Every weekend in the NFL, elements capture our attention, such as the powers present, the records that are within reach, or certain historical notes. Here are five things to watch out for during the seventh week of activity.
• Also read: Justin Herbert and the enigmatic Chargers… Our Week 7 predictions
• Also read: The offense is collapsing in the NFL and the spectacle is suffering
1) Finally a real offensive duel?
The Dolphins are increasing their touchdowns and celebrations this season. Getty Images via AFP
There were reports this week of a widespread decline in offensive production across the NFL. The duel between the Dolphins and Eagles on Sunday evening could change the picture. For the first time since 2016, the league’s top two offenses in yardage production will face each other in Week 7 (or later). The Dolphins gain 498.7 yards per game and the Eagles are second with 395 yards per game. Additionally, the Dolphins’ 2,992 yards amassed through six games since the Rams’ greatest show on turf in 2000 represents the second-highest total in history.
2) Myles Garrett and the Browns defense
Defensive end Myles Garrett has 5.5 sacks this season. Getty Images via AFP
There is no defense in the NFL that does this better than the Browns. The 1,002 yards allowed in five games is the third-fewest total in history, behind the Colts in 1971 and the Vikings in 1970. If the Browns give up 198 yards or fewer against the Colts, they will become the fourth team in the league to do so History of giving up an average of 200 yards or less in the first six games. We must recognize the work of Myles Garrett. With his next sack of the quarterback, the defensive end will surpass the immortal Reggie White for the highest total of sacks in history (81) before blowing out 28 candles.
3) On the way to a great premiere?
Browns fans are hoping for a return to the playoffs. Getty Images via AFP
It’s way too early to talk about the playoffs at this point in the season, but if the playoffs started today, they would be marked by a big first… The Bills, the Browns and the Lions would be dancing, what else has never happened before. All three teams joined the NFL at different times, but all three have been in the league for 64 years and never have all three been in the playoffs at the same time. Be continued…
4) Hats off to Austin Ekeler!
Running back Austin Ekeler has had an amazing career with the Chargers. Getty Images via AFP
Chargers running back Austin Ekeler isn’t mentioned often, but his story should inspire more than one. If he gains 99 yards from the line of scrimmage (running and receptions) against the Chiefs, he will reach the plateau of 7,500 in his career. This is a significant achievement as he was never drafted. Historically, the only overlooked rushers in the draft who have performed better are Priest Holmes (11,134 yards), Arian Foster (8,873 yards) and Fred Jackson (8,643 yards).
5) The lions roar
Receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown helped transform the Lions’ offense. Getty Images via AFP
We’ve known for a while that the Lions have been gaining momentum, but we tend to forget just how much. Since Week 9 of last season, their record is 13 wins and 3 losses. Across the league, only the 49ers (14-1) and Chiefs (14-2) performed better during the same period. Additionally, the Lions have scored 448 points since Week 9 of 2022 (an average of 28 per game). Only the 49ers can boast a better performance with 458 points (30.5 per game).