NFL - Week Seventeen Preview

 

The action for Week Seventeen starts on Thursday night when the Dallas Cowboys (11-4) visit the Tennessee Titans (7-8) but the game most people will be focusing on this week is the Monday Night Football game in Cincinnati between the Bengals (11-4) and the Buffalo Bills (12-3) with perhaps the top spot in the AFC playoffs on the line. 

The Bills have won six straight games while the Bengals have won seven consecutive games, so something has to give. Buffalo owns the top spot in the AFC playoff chase right now, but a win by the Bengals would allow them to leap frog the Bills for at least the number-two spot at worst. The Kansas City Chiefs are also 12-3 and have remaining games against the hapless Denver Broncos (at home) and at the Las Vegas Raiders to finish the regular season. What it all means is the Bills definitely need this one because they could possibly drop from the top spot down to number three entering the final week of the regular season. 

Expect a back and forth game between two teams with solid defenses and excellent offensive attacks, led by two of the best young quarterbacks in the league. Bills QB Josh Allen has 32 touchdown passes and 13 interceptions and has also rushed for 746 yards and scored seven touchdowns. Meanwhile, Joe Burrow has been the Bengals unquestioned leader and he has 34 TD passes and just twelve interceptions while also scoring five rushing touchdowns. This game will likely go down to the wire and the team that has the ball last could pull it out. 

The Miami Dolphins (8-7) have dropped four games in a row and now face the New England Patriots (7-8) on the road in what is really an elimination game for the loser as far as a playoff spot is concerned. Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa is out for this game as he suffered another concussion last week in the loss to Green Bay. The Patriots lost the season opener to Miami and would love to get some revenge, especially with the 'Fins starting Teddy Bridgewater at quarterback. This one is a toss up for sure. 

In Philadelphia, the Eagles (13-2) will host the New Orleans Saints (6-9), a team that can still win out and possibly get into the NFC playoffs. Philly will likely be without starting QB Jalen Hurts (shoulder sprain) once again this Sunday, meaning Gardner Minshew will once again get the start. The Saints pulled out a close win against Atlanta last week and it will be a tall order for them to get this road win. The Eagles should get the victory and lock up "home field" advantage throughout the NFC playoffs. 

In the putrid NFC South, the first place Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-8) host the Carolina Panthers (6-9), who walloped Tom Brady and the Bucs back in October, 21-3 so they know they can get into first place in the division with a win. But does anyone really expect Panthers QB Sam Darnold to out perform Tom Brady in a must win game? It's possible, especially in this years' version of the NFL. But the pick here is for the Buccaneers to take care of business. 

Up in Green Bay this Sunday, the Packers (7-8) will host the Minnesota Vikings (12-3) as they continue to make a push to make the playoffs. The Packers won their third consecutive game in Miami on Christmas Day and QB Aaron Rodgers is continuing to mesh with the fleet of young wide receivers at the right time of the season. The Vikings keep winning one-score games and they are already in the playoffs, but would like to maintain their number-two seed. Green Bay is already in "playoff mode" as they must win out to have a shot to get in, so take the Packers in this one. 

As for the rest of the action this weekend, all the games are previewed in the capsule style format and the Heftyinfo picks follow up. 

 

Dallas (11-4) at Tennessee (7-8) - Cowboys should win this game as the Titans are already locked into a final game showdown next week with Jacksonville for the AFC South title. 

Arizona (4-11) at Atlanta (5-10) - Two teams just playing out the schedule in this one. Take the Falcons. 

Indianapolis (4-10-1) at N.Y. Giants (8-6-1) - The Giants need this game and they should get the win. 

Chicago (3-12) at Detroit (7-8) - The Lions still have a chance to make the playoffs, but the Bears could be the spoilers as they look to end their eight game losing streak. 

Denver (4-11) at Kansas City (12-3) - The Broncos challenged the Chiefs right down to the wire three weeks ago . . . not this time around. Chiefs roll ! 

Cleveland (6-9) at Washington (7-7-1) - The Commanders turn back to QB Carson Wentz for this must win game. The Browns are out of playoff contention and would do well to stay close in this one. 

Jacksonville (7-8) at Houston (2-12-1) - The Jaguars are surging and will be looking forward to the final game match against Tennessee. The Texans have been playing good football in December, so watch out for a possible surprise in this one. 

N.Y. Jets (7-8) at Seattle (7-8) - This game will decide which losing team will be eliminated from playoff contention. 

San Francisco (11-4) at Las Vegas (6-9) - Take the 49ers in this one. The Raiders are an absolute mess. 

L.A. Rams (5-10) at L.A. Chargers (9-6) - The Chargers have already locked up a playoff spot in the AFC. The Rams are coming off their best game, but don't expect them to roll up 50-plus points on the Chargers defense. 

Pittsburgh (7-8) at Baltimore (10-5) - The Sunday night game featuring these bitter rivals will be a good one. The Steelers are coming off their emotional win last week and would love to knock off Baltimore in their own yard. Plus a win for Pittsburgh keeps them in the AFC playoff chase.

 

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

 

Dallas over Tennessee 

Atlanta over Arizona 

N.Y. Giants over Indianapolis

Chicago over Detroit 

KANSAS CITY over Denver 

New England over Miami 

Philadelphia over New Orleans 

Tampa Bay over Carolina 

Washington over Cleveland 

Jacksonville over Houston 

Seattle over N.Y. Jets 

San Francisco over Las Vegas 

L.A. Chargers over L.A. Rams 

Green Bay over Minnesota 

Pittsburgh over Baltimore 

Cincinnati over Buffalo 

  

Last Week's Record - 11-5 

SEASON RECORD - 153-85-2 

Lock of the Week Record - 14-2 

NFL - Week Sixteen Recap

 

The Pittsburgh Steelers came through and they did it. 

They won their home game on Christmas Eve (Saturday evening) against the Las Vegas Raiders (6-9) by a score of 13-10 as they scored the winning touchdown with just 46 seconds remaining when rookie quarterback Kenny Pickett connected with wide receiver George Pickens on a 14-yard scoring pass. The Steelers (7-8) won their fourth game in the last five and did it on the night they honored the late Franco Harris, the legendary Steelers running back and Hall of Fame player who died last week just days before the team retired his jersey number 32 at halftime. Las Vegas led 10-3 at halftime as QB Derek Carr (174 passing yards, one TD, three INT) threw a 14-yard TD pass to WR Hunter Renfrow, but the Steelers defense shut them down the rest of the way to help lead the way to victory.

The surging Jacksonville Jaguars won, 19-3 against the host New York Jets last Thursday night and improved to 7-8 this season to get things started in Week Sixteen. Jags quarterback Trevor Lawrence scored on a one-yard run and kicker Riley Patterson made four field goals to provide the difference. The Jets (7-8) managed just one field goal and 227 yards in total offense as starting QB Zach Wilson was benched again. 

The Buffalo Bills (12-3) overcame a sluggish start in frigid Chicago to beat the Bears (3-12) by a 35-13 final score as QB Josh Allen threw for two touchdowns to offset two interceptions and also had a touchdown run as the Bills piled up 254 rushing yards in the win. The Bears lost for eighth straight time as they only gained 209 yards in total offense. 

The Kansas City Chiefs (12-3) won at home, 24-10 against the fading Seattle Seahawks to keep the pressure on Buffalo for the top spot in the AFC playoff race. Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes threw two TD passes and also ran for one to lead the way. The Seahawks (7-8) lost their third consecutive game and fifth in the last six games.

Cincinnati (11-4) won again as they toppled the host New England Patriots, 22-18 for their seventh straight victory. Bengals QB Joe Burrow (375 passing yards, three TD, two INT) had three TD passes in the first half as they built a 22-0 lead. The Patriots (7-8) battled back in the second half with cornerback Marcus Jones taking an interception back 69 yards for a score and two TD passes by QB Mac Jones, but they fell short. 

