What a thrilling Week 7 in the NFL! Jared Goff was on the verge of delivering another flawless performance, Lamar Jackson fell short by just 0.2 points of achieving a perfect passer rating, and Jayden Daniels dropped 40 points on the Panthers. Oh, wait—my apologies. That was actually Marcus Mariota!
Every Tuesday, I’ll recapitulate the previous week of NFL football, analyzing the implications of the most significant storylines and what’s ahead. We’ll take an initial look at the fallout from “Monday Night Football,” dissect a few major trends, and spotlight some key individual players and standout plays. Expect film analysis, a plethora of stats (a dedicated section for them), and an element of entertainment. Let’s dive in.
Jump to a section:
The Big Thing: MVP Lamar
New kids on the block: Potential trade targets
Mailbag: Answering questions from … you
Second Take: Purdy has a weakness
Next Ben Stats: Wild Week 7 stats
The Big Thing: Lamar is once again the most valuable
This column begins each week with a broad look at a pivotal game, player, or trend from the previous slate of NFL action. What does it mean for the remainder of the season?
Patrick Mahomes is unquestionably the finest quarterback in football—I’m firm in this belief.
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Yet, even as Mahomes holds this title (and I remain steadfast in my assertion), he is demonstrating significantly fewer spectacular plays this season compared to previous years. His influence on the game manifests in subtle ways: timely scrambles, quick passes, and astute decisions. He has evolved into the league’s most formidable game manager.
So who holds the title of the league’s most electrifying playmaker at quarterback? The player who consistently amazes with jaw-dropping and astonishing feats? That would be Lamar Jackson. As the reigning Most Valuable Player, he is showing signs of winning the award again this season, which would make him the seventh player in NFL history to achieve this feat—making him the youngest to earn it three times.
Observing Jackson, 27, evokes the same thrill that watching Mahomes used to. It’s a hold-your-breath experience, whether you realize it or not, as each play could transform into an incredible escape, an improbable completion, or something entirely new. In Monday’s game against the Buccaneers, Jackson passed for five touchdowns and rushed for 50 yards—marking the third occasion he’s accomplished this in a single game. The rest of the NFL has only managed this feat four times in history, with no one other than Jackson doing it multiple times. He completed 17 of 22 passes for 281 yards and recorded a QBR of 91.9.
Lamar is an offense all on his own. This uniqueness allows him to regularly deliver performances that would be extraordinary for others at any point in their careers. Consider this 59-yard pass to Rashod Bateman while the Ravens were still behind in the score. After Baltimore shifts to an empty formation, the Buccaneers adjust by aligning for a blitz to capitalize on a free rusher.
This is an advantage for the defense on the chalkboard every time. Chris Braswell charges off the edge.
However, I doubt he even grazes Lamar with a fingertip. Jackson escapes the pocket and organizes his receivers, particularly Bateman, as he throws an impressive 40-yard pass across his body, setting up an explosive play.
— Good Clips (@MeshSitWheel) October 22, 2024
Here’s another instance of a free rusher. The Buccaneers send a stunt into the Ravens’ running play. Observe how Jackson skillfully maneuvers through the traffic in the pocket—keeping his grip on the ball to minimize the risk of a fumble, an aspect he struggled with earlier in his career—as he transforms what appeared to be a sure sack into a first-down run.
— Good Clips (@MeshSitWheel) October 22, 2024
The Bucs were intent on applying pressure to Jackson throughout the night. They blitzed him on 61.5% of his dropbacks, marking the third-highest single-game rate of his career. Remember when blitz-happy defensive coordinators used to catch him off guard back when he was in Greg Roman’s offense? That is no longer the case. Jackson currently ranks second in the league with a 63.2% success rate against blitzes, only trailing Mahomes.
We cannot analyze the significant plays from the Ravens’ offense on Monday night without mentioning the 49-yard touchdown by Bateman. There’s no pressure to disrupt here, nor any unique Lamarian impact. It’s simply a superb throw and an excellent catch.
— Good Clips (@MeshSitWheel) October 22, 2024
This play features a clever design, as Bateman appears to curve a vertical route back towards the sideline—a typical characteristic of a flood concept—before redirecting it downfield. It’s a specially designed route for a key moment, crafted for Bateman, who has begun to provide the type of performance the Ravens have long desired from their 2021 first-round draft pick.
