Recapping NFL Preseason Week 1 for IDP

The first week of the NFL preseason has come and gone, and while this is mainly made up of players who won’t make the roster, it is a good opportunity for depth players in deeper dynasty leagues.

The 2024 NFL pre-season has kicked off, and that means we have football back on the TV! While it might not yet be the starters or even the backups for that matter, we get a look at players that could be depth or developmental over the next couple of seasons.

Come back weekly for this article on IDPPlus.com, going through each matchup and the top defensive players. It’s currently free for the preseason, but week 1 will be behind our paywall. You’ll get some box score analysis, that you can use to get ahead on waiver wires or taxi squads!

Lets get into it-

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Carolina Panthers 3 @ New England Patriots 17

The New England Patriots secured a solid 17-3 victory over the Carolina Panthers in a game dominated by defense. Both teams struggled offensively, but New England capitalized on key defensive stops and efficient drives to secure the win. The Patriots’ defense was particularly effective, recording five sacks and consistently pressuring the Panthers’ offense.

Defensive Highlights

New England Patriots:

• Christian Elliss led the Patriots’ defense with 5 total tackles, including 1 sack and 1 tackle for loss, showcasing his ability to disrupt the Panthers’ offense.
• Oshane Ximines was a standout performer with 4 total tackles, 1 sack, and 1 tackle for loss. His constant pressure on the quarterback was crucial in keeping the Panthers’ offense in check.
• Jeremiah Pharms Jr. contributed significantly with 4 tackles, 1 sack, and 1 tackle for loss, playing a key role in the Patriots’ defensive success.

Carolina Panthers:

• Alex Cook and Clayton Isbell led the Panthers with 6 total tackles each, providing solid coverage and run support.
• Eku Leota made an impact with 3 tackles and 2 tackles for loss, helping to stymie the Patriots’ running game.
• T.J. Smith and Derrick McLendon each recorded a sack, showing their ability to break through the Patriots’ offensive line.

Injuries and Impact

Carolina Panthers:

• Jaden Crumedy was injured during the game after making a tackle. He finished with 2 tackles and did not return to the game.
• Badara Traore was also injured during a play, though the extent of the injury and its impact on his performance were not detailed.

New England Patriots:

• No significant injuries were reported for the Patriots during the game.

Defensive Players Stats Table

Detroit Lions 3 @ New York Giants 14

The New York Giants managed to secure a 14-3 victory over the Detroit Lions. Both teams struggled to find an offensive rhythm, leading to a game dominated by strong defensive plays and field position battles. The Giants’ defense was particularly effective, recording four sacks and forcing the Lions into multiple turnovers. The Lions’ defense also held their ground, but they were unable to prevent the Giants from capitalizing on key plays.

Defensive Highlights

New York Giants:

• Darrian Beavers led the Giants with 5 total tackles, including 1 tackle for loss, showcasing his ability to disrupt the Lions’ running game.
• Boogie Basham was a standout performer with 4 total tackles, 1 sack, and 1 tackle for loss. His ability to pressure the quarterback was instrumental in the Giants’ defensive success.
• Dyontae Johnson also made a significant impact with 4 tackles, 1 sack, and 2 tackles for loss, further highlighting the Giants’ relentless defensive effort.

Detroit Lions:

• Malik Jefferson led the Lions with 6 total tackles, including 1 tackle for loss, providing solid coverage and support against the Giants’ running game.
• Nate Lynn recorded 2 tackles, including a sack and a tackle for loss, playing a key role in keeping the Giants’ offense in check.
• Isaac Ukwu contributed with 2 tackles and 1 sack, helping to apply pressure on the Giants’ quarterbacks throughout the game.

Injuries and Impact

New York Giants:

• Dyontae Johnson was injured during the third quarter after recording 4 total tackles, including a sack and 2 tackles for loss. His absence was felt as the Giants’ defense had to adjust without one of their key contributors.

Detroit Lions:

• Antoine Green was injured in the second quarter after contributing with 3 total tackles and 1 pass deflection. His injury left a gap in the Lions’ secondary that the Giants exploited for a key touchdown.

Defensive Players Stats Table

Atlanta Falcons 13 @ Miami Dolphins 20

The Miami Dolphins edged out the Atlanta Falcons with a 20-13 victory. Both teams relied heavily on their defenses, which resulted in a low-scoring affair with multiple turnovers and key defensive plays. The Dolphins managed to hold off a late push from the Falcons, sealing the win with solid defensive stands.

