As we dive into the biggest stories ahead of the NFL Week 7, we do so with a heavy heart after the previously undefeated Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers were felled last Sunday. We will have to wait until at least Week 8 to witness the last winless team shake their status, however, as the Carolina Panthers enjoy a bye week along with five other teams.
Last week’s gridiron action witnessed not only the fall of two giants but also the struggle of elite quarterbacks throughout the league. If you want to see where each team ranks after a third of the season, be sure to check out the Pintsized NFL Week 7 Power Rankings.
Now, with guest writer Ryan Brayne also back in the mix identifying the contenders and pretenders across the league, let’s delve into the most significant talking points for Week 7.
Can the Browns’ defence buy time before Deshaun’s return?
A dark cloud loomed over the Cleveland Browns after their 23-8 home defeat to divisional rivals, the Baltimore Ravens in Week 4. Rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson, filling in for the injured Deshaun Watson, threw three interceptions and zero touchdowns in a dismal display. Despite Watson’s return date still uncertain, the Dawg Pound are now bouncing too hard to care.
Last Sunday, former XFL standout PJ Walker was elevated to starting QB and handed the 49ers their first loss of the season. While Walker performed better than expected, the Browns’ formidable pass rush were the key to Sunday’s shock success.
Holding the free-flowing 49ers attack a season-low 17 points deserves credit, even considering the injuries to Christian McCaffrey and Deebo Samuel. Equally noteworthy were the three sacks recorded on Brock Purdy, who struggled inside and outside the pocket. While Myles Garrett is the most prominent weapon in the Browns’ defence, linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah continues to excel, recording three tackles for loss against an elite San Francisco offensive Line.
With Anthony Richardson unlikely to return this season following a major shoulder surgery, don’t be surprised if the Indianapolis Colts take their foot off the gas. Backup quarterback Gardner Minshew is a solid replacement, but his limitations were ruthlessly exploited by a lesser Jaguars defence last week – forcing three interceptions out of the Jock Strap King.
AFC Contenders vs Pretenders
Best team – Kansas City Chiefs. Despite not being near last season’s form, Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs are still the best team in the AFC and their record shows. Although the Dolphins boast an equivalent record, they have not played the overall quality opposition that the Chiefs had faced and were soundly beaten by the one true challenge in the Bills.
Worst team – Denver Broncos. I was very tempted to put the Patriots just for the sheer hopelessness on display, even by their low standards. However, despite more star quality overall, the Broncos have really stood out in the worst ways. They could arguably be put in the most disappointing given the expectations with new head coach Sean Peyton.
Biggest surprise – Houston Texans. Most expected the Texans to have a rough season with a rookie quarterback. So far this has been far from the case and they stand strong with a .500 record. Obviously this could change quickly but it seems the progress is much further along than projected.
Biggest disappointment – Los Angeles Chargers. I was tempted to go with the Broncos but I’ll plump them with their divisional rivals. With a stud at quarterback and plenty of start quality across offence and defence, some even tipped a dark horse Super Bowl run. Thanks to questionable coaching, they look more like an overrated mess that can’t hold onto a lead.
Arise King Tyson Bagent, Ruler of Division II Football
In a make-or-break year for Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields, the dislocated shoulder and thumb injuries he sustained in Sunday’s match against the Minnesota Vikings may spell the end of his time in The Windy City. Stepping into the fray emerged the slender 6’3″ frame of Tyson Bagent, an undrafted rookie.
Bagent completed 71.4% of his passes, throwing for 83 yards on 14 attempts, with an interception and a fumbled scoop-and-score to boot. It was not the same breakout game we enjoyed with ‘Mr Irrelevant’ last year, but it was a humble showing in challenging circumstances.
While Bagent may not be the long-term solution for Chicago’s troubles, the DII superstar can still ball out in patches. The son of a 19-time world arm-wrestling champion, Bagent made a name for himself at Shepherd University, passing for over 17,000 yards across five years. He also broke the NCAA record for touchdown passes in December last year when he secured his 159th against the IUP Crimson Hawks. Is it about time that Darnell Mooney feeds?
NFC Contenders vs Pretenders
Best team – San Francisco 49ers. A toss up between the Eagles and 49ers. Despite a below par performance against the Browns, the 49ers have looked the most consistent team in the league and arguably the strongest overall.
Worst team – Carolina Panthers. Who else but the only team without a win? Much like the Texans, teething problems were expected with a rookie quarterback. So far though, Bryce Young is like Kyler Murray without his electric pace or any of the talent.
Biggest surprise – Detroit Lions. The last half of the season gave fans hope but expectations weren’t high with the history of the Lions. Not only have they continued their stellar form but they’ve surpassed all odds so far and look like an incredible bet for a deep playoff run.
Biggest disappointment – New York Giants. Perhaps a bit harsh given they exceeded expectations to get to the divisional playoff last year (only to get trounced). Whilst a repeat might not have been on the cards, a 1-5 start probably wasn’t in the plans or projections of any Giants fan at the start of the year.
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