NFL Week 13: Biggest questions, takeaways for every game

NFL Nation, ESPNDec 1, 2024, 08:15 PM ET

Week 13 of the NFL season started Thanksgiving Day, because the Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys despatched their followers dwelling proud of victories earlier than the Green Bay Packers joined them within the win column in opposition to the Miami Dolphins within the last recreation of the annual vacation showcases. The Lions took down the Chicago Bears because of some actually puzzling clock administration by Chicago, whereas the Cowboys used their protection to outlast the struggling New York Giants.

On Black Friday, the Las Vegas Raiders almost pulled off a surprising upset in opposition to the Kansas City Chiefs earlier than a heartbreaking fumble.

Sunday, quarterback Anthony Richardson lifted the Indianapolis Colts previous the New England Patriots, and the Pittsburgh Steelers dealt with the Cincinnati Bengals. Later, the Philadelphia Eagles earned an enormous highway win in opposition to the Baltimore Ravens, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers survived in extra time.

Our NFL Nation reporters reacted to all of the motion, answering lingering questions popping out of every recreation and detailing all the pieces else it’s essential to know for each crew. Let’s get to it.

Buccaneers

Did the Bucs simply save their season? For a lot of the recreation, the Panthers restricted quarterback Baker Mayfield‘s escape lanes and the Bucs’ receiving corps struggled exterior of Mike Evans. It wasn’t till the fourth quarter the place issues — and Bucky Irving — began to click on. It was removed from fairly, however they’re going to take this one and the 6-6 file. The Bucs had been gifted a 17-13 Falcons loss to the Chargers, which dropped Atlanta to 6-6 as effectively. The Falcons nonetheless maintain the head-to-head benefit.

Greatest gap within the recreation plan: Defensively, they could not stress or include quarterback Bryce Young. Younger went 6-of-11 for 83 yards, which is his second-most passing yards on play-action this season, in keeping with ESPN Analysis. However the protection’s incapacity to shut did not doom them, as Anthony Nelson compelled a Chuba Hubbard fumble that Yaya Diaby recovered in extra time.

Most stunning efficiency: Irving’s 152 speeding yards are essentially the most by a rookie in a recreation this season. His 97 rush yards within the fourth quarter alone had been the fourth-most by any operating again this season. He has 1,017 scrimmage yards by way of 12 video games, the second-most in Buccaneers historical past. — Jenna Laine

Subsequent recreation: vs. Raiders (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Panthers

Was this a breakout recreation for Bryce Younger? Heck yeah. Because the run recreation wasn’t working, he needed to carry the offense. He had his second profession speeding landing and a go-ahead landing cross with 30 seconds left in regulation. His 298 passing yards had been the second-most in his profession. Had Carolina (3-9) discovered a strategy to win in extra time, with a good schedule and Younger taking part in effectively, it had an opportunity to be an element within the weak NFC South.

Eye-popping stat: Younger got here into Sunday averaging 177.9 yards passing per recreation in 23 profession begins. Simply immediately, he had 186 yards within the first half, essentially the most of any half in his profession.

Greatest gap within the recreation plan: Ending within the purple zone. The Panthers had been 1-for-4 in scoring touchdowns contained in the 20-yard line every week after going 2-for-6. Certainly one of coach Dave Canales’ signature feedback is “ending,” so the shortcoming to try this Sunday made this recreation shut than it wanted to be. — David Newton

Subsequent recreation: at Eagles (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Eagles

Can the Eagles run the desk? The Ravens recreation was their most troublesome take a look at on paper, they usually aced it for his or her eighth consecutive win. They’ve a pair formidable opponents remaining on the regular-season schedule within the Steelers and Commanders, however there’s a likelihood they’re going to be favored in each recreation the remainder of the way in which — particularly contemplating 4 of their previous 5 contests are at dwelling.

Most stunning efficiency: Edge rusher Nolan Smith Jr. The second-year participant stepped up within the crew’s first recreation with out Brandon Graham (triceps), posting a sack, eight tackles and a sort out for loss. The Eagles utilized regular stress on quarterback Lamar Jackson and restrict the top-ranked Ravens offense to 19 factors.

Greatest gap within the recreation plan: The Eagles opened the sport by mixing in targets to depth receivers and backs earlier than homing in on operating again Saquon Barkley and huge receiver A.J. Brown. That performed an element in why they received off to one more gradual begin offensively. Philadelphia was blanked by the Ravens within the first quarter and has the fewest factors leaguewide within the opening body this season (17). — Tim McManus

Subsequent recreation: vs. Panthers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Saquon Barkley scores big 25-yard TD for the Eagles

Saquon Barkley maneuvers his approach for a 25-yard landing to increase the Eagles’ lead within the fourth quarter.

