The Week 18 NFL schedule for the 2023 season is stacked with nice matchups, and we have got you coated with what you’ll want to know heading into the weekend. Our NFL Nation reporters deliver us the most important keys to each sport and a daring prediction for every matchup.
Moreover, ESPN Stats & Info offers an enormous stat to know and a betting nugget for every contest, and our Soccer Energy Index (FPI) goes contained in the numbers with a sport projection and a take a look at the playoff image. Analytics author Seth Walder picks out every matchup’s greatest X issue, and fantasy analyst Eric Moody fingers out useful fantasy soccer intel. Lastly, Walder and Moody give us closing rating picks for each sport. All the pieces you wish to know is right here in a single spot that can assist you prepare for a loaded weekend of NFL soccer.
Let’s get into the total Week 18 slate, together with the Jaguars, Buccaneers and Cowboys all hoping to wrap up division titles Sunday afternoon. All of it culminates with a Sunday evening matchup between the Payments and Dolphins for the AFC East title. (All playoff probability percentages are through the FPI.)
Bounce to a matchup:
CLE-CIN
MIN-DET | JAX-TEN | ATL-NO
TB-CAR | NYJ-NE | CHI-GB
PHI-NYG | DAL-WSH | SEA-ARI
LAR-SF | KC-LAC | DEN-LV | BUF-MIA
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Unfold: CIN -7 (37)
Storyline to look at: The Bengals wish to keep away from going winless in divisional play for the fourth time in franchise historical past. The sport will even function a well-known face in Browns quarterback Jeff Driskel, who will begin instead of Joe Flacco and is the fifth quarterback to start out a sport this season for Cleveland. Driskel was with the Bengals early in his profession. He began 5 video games for Cincinnati in 2018 and was in coaching camp with the Bengals in 2019, coach Zac Taylor’s first season. — Ben Child
Daring prediction: Each groups could have gamers rating their first offensive touchdowns of the season. For the Browns, that may very well be extensive receivers Marquise Goodwin or Cedric Tillman, or tight finish Jordan Akins. For the Bengals, operating again Trayveon Williams, extensive receiver Charlie Jones or tight finish Mitchell Wilcox are the prime candidates. — Jake Trotter
Stat to know: The Browns are 9-2 vs. the Bengals because the begin of 2018, their greatest document towards any workforce over that span (minimal of three video games).
Matchup X issue: Bengals edge rusher Trey Hendrickson. He’s quietly tied for the league lead in sacks with 17.0. He may find yourself the league chief for the season if he racks up one or two extra towards a Browns workforce that’s locked into the No. 5 seed within the AFC playoffs. — Walder
What’s at stake: There is not a lot on the road right here. The Browns are within the playoffs and buckled into the No. 5 seed, whereas the Bengals have been eradicated in Week 17. Learn extra.
Accidents: Browns | Bengals
What to know for fantasy: Cleveland operating again Pierre Sturdy Jr. should not be neglected by managers in deeper leagues. The Browns are more likely to relaxation Jerome Ford and Kareem Hunt. This would depart Sturdy as Cleveland’s starter in a matchup towards a susceptible Bengals protection that simply gave up 130 speeding yards to Isiah Pacheco in Week 17. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Browns are 4-0 ATS of their previous 4 video games. The Bengals are 0-3 ATS of their previous three video games. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Bengals 24, Browns 20
Walder’s decide: Bengals 23, Browns 20
FPI prediction: CIN, 54.2% (by a mean of 1.4 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Browns clinch uncommon playoff berth on ‘particular evening’ … Chase continues to jab at Chiefs throughout, after loss … With fifth seed safe, Browns to relaxation Flacco, different starters vs. Bengals
1 p.m. ET | Fox | Unfold: DET -3.5 (45.5)
Storyline to look at: These rivals will meet for the second time in three weeks, with the Lions clinching the division title for the primary time since 1993 of their final assembly at Minnesota on Dec. 24. Detroit has an opportunity to safe a 12-win season for simply the second time in franchise historical past, whereas the Vikings are holding on to slim possibilities of reaching the playoffs with various eventualities probably taking part in of their favor — however they need to win first. So, each groups are nonetheless taking part in for one thing in Week 18. — Eric Woodyard
Daring prediction: Justin Jefferson will exceed 140 receiving yards. Jefferson has torched the Lions in his profession, totaling at the very least 124 yards in 5 of his seven profession video games towards them. In his previous two video games towards Detroit alone, he has caught 17 passes for 364 yards. And simply final week, the Lions couldn’t comprise one other high receiver, because the Cowboys’ CeeDee Lamb lit them up for 227 yards on 13 catches. — Kevin Seifert
Stat to know: Lions operating again Jahmyr Gibbs and tight finish Sam LaPorta wish to grow to be the primary pair of rookie teammates in NFL historical past to every rating 10 touchdowns in the identical season (Gibbs has 10 scores, LaPorta 9).