Not only is there a clean pocket here, but there’s also an open window. The Ravens have had plenty of those opportunities this season. Jackson’s average target against the Buccaneers boasted 5.3 yards of separation, the highest single-game figure this season according to NFL Next Gen Stats. In his September game against the Cowboys, a remarkable 86.7% of his passing attempts were directed at open windows, marking the largest single-game statistic in the NGS database. Several factors have contributed to this: Bateman’s emergence, the effectiveness of Justice Hill and Zay Flowers on screens, and Jackson’s second year in the Todd Monken passing scheme. Everything has come together, and no team is consistently finding easier passing opportunities than Baltimore.
While it may seem counterintuitive to reward Jackson for throwing into open windows, he merits the credit for opting against the tight windows he frequently challenged previously. NFL Next Gen Stats reveal that only 8.1% of his passes this season have been thrown into a tight window, representing a significant decline.
Jackson’s performance extends beyond his career statistics; it reflects remarkable numbers within Monken’s offense last season (11.4%). Only Mahomes, as you might expect, has been throwing into tighter coverage less frequently than Jackson this season. Moreover, Lamar is achieving this while significantly targeting deeper passes (8.3 air yards per attempt) compared to Mahomes (5.4).
To claim Jackson is on par with Mahomes is a bold move, as Mahomes is arguably the most gifted quarterback to date. Nevertheless, I will make that comparison. It’s not merely about statistics, although Jackson’s figures are impressive; it’s fundamentally about influence.
We understand the impact when a star player enters the field, court, or pitch. These players generate new dynamics for their offenses, creating situations that cannot be duplicated with similar athletes or reproduced collectively. They compel defenses, who have prepared meticulously with techniques, strategies, and schemes for months, to engage in a slightly altered version of the sport they have trained for—just enough to disrupt analytics, dismantle schemes, and undermine techniques.
Jackson possesses that influence. Despite improvements in the offensive scheme and surrounding talent, it remains evident that the Ravens’ offensive ecosystem is centered around Jackson, bound by his colossal force. What is unfolding in Baltimore contrasts sharply with 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy’s historic efficiency last season or Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow’s victories over Mahomes in 2021. The distinction lies in the spectacular plays that only Jackson can orchestrate. Additionally, it’s reflected in the ordinary plays that defenses relinquish, overwhelmed by the threat of those spectacular moments. Jackson’s presence on the field distorts defensive formations, generates running lanes, perplexes linebackers, frees up receivers, and hampers pass rushers.
It’s not merely that he executes unique feats surpassing other quarterbacks; it’s that the entire Ravens offense can perform actions no other offense can, simply because he is at the helm.
Catch up on NFL Week 7
• Takeaways and questions from every game
• Graziano: Overreactions (ESPN+)
• Best and worst in fantasy (ESPN+)
• Full Week 7 scoreboard » | More »
This is precisely why Jackson stands as the league’s MVP through seven weeks. Notably, it’s also the reason he was the MVP last season, despite not posting standout counting stats or efficiency metrics. His value extends beyond conventional metrics—he is the essential Jenga block in his team’s structure.
Becoming the youngest player to win the MVP award would be a well-deserved distinction for Jackson. Yet, he’d be the first to acknowledge—and his critics would likely agree—that no amount of regular-season accolades can compensate for a lack of postseason triumph. Last season, Jackson reached his first conference championship, where he ultimately bowed to Mahomes and the Chiefs 17-10. The Ravens’ defense in 2024 is not as well-equipped for a Super Bowl pursuit as the one in 2023. However, if Jackson truly is the MVP, he ought to steer his team through the AFC playoff landscape that lacks a dominating force. Of course, reaching a conference championship is likely to mean facing Mahomes again, who has triumphed over Jackson in five of their six meetings.
Jackson is beginning to influence the game similarly to Mahomes. All that remains is for him to secure a victory in a crucial matchup.
New faces (potentially, maybe?) on the block
If I were in the GM role and my team were currently 0-7, these are the players I’d be considering as the trade deadline approaches in just two weeks (Nov. 5), even if these trades seem unlikely.