Ravens

How will kicker Justin Tucker‘s struggles affect a championship run for the Ravens? Tucker has gone from essentially the most correct kicker in NFL historical past to one of many crew’s largest query marks. He continued his season-long struggles by lacking two discipline targets (from 47 and 53 yards) and an additional level. His two failed discipline targets got here within the third quarter when Baltimore trailed 14-12. This was the primary time he has missed three kicks in a recreation, and he put a significant dent within the Ravens’ alternative to win the AFC North.

What we realized in regards to the QB immediately: Lamar Jackson shouldn’t be infallible in opposition to the NFC. Jackson, who entered Sunday with the most effective interconference file by a quarterback because the 1970 merger (23-1), misplaced for the second time in 25 video games in opposition to the NFC. He completed with a strong stat line — 237 passing yards and 79 speeding yards — however he was held to his second-fewest factors to an NFC crew.

Eye-popping stat: On the Ravens’ solely landing of the sport, Jackson had 5.51 seconds from snap to his 14-yard cross to tight finish Mark Andrews in the long run zone, in keeping with NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. This was Jackson’s fifth landing cross this season with at the least 5 seconds to throw, which is essentially the most within the league. — Jamison Hensley

Subsequent recreation: at Giants (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Rams

Will gradual begins stop the Rams from successful the NFC West? Los Angeles has struggled with gradual begins this season — it has scored simply two touchdowns within the first quarter this season — however Sunday was its worst of the season. The Rams had been shut out within the first half for the primary time within the common season beneath coach Sean McVay, in keeping with ESPN Analysis. The one different time that occurred was their Super Bowl LIII loss to the Patriots. The Rams overcame the scoreless first half with 21 factors after halftime, however that will not be ok in opposition to higher groups, together with the Payments subsequent week.

Most stunning efficiency: The Rams went 3-for-3 within the purple zone, tied for his or her greatest in a recreation with Matthew Stafford at quarterback. This has been an space of weak point this season, as they entered the sport tied for twenty fifth in red-zone proportion (50%). It is the second time they’ve achieved that this season.

Eye-popping stat: Rams rookie huge receiver Jordan Whittington had 100 kickoff return yards. In accordance with ESPN Analysis, that is essentially the most in a recreation by a Rams participant since Pharoh Cooper had 110 in Week 12 of 2017. The sixth-round choose entered the sport with 69 kickoff return yards on three makes an attempt. — Sarah Barshop

Subsequent recreation: vs. Payments (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Saints

Is the Darren Rizzi magic over? Rizzi appeared to have the Saints again on observe, going 2-0 after taking up for fired coach Dennis Allen. However the Saints offense struggled for 3 quarters out of their bye week, they usually allowed Los Angeles to tug away. The query now’s whether or not Rizzi can regroup sufficient to make a stretch run to finish the season on a excessive observe.

Most stunning efficiency: Defensive sort out Bryan Bresee. He led the crew with three pressures and had a key sack, placing him at a career-best 6.5 in his second season. The 2023 first-round choose has 11 profession sacks.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Gradual begin. Whereas the protection pitched a first-half shoutout, the offense did not take benefit and solely put up six factors. That proved pricey in the long run when the Saints didn’t tie the sport with shut to 2 minutes left. — Katherine Terrell

Subsequent recreation: at Giants (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Texans

Can the Texans’ offense construct on its second-half efficiency? After mustering two discipline targets within the first half, the offense scored two touchdowns within the second half, essentially the most it has netted since Week 6 in opposition to the Patriots. Coming into the sport, the Texans had been averaging 9 factors in second halves and the Jaguars’ protection was permitting 28 factors per recreation. The Texans’ offense received the battle, and it may very well be a constructing block heading into their bye week.

Eye-popping stat: Quarterback C.J. Stroud was pressured on solely 21.1% of his dropbacks and held the ball for roughly three seconds on common. That was a season-low for Stroud, who was beneath stress on 41% of his dropbacks coming into Week 13.

Most stunning efficiency: Tight finish Dalton Schultz. He had 5 catches for 61 yards and a landing, his second-highest receiving yards this season and his first landing on the yr. With out Stefon Diggs, Stroud wants Schultz as one other dependable possibility within the passing recreation. — DJ Bien-Aime

Subsequent recreation: vs. Dolphins (Dec. 15, 1 p.m. ET)

Joe Mixon ices the sport with 1st down for Texans

Joe Mixon will get the primary right down to seal the Texans’ win vs. the Jaguars.

