NFLSep 30
Raiders surge as Patriots and Buccaneers face mounting concerns
Las Vegas remains unbeaten heading into Week 4, while early fantasy returns highlight breakout production and disappointing starts around the NFL.
By OddsListing wire desk
· 2 min read
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Raiders keep climbing
The Raiders are turning an unexpected start into a compelling early-season story. At 3-0, Las Vegas has climbed six places in the power rankings for the second consecutive week. The surge carries historical significance: No team in the common draft era, dating to 1967, had opened 3-0 after using the previous draft’s No. 1 selection on a quarterback. The Raiders have done it with Fernando Mendoza. Their performance against the Saints also ended a franchise-worst stretch of 39 regular-season games without reaching 30 points. It stood out on a Sunday featuring 12 games settled by eight or fewer points, matching the single-day record.
Pressure builds in New England and Tampa Bay
The Patriots slid six places after Jacksonville handed them a 35-6 defeat. Drake Maye posted a 15.5 Total QBR, his lowest career mark in a game with at least 15 dropbacks. Tampa Bay faces a different quarterback concern amid an 0-3 start, its worst opening record since 2014. With Baker Mayfield sidelined by a thumb injury, undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels is expected to play in his place for at least the next three weeks. Only Tennessee and Miami sit below the Buccaneers in the rankings.
Fantasy surprises emerge
Walker has delivered a major boost for Kansas City and fantasy managers, collecting 442 scrimmage yards and four total touchdowns. His fantasy production ranks second among running backs. Chicago’s Raymond has also outperformed modest expectations. He leads the Bears with 21 targets, converting those opportunities into 19 receptions, 214 yards and a touchdown. Seattle rookie Price has struggled to capitalize on his opportunities. His Week 3 outing produced 22 scrimmage yards on six touches and a lost fumble. Consecutive weeks with fumbles have contributed to a reduced workload, leaving him 47th among running backs in fantasy scoring.
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