WASHINGTON 9
BUFFALO 19
The march to perfection is still alive after the Buffalo Bills (8-0) got a hard-fought win over Washington (3-6) Sunday in upstate New York.
The Bills struggled more than usual against a Washington defense that gave the number one offense in the NFL fits throughout the day.
"I'll have to look at the tape, but yards were hard to come by today." Aaron Rodgers said in his post-game presser. "Tip your cap to the job they did out there to slow us down, but we made plays when it counted and got the W."
As we've seen throughout the season, the Bills defense stepped up and shut down the Washington offense. After today's game, the Buffalo D has only allowed an average of 9.75 points per game, by far the best in the NFL. If they were able to keep this pace for 16 games, they would barely break the 2000 Ravens record of allowing 10.3 points a game.
Coach Eric Bieniemy was having none of this talk, however, when he was asked about the 19 year old record. "Look, we've played 8 games and have a long way to go. The only record that matters to the guys in that locker room is being 1-0 each week."
Buffalo hits the road to take on the Cleveland Browns next week.
NEW ENGLAND 33
BALTIMORE 10
The Marcus Mariota era began with a win as the New England Patriots (5-4) won their 4th game in a row over the Baltimore Ravens (4-4).
Mariota was 21-25 for 235 yards and a touchdown. More importantly though, he didn't turn the ball over, which was something the Patriots have been struggling with this season.
"It was a little bit like drinking out of a fire hose trying to get the playbook down in a week. I know it's only going to get better with the bye next week allowing me to study up." Mariota said.
The New England defense continued their strong play this season and looked the part of a playoff-caliber squad.
The Ravens stayed with in striking distance for most of the game and were driving in the 4th quarter when linebacker Demario Davis intercepted an ill-advised pass from Lamar Jackson and took it to the house to put the game away for good.
"That felt good man. This team is ready to make some noise. We coming." An excited Davis said on the field after the game.
New England heads into their bye next week.
NEW YORK JETS 10
MIAMI 27
The Miami Dolphins (6-2, 1-2 AFC East) took down their rivals from up north, the New York Jets (4-4, 1-3) 27-10 Sunday afternoon on home soil.
HB Leonard Fournette was a man possessed rushing for 160 yards and the game-sealing TD in the 4th quarter.
"For us, every game is going to be close," Fournette said. "Tonight it was our night, but we ain't sleeping on this team when we play them again."
Much-maligned Sam Darnold had one of his better games of the season despite the pair of interceptions on his ledger. The sophomore QB finished with 336 yards through the air and was able to find receivers despite enduring constant pressure.
"Wasn't our night tonight," Darnold said. "We gotta tip our caps and move on to face the Giants."
Miami's defense took their cue from Fournette's dominance and forced five Jet turnovers on the night. Jamal Adams again forced a pair of fumbles to wipe out any scoring threat by the Jets.
The Dolphins will look for win number seven next week against the Indianapolis Colts.
