Welcome to Week 16 of the 2022 NFL season and a vacation weekend of soccer.
On Thursday, the Jacksonville Jaguars continued their quest for the AFC South title by beating the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium. On Saturday, the Buffalo Payments received their third straight AFC East title with a conquer the Chicago Bears mixed with a New England Patriots loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. And with a win over the Atlanta Falcons, the Baltimore Ravens secured a playoff bid. The Minnesota Vikings received one other one-score Sport — their NFL-record eleventh of the season — and the Kansas Metropolis Chiefs proved an excessive amount of for the Seattle Seahawks.
The late Saturday contests noticed the Dallas Cowboys keep alive within the NFC East with a comeback victory over the Philadelphia Eagles and the San Francisco 49ers win their eighth straight by besting the Washington Commanders. Within the Saturday night time sport, the Las Vegas Raiders allowed one other result in slip away, because the Pittsburgh Steelers honored the late Franco Harris with a fourth-quarter rally on a frigid night time within the Metal Metropolis.
Sunday obtained rolling with an enormous comeback win for the Inexperienced Bay Packers over the Miami Dolphins by way of three late-game interceptions. Subsequent, the Denver Broncos misplaced in disastrous trend on the highway in opposition to the Los Angeles Rams. And lastly, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and quarterback Tom Brady defeated the Arizona Cardinals in time beyond regulation in what was signal-caller Hint McSorley’s first begin.
Our NFL Nation reporters react with the largest takeaways and lingering questions off this week’s matchups and stay up for what’s subsequent. Let’s get to it.
Soar to a matchup:
JAX-NYJ | BUF-CHI | NO-CLE
SEA-KC | NYG-MIN | CIN-NE
DET-CAR | ATL-BAL | HOU-TEN
WSH-SF | PHI-DAL | LV-PIT
GB-MIA | DEN-LAR | TB-ARI
Buccaneers
What to know: After trailing the Cardinals on the highway 16-6 within the fourth quarter, quarterback Tom Brady and the Buccaneers have been capable of maintain their playoff hopes alive. A fumble restoration by Tampa Bay defensive finish William Gholston on the 4:49 mark within the fourth with the Bucs trailing by three allowed Brady to orchestrate a tying drive to ship it into time beyond regulation, then kicker Ryan Succop hit a 40-Yard winner.
What does the Bucs’ playoff image appear to be now? A victory over the Carolina Panthers in Week 17 would clinch the NFC South division and hand the Bucs a house sport within the first spherical of the playoffs. However as a result of the Bucs defeated Arizona, it is not a must-win sport for them. If they do not prevail once they host Carolina on Sunday, they’d must beat the Atlanta Falcons on the highway within the season finale, and the Panthers would want to lose on the New Orleans Saints. — Jenna Laine
Subsequent sport: vs. Panthers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Cardinals
What to know: The Cardinals have been so near pulling out their first win in 4 weeks — and behind a third-string quarterback, Hint McSorley, making his first NFL begin — however their offensive struggles have been an excessive amount of to beat, together with the expensive fumble within the fourth quarter.
Will the Cardinals win both of their final two video games? With highway video games in opposition to the Atlanta Falcons after which the San Francisco 49ers, a 1-1 break up is feasible, however it would not be stunning in the event that they went 0-2 and completed the season at 4-13. — Josh Weinfuss
Subsequent sport: at Falcons (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Rams
What to know: Operating again Cam Akers has performed his approach into an even bigger function in 2023. Akers, who spent practically a month away from the group earlier this season whereas the Rams tried to commerce him, now has 5 speeding touchdowns in his previous 4 video games. Akers registered 147 whole yards in opposition to the Broncos: 118 speeding yards on 23 carries and three touchdowns and two catches for 29 yards. Akers finishes the month of December with six speeding touchdowns, essentially the most within the NFL. He had three speeding TDs in his first 23 profession video games mixed. The Rams actually like rookie working again Kyren Williams, however Akers has been the one to make an affect down the stretch.
