NFL Opinion: Early Season Illustrates Bright Spots and Problems -

Heading into Week Three of the 2023 NFL season, you can see teams pressing while others confidently walk into the weekend.

No one ever said life in the NFL would be easy. However, you can see certain teams and players succeed despite the pressure. In the meat grinder of pro football, even the earliest weeks can paint a picture of future results.

Turn For the Worst

Justin Fields sits at an early-career crossroads where the time to improve must start on and off the field. From criticizing Matt Nagy to lamenting the poor draft strategy, Fields always enjoyed that out. Now, with 0-3 looking like a strong possibility, we need to look into the third-year quarterback. First, is Fields a lost cause? No. With his athletic ability, potential arises for him to improve his play and excel at this level. Next, what’s the problem? For the most part, Fields looks quick to tuck and run instead of extending the play, allowing for receivers to get free. Also, blaming coaching for his 5-22 record is the poorest of looks. Sitting down and being humble remains a clear option. According to Football Reference, 11 of Fields’ throws after two games were considered bad. Last year, that number sat at 59 during the whole season.

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Riverboat Ron Finally Wakes Up

After watching career backups and first-round busts litter the quarterback position in Washington, the Commanders finally thought right. In picking Sam Howell, Washington decided to choose a player with familiarity. Eric Bieniemy and Howell fit seamlessly. Granted, a few of the offensive players bristled at their offensive coordinator’s approach. Yet, Washington’s offense ranks fifth in first downs and rushing touchdowns. As a result, Howell can work vertically against teams that decide to stack the box. Howell is athletic enough to move the pocket and smart enough to get the ball out quickly. The Commanders aren’t stomping defenses out. They continue to efficiently move the ball and play smart football. Rivera needs a decent season to impress the new owner. Can he actually keep things rolling?

Major Issues Ahead

Yesterday, Dallas Cowboys’ cornerback Trevon Diggs tore his anterior cruciate ligament in his knee. Diggs led the statistically best secondary in the NFL during the first two weeks. What this does will embolden offenses to take more chances. Granted, Micah Parsons still lurks near the back field, but negating him with playing with pace will ultimately hurt Dallas. As a result, what this does is force Dan Quinn’s defense to have the offense dictate to them. Diggs’ loss looms large as the NFC teems with teams that really want to not just pass, but throw the ball with confidence and conviction. Granted, the Cowboys enjoy a breather for a couple of weeks. They face the Cardinals and Patriots before lining up against the Niners. Now, who steps up and starts to make plays?