Playoff Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their s...

<p><em>Playoff Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Packers-Bears" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-ohxay" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ohxay/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="100" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>Just the beginning</h3><p>What a difference a year makes. Bears fans couldn't have had much fun watching the unmitigated disaster that took shape in Caleb Williams' rookie season. Given this organization's rough history with quarterbacks, there had to be some level of concern that they were about to waste a generational talent at the position. Fortunately for Chicago, one benefit of having such a player is that you can suddenly find yourself with one of the most attractive coaching jobs in football.</p><p>The Bears being the team to pry Ben Johnson out of Detroit has set this organization on a path to regular Super Bowl contention. They might not get there this year, as the defense could still use another offseason to build toward Dennis Allen's vision. But Saturday night's incredible comeback - erasing a 21-3 halftime lead - demonstrated that this offense is already well on its way to becoming everything we thought possible when Johnson and Williams joined forces. It's scary to think about what this unit could look like a few years from now.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>LaFleur's future</h3><p>Matt LaFleur's name has come up more often than one might expect as league insiders report on this year's coaching cycle. It's tough to imagine that the Packers would actually consider moving on from a coach who's posted a 76-40-1 record over his first seven seasons and led his team to the playoffs every year but one. Perhaps it proves to be nothing more than some public posturing with extension talks just around the corner.</p><p>If the organization was the least bit uncertain looking ahead to the last year of LaFleur's contract, though, Saturday night's loss isn't going to help his case. The Packers blowing a commanding lead against a division rival is a devastating way for their season to come to an end. Prior to this game, NFL teams were 158-3 when entering the fourth quarter of a playoff game ahead by at least 15 points. LaFleur's offense stalling out in the second half was a big part of the collapse. Some game management blunders left the Packers short on timeouts on their final drive, too. I'm not making the case for LaFleur to be fired - I think he'd immediately become the best candidate on the market - but it at least seems possible that there could be another major twist in an already chaotic coaching carousel.</p><h3>No doubt now</h3><p>Williams had plenty of astonishing moments throughout the regular season, so this really shouldn't be anything new. But we know how quarterback discourse works. Critics are always looking to poke holes in a rising star's game, and Williams finishing the year last among full-time starters with a 58.1% completion rate offered box-score hunters some juicy narratives. But how many of the quarterbacks above him can make throws like this?</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">🗣️ ROOOOOOME ODUUUUUNZE<br><br>📺: <a href="https://twitter.com/NFLonPrime?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NFLonPrime</a> <a href="https://t.co/7hfM7AaUId">pic.twitter.com/7hfM7AaUId</a></p>— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChicagoBears/status/2010200498909908993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The incredible comeback doesn't happen if not for Williams' superhuman effort on a fourth-and-8 while trailing by 11 late in the fourth quarter. Would the Bears like their quarterback to complete passes at a higher rate? Of course. Those efficiency numbers should tick up in time. But as long as the misses aren't backbreaking turnovers - Williams had just seven interceptions in the regular season - who wouldn't trade a few misfires for this kind of game-changing skill set? His ability to make things happen when a play breaks down is right up there with the best quarterbacks in football. Give him another year to fine tune the rest of his game under Johnson's guidance, and Williams could very well be in that conversation across the board.</p><h3>A star in the making</h3><p>Surrounding Williams with an elite coaching staff was just one part of the effort to get this franchise headed in the right direction. While previous years under general manager Ryan Poles had been a bit of an adventure with roster management, a critical first offseason with Johnson in the building couldn't have gone much better. Selecting Colston Loveland in the first round of the draft is proving to be one particularly impactful stroke of genius.</p><p>I had Loveland as my No. 1 tight end in April. That was a bit of a unique take, with much of the football world favoring Tyler Warren. But this is the upside I saw in his game coming out of Michigan. Loveland came on strong after injuries led to a slow start, ranking second only to Kyle Pitts among tight ends with 597 yards from Week 9 through the end of the regular season. His six touchdowns over that stretch were fourth at the position. Loveland effectively emerging as the Bears' No. 1 receiver in the biggest game of the season - eight catches for 137 yards on 15 targets - really says it all. Chicago having one of the best tight ends in football for the next decade could be a cheat code in this offense.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Rams-Panthers" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-qjv3e" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/qjv3e/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="100" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>Rams survive a scare</h3><p>Nobody was giving the Panthers much of a chance heading into this weekend's wild-card opener. Part of that was a product of the NFC South champs becoming only the seventh team in NFL history to make the playoffs with a losing record. The other was the fact that the Rams were arguably the best team in football for much of the regular season. The defense had fallen off quite a bit by the end of the year, though, going from first in EPA/play from Weeks 1-9 to tied for 13th from Weeks 10-18. Those issues, evidently, aren't going away in the playoffs.</p><p>While the Rams can score with anyone, teams are now routinely finding ways to expose a weakness at cornerback - Tetairoa McMillan and Jalen Coker combined for 215 of Carolina's 264 receiving yards. Chris Shula will have to find a way to dial up some consistent pressure if the Rams are going to hide that group and remain in the hunt for a Super Bowl. The effort we saw this week won't fly against the top competition in the NFC.</p><h3>Stafford banged up?</h3><p>The defense wasn't the only reason Los Angeles had to sweat this one out, as Sean McVay's offense also had its share of struggles. Some of those hiccups were schematic, with the Rams being a little too stubborn when it came to attacking a stout tandem of Panthers corners. As spectacular as Puka Nacua and Davante Adams may be, the star duo combining for 31 of 42 targets was a bit of a departure from the heavy tight end usage that's been so critical to this offense's success.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Matthew Stafford started 1-of-11 for 10 yards and an INT on throws outside the numbers before throwing the game-winning touchdown pass to Colby Parkinson just inside the right sideline.<br><br>Between the numbers, Stafford was 22-for-30 for 275 yards and 2 TDs.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LARvsCAR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LARvsCAR</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RamsHouse?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RamsHouse</a> <a href="https://t.co/bludt0QEIr">pic.twitter.com/bludt0QEIr</a></p>— Next Gen Stats (@NextGenStats) <a href="https://twitter.com/NextGenStats/status/2010159221783044130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>McVay had made the necessary adjustments by the end of the game, so this isn't anything to worry about heading into next week. Stafford's injury status will be worth monitoring, though. The veteran quarterback was clearly uncomfortable after hitting his throwing hand on the arm of a defender while following through on a pass. He was able to work through the issue just fine at the end of the game, capping a picture-perfect drive with a 19-yard strike to Colby Parkinson for the win, but it sure seemed like his typical pinpoint accuracy was affected for an extended stretch beforehand.</p><h3>Special teams matter</h3><p>I don't want to pick apart the Rams too much here. They did get the win, after all. At this time of year, that's really all that matters. But yet another special teams blunder nearly cost them their season, as a blocked punt handed Carolina a short field to take the lead late in the fourth quarter.</p><p>The Rams were spectacularly bad in this underrated phase of the game throughout the the first 16 weeks of the regular season, ranking last in special teams EPA when McVay made the decision to dismiss third-year coordinator Chase Blackburn. With the defense trending in the wrong direction, Los Angeles can't afford any more of these gaffes.</p><h3>Respect to Carolina</h3><p>OK, we get it. The Rams nearly let one get away from them. But let's also give credit where it's due. The Panthers rose to the occasion and simply obliterated any expectations there could have been for this team coming off a roller coaster of a regular season.</p><p>Perhaps we should have seen it coming - it was only six weeks ago that Carolina stunned this same Los Angeles team for one of the biggest upsets of the year. But nothing about that result, swung by a few big turnovers, seemed all that sustainable. This was the more impressive performance, with Bryce Young stepping up in several big moments and the Panthers' defense frustrating Stafford and Co. until the very end. Carolina holding its own against a top Super Bowl contender in the playoffs is an encouraging way to head into the offseason, potentially setting the stage for this team to take another meaningful step forward in 2026.</p><h3>Coker dazzles in defeat</h3><p>I had the Panthers taking a receiver in my <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3441685" href="https://thescore.com/news/3441685">post regular-season mock draft</a>. After an inconsistent year for the offense, it felt like they could really use a long-term running mate for Tetairoa McMillan. I still wouldn't be against such a move - teams can never have enough playmakers - but calling it a glaring need may have been a little disrespectful to a hidden gem already on the roster.</p><p>Jalen Coker was outstanding as Bryce Young's top option in the passing game, turning his 12 targets into nine catches for 134 yards and a go-ahead touchdown in the clutch. The former undrafted free agent capping a promising sophomore campaign with a performance like this should give him every opportunity to establish himself as the No. 2 receiver heading into next season.</p><p><em>Dan Wilkins is theScore's senior NFL writer.</em></p>

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<p>It's been an exceptionally strange season in the AFC, where the presumptive top dogs either look more beatable than ever or have already tumbled out of the playoff race.</p><p>The result is a postseason field filled with fresh blood and, by extension, a collection of teams that all seem equally capable of going to the Super Bowl. For the first time in recent memory, it really does feel like anyone's conference.</p><p>The last thing the current contenders want is a potential spoiler in the mix, so they'll be hoping the Ravens don't beat the Steelers for the AFC North crown Sunday night.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Yes, I've been <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3182070" href="https://thescore.com/news/3182070">wrong</a> about the Ravens <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3301584" href="https://thescore.com/news/3301584">before</a>, and they're 8-8. Their level of play this season gives us pretty much no reason to believe that they'd be competitive in the playoffs. They're right up there with the Chiefs in terms of colossal disappointments. The offense has fallen off a cliff after last year's historic output, ranking 12th in EPA/play, according to TruMedia. And that's not solely a product of Lamar Jackson missing some time with injury.</p><p>Baltimore is 6-6 in the superstar quarterback's 12 starts. After leading the league with 0.31 EPA/dropback last season - the highest output from any passer since his first of two MVP campaigns in 2019 - Jackson is putting up just 0.02 EPA/dropback so far this year, tied for 21st with rookies Jaxson Dart and Tyler Shough.</p><p>It's a staggering decline. It feels like the offense is simply broken. Maybe it is - changes are undoubtedly on the way if the Ravens' season ends Sunday night. But if there's one sleeping giant capable of waking up at the right time and humbling all these new kids on the block, it still might be Baltimore.</p><p>All the talent from last year's juggernaut remains in place. And remember, Jackson began this season looking like an even better version of the unstoppable quarterback we saw in 2024. He'd thrown for nine touchdowns, no interceptions, and a near-perfect 141.8 passer rating through three weeks as the Ravens posted a league-best 37 points per game.</p><p>But then he injured his hamstring in Kansas City. Jackson wasn't himself in the two months that followed his return to action in Week 9, and offensive coordinator Todd Monken recently revealed that the hamstring is just one of many physical issues the quarterback has battled throughout the year.</p><p>The back contusion that kept him out of the season-saving win over the Packers threatened to further complicate that outlook, but Jackson is on track to play in Pittsburgh. If this latest injury is already in the rearview mirror - Jackson has been a full participant in practice - could the week of rest turn out to be a blessing in disguise?</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813111/cropped_GettyImages-2250552796.jpg?ts=1765231789" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813111/w220xh124_GettyImages-2250552796.jpg?ts=1765231789 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813111/w320xh180_GettyImages-2250552796.jpg?ts=1765231789 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813111/w640xh360_GettyImages-2250552796.jpg?ts=1765231789 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813111/w768xh432_GettyImages-2250552796.jpg?ts=1765231789 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813111/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2250552796.jpg?ts=1765231789 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Scott Taetsch / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>A slightly healthier version of Jackson on Sunday night, and potentially in the weeks to come, could be a game-changer, giving this unit a chance to look like the unstoppable force we saw last year and in September. And he's not going to have to do it alone.</p><p>When the Ravens found themselves in a must-win spot without their star quarterback in Green Bay, they had no choice but to overcorrect for some of Derrick Henry's occasionally bizarre usage patterns. The future Hall of Famer showed he's still a nightmare to tackle, putting the offense on his back with 216 yards and four touchdowns on a career-high 36 carries. We're guessing the Ravens won't get cute with his workload from here on out.</p><p>Keep an eye on Baltimore's defense, too. While the unit once again stumbled out of the gate this year, effectively wasting that high-flying start on the other side of the ball, it's mitigated those issues by once again changing Kyle Hamilton's role. The Ravens' defense is tied for fourth in EPA/play since shifting the NFL's premier safety into a role closer to the line of scrimmage in Week 6. Shutting out the Bengals on Dec. 14 was the clearest sign yet that this group was rounding into form.</p><p>If that trend holds, and the offense can take a few meaningful steps back in the right direction, Baltimore quickly becomes the kind of opponent that nobody wants to face in January. In an AFC playoff picture where every team appears equally flawed, the most talented group of the bunch should not be overlooked.</p><p>The Bills will be a popular pick with neither Patrick Mahomes nor Joe Burrow standing in the way of Josh Allen's first trip to the Super Bowl. Running into Baltimore at some point could pose a problem, though; the Ravens are uniquely equipped to stifle the only consistent part of Buffalo's offense, ranking first in EPA/rush since Week 6. And if you thought Henry had a great outing against the Packers, just wait until he gets a Bills defense that's been helpless in the ground game - only the Giants have been worse by EPA.</p><p>Baltimore's suffocating run defense would also be a critical factor in potential matchups with the Broncos, Jaguars, Texans, and Chargers. How might Bo Nix and Trevor Lawrence fare if consistently forced into obvious passing situations? In the case of Houston and Los Angeles, would those offensive lines be able to give their quarterbacks a chance?</p><p>As for the upstart Patriots, we only have to go back two weeks to find evidence that Baltimore can trade blows with one of the NFL's hottest teams. The Ravens took a two-score lead early in the fourth quarter despite having lost Jackson at the end of the first half. Were it not for a strange decision to turn away from Henry in a game where he was averaging 7.1 yards per carry, they might have been able to hold off New England's comeback.</p><p>The Ravens may not deserve a postseason spot, but a toothless division has given them one last chance to sneak in. And if they do get there, they'll be as dangerous as anyone else in the wide-open AFC.</p><p>Flipping the script on years past by disappointing early and then taking flight when the games actually matter would be a fitting way for the Ravens to cap off this wildly unpredictable season.</p><p><em>Dan Wilkins is theScore's senior NFL writer.</em></p>

