NFL Under Duress List - Week 10

Before we delve into the duress list for Week 10, let's pause for a moment to evaluate the performance of individuals who were featured on last week's list.

In what was an eventful week for Mark Davis and the Las Vegas Raiders, they picked up a much-needed win over the New York Giants as they blew out the G-men 30-6.

The Dallas Cowboys narrowly lost to the Philadelphia Eagles but Dak Prescott played great. If it was not for him stepping out of bounds on a two-point conversion and Luke Schoonmaker falling short of a touchdown on 4th down, meaning they missed out on seven points, they most likely would have won.

Finally, the Miami Dolphins once again failed to beat a contending side going down 21 points in the first half to the Kansas City Chiefs. They did rally back to lose 21-14 but it was another missed opportunity to prove they are a big threat in the AFC.

With these reflections in mind, let's now redirect our attention to the 'duress list' for Week 10…

Kyler Murray 

Kyler Murray's return to the field after recovering from a torn ACL is undoubtedly a crucial moment for both him and the Arizona Cardinals. The speculation about the team potentially tanking to acquire Caleb Williams from USC must add an extra layer of pressure for Murray. Understandably, such rumours could be disheartening, especially considering Murray's history as the number 1 pick in the 2019 NFL Draft.

Murray's versatility, having had the choice between football and baseball, showcased his exceptional talent and contributed to the high expectations surrounding him. The fact that he controls his own destiny in determining the team's performance and potential draft position is a significant point. Winning upcoming games against teams like the Atlanta Falcons and Houston Texans could indeed shift the narrative away from tanking discussions and Caleb Williams speculation.

Financially, Murray is on a significant contract, having signed a five-year $230 million extension last season. However, it's noteworthy that the Cardinals included an independent study clause, possibly reflecting concerns about his film-watching and game-analysis habits. This underscores the importance of not only performing on the field but also demonstrating a strong work ethic and dedication off the field.

Despite the challenges, Murray has achieved notable success in his four years in the NFL, making two Pro Bowls and leading the Cardinals to their first playoff berth in five years during the 2021 season. While they faced a tough loss to the eventual Super Bowl winners, the LA Rams, it's a testament to Murray's ability to guide the team to the postseason.

Now, as he makes his season debut after the injury, it's indeed a crucial time for Murray to prove himself among the top quarterbacks in the NFL. Winning games and showcasing his skills will not only silence the tanking rumours but also reaffirm his status as a dynamic and influential quarterback in the league.

Next Game: Atlanta Falcons at State Farm Stadium

Brock Purdy

It’s finally time to see if Brock Purdy has the minerals to get through this rough patch.

During the 49ers 5-0 start to the season, the defence was a rock, allowing an average of just 13 points per game. However, as of late, the 49ers defence, which was once formidable, has shown signs of vulnerability in the last three games giving up 24 points. But, if Purdy is a top-level quarterback then he should be a “force multiplier” and overcome adversity when his defence has an off game. That’s where you find out if a QB is of the elite level. The mounting pressure on Purdy is evident. In their last loss to the Bengals, he managed to throw for only one touchdown, with two interceptions and a lost fumble to his name.

The past three games have highlighted Purdy's struggle as he has thrown five interceptions, more than he did in his first 14 starts (where he had four interceptions). It's worth noting that Purdy has had to deal with challenges such as the absence of his star left tackle, Trent Williams, and his primary target, Deebo Samuel. Nevertheless, he still has an impressive arsenal at his disposal, such as Christian McCaffrey, Brandon Ayuk, and George Kittle.

Their upcoming match takes them to Florida to face the Jacksonville Jaguars, who are currently enjoying a five-game winning streak. The Jaguars boast a robust defence, allowing an average of only 17.6 points per game. The 49ers should be cautious, especially because the Jaguars possess the league's third-best rush defence, measured by yards allowed. Consequently, the outcome may hinge on the 49ers' passing game, with Purdy at the helm.

With Trent Williams and Deebo Samuel set to return to the lineup, Purdy has fewer excuses. If he can lead the team to victory against the Jaguars, especially on the road, protect the football, and come out with a win, it could be the most significant triumph of his career. However, a loss might put his job on the line, potentially leading to backup Sam Darnold taking the reins.

Next Game: Jacksonville Jaguars at TIAA Bank Field

Cleveland Browns

This game holds great significance for the Browns, who are set to challenge a formidable Baltimore Ravens team. The Ravens have been on a scoring spree, amassing an impressive 75 points in their last two home games while allowing only 9 from their opponents. It's worth noting that in those games the Ravens haven't played weak opponents; they've dominated playoff-caliber teams like the Detroit Lions and Seattle Seahawks in their home games.

The Browns' defence will play a pivotal role in this matchup, with star players like Myles Garrett and Za'darius Smith needing to step up and apply pressure on Lamar Jackson. Jackson is currently enjoying a career-high completion rate of 71%, with an even more impressive 75% completion rate over the past three weeks.

The clash promises to be a spectacle, with the Ravens boasting the best rushing attack in the league, while the Browns are known for their stout run defence. The Ravens lead the NFL in rushing, averaging 160.3 yards per game, and have scored 17 rushing touchdowns. Even with Todd Monken's offensive system, their ground game remains a force to be reckoned with.

While the Browns managed to hold the San Francisco 49ers to 19 points, they allowed Gardner Minshew to put up 38 points in a previous game. Consistency on defence will be essential this week.

Nevertheless, the Browns won't rely solely on their defence. They'll look to Deshaun Watson to make crucial plays, and his performance notably improved in their recent 27-0 victory over the Arizona Cardinals last week but he’s been a shadow of his former self so far this season.

There's a genuine possibility that the Cleveland Browns could contend for the AFC North title, as the division is emerging as one of the best in football. All four teams currently hold winning records, but the Browns find themselves at 1-2 in divisional games, and they aim to seek redemption against the Ravens, who dominated them with a 28-3 victory in their previous meeting in Cleveland.

Next Game: Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium