NFL Week 7: Biggest questions, takeaways for every game

NFL Nation, ESPNOct 20, 2024, 08:06 PM ET

Week 7 of the NFL season kicked off on Thursday with Sean Payton’s Denver Broncos dominating his former workforce, the New Orleans Saints, and on Sunday evening, Russell Wilson made his Pittsburgh Steelers debut, the place his stellar efficiency helped gas a dominant win over the New York Jets.

Sunday began off with the Jacksonville Jaguars grabbing a much-needed win over the New England Patriots within the last NFL sport from London this season.

Later, the Minnesota Vikings suffered their first lack of the season to the Detroit Lions, and Philadelphia Eagles RB Saquon Barkley had a giant day in opposition to his former workforce, the New York Giants. The Kansas City Chiefs dealt with the San Francisco 49ers, and the Washington Commanders blew out the Carolina Panthers.

Our NFL Nation reporters reacted to all of the motion, answering lingering questions popping out of every sport and detailing every part else it’s good to know for each workforce. Let’s get to it.

Steelers

Did Russell Wilson finish the Steelers’ QB debate? It is by no means that easy, however Wilson’s three-touchdown Steelers debut started unlocking the potential of a listless passing sport and nearly definitely silenced the near-deafening pregame chatter as he threw for 264 yards, a franchise report in a debut efficiency. Although Wilson confirmed apparent rust early with a handful of rushed throws beneath stress and balls that bounced on the turf, he settled in and uncorked a number of deep throws. Along with two passing scores, Wilson recorded a dashing landing as he shoved his manner into the top zone from the 1-yard-line. He additionally helped flip two interceptions into 14 factors, one thing the offense beneath Justin Fields struggled to do within the first six weeks.

Most stunning efficiency: Beanie Bishop Jr. Two weeks in the past, the Dallas Cowboys picked on the rookie cornerback, and he appeared misplaced in his first prime-time sport. However second time was the appeal for the undrafted free agent as he picked off Aaron Rodgers twice — and coming inside inches of securing a pick-6 off the second.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Blocked kicks. This win does not occur with out large contributions from all three phases, and the Steelers’ particular groups got here by way of with a blocked discipline purpose within the third quarter to maintain the Jets from slicing the Steelers’ result in 5. After the blocked kick, which was the Steelers’ league-leading second of the season, the unit encircled particular groups coach Danny Smith and jumped up and all the way down to have fun with the veteran coach. — Brooke Pryor

Subsequent sport: vs. Giants (Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Jets

What sort of affect did Davante Adams have? There was some early promise, as Adams was closely concerned. However he disappeared, as did your complete offense as Aaron Rodgers threw two interceptions and the Jets blew a 15-6 lead. The Rodgers-Adams connection was a dud. He focused his former teammate 9 occasions in his Jets debut, however they related solely 3 times for 30 yards. Adams was alleged to impress the passing offense, however that did not materialize. In actual fact, Rodgers was 13-for-25 when focusing on large receivers. There was certain to be some rising pains with Adams. Drawback is, the Jets don’t have any margin for error.

Most stunning efficiency: As soon as upon a time, the Jets protection was elite. Not on this evening. Not this season. Depleted by accidents within the secondary, they had been no match for the Steelers. They sacked Wilson solely as soon as and let him throw for 264 yards, making him appear to be the Wilson of outdated. The Jets did Steelers coach Mike Tomlin a favor, making him look sensible for beginning Wilson amid a quarterback controversy. If the Jets do not get wholesome and clear up their points on protection, they may don’t have any shot to show round their season.

Greatest gap within the sport plan: The place was the operating sport? Week after week, the Jets discuss establishing a dashing assault with Breece Hall. Not solely was it ineffective, however playcaller Todd Downing overlook about it and received too pass-happy (40 dropbacks vs. 15 rushes). That’s not a successful formulation for the Jets, particularly with the mounting accidents on protection. — Wealthy Cimini

Subsequent sport: at Patriots (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Chiefs

How lengthy can Chiefs keep undefeated with QB Patrick Mahomes throwing extra INTs than TDs? The Chiefs are the NFL’s solely remaining undefeated workforce, nevertheless it hardly feels sustainable. Mahomes threw two interceptions in opposition to the 49ers (eight on the season), one on a deflected cross and the opposite when WR Xavier Worthy fell on a route. He has six passing touchdowns by way of six video games this season. This can be a unhealthy improvement for a two-time MVP who entered the season with a 3.5-to-1 ratio of TD passes to interceptions.

Most stunning efficiency: WR Mecole Hardman. He was the Chiefs’ big-play producer in opposition to the 49ers — he had runs of 20 and 18 yards (the latter for a landing), a cross reception of 17 yards and a 55-yard punt return. Hardman had principally been a forgotten participant this season however obtained extra taking part in time within the absence of JuJu Smith-Schuster, who aggravated his hamstring damage early within the sport and did not return.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Hey, touchdowns! The Chiefs entered the sport as one of many NFL’s worst groups at scoring touchdowns contained in the crimson zone, however they scored 4 TDs in 5 journeys in opposition to the 49ers. All the scores got here on operating performs, together with two by Kareem Hunt, one by Hardman and one by Mahomes. — Adam Teicher

Subsequent sport: at Raiders (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

49ers

What’s it going to take for the 49ers to lastly beat the Chiefs? Much more than what they confirmed Sunday. This loss had nowhere close to the stakes as earlier defeats for the 49ers and it should not damage as a lot as blown results in divisional foes Rams and Cardinals. However there’s a psychological toll that comes with shedding to the identical workforce over and over. Since coach Kyle Shanahan took over in 2017, the 49ers are 0-5 in opposition to Kansas Metropolis. That is the one workforce San Francisco has confronted greater than twice that it does not have a win in opposition to. Reinforcements must be on the best way after taking part in Dallas and the bye. However this model of the Niners merely is not ok to beat the two-time defending champions — or any actual contender.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Extra accidents. The 49ers had been already lacking key gamers equivalent to LB Dre Greenlaw, RB Christian McCaffrey, S Talanoa Hufanga, DT Javon Hargrave and WR Jauan Jennings. They then misplaced WRs Brandon Aiyuk (proper knee) and Deebo Samuel (sickness) early in Sunday’s sport. For the 49ers, beating Kansas Metropolis has proved tough even with so lots of their high stars.

Greatest gap within the sport plan: From the redundancy division: The 49ers particular groups nonetheless is not ok. There have been some constructive indicators early because the unit stopped a faux punt and received a 55-yard discipline purpose from Ok Anders Carlson. However that was tempered by permitting a 55-yard punt return to arrange Kansas Metropolis’s second landing and a missed additional level from Carlson. Particular groups proceed to be a difficulty each week. — Nick Wagoner

Subsequent sport: vs. Cowboys (Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET)

Rams

Can the Rams protection carry the offense till WRs Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua return? The Rams have a younger protection that has struggled at occasions this season, however the unit was a difference-maker in opposition to the Raiders on Sunday. All 20 factors the Rams scored got here off of turnovers — two QB Gardner Minshew interceptions that gave the offense a brief discipline and a Minshew fumble that was recovered by Kamren Curl and run in for a landing. Whereas the efficiency confirmed progress for the protection coming off the bye, it is going to clearly be a a lot more durable job for the unit in opposition to the 5-1 Vikings on Thursday evening.

Eye-popping stat: Two touchdowns in the present day gave RB Kyren Williams 24 scrimmage touchdowns for the reason that begin of final season, which is probably the most within the NFL, in keeping with ESPN Analysis. Sunday was Williams’ seventh sport of a number of scrimmage touchdowns in that span, which can be probably the most within the NFL.

Most stunning efficiency: WR Jordan Whittington. He had seven catches for 89 yards on 10 targets in his previous sport, and performed simply 9 offensive snaps Sunday. He was not focused. The rookie receiver was listed as questionable for the sport after being restricted in apply all week with a shoulder damage, however coach Sean McVay mentioned Friday he anticipated Whittington to play. — Sarah Barshop

Subsequent sport: vs. Vikings (Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Raiders

How lively out there will the Raiders be for one more quarterback? With a damaged thumb on his passing hand, Aidan O’Connell will miss a while and additional checks Monday will decide the size of his absence. Minshew, benched every week earlier partly for his propensity for turnovers, did little to encourage with three INTs and a misplaced fumble returned for a TD. Undrafted rookie Carter Bradley is the opposite QB on the roster. The Raiders must scour the waiver wire and opposing groups’ apply squads with the Chiefs coming to Las Vegas subsequent. Additionally, Nathan Peterman, who spent two weeks with Las Vegas in coaching camp, is on the Falcons’ apply squad.

Most stunning efficiency: RB Alexander Mattison. He joined the Raiders as Zamir White‘s backup however has been taking RB1 snaps of late — rushed for 92 yards, his most since going for 95 yards final October for the Vikings. He was simply 8 yards away from his fourth profession triple-digit dashing day, his first since Oct. 10, 2021.

Eye-popping stat: With 47 whole catches, rookie Brock Bowers has probably the most receptions by a decent finish of their first seven video games since 2000. The No. 13 total draft choose had 10 catches, on 14 targets, for 93 yards in opposition to the Rams. — Paul Gutierrez

Subsequent sport: vs. Chiefs (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Aidan O’Connell leaves sport with hand damage

Aidan O’Connell injures his hand on a throw within the first quarter and is changed by Gardner Minshew.

Commanders

What’s the affect if QB Jayden Daniels (rib) has to overlook a sport? Extreme, contemplating how effectively he performed within the first six video games and that Washington performs Chicago subsequent week. Daniels’ legs and correct passing have sparked Washington’s offense. However Washington’s hope lies with Marcus Mariota‘s expertise and offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury’s playcalling. The Commanders even have robust RBs with Brian Robinson Jr., Austin Ekeler and Jeremy McNichols. Nonetheless, in opposition to the Bears’ top-10 protection, Mariota could be challenged far more if he has to play.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Defensive domination. Though Carolina is unhealthy, its offense with QB Andy Dalton was thirteenth in yards and fifteenth in scoring. The Commanders entered because the NFL’s Twenty second-ranked protection in yards and factors. But Washington’s protection scored on a pick-six by DE Dante Fowler Jr., and it held the Panthers to zero factors and 133 yards within the first three quarters.

Most stunning efficiency: Mariota has began 74 video games, nevertheless it’s not as if his play lately has been terrific. After lacking on his first three passes Sunday, Mariota related on 15 of his subsequent 16, together with two that went for touchdowns. He completed 18-for-23 for 205 yards. — John Keim

Subsequent sport: vs. Bears (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Panthers

What message did coach Dave Canales ship by not taking part in QB Bryce Young when down 37-0? The message publicly is Carolina nonetheless believes Younger has a future with the workforce. Perhaps as a franchise quarterback. That Canales did not give Younger the second half to show himself once they had been down 37-0 does not sign a robust perception. His eventual look in mop-up obligation opens hypothesis that Younger could possibly be traded earlier than the deadline or that Carolina might transfer on from him earlier than subsequent season.

Eye-popping stat: The Panthers have been outscored by 92 factors within the first half this season (they had been shut out 27-0 in the present day). That is the worst in workforce historical past, topping their 43-point differential in 2014. It is also the worst differential by an NFL workforce in its first eight video games for the reason that 2021 Jets (minus-107).

Describe the sport in two phrases: Humiliated once more. And simply think about how unhealthy it may need been had Daniels performed a couple of sequence. Carolina’s protection is so decimated by accidents that it made Mariota appear to be a star. And the offense that’s comparatively wholesome appeared a large number. — David Newton

Subsequent sport: at Broncos (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Packers

Does this win imply a little bit extra? This was the primary victory over a workforce with a successful report for the Packers. The Texans’ solely earlier loss got here in opposition to the Vikings — who beat the Packers in Week 4. The Packers’ first 4 wins got here in opposition to groups that entered this week with a mixed 7-15 report. Their two losses got here in opposition to groups with a mixed 8-2 report earlier than Week 7. The Packers will not should face questions in regards to the high quality of their wins when their schedule will get more durable.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Clutch kick. How would Packers followers have felt in the event that they trotted Brayden Narveson out for a 45-yard successful discipline purpose? The Packers minimize Narveson this week after he had missed 5 discipline objectives in six video games, paving the best way for veteran Brandon McManus to return to city and win the sport — and do a Lambeau Leap to have fun it.

Eye-popping stat: Josh Jacobs‘ 8-yard landing reception ended the NFL’s longest streak for a participant for catches with out a landing. On Jacobs’ 212th catch of his profession, he gave the Packers a 21-19 lead within the third quarter. His streak eclipsed Gerald Riggs with 197 in Week 4. — Rob Demovsky

Subsequent sport: at Jaguars (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Brandon McManus hits a game-winning FG in his first sport as a Packer

Brandon McManus makes his first discipline purpose as a Packer to offer Inexperienced Bay a 24-22 victory over Houston.