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<p><em>Sunday Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.</em></p><h2>Sunday night spotlight</h2><h3>Time to believe</h3><p>San Francisco has been the most difficult team for me to place in our weekly NFL Power Rankings. You couldn't ask for much more in terms of results, as Sunday night's win over the Bears now puts the 49ers one win away from securing the No. 1 seed in the NFC. Another elite Kyle Shanahan offense is, of course, the driving force on that path. To this point, a flailing defense is the lone reason I've been inclined to exercise caution. Another brutal effort in the shootout against Chicago probably justifies that very stance, with San Francisco now dropping to 31st in defensive success rate, according to TruMedia. But I'm also tempted to look at it another way: maybe the 49ers' offense is good enough that it somehow doesn't matter. Brock Purdy and Co. putting up 90 points across the last two games - the second of which without George Kittle - makes a pretty compelling case in that regard. The reality is every contender in this year's playoff picture comes with some sort of flaw. There is no shortage of teams that could expose a decimated defense, but how many can do so while also holding the offense at bay? If the 49ers can complete the sweep of the Seahawks next week and ensure the NFC playoffs go through San Francisco, the task becomes even more daunting.</p><h3>Bears injuries to watch</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815607/cropped_GettyImages-2253869378.jpg?ts=1766986863" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815607/w220xh124_GettyImages-2253869378.jpg?ts=1766986863 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815607/w320xh180_GettyImages-2253869378.jpg?ts=1766986863 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815607/w640xh360_GettyImages-2253869378.jpg?ts=1766986863 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815607/w768xh432_GettyImages-2253869378.jpg?ts=1766986863 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815607/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2253869378.jpg?ts=1766986863 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ezra Shaw / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Bears giving themselves a chance to beat the 49ers at the buzzer Sunday night is just the latest sign that this team has arrived. Ben Johnson is living up to the lofty expectations, Caleb Williams' development has taken off under the new head coach's guidance, and young playmakers have really started to shine over the second half of the season. This all helps set the stage for what could be a lengthy championship window. Unfortunately for the Bears, it looks like some key injuries could get in the way of the first deep playoff run happening this year. Rome Odunze is still without any clear timetable after missing his fifth straight game due to a foot issue, and breakout rookie Luther Burden III was carted off with an undisclosed injury after a chaotic final play. The Bears will hold out hope for good news in both cases, and it's possible that Johnson's creativity would allow Chicago to weather any sort of injury storm in the receiving corps. But both Odunze and Burden missing time heading into the postseason could be too much for the offense to overcome. DJ Moore being thrust into a clear-cut No. 1 role after a one-catch, seven-yard performance against the 49ers would substantially lower the ceiling on this passing game.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h2>Late-afternoon games</h2><h3>Defense gives Eagles a chance</h3><p>Jalen Hurts didn't complete a pass in the second half of Sunday's game against the Bills, but Philly was able to win anyway. That's because Vic Fangio's defense kept Buffalo off the scoreboard until the fourth quarter, holding Josh Allen to -0.28 EPA/dropback, according to TruMedia. That marks the star quarterback's second-worst output of the season, with only the Texans defense faring better. Philly's defense hasn't quite received the same attention, but that's the company this unit keeps when it's at full strength. Jalen Carter's healthy return helped the Eagles' defensive front dominate its matchup against a strong Buffalo offensive line, as Philly got to Josh Allen for five sacks and held the Bills' run game to just 3.7 yards per carry, its lowest mark since Week 1. The offense's continued struggles could very well sink the Eagles in January, but they'll only need to do so much if the defense is playing like this. With a league-low 14.5 points per game allowed since adding Jaelan Phillips in Week 10, this group might be even better than the one that beat up the Chiefs in last year's Super Bowl.</p><h3>Should Bills rest starters?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815589/cropped_GettyImages-2253865192.jpg?ts=1766973530" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815589/w220xh124_GettyImages-2253865192.jpg?ts=1766973530 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815589/w320xh180_GettyImages-2253865192.jpg?ts=1766973530 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815589/w640xh360_GettyImages-2253865192.jpg?ts=1766973530 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815589/w768xh432_GettyImages-2253865192.jpg?ts=1766973530 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815589/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2253865192.jpg?ts=1766973530 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Timothy T Ludwig / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Bills may have been in for a long afternoon against the Eagles' defense either way, but it didn't help that Josh Allen is clearly bothered by the foot injury he suffered last week. He appeared to be hobbled at times during Sunday's contest and, according to <a href="https://x.com/JoeBuscaglia/status/2005443473785164154?s=20">Joe Buscaglia of The Athletic</a>, he was seen limping postgame as he exited the X-ray room. It would take a lot to keep Allen off the field, but availability isn't the only factor here. Any limitations as he battles through this injury could be a critical blow for a Bills passing game that has been something of a one-man show. With that in mind, Buffalo should probably consider sitting starters for next week's regular-season finale. The Bills are locked in as a wild-card team after the Patriots clinched the AFC East. Their current spot as the No. 7 seed isn't exactly ideal, and a win over the Jets would give the Bills a chance to move as high as No. 5. But that's only if the Texans and Chargers both lose. No matter the first-round matchup, a path to the Super Bowl only exists if Allen and other key players are healthy. A week of rest could prove far more valuable than any slight improvements in seeding.</p><h3>Raiders in the driver's seat</h3><p>Falling to the Giants tentatively puts the Raiders in possession of the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 draft. They can officially secure the honor with a loss to the Chiefs next week. That kind of result is no guarantee without Patrick Mahomes, but it's tough to think of a team more deserving of the top pick (derogatory). Getting steamrolled by the Giants pretty much confirms the Raiders' standing as the clear worst team in football. The decision to shut down a few key starters was probably a factor in the blowout, but this team is also just that bad. Pete Carroll's win-now approach has to be ditched in favor a true rebuild. While some will argue that it might be better to have some semblance of a foundation before drafting a quarterback, the opportunity to make such a selection without having to trade up doesn't come around very often. If the Raiders indeed end up with the No. 1 pick, they should be focused on selecting a first-round quarterback for the first time since JaMarcus Russell in 2007. With Tom Brady calling the shots, and presumably favoring experienced quarterbacks who win from the pocket, Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza would appear to be an ideal fit.</p><h2>Early kickoffs</h2><h3>Of course the Steelers lost</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815586/cropped_GettyImages-2253098936.jpg?ts=1766973565" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815586/w220xh124_GettyImages-2253098936.jpg?ts=1766973565 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815586/w320xh180_GettyImages-2253098936.jpg?ts=1766973565 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815586/w640xh360_GettyImages-2253098936.jpg?ts=1766973565 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815586/w768xh432_GettyImages-2253098936.jpg?ts=1766973565 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815586/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2253098936.jpg?ts=1766973565 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>A win over the last-place Browns was all the Steelers needed to lock up the AFC North this week. Light work, right? Evidently not. I don't know about you, but from the moment the Ravens beat the Packers on Saturday night, this letdown felt inevitable. Part of that is because it's been the story of this Steelers team for multiple years running. Doubters are made to look silly when they dare question a coaching staff that hasn't had a single losing season in 19 years, but it's never long before we're reminded of why those concerns cropped up in the first place. Plus, it's only right that the division nobody wanted to win comes down to a winner-take-all matchup between Baltimore and Pittsburgh in Week 18. An already-dreadful Steelers offense playing without the suspended DK Metcalf should probably make the Ravens the favorite heading in - especially if Lamar Jackson is back in the lineup after missing the win in Green Bay. And Baltimore is certainly the team more likely to spice up the AFC playoff picture. But in a year where each club has served up one disappointment after another, it's probably best to not have any sort of expectations heading in. Sit back and enjoy the chaos.</p><h3>Never change, NFC South</h3><p>Speaking of divisions that nobody wants to win, the NFC South is once again up to its old tricks. The Panthers' weekly up-and-down pattern continued with Sunday's loss to the Seahawks, meaning it doesn't even matter that the Bucs came up short against the Dolphins. Assuming the Falcons lose to the Rams on Monday night, the division will now be decided with a winner-take-all game between Carolina and Tampa Bay in Week 18. Similar to the Steelers-Ravens matchup for the AFC North, it's impossible to know what to expect with this one. The Bucs have a clear talent advantage, but we're long past the point where we can reasonably anticipate that impacting results. They've now lost seven of their last eight games, including a Week 16 matchup with the Carolina. The Panthers have had some impressive highs this year, including wins over the Packers and Rams, but they were also swept by the Saints. Rewarding division winners makes sense, so the NFL's current playoff format probably isn't going to change. Still, it just doesn't seem right that year's NFC South champion, which could very well be an 8-9 Bucs team, could end up hosting a 13-win No. 5 seed.</p><h3>Polar opposites</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815559/cropped_GettyImages-2253083192.jpg?ts=1766961107" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815559/w220xh124_GettyImages-2253083192.jpg?ts=1766961107 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815559/w320xh180_GettyImages-2253083192.jpg?ts=1766961107 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815559/w640xh360_GettyImages-2253083192.jpg?ts=1766961107 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815559/w768xh432_GettyImages-2253083192.jpg?ts=1766961107 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815559/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2253083192.jpg?ts=1766961107 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>I understand that this probably isn't the week to be getting carried away with Patriots hype. There wasn't much for New England to prove against a horrifically bad Jets team, but the 42-10 laugher does make for a pretty fascinating look at a pair of teams that couldn't possibly be further apart. Because remember, that wasn't nearly the case this time last year - the Patriots were every bit as bad as their AFC East rival in 2024. Both teams brought in new staffs to kickstart a rebuild, and only one has seen any sort of improvement. Maybe the Jets will find their version of Drake Maye in this year's draft, giving Aaron Glenn an opportunity to replicate the turnaround in New England. Based on what we've seen so far, though, with the head coach's defensive background doing nothing to help the product on the field, there's probably a case to be made that New York should already be entertaining another change. Mike Vrabel, meanwhile, has suddenly returned the Patriots to familiar territory among the NFL's elite. This team is a well-oiled machine in every phase of the game. There's no reason New England can't run all the way through the AFC in Year 1 of this new era. As always, bad organizations tend to stay bad. And while anyone can run into a few tough years, the good ones don't stay down long.</p><h3>Is that it for Rivers?</h3><p>Philip Rivers coming out of retirement for emergency duty in Indianapolis might be the coolest story of the entire season. Nobody could have been expecting much from a 44-year-old nearly five years removed from his last NFL action, but everyone was tuning in to see if he could still play. And guess what? He absolutely can. The physical limitations are exactly what you'd expect - the mobility is nonexistent, and the arm strength isn't much better. But Rivers was able to keep the Colts' offense running at a respectable level based almost entirely on his ability to execute mentally. It was incredible to watch. I say that in past tense, because one would have to think he's not going to see the field in next week's regular-season finale. As fun as it might be to get one more game of the grandpa quarterback doing his thing, the Colts would be wise to get a look at sixth-round rookie Riley Leonard heading into another offseason of quarterback uncertainty. It's also the least they can do for Rivers. After coming off the couch to give the Colts a bit of hope, there's simply no need to run him out there against a fierce Texans defense playing for an AFC South title.</p><h2>Saturday notes</h2><h3>Willis making himself money</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815501/cropped_GettyImages-2252989882.jpg?ts=1766961845" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815501/w220xh124_GettyImages-2252989882.jpg?ts=1766961845 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815501/w320xh180_GettyImages-2252989882.jpg?ts=1766961845 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815501/w640xh360_GettyImages-2252989882.jpg?ts=1766961845 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815501/w768xh432_GettyImages-2252989882.jpg?ts=1766961845 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/815501/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2252989882.jpg?ts=1766961845 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Todd Rosenberg / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>Malik Willis did not look like an NFL quarterback during his brief stint in Tennessee. The Titans clearly agreed, sending the former third-rounder to Green Bay for a seventh-round selection ahead of his third season in 2024. Two years later, we're adding yet another name to the long list of talented passers who were written off too soon. The quarterback we saw in Saturday night's game against the Ravens looked a lot like the ceiling case for Willis heading into the 2022 draft. The physical skills have always offered plenty of upside, but his newfound ability to produce from the pocket - likely the product of a patient development process with a team that actually knows what it's doing - suddenly makes him an intriguing starting option moving forward. And the apparent breakout couldn't be coming at a better time, as Willis is scheduled to hit free agency in March. With a number of teams in the market for a new quarterback, and a thin draft class potentially offering no more than two first-round signal-callers, there could several suitors that view the 26-year-old as a starter. The two-year, $40-million deal Justin Fields received in New York could be a logical starting point for a competitive Willis market.</p><h3>Packers defense gets bullied</h3><p>The Packers are officially locked into the No. 7 seed after falling to the Ravens on Saturday night. For a team that desperately needs a de facto bye week to get healthy, a meaningless Week 18 game might be more important than a home playoff game anyway. The Packers can score with anyone if Jordan Love and Josh Jacobs are healthy for the playoffs. That being said, Green Bay won't be going far if the defense looks anything like it did in a big spot against Baltimore. The Ravens playing without Lamar Jackson was always going to make this a Derrick Henry game. The Packers had to know this, yet there wasn't a thing they could do to slow him down. Henry took his career-high 36 carries for 216 yards and four touchdowns. They aren't the first defense to get embarrassed by Henry in the cold weather, but it's a concerning sign looking ahead to the playoffs. Surviving the loss of Micah Parsons, and finding other ways to hide a weakness at corner, will have to involve keeping opposing offenses off schedule. That's going to be nearly impossible if the front seven is getting pushed around by any of the capable rushing attacks in the NFC playoff field. A third matchup with the Chicago, which currently lines up to host Green Bay as the No. 2 seed, seems particularly unfavorable with that in mind.</p><p><em>Dan Wilkins is theScore's senior NFL writer.</em></p>

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Sunday Rundown: Key takeaways from Week 17's biggest games

NFL Power Rankings takes stock of all 32 teams throughout the season.  Jump to: ARI | ATL | BAL |...

