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NFL Nation
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NFL Nation
- NFL Nation is made up of 32 team-specific reporters who cowl the NFL year-round throughout ESPN.com, ESPN tv reveals, ESPN Radio, ESPN+ and social media platforms. It was established forward of the 2013 season.
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Seth Walder
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Seth Walder
ESPN Analytics
- Seth Walder is an analytics author at ESPN, specializing in quantitative evaluation. He’s additionally a daily on “ESPN Guess Dwell” and helps cowl sports activities betting. Seth has been at ESPN since 2017. He beforehand labored on the New York Each day Information masking the Jets and Giants. You’ll be able to observe Seth on X through @SethWalder.
The Week 18 NFL schedule brings some thrilling matchups to wrap up the 2025 regular season.
Carolina-Tampa Bay and Baltimore-Pittsburgh are winner-take-all video games for the ultimate spots within the playoffs (although Sunday’s Saints-Falcons sport may affect that NFC South race). The Broncos, Jaguars and Patriots are all enjoying for the AFC’s No. 1 seed. In the meantime, within the NFC, the Seahawks and 49ers will duel for the No. 1 seed.
We now have you lined with every thing you have to know. Our NFL Nation reporters take you contained in the locker room with the most effective factor they heard this week, and ESPN Analysis offers a key stat to know in addition to a betting nugget for every contest. Plus, analytics author Seth Walder makes a daring prediction for every matchup. We even have Football Power Index (FPI) sport projections, and three analysts — Pamela Maldonado, Eric Moody and Walder — give us final-score picks for each sport.
Let’s get into the total Week 18 slate, which culminates with the “Sunday Evening Soccer” matchup between the Ravens and Steelers. (Sport instances are Sunday except in any other case famous.)
Bounce to a matchup:
CAR-TB | SEA-SF | IND-HOU
GB-MIN | CLE-CIN | DAL-NYG
TEN-JAX | NO-ATL | LAC-DEN
ARI-LAR | DET-CHI | WSH-PHI
MIA-NE | KC-LV | NYJ-BUF
BAL-PIT
Saturday, 4:30 p.m. ET | ABC/ESPN | TB -3 (43.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Panthers: “We have truly bought one sport left, and it is for every thing,” DB Nick Scott stated because the Panthers ready for the regular-season finale. It is the angle they plan to maintain within the playoffs. It is a cliché “Let’s go 1-0 every week” mentality that has allowed Carolina to bounce again from unhealthy performances and losses to win the following week, because the Panthers have executed constantly since mid-October. — David Newton
What we’re listening to on the Buccaneers: It is superb to assume that the Bucs nonetheless have a shot on the playoffs after shedding seven of their previous eight video games. But it surely’s a chance if they’ll win for the primary time since Nov. 30. “[You] need to have a brief reminiscence, and I do. I do know what the precedence is, and that is profitable [on] Saturday,” QB Baker Mayfield stated. “To have the ability to fully overlook what is going on on? No, being the competitor I’m, [I am] annoyed with the place we’re at. I’m able to compartmentalize and be capable to deal with Saturday.” — Jenna Laine
Stat to know: The Buccaneers’ protection has allowed a rating on 21 of twenty-two opponent purple zone drives over the previous eight video games (16 touchdowns, 5 area objectives). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Panthers QB Bryce Young will throw an interception towards the blitz. The Bucs blitz on the fourth-highest price within the league (33%), and the Panthers have the fourth-worst EPA per play when dealing with the blitz (minus-0.14). — Walder
What’s at stake: The Panthers can clinch the NFC South and a playoff berth with a win/tie or a Falcons win. The Bucs can clinch with a win and Falcons loss. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
Accidents: Panthers | Buccaneers
Betting nugget: The Panthers are 7-0 towards the unfold after a loss this season. The Buccaneers are 0-6 ATS of their previous six after a loss (2-6 ATS total after loss). Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s decide: Panthers 24, Buccaneers 13
Moody’s decide: Buccaneers 24, Panthers 21
Walder’s decide: Buccaneers 22, Panthers 20
FPI prediction: TB, 61.7% (by a mean of 4.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Jansen, Moton only vets who experienced Panthers in playoffs … Buccaneers CB Dean, LB Nelson out
Saturday, 8 p.m. ET | ABC/ESPN | SEA -1.5 (47.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Seahawks: The stakes could not be greater for the Seahawks. “It is in our fingers and all we now have to do is grasp it,” OLB DeMarcus Lawrence stated. However grabbing the NFC’s No. 1 seed could be more durable if Seattle is right down to its No. 3 LT in Amari Kight, an undrafted rookie. Starter Charles Cross (hamstring) has missed the previous two video games and was listed as a nonparticipant Tuesday. His backup, Josh Jones (ankle/knee), is damage as properly and did not apply Tuesday. — Brady Henderson