Jaguars

Have we seen the final of Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence this season? Lawrence was already coping with a sprained left AC joint and had missed the crew’s earlier two video games, so the concussion he suffered on the late hit by Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair complicates issues additional. It is also unsure at this level if the hit aggravated that harm. At 2-10, the Jaguars’ season is over, and the crew has to resolve if it is well worth the threat to run the battered franchise quarterback on the market once more.

Greatest gap within the recreation plan: There have been two dangerous protection busts that resulted in huge open Texans receivers. The primary did not damage as a result of Jags cornerback Ronald Darby made up floor on Texans huge receiver Tank Dell to drive an incompletion. The second did — tight finish Dalton Schultz had no person inside 15 yards of him and walked in for a 22-yard landing.

Most stunning efficiency: The Jaguars wanted huge receiver Parker Washington to step up with Christian Kirk (collarbone) out for the yr and the second-year slot receiver lastly did. He tied his career-high with six catches and had the primary 100-yard recreation of his profession (103). He additionally had a landing and a 2-point conversion. Earlier than Sunday, Washington had simply 9 catches within the three video games since Kirk’s Week 8 harm. — Mike DiRocco

Subsequent recreation: at Titans (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Commanders

What helped the offense bounce again? The Commanders had struggled within the earlier two weeks — in losses to Philadelphia and Dallas. A giant concern was the run recreation. In three straight losses, Washington’s operating backs averaged 3.3 yards per carry with solely three runs for greater than 10 yards. On Sunday, the Commanders’ backs rushed for 229 yards with Brian Robinson Jr. recording 16 carries for 103 yards and a landing. Washington’s backs had six carries for 10 or extra yards. It added as much as tying a season-high in factors.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Desperately wanted. After three consecutive losses, Washington was 2.5 video games behind the Eagles within the NFC East race — and its lead within the wild-card race was right down to half a recreation. The Commanders, on a bye subsequent week, have winnable video games in opposition to New Orleans, Atlanta and Dallas developing.

What we realized in regards to the QB immediately: Washington’s offense is healthier when Jayden Daniels can use his legs. He completed with 34 yards speeding; Washington is 8-2 when Daniels rushes for 33 or extra yards. It additionally helped that he concerned receiver Terry McLaurin early within the recreation — they linked for 2 landing passes within the first quarter. — John Keim

Subsequent recreation: at Saints (Dec. 15, 1 p.m. ET)

Titans

What occurred to the Titans’ run protection? Defensive sort out Jeffery Simmons boldly proclaimed “No person runs on the Titans” in September. That assertion could not have been farther from the reality Sunday when the Commanders gained 267 yards and three touchdowns on the bottom. Tennessee’s run protection was averaging 106 speeding yards allowed per recreation getting into this week, however its defensive entrance constantly allowed holes to open for Washington’s operating backs. Poor pursuit angles did not assistance on the again finish, both. Jacksonville is among the many backside 10 speeding groups within the league, so subsequent week is an efficient alternative to bounce again.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Gradual begin. The Titans’ longest play within the first quarter was six yards. The Commanders had 10 performs go for extra yards than that. Washington scored touchdowns on its first 4 drives of the sport. Tennessee allowed 21 factors within the first quarter, which is essentially the most it had allowed within the first quarter of a recreation since 2012 in opposition to the Bears (28).

Eye-popping stat: The Titans had been penalized 11 instances within the first half and fell right into a 28-0 gap earlier than lastly getting on the board within the second quarter. That is essentially the most since 2011, when the 49ers had 11 accepted penalties within the first half in opposition to the Lions. The Titans had been penalized a complete of 12 instances for 93 yards. — Turron Davenport

Subsequent recreation: vs. Jaguars (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Seahawks

What adjustments may very well be coming to Seattle’s particular groups? The Seahawks received regardless of a nightmarish first half from their particular groups, which misplaced two fumbles on kickoffs, allowed a 99-yard kickoff return for a landing and had a PAT blocked. The Jets scored a landing after cornerback Dee Williams coughed the ball up, one more miscue on high of his two muffed punts earlier this season. It is a thriller as to why particular groups coach Jay Harbaugh hasn’t benched Williams on condition that the undrafted rookie is not offering almost sufficient within the return recreation to make up for his gaffes. The nice from Seattle’s particular groups was two lengthy discipline targets by Jason Myers and a blocked PAT.

Early prediction for subsequent week: Defensive sort out Byron Murphy II shall be used as a fullback. They have to do one thing completely different in short-yardage conditions, a season-long concern that damage them once more versus the Jets. They got here away empty-handed regardless of operating 5 performs from the 1-yard-line within the third quarter. Murphy, the rookie first-round choose, performed some fullback in faculty.

