Week 2 of the NFL season is always a critical juncture. While Week 1 often delivers surprising results, teams that stumble early face immense pressure to avoid an 0-2 start, a historically difficult hole to climb out of. Here are five teams feeling the heat after underwhelming Week 1 performances:
**Baltimore Ravens:** After a stunning collapse against the Buffalo Bills, surrendering a 15-point lead in the final minutes, the Ravens must respond decisively. Despite their undeniable talent and Super Bowl aspirations, the loss left a bitter taste. Hosting the Cleveland Browns presents a crucial opportunity to right the ship and avoid a disastrous start.
**Detroit Lions:** The Lions, brimming with high expectations, were thoroughly outplayed by the Green Bay Packers in Week 1. The coaching changes made in the offseason haven't yielded immediate results, leaving head coach Dan Campbell needing to quickly regroup. A home game against the Chicago Bears is paramount; an 0-2 record would put their playoff hopes in serious jeopardy.
**Dallas Cowboys:** The Cowboys battled hard in their opening game against the Philadelphia Eagles, losing a close contest despite the earlier trade of Micah Parsons. Despite the challenging circumstances, including playing on the road against the reigning Super Bowl champions, a home game against the New York Giants offers a crucial chance to bounce back. An 0-2 start against divisional rivals would significantly dampen their season outlook.
**Kansas City Chiefs:** The reigning Super Bowl champions suffered a tough loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, adding to the pressure already present after their Super Bowl defeat. Injuries to key players and defensive inconsistencies compounded their problems. Now facing a Super Bowl rematch against the Eagles, the Chiefs must prove their mettle or risk a season-defining 0-2 start amidst a competitive AFC West.
**New York Giants:** Quarterback Daniel Jones finds himself under intense scrutiny after a lackluster Week 1 performance. Coach Brian Daboll's unwavering support is crucial, but another disappointing performance in Dallas could see Jones replaced by first-round pick Jaxson Dart. The pressure is immense, and Jones's future with the Giants hangs in the balance.
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Originally published at: https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/1079353/nflweek-2-pressure-chiefs-dan-campbell