What we’re listening to on the 49ers: The final time these groups met with this a lot on the road, the 49ers received a basic when LB Dre Greenlaw stopped Seahawks TE Jacob Hollister a yard in need of the profitable landing in 2019. That San Francisco crew appeared in Tremendous Bowl LIV. There aren’t many coaches or gamers on both facet nonetheless within the league, so coach Kyle Shanahan hasn’t tapped into it a lot this week, nevertheless it’s anticipated to be the form of hard-hitting matchup that has outlined this rivalry. And although home-field benefit is necessary for the victor, the actual prize is what quantities to a free playoff win. “Soccer, out of all sports activities, home-field benefit is the most important benefit as a result of I feel crowd noise actually impacts the sport by way of go rush and issues like that,” Shanahan stated. “However, the primary factor is simply it is one much less sport. … That is our purpose.” — Nick Wagoner
Stat to know: The Seahawks’ protection ranks high 10 within the NFL in sacks (44, ranked eighth) and strain share (35%, fifth) this season. In the meantime, the 49ers’ protection ranks final in sacks (18) and strain price (25%). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: 49ers RB Christian McCaffrey will report at the very least eight receptions. Working backs get 22% of targets towards the Seahawks’ protection — the best price within the NFL. And since Seattle has such a great run protection, the 49ers should get McCaffrey the ball by the air. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Seahawks can clinch the NFC West, No. 1 seed and home-field benefit with a win or tie. The 49ers can clinch with a win. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
1:00
Ryan Clark: Sam Darnold has a chance to reshape his complete notion
Ryan Clark breaks down the Seahawks’ win over the Rams, saying Sam Darnold can completely reshape how he is perceived with a playoff run.
Betting nugget: The 49ers are 7-1 outright and 6-2 ATS when QB Brock Purdy begins this season. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s decide: 49ers 35, Seahawks 31
Moody’s decide: 49ers 23, Seahawks 17
Walder’s decide: Seahawks 27, 49ers 24
FPI prediction: SEA, 50.5% (by a mean of 0.1 factors)
Matchup must-read: Niners’ Kittle expects to face Seahawks; McCaffrey practices
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET | CBS | HOU -10.5 (38.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Colts: Indianapolis will begin rookie QB Riley Leonard towards an aggressive Houston protection. Leonard takes over for Philip Rivers, whose short-lived return from retirement didn’t produce a playoff berth for Indianapolis. The Colts made the prudent resolution to go together with Leonard this week, however the problem is critical. “We have simply bought to be environment friendly,” coach Shane Steichen stated. “Working the soccer, getting the ball out of our fingers fast. Like I stated, they’re actually good on protection.” — Stephen Holder
What we’re listening to on the Texans: Coach DeMeco Ryans stated Monday that the Texans are enjoying their “guys” as a result of they “nonetheless have a chance to win our division.” Houston has an opportunity to win the AFC South title for the third consecutive season. — DJ Bien-Aime
Stat to know: Texans’ Danielle Hunter has 4 video games with a number of sacks this season. He’s tied for second most within the NFL with Myles Garrett, trailing solely Brian Burns (5). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Colts WR Josh Downs can have his highest receiving yards sport of the season (which means at the very least 66 receiving yards). Although it is going to be Leonard beginning at QB, Downs has demonstrated that he can get into area. He has a 67 open rating in ESPN’s receiver scores, which ranks properly above common. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Texans can clinch the AFC South with a win and a Jaguars loss. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
Betting nugget: The Texans are 11-5 to the beneath this season, tied for the second-best report within the NFL. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s decide: Texans 30, Colts 24
Moody’s decide: Texans 26, Colts 13
Walder’s decide: Texans 34, Colts 17
FPI prediction: HOU, 69.1% (by a mean of seven.2 factors)
Matchup must-read: What the Colts’ historic collapse could mean for their future
1 p.m. ET | CBS | MIN -7.5 (35.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Packers: This is not a preseason sport — though the matchup has no playoff implications — so coach Matt LaFleur does not have the posh of holding out all of his starters. However some will not play to get them (or hold them) wholesome for the playoffs. “There’s going to be some starters that are not going to play,” LaFleur stated. “Shoot, they might not go well with up, they could go well with up. After which, you are going to have some starters which are going to play. So principally, you guys will discover out on Sunday who’s enjoying.” — Rob Demovsky
What we’re listening to on the Vikings: In a sport with no playoff implications, probably the most dramatic growth can be whether or not WR Justin Jefferson will get the 53 yards he must hit 1,000 receiving yards this season. Reaching the milestone is necessary to him. He has executed it in every of his earlier 5 seasons, together with in 2023, when he missed seven video games due to a hamstring harm. He hasn’t missed a sport this season and has performed 95% of the Vikings’ offensive snaps. Gamers and coaches need him to get it, too. However the crew’s offensive struggles this season have left him with fewer than 50 receiving yards in seven of his previous 9 video games. — Kevin Seifert