Texans

Ought to the Texans’ blocking woes concern them? QB C.J. Stroud had his worst sport of his profession — throwing for under 86 yards with no touchdowns. He was pressured on 48% of his drop backs, a season-long theme, and was sacked 4 occasions. On 4 performs, the Packers had an unblocked defender dashing him. Stroud has now been sacked 20 occasions, which was ranked within the high 5 by sport’s finish. If the Texans wish to go on a deep playoff run, their offensive line should defend their star quarterback.

Most stunning efficiency: Stroud has by no means had a sport the place he is thrown for beneath 100 yards that he completed. The one different sport he threw for lower than 100 yards was Week 14 final season in opposition to the Jets. He exited that sport early due to a concussion.

Eye-popping stat: With beginning CB Kamari Lassiter out, D’Angelo Ross changed him and allowed a passer ranking of 158.3 when focused for 95 yards and a landing. Sure, that is an ideal passer ranking. — DJ Bien-Aime

Subsequent sport: vs. Colts (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Bengals

Is WR Tee Higgins the important thing to Cincinnati’s offensive success? Sure. With Higgins on the sphere, the Bengals have a dependable possibility when defenses resolve to double-team receiver Ja’Marr Chase. Higgins continued his robust return from a hamstring damage that pressured him to overlook the primary two video games, catching a landing to offer the Bengals some respiratory room within the first half. Higgins has now had 75 or extra receiving yards in three straight video games.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Gritty victory. It did not must be fairly. And it wasn’t. Cincinnati was 0-for-6 on third downs within the first half and could not draw back in opposition to a foul Browns workforce till late within the third quarter. However Cincinnati did what it wanted to get its first win in Cleveland since 2017 and its first AFC North win of the yr.

Early prediction for subsequent week: Chase Brown will proceed to develop his position because the featured RB. Whereas the snap share must be pretty even with Zack Moss, Brown is Cincinnati’s greatest dashing menace. He had a 22-yard run within the third quarter, which was the catalyst for Cincinnati’s first offensive landing of the day. — Ben Child

Subsequent sport: vs. Eagles (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Browns

What’s subsequent for the Browns after Deshaun Watson‘s Achilles damage? Watson went down with a right Achilles injury towards the top of the primary half. The Browns had second-year quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson promoted to the backup position over Jameis Winston earlier than the sport. However Thompson-Robinson struggled, throwing two interceptions, then left late within the fourth quarter due to a finger damage. Winston completed out the sport.

Most stunning efficiency: WR Cedric Tillman. The second-year wideout, who entered the sport with simply 5 targets this season, had a career-high 12 targets within the Browns’ first sport since buying and selling Amari Cooper to the Payments final week. His position figured to extend and he made himself a frequent goal for every of the Browns’ three quarterbacks Sunday.

Early prediction for subsequent week: The Browns give RB Nick Chubb no less than 20 touches in opposition to the Ravens. Cleveland restricted Chubb’s snaps in his first sport again from a extreme knee damage. However with Watson out and an offense that has no rhythm, the Browns may need no alternative than to extend Chubb’s workload. — Daniel Oyefusi

Subsequent sport: vs. Ravens (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Payments

What does Amari Cooper‘s first sport imply for this offense shifting ahead? An indication of excellent issues to return. After a sluggish begin for the offense within the first half, Cooper performed a big position regardless that it appeared like he wasn’t certain of the play at occasions. Regardless of that, QB Josh Allen discovered him 4 occasions for 66 yards and a landing. Cooper grew to become the second participant in NFL historical past to report a receiving landing in his first sport with a number of groups after altering groups midseason (Cowboys, Payments), becoming a member of Chris Chambers (Chiefs, Chargers), per Elias Sports activities Bureau.

Most stunning efficiency: DE Greg Rousseau. Rousseau has put collectively a stable begin to the yr, however this was a next-level efficiency. His six quarterback hits are probably the most by any participant in a sport since DT Chris Jones had six in opposition to the Raiders in Week 18 of 2022. He completed the sport with a stress charge of 28.2%, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Offensive turnaround. After a relative offensive flop within the first two quarters, Buffalo scored on 5 straight drives with Allen’s downfield sport particularly promising. He went 6-of-8 for 114 yards and a landing on passes 10 or extra yards within the second half. He was 1-of-5 on such passes within the first half. — Alaina Getzenberg

Subsequent sport: at Seahawks (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)

Damar Hamlin comes up with enormous INT in 4th quarter

Damar Hamlin picks off Mason Rudolph within the fourth quarter for his second profession interception.