Eye-popping stat: Leonard Williams‘ 92-yard pick-six was the longest by a defensive lineman in NFL historical past, per ESPN Analysis. That topped Grant Wistrom’s 91-yard rating in 1999, when the previous Seahawk was nonetheless with the Rams. Williams additionally had two sacks, three tackles for loss and blocked a PAT. — Brady Henderson

Subsequent recreation: at Cardinals (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)

Leonard Williams intercepts Aaron Rodgers, goes for 92-yard pick-six

Leonard Williams intercepts Aaron Rodgers’ cross and takes it the gap for a 92-yard pick-six for the Seahawks.

Jets

How did quarterback Aaron Rodgers fare in his first ‘wholesome’ recreation since September? Not effectively. Rodgers, not listed on the harm report for the primary time since Week 4, did not silence those that consider he is washed up. He was dreadful for a lot of the sport, failing for the fifth time to tug out a possible win on the ultimate possession. His worst sequence got here within the second quarter when he missed a wide-open Garrett Wilson in the long run zone and threw a pick-six on the subsequent play. Rodgers has gone three straight video games with beneath 200 passing yards and 34 straight beneath 300 yards. He turns 41 on Monday, and he is taking part in prefer it.

Greatest gap within the recreation plan: A complete lack of self-discipline. The Jets gave away the sport within the fourth quarter, committing eight of their 12 penalties — their most in a fourth quarter since 2013. It was a complete meltdown, persevering with a season-long pattern. Gamers resembling Rodgers, Wilson, Davante Adams and Quinnen Williams — a few of their greatest gamers — had been among the many responsible events.

Most stunning efficiency: Operating again Kene Nwangwu went from the apply squad to the top zone in a 24-hour span. Elevated on Saturday, the previous Minnesota Vikings draft choose scored on a 99-yard kickoff return, which was the Jets’ first since 2021. He additionally turned the primary participant since 2019 with a kick-return landing and a compelled fumble in the identical recreation. — Wealthy Cimini

Subsequent recreation: at Dolphins (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Steelers

Did the Steelers repair their offensive woes? After weeks of a boom-or-bust offense quarterbacked by Russell Wilson, offensive coordinator Arthur Smith opted for a safer, extra environment friendly scheme predicated on establishing the run and a fast passing recreation. And it labored. With well-executed screens and early Najee Harris touches — plus a handful of Wilson’s moon balls — the Steelers discovered an offensive stability that had lengthy escaped them. However will it stick? Subsequent week’s rematch with the Browns — who held the Steelers to 19 factors in Week 12 — shall be an important measuring stick.

What we realized in regards to the QB immediately: Wilson can regulate to the sport plan. He needs to air it out, however he averaged 3.2 air yards per try within the first half. Of his 257 first-half passing yards, 191 had been picked up by receivers after the catch. A part of Wilson’s undoing in Denver was deviating from the sport plan, however he confirmed Sunday that he can keep on schedule.

Describe the sport in two phrases: All fuel. Not solely did the offense transfer the ball at will, however the Steelers protection compelled three turnovers, together with a fourth-quarter scoop-and-score by rookie Payton Wilson. — Brooke Pryor

Subsequent recreation: vs. Browns (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Bengals

Is it time to shift to developmental mode? Hearth up these mock drafts! At 4-8, the Bengals’ playoff hopes are at 4.9%, in keeping with ESPN’s FPI. And after quarterback Joe Burrow stated he did not wish to contemplate the outlook for 2025 and past till later within the season, that is likely to be the most effective use of the crew’s time for the remaining 5 video games of the common season. Sunday’s loss punctuates a disappointing yr for a crew that began the season with Tremendous Bowl aspirations.

Greatest gap within the recreation plan: Zone protection. The Bengals had no reply for Russell Wilson, which isn’t one thing that has been stated typically this season. At one level, Wilson was 22-of-25 passing for 312 yards and three touchdowns in opposition to zone protection. There shall be a number of soul looking for Cincinnati’s protection the remainder of the way in which.

