The best weekend on the football calendar is here.  A few games may appear one-sided on paper, bu...

<p>The best weekend on the football calendar is here.</p><p>A few games may appear one-sided on paper, but there's a reason each of these teams find themselves among the final eight. Could we be in for an upset or two in the divisional round?</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title=":football: Divisional round games" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-2iP7r" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/2iP7r/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="255" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Here's one matchup that could decide each game.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Texans DEs vs. Chiefs OTs</h3><p>The Texans shocked the football world by beating the brakes off the Chargers in the wild-card round. Taking on the two-time defending champs at Arrowhead is a far more daunting task, but there's still a potential path to success here.</p><p>Hanging with the Chiefs will, first and foremost, require getting after Patrick Mahomes in the pocket. Houston is uniquely capable of doing so, having finished the regular season with the NFL's No. 1 pressure rate, according to Next Gen Stats. Standout defensive ends Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson Jr. lead the way in that department, ranking second and fifth, respectively, among all linemen in 2024.</p><p>Hunter and Anderson, who combined for 23 sacks this year, spend time on both sides of the line. The one lined up to the left will draw Chiefs right tackle Jawaan Taylor, who is tied for 38th among offensive tackles in pass-block efficiency, according to PFF. Taylor has also committed 17 penalties this season, third most among all offensive linemen.</p><p>The Chiefs are turning to All-Pro guard Joe Thuney at left tackle after some consistent issues from Wanya Morris, rookie Kingsley Suamataia, and in-season signing D.J. Humphries. Thuney was overwhelmed in his first appearance at left tackle this season, giving up 10 pressures in 43 pass-block snaps against the Browns in Week 15. He settled in from there, though, allowing four pressures the following week against Houston and none in Week 17 in Pittsburgh.</p><p>The Texans' star edge rushers have an opportunity to disrupt Kansas City's passing game by taking advantage of these matchups. Then again, this is the Chiefs we're talking about. Is anyone going to be surprised if any and all question marks disappear in the playoffs?</p><h3>Lions RBs vs. Commanders D</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758542/cropped_GettyImages-2186850178.jpg?ts=1733184666" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758542/w220xh124_GettyImages-2186850178.jpg?ts=1733184666 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758542/w320xh180_GettyImages-2186850178.jpg?ts=1733184666 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758542/w640xh360_GettyImages-2186850178.jpg?ts=1733184666 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758542/w768xh432_GettyImages-2186850178.jpg?ts=1733184666 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758542/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2186850178.jpg?ts=1733184666 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Andy Lyons / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Lions' defense is going to have its hands full with Jayden Daniels and the Commanders' well-designed offense, but Washington will need at least a few key stops to have an opportunity to shock the world. Those won't be easy to come by.</p><p>While the Commanders' defense has taken steps in the right direction under Dan Quinn, this unit is still in the early stages of a full-scale rebuild. Major shortcomings in the run game will be difficult to overcome against Detroit's incredibly balanced offense.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Category</th>
<th>DET offense rank</th>
<th>WSH defense rank</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total EPA</td>
<td>2nd</td>
<td>24th</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pass EPA</td>
<td>2nd</td>
<td>20th</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rush EPA</td>
<td>3rd</td>
<td>26th</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Yards/rush</td>
<td>9th</td>
<td>28th</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Yards before contact/rush</td>
<td>7th</td>
<td>29th</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>(Source: TruMedia)</p><p>The Lions are the NFL's premier under-center running team. They've racked up a league-best 1,801 rush yards from such formations this year, over 400 yards more than the next-closest team, according to Next Gen Stats. Detroit also ranks second in success rate (47%) and a distant first in explosive run rate (15.4%) on plays from under center.</p><p>The Commanders' defense, meanwhile, owns the league's worst success rate (47%) and explosive play rate (13.7%) against under-center runs. The Lions will look to exploit this mismatch early and often.</p><p>Selling out to stop Detroit's two-headed monster of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery may be Washington's best bet to keep this one close. Forcing the ball into Jared Goff's hands won't yield an especially favorable matchup, either, but it could create chances for a turnover that might help swing the game. Finding a way to keep this one close would at least leave the door open for some more late magic from Daniels.</p><h3>Sean McVay vs. Vic Fangio</h3><p>Sean McVay's offense was up to the task in a difficult wild-card matchup against the Vikings. The Rams moved the ball with consistency, avoided negative plays, and became the first team all season to keep Minnesota's defense out of the turnover column. They'll need an even better performance to steal a win in Philly.</p><p>L.A.'s best chance against these Eagles is to put them in an early hole that could potentially force a pass-heavy approach. Jalen Hurts is a dangerous player in his own right, but L.A. simply counting on an improved showing against the run can't be an option. The ground-game mismatch was made abundantly clear when Saquon Barkley shredded the Rams for 255 rushing yards in a 37-20 victory in Week 12.</p><p>The Rams' offense dictating this game in such a way that limits Barkley's role will be no easy task. The Eagles' defense finished the regular season ranked second in total EPA, including a league-best mark in the first half of games, according to TruMedia. But there is some reason for optimism. Los Angeles' passing game has enjoyed far more success against zone coverage (eighth in EPA/dropback) than man (23rd). Vic Fangio's defense played zone on 79% of snaps from Week 10 through the end of the regular season, the third-highest rate this year.</p><p>Could a second matchup with Fangio's defense help McVay cook up the perfect game plan and put the Eagles on their heels from the jump?</p><h3>Ravens run game vs. Bills run D</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761973/cropped_GettyImages-2188937462.jpg?ts=1734969336" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761973/w220xh124_GettyImages-2188937462.jpg?ts=1734969336 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761973/w320xh180_GettyImages-2188937462.jpg?ts=1734969336 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761973/w640xh360_GettyImages-2188937462.jpg?ts=1734969336 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761973/w768xh432_GettyImages-2188937462.jpg?ts=1734969336 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761973/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2188937462.jpg?ts=1734969336 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">G Fiume / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Sunday's AFC heavyweight tilt is headlined by a meeting of the MVP front-runners. It'll be fascinating to see Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen go head to head in the marquee game of the year, but the Bills will need to flip the script in another area if that matchup is going to be what decides this one.</p><p>Buffalo's defense allowed 4.5 yards per carry during the regular season, tied for 18th league-wide. A Week 4 showdown with the Ravens ended up as something of a dud because the Bills simply couldn't hold up against the run. Jackson and Derrick Henry led the way to a 35-10 rout as Baltimore put up 271 rushing yards on 8.0 yards per carry.</p><p>Bullying the Bills on the ground proved to be a sign of things to come, as the Ravens went on to finish the year having set a new NFL record for yards per attempt (5.76). They are also the first team in league history to run for 3,000 yards while also passing for 4,000.</p><p>The absence of top Ravens wideout Zay Flowers could theoretically allow the Bills to get extra aggressive and truly sell out against the run, but it's possible even that won't be enough. Henry finished the year with 1,921 rushing yards on 5.9 yards per carry despite facing stacked boxes (eight-plus defenders) on 33.2% of his runs, the second-highest mark among all running backs.</p><p>Allen and the Bills' offense also have a tough assignment of their own on the other side of the ball, taking on a Ravens defense that ranks first in EPA since Week 11. The defense has to find a way to help Allen out if this is going to be the year the Bills get over the hump.</p>

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1 matchup that could decide each divisional-round game