Stat to know: The Packers have 13 takeaways this season, tied for the sixth fewest within the NFL after having 31 takeaways final season (fourth most). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Jefferson will shut out the common season with a 100-yard receiving sport. However it would gas debate over whether or not it is actually an indication of a connection between J.J. McCarthy and Jefferson going ahead, contemplating the Packers had been already locked into the No. 7 seed getting into Week 18. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Packers have clinched the No. 7 seed, and the Vikings — who’re eradicated — are projected to select No. 15 on the draft, per ESPN’s FPI. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
1:03
Jason McCourty: Packers should rating quick to make a playoff run
Jason McCourty and Peter Schrager clarify what the Packers should do to have an opportunity of creating a run within the playoffs.
Betting nugget: The Packers are 0-5 ATS after a loss this season. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s decide: Vikings 20, Packers 13
Moody’s decide: Vikings 26, Packers 23
Walder’s decide: Vikings 20, Packers 9
FPI prediction: GB, 75.2% (by a mean of 10.2 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Love clears protocol, but Packers to sit QB until playoffs … Packers claim ex-Cowboys CB Diggs off waivers
1 p.m. ET | CBS | CIN -7.5 (44.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Browns: With 22 sacks this season, Myles Garrett has another likelihood to report a sack and break the NFL’s single-season report. He’ll get the chance to do it towards a QB who has change into well-acquainted with him over time. Garrett has sacked Joe Burrow 12 instances in his profession, tied with the Ravens’ Lamar Jackson for probably the most of any QB in Garrett’s profession. — Daniel Oyefusi
What we’re listening to on the Bengals: TE Harold Fannin Jr. has had a fantastic season. The rookie has been a productive a part of Cleveland’s offense. However after slowing down the Cardinals’ Trey McBride every week in the past, Cincinnati seems to proceed the brand new development towards Fannin. Mentioned Bengals defensive coordinator Al Golden: “[Fannin] matches what they do rather well.” — Ben Child
Stat to know: The Bengals have allowed 29.5 factors per sport this season, second worst within the NFL forward of solely the Cowboys (29.8). Cincinnati is on tempo to have the crew’s most PPG allowed in a season in franchise historical past. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: The Browns will maintain Bengals RB Chase Brown to beneath 4.0 yards per carry. The Bengals run duo 33% of the time, the second-highest price within the league, however Cleveland is especially adept at stopping duo runs, permitting a league-best 3.4 yards per carry when dealing with them. — Walder
Betting nugget: The Bengals are 5-1 ATS of their previous six video games (4-1 ATS since Burrow returned). Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s decide: Bengals 24, Browns 20
Moody’s decide: Bengals 31, Browns 16
Walder’s decide: Bengals 20, Browns 17
FPI prediction: CIN, 79.8% (by a mean of 12.6 factors)
Matchup must-read: Burrow on Bengals’ drought: ‘Something’s got to change’
1 p.m. ET | Fox | DAL -3.5 (51.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Cowboys: Dallas desires to shut the season with a win for various causes: keep away from its first consecutive shedding seasons since 2000 to 2002, and end 5-1 within the NFC East to construct momentum into 2026. However does that work? 4 instances in crew historical past, the Cowboys have ended a non-playoff season with a victory, and solely as soon as did they make the playoffs the next season. In 1963, they completed 7-7 after which went 10-3-1 in 1964, making it to the NFL championship. In 1965, 1987 and 2019, they received their season finales and did not make the playoffs the following season. — Todd Archer
What we’re listening to on the Giants: The Giants plan to method this matchup as if it is a regular sport. Meaning all of the starters play, with no regard for draft positioning. The Giants are projected to have the No. 3 decide, per ESPN’s FPI. “Going straight by. Straight by all 60 minutes or no matter it takes,” interim coach Mike Kafka stated. The Cowboys additionally plan to play QB Dak Prescott, who hasn’t misplaced to the Giants since his rookie season. New York has dropped 9 straight within the rivalry. — Jordan Raanan
Stat to know: Prescott leads the NFL with 4,482 passing yards this season. He’s in search of to be the primary Cowboys QB to steer the NFL in passing yardage. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Giants QB Jaxson Dart will throw for extra passing yards than some other sport this season (so, 284-plus) in a Giants victory that may infuriate the (rational) portion of the crew’s fan base that hopes the Giants lose to maximise their draft decide. — Walder
1:19
Why McElroy thinks Giants ought to take into account drafting a QB
Greg McElroy says the Giants ought to take into account transferring on from Jaxson Dart and drafting a QB.