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NFL Power Rankings - Week 17: A holiday gift for fans of every team

<p><em>Sunday Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.</em></p><h2>Sunday night spotlight</h2><h3>Patriots just getting started</h3><p>Sunday night's win over the Ravens officially sends the Patriots back to the playoffs after a three-year layoff. And based on everything we've seen throughout the first year of the Mike Vrabel era, it may only be the beginning of another annual tradition. There's been a lot of talk about New England being a team that benefitted from a soft schedule. With that in mind, many were probably expecting last week's collapse against the Bills to be the beginning of a humbling fall back down to earth. The Patriots bouncing back the way they did this week, slamming the door on a desperate Ravens team, should kill off those narratives once and for all. This team is more than worthy of its standing near the top of the conference. Vrabel has completely flipped the culture for an organization that had fallen on some unfamiliar hard times. It didn't take long for him to lay the foundation for another good defense and, most importantly, he's got one of the best quarterbacks in football. Drake Maye leading an 11-point fourth-quarter comeback to cap off a 380-yard day both drives home his MVP case and confirms the Patriots are going to be a problem in the AFC playoffs.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Drake Maye completed 4 of 5 passes beyond 20 air yards against the Ravens for a career-high 111 yards and a touchdown.<br><br>Maye's +62.6 EPA on deep attempts this season are the most in the NFL and +20.6 more than any Patriots QB in the last decade.<br><br>Powered by <a href="https://twitter.com/awscloud?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@awscloud</a> <a href="https://t.co/E8oa0Ct88B">pic.twitter.com/E8oa0Ct88B</a></p>— Next Gen Stats (@NextGenStats) <a href="https://twitter.com/NextGenStats/status/2002968081057120528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Ravens on the ropes</h3><p>Those of us who thought it was only a matter of time before the Ravens made their way back to the top of the AFC North (*raises hand*) are looking a little misguided now. The Steelers are now a Week 17 win over the Browns away from wrapping up the AFC North and eliminating Baltimore from the playoffs for the first time since 2021. In fairness, it's not like it was easy to see this coming. The Ravens were arguably the best team in football down the stretch last year, and it seemed like they had only gotten better in the offseason. As it turns out, sustaining that level of success isn't so easy. While the defense has mostly found a way to piece it all together after another slow start, the offense hasn't clicked at all this season. Lamar Jackson missing time didn't help, and having to turn to Tyler Huntley again mid-game against the Patriots was a crushing blow, but there was still a clear path to closing out this must-win game. Derrick Henry not seeing the field on what could have been a put-away drive midway through the fourth quarter is one of the many reasons this coaching staff should be feeling the pressure heading into the offseason. The talent is still there for this team to be a contender. Something else probably has to change if they're going to make the most of it next year.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h2>Late-afternoon games</h2><h3>Steelers stun Lions</h3><p>I have to be honest: I really didn't think the Steelers had a chance Sunday afternoon in Detroit. I'm sure I wasn't alone, either. Considering Pittsburgh's issues on both sides of the ball, which have sparked questions about the future of this coaching staff, it felt like the perfect matchup for a desperate Lions team. Instead, we got a reminder of why Mike Tomlin has been virtually untouchable nearly two decades in. The chaotic win sees Pittsburgh improve to 9-6, officially locking in a 19th straight non-losing season for Tomlin. The defense finally found its footing against the run, bottling up Detroit's star backs and forcing the Lions' offense into an uncomfortable pass-heavy game plan. Arthur Smith's offense is doing a good job of creatively using tight ends to make up for a lack of depth at receiver, and a stagnant run game finally broke out with 230 yards, the most the Lions have allowed since 2022. We'll see if it lasts, but the Steelers look a whole lot more interesting than they did three weeks ago.</p><h3>Lions pretty much done</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/814882/cropped_GettyImages-2252457802.jpg?ts=1766369567" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/814882/w220xh124_GettyImages-2252457802.jpg?ts=1766369567 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/814882/w320xh180_GettyImages-2252457802.jpg?ts=1766369567 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/814882/w640xh360_GettyImages-2252457802.jpg?ts=1766369567 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/814882/w768xh432_GettyImages-2252457802.jpg?ts=1766369567 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/814882/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2252457802.jpg?ts=1766369567 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Todd Rosenberg / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Lions did manage to make things interesting at the end. For a second, before an offensive pass interference call ultimately ended the game, it even seemed like Detroit had saved its season in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3434297" href="https://thescore.com/news/3434297">the most chaotic fashion</a>. It wasn't to be, though, and the 8-7 Lions now need a miracle to get in the playoffs. While one could easily make the case that this is the kind of team nobody would want to meet in the postseason, the Lions have no one to blame but themselves for the reality that they probably won't be there. The offense just hasn't been the same after an offseason in which the unit lost both Ben Johnson and some key pieces up front. Most notably, the Lions have now tumbled all the way to a 25th-ranked standing in rush success rate after finishing as a top-four unit last year, according to TruMedia. The recent defensive struggles are equally as alarming, with Detroit now sitting tied for 31st in EPA/play over the last five weeks. The Lions will be an obvious rebound candidate next year, but this isn't a matter of a bad-luck team just needing a few bounces. Getting back to the heights of the last few years will have to start with additions to the offensive line and some schematic fine-tuning on both sides of the ball.</p><h3>Jaguars here already</h3><p>The Jaguars might be the story of the season. It was easy enough to shrug off their hot start, as some continued struggles from Trevor Lawrence had seemingly put a ceiling on any Year 1 ascent under Liam Coen. But Jacksonville just kept winning. And then came the Lawrence breakthrough. I wrote last week, on the heels of a second straight outstanding quarterback performance, that this team would be dangerous if it continued. Well, it's continuing. Any concerns about the improved play being a result of a soft stretch in the schedule can probably be put to rest after another big game against the Broncos. The Jaguars' passing attack delivered the ultimate statement en route to a 34-20 win in Denver, with Lawrence overcoming an absent run game to complete 23 of 36 passes for 279 yards and three touchdowns. He also added a score on the ground, giving him a league-high 17 total scores over the last five games. Lawrence and the Jaguars probably won't get widespread recognition until they make some noise in the playoffs, but that is very much on the table now. Everything is coming together under Coen faster than anyone could have expected. If the Jaguars enter the playoffs as a top-two seed in the AFC, I don't know how the Coach of the Year award could go to anyone else.</p><h2>Early kickoffs</h2><h3>Chargers keep rolling</h3><p>The Chargers had the makings of a legitimate contender early this season. Those Super Bowl dreams appeared to be dead when Joe Alt's season-ending injury completed the decimation of the offensive line, but they've found a way to power through. A convincing victory over the Cowboys gives Los Angeles its seventh win over the last eight games. While I will likely remain skeptical that a team allowing a league-worst 123 quarterback hits can survive some of the treacherous matchups they'd likely have to conquer in the AFC playoffs (Houston and Denver), Herbert playing the way he did this week would go a long way toward hiding any such deficiencies. The Chargers quarterback was nearly perfect in Dallas, completing 23 of 29 passes for 300 yards and two touchdowns while adding 42 rushing yards and another score on the ground. Crucially, he was 9-for-11 for 108 yards and one touchdown against pressure, according to Next Gen Stats. It's the best game of his career by EPA/dropback, and it marks the first time he hasn't taken a sack since December 2024. All qualifiers about the Cowboys' defense aside, this version of Herbert makes the Chargers a player in an AFC playoff field lacking a true top dog.</p><h3>Chiefs without Mahomes</h3><p>Predictably, the Chiefs are an excruciating watch without Patrick Mahomes under center. On one hand, it's easy to come up with excuses for Sunday's performance against the Titans. When you're used to playing for Super Bowls at this time of year, it has to be hard to go through the motions for meaningless December football. And this team has to be reeling after losing its star quarterback to a major knee injury. But on the other hand, a 26-9 loss to the worst team in the league illustrates the work that needs to be done when it comes to improving the team around Mahomes for the Chiefs to get back on track next year.</p><h3>Toilet Bowl inbound</h3><p>The Titans moving to 3-11 by knocking off the Chiefs leaves the Giants and Raiders as the lone remaining two-win teams. New York and Las Vegas just so happen to meet next week. The loser will be in pole position for the No. 1 overall pick for a class that, depending on the declaration decision from Dante Moore, may only have one quarterback worthy of an early pick. The Raiders getting Fernando Mendoza without having to trade up could be invaluable for the future of the franchise. Given the number of teams in the market for a new quarterback, the Giants could shop the pick for multiple first-rounders. Don't rule out some additional chaos if Las Vegas is the one in possession of the No. 1 pick heading into Week 18, though. The Raiders close out the season against the suddenly putrid Chiefs. After years of terrorizing its long-suffering division rival, Kansas City mailing it in and serving up an unwanted win could inadvertently spoil the fun for a fan base desperate for some semblance of hope.</p><h3>Panthers in control</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/814844/cropped_GettyImages-2253028248.jpg?ts=1766351818" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/814844/w220xh124_GettyImages-2253028248.jpg?ts=1766351818 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/814844/w320xh180_GettyImages-2253028248.jpg?ts=1766351818 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/814844/w640xh360_GettyImages-2253028248.jpg?ts=1766351818 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/814844/w768xh432_GettyImages-2253028248.jpg?ts=1766351818 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/814844/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2253028248.jpg?ts=1766351818 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Panthers have been on a roller-coaster ride for much of this season, alternating wins and losses every time out since the middle of October. That trend continued this week, as they took down the Bucs to bounce back from a loss to the Saints. The critical victory gives Carolina a one-game lead atop the NFC South, setting the stage for an opportunity to clinch the division next week if the Bucs lose. While it may be tough to get it done with a game against the top-seeded Seahawks up next, the important part is that the Panthers are in full control of their own destiny. Even with a loss to Seattle, Carolina can secure the division title with another win over Tampa Bay in the regular-season finale. A clear talent advantage may well see the Bucs entering the rematch as the favorites, but we're still waiting for that to make a difference in the win column. The four-time defending NFC South champs have been spiraling over the second half of the season, dropping six of their last seven games, with the lone win being a three-point victory over the lowly Cardinals. This is Carolina's division to lose.</p><h3>No choice for Vikings</h3><p>J.J. McCarthy was forced to leave Sunday's win over the Giants. He appears to have avoided any broken bones, but considering it's an issue with his throwing hand, it seems possible that his status will be in doubt for the last two games of the season. And while he had looked more comfortable over the last few weeks, a pair of games against defenses like that of the Cowboys and Commanders were never going to be enough to inspire confidence after a disastrous start. So not only do the Vikings potentially head into a new season not having a real sense of McCarthy's trajectory, but he's also now dealing with yet another injury. Both factors should lead to Minnesota adding a capable veteran in the offseason. That doesn't mean the Vikings have to hold an open competition - if McCarthy proves to be the guy, great. But a team with this much talent can't bet another entire season on it. The Vikings should be aggressive in pursuing an insurance plan.</p><h3>Bengals bounce back</h3><p>The Dolphins don't exactly provide the best measuring stick, but it sure was nice to see the Bengals bounce back from last week's shutout. Finally having put together a stronger offensive line in front of Joe Burrow, this 45-point output was a taste of the scoring potential we could have seen throughout the season were it not for an extended absence from the superstar quarterback. It may not have been enough for this team to contend with the defense stuck near the bottom of the league in all major statistical categories, but it's a reminder of what's possible if that group can even sniff league-average production. Now the question is whether we have any reason to believe the notoriously conservative Bengals front office can create that.</p><h3>McDaniel safe?</h3><p>A Sunday morning report from NFL Network's Ian Rapoport suggested that Mike McDaniel's job was likely safe barring some sort of surprise. Does a 45-21 loss to the Bengals qualify? Maybe not. It's not like the expectations should've been high with the Dolphins turning to seventh-round rookie Quinn Ewers for his first NFL start. Then again, it appears the head coach was banking on the quarterback change to provide a spark. According to Rapoport, McDaniel "believes Quinn Ewers is what his offense needs to run properly." Even a matchup with a league-worst Bengals defense couldn't help support such an idea. Cincinnati's 58.6% defensive success rate in Sunday's game was its best of the season. McDaniel might need some less embarrassing results over the last two weeks of the season to ensure he returns in 2026.</p><p><em>Dan Wilkins is theScore's senior NFL writer.</em></p>

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Sunday Rundown: Key takeaways from Week 16's biggest games

As the NFL playoff picture slowly comes into focus, more and more teams can start planning for th...

