NFL Week 15: Largest questions, takeaways for each recreation – ABC7 New York

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 formidable five-touchdown efficiency, andwide receiverDavante Adamshad his greatest recreation but for theNew 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 all the pieces else you must know for each staff. Let's get to it.
Bounce to:br/>LAR-SF | DAL-CAR | BAL-NYGbr/>KC-CLE | NYJ-JAX| CIN-TENbr/>WSH-NO | MIA-HOU| NE-ARIbr/>PIT-PHI |TB-LAC | IND-DENbr/>BUF-DET
Can the Payments preserve profitable these observe meets? In brief, sure. There isn’t a 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 data 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 receiverAmari Cooper had zero targets Sunday. Offensive coordinator Joe Brady is rolling with Allen and that can preserve the Payments in any recreation.
Most stunning 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 executed 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)
Is the Payments loss motive to be involved going ahead? Sure — and no. With this doubtlessly serving as a Tremendous Bowl preview, lots of the staff's holes have been definitely uncovered by Buffalo after permitting 45 factors at house. No staff 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 coming into this matchup, so that they shouldn't enter panic mode. And you may't ignore the truth that Detroit's protection continued to take some extra large 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 a press release with two dashing touchdowns, handing Detroit its greatest first-quarter deficit (14 factors) all season. He continued to select the Lions aside along 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 stunning efficiency: Offensive deal with Dan Skipper. The Lions large man displayed his receiving abilities 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)
How shut are the Broncos to being a playoff staff? It won’t be framed and hung within the Louvre, however the Broncos defeated a Colts staff chasing them for wild-card spot whereas the Chargers and Dolphins misplaced in different video games. The super-tight affair changed into 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 a bit of 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 working backs had eight carries for 15 yards within the first half and had 10 carries mixed halfway by the third quarter. The Broncos acquired an all-important win, however they haven't established a constant run-pass steadiness.
What we realized in regards to the QB at present:Bo Nixhas 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)
How a lot injury did the Colts do to their playoff hopes? The Colts have been taking part in their greatest recreation of the season and had the luxurious of taking part in the staff 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 probabilities to take management whereas Denver was scuffling with turnovers. However their greatest alternative was blown when working 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 huge 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 working 50 yards for a landing. — Stephen Holder
Subsequent recreation: vs. Titans (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Ought to we think about the Bucs as a legit NFC contender? Sure. You possibly can put this one up there with these early season upsets over the Lions and Eagles — the NFC's prime 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:Huge receiverMike Evans recorded his twenty third profession recreation with a number of receiving touchdowns (two), the fifth-most by a participant with a single staff in NFL historical past. He's behind solely Corridor of Fame firm in Cris Carter (25), Don Hutson (28), Marvin Harrison (29) and Jerry Rice (49).
Most stunning efficiency: With out their prime 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)
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), huge receiver Mike Evans (9 catches, 159 yards, two touchdowns), and working again Bucky Irving (15 makes an attempt, 117 yards) acquired no matter they wished on the NFL's greatest 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 stunning efficiency:QuarterbackJustin 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 out a decide, 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 need to modify the patterns of their second-half playcalling to assist them down the stretch, particularly in the event that they need to keep away from an early exit within the playoffs. — Kris Rhim
Subsequent recreation: vs. Broncos (Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET)
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 stunning efficiency: Working againKenneth 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 achieve on third-and-9 late within the third quarter. That arrange a Hurts landing, which 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 share. 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)
Can the Steelers bounce again after a deflating loss? Regardless of shedding 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 pressured 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 an extended technique to dictating each.
What we realized in regards to the QB at present: Russell Wilson — and the offense — wants huge receiverGeorge 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: Go 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 didn't 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)
Can the Cardinals win out? On paper, it seems to be just like the Cardinals' greatest impediment to ending the season undefeated would be the Rams, who’re on a sizzling streak. Arizona confirmed Sunday that it will probably nonetheless put up factors after dropping 30 on the Patriots. If the Cardinals play like that in opposition to the Panthers subsequent week, they need to win. However a victory in Week 17 in opposition to Los Angeles will depend upon which Cardinals staff reveals up. The season finale in opposition to the 6-8 49ers ought to be one other win so long as Arizona is productive on offense and dominant on protection.
Most stunning efficiency: Welcome to the offense, Greg Dortch. The huge receiver had his greatest 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 velocity and maneuverability in opposition to the poor Patriots protection.
Early prediction for subsequent week: The Cardinals began going to rookie huge receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. early and infrequently Sunday, which is able to proceed subsequent week in Carolina. He had two catches for 32 yards, although he missed two landing catches ultimately zone. They'll 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)
Will the 3-11 Patriots win one other recreation? Extremely unlikely. The Patriots entered Week 15 with the second-toughest remaining schedule within the NFL, in line with ESPN Analysis, they usually now go to the Payments earlier than house video games in opposition to the Chargers and Buffalo. Per ESPN Analysis, the Patriots have a 16.8% probability to win at Buffalo, a 32.2% probability in opposition to the Chargers after which a 21% probability within the finale. Visiting the Cardinals was the Patriots' greatest probability, they usually have been coming off their bye, nevertheless it was an uninspiring efficiency — particularly on protection.
