NFL 2018/19: Major Talking Points From Week 1

Buffalo Bills v Baltimore Ravens
Buffalo Bills v Baltimore Ravens

3. Aaron Freaking Rodgers

Chicago Bears v Green Bay Packers
Chicago Bears v Green Bay Packers

Packers fans went from absolute despair to pure elation in the space of 3 quarters during Sunday night's late game. The highly hyped Bears rolled in to Lambeau with all the confidence in the world, after acquiring defensive player Khalil Mack via trade with the Oakland Raiders.

They got out to a big lead and even more importantly, Aaron Rodgers was carted off with a knee injury, much to the despair of cheeseheads around the world. Then midway through the 3rd quarter, with the Packers trailing by 20 points, Rodgers sauntered out of the tunnel to take his place under center.

We all knew what would happen next. Rodgers led the Packers to a field goal and 3 TDs to win the game 23-24 in one of the best comebacks in recent years. Not only that, but he did it on one leg. Incredible.


4. Tyreek the Freak

Kansas City Chiefs v Los Angeles Chargers
Kansas City Chiefs v Los Angeles Chargers

Wow. What a start to the season Tyreek Hill made. He took his first touch, a punt return, 91 yards for a touchdown. Then a few minutes later he took a slant route 58 yards for another TD. He would finish the game with 7 receptions for 169 yards, 2 TDs as well as the punt return TD.

It was a highly impressive display from Hill, where he truly looked unstoppable. His speed is a gamechanger and makes him so hard to cover, regardless of whether it's man or zonal coverage. Many people were down on Hill this offseason, me included, and thought he wouldn’t have what it takes to become a true WR1 and a top 12 receiver in this league. Well Tyreek, I apologise, I was very, very wrong.


5. James Conner > Leveon Bell

Pittsburgh Steelers v Cleveland Browns
Pittsburgh Steelers v Cleveland Browns

Okay, I’m joking, but what an awesome individual display it was by James Conner in the absence of Bell. Bell must have been slightly put out when he saw that another back could have just as much success behind that awesome Pittsburgh offensive line.

Conner took his opportunity with both hands, totalling 192 yards on 31 carries and 5 receptions. Conner also found the end zone two times as well as playing 100% of the Steelers' offensive snaps. The only blot on his report was a fumble in the 4th quarter which ended up taking the game in to overtime, with the matchup eventually ending in a draw. Regardless, it was an impressive display from the back up running back.

As of Wednesday evening (UK time), Bell hasn’t reported to Steelers practice, therefore Conner will be the workhorse back against the Kansas City Chiefs.

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