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

<p><em>Sunday Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.</em></p><p><strong>Not there yet</strong></p><p>The Chargers getting blown out in Houston will understandably put the spotlight on Justin Herbert. The superstar quarterback was shockingly bad in the upset defeat, throwing four interceptions, including a backbreaking pick-6 at the end of the third quarter. We can all agree that Herbert needs to be better in that spot while also conceding that Los Angeles would've had more answers for Houston's defense were it not for some major personnel shortcomings. Both things can be true.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Fortunately for Chargers fans, there's plenty of reason to believe this latest playoff letdown isn't just a matter of this team doing what it always does. Remember, nobody expected L.A. to be back in the playoffs in Year 1 of the Jim Harbaugh era. The ceiling was evidently limited with Ladd McConkey as the only legitimate target at receiver. Adding more pass-catchers around Herbert will undoubtedly be a top priority throughout the offseason, and the front office will have over $70 million in cap space to utilize.</p><p>A deep playoff run could be in the cards as soon as next year if the Chargers can reel in a big-time free agent like Tee Higgins or a cut candidate like Davante Adams and potentially add another young playmaker early in the draft. The foundation has been set. Now, it's time to add the pieces to take things to the next level.</p><p><strong>A defense swarms</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764858/cropped_GettyImages-2193464898.jpg?ts=1736642341" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764858/w220xh124_GettyImages-2193464898.jpg?ts=1736642341 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764858/w320xh180_GettyImages-2193464898.jpg?ts=1736642341 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764858/w640xh360_GettyImages-2193464898.jpg?ts=1736642341 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764858/w768xh432_GettyImages-2193464898.jpg?ts=1736642341 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764858/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2193464898.jpg?ts=1736642341 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Tim Warner / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Nobody gave the Texans much chance in the wild-card round, and who could blame them? The offense took a significant step back after C.J. Stroud's spectacular rookie season, stumbling to an AFC South title and seemingly making the No. 5 seed the most coveted non-bye position in the entire playoff picture. As always, nobody knows anything. In this case, though, we probably should have.</p><p>You know the old adage: defense wins championships. Houston's offense may have stunk it up throughout the regular season, but the defense was a different story. The Texans finished the year ranked fifth in defensive EPA, according to TruMedia's model, one spot in front of the Chargers. This group plays as fast as any unit in football, and it boasts game-changers at the most important positions. Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson can wreck any game plan with the pressure they bring off the edge. Derek Stingley Jr. and rookie Kamari Lassiter have emerged as one of the league's premier cornerback tandems and combined for three interceptions against the Chargers.</p><p>The Texans will need a season-best effort from the offense to hang with the Chiefs in the divisional round, but it's worth noting that Stroud settled in nicely after a slow start against the Chargers. Carrying that momentum into Arrowhead and a repeat performance from the defense could give Houston an outside chance.</p><p><strong>What to do with Russ?</strong></p><p>Another one-and-done playoff appearance for the Steelers turns the conversation to the offseason ahead. What in the world does this team do at quarterback?</p><p>It's easy enough to make the case for re-signing Russell Wilson. He was better than anyone could've expected on a league-minimum salary, winning six of his first seven games. But it wasn't long before big plays down the sideline proved unsustainable, and Pittsburgh closed the season on a five-game losing streak. Overall, Wilson's 23rd-ranked EPA of 0.00 paints the picture of a quarterback who provided little added value outside the occasional moon-ball highlight.</p><p>The explosive plays are fun, and they could be even more plentiful if the Steelers add another reliable receiver opposite George Pickens. But is it wise to build your offense around an aging one-dimensional quarterback? Considering his free-agent value will probably be somewhere in the neighborhood of Baker Mayfield's $33-million yearly salary, probably not. Then again, what other options will the Steelers have?</p><p><strong>The unstoppable force</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765181/cropped_GettyImages-2193487287.jpg?ts=1736817505" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765181/w220xh124_GettyImages-2193487287.jpg?ts=1736817505 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765181/w320xh180_GettyImages-2193487287.jpg?ts=1736817505 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765181/w640xh360_GettyImages-2193487287.jpg?ts=1736817505 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765181/w768xh432_GettyImages-2193487287.jpg?ts=1736817505 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765181/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2193487287.jpg?ts=1736817505 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Scott Taetsch / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Can anyone slow down the Ravens' run game? Baltimore's 299 rush yards, including 186 from Derrick Henry and 81 from Lamar Jackson, are the most Pittsburgh has ever given up in a playoff game. For reference, the Steelers' defense finished the regular season having allowed 4.1 yards per carry, tied for the fourth-lowest mark league-wide.</p><p>Nobody the Ravens will meet in the playoffs performed any better, though the Chiefs were one of the teams tied with Pittsburgh. The Bills, who host Baltimore in the divisional round next week, allowed 271 yards on 8.0 yards per carry when the teams met in September. The Ravens cruised to a 35-10 win.</p><p>A run game like this is tough enough to combat on its own. Add in the NFL's presumptive MVP at quarterback and a defense that ranked first in EPA/play from Week 11 through the end of the regular season, and we've got a bona fide juggernaut. The Ravens should be everyone's Super Bowl favorite at this point. Is this finally the year they get it done?</p><p><strong>An obvious need</strong></p><p>Denver never stood much of a chance in Buffalo. Bo Nix had a great debut season, but it's imperative that a rookie quarterback is supported with a consistent run game. Sean Payton's schematic genius wasn't enough in that department.</p><p>The Broncos cycled through running backs all year looking for a spark that never came. Overall rushing efficiency was in the middle of the pack thanks to an offensive line that led the way to a top-eight finish in yards before contact. But the running backs failed to maximize the favorable situation, finishing the season tied for 29th in yards after contact.</p><p>Javonte Williams, Tyler Badie, and Jaleel McLaughlin combined for 35 yards against the Bills, which essentially offered nothing in sustaining drives and put the game squarely on Nix's shoulders. That's a big ask with Josh Allen on the other sideline. Look for the Broncos to be aggressive in addressing their backfield needs this offseason, perhaps with an early pick in a loaded running back draft.</p><p><strong>Mistake-free football</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764989/cropped_GettyImages-2193584600.jpg?ts=1736717315" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764989/w220xh124_GettyImages-2193584600.jpg?ts=1736717315 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764989/w320xh180_GettyImages-2193584600.jpg?ts=1736717315 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764989/w640xh360_GettyImages-2193584600.jpg?ts=1736717315 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764989/w768xh432_GettyImages-2193584600.jpg?ts=1736717315 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764989/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2193584600.jpg?ts=1736717315 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Elsa / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The other reason the Broncos didn't have much hope in Buffalo is that the Bills don't give you many opportunities to sneak up on them.</p><p>Even a matchup with the NFL's top-ranked defense by EPA couldn't throw Josh Allen off his MVP-caliber game. The Bills quarterback completed 20 of 26 passes despite being under pressure on 43.8% of dropbacks, throwing for 272 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions. And so continues an incredible trend from a regular season in which the Bills coughed up a league-low six turnovers.</p><p>Efficiency and ball security, combined with some timely defensive stops, enabled Buffalo to finish the day with a 41:43-18:17 advantage in the time-of-possession battle. It's tough to beat a team that doesn't make mistakes.</p><p><strong>Love's struggles</strong></p><p>The Packers coming up short in Philly was primarily a result of going up against a dominant Eagles defense. But that doesn't mean we can entirely excuse the play of their $55-million quarterback.</p><p>Jordan Love struggled with accuracy and decision-making throughout the day, completing 20 of 33 passes for 212 yards, no touchdowns, and three interceptions. The disappointing effort follows an up-and-down season in which his true dropback reps became something of an adventure.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">For context among all QBs on true dropbacks, that is 26th in completion percentage, 27th in passer rating, and the worst TD-INT ratio among all starters</p>— Brett Kollmann (@BrettKollmann) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrettKollmann/status/1878610381763117250?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The official interception count there should be 14, but the point remains. Love's big-play upside does make dealing with some of the turnover issues easier. And it's possible that a Week 1 knee injury hampered his mobility and comfort in the pocket throughout the season. But the Packers have to get more out of a player they rushed to pay after a half-season of high-level production.</p><p><strong>A concern for Philly</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764968/cropped_GettyImages-1777526618.jpg?ts=1736710300" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764968/w220xh124_GettyImages-1777526618.jpg?ts=1736710300 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764968/w320xh180_GettyImages-1777526618.jpg?ts=1736710300 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764968/w640xh360_GettyImages-1777526618.jpg?ts=1736710300 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764968/w768xh432_GettyImages-1777526618.jpg?ts=1736710300 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764968/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1777526618.jpg?ts=1736710300 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mitchell Leff / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Eagles are flying high. With a dominant ground game and an overwhelmingly talented defense, it's possible that nobody stops them on the road to the Super Bowl. However, the passing game still looms as a potential area of concern.</p><p>Jalen Hurts accounting for 131 yards and A.J. Brown contributing one catch on three targets do little to inspire confidence with this group looking ahead. Are we sure the Eagles can get the production they need out of the passing game if they find themselves playing from behind against a team like the Lions?</p><p>Maybe the Eagles were easing Hurts back into the lineup this week, and they could find a rhythm in a contest that calls for more pass volume next time out. But this was also an issue at multiple points in the regular season. A fast start from the Rams' offense could put Philly to the test next week.</p><p><strong>Bowles in trouble?</strong></p><p>It's not often a team considers a coaching change after a playoff appearance, but the Bucs might be a unique case.</p><p>Sunday's loss to the Commanders marks the second straight postseason in which Tampa Bay went out with some questionable game management. This time, Todd Bowles was late using timeouts while Washington tried to run out the clock.</p><p>Bowles is also the play-caller for Tampa Bay's defense, a once-strong unit trending in the wrong direction after finishing the regular season ranked 24th in pass EPA. The Bucs already have a logical in-house successor in Liam Coen, who's getting head coaching interest for his work as offensive coordinator. Letting Coen go would lead to Tampa Bay hiring a third OC in as many years. Opting to maintain continuity for a high-powered offense could be the move here.</p><p><strong>No moment too big</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765069/cropped_GettyImages-2193608009.jpg?ts=1736740656" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765069/w220xh124_GettyImages-2193608009.jpg?ts=1736740656 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765069/w320xh180_GettyImages-2193608009.jpg?ts=1736740656 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765069/w640xh360_GettyImages-2193608009.jpg?ts=1736740656 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765069/w768xh432_GettyImages-2193608009.jpg?ts=1736740656 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765069/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2193608009.jpg?ts=1736740656 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Julio Aguilar / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>What else is there to say about Jayden Daniels?</p><p>The Commanders rookie followed up a spectacular regular season by making it seem like his first playoff action was just another game. Daniels finished the day with 268 yards and two touchdowns through the air, joining an exclusive group of quarterbacks by winning his postseason debut.</p><p>It's further confirmation that Washington finally has its franchise quarterback, and this is only the beginning for a team that's still in the early stages of a full-scale rebuild. Next week's matchup with the Lions may be too tall a task, but Daniels and this offense could at least make it interesting.</p><p><strong>Stock way down</strong></p><p>We all wondered only a few weeks ago what kind of contract Sam Darnold might command in a seemingly inevitable return to Minnesota. Things change quickly in this league, don't they?</p><p>Darnold may still end up back with the Vikings as a bridge to J.J. McCarthy, but it's increasingly difficult to imagine it being on any sort of multi-year commitment. Not after he followed up a disappointing Week 18 performance with a disaster one-and-done showing in the wild-card round.</p><p>The veteran quarterback crumbled under the pressure of the Rams defense on Monday night, taking six sacks and coughing up two turnovers en route to a 24-3 deficit at the half. L.A. finished the night tying a playoff record with nine sacks. Darnold has played well more often than not this season, but there was always a lingering concern that a dream QB situation was propping him up. Disappearing in the two biggest games of the season isn't going to help him dispel those narratives.</p><p><strong>Vindication</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765218/cropped_GettyImages-2193269206.jpg?ts=1736828008" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765218/w220xh124_GettyImages-2193269206.jpg?ts=1736828008 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765218/w320xh180_GettyImages-2193269206.jpg?ts=1736828008 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765218/w640xh360_GettyImages-2193269206.jpg?ts=1736828008 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765218/w768xh432_GettyImages-2193269206.jpg?ts=1736828008 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765218/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2193269206.jpg?ts=1736828008 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Sean McVay boldly decided to rest his starters in Week 18 when a win could have led to a matchup with the Commanders instead of the Vikings. Nobody is questioning that move now.</p><p>The Rams had no trouble with the 14-win Vikings on Monday night, dominating all phases of the game in a decisive victory. How much did the pseudo-bye week help them pull off the upset? We'll never know. But for a team that hadn't had a break since a Week 6 bye, it certainly couldn't have hurt.</p><p>Looking ahead, that extra rest could do wonders for a 36-year-old Matthew Stafford, a receiving corps that's battled injuries, and many others throughout the roster. The Vikings found out the hard way that this Rams team can take it to anyone when it's operating at full strength.</p><p><strong>Stat of the week</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Since allowing 42 points to the Bills in Week 14, Rams starters have allowed just 33 points (!) over their last four games</p>— Steve Palazzolo (@StevePalazzolo_) <a href="https://twitter.com/StevePalazzolo_/status/1879020171849072865?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>

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Key takeaways and analysis from Wild Card Weekend

The NFL coaching carousel is in full swing.  Six teams are officially looking for new leadership,...