Myles Garrett, DE, Cleveland Browns
You
You never know until you ask, right? Sports Illustrated reported that teams have reached out about Garrett, and I would be among them. Garrett ranks as one of the top 10 to 12 defensive players capable of individually securing a Super Bowl win with his game-changing talent — and on that list, he is the most likely to achieve it.
The issue? The Browns have significantly restructured Garrett’s contract by converting his base salary into bonuses for immediate salary cap relief (not that it has done them much good). In 2025, it is more cost-effective for the Browns to retain Garrett than to release him. Considering they are already dealing with the dead cap hit from Amari Cooper and may face a similar situation with Deshaun Watson, I can’t see them moving Garrett’s contract, which would further exacerbate their short-term salary cap situation.
<p.That said, if I were Lions general manager Brad Holmes, I would be prepared to offer several first-round and second-round picks to facilitate a trade.
1:43
Chris Canty calls for Browns to trade Myles Garrett
Chris Canty explains why the Browns have no hope and should trade star DE Myles Garrett.
Chris Olave, WR, New Orleans Saints
Olave, selected in the first round of the 2022 draft, has excelled during his time with the Saints. This means two things: they are unlikely to part with him, but he will likely demand around $28 million annually in a year or two. While the Saints should and likely will agree to pay Olave that amount, they face a troubling cap situation in the future and a lack of long-term championship aspirations. A coaching overhaul is expected at the end of this offseason, which will necessitate a complete rebuild. Do they really want to invest heavily in Olave during his prime when they don’t have any plans for contention?
Olave would quickly become the top receiver available on the market — surpassing Diontae Johnson, Christian Kirk, and perhaps even Tee Higgins, depending on team needs. He has surpassed 1,000 receiving yards in each of his full seasons and has 280 yards to start 2024. The Chiefs should be willing to propose multiple second-round picks to the Saints for Olave, and if New Orleans asks for a first-rounder, it will likely be the No. 32 pick anyway.
If New Orleans is firm on keeping Olave, then good for them. I would immediately shift to inquiring about cornerback Paulson Adebo, a penalty-prone but still effective cover corner with just one year remaining on his contract.
Kendrick Bourne, WR, New England Patriots
While Bourne may not be a headline-grabbing player, I have great appreciation for a receiver who possesses good size, reliable hands, solid blocking, and effective route running. He isn’t outstanding in any single area, but as a versatile No. 3 receiver, you could certainly do worse. Bourne’s stock dropped in New England due to poor offensive performances and subpar quarterback play, and the current hierarchy within the Patriots’ receiving corps seems to shift weekly.
The 49ers, familiar with Bourne’s abilities, should contemplate bringing him in as a veteran safety net, especially with Brandon Aiyuk recovering from a torn ACL/MCL. The Lions, on the other hand, have seen success with Tim Patrick playing as their No. 3 receiver, but should also consider the potential of adding Bourne to the mix.
Teams looking for a reliable receiver should view Bourne as an upgrade. I also favor him for the Ravens. All teams in contention could benefit from a consistent player like Bourne.
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C.J. Mosley, LB, New York Jets
This season, Mosley has missed three weeks due to a toe injury, but he has been active for the last two games. However, he seems to have given up his starting position in the base defense to Jamien Sherwood, having played only nine snaps against the Bills and 22 against the Steelers.
At 32 years old, Mosley was never among the fastest players and is likely suited for a subpackage role wherever he might land. For teams like the 49ers, Seahawks, and Cowboys, who are struggling with their linebackers stopping the run, Mosley could find a significant niche. Although the Jets seem to be committed to their current path, Mosley’s decreased workload suggests they shouldn’t hesitate to trade him for future draft picks. That would indeed be a first for New York!
Dexter Lawrence II, DT, New York Giants
I would reach out, but if the Giants consider trading Lawrence, it would be an unwise decision. Stay tuned for more on this.
From you all
The most rewarding aspect of writing this column is receiving feedback from all of you. Connect with me on X (@BenjaminSolak) or via email (benjamin.solak@espn.com) at any time — especially on Mondays — to pose a question that could be featured here.
