Week 12 of the NFL season kicked off Thursday with the Cleveland Browns successful a snowy battle towards the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Sunday began with a handful of thrillers. The Dallas Cowboys snapped their five-game skid, beating the Washington Commanders, and the Tennessee Titans upset the Houston Texans. The Minnesota Vikings earned an additional time win towards the Chicago Bears, and the Kansas Metropolis Chiefs narrowly beat the Carolina Panthers.
Later, the Arizona Cardinals noticed their four-game win streak finish to the Seattle Seahawks and the Denver Broncos defeated the Las Vegas Raiders. The Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Los Angeles Rams 37-20 on the again of an impressive Saquon Barkley efficiency. And eventually, on “Monday Evening Soccer”, John Harbaugh’s Baltimore Ravens toppled his brother Jim’s Los Angeles Chargers 30-23.
Our NFL Nation reporters reacted to all of the motion, answering lingering questions popping out of every recreation and detailing the whole lot else you have to know for each crew. Let’s get to it.
Leap to:
LAR-PHI | PIT-CLE | TB-NYG | DET-IND
KC-CAR | NE-MIA | TEN-HOU
DAL-WSH | MIN-CHI | SF-GB
ARI-SEA | DEN-LV | BAL-LAC
Ravens
Are the Ravens the NFL’s most dominant offense? The Ravens are positively probably the most assured offense. Trailing 10-0 early within the second quarter, Lamar Jackson led Baltimore to scores on 5 straight drives, reaching the tip zone 4 instances. This was towards a Chargers protection that ranked No. 1 in fewest factors allowed (14.5) and hadn’t allowed a crew to attain 30 factors this season. Jackson confirmed confidence in his teammates when he threw in tight home windows twice for touchdowns — a 40-yarder to Rashod Bateman and a 6-yarder for Mark Andrews. The Ravens’ 4 wins after trailing by 10 this season ties for probably the most by any crew in a full season since 2000.
Describe the sport in two phrases: Sibling rivalry. John Harbaugh improved to 3-0 over his youthful brother, Jim. John was aggressive in doing so, going for it on fourth down thrice and changing every time. It was the Ravens’ most fourth-down conversions in a recreation in two years. This marked the primary time the Harbaugh brothers had confronted one another as opposing head coaches since Tremendous Bowl XLVII 11 years in the past.
Most shocking efficiency: Working again Derrick Henry failed to achieve the tip zone for the primary time in 12 video games this season. He fell one recreation shy of tying Corridor of Famers LaDainian Tomlinson, Jerry Rice and John Riggins for the third-longest streak of scoring a landing inside a season in NFL historical past. However Henry was nonetheless dominant, speeding for 140 yards on 24 carries. — Jamison Hensley
Subsequent recreation: vs. Eagles (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)
Chargers
Does this loss show that the Chargers aren’t professional contenders? Because the Ravens’ offense pulled away from the Chargers within the second half Monday, the Chargers couldn’t get a cease on protection or rating factors on offense. It appeared clear that Los Angeles isn’t in the identical tier as Baltimore within the NFL’s hierarchy. It doesn’t suggest the Chargers will not make the playoffs, however this recreation highlighted lots of L.A.’s flaws towards a crew anticipated to contend for a Tremendous Bowl.
Most shocking efficiency: Defensive struggles on late downs. The Chargers entered giving up a 32% conversion fee on third down, the third-best mark within the NFL. However the Ravens transformed on 53% of their third downs Monday evening. Baltimore additionally had three fourth-down conversions, their most since 2022.
What we discovered in regards to the QB at the moment: Justin Herbert is not sufficient to make these Chargers professional contenders. Herbert was correct all through the evening and evaded defenders to hurry for 29 yards and a landing, however the Chargers wanted extra from their supporting solid. L.A.’s receivers had 4 drops, probably the most they’ve had all season. — Kris Rhim
Subsequent recreation: at Falcons (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Eagles
Will Saquon Barkley develop into the primary operating again since 2012 to win MVP? He is in place to make a severe run at it. Barkley set a private excessive with 302 yards from scrimmage and broke the franchise report for single-game speeding yards (255), which included a pair of 70-plus-yard speeding touchdowns. He has three video games with 195-plus scrimmage yards this season, the identical quantity as the remainder of the NFL mixed. Barkley is the third participant in NFL historical past to have 1,500 scrimmage yards and 10 touchdowns in his first season with a number of groups, becoming a member of Corridor of Famers Marshall Faulk and Eric Dickerson. If he retains this manufacturing up, he may develop into the primary again since Adrian Peterson to safe the MVP.
