NFL Week 15: Biggest questions, takeaways for every game

NFL Nation, ESPNDec 15, 2024, 08:45 PM ET

The Los Angeles Rams kicked off Week 15 of the NFL season with a Thursday evening win over the San Francisco 49ers.

On Sunday, Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson had a powerful five-touchdown efficiency, and vast receiver Davante Adams had his finest recreation but for the New York Jets, grabbing 9 receptions for 198 yards. Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes was eliminated within the fourth quarter of the victory in opposition to the Cleveland Browns with an ankle injury.

Later, the Buffalo Bills handed the Detroit Lions their second lack of the season, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers blew out the Los Angeles Chargers and the Philadelphia Eagles gained the “Pennsylvania State Championship.”

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

Payments

Can the Payments hold profitable these observe meets? In brief, sure. There isn’t any denying that the Payments protection is a priority, permitting 35-plus factors and 450-plus yards in consecutive video games. The unit is coping with accidents, together with three beginning defensive backs lacking the sport. The offense is setting information left and proper. Quarterback Josh Allen prolonged his personal document with a sixth profession recreation of a number of passing touchdowns and a number of dashing touchdowns. They’re doing it even with out key gamers being closely concerned as receiver Amari Cooper had zero targets Sunday. Offensive coordinator Joe Brady is rolling with Allen and that can hold the Payments in any recreation.

Most shocking efficiency: The run protection. The Payments got here in permitting 4.7 yards per rush (twenty sixth). Towards the Lions, that quantity was 3.2. Detroit deserted the frenzy early to catch as much as Buffalo by the air. Limiting the Lions to 48 yards on the bottom is a constructive after permitting 120-plus in 4 of their previous 5 video games.

Eye-popping stat: The win marked the Payments’ eighth straight recreation with 30-plus factors, which ties the longest such streak in a single season in NFL historical past (additionally finished by the 2000 Rams, 2007 Patriots, 2010 Patriots and 2013 Broncos). The sport additionally marked a season-high in yards (559). — Alaina Getzenberg

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

Lions

Is the Payments loss cause to be involved going ahead? Sure — and no. With this doubtlessly serving as a Tremendous Bowl preview, lots of the group’s holes have been definitely uncovered by Buffalo after permitting 45 factors at residence. No group has ever allowed 45 factors in a house recreation and went on to win the Tremendous Bowl, per ESPN Analysis. However the Lions had gained 11 straight video games getting into this matchup, so that they should not enter panic mode. And you’ll’t ignore the truth that Detroit’s protection continued to take some extra huge hits with defensive deal with Alim McNeill (knee), cornerback Khalil Dorsey (ankle) and cornerback Carlton Davis III (jaw) all being dominated out versus the Payments.

Largest gap within the recreation plan: Defending quarterback Josh Allen. Within the opening quarter, he made an announcement with two dashing touchdowns, handing Detroit its largest first-quarter deficit (14 factors) all season. He continued to select the Lions aside together with his legs and thru the air. Buffalo scored a landing on its first three drives, taking command early and by no means trying again.

Most shocking efficiency: Offensive deal with Dan Skipper. The Lions huge man displayed his receiving expertise after catching a nine-yard landing move from quarterback Jared Goff with 3:01 remaining within the second quarter. Skipper grew to become the third offensive lineman in franchise historical past to attain a receiving landing, becoming a member of Taylor Decker and Scott Conover. — Eric Woodyard

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

Broncos

How shut are the Broncos to being a playoff group? It is not going to be framed and hung within the Louvre, however the Broncos defeated a Colts group chasing them for wild-card spot whereas the Chargers and Dolphins misplaced in different video games. The super-tight affair was a lopsided win after the Broncos scored three fourth-quarter touchdowns. They’ll thank Marvin Mims Jr. for a 60-yard punt return and linebacker Nik Bonitto, who scored his second TD of the season just a little greater than a minute later. Now, the Broncos are within the No. 6 place within the AFC.

Largest gap within the recreation plan: On a day when winds gusted between 20 and 30 miles per hour, the Broncos selected to air the ball out. Their operating backs had eight carries for 15 yards within the first half and had 10 carries mixed halfway by the third quarter. The Broncos bought an all-important win, however they have not established a constant run-pass stability.

