NFL Week 4: Rams Beat Colts, Chiefs Dominate Ravens

The fourth week of the 2025 NFL season began Thursday evening showcasing an enthralling contest involving the Seahawks and the Cardinals. Arizona evened the score at 20 with only 28 ticks remaining on the clock in the fourth quarter, but Seattle marched down the field for a contest-sealing, 52-yard field goal by Jason Myers as time expired.

Sunday’s games commenced in Dublin, Ireland, where the Steelers triumphed over the Vikings 24-21 in the second international showdown of the year. Back in the States, the Patriots and Falcons rebounded from Week 3 defeats with triumphs over the Panthers and Commanders, respectively. Giants’ rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart provided a shock to the Chargers in his inaugural appearance, handing them their first stumble of the season.

In the Sunday late-game slot, the Rams put a stop to the Colts’ successful opening with two interceptions off quarterback Daniel Jones (both secured by Los Angeles cornerback Kam Curl). The Chiefs displayed dominance facing the Ravens, although quarterback Lamar Jackson exited in the third quarter due to a hamstring problem. Furthermore, the Bears managed to block a field goal in the final moments of play for a minimal one-point edge over the Raiders.

Our NFL Nation correspondents shared their insights on all the happenings, addressing outstanding questions from each game and providing detailed coverage for every team. Let’s proceed.

Jump to:
CHI-LV | BAL-KC | JAX-SF
IND-LAR | PHI-TB | NO-BUF
LAC-NYG | CLE-DET | TEN-HOU
CAR-NE | WSH-ATL
MIN-PIT | SEA-ARI

Catch up on the action: Box score | Recap

Bears

What modifications do the Bears have to implement during their Week 5 break? The Bears’ defensive unit managed to intercept three passes, execute a crucial red zone halt, and provided the offense with several chances, which they failed to leverage until late. During the week off, coach Ben Johnson and his staff will need to devise strategies to address the struggles in the ground game (2 rushing yards in the first half) and pre-snap infractions. A 2-2 record after the initial month of the season is a respectable spot, but Johnson will feel discontented by the number of points his team missed.

Trend to observe: Before the season commenced, Johnson suggested that the Bears would promptly make a substitution at the left tackle spot if the position was perceived as a weak spot along the offensive line. Braxton Jones, the left tackle, who started Week 3 with 43 career starts, was substituted by guard Theo Benedet late in the second quarter, a change that could become permanent. Benedet was stepping in for Darnell Wright (elbow) at right tackle, and upon his shift to the left, rookie Ozzy Trapilo experienced his first NFL plays at the position.

Best statement from inside the locker room: “This is an amazing victory, and it is a true demonstration of the team we have. I believe we put in a solid week of practice, and we removed this so-called weight from our shoulders that we are not the ‘same old Bears’, we are different,” stated cornerback Josh Blackwell, responsible for blocking the 54-yard field goal attempt to conclude the game.— Courtney Cronin

Next game: at Commanders (Oct. 13, 8:15 p.m. ET)

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Raiders

Is it necessary to be concerned about QB Geno Smith? The Smith experience hasn’t unfolded as anticipated. He threw three interceptions, two leading to scores for Chicago. His initial pick assisted in setting up a field goal in the first quarter. Subsequently, Smith was intercepted by cornerback Tyrique Stevenson, allowing Bears quarterback Caleb Williams to complete a touchdown pass to wide receiver Rome Odunze. Smith had the chance to secure the game, but his throw to wide receiver Dont’e Thornton Jr. was slightly underthrown, resulting in an incomplete pass and a field goal. Smith’s turnover troubles should inspire anxiety moving forward.

Key stat to note: Running back Ashton Jeanty emerged as the first Raiders rookie to secure three touchdowns in a game since Bo Jackson (1987). He also ranks as the fifth player aged 21 or younger to achieve a three-touchdown game in the last ten years, following De’Von Achane, Ja’Marr Chase, Saquon Barkley, and Ezekiel Elliott. Jeanty accumulated 21 carries for a total of 138 yards, encompassing two receiving touchdowns and a rushing score. — Ryan McFadden

Next game: at Colts (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Catch up on the action: Box score | Recap

Chiefs

Did Xavier Worthy’s re-emergence unlock the Chiefs’ offense? For this one particular game, the response was a resounding yes. Worthy’s pace and on-field presence created several advantageous matchups for quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who delivered an exceptional performance. The speedy receiver ignited the offense with a career-best 83 receiving yards. With Worthy in the lineup, Mahomes was still capable of spreading his passes around, connecting with nine teammates. Another contributing factor to the Chiefs’ accomplishment was the Ravens’ defensive injuries. The more telling assessment will be the upcoming week’s faceoff against the Jaguars, who hold a 3-1 record.