Describe the sport in two phrases: Defensive flip. The Eagles yielded 117 yards on the primary two drives of the sport however then turned the tables on the Rams, holding them to minus-6 yards for the remainder of the half. Matthew Stafford was underneath duress for a lot of the evening because the Eagles racked up 5 sacks and 11 quarterback hits on him. Coordinator Vic Fangio’s group continues to play above expectations.
Early prediction for subsequent week: Eagles-Ravens will likely be billed as a doable Tremendous Bowl preview. With the Eagles successful seven straight video games, they’ve put themselves on the quick checklist of professional NFC contenders. Considered one of their hardest assessments of the common season will are available in Baltimore towards the Lamar Jackson-led Ravens, who’ve postseason objectives of their very own. — Tim McManus
Subsequent recreation: at Ravens (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET)
Rams
Can the Rams’ offense discover consistency earlier than it is too late within the playoff race? Per week after scoring 28 factors towards the Patriots, the Rams struggled to complete drives, going 2-for-4 within the crimson zone and 0-for-8 on third down. After scoring a landing within the first quarter for the second time this season, the Rams had minus-6 yards within the second quarter, which was their fewest in any quarter since 2019, in response to ESPN Analysis. The Rams are operating out of time to search out that consistency however are a recreation out of first place within the NFC West.
Greatest gap within the recreation plan: Stopping Saquon Barkley. The Rams’ run protection, which entered the sport ranked twenty second in DVOA, knew this may be a problem. The Eagles operating again completed with 255 yards and a couple of touchdowns on 26 carries and 4 catches for 47 yards.
What we discovered in regards to the QB at the moment: Matthew Stafford wants higher safety. The offensive line has been a problem all season for the Rams, largely due to harm. However per week after Stafford was not sacked by the Patriots, he was sacked 5 instances and hit 11 by the Eagles. The Rams are hopeful they may get proper sort out Rob Havenstein again from an ankle harm, maybe by Week 14 towards the Saints. — Sarah Barshop
Subsequent recreation: at Saints (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)
Broncos
Do the Broncos have the profile of a real playoff crew? The Broncos’ protection once more made the difference-making performs, most notably a Brandon Jones third-quarter interception to arrange the go-ahead landing and Nik Bonitto’s game-sealing strip sack with 2:21 left. Extensive receiver Courtland Sutton additionally had two landing catches to assist them keep the No. 7 spot within the AFC. However the Dolphins are a lurking drawback. Miami has received three in a row to climb to 5-6 and has a greater AFC report (4-4) than Denver (3-4). The Broncos confirmed they will grind out wins towards inferior opponents, however they will have much less of a margin for error when their schedule will get harder after their Week 14 bye.
Greatest gap within the recreation plan: The Broncos have been particular groups stalwarts for a lot of Sean Payton’s tenure, however there was some shakiness over the past three video games. Whereas Wil Lutz made his 5 subject objective makes an attempt Sunday, the Broncos surrendered a 59-yard kickoff return and a 34-yard acquire through a faux punt on back-to-back possessions. The Raiders pulled 10 factors out of these two drives.
Eye-popping stat: Bonitto put the exclamation level on the Broncos’ win when he sacked Raiders quarterback Gardner Minshew, forcing a fumble that Denver recovered and was a game-sealing subject objective. Within the course of, he grew to become the primary Broncos participant to have 10 sacks in a season since Von Miller had 14.5 in 2018. — Jeff Legwold
Subsequent recreation: vs. Browns (Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET)
Raiders
Are the Raiders on a quick monitor to a top-three draft decide? The quick reply: Sure. The Raiders, who’ve misplaced seven in a row, are one in all solely three groups to have two wins (the Giants and Jaguars are the others), because the Browns and Titans every received their third recreation this week. Plus, given the Raiders’ harm woes, erratic QB play and instant schedule — at Kansas Metropolis on a brief week adopted by a cross-country journey to Tampa Bay — it is laborious to search out many wins down the stretch. Possibly at residence towards the Jags in 4 weeks? Keep tuned.
What we discovered in regards to the QB at the moment: Whereas Gardner Minshew threw a game-turning third-quarter interception (his tenth) and Aidan O’Connell (damaged proper thumb) is now eligible to come back off IR, a brief week means Minshew most likely nonetheless begins at Kansas Metropolis until his left shoulder harm is worse than anticipated. Desmond Ridder, anybody? He was strip-sacked upon getting into the sport, denying the Raiders their finest try and tie the rating.