Matchup X issue: Vikings linebacker Ivan Tempo Jr. In opposition to Detroit’s frequent and environment friendly floor sport, Tempo will play a vital position stopping the run. The undrafted free agent rookie ranks fifth in run cease win fee amongst linebackers. — Walder
What’s at stake: The NFC North champion Lions shall be both the No. 2 or No. 3 seed within the playoffs, however for essentially the most half, they will calm down on Sunday. However the Vikings are nonetheless clinging to playoff desires. First, they have to win. However they’d additionally want a Packers loss and a Seahawks loss, together with both a Saints loss or Buccaneers loss. All instructed, it is a 3% probability, the dimmest of the remaining playoff lights. Learn extra.
Accidents: Vikings | Lions
What to know for fantasy: Detroit’s Jared Goff has completed as a top-20 fantasy quarterback in simply one among his previous 4 video games. He completed with 31 fantasy factors towards the Broncos in Week 15 — within the three different video games, Goff has averaged solely 10 fantasy factors. This season, Goff has averaged 21.4 fantasy factors per sport at house. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Vikings are 4-0 ATS as highway underdogs this season. They’re 7-1 ATS general on the highway. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Lions 31, Vikings 24
Walder’s decide: Lions 27, Vikings 23
FPI prediction: DET, 70.7% (by a mean of seven.2 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Vikings want Flores to construct on defensive innovation in 2024 … Lions to make use of controversial loss to Cowboys as ‘gasoline’ … Vikings to start out Mullens in season finale vs. Lions … Oral historical past of the final time the Lions received their division … 30 years in the past
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Unfold: JAX -3.5 (41.5)
Storyline to look at: The Jaguars are searching for their first 10-win season since 2017. If quarterback Trevor Lawrence performs, he wants 264 move yards to grow to be the primary Jaguars QB with a number of 4,000-yard seasons. The Titans are 1-10 (.091) in December and January video games the previous two seasons, the worst profitable proportion and most losses within the NFL in that span.
Daring prediction: Derrick Henry will high 100 yards speeding and run for a TD in what may very well be his closing sport with the Titans. Henry has averaged greater than 100 speeding yards per sport in his 14 video games towards the Jaguars and has run for 15 TDs. It will make him simply the second participant this season to hurry for 100 yards towards a Jaguars rush protection that ranks eighth within the NFL (98.6 yards per sport). Atlanta’s Bijan Robinson had 105 yards in Week 4. — Mike DiRocco
Stat to know: Since Week 13, the Jaguars have allowed 123.2 speeding yards per sport, twenty fourth within the NFL. Henry has averaged 100.8 speeding yards per sport towards the Jaguars in his profession.
Matchup X issue: Jaguars cornerback Darious Williams. He has had a pleasant season, with minus-15 EPA allowed as the closest defender — ninth greatest amongst outdoors corners with at the very least 250 protection snaps — per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. If he can preserve that play up Sunday, it might assist the Jaguars safe the AFC South title. — Walder
What’s at stake: It is all in regards to the Jaguars right here, who can win the AFC South with a victory. However they may nonetheless clinch a wild-card spot in the event that they lose; they’d additionally want a Broncos loss, Steelers loss and something however a tie within the Texans-Colts sport. The eradicated Titans, in the meantime, have an 18% probability to complete with a top-five draft slot. Learn extra.
Accidents: Jaguars | Titans
What to know for fantasy: The Titans will not be taking part in within the postseason, however extensive receiver DeAndre Hopkins nonetheless has some contract incentives in play. It’s attainable for him to earn as much as $750,000 if he finishes the sport with at the very least seven receptions, 49 receiving yards and two touchdowns. By way of fantasy factors allowed to extensive receivers, the Jaguars’ protection ranks Eleventh, so Hopkins may very well be a good play. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Titans are 1-8 ATS towards groups presently with profitable information. The Jaguars are 3-0 ATS towards groups presently with dropping information. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Titans 26, Jaguars 25
Walder’s decide: Jaguars 20, Titans 10
FPI prediction: JAX, 69.7% (by a mean of 6.8 factors)
Matchup must-reads: How the Jaguars can win the AFC South … Vrabel says ‘I wish to be right here’ subsequent season … Why Allen is having greatest season of his profession
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Unfold: NO -3 (42)
Storyline to look at: The Saints want a win and a Buccaneers loss to win the NFC South, however that may need to occur with out operating again Alvin Kamara. Kamara left Sunday’s win towards the Buccaneers with an ankle sprain and missed the primary two practices of the week, leaving his standing doubtful for a must-win sport. Kendre Miller and Jamaal Williams can be the following males up if Kamara cannot play. The Falcons nonetheless have playoff hopes however have misplaced three of their previous 4 video games, together with a 20-point loss to the Bears final week and a 9-7 loss to the two-win Panthers in Week 15. — Katherine Terrell
Daring prediction: Bijan Robinson will get his third 100-yard sport, eclipsing 1,000 yards speeding on the season and having his greatest speeding sport since he picked up 91 yards towards New Orleans on Nov. 26. The Saints have allowed greater than 130 yards speeding in 4 of their previous six video games — together with 228 speeding yards to Atlanta in November. Atlanta has rushed for 200 or extra yards the previous thrice it has confronted New Orleans. — Michael Rothstein
Stat to know: Kamara has 1,160 scrimmage yards this season, leaving him 40 shy of changing into the eighth participant in NFL historical past with at the very least 1,200 scrimmage yards in every of his first seven seasons (Matt Forte, LaDainian Tomlinson, Eddie George, Curtis Martin, Ricky Watters, Barry Sanders and Eric Dickerson).
