at Seahawks (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)
Patriots
Rookie kicker Andy Borregales’ job security is in question after a rocky start to his career. The sixth-round pick missed two extra points in the first half on Sunday, adding to a missed field goal from the season opener. The game’s turning point came on a stunning 90-yard kickoff return for a touchdown by Antonio Gibson in the fourth quarter, which immediately answered a punt return score by Miami and proved to be the decisive play. After the win, quarterback Drake Maye made sure to secure the game ball for Mike Vrabel, marking the coach’s first victory with the Patriots.
Next game: vs. Steelers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Dolphins
The Dolphins’ offense showed signs of life after a poor Week 1, but inconsistency remains an issue. Explosive plays returned to the passing game, but the running game has yet to take off, managing only 61 yards. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa threw two first-half touchdowns and looked more in sync with his receivers, but he also threw a costly interception on a potential go-ahead drive in the fourth quarter. He finished the day 26-of-32 for 315 yards but couldn’t deliver in the game’s most critical moments.
Next game: at Bills (Sunday, 8:15 p.m. ET)
Ravens
The Ravens demonstrated their resilience, bouncing back from a Week 1 loss with a decisive victory over the Browns. Baltimore is now 13-2 following a loss since 2022, the second-best mark in the NFL. Unlike last week, the Ravens protected a double-digit fourth-quarter lead, sealing the win with a 63-yard fumble return touchdown by Roquan Smith. A remarkable trend continued for rookie receiver Devontez Walker, who caught two touchdown passes, meaning all three of his career NFL receptions have gone for scores.
Next game: vs. Lions (Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET)
Browns
The Browns’ offense remains a major concern after another stagnant performance. Despite the debut of rookie running back Quinshon Judkins, Cleveland’s run game was nonexistent for most of the game. Until the Browns can establish their ground attack, which is the foundation of their offense, the unit will continue to face an uphill battle. “S—‘s embarrassing,” star defensive end Myles Garrett said after the loss. “Eventually the dam broke and they just did whatever they want.”
Next game: vs. Packers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Bills
The Bills delivered an encouraging and dominant defensive performance, even while shorthanded by injuries. Buffalo held the Jets to just 154 total yards and 0-for-11 on third-down conversions, with defensive end Joey Bosa leading the charge with six pressures and a sack. Offensively, the team showed strong balance, rushing for 194 yards between the tackles—their most in a game since 2022. James Cook led the way with a complete performance, totaling 132 yards and two touchdowns on 21 carries.
Next game: vs. Dolphins (Sunday, 8:15 p.m. ET)
Jets
Two weeks into the season, it’s unclear who the real Jets are. After an encouraging performance in their opening loss, the team was flat and physically outmatched in a feeble defeat to the Bills. New York was dominated in the trenches on both sides of the ball. Quarterback Justin Fields went from one of the best games of his career to one of the worst, struggling with accuracy and decision-making before exiting with a concussion. The Jets will need more consistency from their quarterback to avoid another losing season.
Next game: at Buccaneers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Packers
The Packers are forging a new identity built on a dominant defense. The unit set the tone on Thursday night, registering 12 hits on Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels. Cornerback Keisean Nixon added five pass breakups. While the offense had its moments, with Jordan Love throwing for 292 yards and two touchdowns, it’s the defensive side of the ball that has established itself as the strength of this team through two impressive wins.
Next game: at Browns (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Commanders
Washington faces a tough test in bouncing back from a lopsided loss that exposed multiple issues. Quarterback Jayden Daniels was pressured on 46% of his dropbacks, and the team’s pass protection must improve immediately. The team’s depth will also be tested following injuries to key leaders, including running back Austin Ekeler and defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. Offensively, a key trend to watch is the lack of connection between Daniels and star receiver Terry McLaurin, which has so far limited the team’s ability to create explosive plays.
Next game: vs. Raiders (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