Betting nugget: The Cowboys are 12-5 ATS towards the Giants since 2017. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s decide: Cowboys 27, Giants 21
Moody’s decide: Cowboys 35, Giants 17
Walder’s decide: Giants 28, Cowboys 23
FPI prediction: NYG, 51.7% (by a mean of 0.3 factors)
1 p.m. ET | Fox | JAX -12.5 (47.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Titans: Titans interim coach Mike McCoy described the rivalry with the Jaguars as a “skilled hatred.” Having beforehand served because the QBs coach in Jacksonville, McCoy stated, “I do know lots of these guys over there on that crew, and I perceive once they play the Tennessee Titans, what this sport means to them. You watch the sport the final time, the saltiness of the sport.” The Titans would love nothing greater than to beat the Jaguars to disclaim them the AFC South title and knock them down a spot or two within the playoffs. — Turron Davenport
What we’re listening to on the Jaguars: The Jaguars are attempting to beat the Titans for the fourth consecutive time, which might be their longest profitable streak within the sequence. Doing so would give them the AFC South title for the second time in 4 years. It additionally could be the Jaguars’ eighth consecutive victory since they blew a 19-point fourth-quarter lead against Houston. “We have come a good distance, and we’re simply going to maintain constructing on that,” WR Parker Washington stated. — Michael DiRocco
Stat to know: Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence has accounted for 35 touchdowns this season (26 passing, 9 dashing). That is the second most in a season in crew historical past (2015 Blake Bortles had 37). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Titans DT Jeffery Simmons will report a sack, closing a marketing campaign that ought to earn him first-team All-Professional honors. Simmons ranks second in go rush win price at defensive sort out (16.3%) this season. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Jaguars can clinch the No. 1 seed and home-field benefit with a win, together with losses by Denver and New England. They’ll win the AFC South with a win/tie or a Texans loss/tie. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
Betting nugget: The Jaguars have lined seven straight video games, the longest streak within the NFL this season and tied for the longest streak in Jacksonville’s historical past (2007). Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s decide: Jaguars 34, Titans 17
Moody’s decide: Jaguars 33, Titans 23
Walder’s decide: Jaguars 27, Titans 23
FPI prediction: JAX, 77.5% (by a mean of 11.3 factors)
1 p.m. ET | Fox | ATL -3.5 (43.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Saints: The futures of a number of Saints can be up within the air Sunday — 36-year-old Demario Davis, 36-year-old Cameron Jordan and 35-year-old Taysom Hill all have voiding contracts within the offseason. Meaning there are not any ensures the longtime veterans can be again in New Orleans subsequent season, giving a closing sport towards the Saints’ greatest rival particular which means this weekend. Jordan had enjoyable with the rivalry when requested lately: “Trashlanta, Cant-lanta, Aint-tlanta. It is all about the identical. 28-3,” Jordan stated. — Katherine Terrell
What we’re listening to on the Falcons: Coach Raheem Morris stated it is “actually upsetting” that his crew and the Saints have been the most well liked groups within the NFC South regardless of each being mathematically eradicated from the playoffs a number of weeks in the past. It isn’t as a result of Morris does not need his crew to complete robust — “You’ll be able to’t ever get bored with profitable,” he stated — he was simply hoping the success would have occurred sooner. Atlanta figures to unleash RB Bijan Robinson, who wants 255 scrimmage yards to set the single-season report. — Marc Raimondi
Stat to know: Saints QB Tyler Shough has three straight video games with at the very least 250 passing yards and 0 interceptions, tied with the Texans’ C.J. Stroud and Chargers’ Justin Herbert for the longest streak by a rookie QB in NFL historical past. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Falcons WR Drake London will catch a landing from the slot. Saints nickel nook Alontae Taylor has been focused extra instances this season (84) than some other slot nook. — Walder
Betting nugget: The Saints have lined 5 straight video games, their longest cowl streak since 2020 (5). They’ve additionally lined 4 straight street video games. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s decide: Falcons 17, Saints 13