Matchup X issue: Falcons security Jessie Bates III. He has made so many large performs for the Falcons this season — together with six interceptions and three pressured fumbles — that we nearly anticipate it. If he can ship one other, that may go a great distance towards Atlanta beating the Saints. — Walder
What’s at stake: If Tampa Bay falters on Sunday, the winner of this sport would win the NFC South. And the Saints have a bonus state of affairs for a wild-card spot. If the Bucs maintain off the Panthers and clinch the division, the Saints would nonetheless make the playoffs in the event that they win this sport and each the Packers and Seahawks lose their respective video games. Learn extra.
Accidents: Falcons | Saints
What to know for fantasy: Working again Tyler Allgeier continues to play a major position within the Falcons’ backfield alongside Robinson. Allgeier has averaged 9.7 touches per sport in his previous six video games. In every of his previous two video games, he has scored 16 fantasy factors. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Falcons are 5-11 ATS this season, tied for worst within the NFL, and they’re 4-11 ATS of their previous 15 video games. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Saints 27, Falcons 21
Walder’s decide: Falcons 20, Saints 17
FPI prediction: NO, 60.6% (by a mean of three.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: The younger Falcons core has bonded by a love of anime … Saints treating Week 18 vs. Falcons like a playoff sport … How the Falcons can win the NFC South
1 p.m. ET | Fox | Unfold: TB -4.5 (37.5)
Storyline to look at: Fairly easy. Tampa Bay can win the NFC South and safe a house sport within the first spherical of the playoffs with a victory. The Buccaneers are going through a Carolina workforce that gave them matches in Tampa in a 21-18 victory in Week 13. Count on an analogous sport on Sunday with a slight edge to the Bucs, who rank nineteenth in scoring and will outproduce a Carolina offense ranked thirty first and coming off its first shutout loss since 2002. — David Newton
Daring prediction: Buccaneers receiver Mike Evans will catch two touchdowns and breaks his private better of 14 touchdowns in a single season. Evans had 162 receiving yards towards the Panthers in Week 13, has averaged 138.5 yards up to now 4 video games towards the Panthers and has caught six touchdowns in these contests. — Jenna Laine
Stat to know: The Panthers’ Bryce Younger has had seven begins this season with zero passing touchdowns (together with the Week 12 loss at Tampa Bay), one shy of tying for the third-most such begins by a rookie quarterback since 1950 (he is tied for second most by a No. 1 general decide).
Matchup X issue: Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield. I used to be one of many many Mayfield skeptics earlier than the season, however right here we’re in Week 18 with him sitting at No. 16 in QBR. All he must do is play at that very same degree once more and Tampa Bay ought to roll over Carolina. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Buccaneers are in a must-win spot. A victory makes them the NFC South champ as soon as once more. A loss sends them house. And the Panthers’ draft slot is locked in at No. 1 after their 14th lack of the season final week, however sadly for Carolina, that decide belongs to Chicago after a commerce within the lead-up to the 2023 draft. Learn extra.
Accidents: Buccaneers | Panthers
What to know for fantasy: Evans needs to be closely concerned towards the Panthers. He has averaged 8.0 targets per sport this season. Evans has averaged 17.3 fantasy factors per sport towards the Panthers in his profession. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Unders are 8-2 within the Panthers’ previous 10 video games. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Buccaneers 24, Panthers 10
Walder’s decide: Buccaneers 23, Panthers 13
FPI prediction: TB, 71.9% (by a mean of seven.7 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Bucs know sport towards Panthers is for ‘all of the marbles’ … Which Panthers coaches are probably to return for 2024? … Mayfield (ribs) shall be OK for Week 18, coach says
1 p.m. ET | Fox | Unfold: NE -2 (30.5)
Storyline to look at: May this be Invoice Belichick’s closing sport as Patriots coach? A snow sport is a chance, and with Jets QB Zach Wilson not having cleared concussion protocol, it is going to be a QB battle of Trevor Siemian vs. Bailey Zappe. Siemian is 78-of-133 for 654 yards with 2 landing passes and 4 interceptions on the season, whereas Zappe is 115-of-182 for 1,184 yards with 6 TDs and seven INTs. — Mike Reiss
Daring prediction: There shall be no offensive touchdowns within the sport. We’re speaking about two of the worst offenses within the NFL. The Jets have scored a league-low 17 touchdowns, and the Patriots have solely 25. Throw in some sloppy climate, and it’s a must to consider the sport shall be dominated by protection. — Wealthy Cimini
Stat to know: The Patriots have received 15 straight vs. the Jets, the longest lively win streak within the NFL by one workforce towards one other and tied for New England’s longest win streak vs. a single opponent (received 15 straight towards the Payments from 2003 to ’10).
Matchup X issue: Jets deal with Mekhi Becton. Over the previous 4 weeks, the Jets left deal with ranks sixty fourth out of 65 tackles in move block win fee. The Jets want higher play at that spot, regardless of the quarterback. — Walder
What’s at stake: Each groups have been eradicated way back, and neither can land the highest draft decide. The Patriots have an opportunity to safe a top-three decide, whereas the Jets have an outdoor probability at a top-five choice. Learn extra.