Will Baker Mayfield be backing up Matthew Stafford subsequent season? If Mayfield performs this nicely within the Rams’ last two video games, perhaps not. Whereas the teaching employees has been impressed by Mayfield within the brief time he has been in Los Angeles, this stretch may earn him an opportunity to start out elsewhere. Mayfield accomplished 24 of 28 passes for 230 yards and two touchdowns Sunday in opposition to the Broncos. His 85.7% completion charge was the second-highest mark in a sport in his profession, in line with ESPN Stats & Data analysis. — Sarah Barshop
Subsequent sport: at Chargers (Sunday, Jan. 1, 4:25 p.m. ET)
Broncos
What to know: Quarterback Russell Wilson arrived in March with so many expectations and his personal declaration of his hope to win “a number of Tremendous Bowls.” Properly, 15 video games right into a misplaced season, it is clear Wilson should do extra vital soul-searching than some other participant or any coach in Denver. His decision-making appears flawed — he had three passes intercepted Sunday — he appears hesitant to let the ball go and continues to move up completions in favor of dangerous throws down the sphere. Wilson has to get to work if he needs the group to be higher.
What now for coach Nathaniel Hackett? Broncos co-owner and CEO Greg Penner hasn’t spoken publicly about Hackett and the teaching employees for the reason that group’s midseason journey to London when he emphasised that effort would matter over the second half of the season. Hackett has appeared to discover a solution to maintain his group combating, even in losses. However Sunday’s efficiency modified issues a lot. The Broncos imploded, wanting ill-prepared and uninterested. Losses just like the one to the Rams crank up the thermostat on a sizzling seat. Now, a visit to Kansas Metropolis subsequent Sunday awaits. — Jeff Legwold
Subsequent sport: at Chiefs (Sunday, Jan. 1, 1 p.m. ET)
Packers
What to know: Perhaps the Packers’ protection is not as dangerous as everybody thought. After permitting 20 factors within the first half and letting Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa throw the ball wherever he wished, D-coordinator Joe Barry’s unit lastly figured issues out. The Packers got here up with interceptions on three straight drives within the fourth quarter — by Jaire Alexander, De’Vondre Campbell and the clincher by Rasul Douglas — to assist pull off a comeback win and maintain their playoff possibilities very a lot alive. They nonetheless must win their final two video games — each at house, in opposition to the Vikings and Lions — and get slightly assist, however the vibe round this group has fully modified over the previous month. From a 4-8 report and seemingly going nowhere, the Packers at the moment are 7-8 and seemingly a unique group than they have been even a month in the past.
What occurs if extensive receiver Christian Watson’s hip harm retains him out? Watson was en route to a different huge sport on Sunday with six catches within the first half earlier than a hip harm ended his day. It did not appear to hamper the Packers within the second half. Fellow rookie wideout Romeo Doubs appears like he’s prepared for an even bigger function. Plus, tight ends Marcedes Lewis and Robert Tonyan each made huge performs within the second half. — Rob Demovsky
Subsequent sport: vs. Vikings (Sunday, Jan. 1, 4:25 p.m. ET)
Dolphins
What to know: It is a group sport, however Tua Tagovailoa goes to shoulder many of the blame for this loss; that is what occurs once you throw three interceptions within the fourth quarter. Tagovailoa mentioned his second interception was the results of poor communication, however the different two have been simply poor throws. Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel known as the efficiency “uncharacteristic,” and Tagovailoa’s physique of labor in 2022 backs up that assertion. Nevertheless, the QB’s play when it mattered most on Sunday value the Dolphins a win. It is troublesome to beat a number of turnovers, and Miami has now misplaced 5 of the six video games wherein it has turned the ball over a number of occasions.
Are the Dolphins too reliant on explosive performs? Jaylen Waddle’s 84-yard landing and Tyreek Hill’s 52-yard reception have been nice — however Miami did not maintain any scoring drives with out assistance from both an explosive play or optimistic beginning discipline place. It is a microcosm of the Dolphins’ play throughout their four-game shedding streak, wherein they’ve put collectively two landing drives with out an explosive play. These sorts of performs are completely a part of the sport and should be accounted for, however opponents will fortunately give up these in the event that they know you are incapable of sustaining a drive in any other case. The Dolphins have two weeks to determine how to take action or they threat limping into the playoffs — or lacking them altogether. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Subsequent sport: at Patriots (Sunday, Jan. 1, 1 p.m. ET)
Steelers
What to know: On an emotional night time when the Steelers retired Franco Harris’ No. 32 jersey days after the legendary working again’s demise, Pittsburgh matched the magnitude of the second. Rookie quarterback Kenny Pickett had hassle shifting the ball constantly however went 10 performs and 76 yards for the successful landing, culminating with a 14-yard catch by George Pickens within the last minute. The Steelers picked off Derek Carr 3 times, together with on Las Vegas’ last drive, to maintain their slim playoff hopes alive.
