Now, let’s take a closer look at how the NFC teams have fared with their offensive strategies through the first five weeks (four games for the Jaguars and 49ers). As with the AFC teams, we’ll break down their total plays, pass and run attempts, and analyze the percentages to see who’s been focusing on the air attack versus the ground game.
Giants (1-4): Passing It All Away
- Total Plays: 268
- Pass Plays: 192 (71.6%)
- Run Plays: 96 (28.4%)
The New York Giants have been among the most pass-heavy teams in the NFC and PML, with 170 pass attempts and a whopping 22 sacks. Their running game has been virtually non-existent, accounting for only 96 rushing attempts through five games.
At 1-4, the Giants’ strategy has not paid off, as their offensive line struggles and lack of balance have put a tremendous strain on rookie quarterback KJ Jefferson. Their heavy reliance on the pass, coupled with a lack of an effective rushing attack, has contributed to their poor record, and they may need to reassess their game plan moving forward. It’s clear the offensive line is an issue with 22 sacks, but it is beginning to teeter on playcalling malpractice with this split.
Lions (1-4): Not Bad For A Newcomer
- Total Plays: 184
- Pass Plays: 103 (56.0%)
- Run Plays: 81 (44.0%)
Despite their 1-4 record, the Detroit Lions have attempted to mix in the pass with the run, though the disparity still leans toward the air. With 101 pass attempts, two sacks, and only 81 rushing attempts, Detroit’s offense has been inconsistent at best.
The Lions’ struggles this season are partially due to their inability to execute the running game effectively, putting more pressure on quarterback Jared Goff to produce. Their lack of offensive balance has made it easier for defenses to predict their next move, and as the season progresses, they’ll need to find ways to be more efficient on the ground.
Packers (1-4): Struggling Through the Air & On The Ground
- Total Plays: 246
- Pass Plays: 135 (54.9%)
- Run Plays: 111 (45.1%)
The Packers have been fairly balanced in terms of playcalling, with 117 pass attempts and 18 sacks against 111 rushes. However, their offensive execution has not been up to par, which is reflected in their 1-4 record.
While Green Bay hasn’t leaned excessively on one side of the ball, their passing attack has been inefficient. A more successful ground game could help alleviate pressure on Jordan Love and improve their offensive consistency moving forward. 18 sacks has definitely left this offense reeling.
Cowboys (2-3): Aiming for Balance, But Falling Short
- Total Plays: 246
- Pass Plays: 136 (55.3%)
- Run Plays: 110 (44.7%)
Dallas has tried to balance their offensive attack, but their 2-3 record shows that it hasn’t always been effective. Trey Lance and the Cowboys have thrown 127 passes, with 9 sacks, and they have rushed 110 times.
The Cowboys’ offense has sputtered at times due to their inability to consistently execute both phases. The offense’s struggles to find consistency have contributed to their losing record, and they’ll need to better integrate both the pass and run games to become more effective.
Falcons (0-5): Pass-Centric in a Struggling Offense
- Total Plays: 248
- Pass Plays: 162 (65.3%)
- Run Plays: 89 (34.7%)
The Falcons have embraced a pass-heavy approach, with 146 pass attempts and 16 sacks. Despite being 0-5, their passing game has been the focal point, though their rushing attempts are low, which has hindered their offensive balance.
Atlanta’s struggles to get their running game going have made them one-dimensional, which has allowed opposing defenses to focus solely on stopping the pass. They’ll need to reestablish a balanced offensive attack if they hope to improve their standing and avoid further losses. With a suspect quarterback situation, it’s time to make X-Factor RB Bijan Robinson the clear focus.
Rams (2-3): Pass-Heavy, But Missing Efficiency
- Total Plays: 249
- Pass Plays: 165 (66.3%)
- Run Plays: 84 (33.7%)
The Los Angeles Rams have been pass-heavy, with 154 pass attempts and 11 sacks. Their rushing attack has been limited, with only 84 carries through five games.
At 2-3, the Rams have struggled to execute their pass-heavy strategy efficiently. With Dak Prescott and Quinn Ewers splitting time under center, the lack of balance has resulted in too many passing attempts without enough success on the ground. If they don’t improve their run game, it could continue to limit their offensive ceiling.
Seahawks (4-1): Passing to Establish the Run
- Total Plays: 283
- Pass Plays: 146 (51.6%)
- Run Plays: 137 (48.4%)
Seattle has been one of the most balanced teams in the NFC, with 141 pass attempts and 5 sacks alongside 137 rushes. Their offensive success has been built on a solid mix of both elements, keeping defenses honest and able to attack from multiple angles.
At 4-1, the Seahawks have found a rhythm by maintaining balance. Their ability to keep both the passing and running games active has contributed to their strong start, and they look poised to stay competitive throughout the season. The pass opens up the run and Kenneth Walker opens the pass right back up,
Panthers (2-3): Sticking with the Run
- Total Plays: 314
- Pass Plays: 164 (52.2%)
- Run Plays: 150 (47.8%)
Carolina has kept things fairly balanced, with 152 pass attempts and 12 sacks against 150 rushing attempts. Their offensive game plan focuses on both phases of play, although they have leaned slightly toward running the ball more.
At 2-3, the Panthers have shown that their balance gives them a better shot at success. While their rushing attack is still a work in progress, their ability to attack through the air when needed has helped them stay competitive. With more efficiency in the red zone, they could turn more of their close games into wins.