The Minnesota Vikings won at home, 27-24 against the New York Giants (8-6-1) when kicker Greg Joseph made a team record 61-yard field goal as time ran out to improve to 12-3 this season. Vikings QB Kirk Cousins had three TD passes along with 299 passing yards. The Giants had tied the game 24-24 when running back Saquon Barkley scored on a 27-yard run and QB Daniel Jones (334 passing yards, one TD, one INT) converted the two-point pass. 

The Dallas Cowboys (11-4) defeated the Philadelphia Eagles, 40-34 to prevent them from clinching the NFC East division title as kicker Brett Maher made two field goals in the final two minutes to seal it. Cowboys QB Dak Prescott passed for 347 yards and three touchdowns and also one interception that was brought back 42 yards by defensive end Josh Sweat for a score to give the Eagles (13-2) a 10-0 lead. Philadelphia backup QB Gardner Minshew started in place of Jalen Hurts (shoulder injury) and had a TD run and two scoring passes along with two picks thrown and 355 passing yards in defeat. 

The Detroit Lions (7-8) saw their current hot streak halted as they were blown out in Carolina, 37-23 after falling behind 31-7 early in the second half. The Panthers (6-9) kept alive their playoff hopes as they gained 570 yards in total offense, including an astounding 320 yards rushing in the easy win. Carolina running backs D'Onta Formean (165 yards and one TD) and Chuba Hubbard (125 yards) each went over 100 yards for the game and QB Sam Darnold rushed and passed for a touchdown as well. Lions QB Jared Goff (355 passing yards) had three TD passes in the loss. 

San Francisco won for the eighth straight time with a 37-20 home victory against the Washington Commanders (7-7-1) behind solid defense (two turnovers and limiting Washington to 79 rushing yards) and two TD passes by QB Brock Purdy. The 49ers (11-4) had balanced offense (218 passing yards and 153 rushing) as well with RB Christian McCaffrey scoring a rushing TD and also WR Ray-Ray McCloud, who went 71 yards for the touchdown to open the scoring. 

Tennessee (7-8) lost their fifth straight game and saw their once solid playoff chances take a big hit when they lost at home, 19-14 to the Houston Texans (2-12-1) while getting just 88 yards passing in the loss. The Texans rallied in the final quarter when QB Davis Mills threw a six-yard TD pass to WR Brandin Cooks with 2:52 remaining. 

The Baltimore Ravens (10-5) beat the visiting Atlanta Falcons, 17-9 with QB Tyler Huntley throwing a TD pass and Justin Tucker kicking three field goals to eliminate the Falcons (5-10) from playoff contention. 

In snowy Cleveland, the New Orleans Saints fell behind 10-0 in the first half before coming back for a 17-10 win to improve to 6-9 and stay in contention in the NFC South division race. Saints QB Andy Dalton was limited to just 92 passing yards, but running back Alvin Kamara (four-yard run) and Taysom Hill (eight-yard run) each had rushing touchdowns to lead the way. The Browns (6-9) were eliminated from playoff contention in the AFC. 

On Christmas Day, three games were played and two were rather forgettable as the Los Angeles Rams (5-10) crushed the visiting Denver Broncos, 51-14 while Tampa Bay (7-8) won on the road at Arizona, 19-16 in overtime. 

Miami QB Tua Tagovailoa threw three interceptions in the fourth quarter.

The game between the host Miami Dolphins (8-7) and Green Bay Packers (7-8) was a game that was a tale of two halves as the Packers won, 26-20 to hand the Dolphins their fourth straight loss. Miami had a 20-13 lead at the half as QB Tua Tagovailoa (310 passing yards, one TD and three INT) hooked up with WR Jaylen Waddle (five receptions for 143 yards) for an 84-yard touchdown pass. In the fourth quarter, the Packers defense intercepted three passes to help finish the win while QB Aaron Rodgers (238 passing yards) had a TD pass and running back AJ Dillon a scoring run to go with four field goals, including two in the decisive fourth quarter, by Mason Crosby. It was the third consecutive win for Green Bay, who are right there in the NFC wild card playoff hunt.

 

In Los Angeles, the Rams cruised past the listless Denver Broncos (4-11) as they built a 31-6 halftime lead. Rams RB Cam Akers scored three touchdowns and QB Baker Mayfield threw a pair of scoring passes while defensive back Decobie Durant took a "pick six" interception back 85 yards to account for the final score. Broncos QB Russell Wilson (214 passing yards) was intercepted three times and replaced by Brett Rypien, who threw the fourth interception that resulted in the touchdown for the Rams defense, which also had six sacks in the rout. 

In the Sunday night game, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers remained atop the NFC South division with the 19-16 overtime win against the Arizona Cardinals (4-11) who were playing the game with third string QB Trace McSorley, who passed for 217 yards with one interception in the loss. Cardinals RB James Conner scored on a 22-yard run with 10:53 to go in the fourth quarter for a 16-6 lead. From there, the Bucs came back as QB Tom Brady (281 passing yards, one TD, two INT) threw a three-yard scoring pass to RB Rachaad White with 8:07 left, followed by kicker Ryan Succop making a 42-yard field goal with two minutes left to tie it up at 16-16 and force the OT as the Bucs defense forced three turnovers in the game, including two fumbles. Succop made the 40-yard field goal with 3:41 left in OT to win it. 

The Los Angeles Chargers (9-6) clinched an AFC playoff spot with a 20-3 road victory against the Indianapolis Colts on Monday Night Football. Chargers running back Austin Ekeler rushed for two touchdowns and the defense intercepted three passes and had seven sacks to lead the way as the Colts (4-10-1) managed just 173 yards in total offense.

WEEK SIXTEEN RESULTS 

Jacksonville 19, N.Y. Jets 3  

Minnesota 27, N.Y. Giants 24

Buffalo 35, Chicago 13 

New Orleans 17, Cleveland 10 

Baltimore 17, Atlanta 9 

Carolina 37, Detroit 23 

Cincinnati 22, New England 18 

Kansas City 24, Seattle 10

Houston 19, Tennessee 14

San Francisco 37, Washington 20 

Dallas 40, Philadelphia 34 

Pittsburgh 13, Las Vegas 10

Green Bay 26, Miami 20 

L.A. Rams 51, Denver 14 

Tampa Bay 19, Arizona 16 (OT) 

L.A. Chargers 20, Indianapolis 3

NFL - Week Sixteen Preview

 

The New York Jets (7-7) host the Jacksonville Jaguars (6-8) on Thursday night with big playoff implications for this game and who would have thought that would be possible at the beginning of the 2022 season? 

But that is the case for these two teams as Week Sixteen gets going around the NFL with many games taking place on Saturday this time around. Christmas Eve will see eleven games taking place and among them will be the battle between the Dallas Cowboys (10-4) and the visiting Philadelphia Eagles (13-1) as the visitors look to lock up home field advantage throughout the NFC playoffs. 

The Eagles beat Dallas back in October and will not be starting quarterback Jalen Hurts in this one (he suffered a shoulder sprain last weekend against Chicago) while the Cowboys are still smarting after blowing a 17-point lead in a road loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars last Sunday. If the Eagles do rest some other players, who could blame them? They want to be 100 percent healthy when the playoffs start next month. Dallas could come away with the win here as they need to maintain their status as the fifth seed in the NFC post-season standings, which they should because they are not going to catch the Eagles in the NFC East race. 

The Minnesota Vikings, fresh off their historic come from behind victory last Saturday, will host the New York Giants (8-5-1) and would like to improve on their 11-3 mark. They already have clinched the NFC North division, so it's just a matter of maintaining the second spot in the NFC. The Giants finally won for the first time in five weeks and are the sixth seed right now in the NFC playoff picture. They might have to win out if they want to get in the playoffs because the Seattle Seahawks and Detroit Lions are looming. Minnesota rates the edge at home for this one. 

