NFL - Week Eighteen Preview

 

The NFL regular season comes to a close this weekend as the battle for the final two playoff spots will happen. The Denver Broncos (9-7) can wrap up the seventh spot in the AFC with a win while the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-7) will look to win the NFC South division. The Atlanta Falcons (8-8) can still get that division title with a win and a Tampa Bay loss. If the Broncos lose their game, either the Miami Dolphins (8-8) or Cincinnati Bengals (8-8) can sneak into the AFC playoffs with a win. The Bengals need to win and have both Denver and Miami lose to get in the playoffs. 

The biggest game this weekend will take place in Detroit on Sunday night as the Lions and Minnesota Vikings (both 14-2) play each other for the NFC North division crown and the top seed in the NFC playoffs. On Saturday, two games featuring AFC North teams will take place as the Baltimore Ravens (11-5) host the Cleveland Browns (3-13) and the Cincinnati Bengals face the Pittsburgh Steelers (10-6) in the Steeel City. If the Ravens win, they clinch the division title. But if the Browns can pull off the upset, the Steelers can win the division with a win against Cincinnati.

One interesting note this weekend sees Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley likely sitting out the final game, thus ending his bid to break the 40-year old record for most rushing yards in a single season held by Eric Dickerson (2,105 yards in 1984). Barkley has 2,005 yards, but with the Eagles (13-3) already secured as the number two seed in the NFC, it's likely he won't play against the New York Giants (3-13) on Sunday afternoon. 

The capsule style previews for all 16 games are featured and then the final regular season Heftyinfo picks follow up.  
 

Cleveland (3-13) at Baltimore (11-5) - The Ravens need this one to secure a home game in the first round of the AFC playoffs. Browns are looking forward to the NFL Draft next spring. 

Cincinnati (8-8) at Pittsburgh (10-6) - Can the Steelers stop their three game skid and knock the Bengals (and red hot quarterback Joe Burrow) out of playoff contention? 

N.Y. Giants (3-13) at Philadelphia (13-3) - The only drama in this one would be running back Saquon Barkley breaking the single season rushing record. 

Buffalo (13-3) at New England (3-13) - The Bills will be resting many starters, so the Patriots could win this one.

Houston (9-7) at Tennessee (3-13) - The Texans have already sewn up the number four seed in the AFC, which could mean the host Titans could get the win. 

Carolina (4-12) at Atlanta (8-8) - Falcons must win this one and get some help to reach the NFC playoffs. 

Washington (11-5) at Dallas (7-9) - The Commanders could move up in the NFC playoff picture so the Cowboys better be ready. 

Chicago (4-12) at Green Bay (11-5) - The Packers have owned this rivalry over the last decade plus . . . expect more of the same in this one. 

Jacksonville (4-12) at Indianapolis (7-9) - Colts really blew it last week losing to the lowly New York Giants. They are out of playoff contention and the Jaguars could win this one. 

New Orleans (5-11) at Tampa Bay (9-7) - The Buccaneers should roll in this one and win the NFC South division. 

Kansas City (15-1) at Denver (9-7) - The Chiefs will sit many starters, including QB Patrick Mahomes . . . Broncos can make the playoffs for the first time in nine years with a win. 

L.A. Chargers (10-6) at Las Vegas (4-12) - The Chargers could move up to the number five spot in the AFC playoff picture, so they have incentive to win this game. 

Miami (8-8) at N.Y. Jets (4-12) - The Dolphins need this one, but will likely be without starting QB Tua Tagovailoa again this week. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers likely playing his last game with the Jets. Take the Dolphins. 

San Francisco (6-10) at Arizona (7-9) - This season cannot end quick enough for the 49ers. The Cardinals have been a pleasant surprise this year. Toss up here. 

Seattle (9-7) at L.A. Rams (10-6) - The Rams are already in the playoffs and the Seahawks are out. Toss up in this one. 

Minnesota (14-2) at Detroit (14-2) - The game of the year between two NFC powerhouses . . . Take the Lions in a squeaker. 

The Heftyinfo picks for Week Eighteen  . . . . . . . . . . .      (Home teams are listed in bold; Lock of the Week is listed in BOLD CAPS) 

BALTIMORE over Cleveland 

Cincinnati over Pittsburgh 

Philadelphia over N.Y. Giants 

New England over Buffalo

Houston over Tennessee

Atlanta over Carolina 

Washington over Dallas 

Green Bay over Chicago 

Jacksonville over Indianapolis 

Tampa Bay over New Orleans 

Denver over Kansas City 

L.A. Chargers over Las Vegas 

Miami over N.Y. Jets 

Arizona over San Francisco 

L.A. Rams over Seattle 

Detroit over Minnesota 

 

Last Week's Record - 11-5 

SEASON RECORD - 176-80 

Lock of the Week Record - 14-3

NFL - Week Seventeen Recap

Rookie QB Jayden Daniels and the Washington Commanders are playoff bound.

There are just two playoff spots left heading into the final game of the season next weekend as three more teams clinched post-season spots in Week Seventeen. 

On Saturday, the Los Angeles Chargers (10-6) wrapped up a wild card spot in the AFC while the Washington Commanders (11-5) did the same on Sunday night with a win in overtime. 

The Commanders won, 30-24 in the OT against the Atlanta Falcons (8-8) when quarterback Jayden Daniels (277 passing yards, three TD, one interception and 127 rushing yards on 16 carries) threw a two-yard scoring pass to tight end Zach Ertz. The Falcons led 17-7 at the half as running back Bijan Robinson scored two rushing touchdowns. In the second half, Washington surged ahead with a TD pass from Daniels to Ertz (10 yards) and a two yard scoring run by Chris Rodriguez, Jr. The Falcons tied it up at 24-24 with 1:19 left in regulation on 13-yard TD pass from QB Michael Penix, Jr. to tight end Kyle Pitts. The Falcons had a chance to win it in regulation, but kicker Riley Patterson missed a 56-yard field goal attempt as time ran out.

