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Baltimore Ravens, Lamar Jackson
October 23, 2024 By  NFL

NFL Week 7 Players of the Week: Brilliance in Both Conferences, Courtesy of Surprising Talents

Week after week, the elite talent in the NFL consistently shows up, and it was no different in Week 7. Dominating offensive performances, game-altering defensive plays, and special teams brilliance headlined the Players of the Week. Winners this week include Lamar Jackson, Saquon Barkley, Cody Barton, Cobie Durant, Charlie Jones, and Jake Bates. Here is how each of these stars won Player of the Week honors.

Lamar Jackson Named AFC Offensive Player of the Week

Baltimore Ravens, Lamar Jackson
Oct 21, 2024; Tampa, Florida, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) runs with the ball against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Lamar Jackson has been electric for the Baltimore Ravens, and his Week 7 performance cemented his position as one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in the league. In leading the Ravens to a dominant victory, Jackson accounted for more than 350 total yards and multiple touchdowns. His ability to extend plays with both his arm and legs kept opposing defenses on edge. Jackson’s leadership continues to catapult Baltimore to the top of the AFC, so he is the well-deserved recipient of the AFC Offensive Player of the Week honor.

Saquon Barkley Named NFC Offensive Player of the Week

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Oct 20, 2024; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after a long run during the first half against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

It’s taken some time, but Saquon Barkley seems to be back to his form from last season, and Week 7 was quite the showing for the star running back of the Philadelphia Eagles. Barkley ran for over 150 yards and scored multiple times, securing a big win. On the field, it was all about balance, speed, and vision. His game-breaking runs energized the Eagles’ offense. The effort earned Barkley NFC Offensive Player of the Week honors, and he reminded one and all why he is considered one of the best backs in the NFL.

AFC Defensive Players of the Week: Cody Barton Headlines:

Denver Broncos Defense Posing
Through a good showing this season, the Denver Broncos have depended on their defense time and again. In Week 7, Barton was the man instrumental in this team’s win. He was a tackling machine, clearing double-digit tackles and making critical stops on key downs. He was able to read plays and close gaps in the run game, earning him AFC Defensive Player of the Week. Barton has brought relentless energy and football IQ to the Broncos and has made a big difference as they try to hang with the tough AFC West.

Cobie Durant Anchors the Rams’ Defense, Wins NFC Defensive Player of the Week

Los Angeles Rams, Cobie Durant
Los Angeles Rams cornerback Cobie Durant (14) intercepts a pass intended for Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams (9) during the second half at Ford Field in Detroit on Sunday, September 8, 2024.

Cobie Durant headlined the Los Angeles Rams defense with game-changing plays during his big week. This young cornerback for the Rams came up with a huge interception and multiple pass breakups, which disrupted the opposing team’s passing attack. Real agility and sharp instincts are involved in his capability for coverage, and those helped the Rams seal a big victory; he now gets the NFC Defensive Player of the Week award. That’s a good omen for the defense as the Rams are still fighting for playoff positioning.

AFC Special Teams Player of the Week: Charlie Jones

cincinnati bengals charlie jones
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Charlie Jones (15) runs with a catch during a preseason training camp practice at the Paycor Stadium practice field in downtown Cincinnati on Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024.

Special teams often provide the difference for the Cincinnati Bengals in close games, and Charlie Jones provided that difference at a moment when the outcome of the game was hanging in the balance. Jones flipped the field position repeatedly with several electrifying returns to put the Bengals offense in great starting positions throughout the game. His efforts on special teams were good enough to earn him AFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors as he continues to be one of the main catalysts for Cincinnati.

NFC Special Teams Player of the Week: Jake Bates

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Oct 20, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Detroit Lions place kicker Jake Bates (39) reacts after kicking the game winning field goal late during the fourth quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

Detroit Lions kicker Jake Bates was one of the key reasons for the victory of his team in Week 7. Bates was the consistent score for Detroit, with long-range field goals and perfect executions on extra points. His clutch kicks sealed the game to make him the NFC Special Teams Player of the Week. In a league where every point counts, Bates’ performance gave the Lions the needed edge to seal the win.

Week 7 of the NFL had a few crazy performances, from individual brilliance on the field, from Lamar Jackson’s offense to Cody Barton dominating in defense; all of these players left their mark on the field. As the season takes further shape, such performances remind us how much talent and resolve it takes to reach the pinnacle in the NFL. Fans will certainly be keeping a keen eye on these stars and how they can continue to make an impact on their respective teams as we progress further into the season.

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About Brandon Rohrbaugh

Brandon Rohrbaugh is a passionate sports writer who covers a wide range of topics for Gridiron Heroics. With a keen eye for detail, he brings engaging and informative content to sports enthusiasts.

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