After examining the NFL’s six unbeaten teams in our latest Pick Six column, we now shift our attention to the league's six winless teams. The Houston Texans, Miami Dolphins, New York Jets, Tennessee Titans, New York Giants, and New Orleans Saints have collectively started the season with an alarming record of 0-18. As the Texans prepare to host the Titans this Sunday, at least one of these teams will inevitably face an additional loss, leading to a 0-4 record. Below, we rank these teams by their preseason win totals and analyze their performance across all three phases of the game, shedding light on their respective struggles.
Vegas Win Total: 9.5 | Record: 0-3 vs. spread
EPA per Play: 30th on offense, 17th on defense | Special Teams EPA: 3rd
Dubious Distinction: The Texans are the second team since 2000 to start 0-3 without allowing more than 20 points in any game. Their losses include a close 14-9 defeat to the Los Angeles Rams, a narrow 20-19 loss to Tampa Bay, and a 17-10 setback against Jacksonville.
Despite winning a playoff game last season, the Texans now find themselves in dire straits. Ownership had high hopes for a successful season, yet the offseason moves seemed more like long-term investments rather than immediate solutions. With new offensive coordinator Nick Caley at the helm, the Texans are struggling to find their rhythm. The team's offensive line has undergone significant changes, and it appears that the transition period is affecting performance. Currently, the Texans rank 30th in EPA per play, indicating a significant drop from last season's 25th place.
Vegas Win Total: 7.5 | Record: 1-2 vs. spread
EPA per Play: 18th on offense, 32nd on defense | Special Teams EPA: 14th
Dubious Distinction: The Dolphins are the first NFL team since the 1922 Louisville Brecks to allow over 30 points without forcing a turnover in each of their first three games.
With losses to Indianapolis (33-8), New England (33-27), and Buffalo (31-21), the Dolphins are grappling with both offensive and defensive challenges. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has seen a decline in his performance metrics, raising concerns as he earns a substantial salary of $53.1 million annually. The defense, which excelled last season under coordinator Anthony Weaver, has fallen to the bottom of the league rankings, currently sitting at 32nd in EPA per play.
Vegas Win Total: 6.5 | Record: 2-1 vs. spread
EPA per Play: 25th on offense, 27th on defense | Special Teams EPA: 17th
Dubious Distinction: The Jets are one of only 17 teams in NFL history to score over 69 points across the first three games without securing a win.
Facing three playoff teams from the previous season, the Jets have scored 27 or more points twice. However, their overall performance ranks them among the bottom 10 in both offensive and defensive EPA. The absence of a stable quarterback solution has become evident, and the team’s current trajectory doesn’t inspire confidence for improvement.
Vegas Win Total: 6.5 | Record: 1-2 vs. spread
EPA per Play: 32nd on offense, 28th on defense | Special Teams EPA: 2nd
Dubious Distinction: The Titans recorded their lowest three-game yardage total (667) since 1973.
The Titans have faced a series of unfortunate events, including a confusing sequence of events in their loss to Indianapolis. Offensive mismanagement has plagued the team, leading to critical penalties and missed opportunities. With a rookie quarterback at the helm and ongoing disorganization, the Titans are struggling to find a pathway to success.
Vegas Win Total: 5.5 | Record: 1-2 vs. spread
EPA per Play: 22nd on offense, 30th on defense | Special Teams EPA: 13th
Dubious Distinction: The Giants are among the ten teams since 2000 with more red zone drives that ended on downs than touchdowns in their first three games.
Despite the spotlight on their offense, the Giants' defense has been even worse, allowing touchdowns on eight of ten red zone drives. A transition to rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart could be a pivotal moment for the team, allowing for a fresh start as they aim for improved performance.
Vegas Win Total: 4.5 | Record: 0-3 vs. spread
EPA per Play: 23rd on offense, 26th on defense | Special Teams EPA: 32nd
Dubious Distinction: The Saints trailed by an average of 25.99 points per play against Seattle, marking the worst performance since 2000.
The Saints have had a tough season, averaging just 15.7 points per game. Transitioning from veteran quarterback Derek Carr to Spencer Rattler has been challenging, and the team is undergoing a significant overhaul, leaving them struggling to find their footing in a competitive league.
As the NFL season progresses, these six teams will need to address their weaknesses and find a way to turn their fortunes around if they hope to stay in contention. With the right adjustments, there's always a chance for improvement, but the clock is ticking.