<p>As the NFL playoff picture slowly comes into focus, more and more teams can start planning for the offseason. For many, that will begin with a potential change at the most important position on the field.</p><p>Who might be in the market for a new quarterback? And more importantly, what options are even available to them? Let's dive in. (Spoiler: It's a bad year to be in QB purgatory.)</p><h2>Potential teams in need</h2><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/814361/cropped_GettyImages-2249535033.jpg?ts=1766014122" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/814361/w220xh124_GettyImages-2249535033.jpg?ts=1766014122 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/814361/w320xh180_GettyImages-2249535033.jpg?ts=1766014122 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/814361/w640xh360_GettyImages-2249535033.jpg?ts=1766014122 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/814361/w768xh432_GettyImages-2249535033.jpg?ts=1766014122 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/814361/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2249535033.jpg?ts=1766014122 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Megan Briggs / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><h3>Miami Dolphins</h3><p>The writing is on the wall here. The Dolphins sitting Tua Tagovailoa for the final three weeks of the regular season isn't the latest example of a team looking to avoid injury guarantees, as Tua is already due $54 million guaranteed next year. But a performance-based benching for a quarterback making that kind of money is a similarly ominous sign of what's to come. Miami is clearly setting the stage to part ways with the former first-rounder, a move that would saddle the organization with $99.2 million in dead money, according to <a href="https://overthecap.com/">Over The Cap</a>. As a result, the Dolphins will probably end up bargain hunting in the early stages of their much-needed rebuild.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Arizona Cardinals</h3><p>Tua won't be the only highly paid veteran finishing the season on the sidelines, as Kyler Murray was shut down in early December. The Cardinals cited continued issues with his injured foot at the time of the announcement. We'll assume they were being honest. Either way, the Arizona offense faring better with Jacoby Brissett seemingly already had this relationship trending toward a split. Murray is guaranteed $36 million in 2026, so the Cardinals might have to eat some money if they hope to find a trade partner. They should be involved in the veteran quarterback market if they don't end up with a top pick.</p><h3>New York Jets</h3><p>Justin Fields won't be seeing the back half of the two-year, $40-million deal he signed with the Jets last offseason. Moving up in the draft for a quarterback will be an option, as trading away Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams gives New York five first-round picks over the next two years. But if three of them are in 2027, a year that figures to offer a stronger quarterback class, should the Jets really force the issue in April? There's a real argument to be made that they would be better served by loading up elsewhere this offseason and adding a veteran quarterback to serve as a bridge before taking a big draft swing the following year.</p><h3>Cleveland Browns</h3><p>Shedeur Sanders can make his case down the stretch, but the fifth-round rookie will have to leave no doubt for the Browns to consider him a lock as their starter heading into Year 2. Even then, it seems possible, if not likely, that they've always planned to use their pair of first-round picks to target a quarterback at the top of this year's draft. And they could pair that with the addition of a veteran backup. Where might that leave Sanders? More on that below.</p><h3>Las Vegas Raiders</h3><p>Hand up: I truly thought the Raiders were getting a steal when they acquired Geno Smith for a third-round pick this past offseason. The former castoff had played like a top 12-14 quarterback for much of his time as the starter in Seattle, and it seemed like Las Vegas' offense might present him with an opportunity to take his game to another level. Consider it a swing and a miss. The situation around him never really gave Smith much of a chance, so it's possible that he still has something left in the tank, but there's no sense in sticking with the 35-year-old when this team so desperately needs to rebuild the right way. The Raiders would save $8 million on his $26.5 million cap hit by releasing him, and they'd take on no dead money in the event they're able to find a trade.</p><h3>Pittsburgh Steelers</h3><p>Aaron Rodgers is still a capable starting quarterback, so Pittsburgh would likely be interested in having him return for another year. But the future Hall of Famer has said all along that this figures to be the last season of his career. Barring a change of heart, that means the Steelers will be right back where they were last year. And after another season toiling in mediocrity, they won't have a hope of getting one of the top passers in this draft. So, which veteran will it be this time?</p><h3>Los Angeles Rams</h3><p>Matthew Stafford's MVP-caliber season proves he's still got plenty left in the tank. The Rams will hope that he's back for another year, but retirement could remain an annual consideration as he approaches 40. Sean McVay should be eyeing developmental options in preparation. Owning the Falcons' first-round selection, which currently sits in the No. 10 slot, could provide a unique opportunity to add such a player. And if Stafford were to call it a career at the end of this season, the Rams would immediately become the most attractive landing spot for the best available veterans.</p><h3>New Orleans Saints</h3><p>The Saints are a bit of a wild card. They could select a quarterback if one happens to fall in their lap on draft weekend, but it's not a must. Second-round rookie Tyler Shough has shown some promising signs since taking over as the starter in Week 9, making a case as the potential long-term quarterback. The Saints need to see a far greater sample before truly committing, but the roster needs enough work that it might be worth starting to build around Shough and seeing how his growth continues over the next year or so.</p><h3>Indianapolis Colts</h3><p>Daniel Jones was seemingly well on his way toward earning an extension with the Colts earlier this year. After his breakout season was derailed by a torn Achilles, though, it's no longer such a layup. A deal in line with Sam Darnold's three-year, $100.5-million contract once seemed like a starting point, given their similar paths, but are the Colts comfortable making that kind of investment after a major injury? And if not, is it possible another desperate team swoops in when Jones becomes a free agent? This one could get interesting.</p><h3>Minnesota Vikings</h3><p>The last few games of the regular season could go a long way in determining how the Vikings approach the quarterback position in the new year. J.J. McCarthy has looked far more comfortable over his last two games after a disastrous start, but how much of that was about favorable matchups against the Commanders and Cowboys? If things trend back in the other direction, Minnesota may have no choice but to bring in some sort of veteran competition. McCarthy would still enter the 2026 campaign as the starter, but it would be important for the Vikings to have some sort of insurance plan in place to avoid wasting another season.</p><h3>Atlanta Falcons</h3><p>The Falcons are in a similar position to the Vikings: They've got a former first-rounder that they hope will be their franchise quarterback, but he's got a long way to go. And with Michael Penix Jr. now having to spend the entire offseason recovering from a torn ACL, Atlanta will need a capable veteran in place as insurance. Kirk Cousins could theoretically be that guy in 2026, but there's simply no world where the Falcons keep the 37-year-old on his scheduled $57.5-million cap hit. Cutting him, saving $22.5 million in cap space, and bringing in a cheaper option is the more sensible move.</p><h2>The rookie class</h2><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813711/cropped_GettyImages-2250115579.jpg?ts=1766014172" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813711/w220xh124_GettyImages-2250115579.jpg?ts=1766014172 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813711/w320xh180_GettyImages-2250115579.jpg?ts=1766014172 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813711/w640xh360_GettyImages-2250115579.jpg?ts=1766014172 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813711/w768xh432_GettyImages-2250115579.jpg?ts=1766014172 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813711/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2250115579.jpg?ts=1766014172 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Hickey / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>Every fan wants their team to address the quarterback position through the draft, and understandably so. Among the clubs listed above, five are projected to have a top-10 pick in April. But this isn't going to be the type of draft class that gives all such teams an opportunity to address their most critical need.</p><p>Fernando Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy winner who led Indiana to the No. 1 seed in the College Football Playoff, is the early favorite to go No. 1. While he's not a generational talent by any stretch, he's a proficient pocket passer with impressive accuracy, decision-making skills, and toughness.</p><p>Dante Moore would be another potential top quarterback, but we're still waiting to see if he declares for the draft. There's some buzz suggesting he could return to Oregon for another year. If that's the case, the race for the No. 1 pick becomes all the more critical for a few rebuilding teams, because there just isn't much else to this quarterback class.</p><p>LaNorris Sellers already announced his decision to return to South Carolina. Ty Simpson's draft stock took a hit with a rough performance in the SEC title game against Georgia. And with only one season of starting experience under his belt, it's possible he opts to remain at Alabama.</p><p>Either way, there won't be nearly enough top rookies to fill all the open spots. That could make for an especially interesting game of musical chairs among quarterbacks who are already in the league.</p><h2>Veteran names to watch</h2><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801652/cropped_GettyImages-2235476917.jpg?ts=1766014202" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801652/w220xh124_GettyImages-2235476917.jpg?ts=1766014202 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801652/w320xh180_GettyImages-2235476917.jpg?ts=1766014202 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801652/w640xh360_GettyImages-2235476917.jpg?ts=1766014202 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801652/w768xh432_GettyImages-2235476917.jpg?ts=1766014202 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801652/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2235476917.jpg?ts=1766014202 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Norm Hall / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><h3>Kyler Murray</h3><p>Murray is going to be starting somewhere in 2026. While he's been a frustrating player for much of his career, the former No. 1 overall pick is easily the most exciting option of all the established veterans. Competition for his services could allow the Cardinals to find a trade, but the contract his new team would inherit likely limits the return. Murray can be an above-average starter in a system that maximizes his arm talent and creativity.</p><h3>Tua Tagovailoa</h3><p>Tua will get a chance somewhere. He's still just 27 years old, and he's only two seasons removed from leading the NFL in passing. The question is whether that opportunity comes as a clear-cut starter. Tagovailoa's play wasn't the only reason the Dolphins' offense ran out of magic this year, but it certainly didn't help. His career-worst 15 interceptions are also the most among all quarterbacks with three weeks left to play. Expecting him to become a productive starter in a new system, away from the timing-based offense that did so well to highlight his best abilities at his peak, would be a major leap of faith. His price tag could very well end up reflecting that reality.</p><h3>Daniel Jones</h3><p>Jones' free-agent market will depend on how he's progressing in his recovery from his torn Achilles. While the win-now Colts may not be inclined to deal with the uncertainty after dumping two years of first-round picks for Sauce Gardner, the first half of this season proved that Jones can be a capable starter in the right situation. He'll have plenty of options if he's on track to be ready at some point before Week 1. If he's not, we shouldn't rule out a reunion with the Vikings. Minnesota could offer Jones an opportunity to take his time getting back to full strength, and he could offer the Vikings some veteran insurance and/or competition for McCarthy.</p><h3>Mac Jones</h3><p>The 49ers wouldn't be in playoff contention were it not for Jones' play across eight games without Brock Purdy. While teams will have to be wary of the fact that Kyle Shanahan's system can make life relatively easy for quarterbacks, Jones also had a shorthanded cast of playmakers for much of that stretch. He could be a worthy trade candidate for teams out of position to target a quarterback in the first round.</p><h3>Kirk Cousins</h3><p>Cousins won't be the most exciting addition to a quarterback room at this point in his career, but teams in need of some veteran stability could probably do worse. The 37-year-old has looked a little more like his old self another season removed from his Achilles injury, putting up 373 yards and three touchdowns in a recent Thursday night win over the Bucs. Assuming he doesn't have a clearer path to a short-term starting role with another team, Cousins could be the perfect insurance option and mentor for McCarthy back in Minnesota.</p><h3>Geno Smith</h3><p>Smith's first season with the Raiders has been a disaster. His play has dropped off substantially from his Seattle days, but it's not like he's been the only issue in Las Vegas. It's easy to envision a scenario where a team in the market for a short-term starter believes a more favorable situation can help him get back to the player he was before this year. And they might be right, potentially making Smith a sneaky value option in a thin market.</p><h3>Derek Carr</h3><p>Philip Rivers' return got me thinking: In an offseason where there might be more empty quarterback chairs than appealing options to fill them, could a potential playoff team get creative by going off the board? Carr retired last spring while dealing with a shoulder injury that would have kept him out for the season. If healthy and willing to make a comeback, the 34-year-old could potentially still offer steady, mid-level quarterback play. The Steelers, Colts, and Rams all stand out as interesting fits if they end up in the market for a starter.</p><h2>Upside swings</h2><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811222/cropped_GettyImages-2248126999.jpg?ts=1766014241" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811222/w220xh124_GettyImages-2248126999.jpg?ts=1766014241 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811222/w320xh180_GettyImages-2248126999.jpg?ts=1766014241 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811222/w640xh360_GettyImages-2248126999.jpg?ts=1766014241 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811222/w768xh432_GettyImages-2248126999.jpg?ts=1766014241 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811222/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2248126999.jpg?ts=1766014241 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ian Maule / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><h3>Shedeur Sanders</h3><p>Again, Sanders has a chance to make the Browns reconsider any plans they had to move up for a quarterback at the top of next year's draft. There have been some encouraging moments in his brief stint as a starter so far, particularly when it comes to pushing the ball downfield. But if Cleveland goes outside the building in pursuit of a long-term starter, perhaps both drafting a rookie and pairing him with a veteran, Sanders could become a logical trade candidate. A number of teams would probably have interest in bringing him in to compete, recognizing the error in letting him slide to the fifth round last year.</p><h3>Spencer Rattler</h3><p>Rattler has become something of an afterthought in the midst of Shough's recent breakout. Perhaps he ultimately settles in as a career backup, but he hadn't exactly done much to deserve a benching before the Saints understandably opted to get an extended look at their second-round rookie. In fact, with some runway to develop, there's reason to believe that Rattler's arm talent can provide low-level starter upside.</p><h3>Anthony Richardson</h3><p>That's right, it's me again - the guy who will never give up on Richardson. It goes without saying that he won't be handed a starting job at this point. Not in Indy, and not anywhere else. But at a time when we've seen so many former top picks break through in new surroundings, you can't tell me that teams won't look to bring Richardson in as a project in the event the Colts decide to move on. You simply can't teach elite physical skills. The Vikings have stood out as a potential landing spot ever since cameras caught Kevin O'Connell encouraging Richardson after a game last year, and he also seems like the exact kind of player Sean McVay would love to develop behind Matthew Stafford.</p><h3>Malik Willis</h3><p>Willis didn't look like an NFL quarterback in his brief run with the Titans. Something clicked after he landed in Green Bay, though, as he's proven he belongs any time he's been forced into action. With a little more development as a passer and a system that features his abilities as a runner, Willis could eventually push for more regular playing time. He'll be a fascinating free agent to watch in March.</p><h3>Will Levis</h3><p>Levis missed the entire 2025 season with a shoulder injury. And when you think back to the adventures of his other two years, it would make sense if he's not really on anyone's radar. But quarterback-needy teams should be scouring the league for talented signal-callers who were written off too soon. Levis has the unique physical traits that might intrigue a QB guru who's confident in his abilities to bring the best out of a young passer after a low-cost trade.</p><p><em>Dan Wilkins is theScore's senior NFL writer.</em></p>

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NFL Power Rankings - Week 16: Every team's unsung hero

