The NFL's relentless pace demands immediate impact. Unlike baseball's leisurely start or the broader playoff berths in basketball and hockey, an 0-2 start in football often spells doom for postseason aspirations. Historically, only a small percentage of teams beginning the season with two losses have managed to reach the playoffs. This Week 2 features several high-profile teams fighting to avoid that fate, including the Chiefs, Lions, and Ravens.
One critical clash is the Lions versus the Bears, a pivotal NFC North battle where the loser will find themselves in the division's basement with two divisional losses. In Kansas City, the Chiefs face a rematch against the Eagles, seeking redemption after their Super Bowl LVII defeat.
Let's delve into five crucial Week 2 matchups:
**1. Jaguars vs. Bengals:** This clash of undefeated teams in Cincinnati hinges on Jacksonville's ability to pressure Joe Burrow. The Bengals' offensive line faltered in Week 1, allowing several hits on Burrow. Can the Jaguars replicate the Browns' success by disrupting Burrow's pocket? Their success relies on generating pressure without relying heavily on blitzes, given their relatively low blitz percentage in Week 1. A strong pass rush is crucial to offset the Bengals' potent receiving duo of Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.
**Verdict:** Bengals 27, Jaguars 24
**2. Lions vs. Bears:** This game boils down to which team can unlock its passing game. Caleb Williams, despite impressive early performance, showed accuracy issues in his debut. The Lions' defensive line also needs improvement after failing to pressure Jordan Love in Week 1. Jared Goff, meanwhile, largely relied on short passes in Week 1, needing to demonstrate more deep-ball accuracy. The Lions' offensive line also needs a better performance after struggling against the Packers.
**Verdict:** Lions 24, Bears 19
**3. Chiefs vs. Eagles (Super Bowl LVII Rematch):** This rematch lacks the Super Bowl intensity but carries huge implications for the Chiefs, coming off a loss to the Chargers. With injuries and suspensions affecting their receiving corps, Patrick Mahomes will need strong performances from his remaining receivers and increased contributions from Travis Kelce and the run game. The Chiefs' offensive line must protect Mahomes against Philadelphia's formidable defensive front.
**Verdict:** Eagles 27, Chiefs 23
**4. Buccaneers vs. Texans:** Tampa Bay's running game needs a significant boost after a weak performance in Week 1. Tristan Wirfs' absence adds to the offensive line's challenges. Containing Houston's strong defensive front, featuring Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter, is crucial. If the Buccaneers can establish the run and ease pressure on Baker Mayfield, their chances improve dramatically.
**Verdict:** Buccaneers 22, Texans 16
**5. Raiders vs. Chargers:** This matchup features a tactical battle between Jesse Minter (Chargers DC) and Chip Kelly (Raiders HC). Minter must devise a plan to contain Geno Smith after his impressive 362-yard passing performance in Week 1. The Chargers' secondary will also need to improve after allowing a significant yardage total in the second half of their previous game. The Raiders will need to find more success on the ground to balance their offensive approach.
**Verdict:** Raiders 24, Chargers 23
---
Originally published at: https://www.si.com/nfl/key-matchups-biggest-week-two-nfl-games