What we realized in regards to the QB immediately: As issues at present stand, the Bengals aren’t constructed effectively sufficient round Burrow, who has had the most effective season of his profession. The offense simply could not hold tempo with a protection that was torched too typically, which has been the case all year long. Cincinnati has to take a tough have a look at its roster, at minimal, if it needs to maximise Burrow’s championship window. — Ben Child

Subsequent recreation: at Cowboys (Monday, Dec. 9, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Vikings

What occurred to the Vikings’ offense? Minnesota did not have 100 yards of offense till late within the third quarter and completed with 272, its second-lowest whole of the season. However quarterback Sam Darnold caught fireplace within the fourth quarter, and he threw the primary go-ahead landing cross within the last two minutes of a recreation in his profession. All informed, the Vikings scored 17 factors within the last 16:17 of the sport.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Stepped up. That is what the Vikings’ protection did after showing to be worn down by the methodical Cardinals offense. Regardless of being on the sphere for a whopping 76 performs Sunday, the Vikes held Arizona with out a internet yard or a primary down on its last possession.

Most stunning efficiency: Operating again Aaron Jones fumbled twice, shedding one, and likewise dropped a positive landing cross within the fourth quarter earlier than catching the go-ahead rating with 1:13 remaining. Often dependable, Jones has now tied his profession file for many fumbles (5) and most fumbles misplaced (three) in a full season. — Kevin Seifert

Subsequent recreation: vs. Falcons (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Aaron Jones’ TD proves to be winner as INT clinches win

After Aaron Jones’ landing places the Vikings up late, Shaq Griffin will get the interception to clinch the win.

Cardinals

What value the Cardinals after giving up a 13-point lead? Sunday would’ve been a proverbial stroll within the park for the Cardinals had they been in a position to rating a landing on any of their three journeys to the purple zone within the first half. Arizona kicked discipline targets from the 13-yard line twice and from the 6 as soon as. Its three-point halftime lead may have been seven or extra had it transformed one or two of these journeys into touchdowns.

Early prediction for subsequent week: Broad receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. will parlay his 60-yard, one-touchdown afternoon this Sunday into his third 100-yard recreation of the season. He’s due for an additional one and confirmed once more versus the Vikings that he could make the large performs, securing his seventh landing catch of his profession.

Most stunning efficiency: Tight finish Trey McBride. He caught all 12 of his targets for 96 yards, tying for his third-best yardage output of the season. He continued to show he’s an elite playmaker for Arizona, with seven of his catches going for first downs. — Josh Weinfuss

Subsequent recreation: vs. Seahawks (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)

Colts

What does coach Shane Steichen’s 2-point resolution say in regards to the season? Steichen’s resolution to go for 2 factors following what may have been a game-tying further level suggests he is aware of the Colts haven’t any margin for error as they chase a postseason berth. Indianapolis entered the sport with a 25% shot at making the playoffs, per ESPN Analytics, and risking a loss in extra time — with a protection that struggled all day — may have been dangerous. Steichen is an aggressive coach, however this might need been essentially the most aggressive name he has made in two seasons. The Colts’ playoff hopes improved to 31% with the win.

Greatest gap within the recreation plan: The Colts wanted to be extra aggressive on protection. Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye confirmed the self-discipline required to take the fast, quick passes in opposition to the Colts’ zone protection. New England didn’t punt till 5:43 remained within the recreation, and the Colts additionally made rare use of blitzes, which creates different questions.

What we realized in regards to the QB immediately: Anthony Richardson has proven in two of his previous three video games that he can present up large within the fourth quarter. He has now led game-winning drives in opposition to the Jets and Patriots. And in each of these video games, his highly effective operating was an element — a game-winning TD run in opposition to New York and a 2-point conversion run in opposition to New England. — Stephen Holder

Subsequent recreation: at Broncos (Dec. 15, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Patriots

Did the Patriots squander their greatest likelihood to win a recreation the remainder of the season? This can be a heartbreaking outcome for the Patriots, who had an opportunity to match final season’s win whole (4) and as an alternative could not cease the Colts on a 19-play drive that resulted in a game-winning landing and 2-point conversion with 12 seconds remaining. Now they go into their bye earlier than highway video games in opposition to the Cardinals and Payments. Then, they’ve dwelling video games in opposition to the Chargers and Payments. So sure, this was completely their most winnable recreation the remainder of the way in which.

Greatest gap within the recreation plan: Purple zone offense. The Patriots scored simply two touchdowns in six journeys contained in the 20-yard line, which included an interception when a tight-window goal-line throw bounced off of veteran tight finish Hunter Henry. Joey Slye additionally missed a 25-yard discipline purpose.

