Week 3 of the NFL’s 2024 season was filled with surprises, standout performances, and some nail-biting finishes. Whether you missed the action or want a detailed breakdown, this article will cover everything you need to know from Week 3, including the top takeaways, game recaps, and key player performances.
From Aaron Rodgers’ clutch performance to Lamar Jackson’s NFC dominance, we’ll dive deep into each game and analyze what it means for the teams moving forward. Let’s break down the highlights from NFL Week 3 2024.
New York Jets Outlast New England Patriots: Rodgers Shines Again
New York Jets Outlast New England Patriots: Rodgers Shines Again
The New York Jets came into Week 3 looking to solidify their standing in the AFC East, and they did just that with a 24-19 victory over the New England Patriots. Veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers led the way, throwing for 281 yards and two touchdowns, proving once again why he’s one of the best in the league.
Key Takeaways:
Patriots Defense Struggles: The Patriots’ defense allowed too many big plays, which ultimately cost them the game.
Rodgers in Command: Aaron Rodgers put on a masterclass, showing poise in the pocket and making key throws in critical moments.
Kansas City Chiefs Edge Out Atlanta Falcons, but Red Zone Struggles Continue
The Kansas City Chiefs managed to pull off a 22-17 win against the Atlanta Falcons, but their inability to finish drives in the red zone raises some concerns. The Chiefs had to settle for three field goals in key situations, continuing a troubling trend for their offense.
Key Takeaways:
- Red Zone Woes: Despite moving the ball efficiently, the Chiefs struggled to convert in the red zone, a recurring issue this season.
- Undrafted Rookie Shines: With Isiah Pacheco out, the Chiefs leaned on Carson Steele, who rushed for 72 yards in an impressive performance.
Baltimore Ravens Hold Off Dallas Cowboys in Late Thriller
The Baltimore Ravens narrowly avoided a late-game collapse but managed to secure a 28-25 win over the Dallas Cowboys. Lamar Jackson was stellar early, extending his record to 21-1 against NFC teams, but the Ravens’ defense nearly let a 22-point fourth-quarter lead slip away.
Key Takeaways:
- Lamar Jackson Dominates: Jackson’s ability to manage the game and make plays both in the air and on the ground continues to elevate the Ravens.
- Defensive Concerns: The Ravens’ secondary needs to tighten up, as they’ve now allowed big comebacks in consecutive weeks.
Philadelphia Eagles Take Down New Orleans Saints in Defensive Showdown
In a game dominated by defense, the Philadelphia Eagles came away with a 15-12 victory over the New Orleans Saints. Both defenses were outstanding, but the Eagles managed to make just enough plays to win their defensive slugfest.
Key Takeaways:
- Eagles’ Defensive Dominance: Philadelphia’s defensive front continued to wreak havoc, limiting the Saints’ high-powered offense.
- Questionable Playcalling: Coach Nick Sirianni’s decision-making on crucial fourth-down plays nearly cost the Eagles the game.
Detroit Lions Defense Shines in Win Over Arizona Cardinals
The Detroit Lions came away with a gritty 20-13 win over the Arizona Cardinals, thanks in large part to their stellar defensive performance. Aidan Hutchinson set a team record by logging a sack in his fifth consecutive game, putting pressure on the Cardinals’ offense all day.
Key Takeaways:
- Jared Goff’s Turnovers: Goff played a relatively clean game but was intercepted by Dennis Gardeck in the third quarter, continuing his turnover issues.
- Aidan Hutchinson’s Dominance: Hutchinson is quickly becoming one of the best defensive players in the league, with 6.5 sacks already this season.
Rams Pull Off Stunning Comeback Against San Francisco 49ers
The Los Angeles Rams managed to turn their season around with a 27-24 comeback win over the San Francisco 49ers. After starting the season 0-2, the Rams orchestrated a fourth-quarter rally to secure their first win of the season.
Key Takeaways:
- Kyren Williams Steps Up: Williams scored three touchdowns, proving to be the focal point of the Rams’ offense.
- 49ers Struggling: Missing key players like Christian McCaffrey and Deebo Samuel, the 49ers’ offense struggled to find consistency.
Seattle Seahawks Cruise to Victory Over Dolphins Despite Injuries
The Seattle Seahawks continued their hot start with a 24-3 win over the Miami Dolphins, but injuries are beginning to pile up. The Seahawks are now 3-0, but concerns about their offensive line and key defensive injuries could slow them down in upcoming weeks.
Key Takeaways:
- Injury Concerns: The Seahawks are down to their third-string right tackle and lost key defensive players like Leonard Williams and Byron Murphy II.
- Sloppy Yet Effective: Despite committing 11 penalties, the Seahawks’ defense dominated, keeping the Dolphins’ struggling offense in check.
Skylar Thompson was hit hard in the second quarter, which forced him to exit the game due to a painful rib injury. The Dolphins’ backup quarterback was slow to get up and was eventually helped off the field by trainers. This injury leaves the Dolphins in a difficult situation, with Tyler Huntley possibly stepping in next week.
Conclusion
Week 3 of the NFL 2024 season provided fans with thrilling games, breakout performances, and unexpected surprises. Teams like the Ravens and Chiefs showed both brilliance and areas for improvement, while players like Aidan Hutchinson and Lamar Jackson continued to solidify their status as top talents in the league. As we move forward into Week 4, there will be plenty of storylines to follow.
Stay tuned for more updates and analysis on NFL Week 4, and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news and expert breakdowns.