<p>The NFL coaching carousel is in full swing.</p><p>Six teams are officially looking for new leadership, while Dallas has until Jan. 14 to figure out what it wants to do with Mike McCarthy.</p><p>Here's an early prediction for the hires made by each club.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>New England Patriots</h3><p><strong>Mike Vrabel</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763902/cropped_GettyImages-1750608530.jpg?ts=1736139875" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763902/w220xh124_GettyImages-1750608530.jpg?ts=1736139875 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763902/w320xh180_GettyImages-1750608530.jpg?ts=1736139875 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763902/w640xh360_GettyImages-1750608530.jpg?ts=1736139875 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763902/w768xh432_GettyImages-1750608530.jpg?ts=1736139875 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763902/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1750608530.jpg?ts=1736139875 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Maddie Meyer / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>We can probably go ahead and lock this one in now. Vrabel has clearly been the Patriots' top target since the decision to fire Jerod Mayo after one season. An interview was quickly scheduled for Thursday, and the organization made a mockery out of the Rooney Rule to make sure league requirements were satisfied the day prior. Ben Johnson is still slated to speak with New England on Friday, but Aaron Glenn reportedly turning down an interview is yet another sign that there's an understanding of where this is headed.</p><p>Vrabel is a proven leader with a track record of getting the most out of his teams. Maybe another team gives him something to think about. It's tough to see any of them being able to offer as much as the Patriots, though. New England has a future star at quarterback, the No. 4 pick in this year's draft, and over $130 million in cap space. Factor in the familiarity with the organization - Vrabel won three Super Bowls as a player in New England and was inducted into the Patriots Hall of Fame in 2023 - and this seems like a dream fit for both parties.</p><h3>Chicago Bears</h3><p><strong>Brian Flores</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745905/cropped_GettyImages-2172743051.jpg?ts=1726775487" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745905/w220xh124_GettyImages-2172743051.jpg?ts=1726775487 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745905/w320xh180_GettyImages-2172743051.jpg?ts=1726775487 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745905/w640xh360_GettyImages-2172743051.jpg?ts=1726775487 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745905/w768xh432_GettyImages-2172743051.jpg?ts=1726775487 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745905/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2172743051.jpg?ts=1726775487 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Stephen Maturen / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Chicago has been considered a possible - if not likely - landing spot for Ben Johnson. The Bears job will always be a marquee role, and the presence of Caleb Williams alone could make this an especially attractive opportunity. But Ryan Poles' influence looms large.</p><p>Chicago is staying committed to its general manager after ushering out Matt Eberflus and his staff, insisting that he'll run the search for a new head coach. That could complicate the fit with Johnson, who should remain fairly particular about personnel structure after passing on head coaching opportunities over the last two years. The fit with Flores wouldn't be nearly as complex.</p><p>The Vikings defensive coordinator was a teammate of Ryan Poles at Boston College back in 2003. <a href="https://www.si.com/nfl/nfl-coaching-carousel-2025-who-could-get-hired-and-where">SI's Albert Breer</a> also reported last month that Bears president Kevin Warren got good reviews on Flores from his contacts with the Vikings, where he spent 15 years.</p><p>Flores would need to have a strong hire in mind to lead the offense, and he'll have to answer questions about Tua Tagovailoa's criticism from their time together in Miami. But he's undoubtedly earned a reputation as one of the best coaches in football. Minnesota's defense finished the regular season ranked third in EPA, according to TruMedia's model, and tied for the league lead with 33 turnovers.</p><h3>Jacksonville Jaguars</h3><p><strong>Ben Johnson</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764252/cropped_GettyImages-2191079750.jpg?ts=1736349621" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764252/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191079750.jpg?ts=1736349621 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764252/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191079750.jpg?ts=1736349621 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764252/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191079750.jpg?ts=1736349621 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764252/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191079750.jpg?ts=1736349621 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764252/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191079750.jpg?ts=1736349621 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Reaves / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It was difficult to imagine the Jaguars landing a top candidate after the stunning decision to keep Trent Baalke as the general manager. But then owner Shad Khan <a href="https://x.com/CoachspeakIndex/status/1876454007926857760">admitted</a> - with Baalke on the conference call, no less - that he'd make a change if an incoming coach can make a good case. It was music to the ears of Jaguars fans everywhere. Flexibility on that front could put a number of options back in play, including the the hottest name among rising coordinators.</p><p>Johnson has been understandably picky in waiting out a suitable opportunity for his first head coaching job - the Lions' star offensive coordinator removed his name from consideration for openings in each of the last two years. So why would the Jaguars (a team drafting in the top five for the ninth time in 14 years) be the one to lure him away?</p><p>Having a quarterback in place certainly doesn't hurt, the draft capital will come in handy, and you could do a whole lot worse than setting up shop in sunny Florida with no state income tax. The Jaguars have a real chance to make the splash of the offseason if Khan commits to reworking the personnel department to align with Johnson's vision.</p><h3>Las Vegas Raiders</h3><p><strong>Liam Coen</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764594/cropped_GettyImages-2183504509.jpg?ts=1736494061" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764594/w220xh124_GettyImages-2183504509.jpg?ts=1736494061 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764594/w320xh180_GettyImages-2183504509.jpg?ts=1736494061 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764594/w640xh360_GettyImages-2183504509.jpg?ts=1736494061 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764594/w768xh432_GettyImages-2183504509.jpg?ts=1736494061 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764594/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2183504509.jpg?ts=1736494061 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Raiders opted to clean house after Antonio Pierce's first full season on the job, giving new part owner Tom Brady an opportunity to make his presence felt at the top of the organization. Reports have suggested Brady will have a significant role in the search for a new head coach and general manager, leading many to assume that he might be inclined to tap into his Patriots connections. Vrabel may well emerge as a candidate in Vegas if New England can't close the deal, but what about the other team from his playing days?</p><p>Coen has thrust himself into the head coaching conversation in his first year as an NFL coordinator in Tampa Bay. The Bucs' offense was tied for fourth in EPA/play during the regular season, behind only the Ravens, Bills, and Lions. The run game has been particularly impressive under Coen's watch, posting 5.3 yards per carry (T2nd) after averaging 3.4 (32nd) before his arrival last year.</p><p>Brady likely has many connections with the Bucs who would vouch for the rising star coach. That might include assistant GM John Spytek, who was a teammate of Brady's at Michigan and a personnel exec in Tampa Bay during his three-year stay. Coen and Spytek could be a strong tandem for the Raiders to build around.</p><h3>New York Jets</h3><p><strong>Aaron Glenn</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764549/cropped_GettyImages-2191101128.jpg?ts=1736474608" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764549/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191101128.jpg?ts=1736474608 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764549/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191101128.jpg?ts=1736474608 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764549/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191101128.jpg?ts=1736474608 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764549/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191101128.jpg?ts=1736474608 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764549/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191101128.jpg?ts=1736474608 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Reaves / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Let's be honest: The Jets are a dumpster fire. Ownership, by its own doing, will have a tough time selling this job to most prominent head coaching candidates. The rumored meddling from the top of the organization is only one part of the equation, as there are also some real roster concerns. Not the least of which: the Jets have no clear path to finding a quarterback after the seemingly inevitable departure of Aaron Rodgers. This organization should be looking for a leader who can establish a new culture and rebuild this thing from the ground up.</p><p>Fortunately for the Jets, one of the top candidates available in this cycle just so happens to have deep ties to the organization. Glenn spent the first eight years of his playing career in New York after joining the organization as a first-round pick in 1994. He also rejoined the club as a personnel scout for two years in 2012 before transitioning into coaching.</p><p>He's climbed the ladder in the decade since and is now a key figure for the Super Bowl-contending Lions. His defense ranks in the top 10 in EPA despite being decimated by injuries. It'll take a special person to lead the Jets back to relevance after a 14-year playoff drought. Glenn could be the man for the job and one of the few willing to give it a shot.</p><h3>New Orleans Saints</h3><p><strong>Joe Brady</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764168/cropped_GettyImages-2192093603.jpg?ts=1736294145" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764168/w220xh124_GettyImages-2192093603.jpg?ts=1736294145 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764168/w320xh180_GettyImages-2192093603.jpg?ts=1736294145 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764168/w640xh360_GettyImages-2192093603.jpg?ts=1736294145 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764168/w768xh432_GettyImages-2192093603.jpg?ts=1736294145 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764168/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2192093603.jpg?ts=1736294145 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Bryan Bennett / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Saints opening isn't an attractive job. The roster is in rough shape, and the front office is still trying to dig itself out of the nightmare cap situation created by some reckless contract management that dates back to the Sean Payton era. This is a long-term rebuild project that'll require some patience. Could a young coach with ties to the organization be more willing to take on the challenge than others?</p><p>Brady got his start in the NFL on Payton's staff from 2017-2018. His connections to the area also extend to the college ranks, where he worked with Joe Burrow as part of a legendary LSU offense in 2019. Brady's first opportunity as an NFL offensive coordinator didn't go as planned, but his stock is back on the rise after helping Josh Allen take his game to another level in Buffalo. The Saints might as well take a shot on an ascending offensive mind who can develop their next quarterback while growing into the role of head coach.</p><h3>Dallas Cowboys</h3><p><strong>Mike McCarthy</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763824/cropped_GettyImages-2191781897.jpg?ts=1736120467" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763824/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191781897.jpg?ts=1736120467 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763824/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191781897.jpg?ts=1736120467 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763824/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191781897.jpg?ts=1736120467 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763824/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191781897.jpg?ts=1736120467 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763824/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191781897.jpg?ts=1736120467 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Emilee Chinn / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Cowboys job technically isn't open yet, as McCarthy remains under contract until Jan. 14. He's scheduled to become a free agent at that point, though, creating the possibility that Jerry Jones ends up searching for another head coach. We can't rule anything out here, but an extension still seems like the most likely scenario. That's really the only way to interpret the fact that Dallas reportedly denied Chicago's request to speak with McCarthy this week.</p><p>Could the Cowboys upgrade at head coach? Probably. But it's also not difficult to understand the case for running it back. McCarthy had put together three consecutive 12-win campaigns heading into 2024. It seemed like things were going to go off the rails when a disaster start was followed by a season-ending injury to Dak Prescott, but the undermanned Cowboys battled for their head coach down the stretch and still finished 7-10.</p><p>Remember: Jones stuck with Jason Garrett for nine seasons despite only making three playoff appearances. McCarthy will presumably get another chance to see whether he can turn some of that regular-season success into playoff glory.</p>

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Coaching carousel predictions: Where do top candidates end up?

Is this the year Lamar Jackson gets a ring?  I know what you're thinking: the Chiefs are inevitab...

<p>Is this the year Lamar Jackson gets a ring?</p><p>I know what you're thinking: the Chiefs are inevitable. Betting against Patrick Mahomes and the two-time defending champs does feel legitimately foolish. And Baltimore would likely need a win in frigid Buffalo before even getting the opportunity to face Kansas City.</p><p>It's a true gauntlet of juggernaut Super Bowl contenders that nobody would want to face. But don't be surprised if neither the Chiefs or Bills are representing the AFC in New Orleans. The numbers show the Ravens are the true team to beat this year.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Baltimore's offense generated the majority of headlines this season, and rightly so. Outclassing today's high-powered attacks in the game is impressive enough.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Category</th>
<th>Ravens' 2024 Rank</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total EPA</td>
<td>1st</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>EPA/pass</td>
<td>1st</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>EPA/rush</td>
<td>1st</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Success rate</td>
<td>3rd</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Points scored</td>
<td>3rd</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>(Advanced data via TruMedia)</p><p>But the statistical output - led by a quarterback in Lamar Jackson who's in the running for his third career MVP award - is rivaled only by some of the most prolific scoring units in NFL history.</p><p>Jackson took his game to another level this season, becoming the first QB to record 40-plus passing touchdowns with fewer than five interceptions. That incredible efficiency adds up to the fourth-best single-season passer rating of all time. Aaron Rodgers (2011, 2020) and Peyton Manning (2004) are the only players to exceed Lamar's 119.6 mark.</p><p>The difference? Jackson did it while maintaining his long-standing status as the league's premier running QB. He's the first QB to ever throw for over 4,000 yards and run for over 800 yards. Not bad for a guy who once faced absurd questions about whether he should actually play receiver at the NFL level.</p><p>Jackson's historic season, along with the home-run addition of Derrick Henry, put the entire Ravens offense in rarefied air. Baltimore's the first team to ever record 40 passing touchdowns and 20 rushing touchdowns in a single season, and the first to top 4,000 passing yards and 3,000 rushing yards in the same year.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762280/cropped_GettyImages-2191417226.jpg?ts=1735242077" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762280/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191417226.jpg?ts=1735242077 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762280/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191417226.jpg?ts=1735242077 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762280/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191417226.jpg?ts=1735242077 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762280/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191417226.jpg?ts=1735242077 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762280/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191417226.jpg?ts=1735242077 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Tim Warner / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The unit's 6.85 yards per play average is good for third in league history. Only the "Greatest Show on Turf" Rams in 2000, as well as another Rams team in 1954, were better in that regard. Baltimore's 5.76 yards per rush broke an NFL record set in 1963 by the Browns.</p><p>Also, in case anyone wants to cook up baseless narratives about favorable schedules, the Ravens finished this season with the <a href="https://ftnfantasy.com/nfl/final-2024-dvoa-ratings">fourth-best offensive rating</a> in the history of DOVA (defense-adjusted value over average), which dates back to 1978. This offense is undeniably a wagon.</p><p>The defense wasn't exactly holding up its end of the bargain over the first 10 weeks of the season, ranking near the bottom of the league in most major statistical categories. It seemed for a while like the regression that followed the departure of defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald might wash out the magic we were seeing on the other side of the ball.</p><p>But it's been a completely different story in the second half. Knowing something had to change to solve their coverage mishaps, the Ravens shuffled the lineup by moving standout defender Kyle Hamilton from the slot to a deep safety role. In doing so, Hamilton's effectively become the secondary's QB, and communication lapses are no more with him directing traffic.</p><p>"His smarts, how he keeps the guys calm, he's just a piece you could put at any position," cornerback Marlon Humphrey told reporters in December. "But (Hamilton) going back to safety has seemed to really stabilize everybody else in all their spots."</p><p>Baltimore's defensive numbers before and after the change tell the story:</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Category</th>
<th>Weeks 1-10</th>
<th>Weeks 11-18</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total EPA</td>
<td>T27th</td>
<td>1st</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>EPA/pass</td>
<td>T30</td>
<td>1st</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pass success rate</td>
<td>29th</td>
<td>1st</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Yards/play</td>
<td>T25th</td>
<td>1st</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Points against</td>
<td>27th</td>
<td>1st</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Ravens' defense has been football's best for the better part of the last two months. That kind of dominance in complementing a historically great offense is what Super Bowl dreams are made of. Pro teams rarely achieve this kind of elite balance, if ever.</p><p>Further, the second-half growth hasn't been limited to the defense, either. Baltimore led the league in penalties per game over the first 12 weeks of the season and are middle of the pack in the six weeks since, ranking behind the Lions and Vikings at 16th.</p><p>And while some bizarre kicking struggles also threatened to derail Baltimore's championship aspirations, Justin Tucker's looked a lot more like his automatic self in four games since the team's bye week. The future Hall of Famer didn't miss a kick as the Ravens outscored opponents 135-43 in their perfect regular-season finish.</p><p>A 31-2 drubbing of AFC South champion Houston on Christmas sent the message loud and clear: Baltimore's ready to roll.</p><p>Anything can happen in the playoffs. Would-be powerhouses have disappointed before and will undoubtedly do so again. But none of that takes away from the reality that this Ravens team, no matter what the AFC standings tell you, is better positioned than any other to dethrone the back-to-back champs and chase down another Super Bowl of its own.</p><p>The Ravens are football's best team this season. Can they keep it going for four more games?</p>

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Numbers show Ravens are the team to beat

The NFL regular season is officially in the books, meaning over half of the first-round draft ord...

