Week 3 of the NFL season concluded with a Monday night showdown between two undefeated teams. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-1) hosted the Philadelphia Eagles (3-0) in a highly anticipated matchup. Unfortunately for the home team, the Buccaneers suffered their first loss of the season, while the Eagles continued their winning streak.
In another game of the week, the Cincinnati Bengals (1-2) secured their first victory of the season against the Los Angeles Rams (1-2). Let’s take a look at the top moments from both games.
In the Bengals’ 19-16 victory over the Rams, rookie wide receiver Tutu Atwell showcased his impressive speed on an end around play. Although he narrowly missed reaching the end zone, the Rams settled for a field goal to take an early lead.
The Bengals’ offense struggled in the beginning, partly due to the Rams’ stout defense, led by star player Aaron Donald. However, Cincinnati’s defense came through with a big takeaway in the first half, thanks to linebacker Logan Wilson.
The Bengals’ offense found their rhythm in the second half, with running back Joe Mixon scoring a touchdown to give his team a 13-9 lead. The momentum continued for Cincinnati as Wilson intercepted Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford for the second time, sparking a celebration from the Bengals’ defense.
Quarterback Joe Burrow connected with rookie wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase for a 43-yard completion, setting up a field goal that extended the Bengals’ lead to 16-9.
Despite a late surge from Stafford and the Rams, including a 37-yard touchdown pass to Puka Nacua, the Bengals held on for a 19-16 victory, earning their first win of the season.
In the other Monday night matchup, the Eagles defeated the defending Super Bowl champions, the Buccaneers, with a dominant 25-11 victory.
Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts started strong, connecting with star receiver A.J. Brown on consecutive passes to move the chains. However, the Buccaneers’ defense held strong and forced a turnover on downs during the Eagles’ opening drive.
The Eagles’ special teams came up big when wide receiver Britain Covey returned a punt 52 yards to give his team excellent field position. Philadelphia capitalized with a field goal, taking a 3-0 lead into the second quarter.
Despite the efforts of Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield, who led his team on a long drive into the red zone, the Eagles’ defense made a crucial stop and limited Tampa Bay to a field goal attempt. Sydney Brown made a diving stop, preventing a touchdown.
Hurts showcased his pocket presence and threw a touchdown pass to Olamide Zaccheaus, extending the Eagles’ lead. Both teams exchanged turnovers, with Reed Blankenship intercepting Mayfield, and Devin White picking off Hurts. However, the Eagles maintained their advantage heading into halftime.
D’Andre Swift continued his impressive performances, rushing for a significant gain and setting up a unique play known as the “tush push,” which resulted in another Eagles touchdown and a 20-3 lead.
The Buccaneers’ hopes were briefly revived when Dee Delaney intercepted a deep pass, but Nicholas Morrow forced a safety in the backfield, further extending the Eagles’ lead to 25-3 in the fourth quarter.
Despite a late comeback attempt from the Buccaneers, highlighted by Mike Evans’ impressive catches, the Eagles held on for the 25-11 victory, remaining undefeated in the season.
In their past five meetings, the Eagles have emerged victorious against the Buccaneers three times, further solidifying their dominance in this matchup.
The Week 3 matchup between the Buccaneers and the Eagles showcased thrilling moments and standout performances. As the NFL season progresses, these teams will continue to battle for success on the gridiron.