2024 NFL Season, Week 3: Key Takeaways from Monday’s Doubleheader
Allen Shines in Prime Time: While it might be early for MVP talk, Bills fans couldn’t help chanting “M-V-P” for Josh Allen all night. Allen led Buffalo to a dominant win over the Jaguars, delivering one of the most impressive performances of the season so far. Buffalo came out strong, scoring on their opening 70-yard drive with James Cook capping it off with a 6-yard touchdown run. The Bills scored five consecutive first-half touchdowns, with Allen throwing four of them. He finished the first half 22-of-28 for 247 yards, four touchdowns, and 22 rushing yards. Buffalo led 34-3 at halftime, and despite another half of play, Allen had already put on a complete display. The Bills, now undefeated, have erased any doubt about their Super Bowl prospects.
Jaguars Struggle: Jacksonville’s season has taken a steep downturn. After two narrow losses to start the year, the Jaguars were dismantled by Buffalo. Trevor Lawrence and the Jaguars’ offense couldn’t keep up, with Lawrence going 21-of-38 for 178 yards, a touchdown, and an interception. The Jaguars, who’ve never made the playoffs after starting 0-2, now face grim postseason odds after dropping to 0-3.
Hamlin’s Triumphant Return: Damar Hamlin, who suffered a cardiac arrest on the field 630 days ago, had a special moment in his return, recording his first career interception on a poorly thrown pass by Lawrence. Hamlin has been a crucial part of the Bills’ defense this season, starting every game and tallying 18 tackles alongside this career-defining interception.
Contrasting Supporting Casts: Concerns over Buffalo trading away Stefon Diggs have been silenced as 10 different Bills caught passes on Monday. Khalil Shakir emerged as Allen’s top target with six catches for 72 yards and a touchdown, and James Cook contributed 87 scrimmage yards and a score. In contrast, the Jaguars’ supporting cast has been underwhelming. Travis Etienne surpassed 60 rushing yards for the first time this season, but the receiving trio of Christian Kirk, Brian Thomas Jr., and Gabe Davis has largely disappointed. Missing tight end Evan Engram due to injury was also a blow.
Stat Insights and Records: In his first game lining up against Bills QB Josh Allen since changing his name to Josh Hines-Allen, Hines-Allen managed just one QB pressure with a 3.8% pressure rate. Additionally, the Jaguars have now lost eight straight games, the longest losing streak in the NFL.
Jayden Daniels Breaks Out: Jayden Daniels had a career-defining performance for the Commanders, completing 21 of 23 passes for 254 yards and two touchdowns, making history as the first top-five draft pick to throw a touchdown to an offensive lineman. Daniels also led the team in rushing with 39 yards and a touchdown. His highlight came when he threw a 27-yard touchdown to Terry McLaurin, further establishing himself as a promising rookie.
Bengals Missed Opportunities: Cincinnati is in trouble after falling to 0-3. Despite a strong statistical performance from Joe Burrow (29-of-38, 324 yards, three touchdowns), the Bengals missed key chances, including a missed field goal and stalled red-zone drives. The defense couldn’t contain Washington, allowing them to score on every drive and convert critical third and fourth downs.
McLaurin’s Connection with Daniels: After a slow start to the season, Terry McLaurin finally broke through, connecting with Daniels on multiple big plays, including a 55-yard pass and a decisive 27-yard touchdown. This newfound chemistry between the rookie QB and his star receiver is a promising sign for Washington’s future.