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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><h3>Team of destiny</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763882/cropped_GettyImages-2192582633.jpg?ts=1736135482" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763882/w220xh124_GettyImages-2192582633.jpg?ts=1736135482 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763882/w320xh180_GettyImages-2192582633.jpg?ts=1736135482 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763882/w640xh360_GettyImages-2192582633.jpg?ts=1736135482 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763882/w768xh432_GettyImages-2192582633.jpg?ts=1736135482 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763882/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2192582633.jpg?ts=1736135482 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mike Mulholland / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Lions aren't going to let anything get in the way of their ultimate goal.</p><p>Outside expectations were slowly being dialed back as injuries began to pile up over the second half of the season. The defense, most notably, had fallen off a cliff with several key players sidelined, ranking dead last in total EPA over the last five weeks, according to TruMedia's model.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>That's not exactly the direction you want to be going in heading into a high-stakes battle with a Vikings squad capable of exploiting any weaknesses you have on either side of the ball. As it turns out, the Lions couldn't care less.</p><p>Detroit came away from Sunday night's heavyweight title having earned the No. 1 seed in incredibly convincing fashion. The offense was every bit as good as it has been all year long, dicing up the vaunted Vikings defense en route to its 10th 30-point performance of the season. Ben Johnson put on another clinic as a play-caller, and Jahmyr Gibbs dominated to the tune of four touchdowns.</p><p>But the real story was a monumental showing from Detroit's beat-up defense. The Lions' ultra-aggressive game plan had Sam Darnold under duress throughout the night. Detroit blitzed on 55.6% of dropbacks and played Cover 0 on 14 different snaps, the highest total from any defense this season, according to <a href="https://x.com/NextGenStats/status/1876125418249650409">Next Gen Stats</a>.</p><p>The result: Darnold completing just 18 of 41 passes for a season-low 166 yards and no touchdowns. It's also only the second time all year that the Vikings were held out of the end zone.</p><p>Detroit's defense flipping the script and coming through with this kind of performance against a premier opponent tells you everything you need to know. And that's why, along with Johnson, you're going to hear a lot about defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn during the upcoming coaching cycle. Who wouldn't want a piece of this foundation?</p><p>Nobody embodies the "next man up" mentality like the Lions. It really might be their year.</p><h3>Reunion brewing</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763902/cropped_GettyImages-1750608530.jpg?ts=1736139875" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763902/w220xh124_GettyImages-1750608530.jpg?ts=1736139875 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763902/w320xh180_GettyImages-1750608530.jpg?ts=1736139875 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763902/w640xh360_GettyImages-1750608530.jpg?ts=1736139875 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763902/w768xh432_GettyImages-1750608530.jpg?ts=1736139875 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763902/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1750608530.jpg?ts=1736139875 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Maddie Meyer / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Patriots didn't waste any time.</p><p>News of Jerod Mayo's firing broke little more than an hour after New England capped a disastrous season with a win over Buffalo's second-stringers. Just one year after being installed as Robert Kraft's hand-picked successor for Bill Belichick, the former Patriots linebacker was already on the way out the door.</p><p>It's a brutal and ultimately unfair result for Mayo - nobody was going to win anything with the roster Belichick left behind, let alone a first-year head coach. But it sure seems like this was a strategic move on the part of Patriots ownership.</p><p>League insiders largely agreed as recently as this week that Mayo was in no danger of losing his job. It was only fair to see it through. What changed? Probably the availability of another franchise legend with a proven track record as a head coach.</p><p>Mike Vrabel getting started on a presumed busy interview schedule by meeting with the division-rival Jets no doubt caught Kraft's attention. And that may have been the idea all along. <a href="https://x.com/AKinkhabwala/status/1876037411588948148">Aditi Kinkhabwala of CBS</a> reported after Mayo's firing that Vrabel's flirtation with New York was designed to put pressure on the Patriots.</p><p>Vrabel will have plenty of suitors in this year's coaching cycle, many of whom are undoubtedly willing to make him one of the league's highest-paid coaches. But it's hard to find a better fit for the former Titans coach than New England - he was a part of three Super Bowl teams across eight seasons with the organization as a player.</p><p>The Patriots already have a young franchise quarterback in place, they've got the No. 4 pick in the 2025 draft, and they'll enter the offseason with a league-high $131 million in cap space. And it's fair to assume Vrabel will be comfortable with everything the organization has to offer in terms of structure.</p><p>A high-profile reunion already feels inevitable.</p><h3>Quick slants</h3><p><strong>The right call</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763903/cropped_GettyImages-2192542328.jpg?ts=1736139958" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763903/w220xh124_GettyImages-2192542328.jpg?ts=1736139958 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763903/w320xh180_GettyImages-2192542328.jpg?ts=1736139958 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763903/w640xh360_GettyImages-2192542328.jpg?ts=1736139958 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763903/w768xh432_GettyImages-2192542328.jpg?ts=1736139958 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763903/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2192542328.jpg?ts=1736139958 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ian Maule / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Jim Harbaugh understood the value of the No. 5 seed in this year's AFC playoffs. Resting his starters simply wasn't an option when a win over the Raiders would earn the Chargers a trip to Houston rather than Baltimore. Los Angeles indeed rolled to its 11th win of the season, the club's most since 2018. Anything can happen in the playoffs, but the Texans are easily the most favorable draw among division winners. Assuming there are no other upsets on the AFC side, taking care of business against the AFC South winners would set the Chargers up for a divisional-round meeting with the Chiefs. Don't sleep on that potential matchup as a difficult draw for the reigning champs. Los Angeles held tough in each of the two division matchups earlier this season, and beating a team three times in the same year is no easy task.</p><p><strong>No one to blame</strong></p><p>There's no denying that the AFC playoff picture would be significantly more interesting if Cincinnati was rolling into Buffalo on Wild Card Weekend. In many ways, it feels wrong that a Bengals offense with this much firepower won't be playing under the bright lights in the postseason. But it's a deserved outcome. The Bengals wouldn't have been counting on an unlikely win from the Chiefs' backups if they had managed to avoid even one of their eight losses. That includes an embarrassing Week 1 defeat to the Patriots, who went on to finish 4-13 and fire their coach immediately after the regular-season finale. Cincinnati is probably too conservative to make significant leadership changes, but wasting this kind of season from Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase should be inexcusable. The standard has to be higher with that much talent leading the way.</p><p><strong>The ultimate respect</strong></p><p>It seemed like Mike Evans was going to fall a mere five yards shy of his 11th consecutive 1,000-yard season. The Buccaneers weren't going to let that happen, though. Rather than running the clock out after getting the ball back with under a minute to play, Tampa Bay gave its star receiver one last chance to continue his historic run. The team's collective reaction after Evans hauled in a pass to pick up the yards he needed demonstrated how much this milestone meant to everyone. The consistency he's provided since joining the Bucs as a first-round pick back in 2014 has him on track for the Pro Football Hall of Fame whenever he decides to call it a career. But he might have several more 1,000-yard seasons in the tank before that time comes. Evans extending his streak by one more year would break Jerry Rice's all-time record.</p><p><strong>Rams don't bother</strong></p><p>Every playoff team handles Week 18 differently. Sitting key players is understandable if there's little to be gained from a win. Is that really the situation the Rams were facing, though? L.A. entered this week needing a win to secure the No. 3 seed. A loss combined with a Bucs win would drop the Rams down to the No. 4 slot. It seems like a minor difference, and Sean McVay evidently treated it as such by turning to Jimmy Garoppolo and many other second-stringers. But it's tough to see the logic. The Rams coming up just short against the Seahawks sets them up for a wild-card matchup against the Vikings. A win would have meant they'd host the Commanders. Might we be looking back at this decision as a mistake one week from now?</p><p><strong>Chase triple crown</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763894/cropped_GettyImages-2191754112.jpg?ts=1736137327" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763894/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191754112.jpg?ts=1736137327 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763894/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191754112.jpg?ts=1736137327 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763894/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191754112.jpg?ts=1736137327 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763894/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191754112.jpg?ts=1736137327 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763894/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191754112.jpg?ts=1736137327 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Dylan Buell / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Ja'Marr Chase wasn't as ruthless as he could have been during his preseason holdout. He opted to play the 2024 campaign without an extension in place, and his price tag has only continued to rise. The former first-round wideout took his game to yet another level this season, becoming only the fifth player in NFL history to lead the league in catches (127), receiving yards (1,708), and receiving touchdowns (17). The monster season leaves little doubt about what's to come in contract talks. Chase will soon be the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, passing Justin Jefferson's mark of $35 million per year. And he deserves every penny.</p><p><strong>Titans on the clock</strong></p><p>The Patriots finishing the season with a win pushes them all the way down to No. 4 in the 2025 NFL Draft order. The Titans are the primary beneficiary, jumping up to the No. 1 spot for the first time since 1978. It's a potentially massive development for a team that desperately needs a franchise quarterback. The only problem: this isn't the best year to be looking for one. Taking a swing at the most important position on the field is still Tennessee's most obvious path back to relevance. And, consensus draft evaluations have been wrong countless times before. But it still feels like a tough break for a team that already doesn't have the best fortune when it comes to drafting signal-callers. The Titans, along with other teams at the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3180527" href="https://thescore.com/news/3180527">top of the draft</a>, will have to hope that this class can surprise us.</p><p><strong>Patience paying off</strong></p><p>Not long ago, we were looking at Bryce Young as one of the worst No. 1 picks of all time. He looked completely overwhelmed as a rookie, and an early benching this season was an ominous sign for his future. But Young stayed the course. To their credit, the Panthers did too. The patience from all parties has culminated in Young finishing his sophomore season looking a lot more like the superstar we saw at Alabama. Sunday's win over the Falcons, who were playing for their playoff lives, was easily the best performance of his career thus far. Young connected on 24 of 34 passes for 251 yards and three touchdowns while adding another pair of scores on the ground. The sensational outing represents the most single-game EPA from a Panthers quarterback since Cam Newton in 2017, according to TruMedia. Carolina should feel good about its future.</p><p><strong>Packers injuries</strong></p><p>The last week of the regular season wasn't kind to the Packers. Losing to the Bears, of course, is no way to gear up for the playoffs. And the Green Bay offense will now head into the postseason having taken at least one major hit. Christian Watson was carted off with a knee injury. Receiver depth may be a strength of Green Bay's offense, but the third-year wideout has been a particularly valuable piece to the puzzle: The Packers finished the regular season averaging 0.11 EPA/play with Watson on the field and 0.01 EPA/play without him. That's the difference between the fourth- and 16th-ranked offense. Jordan Love also exited with an elbow injury. While it seemed like he would have returned if the game had more meaning, any questions about your quarterback's throwing arm heading into a playoff matchup with the Eagles aren't ideal.</p><h3>Stat of the week</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Panthers QB Bryce Young is just the second player this season to have at least 3 passing and 2 rushing TDs in a game. He joins Josh Allen, who accomplished that in Week 14 against the Rams.</p>— David Newton (@DNewtonespn) <a href="https://twitter.com/DNewtonespn/status/1876009980278845641?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2025</a>
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https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29712593/related

