The Week 16 NFL schedule for the 2025 season ought to convey some intriguing matchups with playoff hopes and desires on the road. The Lions wish to seize a much-needed win over the Steelers, the Eagles have the prospect to maintain the Cowboys out of the postseason with a win Saturday, and the Buccaneers and Panthers are preventing for an opportunity to take a lead within the NFC South.
We’ve got you coated with the whole lot you want to know. Our NFL Nation reporters take you contained in the locker room with one of the best factor they heard this week, and ESPN Analysis offers a key stat to know and a betting nugget for every contest. Plus, analytics author Seth Walder makes a daring prediction for every matchup, and fantasy analyst Eric Moody shares fantasy football intel. We even have Football Power Index (FPI) sport projections, and three analysts — Pamela Maldonado, Moody and Walder — give us remaining rating picks for each sport.
Let’s get into the complete Week 16 slate, which culminates with a “Monday Evening Soccer” matchup between the 49ers and Colts on ESPN. (Sport occasions are Sunday until in any other case famous.)
Soar to a matchup:
PHI-WSH | GB-CHI | LAC-DAL
BUF-CLE | KC-TEN | CIN-MIA
TB-CAR | MIN-NYG | NYJ-NO
JAX-DEN | ATL-ARI | PIT-DET
LV-HOU | NE-BAL | SF-IND
Thursday: LAR-SEA
Saturday, 5 p.m. ET | Fox | PHI -7 (44.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Eagles: Coordinator Vic Fangio’s protection has turned it up since Philadelphia’s Week 9 bye, rating first in opponent completion share (51.5%), second in opponent passer score (67.2) and third in factors allowed per sport (14.3). Philadelphia restricted Las Vegas to 75 whole yards final week, marking the fewest yards allowed by a crew since 2023. Fangio gave the offense an excellent little bit of the credit score within the shutout, noting that it moved the ball and received the run sport going. “Anytime you’ve got a sport like that, often the entire crew contributes,” he stated. Clock-draining drives on offense coupled with this dominant protection is a profitable components. — Tim McManus
What we’re listening to on the Commanders: If Washington needs to upset the Eagles, it should begin with its run sport. Washington began the season robust on this space, rating first in dashing yards after 5 weeks — partly due to its QB runs. The Commanders have rushed for at the very least 145 yards in 4 of their previous six video games — a results of taking part in in nearer matchups, but in addition resulting from robust blocking from the tight ends and offensive line. Rookie working again Jacory Croskey-Merritt is coming off a 96-yard sport by which half his yards got here after first contact. Chris Rodriguez Jr. might be used for his energy. Each want to enhance within the passing sport, however coach Dan Quinn stated, “I like the mix of the 2. They’re completely different in measurement, however each of them have an aggressive type and to allow them to break tackles.” — John Keim
Stat to know: After recording solely three receiving touchdowns by means of the primary 9 video games of the season, Eagles receiver A.J. Brown has 4 over his the previous 4 video games. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Eagles cornerback Quinyon Mitchell is not going to permit a single reception. Mitchell is crimson scorching by way of his protection numbers. Since Week 11, he has allowed 0.2 yards per protection snap, finest amongst all exterior corners with at the very least 100 protection snaps in that span. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Eagles can clinch the NFC East with a win or a Cowboys loss. Philadelphia may very well be the primary repeat champion of the NFC East in 20 seasons. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
Accidents: Eagles | Commanders
Fantasy nugget: Eagles QB Jalen Hurts, RB Saquon Barkley, WR DeVonta Smith, TE Dallas Goedert and Brown all belong in lineups. Washington’s protection has given up the fourth-most fantasy factors per sport to QBs, the sixth most to RBs, the ninth most to WRs and the fifth most to TEs. Hurts has averaged 20.4 fantasy factors per sport in opposition to Washington in his profession. View that as his flooring, not his ceiling. See Week 16 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Commanders are 4-1 ATS (in opposition to the unfold) up to now 5 conferences (overs: 4-1). Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Eagles 21, Commanders 17
Moody’s choose: Eagles 31, Commanders 10
Walder’s choose: Eagles 24, Commanders 17
FPI prediction: PHI, 67.6% (by a mean of 6.8 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Hurts bounces back as Eagles praise QB’s resolve … Commanders QB Daniels ‘super frustrated’ by 2025 season … Commanders find meaning in win at Giants
Saturday, 8:20 p.m. ET | Fox | GB -1.5 (46.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Packers: There isn’t any downplaying the affect Micah Parsons had after he arrived in Inexperienced Bay via trade earlier than the beginning of the season. However now that the Packers have misplaced him to a season-ending knee injury, at the very least they will return to a complete offseason of planning earlier than they even knew getting Parsons was a risk. That is the place defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley is available in. Not solely does he have loads of playcalls that did not embody Parsons, however he has confirmed to be adept at rallying gamers. “Per week in the past, we’re in right here after we beat the Bears, and we’re all strolling in right here all upbeat and able to roll,” Hafley stated. “I stated, ‘Disgrace on you for those who stroll in right here any completely different immediately.’ That is not who we’re. That is our job as leaders and coaches, to guarantee that we do not do this. We have got actually good gamers. We have performed good protection, and we will proceed to play good protection.” — Rob Demovsky
What we’re listening to on the Bears: QB Caleb Williams performed arguably his finest sport of the season in opposition to the Browns, as he surpassed his landing whole from his rookie season (20) and received the Bears’ offense off to its quickest begin in weeks. His mechanics, accuracy (60.7% completion price) and anticipation of coverages stood out to educate Ben Johnson as an indication of consolation and command. A repeat of final week’s efficiency from Williams would go a good distance in serving to the Bears lock up a postseason bid. “If I play how I performed this previous sport or if I performed higher than that, we have got an actual shot to do no matter we would like on this league,” Williams stated. — Courtney Cronin
Stat to know: Williams wants 689 passing yards to interrupt the Bears’ single-season document (Erik Kramer had 3,838 passing yards in 1995). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Packers S Xavier McKinney will document an interception. The Packers security has a 33% hawk share — the speed of targets in opposition to him on which he recorded both a cross defensed or an interception — which is third highest amongst safeties with at the very least 250 protection snaps. — Walder
What’s at stake: The winner of this sport will clinch a playoff berth if the Lions lose. However neither crew can declare the NFC North this week. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
1:42
Do Packers have an excuse in the event that they fail to succeed in SB? Stephen A. weighs in
Stephen A. Smith discusses whether or not the Packers’ accidents give the crew an excuse if they do not win the Tremendous Bowl.
