On Football delves into major discussions surrounding the NFL week by week. For more insightful analysis from On Football, please continue reading.
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As the NFL season progresses into its ninth week, nine teams find themselves in dire straits, with minimal chances of turning things around. The teams currently struggling are the Patriots, Raiders, Jaguars, Browns, Giants, Saints, and Panthers, all holding a record of 2-7, while the Dolphins and Titans sit slightly better at 2-6.
In contrast, 11 teams have secured at least six victories, leading to questions about the balance of competition within the league. The NFL has historically aimed to maintain a level playing field, ensuring all teams remain competitive for as long as possible. However, with over 28% of the teams potentially heading toward the second half of the season focused on improving their draft positions, that vision appears to be elusive this year.
The Miami Dolphins, despite their current struggles, still exhibit potential for a turnaround with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa back in action and performing admirably. During Tua’s absence due to a concussion, the Dolphins managed a disappointing 1-3 record, averaging only 10 points per game. Since his return, however, they have scored 27 points in both of their games, albeit with no wins to show for it. Oddsmakers recognize this change, making Miami just a single point underdog for their upcoming road game against the Los Angeles Rams (4-4) this Monday night.
Head coach Mike McDaniel expressed his determination for improvement, emphasizing the need for progress amidst the challenges faced this season. “I believe in real hope. The true measure is whether our gameplay is improving and whether we’re meeting standards,” he stated recently. He understands that while losses can be disheartening, they must not distract from the effort to improve. McDaniel highlighted the importance of performance consistency and mastering their playing style.
Interestingly, the Dolphins are among just two teams with two wins that competed in the playoffs last season, the other being Cleveland. Both of these teams finished with an 11-6 record but fell in the AFC wild-card round. The Jaguars, Saints, and Giants entered the season with hopes of postseason appearances, with Jacksonville being particularly notable after winning the AFC South last year. However, under coach Doug Pederson, they have struggled mightily, losing five matches by a mere five points or fewer.
“You’ve got to rebuild their confidence,” Pederson remarked. “I must hold them accountable and ensure they’re prepared for future challenges. It’s crucial to identify what is currently hampering our progress.”
The Giants, who made playoffs last year under coach Brian Daboll’s leadership, have faced setbacks this season despite having their quarterback, Daniel Jones, return from injury. “Every coach and player is dedicated to finding ways to win,” Daboll noted. “When results don’t match the effort, it can be frustrating. My responsibility is to support and lead these players; the accountability falls on me, not them.”
After starting the season with a 2-0 record, the Saints have seen their fortunes dwindle since Week 3, resulting in the loss of coach Dennis Allen’s position this week. Meanwhile, the Panthers, Patriots, and Titans were anticipated to face rebuilding phases, so their current struggles aren’t shocking. Nonetheless, the Patriots’ situation appears slightly more optimistic with rookie quarterback Drake Maye showing potential to develop into a franchise player. In stark contrast, Las Vegas, Cleveland, Tennessee, and Carolina face uncertainty at the quarterback position.
Coach Jerod Mayo acknowledged the enthusiasm surrounding Maye, emphasizing that while he is a promising talent, there remains much to work on amid various challenges faced throughout a rookie season. “Every day presents new situations both on and off the field, and the key is continuous improvement.”
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