Defensive Highlights

Miami Dolphins:

• Patrick McMorris led the Dolphins’ defense with 8 total tackles, including 7 solo tackles and 2 tackles for loss, providing a strong presence against the run.
• Channing Tindall was a standout with 7 total tackles, 6 of them solo, and he also recorded a sack and a tackle for loss, disrupting the Falcons’ offensive rhythm.
• Isaiah Mack contributed with 5 tackles, showcasing his ability to plug gaps and limit the Falcons’ ground game.

Atlanta Falcons:

• Jayden Price was the top tackler for the Falcons with 7 total tackles, including 4 solo tackles, showing his ability to cover the field effectively.
• Donavan Mutin had 6 total tackles, 4 of them solo, and was instrumental in stopping the Dolphins’ running game.
• Micah Abernathy added 4 solo tackles, demonstrating his reliability in open-field situations.

Injuries and Impact

Miami Dolphins:

• Z.Vandenburgh was injured during the first quarter after making key contributions with tackles and was unable to return. He had 4 total tackles before his injury.

Atlanta Falcons:

• D.Hellams was injured early in the game after making a tackle. Despite the injury, he contributed to the Falcons’ defense before being sidelined.

Defensive Players Stats Table

Houston Texans 20 @ Pittsburgh Steelers 12

The Houston Texans secured a decisive 20-12 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, thanks to a strong defensive performance that kept the Steelers’ offense at bay throughout the game. The Texans’ defense was particularly effective in the first half, helping the team build a 17-0 lead by halftime. Despite a late surge by the Steelers, the Texans held on to their lead with key defensive stops.

Defensive Highlights

Houston Texans:

• Eric Murray led the Texans with 6 total tackles, including 5 solo tackles, demonstrating his impact in the secondary.
• Mario Edwards Jr. was a force on the defensive line, contributing 5 total tackles, including 0.5 sacks and 2 tackles for loss, which helped disrupt the Steelers’ running game.
• Danielle Hunter recorded a critical sack early in the game and was instrumental in applying pressure on the Steelers’ quarterback, finishing with 2 total tackles and 1 sack.

Pittsburgh Steelers:

• Payton Wilson topped the Steelers’ defensive stat sheet with 7 total tackles, including a tackle for loss, showing his ability to penetrate the Texans’ offensive line.
• Jeremiah Moon had a strong showing with 6 total tackles, 1 sack, and 1 tackle for loss, contributing to the Steelers’ defensive efforts to keep the game close.

Injuries and Impact

Houston Texans:

• Danielle Hunter sustained a minor injury during the game but returned to play and made significant contributions, including a sack and multiple pressures on the quarterback.

Pittsburgh Steelers:

• Jeremiah Moon appeared to be shaken up after making a tackle but continued to play and was effective in creating pressure, finishing with 6 tackles and a sack.

Defensive Players Stats Table

Philadelphia Eagles 16 @ Baltimore Ravens 13

The Philadelphia Eagles narrowly defeated the Baltimore Ravens with a final score of 16-13. Both teams showcased strong defensive performances, making it difficult for the offenses to find their rhythm. The game was characterized by solid tackling, strategic plays, and crucial stops, with the Eagles ultimately securing the win with a last-second field goal.

Defensive Highlights

Philadelphia Eagles:

• Jeremiah Trotter Jr. led the Eagles’ defense with 6 total tackles, including 4 solo tackles and a sack, showing his ability to disrupt the Ravens’ backfield.
• Ben VanSumeren contributed with 6 total tackles, 3 of them solo, anchoring the Eagles’ defense in key moments.
• Patrick Johnson was a force on the line with 4 total tackles, 2 solo, and a sack, playing a crucial role in pressuring the Ravens’ quarterback.

Baltimore Ravens:

• Trenton Simpson had an outstanding game with 11 total tackles, including 5 solo, leading the Ravens’ defense in both presence and productivity.
• Josh Ross also had a strong performance with 8 total tackles and 3 solo, contributing significantly to the Ravens’ defensive efforts.
• Daryl Worley made his presence felt with 6 tackles and a pass deflection, playing a pivotal role in the Ravens’ secondary.

Injuries and Impact

Philadelphia Eagles:

• Sanoussi Kane was injured during the third quarter after making 3 tackles and assisting in a crucial pass deflection. Despite the injury, his contributions were vital in the Eagles’ defensive stands.

Baltimore Ravens:

• Damarion Williams recorded 3 tackles and a sack before suffering an injury that took him out of the game. His absence was felt in the Ravens’ pass rush as the Eagles capitalized late in the game.