Moody’s decide: Saints 21, Falcons 20
Walder’s decide: Falcons 27, Saints 24
FPI prediction: ATL, 54.6% (by a mean of 1.6 factors)
Matchup must-read: Source: Saints’ Olave out for finale due to blood clot
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | DEN -12.5 (37.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Chargers: L.A. has an opportunity to go undefeated within the AFC West for the primary time in franchise historical past with a win, a feat coach Jim Harbaugh will depart as much as his backups. QB Justin Herbert and different yet-to-be-named starters will not play. The Chargers have their playoff spot secured, and a win could be just for seeding positioning, which Harbaugh does not care a lot about. “One sport does not outline us, however quickly it would,” Harbaugh stated. — Kris Rhim
What we’re listening to on the Broncos: Denver desires, and wishes, current historical past to repeat itself. Coach Sean Payton stated he has conveyed to his crew the significance of the No. 1 seed — a lot in order that he did not talk about clinching the AFC West title final week. So, the Broncos want the pedal-to-the-metal effort they bought in final season’s finale, once they routed the Chiefs’ backups 38-0 to earn a wild-card spot. And Payton desires that bye: “The primary purpose could be, you skip a sport during which you are in danger to not play properly or an opponent impulsively has a fantastic sport. You skip the specter of doubtlessly shedding a sport, if that makes any sense, you skip proper to the following spherical.” — Jeff Legwold
Stat to know: The Broncos lead the NFL in sacks whereas additionally having the fewest sacks allowed (19). Their plus-45 differential in sacks and sacks allowed is at the moment the biggest in a season since crew sacks had been first recorded in 1963. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Broncos edge Nik Bonitto will report a number of sacks. Going towards QB Trey Lance with the Chargers, Denver is closely favored. That ought to work into Bonitto’s fingers, because the crew forces Los Angeles into passing conditions. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Broncos can clinch the No. 1 seed and home-field benefit with a win or losses by the Patriots and Jaguars. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
Betting nugget: The Chargers are 4-0 outright and ATS as underdogs this season. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s decide: Broncos 30, Chargers 24
Moody’s decide: Broncos 21, Chargers 20
Walder’s decide: Broncos 26, Chargers 16
FPI prediction: DEN, 68.6% (by a mean of seven.7 factors)
Matchup must-reads: How the Chargers’ offensive line turned into a woe … DT Allen’s interior push integral to Broncos’ pass rush
4:25 p.m. ET | Fox | LAR -7.5 (46.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Cardinals: With their offseason days away, the Cardinals have not began fascinated with their trip plans but, QB Jacoby Brissett stated. It helps that Arizona is enjoying a division rival, and it is motivated to notch its first NFC West win of the season. “They will maximize their final alternative right here,” coach Jonathan Gannon stated. — Josh Weinfuss
What we’re listening to on the Rams: L.A. is likely to be locked into the No. 6 seed earlier than it kicks off Sunday towards the Cardinals, however coach Sean McVay stated his starters will play in Week 18. It is a departure from his philosophy for the previous two seasons, however after back-to-back losses, McVay stated his starters must be on the market. “We have to play,” McVay stated. “We have to play higher soccer. So, I do not know what the results are in these several types of issues, however we bought to play higher.” — Sarah Barshop
Stat to know: Rams WR Puka Nacua has 4 video games this season with at the very least 150 receiving yards, one shy of tying probably the most in a season in NFL historical past, executed by Roy Inexperienced (1984), Jerry Rice (1995), Tim Brown (1997), Antonio Brown (2017) and Tyreek Hill (2023). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Rams DT Kobie Turner will report a sack. Turner has a 13% go rush win price at defensive sort out, fifth greatest within the NFL on the place. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Rams can clinch the No. 5 seed with a win and a Seahawks win. The Rams would clinch the No. 6 seed with a loss or a 49ers win. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
1:38
Can the Rams win three street playoff video games?
Dan Graziano and David Dennis Jr. talk about whether or not the Rams can win three street playoff video games.