What we realized concerning the QB at the moment: Bo Nix has proven outstanding maturity all through the season, however he’s making the everyday rookie mistake of messing up early. That occurred once more Sunday, as he threw an interception within the first quarter and two extra within the second half. He ended up with three landing passes in addition to a part of a 20-for-33, 130-yard efficiency. — Jeff Legwold

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

Colts’ disastrous trick play leads to a Broncos TD

Anthony Richardson passes the ball backwards to Adonai Mitchell, who tries to get it again to Richardson, however Broncos’ Nik Bonitto catches it and scores a landing.

Colts

How a lot harm did the Colts do to their playoff hopes? The Colts have been taking part in their largest recreation of the season and had the posh of taking part in the group with whom they’re competing with for the ultimate AFC playoff spot. Their remaining slate pits them in opposition to favorable opponents — the Titans, Giants and Jaguars. However they now are two video games behind the Chargers for the No. 7 playoff spot even after the Chargers’ loss Sunday and can’t catch the Texans within the AFC South. The Colts additionally now not have the head-to-head tiebreaker with the Broncos.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Missed alternatives. The Colts had a number of possibilities to take management whereas Denver was fighting turnovers. However their finest alternative was blown when operating again Jonathan Taylor let go of the ball earlier than he crossed the purpose line on a 41-yard run early within the third quarter. The Broncos scored the ultimate 24 factors of the sport after that mistake.

Largest gap within the recreation plan: Coach Shane Steichen’s dangerous double-pass play name. The Colts, trailing 17-13 with 12:29 left and in Denver territory, dialed up a cutesy trick play that backfired. Quarterback Anthony Richardson threw a backwards move to vast receiver Adonai Mitchell, who tried to throw one other lateral again to the quarterback. Broncos linebacker Nik Bonitto stepped in entrance of Richardson to grab the ball earlier than operating 50 yards for a landing. — Stephen Holder

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

Buccaneers

Ought to we take into account the Bucs as a legit NFC contender? Sure. You’ll be able to put this one up there with these early season upsets over the Lions and Eagles — the NFC’s high two seeds. The Bucs scored 27 unanswered factors in opposition to the Chargers, and their 40 factors have been essentially the most allowed by the Chargers’ top-ranked protection all season. This marks 4 straight victories, and none of their future opponents have a profitable document. However turnovers proceed to be a difficulty, with seven over the previous three video games.

Eye-popping stat: Vast receiver Mike Evans recorded his twenty third profession recreation with a number of receiving touchdowns (two), the fifth-most by a participant with a single group in NFL historical past. He is behind solely Corridor of Fame firm in Cris Carter (25), Don Hutson (28), Marvin Harrison (29) and Jerry Rice (49).

Most shocking efficiency: With out their high three safeties in All-Professional Antoine Winfield Jr. (knee), Jordan Whitehead (pectoral) and Mike Edwards (hamstring pressure), the Bucs’ protection orchestrated a second-half shutout. Cornerback Jamel Dean, who recorded an interception, had a very robust day, surrendering simply two catches on six targets. Lavonte David recorded 1.5 sacks, as did Logan Hall. — Jenna Laine

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

Chargers

Ought to the Chargers be involved about their protection? Sunday was by far the worst recreation of the season for this protection and coordinator Jesse Minter. Quarterback Baker Mayfield (288 passing yards, 4 touchdowns), vast receiver Mike Evans (9 catches, 159 yards, two touchdowns), and operating again Bucky Irving (15 makes an attempt, 117 yards) bought no matter they wished on the NFL’s finest scoring protection. Forty factors is essentially the most the Chargers have allowed since Week 15 of final season. It was an incredibly dangerous efficiency for this protection that different groups may capitalize on down the stretch by mimicking the Bucs’ recreation plan.

Most shocking efficiency: Quarterback Justin Herbert. It was an uncharacteristically poor recreation from Herbert, who got here into Sunday nursing a left ankle sprain. He held the soccer too lengthy in some instances, which resulted in sacks and missed open receivers. His interception within the third quarter snapped his streak of 357 straight move makes an attempt with no choose, the fifth-longest streak in NFL historical past.