Accidents: Jets | Patriots
What to know for fantasy: Jets operating again Breece Corridor has had 20 or extra touches and scored 27 or extra fantasy factors in two consecutive video games, however he has a tough matchup towards the Patriots in Week 18. This season, New England has been in a position to comprise each operating sport it has confronted, permitting the second-fewest speeding yards per sport and the fewest speeding yards per try. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Jets are 0-6 ATS towards groups presently with dropping information this season. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Patriots 23, Jets 13
Walder’s decide: Jets 12, Patriots 9
FPI prediction: NE, 54.2% (by a mean of 1.5 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Jets would like to ship Belichick off with loss … Belichick targeted on Jets, not job safety … Wilson dominated out for finale, maybe ending time with Jets
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | Unfold: GB -3 (45.5)
Storyline to look at: Aaron Jones may do one thing that no Packers participant has ever finished: Rush for 120 or extra yards in three straight video games. After Inexperienced Bay had not had a 100-yard rusher all season, Jones went for 127 towards Carolina and 120 towards the Vikings in his first two video games again from a knee harm. Nevertheless, the Bears have the NFL’s No. 1 speeding protection when it comes to fewest yards allowed per sport (84.0). — Rob Demovsky
Daring prediction: The Bears will play spoiler to Inexperienced Bay’s playoff hopes and beat the Packers for the primary time since 2018. Chicago’s protection, which has held opponents to fewer than 20 factors in 5 straight video games, finishes off its second-half surge by forcing Jordan Like to throw two interceptions, the quarterback’s first sport with a number of picks since Week 10. — Courtney Cronin
Stat to know: Bears extensive receiver DJ Moore has 1,300 receiving yards this season, the fifth most in franchise historical past. He’s two receiving yards shy of passing Jeff Graham in 1995 for fourth and 101 receiving yards shy of passing Marcus Robinson in 1999 for third.
Matchup X issue: Packers proper deal with Zach Tom. He’ll be liable for stopping Bears defensive finish Montez Sweat, however his numbers counsel he is up for the problem. Tom ranks 18th out of 69 tackles in move block win fee this season. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Packers will make the playoffs with a win. However even when the Bears beat the Packers, Inexperienced Bay can nonetheless slide into the postseason with losses from Minnesota and Seattle, and both New Orleans or Tampa Bay. Learn extra.
1:34
Why the Bears ought to transfer on from Justin Fields
Damien Woody and Bart Scott lay out the the reason why the Chicago Bears want to maneuver on from Justin Fields and goal a brand new QB within the NFL draft.
Accidents: Bears | Packers
What to know for fantasy: Jones has had 17 or extra touches and 11 or extra fantasy factors in three consecutive video games. The Bears’ protection has given up the ninth-most fantasy factors per sport to operating backs. In his previous 5 video games towards the Bears, Jones has averaged 22.2 fantasy factors. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Bears have coated 5 straight convention video games. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Packers 30, Bears 27
Walder’s decide: Packers 27, Bears 20
FPI prediction: GB, 57.3% (by a mean of two.5 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Fields, the Bears and a quarterback conundrum … Why Love has thousands and thousands on the road vs. Bears … Alexander ‘stunned’ by coin-toss suspension
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | Unfold: PHI -5 (42.5)
Storyline to look at: The Eagles, who set a franchise document final season with 70 sacks, have simply 11 of their previous seven video games. That they had only one two weeks in the past towards the Giants, who’ve allowed an NFL-high 83 sacks, 20 greater than some other workforce. So one thing has to provide. — Jordan Raanan
Daring prediction: Giants receiver Darius Slayton will go for 100-plus yards for a second straight week. The Eagles are coming off one of many worst defensive performances of the 2023 season, yielding 35 factors and 221 speeding yards to the 4-12 Cardinals. With Philadelphia keying on operating again Saquon Barkley, Slayton has an opportunity to greatest the three-catch, 90-yard efficiency towards the Eagles in Week 16. — Tim McManus
Stat to know: With a loss, the Giants would have 12 losses for the fourth time up to now seven seasons. That may tie the Texans for essentially the most since 2017.
Matchup X issue: Eagles edge rusher Haason Reddick. He has a chance for an enormous sport going towards Matt Peart, who seemingly will step in at proper deal with with each Evan Neal and Tyre Phillips injured for the Giants. Reddick hasn’t recorded a sack since Week 13, however the Eagles may use a pass-rush spark. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Eagles have a playoff spot, however they want a win and a Cowboys loss to take the NFC East title. The Giants, in the meantime, have an 85% probability at a top-five draft decide. Learn extra.
2:05
Woody: Eagles are wanting like a ‘one-and-done’ playoff workforce
Damien Woody and Bart Scott clarify why the Eagles have misplaced their means after reaching the Tremendous Bowl final season.
