NFL: Surprises and shocks from Week 1

Surprises and shocks from the NFL’s Week 1

Sep 7, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Nick Foles (9) fumbles the football while being sacked by Jacksonville Jaguars defensive end Andre Branch (90) during the first quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports /

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Sep 7, 2014; Chicago, IL, USA; Buffalo Bills running back Fred Jackson (22) rushes the ball against Chicago Bears free safety Chris Conte (47) in overtime at Soldier Field. Buffalo Bills defeat the Chicago Bears 23-20 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /

Buffalo Bills upset Chicago Bears

Here’s an elimination pick that probably sunk a few people.

While E.J. Manuel is still, very clearly, learning how to play at the Pro level it sounds like the Bills have a leader on their hands.

Kevin Patra of NFL.com reported that Manuel gave quite a speech Saturday night, which fired the team up and gave them the energy to overcome a hostile crowd, a tough Bears team and a back-and-forth day.

The overtime win was a great first step for a team which was maligned by pretty much everyone, myself included. This doesn’t make them Super Bowl contenders or anything but it shows us the offense might be better than we expected and the defense can still make plays.

Next week is another big test, as they meet the other surprise winner from Week 1.

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