The 2026 NFL season entered Week 7 with high stakes, delivering a slate of games defined by offensive efficiency and defensive breakdowns. While fans across the league searched for answers on whether the Chiefs won their matchup, the broader narrative shifted to Pittsburgh and New Orleans, who combined for eight drives of 11-plus plays. This statistical anomaly marked the most such drives in a non-overtime game and tied the NFL record for the most in a single contest since at least 2000, highlighting a rare offensive shootout that kept fans on the edge of their seats throughout the broadcast.
Jaylen Warren’s YAC surge and Penix’s historic passing night define a chaotic Sunday slate.
In Pittsburgh, Jaylen Warren emerged as the primary engine for the Steelers, showcasing his versatility with a performance that dominated the Next Gen Stats. Warren rushed for 101 yards, gaining 71 of those after contact, while also forcing five missed tackles from the Saints’ defense. His receiving ability further stretched the coverage, as he added 46 yards after the catch, pushing his season total to a league-leading 360 yards after the catch. This dual-threat capability proved decisive, allowing Pittsburgh to maintain possession and control the tempo of a game that featured record-breaking drive lengths.
Meanwhile, the San Francisco 49ers and Atlanta Falcons delivered a contrasting narrative centered on quarterback protection and precision. Michael Penix Jr. faced pressure on just six of his 35 dropbacks, resulting in a 17.1% pressure rate that stood as the second-lowest of his career. This stability allowed Penix to throw for three passing touchdowns without an interception, a feat that places him in elite company as only the third quarterback in the last 25 seasons to achieve this in a win against a team with a 6-0 or better record. The 49ers’ defensive struggles in pass rush were the defining factor, enabling Atlanta to secure a victory that will resonate throughout the remainder of the 2026 campaign.
Source: NFL.com