Titans

Can the Titans determine tips on how to shut out video games? It is turning into clear the Titans cannot end robust, particularly within the fourth quarter. Getting into this week, Tennessee averaged solely 2.4 fourth quarter factors (thirty first within the NFL). They failed to attain in any respect within the second half in the present day. The offense sputtered and protection grew drained, resulting in 27 unanswered factors from the Payments. Issues probably will not get higher subsequent week when the Titans face the Lions’ high-powered offense.

Greatest gap within the sport plan: Defending the quarterback. The Titans’ offensive line did not enable any sacks final week as Leroy Watson IV made his first begin at RT. Watson was inactive in opposition to the Payments — and it wasn’t as a consequence of damage. Jaelyn Duncan received the beginning and injured his hamstring 4 snaps into the sport. Nicholas Petit-Frere got here on in aid, however he gave up a lot of the pressures on QB Mason Rudolph.

Early prediction for subsequent week: The Titans journey to Detroit to face the Lions in what’s going to probably be one other sloppy sport. The problems are ample on each side of the ball. Tennessee’s offense cannot rating factors, and the protection cannot cease groups from scoring. Detroit is coming off a giant win over the beforehand undefeated Vikings and can look to develop its NFC North lead. — Turron Davenport

Subsequent sport: at Lions (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Colts

What can the Colts do to ascertain some offensive consistency? QB Anthony Richardson has been most profitable when he makes explosive performs within the passing sport. These by no means got here Sunday — the Colts had one completion longer than 16 yards — in Richardson’s first begin since lacking two video games with an indirect damage. If and when he can get again to them, and when coach Shane Steichen begins to dial them up a bit extra, the Colts can open extra operating lanes and make issues more durable on defenses.

Greatest gap within the sport plan: For the primary half no less than, Steichen appeared reluctant to totally deploy Richardson as a runner. That restricted his affect on a day when he struggled throwing (10-of-24 for 129 yards). Within the second half, Steichen leaned into Richardson’s operating means and harnessed his full vary of traits. Richardson completed with 57 dashing yards, all of which had been much-needed.

Most stunning efficiency: LB and particular groups ace Grant Stuard began the day on the bench, however he was pressed into motion by a second damage on the place (to Jaylon Carlies) and made an instantaneous affect. Stuard completed with a career-high 18 tackles and made a game-changing play when he stuffed Dolphins’ FB Alec Ingold within the backfield, permitting LB Zaire Franklin to strip the ball. — Stephen Holder

Subsequent sport: at Texans (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Dolphins

Will Tua Tagovailoa return in Week 8? The Dolphins fell to 2-4 throughout Tagovailoa’s four-game keep on injured reserve and his backup, Tyler Huntley, left Sunday’s sport with a proper shoulder damage. Miami’s offense has been among the many league’s worst since Tagovailoa’s departure, rating final in scoring and twenty sixth in passing yards per sport. Do not anticipate the workforce to disclose Tagovailoa’s sport standing till it has to — even when meaning holding off on a public announcement till Friday or Saturday.

Greatest gap within the sport plan: The place had been the targets to Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle? The NFL’s costliest large receiver tandem mixed for 4 targets as neither Huntley nor Tim Boyle might get them concerned. Miami totally dedicated to the run sport over its previous two video games, however you need to get your playmakers concerned sooner or later.

Eye-popping stat: Huntley’s landing cross to TE Jonnu Smith within the first quarter was notable for a number of causes. Not solely was it Huntley’s first landing cross and Smith’s first landing catch of the season, nevertheless it was additionally Miami’s first TD cross for the reason that first quarter of Week 2. The rating additionally marked the primary receiving TD by a Dolphins tight finish since Week 12 of 2022. — Marcel Louis-Jacques

Subsequent sport: vs. Cardinals (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Eagles

Will the “Saquon Barkley sport” function the spark for the Eagles? It ought to no less than present some momentum. The Eagles appeared fairly odd by way of their first 5 video games, with their three wins coming by a mixed 12 factors. However Barkley lit a hearth by erupting for practically 200 all-purpose yards. And it wasn’t simply him: QB Jalen Hurts completed with three scores; WR A.J. Brown appeared dominant (once more); and the protection ate QB Daniel Jones‘ lunch, sacking him seven occasions.