The Chargers smoked the host New England Patriots, 40-7 on Saturday as QB Justin Herbert (281 passing yards) threw for three scores and running back J.K. Dobbins added a scoring run to lead the way. The Patriots (3-13) gained just 181 yards in total offense and QB Drake Maye was sacked four times with one touchdown pass in the blowout loss. 

The Los Angeles Rams (10-6) wrapped up a playoff spot (coupled with the Washington win on Sunday night) with a hard fought 13-9 home win against the Arizona Cardinals (7-9) as the defense came up with two interceptions in the fourth quarter, including the clincher (by Ahkello Witherspoon) with just 37 seconds remaining. Rams RB Kyren Williams had a rushing score along with a pair of field goals by Joshua Karty to offset a TD pass from Cards QB Kyler Murray (321 passing yards, one TD, two INT) to help them win their fifth straight game. 

Another Saturday game saw the host Cincinnati Bengals (8-8) stay alive in the AFC playoff chase with a 30-24 overtime win against the Denver Broncos (9-7), who for the second straight game failed to clinch a playoff spot. Bengals QB Joe Burrow (412 passing yards, three TD, one rushing TD) threw a three-yard scoring pass to wide receiver Tee Higgins, who had 11 receptions for 131 yards and three touchdowns in the win. The game was back and forth and tied 17-17 in the fourth quarter when Burrow scored on a one-yard TD run with 1:29 left. The Broncos came right back and scored the tying touchdown with just eight seconds left when QB Bo Nix hit WR Marvin Mims, Jr. for a 25-yard scoring pass between two defenders on fourth down. In the OT, Bengals kicker Cade York missed a 33-yard field goal, but Denver twice could not muster a drive and the Bengals finally emerged with the win. 

The Philadelphia Eagles (13-3) clinched the NFC East title with a 41-7 thumping of the Dallas Cowboys (7-9) as the defense forced four turnovers (two fumbles, two INT), including the first score of the game when C.J. Gardner-Johnson took an interception back 69 yards for a score. Dallas tied the game 7-7 on a TD pass by Cooper Rush and then the onslaught by Philly began. Quarterback Kenny Pickett had a scoring pass and run and reserve QB Tanner McKee had two TD passes along with RB Saquon Barkley rushing for 167 yards on 31 carries, giving him 2,005 yards this season and only 101 yards away from breaking the all time NFL single season rushing record set by Eric Dickerson (2,105 yards) back in the 1984 season. 

In Minnesota, the Vikings (14-2) won their ninth consecutive game with a nail biting 27-25 decision against the Green Bay Packers (11-5) as QB Sam Darnold passed for three touchdowns along with 377 yards and one interception. Packers QB Jordan Love threw for two scores in the fourth quarter to make it close after the Vikings built a 27-10 lead in the third quarter. 

 

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-7) moved back into first place in the NFC South division with a 48-14 trouncing against the visiting Carolina Panthers (4-12) with QB Baker Mayfield (pictured right) throwing five TD passes along with 359 passing yards as the team rolled up 551 yards in total offense, compared to just 204 yards  for the Panthers. 

 

 

The Buffalo Bills improved to 13-3 with a 40-14 thumping at home against the New York Jets. Bills QB Josh Allen had two TD passes and a scoring run while RB James Cook scored a rushing touchdown to pace the rout. The Jets (4-12) turned the ball over three times and QB Aaron Rodgers was sacked four times while becoming the most sacked quarterback in NFL history, passing Tom Brady for the dubious honor. 

On Christmas Day, the Kansas City Chiefs (15-1) clinched home field advantage throughout the playoffs with a convincing 29-10 win on the road against the fading Pittsburgh Steelers (10-6), who lost their third consecutive game since clinching a playoff spot. The game was close (16-10 K.C. lead entering fourth quarter) but then Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes (320 passing yards) threw his third TD pass in the game and RB Kareem Hunt scored a rushing touchdown to blow it open. The Chiefs defense registered five sacks and forced a pair of turnovers to help the winning effort. 

The Baltimore Ravens (11-5) also scored a road victory on Christmas Day, 31-2 against the Houston Texans as QB Lamar Jackson went off by throwing for a touchdown and also scoring on a 48-yard run as the Ravens out gained the Texans (9-7) by a 432-211 margin along with the defense sacking Houston QB C.J. Stroud five times. In addition, Ravens RB Derrick Henry scored a touchdown and ran for 147 yards on 27 carries. 

The Miami Dolphins (8-8) kept alive their slim playoff hopes with a 20-3 road win against the Cleveland Browns (3-13) behind backup Tyler Huntley (starting in place of injured starter Tua Tagovailoa) scoring a rushing touchdown and passing for another score. The Browns had two turnovers and struggled throughout the game to sustain offensive drives. 

The Indianapolis Colts (7-9) were eliminated from playoff contention as they were smashed by the host New York Giants, 45-33 as QB Drew Lock (309 passing yards) had four touchdown passes and ran another score to help the Giants (3-13) snap a ten game losing streak. Ihmir Smith-Marsette took the second half kickoff back 100 yards for a touchdown to give the Giants a 28-13 lead. The Colts battled to back to within 28-26 early in the fourth quarter on a 13-yard TD pass by Joe Flacco. The two-point conversion failed and then the Giants drew away as Lock secured the win with a five-yard scoring run with 2:57 left. 

The Las Vegas Raiders (4-12) knocked off the host New Orleans Saints, 25-10 behind a pair of TD passes by QB Aidan O' Connell  and the defense getting four sacks and two interceptions. Spencer Rattler (218 passing yards, one TD, two INT) threw a touchdown pass for the Saints, who fell to 5-11 this season. 

In a game to help to determine draft day positioning, the Jacksonville Jaguars (4-12) defeated the visiting Tennessee Titans, 20-13 as QB Mac Jones threw two scoring passes to offset a TD pass from QB Mason Rudolph for the Titans (3-13). 

Last Thursday night, the Seattle Seahawks (9-7) won a 6-3 yawner game against the host Chicago Bears (4-12), who lost their tenth consecutive game. Two field goals by Seahawks kicker Jason Myers was all that was needed to win this one.  