Most notable performance: Unlike his teammates, defensive tackle Chris Jones awoke Sunday in his home state of Mississippi. He devoted Saturday with his family, attending his aunt’s funeral. Jones’ flight to Kansas City touched down at 2:40 p.m., and he arrived at the stadium less than half an hour before the game. He started, and his influence was still quite significant. He put pressure on Jackson early, halted running back Derrick Henry on a short-yardage play, and came out on top in most one-on-one scenarios. — Nate Taylor

Next game: at Jaguars (Monday, Oct. 6, 8:15 p.m. ET)

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Ravens

Is the Ravens’ year essentially done at 1-3? It is definitely hanging by a thread. The Ravens have only been at 1-3 in two prior instances (2005 and 2015), and they did not secure a postseason berth in either of those years. There’s consistently a flicker of hope with quarterback Lamar Jackson, who has guided Baltimore to the playoffs in each of the five seasons he has completed, but he left the game during the third quarter because of a hamstring problem. The most significant hurdle for the Ravens is a faltering defensive unit, which has conceded 133 points — the highest tally in the initial four games of a season in the franchise’s history. To make matters worse, middle linebacker Roquan Smith (hamstring) and cornerbacks Nate Wiggins (elbow) and Marlon Humphrey (calf) had to leave due to injuries and did not return. This means Baltimore is presently without seven defensive starters due to injuries.

Key stat to note: The Ravens’ record sits at 7-11 (inclusive of the playoffs) when Jackson commits several turnovers. Having steered clear of turnovers in the initial three games, Jackson threw an interception, then lost the ball when he ran into center Tyler Linderbaum. The last occasion that Baltimore achieved victory when Jackson had numerous turnovers was the 2023 season opener against the Texans. Sunday also signified the initial instance since 2021 that Jackson was on the losing end of a game by more than a single score.

Best statement from inside the locker room: Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton regarding the Ravens’ 1-3 beginning: “I simply want to apologize to the supporters. The result that we are presenting on the field at this moment is substandard compared to what the Ravens have exemplified in the past and recent history. We are attempting our best to rectify it, but evidently, something is amiss.”— Jamison Hensley

Next game: vs. Texans (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Catch up on the action: Box score | Recap

Jaguars

Is the Jaguars’ defensive unit legitimate? While expecting the defense to force three (or more) turnovers game after game would be unrealistic, the Jags have accomplished it for four consecutive weeks. Their total of 13 takeaways is league-leading and signifies the most in the initial four games of a season in the franchise’s history. Furthermore, they’re achieving it at crucial moments: safety Antonio Johnson’s interception (originating from a pass deflected by defensive end Josh Hines-Allen) sealed the triumph over Houston last week, along with linebacker Foyesade Oluokun’s fumble recovery (forced by defensive tackle Arik Armstead) late in the game against the 49ers. Although the turnovers might diminish, the defense stepping up significantly in clutch moments is a sign that this unit could be the real deal.

Trend to observe: Injuries struck considerably on Sunday, with eight starters or pivotal reserves leaving the game at one point or another. Defensive end Travon Walker (wrist) and safety Eric Murray (neck) did not come back. These would represent critical losses should they be long-term absences. Lacking Walker would enable teams to concentrate on stopping Hines-Allen. Murray has received commendation for his on-field communication and for stabilizing a secondary that had difficulties with big plays in the prior season. — Mike DiRocco

Next game: vs. Chiefs (Oct. 6, 8:15 p.m. ET)

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49ers

Following a poor showing, are the 49ers truly as formidable as their 3-1 record indicates? Even though the Niners narrowly escaped with victories in the first three weeks, Sunday’s setback revealed numerous underlying issues that had been gradually emerging. Four offensive turnovers, none on defense, struggles within the red zone on both sides, untimely penalties, and continued special teams troubles all contributed to the Niners’ most disappointing performance of the year. Without star defensive end Nick Bosa, it is somewhat understandable that the defense would decline, but the offense didn’t make up for any shortfall against Jacksonville. In addition, the special teams conceded an 87-yard punt return for a touchdown. The upcoming two games — against the Rams and Bucs — ought to offer more conclusive evidence on the true identity of these Niners.

Trend to observe: In spite of a sluggish start, the 49ers maintain that their running game is on the verge of a breakthrough. However, Sunday offered more evidence that it isn’t actually taking off. San Francisco averaged just 3.5 yards per carry, marking the third consecutive game in which they’ve been outrushed by their opponent. As of Sunday night, the 49ers rank 31st in the NFL in yards per carry (3.3).