Eye-popping stat: Drake Maye’s 41-yard run within the first quarter is the second longest by a Patriots quarterback over the previous 25 seasons, trailing solely Cam Newton’s 49-yard run in opposition to the Jets in Week 17 of 2021. He reached a velocity of 19.4 mph, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats, which is his second-fastest scramble this season. — Mike Reiss

Subsequent recreation: at Cardinals (Dec. 15, 4:25 p.m. ET)

Chargers

Ought to the Chargers be involved about their offensive line? Coming into Sunday, Atlanta’s 10 sacks had been seven fewer than the next-closest crew’s (the Panthers). However in opposition to the Chargers, the Falcons dominated the Chargers’ offensive line, sacking quarterback Justin Herbert 5 instances. That is the second-most sacks he is taken in a recreation this season. Herbert has been sacked 9 instances over the previous two video games, which is some extent of concern for Los Angeles because it tries to make a push for the AFC playoffs.

Greatest gap within the recreation plan: Dashing offense. With operating again J.K. Dobbins (MCL sprain) on injured reserve, the Chargers’ speeding offense stalled and was ineffective Sunday. Operating backs Gus Edwards and Kimani Vidal mixed for simply 52 yards, and Hassan Haskins fumbled on his solely carry of the sport.

Most stunning efficiency: Cornerback Tarheeb Still. The fifth-round rookie completed with two interceptions, together with one he returned for a 61-yard landing. Nonetheless turned the primary Chargers rookie with a number of interceptions in a recreation since cornerback John Hendy, who did it in 1985. He has three interceptions in whole. — Kris Rhim

Subsequent recreation: at Chiefs (Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET)

Falcons

Can quarterback Kirk Cousins rebound from three straight poor performances to steer the Falcons to the playoffs? Atlanta went into its bye anxious a few protection that gave up 38 factors to the Broncos in Week 11. Now, the large concern is at quarterback. Cousins had 4 interceptions Sunday — his most in 10 years — and has not thrown a landing cross since Week 9. The NFC South title that when appeared like a lock may slip away. Cousins and the Falcons’ teaching employees want to determine what is going on fallacious earlier than it is too late.

Most stunning efficiency: The Falcons’ cross rush, the worst within the NFL, got here to play Sunday. Atlanta had 5 sacks, its most since Week 16 of 2023. It got here into the sport with a league-worst 10 sacks and had a mixed 5 previously six video games. Linebacker Arnold Ebiketie had a breakout recreation with a pair of sacks.

Greatest gap within the recreation plan: It was a essential level through the bye week that the Falcons grow to be extra environment friendly within the purple zone. That didn’t come to fruition. Atlanta was 1-of-4 contained in the 20, together with a missed discipline purpose by Younghoe Koo and a pricey fourth-quarter interception by Cousins. Koo is now 50% on discipline targets since Week 7. — Marc Raimondi

Subsequent recreation: at Vikings (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Kirk Cousins’ fourth INT doom Falcons to 3rd straight loss

Derwin James Jr. picks Kirk Cousins on a cross over the center, the QB’s fourth interception of the sport to seal a Falcons loss.

Chiefs

Ought to the Chiefs be involved about their incapacity to complete off the Raiders and (final week) the Panthers? In a phrase, sure. It is one factor to must go deep into the fourth quarter to outlast two of the NFL’s worst groups. However the Chiefs had sizable leads on each. They led the Raiders by 13 factors late within the third quarter, this after holding a 14-point edge in opposition to the Panthers within the first half. This does not bode effectively for the playoffs, when the competitors will get a lot more durable.

Early prediction for subsequent week: Newly signed D.J. Humphries will begin at left sort out subsequent week in opposition to the Chargers. Wanya Morris, who began in opposition to the Raiders, performed so poorly that he was benched. Rookie Kingsley Suamataia, who started the season because the beginning left sort out, is not an possibility. He, too, was benched earlier within the season.

Eye-popping stat: Patrick Mahomes‘ second-quarter landing cross to Justin Watson had a completion likelihood of 26.6%, in keeping with Subsequent Gen Stats. That is his lowest completion likelihood on a landing cross since 2021, a fourth-quarter TD to Darrel Williams in Week 10 in opposition to the Raiders (22%). — Adam Teicher

Subsequent recreation: vs. Chargers (Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET)

Raiders

Are the Raiders the worst crew in soccer? Not after the scare they threw into the two-time defending Tremendous Bowl champs. Raiders coach Antonio Pierce received tongues wagging when he acknowledged the narrative that the Black Friday recreation was “the most effective crew in soccer in opposition to the worst crew in soccer.” And sure, the Raiders, having misplaced their eighth straight recreation, are tied with the Giants for the worst file within the NFL at 2-10. And if you’re what your file says you’re, effectively, that ought to settle the controversy, proper? But, few staffs may win with the Raiders’ injury-plagued roster and QB struggles. Las Vegas, heading to Tampa Bay, is taking part in for greater than pleasure with elite skills in defensive finish Maxx Crosby, tight finish Brock Bowers and punter AJ Cole.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Not sufficient. The Chiefs had been just too deep and too good for the weary and injured Raiders, who had been recreation however simply didn’t have sufficient to tug off a second consecutive vacation week upset in Kansas Metropolis.