Eye-popping stat: Barkley reached a high velocity of 21.93 mph on his 55-yard run within the second quarter, the second-fastest velocity by a ball service this season (behind solely Brian Thomas Jr., 22.15 mph). It is also the quickest high velocity by Barkley in his profession, in case you had been questioning whether or not the return to MetLife Stadium supplied any additional juice for the 27-year-old.

Most stunning efficiency: LB Nakobe Dean. He went off for two sacks, 4 quarterback hits and a couple of tackles for loss. It has been an up-and-down begin to the season for Dean, who has but to hit the potential he confirmed whereas starring at Georgia. However this was a step in the proper path. — Tim McManus

Subsequent sport: at Bengals (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Barkley’s 55-yard burst units up Eagles’ opening TD vs Giants

Saquon Barkley breaks free for a 55-yard run, establishing the Eagles’ first landing in opposition to the Giants.

Giants

How does this loss replicate on GM Joe Schoen and Brian Daboll after Barkley’s departure? Contemplating proprietor John Mara mentioned he would have a tough time sleeping if Barkley went to the Eagles in free company, this may need him up for weeks. Mara and Giants followers needed to watch Barkley return to MetLife Stadium and compile 176 yards dashing and a landing. That is precisely what Daboll and Schoen wanted to keep away from. This displays poorly on their regime, which ends recommend is not a lot improved in Yr 3. They want to ensure this season does not fully go off the tracks.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Complete embarrassment. The Giants did not simply get blown out at residence. They received blown out at residence in opposition to their closest rival with Barkley doing a piece of the injury. Within the course of, quarterback Daniel Jones received pulled early within the fourth quarter. Daboll’s offense has now produced only one landing in 4 residence video games this season.

Greatest gap within the sport plan: The Giants’ operating backs had three carries for 4 yards within the first half on 32 snaps. They wanted to have some kind of steadiness to regulate the clock and provides themselves an opportunity in opposition to a extra proficient Eagles workforce. That did not occur as New York fell right into a 14-0 gap. — Jordan Raanan

Subsequent sport: at Steelers (Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Seahawks

Has the Seahawks’ protection turned the nook? Gouged in opposition to the run and decimated by accidents in current weeks, Seattle’s protection had arguably its finest efficiency of the season. After forcing just one takeaway over the previous 5 video games, it received three in opposition to Atlanta, together with a LB Boye Mafe strip-sack that Derick Hall returned for a landing. Regardless of inserting with out CB Artie Burns (toe), S Rayshawn Jenkins (hand), CB Riq Woolen (ankle) and CB Tre Brown (ankle), the Seahawks secondary shined, selecting off two passes and holding Atlanta to 230 passing yards.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Joyful birthday! RB Kenneth Walker III was added to the damage report Saturday as questionable with an sickness, however he began and celebrated his twenty fourth birthday with a pair of touchdowns. One got here on a 20-yard run and the opposite on a 17-yard catch. He completed with 93 yards on solely 16 touches.

Most stunning efficiency: The Seahawks’ offensive line held up beneath powerful circumstances. It was all the way down to its fourth possibility at RT in rookie sixth-round choose Mike Jerrell. He had a false-start penalty and received beat for a sack, however that was the lone time Atlanta dropped QB Geno Smith, who threw for 207 yards and a pair of touchdowns on 18-of-28 passing. — Brady Henderson

Subsequent sport: vs. Payments (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)

Falcons

How can the Falcons enhance their cross rush? Atlanta hasn’t been good at attending to the quarterback in practically a decade and is once more among the many league’s worst. The Falcons have six sacks, tied for the bottom whole within the NFL. Their cross rush win charge is sixth worst (34.4%). Edge rusher Matthew Judon was introduced in, however wants assist. Defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake says the workforce is heading in the right direction, nevertheless it did not look that manner Sunday, even in opposition to a Seattle workforce with a fourth-stringer at proper sort out. Maybe Atlanta can do one thing on the commerce deadline.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Beat themselves. The Falcons dedicated 9 penalties for 72 yards and saved two Seahawks drives alive with fouls. Late within the third, Seattle quarterback Geno Smith threw an incompletion on third down, just for Demone Harris to fall into him, resulting in a roughing-the-passer name. The Seahawks scored a landing on the following play. QB Kirk Cousins had a strip sack returned for a TD and threw two interceptions.

