Week 3 of the NFL season is upon us, and the league is grappling with a significant quarterback injury crisis. Five teams – the Bengals, Commanders, Vikings, Jets, and 49ers – are expected to be without their starting quarterbacks on Sunday. This unprecedented wave of injuries casts a long shadow over the week's games, adding another layer of intrigue to already compelling matchups.
The Bengals' absence of Joe Burrow, in particular, is a major storyline. While their game against the injury-riddled Vikings presents an opportunity for a win, analysts are divided on the team's long-term prospects without their star quarterback. Some believe the Bengals are in trouble, highlighting their reliance on Burrow to mask existing offensive weaknesses, while others are more optimistic, pointing to the potential of backup quarterback Jake Browning to keep them afloat for the short term.
Meanwhile, the Vikings' situation with their quarterback position is just as uncertain. The team's decision to turn to Carson Wentz raises questions about their ability to compete at a high level. The performance of their offensive line will also significantly influence their success, regardless of who is under center. This game presents a valuable opportunity to gauge both teams' resilience and depth.
Another highly anticipated matchup is the rematch between the Los Angeles Rams and Philadelphia Eagles. This clash pits an aging Rams offense against a young and promising Eagles defense. The Rams' ability to perform against a high-level opponent will serve as a critical test of their playoff aspirations, while the Eagles will look to solidify their early-season success. The game's outcome could significantly shift the perception of both teams as contenders for the NFC title.
The Kansas City Chiefs' game against the New York Giants is another key encounter. While the Chiefs are favored to win, analysts are cautious about predicting a blowout victory, citing the injuries within the Chiefs' receiving corps and the potential for a resurgence from quarterback Daniel Jones. The Chiefs desperately need this win to avoid falling into a deep early season hole, as a 0-3 start would significantly hinder their playoff chances.
Finally, the Detroit Lions' game against the Baltimore Ravens promises a high-scoring showdown between two teams brimming with potential. Lamar Jackson's dynamic abilities for the Ravens will pose a significant threat to the Lions' secondary, while Jared Goff's performance will be key to the Lions' chances of securing a win. This game will provide crucial insight into both teams' capabilities and ability to sustain their early-season momentum. In short, Week 3 of the NFL season will be filled with pivotal matchups, showcasing the resilience of some teams and the fragility of others in the face of adversity.
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Originally published at: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6645633/2025/09/20/week-3-nfl-roundtable-qb-injuries-rams-eagles-chiefs-giants/