Defensive Players Stats Table

Washington Commanders 17 @ New York Jets 20

The New York Jets edged out the Washington Commanders with a final score of 20-17. Both teams showcased their defensive strengths, with numerous key tackles and critical stops on both sides. The game was marked by solid defensive performances, with the Jets securing victory with a late field goal.

Defensive Highlights

Washington Commanders:

• Percy Butler led the Commanders’ defense with 5 total tackles, including 2 solo tackles, contributing consistently throughout the game.
• Mykal Walker, Keandre Jones, and Jamin Davis each recorded 4 total tackles with 2 solo, forming a strong defensive backbone for the Commanders.
• Benning Potoa’e stood out with 1 sack and 1 tackle for loss, making his presence felt in the backfield.

New York Jets:

• Tanzel Smart and Chazz Surratt were the top tacklers for the Jets, each recording 7 total tackles, with Smart adding a tackle for loss to his performance.
• Jaylen Key and Jarius Monroe both contributed 6 total tackles, playing crucial roles in the Jets’ defensive efforts.
• Braiden McGregor was a force on the defensive line with 1 sack and 2 tackles for loss, significantly impacting the Commanders’ offensive rhythm.

Injuries and Impact

Washington Commanders:

• Colson Yankoff recorded 1 tackle before exiting the game due to injury. His absence was notable in the Commanders’ secondary.

New York Jets:

• Brandon Codrington had a strong performance with 4 total tackles before leaving the game due to injury. His departure affected the Jets’ special teams coverage, although the defense managed to hold strong.

Defensive Players Stats Table

Chicago Bears 33 @ Buffalo Bills 6

The Chicago Bears secured a dominant 33-6 victory over the Buffalo Bills in a game that highlighted the defensive prowess of both teams. The Bears’ defense was relentless, sacking the Bills’ quarterbacks multiple times and even scoring on an interception return. Despite a valiant effort, the Bills struggled to generate any significant offensive momentum.

Defensive Highlights

Chicago Bears:

• Amen Ogbongbemiga led the Bears’ defense with 8 total tackles, including 6 solo tackles, 1 sack, and 1 pass deflection, playing a key role in shutting down the Bills’ offense.
• Austin Booker and Daniel Hardy were standout performers, each contributing 2.5 sacks and 2 tackles for loss, applying constant pressure on the Bills’ quarterbacks.
• Khalid Kareem also made a significant impact with 1 sack, 1 tackle for loss, and 1 pass deflection, helping to keep the Bills’ offense off-balance.

Buffalo Bills:

• Dorian Williams was the top performer for the Bills with 6 total tackles, including 4 solo tackles, 1 sack, and 1 tackle for loss, leading the defensive effort to contain the Bears.
• Kendall Williamson and Deion Jones each recorded 5 total tackles, with Williamson adding a pass deflection to his stat line.
• Rasul Douglas made 3 solo tackles, including 1 tackle for loss, and consistently contributed to the Bills’ defensive stands.

Injuries and Impact

Chicago Bears:

• Damar Carter was injured during the play but later returned to the game. Before his injury, Carter recorded 1 tackle.

Buffalo Bills:

• Ed Oliver was injured early in the game but was able to walk off the field. He did not record any further stats after his injury.
• Kingsley Jonathan also sustained an injury but returned to play, recording 1 total tackle and applying pressure on the Bears’ offense.

Defensive Players Stats Table

Las Vegas Raiders 23 @ Minnesota Vikings 24

The Las Vegas Raiders narrowly edged out the Minnesota Vikings with a 23-21 victory in a tightly contested game. Both teams showcased strong defensive efforts, with key plays and multiple turnovers shaping the outcome. The Vikings mounted a late comeback, but the Raiders’ defense held firm, securing the win with a late field goal.

Defensive Highlights

Las Vegas Raiders:

• Tre’von Moehrig led the Raiders’ defense with 6 solo tackles, contributing significantly to shutting down the Vikings’ offensive drives.
• Jaydon Grant and Kana’i Mauga also stood out, each recording 4 solo tackles, with Grant adding a pass deflection to his performance.
• Amari Burney contributed 4 tackles, including 3 solo, and a tackle for loss, disrupting the Vikings’ running game effectively.