The Monday Night Football game saw the Detroit Lions win, 40-34 on the road against the San Francisco 49ers (6-10) as QB Jared Goff had three TD passes along with 303 passing yards while RB Jahmyr Gibbs (117 yards on 18 carries) scored a 30-yard rushing touchdown to give the Lions (14-2) a 40-28 lead with 2:58 remaining in the fourth quarter. Detroit WR Jameson Williams scored twice (one rushing, one receiving), including on a perfectly executed hook-and-lateral play. Meanwhile, before leaving the game with a elbow injury, 49ers QB Brock Purdy threw for three touchdowns along with 377 passing yards and also scored a rushing touchdown, but was intercepted twice in the loss.

WEEK SEVENTEEN RESULTS 

Kansas City 29, Pittsburgh 10 

Baltimore 31, Houston 2 

Seattle 6, Chicago 3 

L.A. Chargers 40, New England 7 

Cincinnati 30, Denver 24 (OT)

L.A. Rams 13, Arizona 9

Philadelphia 41, Dallas 7

Buffalo 40, N.Y. Jets 14

Jacksonville 20, Tennessee 13

N.Y. Giants 45, Indianapolis 33

Las Vegas 25, New Orleans 10

Tampa Bay 48, Carolina 14

Miami 20, Cleveland 3

Minnesota 27, Green Bay 25

Washington 30, Atlanta 24 (OT)

Detroit 40, San Francisco 34

 

 

NFL - Week Seventeen Preview

 

Week Seventeen in the NFL arrives on Christmas Day as the league looks to compete once again with the NBA and their annual basketball festivities on this day. Two games are on tap as the Pittsburgh Steelers (10-5) host the Kansas City Chiefs (14-1) and then the Baltimore Ravens (10-5) travel to face the Houston Texans (9-6). All four of these AFC teams have already clinched playoff spots. 

On Thursday night in Chicago, the woeful Bears (4-11 and losers of nine straight games) host the Seattle Seahawks (8-7), who have been struggling and are fighting for their playoff lives heading into that game. On Saturday, three more games as the Los Angeles Chargers (9-6) face the New England Patriots (3-12) in Massachusetts while the Arizona Cardinals (7-8) face the surging Los Angeles Rams (9-6) in California. In between those two games is a huge one between the Denver Broncos (9-6) and the home team Cincinnati Bengals (7-8), who with a win would be just one game behind Denver for the final AFC playoff spot with one game left to play. 

Sunday will feature nine games, including the Sunday night game between the Atlanta Falcons (8-7) and the host Washington Commanders (10-5) and of course, the final Monday Night Football game this season in San Francisco between the 49ers (6-9) and the Detroit Lions (13-2) in what many thought would have huge playoff implications for both teams. The 49ers are out of it this year, but the Lions need this win to stay atop the NFC pile for home field advantage. 

The following Heftyinfo capsule style previews for all 16 games follows up along with the picks for all the games in Week Seventeen. 

Christmas Day Games

Kansas City (14-1) at Pittsburgh (10-5) - Steelers need this game to stay atop the AFC North division while the Chiefs could clinch "home field advantage" throughout the AFC playoffs with a win. Toss up game for sure.

Baltimore (10-5) at Houston (9-6) - Another big game for the visiting Ravens as they hope to take over first place from Pittsburgh in the AFC North division. The Texans are already in the playoffs after winning the AFC South crown. 

Thursday Night Game 

Seattle (8-7) at Chicago (4-11) - The Seahawks need this game to stay alive in the NFC playoff chase. Meanwhile, if the Bears (losers on nine in a row) are going to get a win in their final two games this season, this would be it.

Saturday Games 

Los Angeles Chargers (9-6) at New England (3-12) - Chargers should get the win, but the Patriots will battle them. 

Denver (9-6) at Cincinnati (7-8) - It's simple here . . . If the Broncos win, they are in the playoffs and the Bengals are out. If Cincy gets the win, they would own the tie breaker over the Broncos for the final AFC wild card playoff spot. Toss up game.

Arizona (7-8) at Los Angeles Rams (9-6) - The Rams are rolling and should wrap up the NFC West division with a win in this one. 

Sunday Games

New York Jets (4-11) at Buffalo (12-3) - The Bills struggled last week to beat New England and that should be a wake up call for them in this game. The Jets are awful. 

Indianapolis (7-8) at New York Giants (2-13) - The Colts are the visitors and need this one to keep that flicker of playoff hopes alive. Giants have lost ten straight games. 

Tennessee (3-12) at Jacksonville (3-12) - Who cares? 

Las Vegas (3-12) at New Orleans (5-10) - See above comment. 

Green Bay (11-4) at Minnesota (13-2) - The Packers could still finish in second place in the rugged NFC North division and this game would be huge for them to win. Vikings are battling the Detroit Lions for the division title. Toss up here. 

Carolina (4-11) at Tampa Bay (8-7) - Buccaneers hosting a Carolina team that could play spoiler yet again this week. Beware! 

Miami (7-8) at Cleveland (3-12) - Dolphins should get the win here, but the Browns and their tough defense will not just roll over in this game. 

Dallas (7-8) at Philadelphia (12-3) - Cowboys showed some spunk last week with a win over Tampa Bay while the Eagles must rebound after blowing a big lead on the road at Washington. Take the Eagles. 

Atlanta (8-7) at Washington (10-5) - Falcons finally got a win last week and control their own destiny in the playoff hunt. However, the Commanders will likely put the Falcons back in uncertainty in this one. 

Monday Night Football Game 

Detroit (13-2) at San Francisco (6-9) - The Lions roar yet again.  