Buccaneers (4-1): Pass First, But Not by Much
- Total Plays: 269
- Pass Plays: 155 (57.6%)
- Run Plays: 114 (42.4%)
The Buccaneers have favored the pass slightly more, with 149 pass attempts and 6 sacks, while mixing in a solid running game with 114 rushing attempts.
At 4-1, the Bucs have managed to stay balanced on offense, but their passing game has been their key to success. With rookie Kurtis Rourke seemingly replacing Baker Mayfield at the helm, they’ve been able to move the ball effectively, and as long as they keep defenses guessing with their versatility, they should remain a strong contender.
Cardinals (5-0): Grounded in Success
- Total Plays: 280
- Pass Plays: 134 (47.9%)
- Run Plays: 146 (52.1%)
The Cardinals lead with a run-first mentality, logging 123 pass attempts and 11 sacks against 146 rushing attempts. Their offense is built around controlling the clock with the ground game and capitalizing on short, efficient passes when needed.
At 5-0, Arizona’s ability to dominate the run game has been the backbone of their undefeated record. Their strong offensive line play and commitment to a balanced attack have helped them control games from start to finish. If they continue to execute this formula, they’ll remain one of the most dangerous teams in the NFC.
Eagles (1-4): Struggling to Establish the Ground Game
- Total Plays: 261
- Pass Plays: 186 (71.2%)
- Run Plays: 75 (28.8%)
The Eagles have struggled to establish a balanced offensive attack, as their passing game has dominated with 174 pass attempts and 12 sacks. Their 75 rushing attempts reflect a failure to gain consistency on the ground, which has hurt them in tight games.
At 1-4, Philadelphia’s one-dimensional offense has been a significant factor in their poor record. The Eagles need to reassert their run game to provide balance and keep defenses guessing. If they can get back to their run-heavy roots, they might be able to turn things around.
Commanders (4-1): A Balanced Approach to Success
- Total Plays: 264
- Pass Plays: 127 (48.1%)
- Run Plays: 137 (51.9%)
Washington has executed a near-perfect balance between run and pass, with 119 pass attempts and 8 sacks versus 137 rushes. This balanced approach has allowed them to control games and remain effective in multiple phases.
Their 4-1 record is a testament to how well their offense has functioned, with Jayden Daniels spreading the ball around and the team able to lean on their ground game to close out games. Washington’s ability to mix things up has made them a tough opponent early in the season.
Vikings (4-1): Pass-Centric but Efficient
- Total Plays: 244
- Pass Plays: 161 (66.0%)
- Run Plays: 83 (34.0%)
The Minnesota Vikings have been more pass-heavy, with 152 pass attempts and 9 sacks compared to just 83 rushes. While they still maintain a fairly balanced attack, the emphasis has been on rookie Drew Allar’s arm to move the ball.
Despite a 4-1 record, the Vikings’ offensive approach has been heavily reliant on the passing game. They’ve managed to sustain success by airing it out, but their run game has not been as much of a factor. If they can develop more of a running threat, it will make their offense even more dangerous as the season progresses.
Saints (3-2): Slightly Run-Heavier than Pass
- Total Plays: 295
- Pass Plays: 138 (46.8%)
- Run Plays: 157 (53.2%)
The New Orleans Saints have maintained a slightly more run-heavy approach, with 134 pass attempts and 4 sacks against 157 rushing attempts. This balanced offense has allowed the Saints to sustain drives and control the tempo of games.
At 3-2, New Orleans’ offense has been successful in moving the ball by mixing in both the pass and run. Their ability to lean on their running game to open up passing lanes for rookie Connor Weigmann has helped them stay competitive. If they continue with this balanced approach, they can pose a threat to NFC opponents moving forward in a way they weren’t last season.
49ers (3-1): A Powerhouse Balanced Attack
- Total Plays: 210
- Pass Plays: 104 (49.5%)
- Run Plays: 106 (50.5%)
The San Francisco 49ers have maintained a near-perfect balance in their offensive approach with 101 pass attempts and just 3 sacks, alongside 106 rushing attempts. This balance is central to their success, allowing their offense to be unpredictable and potent.
With a 3-1 record, the 49ers have showcased one of the most complete offenses in the NFC. Their ability to effectively utilize both the pass and the run has made them one of the toughest teams to defend. As they get deeper into the season, this balanced attack will continue to be a key factor in their pursuit of the playoffs. They’ve only played 4 games so far but they are on the right track.
Bears (5-0): Run First, Pass When Needed
- Total Plays: 244
- Pass Plays: 111 (45.5%)
- Run Plays: 133 (54.5%)
The Chicago Bears have embraced a run-heavy strategy, with 101 pass attempts and 10 sacks against 133 rushing attempts. Their offense is built around sophomore quarterback Caleb Williams and rookie running back Kaleb Johnson, creating a ground-based game plan that controls the clock and keeps their defense fresh.
At 5-0, the Bears’ success can be attributed to their commitment to the run game. This has allowed them to dominate possession and limit their opponents’ opportunities to score. If they continue to execute on the ground, they will remain a tough team to beat.
The NFC teams have demonstrated a wide range of strategies when it comes to balancing the run and pass game, from the pass-heavy approach of the Giants and Eagles being the only teams in PML with more than 70% pass plays to the ground-dominant tactics of the undefeated Bears and Cardinals. Teams like the 49ers and Commanders have achieved strong records through an effective balance between both phases of their offense. As the season continues, teams will likely adjust their strategies to either lean further into their strengths or try to address their weaknesses in order to maximize their chances for success in the playoffs.