May one other successful season actually be within the playing cards? Sitting at 3-7 after a loss to the Bengals on Nov. 20, the notion of coach Mike Tomlin and the Steelers avoiding their first shedding season collectively appeared extremely unlikely. With 4 wins of their previous 5 video games, the chance is not such a protracted shot. Pittsburgh (7-8) shall be an underdog on the Ravens subsequent week, however Baltimore is going through continued uncertainty at quarterback, and the rivals performed a 16-14 barn burner two weeks in the past. Clear that hurdle and an 8-8 Pittsburgh group would want solely to defeat the last-place Browns (6-9) at house to get to 9-8 — and perhaps even sneak into the playoffs if it obtained lots of assist. — ESPN employees
Subsequent sport: at Ravens (Sunday, Jan. 1, 1 p.m. ET)
Raiders
What to know: Certain, the Raiders technically stay alive within the playoff race at 6-9, however a Dolphins win or tie Sunday in opposition to the Packers coupled with a Chargers win or tie Monday night time in opposition to the Colts will remove Las Vegas from the postseason chase. Blowing one other seven-plus-point halftime lead — the Raiders’ report fifth such lack of the season — was the nail within the proverbial coffin.
When may it’s time to hit the reset button, then? As quickly because the Raiders are formally eradicated. And sure, which may imply Las Vegas seeing what it has in Jarrett Stidham at quarterback, after Derek Carr was picked off 3 times within the second half at Pittsburgh. With so many rumors floating round that Las Vegas has already determined to maneuver on from the franchise’s all-time passing chief, it’d behoove the Raiders to get a bounce begin, as sensitive and delicate because it may be. — Paul Gutierrez
Subsequent sport: vs. 49ers (Sunday, Jan. 1, 4:05 p.m. ET)
Cowboys
What to know: The Cowboys have been capable of overcome two 10-point deficits to maintain their slim division title hopes alive. A protection that was picked aside — the Eagles didn’t punt — got here up with back-to-back takeaways late within the fourth quarter. The Cowboys are 11-4 and shall be no worse than the fifth seed within the postseason, however they’re going to want the Eagles to lose out to have any aspirations of a division crown. A 3rd assembly between these groups within the playoffs could be one thing else.
Can the Cowboys discover their move rush? The Cowboys must if they’re going to do something within the playoffs. They recorded 4 sacks of Jalen Hurts once they met in October and had a minimum of three in 9 of their first 11 video games — however Dallas had one sack the earlier two weeks and 0 on Saturday. Micah Parsons, DeMarcus Lawrence and Dorance Armstrong must determine one thing out as a result of the secondary, which has been hit by accidents, cannot maintain up endlessly. When the Cowboys introduced strain in opposition to Gardner Minshew, they did not get house. — Todd Archer
Subsequent sport: at Titans (Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET)
Eagles
What to know: The Eagles let a golden alternative slip away. They held the lead over Dallas for almost all of the sport and had an opportunity to safe the division and the No. 1 total seed within the NFC playoffs earlier than being derailed by expensive turnovers down the stretch. The excellent news is that they have two extra regular-season video games and must win one to lock up the highest playoff place within the NFC. Their house sport on New 12 months’s Day in opposition to the Saints simply obtained an entire lot extra attention-grabbing.
Will quarterback Jalen Hurts play in opposition to New Orleans? Hurts’ standing for Week 17 in opposition to the Saints was unsure coming into Saturday, league sources informed ESPN’s Adam Schefter, as Hurts recovers from what docs are calling a sternoclavicular (SC) joint sprain in his throwing shoulder. The Eagles wished to see how this weekend performed out within the NFC playoff race and the way Hurts’ shoulder responds to relaxation and therapy earlier than figuring out whether or not the MVP candidate can play. Nonetheless needing a win to safe the highest seed within the playoffs, there shall be loads of intrigue round Hurts’ availability. — Tim McManus
Subsequent sport: vs. Saints (Sunday, Jan. 1, 1 p.m. ET)
49ers
What to know: The Niners can do no worse than the No. 3 seed within the NFC playoffs, however they mentioned they will not take their foot off the gasoline as a result of the No. 2 seed is in attain. Whereas the 49ers did not get assist from the Vikings on Saturday, they’re a sport behind them for the second spot and must tie Minnesota within the standings to probably host a minimum of two postseason video games. So long as that is the case, count on San Francisco to maintain pushing.