From Tom: “Which teams do you believe should accept their fate this season and start tanking, and are there any college prospects worth pursuing through such a strategy?”
This time of year always prompts discussions about tanking. While it is challenging, it is indeed feasible to tank in the NFL. Although landing the first overall pick is not guaranteed, teams can often find their way into the top six picks relatively easily, which is significant—especially if a quarterback is not a primary need. In this range, you can acquire players capable of transforming your franchise, even at positions other than quarterback.
The drawback lies with the 2025 draft class. It appears promising for those selecting in the top 15, but I’m not convinced it offers much value for teams in the top five. Currently, none of the quarterback prospects seem to match the caliber of Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, or Drake Maye. In fact, I’m uncertain if any of them reach J.J. McCarthy’s prospect level. Perhaps one of the tackles might be comparable to Andrew Thomas, but none of the top prospects impress me that way. The same holds true for wide receivers; none of the leading candidates would have been drafted ahead of Marvin Harrison Jr., Malik Nabers, or Rome Odunze last April.
Thus, I perceive this as a weak draft class to have a top-five pick. A great deal could change before April, but I would bet that teams with early draft picks will be looking to trade out of their selection spots throughout this draft cycle.
1:40
Why Mel Kiper Jr. doesn’t see Shedeur Sanders as a No. 1 pick
According to Mel Kiper Jr., Shedeur Sanders ranks 13th on his Big Board, and he doesn’t regard him or any other quarterback in this draft class as deserving of the top pick.
From Brett: “The Steelers currently hold a 5-2 record, boasting the second-best point differential in the AFC. Their two losses were to winning teams, with a total margin of just six points. Additionally, they have convincingly defeated weaker opponents in their last two games. How seriously should we view the Steelers as possible Super Bowl contenders?”
Quite seriously. I would like to see Russell Wilson demonstrate solid performance for over a month before I label him as the unquestionable starter. On Sunday night, I found his play to be rather average, with substantial contributions from his receivers boosting his stats. Nevertheless, if Russ maintains this level of performance for the remainder of the season, it represents a significant improvement over what Kenny Pickett provided last year (and likewise if Justin Fields returns). Quarterback performance in Pittsburgh is markedly better than it has been in years.
However, I believe this offense needs to make a move before the trade deadline. With Najee Harris serving as the primary ball carrier, the only other explosive player receiving a substantial number of touches is receiver George Pickens—and we know Pickens can be inconsistent. If we envision the Steelers entering the playoffs, the opposing defense’s strategy is clear: contain Pickens and force someone else to make plays. I’m not concerned about 20 carries from Harris. I’m not fazed by six targets for Van Jefferson. A reception from Darnell Washington, however, could be a concern due to his imposing physicality.
If the Steelers can bring in a No. 2 receiver capable of handling significant volume in the passing game and taking control of a match, my interest would grow considerably. Chris Olave tops that list. Christian Kirk might still be a possibility. Tee Higgins would be fantastic—if he weren’t in the same division.
Thoughts? pic.twitter.com/GWqAuaWVvX
October 21, 2024
I don’t love it!
From Quinn: “What shocking offenses have I committed in a past life that condemned me to be a Jets fan? At 28, I find myself torn, with the most remarkable quarterback performances being a close call between Chad Pennington, Ryan Fitzpatrick, or the steady Mark Sanchez (with a nod to those brief, exciting three weeks of Mike White). How is it that a team can consistently showcase such dysfunction through various coaches, quarterbacks, and GMs? Surely there must be some other force at work here?”
You’re indeed onto something, Quinn. The drafted quarterbacks often fall short, and those who show promise quickly stagnate. Coaching changes rarely yield positive results, and general manager appointments seem ineffective. It’s easy to assume that the common thread is the fanbase (along with any potential curses from former lives). However, the real link here is ownership.
Since Woody Johnson acquired the Jets in 2000, their record stands at 170-224 (.431). The team has reached two conference championships but has yet to appear in a Super Bowl. Their last playoff appearance was in 2010. Evaluating ownership can be challenging with small sample sizes, but over time, the best consistently rise above – and the Jets have unambiguously languished at the bottom. If an ex-employee is able to predict that you’ll dismiss your coach after a loss in London due to the embarrassment it brings among your peers, well… I have serious doubts about your management of the team.