Minnesota Vikings:

• Theo Jackson was the top performer for the Vikings with 7 total tackles, including 6 solo, playing a crucial role in keeping the Raiders’ offense in check.
• Brian Asamoah II and Bo Richter also made significant contributions, with Asamoah recording 6 tackles and half a sack, while Richter added 6 tackles, including 4 solo, and a sack with 2 tackles for loss.
• Ivan Pace Jr. was another standout, with 5 solo tackles and consistent pressure on the Raiders’ backfield.

Injuries and Impact

Las Vegas Raiders:

• Hunter Bryant was injured during the game but was able to walk off the field. Before his injury, Bryant had no recorded stats.

Minnesota Vikings:

• There were no significant injuries reported for the Vikings in this game.

Defensive Players Stats Table

Green Bay Packers 23 @ Cleveland Browns 10

The Green Bay Packers secured a solid 23-10 victory over the Cleveland Browns, driven by a strong defensive performance and efficient offense. The Packers took control early with a quick touchdown and extended their lead throughout the game, while their defense consistently held the Browns’ offense in check. The Browns managed to score a touchdown late in the game, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Packers’ lead.

Defensive Highlights

Green Bay Packers:

• Evan Williams, Kristian Welch, and Ralen Goforth led the Packers’ defense, each recording 6 total tackles. Williams and Welch were particularly effective, with Welch also contributing to stopping key plays in the Browns’ offense.
• Lukas Van Ness was a standout, recording 3 solo tackles, 1 sack, and 3 tackles for loss, consistently disrupting the Browns’ backfield.
• Colby Wooden also made a significant impact with 3 total tackles, including a sack and a tackle for loss.

Cleveland Browns:

• Brady Breeze was the top defensive performer for the Browns with 11 total tackles, 7 of which were solo, and he added a sack to his efforts.
• Justin Hardee Sr. and Caleb Johnson each contributed 6 total tackles, with Johnson also recording a tackle for loss, demonstrating strong defensive play against the Packers’ offense.
• Myles Harden and Isaiah McGuire were also key players, with Harden adding 5 tackles and a pass deflection, while McGuire had 3 tackles and a tackle for loss.

Injuries and Impact

Green Bay Packers:

• Robert Rochell suffered an injury during the game but was able to return and continue contributing to the defense, finishing with 2 solo tackles.

Cleveland Browns:

• Nathaniel Watson was injured during a play but had contributed 3 total tackles before his injury, including a tackle for loss.

Defensive Players Stats Table

Tampa Bay Buccaneers 17 @ Cincinnati Bengals 14

The Cincinnati Bengals narrowly lost to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with a final score of 17-14. The game was a defensive battle, with both teams showing strong performances on the defensive side of the ball. The Bengals scored first, but the Buccaneers responded and eventually took the lead late in the game. Despite a last-minute drive by the Bengals, they were unable to reclaim the lead.

Defensive Highlights

Cincinnati Bengals:

• Maema Njongmeta was a key defensive player for the Bengals, recording 10 total tackles with 7 of them being solo efforts. He also contributed 2 pass deflections.
• Jordan Battle added 6 total tackles with 5 solos, showing his effectiveness in coverage and tackling.
• Shaka Heyward and Cedric Johnson both had solid performances, with Heyward contributing 5 total tackles and 0.5 sacks, while Johnson had 4 tackles, including a sack and a tackle for loss.
• Travis Bell also made a significant impact with 3 tackles and a sack, as well as a tackle for loss.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers:

• J.J. Russell led the Buccaneers’ defense with 7 total tackles, 6 of which were solo, and he also had a pass deflection.
• Tykee Smith and Vi Jones each recorded 5 and 4 total tackles, respectively, showing strong coverage and tackling abilities.
• Kaevon Merriweather was effective in the secondary, contributing 3 total tackles and a pass deflection, which helped disrupt the Bengals’ passing game.

Injuries and Impact

Cincinnati Bengals:

• J.Newton was injured during a play but later returned to the game. Before his injury, he recorded an interception, showcasing his ability to impact the game defensively.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers:

• D.Anthony was injured during the third quarter. He had contributed 4 tackles before leaving the game, including a tackle for loss, showing his effectiveness in stopping the run.

Defensive Players Stats Table

San Francisco 49ers 17 @ Tennessee Titans 17

The San Francisco 49ers faced off against the Tennessee Titans in a tightly contested matchup, with the Titans emerging victorious by a score of 17-13. The 49ers started strong with an early touchdown, but the Titans responded with two touchdowns and a field goal to secure the win. The 49ers made a late push with a touchdown in the fourth quarter but fell short as the Titans’ defense held firm.