Largest gap within the recreation plan: Discovering methods to maintain a second-half offense. The Chargers have been shut out within the second half for the third time this season, tied for essentially the most within the NFL. They have to modify the patterns of their second-half playcalling to assist them down the stretch, particularly in the event that they wish to keep away from an early exit within the playoffs. — Kris Rhim

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

Eagles

Was this efficiency sufficient to place the drama to mattress? Yep, that ought to do the trick. The consternation popping out of the locker room final week was initially a couple of slumping passing recreation, however Jalen Hurts (25-of-32 for 290 yards) returned to assault mode after a number of weeks of leaning conservative. A.J. Brown had extra receiving yards within the first quarter (48) than he had all of final week in opposition to the Panthers (43). Most significantly, the Eagles picked up their tenth consecutive win — a brand new franchise document — and stay within the hunt for the No. 1 seed within the NFC because the Lions misplaced to the Payments on Sunday.

Most shocking efficiency: Operating again Kenneth Gainwell. Saquon Barkley noticed restricted motion within the first half after a short journey to the medical tent. Gainwell was sprinkled in additional than regular for the MVP candidate and ran for a 14-yard acquire on third-and-9 late within the third quarter. That arrange a Hurts landing, which gave gave the Eagles a two-score lead.

Eye-popping stat: Hurts went 12-of-13 within the first half, which was good for a 92% completion proportion. That’s his highest in any half in his profession. It was simply the sort of tension-relieving begin they wanted in opposition to their in-state rival. — Tim McManus

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

Steelers

Can the Steelers bounce again after a deflating loss? Regardless of dropping in Philadelphia, the Steelers clinched a playoff berth due to losses by the Colts and Dolphins. However their momentum going into video games in opposition to the Ravens and Chiefs halted Sunday. After two weeks of complementary soccer, neither the offense or protection had any solutions. So as to add insult to harm, T.J. Watt, who had two sacks and a compelled fumble, exited early with an obvious left decrease leg harm. With their postseason passport stamped, the Steelers are taking part in for seeding and to proper the ship earlier than the playoffs to allow them to keep away from one other first-round exit. The following two video games will go a protracted option to dictating each.

What we realized concerning the QB at the moment: Russell Wilson — and the offense — wants vast receiver George Pickens. After scoring 27 factors of their first recreation with out Pickens, the Steelers offense scored simply 13 factors, managed 163 yards and misplaced the time of possession battle by practically 20 minutes. The 163 yards is their fewest in a recreation since Week 2 of 2010, per ESPN Analysis.

Largest gap within the recreation plan: Cross protection. The Steelers publicly mentioned all week they weren’t apprehensive the Eagles would shift their offensive technique to a extra pass-heavy system. However Philly got here out throwing, together with on three of its first 4 performs, and Pittsburgh did not have an answer to overlaying Devonta Smith or A.J. Brown. They mixed for 19 catches for 219 yards and two touchdowns. — Brooke Pryor

Subsequent recreation: at Ravens (Saturday, 4:30 p.m. ET)

T.J. Watt exits vs. Eagles with obvious harm

T.J. Watt exits the Steelers’ matchup in opposition to the Steelers with an obvious harm.

Cardinals

Can the Cardinals win out? On paper, it appears to be like just like the Cardinals’ largest impediment to ending the season undefeated would be the Rams, who’re on a sizzling streak. Arizona confirmed Sunday that it may nonetheless put up factors after dropping 30 on the Patriots. In the event that they play like that in opposition to the Panthers subsequent week, they’re going to win. However a victory in Week 17 in opposition to Los Angeles will rely on which Cardinals group exhibits up. The season finale in opposition to the 6-8 49ers ought to be one other win so long as Arizona will be productive on offense and dominant on protection.

Most shocking efficiency: Welcome to the offense, Greg Dortch. The vast receiver had his finest recreation of the season, turning three receptions right into a season-high 60 yards. The spotlight of Dortch’s recreation was a 39-yard catch-and-run that showcased his pace and maneuverability in opposition to the poor Patriots’ protection.