<p><em>Sunday Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.</em></p><h2>Sunday night spotlight</h2><h3>McCarthy making progress</h3><p>We don't need to rehash all the stats putting J.J. McCarthy's first six games into historical context. It was bad. Things even got to the point where I wondered whether it might be a good idea for the Vikings to have him take a seat and reset before getting a fresh start next season. Kevin O'Connell evidently didn't see it that way, and it turns out he was right. McCarthy showed some promising signs for the second straight game in Sunday night's win over the Cowboys, completing 15 of 24 passes for 250 yards, two touchdowns, and another score on the ground. The accuracy remains a work in progress, and it'll probably continue to be an issue until he gets an offseason to overhaul his mechanics. But he certainly looks more comfortable than he did to start the season and, crucially, he's generally taking better care of the ball as a result. Next week's game against the Giants offers an opportunity to stack another strong outing before closing out the season with a pair of tough tests against the Lions and Packers.</p><h2>Late-afternoon games</h2><h3>Crushing injuries for Packers</h3><p>The Packers' entire season may have come crashing down Sunday in Denver. Injuries are part of the game, but it's just tough to imagine this team overcoming the losses of Micah Parsons and Christian Watson. Parsons, who is reportedly believed to have suffered a torn ACL in the loss to the Broncos, has lived up to the expectations that came with the blockbuster trade. His ability to command extra attention from opposing offenses, all while continuing to produce at an All-Pro level, elevates the entire Packers defense. Watson isn't the same caliber of player, but his value has been made abundantly clear since he returned from last year's knee injury in Week 8. If his chest injury requires a significant absence, the Packers will be relying solely on Matthew Golden to pick up the slack in the downfield passing game. Maybe the first-round rookie will be up to the task after a disappointing start. And maybe Jeff Hafley can find some unique ways to create pressure without Parsons. There's always a chance, but the Packers suddenly don't have the same Super Bowl upside they did coming into this week.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Bo balls out</h3><p>I've been admittedly hesitant to consider the Broncos a serious Super Bowl threat. They always had a championship-caliber defense, and the results have been there throughout, but the other side of the ball was just too much of an adventure for my liking. Up until this point, it was legitimately fair to wonder whether a Bo Nix-led offense could do enough to hang with top competition in the playoffs. Sunday's win over the Packers could prove to be a major step in the right direction. Nix was excellent in the season-best outing, completing 23 of 34 passes for 302 yards, four touchdowns, and no interceptions. Crucially, he posted a career-best 137.5 passer rating on throws of 15-plus air yards, going 6 of 10 for 145 yards and a TD. Inconsistency has been a running theme for Nix and the rest of this offense, so I won't be overreacting to one game. But if this continues through a challenging stretch to finish the season (vs. Jaguars, at Chiefs, vs. Chargers), we could be looking at a real contender putting it all together at the perfect time.</p><h3>Colts hang in with Rivers</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813941/cropped_GettyImages-2251918239.jpg?ts=1765767568" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813941/w220xh124_GettyImages-2251918239.jpg?ts=1765767568 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813941/w320xh180_GettyImages-2251918239.jpg?ts=1765767568 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813941/w640xh360_GettyImages-2251918239.jpg?ts=1765767568 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813941/w768xh432_GettyImages-2251918239.jpg?ts=1765767568 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813941/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2251918239.jpg?ts=1765767568 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Steph Chambers / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>The idea of a 44-year-old Philip Rivers coming out a retirement after nearly five years to play the Seahawks' defense on a week's notice seemed certifiably insane. And from a physical perspective, it absolutely was. But Shane Steichen clearly valued the mental acuity and scheme familiarity over anything else that a younger, less experienced option might have provided. After one initial look, it's not that hard to see what he was thinking. Rivers was predictably unable to push the ball downfield, going just 2 of 8 on passes of 10-plus air yards, but he did connect on 16 of 18 for 87 yards and a touchdown on attempts short of that mark, according to Next Gen Stats. Crucially, he took just one sack and didn't turn the ball over until a last-ditch interception that closed it out. The Colts having a chance to beat the Seahawks had more to do with Lou Anarumo putting the clamps on the Seattle offense than any sort of game-changing plays from their grandfather quarterback, but Rivers quietly did his part by taking care of the ball and avoiding negative plays. While a tough finishing schedule will present some similarly daunting matchups, the Colts giving the Seahawks a sweat showed that they don't need much more to remain competitive.</p><h3>Davante injury looms large</h3><p>The Rams will hope that Davante Adams doesn't miss much time with the hamstring injury he suffered in a win over the Lions. It certainly didn't look good at the time, though. And with a trip to Seattle coming up Thursday, it seems likely that he'll at least be forced to miss the most important remaining game on the schedule. The Rams have done an outstanding job of being flexible this season. Remember, it was Puka Nacua's absence for a Week 7 game against Jacksonville that led to Sean McVay debuting the three tight end sets that have been a big part of the Rams' offense ever since. He'll need some more of that magic for the second of two matchups against a stout Seahawks defense, as this game could very well decide who gets the No. 1 seed in the NFC. The Rams need that first-round bye to ensure their passing game enters the playoffs at full strength.</p><h3>Don't sleep on the Lions</h3><p>The Lions failing to capitalize on a 10-point lead against the Rams is obviously not ideal. Now 8-6 with three games to play, they remain on the outside looking in at the rest of the NFC playoff picture. And Detroit still hasn't won back-to-back games since Weeks 4 and 5. Even so, I don't think anyone should be writing this team off. The Lions putting the Rams on their heels in the first half demonstrates how dangerous they could be in the playoffs. The Packers (9-4-1) are suddenly on shaky ground as the current No. 7 seed after losing a pair of critical players to injury, but that's far from Detroit's only path to the playoffs. The Lions still have a chance to chase down Chicago in the NFC North. Taking care of business against the Steelers and Vikings over the next two weeks, and having the Bears lose to either the Packers or 49ers, could set the stage for a winner-take-all game in Week 18. While Chicago has improved by leaps and bounds throughout the season, I'd have a hard time betting against a Detroit team that took the first of the two matchups by a 52-21 margin back in Week 2. The Lions are very much alive, and they're still the kind of dangerous opponent that other contenders will hope to avoid meeting in January.</p><h2>Early kickoffs</h2><h3>Chiefs officially done</h3><p>For the first time since 2014, the Chiefs won't be in the playoffs. Sunday's loss to the Chargers, along with a few other relevant AFC results, made it official with three weeks still left to play. That's how poorly this season has gone in Kansas City. For a while, it seemed like it would only be a matter of time before the three-time defending conference champions were going to turn it on. We'd seen far too much magic from Patrick Mahomes and Co. to rule anything out. Recently, though, it started to become clear that this wasn't going to be an easy fix. The receiving corps getting back to full strength provided reason for optimism midseason, but that group was evidently never enough to salvage what proved to be a broken offense. While many will expect some splashy moves in an effort to reload, keep in mind that this team enters the offseason a projected $43.7 million over the salary cap. A rebound season will hinge almost entirely on this coaching staff's ability to look in the mirror and reimagine an offensive system that is no longer working. Mahomes going down with a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3427613" href="https://thescore.com/news/3427613">torn ACL</a> this late in the season could also put his status in doubt for the start of next year.</p><h3>Bills have my attention</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813893/cropped_GettyImages-2251901989.jpg?ts=1765754655" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813893/w220xh124_GettyImages-2251901989.jpg?ts=1765754655 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813893/w320xh180_GettyImages-2251901989.jpg?ts=1765754655 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813893/w640xh360_GettyImages-2251901989.jpg?ts=1765754655 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813893/w768xh432_GettyImages-2251901989.jpg?ts=1765754655 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813893/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2251901989.jpg?ts=1765754655 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Sarah Stier / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>I've been pretty dismissive of the Bills for much of this season, and I stand by all of my critiques. This is the most flawed team Buffalo has fielded in the last five years. Immediately digging itself a 21-0 hole Sunday in New England was just another example of that reality. The second half, on the other hand, was a reminder of why the Bills are still very much a contender anyway. Josh Allen once again went into Superman mode with his team on the ropes, orchestrating five consecutive touchdown drives to storm back and knock off the first-place Patriots. Constantly needing those kinds of heroics isn't exactly a sustainable recipe for success. Depending on a quarterback, no matter how spectacular, to string together four such performances in the playoffs is beyond unfair. But Allen, more so than any player in the game today, could be up to the task. And with neither Patrick Mahomes nor Joe Burrow standing in the way, this is shaping up to be the most favorable road to the Super Bowl yet. Could the stars finally be aligning for the Bills in the year we least expect it?</p><h3>T-Law makes it 2 in a row</h3><p>Trevor Lawrence might be back, folks. I've always been a big believer in his upside, but even I had to admit things were starting to look bleak. It had been years since that promising sophomore campaign, and he was arguably the main factor holding back Liam Coen's offense over the first half of this season. But it sure seems like something has clicked over the last few games. I wrote last week that Lawrence's performance in the rain against the Colts was one of the best I had seen from him since that faux-breakout in 2022. He followed that up with an even better game Sunday against the Jets, completing 20 of 32 passes for 330 yards and five touchdowns. He also added a team-high 51 yards and another score on the ground. Lawrence's 0.73 EPA/dropback marks the most productive game of his pro career and the seventh-best single-game output from any quarterback this season, according to TruMedia. The Jaguars are a real contender if they get anything close to this level of quarterback play from here on out.</p><h3>A positive step</h3><p>The Ravens have been a frustrating watch for the majority of this season. Lamar Jackson's return from injury was supposed to be the catalyst for a late run, but the Baltimore offense was still searching for answers after consecutive losses to the Bengals and Steelers. Perhaps getting one back this week can be the start of a season-saving ascent. The Ravens will have to do it against far more capable opponents in January, but a 24-0 win against the same Cincinnati team that shocked them on Thanksgiving can only be taken as a positive sign. The defense came up big with a pair of interceptions, including a wild pick-6 in the fourth quarter, to hand the Bengals their first shutout since 2017. The run game showed some promising signs, too, with Derrick Henry recording 100 yards on just 11 carries while Keaton Mitchell chipped in 66 yards on eight attempts. The next two games (at Patriots, at Packers) should tell us what to expect from this team - if anything - in January.</p><h3>Texans' offense trending up</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813930/cropped_GettyImages-2251344819.jpg?ts=1765754721" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813930/w220xh124_GettyImages-2251344819.jpg?ts=1765754721 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813930/w320xh180_GettyImages-2251344819.jpg?ts=1765754721 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813930/w640xh360_GettyImages-2251344819.jpg?ts=1765754721 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813930/w768xh432_GettyImages-2251344819.jpg?ts=1765754721 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813930/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2251344819.jpg?ts=1765754721 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Texans made easy work of the Cardinals on Sunday, but it probably wasn't in the way that most had been expecting. A typically dominant Houston defense didn't quite impose its will on a vulnerable Arizona offense, finishing the day with its second-worst performance of the year by both EPA/play and success rate. Still, the Cardinals never stood much of a chance. That's because the Texans' offense stepped up with one of its most complete performances of the season. C.J. Stroud was nearly perfect in the pass game, completing 22 of 29 passes for 260 yards and three scores. The run game also did its part despite being without Nick Chubb and losing Woody Marks in the first half, with former sixth-round pick Jawhar Jordan going off for 101 yards on 15 carries. The Texans won't get to face a team like the Cardinals in the playoffs, but the offense flashing this type of competence is an incredibly encouraging development. They might have all they need to complement the league's premier defense.</p><h3>Carroll has to go</h3><p>I have no idea whether the Raiders will actually fire Pete Carroll. This hire was supposed to be the move that established some sort of stability looking to the future. And after years of constant turnover under Mark Davis' watch, I could absolutely envision a scenario where they opt to bring him back for no other reason than to avoid having to admit another mistake so soon. Much like everything else this organization does, that would be a monumental error. Not only have the Raiders somehow gotten worse since Carroll's arrival, but it's trending further in the wrong direction with every passing week. A pathetic, noncompetitive effort in Philly - the Raiders' second 31-0 loss of the season - is probably grounds to rip off the Band-Aid right now. The timing ultimately isn't important, though. All that matters is that this team doesn't let the mistakes compound. Start fresh with a coaching staff that actually has an interest in aligning with the front office on a long-term vision. Running it back with a 74-year-old coach focused on winning now will only hurt the Raiders' chances of rebuilding in the way they so desperately need.</p><p><em>Dan Wilkins is theScore's senior NFL writer.</em></p>

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Sunday Rundown: Key takeaways from Week 15's biggest games

The stretch run is officially here. As teams jockey for playoff position, players (and coaches) a...

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NFL award rankings: Where does each race stand with 4 weeks to go?

<p><em>NFL Power Rankings takes stock of all 32 teams throughout the season.</em></p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#ARI">ARI</a> | <a href="#ATL">ATL</a> | <a href="#BAL">BAL</a> | <a href="#BUF">BUF</a> | <a href="#CAR">CAR</a> | <a href="#CHI">CHI</a> | <a href="#CIN">CIN</a> | <a href="#CLE">CLE</a> | <a href="#DAL">DAL</a> | <a href="#DEN">DEN</a> | <a href="#DET">DET</a> | <a href="#GB">GB</a> | <a href="#HOU">HOU</a> | <a href="#IND">IND</a> | <a href="#JAX">JAX</a> | <a href="#KC">KC</a> | <a href="#LAC">LAC</a> | <a href="#LAR">LAR</a> | <a href="#LV">LV</a> | <a href="#MIA">MIA</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#NE">NE</a> | <a href="#NO">NO</a> | <a href="#NYG">NYG</a> | <a href="#NYJ">NYJ</a> | <a href="#PHI">PHI</a> | <a href="#PIT">PIT</a> | <a href="#SEA">SEA</a> | <a href="#SF">SF</a> | <a href="#TB">TB</a> | <a href="#TEN">TEN</a> | <a href="#WAS">WAS</a></p><h3><a id="LAR" name="LAR">1. Los Angeles Rams (10-3)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813006/cropped_GettyImages-2250602799.jpg?ts=1765252394" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813006/w220xh124_GettyImages-2250602799.jpg?ts=1765252394 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813006/w320xh180_GettyImages-2250602799.jpg?ts=1765252394 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813006/w640xh360_GettyImages-2250602799.jpg?ts=1765252394 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813006/w768xh432_GettyImages-2250602799.jpg?ts=1765252394 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813006/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2250602799.jpg?ts=1765252394 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Chris Coduto / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: 1</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Rams are tracking to become the first team since the 2022 49ers to finish a season with a top-five standing in EPA/play on both offense and defense, according to TruMedia. That might explain why they're sitting in the No. 1 spot for the sixth week in a row.</p><h3><a id="SEA" name="SEA">2. Seattle Seahawks (10-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 2</em></p><p>Jaxon Smith-Njigba is now the clear front-runner for Offensive Player of the Year honors. The Seahawks star is averaging an incredible 4.08 yards per route run, the most we've seen from a receiver since Calvin Johnson's historic 2012 campaign.</p><h3><a id="GB" name="GB">3. Green Bay Packers (9-3-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 3</em></p><p>Jordan Love is quietly playing the best football of his career. Even with the loss of Tucker Kraft, and some key injury absences at receiver, the Packers quarterback ranks second in EPA/dropback.</p><h3><a id="NE" name="NE">4. New England Patriots (11-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 4</em></p><p>Drake Maye leads the league in completion percentage (71.5%) despite pushing the ball downfield enough for a top-four standing in air yards per attempt (8.8). No quarterback has topped 8 AY/Att while hitting at least 71% of his passes since the metric was first tracked in 2006.</p><h3><a id="DEN" name="DEN">5. Denver Broncos (11-2)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813145/cropped_GettyImages-2250621905.jpg?ts=1765252483" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813145/w220xh124_GettyImages-2250621905.jpg?ts=1765252483 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813145/w320xh180_GettyImages-2250621905.jpg?ts=1765252483 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813145/w640xh360_GettyImages-2250621905.jpg?ts=1765252483 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813145/w768xh432_GettyImages-2250621905.jpg?ts=1765252483 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813145/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2250621905.jpg?ts=1765252483 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">AAron Ontiveroz / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: 5</em></p><p>The Broncos have racked up 55 sacks to this point, 11 clear of the next-closest team. That puts them on a 17-game pace for 72, which would tie the all-time record set by the legendary 1984 Bears.</p><h3><a id="HOU" name="HOU">6. Houston Texans (8-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 7</em></p><p>The Texans' defense has generated pressure on 43.5% of dropbacks so far this season, tied with the Vikings for the NFL lead. But not all pressure is created equal. Minnesota gets there courtesy of a league-high 47% blitz rate, while Houston sends extra rushers on just 24.9% of passing plays, 18th league-wide. That's the benefit of an overwhelming front four.</p><h3><a id="CHI" name="CHI">7. Chicago Bears (9-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 6</em></p><p>Chicago was tied for 28th in EPA/rush through the first four games of the season, but it was only a matter of time before a Ben Johnson offense found a way to establish the run. The Bears are tied for third since their Week 5 bye, and they now lead the league in overall rush success rate.</p><h3><a id="DET" name="DET">8. Detroit Lions (8-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 10</em></p><p>Dan Campbell's Lions always come through when their backs are up against the wall. Last week's victory over the Cowboys saw Detroit tie an NFL record with its 15th straight win after a loss.</p><h3><a id="BUF" name="BUF">9. Buffalo Bills (9-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 11</em></p><p>Buffalo has been completely helpless when it comes to stopping the run, ranking 31st with -0.07 EPA/rush. That makes this the worst Bills rush defense since 2005. The good news? There may not be too many AFC playoff teams capable of exploiting their fatal flaw.</p><h3><a id="LAC" name="LAC">10. Los Angeles Chargers (9-4)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813159/cropped_GettyImages-2250856701.jpg?ts=1765258287" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813159/w220xh124_GettyImages-2250856701.jpg?ts=1765258287 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813159/w320xh180_GettyImages-2250856701.jpg?ts=1765258287 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813159/w640xh360_GettyImages-2250856701.jpg?ts=1765258287 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813159/w768xh432_GettyImages-2250856701.jpg?ts=1765258287 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813159/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2250856701.jpg?ts=1765258287 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Brooke Sutton / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: 15</em></p><p>The Chargers probably could have been flirting with top contender status were it not for season-ending injuries to standout offensive tackles Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt. Justin Herbert took a career-high seven sacks in Monday night's win over the Eagles, and he's now been hit a league-worst 106 times.</p><h3><a id="PHI" name="PHI">11. Philadelphia Eagles (8-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 9</em></p><p>A four-interception night from Jalen Hurts means it might be time for panic in Philly. The sad state of the Eagles' passing attack could spell disaster for their season, as it doesn't seem like last year's ground game is coming back any time soon. Saquon Barkley has 56 runs that have gained either zero or negative yards, tied for most among all running backs.</p><h3><a id="JAX" name="JAX">12. Jacksonville Jaguars (9-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 14</em></p><p>First-year coordinator Anthony Campanile orchestrating a monumental turnaround for the Jaguars' defense should earn him some head coaching interviews in January. Jacksonville is tied with the Broncos and Chargers for fifth in EPA/play after finishing last season ranked 31st.</p><h3><a id="SF" name="SF">13. San Francisco 49ers (9-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 12</em></p><p>The offense will have to do some heavy lifting if the 49ers hope to put together any sort of deep playoff run. A decimated defense has managed a league-low 16 sacks through 13 games, putting San Francisco on pace for its lowest total since the strike-shortened 1982 season.</p><h3><a id="DAL" name="DAL">14. Dallas Cowboys (6-6-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 13</em></p><p>It may be too little, too late, but a big deadline splash has at least given the Cowboys a chance to capitalize on an elite scoring attack. The Dallas defense ranks 16th in success rate across four games since acquiring Quinnen Williams from the Jets. That's a stunning improvement for a unit that performed at a bottom-two rate over the first nine weeks of the year.</p><h3><a id="IND" name="IND">15. Indianapolis Colts (8-5)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813030/cropped_GettyImages-2250563229.jpg?ts=1765252564" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813030/w220xh124_GettyImages-2250563229.jpg?ts=1765252564 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813030/w320xh180_GettyImages-2250563229.jpg?ts=1765252564 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813030/w640xh360_GettyImages-2250563229.jpg?ts=1765252564 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813030/w768xh432_GettyImages-2250563229.jpg?ts=1765252564 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813030/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2250563229.jpg?ts=1765252564 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mike Carlson / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: 8</em></p><p>The addition of Daniel Jones helped Indy's offense go from 25th in success rate last season to a top-three standing so far this year. His season-ending Achilles injury will almost certainly lead to some devastating regression on that front, though, effectively sending this once-promising season down the drain.</p><h3><a id="PIT" name="PIT">16. Pittsburgh Steelers (7-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 21</em></p><p>DK Metcalf leads the Steelers with 52 catches on the year. Four players - a pair of running backs and tight ends - stand between him and the next closest wideout (Calvin Austin) at 27. The George Pickens trade has aged like milk.</p><h3><a id="BAL" name="BAL">17. Baltimore Ravens (6-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 16</em></p><p>The Ravens' offense might be broken. Lamar Jackson has been a shell of his former self since returning from injury in Week 9, sitting in a tie with Aaron Rodgers for 30th in EPA/dropback over that span. For reference, that's one spot behind J.J. McCarthy.</p><h3><a id="CAR" name="CAR">18. Carolina Panthers (7-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 18</em></p><p>Bryce Young balling out in a Week 13 upset over the Rams set a new career high for EPA/dropback. By that metric, it's also the 13th-best single-game performance of any quarterback so far this season. Even with some not-so-great outings mixed in, these flashes could be enough to earn him a little more patience.</p><h3><a id="KC" name="KC">19. Kansas City Chiefs (6-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 17</em></p><p>The Chiefs' offense seems like a unit that's out of ideas, but Patrick Mahomes isn't totally blameless, either. He's thrown more passes of 15-plus air yards than all but two quarterbacks in the league this year. Downfield inaccuracy is a big reason he ranks 28th in passer rating (65.2) on such attempts.</p><h3><a id="CIN" name="CIN">20. Cincinnati Bengals (4-9)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813146/cropped_GettyImages-2247867946.jpg?ts=1765252673" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813146/w220xh124_GettyImages-2247867946.jpg?ts=1765252673 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813146/w320xh180_GettyImages-2247867946.jpg?ts=1765252673 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813146/w640xh360_GettyImages-2247867946.jpg?ts=1765252673 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813146/w768xh432_GettyImages-2247867946.jpg?ts=1765252673 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813146/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2247867946.jpg?ts=1765252673 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Hickey / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: 20</em></p><p>The Bengals are chasing a bit of history this season (derogatory). Already having allowed 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns to opposing tight ends, the Cincinnati defense is on pace to blow past dubious NFL records in both categories (1,303 yards, 17 TDs).</p><h3><a id="TB" name="TB">21. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 19</em></p><p>Injuries are a big part of the equation here, but Tampa Bay's recent pass-game production has been alarming. Baker Mayfield is 33rd out of 33 qualified quarterbacks by EPA/dropback since Week 7.</p><h3><a id="MIA" name="MIA">22. Miami Dolphins (6-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 22</em></p><p>The Dolphins better be ready to pay up to extend De'Von Achane. The dynamic running back is the primary reason Miami was able to keep this season from going off the rails, as he leads the league in yards per carry (5.8) and average yards after contact (4.4).</p><h3><a id="MIN" name="MIN">23. Minnesota Vikings (5-8)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 24</em></p><p>J.J. McCarthy produced -0.34 EPA/dropback across his first six NFL games, the worst such start from any quarterback since at least 2000. Can a much-improved three-score effort in Sunday's win over the Commanders mark the beginning of a breakthrough?</p><h3><a id="ARI" name="ARI">24. Arizona Cardinals (3-10)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 23</em></p><p>The Cardinals have a bottom-five defense by success rate after spending an offseason trying to bolster that side of the ball. That doesn't reflect well on Jonathan Gannon, who was hired on account of his strong defensive background.</p><h3><a id="ATL" name="ATL">25. Atlanta Falcons (4-9)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/808288/cropped_GettyImages-2244669685.jpg?ts=1765252709" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/808288/w220xh124_GettyImages-2244669685.jpg?ts=1765252709 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/808288/w320xh180_GettyImages-2244669685.jpg?ts=1765252709 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/808288/w640xh360_GettyImages-2244669685.jpg?ts=1765252709 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/808288/w768xh432_GettyImages-2244669685.jpg?ts=1765252709 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/808288/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2244669685.jpg?ts=1765252709 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Maddie Meyer / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: 25</em></p><p>It's a good thing Drake London has established himself as one of the league's premier receivers - the Falcons have a remarkable lack of depth behind him. Darnell Mooney is second among Atlanta wideouts with 22 catches, and David Sills IV is third with just eight.</p><h3><a id="NO" name="NO">26. New Orleans Saints (3-10)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 30</em></p><p>The run game isn't exactly providing much support in a season split between two young quarterbacks. The Saints have managed an explosive run (12-plus yards) on just 5.1% of carries, currently last in the league and their worst rate since 2007.</p><h3><a id="CLE" name="CLE">27. Cleveland Browns (3-10)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 27</em></p><p>Myles Garrett remains on pace to break the single-season sack record. The monster production becomes even more impressive when you consider that he entered this past week having faced double teams on 56.8% of pass-rush snaps, second only to Micah Parsons among edge defenders, according to PFF.</p><h3><a id="NYG" name="NYG">28. New York Giants (2-11)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 28</em></p><p>Not only is Jaxson Dart already one of the league's best running quarterbacks, but the rest of his game has progressed faster than expected, too. Dart ranking 14th in passer rating, right ahead of Justin Herbert and Patrick Mahomes, is an especially encouraging sign given the lack of playmaking talent around him.</p><h3><a id="WAS" name="WAS">29. Washington Commanders (3-10)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 26</em></p><p>Jayden Daniels missing time with injury is far from the only reason the Commanders have come crashing down after last year's Cinderella run. Another disastrous outing against Minnesota has Dan Quinn's defense tied for last in EPA/play.</p><h3><a id="NYJ" name="NYJ">30. New York Jets (3-10)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813149/cropped_GettyImages-2250156740.jpg?ts=1765252862" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813149/w220xh124_GettyImages-2250156740.jpg?ts=1765252862 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813149/w320xh180_GettyImages-2250156740.jpg?ts=1765252862 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813149/w640xh360_GettyImages-2250156740.jpg?ts=1765252862 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813149/w768xh432_GettyImages-2250156740.jpg?ts=1765252862 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813149/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2250156740.jpg?ts=1765252862 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: 29</em></p><p>Let's focus on the positives here: at least the Jets are good on special teams. New York is averaging 3.85 EPA in that forever-underrated phase of the game, the best output of any club since 2016.</p><h3><a id="LV" name="LV">31. Las Vegas Raiders (2-11)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 31</em></p><p>Ashton Jeanty's rookie season might seem like a dud on the surface, but there's only so much a running back can do to overcome an unfathomable offensive line situation. The Raiders have generated just 0.36 rushing yards before contact, the worst single-season figure since PFF started tracking the metric in 2009.</p><h3><a id="TEN" name="TEN">32. Tennessee Titans (2-11)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 32</em></p><p>Cam Ward has shown some flashes of brilliance, but the Titans have done a terrible job of putting him in favorable situations. His league-high 49 sacks through 13 games have him on pace to finish his rookie season with 64. That's dangerously close to David Carr (76) and Caleb Williams (68) territory.</p><p><em>Dan Wilkins is theScore's senior NFL writer.</em></p>

