NFL: Pittsburgh Steelers, San Francisco 49ers, and Los Angeles Rams enjoy resounding Week 1 successes

There was plenty to untangle from Week 1 of the new NFL season. Pittsburgh Steelers, San Francisco 49ers, and Los Angeles Rams were among the success stories, while Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers fell flat. We will preview three games this week, including the Steelers v Las Vegas Raiders, as well as take a cursory glance at the latest match odds.

Pittsburgh Steelers mount stunning comeback against Buffalo Bills

The Steelers found themselves on the back foot heading into the second half against the Bills, but they turned around a 10-point deficit to run out 23-16 winners. Ben Roethlisberger struggled to get going in the first half before he threw for 188 yards and provided one touchdown. Chris Boswell was also influential once again for the Steelers.

The kicker converted his 31st field goal in a row inside 40 yards, which puts him in a tie for fifth in terms of longest active streaks in the NFL. Keith Buttler’s Steelers defense thrived, but, more importantly, they were desperate to improve upon their rushing record from last season. Najee Harris contributed with 16 carries and 45 yards.

Las Vegas Raiders light things up with stunning Zay Jones touchdown

It was a welcome sight to behold to see Raiders fans back at the Allegiant Stadium. And they were treated to a thriller on Monday as they overcame the Baltimore Ravens 33-27. Derek Carr was the star turn as he threw for 435 yards, including an amazing 31-yard touchdown pass that Zay Jones converted to send the Raiders fans into delirium.

Steelers’ defense could be the key against Raiders

After a bruising encounter for the Raiders against the Ravens, they could find things tough going against the Steelers. In contrast, the Steelers were impressive on the road against the Bills, who are in the mix for the Super Bowl. This could be a case of whether the Raiders can withstand the pressure from Pittsburgh’s marauding defensive line.

Indianapolis Colts on rebound after opening defeat against Seattle Seahawks

The Colts have little time to lick their wounds. They were slow coming out of the traps against the Seattle Seahawks, and Carson Wentz was the culprit of a fumble. This was his first giveaway of the season, and last season he had the unenviable stat of 19 giveaways. The Colts couldn’t handle Russell Wilson who went all guns blazing in Week One.

Indianapolis Colts dealt Braden Smith blow in wake of Seattle Seahawks defeat

While Wilson was tearing into the Colts, there were bigger problems at hand. More specifically, Braden Smith. Colts head coach Frank Smith informed his training staff of Smith’s foot injury, and no timeline has been set on his return. Apparently, the foot injury crept up after Sunday’s game.

But what was also rather worrying was the inept offensive line performance that allowed Wilson and co to get the better of the Colts. Smith — who was taken out near the red zone — had just six pressures, two quarterback hits, and a single sack, which meant he was largely isolated during the game.

• Los Angeles Rams to beat Indianapolis Colts including Overtime @-200 with Casumo
• Total Points including Overtime Over 46 @-127 with Casumo

In stark contrast, the Rams will be full of confidence heading into Sunday’s clash with the Colts. The Rams roared to a 34-14 victory over Chicago Bears in Week 1, as Matthew Stafford destroyed the Bears’ defense. Jalen Ramsey also buzzed around the pitch, and he finished with seven solo tackles — more than any other Rams player.

San Francisco 49ers dealt double whammy ahead of Philadelphia Eagles clash

Although the 49ers claimed a 41-33 victory over the Detroit Lions in Week One, they suffered an untimely body blow. 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed Jason Verrett (torn ACL) and Raheem Mostert (knee) are long-term casualties, and they have been ruled out of the Eagles clash. Verrett’s problem has been staying injury-free, and he had been the franchise’s best defensive back up until now.

The Eagles, meanwhile, enjoyed a blowout 32-6 win over the Atlanta Falcons in Week One. Jalen Hurts tossed aside all fears over his quarterback one status as he threw for 264 yards, and completed over 77% of his passes. The 49ers will have to keep a tight leash on Hurts, otherwise he could dictate proceedings.

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