Is Nick Bosa the front-runner for Defensive Participant of the 12 months? If he is not, he ought to be. Bosa added two extra sacks and a compelled fumble Saturday to get to a career-high 17.5 sacks on the season, tied for second most in franchise historical past. Nothing in opposition to Dallas linebacker Micah Parsons, who is also having an impressive season, however Bosa has been essentially the most constantly dominant power on one of the best protection within the NFL. — Nick Wagoner
Subsequent sport: at Raiders (Sunday, Jan. 1, 4:05 p.m. ET)
Commanders
What to know: Washington’s offense moved the ball underneath quarterback Taylor Heinicke, however the crimson zone points and turnovers over the previous three video games have killed them. That is why Carson Wentz changed Heinicke on Saturday, and it is why the Commanders doubtless will persist with Wentz over the ultimate two video games. The 49ers blitzed Wentz usually, however he made faster choices and knew the place to go along with the ball. If he’s certainly extra comfy, his arm can open up the sphere for a Commanders offense needing a jolt.
How does this loss affect Washington’s playoff possibilities? No hurt, no foul. With Detroit and Seattle shedding, the Commanders stay within the seventh and last playoff spot. They should win their last two video games — at house in opposition to Cleveland and Dallas — to remain within the postseason. The Browns have been eradicated from the playoffs and wrestle versus the run, whereas the Cowboys may find yourself resting their starters. Washington should take benefit; if not, it turns into a wasted season. — John Keim
Subsequent sport: vs. Browns (Sunday, Jan. 1, 1 p.m. ET)
Texans
What to know: The Texans earned their second win by containing Derrick Henry. The final time the Texans confronted Henry, he ran for 219 yards en path to a 17-10 win in Week 8. However throughout their second matchup, the Texans’ run protection contained Henry, regardless that the uncooked numbers may say in any other case. Henry completed with 126 yards speeding on 23 carries, however outdoors of a 48-yard landing run, the Texans held him to three.5 yards per rush on each different carry. General, the Texans’ protection held the Titans to 14 factors and 272 yards and compelled three turnovers. It was one of many group’s finest defensive performances of the 12 months.
With how the Texans have appeared up to now three video games, does that take the warmth off coach Lovie Smith? The Texans have performed the Dallas Cowboys, Kansas Metropolis Chiefs and Titans right down to the wire. These groups are competing for playoff spots, and the Texans had an opportunity to win all three of these video games and closed the deal in opposition to the Titans. The group hasn’t stop on Lovie Smith regardless that it has misplaced 12 of 15 video games. Will that assist save Smith’s job? The group is displaying life, and it is believable it may carry this momentum into the 2023 season. — DJ Bien-Aime
Subsequent sport: vs. Jaguars (Sunday, Jan. 1, 1 p.m. ET)
Titans
What to know: Denico Autry’s worth was proved past the stat sheet, as he had two quarterback pressures that almost generated two interceptions. Autry additionally had move breakups on the line of scrimmage on performs that would have gone for giant good points if the Texans quarterback was capable of get the passes off. Regardless of lacking the previous 4 video games, Autry leads the Titans in sacks after getting his eighth of the season. However ultimately, the Titans’ move protection faltered after a Derrick Henry fumble within the fourth quarter. Davis Mills accomplished all 4 of his move makes an attempt for 69 yards, together with the game-sealing landing.
Can the Titans be anticipated to problem the Jaguars for the AFC South title? The Titans’ offense has proven little to no life over the previous 5 video games, even with the Jaguars quickly closing the hole atop the AFC South. The second-half scoring woes have been a theme all season and it resurfaced Saturday. Tennessee was averaging a league-worst 5.5-point common within the second half coming into this week. The seek for contributions from the extensive receiver place appears to be mission inconceivable. The Titans have not had a pass-catcher publish 100 receiving yards in 5 video games. In the meantime, Jacksonville has a three-game win streak and took over sole possession of the AFC South. — Turron Davenport
Subsequent sport: vs. Cowboys (Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET)
Bengals
What to know: The Bengals survived a large intestine verify in a win over the New England Patriots. Cincinnati was on the point of blowing a 22-0 lead earlier than the protection intervened. Bengals security Vonn Bell compelled a fumble that Cincinnati recovered, which allowed the Bengals to keep away from the second-biggest blown lead in franchise historical past. Cincinnati stays inside placing distance of the No. 1 seed within the AFC, however for the second straight week, it received regardless of an inconsistent effort.