Most shocking efficiency: The Raiders, who had the worst speeding assault within the NFL getting into Sunday’s recreation, had been with out prime operating backs Alexander Mattison and Zamir White. But, Ameer Abdullah and Honest McCormick mixed to hurry for 61 yards on 13 carries towards the league’s No. 6 run protection. Abdullah additionally caught 5 passes for 37 yards and a landing. — Paul Gutierrez
Subsequent recreation: at Chiefs (Friday, 3 p.m. ET)
Seahawks
Are the Seahawks the very best crew within the NFC West? The standings say so, with the Seahawks’ win over Arizona giving them the tiebreaker as every crew sits atop the division at 6-5 pending the results of Rams-Eagles on Sunday evening. Curiously, ESPN Analytics pegged Seattle’s probabilities at making the playoffs at solely 24% with a win over the Cardinals. That displays a tricky remaining schedule, a tightly packed division and a few dangerous soccer from Seattle early within the season. However the 49ers are reeling and Seattle’s protection continued its latest turnaround. The Seahawks had been dominant on that aspect of the ball, although they will want extra from quarterback Geno Smith & Co. in the course of the closing stretch.
Describe the sport in two phrases: JSN Present. Extensive receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba supplied a lot of the offense on one other day by which Seattle could not run the ball. The second-year receiver continued his breakout with six catches for 77 yards and a landing. He has been the Seahawks’ most efficient participant over the previous three weeks with 366 receiving yards and three touchdowns.
What we discovered in regards to the QB at the moment: Smith continues to be susceptible to careless errors. The Seahawks’ quarterback entered Sunday tied for the NFL lead with 11 interceptions. Just a few have been fluky, however the one he threw within the crimson zone in the beginning of the fourth quarter was a nasty resolution. It was his third interception this season on a cross thrown into the tip zone, per ESPN Analysis. — Brady Henderson
Subsequent recreation: at Jets (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Cardinals
What went flawed after the bye? No matter magic the Cardinals had throughout their four-game successful streak did not exist in Seattle. Arizona could not get its run recreation going, which often units up its passing recreation. James Conner had simply 8 yards and was the Cardinals’ fourth-leading rusher. Arizona’s protection additionally gave up its first landing since Week 8 and could not work out a method to rush Geno Smith or cowl deep. And Kyler Murray threw his first interception since Week 7, which went for a pick-six.
Describe the sport in two phrases: Sack metropolis. Murray was pressured 16 instances for 5 sacks, probably the most sacks in a recreation this season and probably the most since Week 9 of the 2022 season. He was sacked 5 instances then.
Most shocking efficiency: Tight finish Trey McBride completed with the very best recreation of his profession. He had 133 yards on 12 catches, surpassing the 131 yards he had towards Atlanta final season. McBride reached 100 yards early within the third quarter, giving him two 100-yard video games this season. — Josh Weinfuss
Subsequent recreation: at Vikings (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Packers
What sort of form will the Packers be in for Thursday evening? There’s purpose to be involved given they play the Dolphins in 4 days. Working again Josh Jacobs made a major affect (26 carries, 103 yards, three touchdowns), however he needed to depart briefly to be handled for cramps. They misplaced receiver Romeo Doubs (three catches, 54 yards) to a concussion, and it might be tough for him to clear protocol for the Miami recreation. The Packers aren’t more likely to have cornerback Jaire Alexander (knee) or linebacker Edgerrin Cooper (hamstring), both.
What we discovered in regards to the QB at the moment: Quarterback Jordan Love can get via a recreation with out an interception. He ended a streak of eight consecutive video games with a decide by remaining at 11, which matches his complete from final season. It wasn’t precisely a classic efficiency by Love; he threw for 163 yards however had two touchdowns. He threw one interception in his ultimate eight regular-season video games in 2023.
Most shocking efficiency: Lukas Van Ness made a play. The 2023 first-round decide had been largely unproductive with one sack — manner again in Week 3 — and two QB hits. He helped put the sport away with a strip-sack within the fourth quarter. Together with an interception and a pressured fumble, the Packers ended a two-game streak with out a takeaway. — Rob Demovsky
Subsequent recreation: vs. Dolphins (Thursday, 8:20 p.m. ET)
0:16
Josh Jacobs completes hat trick with third TD vs. 49ers
Josh Jacobs barrels into the tip zone and picks up his third speeding landing towards the 49ers to pad the Packers’ lead.
