The magic of NFL overtime is alive and well this season. For the first four weeks, every week has featured at least one game going into overtime. If this trend continues into Week 5, 2023 will join the exclusive club of 2018 and 2021, marking the seasons with OT games for the first five weeks.
The Indianapolis Colts have already experienced the intensity of overtime twice. Last week’s games saw Denver, Minnesota, and Philadelphia each making a stunning comeback, with deficits of more than 10 points. Notably, 2023 is only the second season to witness multiple 21-point second-half comeback wins within the first four weeks. The only other season? 1999.
As the league takes its games across the pond with a London match-up, fans should brace themselves for more thrilling games, possibly going into overtime.
Sunday Night showdown: Cowboys vs. 49ers
The rivalry between the Dallas Cowboys and the San Francisco 49ers is stuff legends are made of. This week, the Dallas Cowboys, with an impressive record of 3-1, will face the undefeated 49ers. Historically, these two teams have had nine playoff meetings, the most between any two NFL franchises. Both teams are leaders this season in fewest turnovers, and Dallas boasts an impressive plus-nine turnover margin, led by Coach Mike McCarthy.
Adding to the mix, the 49ers have been on a tear, winning their last 14 regular-season games. Quarterback Brock Purdy, the last pick of the 2022 NFL Draft, is eyeing his 10th consecutive regular-season win. If he succeeds, he joins the elite list of QBs with double-digit winning streaks early in their careers, a list that includes names like Peyton Manning and Dan Marino.
Buffalo and Jacksonville take the stage in London
Quarterback Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills showcased an impeccable performance last week, achieving the highest attainable passer rating of 158.3. This week, Buffalo and Jacksonville face off in London. And just to spice things up, Jacksonville also boasts a Josh Allen, albeit in a very different role as a linebacker. This Allen matchup is a rematch of their 2021 meeting where the Jaguars’ Josh Allen dominated with a sack, interception, and fumble recovery.
Rookie spotlight: Puka Nacua and De’Von Achane
Puka Nacua, Rams wide receiver, is redefining rookie standards. With 39 catches, he leads the NFL in receptions through four weeks, breaking records set by legends like Anquan Boldin. He’s already had multiple 100-yard games, a rare feat for rookies.
Meanwhile, Miami’s rookie De’Von Achane is turning heads with an average of 11.4 yards per carry. His explosive runs have helped Miami set a new record for total yards of offense in the first four games of a season.
Ravens’ Harbaugh and Steelers’ Tomlin to face off again
In coaching matchups, only the legendary George Halas and Curly Lambeau have met more times than John Harbaugh of the Ravens and Mike Tomlin of the Steelers. This Sunday will mark their 34th meeting.
More to watch
As we approach this week’s games, the New York Jets defense looks to extend their streak of 22 games without allowing a 300-yard passer. Meanwhile, quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes and Kirk Cousins will face off as the Chiefs travel to Minnesota.
With Week 5 promising so much action, nail-biting finishes, and possibly more overtime drama, NFL fans have every reason to be glued to their screens.