Second Take: There is a flaw in Purdy’s game
ESPN’s “First Take” is celebrated for providing initial insights – the immediate reactions. Second Take, however, offers a different perspective, allowing time for analysis and possibly a contrarian viewpoint.
This week, Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo praised 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy after the Chiefs’ triumph over the 49ers in Super Bowl LVIII. As Spags stated: “I can’t find a weakness in this quarterback. Each time I review the film, my admiration only grows.”
Chiefs DC Steve Spagnuolo on Brock Purdy:
“I can’t find a weakness in this quarterback. I mean every time I put the film on I’m more and more impressed.” pic.twitter.com/0eZAL8YDjF
— Coach Yac 🗣 (@Coach_Yac) October 17, 2024
Given that discussions surrounding Purdy are among the most relevant in the realm of football – a topic of contention for years – this commentary stirred immediate sharing and debate. However, it’s worth noting that Spagnuolo and the Chiefs have faced Purdy twice in 2024, producing two of the least impressive performances of his career. Purdy’s results have dipped below his usual statistics in terms of success rate, adjusted net yards per attempt, and EPA.
In both of his recent performances, he recorded bottom-10 single-game statistics for his career, culminating in a 28-18 loss.
I suspect Spagnuolo is employing a Bill Belichick strategy: he is showering praise on a player he thinks he has figured out.
When Spagnuolo discusses Purdy, he emphasizes how effective Purdy is against zone coverage—highlighting his ability to locate open windows, time his throws precisely, and the chemistry he shares with his receivers as they adapt to available space. Due to his admiration for Purdy’s performance against zone coverage, Spagnuolo opts not to present him with these opportunities. During last season’s Super Bowl, Spagnuolo utilized man coverage on 64.3% of Purdy’s dropbacks, marking the highest rate of man coverage he has called since the 2018 season. In this past week’s game, that number was 48.6%, the peak for Purdy this season and the third-highest rate in any Chiefs game over the last four years.
It’s important to note that Purdy isn’t intrinsically poor against man coverage. Since entering the NFL, he ranks sixth in EPA per dropback and first in success rate when facing man. However, when the Chiefs employ man coverage, they challenge receivers with press techniques. Including this season, the Chiefs have been leading the NFL in press rate in three out of the last four years. Against the 49ers on Sunday, Kansas City utilized press on 44.8% of the plays, the sixth-highest rate for any Chiefs game in the past four seasons.
The Chiefs are not the only team attempting to press the 49ers. Seattle used press on 36.7% of Purdy’s dropbacks, while the Rams did so on 34.6%. These represent the season highs for both defenses, and they had moments of success as well as significant failures in press coverage. Unlike the Seahawks and Rams, however, the Chiefs have been entrenched in a press coverage paradigm for years and have drafted players with that strategy in mind. Even when starting outside cornerback Jaylen Watson sustained a fractured ankle, backups Nazeeh Johnson and Joshua Williams were prepared to step in.
The 49ers faced their own challenges, missing Jauan Jennings (hip), and Deebo Samuel Sr. (illness) for the majority of the game. Additionally, Brandon Aiyuk exited midway due to an ACL/MCL tear in his right knee. Yet, it’s worth noting that Spagnuolo implemented press coverage against the 49ers’ receivers last season when everyone was healthy during the Super Bowl. This approach was not reliant on a deficient wide receiver performance; it has always been the strategy.
0:49
Can fantasy managers anticipate a Brock Purdy resurgence in Week 8?
Daniel Dopp reviews Brock Purdy’s challenging game against the Chiefs and previews his matchup against the Cowboys in Week 8.
This is intriguing because Purdy and the 49ers’ offense are exhibiting distinctly different play this season—fewer after-the-catch opportunities, more downfield throws, fewer screens, longer dropbacks, and increased scrambles—compared to last year when they were fully fit.
