AFC West Week 2 Recap
After an exciting Week 1 of Football and the AFC West going undefeated. This week took a turn of events as the AFC West went 2-2 in Week 2. Tied at the top are the Raiders and Broncos with an undefeated 2-0 record, then after that, you have the Chargers and Chiefs who are 1-1 after close losses to the Cowboys and Ravens.
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Going into Week 2, the Raiders came off an exciting Monday Night Football overtime victory over the Ravens. The Raiders entering undefeated took on a tough Steelers team that recently defeated the Buffalo Bills. What stood out in the game was Carr’s ability in the pocket to find his receivers and move the chains, converting long plays on crucial downs. One play that sealed the win was the deep pass to Ruggs. What made that play special was Carr’s time in the pocket and the offense's ability to run through the Steelers defense in that particular time without TJ Watt. Overall, this game proved how legitimate this Raiders passing offense can be this season. I believe the Raiders can be an underrated team that has a genuine shot at being contenders thanks to their two wins over two tough AFC North opponents.
The Las Vegas Raiders Week 3 opponent will be the Miami Dolphins on the road.
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The Broncos came into Jacksonville with a packed TIAA Bank Field full of orange jerseys almost sounding similar to that of a home game. The Broncos coming off a dominant win over Giants looked to carry their momentum into this game. Which I can say they did. What started out with a Jacksonville touchdown ended with the in Broncos victory formation near the endzone. As you saw big games from Courtland Sutton, Teddy Bridgewater, Javonte Williams, Noah Fant, and the defense particularly Kareem Jackson and Pat Surtain II with interceptions. Although there were questionable officiating, the Broncos took advantage of opportunities and return home 2-0 to an ecstatic Broncos Country.
The Denver Broncos Week 3 opponent will be home against the New York Jets at Empower Field.
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Early on, what looked to be reminiscent of their previous matchup back in 2020 with the Chiefs beating the Ravens 34-20. This game was a tale of momentum shifts and the Ravens taking advantage of the Chiefs turnovers. Throughout the game, Kansas City was setting the tone on offense thanks to the elite playmaking of Mahomes, Kelce, and the rest of the crew. However, in the second half, a couple of issues the Chiefs did have was a lack of urgency and that they could not stop the run especially Lamar Jackson scrambling. Also to credit the Ravens, they had a perfect coverage plan on Tyreek Hill as he was limited to 14 yards. Forcing Kelce, Pringle, Hardman, and Robinson to be Mahomes primary targets. Lastly, although the chiefs lost by one point, their turnovers were the main reason why they lost. Particularly Mahomes interception as he was being brought to the ground and Clyde Edwards-Helaire’s fumble leading the Ravens to come back and win the game.
The Kansas City Chiefs Week 3 opponent will be a home game versus the Los Angeles Chargers at Arrowhead Stadium.
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What look to be an even matchup between the Los Angeles Chargers and Dallas Cowboys, ended in a game-winning field goal by Greg Zuerlein. The Chargers entering the game were undefeated however as the game progressed the Dallas offense and a depleted Cowboys defense were able to make the game close. Noticeable thoughts about the game occurred in the first half as Hebert and run game able to convert on plays. The Dallas defensive line was able to pressure Herbert in the pocket and the secondary was able to capitalize on interceptions. Another aspect that the Chargers did have trouble within the game was the duo of Elliott and Pollard who combined for 180 rushing yards, 57 receiving yards, and two touchdowns. Overall the Chargers were good on offense but settled for the field goal too many times. In the end, the defense just couldn’t make the necessary stops to win the game.
The Los Angeles Chargers Week 3 travel to Kansas City to play the Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium.