The Heftyinfo picks for Week Seventeen   . . . . . . . . . . . . .        (Home teams are listed in bold; Lock of the Week is listed in BOLD CAPS) 

Pittsburgh over Kansas City 

Baltimore over Houston 

Chicago over Seattle 

L.A. Chargers over New England 

Cincinnati over Denver 

L.A. Rams over Arizona 

Buffalo over N.Y. Jets 

Indianapolis over N.Y. Giants 

Jacksonville over Tennessee 

New Orleans over Las Vegas 

Green Bay over Minnesota 

Tampa Bay over Carolina 

Miami over Cleveland  

PHILADELPHIA over Dallas 

Washington over Atlanta 

Detroit over San Francisco 

Last Week's Record - 14-2

SEASON RECORD - 165-75

Lock of the Week Record - 13-3

NFL - Week Sixteen Recap

Justin Herbert and the Chargers stormed back for the big win on Thursday night.

The NFL playoff picture is taking shape as teams have clinched spots in the post-season while others still have hopes. 

In Los Angeles last Thursday night, the Chargers (9-6) toppled the Denver Broncos, 34-27 in a big comeback effort, shutting down the Broncos (9-6) on offense (just two field goals) while scoring 21 points to move back into second place in the AFC West division. Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (284 passing yards) had a pair of scoring passes (also one INT), including the game clincher with 2:27 left to play when he hit WR Hassan Haskins on a 34-yard scoring pass. Denver had a 21-10 lead thanks to a pair of TD passes from rookie QB Bo Nix (263 passing yards) and a three-yard scoring run by Audric Estime. Just before halftime, the Chargers benefited from an obscure rule after fair catch interference that allowed kicker Cameron Dicker to attempt a "free kick" 57 yard field goal to trim the deficit to 21-13. From there, it was all Chargers as they won the game.

On Saturday, the Kansas City Chiefs (14-1) won 27-19 over the Houston Texans (9-6) as QB Patrick Mahomes overcame a high ankle sprain (suffered in last week's action) by running 15 yards for a score and also threw a scoring pass while Kareem Hunt scored a touchdown on the ground. Texans QB C.J. Stroud threw for two touchdowns in the loss.

In Baltimore on Saturday, the Ravens (10-5) knocked off the Pittsburgh Steelers, 34-17 with QB Lamar Jackson  passing for three touchdowns while running back Derrick Henry ran for 162 yards on 24 carries to pace the balance offensive attack (220 rushing yards and 198 passing yards) and pull the Ravens into a first place tie with the Steelers (10-5) in the AFC North division. The game was back and forth with the Steelers tying the game 17-17 when QB Russell Wilson threw his second TD pass. The Ravens went back in front 24-17 when Jackson connected with tight end Mark Andrews for a seven yard TD pass. Early in the fourth quarter, Steelers DB Minkah Fitzpatrick intercepted Jackson and then Baltimore DB Marlon Humphrey settled things with a "pick six" INT return for a 31-17 lead two plays later. 

 

The Sunday action saw the Washington Commanders (10-5) stun the visiting Philadelphia Eagles with a big comeback and a 36-33 decision that snapped the Eagles ten game win streak. Commanders rookie QB Jayden Williams (pictured right) had five touchdown passes to offset five turnovers by the team to earn the hard fought win and prevent the Eagles (12-3) from clinching the NFC East. Williams threw a nine-yard scoring pass to WR Jamison Crowder with six seconds left to play. The Eagles led 21-7 after the first quarter as Saquon Barkley (150 rushing yards on 29 carries) scored twice, including a 68-yard run. Quarterback kenny Pickett threw a scoring pass as well after coming in for injured starter Jalen Hurts (concussion). The Eagles led, 27-14 entering the fourth quarter when Daniels threw two scoring passes to Olamide Zaccheaus for a 28-27 lead. Philadelphia countered with two field goals by Jake Elliott (33-28 lead) before the last second score by Washington. 

The Detroit Lions improved to 13-2 with a 34-17 shellacking of the host Chicago Bears (4-11), who dropped their ninth consecutive game. Lions QB Jared Goff (336 passing yards) had three TD passes while Jahmyr Gibbs (23 carries for 109 yards) scored a rushing touchdown. Bears rookie QB Caleb Williams had two scoring passes in defeat.

The Los Angeles Rams (9-6) won on the road, 19-9 against the New York Jets (4-11) as RB Kyren Williams scored a rushing TD and went for 122 yards on 23 carries while QB Matthew Stafford completed a scoring pass to tight end Tyler Higbee for their fourth straight win. Jets QB Aaron Rodgers had a TD pass and also lost a fumble in the loss.

The Atlanta Falcons (8-7) stayed alive in the NFC playoff picture with a 34-7 trouncing of the New York Giants (2-13) for the home win as rookie QB Michael Penix (making his first NFL start) managed the offense with RB Bijan Robinson rushing for 94 yards and scoring two rushing touchdowns while Jessie Bates III (55 yards) and Matthew Juson (27 yards) each had "pick six" interceptions. Giants QB Drew Lock had a TD pass along with the two interceptions thrown in the loss, which was the Giants tenth consecutive defeat, a franchise record.

The Indianapolis Colts (7-8) beat down the visiting Tennessee Titans, 38-30 behind a huge game from RB Jonathan Taylor (218 rushing yards on 29 carries, three TD), including TD jaunts of 65 and 70 yards as they built a 38-7 lead in the third quarter. Titans QB Mason Rudolph (253 passing yards, three INT) had two TD tosses and RB Tyjae Spears scored two rushing touchdowns to make it interesting, but the Titans fell to 3-12 this season.

The Cincinnati Bengals (7-8) won a home game, 24-6 against the Cleveland Browns (3-12) as QB Joe Burrow threw for 252 yards with three TD passes to lead the way. The Browns had three turnovers in the loss.

The Carolina Panthers (4-11) played spoiler to the playoff hopes of the Arizona Cardinals (7-8) with a 36-30 win at home in overtime as RB Chuba Hubbard (152 rushing yards, two TD) ran 21 yards for the winning score. Cardinals kicker Chad Ryland nailed a 58-yard field goal as time expired to force the overtime. Panthers QB Bryce Young had two TD passes along with a 23-yard scoring run to offset a TD pass and run by Arizona QB Kyler Murray. The Cardinals were eliminated from playoff contention.