Early prediction for subsequent week: The Cardinals began going to rookie vast receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. early and sometimes Sunday, which is able to proceed subsequent week in Carolina. He had two catches for 32 yards, although he missed two landing catches in the long run zone. They’re going to proceed to feed him within the first half of one other must-win recreation. — Josh Weinfuss

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

Patriots

Will the 3-11 Patriots win one other recreation? Extremely unlikely. The Patriots entered Week 15 with the second hardest remaining schedule within the NFL, in response to ESPN Analysis, they usually now go to the Payments earlier than residence video games in opposition to the Chargers and Buffalo. Per ESPN Analysis, the Patriots have a 16.8% likelihood to win at Buffalo, a 32.2% likelihood in opposition to the Chargers after which a 21% likelihood within the finale. Visiting the Cardinals was the Patriots’ finest likelihood, they usually have been coming off their bye, but it surely was an uninspiring efficiency — particularly on protection.

Largest gap within the recreation plan: Quick-yardage operating. The Patriots have been stopped on third-and-1 and fourth-and-1 from the Cardinals’ 4-yard line within the third quarter, which was a crucial since a rating would have sliced the result in 16-10. A superb operating soccer group can acquire yardage even when the opposition is aware of what’s coming, however the Patriots’ blocking could not do something for Antonio Gibson and Rhamondre Stevenson on these two key performs.

What we realized concerning the QB at the moment: Drake Maye grew to become simply the second quarterback within the NFL to go 10-for-10 or higher in a primary half this season; the Lions’ Jared Goff has finished it thrice. However these have been largely quick passes, because it was his 3-yard shovel move to DeMario Douglas that was essentially the most dazzling. He was a silver lining in a irritating day. — Mike Reiss

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

Texans

Can the Texans repair their inconsistent run recreation as they push towards the playoffs? The dashing assault has been increase or bust for the Texans since Week 9. Operating again Joe Mixon both finishes with over 100 dashing yards (twice) or finishes beneath 50 yards (thrice). Sunday was a bust, as he completed with 23 yards. They’ll clinch a playoff spot if the Colts lose, although they’re going to want consistency from Mixon to make a run within the postseason. They’re going to want the offensive line to pave higher operating lanes for Mixon to succeed in his full potential.

Most shocking efficiency: When rookie security Calen Bullock was focused, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa had a passer ranking of 19. The quantity was affected by Bullock’s interception on the finish of the primary half, which stopped the Dolphins’ drive at Houston’s 39-yard-line.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Forcing turnovers. That’s what propelled the Texans to the win, and cornerback Derek Stingley Jr.’s second interception was the ultimate dagger. The offense had a season-low 190 yards, and most of Houston’s factors got here off turnovers. With out these takeaways, the Texans might need misplaced. — DJ Bien-Aime

Subsequent recreation: at Chiefs (Saturday, 1 p.m. ET)

Texans choose off Tua for third time to seal win over Dolphins

Derek Stingley Jr. picks off Tua Tagovailoa late within the fourth quarter to seal a win for the Texans.

Dolphins

How does this end result impression Miami’s playoff possibilities? It definitely would not assist. At finest, the Dolphins can end with a 9-8 document, they usually nonetheless must clear each the Broncos and Colts. Unbiased of another end result, their playoff possibilities fell to 4% with Sunday’s loss to Houston, per ESPN Analytics. And whereas they don’t seem to be mathematically eradicated, they’d be with one other loss subsequent week to the 49ers.

Describe the sport in two phrases: No separation. The Texans’ protection blitzed on simply 20% of Miami’s move performs, counting on the secondary to stay sticky in protection. Consequently, each Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle — who left the sport with a knee harm — averaged lower than 2.0 yards of separation per route run. Tagovailoa threw a number of interceptions for the primary time since Week 2.

Eye-popping stat: The Dolphins generated negative-48 dashing yards over expectation in opposition to Houston, in response to NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. Their poor run recreation has been a large shock. De’Von Achane averaged simply 3.4 yards per carry. Miami hasn’t eclipsed 100 dashing yards since Week 9, and its 52 dashing yards Sunday pushed that drought to 6 video games. — Marcel Louis-Jacques

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

Commanders

Why was this such a sloppy efficiency from Washington? It would not assist that Washington misplaced heart Tyler Biadasz (sickness) earlier than the sport and tight finish Zach Ertz (concussion) within the first half. However the Commanders have been committing too many penalties of late — they’d 9 Sunday and have had 28 within the final three video games mixed. These penalties prolonged drives for New Orleans and nullified one huge acquire by Washington. The Commanders maintain the seventh and remaining playoff spot however they cannot afford to play this manner and anticipate to clinch. The sport shouldn’t have come all the way down to a remaining drive.