49ers
At 5-6 with a visit to Buffalo awaiting, how dim are the 49ers’ postseason hopes? The lights are flickering however not utterly out. But. The Niners have not regarded like a playoff contender for a lot of this season, nevertheless it’s laborious to rule out anybody proper now from the NFC West. Regardless of Sunday’s loss, the 49ers are one recreation again within the division and have one other cross-country journey to face a surging Payments crew. Buffalo may put San Francisco in a state of affairs the place it has to win out to even sniff the playoffs. Anticipating any type of second-half surge akin to latest years appears far-fetched for a crew that is lacked a knockout punch.
Describe the sport in two phrases: Completely predictable. Even at full energy, this recreation was going to be tough for the 49ers. However they had been nowhere close to that Sunday, lacking quarterback Brock Purdy (shoulder), finish Nick Bosa (indirect) and left sort out Trent Williams (ankle). These absences left a transparent expertise discrepancy and the scoreboard mirrored that chasm.
What we discovered in regards to the QB at the moment: Making his first begin because the 2021 regular-season finale, Brandon Allen regarded like a succesful backup. When he had time to throw and his teammates weren’t accumulating penalties, fumbling or letting catchable passes slip via their fingers, Allen was totally on time and on course. Whereas the Niners are hopeful that Purdy can return subsequent week, Allen was removed from San Francisco’s largest drawback Sunday. — Nick Wagoner
Subsequent recreation: at Payments (Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET)
Vikings
How did the Vikings let this recreation get to additional time? Merely put, bizarre issues occur to the Vikings at Soldier Area. The Vikings had been up by 11 factors with 22 seconds remaining. Though their protection allowed Bears quarterback Caleb Williams to run throughout it within the fourth quarter, the actual challenge was tight finish Johnny Mundt letting an onside kick hit him within the foot. That allowed the Bears to recuperate the kick lengthy earlier than it went the required 10 yards. If it had not been for that fluke bounce, the dialog would have been a lot completely different.
Most shocking efficiency: No. 2 receiver Jordan Addison had an enormous day, catching seven passes for a career-high 162 yards and a landing. The Vikings lastly made an opponent pay for the eye it was paying to Justin Jefferson, however he managed solely 7 receiving yards in regulation. That might have been a profession low earlier than Jefferson caught a 20-yard cross in additional time.
What we discovered in regards to the QB at the moment: Quarterback Sam Darnold is hard, and he may need had his finest stretch as an NFL participant in additional time. He left Sunday’s recreation for 2 performs within the fourth quarter due to what seemed to be an ankle harm. However he returned and accomplished all six of his cross makes an attempt in additional time to salvage the sport. — Kevin Seifert
Subsequent recreation: vs. Cardinals (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Bears
Has Caleb Williams been extra environment friendly with Thomas Brown as offensive coordinator? Williams has averaged 2.42 seconds earlier than releasing his passes in Brown’s two video games as interim OC, which marks his quickest throws this season. That helped him go 9-of-12 for 128 yards and two touchdowns towards the blitz, marking his first multi-TD recreation versus the blitz this season. He was 5-of-12 for 141 yards on passes with no less than 15 air yards, which was his season finest. His completion fee is also increased (71% to 61%).
Most shocking efficiency: Keenan Allen was a late addition to the harm report Friday after rolling an ankle in follow, however he turned in a season-high 9 catches for 86 yards and a landing on a team-high 15 targets. He ignited the Bears’ dormant deep passing recreation when he hauled in a 40-yard reception from Williams that arrange Chicago’s lone landing within the first quarter. This was Allen’s third recreation with double-digit targets.
Eye-popping stat: After his blocked game-winning try towards Inexperienced Bay, Cairo Santos’ first subject objective try of the afternoon was blocked by the Vikings. His three blocked subject objective makes an attempt are probably the most within the NFL and Chicago’s most in a season since 2012 (additionally three). He transformed on two different makes an attempt, together with a 48-yarder to ship the sport into additional time. — Courtney Cronin
Subsequent recreation: at Lions (Thursday, 12:30 p.m. ET)
Cowboys
How on earth did the Cowboys pull that off? The Cowboys entered the sport with greater than $100 million in wage cap house on injured reserve in Dak Prescott, DeMarcus Lawrence, Zack Martin, Trevon Diggs and Brandin Cooks. Their finest offensive lineman, Tyler Smith (ankle), was additionally dominated out Sunday. They overcame two missed subject objective makes an attempt, a deflected punt, a penalty on a kickoff and iced the sport on a pair of kickoff returns by KaVontae Turpin (99 yards) and Juanyeh Thomas (43 yards) after Washington almost pulled off its second miracle of the season.