Key takeaways and analysis from Week 18 in the NFL

<p><em>Sunday Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.</em></p><h3>One hit after another</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762703/cropped_GettyImages-2191784112.jpg?ts=1735506904" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762703/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191784112.jpg?ts=1735506904 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762703/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191784112.jpg?ts=1735506904 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762703/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191784112.jpg?ts=1735506904 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762703/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191784112.jpg?ts=1735506904 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762703/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191784112.jpg?ts=1735506904 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ed Mulholland / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Some fan bases can't catch a break.</p><p>It looked like Giants supporters finally might get one, as the No. 1 pick was theirs to lose, and projected top quarterback Shedeur Sanders had seemingly signaled an interest in Big Blue with <a href="https://x.com/nicekicks/status/1873144681347121432">his choice of cleats</a> ahead of Colorado's bowl game Saturday. One day later, everything is bad again.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>A stunning win over the Colts this week drops New York to No. 4 in the projected draft order. That's not necessarily out of the range to get Sanders or perhaps another coveted passer, but the idea the Giants could suddenly have to trade up to get one should be nauseating. Spending multiple first-rounders on a quarterback in this year's class might be a non-starter.</p><p>All New York had to do to secure its choice of any player in the draft was keep playing the way it had for, well, the entire season. Instead, the Giants prevailed in a shootout courtesy of one of the most random quarterback performances you'll ever see.</p><p>Drew Lock entered this week having posted minus-0.32 EPA/dropback, according to TruMedia's model. That ranked 43rd out of 43 quarterbacks with at least 100 pass attempts this season. But Lock flipped the script against the Colts, completing 17 of 23 passes for 309 yards, throwing for four touchdowns, and adding another on the ground. His 1.18 EPA/dropback against Indy represents the top mark from a quarterback this season and the seventh-best single-game performance since 2000.</p><p>Making matters worse, Giants fans also had to witness departed star running back Saquon Barkley top the 2,000-yard mark with the division-rival Eagles. He's one of only nine players in NFL history to reach that milestone, and he can break Eric Dickerson's single-season record with another 101 yards next week. His opponent for the shot at history: The Giants.</p><p>The real dagger would be watching Barkley begin the game by tearing it up and breaking the record before having the Eagles pull their starters and clearing the way for another unwanted victory. New York could drop as far as No. 9 with a win in Week 18.</p><p>No matter how the draft order shakes out, ownership has a major decision to make at the conclusion of the regular season. Giants fans will be hoping for a move to clean house. There's no way a late win or two would sway the decision, right?</p><p>... Right?</p><h3>Who would've thought?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762745/cropped_GettyImages-2191789399.jpg?ts=1735535486" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762745/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191789399.jpg?ts=1735535486 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762745/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191789399.jpg?ts=1735535486 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762745/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191789399.jpg?ts=1735535486 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762745/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191789399.jpg?ts=1735535486 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762745/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191789399.jpg?ts=1735535486 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Stephen Maturen / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Sam Darnold's looming free agency will make for a fascinating offseason storyline.</p><p>The former first-round bust has been a revelation for the surprise juggernaut Vikings, leading the way to a 14-2 record that puts the club in position to play for the No. 1 seed next week against the Lions. Darnold was outstanding in Sunday's win over the Packers, connecting on one big throw after another for a season-high 377 yards and three touchdowns.</p><p>Many will label Darnold as a product of a quarterback-friendly environment, and that's certainly part of the equation. But it's also true the talent that once made him worthy of the No. 3 pick is finally starting to shine through. Minnesota may have signed Darnold as the bridge to J.J. McCarthy, but he's taken his opportunity and run with it. This is his team now.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">THAT’S OUR FREAKING QUARTERBACK <a href="https://t.co/pEo4aqPHen">pic.twitter.com/pEo4aqPHen</a></p>— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) <a href="https://twitter.com/Vikings/status/1873532425785192727?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>It's already getting tough to imagine the Vikings letting Darnold hit the free-agent market. The real question is how they'd go about keeping him.</p><p>The absolute minimum for a long-term deal would probably look something like Baker Mayfield's three-year, $100-million contract in Tampa Bay. More realistically, Darnold likely has the leverage to push for something closer to the four-year, $180-million deal Kirk Cousins landed in Atlanta.</p><p>If that seems too much of a commitment with McCarthy waiting in the wings, the Vikings could opt for the franchise tag. But a one-year, fully guaranteed salary in the range of $40 million - a figure that can't be spread out over multiple years - limits your cap flexibility. Either option may seem less than ideal compared to the rookie QB contract already on the roster, but can Minnesota afford to mess with success?</p><p>It'll be a delicate situation to navigate either way, but it's a good problem to have. The Vikings won't have any complaints if Darnold's play continues to force their hand.</p><h3>Quick slants</h3><p><strong>History within reach</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762778/cropped_GettyImages-2191100231.jpg?ts=1735535578" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762778/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191100231.jpg?ts=1735535578 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762778/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191100231.jpg?ts=1735535578 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762778/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191100231.jpg?ts=1735535578 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762778/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191100231.jpg?ts=1735535578 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762778/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191100231.jpg?ts=1735535578 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Saquon Barkley is now 101 yards away from breaking Eric Dickerson's single-season rushing record. He has a great chance to make history in a Week 18 matchup versus the Giants, who've allowed 138.7 rush yards per game. The question is whether Philly should be willing to let Barkley and other offensive starters play in a meaningless matchup. The Eagles are locked into the No. 2 seed heading into the regular-season finale. Surely, Philadelphia wants Barkley to get it done, and doing so against the division rival that let him go would be extra sweet. But a team setting its sights on a Super Bowl probably can't justify playing key players for four quarters for no other reason than to chase individual records. The Eagles can perhaps open with their starters and give Barkley a chance to rip off a few big runs early before shutting it down. It may not take him long in this matchup.</p><p><strong>Bucs one win away</strong></p><p>The Falcons falling to the Commanders on Sunday night puts the Buccaneers back in control of the NFC South. Taking care of business against the beat-up Saints next week is all Tampa Bay needs to secure a fourth straight division title. A disappointing loss to Dallas had briefly opened the door for Atlanta, and Michael Penix Jr. replacing Kirk Cousins created some momentum for the Falcons. But the Bucs were probably always the team most capable of making noise in the postseason. As we saw again this week, the Baker Mayfield-led offense can light up the scoreboard with the best of them. Sunday's win over the Panthers was Tampa Bay's third 40-point game of the season and the eighth time the club has topped the 30-point mark. That kind of firepower would make the Bucs a sneaky tough matchup against anyone they face in the first round.</p><p><strong>Broncos get a gift</strong></p><p>Two straight losses have put the Broncos in a position where they're still fighting for the last AFC wild-card spot in Week 18. However, there probably won't be much standing in their way thanks to a division rival. The Chiefs, already having locked up the No. 1 seed, are reportedly planning to sit key players for the regular-season finale in Denver. We've seen stranger things happen in this league, but it's tough to imagine the Broncos failing to capitalize on their win-and-in scenario against a second-string Kansas City squad. That's a devastating development for the Bengals and Dolphins, who need wins and a Broncos loss to have a chance.</p><p><strong>What do the Chargers do?</strong></p><p>The Chargers are facing a fascinating Week 18 decision. Saturday's win over the Patriots secured a wild-card spot for Los Angeles, but seeding is yet to be determined. A win over the Raiders combined with a Steelers loss against the Bengals would see the Chargers jump from the No. 6 seed to the No. 5 seed. That may seem like a minor difference, and one typically not worth risking injuries to top players. But this year might be different. As things stand, the No. 5 seed would get the Texans on Wild Card Weekend. The No. 6 seed would get the powerhouse Ravens, who cruised to a 31-2 victory in Houston on Christmas Day. The Chargers should do whatever they can to avoid Baltimore in the first round, even if a small part of Jim Harbaugh is intrigued by the idea of taking down his brother.</p><p><strong>An all-time debut</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762681/cropped_GettyImages-2191350974.jpg?ts=1735500174" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762681/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191350974.jpg?ts=1735500174 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762681/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191350974.jpg?ts=1735500174 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762681/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191350974.jpg?ts=1735500174 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762681/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191350974.jpg?ts=1735500174 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762681/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191350974.jpg?ts=1735500174 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Brooke Sutton / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Jayden Daniels will run away with Offensive Rookie of the Year honors, but Brock Bowers would be the clear choice if it weren't for position value. The Raiders' first-round pick has put together the best season we've ever seen from a rookie tight end. The Georgia product posted another strong performance in Sunday's win over the Saints, breaking Puka Nacua's rookie record for receptions, Mike Ditka's rookie record for receiving yards by a tight end, and Darren Waller's team record for receptions in a season. Bowers' 108 catches rank second behind only Ja'Marr Chase among 2024 league leaders, and his 1,140 receiving yards have him sitting in the top six. It's not too often we see a rookie immediately establish himself as one of the best at his position.</p><p><strong>Yes, Mike Ditka</strong></p><p>Let's all take a second to appreciate the fact that Ditka was the previous record holder for receiving yards by a rookie tight end. Not only have countless all-time greats rolled through the league since 1961, but we're also talking about a completely different sport. The 1961 campaign was only the second season in NFL history in which the leading passer finished with over 3,000 yards. That's not quite how the game has been played for the past 30 years. The NFL hasn't had a leading passer finish with less than 4,500 yards since 2006, and the last sub-4,000-yard leader came in 1997. Yet Ditka needed only 56 receptions (19.2 yards per catch!) in a 14-game season to set a record that stood for over six decades.</p><p><strong>Stuck on 499?</strong></p><p>Aaron Rodgers is one touchdown pass away from becoming the fifth quarterback in NFL history to reach the 500 mark. The milestone would be a nice way to tie a bow on a Hall of Fame career, but it's no longer inevitable. An embarrassing effort this week in Buffalo saw the Jets offense held off the scoreboard until Tyrod Taylor took over in garbage time late in the fourth quarter. Rodgers will have one more opportunity against the Dolphins in Week 18. Beyond that, it's anyone's guess. While his recent form had seemingly opened the door for either a return to New York or perhaps a new landing spot next year, that's certainly no guarantee. Who knows whether a 41-year-old Rodgers would even want to play another season after the way this one has gone? Going out one shy of such a huge milestone would be a tough way to end an incredible career.</p><p><strong>Zero shame</strong></p><p>The NFL insisted late last year that it wouldn't dare schedule games on a Christmas Day falling Tuesday or Wednesday. It was a pretty funny claim at the time and one that nobody took seriously. Sure enough, the league found a way to get a pair of holiday games on the schedule this week by forcing a few teams to play three contests in 11 days. The football on Christmas Day was unsurprisingly bad. But the missteps didn't end there. The NFL also forced three games into the Saturday spot, leaving only eight for Sunday and just two for the late-afternoon window. Spreading out and spotlighting a few contests is cool, within reason. But is it worth it if the result is a watered-down product across the board, including on the day of the week you're supposed to dominate? Here's to wagering a guess that if there's money to be made, the league won't care one bit.</p><h3>Stat of the week</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Aaron Rodgers' 1.2 QBR today is the lowest QBR game since Davis Mills' 0.8 in Week 4 of 2021.</p>— Seth Walder (@SethWalder) <a href="https://twitter.com/SethWalder/status/1873537300581531768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2024</a>
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https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29623426/related

