Five teams to watch out for in Week Two

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford passes against the Seattle Seahawks during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 10, 2023, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Stephen Brashear)

Let’s dive straight in and look at five teams that I’m watching closely in week 2 and why…

1. Green Bay Packers

Green Bay got off to pretty much the best start they could’ve asked for in their week 1 victory over the Bears. Jordan Love showed in that game that the future in Green Bay can still be very bright.

The issue this week is the strong possibility that his team is without a few key players with Aaron Jones who starred in week 1, along with Christian Watson and Quay Walker, all in doubt. That would leave Love with a little more pressure on him than expected, but if he was to manage to take the Packers to 2-0, then it would be all the more impressive and it would grab a lot of people’s attention in the league.

I like everything I saw in week 1 and I’m backing Green Bay to continue winning.

2. Baltimore Ravens

Another side to start the season off with a win and in week 2 they face divisional rivals the Cincinnati Bengals who need a big response after their week 1 beat down from the Browns.

The Ravens, under new OC Todd Monken, didn’t look anywhere close to full speed, but they did get the job done. This week I want to see a more explosive display. Zay Flowers was the standout in week 1 with some exciting plays and although I expect him to have another good game, I really want to see OBJ have himself a day.

Many people will expect a turnaround from Cincy, but it would be a great storyline if the Ravens go to 2-0 with OBJ really announcing himself as a Raven. A close game is what you would probably bet on, but I’d love this new look offense to really show something this week and win well. Certainly not out of the question.

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Tampa started off well and week two’s matchup with the Bears, presents a really good chance to go back to back.

Mayfield showed the grit and guts that he is known for, but as the game went on he started to find his feet and I’m confident that he picks up where he left off against the Vikings.

The offensive unit still has a long way to go, but for me that is really exciting as this means the team can only get better. With how solid their defense is, Tampa could surprise many this season. I’m not sure many others predicted a week one win, but I’m happy to say that I was and I’m happy to stick with them as the Bears are there for the taking. I believe Baker had a standout passing game in week 2.

4. Los Angeles Rams

One of the bigger upsets in week 1 came from the Rams who sent the Seahawks a strong message that they aren’t to be overlooked in their division.

Now they face the 49ers who looked unstoppable as they pummelled the Steelers in their opener. Now it will be some effort if they can knock off the 49ers, which I think is highly unlikely, but for me I want to see how long they can stay in the game.

If they can take the 49ers into the 4th quarter still within the game, then anything can happen. Sean McVay is just an extremely talented young HC and I’m so curious to see if he can put together a game plan to stun another divisional opponent in week 2. What a start to the season they could have.

5. New York Jets

We know what the main story line is and it’s so cruel how this game can be, but the season continues and to make things easier they get to face off against the Cowboys who gave the Giants a memorable beating in primetime in week 1.

But let’s just look at how good the Jets defense was against the Bills and they have all the pieces to shut down the Cowboys offensively, which I believe they will. Zach Wilson is going to face so many questions unless he steps up and shows even just enough to silence the noise.

For me, I want Wilson and his OC Hackett to go boldly this week against Dallas. You have a great running game that can be heavily leaned on, but don’t forget the talent they have at the skill positions. I want to see Wilson take some shots and go for it.

Dallas will be expecting a run heavy offense and for Wilson to just try and dump the ball off quickly but Wilson could send out some shockwaves if he puts on a display in week 2. I’m rolling with him doing just that and for the Jets to go back to back in the most unlikely of circumstances.

Fortune favours the brave and I hope the Jets go with that mindset.

Five teams with really exciting matchups this week and also with a chance to go to 2 – 0, that might well happen, but it won’t be easy. Although nothing worthwhile comes easy. Some amazing storylines going into week 2, but even better ones might come out of it.