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NFL Power Rankings - Week 15: 1 stat to define every team's season

<p><em>Sunday Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.</em></p><h2>Sunday night spotlight</h2><h3>Texans a real contender</h3><p>I still have some major reservations about the ceiling of the Texans' offense, as it somehow still hasn't found any sort of schematic answers for pressure looks. After what we saw Sunday night, I'm not sure how much it even matters. Houston's defense really is that good. The Chiefs found that out the hard way in a must-win situation, as Patrick Mahomes completed just 14 of 33 passes for 160 yards, no touchdowns, and three interceptions. The dreadful outing stands as the single worst performance of his pro career by EPA/dropback, according to TruMedia. Kansas City is dealing with its share of self-inflicted issues on offense, but Houston has the potential to do this to anyone. A unit with this kind of pass-rush juice, some elite coverage talent on the back end, and an overwhelmingly physical play style makes for a truly daunting matchup. The Texans' fifth straight win sees them improve to 8-5, taking over the final playoff spot in the AFC. That's bad news for the rest of the conference, because nobody wants to run into this team in the playoffs.</p><h3>Chiefs in big trouble</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813047/cropped_GettyImages-2250621822.jpg?ts=1765168065" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813047/w220xh124_GettyImages-2250621822.jpg?ts=1765168065 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813047/w320xh180_GettyImages-2250621822.jpg?ts=1765168065 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813047/w640xh360_GettyImages-2250621822.jpg?ts=1765168065 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813047/w768xh432_GettyImages-2250621822.jpg?ts=1765168065 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813047/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2250621822.jpg?ts=1765168065 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jamie Squire / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Falling to the Texans officially takes the Chiefs out of the race for the AFC West, meaning there will be a new division champion for the first time since 2015. Now all the way down at the No. 10 seed in the conference, and having lost head-to-head matchups with several of the teams ahead of them, it may not be long before they're booted from wild-card contention, too. Next Gen Stats gives them a 16% chance of making the playoffs. The path: A 4-0 finish (vs. LAC, at TEN, vs. DEN, at LV) would get Kansas City to 10-7. Assuming the Colts can't beat them to the punch without Daniel Jones, that would at least give them a hope at chasing down the Chargers for a wild-card spot. Los Angeles, sitting at 8-4 ahead of a Monday night game against the Eagles, faces a particularly challenging stretch to close out the regular season (vs. PHI, at KC, at DAL, vs. HOU, at DEN). Are there enough losses in there to give the Chiefs a chance? Maybe. But it's worth noting that the Broncos could be resting starters in Week 18. More importantly, the Chiefs are going to have to take care of their own business before that becomes the least bit relevant. The broken offense we've seen for the better part of this season inspires little-to-no confidence on that front.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h2>Late afternoon games</h2><h3>Packers hitting their stride</h3><p>Putting the Packers in the No. 3 spot of last week's NFL Power Rankings was probably a little controversial. Green Bay has been a frustrating team for a good chunk of this season, but I really felt that a Thanksgiving Day win over the Lions was the first step in a true Super Bowl contender getting hot at the right time. Sunday's win over the Bears only reinforces that idea. For me, it's all about the trajectory of this passing game. Christian Watson continued to make his presence felt since returning from last year's knee injury, recording four catches for 89 yards and a pair of touchdowns. His ability in the vertical game, in particular, gives Jordan Love an outlet to do what he does best. After following up last week's four-touchdown day with another three scores against Chicago, the Packers quarterback now ranks second in EPA/dropback. And now he also gets Jayden Reed back. The third-year wideout turning six touches (four catches, two rushing attempts) into 53 yards in his first game since Week 2 is a reminder of the significant void that his absence created. A full-strength Packers offense is one of the best scoring attacks in football. Pairing that kind of firepower with the closing abilities of a Micah Parsons-led pass rush is a championship formula.</p><h3>Bears are for real</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813031/cropped_GettyImages-2250018318.jpg?ts=1765158364" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813031/w220xh124_GettyImages-2250018318.jpg?ts=1765158364 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813031/w320xh180_GettyImages-2250018318.jpg?ts=1765158364 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813031/w640xh360_GettyImages-2250018318.jpg?ts=1765158364 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813031/w768xh432_GettyImages-2250018318.jpg?ts=1765158364 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813031/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2250018318.jpg?ts=1765158364 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Todd Rosenberg / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>Chicago coming up just short in Green Bay will be a tough pill to swallow. The loss sees the Bears relinquish their lead atop the NFC North and tumble from the No. 1 seed all the way down to No. 7, the third and final wild-card spot. Costly as it may have been, I'm choosing to see this tightly contested result as confirmation of the Bears' arrival. There had been some real and understandable questions about whether this team was largely the beneficiary of a soft schedule. Going on the road to dismantle the Eagles on Black Friday and then hanging with the Packers at Lambeau - giving themselves a real chance to tie it up or win it at the end - should effectively silence any such concerns. Ben Johnson has done an incredible job of turning this team around in his first season on the job. Not only are the Bears shaping up to be a potential contender for years to come, but they should be able to hold their own against anyone they may face in January.</p><h3>Rams bounce back nicely</h3><p>It's not too often that you can shrug off a result in the NFL. Considering everything else we had seen from the Rams before last week, though, I certainly wasn't about to panic about a strange, bad-weather loss to the Panthers. Every team gets to have at least one stinker, right? Sunday's 45-17 beatdown of the Cardinals was a great way for Los Angeles to prove that's all it was. The Rams' 67.2% offensive success rate is the second-best single-game performance from any team so far this season and L.A.'s best mark since 2000. Matthew Stafford and Puka Nacua were a big part of that output, connecting seven times for 167 yards and a pair of touchdowns, but the run game was also particularly outstanding in this one. Blake Corum and Kyren Williams led the way for a 249-yard rushing day, the team's most since 2018. There are just so many different ways this offense can beat you. And if the Rams can lock up the No. 1 seed, ensuring they won't have to go into any cold environments in January, it'll be especially difficult to pick against them in the NFC.</p><h2>Early kickoffs</h2><h3>Jones injury sinks Colts</h3><p>That'll just about do it for one of the most enjoyable stories in the NFL this year. Daniel Jones going down with a reported torn Achilles in Sunday's loss to the Jaguars is going to give the Colts an incredibly tough road to the playoffs. And even if they happen to get there, it'll undoubtedly be a quick exit. I appreciated the aggressive move for Sauce Gardner at the time, as it seemed possible (if not likely) that the pair of first-round picks would end up being late. The price tag could be a whole lot more difficult to stomach this time next month. It's also a devastating turn of events for Jones, himself, who had been battling through a fracture in his leg to grind out this breakthrough season. After leading Indy to a 7-1 start, it felt as though he had put himself in position for a contract in line with Sam Darnold's three-year, $100.5-million deal. Now facing an injury recovery that could extend well into the summer, if not the start of next season, he could have to settle for another one-year, prove-it deal.</p><h3>The best of Lawrence</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813008/cropped_GettyImages-2250602586.jpg?ts=1765149431" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813008/w220xh124_GettyImages-2250602586.jpg?ts=1765149431 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813008/w320xh180_GettyImages-2250602586.jpg?ts=1765149431 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813008/w640xh360_GettyImages-2250602586.jpg?ts=1765149431 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813008/w768xh432_GettyImages-2250602586.jpg?ts=1765149431 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813008/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2250602586.jpg?ts=1765149431 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Logan Bowles / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>In a season where every AFC contender has proven to be flawed, might there be an opening for a surprise team like the Jaguars? It hasn't exactly been the most convincing road to the top of the division for Jacksonville. Some inconsistent play from Trevor Lawrence, most notably, had put a bit of a ceiling on the offense's ascent under Liam Coen. Maybe this week was the first step in a belated breakout. The Colts' defense had been struggling, so perhaps it proves to be an aberration, but Lawrence was legitimately outstanding in the blowout win. His final stat line - 17 of 30 for 244 yards and two touchdowns - doesn't even begin to tell the story of the big-time plays he made for Jacksonville in the rain. This may have been his most inspiring effort since the apparent breakout campaign back in 2022. Looking ahead, a Week 16 matchup in Denver should tell us a lot about what Lawrence and this offense are going to look like against top competition in January. The Jaguars could be a tough out if that group can build upon the progress we saw in a big spot against Indy.</p><h3>Rodgers shows up</h3><p>This is the version of Aaron Rodgers the Steelers were hoping to get when they went all-in on him this past offseason. Just when it seemed like Pittsburgh was about to fizzle out, the 42-year-old came through with his best performance of the season to take down the Ravens. Rodgers' 284-yard day, which started with a picture-perfect deep ball to DK Metcalf, suddenly puts the Steelers back on top in an underwhelming AFC North. They're going to need a few more games like that to finish the job, as Pittsburgh's defensive breakdowns could quickly turn upcoming games against the Dolphins and Lions into shootouts. At the very least, it's nice to see that the future Hall of Famer still has it in there somewhere.</p><h3>Ravens disappoint again</h3><p>So, about those Ravens. I really don't know what to make of this team. Until this point, I'd been inclined to stay patient. The defense was trending up after a rough start, and it seemed like it would only be a matter of time before a healthy Lamar Jackson had the offense showing signs of last year's magic. Well, we're still waiting. Division rivalries can produce strange results, given the familiarity, and Pittsburgh has always had a knack for frustrating Baltimore. But this really should have been the week that the Ravens separated themselves in the AFC North. Even with the run game finally showing some signs of life - Derrick Henry and Keaton Mitchell combined for 170 yards on the ground - the passing attack continued to struggle. The Ravens' defense allowing Rodgers to put up his highest yardage total since last December is an equally worrying sign. Baltimore can still chase down a division title, and has a rematch with Pittsburgh in the regular-season finale, but it's fair to wonder whether this team has any sort of upside in the playoffs anyways. Another early exit, if they even get there, could influence the Ravens to make some major offseason changes. Maybe that's what's needed.</p><h3>Bills do AFC a favor</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813009/cropped_GettyImages-2250604131.jpg?ts=1765149496" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813009/w220xh124_GettyImages-2250604131.jpg?ts=1765149496 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813009/w320xh180_GettyImages-2250604131.jpg?ts=1765149496 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813009/w640xh360_GettyImages-2250604131.jpg?ts=1765149496 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813009/w768xh432_GettyImages-2250604131.jpg?ts=1765149496 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813009/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2250604131.jpg?ts=1765149496 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Lauren Leigh Bacho / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Bills getting this win for themselves is a big enough story. It wasn't looking good early in the fourth quarter, but some late magic from both Josh Allen and the defense saw Buffalo survive a scare from Cincinnati and get a little more breathing room at 9-4. The rest of the AFC playoff field is probably glad that they did, too. Because while the Bengals' defense wouldn't present much of a challenge in January, Joe Burrow's return has immediately made this offense the kind of unit that can hang with anyone. The Bills got a taste of that scoring potential first hand, as Burrow threw for four touchdowns in snowy conditions. The Bengals aren't totally eliminated from playoff contention at 4-9, but they'd need to win all four remaining games and get a lot of help from both the Ravens and Steelers. It seems like this will be the second straight year that a late run falls just short. This will be a team to watch in the offseason, as an aggressive approach on the defensive side of the ball could pay major dividends.</p><h3>Shedeur shines in defeat</h3><p>Shedeur Sanders may not stand much of a chance at preventing the Browns from drafting a quarterback at the top of next year's draft. That's almost certainly been the plan from the moment Cleveland acquired an additional first-round pick in Jacksonville's move up for Travis Hunter. But this extended run to close out the season at least gives him the opportunity to put his skills on tape. Sunday's game against the Titans was another big step in the right direction, with Sanders becoming the first player in Browns history to post 350 yards, three passing touchdowns, and a rushing score in the same game, according to <a href="https://x.com/NFL_Researcher/status/1997780249585885571">NFL research</a>. There will continue to be some growing pains, but his ability to push the ball downfield clearly opens things up for this offense. Even if he's not the long-term starter in Cleveland, he could be earning himself the opportunity to compete somewhere. There is no shortage of teams that should be exploring all options at quarterback.</p><h3>Draft order chaos</h3><p>The race for the No. 1 overall pick just got extremely interesting. Tennessee lost its stranglehold on the top spot with a road win in Cleveland. The Saints would have slid right into that spot with another loss, but they're also moving down the board after knocking off the Bucs. The Giants, who are on their bye week at 2-11, now own the No. 1 pick with four games to play. The Raiders jump into the No. 2 spot after a loss to the Broncos dropped them to 2-11. That movement could set the stage for a Week 17 matchup between Las Vegas and New York to decide the top of April's draft. The Raiders could really use that pick to finally select a quarterback of the future. The Giants already found their own in Jaxson Dart, and would be able to overhaul the roster by selling the pick to a QB-needy team.</p><p><em>Dan Wilkins is theScore's senior NFL writer.</em></p>