Defensive Highlights

San Francisco 49ers:

• Tatum Bethune was a standout for the 49ers’ defense, leading the team with 8 total tackles, 4 of which were solo, and adding a tackle for loss.
• Alex Barrett also made significant contributions with 7 total tackles, 4 solo tackles, and 1 pass deflection, showcasing his versatility on the field.
• Kalia Davis recorded a sack and 2 tackles for loss, providing critical pressure on the Titans’ quarterback.

Tennessee Titans:

• Chance Campbell led the Titans’ defense with 9 total tackles, 5 solo tackles, and a sack, along with a tackle for loss and a pass deflection.
• Gabe Jeudy-Lally was effective in coverage, contributing 4 solo tackles and breaking up a pass.
• Kenneth Murray Jr. was a disruptive force, recording 2 tackles and 1 tackle for loss, as well as 2 quarterback hits.

Injuries and Impact

San Francisco 49ers:

• There were no significant injuries reported for the 49ers during this game.

Tennessee Titans:

• Elijah Molden contributed 2 solo tackles and was effective in run support, but no injuries were reported for him during this game.

Defensive Players Stats Table

Kansas City Chiefs 13 @ Jacksonville Jaguars 26

The Jacksonville Jaguars defeated the Kansas City Chiefs with a score of 26-13. The Chiefs started strong, putting up early points with a field goal, but the Jaguars quickly responded with a touchdown. The Jaguars’ defense played a crucial role in the victory, recording multiple sacks and key stops throughout the game. Kansas City fought back with a long touchdown drive, but Jacksonville’s defense held firm, securing the win with a late field goal.

Defensive Highlights

Kansas City Chiefs:

• Keith Taylor Jr. led the Chiefs’ defense with 6 total tackles, including 4 solo tackles, showing his effectiveness in both pass coverage and run support.
• Jack Cochrane made a significant impact with 2 tackles and 1 sack, adding to the Chiefs’ pressure on the Jaguars’ quarterback.
• Cole Christiansen also contributed with 2 tackles, 1 sack, and 1 tackle for loss, showcasing his ability to disrupt the Jaguars’ offense.

Jacksonville Jaguars:

• De’Antre Prince and Ventrell Miller were standouts for the Jaguars, each recording 5 total tackles, with Miller adding a tackle for loss, showing their versatility and playmaking abilities.
• Esezi Otomewo was a force on the defensive line, recording 3 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and 1 tackle for loss, disrupting the Chiefs’ offensive rhythm.
• Yasir Abdullah contributed with 3 tackles and 0.5 sacks, helping to keep constant pressure on the Chiefs’ quarterback.

Injuries and Impact

Kansas City Chiefs:

• Mike Mettauer was injured during a sack play in the fourth quarter. He did not record any stats following the injury.

Jacksonville Jaguars:

• Ventrell Miller was injured during a play in the second quarter after recording 5 tackles and 1 tackle for loss. He did not return to the game.

Defensive Players Stats Table

Seattle Seahawks 16 @ Los Angeles Chargers 3

The Seattle Seahawks defeated the Los Angeles Chargers with a final score of 16-3. Both teams struggled offensively, with the defenses dominating the game. The Seahawks managed to capitalize on key opportunities, including a few crucial stops and field goals that helped them secure the win. The Chargers’ offense was unable to break through Seattle’s strong defense, ultimately settling for only a field goal.

Defensive Highlights

Seattle Seahawks:

• Jon Rhattigan and Derick Hall were the standouts for the Seahawks, each recording 5 total tackles, 4 of which were solo. Both also contributed a sack and a tackle for loss, playing a pivotal role in keeping the Chargers’ offense in check.
• Ty Okada and Tyrel Dodson also contributed significantly, with 4 and 3 tackles respectively, and Dodson recording a sack.

Los Angeles Chargers:

• Nick Niemann was the defensive leader for the Chargers, racking up 12 total tackles, 9 of which were solo. He also recorded a sack and a tackle for loss, showcasing his ability to be a disruptive force.
• Deane Leonard and Shane Lee also made their presence felt, with Leonard totaling 6 tackles and Lee recording 4 tackles, 1 sack, and a tackle for loss.

Injuries and Impact

Los Angeles Chargers:

• Hayden Hurst was injured following an interception in the second quarter. He did not record any stats following the injury.

Defensive Players Stats Table

New Orleans Saints 16 @ Arizona Cardinals 14

The New Orleans Saints edged out the Arizona Cardinals with a last-minute field goal, securing a 16-14 victory. The game was a defensive battle with both teams struggling to find rhythm on offense. Key defensive plays and strategic stops were the highlights, with the Saints ultimately coming out on top.