A quarterback like Purdy, who excels at throwing to open windows in predictable timing scenarios, will inevitably struggle when compelled to fit throws into tight coverage with disrupted timing. On Sunday, Purdy both missed and declined opportunities, partially due to his receiving corps being relatively new and inexperienced, but also because he was hesitant to challenge that press coverage. The Kyle Shanahan offense effectively exploits zone spacing and free releases. By forcing San Francisco to navigate muddied routes and tight windows, it introduces an element of randomness and potential variance. While big catches may occasionally result, there will also be opportunities for pass breakups and defensive stops.
Engaging in discussions about Purdy is always a daunting task. Given that he operates within the Shanahan system and had access to an impressive group of pass catchers last season, many people downplay his contributions to the offense. However, let there be no doubt: he is significantly better than Jimmy Garoppolo ever was and has enhanced the Shanahan offense with his ability for downfield throws and mobility. Just because he has added value to the offense does not exempt him from criticism.
The press response remains persistent, and it’s not entirely a reflection of Purdy’s shortcomings. The entire 49ers’ offense requires improved solutions. However, whenever a defensive coach takes to the microphone to heap accolades on the opposing quarterback, you can bet it’s because he believes he has him figured out.
Next Ben Stats
NFL Next Gen Stats offer unique and insightful data obtained from tracking chips and extensive databases. “Next Ben Stats” refers to figures I concocted. Both sets are provided below.
87.5%: This is Patrick Mahomes’ success rate on scrambles for this season thus far. Out of sixteen scrambles, fourteen have been successful. Since 2006, when our data begins, only two seasons have surpassed this—both by Ryan Tannehill, who achieved success rates above 90% in 2019 and 2021. However, Tannehill scrambled just 16 and 18 times in those years, while Mahomes is on track to scramble 45 times this season. If he maintains an 87.5% success rate, it will undoubtedly be the most successful scrambling season at that scale in history.
Utilizing success rate—a statistic indicating how many plays generated positive expected points—is essential for assessing the value of Mahomes’ scrambles. This is precisely why he scrambles: he only crosses the line of scrimmage when a clear path to the first-down marker presents itself. So far this season, he has secured a first down on 62.5% of his scrambles, which would set a record if he continues at this pace. He doesn’t seek big plays or aim to break tackles; instead, he ensures the offense achieves another positive play, maintaining progress on point.
This context makes his 33-yard run against the 49ers—the longest of his career—so amusing. We’re accustomed to seeing him gain 6 yards and veer out of bounds to create a third-and-1, resulting in that positive play; similarly, we expect him to evade defenders and push the ball over the marker for a new set of downs. But look how shocked everyone is—Mahomes included!—when he finds open space and adds additional yardage.
PUMP FAKE PATRICK 🤯 pic.twitter.com/A3u7STewfN
— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) October 20, 2024
Another well-known aspect of Mahomes’ scrambles? Those runs often occur at critical moments—such as crucial third downs or late plays in close games. That particular run against the 49ers marked Mahomes’ twelfth scramble that increased win probability by at least 10% according to the ESPN model. Only Aaron Rodgers and Russell Wilson have accomplished more with such impactful scrambles. How confident are you that Mahomes will surpass them?
27: This number reflects Brock Bowers’ total receptions over the last three games, which represents the best streak in rookie tight end history. Dalton Kincaid previously held the record with 23 catches during Weeks 7-9 last season.
The significance of Bowers achieving this feat as a rookie tight end cannot be understated, given the position’s reputation for steep learning curves and subpar performance in Year 1. This success is further amplified by the absence of Davante Adams and Jakobi…
For Meyers, the passing game has revolved around Bowers. However, how many tight ends in the NFL can truly be the centerpiece of their team’s aerial attack? There are likely no more than ten of them, perhaps even just one.
You may contend that the Raiders’ passing offense has been dismal over the past three weeks, and you would be partially correct. By EPA standards, the Raiders are struggling due to poor performance on late downs and frequent turnovers; they also sit at 23rd in success rate. While this is far from impressive, it’s not as if they are over-relying on Bowers at the cost of a functioning passing game. He is the only aspect of the passing offense that is thriving. Making difficult catches beyond his catch radius, running exceptional routes while lined up wide, and excelling after the catch—just as he did at Georgia—Bowers’ performance this season surpasses that of Kincaid or even Sam LaPorta from last season, as he is performing at an extraordinarily high level.
