The sixth week of the 2023 NFL season brought fans an exciting slate of games filled with thrilling comebacks, standout performances, and historic achievements. As we dive into the action, here are seven statistical highlights that defined the Sunday matchups.
Nail-Biting Finishes:
Focusing on Thursday Night Football, the Sunday 6PM and 9PM game slots, a staggering 76.9% of games were within one score (eight points) in the fourth quarter, with eight games ultimately decided by a single score. The NFL showcased its trademark competitiveness once again.
Underdogs Prevail:
Five teams entered Week 6 with fewer victories than their opponents this season but defied the odds to secure victories: the Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Houston Texans, New York Jets, and Washington Commanders.
Jets’ Family Duo Makes History:
The New York Jets made a remarkable comeback against the Philadelphia Eagles, with Breece Hall’s game-winning touchdown sealing a 20-14 win. The Jets’ defense also stood out, with Quinnen Williams recording an interception and Quincy Williams recovering a fumble—marking the first pair of brothers to record takeaways for the same team since 2010.
Browns’ Historic Defense:
The Cleveland Browns overcame a 10-point deficit to defeat the San Francisco 49ers 19-17. Remarkably, the Browns’ defense has allowed just 1,002 yards this season, marking the fewest yards allowed by a team in 52 years and the third-fewest yards allowed by a team in its first five games of a season since 1970.
Lamar Jackson’s Milestone:
The Baltimore Ravens defeated the Tennessee Titans 24-16 in London, with Lamar Jackson leading the way. Jackson recorded 285 total yards (223 passing, 62 rushing), marking his 50th career game with at least 50 rushing yards. He joined Michael Vick as the only quarterbacks in NFL history to achieve this milestone.
Explosive Miami Dolphins:
The Miami Dolphins displayed an explosive offense, led by running back Raheem Mostert’s three touchdowns (two rushing, one receiving) and wide receiver Tyreek Hill’s 163 receiving yards and one touchdown in a 42-21 win over the Carolina Panthers. Miami’s 2,992 total yards of offense this season is the second-most in NFL history for the first six games of a season.
Tyreek Hill’s Record-Setting Season:
Tyreek Hill continues to make history, amassing 814 receiving yards this season—the most by a player in his team’s first six games in the Super Bowl era. He is also the first player ever to record at least 150 receiving yards in four of his team’s first six games in a season. Hill’s six touchdown receptions this season make him one of only five players to achieve this feat in each of their first eight seasons, alongside NFL legends.
Bonus Achievements:
Several other players made their mark on Week 6, including rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud’s historic interception-free start, Puka Nacua’s record-breaking rookie performance for the Los Angeles Rams, and Christian McCaffrey’s continued streak of scoring in 15 consecutive games, a feat matched only by Hall of Famers.
Week 6 of the 2023 NFL season was filled with thrilling moments, remarkable comebacks, and historic achievements. Fans can expect more exciting action and unforgettable moments on the gridiron as the season progresses.