The 2023 NFL season had an eventful bye week with six teams not playing, but the action that did happen was impressive. Bill Belichick achieved a significant milestone victory after weeks of disappointment, while the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles both won, demonstrating their Super Bowl aspirations. Here's a rundown of everything you need to know about Sunday's games in Week 7.
Legendary coach joins legendary company
The New England Patriots have had a tough time of it lately.
After suffering three consecutive losses, two of which were by significant margins, the organization, which has grown accustomed to success, was dealt a heavy blow.
However, displaying their resilience as they have done on numerous occasions, the Patriots managed to bounce back and achieve a remarkable 29-25 win against the Buffalo Bills at Gillette Stadium on Sunday.
Patriots quarterback Mac Jones tossed two touchdowns and running back Ezekiel Elliott added another score on the ground, leading New England to an impressive victory that ended their three-game losing streak. Additionally, the iconic head coach of the franchise, Bill Belichick, achieved a remarkable milestone with his 300th regular season win, making him just the third coach in NFL history to reach this feat, alongside Don Shula (328) and George Halas (318).
Belichick accumulated most of his 300 wins while with the Patriots, having joined New England in 2000. During his tenure with the Cleveland Browns, he achieved 36 victories.
Belichick reacts after a play in the second half of the game against the Bills.
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The 71-year-old downplayed his achievement, stating that he is more focused on the team and the current year. He expressed gratitude and mentioned that he will address it later.
Belichick leads the clubhouse in all-time playoff wins, Super Bowl appearances, and Super Bowl victories. However, Sunday's triumph could not have arrived at a more opportune moment for the New England coach, as mounting pressure had been building on him after a series of disheartening outcomes. Notably, the victory was especially impressive as it involved defeating their formidable division rivals.
The Patriots defense did an exceptional job in containing Josh Allen and the Bills, while the New England offense finally emerged from their season-long slump.
Although the Bills made a comeback in the second half, the Patriots secured victory with a late score. This decisive play was orchestrated by Jones, who led his team in an impressive drive before connecting with Mike Gesicki for the winning touchdown. It was a fitting way to celebrate National Tight End day.
Jones told reporters after the event that he believes in persevering and not getting discouraged by small setbacks. He emphasized the importance of using these setbacks as motivation to improve.
He further explained that it's crucial to approach each day with the same level of determination, keeping in mind the importance of teamwork and the reasons behind their efforts. Jones expressed satisfaction with their performance that day and stressed the need to maintain this dedication in both practice and games.
The Patriots improve to 2-5 while the Bills slip to 4-3.
Jones passes the ball in the first half against the Bills.
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Its almost like hes playing Madden
The Kansas City Chiefs began their title defense with a disappointing Week 1 loss at home against the Detroit Lions.
Since then, their performance has been nearly flawless, securing six consecutive victories, with the latest being an impressive 31-17 win against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday. The driving force behind Kansas City's success has predominantly been quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who delivered a remarkable performance of 424 passing yards, four touchdowns, and a single interception.
Mahomes' favored recipient was none other than Travis Kelce, who once again demonstrated his prowess as the premier tight end in the league. He accumulated an impressive stat line of 12 receptions, 179 yards, and a touchdown, all while Taylor Swift observed from the stands.
Taylor Swift and Brittany Mahomes cheer during the Kansas City Chiefs' game against the Los Angeles Chargers.
David Eulitt/Getty Images
Mahomes attributed the success of his connection with Kelce to the latter's exceptional ability to identify coverage and make quick adjustments. Expressing his admiration, Mahomes emphasized that they constantly discuss this crucial aspect and never underestimate its significance.
"It's as if he's controlling the game like Madden, effortlessly anticipating the defense, perfectly positioning himself in the gaps, and always staying in sync with me," Mahomes emphasized, alluding to the video game.
"He truly excelled, my friend. He consistently performs at such a high level, every single week, which is the reason why he's the exceptional player he is and undoubtedly destined to become a future Hall of Famer."
Kelce celebrates a touchdown during the second quarter against the Chargers.
The Chargers were completely overwhelmed by the Chiefs' exceptional performance at Arrowhead, especially in the first half. Mahomes impressively accumulated 321 passing yards and three touchdowns.
Kansas City's defense appeared to be the most impressive, effectively stifling the typically potent Chargers offense, particularly quarterback Justin Herbert. The star quarterback concluded the game with 259 passing yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions, with Bryan Cook and LJarius Sneed each contributing one interception. Additionally, Herbert faced significant pressure, being sacked five times.
After the loss, Herbert assured reporters that despite the recent unfruitful games, the team remains resilient and determined, refusing to panic, quit, or surrender.
"I anticipate approaching practice this week with the same mindset and approach as we have in previous weeks. I'm prepared to face the challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead. It will undoubtedly be a demanding week, but I am confident that this will aid in our overall improvement."
The Sunday's action concluded with what could be considered the game of the week. It featured the Philadelphia Eagles, who were the runners-up in last season's Super Bowl, facing off against the Miami Dolphins, who have recently become a favorite among neutral fans. Both teams had a strong start to the season with five wins in six weeks, proving their status as potential Super Bowl contenders.
The Eagles emerged victorious in a closely contested game at Lincoln Financial Field, defeating Miami 31-17.
The game primarily revolved around Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts, who achieved notable success by throwing touchdowns to AJ Brown and Dallas Goedert, in addition to rushing for another. However, following halftime, Hurts, sporting a knee brace, took the field a few minutes later than his teammates.
After the victory, when asked about his knee, Hurts assured the reporter, "I'll be perfectly fine." The 25-year-old, renowned for his agility, had exhibited a lack of dynamism compared to his previous performances, as evident from his fumble loss and interception.
Hurts leaves the field after defeating the Dolphins.
Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images
For Miami, it was a return to earth after a few weeks of offensive explosion.
The team's offensive momentum, which had been historic, was significantly hampered by the formidable Eagles defense, resulting in a meager total of only 244 yards. Despite Tua Tagovailoa, an early season MVP contender, maintaining his accuracy, the once dynamic running game of the team was virtually non-existent without rookie sensation DeVon Achane. Consequently, the Dolphins could only muster a mere 45 yards on the ground.
The Eagles now sit at 6-1 while the Dolphins move to 5-2.
Full Week 7 Sunday scores
Away vs. home
Detroit Lions 6-38 Baltimore Ravens
Las Vegas Raiders 12-30 Chicago Bears
Cleveland Browns 39-38 Indianapolis Colts
Buffalo Bills 25-29 New England Patriots
Washington Commanders 7-14 New York Giants
Atlanta Falcons 16-13 Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Pittsburgh Steelers 24-17 Los Angeles Rams
Arizona Cardinals 10-20 Seattle Seahawks
Green Bay Packers 17-19 Denver Broncos
Los Angeles Chargers 17-31 Kansas City Chiefs
Miami Dolphins 17-31 Philadelphia Eagles