Betting nugget: The Cardinals are 1-7 ATS of their previous eight video games (0-4 ATS of their previous 4). Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s decide: Rams 33, Cardinals 15
Moody’s decide: Rams 30, Cardinals 19
Walder’s decide: Rams 34, Cardinals 13
FPI prediction: LAR, 78.4% (by a mean of 11.8 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Stafford ‘not worried’ about MVP talk entering Week 18 … Injury-plagued sophomore season over for Cards’ Harrison
4:25 p.m. ET | Fox | CHI -3 (50.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Lions: Detroit cruised previous the Bears 52-21 of their Week 2 meeting. However issues have drastically modified, with the Lions eradicated from playoff competition and the Bears having received two of their previous three video games whereas sitting atop the NFC North. Coach Dan Campbell stated the crew’s mindset getting into the finale is to complete on a excessive notice. “They’re extra polished. They’re a greater crew,” Campbell stated of the Bears since dealing with them earlier this season. “Actually since that crew, they lead the league in takeaways on protection. I imply, they’re getting them. It is like we speak about, it is contagious for them.” — Eric Woodyard
What we’re listening to on the Bears: Caleb Williams is 270 yards from being the primary QB within the Bears’ 105 seasons to throw for at the very least 4,000 yards. Reaching that determine was one in all Williams’ preseason objectives and appears attainable, contemplating he is coming off a season-high 330 yards towards San Francisco. “I feel for me, it would be cool simply within the sense of, there’s by no means been one right here,” Williams stated. “I feel I used to be introduced right here for these kinds of issues and people kinds of moments, the issues that have not been executed right here, to try to be capable to accomplish.” — Courtney Cronin
Stat to know: The Bears have scored 425 factors this season. Chicago is 32 factors shy of breaking the franchise single-season report set in 1985. (The 2025 crew will play 17 video games to 1985 crew’s 16). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: The Lions will rating at the very least 30 factors. Although it is a meaningless sport for Detroit, it is secure to imagine Campbell nonetheless will need to rating loads on his division rivals. And extremely, on performs when there are not any turnovers, the Bears rank thirtieth in EPA allowed per play on protection. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Bears can clinch the No. 2 seed with a win or an Eagles loss. Chicago would clinch the No. 3 seed with a loss and an Eagles win. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
0:57
Orlovsky: The Bears have a championship-caliber offense
Dan Orlovsky has excessive reward for the Bears’ offense, however can be involved about their protection heading into the playoffs.
Betting nugget: The Lions are 0-4 ATS this season when the road is between +3 and -3. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s decide: Bears 34, Lions 24
Moody’s decide: Bears 27, Lions 20
Walder’s decide: Lions 33, Bears 28
FPI prediction: DET, 54.1% (by a mean of 1.8 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Out of playoffs, Lions playing for ‘respect’ in season finale … Williams gets shot to be Bears’ first 4,000-yard passer
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | PHI -4.5 (38.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Commanders: With LT Laremy Tunsil unlikely to play due to an indirect harm, Washington could be with out 11 gamers who had been projected starters this season. However even in a misplaced season, the Commanders have just a few issues at stake: LB Bobby Wagner wants 5 tackles to change into the third participant to achieve 2,000 for his profession; DE Von Miller wants one other sack to provide him 9 and one other $500,000. The Commanders cannot end decrease than seventh within the draft, however a loss Sunday may enhance their decide. — John Keim
What we’re listening to on the Eagles: Philadelphia is planning to sit down QB Jalen Hurts and different starters because the Eagles gear up for the playoffs. Coach Nick Sirianni is prioritizing giving a few of his key gamers relaxation after one other marathon season. “For the blokes who’re truly down this week, it is a psychological break. They want the psychological break,” sort out Jordan Mailata stated. “And that bodily break is a big side; now they’ll simply deal with getting proper for playoffs. For us, it is the most important benefit attainable. It is like one other bye week.” — Tim McManus
Stat to know: Commanders RB Jacory Croskey-Merritt has scored a dashing landing in every of the previous three video games. He may be part of Antonio Gibson, Alfred Morris and Skip Hicks as the one Washington rookies with a dashing rating in 4 or extra consecutive video games. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Commanders WR Terry McLaurin won’t catch a go towards Quinyon Mitchell. Mitchell has been distinctive this season, permitting simply 0.7 yards per protection snap, seventh greatest amongst exterior corners with at the very least 300 protection snaps. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Eagles can clinch the No. 2 seed with a win and a Bears loss. The Eagles would clinch the No. 3 seed with a loss or Bears win. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
Accidents: Commanders | Eagles
