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The quarterbacks in Week 5 of the NFL seem to have reclaimed the spotlight, perhaps in response to the recent hype around the running game. Week 5 saw eight quarterbacks throwing for over 300 yards each, with Kirk Cousins leading the pack with a career-high 509 yards in the Falcons' overtime victory against the Buccaneers. This marked a week rich in explosive offensive and notable defensive returns.

On the defensive front, Week 5 was historic for featuring two 100-yard defensive touchdowns for the first time ever. Seahawks safety Rayshawn Jenkins and Broncos cornerback Pat Surtain II were the architects of these impressive plays. In addition, the weekend saw ten one-score games, with the Cardinals breaking their four-game losing streak by narrowly defeating the 49ers 24-23. Denver also put an end to their eight-game losing streak against the Las Vegas Raiders with a 34-18 win. The Bears extended their home win streak to eight games, the longest active streak in the NFL.

One of the standout performers was Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase. Despite Cincinnati’s narrow overtime loss to the Ravens, Chase amassed 193 receiving yards and scored two touchdowns, making it his best game of the season. Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow also impressed with 392 passing yards and five touchdown passes, although a late-game interception opened the door for Baltimore’s victory.

Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins had an extraordinary performance, throwing for four touchdown passes and leading the team to a thrilling 36-30 overtime win over the Buccaneers. This victory sees Atlanta tied for the top spot in the NFC South with Tampa Bay. Cousins, with 1373 passing yards so far, is now ranked fifth in the NFL.

Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels of the Commanders has been another revelation. Daniels has made history by joining Kyler Murray and Robert Griffin III as the only players with over 1,000 passing yards and 200 rushing yards in their first five career games. He also became the first player with at least 1,000 passing and 250 rushing yards in the same period, firmly placing him in the MVP conversation.

In Jacksonville, Trevor Lawrence celebrated his 25th birthday by leading the Jaguars to their first win of the season with a remarkable 371 passing yards and two touchdowns. His completion rate and game management were pivotal in their 37-34 win over the Colts.

Broncos cornerback Pat Surtain II solidified his reputation as one of the league's best, tallying two interceptions, one of which he returned 100 yards for a touchdown. His performance is a key reason Denver boasts one of the NFL's best defenses.

On the flip side, 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy struggled in their game against the Cardinals, failing to score in the second half and throwing two interceptions. In contrast, Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers has not lived up to expectations, with four interceptions and an 81.6 passer rating over five games. His recent performance in the loss to the Vikings raised concerns about his ability to lead the team.

Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson has also been underwhelming, failing to throw for more than 200 yards in any game this season and leading the Browns to a disappointing 1-4 start. Watson's hefty contract makes him difficult to trade, leaving Cleveland in a challenging position.

The NFL's Week 5 showcased high-scoring games, record-breaking performances, and critical plays that could shape the season ahead.