Fantasy nugget: Packers WR Jayden Reed has produced 108 scrimmage yards off 10 targets since coming back from damage two weeks in the past. He ought to stay a key playmaker within the offense, particularly with Christian Watson (chest) questionable. Reed faces a Bears protection that has allowed the fourth-most fantasy factors per sport to WRs. See Week 16 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Bears are 9-3 ATS of their previous 12 video games. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Bears 20, Packers 10
Moody’s choose: Bears 24, Packers 23
Walder’s choose: Packers 27, Bears 24
FPI prediction: GB, 57.7% (by a mean of three.3 factors)
Matchup must-reads: When in 2026 might Packers’ Parsons return from ACL tear?
1 p.m. ET | Fox | DAL -2.5 (49.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Chargers: QB Justin Herbert has thrown the third-most interceptions within the NFL this season (12) and the second most of his profession. This comes a season after Herbert threw the fewest interceptions within the league and of his profession (three). However he stated the uptick in turnovers will not change his play type. “Simply because I’ve thrown one earlier than doesn’t suggest that I will play scared or I can not throw one other one,” Herbert stated. — Kris Rhim
What we’re listening to on the Cowboys: By the point the Cowboys kick off in opposition to the Chargers, they are going to seemingly know whether or not they have been eradicated from the playoffs (if the Eagles beat the Commanders on Saturday). However coach Brian Schottenheimer’s message to the gamers is not going to change. “All about profitable,” he stated. “It is at all times going to be all about profitable whether or not we’re sitting at undefeated or wherever we’re immediately. It is at all times going to be about profitable as a result of once more our mantra and central theme of this system is compete each day.” — Todd Archer
Stat to know: Cowboys QB Dak Prescott is 69 passing yards shy of his fourth 4,000-yard season. That might tie Tony Romo for probably the most in franchise historical past. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Chargers CB Cam Hart will give up at the very least 80 yards in protection. Hart’s protection numbers are poor this season, as he has allowed 1.6 yards per protection snap, fourth most amongst exterior corners with at the very least 200 protection snaps. In opposition to Cowboys WRs CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens, he might wrestle. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Chargers can clinch a playoff berth with a win and a loss by both the Texans or Colts. They might be eradicated from AFC West title rivalry with a loss and a Broncos win. The Cowboys are eradicated from playoff rivalry with a loss or an Eagles win. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
Fantasy nugget: Herbert hasn’t scored 20 or extra fantasy factors since Week 8. Nevertheless, this matchup units up as a transparent bounce-back alternative. Dallas’ protection has allowed probably the most fantasy factors per sport to QBs and to WRs. The Vikings’ J.J. McCarthy completed with a season-high 23.5 factors in opposition to them final week. Herbert and WR Ladd McConkey might thrive. See Week 16 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Overs are 9-2 within the Cowboys’ previous 11 video games, together with three straight overs. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Chargers 24, Cowboys 21
Moody’s choose: Chargers 23, Cowboys 20
Walder’s choose: Cowboys 24, Chargers 20
FPI prediction: LAC, 51.4% (by a mean of 0.5 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Chargers’ surging defense looks capable of carrying team … What is going on with Diggs and the Cowboys?
1 p.m. ET | CBS | BUF -10.5 (41.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Payments: QB Josh Allen, the reigning MVP, has firmly planted himself again within the awards dialog, however his focus is elsewhere. “I am simply attempting to do my job, simply looking for a solution to get within the playoffs right here,” Allen stated. The 29-year-old has an opportunity to make historical past Sunday. With only one extra landing, Allen will change into the youngest and quickest NFL participant to succeed in 300 scores. — Alaina Getzenberg
What we’re listening to on the Browns: DE Myles Garrett is one sack away from tying the NFL’s single-season sack document shared by Michael Strahan and T.J. Watt, and he is 1.5 sacks away from breaking it. Surpassing 22.5 sacks by means of 15 video games performed would give Garrett the excellence of attaining the feat in fewer video games than it took Strahan in 2001 (16) and in simply as many because it took Watt in 2021. “That is why I received to get again on the sector,” stated CB Denzel Ward, who missed last week’s game and is presently questionable due to a calf damage. “I informed him do not break the document with out me on the market. I received to be on the market when he breaks the document. … I am hoping he will get to [break the record] this week and like I stated, it is not a matter if, however when he will get that document. And simply the credit score to him and the work that he is put in and your entire protection. You possibly can’t do it alone.” — Daniel Oyefusi
Stat to know: Allen has had three passing touchdowns and no interceptions in every of his previous two video games. No Payments quarterback has ever had three straight video games with three passing touchdowns. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Garrett will not document a sack in opposition to Allen. I believe Garrett must wait one other week to interrupt the document. Payments left sort out Dion Dawkins presently ranks second in cross block win price at 95.3%. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Payments can clinch a playoff berth this week with a win and both a Texans or Colts loss. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
0:50
Is Quinshon Judkins an excellent fantasy play vs. Payments?
