Vikings Remain Undefeated as Chiefs and 49ers Suffer First Losses
Minnesota Vikings are the NFL's sole unbeaten team after a dramatic seventh week of action, while other top contenders fell.
The Minnesota Vikings have emerged as the NFL's last undefeated team following a week of upsets that saw the Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers suffer their first defeats of the season. Week seven delivered notable results across the league, with several teams solidifying their positions and others experiencing setbacks.
Seahawks Halt Chiefs' Momentum
The defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks showcased their championship pedigree by defeating the previously unbeaten Kansas City Chiefs. The Chiefs, who boasted the league's best offense coming into the game, were stifled by Seattle's defense. Running back Kenneth Walker, a key offseason acquisition for Kansas City, was held to just 36 yards on 14 carries. Seattle's quarterback Sam Darnold connected with Jaxon Smith-Njigba for 150 receiving yards and a touchdown, while new running back Emanuel Wilson added 100 rushing yards and a score in the 20-3 victory. The Seahawks improved to 4-3, while the Chiefs are now 5-1.
49ers Handed First Loss by Falcons
Brock Purdy, who had recently set a career passer rating record, faced a frustrating afternoon against the Atlanta Falcons. The Falcons' defense forced four turnovers, including two interceptions from Purdy, en route to a 29-20 win, handing the 49ers their first loss of the season. San Francisco now stands at 6-1. In the same division, the Los Angeles Rams (3-4) secured a 35-21 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. Rams quarterback Matt Stafford became the first player in NFL history to lead two different teams in touchdown passes, having previously set the franchise record for the Detroit Lions.
Vikings' Unlikely Streak Continues
The Minnesota Vikings extended their perfect record to 6-0, a start few would have predicted at the beginning of the season. They came from behind to defeat the Indianapolis Colts 16-10. The Vikings' defense has been a standout unit, complemented by kicker Will Reichard's perfect record. This victory marks the 11th consecutive win for Kevin O'Connell's team, including the end of last season. Their next challenge is a divisional matchup against the Detroit Lions. The Giants, led by newly named starting quarterback JJ McCarthy, achieved a 27-21 overtime win against the Houston Texans. In another NFC North clash, the Detroit Lions secured a 20-17 win over the Green Bay Packers with a last-second field goal.
Browns Regain AFC North Lead
All teams in the AFC North now hold at least four wins. The Pittsburgh Steelers opened the week's action with a 16-10 victory over the New Orleans Saints in the NFL's first game held in France. The Cleveland Browns (5-2) reclaimed the division lead after Andre Szmyt kicked a game-winning field goal for a 27-24 win against the Tennessee Titans. Quarterback Deshaun Watson has been instrumental, leading five game-winning drives this season, silencing preseason doubts and showcasing the form that led to his significant contract. The Baltimore Ravens suffered their second consecutive loss, falling 35-13 to the Cincinnati Bengals. Despite leading 13-0 at halftime without quarterback Lamar Jackson, the Ravens were overcome by Joe Burrow's four touchdown passes. The Ravens face a difficult game against the Buffalo Bills next week, with no timeline set for Jackson's return.
Broncos Show Resurgence
The Denver Broncos improved to 5-2 with a 30-16 victory over the Arizona Cardinals. Quarterback Bo Nix was a key factor, rushing for a 62-yard touchdown, his longest career run and a significant contribution to his season's rushing yards. Nix also threw a touchdown pass, finishing with 222 passing yards. This performance marks a return to form for the quarterback, who had undergone offseason surgeries. The Broncos are now second in the AFC West, trailing the Chiefs, and are set to host Kansas City next week.