The Detroit Lions (7-7) are winners of six of their last seven games and they will face the Carolina Panthers (5-9) in Carolina in what could be dubbed as an "elimination game" with the log jam of teams battling it out. The Lions won a big one on the road against the New York Jets last weekend while the Panthers lost to the Pittsburgh Steelers, but are just one game behind Tampa Bay for first place in the putrid NFC South division. Toss up here in what should be a good game. 

The Cincinnati Bengals (10-4) have won six in a row and control their own destiny in the AFC playoff chase. They lead the AFC North division by one game over the Baltimore Ravens and will square off in New England against the Patriots (7-7) who really let one get away in Las Vegas last Sunday. The debacle of the laterals as time expired will be discussed for many years to come as they literally threw the game away to the Raiders. Look for a close game here with the visiting Bengals getting their seventh straight win. 

The red hot San Francisco 49ers (10-4) will be looking to extend their winning streak to eight games when they host the Washington Commanders (7-6-1) in what will likely be a defensive battle. The Commanders desperately need to win out if they want to get in the NFC playoffs while the 49ers are looking to leap frog Minnesota for the second seed in the conference race. 

The Saturday night game in Pittsburgh should be a special one indeed as the Steelers (6-8) face the Las Vegas Raiders (6-8) in a game that will be wrought with emotion following the death of Steelers legendary running back and Hall-of-Fame player Franco Harris this week. Of course, these teams met in the playoff game that featured the most famous play in NFL history as Harris scored the winning touchdown 50 years ago with "The Immaculate Reception" in that playoff game at old Three Rivers Stadium. 

The Steelers are not going to lose this one to the Raiders and would also be keeping their flickering playoff hopes alive with a win. The Raiders stole a game from the New England Patriots last week as Christmas came a week early for them with that gift as time ran out. Take the Steelers in this one on Christmas Eve, which is also one day after the 50th Anniversary of Franco's historic catch that eliminated the Raiders from the playoffs in that historic game. 

Three games take place on Christmas Day and the only one that matters is the early game in Miami where the slumping Dolphins (8-6) host the Green Bay Packers (6-8), who are looking for a continued miracle as they attempt to get into the NFC playoffs. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers going against Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa should provide an exciting game, but the edge has to be with the Dolphins as they have a better offense and are not likely to lose a fourth straight game. 

The rest of the NFL action for this week is featured in the capsule style format and the Heftyinfo picks will follow up. 

 

Buffalo Bills (11-3) at Chicago Bears (3-11) - Brutal cold weather conditions are expected at Soldier Field in Chicago on Christmas Eve, but that shouldn't have much impact on either team. Take the Bills in what will be a closer game than the team records might indicate. 

New Orleans Saints (5-9) at Cleveland Browns (6-8) - Hard to believe both of these teams still have a chance to make the playoffs, but that is the truth. Take the Browns in snowy Cleveland in this game. 

Houston Texans (1-12-1) at Tennessee Titans (7-7) - The Titans need a win in the worst way as they have dropped four in a row. The Texans have battled both Dallas and Kansas City very tough in their last two games and could spring an upset here as the Titans will be without starting QB Ryan Tannehill, who needs ankle surgery. 

Seattle Seahawks (7-7) at Kansas City Chiefs (11-3) - Chiefs roll ! 

Atlanta Falcons (5-9) at Baltimore Ravens (9-5) - Ravens should win this game, but the Falcons will not just roll over as they are still in contention in the NFC South battle. 

Denver Broncos (4-10) at Los Angeles Rams (4-10) - Who cares? 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-8) at Arizona Cardinals (4-10) - The Bucs still lead the weak NFC South division, but if they lose to the Cardinals and third string starter Trace McSorley, they should just pack it in. Look for QB Tom Brady and company to get it done in prime time this Sunday night.

Los Angeles Chargers (8-6) at Indianapolis Colts (4-9-1) - The Monday night game between a team that suddenly is getting healthy and is in a playoff spot in the AFC right now and the other team that made dubious history by blowing a 33-point lead and losing last week. The Chargers win in a tight one here.

 

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

 

N.Y. Jets over Jacksonville 

Buffalo over Chicago 

Cleveland over New Orleans 

Tennessee over Houston 

KANSAS CITY over Seattle 

Minnesota over N.Y. Giants 

Cincinnati over New England 

Detroit over Carolina 

Baltimore over Atlanta 

San Francisco over Washington 

Dallas over Philadelphia 

Pittsburgh over Las Vegas 

Miami over Green Bay 

L.A. Rams over Denver 

Tampa Bay over Arizona 

L.A. Chargers over Indianapolis 

Last Week's Record - 13-3 

SEASON RECORD - 142-80-2 

Lock of the Week Record - 13-2 

 

NFL - Week Fifteen Recap

 

The Vikings celebrate historic comeback win.

Do you believe in miracles? 

Yes!

No, that wasn't Al Michaels calling the football game in Minnesota between the Vikings and Indianapolis Colts on Saturday afternoon, which the Vikings won, 39-36 in overtime to make history by overcoming the largest deficit in NFL history. 

The Vikings (11-3) overcame a 33-0 halftime deficit to win and clinch the NFC North division. The Colts (4-9-1) could do no wrong in the first half while building the huge lead as quarterback Kirk Cousins had four touchdown passes and 460 yards passing to overcome two interceptions, including a "pick six" that gave the Colts a 30-0 lead with 5:50 left in the first half. Indy kicker Chase McLaughlin made his fourth field goal just before the half to make it 33-0. The Colts defense forced three turnovers and had seven sacks in the loss.

In the second half, it was all Vikings as they outscored the Colts 36-3 to force the overtime. The four TD passes by Cousins (which included the game tying 64-yard scoring pass to running back Dalvin Cook, who had 95 yards receiving and also 95 rushing yards) and a one-yard TD run by C.J. Ham provided the heroics to give kicker Greg Joseph the chance to win it with just three seconds remaining in the OT, which he did by drilling a 40-yard field goal.

The night cap to the Saturday triple header of NFL games was an epic battle between the Buffalo Bills (11-3) and the Miami Dolphins. The Bills got a 25-yard field goal from kicker Tyler Bass as time expired to win, 32-29 and clinch an AFC playoff spot for the fourth straight season. The snow was coming down hard and swirling throughout the fourth quarter in Buffalo and the Bills overcame a 29-21 deficit when QB Josh Allen (304 yards passing and four TD) threw a five-yard TD pass to tight end Dawson Knox with 9:02 left in the game and then ran for the two-point conversion to tie the game. 

Buffalo held a 21-13 halftime edge, but the Dolphins (8-6) battled back with two touchdowns in the third quarter to take a 26-21 lead into the final quarter. Miami QB Tua Tagovailoa (234 passing yards) threw TD passes to wide receivers Jaylen Waddle (67 yards) and Tyreek Hill (20 yards) to take the lead. But the Bills battled back and held Miami to just a field goal in the fourth quarter to help seal the win.

The middle game of the Saturday slate was a snoozer with the host Cleveland Browns (6-8) knocking off the Baltimore Ravens, 13-3 as Browns QB Deshaun Watson tossed a three-yard TD pass to wide receiver Donovan Peoples-Jones late in the third quarter to make the difference in the final outcome. The Ravens (9-5) only scoring was the 53-yard field goal by Justin Tucker, who also missed one and had another attempt blocked.   

