Week 10 of the 2024 NFL season delivered a cornucopia of exhilarating action, head-scratching moments, and potential turning points. As always, it’s crucial to separate the genuine developments from the knee-jerk reactions. Let’s dive into the most significant overreactions and underreactions from a memorable weekend on the gridiron.
Christian McCaffrey: The 49ers’ Savior?
All eyes were on Christian McCaffrey as he made his long-awaited 2024 debut for the San Francisco 49ers. The versatile superstar, who missed the first eight games with Achilles tendonitis, immediately showcased his game-breaking ability. McCaffrey tallied 107 total yards on 19 touches, helping the Niners edge the Buccaneers 23-20 on a last-second field goal.
While McCaffrey’s presence undoubtedly elevates the 49ers’ ceiling, it’s premature to anoint him as the team’s savior. The NFC West remains wide open, but the 49ers have glaring issues on both sides of the ball. The defense isn’t as dominant as in recent years, Brandon Aiyuk’s season-ending knee injury leaves a void, and the offensive line has question marks. McCaffrey’s health is also a lingering concern. Verdict: Overreaction.
Lamar Jackson’s March Toward MVP No. 3
In a thrilling Thursday night showdown, Lamar Jackson once again proved why he’s a one-of-a-kind talent. The Ravens’ electrifying quarterback threw for 290 yards and four touchdowns while adding 33 rushing yards in a 42-38 victory over the Bengals. Jackson now has a staggering 22 touchdowns and just one interception over his last eight games.
Lamar is playing out of his mind right now. If he keeps this up, they might as well engrave his name on the MVP trophy.
– Anonymous AFC executive
Jackson is on pace to shatter his previous career highs in passing yards and touchdowns. More importantly, he has the Ravens in prime position to challenge the unbeaten Chiefs for AFC supremacy. Barring injury, Jackson is the clear frontrunner for his third MVP award. Verdict: Not an overreaction.
Giants Ready to Move on From Daniel Jones?
The New York Giants fell to 2-8 after a gut-wrenching overtime loss to the Panthers. Daniel Jones struggled mightily, completing just 22 of 37 passes for 190 yards and two interceptions. The sixth-year signal-caller has been maddeningly inconsistent, leading the NFL with seven turnovers inside opponents’ territory.
While Jones’ long-term future with the Giants is murky at best, benching him for backup Drew Lock could do more harm than good. The Giants can cut ties with Jones after the season without incurring a crippling dead cap hit, but a midseason quarterback change likely won’t salvage their lost season. Verdict: Not an overreaction, but not the right move either.
Mike Tomlin: The Stealth Coach of the Year Candidate
Don’t look now, but Mike Tomlin has the Pittsburgh Steelers rolling. After a thrilling 28-27 victory over the Commanders, the Steelers sit at 7-3, firmly in the AFC North title hunt. Tomlin’s deft handling of a chaotic quarterback situation, with Russell Wilson and Justin Fields splitting starts, has been nothing short of masterful.
Coach T is a magician, man. No matter what we’re dealing with, he finds a way to get the best out of us.
– Steelers receiver George Pickens
While other coaches like Dan Campbell and Sean McDermott have garnered more buzz, Tomlin deserves serious Coach of the Year consideration. If the Steelers navigate their gauntlet of a remaining schedule and claim the division crown, it would be one of Tomlin’s most impressive feats in an already legendary career. Verdict: Underreaction.
- The Chiefs remain unbeaten, but are they bound to stumble?
- Justin Herbert’s monster second half powers Chargers over Cardinals.
- Geno Smith’s resurgent season hits a snag in Seahawks’ loss to Bucs.
Week 10 provided a fascinating blend of potential turning points and reminders to not overreact to small sample sizes. As the stretch run approaches, the true contenders will separate themselves from the pretenders. One thing’s for certain: The NFL never fails to keep us guessing.