What we realized concerning the QB at the moment: Jayden Daniels confirmed all that he may do, finishing 25-of-31 passes for 226 yards and two touchdowns; he extending one rating by 8.04 seconds. He additionally ran 11 instances for 66 yards. Nonetheless, he was sacked a season-high seven instances, typically as a result of he held the ball lengthy or bumped into bother. Daniels and receiver Terry McLaurin had a number of possibilities for lengthy landing passes however could not join.

Describe the sport in two phrases: As anticipated. New Orleans was lacking most of its key offensive starters, together with quarterback Derek Carr and its high two receivers. The Commanders gained not as a result of they performed nice, however as a result of they performed effectively sufficient when it mattered and held the ball for greater than 40 minutes. — John Keim

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

Saints

Do the Saints stick to Spencer Rattler at quarterback shifting ahead? The Saints did not take lengthy to change from Jake Haener to Rattler after Haener struggled to guide the offense within the first half Sunday. Saints interim coach Darren Rizzi mentioned Haener and Rattler have been in a contest to see who would begin instead of injured starter David Carr, however Rattler clearly outplayed Haener within the second half in opposition to Washington. The Saints will possible stick to the new hand whereas Carr is out.

Early prediction for subsequent week: The offense will sputter once more. The unit struggled badly at residence with out Carr, and whereas the offense confirmed extra life after switching to Rattler, an evening recreation at Inexperienced Bay with operating again Alvin Kamara doubtlessly coping with a groin harm could possibly be their largest problem of the yr.

What we realized concerning the QB at the moment: The Saints struggled to maneuver the ball in any respect with Haener, however they seemed like a special group as soon as Rattler got here in. Rattler gave the Saints an opportunity to win, main three scoring drives, together with a landing with no time remaining. The Saints did not get the two-point conversion however Rattler confirmed his potential. — Katherine Terrell

Subsequent recreation: at Packers (Monday, Dec. 23, 8:15 p.m. ET)

Bengals

Is Joe Burrow taking part in himself into the MVP race? It is onerous to argue in opposition to that. Burrow had one other huge efficiency and threw his thirty sixth landing move of the season, which broke his personal franchise document with three video games nonetheless remaining. Coming into this week, Burrow was second within the league with a 74.1 QBR. He additionally led the NFL in passing yards (3,706) and passing touchdowns (33). Regardless of just a few turnovers, his playmaking was on full show.

Early prediction for subsequent week: Anticipate to see the youth motion proceed at defensive finish. Sam Hubbard, who had already seen a discount in snaps coming into Sunday, was dominated out with a proper knee harm. Regardless of the severity of Hubbard’s harm, it is smart for the Bengals to proceed to judge the younger edge rushers on the roster (Myles Murphy, Joseph Ossai, Cedric Johnson).

Eye-popping stat: Burrow had 9.01 seconds to throw his 6-yard landing move to Chase Brown within the first quarter. Burrow purchased that point by evading two defenders earlier than he positioned Brown in the long run zone. Based on ESPN Analysis, it was the longest time to throw on a landing this season that wasn’t on the ultimate play of regulation. — Ben Child

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

Joe Burrow throws TD move after evading a number of sack makes an attempt

Joe Burrow one way or the other avoids the strain and finds Chase Brown in the long run zone to convey the Bengals stage vs. the Titans.

Titans

Who ought to begin at QB for the remainder of the season? Titans coach Brian Callahan has lots to consider after starter Will Levis was intercepted thrice, together with one which was returned 40 yards for a landing. It was Levis’ sixth pick-six this season, essentially the most by a quarterback all yr. He confirmed refined enchancment over the previous three weeks however regressed severely. With three video games left, it would not be shocking for Callahan to go along with veteran backup Mason Rudolph the remainder of the best way. The way forward for the place may be addressed with a excessive draft choose.

Largest gap within the recreation plan: The Titans could not shut the deal on Burrow, who helped the Bengals convert 10 of 13 third-down alternatives. Each of Burrow’s third-down landing passes got here beneath strain, because the Titans did not get to him every time.