Ought to the run sport be a priority? After stretch in the course of the season, Cincinnati’s run sport has sputtered the previous two weeks. Towards New England, the Bengals averaged 3.0 yards per speeding try. Cincinnati’s floor struggles additionally prevented it from having the ability to ice the sport away as issues obtained shut. It is part of the offense that needs to be higher because the Bengals put together for a postseason run. — Ben Child
Subsequent sport: vs. Payments (Monday, Jan. 2, 8:15 p.m. ET)
Patriots
What to know: What a dagger — for the second week in a row. The Patriots had roared again from a 22-0 halftime deficit and appeared primed to go forward when working again Rhamondre Stevenson misplaced a fumble on the Bengals’ 8-yard line with 55 seconds remaining. At 7-8, the Patriots are nonetheless technically alive for the playoffs, however what hope is there once they maintain capturing themselves within the foot?
What are coach Invoice Belichick’s plans with the offense? There are two video games remaining, however every part appears secondary to how Belichick plans to handle the offense within the huge image. The Patriots had 70 whole yards of offense at halftime, and whereas there have been indicators of life within the second half, this isn’t a sustainable formulation. So it is a stability between doing no matter it takes to win the ultimate two video games (house in opposition to Miami, on the highway in opposition to Buffalo) to remain alive but additionally acknowledging the offense wants a serious repair. — Mike Reiss
Subsequent sport: vs. Dolphins (Sunday, Jan. 1, 1 p.m. ET)
Vikings
What to know: What? You thought a detailed sport involving the Vikings would finish some other approach? Minnesota is now 11-0 in one-possession video games after Greg Joseph’s 61-yard discipline purpose received this one on the buzzer. The win gave the Vikings their twelfth victory of the season, solely the second time a Vikings group has received a minimum of 12 up to now 13 years. This win was particularly notable given the stakes: The Giants have been taking part in to clinch a postseason spot, whereas the Vikings are taking part in for playoff seeding. Talking of seeding, the Vikings will preserve their lead over the San Francisco 49ers for the NFC’s No. 2 seed.
Ought to we return to being concerned concerning the Vikings’ protection? The Giants’ underpowered offense rolled for 445 yards, together with 334 by means of the air from quarterback Daniel Jones, a reminder the Vikings have hardly mounted their season-long defensive struggles. However like a lot of their earlier video games, the Vikings mitigated the harm with two takeaways — a compelled fumble by linebacker Brian Asamoah II and an interception by cornerback Patrick Peterson. Their particular groups additionally blocked a punt, giving the offense a brief discipline to attain a landing, however the defensive issues stay. — Kevin Seifert
Subsequent sport: at Packers (Sunday, Jan. 1, 4:25 p.m. ET)
Giants
What to know: This was a missed alternative. The Giants had a playoff berth of their grasp within the fourth quarter. However Cor’Dale Flott let an interception slip by means of his arms, Daniel Jones threw an interception, Richie James had a vital drop and so they had a punt blocked with underneath 5 minutes remaining. These are the sorts of performs that playoff groups cannot make. All of it added as much as a loss on a 61-yard discipline purpose as time expired.
Is subsequent week vs. Indianapolis a must-win sport? Just about. The Giants host the Indianapolis Colts on New 12 months’s Day. On paper, that is the simplest of their remaining video games. New York could be taking part in with hearth if it went into their finale needing to beat the Eagles in Philadelphia. The Giants would a lot moderately win subsequent week in entrance of their house followers and never depart something unsure. — Jordan Raanan
Subsequent sport: vs. Colts (Sunday, Jan. 1, 1 p.m. ET)
Saints
What to know: The Saints did not make it straightforward on a brutally chilly day, however they did maintain their playoff hopes alive, enhancing to 6-9 with a win over Cleveland. After attempting to do every part however use Taysom Hill for many of the first half, they lastly capitalized on working Hill — who had 9 carries for 54 yards and a landing — and a late interception by Deshaun Watson to squeak out a win within the parts.