What we discovered in regards to the QB at the moment: Cooper Rush is regular, and that is what groups want from its backup quarterback. In opposition to the Commanders, Rush accomplished a season-high 78.5% of his passes and averted massive errors. His earlier finest as a starter was 67.7% in a 2022 win towards the Giants. He threw two landing passes within the second half and regarded just like the quarterback who went 4-1 as Prescott’s substitute in 2022.
Early prediction for subsequent week: When the Cowboys host the Giants, do not anticipate an uptick within the high quality of soccer after the Giants misplaced 30-7 to the Buccaneers. This will likely be simply the fourth time within the Tremendous Bowl period that each groups are underneath .500 when taking part in on Thanksgiving. A minimum of the Cowboys enter the sport with a win. — Todd Archer
Subsequent recreation: vs. Giants (Thursday, 4:30 p.m. ET)
0:49
Commanders’ miracle comeback try falls quick after Seibert’s missed XP
Terry McLaurin hauls in an 86-yard landing, however Austin Seibert misses the game-tying additional level because the Cowboys beat the Commanders.
Commanders
What’s flawed with the offense? Washington’s offense powered its 7-2 begin. Now it is answerable for its previous two losses. Dallas’ protection entered the sport ranked twenty ninth in scoring and twenty third in yards, however Washington managed solely 319 yards, surpassing 300 for the primary time in three video games. The offensive line is banged up, and previously three video games, its operating backs have averaged 3.2 yards per carry and gained 181 yards mixed.
What we discovered in regards to the QB at the moment: It hasn’t been good. The cross recreation lacked any rhythm, and quarterback Jayden Daniels averaged simply 3.9 yards per try till he needed to throw downfield to play catch-up late within the recreation. Daniels was thought-about an MVP contender early within the season. Now they simply have to get him again to being the presumptive Offensive Rookie of the 12 months.
Greatest gap within the recreation plan: The kicking recreation. Austin Seibert missed two additional factors and a 51-yard subject objective try. Getting into the sport, Seibert had made 25 of 28 subject objective makes an attempt and all 22 extra-point makes an attempt. Nonetheless, he had missed the previous two weeks with a hip harm and was dangerous Sunday. Tyler Ott’s low snaps and a 99-yard kick return by the Cowboys did not assist, both. — John Keim
Subsequent recreation: vs. Titans (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Titans
Is the Titans’ offense beginning to get up? The Titans scored 30 factors for the second time this season. Earlier than reaching that threshold towards the Dolphins in Week 4, Tennessee had not carried out it since Jan 2, 2022. Nick Westbrook-Ikhine continued his sizzling play along with his sixth landing in six video games. The all of the sudden explosive passing recreation produced three performs of 30 yards or extra, matching final week’s output towards the Vikings.
Eye-popping stat: Will Levis absorbed seven sacks within the first half, changing into the primary QB to be sacked no less than seven instances in a number of halves of a season since Randall Cunningham with the Eagles in 1986. Levis was additionally sacked seven instances by the Packers within the second half of a Week 3 loss.
What we discovered in regards to the QB at the moment: Levis continues to be late on throws. A minimum of three of Houston’s eight sacks may have been averted if he noticed receivers coming open. His predetermined learn saved him from seeing Texans security Jimmie Ward within the passing lane, resulting in a pick-six. However Levis confirmed resilience, connecting with Chig Okonkwo for a 70-yard landing that held up as the sport winner. — Turron Davenport
Subsequent recreation: at Commanders (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Texans
Will the Texans’ defensive struggles develop into a pattern? The Texans allowed quarterback Will Levis to go 18-of-23 for 278 passing yards and two touchdowns. In December, Houston faces the Dolphins, Chiefs and Ravens, whose offenses can rating in bunches. These points should get fastened or the hopes of a deep playoff run will not materialize.
Eye-popping stat: Ka’imi Fairbairn’s missed 28-yard subject objective try within the fourth quarter marked simply the fourth missed subject objective of 29 or fewer yards (out of 159 makes an attempt) within the NFL this season. Two of these 4 misses are by Fairbairn.