In the games played on Sunday, the Philadelphia Eagles ran their record to 13-1 with a 25-20 road win against the Chicago Bears. Eagles QB Jalen Hurts scored three rushing touchdowns to offset throwing two interceptions. Philadelphia scored on Hurts' third TD run with 4:20 remaining in the fourth quarter to go up by twelve points and that was the difference. The Bears (3-11) dropped their seventh straight game as QB Justin Fields threw a TD pass and went over 1,000 yards rushing for the season.

The Kansas City Chiefs (11-3) wrapped up their seventh consecutive AFC West title with a 30-24 overtime win at Houston when running back Jerrick McKinnon scored on a 26-yard run with 5:13 left in the OT following a fumble recovery by the defense. Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes (336 yards passing) threw for two touchdowns and also had a rushing score as his team out gained the Texans (1-12-1) by a 502-219 yardage margin. Texans QB Davis Mills had two TD passes and a scoring run in the loss.

The Jacksonville Jaguars (6-8) shocked the visiting Dallas Cowboys (10-4) in overtime, winning 40-34 when safety Rayshawn Jenkins intercepted Dak Prescott and took it all the way back 52 yards for the game winning score. Dallas coughed up a 17-point lead in the second half as Jags QB Trevor Lawrence passed for 318 yards and four touchdowns as his team piled 503 yards in total offense. Meanwhile, Dallas QB Dak Prescott had three TD passes along with two interceptions, including the one that ended the game in defeat for the Cowboys.

Not to be outdone, the host Las Vegas Raiders (6-8) pulled a real trick out of their bag and won, 30-24 on the final play of regulation when the New England Patriots (7-7) were lateraling the football all over the field, but defensive end Chandler Jones (pictured right) picked it off and went the distance (48-yard fumble recovery return) as time expired to win the game. The Raiders had a 17-3 halftime lead, but the Patriots battled back with a defensive score (Kyle Dugger INT return) and a 34-yard rushing TD by Rhamondre Stevenson (172 yards on 19 carries) to go up 24-17. Raiders QB Derek Carr (231 passing yards with three TD and one INT) hit WR Keelan Cole for a 30-yard scoring pass with just 32 seconds left in the game. 

Last Thursday night in Seattle, the San Francisco 49ers (10-4) won their seventh straight game to wrap up the NFC West title with a 21-13 win over the Seahawks, who dropped to 7-7 following that loss. 49ers QB Brock Purdy passed for two scores to tight end George Kittle and RB Christian McCaffrey (108 rushing yards) also ran for a score to lead the way.

The Los Angeles Chargers (8-6) won at home, 17-14 against the Tennessee Titans (7-7) when Cameron Dicker made a 43-yard field goal with four seconds left to play. The winning kick was set up by a 35-yard pass from QB Justin Herbert (313 yards passing with two INT) to WR Mike Williams. The Titans had tied the game with just 48 seconds remaining on a one-yard run by QB Ryan Tannehill. It was the fourth straight loss for the Titans, who saw their once huge lead in the AFC South drop to just one game over Jacksonville.

The Detroit Lions (7-7) won again, this time beating the host New York Jets, 20-17 when QB Jared Goff hooked up with tight end Brock Wright on a 51-yard TD pass with 1:49 remaining. It was the Lions sixth victory in seven games. The Jets (7-7) had just gone ahead earlier in the fourth quarter, 17-13 when QB Zach Wilson threw a second TD pass to tight end C.J. Uzomah.

In Tampa Bay, the Cincinnati Bengals (10-4) won their sixth consecutive game to take over first place in the AFC North with a 34-23 win against the Buccaneers (6-8) as they reeled off 34 unanswered points after falling behind 17-0 in the first half. Bucs QB Tom Brady was intercepted twice and two fumbles resulted in four consecutive turnovers that aided the Bengals comeback effort. Cincy QB Joe Burrow was efficient and had four TD passes to four different receivers to offset three scoring passes by Brady.

New Orleans won at home, 21-18 against the Atlanta Faclons (5-9) with QB Andy Dalton throwing two TD passes and Taysom Hill also throwing a 68-yard scoring pass. The Falcons kept it close with rookie QB Desmond Ridder starting the game in place of injured Marcus Mariota, but fell into a three-way tie with the Saints (5-9) and Carolina for second place in the NFC South.

The Pittsburgh Steelers (6-8) won for the third time in four games as they outlasted the host Carolina Panthers, 24-16 with a balanced offense (156 rushing yards, 169 passing) and a stingy defense that had four sacks and allowed the Panthers (5-9) only 209 total yards in offense, including only 21 yards rushing.

In a game of teams going for NFL Draft position, the Denver Broncos won, 24-15 against the Arizona Cardinals (4-10) with both teams having to play reserve quarterbacks with both starters out with injuries. The Broncos (4-10) got rushing scores from three different players and the defense limited the Cardinals to 240 total yards in offense while getting three interceptions, including two by Justin Simmons. 

The Sunday night game in Washington, D.C. went down to the wire with the New York Giants (8-5-1) winning, 20-12 as their defense held off the Commanders (7-6-1) in the final seconds. Washington had a costly penalty (illegal procedure) that took away a touchdown and then two incomplete passes ended the drive at the Giants six-yard line. Giants rookie linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux recovered a fumble for a touchdown and RB Saquon Barkley scored a rushing TD to go with two field goals to provide the difference. Two fumbles by Washington, including the scoring one for New York, proved too much to overcome. 

The Green Bay Packers beat the visiting Los Angeles Rams, 24-12 on Monday Night Football in very cold weather at Lambeau Field. Green Bay running back AJ Dillon scored two rushing touchdowns and QB Aaron Rodgers passed for another score (seven yards to RB Aaron Jones) to lead the way as the Packers improved to 6-8 this season. The Rams (4-10) managed only 156 total yards in offense as they were officially eliminated from playoff contention, ensuring there will not be a repeat Super Bowl champion. The last time it happened was when the New England Patriots did so in the 2004 season.

 

WEEK FIFTEEN RESULTS 

San Francisco 21, Seattle 13 

Minnesota 39, Indianapolis 36 (OT) 

Cleveland 13, Baltimore 3

Buffalo 32, Miami 29 

Pittsburgh 24, Carolina 16

Philadelphia 25, Chicago 20 

Detroit 20, N.Y. Jets 17

Jacksonville 40, Dallas 34 (OT) 

New Orleans 21, Atlanta 18 

Kansas City 30, Houston 24 (OT)

Denver 24, Arizona 15

Las Vegas 30, New England 24 

L.A. Chargers 17, Tennessee 14 

Cincinnati 34, Tampa Bay 23 

N.Y. Giants 20, Washington 12  

Green Bay 24, L.A. Rams 12

 

 

NFL - Week Fifteen Preview

It's down to the final four games of the season for all 32 NFL teams and the San Francisco 49ers and Seattle Seahawks get it started on the Thursday night game in Seattle. The 49ers (9-4) are sizzling with six straight wins while the Seahawks (7-6) were cooled off by Carolina last week. The last time these two NFC West foes played, the 'Niners buried the 'Hawks by three touchdowns. 

San Francisco's defense could very well make life miserable for Seattle quarterback Geno Smith, who was harassed into throwing two interceptions in the loss against Carolina. Meanwhile, the versatile 49ers offense will be without wide receiver Deebo Samuel, who is out with an ankle sprain. But running back Christian McCaffrey does it all as well and rookie QB Brock Purdy has done well so far as the "emergency" fill in with Jimmy Garoppolo being out with a broken foot. This game should be closer than the first meeting back in September, but look for the 49ers to continue their winning ways. 