Can the Saints maintain their momentum in opposition to the Eagles subsequent week? The Saints received back-to-back video games for the primary time all season and stayed alive within the NFC South race. However their largest problem comes subsequent week in Philadelphia. The Saints may very well be going through the Eagles with out quarterback Jalen Hurts. A win in Philly would additionally go a great distance for first-year head coach Dennis Allen, who wasn’t capable of generate momentum for many of the season. — Katherine Terrell
Subsequent sport: at Eagles (Sunday, Jan. 1, 1 p.m. ET)
Browns
What to know: The Browns have been eradicated from the playoff dialog after quarterback Deshaun Watson’s would-be game-tying TD drive got here up brief. From the Saints’ 15-yard line, Watson had two potential TD passes bounce off the arms of Donovan Peoples-Jones and David Njoku. However then Watson took a sack on fourth down, sealing a second straight shedding season in Cleveland.
What now for the Browns? Cleveland now has no shot to make the playoffs, rendering the ultimate two video games on the highway in opposition to Washington and Pittsburgh meaningless. Getting extra sport reps for Watson shall be Cleveland’s precedence. After that, the Browns shall be taking part in for satisfaction of their last two video games for a second consecutive 12 months. — Jake Trotter
Subsequent sport: at Commanders (Sunday, Jan. 1, 1 p.m. ET)
Payments
What to know: The Payments’ protection had a formidable efficiency, limiting the Bears’ league-leading speeding assault (got here into Week 16 averaging 186.9 yards per sport) to 91 yards and getting out of robust conditions with restricted factors allowed. After permitting 188 yards on the bottom to the Dolphins final week, the Payments’ protection gave up 3.0 yards per carry. It was an essential check for a protection that has struggled in opposition to the run at occasions. With the win, the Payments clinch the AFC East.
Can Josh Allen curtail the questionable choices which have led to turnovers? Allen threw his first interceptions since Thanksgiving, ending with two on the day — his fifth multi-interception sport. A league-high 4 of his interceptions have been thrown into the tip zone. Too usually, Allen is not connecting with the open receiver in the course of the sphere, as an alternative in search of the massive play downfield and attempting to get the ball to sure receivers. Poor choices in opposition to higher defenses will have an effect because the Payments march towards the postseason. — Alaina Getzenberg
Subsequent sport: at Bengals (Monday, Jan. 2, 8:30 p.m. ET)
Bears
What to know: The Bears could not run the ball, nor may they stifle Buffalo’s speeding assault. Devin Singletary (106 speeding yards, TD) and James Cook dinner (99 speeding yards, TD) carved by means of Chicago’s protection, with the Payments speeding for 254 yards (8.2 yards per rush) as a group. Offensively, Justin Fields posed no risk throwing (3.6 yards per move try, excluding a 44-yard move to Velus Jones Jr.) or working the ball. One week after changing into the third quarterback in NFL historical past to hurry for 1,000 yards in a season, Fields rushed seven occasions for 11 yards.
How can the Bears struggle offensive regression? The Bears had three takeaways (two interceptions and a fumble restoration) for the second straight week however scored three factors off turnovers. Chicago had two drives that started in Buffalo territory on the 38- and 18-yard traces, respectively, and settled for discipline objectives as an alternative of touchdowns. After placing collectively a gap drive that resulted in 74 yards and 4 first downs, the Bears had 12 straight drives wherein they might not generate a number of first downs. Averaging 3.7 yards per play is not any recipe for successful video games. — Courtney Cronin
Subsequent sport: at Lions (Sunday, Jan. 1, 1 p.m. ET)
Panthers
What to know: The formulation for the Panthers (6-9) to win the NFC South is straightforward: run. They reestablished their dominance up entrance after being restricted to 21 yards on the bottom in opposition to the Pittsburgh Steelers, speeding for franchise data of 321 yards, 240 within the first half. Additionally they had a team-record 571 whole yards. They’ve received three of their previous 4, and in every they’ve 185 yards or extra speeding. This units up a showdown subsequent week at Tampa Bay (6-8) for management of the South. Win that one and the next week at New Orleans, and Carolina wins the division.