What we discovered in regards to the QB at the moment: C.J. Stroud’s efficiency was a combined bag. He threw a number of landing passes for the primary time since Oct. 13, however he additionally threw a number of interceptions for the second time in three weeks and was sacked 4 instances. Houston’s line has allowed 17 sacks in its previous 4 video games. — DJ Bien-Aime
Subsequent recreation: at Jaguars (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Dolphins
Can Miami’s offense proceed to be environment friendly at Inexperienced Bay on Thanksgiving? The temperatures for the Dolphins’ recreation towards the Packers are anticipated to drop under freezing — which has traditionally been the Dolphins’ kryptonite. However with a continued emphasis on high-efficiency passes and ball management, Miami seems to be higher outfitted to play in frigid temperatures than it was in both of the previous two seasons. If it could actually overcome the climate, Thursday evening presents an intriguing matchup for Miami towards a Packers protection that ranks twenty second in defensive anticipated factors added since Week 8.
What we discovered in regards to the QB at the moment: Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has matured as a passer, and that was on full show Sunday with a four-touchdown efficiency. He accomplished 72.5% of his passes towards the Patriots — not removed from his career-high 74% this season. It is clear he’s much less insistent on trying deep passes and extra keen to take what defenses give him.
Early prediction for subsequent week: Tight finish Jonnu Smith could have one other massive recreation towards the Packers. He has scored three touchdowns in his previous two video games and faces a Inexperienced Bay protection that has allowed the Thirteenth-most yards to opposing tight ends (getting into Sunday). Miami’s intention to run the passing offense via Smith is not any secret, however Inexperienced Bay continues to be extra more likely to shade protection towards receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Subsequent recreation: at Packers (Thursday, 8:20 p.m. ET)
0:16
De’Von Achane waltzes in for 2nd TD of recreation for Dolphins
De’Von Achane will get the cross from Tua Tagovailoa and runs it in to extend the Dolphins’ result in 21-0.
Patriots
Was this no-show effort an outlier or an indication of issues to come back within the ultimate 5 video games? The Patriots had performed competitively in 4 video games since coach Jerod Mayo referred to as the crew out for “taking part in mushy,” so this was an enormous step again. It was a poor reflection on Mayo and his workers, in addition to the gamers. The Patriots return residence to face the Colts on Sunday, then they’ve their bye week earlier than ending the season towards the Cardinals, Payments, Chargers and Payments once more. Mayo has mentioned he hopes to be a crew that nobody desires to play coming down the house stretch. They hardly regarded like that towards Miami.
Describe the sport in two phrases: Undisciplined mess. The Patriots had 9 penalties within the first half, six of which had been pre-snap infractions: 4 false begins, one offensive offside and one defensive impartial zone infraction. Earlier than a crew can beat an opponent, it has to not beat itself.
Greatest gap within the recreation plan: Was there a recreation plan? The Dolphins ran circles round them, particularly in a 24-0 second quarter, which was the biggest scoring margin for a crew in any NFL quarter this season. Tackling on protection was additionally shoddy. — Mike Reiss
Subsequent recreation: vs. Colts (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Chiefs
What does the emergence of extra receiver choices imply for the remainder of the Chiefs’ season? The Chiefs cannot have too many threats, so having one other dependable receiver is a welcome improvement for them. It is unlikely their passing recreation will function as many massive performs as they envisioned earlier than the beginning of the season, however the Chiefs confirmed towards the Panthers they are often efficient with largely shorter positive factors. Extensive receiver Hollywood Brown may return later within the season, which might give the Chiefs one more risk.
Eye-popping stat: Tight finish Noah Grey had 11.9 yards of separation on his first landing, which is probably the most yards of separation on a Chiefs receiving landing previously two seasons. He was vast open.
Most shocking efficiency: The Chiefs on protection had extra hassle with quarterback Bryce Younger and the Carolina offense than anticipated. The Panthers entered the sport averaging 281 yards (final within the league) and 17 factors (thirtieth). However the Chiefs didn’t include them. Carolina had 249 passing yards, permitting the Panthers to tie the rating with lower than two minutes left. — Adam Teicher
Subsequent recreation: vs. Raiders (Friday, 3 p.m. ET)
Panthers
Did Bryce Younger earn the proper to begin the remainder of the season? Coach Dave Canales has been cautious to not identify Younger the starter every week till evaluating the movie. No additional want. The highest decide of the 2023 draft had his finest recreation, contemplating the opponent, and deserves to play out the season. He dealt with the blitz like a seasoned professional. He was blitzed on 38% of dropbacks. He was 11-of-13 for a season-high 135 yards with a landing towards 5 or extra defenders.