The Saturday night game in Buffalo will be a good one as AFC East rivals go at it when the Bills (10-3)  host the Miami Dolphins (8-5) in a key game. The Dolphins beat the Bills in a nail biter back in Week Three, but have cooled off big time with two consecutive losses while the Bills have won four straight, allowing just 70 points overall in the wins. Miami QB Tua Tagovailoa has struggled in the recent two losses and was just 10-for-28 passing last Sunday against the L.A. Chargers. The Bills offense begins with QB Josh Allen, who has been looking good recently both passing and running the ball. Take the Bills at home in cold (and possibly snowy) Buffalo on Saturday night. 

Another game that could be very exciting features the Detroit Lions (6-7) and the host New York Jets (7-6) on Sunday. Both teams are in playoff contention but have been trending in completely opposite directions. The Lions have won five of their last six games, including a rather easy win (at home) against the first place Minnesota Vikings last week. Meanwhile, the Jets have been stumbling, losers of four of the last six games after a hot start to the season. This game could go either way and will likely be decided by which team controls the ball and avoids turnovers. 

The Cincinnati Bengals (9-4) have won five consecutive games and will travel to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-7) on Sunday. The game features the star quarterback of the future in Joe Burrow (Bengals) and also the star QB from the last two decades with Tom Brady. The Bengals should win this one as Tampa Bay has been banged up all season on the offensive line while their defense has been erratic. Cincy's defense has been steadily improving this season and has allowed an average of just over 16 points per game the last three weeks. As long as Burrow and company can put up 21 points, it should be enough to get the victory against Brady and the Buccaneers. 

Two other games of note this weekend include the Tennessee Titans (7-6) at the Los Angeles Chargers (7-6) and the Sunday night game between the New York Giants and Washington Commanders (both teams have 7-5-1 records) with big time playoff implications at stake. 

The Chargers beat the Miami Dolphins last Sunday night and held the high powered Miami offense in check while their own offense did enough to get the win. Quarterback Justin Herbert had a big game as he finally had his top three targets in the passing game healthy and on the field. In addition, running back Austin Ekeler has been playing well and is a dual threat in the backfield. The Titans will look for All-Pro RB Derrick Henry to punish the Chargers vulnerable run defense. If he gets going, it will open things up for QB Ryan Tannehill and the passing game as the Titans look to avoid a fourth straight loss. This game will likely be close and the Chargers should be able to get back-to-back wins for the first time since October. 

The game between the Commanders and Giants in D.C. will likely come down to the wire again. These two teams met just two weeks ago (they both had the bye week in between) and they tied, 20-20 in what seemed to be a more than cautious approach in the overtime. The Commanders rate the edge at home as they have been playing better football than the Giants since late October. New York is just 1-4-1 since a 6-1 start to the season while Washington has gone 6-1-1 after a poor 1-4 start. Turnovers will dictate the outcome of this game so stay tuned. 

The rest of the action for Week Fifteen is featured in the capsule style form and then the Heftyinfo picks for all the games follows up. 

 

Saturday games 

Indianapolis (4-8-1) at Minnesota (10-3) - The Vikings got spanked last week and the Colts are coming off their bye week but have gone 1-6 after a decent start, which included a complete beat down loss two weeks ago. Take Minnesota in this one. 

Baltimore (9-4) at Cleveland (5-8) - The Ravens are holding it together with so many injuries on offense, including starting QB Lamar Jackson still out, and will look to their defense to be the difference against the Browns. Toss up in this one. 

Sunday games 

Atlanta (5-8) at New Orleans (4-9) - Hard to believe, but both of these teams are STILL in playoff contention in the very weak NFC South division. Saints are due for a win and the Falcons are going with a rookie (Desmond Ridder) as the starting QB in this game. 

Pittsburgh (5-8) at Carolina (5-8) - The Steelers have had four straight one score games while the Panthers have won three of their last four games and should win again at home. The Steelers will give them all they can handle though. 

Philadelphia (12-1) at Chicago (3-10) - The Bears coming off the bye week hosting the top team in the NFL in what is expected to be a windy and very cold Soldier Field. Eagles QB Jalen Hurts and Bears QB Justin Fields (provided he's a go at game time) should provide excitement, but the Eagles most likely will win this game.

Kansas City (10-3) at Houston (1-11-1) - Was the Chiefs struggles against Denver last week a mirage? Did the Texans leave it all on the field in their near upset at Dallas last week? But the real question is by how much will the Chiefs win this game. 

Dallas (10-3) at Jacksonville (5-8) - The Cowboys better be ready this week because the Jaguars will not roll over and cough up a lead late in the game like Houston did against Dallas last week. Jags QB Trevor Lawrence has been better in recent weeks than 'Pokes QB Dak Prescott. Stay tuned on this one. 

Arizona (4-9) at Denver (3-10) - In a game that would have featured Kyler Murray going against Russell Wilson at quarterback, both could miss this one as Murray is definitely out (knee injury) and Wilson is in concussion protocol. Toss up here. 

New England (7-6) at Las Vegas (5-8) - Can the Raiders play spoiler to the Patriots playoff possibilities? 

L.A. Rams (4-9) at Green Bay (5-8) - The Monday Night Football Game with two losing teams in what will be a frigid Lambeau Field. Take Aaron Rodgers and the Packers in this one. 

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

 

San Francisco over Seattle 

Minnesota over Indianapolis 

Cleveland over Baltimore 

Buffalo over Miami 

New Orleans over Atlanta 

Carolina over Pittsburgh 

PHILADELPHIA over Chicago 

Kansas City over Houston 

Dallas over Jacksonville 

Detroit over N.Y. Jets  

Denver over Arizona 

Las Vegas over New England 

L.A. Chargers over Tennessee 

Cincinnati over Tampa Bay 

Washington over N.Y. Giants 

Green Bay over L.A. Rams 

Last Week's Record - 7-6 

SEASON RECORD - 129-77-2 

Lock of the Week Record - 12-2 

 

 

 

NFL - Week Fourteen Recap

 

Justin Herbert and Tua Tagovailoa chat following the game.

The much anticipated match between the host Los Angeles Chargers and the Miami Dolphins and their top tier quarterbacks went to the Chargers, 23-17 as QB Justin Herbert passed for 367 yards and threw a ten-yard TD pass to wide receiver Mike Williams (six receptions for 116 yards) while RB Austin Ekelker scored a rushing touchdown and kicker Cameron Dicker made three field goals as the Chargers improved to 7-6 this season. The Dolphins (8-5) dropped their second straight game as QB Tua Tagovailoa was limited to a season low 145 passing yards, which included a 60-yard TD pass to WR Tyreek Hill, who also scored a touchdown on a fumble recovery he took 57 yards to paydirt in the losing effort. In addition, the Chargers defense held the Dolphins to 219 yards in total offense. 

The Philadelphia Eagles (12-1) became the first team to officially clinch a playoff spot as they destroyed the host New York Giants, 48-22 on Sunday afternoon. Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts had a pair of touchdown passes while running back Miles Sanders (144 rushing yards) scored twice on runs of 40 yards and three yards as the Eagles piled up 253 rushing yards in the win. The Giants (7-5-1) never were in this one, falling behind 21-0 in the second quarter while the Eagles defense amassed seven QB sacks for the game. 

Dallas (10-3) got a real scare from the Houston Texans (1-11-1) as they trailed late into the game before rallying with a 98-yard TD drive as RB Ezekiel Elliott scored on a two-yard run with just 41 seconds remaining to get the 27-23 home victory. The Texans led 23-17 after three quarters before the Cowboys overcame three turnovers to pull it out as RB Tony Pollard scored twice, one rushing and one receiving. 

The Detroit Lions (6-7) won their fifth game in the last six as they blasted the visiting Minnesota Vikings, 34-23 behind three TD passes from QB Jared Goff, who also passed for 330 yards. Quarterback Kirk Cousins passed for 425 yards and two touchdowns while WR Justin Jefferson had 11 receptions for 223 yards for the Vikings (10-3) in the loss. The Lions defense had four sacks and two fumble recoveries to add to the win. 

