NFL Week 7 Takeaways: Top Games, Standout Performances, and Betting Advice

Games of the Week

Bengals 33, Steelers 31

Joe Flacco appears to be the short-term answer at quarterback for the Bengals. The 40-year-old veteran led Cincinnati to 33 points and a divisional win in his second start, throwing for 342 yards and three touchdowns. Aaron Rodgers, 41, had a rough afternoon with two costly interceptions that swung the game late. With Flacco looking sharp, it is safe to say Jake Browning will not be seeing the field again this season unless injuries strike.

Broncos 33, Giants 32

The Giants-Broncos game produced one of the strangest scorelines in NFL history. New York led 19-0 entering the fourth quarter, with Denver seemingly lifeless and fans already heading for the exits. Then came an explosion. The Broncos scored 33 points in the final quarter to steal a one-point win, completing one of the biggest comebacks in franchise history. Giants head coach Brian Daboll is once again under heavy fire after falling to 2-5 in shocking fashion.

Eagles 28, Vikings 22

Carson Wentz was hoping for revenge against the team that drafted him second overall in 2016, but the Eagles spoiled his night. Jalen Hurts threw three touchdowns while both DeVonta Smith and A.J. Brown topped 100 receiving yards. Wentz threw two interceptions and reminded everyone why he has struggled to hold a starting job. The Eagles finally showed life in the passing game and seem to be finding their rhythm again.

Top Player Performances

Joe Flacco, QB, Bengals

What Flacco is doing at 40 is remarkable. The former Super Bowl MVP threw for 342 yards and three touchdowns against Pittsburgh, giving Cincinnati’s offense a spark it has missed all season. With Flacco spreading the ball effectively between Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, this offense suddenly looks dangerous again.

Jahmyr Gibbs, RB, Lions

Gibbs shredded Tampa Bay on Monday night, rushing for 136 yards on 17 carries while adding 82 receiving yards and two touchdowns. His 78-yard score in the second quarter blew the game open and helped Detroit secure a statement win. Gibbs’ versatility continues to separate him as one of the NFL’s most dynamic young playmakers.

DeVonta Smith, WR, Eagles

After visible frustration on the sidelines in recent weeks, Smith responded with one of the best performances of his career. He caught nine passes for 183 yards and a touchdown, reminding everyone of his elite route running and breakaway speed. His chemistry with Hurts looked as sharp as ever.

Parity Rules the 2025 NFL Season

This season has been one of the hardest to predict in recent memory. From top contenders to mid-tier teams, almost every matchup has been competitive and unpredictable.

No one expected the Indianapolis Colts to be the league’s only six-win team after Week 7, or the Patriots to lead the AFC East. The resurgence of the running game may explain some of this parity. Teams with powerful lead backs are finding success against smaller, speed-focused defenses. The Colts, behind Jonathan Taylor, are a perfect example of how old-school football can still dominate in today’s NFL.

Betting Strategy Adjustments After Week 7

Fade Houston for the Next Few Weeks

C.J. Stroud’s early success looks more like an anomaly as the Texans continue to flounder. The team has no clear identity and head coach DeMeco Ryans seems out of answers. At 2-4, with upcoming games against the 49ers and Broncos, Houston is best avoided at the window for now.

The Chiefs Are Heating Up

After beating Detroit in Week 6 and dismantling Las Vegas in Week 7, Kansas City looks like the powerhouse everyone expected. The offense is clicking again and the schedule lines up favorably with Washington and Buffalo next. There is value in riding this hot streak before oddsmakers adjust.

Bet the Dallas Over

The Cowboys are an unpredictable team when it comes to wins and losses, but their offense consistently delivers fireworks. Whether or not CeeDee Lamb is in the lineup, they score points in bunches. Stay away from moneylines and spreads, but lean heavily toward the over in any Dallas matchup. Their pace and firepower make it one of the safest plays on the board.

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