In Buffalo, the Bills (12-3) overcame an early 14-0 deficit to defeat the New England Patriots, 24-21 as RB James Cook (11 carries for 100 yards) had two TD runs and Taron Johnson recovered a fumble for a defensive score to lead the way. The Patriots (3-12) had a 14-0 advantage thanks to rookie QB Drake Maye (261 passing yards, two TD, one INT) throwing a scoring pass and Rhamondre Stevenson scoring on a 14-yard run. Bills QB Josh Allen had a TD pass and one interception thrown and also suffered a right elbow injury in the game, but he stayed in the game. 

The Minnesota Vikings improved to 13-2 with their eighth straight victory as they beat the host Seattle Seahawks, 27-24 and kept pace with the Detroit Lions in the NFC North division. The Vikings led 17-14 at halftime as QB Sam Darnold (246 passing yards, three TD) threw for two scores. The Seahawks (8-7) took a 24-20 lead with 4:21 remaining in the fourth quarter when QB Geno Smith (314 passing yards, three TD, two INT) hit tight end A.J. Barner for a four-yard touchdown pass. But Minnesota took a 27-24 lead just 30 seconds later when Darnold hooked up with WR Justin Jefferson (pictured above right), who had ten receptions for 144 yards, for the second time (this one a 39-yard scoring pass) and then the Vikings defense got the game clinching interception to close it out. 

The San Francisco 49ers were eliminated from playoff contention when the Los Angeles Rams won earlier in the day and proceeded to drop to 6-9 as they lost on the road, 29-17 to the Miami Dolphins (7-8). 49ers QB Brock Purdy had a pair of TD passes along with 313 yards and one interception. Meanwhile, the Dolphins had five field goals by Jason Sanders and also a TD pass from Tua Tagovailoa and a 50-yard TD run by De'Von Achane to pace the winning effort and stay afloat in the AFC playoff chase. 

The Las Vegas Raiders (3-12) snapped a ten game losing streak with a 19-14 win at home against the Jacksonville Jaguars (3-12) as running back Ameer Abdullah scored on a seven-yard run early in the fourth quarter. Jaguars QB Mac Jones had a TD pass and 247 passing yards in defeat.

On Sunday night, the Dallas Cowboys outlasted the visiting Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 26-24 as DaRon Bland recovered a fumble to stop the Bucs last drive to end the game.  The Cowboys (7-8) raced out to a 20-7 lead in the second quarter as QB Cooper Rush (292 passing yards) threw a TD pass and RB Ezekiel Elliott scored on a one-yard run. The Buccaneers (8-7) battled back in the final quarter as QB Baker Mayfield (303 passing yards, two TD, one interception) threw a 13-yard scoring pass to Ryan Miller with 2:36 remaining. But that would be the way it would end as Tampa Bay fell to second place in the NFC South division.

The Green Bay Packers (11-4) clinched a playoff spot with a 34-0 win against the New Orleans Saints (5-10) at cold and blustery Lambeau Field on Monday night. Four different players scored touchdowns and QB Jordan Love had a scoring pass to lead the way while the defense had three sacks, forced two turnovers and limited the Saints to just 196 yards in total offense. 

 

WEEK SIXTEEN RESULTS 

L.A. Chargers 34, Denver 27

Kansas City 27, Houston 19 

Baltimore 34, Pittsburgh 17 

Detroit 34, Chicago 17 

L.A. Rams 19, N.Y. Jets 9 

Atlanta 34, N.Y. Giants 7 

Cincinnati 24, Cleveland 6 

Indianapolis 38, Tennessee 30

Washington 36, Philadelphia 33

Carolina 36, Arizona 30 (OT) 

Minnesota 27, Seattle 24

Las Vegas 19, Jacksonville 14 

Buffalo 24, New England 21

Miami 29, San Francisco 17 

Dallas 26, Tampa Bay 24

Green Bay 34, New Orleans 0

NFL - Week Sixteen Preview

 

Thursday night football and two Saturday games highlight Week Sixteen around the NFL as the Los Angeles Chargers (8-6) host the Denver Broncos (9-5) while the Houston Texans (9-5) travel to play the Kansas City Chiefs (13-1) and the Baltimore Ravens (9-5) host their hated rivals, the Pittsburgh Steelers (10-4) on Saturday. 

On Sunday, the Philadelphia Eagles (12-2), winners of ten in a row, will play at Washington and if they beat the Commanders (9-5), they clinch the NFC East division title. The Minnesota Vikings (12-2) will play at Seattle and could take over first place in the rugged NFC North division with a win and a loss by the injury riddled Detroit Lions. The host Seahawks (8-6) could be without starting quarterback Geno Smith and they need a win to keep pace with the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC West race. The Sunday night game features the red hot Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-6) traveling to face the Dallas Cowboys (6-8), who are simply playing out the string of games this season. 

The Broncos have won four straight games and if they beat the Chargers, they are in the playoffs for the first time since the 2015 season. Denver's defense has equaled the Chargers for the least points allowed in the NFL. The Chargers need to rebound after getting crushed by Tampa Bay last week, which was their third loss in their last four games. With QB Justin Herbert nursing a bad ankle, the Chargers need this one and if their offense can get it going, it would go a long way to getting them into the AFC playoffs. 

As for those Saturday games, Kansas City QB Patrick Mahomes appears to be ready to play after suffering a high ankle sprain last Sunday. The Texans defense will look to pressure Mahomes and force him to run in this game. Houston has already clinched the AFC South title, but they would like to get back on track after a rough stretch that saw them lose three games in four weeks. The Chiefs need to keep winning because the Buffalo Bills are lurking and they knocked off the Chiefs last month. 

The Ravens vs. the Steelers . . . always a battle and the Steelers have won eight of the last nine contests, including a tight 18-16 decision (with six field goals) five weeks ago. Ravens QB Lamar Jackson has had his share of trouble against the Pittsburgh defense, so he needs to get it going and have a big game for the team to stay in contention for the AFC North title. A Steelers win in this one clinches the division. 