Eye-popping stat: This was the primary recreation with at the very least 10 mixed turnovers and 20 mixed accepted penalties for the reason that Bears and Vikings in Week 13 of 2006 (10 turnovers, 21 mixed accepted penalties). It was sloppy for each groups, although the Bengals got here out on high due to their benefit at quarterback. — Turron Davenport

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

Jets

What took so lengthy for Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams to return to outdated instances? Rodgers and Adams have been electrical, conjuring up recollections of their glory days in Inexperienced Bay. After getting shut out within the first half, Adams completed with 9 catches for 198 yards and two touchdowns, together with a 71-yard rating. Rodgers handed for 289 yards and three touchdowns because the Jets lastly pulled out a recreation within the fourth quarter. That is what the Jets had in thoughts once they traded for Adams in October. Sadly, it took too lengthy as a result of the season was toast weeks in the past.

What we realized concerning the QB at the moment: Rodgers nonetheless has wheels. The 41-year-old rushed for a team-high 45 yards, which is essentially the most by a quarterback in his 40s since Doug Flutie (2003). Rodgers wasn’t shifting too effectively early within the season attributable to knee, hamstring and ankle accidents, however he has been wholesome for the previous three video games — and it exhibits. The draw back: You by no means need your getting old quarterback to guide the group in dashing.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Rattling fortunate. Interim coach Jeff Ulbrich was responsible of terrible clock administration late within the recreation, scoring too early and giving the Jaguars an opportunity to tie the sport. Cornerback Sauce Gardner bailed out Ulbrich with a game-clinching interception, which was his first in 37 video games. — Wealthy Cimini

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

Jaguars

Ought to the secondary be the Jaguars’ No. 1 precedence within the offseason? Even when there’s a new employees — coach Doug Pederson’s job safety stays unsure — the again finish of the protection must be on the high of the listing. That is the second time the Jaguars blew a fourth-quarter lead by permitting deep fast passes. This time it was a 71-yard landing from Rodgers to Adams and one other lengthy catch by Adams to arrange the Jets’ profitable landing. Jaguars security Andre Cisco is unlikely to be again and security Antonio Johnson has struggled. They want one other cornerback to enrich Tyson Campbell, too.

What we realized concerning the QB at the moment: Mac Jones is extra snug. In his fourth begin, the Jaguars put up 25 factors — which is greater than they put up in Jones’ first three begins mixed (23). He did make two errors — interceptions on deep balls, together with one with 37 seconds left — however his improved consolation helped the Jaguars’ offense surpass 400 yards for the second time this season.

Most shocking efficiency: The Jaguars’ run recreation. It had been stagnant since they returned from London in mid-October, averaging 69.3 yards per recreation over the previous six video games. However the Jaguars put up 136 in opposition to the Jets. Operating again Travis Etienne Jr., who had 4 carries final week, completed with 65 yards (his most since Week 3). — Mike DiRocco

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

Chiefs

Can the Chiefs rely on their protection once more? The Chiefs did a pleasant job benefiting from Jameis Winston and the Browns by forcing 5 defensive turnovers (with one other turnover on particular groups). But it surely’s untimely to say their protection is again to final yr’s stage, contemplating the standard of the opposition. Larger challenges await the subsequent couple of weeks within the Texans and Steelers and with questions round Patrick Mahomes‘ ankle. He left the sport within the fourth quarter with an injury and was visibly limping off the sphere after the sport.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Sturdy rush. The Chiefs had certainly one of their higher video games in getting after the opposing quarterback. They’d 5 sacks of Winston, however that did not inform the entire story. They have been in line with strain on the Browns quarterback even once they weren’t blitzing. This was cause for encouragement since this move rush is among the many least productive within the league.

Most shocking efficiency: Harrison Butker had made all 72 of his profession discipline purpose makes an attempt of lower than 30 yards till he missed a 29-yard attempt late within the first half. The miss did not matter within the lengthy haul, but it surely was a notable blemish within the kicker’s return to the lineup from left knee surgical procedure. — Adam Teicher

Subsequent recreation: vs. Texans (Saturday, 1 p.m. ET)

Mahomes limps off discipline after taking hit

Patrick Mahomes throws an incomplete move on fourth down and limps off the sphere.

Browns

Will the Browns make a quarterback change? Jameis Winston breathed life into Cleveland’s offense at instances, however he was benched within the fourth quarter amid his fourth multi-interception recreation in seven begins. Dorian Thompson-Robinson is unproven, although Cleveland would not have a lot to lose in evaluating the 2023 fifth-round choose. The group is already eradicated from playoff competition.