Area Yates explains why Quinshon Judkins is exterior his prime 20 for fantasy working backs in Week 16.
Fantasy nugget: The Browns’ Harold Fannin Jr. is presently the TE8 in ESPN leagues. He has been very good and has recorded at the very least 11 fantasy factors in three consecutive video games, together with one with 25.4 factors. Over that span, Fannin has stockpiled 30 whole targets. The one TE with extra targets than him this season is Trey McBride. The Payments’ protection has allowed the fewest fantasy factors per sport to the place, however do not let that deter you from beginning Fannin given his elite goal quantity. See Week 16 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Browns are 0-3 ATS of their previous three video games. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Payments 34, Browns 10
Moody’s choose: Payments 24, Browns 13
Walder’s choose: Payments 31, Browns 10
FPI prediction: BUF, 80.4% (by a mean of 12.8 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Bills’ special teams playing key role in pursuit for playoffs … Optimistic QB Sanders believes nowhere to go but up for Browns … Tracking Garrett’s quest to break the single-season sack record
1 p.m. ET | CBS | KC -3 (37.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Chiefs: Backup QB Gardner Minshew, a seven-year veteran, would be the crew’s starter for the ultimate three video games after Patrick Mahomes tore two ligaments in his left knee final week. The stretch will function an audition for Minshew to stay with the Chiefs subsequent season. In any case, the Chiefs do not have one other QB below contract for 2026. “It is a possibility to step in and do my job,” Minshew stated. “Being how there’s lots of guys which have put a ton of labor into this, I owe it to them. I owe it to this teaching employees, this crew [and] this fan base to exit and do my finest to offer us one of the best probability to win.” — Nate Taylor
What we’re listening to on the Titans: The Titans wish to shut out their house schedule with two wins, beginning with the Chiefs. “That is the plan to win each of these on the crib and go into subsequent 12 months with a bit of home-game profitable streak as a result of that is what our followers must see,” QB Cam Ward stated. Tennessee hasn’t received consecutive video games at Nissan Stadium since December 2021, however with RB Tony Pollard having posted back-to-back 100-yard dashing performances, the Titans are molding right into a bodily, run-first crew down the stretch. — Turron Davenport
Stat to know: The Titans are 4-2 versus the Chiefs since Andy Reid turned coach in 2013. Tennessee is one among 4 groups with a profitable common document versus Kansas Metropolis below Reid. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Chiefs DT Chris Jones will document a number of sacks. Since Week 12, Jones has led all gamers in cross rush win price no matter alignment. His 31% PRWR in that span was nicely forward of the next-best participant (Micah Parsons at 26%). — Walder
What’s at stake: Each groups are eradicated from playoff rivalry. The Titans have a 19.1% probability on the No. 1 choose in April’s draft, per ESPN Analytics. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
Fantasy nugget: Your complete Chiefs passing sport takes a success transferring from Mahomes to Minshew, however there are causes for optimism. Minshew is an aggressive passer who likes to lock in on his prime goal. Each crew for which he has made at the very least 9 begins in a season produced a 1,000-yard receiver. Minshew can also be able to attacking defenses vertically and beneath, which bodes nicely for WR Rashee Rice in opposition to a Titans secondary that has allowed the eighth-most fantasy factors per sport to WRs. See Week 16 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Titans are 8-17 ATS as underdogs because the begin of final season. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Chiefs 20, Titans 16
Moody’s choose: Titans 17, Chiefs 14
Walder’s choose: Chiefs 20, Titans 17
FPI prediction: KC, 68.5% (by a mean of 6.9 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Chiefs QB Mahomes begins rehab after tearing knee ligaments, eyes Week 1 return … QB Ward wants Titans to involve him in HC search process … After playoff elimination, is Chiefs’ Super Bowl window closing?