The Kansas City Chiefs (10-3) held on for a 34-28 road win against the Denver Broncos (3-10) as they nearly blew a 27-0 first half lead, which included a defensive score by Willie Gay with a 47-yard interception return. The Broncos stormed back as QB Russell Wilson had three TD passes (two of them  to WR Jerry Jeudy, who had three in the loss) before being knocked out of the game with a concussion. Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes (352 passing yards) had three TD passes along with three interceptions. 

The Cincinnati Bengals (9-4) won their fifth straight game with a 23-10 win at home against the Cleveland Browns (5-8) with QB Joe Burrow passing for two scores. Browns QB Deshaun Watson threw his first TD pass this season along with an interception in his second game back from suspension. 

The Buffalo Bills improved to 10-3 as they beat the visiting New York Jets, 20-12 as QB Josh Allen passed and ran for touchdowns to lead the way in miserable weather. The Jets (7-6) dropped their fourth game in the last six as QB Mike White was pummeled and sacked four times and briefly left the game with sore ribs. 

 

49ers QB Brock Purdy celebrates his touchdown run.

 The San Francisco 49ers served notice they are serious contenders in the NFC as they won their sixth consecutive game to improve to 9-4 as they throttled the visiting Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 35-7. Quarterback Brock Purdy had a pair of TD passes and also scored a rushing touchdown in his first career start. Running back Christian McCaffrey (119 yards rushing) scored twice, including a 38-yard run and a 27-yard receiving score. The Buccaneers (6-7) had three turnovers in the loss.  

 

The Jacksonville Jaguars (5-8) surprised the Tennessee Titans, 36-22 for the road win as QB Trevor Lawrence (368 passing yards) had three TD passes and also rushed for a score. The Titans dropped to 7-6 as they lost for a third straight time while turning the ball over four times (three fumbles and one interception). 

Last Thursday night was a miracle come back win for the host Los Angeles Rams (4-9) as they snapped a six-game losing streak, topping the Las Vegas Raiders, 17-16 as QB Baker Mayfield had a 23-yard scoring pass to WR Van Jefferson with ten seconds left in the game. The Raiders (5-8) had a 16-3 lead with just 3:19 left in the game when Rams RB Cam Akers scored on a one-yard run to trim the deficit to 16-10. The Rams defense stopped Las Vegas and got the ball back for Mayfield, who directed a 98-yard drive in the final two minutes for the winning score. Raiders RB Josh Jacobs had 99 rushing yards and the only touchdown for his team in the loss. 

The Baltimore Ravens (9-4) won in Pittsburgh, 16-14 as they lost their reserve QB Tyler Huntley (concussion) but did rush for 215 yards in the win as JK Dobbins (120 rushing yards) scored on a four-yard run and Justin Tucker made three field goals. The Steelers (5-8) lost their starting QB Kenny Pickett to a concussion and backup QB Mitch Trubisky was intercepted three times, including two of them deep in Ravens territory to spoil any comeback hopes. 

In Seattle, the host Seahawks (7-6) lost 30-24 to the Carolina Panthers (5-8) thanks to the Panthers getting 223 yards rushing and controlling the ball for over 39 minutes. Panthers QB Sam Darnold had a TD pass while running backs Chuba Hubbard and Raheem Blackshear each scored rushing touchdowns to pace the win. Seahawks QB Geno Smith had three TD passes along with two interceptions during the setback. 

The Monday night game in Arizona was all New England Patriots (7-6) in the second half as they beat the Cardinals, 27-13 with linebacker Raekwon McMillan getting a touchdown on a 23-yard return of a fumble recovery and RB Pierre Strong, Jr. getting a three-yard TD run along with the defense getting six sacks to lead the comeback. The Cardinals (4-9) lost starting QB Kyler Murray to a knee injury in the first quarter and he is out for the rest of the season.

WEEK FOURTEEN RESULTS 

L.A. Rams 17, Las Vegas 16 

Detroit 34, Minnesota 23 

Buffalo 20, N.Y. Jets 12

Philadelphia 48, N.Y. Giants 22 

Baltimore 16, Pittsburgh 14 

Dallas 27, Houston 23 

Jacksonville 36, Tennessee 22  

Cincinnati 23, Cleveland 10 

San Francisco 35, Tampa Bay 7

Kansas City 34, Denver 28

Carolina 30, Seattle 24

L.A. Chargers 23, Miami 17

New England 27, Arizona 13 

NFL - Week Fourteen Preview

Once again this week, there are some big games in the NFL that will have very big impact as far as post-season possibilities are concerned. 

The Buffalo Bills (9-3) host the New York Jets (7-5) and will be looking to avenge a tough loss to the Jets last month. The Bills have moved back into first place in the AFC East and also are back on top of the entire AFC chase. The Jets lost a close game in Minnesota last weekend and are just 2-3 since their fast start this season. The Bills should prevail in this one, but it will not be an easy one. 

The Philadelphia Eagles are 11-1 and have been rolling all season long, including last week's 35-10 beat down of the Tennessee Titans. Meanwhile, the New York Giants (7-4-1) are in a funk, having lost three of their last five games, which includes a tie against Washington last week. Philadelphia has a top flight offense and defense, which should make the difference in this game. The Giants have been pretty solid on defense all season, but their offense has been sputtering, including their running game. Philly should get the road win in what could be a game that goes down to the wire. 

 

How about the game between the Baltimore Ravens (8-4) and Pittsburgh Steelers? The Ravens will most likely be without starting quarterback Lamar Jackson and that does not bode well against a good defensive team like the Steelers (5-7), who will be looking for their third straight win and fourth in the last five games. If rookie QB Kenny Pickett can keep Pittsburgh's offense moving, look for the Steelers to get this win at home. 

The San Francisco 49ers (8-4) have won five in a row and should make it six against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this Sunday. The Bucs (6-6) won in dramatic fashion against New Orleans on Monday night, but now face an extremely good defense that will keep pressure on QB Tom Brady. San Francisco will go with reserve QB Brock Purdy, who did a good job coming off the bench when starter Jimmy Garoppolo suffered a broken foot in the first quarter last week. It will likely be a close game, but the 'Niners should come away with the victory. 

The Sunday night game features the Los Angeles Chargers (6-6) for the third time in the past five weeks as they now face the Miami Dolphins (8-4) in L.A. in what is a must win for the 'Bolts. The Dolphins got popped in the mouth last week in San Francisco and it was the first time this season QB Tua Tagovailoa struggled. Meanwhile, the Chargers lost to the Las Vegas Raiders and their offense was very ineffective as QB Justin Herbert was constantly pressured. If Miami's suspect defense can do the same, then the Dolphins will be in business. Look for a high scoring game with the Dolphins winning a tight one. 

One other note is this is the final time teams will get a bye week, which includes six teams for Week Fourteen. The rest of the action is featured in the capsule style format and the Heftyinfo picks follow up. 

 

Las Vegas (5-7) at L.A. Rams (3-9) - The suddenly surging Raiders face a depleted Rams team in what should be an easy night in Tinsel Town for them. 

Cleveland (5-7) at Cincinnati (8-4) - Joe Burrow and the Bengals are rolling and will look to avenge an embarrassing loss on Halloween night to the Browns.  

Houston (1-10-1) at Dallas (9-3) - The Cowboys should roll big time in this one. 

Minnesota (10-2) at Detroit (5-7) - Beware of the Lions, who have been playing very good football for the last five weeks. The Vikings cannot afford to fall behind in this one. 

Jacksonville (4-8) at Tennessee (7-5) - The Jaguars always seem to give the Titans fits and this one should be more of the same. Toss up here. 

Carolina (4-8) at Seattle (7-5) - The Seahawks need to win this game to stay on pace to make the NFC playoffs. No excuses. 