Betting nugget: The Eagles are 3-0 ATS of their previous three video games. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s decide: Eagles 27, Commanders 16
Moody’s decide: Eagles 28, Commanders 13
Walder’s decide: Eagles 24, Commanders 12
FPI prediction: PHI, 73% (by a mean of 9.3 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Source: Eagles likely to rest Hurts, others in finale
4:25 p.m. ET | Fox | NE -10.5 (45.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Dolphins: QB Quinn Ewers will get his third profession begin, this time towards a Patriots crew nonetheless within the hunt for the AFC’s No. 1 seed. The rookie faces a tricky check towards a New England protection that owns the league’s second-highest EPA on blitzes. Certainly one of Ewers’ strongest traits, based on teammates, is his calmness within the pocket — they usually really feel he’ll be prepared for what New England throws at him. “I all the time stated that about Quinn, you would inform his swag within the pocket,” RB De’Von Achane stated. “He is not anxious, prepared to maneuver. He can keep within the pocket, take successful, and that is one thing you want about it. He is also nice with throwing when he is bought a defender in his face.” — Marcel Louis-Jacques
What we’re listening to on the Patriots: In a really perfect state of affairs, coach Mike Vrabel want to have DT Milton Williams (ankle, missed the previous 5 video games) and LT Will Campbell (knee, missed the previous 4 video games) knock off some rust with sport motion earlier than the playoffs. The Patriots nonetheless have an opportunity to earn the No. 1 seed, so they’re anticipated to play their wholesome starters and go for it. — Mike Reiss
Stat to know: Patriots RB TreVeyon Henderson wants 142 dashing yards to change into first rookie in New England with 1,000 dashing yards in a season since Robert Edwards (1,115 yards in 1998). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Dolphins LB Jordyn Brooks will report 12 or extra tackles or assists. If the Patriots get out to a giant lead, I anticipate they’re going to run the ball loads, and Brooks — who has the fifth-highest sort out price on run performs amongst linebackers with at the very least 300 snaps — can be there to report tackles. And even when the Patriots fall behind, they could do the identical factor to protect well being for the playoffs. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Patriots can clinch the No. 1 seed and home-field benefit with a win and a Broncos loss. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
0:53
How do you have to method the Patriots’ RB choices in fantasy?
Daniel Dopp explains why each Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson can be productive in fantasy transferring ahead.
Accidents: Dolphins | Patriots
Betting nugget: 4 straight Patriots video games have gone over the full (overs are 8-2 of their previous 10 video games). Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s decide: Patriots 34, Dolphins 13
Moody’s decide: Patriots 31, Dolphins 14
Walder’s decide: Patriots 27, Dolphins 20
FPI prediction: NE, 80.1% (by a mean of 12.5 factors)
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | KC -5.5 (36.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Chiefs: The largest subplot for the Chiefs is the robust chance that Sunday may very well be TE Travis Kelce‘s final sport in his illustrious 13-year profession. Kelce is anticipated to play his standard snaps, and the Chiefs can be wanting to get him a landing towards the rival Raiders. “Truthfully, I’ve simply been attempting to win video games,” Kelce stated final week about his future. “I am going to let that be a choice I am going to make with my household, pals and the Chiefs group when the time comes.” — Nate Taylor
What we’re listening to on the Raiders: With QB Geno Smith (ankle) uncertain to play within the season finale, Carroll plans to play Kenny Pickett and Aidan O’Connell. The Raiders would possibly favor Pickett to begin as a result of he has been QB2 all through the season. However each gamers are wanting ahead to the chance to get reps, particularly O’Connell — who began the season on injured reserve due to a wrist harm. “I feel it has been onerous to sit down again and watch,” O’Connell stated. “It weighs on everybody once they lose like this, and so simply attempting to remain affected person and anticipate my alternative.” — Ryan McFadden
Stat to know: The Chiefs have gone 4 straight video games with one or zero touchdowns, tied for his or her longest streak since seven straight in 2012 and the longest streak of any crew this season. Yet one more such sport would tie the longest streak within the NFL over the previous three seasons, becoming a member of the 2024 Dolphins, 2023 Jets and 2023 Panthers. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: The Chiefs will report a pick-six on a display screen go. The Raiders have run screens on the fourth-highest price within the league this season, and the Chiefs have allowed only a 24% success price to opponents on screens, second greatest amongst all defenses. — Walder
Betting nugget: The Chiefs are 0-7 ATS the previous seven instances they’ve been favored. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s decide: Chiefs 21, Raiders 10
Moody’s decide: Chiefs 24, Raiders 17
Walder’s decide: Chiefs 23, Raiders 17
FPI prediction: KC, 60.3% (by a mean of 4.2 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Reid says he plans to return as Chiefs coach next season