1 p.m. ET | CBS | CIN -4.5 (47.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Bengals: Cincinnati can have an opportunity to judge its roster within the remaining three video games. That features the six rookies who’ve seen the sector this season. That would contain DE Shemar Stewart, who might doubtlessly make his return from injured reserve to face Miami rookie QB Quinn Ewers. Coach Zac Taylor stated, “I am fired up after we do get him on the market, whether or not it is this week or not, for the longer term that he is received right here as a result of he is a man that I am actually excessive on.” — Ben Child
What we’re listening to on the Dolphins: Mike McDaniel made the largest choice of his head teaching profession, benching QB Tua Tagovailoa for Ewers this week. McDaniel stated he wanted extra “conviction” on the QB place and that Ewers provides the crew its finest probability to win Sunday. When it comes to what Miami’s sport plan will appear to be in opposition to Cincinnati, offensive coordinator Frank Smith stated Ewers has such a agency grasp of the playbook that the Dolphins do not plan on altering a lot. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Stat to know: Bengals WR Ja’Marr Chase has had a career-high six 100-yard receiving video games this season. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: The Dolphins will document at the very least 180 yards after catch. Not solely does Miami depend on YAC for a excessive share (54%) of its passing yards, however the Bengals have allowed 533 yards after catch over expectation this season, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats, which is probably the most by any crew and 198 greater than the next-highest crew. — Walder
What’s at stake: Each groups have been eradicated from playoff rivalry. The Bengals have 62% probability to land a top-10 choose within the draft, and the Dolphins have a 55% probability, based on ESPN Analytics. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
2:19
Stephen A. reacts to Tua Tagovailoa being benched by the Dolphins
Stephen A. Smith explains why the Dolphins needed to bench Tua Tagovailoa.
Fantasy nugget: Dolphins TE Darren Waller has performed in seven video games and has scored at the very least 17 fantasy factors in three. Final week, he completed with season highs in targets (eight), receptions (seven) and fantasy factors (25.6). Now Waller faces a Bengals protection that has allowed probably the most targets, receptions and fantasy factors per sport to TEs. See Week 16 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Bengals are 0-3 ATS in opposition to groups with shedding data this season. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Bengals 27, Dolphins 19
Moody’s choose: Bengals 26, Dolphins 24
Walder’s choose: Bengals 23, Dolphins 17
FPI prediction: CIN, 70.0% (by a mean of 8.0 factors)
Matchup must-reads: QB Burrow, on future with Bengals, says ‘crazy things happen’ … After benching, what’s next for QB Tagovailoa, Dolphins? … Why Dolphins coach McDaniel is more than a meme
1 p.m. ET | Fox | TB -3 (45.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Buccaneers: QB Baker Mayfield stated there hasn’t been any finger pointing within the Bucs locker room regardless of the crew shedding its previous two video games to divisional opponents, and that it is unfair to pin this on the protection. “The finger pointing [is] solely occurring when you have unhealthy tradition within the constructing. That is not an issue we’ve to cope with. We met on Monday with the offense, and I informed them what I stated within the postgame press convention. I stated, ‘It is on me, it is on this group. I count on us to have the ability to rating greater than 28 [points] in a scenario like that and put the sport out of attain.'” — Jenna Laine
What we’re listening to on the Panthers: “The ball is in our courtroom. It is simply our job to verify we put it within the rim,” WR Tetairoa McMillan stated because the Panthers put together for the primary of two video games in opposition to the Bucs over the ultimate three weeks with the groups tied for the NFC South lead at 7-7. Carolina blew an opportunity Sunday to be within the driver’s seat with a last-second loss to New Orleans. Now it wants a sweep of Tampa Bay for a sensible shot, however having an opportunity is all of the crew cares about now. — David Newton
Stat to know: The Buccaneers’ protection is permitting 9.8 YAC per reception in its previous six video games (since Week 10), which is the second most within the NFL in that span behind solely the Eagles (11.2). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Buccaneers RB Bucky Irving will common at the very least 6.0 yards per carry. The Bucs run inside zone 39% of the time, third most within the NFL, and the Panthers are permitting 5.5 yards per carry in opposition to inside zone — a lot larger than their common in opposition to different sorts of runs. — Walder
What’s at stake: The groups are tied atop the NFC South standings at 7-7. The Bucs maintain the tiebreaker over Panthers based mostly on win share in frequent video games. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
Accidents: Buccaneers | Panthers
Fantasy nugget: Panthers QB Bryce Young has averaged a powerful 19.5 fantasy factors per sport since Week 11. The Bucs’ protection has been eviscerated by QBs since Week 12, permitting 1,098 passing yards and eight touchdowns, and the Falcons’ Kirk Cousins simply posted 26.9 fantasy factors. Younger and his No. 1 WR McMillan might shine on this matchup. Jalen Coker can also be in play in deeper codecs, as he has seen at the very least 4 targets and scored 14 or extra fantasy factors in two straight video games. See Week 16 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Panthers are 6-0 ATS after a loss this season and have coated eight straight after a loss. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Buccaneers 31, Panthers 28
Moody’s choose: Buccaneers 27, Panthers 23
Walder’s choose: Buccaneers 24, Panthers 20
FPI prediction: TB, 56.6% (by a mean of two.3 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Examining Bucs-Panthers showdown for NFC South, playoff spot … Inconsistent Panthers failed to take control of NFC South
1 p.m. ET | Fox | MIN -3 (43.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Vikings: The Vikings’ late-season schedule has gifted QB J.J. McCarthy one other probability to show statistical enchancment. The Giants’ protection ranks No. 29 within the NFL in EPA per play. McCarthy is coming off the 2 finest video games of his profession in opposition to the Commanders and Cowboys, whose defenses rank thirtieth and thirty second in EPA per play, respectively. A real measure of McCarthy’s progress might come if the Giants blitz as usually as they often do (41% of dropbacks, highest within the NFL). Up to now, McCarthy has the bottom QBR in opposition to the blitz (6.5). — Kevin Seifert
What we’re listening to on the Giants: Rookie QB Jaxson Dart expects to see issues Sunday he has by no means seen earlier than. “Simply chaos. Chaos,” he stated of what he sees from Minnesota coordinator Brian Flores’ protection on tape. The Vikings have blitzed at a league-high 48.9% price this season. That gives fairly the problem for Dart and the Giants, who’re searching for their first win since Week 6. — Jordan Raanan
Stat to know: McCarthy is coming off profession highs in passing yards (250), yards per try (10.4) and Whole QBR (86) in Week 15. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Vikings DT Jalen Redmond will document the very best run cease win price of any defensive sort out in Week 16. Redmond ranks fifth (39.6%) within the class amongst inside defenders, and Giants guards have mixed for the bottom run block win price within the league. — Walder
What’s at stake: Each groups have been eradicated from the playoffs. The Giants have a 74.8% probability of getting a top-five choose. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
1:38
Why a full offseason may very well be key for Jaxson Dart’s progress
Jason McCourty and Jeff Saturday clarify how the upcoming offseason might be vital for Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart.