Kansas City (9-3) at Denver (3-9) - The Chiefs lost last weekend and are no longer the top seed in the AFC . . . but the Broncos are the second worst team in the AFC. 

New England (6-6) at Arizona (4-8) - The Monday night game featuring a Patriots team that really needs to win out if they want to make the playoffs. Cardinals have nothing to lose and could very well relish playing the spoiler role the rest of the season. 

 

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

 

Las Vegas over L.A. Rams 

Buffalo over N.Y. Jets 

Cincinnati over Cleveland 

DALLAS over Houston 

Detroit over Minnesota 

Philadelphia over N.Y. Giants 

Pittsburgh over Baltimore 

Tennessee over Jacksonville 

Seattle over Carolina 

San Francisco over Tampa Bay  

Kansas City over Denver 

Miami over L.A. Chargers

Arizona over New England  

Last Week's Record - 13-1-1 

SEASON RECORD - 122-71-2 

Lock of the Week Record - 11-2 

 

 

 

NFL - Week Thirteen Recap

 

The San Francisco 49ers (8-4) defeated the visiting Miami Dolphins (8-4) in convincing fashion on Sunday afternoon, 33-17 but lost starting quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo for the remainder of the season with a broken foot. It was the fifth straight win for the 'Niners as they also snapped Miami's five-game winning streak. Reserve QB Brock Purdy (pictured left) had two TD passes while the 49ers defense intercepted three passes and recovered a fumble to keep the Dolphins in a hole. Miami's high powered offense was limited to 308 total yards, including just 33 yards rushing in the loss.

The Cincinnati Bengals continued their mastery of Patrick Mahomes (223 passing yards, one pass TD and one rushing TD) and the Kansas City Chiefs as they won at home, 27-24 to improve to 8-4 this season. The Chiefs (9-3) had a 24-17 lead entering the fourth quarter, but the Bengals defense stymied the K.C. offense and their offense scored the final ten points as QB Joe Burrow (286 passing yards) finished the game with two TD passes and a rushing score.

The Philadelphia Eagles (11-1) squashed the Tennessee Titans, 35-10 for the easy home victory as QB Jalen Hurts led the way with three TD passes and a rushing touchdown. Two of the scoring passes went to wide receiver A.J. Brown, who torched his former team for eight catches and 119 yards. Tennessee (7-5) trailed 14-10 late in the first half, but then Hurts and the Eagles took over and blew the game wide open. In addition, the Eagles defense held the Titans to just 209 total yards in offense while also getting six QB sacks.

The host Minnesota Vikings (10-2) keep on rolling as they finished off a season sweep of the AFC East division teams by beating the New York Jets (7-5), 27-22. Vikings running backs Dalvin Cook and Alexander Mattison each had rushing touchdowns and QB Kirk Cousins threw a TD pass to WR Justin Jefferson for a 27-15 lead midway through the fourth quarter. Jets kicker Greg Zuerlein made five field goals and QB Mike White had a scoring run, but he was intercepted at the Vikings goal line in the closing seconds to seal the loss. 

The Buffalo Bills (9-3) had an easy time in a 24-10 road win against the New England Patriots (6-6) on Thursday night. QB Josh Allen had two TD passes and RB Devin Singletary scored a rushing TD to lead the way. The Buffalo defense held the Patriots to 242 yards in total offense and just 60 yards rushing,

The New York Giants and Washington Commanders played to a 20-20 tie in their game to throw a monkey wrench into the NFC playoff picture. The Giants (7-4-1) had a chance to win the game, but Graham Gano's 58-yard field goal attempt was no good as time ran out in the overtime. Washington (7-5-1) tied the game with 1:53 left in regulation when QB Taylor Heinicke (275 passing yards with two TD) threw a 28-yard TD pass to rookie WR Jahan Dotson. Giants QB Daniel Jones had a TD pass and RB Saquon Barkley had a 13-yard scoring run.

Detroit (5-7) thumped visiting Jacksonville, 40-14 behind a pair of TD passes from QB Jared Goff (340 passing yards) and rushing scores from backs Jamaal Williams and D'Andre Swift. The Jaguars (4-8) trailed 14-3 after the first quarter and were never in this one.

The Cleveland Browns won in Houston, 27-14 as their defense scored twice and they also got a 76-yard punt return from Donovan Peoples-Jones for another score to improve their record to 5-7. The Texans (1-10-1) had been looking forward to this game as their former QB Deshaun Watson (now with Cleveland) was playing in his first game since the 2020 season after a lengthy suspension for off the field conduct and they had a 5-0 lead in the second quarter, but four turnovers proved to be too much to overcome.

The Seattle Seahawks (7-5) outlasted the host Los Angeles Rams, 27-23 as QB Geno Smith (367 passing yards with three TD and one INT) threw an eight-yard TD pass to WR DK Metcalf with 36 seconds left in the game. The Rams (3-9) took a 23-20 lead when RB Cam Akers scored his second TD of the game with a six-yard run with 2:56 remaining in the game.

The Las Vegas Raiders (5-7) won their third consecutive game, a 27-20 decision against the visiting Los Angeles Chargers (6-6) with QB Derek Carr throwing two scoring passes to WR Davante Adams (eight  receptions for 177 yards) and RB Josh Jacobs (144 yards rushing) scoring on a 20-yard run. The Chargers took a quick 7-0 lead when defensive back Bryce Callahan returned an interception 26 yards for a score. Midway through the fourth quarter, 'Bolts QB Justin Herbert threw a 35-yard scoring pass to WR Keenan Allen to account for the final score, but the Raiders twice held L.A. off the board the rest of the way to get the win.

 

Cowboys DB Malik Hooker scores on fumble return.

The Sunday night game in Dallas saw the Cowboys (9-3) destroy the Indianapolis Colts, 54-19 as they scored 33 points in the fourth quarter. The Colts (4-8-1) had a 10-7 lead after the first quarter. The Cowboys went ahead 21-13 at halftime and their lead was cut to 21-19 following a 15-yard TD pass from Colts QB Matt Ryan to Alec Pierce late in the third quarter. But then Dallas put this one away in a hurry as they got two scores in the first minute and a half of the final quarter on a TD pass from QB Dak Prescott to WR Michael Gallup and then a 38-yard fumble return for score by DB Malik Hooker to make it 34-19. Running backs Tony Pollard, Ezekiel Elliott and Malik Davis each scored rushing touchdowns to complete the rout. 

The Green Bay Packers rallied from a 16-3 first half deficit to beat the Chicago Bears, 28-19 and improve to 5-8 with the road win. Packers QB Aaron Rodgers threw a TD pass to WR Christian Watson and both Watson (46-yard run) and A.J. Dillon (21 yards) had scoring runs. Meanwhile, the Bears (3-10) dropped their sixth straight game by blowing the lead after QB Justin Fields scored on a 55-yard run and RB David Montgomery on a seven-yard scoring run. Fields threw two interceptions as the Bears had three turnovers to factor in the setback.

The Baltimore Ravens (8-4) won a snooze fest at home against the Denver Broncos, 10-9 as reserve QB Tyler Huntley scored on a two-yard run with just 28 seconds left. Ravens starting QB Lamar Jackson left the game in the first quarter with a knee injury and is listed as week-to-week. The Broncos (3-9) only scoring came on three field goals by kicker Brandon McManus.

The Pittsburgh Steelers (5-7) defeated the host Atlanta Falcons, 19-16 as rookie QB Kenny Pickett threw a 17-yard scoring pass to tight end Connor Heyward and kicker Matthew Wright drilled four field goals. The Falcons (5-8) got three field goals from Younghoe Koo and a TD pass from QB Marcus Mariota in the loss. 

