The first week of the NFL regular season is nearly wrapped up, and what a start it’s been to the 2024 campaign! Drama filled the air from the get-go. The Miami Dolphins pulled off a fantastic win over the Jacksonville Jaguars, even after a chaotic pregame police incident. Meanwhile, the New England Patriots delivered a huge surprise by upsetting the Cincinnati Bengals. If Week 1 is any indication, we’re in for a wild ride on the road to the next Lombardi Trophy, with so much action already happening around.
Let’s Dive Into Some Of Biggest NFL Week 1 Winners And Losers Winner: Mike Zimmer 
Mike Zimmer, the former head coach of the Minnesota Vikings, recently faced some criticism for his comments about his old team. However, he let his defense talk in his new role with the Dallas Cowboys. The Cowboys’ defense dominated the Cleveland Browns, living up to expectations by relentlessly pressuring Deshaun Watson all game. This impressive defensive showing set the tone for the 2024 season and took some pressure off Dak Prescott, who recently signed a lucrative contract, even though the offense didn’t need much of a lift.
Loser: Deshaun Watson 
Deshaun Watson and the Cleveland Browns knew facing the Dallas Cowboys defense in Week 1 would be daunting. Still, as Watson enters his third season with the Browns—amidst a cloud of controversy—this was a chance to prove his worth and showcase his ability to lead the team against a formidable opponent.
While Watson managed to stay on the field despite a weakened offensive line that struggled to protect him, his play was far from encouraging. As Kevin Stefanski’s quarterback, he couldn’t establish any rhythm, often looking lost and out of sync. For someone in his third year with the team, the inability to find a flow against a strong defense raises concerns about Watson’s effectiveness and his future as the Browns’ starting quarterback.
Winner: Sam Darnold 
Sam Darnold shined in his first start as the Vikings’ quarterback. The former Jets quarterback looked calm and smart under Kevin O’Connell’s guidance. He completed 19 of 24 passes to beat the New York Giants comfortably—right in his old stomping grounds at East Rutherford. It won’t always be this easy for Darnold, but after losing J.J. McCarthy before his rookie year could even begin, Vikings fans will gladly celebrate any early-season wins.
Loser: Panthers Fans
Meanwhile, Carolina fans might be second-guessing things after watching Sam Darnold thrive elsewhere. It’s tough, but so is watching the Panthers’ offense struggle. With a new offensive coordinator in Dave Canales, the unit looked as lost as ever, suffering a crushing 47-10 defeat to the rival New Orleans Saints. If Bryce Young had at least shown some promise in a challenging situation, it might have been easier to accept, but right now, it’s just plain ugly.
Winner: Matt Eberflus
It wasn’t the ideal debut for Caleb Williams, the No. 1 overall draft pick, who went 14 of 29 for just 93 yards. Still, everyone expects the rookie to develop over time. What stood out was the defense orchestrated by Chicago Bears head coach Matt Eberflus. When it mattered most, his defense shut down the Titans’ offense, especially Will Levis, securing a gritty victory to start the season on a high note.
Loser: Zac Taylor 
Zac Taylor, the head coach of the Cincinnati Bengals, has a knack for getting his team to compete by the end of the season. However, his squads often struggle to find their groove in early September. Week 1 was no different, as the Bengals put up just 10 points against a New England Patriots team in a rebuilding phase. Yes, the Bengals were missing key wide receiver Tee Higgins, but with weapons like Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase at his disposal, Taylor’s offense lacked creativity and firepower.
There were few deep shots, and there wasn’t enough commitment when the running game started to work. These early-season struggles could cost the Bengals, and Taylor must adjust quickly to avoid falling behind in a competitive AFC.
Winner: Derek Carr 
Coming into NFL Week 1, most fans would have chosen the potential of Bryce Young over the veteran experience of Derek Carr. But Carr, the new quarterback for the New Orleans Saints, quickly showed why he’s still a valuable starter in this league. Carr was precise and confident, completing 19 of 23 passes against the Carolina Panthers and slicing through their secondary easily in a blowout win.
Despite being often overlooked and considered past his prime, Carr demonstrated that he still has plenty of gas left in the tank, making the Saints look like early favorites to claim their division. If Carr keeps playing at this level, the Saints could surprise many people this season.
Loser: Brian Daboll
Brian Daboll, the head coach of the New York Giants, finds himself in a tough spot as he attempts to resurrect Daniel Jones’ career for the second time in three years. While it’s easy to point fingers at the front office for the team’s woes, Daboll ultimately has to make it work on the field. Daboll’s offense had no answers in the home opener against the Vikings.
Sam Darnold, who was expected to struggle, led the Vikings to a decisive victory instead, outplaying Jones and the Giants at every turn. Despite low expectations, Daboll’s Giants looked unprepared and lacking in execution, leaving fans questioning whether he can turn things around this season.
