From the New England Patriots’ positive start full of promise to Oakland Raiders’ shaky defence, there was no shortage of talking points as the new season got underway.
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PATRIOTS WILL WIN THE AFC EAST
Unlike past years, this wasn’t just a formality heading into this season. The rest of the AFC East had a four-game headstart on the Patriots with Tom Brady serving his suspension, but the Jets, Bills and Dolphins all lost their openers while New England looked strong under Jimmy Garoppolo. We’re only one week in, but that window looks to have shut.
REVIS IS NO LONGER ELITE
In what was billed as maybe the most intriguing one-on-one match-up, Cincinnati’s A.J. Green didn’t just get the better of NY Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis, he destroyed him. Green enjoyed his time on ‘Revis Island’ as he hauled in 12 catches on 13 targets for 180 yards and a score. Revis is still a good player, but at age 31, he’s no longer the dominant force he once was.
RAIDERS DEFENCE STILL LACKING
Last year, Oakland’s defence surrendered the seventh-most passing yards, so they went out and improved the unit in the offseason. But after struggling to contain Saints quarterback Drew Brees’ air assault, it’s yet to be seen how much better they will be. One of their new additions, cornerback Sean Smith, was burned so badly on a 98-yard score that he was benched.
BILLS COULD BE IN TROUBLE
No offence had as putrid of a day as Buffalo’s did. They totalled just 160 yards and quarterback Tyrod Taylor could get nothing going as he often faced pressure. Now there’s news that wide receiver Sammy Watkins is dealing with a foot injury that could cause him to miss time. All of this spells bad news for head coach Rex Ryan, who should be on the hot seat.
OTHERS FOLLOWING KAEPERNICK
Close eyes were kept on the various games during the national anthem and a number of players didn’t disappoint as they followed Colin Kaepernick’s example by either kneeling or raising their fist. Kaepernick has clearly started a movement and it’s gaining more and more followers who feel confident enough to express themselves.