In the Monday night game, Tom Brady threw two touchdown passes in the final three minutes of the fourth quarter to rally the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-6) past the New Orleans Saints, 17-16 in Tampa. The Saints (4-9) led 16-3 following Will Lutz' third field goal of the game with 8:02 remaining in the game. But Brady and the Bucs rallied back to win it as the winning six-yard TD pass went to rookie RB Rachaad White with just three seconds left to play. Saints QB Andy Dalton had a 30-yard TD pass to Taysom Hill to take the lead in the second quarter.

WEEK THIRTEEN RESULTS 

Buffalo 24, New England 10 

Green Bay 28, Chicago 19 

Washington 20, N.Y. Giants 20 (OT) 

Minnesota 27, N. Y. Jets 22 

Cleveland 27, Houston 14 

Detroit 40, Jacksonville 14 

Baltimore 10, Denver 9 

Pittsburgh 19, Atlanta 16 

Philadelphia 35, Tennessee 10 

Seattle 27, L.A. Rams 23

San Francisco 33, Miami 17 

Cincinnati 27, Kansas City 24

Las Vegas 27, L.A. Chargers 20 

Dallas 54, Indianapolis 19  

Tampa Bay 17, New Orleans 16

College Football Top Ten

The Heftyinfo College Football Top Ten 

(Week ending December 4) 

 

1. Georgia (13-0) 

2. Michigan (13-0) 

3. Alabama (10-2) 

4. Ohio State (11-1) 

5. Tennessee (10-2) 

6. Penn State (10-2) 

7. Clemson (11-2) 

8. TCU (12-1)

9. Utah (10-3) 

10. USC (11-2)

10. (tie) Kansas State (10-3)

NFL - Week Thirteen Preview

 

There are at least six games that will have big implications for the teams playing each other this weekend and it starts on Thursday night when the New England Patriots (6-5) host the Buffalo Bills (8-3) in an AFC East divisional tilt. 

The Bills smoked the Patriots last year in the AFC playoffs and this time around, Pats quarterback Mac Jones will look to atone for that terrible game last January. The Bills have been struggling in  recent weeks while New England has been up and down throughout the season. They did sweep the New York Jets this season and at at the same time, the Bills recently lost a close one to the Jets. 

These two teams know each other very well, so it's just a matter of minimizing any mistakes. The Bills should get the win as they have the better offense, but the Patriots defense will be looking to get after Buffalo QB Josh Allen. Meanwhile, the Pats offense will look to take advantage of no Von Miller (knee injury) for the Bills defense with their mixed attack. Jones not turning the football over will be the key if the Patriots are going to pull out a win in this game. 

This Sunday, the New York Giants (7-4) will host the Washington Commanders (7-5) in a huge NFC East battle. The Commanders have been one of the hottest teams in the NFL in recent weeks while the Giants have been floundering after their surprising 6-1 start. This game could go either way, but the way the Commanders defense has been stepping up should be the difference, especially if they shut down running back Saquon Barkley and force QB Daniel Jones to air it out. 

The other New York team plays a big road game this weekend in Minnesota. The Jets (7-4) are coming off a blowout win against the Chicago Bears last week and will face a much tougher challenge with the Vikings (9-2), who knocked off the Patriots on Thanksgiving Day. Keep in mind the Patriots swept the Jets this season already. But the Vikes defense is suspect and if Jets QB Mike White has any kind of success like he did last Sunday, the Jets could win this game. The Vikings high powered offense will definitely challenge the Jets tenacious defense. Look for this one to come down to the final possession. 

The NFL's best team (record wise) this season is the Philadelphia Eagles (10-1) and they will be at home against the Tennessee Titans (7-4), who dropped a close game last week against Cincinnati. The Eagles are flying high and hung 40 points on Green Bay in the win last week. The Titans are a ground and pound type team, but RB Derrick Henry has to get it going again as he has been limited in the last couple games. The Eagles defense has struggled against the run, so that will be something to watch. Philadelphia is due for a let down game, but with games against the Giants and Cowboys looming, they cannot let their guard down. 

Two games that start later in the afternoon include the Miami Dolphins (8-3) at the San Francisco 49ers (7-4) and the Kansas City Chiefs (9-2) at the Cincinnati Bengals (7-4). Both games can be called toss ups, so starting with the game in San Francisco, this one should be a great one. 

Both the Dolphins and 49ers are on a roll. Miami has won five straight and the 'Niners have won four in a row, including a shut out against the New Orleans Saints last weekend. The Dolphins have the high flying passing game with QB Tua Tagovailoa and speedy wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, who could shatter the record setting tandem of the Marks brothers (Clayton and Duper along with QB Dan Marino) of Dolphins fame from the 1980s. 

But San Francisco's defense will not be daunted. The 49ers will look to QB Jimmy Garoppolo to lead their versatile offense featuring all everything weapons Deebo Samuel and Christian McCaffrey against a suspect Miami defense that does give up big plays. The 49ers should prevail in what could be a lower scoring game, but don't disregard Tagovailoa as he has been on a magic carpet ride this season.

The Chiefs and the Bengals played two memorable games last year, including the AFC Championship Game in Kansas City where the Bengals overcame a big deficit and beat the Chiefs, 27-24 in overtime. Kansas City QB Patrick Mahomes had some rare gaffes in that loss while Bengals QB Joe Burrow pulled it off and got his team to the Super Bowl. This time around, expect much more of the same in Cincy. These two teams can score points and it is very possible they both will top 30 points in this one. The Bengals defense is gaining confidence and if they can take away the Chiefs running game, they should win this one. But it might take overtime. 

 

As for the rest of the games, here is the capsule style break down for each one, followed by the Heftyinfo predictions for all fifteen games. 

Pittsburgh (4-7) at Atlanta (5-7) - The Falcons need this one to keep pace with Tampa Bay in the NFC South race. The Steelers are just playing out the string, but want to avoid having a losing season. 

Green Bay (4-8) at Chicago (3-9) - Who would have thought the once mighty Packers would be on the verge of elimination from the playoff picture in early December? But the Bears are abysmal and injury depleted, so take the Packers. 

Jacksonville (4-7) at Detroit (4-7) - The battle of the big cats. Take the Lions in a close one. 

Denver (3-8) at Baltimore (7-4) - The Broncos are reeling and need to play a perfect game to win this one, but if Lamar Jackson doesn't play for the Ravens in this one, call it a toss up. 

Cleveland (4-7) at Houston (1-9-1) - The only interesting thing about this game is the debut of maligned Browns QB Deshaun Watson, who hasn't taken a snap in nearly two years. 

Seattle (6-5) at L.A. Rams (3-8) - The Seahawks should win this game, but they have struggled after winning four in a row. The Rams are a mess. 

L.A. Chargers (6-5) at Las Vegas (4-7) - Can the Chargers make it two in a row and stay in the hunt for a playoff spot? Not if the Raiders have anything to say about it. 

Indianapolis (4-7-1) at Dallas (8-3) - Cowboys roll ! 

New Orleans (4-8) at Tampa Bay (5-6) - The Saints are on life support as far as a post-season spot in concerned. The Buccaneers have been inconsistent all season long. Toss up here in the Monday night game. 

 

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

Buffalo over New England 

Washington over N.Y. Giants 

Pittsburgh over Atlanta 

Green Bay over Chicago 

Detroit over Jacksonville 

Minnesota over N.Y. Jets 

Philadelphia over Tennessee 

Baltimore over Denver 

Cleveland over Houston 

Seattle over L.A. Rams 

San Francisco over Miami 

Cincinnati over Kansas City 

L.A. Chargers over Las Vegas 

DALLAS over Indianapolis 

Tampa Bay over New Orleans 

 

Last Week's Record - 10-6 

SEASON RECORD - 109-70-1 

Lock of the Week Record - 10-2