Most shocking efficiency: Operating again Jerome Ford recorded 104 scrimmage yards, together with a 62-yard landing run within the third quarter. It marked Ford’s first 100-yard recreation this season and his first since Week 7 of the 2023 season.

Eye-popping stat: The Browns’ protection pressured quarterback Patrick Mahomes 21 instances earlier than he left late within the fourth quarter due to an ankle harm. It was tied for essentially the most pressures Mahomes has confronted in a recreation this season. — Daniel Oyefusi

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

Ravens

What did the Ravens show in opposition to the struggling Giants? The Ravens insisted they would not overlook the last-place Giants, they usually backed that up by not taking part in all the way down to an opponent like earlier this season. After shocking losses to the Raiders and Browns, the Ravens dominated New York. Quarterback Lamar Jackson tied a profession excessive with 5 landing passes, and the protection tied a season low in yards allowed (236). Now Baltimore has to show it may beat Pittsburgh on Saturday. The Ravens have misplaced eight of their previous 9 video games to their largest rival. The Steelers can clinch the AFC North title with a win.

What we realized concerning the QB at the moment: Do not rely out Jackson from repeating as MVP. Over the previous three weeks, Jackson has gone from the betting favourite to win MVP to 3rd behind the Payments’ Josh Allen and the Eagles’ Saquon Barkley. However Jackson put collectively a spectacular efficiency, with extra landing passes (5) than incompletions (4). It was his sixth profession recreation with 5 landing passes, which is tied for fourth-most in NFL historical past.

Most shocking efficiency: Vast receiver Rashod Bateman. The 2021 first-round choose continued his breakout season with the primary a number of landing recreation of his four-year profession, catching landing passes of 49 and 20 yards. Bateman now has six landing catches in 14 video games after totaling 4 in his first three seasons (34 video games). — Jamison Hensley

Subsequent recreation: vs. Steelers (Saturday, 4:30 p.m. ET)

Giants

What does this loss imply for the Giants? They’ve now misplaced 9 straight video games and are on the verge of changing into the primary group ever to go 0-9 at residence after being dominated by the Ravens. They’re going to be underdogs within the remaining three weeks at Atlanta, versus Indianapolis and at Philadelphia. Twelve straight losses to finish the season is just not out of the query. This newest defeat does hold the Giants in pole place for the No. 1 choose. They got here into Sunday with a 41% likelihood on the high choose. It jumped to 48% with the loss.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Utterly overmatched. The disparity in expertise gave the Giants no likelihood to win. They’d no reply for Jackson or the Ravens’ offense. They’d no likelihood to maneuver the ball persistently whether or not it was Tommy DeVito or Tim Boyle at quarterback. The Giants seemed each bit a 2-12 group and tied a franchise document with their ninth straight loss.

What we realized concerning the QB at the moment: The Giants cannot hold anybody wholesome after DeVito left late within the first half with a concussion. Ever since benching Daniel Jones, DeVito was injured in every of his two begins. Drew Lock additionally lasted simply two begins after injuring his heel final week. Boyle completed Sunday’s recreation and went 12-of-24 for 123 yards, an interception and the Giants’ first passing landing in 5 video games. — Jordan Raanan

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

Cowboys

Did the Cowboys present some psychological toughness? Fast reply: Sure. It won’t imply something on the finish of this season and it could value them draft positioning, however gamers and coaches need — and wish — to win video games. Coming off their deflating loss to the Bengals on Monday, the Cowboys responded on a brief week. Except for one play, the protection smothered quarterback Bryce Young. The offense was environment friendly with one other reconfigured offensive line, and quarterback Cooper Rush had the primary three-touchdown recreation of his profession. At 6-8, the Cowboys nonetheless have an opportunity to make the playoffs, even when it is faint.

What we realized concerning the QB at the moment: Rush should not run many zone reads. It led to his fourth misplaced fumble of the season. However he was capable of rebound with an environment friendly efficiency, together with three landing throws beneath duress — essentially the most by a Dallas quarterback since Dak Prescott in 2021 (Week 17 vs. Arizona).

