The first month of the 2023 NFL season has flown by, and it’s truly incredible how quickly time has passed. We now have a clearer picture of which teams are performing well, which are average, which have potential with more effort, and which are struggling. As we enter the fifth week of the season, there are several noteworthy events to watch out for, including some potential record-breaking moments overseas. Before the Sunday and Monday night games kick off, take a look at what you need to know.
1. 49ers hope to stay undefeated
The highly-anticipated match of the week features the Dallas Cowboys (3-1) facing off against the unbeaten San Francisco 49ers in Santa Clara, California. These two NFC powerhouses have a rich history, and there’s a chance for even more records to be made on Sunday night. San Francisco quarterback Brock Purdy has yet to lose a regular-season game, and a victory against the Cowboys will make him one of only seven quarterbacks since the NFL-AFL merger to achieve a double-digit winning streak before their third NFL season. Additionally, 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey has the chance to become the fourth player in NFL history to record at least 100 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown in each of his team’s first five games. If the 49ers score 30 or more points, they will join the five teams in league history to achieve this feat for eight consecutive regular-season games. The Cowboys, known for their terrific defense, have already scored four non-offensive touchdowns in their first four games, a record not seen since 2014. This game promises to be a thrilling encounter.
2. Eagles playing to stay undefeated
Similar to their opponents in last year’s NFC Championship Game, the Philadelphia Eagles aim to maintain their perfect record as they take on the Los Angeles Rams this Sunday. Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has a lot at stake in this game. With just 50 more rushing yards, he can surpass Bobby Douglas and Cam Newton to become the third quarterback with the most rushing yards in his first 50 career games in the Super Bowl era. Only Lamar Jackson and Michael Vick have achieved more. Moreover, if Hurts scores a rushing touchdown, he will become the first quarterback in NFL history to have at least 30 rushing touchdowns in his first four seasons.
3. Remember the name Puka Nacua
Puka Nacua, a wide receiver for the Los Angeles Rams, made headlines with his game-winning touchdown in overtime against the Indianapolis Colts last Sunday. The rookie is off to a blazing start, leading the NFL with 39 catches for 501 yards. He is the first rookie since the 1970 merger to achieve this feat in the first four weeks. Nacua has the highest reception and receiving yard totals for any player in their first four games, along with the most receptions in their first five games. The Eagles will likely try to contain him as an option for Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford in their upcoming clash.
4. Remember the name De’Von Achane
While Nacua has stolen the show, Miami Dolphins running back De’Von Achane has been a crucial contributor to their dynamic offense. As the Dolphins prepare to face the New York Giants, Achane has already rushed for 309 yards, racked up 53 receiving yards, and scored six touchdowns this season. If he scores a touchdown on Sunday, he will become the second player in NFL history to achieve seven touchdowns in his first four career games, joining Bill Paschal of the New York Giants, who achieved eight touchdowns in four games back in 1943. With two rushing touchdowns, Achane will join an elite group of players with six or more rushing scores in their first four games.
5. Back overseas
The Jacksonville Jaguars and the Buffalo Bills will head to London to play their game, marking the second consecutive week that the NFL is in the UK. The Bills have the opportunity to make history by becoming the fourth team since 1990 to record at least 20 sacks and 10 interceptions in the first five games of the season. Additionally, quarterback Josh Allen could surpass Brett Favre as the fifth-fastest player to reach 150 career touchdown passes in the NFL. He has a chance to achieve this milestone in his 82nd game with a three-touchdown performance.
6. Taylor Swift saga continues
It’s unclear whether pop superstar Taylor Swift will attend the Kansas City Chiefs’ road game against the Minnesota Vikings, but the NFL seems to be fully embracing the coverage of her potential appearance. Even Travis Kelce, Chiefs’ tight end and rumored boyfriend of Swift, admitted that the attention surrounding her presence might be a bit excessive. While he appreciates the added atmosphere it brings, he believes it’s being overdone, especially in his own situation. Nevertheless, it will be interesting to see if Swift shows up at the game.
7. Bye, bye, bye
Week 5 marks the first round of byes, with the Cleveland Browns, Los Angeles Chargers, Seattle Seahawks, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers having the week off. Take this opportunity to catch up on some sleep and enjoy a break from football action.
Make sure to grab your coffee and settle in for an exciting Sunday filled with NFL action.
Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