Eye-popping stat: The Falcons protection gave up six performs of greater than 20 yards Sunday. Coming into the sport, Atlanta had allowed a league-low 11 performs of 20-plus yards. Bend however do not break solely lasts so lengthy, and the Falcons discovered that out the arduous manner. — Marc Raimondi

Subsequent sport: at Buccaneers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Lions

Can the Lions cowl for the lack of Aidan Hutchinson with their depth? Lions coach Dan Campbell mentioned they would not enter panic mode after edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson broke his tibia and fibula. As an alternative, the Lions used a committee strategy with defensive linemen Isaac Ukwu, Trevor Nowaske, Mekhi Wingo, James Houston and Josh Paschal all seeing motion on the sting. Paschal registered a sack on Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold on the finish of the third quarter, however Detroit might want to proceed to discover potential choices to assist down the stretch. Darnold uncovered some seen weaknesses inside the protection, notably within the second half.

Eye-popping stat: Jared Goff is the one quarterback this season to have an ideal completion share in a half. And he is finished it 3 times, together with Sunday in Minnesota. Goff went an ideal 12-of-12 with 15 profitable completions earlier than throwing his first incompletion on a deflected cross within the third quarter. In Week 4, he set an NFL report by finishing all 18 of his passes in opposition to Seattle.

Most stunning efficiency: Guard Kayode Awosika. Detroit dominated out beginning offensive guard Kevin Zeitler (groin) forward of kickoff, which opened the door for Awosika. He was flagged for 3 penalties within the first quarter, together with back-to-back holding calls to start out the sport. The Lions had 5 whole penalties within the first quarter, which was their most since in addition they had 5 in Week 15 of 2022. — Eric Woodyard

Subsequent sport: vs. Titans (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Vikings

Is that this the place the Vikings’ bubble bursts? No. The Vikings weren’t going 17-0 this season. They had been going to lose a while, and the Lions are one of the best workforce they’ve performed to this point and maybe one of the best workforce in your complete NFL. The Lions employed their dominating run sport, and Jared Goff’s accuracy, to gash the Vikings’ in any other case elite protection. However they misplaced by two factors. That is hardly proof that the Vikings have been uncovered.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Rush protection. The Vikings didn’t have a solution for Lions tailback Jahmyr Gibbs, who rushed for 116 yards and picked up one other 44 receiving. He grew to become the primary Lions participant with 150-plus scrimmage yards and two dashing touchdowns in a sport since 2011. The Vikings’ personnel appeared a step sluggish in opposition to him.

Most stunning efficiency: At one level final week, Aaron Jones appeared destined to sit down this sport out due to a sore proper hamstring. He and the Vikings determined to offer it a go, and he performed as if he was by no means damage in any respect. He opened the scoring with a 34-yard dashing landing, ending the sport with 93 yards. — Kevin Seifert

Subsequent sport: at Rams (Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Vikings go up in 4th on Ivan Tempo’s scoop-and-score TD

Ivan Tempo Jr. recovers a Lions fumble and goes 36 yards the opposite method to give the Vikings a 29-28 lead.

Jaguars

Did this show the Jaguars have not give up? Security Andre Cisco made waves final week after he mentioned he noticed gamers give up in the course of the loss to the Bears. That mentality did not present up within the second quarter, once they scored 22 unanswered factors to erase a 10-0 deficit. Doug Pederson hasn’t misplaced the locker room after beginning 1-5, which is an efficient factor as a result of the Jaguars have a troublesome stretch forward: Inexperienced Bay, Philadelphia, Minnesota, Detroit and Houston. At 2-5, the Jaguars nonetheless have slim playoff hopes, however there is no margin for error.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Getting Tanked. With Travis Etienne Jr. sidelined with a hamstring damage, Tank Bigsby delivered one of the best sport of his profession. He set profession highs in carries (26) and yards (118) with two TDs, and his bodily type actually set the tone for the offense. At one level the Jaguars ran the ball on 19 consecutive performs within the second half.