Describe the sport in two phrases: Turning level? Regardless of the loss, Carolina went toe-to-toe with the two-time defending Tremendous Bowl champions. This may need been a much bigger confidence booster than the consecutive wins towards the Saints and Giants getting into the day. Younger regarded nice. The protection created stress (5 sacks). This crew had an identification.
Greatest gap within the recreation plan: Defending the Chiefs’ second tight finish, Noah Grey. He had 4 catches for 66 yards and two touchdowns, together with a 35-yarder on the primary collection. The Panthers did a good job on star Travis Kelce, however Grey made them pay all through the afternoon. — David Newton
Subsequent recreation: vs. Bucs (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)
Lions
Are Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery the NFL’s prime speeding duo? Nicknamed “Sonic & Knuckles,” Gibbs and Montgomery mixed for 3 speeding touchdowns towards the Colts, changing into the primary duo in NFL historical past with 10 speeding touchdowns every in consecutive seasons. Sunday’s recreation additionally marked the eleventh time each backs have scored a landing in the identical recreation — together with the playoffs — which is probably the most such video games by an RB duo in NFL historical past, per ESPN Analysis. At this level, it is not a query of whether or not they’re the very best within the league; the manufacturing speaks for itself. It is now time to determine their place in league historical past, if they will stick with it.
Greatest gap within the recreation plan: Defending the deep ball. Coping with a groin harm, rookie cornerback Terrion Arnold was dominated out for Sunday’s recreation and did not journey with the crew. His absence was felt. Detroit’s protection allowed Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson to attach with Michael Pittman Jr. for a 30-yard cross and one other 39-yard bomb to Alec Pierce.
Most shocking efficiency: Lions wideout Tim Patrick. Within the Lions’ earlier 4 video games, Patrick logged 5 receptions for 38 yards, however he discovered a groove towards the Colts. He grabbed 4 receptions for 55 yards, together with a 27-yard catch on the finish of the primary quarter, which helped the offense discover an early rhythm. — Eric Woodyard
Subsequent recreation: vs. Bears (Thursday, 12:30 p.m. ET)
0:46
Lions lose two gamers within the third quarter to harm
Lions’ gamers David Montgomery and Kalif Raymond head to the locker room with obvious accidents within the third quarter.
Colts
Do the Colts nonetheless have a practical shot on the postseason? The Colts entered the day within the eighth place amongst AFC playoff contenders and did not assist their case with a loss. After beginning the day with a 34% shot on the playoffs, in response to ESPN Analytics, the defeat lowered these probabilities to 27% unbiased of different outcomes. However, the Colts have one of many extra favorable schedules, with 4 of their 5 remaining opponents at the moment underneath .500. In any case, it would take important work for them to reverse the harm carried out to their postseason hopes by shedding 4 of their previous 5 video games.
What we discovered in regards to the QB at the moment: Sunday demonstrated that Anthony Richardson wants extra assist from his supporting solid. Indianapolis was flagged for a season-high eight offensive penalties, a number of of them proving to be crushing by negating massive performs from the quarterback. Richardson additionally had some underwhelming performances from his cross targets, together with a dropped landing by tight finish Drew Ogletree.
Eye-popping stat: This was the primary loss in a recreation by which the Colts didn’t commit a turnover since a loss to the Raiders on Jan. 2, 2022. Up to now 5 seasons, the Colts have 22 video games by which they’ve averted a turnover. They’re now 19-3 in these contests. The Colts’ six factors Sunday is the fewest scored in any of these three losses. — Stephen Holder
Subsequent recreation: at Patriots (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Buccaneers
Is that this the jolt the Bucs wanted to ignite a playoff push? Sure, so long as Baker Mayfield’s stinger is not severe and these late-game fumbles cease. Getting franchise main scorer Mike Evans again was large. So was having each beginning cornerbacks in Jamel Dean and Zyon McCollum, and waiver wire pickup Mike Edwards, who got here in at security on third-down passing conditions after which to alleviate Jordan Whitehead after he had a pectoral harm within the fourth quarter. Solely one in all their remaining opponents — the Los Angeles Chargers — has a successful report.