Accidents: Eagles | Giants
What to know for fantasy: The Eagles’ protection offers up essentially the most fantasy factors per sport to extensive receivers. Slayton has had six or extra targets in two of his previous three video games. Additionally, he has scored 18 or extra fantasy factors in two of them. Quarterback Tyrod Taylor can also be in a great place towards an Eagles protection that has given up essentially the most fantasy factors per sport to quarterbacks. He completed with 18.7 fantasy factors final week towards the Rams. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Eagles are 1-6 ATS after an outright loss over the previous two seasons, with six of the seven video games going underneath the entire. The Giants have coated three straight following outright losses. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Eagles 28, Giants 17
Walder’s decide: Eagles 27, Giants 13
FPI prediction: PHI, 83.9% (by a mean of 13.1 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Brown insists he isn’t beefing with Sirianni … A number of Giants may very well be taking part in their closing sport in New York … Barkley desires new cope with Giants, however ‘it is out of my management’
4:25 p.m. ET | Fox | Unfold: DAL -13 (46.5)
Storyline to look at: Washington quarterback Sam Howell constructed momentum for this season with a powerful season finale displaying in a win vs. Dallas in 2022. However doing it for a second consecutive yr shall be tough. He has thrown 10 interceptions and three landing passes up to now six video games. Washington’s move safety has been good currently: Howell has been sacked solely thrice up to now three video games. Nevertheless, Dallas sacked him 4 occasions of their earlier assembly; Micah Parsons had 1.5 sacks in that sport and has 13 for the season. He has 5 sacks in 5 profession video games vs. Washington. — John Keim
Daring prediction: Cowboys operating again Tony Pollard will attain the 1,000-yard mark for the season. He wants 65 yards, a quantity he has not topped up to now 4 video games. He has only one 100-yard sport on the season (Week 3 at Arizona), and the run sport has been caught for an excellent portion of the season. However in its previous 4 video games Washington has allowed 166.8 yards per sport on the bottom. — Todd Archer
Stat to know: Terry McLaurin wants 54 receiving yards to grow to be the primary participant in Washington franchise historical past with 4 straight 1,000-yard receiving seasons. McLaurin has averaged 52.9 receiving yards per sport in his earlier eight matchups towards Dallas.
Matchup X issue: Cowboys cornerback DaRon Bland. He has been high-risk and high-reward with each eight picks and a higher-than-average 1.6 yards per protection snap allowed. However Dallas does not want dangers on this sport. The Cowboys ought to beat the Commanders handily … so long as they do not give up massive performs. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Cowboys are within the playoffs and within the driver’s seat for the NFC East. Win, and it is a division title for Dallas. However even when the Cowboys lose, they will nonetheless win the division if the Eagles additionally lose. The Commanders, in the meantime, have an excellent probability to choose No. 2 general within the draft, and they’re locked right into a top-five decide. Learn extra.
Accidents: Cowboys | Commanders
What to know for fantasy: The Commanders’ protection offers up the second-most fantasy factors per sport to quarterbacks and the second-most fantasy factors per sport to extensive receivers this season. CeeDee Lamb, Dak Prescott and Brandin Cooks belong in all lineups. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Commanders are 1-6 ATS at house this season. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Cowboys 35, Commanders 13
Walder’s decide: Cowboys 30, Commanders 20
FPI prediction: DAL, 84.6% (by a mean of 13.4 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Questions linger for ‘battle-tested’ Cowboys forward of playoffs … Howell to start out in finale vs. Cowboys
4:25 p.m. ET | Fox | Unfold: SEA -2.5 (47.5)
Storyline to look at: Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray has been taking part in his greatest soccer of the season as of late, together with a virtually excellent second half final week in Philadelphia. He’ll take his greatest efficiency of the season into this weekend when he faces a Seahawks workforce that has misplaced 5 of its previous seven. Seattle has allowed only one 300-yard passer since Week 10, so whereas Murray won’t have the ability to hit the mark this week, he can nonetheless have an effect on the sport in different methods. — Josh Weinfuss
Daring prediction: Arizona will run the ball 40-plus occasions. The Cardinals upset the Eagles final week by speeding 40 occasions for 221 yards. They’re going to keep on with that system towards a Seahawks protection that has allowed the third-most speeding yards of any workforce this season, together with 202 in a loss final week to Pittsburgh. — Brady Henderson
Stat to know: Pete Carroll is searching for his thirteenth profession playoff berth as a head coach, which might tie Marty Schottenheimer for sixth most of all time.
Matchup X issue: Seahawks extensive receiver Tyler Lockett. We have written about him on this spot earlier than, however his 2023 has been pedestrian — simply 1.6 yards per route run — and that has damage Seattle’s offense. The Seahawks may use some Lockett of outdated in Week 18 and within the playoffs, in the event that they get there. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Seahawks would make the playoffs in the event that they win and get a Packers loss (27% seemingly). And the Cardinals have a 69% probability at a top-five draft decide. Learn extra.