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | BUF -7 (37.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Jets: It is all about draft place for New York, at the moment projected for the No. 2 spot, per ESPN’s FPI. The Jets may very well be as excessive as No. 2 or as little as No. 7, a large variance that may have a big impact on their pursuit of a QB. Rookie QB Brady Cook makes his fourth begin. His 10.0 QBR ranks final amongst 52 gamers with 50-plus makes an attempt this season. — Wealthy Cimini
What we’re listening to on the Payments: With the Payments locked right into a wild-card spot, the percentages are excessive that Sunday will mark the ultimate sport on the at the moment named Highmark Stadium, which opened in 1973. Accidents and relaxation will issue into the Payments’ resolution concerning who will play because the franchise prepares to honor the stadium. “Because it pertains to the sport and various things, there’s clearly lots of totally different paths and approaches we may take,” coach Sean McDermott stated. “However on the finish of the day, the one I all the time come again to is what’s greatest for the crew.” — Alaina Getzenberg
Stat to know: Payments QB Josh Allen has 14 dashing touchdowns this season. He’s one away from tying the NFL single-season report for probably the most by a QB (Allen and Jalen Hurts each rushed for 15 touchdowns in 2023). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Prepare dinner will try fewer than 30 passes for the primary time in a sport this season. Although Prepare dinner has reached that mark, the Jets have been probably the most run-heavy crew within the league relative to expectation (per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats), and the Payments have the second-most run-inducing protection. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Payments can clinch the No. 5 seed with a win and losses by the Texans and Chargers — or a win, plus Chargers and Jaguars losses. Buffalo would clinch the No. 6 seed with a win, plus a Chargers win and a Texans loss — or a win, plus a Chargers loss and wins by the Texans and Jags. The Payments may additionally clinch the No. 6 seed with a win, plus Chargers and Texans wins, a Jags loss after which 5 wins from both Cowboys, Rams, Dolphins, Vikings, Eagles, Steelers, Seahawks or Bucs. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
2:36
Dennis: Josh Allen must show himself this postseason
David Dennis Jr., Jason McCourty and Dan Graziano debate what Josh Allen’s legacy could be if the Payments fail to win the Tremendous Bowl this season.
Betting nugget: The Payments are 1-5 ATS as house favorites this season. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s decide: Payments 24, Jets 9
Moody’s decide: Payments 27, Jets 16
Walder’s decide: Payments 26, Jets 16
FPI prediction: BUF, 90% (by a mean of 19.8 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Bills’ Oliver injures meniscus during rehab, has procedure … Highmark Stadium’s single tunnel in Buffalo is one for ages
8:20 p.m. ET | NBC/Peacock | BAL -3.5 (40.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Ravens: Coach John Harbaugh stated profitable the turnover battle is the No. 1 precedence. The Steelers have compelled the third-most takeaways within the NFL with 26. Since Harbaugh turned the Ravens’ coach in 2008, Baltimore is 4-11 (.267) when shedding the turnover battle to Pittsburgh. “The crew that wins the turnover battle goes to have an actual edge in profitable the sport,” Harbaugh stated. “So, we all know that. That must be us.” — Jamison Hensley
What we’re listening to on the Steelers: Pittsburgh’s greatest offseason precedence revolved round stopping the run after Ravens RB Derrick Henry rushed for 186 yards and two touchdowns within the Steelers’ wild-card loss. Although Pittsburgh received the primary assembly a month ago, the Steelers had been nonetheless outrushed by 183 yards. This time, although, rookie DT Derrick Harmon will play. The Steelers’ run protection has improved by 80 yards when Harmon performs, however he is downplaying his affect. “I am able to play ball, canine,” he stated. — Brooke Pryor
Stat to know: The Steelers have been outgained by 903 yards this season, the sixth-worst yards differential within the NFL. Because the 1970 merger, solely 4 groups have made the playoffs regardless of being outgained by 800-plus yards through the common season: the 1989 Steelers, 2010 Seahawks, 1983 Seahawks and 2017 Payments. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: The Ravens will win in a blowout. With out WR DK Metcalf (suspension), the Steelers’ offense is proscribed, and although the Ravens haven’t been themselves this season, Baltimore stays the extra proficient crew. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Steelers can clinch the AFC North and a playoff berth with a win or tie. The Ravens can clinch with a win. See Playoff Machine. — ESPN Analysis
Betting nugget: The Steelers are 7-2 outright and ATS towards the Ravens since 2021. Read more. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s decide: Ravens 20, Steelers 17
Moody’s decide: Ravens 24, Steelers 14
Walder’s decide: Ravens 30, Steelers 13
FPI prediction: BAL, 57.4% (by a mean of two.7 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Ravens-Steelers winner takes AFC North: ‘Going to be a slugfest’ … Ravens’ Jackson says he’s playing in must-win game … Steelers QB Rodgers, 42, to ponder future after season
