NFL Week 1 risers and fallers: Bears' offense soars, Rams stumble
The Bears set a record for combined opening-week score with a 59-37 win over Carolina. The Giants upset the Cowboys, and the Vikings rallied without Kyler Murray. Several teams face questions after Week 1.
The Bears' 59-point outburst marked the most prolific opening-day scoring in league history, with Chicago amassing 552 yards and eight touchdowns. Head coach Ben Johnson has targeted Denver's 2013 single-season scoring mark, though defensive struggles suggest shootouts may become the norm. The Vikings' comeback without Kyler Murray, engineered by Carson Wentz, highlighted quarterback depth concerns.
Elsewhere, the Giants' upset of Dallas behind Jaxson Dart's efficient performance raised questions about Dallas's defensive identity. The Rams placed Myles Garrett on injured reserve, compounding early-season woes, while the Chargers' home loss to Arizona, featuring a stagnant run game under new coordinator Mike McDaniel, signaled potential offensive growing pains.
The NFL's opening week showcased record-breaking offensive output and unexpected upsets, which could shape fan expectations and media narratives for the season. Teams with early struggles, like the Rams and Chargers, may face heightened scrutiny from their fan bases and local media, potentially affecting ticket sales and engagement. The Bears' historic performance could elevate national interest in Chicago's games, while the controversy over the Goff call may fuel ongoing debates about officiating consistency, influencing how fans perceive the league's fairness.