Fantasy nugget: Giants RB Tyrone Tracy Jr. is in a great spot in opposition to a Vikings protection that has been stingy in opposition to opposing QBs, permitting the third-fewest fantasy factors per sport. Nevertheless, Minnesota has given up the ninth-most dashing yards per sport. Tracy is trending up on the excellent time for fantasy managers, ending with 18 touches and a season-high 24.7 fantasy factors in Week 15. See Week 16 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Overs are 8-1 within the Giants’ previous 9 video games, together with 4-0 of their previous 4 house video games. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Vikings 17, Giants 13
Moody’s choose: Vikings 30, Giants 23
Walder’s choose: Giants 20, Vikings 17
FPI prediction: NYG, 55.3% (by a mean of two.0 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Vikings’ Greenard (shoulder) to miss rest of season … Can Giants LB Carter follow up his ‘statement’ game?
1 p.m. ET | CBS | NO -5.5 (40.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Jets: Chris Harris will make his debut because the interim defensive coordinator, inheriting a unit that allowed 82 factors up to now two video games. Harris, a first-time playcaller, will not make vital adjustments, just a few tweaks — much less blitzing, maybe. “I am a former participant. … I perceive how they suppose,” he stated. “We wish to play with grit, we wish to play with toughness. These are issues we wish to try to placed on show.” — Wealthy Cimini
What we’re listening to on the Saints: WR Devaughn Vele (shoulder) and RB Devin Neal (hamstring) have already been dominated out, so QB Tyler Shough can have fewer playmakers. Anticipate to see RBs Evan Hull and Audric Estime share carries, whereas apply squad receiver Kevin Austin Jr. ought to see elevated alternatives like he did final week. “I believe Joel [Thomas] is likely one of the finest working backs coaches within the league, so he prepares these guys pretty much as good as anybody I’ve ever been round and so these guys are dialed,” coach Kellen Moore stated. — Katherine Terrell
Stat to know: The Jets’ three takeaways to date this season are the fewest of all time by means of a crew’s first 14 video games. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Jets guards John Simpson and Joe Tippmann will document cross block win charges over 96%. Saints gamers have mixed for only a 5% cross rush win price from the inside. — Walder
What’s at stake: Each groups have been eradicated from playoff rivalry. The Jets have a 71% probability to land a top-five choose in draft, based on ESPN Analytics. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
Fantasy nugget: The Saints’ protection has allowed greater than 21 factors simply as soon as in its previous 5 video games, producing six turnovers and averaging two sacks per contest. New Orleans now faces a Jets offense ranked close to the underside of the league in whole yards and factors scored with rookie Brady Cook seemingly below middle. The Saints may even be at house in what is anticipated to be a low-scoring sport. This can be a nice recipe for a high-upside streaming protection. See Week 16 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Saints have coated three straight video games. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Jets 17, Saints 14
Moody’s choose: Saints 24, Jets 17
Walder’s choose: Saints 26, Jets 16
FPI prediction: NO, 76.2% (by a mean of 10.9 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Jets in evaluation mode, will start rookie QB Cook again … With Neal, Vele out, who steps up for Saints? … Jets fire DC Wilks in one of their worst defensive seasons … Inside the Saints’ winning drive vs. Panthers
4:05 p.m. ET | Fox | DEN -3 (47.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Jaguars: A superb matchup would be the Jaguars’ crimson zone offense versus the Broncos’ crimson zone protection, which is one of the best within the NFL. Groups have scored touchdowns on solely 38.5% of their crimson zone drives in opposition to the Broncos, the one crew holding opponents to TDs on lower than 45% of their drives. The Jaguars’ offense ranks thirteenth within the crimson zone, however throughout the crew’s five-game win streak, it has scored TDs on 70.8% of its crimson zone drives. QB Trevor Lawrence has an NFL-high 10 passing TDs within the crimson zone throughout the streak. — Michael DiRocco
What we’re listening to on the Broncos: Over the previous 5 video games, Lawrence has thrown 12 landing passes and three interceptions, and he has 9 touchdowns and no interceptions over the previous 4. With the Jaguars in place to clinch the AFC West title for the primary time since 2015, how the league’s finest cross rush impacts Lawrence is vital. The Broncos are the league’s finest at fast pressures, whereas Lawrence has been one of many harder QBs to get fast stress on this season (18th at 11.4% of his dropbacks), and he wasn’t sacked in three of the Jaguars’ previous 5 video games. Denver’s protection has 27 sacks in its seven house video games. — Jeff Legwold
Stat to know: Broncos RB RJ Harvey (six dashing touchdowns and 4 receiving touchdowns this season) wants one receiving landing to change into the fifth rookie in NFL historical past with 5 receiving touchdowns and 5 dashing scores. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Broncos QB Bo Nix will not be sacked. He has been distinctive at sack avoidance this season with a 3.0% sack price that’s lowest amongst QBR-qualifying QBs, and he has an excellent offensive line in entrance of him. The Jaguars’ protection has only a 5.4% sack price, fourth lowest within the league. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Broncos want a win and a Chargers loss to clinch the AFC West. To clinch the No. 1 seed within the AFC, Denver wants a win and losses by Chargers, Patriots and Payments this week. The Jaguars want a win and a loss by both the Texans or Colts to make the playoffs. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
1:09
Can Trevor Lawrence sustain his scorching fantasy play vs. Broncos?