Accidents: Seahawks | Cardinals
What to know for fantasy: Cardinals operating again James Conner faces a Seahawks protection that provides up the third-most fantasy factors per sport to operating backs, so he ought to have a powerful end to the common season. Conner has had 17 or extra touches and scored 18.0 or extra fantasy factors in three consecutive video games. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: 5 straight Cardinals house video games have gone over the entire. Overs are 6-1 in Cardinals house video games this season. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Cardinals 34, Seahawks 31
Walder’s decide: Cardinals 24, Seahawks 20
FPI prediction: SEA, 63.2% (by a mean of 4.5 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Wagner ‘100%’ certain he’ll return for 2024 season … How Murray’s bond along with his QB coach helped his highway to comeback … Gannon asserts Murray shall be Cardinals’ quarterback in 2024
4:25 p.m. ET | Fox | Unfold: SF -4 (40.5)
Storyline to look at: Each groups have wrapped up playoff spots, with the Niners cemented because the NFC’s high seed and the Rams in a position to do no higher than No. 6. In different phrases, neither workforce has a lot to play for right here, which implies neither beginning quarterback will play and it is unlikely the primary starters for each groups will play all 4 quarters. San Francisco has received 12 straight video games towards NFC West opponents, tied for the franchise’s longest streak because the 1970 merger. However the Niners will gladly commerce that streak for higher well being come playoff time. The Rams are in an analogous way of thinking, even with no streak to increase. — Nick Wagoner
Daring prediction: The Rams will win, ending the 49ers’ nine-game regular-season profitable streak towards Los Angeles. Sure, each groups shall be with out a number of starters, however the Rams nonetheless have the No. 6 seed to play for. This sport will even mark the primary Rams begin for Carson Wentz, whom Los Angeles picked up on Nov. 7, so he’ll be impressed towards a 49ers protection that would relaxation a number of gamers. — Sarah Barshop
Stat to know: The 49ers have been favored in 25 straight regular-season video games, the second-longest lively streak within the NFL (Chiefs are at 27 straight).
Matchup X issue: Rams defensive deal with Aaron Donald. He switches sides all through a sport, however towards the correct aspect of San Francisco’s line — which is far weaker than its left aspect — Donald ought to have the ability to dominate in nevertheless many snaps he performs. — Walder
What’s at stake: Each groups are in, and neither has a lot to play for. The Niners would be the high seed within the NFC, whereas the Rams shall be both the No. 6 or No. 7 seed. Learn extra.
1:45
Scott: Rams, not Cowboys, are most harmful NFC playoff workforce
Bart Scott and Damien Woody assume Matthew Stafford and the Rams are extra harmful than Dak Prescott and the Cowboys.
Accidents: Rams | 49ers
What to know for fantasy: Count on Rams receiver Demarcus Robinson to have a higher position towards the 49ers than he normally does. Cooper Kupp will not play in Week 18, and rookie Puka Nacua will seemingly comply with go well with after he breaks the NFL rookie information for receptions (he is 4 away) and receiving yards (he is 10 off). With the Rams’ high two targets resting for giant elements of Sunday’s sport, Robinson ought to revenue. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Since 2020, the 49ers are 6-1 ATS towards the Rams. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Rams 34, 49ers 31
Walder’s decide: Rams 26, 49ers 22
FPI prediction: SF, 68.6% (by a mean of 6.4 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Rookies Turner, Younger may very well be the way forward for Rams’ protection … 49ers weigh dangers of resting starters in finale … Purdy units 49ers’ passing yards document in bounce-back sport
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | Unfold: LAC -3.5 (35.5)
Storyline to look at: The Chargers have misplaced seven of their previous 9 video games to Kansas Metropolis, together with their Week 7 sport this season, when Patrick Mahomes accomplished 20 of 23 passes for 321 yards and three touchdowns within the first half. However the Chiefs are resting Mahomes and different starters Sunday, so Chargers interim coach Giff Smith could have a greater shot at securing his first win and the Chargers’ first over the Chiefs since 2021. — Kris Rhim
Daring prediction: Harrison Butker and Cameron Dicker will kick eight area targets between them. They mixed for 9 area targets final week of their respective video games, Butker with six for the Chiefs and Dicker with three for the Chargers. Each groups will begin backups at quarterback, Blaine Gabbert for the Chiefs and Easton Stick for the Chargers, so pink zone manufacturing may very well be an issue regardless of which aspect has the ball. — Adam Teicher
Stat to know: The Chiefs are 3-2 vs. AFC West opponents this season. They haven’t completed .500 or worse in divisional video games in a season since 2014 (3-3, .500), which was Andy Reid’s second season as coach.
Matchup X issue: Chargers extensive receiver Quentin Johnston. There’s nothing at stake right here for both workforce (effectively, in addition to the Chargers’ draft place) however at the very least L.A. can get one other take a look at Johnston, who has had a disappointing rookie season. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Chiefs would be the No. 3 seed within the playoffs because the AFC West champion, it doesn’t matter what. So maybe extra eyes shall be on the Chargers, who nonetheless have a 28% probability to land a top-five draft decide. Learn extra.