What we realized in regards to the QB immediately: Aidan O’Connell is who we thought he was. Making his first look since breaking the thumb on his proper (passing) hand Oct. 20, O’Connell was snug within the pocket and throwing deep but additionally displayed his trademark lack of mobility. He handed for 340 yards, finishing 23 of 35 passes, however took 3 sacks, together with one which knocked the Raiders out of discipline purpose vary. He outplayed Mahomes, although, on this present day. — Paul Gutierrez

Subsequent recreation: at Buccaneers (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Packers

Precisely how good are the Packers? We’re about to search out out after they go to Detroit to face the NFC North-leading Lions on Thursday evening, however the final time the 2 groups met it was a significant mismatch, with the Lions leaping out to a 24-3 lead and by no means actually wanting again. Even when the Packers cannot catch Detroit or the Vikings — they nonetheless must go to Minnesota in Week 17 — they appear like a harmful crew. This a lot we all know: The NFC North now has three groups with at the least 9 wins: Detroit (11-1), Minnesota (9-2) and Inexperienced Bay (9-3). It is the primary division to have three nine-win groups by way of Week 13 because the AFC East in 1985.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Jacobs once more. Every week after Josh Jacobs dominated the 49ers on the bottom, the operating again confirmed he can do it as a receiver out of the backfield, too. Whereas he was held to 43 yards speeding on 19 carries (with a 1-yard landing), he caught 4 passes for 74 yards — together with a 49-yard catch-and-run on a dump-off cross that wound up because the longest reception of his profession. The Packers may hold driving Jacobs so far as he can take them.

What we realized in regards to the QB immediately: Perhaps Jordan Love has fastened his interception points. It was his second straight recreation with out a choose after throwing at the least one in his first eight video games of the season, and in contrast to the earlier recreation in opposition to the 49ers when he was almost picked off a number of instances, this time Love didn’t put the ball in hurt’s approach. He completed 21-of-28 for 274 yards and two touchdowns. — Rob Demovsky

Subsequent recreation: at Lions (Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Dolphins

What does this loss do to the Dolphins’ playoff probabilities? It definitely would not assist, however they are not mathematically out of the operating simply but. The purpose after a 2-6 begin ought to have been to return to a .500 file as rapidly as attainable; Miami may nonetheless accomplish that with wins in opposition to the New York Jets and Houston Texans over the subsequent two weeks. The Dolphins will probably must win their last three video games of the season in opposition to the San Francisco 49ers, Cleveland Browns and Jets — none of whom is taking part in effectively. Playoffs are nonetheless attainable, however this season is on life assist.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Get up. The Dolphins sleepwalked by way of the primary half and had been totally crushed down by a Packers crew that got here able to play. Miami outscored Inexperienced Bay 14-6 within the second half, however it was far too little, far too late.

Eye-popping stat: In accordance with NFL Subsequent Gen Stats, the Dolphins missed 20 tackles, immediately resulting in 132 extra yards for Inexperienced Bay — which completed with 388 yards of offense. Miami appeared unwilling to sort out a bodily Packers crew for a lot of the recreation, and it confirmed on the stat sheet. — Marcel Louis-Jacques

Subsequent recreation: vs. Jets (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Cowboys

Has the Cowboys’ protection taken a flip for the higher? After a gradual begin in Mike Zimmer’s first yr as defensive coordinator, the unit has put collectively a few of its greatest work lately. The Giants will not be precisely the most effective of measuring sticks, beginning their third quarterback of the yr, Drew Lock, on Thursday, however there are optimistic indicators. The Cowboys had two extra takeaways, together with a pick-six by DeMarvion Overshown. After New York gained 70 yards on its first drive, it received simply 33 yards on its subsequent 21 performs within the first half. The true take a look at for the protection, nevertheless, comes Dec. 9 in opposition to the Cincinnati Bengals with Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.

What we realized in regards to the QB immediately: 4 days after an environment friendly efficiency in opposition to Washington, Cooper Rush was extra erratic, particularly within the second quarter, when he accomplished simply 5 of 14 passes for 52 yards. He rebounded with a third-quarter landing cross, however a misplaced fumble was overturned due to replay and he had a botched handoff with Rico Dowdle that he was in a position to get well. However Rush didn’t give the ball away for a second straight recreation, which is what issues most to Mike McCarthy.