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<p><em>NFL Power Rankings takes stock of all 32 teams throughout the season.</em></p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#ARI">ARI</a> | <a href="#ATL">ATL</a> | <a href="#BAL">BAL</a> | <a href="#BUF">BUF</a> | <a href="#CAR">CAR</a> | <a href="#CHI">CHI</a> | <a href="#CIN">CIN</a> | <a href="#CLE">CLE</a> | <a href="#DAL">DAL</a> | <a href="#DEN">DEN</a> | <a href="#DET">DET</a> | <a href="#GB">GB</a> | <a href="#HOU">HOU</a> | <a href="#IND">IND</a> | <a href="#JAX">JAX</a> | <a href="#KC">KC</a> | <a href="#LAC">LAC</a> | <a href="#LAR">LAR</a> | <a href="#LV">LV</a> | <a href="#MIA">MIA</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#NE">NE</a> | <a href="#NO">NO</a> | <a href="#NYG">NYG</a> | <a href="#NYJ">NYJ</a> | <a href="#PHI">PHI</a> | <a href="#PIT">PIT</a> | <a href="#SEA">SEA</a> | <a href="#SF">SF</a> | <a href="#TB">TB</a> | <a href="#TEN">TEN</a> | <a href="#WAS">WAS</a></p><h3><a id="LAR" name="LAR">1. Los Angeles Rams (9-3)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812053/cropped_GettyImages-2249210476.jpg?ts=1764544396" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812053/w220xh124_GettyImages-2249210476.jpg?ts=1764544396 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812053/w320xh180_GettyImages-2249210476.jpg?ts=1764544396 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812053/w640xh360_GettyImages-2249210476.jpg?ts=1764544396 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812053/w768xh432_GettyImages-2249210476.jpg?ts=1764544396 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812053/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2249210476.jpg?ts=1764544396 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Grant Halverson / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: 1</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Rams falling to the Panthers is a rough look, but I'm not going to overreact here. One disappointing result does little to change the fact that this has been the best team in football through the first three months of the season.</p><h3><a id="SEA" name="SEA">2. Seattle Seahawks (9-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 2</em></p><p>It's a shame that either the Rams or Seahawks will have to settle for a wild-card spot and a road game in the first round of the playoffs. The division rivals currently stand alone in a tier atop the NFC.</p><h3><a id="GB" name="GB">3. Green Bay Packers (8-3-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 9</em></p><p>Am I being swayed a little too much by the Thanksgiving Day win over the Lions? Maybe. But it really feels like this was the week something started to click for the Packers' offense. Green Bay is going to be tough to beat if the downfield passing game is here to stay.</p><h3><a id="NE" name="NE">4. New England Patriots (11-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 6</em></p><p>The Patriots haven't faced the most difficult schedule, but they've now won 10 straight. This team seems to only get better every single week, and Drake Maye's MVP-caliber season gives New England the edge over the next team on this list.</p><h3><a id="DEN" name="DEN">5. Denver Broncos (10-2)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812201/cropped_GettyImages-2249274286.jpg?ts=1764649992" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812201/w220xh124_GettyImages-2249274286.jpg?ts=1764649992 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812201/w320xh180_GettyImages-2249274286.jpg?ts=1764649992 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812201/w640xh360_GettyImages-2249274286.jpg?ts=1764649992 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812201/w768xh432_GettyImages-2249274286.jpg?ts=1764649992 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812201/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2249274286.jpg?ts=1764649992 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Timothy Hurst / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: 7</em></p><p>The Broncos' offense remains an adventure, and a lack of run game isn't going to help Bo Nix's chances of establishing any sort of consistency. Needing overtime to beat the Commanders is slightly concerning, but you have to respect the overall body of work at a time when so many would-be contenders are scuffling.</p><h3><a id="CHI" name="CHI">6. Chicago Bears (9-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 14</em></p><p>A statement win over the Eagles was exactly the kind of result I was looking for to finally feel comfortable moving the Bears up. I'm still a little unsure about the defense, as Chicago ranks 29th in success rate on that side of the ball. But the turnover production has been steady and Ben Johnson's offense is taking off.</p><h3><a id="HOU" name="HOU">7. Houston Texans (7-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 10</em></p><p>The Texans have now won four straight games, the first three of them with Davis Mills under center. C.J. Stroud returned to action Sunday, helping Houston knock off the Colts on the road. A league-average offense might be all the Texans need to compete thanks to the best defense in football.</p><h3><a id="IND" name="IND">8. Indianapolis Colts (8-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 5</em></p><p>I'm not ready to throw in the towel on the Colts just yet. This has still been one of the most steady teams in the league, and they easily could've beaten the Texans if a few bounces (or calls) went the other way. But Daniel Jones battling through a fibula fracture is reason for concern, and now Sauce Gardner appears set to miss time with a calf strain.</p><h3><a id="PHI" name="PHI">9. Philadelphia Eagles (8-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 3</em></p><p>The offense is no longer the only thing getting in the way of Philly's title defense. Friday's loss to the Bears also raised some red flags on the other side of the ball, as the Eagles got pushed around to the tune of 281 rushing yards. Their spot atop the NFC East suddenly doesn't feel so comfortable with the red-hot Cowboys closing in.</p><h3><a id="DET" name="DET">10. Detroit Lions (7-5)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811679/cropped_GettyImages-2235635033.jpg?ts=1764650078" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811679/w220xh124_GettyImages-2235635033.jpg?ts=1764650078 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811679/w320xh180_GettyImages-2235635033.jpg?ts=1764650078 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811679/w640xh360_GettyImages-2235635033.jpg?ts=1764650078 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811679/w768xh432_GettyImages-2235635033.jpg?ts=1764650078 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811679/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2235635033.jpg?ts=1764650078 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Gregory Shamus / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: 4</em></p><p>I still believe that the Lions are firmly within the group of NFC teams that could conceivably go on a deep run into the playoffs. But the offensive line has been struggling, the passing game was already missing Sam LaPorta, and now Amon-Ra St. Brown is dealing with an ankle injury.</p><h3><a id="BUF" name="BUF">11. Buffalo Bills (8-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 11</em></p><p>The Bills making easy work of the Steelers despite a beat-up offensive line is a promising sign. I need to see a lot more from the passing game before they climb back up this list, though. Josh Allen's 1.7 air yards per attempt against Pittsburgh is the lowest mark of any quarterback in a game this season.</p><h3><a id="SF" name="SF">12. San Francisco 49ers (9-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 12</em></p><p>It's pretty astonishing that the 49ers have overcome so many injuries to be sitting where they are heading into December. That being said, there's reason to believe they'll be in tough against more capable competition. The defense has really struggled without Nick Bosa and Fred Warner, ranking 30th in success rate since Week 7.</p><h3><a id="DAL" name="DAL">13. Dallas Cowboys (6-5-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 15</em></p><p>The Cowboys might be the hottest team in football. They've now won three straight since the trade deadline, the last two against last year's Super Bowl teams. Keeping it rolling against the Lions this week could bump Dallas into the top 10.</p><h3><a id="JAX" name="JAX">14. Jacksonville Jaguars (8-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 16</em></p><p>Jakobi Meyers has been an important addition to the receiving corps, leading the Jaguars with 240 yards since the deadline deal. And with Brian Thomas Jr. and Brenton Strange now back in the mix after missing time with injury, the passing game has a real chance to improve down the stretch.</p><h3><a id="LAC" name="LAC">15. Los Angeles Chargers (8-4)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812070/cropped_GettyImages-2248689213.jpg?ts=1764650124" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812070/w220xh124_GettyImages-2248689213.jpg?ts=1764650124 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812070/w320xh180_GettyImages-2248689213.jpg?ts=1764650124 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812070/w640xh360_GettyImages-2248689213.jpg?ts=1764650124 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812070/w768xh432_GettyImages-2248689213.jpg?ts=1764650124 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812070/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2248689213.jpg?ts=1764650124 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">MediaNews Group / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: 17</em></p><p>The Chargers have the quarterback, the playmakers, the defense, and the coaching to go on a playoff run. The offensive line has been decimated by injuries, though, and a tough finish to the schedule could expose that problem area in a big way.</p><h3><a id="BAL" name="BAL">16. Baltimore Ravens (6-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 13</em></p><p>Thursday's game against the Bengals should've been the ultimate get-right spot for the Ravens' offense. Instead, we're left wondering whether that unit is going to click at all this season.</p><h3><a id="KC" name="KC">17. Kansas City Chiefs (6-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 8</em></p><p>The Chiefs have no more room for error. They're probably still more dangerous than their record suggests, but it's not like they haven't deserved the results we've seen thus far. The offense is broken in more ways than one. Suddenly finding enough fixes to run the table would be this team's most miraculous achievement yet.</p><h3><a id="CAR" name="CAR">18. Carolina Panthers (7-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 20</em></p><p>This might seem like too low of a ranking for the Panthers after a massive upset over the Rams. Then again, considering some of their other results this season, maybe it's too high. Can the big win finally help Carolina find some consistency for the stretch run?</p><h3><a id="TB" name="TB">19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 19</em></p><p>The Bucs were in free-fall after a brutal midseason stretch, but it may only be up from here. The offense is finally getting healthy, and a favorable finishing schedule gives them a chance to go on a bit of a run to lock up a playoff spot.</p><h3><a id="CIN" name="CIN">20. Cincinnati Bengals (4-8)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811762/cropped_GettyImages-2248811272.jpg?ts=1764650153" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811762/w220xh124_GettyImages-2248811272.jpg?ts=1764650153 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811762/w320xh180_GettyImages-2248811272.jpg?ts=1764650153 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811762/w640xh360_GettyImages-2248811272.jpg?ts=1764650153 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811762/w768xh432_GettyImages-2248811272.jpg?ts=1764650153 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811762/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2248811272.jpg?ts=1764650153 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Patrick Smith / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: 23</em></p><p>Joe Burrow's return has given the Bengals life. Beating the Ravens on Thanksgiving night and the Steelers' loss Sunday put Cincinnati just two games back of the AFC North lead. Can the defense do enough to support Burrow in pursuit of a storybook finish to the regular season?</p><h3><a id="PIT" name="PIT">21. Pittsburgh Steelers (6-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 18</em></p><p>The Steelers are a mess. Not only was Sunday's loss to the Bills a dreadful offensive performance, but Pittsburgh's big-money defense was somehow unable to exploit a Buffalo offensive line playing without its starting tackles. Big changes have to be on the table this offseason.</p><h3><a id="MIA" name="MIA">22. Miami Dolphins (5-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 25</em></p><p>Miami would need a miracle to make the playoffs at this point, but the team deserves a lot of credit for continuing to fight in what immediately seemed like a disaster season. Does the sustained effort give Mike McDaniel a chance to save his job?</p><h3><a id="ARI" name="ARI">23. Arizona Cardinals (3-9)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 24</em></p><p>The Cardinals jumped out to a 2-0 start before going on to lose nine of their next 10 games. It's fair to wonder whether this coaching staff could be on the way out at the end of the season.</p><h3><a id="MIN" name="MIN">24. Minnesota Vikings (4-8)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 21</em></p><p>Quarterback play continues to sabotage any plans Minnesota had to compete this season. Rookie Max Brosmer fared even worse than J.J. McCarthy in Sunday's spot start, serving up four interceptions as the Vikings were shut out for the first time since 2007.</p><h3><a id="ATL" name="ATL">25. Atlanta Falcons (4-8)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812202/cropped_GettyImages-2249234348.jpg?ts=1764650229" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812202/w220xh124_GettyImages-2249234348.jpg?ts=1764650229 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812202/w320xh180_GettyImages-2249234348.jpg?ts=1764650229 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812202/w640xh360_GettyImages-2249234348.jpg?ts=1764650229 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812202/w768xh432_GettyImages-2249234348.jpg?ts=1764650229 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812202/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2249234348.jpg?ts=1764650229 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Elsa / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: 22</em></p><p>The Falcons' season was already a major disappointment. And then they lost to the Jets. Injuries aside, the new low really drives home how far this team still has to go. That kind of reality check after posting an 8-9 record in Year 1 could put Raheem Morris on the hot seat.</p><h3><a id="WAS" name="WAS">26. Washington Commanders (3-9)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 28</em></p><p>The Commanders gave the Broncos a scare before ultimately coming up short in overtime Sunday night. A loss being one of the more exciting games of Washington's season really encapsulates the disappointment coming off an NFC title game appearance.</p><h3><a id="CLE" name="CLE">27. Cleveland Browns (3-9)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 27</em></p><p>With Myles Garrett closing in on the single-season sack record, and Shedeur Sanders getting an opportunity to show what he can do down the stretch, it's tough to imagine a more interesting three-win team.</p><h3><a id="NYG" name="NYG">28. New York Giants (2-11)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 26</em></p><p>You'd never know it based on the record, but the Giants' head coaching job could very well be the most coveted vacancy in the league this offseason. And a top pick will give New York another opportunity to add to an already impressive collection of young talent. The future is bright.</p><h3><a id="NYJ" name="NYJ">29. New York Jets (3-9)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 30</em></p><p>Adonai Mitchell might be the No. 2 receiver the Jets have been looking for. The former second-rounder, acquired as part of the Sauce Gardner trade at the deadline, broke out with eight catches for 102 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's win over the Falcons.</p><h3><a id="NO" name="NO">30. New Orleans Saints (2-10)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812203/cropped_GettyImages-2248867920.jpg?ts=1764650331" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812203/w220xh124_GettyImages-2248867920.jpg?ts=1764650331 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812203/w320xh180_GettyImages-2248867920.jpg?ts=1764650331 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812203/w640xh360_GettyImages-2248867920.jpg?ts=1764650331 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812203/w768xh432_GettyImages-2248867920.jpg?ts=1764650331 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812203/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2248867920.jpg?ts=1764650331 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: 29</em></p><p>Tyler Shough is quietly showing some promise as he gets an extended look to close out the regular season. Can he do enough to keep the Saints from drafting a quarterback with their top pick in April?</p><h3><a id="LV" name="LV">31. Las Vegas Raiders (2-10)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 31</em></p><p>Pete Carroll's first season in Las Vegas couldn't be going much worse. Now, the question is whether it'll be his only one. Losing out would finally put the Raiders in position to draft a quarterback, and they'd be wise to pair such a player with a coaching staff that has a long-term vision.</p><h3><a id="TEN" name="TEN">32. Tennessee Titans (1-11)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 32</em></p><p>The Titans have done a horrific job of setting Cam Ward up for success. The rookie quarterback has already been through a coaching change, and he's now taken 48 sacks in 12 games. Tennessee making the right hires and overhauling the league's worst roster will be essential for his early-career development.</p><p><em>Dan Wilkins is theScore's senior NFL writer.</em></p>