Key takeaways and analysis from Week 17 in the NFL

<p><em>Sunday Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.</em></p><h3>Jayden's signature game</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761885/cropped_GettyImages-2191092995.jpg?ts=1734902618" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761885/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191092995.jpg?ts=1734902618 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761885/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191092995.jpg?ts=1734902618 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761885/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191092995.jpg?ts=1734902618 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761885/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191092995.jpg?ts=1734902618 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761885/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191092995.jpg?ts=1734902618 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Scott Taetsch / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Offensive Rookie of the Year race is over.</p><p>It was always going to take a red-hot finish from one of the other contenders to threaten Jayden Daniels' status as the front-runner. The latest performance from the Commanders quarterback ensures there's nothing the rest of the field can do.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Daniels put together his best game of an outstanding rookie campaign in Sunday's win over the powerhouse Eagles. The result may well have been different were it not for an injury to Jalen Hurts, but that takes nothing away from what Daniels did in dismantling one of the best teams in football.</p><p>The No. 2 pick completed 24 of 39 passes for 258 yards, becoming the first rookie in NFL history to throw for five touchdowns while also recording at least 65 rushing yards. All against an Eagles defense that ranks fourth in total EPA, according to TruMedia's model.</p><p>His continued dominance puts him at 0.17 EPA/dropback on the season. That currently ranks as the sixth-best rookie QB season since 2000.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761936/Screenshot_2024-12-22_at_9.35.51_PM.jpg?ts=1734921380" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761936/Screenshot_2024-12-22_at_9.35.51_PM.jpg?ts=1734921380 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761936/Screenshot_2024-12-22_at_9.35.51_PM.jpg?ts=1734921380 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761936/Screenshot_2024-12-22_at_9.35.51_PM.jpg?ts=1734921380 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761936/Screenshot_2024-12-22_at_9.35.51_PM.jpg?ts=1734921380 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761936/Screenshot_2024-12-22_at_9.35.51_PM.jpg?ts=1734921380 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">TruMedia <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p>For anyone wondering about Bo Nix, it's not even remotely close: The Broncos rookie is currently tied with Kenny Pickett for 26th.</p><p>Brock Bowers has the best case to threaten Daniels for top rookie honors. And it does feel wrong that a record-setting season in which he immediately established himself as the league's top receiving tight end won't be enough. But there's no world in which award voters don't place more value on a quarterback putting himself in elite company while leading his team to the playoffs.</p><p>This was supposed to be a rebuilding year for the Commanders. Nobody would have been surprised if they ended up with another top-10 selection in April. But a home-run pick at the top of the draft has accelerated their timeline more than anyone could have imagined.</p><p>Just wait until Washington has a chance to build around its budding superstar signal-caller.</p><h3>Vikings still flying</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761951/cropped_GettyImages-2191129953.jpg?ts=1734930471" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761951/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191129953.jpg?ts=1734930471 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761951/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191129953.jpg?ts=1734930471 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761951/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191129953.jpg?ts=1734930471 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761951/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191129953.jpg?ts=1734930471 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761951/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191129953.jpg?ts=1734930471 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Steph Chambers / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Let's settle another awards debate while we're at it: Kevin O'Connell should be everyone's Coach of the Year.</p><p>The subjectivity of this one tends to make it a little more difficult to predict. More often than not, though, the award ends up going to the coach whose team most exceeded expectations. Nobody fits that description better than O'Connell.</p><p>Most analysts, understandably, had the Vikings missing the playoffs this season. The offense seemed destined for regression after replacing Kirk Cousins with Sam Darnold, and losing rookie J.J. McCarthy to a preseason injury meant they'd have to make it work with the former first-round bust. Not exactly an inspiring situation.</p><p>Yet the Vikings have somehow only gotten better. A critical road win over the Seahawks this week makes it eight straight victories. Sam Darnold continued to thrive at the helm of O'Connell's QB-friendly offense, completing 22 of 35 passes for 246 yards and three touchdowns - his fifth game with at least three scores this campaign.</p><p>Minnesota's 13-2 record is tied with the Detroit for the best in the NFC. If they can get by the Packers next week, the Vikings have an opportunity to dethrone the Lions and steal the No. 1 seed in the regular-season finale.</p><p>Doing so in front of the nation in the Week 18 Sunday night spot would undoubtedly seal his award victory, but it shouldn't even come down to that. Nobody wants to meet the Vikings in January, no matter how the seeds shake out. That's the kind of team O'Connell has built when the rest of us were least expecting it.</p><h3>A devastating win</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761952/cropped_GettyImages-2191125310.jpg?ts=1734930601" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761952/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191125310.jpg?ts=1734930601 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761952/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191125310.jpg?ts=1734930601 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761952/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191125310.jpg?ts=1734930601 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761952/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191125310.jpg?ts=1734930601 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761952/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191125310.jpg?ts=1734930601 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Brooke Sutton / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Let's be clear: in-game tanking is not a real thing in the NFL. Nor will it ever be. You're simply never going to convince coaches and players - the majority of whom have little year-to-year job security - that it would be a good idea to lose.</p><p>All that being said, it's difficult to comprehend how much the Raiders may have sacrificed by winning a meaningless game over the Jaguars.</p><p>Las Vegas entered this week as one of two teams with only two wins. A strength of schedule tiebreaker tentatively had the Raiders projected to earn the No. 1 pick over the Giants. And it was easy to envision both teams losing out the rest of the way. Instead, beating Jacksonville in this year's Toilet Bowl sees the Raiders drop to No. 6.</p><p>The No. 1 selection, of course, comes with no guarantee. We've seen many top picks disappoint while other teams manage to find their franchise quarterbacks further down the board. And there's certainly nothing stopping you from trading up, if necessary.</p><p>But this isn't going to be another year in which six quarterbacks are drafted in the top 12 picks. Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward may be the only ones worthy of an early first-round selection. The Raiders falling so far down the board that they either miss out on a quarterback - or have to trade multiple first-rounders to go up and get one - would be a disaster for a team that can't afford to dwindle in QB purgatory any longer.</p><p>All for a December win that nobody will remember. This entire discussion, which inevitably leads to fans cheering against their own teams, is perhaps the best case imaginable for the NFL embracing a draft lottery. Questioning the value of wins isn't good for anyone.</p><h3>Quick slants</h3><p><strong>A wasted opportunity</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761944/cropped_GettyImages-2191120341.jpg?ts=1734926638" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761944/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191120341.jpg?ts=1734926638 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761944/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191120341.jpg?ts=1734926638 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761944/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191120341.jpg?ts=1734926638 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761944/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191120341.jpg?ts=1734926638 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761944/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191120341.jpg?ts=1734926638 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ron Jenkins / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Bucs were in control of their own destiny. A second-half surge, combined with a timely collapse from Kirk Cousins and the Falcons, seemingly cleared the way for Tampa Bay to cruise to the NFC South title. And a finishing stretch against the Cowboys, Panthers, and Saints didn't appear the least bit daunting after they ran the Chargers off their own field last week. But wins are never to be taken for granted in this league. The Bucs losing on Sunday night in Dallas puts the Falcons on top of the division by way of a head-to-head tiebreaker. Tampa Bay will now need a perfect finish and either one Falcons loss to win the division or two Commanders losses to steal a wild-card spot. Counting on help from other teams is not how you want to close out the season.</p><p><strong>Hope for McCarthy?</strong></p><p>Jerry Jones has gone out of his way to voice his support for Mike McCarthy down the stretch in a lost campaign. Most of us have probably thought nothing of his comments, seeing a coaching change as somewhat inevitable. But are we making a mistake there? The Cowboys are quietly finishing the season much stronger than expected without Dak Prescott. Sunday night's win over the Bucs, an inspired effort despite being eliminated from playoff contention, is their fourth in the last five weeks. McCarthy certainly deserves credit for holding this thing together when it easily could've fallen apart. Could that lead to a surprise extension this offseason? Jones stayed patient for nine-plus years of Jason Garrett despite only three playoff appearances over that stretch. McCarthy, who posted three straight 12-5 campaigns before this year, could easily get another chance.</p><p><strong>Record watch</strong></p><p>Saquon Barkley still has a chance to make history. A 150-yard performance in Sunday's loss to the Commanders puts him 267 yards short of Eric Dickerson's single-season rushing record with two games to play. Matchups with the Cowboys and Giants figure to give him a decent shot at chasing down a mark that's stood since 1984, but it's worth noting that the Eagles could be locked into the No. 2 seed with nothing else to play for by Week 18. Philly is going to have an interesting decision to make when faced with the opportunity to treat the finale as a bye week. How close would Barkley have to be to the record to justify running out the offensive starters for a meaningless game?</p><p><strong>Any time, any place</strong></p><p>The Lions are outdoor cats, too. Sunday's trip to Chicago marked only their second game this season that wasn't played in a controlled environment. The results were much like the others. Jared Goff continued his spectacular season with another 336 yards and three touchdowns, leading the Lions to a convincing 34-17 win over the Bears. Detroit controlling its own destiny in the race for the No. 1 seed may make this entire conversation moot, but it should be reassuring to know that this team won't miss a beat if it's forced to go on the road in the playoffs. The offense is a well-oiled machine, no matter the environment, and the defense continues to do masterful work in overcoming a slew of injuries. Other NFC contenders are going to have to bring their best to knock off the Lions.</p><p><strong>Penix starts strong</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761873/cropped_GettyImages-2191094877.jpg?ts=1734901086" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761873/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191094877.jpg?ts=1734901086 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761873/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191094877.jpg?ts=1734901086 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761873/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191094877.jpg?ts=1734901086 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761873/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191094877.jpg?ts=1734901086 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761873/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191094877.jpg?ts=1734901086 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Todd Kirkland / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Box score stats alone won't tell you much about the impact of the Falcons benching Kirk Cousins this week. The defense did most of the heavy lifting in a 34-7 win over the hapless Giants, and Michael Penix Jr. finished the day completing 18 of 27 passes for 202 yards. The eye test tells a more encouraging story. Even in limited opportunities, it was easy to see how Penix might be able to elevate the offense. The No. 8 pick provides a meaningful upgrade over Cousins in terms of both arm talent and pocket mobility. Atlanta will count on him to turn that upside into more big plays next week against the Commanders. The Bucs losing on Sunday night puts the Falcons back in control of the NFC South, so this could be the first of several big games ahead for the rookie quarterback.</p><p><strong>Broncos sweating?</strong></p><p>The Broncos blowing Thursday night's game against the Chargers could have some significant consequences. A two-game cushion with two weeks to play doesn't seem so safe with a difficult schedule and multiple teams lurking in the race for the No. 7 seed. Denver finishes the year with games against Cincinnati and Kansas City. The Colts (@ Giants, vs. Jaguars), Dolphins (@ Browns, @ Jets), and Bengals (vs. Broncos, @ Steelers) have a chance to get to 9-8. Maybe the Broncos take care of business next week against the Bengals to lock up their spot. Or perhaps the Chiefs end up treating Week 18 as a second bye week if they clinch the 1-seed early, gifting the Broncos a win. But Denver has at least left the door open for some late drama in the AFC wild-card race.</p><p><strong>Rodgers showing flashes</strong></p><p>The football world - this column included - hasn't been the least bit shy about hitting Aaron Rodgers with the "washed up" label. Is there any chance that we were a little hasty in that regard? The Jets quarterback ranks sixth in EPA/dropback over the last three weeks. It's an extremely small sample size in a largely disappointing season, but this offense looks like a completely different unit with Rodgers and Davante Adams reigniting their connection. Is it that crazy to think that the Jets, having no other options at quarterback, opt to bring him back for another year? Or might there be another team out there willing to take a shot on a motivated Rodgers? It may not be the best idea, but we've seen crazier moves made out of desperation at quarterback. Rodgers' play ticking up as he gets further away from last year's Achilles injury creates the possibility that he's got a little something left in the tank.</p><h3>Stat of the week</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Jayden Daniels' FOUR passing TDs in the final 30 seconds of the fourth quarter/OT is the most by any player in a season since the merger 😱 <br><br>Never count out the rookie 🔥 <a href="https://twitter.com/Commanders?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Commanders</a> <a href="https://t.co/sXVF4FWEq7">pic.twitter.com/sXVF4FWEq7</a></p>— ESPN (@espn) <a href="https://twitter.com/espn/status/1870963444096156056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>

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Key takeaways and analysis from Week 16 in the NFL

Another coaching carousel is nearly upon us.  Bill Belichick recently punted on the uncertainty o...

