NFL 2023 Week 6: Biggest questions, risers and takeaways

Bills Outlast Giants in Thrilling Finish: Taylor’s Last-Gasp Throw Comes Up Short

In an exhilarating showdown, the Buffalo Bills managed to hold off the New York Giants and secure the victory when Tyrod Taylor’s last-second pass to Darren Waller fell incomplete. It was a nail-biting finish that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

Week 6 of the NFL season kicked off with a defensive battle between the Kansas City Chiefs and Denver Broncos, where the Chiefs’ defense shut down Russell Wilson, keeping him to under 100 passing yards. The Baltimore Ravens also showcased their defensive prowess, fending off the Tennessee Titans with the help of kicker Justin Tucker’s six field goals. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Browns’ defense dominated the previously undefeated San Francisco 49ers, while the Jacksonville Jaguars and Miami Dolphins had no trouble finding the end zone.

However, the Philadelphia Eagles suffered their first loss of the season against the New York Jets, while the New England Patriots continued to struggle and fell to a 1-5 record. The Detroit Lions, led by a stellar defense, stifled the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and quarterback Baker Mayfield.

In the Sunday night game, the Buffalo Bills overcame a scoreless first half to narrowly defeat the New York Giants, spoiling coach Brian Daboll’s homecoming.

Our team of NFL Nation reporters has analyzed all the action and provided insights and answers to lingering questions from each game. They’ve also highlighted the rising and falling players and teams. Let’s dive into it.

Bills: Offensive Adjustments Needed

The Bills’ offense has hit a slump, scoring 20 points or less in their last two games after a run of three games with 37-plus points. There isn’t one specific issue to address; it’s a combination of factors. While the second half of the most recent game showed improvement (Josh Allen completed all but one of his passes), the first half was a struggle. Allen faced pressure and had difficulty connecting on deep throws. Additionally, the Bills need to involve more players in the offense, as Stefon Diggs accounted for the majority of targets.

Stock up after the win: Red zone defense. The Bills’ defense stepped up when needed and prevented the Giants from scoring on four trips to the red zone.

Stock down after the win: The offense, particularly in the early stages. Slow starts have become a recurring problem for the Bills, as they were held scoreless through three quarters for the first time since Allen’s rookie season. The team’s franchise-best streak of scoring in 60 consecutive halves was also snapped.

Next game: Patriots (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Giants: Building Momentum

Despite the loss, the Giants showed signs of improvement in this game. They held the lead into the fourth quarter and could have been in a stronger position if not for a mishap at the end of the first half. The defense performed admirably, shutting out the Bills in the first half. The Giants can look forward to a healthier roster in the upcoming weeks, with players like Saquon Barkley and Daniel Jones set to return from injury. The schedule also eases up, providing opportunities for more victories.

Stock up after the loss: LB Bobby Okereke. He demonstrated great versatility and impact, making 11 tackles, forcing a fumble, and contributing to an interception.

Stock down after the loss: Game management. A poor decision in the first half resulted in the Giants coming away without points, which falls on the shoulders of Tyrod Taylor and coach Brian Daboll.

Next game: Commanders (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Jets: Surprise Contenders?

With their victory over the Eagles, the Jets have improved to a 3-3 record and have winnable games lined up after their Week 7 bye. Their defense has been their strength, forcing turnovers and causing havoc for opposing quarterbacks. If they can address their red zone struggles on offense, the Jets could be a surprising contender in the AFC playoff race.

Stock up after the win: S Tony Adams. He made a crucial interception in the final minutes of the game, setting up the game-winning touchdown.

Stock down after the win: Red zone offense. The Jets struggled to convert their opportunities, finishing with only one touchdown in four attempts.

Next game: Giants (Sunday, Oct. 29, 1 p.m. ET)

Eagles: Challenging Times Ahead

The Eagles suffered a shocking loss against the Jets and also faced multiple injuries. They now have a challenging stretch of games ahead, which includes matchups against tough opponents like the Cowboys, Bills, Chiefs, and 49ers. It will be a test of their resilience and depth as they navigate through this challenging schedule.

Stock up after the loss: Edge Haason Reddick. Overcoming an early thumb injury, Reddick has been on fire, delivering multiple sacks in consecutive games.

Stock down after the loss: QB Jalen Hurts. Hurts struggled with interceptions, throwing three in the game. He needs to improve his decision-making to minimize turnovers.

Next game: Dolphins (Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET)

Lions: Utilizing WR Jameson Williams

The Lions have found success in involving WR Jameson Williams in their offensive game plan. Williams, in his second game back after a suspension, has showcased his deep-threat abilities with a 45-yard reception. The Lions will continue to gradually increase his involvement in the offense, utilizing his speed and playmaking skills.

Stock up after the win: WR Amon-Ra St. Brown. Making a strong return after recovering from an injury, St. Brown recorded 12 receptions for 124 yards and a touchdown.

Stock down after the win: Ground attack. The Lions struggled to establish a running game due to injuries to key players like David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs.

Next game: Ravens (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Buccaneers: Fixing Offensive Woes

The Buccaneers encountered difficulties against the Lions, struggling to establish their ground game. The screen game also faltered, with Baker Mayfield struggling to connect with key receivers. Additionally, the decision to punt on a fourth-and-2 play late in the game has drawn criticism. The Buccaneers will need to address these issues to regain their offensive momentum.

Stock up after the loss: ILB Lavonte David. David, the lone current Buccaneer who has worn a Creamsicle uniform, continued to showcase his skills with a solid performance.

Next game: Rams (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

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