In Washington, D.C., the host Commanders are all but in the NFC playoffs, but they cannot rest on their accomplishments because the Philadelphia Eagles have won ten straight games and if they win out, they could very well earn the top seed in the NFC. Philly has the top defense in the NFL and they beat up on the Commanders in November. Look for a closer game this time around, but once again, the Eagles should get it done.

If the Minnesota Vikings can keep it going strong (they have seven consecutive wins) in Seattle, they will continue to control their own destiny in the NFC playoff race. Their offense has been humming and QB Sam Darnold is having one of the best "comeback" seasons in many years. The Seahawks were rolling along, but last week got slapped by the Green Bay Packers and QB Geno Smith suffered a knee injury. If the 'Hawks want to stay relevant in the NFC playoff chase, they have to contain Minnesota's offense and get their own offense in gear. That's a tough ask with the recent trends between these two teams.

Tampa Bay should beat the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday night, but that will depend on QB Baker Mayfield staying hot (he had four TD tosses last week in a big win against the L.A. Chargers) and the defense creating problems for the Dallas offense. When it's all over in Big D Land, the Bucs should have their fifth straight win. 

The rest of the NFL action is featured in the capsule style previews and the Heftyinfo picks follow up. 

Detroit Lions (12-2) at Chicago Bears (4-10) - Could this be the week the Bears (eight straight losses) finally get a win? The Lions are wrecked with injuries, especially on defense, and the Bears played them really close just three weeks ago. 

Los Angeles Rams (8-6) at New York Jets (4-10) - The Rams go for their fourth win in a row against a listless Jets team. 

New York Giants (2-12) at Atlanta Falcons (7-7) - Every game remaining is a MUST WIN for the Falcons and they get to host the worst team in pro football in this one. 

Arizona Cardinals (7-7) at Carolina Panthers (3-11) - Panthers could very well play spoiler to the Cards' playoff chances in this one. 

Cleveland Browns (3-11) at Cincinnati Bengals (6-8) - This game is always an entertaining one. Bengals are also in must win mode the rest of the season, so expect some fireworks. 

Tennessee Titans (3-11) at Indianapolis Colts (6-8) - Colts should get the win, but Titans defense will keep it close. 

New England Patriots (3-11) at Buffalo Bills (11-3) - There was a time when a late December game between these two teams saw the win-loss records reversed. But that was quite some time ago . . . Bills roll ! 

Jacksonville Jaguars (3-11) at Las Vegas Raiders (2-12) - Backup quarterbacks starting for two lousy teams in Vegas . . . toss up for draft day positioning in this one. 

San Francisco 49ers (6-8) at Miami Dolphins (6-8) - These two also ran teams were highly regarded when the season started. That's why they play the games. Toss up here. 

New Orleans Saints (5-9) at Green Bay Packers (10-4) - Take the Packers. 

The Heftyinfo picks for Week Sixteen   . . . . . . . . . . . . .      (Home teams are listed in bold; Lock of the Week is listed in BOLD CAPS) 

L.A. Chargers over Denver 

Kansas City over Houston 

Baltimore over Pittsburgh 

Detroit over Chicago 

L.A. Rams over N.Y. Jets 

Philadelphia over Washington 

Atlanta over N.Y. Giants 

Carolina over Arizona 

Cincinnati over Cleveland 

Indianapolis over Tennessee 

Minnesota over Seattle 

BUFFALO over New England 

Las Vegas over Jacksonville 

Miami over San Francisco 

Tampa Bay over Dallas 

Green Bay over New Orleans 

 

Last Week's Record - 10-6 

SEASON RECORD - 151-73 

Lock of the Week Record - 12-3 

NFL - Week Fifteen Recap

 

Josh Allen and the Bills had a big game to win in Detroit.

The Buffalo Bills (11-3) went into Detroit and manhandled the Lions (12-2) to snap the host teams' 11-game winning streak with quarterback Josh Allen (362 passing yards) going off for two scoring passes and also rushing for two touchdowns in the 48-42 victory. In addition, Bills running back James Cook rushed for two scores and gained 105 yards on 14 carries. It was the eighth straight game the Bills scored 30 or more points, which equals an NFL record shared by numerous teams. Lions QB Jared Goff had five TD passes and 494 passing yards in the loss.The Bills and Lions combined for 1,080 total yards in offense in this one. The Lions are also decimated with injuries, losing two more players on defense and also a season ending knee injury to running back David Montgomery.

In Philadelphia, the Eagles (12-2) served notice they are top team in Pennsylvania as they beat the Pittsburgh Steelers, 27-13 and clinched a spot in the NFC playoffs. Philadelphia QB Jalen Hurts passed for 290 yards with two scoring passes and also had a TD run in the win, which was their tenth in a row. Even with the loss, the Steelers (10-4) clinched an AFC playoff spot as they were limited to a paltry 163 yards in total offense.

In Los Angeles, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-6) took over the game in the second half as they blasted the Chargers, 40-17 with QB Baker Mayfield (288 passing yards) throwing four touchdown passes, including two to wide receiver Mike Evans (nine receptions, 159 yards) while RB Bucky Irving gained 117 rushing yards on 15 carries as Tampa Bay rushed for 223 yards in the rout. The loss was the third in the last four games for the Chargers as they dropped to 8-6 this season and down to third place in the AFC West division and also into the last remaining AFC wild card playoff spot.

The Baltimore Ravens (9-5) steam rolled the host New York Giants, 35-14 with QB Lamar Jackson throwing five touchdown passes and 290 yards to lead a balanced offense (170 rushing yards, 275 passing yards) while the Giants (2-12) lost their ninth consecutive game while being limited to just 55 rushing yards.

The Houston Texans (9-5) all but ended any playoff hopes the visiting Miami Dolphins (6-8) had as they won, 20-12 and coupled with Indianapolis losing to Denver, clinched the AFC South division title. Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud threw two scoring passes to WR Niko Collins while Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa was intercepted three times in defeat. The Dolphins gained only 224 yards and the Texans just 181 yards in total offense in the game.