Largest gap within the recreation plan: Quick-yardage working. 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 essential as a result of a rating would have sliced the result in 16-10. working soccer staff can achieve yardage even when the opposition is aware of what's coming, however the Patriots' blocking couldn't do something for Antonio Gibson and Rhamondre Stevenson on these two key performs.
What we realized in regards to the QB at present: 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 executed it 3 times. However Maye did so on principally brief passes; his 3-yard shovel move to DeMario Douglas was essentially the most dazzling. Maye was a silver lining on a irritating day. — Mike Reiss
Subsequent recreation: at Payments (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Can the Texans repair their inconsistent run recreation as they push towards the playoffs? The dashing assault has been growth or bust for the Texans since Week 9. Working again Joe Mixon both finishes with over 100 dashing yards (twice) or finishes below 50 yards (3 times). Sunday was a bust, as he completed with 23 yards. They’ll clinch a playoff spot if the Colts lose, although they'll want consistency from Mixon to make a run within the postseason. They'll want the offensive line to pave higher working lanes for Mixon to succeed in his full potential.
Most stunning 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)
How does this consequence affect Miami's playoff probabilities? It definitely doesn't assist. At greatest, the Dolphins can end with a 9-8 document, they usually nonetheless have to clear each the Broncos and Colts. Unbiased of some other consequence, their playoff probabilities fell to 4% with Sunday's loss to Houston, per ESPN Analytics. And whereas they're not 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 line with NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. Their poor run recreation has been an enormous 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)
Why was this such a sloppy efficiency from Washington? It doesn't 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 large achieve by Washington. The Commanders maintain the seventh and ultimate playoff spot however they will't afford to play this manner and anticipate to clinch. The sport mustn’t have come all the way down to a ultimate drive.
What we realized in regards to the QB at present: 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. Nevertheless, he was sacked a season-high seven instances, typically as a result of he held the ball lengthy or bumped into hassle. Daniels and receiver Terry McLaurin had a number of probabilities for lengthy landing passes however couldn't 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 prime two receivers. The Commanders gained not as a result of they performed nice, however as a result of they performed properly sufficient when it mattered and held the ball for greater than 40 minutes. — John Keim
Subsequent recreation: vs. Eagles (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Do the Saints follow Spencer Rattler at quarterback shifting ahead? The Saints didn't 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 rather than injured starter David Carr, however Rattler clearly outplayed Haener within the second half in opposition to Washington. The Saints will doubtless follow the new hand whereas Carr is out.
Early prediction for subsequent week: The offense will sputter once more. The unit struggled badly at house with out Carr, and whereas the offense confirmed extra life after switching to Rattler, an evening recreation at Inexperienced Bay with working again Alvin Kamara doubtlessly coping with a groin harm may very well be their greatest problem of the 12 months.
What we realized in regards to the QB at present: The Saints struggled to maneuver the ball in any respect with Haener, however they seemed like a unique staff 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 didn't get the two-point conversion however Rattler confirmed his potential. — Katherine Terrell
Subsequent recreation: at Packers (Monday, Dec. 23, 8:15 p.m. ET)
Is Joe Burrow taking part in himself into the MVP race? It's laborious to argue in opposition to that. Burrow had one other large efficiency and threw his thirty sixth landing move of the season, which broke his personal franchise document with three video games nonetheless remaining. Getting 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: Count on 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 guage 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 situated Brown ultimately zone. In response to 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)
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 3 times, 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 12 months. He confirmed delicate enchancment over the previous three weeks however regressed severely. With three video games left, it wouldn't be stunning for Callahan to go along with veteran backup Mason Rudolph the remainder of the best way. The way forward for the place is perhaps addressed with a excessive draft decide.
Largest gap within the recreation plan: The Titans couldn't 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 below stress, because the Titans didn’t get to him every time.
Eye-popping stat: This was the primary recreation with no less than 10 mixed turnovers and 20 mixed accepted penalties because the 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 prime due to their benefit at quarterback. — Turron Davenport
Subsequent recreation: at Colts (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
What took so lengthy for Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams to return to outdated instances? Rodgers and Adams have been electrical, conjuring up reminiscences 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 after 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 in regards to the QB at present: 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 properly early within the season resulting from knee, hamstring and ankle accidents, however he has been wholesome for the previous three video games — and it reveals. The draw back: You by no means need your growing older quarterback to guide the staff 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)
Ought to the secondary be the Jaguars' No. 1 precedence within the offseason? Even when there’s a new workers — coach Doug Pederson's job safety stays unsure — the again finish of the protection needs to be on the prime 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 in regards to the QB at present: 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 stunning 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. Working againTravis 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)
Can the Chiefs depend on their protection once more? The Chiefs did a pleasant job profiting from Jameis Winston and the Browns by forcing 5 defensive turnovers (with one other turnover on particular groups). Nevertheless it's untimely to assert their protection is again to final 12 months's degree, contemplating the standard of the opposition. Larger challenges await the following couple of weeks within the Texans and Steelers and with questions roundPatrick Mahomes' ankle. He left the sport within the fourth quarter with an injury and was visibly limping off the sector after the sport.