Tristan H. Cockcroft explains why Trevor Lawrence is exterior the highest 10 of his fantasy quarterbacks for Week 16 regardless of a stellar sport vs. the Jets.
Fantasy nugget: Jaguars WR Jakobi Meyers has been in sync with Lawrence since arriving in Jacksonville. Over his previous 5 video games, he has averaged 7.0 targets and 14.9 fantasy factors. The matchup in opposition to the Broncos’ secondary is hard, however Brian Thomas Jr. ought to draw ample defensive consideration, which advantages Meyers. Denver has additionally allowed the seventh-most targets per sport to WRs, giving Meyers a robust probability to rack up receptions. See Week 16 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Jaguars are 5-0 ATS of their previous 5 video games, the longest lively cowl streak within the NFL and tied for the longest streak by any crew this season. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Broncos 27, Jaguars 21
Moody’s choose: Broncos 24, Jaguars 20
Walder’s choose: Broncos 26, Jaguars 23
FPI prediction: DEN, 58.2% (by a mean of two.9 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Are Jaguars WRs and QB Lawrence finally on the same page? … Keys to Broncos QB Nix’s improved play
4:05 p.m. ET | Fox | ATL -3 (48.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Falcons: Atlanta offensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich stated he “slept on” Cardinals TE Trey McBride final season when the coach was with the Jets. He will not do this once more — actually, Ulbrich stated he believes McBride is the “engine” of the Arizona offense and somebody who has an opportunity to be “one of many higher tight ends that has performed this sport.” It might find yourself being a battle of TEs with the Falcons’ Kyle Pitts Sr. coming off a 166-yard, three-touchdown efficiency. — Marc Raimondi
What we’re listening to on the Cardinals: McBride is coming off his finest sport of the season — and that is saying one thing — with 134 yards and two touchdowns on 12 catches. Final week, the Cardinals might hear the Texans’ frustration with attempting to comprise McBride and hope to attract the identical form of frustration out of the Falcons. Regardless that each groups have expertise practising in opposition to elite TEs, it may not matter in the long term. “Clearly after a when you form of like have a look at the pill and you are like, ‘How are they attempting to do it,’ after which the image turns into a bit of bit extra clear and also you’re in a position to manipulate it a bit of bit. … Like I stated, I’ve the simple a part of simply discovering him and throwing him within the ball. It makes unhealthy throws appear to be good catches,” QB Jacoby Brissett stated. — Josh Weinfuss
Stat to know: Of the Falcons’ 48 defensive sacks — second most within the NFL — 15 have been by rookies. James Pearce Jr. leads the crew with 8.0 sacks. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: McBride, coming off a 12-catch sport, will document not more than 5 receptions. Solely 14% of targets in opposition to the Falcons’ protection go to TEs, the bottom price within the NFL. — Walder
What’s at stake: Each groups have been eradicated from playoff rivalry. The Rams maintain the Falcons’ first-round choose from their commerce throughout the 2025 draft. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
Accidents: Falcons | Cardinals
Fantasy nugget: Brissett has been matchup proof in his 9 begins this season, ending as a top-12 fantasy QB in each one. He has averaged 42.7 cross makes an attempt and 21.1 fantasy factors over that stretch. The Cardinals’ protection ranks close to the underside of the league in whole yards and factors allowed, which has boosted Brissett’s fantasy outlook, and that ought to proceed in opposition to a middle-of-the-road Falcons protection. See Week 16 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Falcons are 1-6 outright and ATS as a betting favourite this season. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Cardinals 28, Falcons 24
Moody’s choose: Falcons 27, Cardinals 21
Walder’s choose: Falcons 23, Cardinals 22
FPI prediction: ARI, 53.2% (by a mean of 1.4 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Cousins’ last stand? Falcons veteran QB playing for another chance … Coach Gannon: Hard to practice tackling under current NFL rules
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | DET -7 (51.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Steelers: The Pittsburgh protection is primed to go one other week with out star cross rusher T.J. Watt as he recovers from surgical procedure to restore a partially collapsed lung — and that is not the one impactful damage within the entrance seven. Nick Herbig, who performed 26 defensive snaps in opposition to the Dolphins, injured his hamstring and is questionable. However the Steelers ought to get a lift to their run protection with rookie DT Derrick Harmon (knee) returning after lacking the previous three video games. “There is a theme with these final couple of video games and stopping the run,” DT Cameron Heyward stated. “And after we do this, we win the sport.” — Brooke Pryor
What we’re listening to on the Lions: The emergence of RB Jahmyr Gibbs has additionally lowered the function of backfield mate David Montgomery, however coach Dan Campbell wish to get Montgomery extra touches to strengthen the bottom assault throughout this remaining stretch. Montgomery had simply seven carries for 32 yards final week, however Campbell stated the veteran again has dealt with the scenario like a “professional” to date. “It is one thing I take into consideration rather a lot is how can we get all of them concerned,” Campbell stated. “He is a type of, once they’re all concerned, we’re simply higher. We’re a greater offense.” — Eric Woodyard
