The NFL season continues to surprise fans as Week 10 brought a few unexpected results and numerous controversies. The Baltimore Ravens suffered their second consecutive loss to the New England Patriots, while the Cleveland Browns held off a late charge from the Houston Texans to win by three points. Meanwhile, the Green Bay Packers struggled against the Jacksonville Jaguars, only winning by four points. The Patriots beat the Ravens 23-17, with Cam Newton passing for one touchdown and rushing for another.
However, the game was marred by a late intentional grounding call on Baltimore’s quarterback Lamar Jackson, which many fans and analysts found questionable. The call stopped the Ravens from having a chance to tie the game late in the fourth quarter. Baltimore coach John Harbaugh expressed frustration over the call, stating he didn’t think it was intentional grounding. Regardless, the loss could impact the Ravens’ playoff push as they fall to 6-3, while the Patriots improve to 4-5.
In another surprise though less controversial result, the Houston Texans were unable to secure a victory against Cleveland, losing 10-7. Despite Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson’s 163 passing yards, the team couldn’t convert multiple late drives into points. Baker Mayfield, on the other hand, threw a touchdown pass in the first quarter and went 12-of-20 for 132 yards overall. The Green Bay Packers, who are considered a favorite in the NFC, struggled against the Jacksonville Jaguars, barely winning 24-20.
The Jaguars led for portions of the game despite being a 13.5-point underdog. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers had two touchdown passes and 325 passing yards, but the Packers were forced to rely on a game-clinching interception in the final minutes to secure the win. There were also multiple injuries that could impact games in the near future. The New Orleans Saints’ Drew Brees left Sunday’s game against the San Francisco 49ers with rib injuries, putting his status for the rest of the season in question.
Additionally, Dallas Cowboys quarterback Andy Dalton suffered a concussion in Sunday’s loss to the Washington Football Team, National Post Today putting his availability for the upcoming Thanksgiving Day game against the Baltimore Ravens in jeopardy. Finally, the league faced backlash over a decision to move a crucial game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens from its original time slot due to COVID-19 complications. The game was initially scheduled for Thanksgiving Day but will now be played on Sunday, November 29.
Many fans and players criticized the decision, particularly as the NFL has been vocal about the importance of following health and safety protocols. In conclusion, Week 10 of the NFL season brought numerous surprises and controversies. The Patriots secured a much-needed win over the Ravens, while the Browns and Packers barely escaped with victories.