Describe the sport in two phrases: Sturdy rush. The Chiefs had considered one of their higher video games in getting after the opposing quarterback. That they had 5 sacks of Winston, however that didn't inform the entire story. They have been according to stress on the Browns quarterback even after they weren't blitzing. This was motive for encouragement since this move rush is among the many least productive within the league.
Most stunning 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 didn't matter within the lengthy haul, nevertheless it 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)
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 doesn't have a lot to lose in evaluating the 2023 fifth-round decide. The staff is already eradicated from playoff competition.
Most stunning efficiency: Working 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)
What did the Ravens show in opposition to the struggling Giants? The Ravens insisted they wouldn't 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 stunning 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 will probably beat Pittsburgh on Saturday. The Ravens have misplaced eight of their previous 9 video games to their greatest rival. The Steelers can clinch the AFC North title with a win.
What we realized in regards to the QB at present: Don't depend 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 stunning efficiency: Huge receiver Rashod Bateman. The 2021 first-round decide 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)
What does this loss imply for the Giants? They’ve now misplaced 9 straight video games and are on the verge of turning into the primary staff ever to go 0-9 at house after being dominated by the Ravens. They'll be underdogs within the ultimate three weeks at Atlanta, versus Indianapolis and at Philadelphia. Twelve straight losses to finish the season isn’t out of the query. This newest defeat does preserve the Giants in pole place for the No. 1 decide. They got here into Sunday with a 41% probability on the prime decide. It jumped to 48% with the loss.
Describe the sport in two phrases: Utterly overmatched. The disparity in expertise gave the Giants no probability to win. That they had no reply for Jackson or the Ravens' offense. That they had no probability to maneuver the ball constantly whether or not it was Tommy DeVito or Tim Boyle at quarterback. The Giants seemed each bit a 2-12 staff and tied a franchise document with their ninth straight loss.
What we realized in regards to the QB at present: The Giants can't preserve 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)
Did the Cowboys present some psychological toughness? Fast reply: Sure. It won’t imply something on the finish of this season and it could price 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. Excluding one play, the protection smothered quarterback Bryce Young. The offense was environment friendly with one other reconfigured offensive line, and quarterbackCooper 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's faint.
What we realized in regards to the QB at present:Rush shouldn't run many zone reads. It led to his fourth misplaced fumble of the season. However he was in a position to rebound with an environment friendly efficiency, together with three landing throws below duress — essentially the most by a Dallas quarterback since Dak Prescott in 2021 (Week 17 vs. Arizona).
Early prediction for subsequent week:Working againRico Dowdle, who completed with 149 yards on 25 carries, can 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 working 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)
Will coach Dave Canales flip again to Andy Dalton after Bryce Younger's four-turnover recreation? Canales insists it's a weekly determination on Younger, who set a career-high 4 turnovers (two interceptions, two misplaced fumbles). He was additionally sacked six instances. Carolina would possibly need to get one other have a look at Dalton, who was the starter earlier than a thumb injury from a automobile crash. The turnovers may very well be the excuse wanted to see whether or not the 37-year-old might be the veteran backup or starter coming into subsequent season.
Largest gap within the recreation plan: Defending huge receiverCeeDee 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 prime nook Jaycee Horn on Lamb completely.
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) coming into the sport. Hubbard acquired 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)
With three video games left, can the Rams make a playoff run? They certain appear to be a playoff staff. ESPN Analytics provides the Rams a 52% probability to make the playoffs and 49% probability to win the division coming 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 greatest soccer" of the season. That has proven up in the course of 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. In response to 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 didn't play adequate on third down."
Eye-popping stat: For the primary time since McVay was employed in 2017, the Rams didn’t get a primary down on their first 4 offensive drives, in line with ESPN Analysis. Per 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)
With their playoff hopes all however lifeless, the place do the 49ers go from right here? Final week's win in opposition to Chicago supplied a slight glimmer of hope for the Niners, however that each one went out the window Thursday evening. Mathematically, there would possibly nonetheless be a means for San Francisco to sneak in, nevertheless it's the longest of lengthy pictures. With three video games left, the 49ers could 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 get together. Inclement climate undoubtedly performed an element, however the Niners and Rams didn't precisely mild 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 changed into a rock battle with a complete of 18 factors and no touchdowns.
Most stunning efficiency: Linebacker De'Vondre Campbell. Possibly that is extra of a stunning nonperformance however both means, 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

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