Accidents: Chiefs | Chargers
What to know for fantasy: The Chiefs not too long ago signed operating again La’Mical Perine to their roster. With Kansas Metropolis anticipated to relaxation a few of its starters, which may embody operating backs Isiah Pacheco and Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Perine may have a sneaky-good matchup towards a Chargers protection that provides up the Eleventh-most fantasy factors per sport to operating backs. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Chargers are 0-5 ATS in division video games this season. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Chiefs 27, Chargers 24
Walder’s decide: Chiefs 23, Chargers 16
FPI prediction: KC, 50.9% (by a mean of 0.3 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Chiefs to relaxation Mahomes, begin Gabbert vs. Chargers … Moore amongst high coordinators in NFLPA survey
4:25 p.m. ET | Fox | Unfold: LV -3 (37.5)
Storyline to look at: For 2 years straight now, Jarrett Stidham has unseated a franchise quarterback with two video games to go within the common season. Final season, it was the Raiders and Derek Carr. This yr, it is the Broncos and Russell Wilson, who stayed with Denver and, as a captain, swallowed his pleasure and went to midfield for final week’s opening coin toss. “We’re excited to see Stidham,” mentioned Raiders interim coach Antonio Pierce. “We wish to see him up shut and private. [Especially edge rusher] Maxx Crosby.” — Paul Gutierrez
Daring prediction: In his final probability to make the primary impression within the Broncos’ 2024 quarterback debate, Stidham will throw two landing passes. Since Pierce was named interim coach, the Raiders’ move protection has been stingy, as solely Tua Tagovailoa, Patrick Mahomes and Easton Stick have reached the two-touchdown move mark in eight video games. If Stidham can flip among the dump-offs final week into extra work intermediate and deep, he’ll crack Las Vegas’ protection for 2 landing throws. — Jeff Legwold
Stat to know: Pierce is 4-4 since being named interim coach in Week 9. The Raiders have allowed a league-low 16.3 factors per sport underneath Pierce (3-5 and ranked twenty second in PPG allowed by Week 8).
Matchup X issue: Broncos cornerback Pat Surtain II. Each groups are out of the playoff race, however we’ll at the very least get to see Surtain tackle Raiders All-Professional receiver Davante Adams. — Walder
What’s at stake: Neither workforce is within the playoff image, and Las Vegas has a 38% probability to seize a top-10 draft decide. Learn extra.
Accidents: Broncos | Raiders
What to know for fantasy: In three video games since taking on for the injured Josh Jacobs, Raiders operating again Zamir White has had 20 or extra touches and scored 14 or extra fantasy factors in every sport. The Broncos’ protection has given up the second-most fantasy factors per sport to operating backs, so White’s late surge ought to proceed. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Raiders are 4-1 ATS in division video games this season. All 5 Broncos division video games have gone underneath the entire. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Raiders 27, Broncos 20
Walder’s decide: Broncos 19, Raiders 16
FPI prediction: LV, 54.1% (by a mean of 1.4 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Stidham getting early probability to audition as 2024 starter … Professionals and cons of Pierce being Raiders subsequent head coach
8:20 p.m. ET | NBC | Unfold: BUF -3 (48.5)
Storyline to look at: The Dolphins do not anticipate cornerback Xavien Howard to play Sunday towards the Payments, however defensive coordinator Vic Fangio would not reveal whether or not he would have Professional Bowl CB Jalen Ramsey shadow Payments WR Stefon Diggs — who torched Miami for 120 yards and three touchdowns in Week 4 — or have him match up with a number of receivers. Contemplating Eli Apple’s struggles towards Baltimore in Week 17 (three catches, 104 yards and a landing allowed in protection), the place Ramsey traces up shall be one thing to look at. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Daring prediction: Diggs could have his first 100-yard receiving sport since Week 6 and catch a number of landing passes for the second time this season. The manufacturing between Diggs and quarterback Josh Allen simply hasn’t been constant for a good portion of the season, however with the Dolphins’ secondary in a state of flux on account of accidents, Diggs could have one among his greatest outings of the yr at a time when the Payments actually need it. — Alaina Getzenberg
Stat to know: Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa enters Week 18 main the NFL in completion fee (69.6%) and passing yards (4,451). Tagovailoa is seeking to grow to be the eighth QB because the 1970 merger to guide the NFL in each completion fee and passing yards — and the primary since Drew Brees in 2011.
Matchup X issue: Allen. By his personal admission he performed poorly in Week 17. Buffalo wants him at his greatest towards the Dolphins. In the event that they get it, the Payments could have an ideal shot on the AFC East crown. — Walder
What’s at stake: Winner takes the AFC East and the convention’s No. 2 seed. However whereas Miami is in it doesn’t matter what, Buffalo may miss the playoffs if it loses. To make the playoffs in that state of affairs, it might want both a Jaguars loss, a Steelers loss or a Texans-Colts tie. Learn extra.
2:24
McAfee and crew react to Professional Bowl snubs
Pat McAfee and crew react to some notable exclusions from the NFL’s Professional Bowl rosters.
Accidents: Payments | Dolphins
What to know for fantasy: Previously three video games, the Payments’ protection has given up the second-fewest passing yards per sport, so Tagovailoa may battle. He hasn’t scored 20 fantasy factors in a sport since a Week 8 win over the Patriots. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Dolphins are 1-4 ATS this season towards groups presently with profitable information. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Payments 31, Dolphins 27
Walder’s decide: Dolphins 27, Payments 21
FPI prediction: BUF, 54.3% (by a mean of 1.5 factors)
Matchup must-reads: What’s going to determine Payments’ destiny in large matchup with Dolphins? … Dolphins have to regroup for AFC East showdown vs. Payments … Baby with lighter began fireplace at Hill’s house
Saturday’s sport previews
4:30 p.m. ET, Saturday | ESPN | Unfold: PIT -4 (35.5)
Storyline to look at: The Steelers have overwhelmed the Ravens three straight occasions in Baltimore, profitable by a complete of 10 factors. The final time Baltimore received at house towards Pittsburgh was the 2019 regular-season finale, when the Ravens had already wrapped up the No. 1 seed within the AFC and rested quarterback Lamar Jackson. With the Ravens clinching the AFC’s high spot in Week 17, Jackson is sitting out this sport, too. — Jamison Hensley
Daring prediction: Security Minkah Fitzpatrick will get his first interception of the season. Fitzpatrick not too long ago returned to apply after injuring his knee towards the Colts in Week 15, however his availability is much less in query towards the Ravens than it has been the previous two weeks. Tyler Huntley, beginning at quarterback for the Ravens instead of the resting Jackson, has thrown one landing move to 3 interceptions in three video games towards the Steelers. For the primary time in his profession, Fitzpatrick is on the verge of an interception-less season. He beats the buzzer by snagging one off Huntley in a vital finale. — Brooke Pryor
Stat to know: The Steelers are 6-1 vs. the Ravens since 2020 (3-0 vs. Jackson, 3-1 vs. all different QBs).