Can Carolina sustain the bottom dominance in opposition to Tampa Bay? Most likely. Carolina rushed for 173 yards in a 21-3 win in opposition to the Bucs earlier this season. Tampa Bay ranks solely seventeenth in opposition to the run and gave up 209 yards a couple of weeks in the past in opposition to San Francisco. There’s actually no cause to assume the Panthers cannot maintain this up the final two video games. That they had 145 yards speeding in opposition to the Saints, who rank twenty third in opposition to the frenzy, earlier this 12 months. — David Newton
Subsequent sport: at Bucs (Sunday, Jan. 1, 1 p.m. ET)
Lions
What to know: The Lions’ run protection was atrocious. Detroit entered as one of many hottest groups within the league, successful six of their previous seven video games, however could not alter to the Carolina speeding assault — permitting the Panthers to set a franchise report of 240 speeding yards within the first half and 320 total. Carolina additionally set a franchise report for many whole yards with 570. One silver lining was Shane Zylstra’s three receiving touchdowns, together with one late within the fourth quarter to slim the deficit to 34-20.
How essential is a powerful end? The Lions laid an egg in opposition to the Panthers; there is not any denying it. However on a optimistic word, they’ve achieved greater than many thought they’d this season and have a 13% probability to achieve the postseason, in line with ESPN Analytics. However even when the Lions do not make the playoffs, they must be higher than they have been Saturday over the past two video games to construct on optimistic momentum heading into the offseason. — Eric Woodyard
Subsequent sport: vs. Bears (Sunday, Jan. 1, 1 p.m. ET)
Chiefs
What to know: That is the form of sport the Chiefs have not performed fairly often just lately however must repeat going ahead, notably within the playoffs in opposition to higher competitors. They did not commit a turnover for the primary time in 10 video games, did not miss any discipline objectives or PATs and dedicated few penalties apart from on a Seahawks discipline purpose drive within the second quarter. The Chiefs had been serving to their opponents with their very own errors however cleaned up some key areas in opposition to Seattle.
Does Harrison Butker’s good day imply he is over his droop? Butker made all three of his PATs and his solely discipline purpose try, however it’s untimely to say all is nice with the Chiefs’ kicking sport. He shall be requested to make kicks tougher than three PATs and a 47-yard discipline purpose. It is a begin, although, and may give him and the Chiefs some confidence going ahead. — Adam Teicher
Subsequent sport: vs. Broncos (Sunday, Jan. 1, 1 p.m. ET)
Seahawks
What to know: It has been all too evident through the Seahawks’ latest slide how badly they should improve the entrance seven of their protection and the inside of their O-line. That was once more apparent as they suffered their fifth loss in six video games. The story wasn’t Patrick Mahomes lighting up their protection. It was how rather more time he had within the pocket than Geno Smith. The Seahawks’ inept run protection tightened up, however their lone sack of Mahomes got here late within the third quarter and so they completed with three QB hits. On offense, they should get higher at guard and middle.
Are the Seahawks’ playoff hopes useless? They do not appear to be a group able to making noise within the playoffs, however their hopes of sneaking in are very a lot alive. In line with ESPN’s Soccer Energy Index, their possibilities of incomes one of many NFC’s two wild-card berths dropped from 35% to 30% with this loss. They’re nonetheless on the Commanders’ and Giants’ heels and have two winnable video games remaining, at house in opposition to the Jets and Rams. They’d get an enormous enhance if Tyler Lockett can return this week from his hand surgical procedure and if Ryan Neal can get again from his knee harm. Neal’s absence left the Seahawks right down to their third choices at robust security, making for a brutal matchup in opposition to Travis Kelce. That plus the climate — at 12 levels, it was the second-coldest sport in Seahawks historical past — meant this was a sport they would not have received even once they have been rolling at 6-3. — Brady Henderson
Subsequent sport: vs. Jets (Sunday, Jan. 1, 4:05 p.m. ET)
Ravens
What to know: The Ravens are within the playoffs regardless of one other tough sport for the Lamar Jackson-less offense. Baltimore secured a postseason berth for the fourth time in 5 years, however the offense continues to sputter with backup quarterback Tyler Huntley. Baltimore can run the ball with one of the best of them, however this offense cannot end its drives. The offensive gamers are visibly annoyed when strolling off the sphere. The Ravens have been 1-of-4 within the crimson zone (one landing and three discipline objectives) in opposition to a Falcons protection that ranked twenty second in crimson zone effectivity (permitting TDs 59.2% of the time) — which is why this wasn’t a blowout. In three video games with out Jackson, Baltimore has managed two touchdowns.