<p>Another coaching carousel is nearly upon us.</p><p>Bill Belichick recently punted on the uncertainty of the upcoming NFL cycle with a stunning move to take the top job at North Carolina. The Patriots legend was no lock to land another pro job this time around, but he at least figured to be a contender for a few openings.</p><p>How does the coaching landscape stack up with one big fish already off the board? Let's take a look at the top candidates.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Ben Johnson</h3><p>Any team in the market for a new head coach will be lining up for a chance to speak to Johnson. This won't be a typical process, though. The Lions offensive coordinator will be vetting prospective employers as much as they'll be vetting him. After withdrawing from the Commanders' search last year, there are probably only so many jobs for which he'd take an interview. The well-oiled machine he's built in Detroit has earned him that type of status, a rarity among prospective first-time head coaches.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761314/Offensive_EPA.jpg?ts=1734548499" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761314/Offensive_EPA.jpg?ts=1734548499 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761314/Offensive_EPA.jpg?ts=1734548499 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761314/Offensive_EPA.jpg?ts=1734548499 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761314/Offensive_EPA.jpg?ts=1734548499 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761314/Offensive_EPA.jpg?ts=1734548499 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p>The Lions boast the NFL's highest-scoring offense across the last three seasons under Johnson's leadership. The unit also ranks second in total EPA, third in pass EPA, and fourth in rush EPA over that stretch, according to TruMedia. The masterful way in which he's married the run and pass games within the offense gives Johnson a legitimate case as the most important figure in the Lions' ascent from basement-dweller to bona fide powerhouse. Handing him the keys to your organization gives you hope of replicating that success.</p><h3>Mike Vrabel</h3><p>Here's hoping you didn't forget about Vrabel - NFL teams certainly didn't. The former Titans head coach has been a consultant on the Browns' staff this season. That may seem a little odd, but it's pretty clear that he's merely been keeping himself busy while waiting for the next head coaching cycle. It'd be an enormous upset if Vrabel didn't land a job this offseason after interviewing for a few openings following his dismissal last January.</p><p>Vrabel posted a 54-45 record with the Titans, leading his team to three straight playoff appearances from 2019-2021. That track record becomes all the more impressive when you consider the rosters he was working with. His leadership was seemingly a driving factor in Tennessee consistently playing above its talent level, and his hard-nosed mentality resulted in top-seven production in rush EPA on both offense and defense during his tenure. Vrabel is an ideal candidate for any team seeking a true program-builder. His second crack at a head coaching job could yield even better results with a franchise quarterback.</p><h3>Brian Flores</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745905/cropped_GettyImages-2172743051.jpg?ts=1726775487" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745905/w220xh124_GettyImages-2172743051.jpg?ts=1726775487 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745905/w320xh180_GettyImages-2172743051.jpg?ts=1726775487 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745905/w640xh360_GettyImages-2172743051.jpg?ts=1726775487 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745905/w768xh432_GettyImages-2172743051.jpg?ts=1726775487 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745905/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2172743051.jpg?ts=1726775487 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Stephen Maturen / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Flores might be your guy if you like the idea of giving opposing quarterbacks nightmares ahead of game day. The Vikings defensive coordinator is leading the charge at a time when defenses have started to adjust to offensive innovation and find ways to dictate games themselves. Minnesota's defense currently ranks second in both EPA/play and turnovers. With all due respect to the Vikings roster, this isn't a matter of defense winning on sheer talent. Flores' scheme is downright diabolical.</p><p>Minnesota has a league-high 37.2% blitz rate, but frequency is only a small part of the story. It's also a matter of disguise and creativity. The Vikings defense has led the NFL in alignments with five-plus man fronts for each of the past two years under Flores, according to Next Gen Stats. They've dropped players into coverage out of those looks at a 52.3% clip this season, also the highest rate league-wide. In other words, Minnesota is stacking the line in exotic looks, and quarterbacks have no idea who's going where until the ball is snapped.</p><p>The chaotic results speak for themselves. Flores deserves credit both for cooking up this system and being able to teach it in a way that allows players to consistently execute at a high level. He's simply one of the best coaches in football.</p><h3>Jesse Minter</h3><p>Minter was the most important hire for Jim Harbaugh's staff. Unfortunately for the Chargers head coach, he may not be sticking around for long. The former Michigan defensive coordinator has found immediate success at the NFL level. Los Angeles' defense has skyrocketed to No. 7 in total EPA after finishing last season as a bottom-five unit.</p><p>It should also be noted that the ascent came after salary-cap issues prevented the Chargers from doing any major roster reconstruction last offseason. The sky is the limit for Minter's defense when he gets the chance to bring in a collection of players that fit his scheme. Some teams may be scared off by the fact that he only has one season as an NFL coordinator under his belt. The smarter ones will know this may be their only chance to get him. Minter will be the Mike Macdonald of this cycle.</p><h3>Kliff Kingsbury</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751497/cropped_GettyImages-2176736992.jpg?ts=1729790530" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751497/w220xh124_GettyImages-2176736992.jpg?ts=1729790530 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751497/w320xh180_GettyImages-2176736992.jpg?ts=1729790530 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751497/w640xh360_GettyImages-2176736992.jpg?ts=1729790530 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751497/w768xh432_GettyImages-2176736992.jpg?ts=1729790530 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751497/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2176736992.jpg?ts=1729790530 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Christian Petersen / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Giving Kingsbury another shot as a head coach might feel like playing with fire. A 28-37-1 record with the Cardinals was a major disappointment, and it's not like he was a huge success in college, either. Kingsbury also posted a sub-.500 mark across six seasons at Texas Tech. But quarterback development is everything in today's NFL, and it sure seems like he's got some magic in that space.</p><p>Owners will be encouraged by what Kingsbury has done with Jayden Daniels in Washington despite a largely mediocre supporting cast. A QB-friendly system has aided the Heisman Trophy winner's adjustment to the NFL level and helped him put together the sixth-best rookie season by EPA/play since 2000. Kingsbury is also still only 45 years old, so one can make the case that his first NFL head coaching opportunity came too early. A second chance could yield far better results, assuming he's learned from previous missteps.</p><h3>Liam Coen</h3><p>Coen is taking the Bucs' offense to another level in his first season as an NFL coordinator. Dave Canales earned the Panthers' head coaching job by leading Tampa Bay's offense to a No. 7-ranked finish in pass EPA last season. Coen's offense ranks No. 6 in that regard thus far despite losing Chris Godwin for the year in October.</p><p>But that's only part of the appeal. The 2023 Bucs finished 30th in rush EPA under Canales, averaging a league-worst 3.4 yards per carry. The run game has flipped the script under Coen, jumping up to sixth in rush EPA this year while averaging 5.2 yards per attempt, the second-best mark league-wide. Coen, who previously spent time on Sean McVay's staff in Los Angeles, can probably expect to receive interview requests for almost all of this year's job openings. The Bucs could be looking for an offensive coordinator for the third time in as many years.</p><h3>Aaron Glenn</h3><p>Overseeing a productive unit is typically more than enough to get you consideration for head coaching interviews. Doing so while clearly elevating the roster makes you a legitimately strong candidate.</p><p>The Lions aren't exactly short on talent, but some brutal injury luck has picked apart the defense throughout this season. Detroit still ranks eighth in defensive EPA despite the mounting losses. Glenn's unique ability to prepare his defense has allowed new players to seamlessly step into prominent roles, in some cases immediately after joining the team off the street. It's worth finding out if he can translate that into building a program of his own as a head coach.</p><h3>Todd Monken</h3><p>Monken's name seemingly hasn't generated much excitement on the coaching carousel. Perhaps that has something to do with the fact that first-timers tend to be on the younger side. At 58, he'd be the NFL's seventh-oldest head coach. The numbers are begging you to not overthink this one, though. Monken's arrival as the offensive coordinator last season has helped make the Ravens' passing game a juggernaut.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Season</th>
<th>EPA/dropback rank</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>2020</td>
<td>20th</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2021</td>
<td>19th</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2022</td>
<td>26th</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2023</td>
<td>9th</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2024</td>
<td>1st</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Lamar Jackson is a factor here, of course, but Monken's reputation as one of the league's best play designers is independent of his star quarterback. You won't find many offensive minds who do a better job of putting their players in a position to succeed. A deep playoff run will only help his chances.</p><h3>Joe Brady</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761355/cropped_GettyImages-2187989165.jpg?ts=1734569943" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761355/w220xh124_GettyImages-2187989165.jpg?ts=1734569943 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761355/w320xh180_GettyImages-2187989165.jpg?ts=1734569943 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761355/w640xh360_GettyImages-2187989165.jpg?ts=1734569943 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761355/w768xh432_GettyImages-2187989165.jpg?ts=1734569943 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761355/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2187989165.jpg?ts=1734569943 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Bryan Bennett / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>What a ride it's been for Brady. A rough tenure as the Panthers' offensive coordinator from 2020-21 seemed to create the impression that his success at LSU was more about Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and Justin Jefferson than anything else. It was an understandable assumption, and one he may be fighting again with Josh Allen as his quarterback in Buffalo. Allen is a cheat code, to be sure, but Brady isn't merely along for the ride.</p><p>Brady's designs and play-calling skills have been crucial for Buffalo's ability to sustain offensive production in a year where so many were expecting regression. The passing game has been a force despite significant workloads for some veteran journeymen receivers, and the Bills rank third in rush EPA for the second straight year. Brady could be an especially interesting option if Burrow and Chase are in the market for a new coach in Cincinnati.</p><h3>Vance Joseph</h3><p>Joseph is a fascinating candidate in this cycle. His first opportunity as a head coach didn't end well as he posted an 11-21 record with the Broncos from 2017-18. But how can you ignore what he's done in his return to the organization as a coordinator? Joseph has led Denver's defense all the way back from the embarrassment of last year's 70-point game to become one of the league's best units.</p><p>The Broncos currently rank first in total EPA, pass EPA, and rush EPA. Aside from Patrick Surtain, he's not exactly working with a host of established stars, either. You'd be hard-pressed to identify a more impressive individual coaching job over the last year. Joseph may be in the process of earning another chance in a lead role.</p><p><strong>Other names to watch</strong></p><p>Drew Petzing, Cardinals OC<br>Kellen Moore, Eagles OC<br>Bobby Slowik, Texans OC<br>Ejiro Evero, Panthers DC<br>Steve Spagnuolo, Chiefs DC</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29489205/related

Top NFL head coaching candidates after Belichick joins UNC

Michael Penix Jr. going to the Falcons with the No. 8 pick in this year's draft was an all-time s...