Most stunning efficiency: It has been trending on this course lately, however the Cowboys had their first operating again go for greater than 100 yards since Week 3 final yr as Rico Dowdle picked up 112 yards, a profession excessive, on 22 carries. He additionally scored his first speeding landing of the season and had a season-long 22-yard run within the first half. The final time a Cowboys operating again went for greater than 100 yards was Tony Pollard in opposition to Arizona in 2023. The 26-game span was the longest 100-yard recreation drought in franchise historical past. — Todd Archer

Subsequent recreation: vs. Bengals (Monday, Dec. 9, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Giants

How scorching is the seat getting for Brian Daboll after seven straight losses and a second straight blowout? Scorching. It would not matter if proprietor John Mara gave him vote of confidence final month. The Giants have not received since. They usually aren’t simply shedding (seven straight now), they’re getting embarrassed, this time on nationwide TV. Daboll is operating out of excuses. It is not Daniel Jones‘ fault. The outcomes had been related — or worse — with Tommy DeVito, after which with Drew Lock on this one. Daboll and the Giants are 8-21 because the begin of final season.

What we realized in regards to the QB immediately: It is not Lock’s fault. He made some errors, however he additionally by no means actually stood an opportunity. Lock took 13 quarterback hits and 6 sacks whereas throwing for 172 yards with an interception and a fumble, to go together with 57 rush yards and a landing on the bottom. The outcomes with Lock regarded much like these with Jones and DeVito. The Giants’ issues go effectively past simply the quarterback.

Eye-popping stat: 0 INTs in 11 video games. The protection’s 11 video games with out a choose units an NFL file. Its solely interception this season got here by rookie linebacker Darius Muasau on a tipped ball in Week 1. It is virtually laborious to think about {that a} ball hasn’t clanked off a receiver and fallen unintentionally right into a defensive again’s arms this season. — Jordan Raanan

Subsequent recreation: vs. Saints (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Lions

Will the Lions goal tight finish Sam LaPorta extra going ahead? It depends upon the matchup and scenario. With so many offensive weapons in Detroit, it is virtually choose your poison. LaPorta did not attain his second receiving landing this season till Week 8 versus the Tennessee Titans. Nonetheless, he linked with Goff for 2 touchdowns versus the Bears. LaPorta has 15 receiving touchdowns over the previous two seasons. That is essentially the most by any tight finish over that span, per ESPN Analysis.

Most stunning efficiency: The Lions’ operating recreation. Thursday was first time this season Detroit failed to attain a speeding landing. The Lions had scored one in 25 straight video games — together with the playoffs — which is the longest streak in NFL historical past. Operating backs Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery mixed for 175 speeding yards in opposition to Chicago.

Early prediction for subsequent week: Lions kicker Jake Bates will not miss a discipline purpose. In opposition to the Bears, Bates missed a 45-yarder within the fourth quarter. The Lions had been the one crew within the NFL to not miss a discipline purpose this season, as Bates was 19-for-19 to begin his profession, together with recreation winners at Week 7 in Minnesota and Week 10 at Houston. — Eric Woodyard

Subsequent recreation: vs. Packers (Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Bears

Can Bears coach Matt Eberflus survive this loss? Eberflus defended the Bears’ disastrous clock administration that led to their sixth straight loss and solidified his 5-19 file in one-score video games, which is the worst by any coach with at the least 20 such video games in NFL historical past. Whether or not it is a tipped Hail Mary, blocked game-winning discipline purpose try, shedding on a discipline purpose in extra time or letting a timeout go to waste in Detroit, the Bears proceed to search out confounding methods to get crushed. Late-game choices proceed to squander quarterback Caleb Williams‘ efforts to place his crew in place to win, which in the end falls on the top coach. (Be aware: Eberflus was fired Friday, with offensive coordinator Thomas Brown elevated to interim head coach).

Describe the sport in two phrases: Livid comeback. The Bears turned a first-half shutout and 16-point deficit right into a three-point recreation that they had been in place to tie or win outright within the last 36 seconds. Williams led the Bears on three landing drives within the second half because the Chicago protection held the Lions to 1 landing after permitting almost 6 yards per play within the first half.

What we realized in regards to the QB immediately: Within the second half, Williams transformed in almost each class he struggled with within the first half. He was 8-for-11 on passes exterior of the numbers (0-for-7 in first half), 4-for-7 on passes with at the least 15 air yards (0-for-6 in first half), 5-for-8 on third down (0-for-6) and 3-for-5 on throws when pressured (0-for-3). The quarterback set a single-season rookie franchise file at 15 landing passes. — Courtney Cronin

Subsequent recreation: at 49ers (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)

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