Eye-popping stat: Parker Washington‘s 96-yard punt return was the primary particular groups landing in a global sport. That was the 266th landing scored in these video games: 150 passing, 102 dashing, seven interception returns, six fumble returns and Washington’s punt return. It was additionally the longest punt return in Jaguars historical past, surpassing the 91-yard TD that Keelan Cole scored in opposition to Inexperienced Bay in 2020. — Mike DiRocco

Subsequent sport: vs. Packers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Patriots

How a lot warmth must be on coach Jerod Mayo for the Patriots’ disappointing play? Rising pains had been anticipated in Mayo’s first season, however the best way the Patriots have regressed since a season-opening win has been regarding. Mayo is a self-proclaimed “defensive coach,” and the defensive efficiency Sunday — apart from a fourth-quarter cease on fourth down — was alarming after they jumped out to a 10-0 lead. The Patriots had bother stopping the run once more and the Jaguars owned the road of scrimmage, which is meant to be the Patriots’ power. Whereas they’re lacking key defenders DT Christian Barmore (blood clots), LB Ja’Whaun Bentley (torn pectoral muscle) and S Jabrill Peppers (commissioner exempt checklist), that is not an excuse for a workforce that prides itself on the “next-man-up” mentality.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Sudden change. After speaking all week in regards to the significance of a quick begin, the Patriots received what they wished in taking a 10-point lead after which collapsed in epic style on offense (could not run), protection (could not sort out constantly and was typically blown off the road of scrimmage) and particular groups (allowed a 96-yard punt return for a landing late within the second quarter).

Greatest gap within the sport plan: No operating sport. The Patriots’ lack of ability to run put rookie QB Drake Maye in a troublesome spot. It is arduous to be one-dimensional and win, and Maye nonetheless gave them a combating likelihood together with his robust passing efficiency. Instability alongside the offensive line, with the Patriots taking part in with their seventh totally different beginning unit in seven video games, appears to be the basis of the difficulty. Maye went 26-for-37 for 276 passing yards, two touchdowns and was sacked twice. — Mike Reiss

Subsequent sport: vs. Jets (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Thursday

Broncos

Have the Broncos discovered one of the best formulation to assist rookie quarterback Bo Nix? After some early bobbles within the passing sport, the Broncos settled Nix into the sport by utilizing him as a runner extra typically and by getting him some extra of the run-pass choices he’s comfy working in. The outcome was 225 dashing yards on 35 carries — the Broncos’ season excessive in each — with 75 of these yards coming from Nix. It was Nix’s second consecutive sport with no less than 61 dashing yards and — when the Broncos went a little bit extra run-first — Nix settled in and the workforce scored on six consecutive possessions. With the true meat of the Broncos’ schedule ready in November, it ought to give them pause.

Most stunning efficiency: LB Cody Barton. Barton had a sack, a pressured fumble and returned one other Saints fumble 52 yards for a landing. He additionally had one other landing on a scoop-and-score known as again due to a Broncos penalty. He’s the twelfth participant to have no less than half of a sack for the Broncos this season.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Energy up. It is change into clear the Broncos are at their finest once they play a extra blue-collar model of soccer. Their protection continues to make the lives of opposing QBs tough — they’ve 28 sacks in seven video games and have scored two defensive touchdowns and two safeties. And when coach Sean Payton commits to the run, they management tempo and win the road of scrimmage extra typically than once they attempt to hold Nix in a bevy of three-wide receiver units. Thursday’s 225 dashing yards in a runaway win — over a battered Saints workforce or not — is loads of proof of that. — Jeff Legwold

Subsequent sport: vs. Panthers (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Saints

Is Dennis Allen on the new seat? Saints common supervisor Mickey Loomis defended Allen on a radio present after final week’s loss and mentioned they’ve to take a look at all the explanations they don’t seem to be successful (together with accidents). However the Saints turned in one other unhealthy efficiency, shedding their fifth straight sport and inflicting the house crowd to depart by the fourth quarter. Allen is now 18-23 in his three years as Saints head coach.

Greatest gap within the sport plan: Safety. Beginning a rookie quarterback is not simple, and it is even worse with three offensive linemen out, however the Saints struggled to guard Spencer Rattler, who was sacked six occasions and had a number of strip sacks. Rattler was capable of make performs together with his legs, or that quantity probably would’ve been increased.

Eye-popping stat: The Saints’ protection allowed 225 dashing yards Thursday, making it a complete of 502 dashing yards and 4 dashing touchdowns previously two video games — and 332 of these yards got here earlier than first contact. The Saints went 55 video games between 2017 and 2020 with out permitting a 100-yard rusher, however they’ve been on the decline in that class since 2022 and at the moment are one of many worst run defenses within the league. — Katherine Terrell

Subsequent sport: at Chargers (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)