Best statement from inside the locker room: Trent Williams shared his sentiments on how he feels about the 3-1 start and whether the Niners feel like a 3-1 team: “What does a 3-1 team feel like? The reality is that we have 17 games, therefore four weeks in, it’s insignificant. We have a Thursday night game coming up and we have a major divisional rival. That’s the sole focus. The record will be self-evident at the end of the season.” — Nick Wagoner

Next game: at Rams (Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Catch up on the action: Box score | Recap

Rams

Is Puka Nacua currently the premier wide receiver in the NFL? Having secured 42 catches for 503 yards this season, he undoubtedly is performing like one of the best. Against the Colts, Nacua recorded 13 catches for 170 yards, further extending his NFL lead in both categories. He also grabbed a touchdown pass to equalize the score. Nacua has demonstrated consistency and is a focal point of this offense. On Sunday, he became only the second player in NFL history to amass 40 receptions for 500 yards during his team’s opening four games, as per ESPN Research.

Trend to observe: The Rams once more faced difficulties on third down, going 4-of-12 (33%). When addressing the Rams’ third-down issues from their Week 3 defeat to the Eagles, offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur mentioned that “there were some slight misalignments that happened.” Though the Rams secured victories in their opening two games against teams who now have a combined 1-7 record, they’ve come to the realization that they must establish more consistency on offense against competent teams.

Best statement from inside the locker room: When questioned about Tutu Atwell’s role in the Rams’ offense in the week prior to the game, coach Sean McVay stated that despite Atwell only having one catch, the 2021 second-round pick had performed “everything that has been requested” and “his moment will come.” His moment arrived dramatically against the Colts, when he secured the game-winning 88-yard touchdown pass with less than two minutes to play. “I almost shed a tear, honestly,” Davante Adams conveyed. “Given how diligently he works and his contributions to this team, you can only be excited and truly happy for him when he’s able to make a play of that caliber.” — Sarah Barshop

Next game: vs. 49ers (Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

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Colts

What revelations did this game offer concerning the Colts’ defense? Indianapolis delivered one of their most impressive pass-rushing performances of the season, but the game was marred by a substandard pass defense and some significant lapses in the running game. The Colts gave up a total of 462 yards, marking their highest since Week 5 of the prior season. Simultaneously, the personnel within the secondary is becoming problematic in light of injuries to cornerbacks Kenny Moore II (Achilles) and Jaylon Jones (injured reserve). Even the recruitment of veteran cornerback Mike Hilton last week did not mitigate Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford’s tremendous performance (29-for-41, 375 yards, 3 touchdowns).

Biggest gap in the strategy: Cornerback Xavien Howard was outmatched by Nacua, something the Colts should have anticipated leading up to the game. Nacua persistently defeated Howard on in-breaking routes, securing inside positioning on the veteran who was a late addition in the preseason after a year out of football in 2024. If Moore’s injury lingers, the Colts will have to consider a lineup adjustment.

Best statement from inside the locker room: WR Adonai Mitchell regarding his potential 75-yard touchdown reception in the third quarter, a play on which he fumbled the ball out of the end zone, giving possession back to the Rams. “It was a matter of losing focus, and it’s a play that simply cannot occur. It’s unacceptable. I simply have to improve for the sake of the team and the organization.” — Stephen Holder

Next game: vs. Raiders (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Catch up on the action: Box score | Recap

Eagles

How did the Eagles almost permit that one to slip through their fingers? The Bucs narrowed Philly’s 24-3 lead owing largely to touchdown passes of 77 and 72 yards by Bucs quarterback Baker Mayfield, signifying the two longest plays against the Eagles’ defense ever since Vic Fangio took on the role of defensive coordinator, according to ESPN Research. Adding that to an Eagles offense that mostly went silent — they had five three-and-outs during the second half — generates a recipe for an almost total collapse. The defense did manage to produce some substantial plays late to sustain the Eagles’ undefeated record.