Defensive Highlights

New Orleans Saints:

• Monty Rice led the Saints’ defense with 7 solo tackles, showcasing his ability to stop the run and limit yardage.
• Anfernee Orji and Khaleke Hudson also made significant contributions, with Orji recording 6 total tackles and Hudson contributing 6 tackles and half a sack.
• Bryan Bresee and Carl Granderson were effective in pressuring the quarterback, with Bresee recording a sack and Granderson splitting a sack with Nathan Shepherd.

Arizona Cardinals:

• Markus Bailey was a standout for the Cardinals, leading the team with 5 tackles, 4 of which were solo.
• Xavier Thomas made a key impact with a sack and a tackle for loss, contributing to the Cardinals’ defensive pressure.
• Darren Hall and Dadrion Taylor-Demerson both recorded 4 tackles, helping to keep the Saints’ offense in check.

Injuries and Impact

No significant injuries were reported for either team based on the provided play-by-play information.

Defensive Players Stats Table

Denver Broncos 34 @ Indianapolis Colts 30

The Denver Broncos secured a 34-30 victory over the Indianapolis Colts. Both teams displayed strong defensive performances, with the game featuring key turnovers and crucial stops that kept the contest close until the final whistle. The Broncos’ ability to capitalize on turnovers and execute in the red zone ultimately gave them the edge in this tightly contested game.

Defensive Highlights

Indianapolis Colts:

• Grant Stuard and Austin Ajiake were standouts for the Colts, each recording 7 total tackles. Stuard made 4 solo tackles, while Ajiake added a pass deflection.
• Micah Abraham had a strong game with 6 total tackles, including 3 solo tackles and a tackle for loss. He also recorded a crucial quarterback hit.
• Craig Young contributed 5 total tackles, including 4 solo stops, while Dallis Flowers and Cameron McGrone each added 4 tackles with solid performances.

Denver Broncos:

• Alex Singleton and Levelle Bailey led the Broncos’ defense, each recording 4 total tackles with 3 solo stops. Singleton also had a tackle for loss.
• Jonah Elliss and Dondrea Tillman were key in applying pressure on the Colts’ quarterbacks, with Elliss recording a sack and Tillman contributing a sack and a forced fumble.
• Reese Taylor and Malcolm Roach also made significant contributions, each recording 3 total tackles with Taylor adding a tackle for loss.

Injuries and Impact

During the game, Denver’s Art Green was injured after making a crucial tackle. Before his injury, he had recorded 1 solo tackle and was flagged for unnecessary roughness, which resulted in a 15-yard penalty against the Broncos.

Defensive Players Stats Table

Dallas Cowboys 12 @ Los Angeles Rams 13

The Los Angeles Rams narrowly defeated the Dallas Cowboys 13-12 in a hard-fought defensive battle. Both teams struggled to find the end zone, with the game dominated by field goals and key defensive plays. The Rams managed to clinch the victory with a late touchdown drive, overcoming several interceptions that had kept the Cowboys in the game.

Defensive Highlights

Dallas Cowboys:

• Markquese Bell was the standout defender, leading the team with 9 total tackles, including 6 solo stops. He also contributed 1 pass deflection.
• Caelen Carson added 6 total tackles with 4 solo efforts, showcasing his presence in the secondary.
• Josh Butler and Jason Johnson each recorded 3 solo tackles, with Butler also securing an interception and a sack.
• DeMarvion Overshown and Juanyeh Thomas were solid contributors, each with 3 tackles.

Los Angeles Rams:

• Jason Taylor II led the Rams with 7 total tackles, including 4 solo. His strong performance helped anchor the Rams’ defense.
• Tyler Davis was impactful with 6 total tackles, 2 tackles for loss, and a pass deflection, disrupting the Cowboys’ offensive rhythm.
• Zach VanValkenburg and Keir Thomas each recorded a sack, with VanValkenburg also adding 3 tackles and a QB hit.
• Jaylen McCollough and Tanner Ingle each added 5 total tackles, with McCollough contributing 5 solo tackles and Ingle 4.

Injuries and Impact

During the game, the Rams’ Blake Limmer was injured after a running play. Prior to his injury, he was involved in blocking assignments but did not record any defensive stats. Additionally, Spencer Wiglusz suffered an injury after catching a pass in the fourth quarter. Wiglusz had recorded a few receptions but his exact defensive stats were not detailed.

Defensive Players Stats Table

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