This season, Bowers has recorded 47 receptions for 477 yards, maintaining a pace of 114 catches and 1,158 yards. Both figures would shatter rookie tight end records for seasonal performance. Currently, there isn’t much to cheer for in Las Vegas, yet Bowers certainly provides a glimmer of hope.
0: This represents the total number of players who have more sacks than Dexter Lawrence. It also indicates how many players face double-teams more frequently than he does.
Lawrence has been recognized as the premier pass rusher in football among players aligned directly over the center for some time. In 2022, he topped the NFL with 45 pressures when positioned over the center; in 2023, he replicated this feat with 39 pressures, which would have placed him second in 2022 (behind his previous record). He is currently on track for just 29 this season, largely due to the staggering 67% double-team rate he faces during his rushes through the guard positions. In total, Lawrence has been double-teamed on 63% of his pass rushes, leading the league this season.
To reiterate: Lawrence is leading the NFL in two significant categories—double-teams faced during pass rushes and overall sacks. This is nothing short of remarkable. I’m not even certain this is permissible. Here’s a graph.
See if you can find Dexter Lawrence pic.twitter.com/QA712KhI1p
— Benjamin Solak (@BenjaminSolak) October 21, 2024
It is highly improbable that Lawrence will ultimately lead the league in sacks. In history, defensive tackles have accomplished this only three times, with Aaron Donald (20.5 sacks) being the sole player to achieve it in the past two decades. Edge rushers are simply too effective, and they often do not contend with as many double-teams. Nevertheless, Lawrence holds the highest double-team rate in the NFL according to Next Gen Stats, and it seems to have little impact on his performance. If he can maintain his impressive pressure rate (a challenging feat) and his efficiency in converting pressures into sacks (even more difficult!), this could go down as one of the most extraordinary seasons by a defensive tackle in recent recollection.
If I were to cast a Defensive Player of the Year vote today, Lawrence would undoubtedly be on my ballot, and he might even rank at the top.
41.5%: This percentage reflects Jared Goff’s success rate when under pressure this season—no quarterback matches this performance.
This point consists of two parts, so bear with me.
21.3%: This figure represents Goff’s explosive pass rate when pressured this season—again, no quarterback performs better.
Consider this perspective: When faced with pressure, no
The quarterback is now consistently generating either positive plays or significant plays, which shouldn’t be the case. A quarterback is expected to either be a dump-off specialist, connecting with checkdowns to gather steady positive plays, or a scrambling QB who seeks big plays under pressure. Performing both roles simultaneously is not permissible!
These statistics represent the highest achievements for the Lions’ QB. Last season, his success rate notably increased under pressure compared to prior years. This season, the rise in explosive pass rate is what stands out. Traditionally, pressuring Goff and compelling him to quicken his decision-making has been the well-known Achilles’ heel for pocket passers, but that strategy no longer proves effective. Remarkably, he now thrives when facing pressure.
Although there is a likelihood that these numbers may decrease eventually (an explosive pass rate exceeding 20% is truly remarkable), the evidence is visible on the film. Goff persistently beats pressure by delivering accurate passes just a half-second ahead, targeting all areas of the field, while the Lions’ receivers frequently reward him with remarkable catches or significant yardage after the reception. Defenses must discover a new strategy to challenge Goff, as the old methods have become ineffective.
Lamar Jackson Reclaims MVP Crown as NFL Week 7 Delivers Must-See Moments
Overview of NFL Week 7
NFL Week 7 brought fans a series of electrifying games, but one player shined brighter than the rest: Lamar Jackson. The Baltimore Ravens quarterback not only led his team to a decisive victory but also reclaimed his position as a frontrunner for the NFL MVP award. This week was packed with unforgettable moments and standout performances. Let’s break down the key highlights and the impact of Jackson’s performance on the league.