What we discovered in regards to the QB at the moment: Mayfield nonetheless has a few of that Oklahoma swag. By no means thoughts the Bucs got here into Sunday’s recreation on a four-game shedding streak. He hurdled Giants cornerback Cor’Dale Flott, did Giants quarterback Tommy DeVito’s signature celebration and sprinted downfield to ship a block on Bucky Irving’s 56-yard run.
Eye-popping stat: The Bucs had 11 completely different receiving targets catch passes, tied for his or her most in a recreation in franchise historical past. This was final carried out Week 16 of 2020, when Tom Brady threw for 4 touchdowns in a 47-7 win over the Lions, in response to ESPN Analysis. — Jenna Laine
Subsequent recreation: at Panthers (Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET)
Giants
How a lot did the discharge of Daniel Jones result in this blowout loss? It is laborious to think about it wasn’t a major issue. The Giants benched their beginning quarterback, noticed him step in as a scout-team security throughout a walk-through interval at follow Thursday, and he was launched by Friday. Gamers similar to captain Dexter Lawrence mentioned publicly they thought Jones was nonetheless the crew’s finest quarterback. Clearly, it had an impact. DeVito hardly supplied the “spark” or vitality that coach Brian Daboll thought it might as his crew fell behind 23-0 by halftime.
What we discovered in regards to the QB at the moment: DeVito is not the reply. He went 3-of-5 passing for 31 yards with three sacks within the first half. He completed 21-of-31 passing for 189 yards. He was additionally sacked 4 instances. Not that DeVito stood an opportunity. The Giants misplaced left sort out Jermaine Eluemunor on the opening drive. That put third-string left sort out Chris Hubbard into the sport reverse Evan Neal for what was already the lowest-scoring offense within the NFL.
Most shocking efficiency: A no-show by the Giants’ protection popping out of the bye week. Inexcusable. At factors, Lawrence stood despondent, by himself, on the sideline. Maybe it was as a result of the protection barely sniffed Bucs quarterback Baker Mayfield throughout a sackless afternoon whereas permitting 400-plus yards of offense. — Jordan Raanan
Subsequent recreation: at Cowboys (Thursday, 4:30 p.m. ET)
Steelers
Is that this loss a wake-up name for the Steelers’ offense? Do not be distracted by the primary a part of Russell Wilson’s stat line. Sure, the quarterback accomplished 21 of 28 makes an attempt for 270 yards and a landing, however he was additionally sacked 4 instances. And the offense had six empty possessions that ended both with a punt, turnover on downs or a turnover. Wilson had some moments of field-stretching brilliance, firing off three deep balls on third-down completions to Calvin Austin, Van Jefferson and George Pickens, however he additionally struggled towards stress. Profitable like they did towards the Ravens, with six Chris Boswell subject objectives, is not sustainable. It wasn’t towards the Browns, and it will not be because the gauntlet of AFC North video games continues.
Describe the sport in two phrases: Entice recreation. Hindsight is 20/20, however this had all of the makings of a entice recreation. Although the Steelers mentioned they did not overlook the hapless Browns, they had been clearly overpowered and outwitted by a motivated crew taking part in with nothing to lose. Browns coach Kevin Stefanski took dangers that paid off, whereas Steelers coach Mike Tomlin did the other.
Eye-popping stat: Although they briefly erased their 12-point deficit, the Steelers are the one franchise that hasn’t overcome a deficit of 12 or extra factors within the fourth quarter of a regular-season recreation since 2000, per ESPN Analysis. — Brooke Pryor
Subsequent recreation: at Bengals (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
Browns
Will the Browns play spoiler in the course of the ultimate stretch of the season? Thursday evening’s win over the Steelers marked the Browns’ second upset victory over a divisional opponent, coming weeks after they surprised the Ravens. With 4 of its ultimate six video games coming towards groups with successful data, Cleveland has the chance to play spoiler a number of extra instances and a robust end may elevate optimism heading into the offseason with a roster that dissatisfied within the first half of the season.
Describe the sport in two phrases: No stop. 4 days after giving up 21 factors within the fourth quarter of a blowout loss to the Saints — their seventh defeat of their earlier eight video games — the Browns delivered a gritty victory at residence towards the division-leading Steelers.
Most shocking efficiency: Browns offensive sort out Jack Conklin. The veteran lineman held outdoors linebacker T.J. Watt to only one stress throughout 24 matchups. It was simply the second recreation this season that Watt was held to 1 stress. — Daniel Oyefusi
Subsequent recreation: at Broncos (Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET)