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<p><em>Sunday Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.</em></p><h2>Sunday night spotlight</h2><h3>Broncos missing Dobbins</h3><p>Bo Nix was having himself a decent game until the Broncos got to the fourth quarter Sunday night against the Commanders. An inexcusable interception, bizarrely thrown right to Bobby Wagner over the middle of the field, put Washington in position to cut into the lead. Ideally the second-year quarterback would've been able to close things out in that situation instead of needing overtime to beat a three-win team, but it also might help if the Broncos had a run game. That just hasn't been the case since losing J.K. Dobbins to injury. The veteran running back was thriving at the top of Denver's backfield rotation, ranking fourth among all qualified rushers in average rush yards over expected, according to Next Gen Stats. Second-round rookie RJ Harvey has taken over the lead role in his absence, running for just 2.7 yards per carry in each of the last two games. Sean Payton hinted this week that Dobbins could potentially return at some point in the playoffs. That seems like a long shot considering he underwent surgery for a Lisfranc injury, but it's understandable that the Broncos are holding out hope. The passing game has been far too inconsistent to do all the heavy lifting when it comes to complementing a dominant defense.</p><h2>Late-afternoon games</h2><h3>Good week for Bengals</h3><p>The Bengals suddenly have hope. They'll have to be perfect from here, and considering their deficiencies throughout the roster, that's probably going to be too much to ask. But this week's results at least show why they were unwilling to give up on the season when many (including me) had long said it was over. Beating the Ravens in Joe Burrow's return, and then having the Steelers get embarrassed by the Bills on Sunday, leaves Cincinnati just two games back of the AFC North lead. If the Bengals can somehow run the table, starting with a trip to Buffalo next week, it's becoming easy to envision a scenario where they could catch their division rivals. The Ravens have been scuffling on offense, and they have a pretty difficult schedule to close out the season, including the Bengals rematch in Week 15. The Steelers, who have now dropped five of their last seven games, are in real danger of their first losing season since 2003. The Bengals coming all the way back to take the AFC North would be a fitting development to cap off a regular season filled with inexplicable results.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Is this it for Tomlin?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812074/cropped_GettyImages-2249250147.jpg?ts=1764552029" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812074/w220xh124_GettyImages-2249250147.jpg?ts=1764552029 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812074/w320xh180_GettyImages-2249250147.jpg?ts=1764552029 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812074/w640xh360_GettyImages-2249250147.jpg?ts=1764552029 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812074/w768xh432_GettyImages-2249250147.jpg?ts=1764552029 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812074/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2249250147.jpg?ts=1764552029 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Joe Sargent / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>The idea of the Steelers moving on from Mike Tomlin has always been a little polarizing. On one hand, you're talking about a coach who didn't post a single losing season across his first 18 years on the job. Your odds of finding an upgrade are pretty slim. On the other, this program has clearly gotten stale. A pathetic effort in Sunday's loss to the Bills, which led to fans chanting "Fire Tomlin" and even booing during the traditional playing of "Renegade" in the fourth quarter, really feels like the unofficial breaking point. Is Tomlin the only one to blame for this extended run of mediocrity? Of course not. But with consistently poor game-management decisions and a lack of creativity on both sides of the ball, this staff isn't doing much to elevate the situation, either. I have no doubt that another team would hire Tomlin if he becomes available. His track record, which includes a Super Bowl title, could even influence another team to pursue a trade. And just like Andy Reid did after leaving Philadelphia, he might find immediate success with a fresh start. But that's no longer a reason for the Steelers to resist a change. This just isn't working anymore. It might be time for both sides to part ways.</p><h3>Jefferson deserves better</h3><p>Quarterback play has to be historically bad for a player like Justin Jefferson to go to waste. Unfortunately for the All-Pro receiver, that's exactly what he's been getting all season long. J.J. McCarthy's struggles have been well-documented - the 2024 first-rounder owns the worst EPA/dropback of any quarterback through six career starts since at least 2000, according to TruMedia. There was some positive buzz about Max Brosmer leading up to his spot start this week, with at least some optimism that the undrafted rookie could provide a temporary upgrade. That's not how it played out. Brosmer was terrorized by the Seahawks' defense throughout the day, completing 19 of 30 passes for just 126 yards and four interceptions while taking four sacks. Brosmer's -0.89 EPA/dropback is substantially worse than any McCarthy output so far this season, and it's the third-worst start from any quarterback in the league this year. Jefferson and the rest of this playoff-ready roster deserve better than to have an entire season go down the drain because of one position group. At the very least, the Vikings will have to add a veteran alongside McCarthy next season to make sure this doesn't happen again.</p><h2>Early kickoffs</h2><h3>Panthers stun Rams</h3><p>I truly have no idea what to make of the Panthers' season. One week, they look like a team that should be picking in the top 10. The next, they're upsetting a legitimate contender. Sunday's win over the Rams is the second time this season (Packers, Week 9) that Carolina has taken down a double-digit favorite. And considering what we've seen from the Cowboys of late, you can probably add that Week 6 win over Dallas to the list of stunners. Much like the rest of this team, Bryce Young's third season has been a wild ride. Every time there's a growing consensus that he may not be the guy, he somehow flips the script with a game like this. Young completing 15 of 20 passes for 206 yards and three scores, two of which came on critical fourth-down plays, stands as the best single-game performance of his career by EPA/dropback, according to TruMedia. The Rams' defense entered this week ranked second by that same metric. Carolina's defense also did its part, forcing three Matthew Stafford turnovers, including his first two interceptions since Week 3. Can the suddenly relevant Panthers, now 7-6 on the season, parlay this result into some semblance of consistency?</p><h3>Texans kick the door open</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812034/cropped_GettyImages-2249227014.jpg?ts=1764544334" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812034/w220xh124_GettyImages-2249227014.jpg?ts=1764544334 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812034/w320xh180_GettyImages-2249227014.jpg?ts=1764544334 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812034/w640xh360_GettyImages-2249227014.jpg?ts=1764544334 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812034/w768xh432_GettyImages-2249227014.jpg?ts=1764544334 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812034/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2249227014.jpg?ts=1764544334 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Dylan Buell / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>I really thought the Texans were cooked. And I'm not sure how anyone could have thought otherwise when C.J. Stroud went down in a Week 9 loss that saw them fall to 3-5 - especially with the Colts racing out to a big lead atop the AFC South. Things change quickly, don't they? Sunday's win over Indy makes it four straight for Houston. Stroud had some nice moments in his first game back after a three-week absence, and this defense continues to dazzle every time out. This week, it held the Colts to a 39.2% success rate on offense, easily their worst output of the season. The Texans are now just one game back of the Colts and Jaguars for the division lead, and they get another shot at Indy at home in Week 18.</p><h3>Colts injuries</h3><p>The Colts are still in decent shape at 8-4, but the outlook isn't looking nearly as good as it was at this time last month. Daniel Jones playing through a fracture in his fibula, as was reported late this week, is undoubtedly going to limit his mobility. While he won't have to play the Texans every week, it's fair to wonder whether he'll be able to avoid any sort of significant drop-off down the stretch. And Sauce Gardner exiting this week's game with a strained calf is another major injury concern looking forward. The star corner, acquired in an incredibly bold move at the deadline, was seen in a walking boot on the sideline. The schedule isn't going to do the Colts any favors down the stretch, either. Indy now goes on the road to play the Jaguars and Seahawks over the next two weeks before returning home for a Monday night date with the 49ers and a second matchup against the Jags. And then it's the Texans rematch to close out the season. They'll have earned it if they can hold off Houston and Jacksonville for the division title.</p><h3>Bucs getting healthy</h3><p>Having to sweat out a three-point win at home against the Cardinals won't quite ease concerns about the way the Bucs have played after a hot start to the season. It was a particularly frustrating day for the defense, as the unit got away with posting its second-worst success rate of the season. A win is a win, though, and their first victory since Week 8 at least puts a stop to the bleeding. It's also easy to get excited about what we saw from a pair of key playmakers back in the mix after injury. Chris Godwin ramped up his workload after an uneventful return last week, leading all Tampa Bay receivers with 78 yards. Bucky Irving was seemingly slated to be on a pitch count in his first game since Sept. 28, but it didn't take long for the Bucs to start leaning on their electric running back. Irving putting up 81 yards and a score on his 19 touches is a promising sign. The Bucs will need a lot from Godwin and Irving if the offense has any hope of recapturing the level of play we saw early on.</p><h3>A perfect fit</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812053/cropped_GettyImages-2249210476.jpg?ts=1764544396" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812053/w220xh124_GettyImages-2249210476.jpg?ts=1764544396 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812053/w320xh180_GettyImages-2249210476.jpg?ts=1764544396 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812053/w640xh360_GettyImages-2249210476.jpg?ts=1764544396 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812053/w768xh432_GettyImages-2249210476.jpg?ts=1764544396 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812053/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2249210476.jpg?ts=1764544396 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Grant Halverson / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>It's tough to nail bold predictions, and this one may ultimately end up falling short. But when I forecasted before this season that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3324617" href="https://thescore.com/news/3324617">Davante Adams would outproduce Puka Nacua</a> in fantasy scoring, this is exactly what I had in mind. Adams has been a spectacular addition to this offense, particularly in the red area. After some early growing pains, leading to a relative lack of efficiency in the end zone, it now feels like a foregone conclusion that Matthew Stafford is going to find Adams in the end zone every single game - often more than once. Another pair of touchdowns this week against the Panthers gives the future Hall of Fame wideout 11 scores in his last six games. Now up to 14 on the year, he's five clear of Amon-Ra St. Brown for the league lead. Falling to the Panthers is certainly a disappointing result, but every juggernaut is allowed to have a stinker every now and then. The Rams will remain my No. 1 team for this week's NFL Power Rankings, and the unstoppable receiver tandem is a big part of why I think they're the team to beat in the NFC.</p><h3>4 sacks to go</h3><p>Myles Garrett continues to inch closer to a prominent spot in the NFL record book. Another sack in Sunday's loss to the 49ers puts him up to 19 on the year, just four short of breaking the single-season mark shared by Michael Strahan and T.J. Watt. The latest, coming on <a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/1995225922228899881">a ridiculous inside move</a> against Trent Williams, was yet another example of his generational skill set. Human beings with his size and strength simply aren't supposed to be able to move like that. Garrett obviously doesn't need favorable matchups or positive game scripts to stuff the stat sheet, but next week's game against the Titans is a particularly juicy opportunity for him to close in on the record. Tennessee has allowed a league-worst 48 sacks through 12 games.</p><p><em>Dan Wilkins is theScore's senior NFL writer.</em></p>

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