Two games do not make an NFL season, but it's enough of a sample for trends to be established. But which early trends will have staying power during the 2024 season, and which will dissipate as the season goes on?
We're diving into that question with the help of our NFL Nation reporters, who identified an early tendency from the team they cover, then determined whether it will continue through the season or whether it's a mirage. Some of these are on the happy side (like the Lions' Aidan Hutchinson taking even more of a star turn), while others point at areas of concern (Will Levis' penchant for creative turnovers).
Let's get to the real-or-mirage assessments, starting with the AFC East:
Jump to:
ARI | ATL | BAL | BUF | CAR | CHI | CIN
CLE | DAL | DEN | DET | GB | HOU | IND
JAX | KC | LAC | LAR | LV | MIA | MIN
NE | NO | NYG | NYJ | PHI | PIT | SF
SEA | TB | TEN | WSH
AFC EAST
Buffalo Bills
The early surprise: The Bills' defense has thrived despite having to play several backups.
The verdict: Real. It's not the first time a Sean McDermott defense has found success with backups on the field, so it shouldn't be a surprise that the unit has risen to the occasion with linebackers Matt Milano and Terrel Bernard and nickel cornerback Taron Johnson all injured. While the defense started slowly in Week 1, the past three halves have been great. Against the Dolphins in Week 2, the defense gave up 10 points and held quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to an air yard per completion average of 1.8. The success the Bills' defense has had in the past suggests the unit can keep this up. -- Alaina Getzenberg
