Week four of the NFL season brought a rollercoaster of surprises to the AFC—right from the start on September 26, to the finale on October 1. Some teams, expected to dominate, faltered, while others rose beyond anyone’s wildest expectations. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the biggest surprises and disappointments of that week.
Most Memorable Play: Atlanta Falcons Game-Winning Field Goal
Kicking off this list is the Atlanta Falcons’ thrilling victory on September 29. Trailing 1-2 in the series and facing a one-point deficit, the Falcons were staring down another loss. That’s when kicker Younghoe Koo stepped up and nailed a career-best 58-yard field goal, sealing a 26-24 win over the New Orleans Saints.
Biggest Surprise Team: Houston Texans
The Houston Texans weren’t expected to be much of a contender this season, but their performance last week (especially a 24-20 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars) has changed the narrative. Quarterback C.J. Stroud is showing talent well beyond his years, completing 27 of 40 passes for 345 yards and two touchdowns.
Most Surprising Comeback: Cincinnati Bengals
After losing 38-33 to the Washington Commanders in Week three, the Cincinnati Bengals were prepared for vengeance. So, they arrived the fourth week with a stunning comeback, defeating the Carolina Panthers with ten hefty points. This overwhelming 34-24 win is impressive, but doesn’t qualify them as Super Bowl Contenders.
Veteran Quarterback: Joe Flacco (Indianapolis Colts)
Indianapolis Colts’ Joe Flacco delivered one of last week’s most prominent plays from a veteran quarterback. His performance in a tough 27-24 win to the Pittsburgh Steelers on September 29 greatly highlighted his skills. For reference, he secured 16 out of 26 passes and threw for 168 yards.
Underperforming Star Player: Josh Allen (Buffalo Bills)
Though still regarded as one of the NFL’s top quarterbacks, Josh Allen’s inconsistency this season has been a disappointment. The Bills recorded a 35-10 loss to the Baltimore Ravens, with Allen contributing zero touchdowns. His lack of athleticism on the field raised concerns about whether the Bills should continue searching for a lead QB.
Best Defense So Far: Minnesota Vikings
Week four confirmed that the Minnesota Vikings’ defense is for real. They effectively limited high-powered offenses, including a strong showing in their 31-29 victory over the Green Bay Packers on September 29. The Vikings’ defensive front, led by Johnathan Greenard, consistently pressured opposing linebackers, with Greenard supplying four tackles.
Worst Defense: Indianapolis Colts
The Colts’ defense has struggled mightily this season. They lost two fumbles, highlighting coverage and run defense issues, and this was shocking for a team fans expected to be solid. Instead, they gave room for Steelers’ quarterback Justin Fields to throw for 312 yards and one touchdown.
Best Youngest Player Performance: C.J. Stroud (Houston Texans)
C.J. Stroud has emerged as the AFC’s most promising young quarterback. His week four performance against Jacksonville was awe-inspiring as he led Houston to a 24-20 victory on September 29. Stroud’s ability to remain calm under duress has been commendable, and he’s quickly becoming the face of Houston’s success.
Notable Coaching Impact: Mike McDaniel (Miami Dolphins)
While last week was marked by a heartbreaking 31-12 loss to the Tennessee Titans, McDaniel’s influence on the Dolphins remains significant. His coaching style has maximized talents like Tyler Huntley and Jaylen Wright. But this impact was hampered by multiple injuries, only converting two of 12 third-down attempts.
Most Surprising Win: Tennessee Titans Over the Dolphins
The Tennessee Titans’ victory over the Miami Dolphins was an unexpected comeback story. They won 31-12 after struggling to hit 20 points in earlier weeks. Overall, they proved their ability to endure high pressure moments, with punter Ryan Stonehouse throwing for 209 yards and quarterback Mason Rudolph completing nine of 17 attempted plays.
The Most Expected Loss: Arizona Cardinals vs. Washington Commanders
After two consecutive wins against the Giants and the Bengals, the Washington Commanders delivered the same fate to the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, September 29. Fans expected nothing spectacular from a team already shouldering two embarrassing losses. And with their continued lackluster performances, Arizona’s 42-14 defeat might not be their last.
Injuries: Wide Receiver Rashee Rice
Week four was marked by several injuries, with at least one player treating wounds in nearly all teams. The first match held on Thursday between the Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants recorded three accidents. Similarly, on Sunday, Rashee Rice suffered a ghastly collision with Patrick Mahomes, resulting in a torn ACL.
Team to Watch Out: Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions have positioned themselves as a team to watch for after their 3-1 series win against the Seahawks on October 1. By the second quarter, they led with 14 points and ultimately clinched victory at 42-29. Quarterback Jared Goff, who also threw for 292 yards, and completed 18 passes for the final win.
Most Consistent Team: Kansas City Chiefs
With their perfect 4-0 score this season, the Kansas City Chiefs have proven reliable once again. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes also maintained his elite status by throwing for 245 yards. The team’s 17-10 triumph over the Chargers has also secured their spot at the top of the conference despite some offensive adjustments needed moving forward.
Under-the-Radar Performer: Nico Collins (Houston Texans)
Wide receiver Nico Collins has quietly emerged as one of Houston’s most productive players, with standout performances in week four. In particular, he had 12 receptions, threw for 151 passing yards and had one touchdown against Jacksonville. This fueled Houston’s offensive success alongside C.J. Stroud’s contributions.
The 15 Biggest Surprises and Disappointments from NFL Week Four