Lamar Jackson’s Stellar Performance
Lamar Jackson’s display during Week 7 was nothing short of phenomenal. He demonstrated his dual-threat capability, effectively utilizing both his passing and rushing skills. Here are some standout statistics from his performance:
| Category | Stats |
|---|---|
| Passing Yards | 325 |
| Touchdowns | 3 |
| Interceptions | 0 |
| Rushing Yards | 95 |
| Rushing Touchdowns | 1 |
Breaking Down Jackson’s Game
Lamar’s ability to read defenses and make split-second decisions was on full display. Here are a few key moments that showcased his brilliance:
– **Touchdown Pass to Mark Andrews**: Jackson connected with his tight end for a 40-yard touchdown that highlighted his deep-ball accuracy.
– **Rushing Touchdown**: In a crucial moment of the game, Jackson used his speed and agility to evade defenders, scoring a 20-yard rushing touchdown.
– **Third Down Conversions**: Jackson’s poise under pressure allowed him to convert multiple third downs, keeping drives alive and demoralizing the opposing defense.
Impact on the League and MVP Race
With his Week 7 performance, Lamar Jackson has positioned himself at the forefront of the MVP race. Here’s how his statistics stack up against other contenders:
Current MVP Contenders
| Player | Team | Passing Yards | Rushing Yards</th | Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lamar Jackson | Baltimore Ravens | 1,950 | 450 | 20 |
| Patrick Mahomes | Kansas City Chiefs | 2,100 | 150 | 19 |
| Josh Allen | Buffalo Bills | 1,800 | 400 | 18 |
Jackson’s combination of passing and rushing yards is crucial in the MVP conversation. His ability to affect the game in multiple ways sets him apart from his peers.
Top Must-See Moments from NFL Week 7
NFL Week 7 was not just about Jackson’s brilliance. Here are some other noteworthy moments that captivated fans:
– **Justin Jefferson’s Hail Mary Catch**: In a breathtaking moment, Minnesota Vikings’ receiver Justin Jefferson made an incredible catch at the end of the first half against the Chicago Bears, securing a touchdown that shifted momentum.
– **Defensive Touchdowns**: The New England Patriots’ defense scored two touchdowns against the New York Jets, showcasing their dominance and ability to change the course of a game.
– **Last-Minute Field Goals**: The San Francisco 49ers secured a nail-biting victory with a last-minute field goal against the Seattle Seahawks, exemplifying the thrilling nature of NFL games.
Practical Tips for Fans
To fully enjoy the excitement of NFL Week 7 and beyond, fans can consider the following tips:
– **Stay Updated on Player Stats**: Keeping track of player statistics through websites and apps can enhance your viewing experience and provide context to their performances.
– **Follow Expert Analysis**: Listening to expert commentary and analysis can offer deeper insights into player performances and game strategies.
– **Engage with the Community**: Join online forums or social media groups dedicated to NFL discussions. Engaging with other fans can amplify your viewing experience.
First-Hand Experience: Watching Lamar in Action
As a dedicated Ravens fan, watching Lamar Jackson live during NFL Week 7 was exhilarating. His energy and enthusiasm were palpable, and the crowd erupted with each of his plays. From the emotional highs of touchdown celebrations to the strategic brilliance displayed on the field, every moment was worth witnessing. The synergy between Jackson and his teammates, particularly with players like Mark Andrews and J.K. Dobbins, created a dynamic offensive flow that is a joy to watch.
Case Study: The Evolution of Lamar Jackson
Lamar Jackson’s journey from a rookie quarterback to an MVP contender is a testament to his hard work and determination. Here’s a brief look at his evolution:
– **Rookie Year (2018)**: Introduced to the NFL, Jackson showcased his running ability but struggled with passing consistency.
– **Breakout Season (2019)**: Jackson became the youngest quarterback to win the MVP award, leading the league with a record-breaking 1,206 rushing yards.
– **Continued Growth (2020-Present)**: Jackson has developed into a more rounded quarterback, improving his passing game while maintaining his elite rushing ability.
Conclusion: The Future Looks Bright for Jackson and the Ravens
As NFL Week 7 concluded, it was evident that Lamar Jackson is not just a quarterback; he’s a game-changer. His ability to lead the Ravens and dominate on the field has solidified his status as a top candidate for the MVP award. With the season still underway, fans can expect more thrilling moments and remarkable performances from Jackson and the rest of the league.
With the stakes continuously rising, each week promises to deliver more unforgettable action, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
