Throughout Week 3, we played the game of “Who’s that quarterback?” “What team does Tyrod Taylor play for?” “What about Marcus Mariota?” “Mac Jones isn’t on the Patriots anymore.” There were 23 interceptions thrown, with four being converted for a pick-six. For full team rosters, see Week 0’s issue.
First and Lowell (2-0) vs Bring it Dome (1-1): 81.94-143.92
Top performers: De’Von Achane (16.1) | James Cook (20.8)
Underperformers: Ravens D/ST (-6.0) | Ja’Marr Chase (8.9)
Kirkland Cousins (1-1) vs Pfirst Down (1-1): 82.34-156.24
Top performers: Vikings D/ST (32.0) | Jonathan Taylor (32.8)
Underperformers: Jameson Williams (6.3) | Malik Nabers (3.3)
The Ball Curriers (0-2) vs The Inn-Zone (1-1): 83.54-119.82
Top performers: Kyren Williams (19.2) | Garrett Wilson (24.4)
Underperformers: Zay Flower (3.3) | Chris Boswell (3.0)
Standout Games:
Dolphins @ Bills: 21-31
Although the Bills were the heavy favorites, they failed to fulfill blowout expectations. With three minutes left on the clock, the Dolphins were in a position to tie the game. Then, an interception by linebacker Terrel Bernard ended all hope of a comeback. Offensively, Josh Allen utilized all of the Bills’ weapons: James Cook, Dalton Kincaid, and Khalil Shakir. Because Tua mainly threw checkdowns for minimal yards, the late-game interception was no surprise. Soon, the Dolphins may need to consider big changes to their coaching staff or even quarterback room.
Steelers @ Patriots: 21-14
While the Steelers won the game, the New England Patriots were more convincing offensively as Drake Maye picked up 268 passing yards to Rodgers’ 139. Still, the Patriots just could not hold onto the ball. Five turnovers throughout the game kept New England from racking up two more scores. New England saw an end-of-half interception and a fumble, both of which occurred in the Pittsburgh end zone. Drake Maye seemed to outplay Aaron Rodgers; however, the inexperience of the former showed as Maye was sacked five times despite an elite O-Line. As for the Steelers: a win is a win, but offensive consistency is a problem that should be the focus for this weekend.
Rams @ Eagles: 26-33
The reigning Super Bowl champions crawl away with another win. The Rams’ defense suffocated Barkley’s rushes and forced Hurts to the ground, leading Philadelphia 19-7 at halftime. In the first quarter, Matthew Stafford connected with Devonte Adams for a touchdown, and Kyren Williams had many reps with 20 carries for 94 yards. However, the Eagles made adjustments as Hurts racked up three touchdowns. A.J. Brown finally had double-digit targets, six of which he hauled in for receptions. With seconds remaining in the game, the Eagles led by one point with the Rams in field goal range. However, the Eagles blocked the kick and recovered the ball for a 61-yard touchdown to seal the game.
Texans @ Jaguars: 10-17
The stats allude to a defensive battle, but in reality, it was just two teams struggling on offense. CJ Stroud continues to look uncomfortable as he was unable to make big plays, though that may be due to a poor offensive line. Nico Collins turned on the jets and scored a wide-open 50-yard touchdown, but fumbled minutes later, securing Jacksonville’s victory. As for the Jaguars, Trevor Lawrence is in a nebulous state where he is an above-average quarterback but nowhere near a superstar level. Lawrence attempted 40 passes but only connected on half. Still, while Lawrence’s accuracy leaves much to be desired, the Jaguars moved to a deceptive 2-1.
Lions @ Ravens: 38-30
For the final game of the week, the Lions-Ravens game saw great offensive play from both teams before the Lions ultimately ran away with the win. For most of the game, the Ravens’ offense was great as Lamar Jackson threw for three touchdowns and Derrick Henry ran for a fourth. Nevertheless, a punched-out fumble by Aidan Hutchinson allowed the Lions to increase their lead to double digits. Though Lamar was good, his five sacks and indecisive moments should be noted. Jared Goff did not play as well as Jackson but still had a solid game, racking up a touchdown and 200 yards. The Detroit defense came in clutch multiple times, preventing Baltimore from any chance for a fourth-quarter comeback. Overall, this game was a great one to finish the week.
Injuries continue to plague the league (many of the players on the fantasy teams have had to fill their injury reserve spots). Next week, two undefeated teams face off as the Eagles travel south to Tampa Bay. Two surprisingly 1-3 teams play each other in the Baltimore and Kansas City game. Finally, on Monday, we will see four of the five winless teams battle it out when the Jets play the Dolphins and the Titans match against the Texans.
Tyler Dang ’28 (tylerdang@college.harvard.edu) believes the Titans will beat the Texans.