When is Lamar Jackson returning? Jackson missed his third straight sport due to a sprained knee after many thought he could be again for this contest. Ravens coach John Harbaugh hasn’t given any replace on Jackson after initially saying he was “week-to-week” earlier this month. This was anticipated to be a one- to three-week harm, which suggests Jackson ought to be prepared quickly. It will present a lift for this slumping offense if he may return to the observe discipline for the primary time since getting harm on Dec. 4. If the Ravens are going to make a run within the postseason, they want Jackson wholesome and on the prime of his sport. — Jamison Hensley
Subsequent sport: vs. Steelers (Sunday, Jan. 1, 1 p.m. ET)
Falcons
What to know: The Falcons’ postseason hopes have been potential as a result of they play in a nasty division. However the actuality for Atlanta is that if every part is not good, it would wrestle to win, and that is not a shock for a group within the midst of a rebuild. There are gamers to be ok with, notably cornerstones in defensive sort out Grady Jarrett, cornerback A.J. Terrell and offensive guard Chris Lindstrom, together with rookie extensive receiver Drake London and working again Tyler Allgeier. However this can be a group with a protracted solution to go for sustained success. This season has proven it.
The place did Desmond Ridder present enchancment? Begin No. 2 went higher for Ridder — though it was one other sluggish starting, with a tough first two drives that included a fumbled snap and a nasty sack taken. As soon as the quarterback discovered the rhythm of the sport, there have been indicators of potential. He as soon as once more had a powerful reference to London — his most focused pass-catcher (9 targets, seven catches, 96 yards) — and whereas there have been some off-target throws, Ridder usually put his receiver in positions to make performs. Ridder additionally confirmed he may make throws everywhere in the discipline and once more did not have operational points. There are lots of questions, however there was some tangible progress in a 22 of 33, 218-yard day with no touchdowns and no interceptions. — Michael Rothstein
Subsequent sport: vs. Cardinals (Sunday, Jan. 1, 1 p.m. ET)
Thursday
Jaguars
What to know: The Jaguars have snapped lots of streaks this season — most notably a 20-game shedding streak to NFC groups and an 18-game highway shedding streak — and so they added one other one to the checklist Thursday night time. This was the Jaguars’ first victory in a highway prime-time sport within the common season since beating Pittsburgh in Three Rivers Stadium on Nov. 19, 2000. That it was an unsightly win within the rain and wind is irrelevant. “You discover a solution to win, and that is backside line,” receiver Christian Kirk mentioned.
Are the Jaguars headed for the AFC South title? It positive appears that approach. They’re tied with the Titans after successful their third sport in a row. The Titans have misplaced 5 in a row and QB Ryan Tannehill is probably going out for the season, which means rookie Malik Willis takes over. Proper now, the Jaguars are taking part in one of the best soccer of any group within the division. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence is taking part in at a excessive stage, and the protection has compelled eight turnovers up to now three video games. If the Jaguars are a sport behind or tied with the Titans heading into Week 18, the regular-season finale in opposition to the Titans in Jacksonville will determine the division. — Mike DiRocco
Subsequent sport: at Texans (Sunday, Jan. 1, 1 p.m. ET)
Jets
What to know: Coach Robert Saleh delivered a powerful commentary on his religion in embattled QB Zach Wilson, changing him with former practice-squad participant Chris Streveler late within the third quarter — in a digital must-win sport, no much less. Wilson was really outplayed by Streveler in what might need been the unofficial finish to the Wilson period. As soon as once more, the Jets are staring into the quarterback abyss, solely two years faraway from utilizing the second total decide on Wilson. It is an organizational failure to the best diploma.
What occurred to the Jets in December? They started the month at 7-4, seemingly a shoo-in for the playoffs. A four-game shedding streak — the longest in 32 video games underneath Saleh — has crushed their playoff hopes. The quarterback instability (from Wilson to Mike White to Wilson to Streveler) has taken an enormous toll. Looking back, their postseason desires have been shattered the second White’s ribs have been fractured in Week 14. — Wealthy Cimini
Subsequent sport: at Seahawks (Sunday, Jan. 1, 4:05 p.m. ET)