Early prediction for subsequent week: Operating again Rico Dowdle, who completed with 149 yards on 25 carries, could have his fourth straight 100-yard outing when the Cowboys tackle the Buccaneers. Will probably be powerful in opposition to a Tampa Bay protection that’s permitting 115.2 yards per recreation on the bottom. The final Cowboys operating again to have 4 straight 100-yard dashing video games was Ezekiel Elliott (2016). — Todd Archer

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

Cowboys pad lead with a Jalen Brooks’ TD

Cooper Rush connects with Jalen Brooks at the back of the top zone for a 17-yard Cowboys landing.

Panthers

Will coach Dave Canales flip again to Andy Dalton after Bryce Younger’s four-turnover recreation? Canales insists it is a weekly choice on Younger, who set a career-high 4 turnovers (two interceptions, two misplaced fumbles). He was additionally sacked six instances. Carolina may wish to get one other take a look at Dalton, who was the starter earlier than a thumb injury from a automobile crash. The turnovers could possibly be the excuse wanted to see whether or not the 37-year-old will be the veteran backup or starter getting into subsequent season.

Largest gap within the recreation plan: Defending vast receiver CeeDee Lamb. The Cowboys had one premier receiver, and Carolina let him run free (116 yards). Within the first half, he had eight catches for 105 yards and a landing. A lot of those splash performs have been the results of the Panthers taking part in zone and never placing high nook Jaycee Horn on Lamb solely.

Describe the sport in two phrases: No rush. Dallas had the third-worst run protection (141.9 yards per recreation) and Carolina’s Chuba Hubbard ranked sixth in dashing (1,011 yards) getting into the sport. Hubbard bought 10 carries for 32 yards, which opened up Dallas’ move rush, leading to Younger being sacked 4 instances within the third quarter after having none within the first half. — David Newton

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

Rams

With three video games left, can the Rams make a playoff run? They positive appear to be a playoff group. ESPN Analytics provides the Rams a 52% likelihood to make the playoffs and 49% likelihood to win the division getting into the weekend. After the sport, coach Sean McVay mentioned it was “actually cool” that the Rams have “discovered a bunch of various methods to have the ability to win soccer video games.” After profitable 44-42 in Week 14, the Rams beat San Francisco by simply six factors. Earlier within the week receiver Puka Nacua mentioned Los Angeles is “taking part in near its finest soccer” of the season. That has proven up through the Rams’ three-game profitable streak, as they’ve managed to climb again out of a 1-4 gap to sit down only a half-game again of first within the NFC West.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Gradual begin. Towards the 49ers, the Rams failed to attain within the first quarter for the ninth time this season. Based on ESPN Analysis, that’s tied with the Bears for the second-most such begins within the NFL. After the sport, quarterback Matthew Stafford mentioned, “Early within the recreation, I did not play ok on third down.”

Eye-popping stat: For the primary time since McVay was employed in 2017, the Rams did not get a primary down on their first 4 offensive drives, in response to ESPN Analysis. Every week after scoring a season-high 44 factors, Los Angeles completed the sport with solely 14 first downs. — Sarah Barshop

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

49ers

With their playoff hopes all however lifeless, the place do the 49ers go from right here? Final week’s win in opposition to Chicago provided a slight glimmer of hope for the Niners, however that each one went out the window Thursday evening. Mathematically, there may nonetheless be a approach for San Francisco to sneak in, but it surely’s the longest of lengthy photographs. With three video games left, the 49ers can be well-served to relaxation star veterans who’ve been taking part in by accidents whereas persevering with to evaluate who wants to remain and who must go for them to rebound in 2025.

Describe the sport in two phrases: Punt social gathering. Inclement climate undoubtedly performed an element, however the Niners and Rams did not precisely gentle up the scoreboard. They mixed for seven punts within the first quarter alone (tied for many punts in 1 / 4 this season) and 13 for the sport. A recreation that seemed poised to be a shootout after the Rams and Niners mixed to attain 82 factors final week was a rock combat with a complete of 18 factors and no touchdowns.

Most shocking efficiency: Linebacker De’Vondre Campbell. Perhaps that is extra of a shocking nonperformance however both approach, it was a shock to the Niners when Campbell declined to enter the sport within the third quarter after accidents to different linebackers. Campbell walked to the locker room within the fourth quarter, leaving teammates at a loss for why he would go to the difficulty of placing on a uniform and taking over a roster spot with out taking part in. — Nick Wagoner

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

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