Stat to know: Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers is averaging 5.6 air yards per try, which is the fewest within the NFL amongst 32 certified QBs and on tempo to be his fewest in a season as a full-time starter. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: The Steelers will document fewer yards after catch than they’ve for any sport this season (so, below 87). Pittsburgh depends closely on YAC for its offense — 64% of its passing yards come by way of YAC, most within the league — however the Lions are wonderful at limiting these alternatives. Detroit permits simply 4.5 YAC per reception (second lowest within the league) and three.9 anticipated YAC per reception (third lowest), per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. — Walder
What’s at stake: This sport has large playoff implications for each groups. The Steelers have a 62% probability to make the playoffs, which might enhance to 80% with a win and reduce to 53% with a loss, based on ESPN Analytics. The Lions presently have a 36% probability, which might enhance to 47% with a win and reduce to 16% with a loss. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
2:08
J.J. Watt offers updates on T.J. Watt post-surgery
J.J. Watt joins “The Pat McAfee Present” and offers updates on his brother T.J. after his surgical procedure.
Fantasy nugget: Lions WR Jameson Williams has change into one of many hottest receivers in fantasy. He has seen at the very least 9 targets in three consecutive video games and has topped 26.0 fantasy factors in two of them. His rapport with QB Jared Goff is plain. Williams additionally wants simply 64 receiving yards to succeed in 1,000 yards for the second straight season. Pittsburgh’s protection provides up the seventh-most fantasy factors per sport to WRs. See Week 16 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Lions are 12-0 outright and 11-1 ATS of their previous 12 video games following a loss. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Lions 30, Steelers 23
Moody’s choose: Lions 34, Steelers 28
Walder’s choose: Lions 30, Steelers 20
FPI prediction: DET, 67.1% (by a mean of 6.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Rodgers, Steelers beat Dolphins with help of ‘castoffs’ … Lions still confident as playoff hopes take a hit … Roethlisberger: Tomlin has earned right to move on from Steelers or stay … Untold stories of Lions QB Goff
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | HOU -14.5 (37.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Raiders: Whether or not QB Geno Smith (shoulder) or Kenny Pickett begins Sunday, it will not make a lot of a distinction due to the crew’s struggles on the offensive line. Las Vegas has allowed at the very least 4 sacks in 9 video games this season. “[The Texans] have playmakers in any respect their spots, significantly [Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter] bounce out,” coach Pete Carroll stated. “… We have got to guarantee that we’re doing an excellent job of holding them from proudly owning the sport.” — Ryan McFadden
What we’re listening to on the Texans: The Raiders rank final in factors per sport (14), and Houston has the NFL’s No. 1 protection. The Texans are coming off a sport by which they allowed 20 factors to the Cardinals, and coach DeMeco Ryans stated, “That sport was lower than our customary.” So count on Houston to attempt to shut out Las Vegas. — DJ Bien-Aime
Stat to know: Sixty-five % of Raiders RB Ashton Jeanty‘s dashing yards have come after contact, which is the very best price within the NFL (amongst 70 gamers with 50-plus rushes this season). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Anderson will document a number of sacks. My player-level sacks mannequin provides Anderson a 22% probability to document at the very least 2.0 sacks this week, the very best of any participant by a wholesome margin. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Texans have a 95% probability to make the playoffs, based on ESPN Analytics. With a win, these odds bounce to 97% (unbiased of different outcomes). They’d simply an 11% probability of creating the playoffs in Week 9. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
Fantasy nugget: The Texans’ protection has a possibility to ship a matchup-winning efficiency. Houston has allowed the fewest whole yards (269.2) and factors per sport (16.3) this season, whereas the Raiders’ offensive line has allowed probably the most sacks (54) within the league. This issues as a result of the Texans are double-digit favorites, that means Las Vegas will seemingly be taking part in from behind. Houston ought to have success no matter who’s below middle for the Raiders. See Week 16 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Raiders are 1-5 ATS of their previous six highway video games. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Texans 34, Raiders 10
Moody’s choose: Texans 30, Raiders 10
Walder’s choose: Texans 26, Raiders 10
FPI prediction: HOU, 80.3% (by a mean of 13.1 factors)
Matchup must-reads: QB Smith on Raiders future: ‘I’m expecting to win a lot of games here’ … Texans’ offense seems to have found stride with QB Stroud back
8:20 p.m. ET | NBC/Peacock | BAL -3 (48.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Patriots: When the Patriots gathered for his or her preliminary crew assembly of the week, coach Mike Vrabel informed them to count on to see working performs from the Ravens much like the rushes they confronted final week in opposition to the Payments. The Patriots’ run protection had hassle controlling the road of scrimmage, staying in assigned gaps and constructing a wall, with Vrabel saying the Ravens will seemingly wish to see “the place we’re at with them.” It does not assist the crew’s trigger that DT Milton Williams (ankle) stays on injured reserve, and LB Robert Spillane (foot/ankle) has been slowed by an damage that saved him sidelined final week and held out of form this week. — Mike Reiss
