2023 NFL season, Week 1: Insights And Highlights

The 2023 NFL season has kicked off with an exciting Week 1. In the early games, the San Francisco 49ers, led by a healthy Brock Purdy, continued their winning ways, while the Cleveland Browns put the brakes on Joe Burrow. Several rookies made impressive debuts.

Tua Tagovailoa and the Miami Dolphins emerged victorious in a high-scoring clash against Justin Herbert's Los Angeles Chargers. Jordan Love smoothly assumed the role of the Green Bay Packers' starting quarterback, and the Denver Broncos struggled to find the end zone once again.

Our NFL Nation reporters are here to break down the action, address lingering questions from each game, and identify the rising and falling aspects of each team. Let's dive into it.

Key Highlights from Sunday's Games in the 2023 NFL Season, Week 1

Joe Burrow's Struggles: Joe Burrow, the NFL's highest-paid player, had a tough season opener, with the Cincinnati Bengals losing 24-3 to the Cleveland Browns.

Jordan Love's Strong Start: In Chicago, the Green Bay Packers, under Jordan Love, began their season on a positive note by defeating the Bears 38-20.

Impressive Debut on Social Media: The show's TikTok page rapidly gained 630,000 followers within two weeks, while the show's social media handles attracted over 1 million followers post-launch.

Tyreek Hill Shines: Tyreek Hill had a standout performance for the Miami Dolphins, recording 11 receptions, 215 yards, and 2 touchdowns, including a game-winning TD.

Quay Walker's Pick-Six: In a rough game for the Chicago Bears, linebacker Quay Walker intercepted a pass from Justin Fields and returned it for a 42-yard pick-six.

 

Geno Smith's Moment with Aaron Donald: Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith narrowly avoided a sack by Aaron Donald, reacting with an audible expression of "Oh, my God."

Aaron Jones' Explosive Play: Aaron Jones of the Green Bay Packers had a pivotal 51-yard play, setting up a touchdown and extending their lead over the Chicago Bears.

Ja'Marr Chase's Frustration: After the Cincinnati Bengals' loss to the Cleveland Browns, wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase expressed frustration, referring to the Browns as "elves."

TJ Watt Ties Sack Record: Despite the Pittsburgh Steelers' struggles, TJ Watt tied the team record for career sacks, matching James Harrison's 80.5 sacks.

Injury Updates: Several players suffered injuries during Week 1, including J.K. Dobbins, Diontae Johnson, and Jaycee Horn.

Notable Touchdowns: Bryce Young threw his first NFL touchdown pass for the Panthers, and Calvin Ridley scored his first touchdown since 2021 for the Jaguars.

Surprises and Glitches: The NFL season opener saw some unexpected surprises, including an on-side kick by the Denver Broncos, and there were reported glitches with the NFL.com fantasy football app.

Week 1 Picks and Odds: NFL experts provided their Week 1 picks, and there were notable odds for various matchups.

Fantasy Football Rankings: Updated fantasy football rankings for Week 1 were made available for fantasy enthusiasts.

Inactive Players: Rashaad Penny was a surprising healthy scratch for the Philadelphia Eagles, while Mark Andrews was inactive for the Baltimore Ravens due to injury.

Active Stars: Nick Bosa and George Kittle were active for the San Francisco 49ers despite injury concerns.

Key Figures Missing: The Denver Broncos were expected to be without receiver Jerry Jeudy, who had a hamstring injury.

Payton's Debut: Sean Payton made his debut as the head coach of the Denver Broncos with an unexpected on-side kick in the season opener against the Las Vegas Raiders.