The Kansas City Chiefs improved their record to a league best 13-1 with a 21-7 win in Cleveland as the Browns gained 266 yards in total offense while turning it over six times (four interceptions, two fumbles) to fall to 3-1 this season. Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes passed for two touchdowns before leaving the game midway through the fourth quarter with an ankle injury and so far he is listed as week to week.

 

The Denver Broncos improved to 9-5 with their fourth straight win, this time knocking off the visiting Indianapolis Colts, 31-13. The entire game changed when Colts running back Jonathan Taylor (pictured right) dropped the football before crossing the goal line and turning it over to Denver. At that point, the Colts (6-8) led 13-7 (which would have increased to 19-7 or better with the scoring run) but instead the Broncos went on to take advantage of the mental lapse and won going away as rookie QB Bo Nix had three TD passes along with three interceptions thrown. Denver's defense forced five turnovers in the game, including a 50-yard fumble return for touchdown by linebacker Nik Bonitto for a 24-13 lead with 12:29 remaining in the fourth quarter. Colts QB Anthony Richardson was picked off twice in the loss. 

The New York Jets (4-10) finally got a win as they beat the host Jacksonville Jaguars, 32-25 with RB Breece Hall scoring the tinning touchdown on a one-yard run with 1:05 left to play.  Jets QB Aaron Rodgers (289 passing yards, three TD) hooked up with WR Davante Adams (nine receptions for 198 yards) for two scores, including a 71-yard scoring pass for a 25-22 lead with 3:24 remaining in the game. Jacksonville fell to 3-11 as QB Mac Jones had two TD passes and two interceptions thrown in defeat. 

The Washington Commanders (9-5) inched closer to locking up a playoff spot in the NFC by holding off the New Orleans Saints, 20-19. The Saints (5-9) stormed back from a 17-0 deficit to get to within one point when third string QB Spencer Rattler threw a one-yard scoring pass to tight end Foster Moreau as time ran out, but the two-point conversion (for the win) failed and the Commanders got the victory. Washington rookie QB Jayden Daniels had two touchdown passes while also being sacked eight times.

The Arizona Cardinals (7-7) halted a three-game losing streak with a 30-17 home win against the New England Patriots (3-11) with RB James Conner (16 carries for 110 yards) scoring twice on the ground while Patriots QB Drake Maye had a scoring run and pass in the loss.

The Cincinnati Bengals (6-8) beat the host Tennessee Titans, 37-27 as QB Joe Burrow had three TD passes and Geno Stone had a 39-yard "pick six" return for a touchdown along with a scoring run and reception by RB Chase Brown. The Bengals defense forced six turnovers (four interceptions) as the Titans (3-11) benched starting QB Will Levis (three interceptions) in favor of Mason Rudolph, who had two TD passes (209 passing yards and one INT) in defeat.

Dallas (6-8) won a road game, 30-14 against the Carolina Panthers (3-11) as QB Cooper Rush had three scoring passes and 214 yards while their defense had six sacks and four turnovers (two fumbles, two interceptions). Panthers QB Bryce Young had a TD pass and also a scoring run in the loss.

The Sunday night game in Seattle saw the Green Bay Packers (10-4) blast the Seahawks, 30-13 with QB Jordan Love (229 passing yards) throwing two TD passes and RB Josh Jacobs (94 yards) rushing for another score as they built a 14-0 lead in the first quarter. The Packers defense got two interceptions and also had seven sacks. The Seahawks (8-6) fell into second place in the NFC West as QB Geno Smith suffered a knee injury as they were limited to just 208 yards in offense.

On Thursday night, the Los Angeles Rams improve to 8-6 for the season with a 12-6 road win against the San Francisco 49ers (6-8) in a game that had no touchdowns. A driving rain storm limited each teams ability to sustain drives and Rams kicker Joshua Karty made four field goals (three in the final quarter) to get the win. The 49ers gained only 191 yards in offense in the loss. 

The Minnesota Vikings (12-2) beat the Chicago Bears, 30-12 for their seventh consecutive victory on Monday night as QB Sam Darnold had a TD pass and running backs Aaron Jones and Cam Akers each added a touchdown run along with three field goals by Will Reichard. The Bears (4-10) lost their eighth straight game with rookie QB Caleb Williams throwing a scoring pass in defeat. 

In Las Vegas in the second Monday Night Football game, the Atlanta Falcons (7-7) snapped a four-game skid with a 15-9 win against the Raiders (2-12), who dropped their tenth consecutive game. Falcons QB Kirk Cousins threw a 30-yard TD pass to Drake London for a 7-0 lead in the first quarter. Younghoe Koo made two field goals and a safety provided the rest of the scoring. Raiders QB Desmond Ridder threw a five-yard scoring pass to Ameer Abdullah with 2:54 left in the fourth quarter, but it wasn't enough.

 

WEEK FIFTEEN RESULTS 

L.A. Rams 12, San Francisco 6 

Baltimore 35, N.Y. Giants 14 

Washington 20, New Orleans 19

N.Y. Jets 32, Jacksonville 25 

Cincinnati 37, Tennessee 27

Houston 20, Miami 12 

Kansas City 21, Cleveland 7 

Dallas 30, Carolina 14 

Denver 31, Indianapolis 13

Tampa Bay 40, L.A. Chargers 17

Arizona 30, New England 17

Philadelphia 27, Pittsburgh 13

Buffalo 48, Detroit 42

Green Bay 30, Seattle 13

Minnesota 30, Chicago 12

Atlanta 15, Las Vegas 9

NFL - Week Fifteen Preview

Big games galore on tap for Week Fifteen around the NFL as the playoff picture becomes more focused in mid-December. 

On Thursday night in San Francisco, the 49ers (6-7) host the Los Angeles Rams (7-6) in an NFC West battle with both teams needing to win. The Seattle Seahawks (8-5) lead the division race and a win here would go a long way to staying right there with the 'Hawks, especially for the Rams, who are just one game behind in the race. San Francisco is still missing some key players on both sides of the football, but they do have quarterback Brock Purdy and playmaker Deebo Samuel healthy, so that should help them out. 