Matchup X issue: What number of gamers Baltimore rests. On paper, in fact, the Ravens are the significantly better workforce. However with the No. 1 seed locked up, the Ravens will relaxation Jackson and sure many different key gamers and coast by Week 18. How a lot they do will dramatically affect Pittsburgh’s probabilities. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Ravens are locked into the No. 1 seed within the AFC, however the Steelers nonetheless have so much on the road. They’ll clinch a playoff berth with a win after which both a Jaguars loss, Payments loss or a Texans-Colts tie. However they will additionally get in in the event that they lose to Baltimore. Pittsburgh would then want a Broncos win, Jaguars loss and something however a tie in Texans-Colts. ESPN’s FPI says Pittsburgh has a 22% probability. Learn extra.
2:09
Mina challenges Stephen A. on his Lamar-Ravens take
Stephen A. Smith and Mina Kimes aren’t on the identical web page relating to the tough path Lamar Jackson and the Ravens should journey to achieve the Tremendous Bowl.
Accidents: Steelers | Ravens
What to know for fantasy: Search for the Ravens to have some unlikely fantasy contributors. Working again Melvin Gordon III, who had six touches in Week 17 towards Miami, may play a bigger position this week behind Justice Hill, who completed with eight touches and 22.2 fantasy factors final week. Contemplating that the Ravens lead the league with 32.3 speeding makes an attempt per sport, each Hill and Gordon may very well be massive elements with Jackson sitting out. As for the Steelers, extensive receiver George Pickens has caught 11 of 15 targets for 326 receiving yards the previous two weeks since Mason Rudolph assumed the beginning quarterback position. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Steelers are 4-1 towards the unfold (ATS) in division video games this season and 15-8 ATS since 2020. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Steelers 24, Ravens 20
Walder’s decide: Steelers 22, Ravens 13
FPI prediction: BAL, 78.9% (by a mean of 10.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Pickett denies rumors he refused to be Steelers’ QB2 Sunday … Ravens to sit down MVP favourite Jackson towards Steelers … Steelers’ rejuvenated offense retains them in playoff image
8:15 p.m. ET, Saturday | ESPN | Unfold: HOU -1.5 (47.5)
Storyline to look at: The stakes on this yr’s sport between these groups couldn’t be extra completely different from these in final season’s finale. The No. 1 decide within the draft was on the road in Week 18 within the 2022 season, with the Colts dropping and knocking Houston into the No. 2 selection. This season, the winner of this sport goes to the playoffs and wildly accelerates its rebuilding effort forward of 2024. — Stephen Holder
Daring prediction: The Texans will win by greater than 10 factors as quarterback C.J. Stroud will throw for greater than 350 yards. The Texans are a totally completely different workforce than the one which confronted the Colts in Week 2, and in that matchup, Stroud threw for 384 yards. The Colts lean on operating the ball, and the Texans have the third-best run protection within the NFL. As soon as they cease the run, the Texans will run away with it. — DJ Bien-Aime
Stat to know: The Colts permit the third-highest completion proportion on throws 20-plus yards downfield (46%). Stroud has the second-highest QBR (99), third-highest completion proportion (57.1%), 5 passing touchdowns and nil interceptions on such throws.
Matchup X issue: Texans edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. He is making a late Defensive Rookie of the Yr push with 2.0 sacks final week. He has a 26% move rush win fee, which ranks third amongst all edge rushers. — Walder
What’s at stake: The winner of this sport makes the playoffs. And if the Jaguars lose on Sunday, the winner would additionally clinch the AFC South. However the loser of this sport shall be eradicated from the postseason. Learn extra.
Accidents: Texans | Colts
What to know for fantasy: The Texans will proceed to rely closely on Stroud and the passing sport. This season, he has averaged 33.8 move makes an attempt and 18.6 fantasy factors per sport. Additionally, the Colts’ protection depends closely on Cowl 3, which Stroud has had nice success towards. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Colts are 5-1 ATS as favorites this season. The Texans are 4-1 ATS as highway underdogs this season with 4 straight covers. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Texans 31, Colts 23
Walder’s decide: Texans 30, Colts 16
FPI prediction: IND, 51.6% (by a mean of 0.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Texans’ playoff path could be simple: Win and also you’re in … Colts’ season comes down to at least one sport vs. Texans