What we’re listening to on the Ravens: One of many greatest points for QB Lamar Jackson and the Ravens’ offense has been the dearth of manufacturing contained in the 20-yard line. Baltimore’s crimson zone offense ranks thirty first, changing touchdowns solely 44% of the time. However the Ravens are going through a Patriots protection that ranks lifeless final within the crimson zone (75%). “We’ve got to play our greatest soccer,” middle Tyler Linderbaum stated. “Expertise, actually, shouldn’t be a difficulty. We’ve got all of the playmakers on the earth. It comes down to only execution.” — Jamison Hensley
Stat to know: Patriots QB Drake Maye leads the NFL in QBR (79.2), completion share (70.2%) and YPA (9.2) on the highway. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Patriots edge K’Lavon Chaisson will document a sack. He has 6.5 on the season however hasn’t taken down a QB in over a month. As a crew, the Ravens have taken sacks on 9.2% of dropbacks, the fourth-highest price. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Patriots can clinch a playoff berth with a win, Texans loss or Colts loss. The Ravens have a 38% probability to make the playoffs, based on ESPN Analytics, which rises to 48% with win and drops to 24% with a loss. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
0:45
Robert Spillane noticed in strolling boot
Patriots linebacker Robert Spillane was seen sporting a strolling boot, elevating questions on his standing.
Fantasy nugget: Regardless that Patriots RB TreVeyon Henderson is in a committee with Rhamondre Stevenson, Henderson belongs in lineups. He has scored at the very least 28 fantasy factors in three of his previous 5 video games. Over the previous three video games, the Ravens’ defensive entrance ranks twenty sixth in run cease win price, whereas the Patriots’ offensive line ranks eighth in run block win price. Henderson ought to shine. See Week 16 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Ravens are 1-5 ATS in opposition to groups with profitable data this season. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Patriots 28, Ravens 23
Moody’s choose: Patriots 24, Ravens 21
Walder’s choose: Patriots 23, Ravens 20
FPI prediction: BAL, 60.4% (by a mean of three.9 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Can the Patriots clinch a playoff berth this week? … ‘Go out with a bang’: Ravens want to avoid worst home record in team history
Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET | ESPN | SF -6 (46.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the 49ers: There’s an alternate actuality by which QB Philip Rivers‘ comeback occurred three years in the past and he returned as a member of the 49ers. When accidents hit the Niners’ QB room in 2022, the crew and Rivers mentioned his return sufficient to the purpose he really sat in on some videoconferences. Finally, Brock Purdy proved prepared for the job, however now Rivers and the Colts are the one factor standing between San Francisco and a playoff berth. Coach Kyle Shanahan stated he really discovered himself on a video name with Rivers final week as Rivers caught up with Niners defensive assistant Gus Bradley. “I used to be telling him how cool it will be [to return], after which about 10 seconds into it I noticed that we had been taking part in in opposition to him in 10 days,” Shanahan stated, laughing. “So, I attempted to form of sway him away from that and inform him how dumb it will be. It did not work.” — Nick Wagoner
What we’re listening to on the Colts: Can the Colts lastly generate extra offense? Indianapolis produced its 4 lowest yardage marks of the season in its previous 4 video games and wishes to seek out methods to change into extra productive. In these video games, the Colts have averaged 17.8 factors. All of this comes after the Colts started the season with the NFL’s hottest offense, main the league in scoring and yards per sport by means of 10 weeks. For this trajectory to vary, the Colts must get extra out of Rivers, who got here out of retirement to alleviate injured Daniel Jones (Achilles). Rivers threw for 120 passing yards final week. — Stephen Holder
Stat to know: The Colts have gone three straight video games scoring fewer than 20 factors. They have not accomplished so in 4 or extra consecutive video games since a streak of six straight in 2017. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: 49ers LB Tatum Bethune will document probably the most tackles of any participant in Week 16. The Colts had been probably the most run-heavy crew within the league final week relative to expectation, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats, and Bethune has a 29% sort out price in opposition to the run — highest amongst all LBs with at the very least 250 defensive snaps. — Walder
What’s at stake: The 49ers can clinch the playoffs with a win or a Lions loss. The Colts presently maintain a 12% probability to make the playoffs, based on ESPN Analytics (improves to 22% with a win and falls to six% with a loss). See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
Fantasy nugget: 49ers WR Jauan Jennings ought to prosper due to his elite crimson zone utilization and a positive matchup. He has scored at the very least 13 fantasy factors in 5 of his previous six video games, discovering the top zone six occasions. Jennings additionally noticed at the very least 5 targets in every of these video games. The Colts’ protection has given up the sixth-most fantasy factors per sport to WRs. See Week 16 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Colts are 4-1 ATS as underdogs this season. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: 49ers 22, Colts 21
Moody’s choose: 49ers 31, Colts 24
Walder’s choose: 49ers 26, Colts 16
FPI prediction: SF, 61.2% (by a mean of 4.3 factors)
Matchup must-reads: 49ers hope to keep offense rolling down tough stretch … Colts QB Richardson cleared to practice
