Inside the Numbers delves into NFL statistics, streaks, and trends each week, providing a comprehensive look at the latest happenings in the league. This week, Kirk Cousins made headlines with a remarkable performance, throwing for 509 yards and securing a game-winning touchdown pass in overtime to lead Atlanta to a 36-30 victory over Tampa Bay. Despite Cousins' impressive showing, Norm Van Brocklin's 554-yard single-game passing record from 1951 remains intact, standing as one of the NFL's most enduring records.
Van Brocklin's record-setting game was a testament to his skill and determination, as he stepped in as the starting quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams on short notice and delivered a historic performance against the New York Yanks. His 27 completions, including nine to Elroy “Crazylegs” Hirsch for 173 yards, showcased his talent and set a high bar for future quarterbacks.
While modern-era NFL offenses have seen a surge in passing production, with teams averaging over 250 yards passing per game in recent years, Van Brocklin's record remains unchallenged. The closest anyone has come to breaking it was Matt Schaub's 527-yard game in 2012.
On the coaching front, the New York Jets made an early-season change by firing Robert Saleh after just five games, continuing a trend of early-season coaching changes in the NFL. The Jets are the sixth team in the last six seasons to make a coaching change this early in the year, reflecting the evolving landscape of coaching in the league.
Sunday's games featured notable returns, with defensive touchdowns scored on returns of over 100 yards for the first time in NFL history. Special teams also made an impact, with two blocked field goals returned for touchdowns, adding to the excitement of the week's matchups.
In a surprising turn of events, 39-year-old Joe Flacco leads the NFL in passer rating with an impressive 115.6 mark while playing for the Indianapolis Colts. Flacco's late-career resurgence has been remarkable, with a streak of seven straight games with at least two touchdown passes, showcasing his enduring talent and skill on the field.
As the NFL season progresses, fans can expect more thrilling moments, record-breaking performances, and unexpected developments that make the league one of the most exciting in sports.
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