The Rams are coming off a huge win (at home) last week against the Buffalo Bills and QB Matthew Stafford has been on fire along with wide receivers Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp, plus running back Kyren Williams has been solid all season long. This game should go down to the final minutes and anything can happen. 

 

 

On Sunday, six games have really big implications for the playoffs and four of them are in the late afternoon time slot along with the Sunday night game in Seattle, where the Seahawks face the Green Bay Packers (9-4) in what should be a slug fest game. The Miami Dolphins (6-7) face the Houston Texans (8-5) early in the day and then four games kick off later on. 

The Pittsburgh Steelers (10-3) take on the Philadelphia Eagles (11-2) in Philly while the Denver Broncos (8-5) host the Indianapolis Colts (6-7) is what should be a good battle for wild card positioning in the AFC. Also playing will be the Buffalo Bills (10-3) at the Detroit Lions (12-1) in what is most definitely the NFL game of the week. The Los Angeles Chargers (8-5) host the surging Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-6), who have won three straight games. 

The Dolphins need to win out if they want to make the AFC playoffs (as a wild card team) and they will need to score early and often against the Houston Texans, who have struggled since getting off to a 5-1 start. Miami QB Tua Tagovailoa has been playing great since recovering from the concussion problems and will look to his top targets (Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle and tight end Jonnu Smith) to have a real shot at winning this one. The Texans need to get back to the basics and QB C.J. Stroud has to get the spark back that made him so effective a year ago. 

The Steelers could knock off the high flying Eagles (nine straight wins) if their defense pressures Philly QB Jalen Hurts and can bottle up NFL MVP candidate (running back) Saquon Barkley, who leads the league in rushing yards. On the other side, the Eagles defense has been top notch all season long and will look to do the same against Steelers QB Russell Wilson and company. This game will feature two of the best defenses in the NFL, but the (slight) edge goes to the Eagles. 

The Denver Broncos have been a pleasant surprise and a win against the Colts will go a long way to accomplishing their goal of making the post-season. Rookie QB Bo Nix is definitely in the running for the Rookie of the Year award and his steady play should continue against the Colts. Indianapolis (like the Miami Dolphins) is in the win out mode if they want to make the playoffs and they will have to play mistake free football in the Mile High City if they want to continue that journey. 

The Bills vs. the Lions could be a Super Bowl preview and it will likely go down that way with two of the best offenses in the NFL going at it. Bills QB Josh Allen has been tremendous and the Bills have a balanced attack much like the Lions do. Detroit's defense continues to thrive in spite of injuries and they will be tested this week. As for the Bills defense, they got lit up last week (a 44-42 loss to the L.A. Rams) and the Lions and QB Jared Goff and all his weapons with a balanced offense, will present a major challenge for the Bills. Take the Lions in a squeaker as Coach Dan Campbell finds a way once again. 

In L.A., the Chargers and their solid defense should do enough to keep Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers offense at bay. This game will likely be a close one, but the Chargers should prevail as long as QB Justin Herbert continues to protect the football. Chargers Head Coach Jim Harbaugh seems to be able to push the right buttons and another challenge awaits, so watch for his team to have something up their sleeves to get the win. 

The Sunday night game between Green Bay and Seattle is another tilt that should be worth the price of admission and both teams need the win to keep pace with the tight races going on throughout the NFC. Packers QB Jordan Love has been rolling along this season and running back Josh Jacobs has been solid, coming off a three touchdown game in Week 14 (a loss) against the Detroit Lions. Meanwhile, the Seahawks have won four in row and both the offense and defense have been playing well to make it happen. Seattle QB Geno Smith has been getting it done while defensive lineman Leonard Williams has been a maniac against opposing offenses. Look for a close game with a late break making the difference for the Seahawks. 

The rest of the NFL action for Week Fifteen is featured in the capsule style format and the Heftyinfo picks follow. 

Dallas (5-8) at Carolina (3-10) - The Cowboys cannot lose to the Panthers, can they? 

Kansas City (12-1) at Cleveland (3-10) - An upset could happen here . . . Browns play solid defense and the Chiefs keep sneaking out with a win week after week. Beware!

N.Y. Jets (3-10) at Jacksonville (3-10) - The stinker game of the week. 

Washington (8-5) at New Orleans (5-8) - Toss up in this one with two teams still playing for something. Saints need Derek Carr to be ready at quarterback for this game as they are on life support in the NFC playoff race. 

Baltimore (8-5) at N.Y. Giants (2-11) - Ravens should roll in this one. 

Cincinnati (5-8) at Tennessee (3-10) - Bengals should roll in this one. 

New England (3-10) at Arizona (6-7) - The Cardinals need a win in the worst way to remain relevant in the playoff race. Patriots are playing out the string the rest of this season. 

Chicago (4-9) at Minnesota (11-2) - One of two Monday night games with the skidding Bears (seven straight losses) taking on the red hot Vikings, who have won six in a row. 

Atlanta (6-7) at Las Vegas (2-11) -  Monday night in Vegas with both of these teams on bad losing streaks . . . Atlanta (four) and Las Vegas (nine) . . .  so something has to give. 

The Heftyinfo picks for Week Fifteen     . . . . . . . . . . . .       (Home teams are listed in bold; Lock of the Week is listed in BOLD CAPS) 

San Francisco over L.A Rams 

Dallas over Carolina 

Cleveland over Kansas City 

Houston over Miami 

Jacksonville over N.Y. Jets 

Washington over New Orleans 

BALTIMORE over N.Y. Giants 

Cincinnati over Tennessee 

Arizona over New England 

Denver over Indianapolis 

Detroit over Buffalo 

L.A. Chargers over Tampa Bay 

Philadelphia over Pittsburgh 

Seattle over Green Bay 

Minnesota over Chicago 

Atlanta over Las Vegas 

 

Last Week's Record - 10-3

SEASON RECORD - 141-67

Lock of the Week Record - 11-3