What conclusions can be drawn regarding the QB performance? Quarterback Jalen Hurts seemed to have entirely surmounted his difficulties against Bucs coach Todd Bowles, managing 8-of-9 for 56 yards and two touchdowns against the blitz in the first half, assisting in securing a significant lead for the Eagles. The situation changed during the second half, however, with Hurts going 0-for-8 as the Bucs mounted their comeback. — Tim McManus

Next game: vs. Broncos (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

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Buccaneers

Why were the Bucs unable to stage a comeback this time? There certainly is no lack of effort within this group, but they still endure costly early miscues. The defense surrendered two touchdowns on shovel passes to Eagles tight end Dallas Goedert during the first half, on top of having a punt blocked and returned for a touchdown to slide into a 21-point deficit. Yet somehow, those plays, in addition to running back Bucky Irving’s fumble and Mayfield’s fourth-quarter interception, didn’t put the game out of reach. Bowles curtailed the blitzes that Hurts had carved up in the first half, holding him to 0-for-8 in the second. They retaliated with touchdown receptions by wide receiver Emeka Egbuka and Irving — each spanning over 70 yards. And once more, Mayfield utilized his legs to keep things moving.

Biggest gap in the strategy: Just last week, there was a blocked field goal returned for a touchdown during the fourth quarter. This week, a blocked punt was returned for a score — it was the second blocked punt the Bucs have allowed this season. No other team in the league has more than one. Punter Riley Dixon also shanked a punt for a mere 18 yards. There’s considerable work required for this unit, although kicker Chase McLaughlin’s 65-yard field goal — one yard off the league record and the longest outdoor kick in league history — was impressive. — Jenna Laine

Next game: at Seahawks (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)

Catch up on the action: Box score | Recap

Bills

How worrisome is the Bills’ sloppiness? The Bills entered this game following a 10-day rest period, but their performance didn’t indicate it. They accrued a season-high 11 penalties, allowing the Saints to initiate four drives within Buffalo territory, and both the offense and defense stalled out midway through the game. New Orleans received considerable assistance from Buffalo’s missed tackles, an area the Bills need to rectify. Once again, Buffalo managed to pull out the win during the fourth quarter, but the issues that were apparent, particularly on defense, will be prioritized for correction.

Key stat to note: Running back James Cook surpassed the franchise record for consecutive regular-season games with a touchdown (eight). Cook continues to be a prominent player, accumulating over 100 rushing yards for a third straight game (117 yards) and playing a significant role in the team starting 4-0 for the first time since 2020.

Best statement from inside the locker room: Following the game, Cook was asked whether his role would increase in light of his strong performances. “I’m the star running back, why [wouldn’t it]… you know?… I’m the star running back, so it’s gonna happen,” he stated. — Alaina Getzenberg

Next game: vs. Patriots (Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET)

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Saints

Does this signify a turning point for the Saints? The Saints still displayed some of their usual difficulties — they conceded big plays and had a pivotal special teams penalty that extinguished any hopes of a comeback. On the whole, however, the Saints played considerably better than they have this season when facing a very good Bills team. They reduced the number of penalties, exhibited progress across all three phases, and showcased young players such as Jonas Sanker and Kendre Miller. This represented a significant turnaround from the prior week’s blowout defeat. The Saints have yet to secure a win, but they will face the 1-3 Giants and a rookie quarterback at home next week, offering them some optimism of escaping their winless slump.

Most notable performance: Running back Kendre Miller. Miller accumulated 65 rushing yards against the Bills, marking the second-highest total in his career. He also secured his first touchdown of the season and a third-down conversion. Miller took part in only six games the prior year, therefore this game could symbolize an upward trajectory for his usage.

Best statement from inside the locker room: Saints defensive end Cameron Jordan was asked if he felt that the team had rebounded after its blowout loss to the Seahawks the week before. “Losing is not bouncing back,” he stated. “At the end of the day, it triggers the same feeling. We’ve simply got to identify a means of getting in the Dub column, gah-lee.” — Katherine Terrell

Next game: vs. Giants (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Catch up on the action: Box score | Recap

Giants

What’s in store for Jaxson Dart and the Giants without Malik Nabers? It seems that Dart and the Giants will have to move forward without Nabers. Early indications suggest that the star receiver tore the ACL in his right knee, according to a source. An MRI has been scheduled for Monday. Dart did manage to perform effectively during his first career start, and the Giants’ offense appeared different with his capability to run. Dart managed 13-of-20 for 111 yards with a touchdown. He ran for an additional 54 yards and a score. They’ll carry on utilizing his legs to generate offense without Nabers.

Key stat to note: Edge rusher Abdul Carter recorded five quarterback hits. The rookie enjoyed the best game of his young career. He constantly found his way into the Chargers’ backfield, putting hits on quarterback Justin Herbert. However, this year’s No. 3 draft pick was not alone. Brian Burns had four quarterback hits and one sack. The Giants’ edge rushers — Carter, Burns, and Kayvon Thibodeaux — amassed a total of 20 pressures, according to NFL Next Gen Stats. Domination. — Jordan Raanan

Next game: at Saints (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)