<p>Michael Penix Jr. going to the Falcons with the No. 8 pick in this year's draft was an all-time shocker. Nobody saw it coming, and for good reason.</p><p>The widespread confusion wasn't a knock on the Washington product - quarterbacks with that kind of talent are almost always worth taking in the top half of the first round. But Atlanta had made a major splash by signing Kirk Cousins to a four-year, $180-million deal six weeks prior. That kind of commitment<strong> </strong>makes it difficult<strong> </strong>to get value out of a rookie quarterback in the short term ... or so we thought.</p><p>It took all of 14 games for the Falcons to admit they made a monumental mistake with the Cousins deal. They've now benched the veteran signal-caller after a particularly dreadful stretch of play, clearing the way for Penix to step in sooner than expected. Having a talented young passer waiting in the wings could prove to be a stroke of genius.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Falcons squandered a comfortable lead atop the NFC South by dropping four straight games prior to Monday night. Cousins served up eight interceptions without throwing a single touchdown over that span. He was similarly bad in prime time against the Raiders, recording a season-low 122 yards as Atlanta managed all of 15 points while sweating out a win.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761188/cropped_GettyImages-2190440146.jpg?ts=1734539707" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761188/w220xh124_GettyImages-2190440146.jpg?ts=1734539707 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761188/w320xh180_GettyImages-2190440146.jpg?ts=1734539707 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761188/w640xh360_GettyImages-2190440146.jpg?ts=1734539707 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761188/w768xh432_GettyImages-2190440146.jpg?ts=1734539707 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761188/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2190440146.jpg?ts=1734539707 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ian Maule / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Penix will have to work through some growing pains in his first real NFL action, as is the case for any rookie quarterback. But it's difficult to imagine those struggles will be more damaging than the incumbent's recent negative plays. Cousins ranks 30th among qualified passers in EPA/dropback over the last six weeks, according to TruMedia; only Anthony Richardson and Drew Lock have been worse.</p><p>Cousins was never known for his movement skills, but he's lost any semblance of mobility after last year's Achilles injury. The 36-year-old entered this week having stayed within the pocket on an astounding 99.4% of dropbacks, according to Next Gen Stats. That leads all quarterbacks this season and is the second-highest mark since at least 2018. The statuesque nature of his game at this stage is also the likely explanation for his career-low 13.1% play-action rate.</p><p>The Falcons seemingly found a way to work around those limitations after a concerning season opener, but Cousins' fading arm strength also became an issue as the season continued. He's struggling to drive the ball and connect on some of the throws that were once a pivotal part of his game, ranking 33rd in PFF's big-time throw rate.</p><p>That drop-off, by extension, appears to be affecting his confidence when it comes to letting it rip in rhythm. All of this has made him uncharacteristically uncomfortable<strong> </strong>working through progressions, leading to the kind of poor decisions he's previously been able to minimize. Cousins leads the league with a career-worst 16 interceptions and is tied with Richardson for PFF's third-worst turnover-worthy play rate.</p><p>Penix, by comparison, plays with supreme confidence in his arm talent. The vertical game was his calling card at the helm of a prolific offense at Washington. Few quarterbacks in the league today can so effortlessly push the ball downfield with good placement and accuracy. And while he doesn't profile as a huge threat in the run game, he's certainly more capable of extending plays than this version of Cousins.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yIfL72tR4fA?si=lu-JJ710RmQ2Qr76" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>The clear upgrade in terms of physical gifts, along with a more aggressive play style, has the potential to provide an immediate boost for an Atlanta offense that desperately needs a spark. Even if Penix isn't elevating his teammates at this early stage, the Falcons could do damage with a QB who isn't dragging down a group of skill-position players as talented as Bijan Robinson, Drake London, and Kyle Pitts.</p><p>Atlanta's closing stretch of games against the Giants, Commanders, and Panthers gives Penix an opportunity to come flying out of the gate and keep the Falcons alive in the NFC South race.</p><p>None of this changes the Falcons' disastrous decision to dish out $100 million in guarantees to an aging quarterback coming off a major injury. Cutting Cousins this offseason will leave the team with $65 million in dead money, according to <a href="https://overthecap.com/salary-cap/atlanta-falcons">Over the Cap</a> - an unfortunate reality that will wash out some of the value of having Penix on a rookie contract.</p><p>But the spectacular failure of that move should alter the overwhelmingly negative way we viewed Atlanta's draft-day stunner. Instead of a Cousins flop sending the Falcons back to the drawing board with no obvious fallback plan, the staff simply moves up the timeline for a player it already saw as the future.</p><p>At the very least, having Penix in-house sounds a whole lot better than wading into the murky waters of the 2025 QB class. Don't sleep on his chances of keeping the Falcons in the mix this season, either.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29478999/related

The Falcons drafting Penix doesn't look so bad now

<p><em>Sunday Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.</em></p><h3>Choose your fighter</h3><p>This MVP race is as good as it gets.</p><p>In one corner you have Josh Allen. He's been spectacular throughout the year, taking his game to even greater heights from seasons past, but his recent form has been particularly special.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>A season-high 362 passing yards led Buffalo to a statement win over the Super Bowl-favorite Detroit Lions this week. With another two scores each through the air and on the ground, the Bills quarterback accounted for 10 total touchdowns in an unfathomable two-week stretch. In the middle of fantasy playoffs, too.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Josh Allen in Week 14: 51.88 fantasy points<br><br>Josh Allen in Week 15: 41.28 fantasy points<br><br>He's the first QB in NFL history with back-to-back games of 40+ fantasy points.</p>— Field Yates (@FieldYates) <a href="https://twitter.com/FieldYates/status/1868485481723511156?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>And then there's Lamar Jackson. Don't let previous MVP honors allow you to take what he's done this season for granted. Sunday's win over the Giants saw the Ravens star post his second five-score game of the season. He's now thrown 34 touchdowns and just three interceptions on the year.</p><p>Jackson is the NFL's runaway leader by EPA/dropback at 0.33, which is tied with for the eighth-best season from a quarterback since 2000 (minimum 300 pass attempts), according to TruMedia.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760838/Screenshot_2024-12-15_at_9.51.26_PM.jpg?ts=1734317528" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760838/Screenshot_2024-12-15_at_9.51.26_PM.jpg?ts=1734317528 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760838/Screenshot_2024-12-15_at_9.51.26_PM.jpg?ts=1734317528 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760838/Screenshot_2024-12-15_at_9.51.26_PM.jpg?ts=1734317528 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760838/Screenshot_2024-12-15_at_9.51.26_PM.jpg?ts=1734317528 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760838/Screenshot_2024-12-15_at_9.51.26_PM.jpg?ts=1734317528 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p>Allen's signature wins have come against the Chiefs and Lions, the top seeds in each conference. Jackson has more losses on his resume, but that record could look a whole lot different if not for some bizarre kicker issues in Baltimore. His signature win was a blowout over Allen and the Bills in Week 4.</p><p>If you want to focus on narratives, and really dig into the "value" aspect of the conversation, Allen is probably your guy. This was supposed to be a reset year for a Bills team that had to do more subtracting than adding because of salary cap issues. The state of the receiving corps certainly reflected that prior to the Amari Cooper trade. But these Bills might have their best chance yet at a Super Bowl because Allen had no interest in anyone's expectations.</p><p>Those who see this more so as an award meant to honor the best player, no matter what it's called, may find themselves backing Baltimore's quarterback. The numbers are that good. The arrival of Derrick Henry has helped the offense, to be sure, but Jackson has also managed to equal his 2019 unanimous MVP season despite the Ravens defense ranking 24th in scoring, their lowest since 1996.</p><p>You really can't go wrong, and it'll be fascinating to see if Allen or Jackson can truly separate themselves over the last three weeks of the season. As things currently stand, it seems as if we could be headed for the closest vote in recent memory.</p><h3>What drama?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760790/cropped_GettyImages-2190119259.jpg?ts=1734307596" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760790/w220xh124_GettyImages-2190119259.jpg?ts=1734307596 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760790/w320xh180_GettyImages-2190119259.jpg?ts=1734307596 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760790/w640xh360_GettyImages-2190119259.jpg?ts=1734307596 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760790/w768xh432_GettyImages-2190119259.jpg?ts=1734307596 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760790/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2190119259.jpg?ts=1734307596 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mitchell Leff / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It had to be an exhausting week in Philadelphia.</p><p>A rough performance from Jalen Hurts against the Panthers raised some legitimate concerns about the state of the Eagles' passing game. Several postgame quotes created the impression of some perhaps not-so-legitimate drama between the team's most important players.</p><p>The Eagles knew they had to send a message in a big game against the Steelers. They did exactly that.</p><p>Hurts was fantastic in a commanding win, completing 25 of 32 passes for 290 yards and two touchdowns, adding another 45 yards and one score on the ground. More important than the numbers, though, he was comfortable and decisive at the controls of the offense - a far cry from his 108-yard day a week prior.</p><p>The bounce-back effort saw Hurts post his second-most EPA/dropback in a game this season, according to TruMedia. Considering his season high came against a Bengals defense that has been virtually non-existent, we'll go ahead and chalk this one up as his best game of the year.</p><p>Philly will have to string together multiple such performances to truly silence the doubters heading into the playoffs, but this was an incredibly promising example of what the offense can (and should) be on a weekly basis. It simply has far too much talent across the board, including at quarterback, to be sweating out games against basement-dwellers like the Panthers.</p><p>The Eagles consistently pairing this kind of passing attack with a record-chasing ground game would give them every opportunity to get back to the Super Bowl. And with injuries continuing to pile up on the Lions defense, it could very well make them Philly the team to beat in the NFC.</p><h3>Quick slants</h3><p><strong>Too bold</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760810/cropped_GettyImages-2190132078.jpg?ts=1734310179" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760810/w220xh124_GettyImages-2190132078.jpg?ts=1734310179 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760810/w320xh180_GettyImages-2190132078.jpg?ts=1734310179 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760810/w640xh360_GettyImages-2190132078.jpg?ts=1734310179 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760810/w768xh432_GettyImages-2190132078.jpg?ts=1734310179 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760810/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2190132078.jpg?ts=1734310179 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mike Mulholland / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>You're never going to catch me criticizing Dan Campbell's fourth-down decision-making - some of which, as we saw last week, even goes beyond what analytics recommend. But that's part of what makes the Lions so good. Overaggressiveness in other areas can be a different story. The Detroit head coach made the stunning decision to try for an onside kick trailing by 10 with 12 minutes left against the Bills. Granted, the defense wasn't having much luck getting Josh Allen off the field. But with so much time remaining, turning to a play that was successful on three of 45 attempts league-wide coming into this week can't be the answer. Find a way to get a stop and save the desperation for when you truly have no other choice.</p><p><strong>In-Evans-able</strong></p><p>It seemed likely heading into this week that Mike Evans' streak of 1,000-yard seasons would finally come to an end. The Bucs wide receiver clearly has other ideas. Evans was the star of Sunday's statement victory over the Chargers, recording two touchdowns and a season-high 159 receiving yards. The monster performance puts him just 251 yards shy of 1,000 with three games to play. Accomplishing the feat for an 11th consecutive season to start his career would further cement Evans' legacy as one of the most consistent, yet somehow underrated, playmakers of this generation.</p><p><strong>Rams in driver's seat</strong></p><p>Seattle falling to Green Bay on Sunday night pushes the Rams to the top of the NFC West by way of a head-to-head tiebreaker. The Seahawks will have an opportunity to even that up, and potentially pull back ahead, when the two teams meet in the regular-season finale. But it'll be an uphill battle to remain within striking distance until then. Geno Smith's status is up in the air after leaving Sunday night's game with a knee injury. That's not ideal with the 11-2 Vikings in town next week and a Thursday night trip to Chicago on tap just days later. The Rams, meanwhile, have games against the Jets and Cardinals before hosting Seattle in Week 18. This division could be wrapped up before that meeting if Smith is forced to miss time.</p><p><strong>Pickens the key</strong></p><p>The Steelers' offense was able to work around the absence of George Pickens in last week's win over the Browns. That was far too much to ask in a matchup with the Eagles. Russell Wilson posting a season-low 128 passing yards, including just eight completions to wide receivers, drives home the importance of Pickens to this offense. An already thin group of pass-catchers becomes arguably the worst in football without its top target. So while the Steelers would love to get him back as soon as possible, they should focus on making sure he's fully healthy for the playoffs. This passing game doesn't stand a chance without him.</p><p><strong>Davante's still got it</strong></p><p>The Jets are bad. Awful, even. A win over the Jaguars does little to change that. But we can still appreciate elite players when we see them. Davante Adams continues to show he belongs in that category. The veteran wideout took the game into his own hands this week, racking up nine catches for a season-high 198 yards and two touchdowns. It's easy to criticize the Jets' process in giving up draft capital amid a disastrous season, but it's not difficult to understand what they were trying to accomplish in reigniting the Adams-Aaron Rodgers connection. This all sets the stage for a fascinating offseason storyline. Adams is probably too expensive for the Jets to justify bringing back during a rebuild. And he likely wouldn't want to be back with Rodgers on his way out, anyway. A contending team is going to have a chance to add a future Hall of Famer who still has what it takes to put them over the top.</p><p><strong>The party's over</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759060/cropped_GettyImages-2185796078.jpg?ts=1733427678" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759060/w220xh124_GettyImages-2185796078.jpg?ts=1733427678 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759060/w320xh180_GettyImages-2185796078.jpg?ts=1733427678 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759060/w640xh360_GettyImages-2185796078.jpg?ts=1733427678 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759060/w768xh432_GettyImages-2185796078.jpg?ts=1733427678 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759060/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2185796078.jpg?ts=1733427678 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jason Miller / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Browns' offense enjoying a significant bump in production (and fun) with Jameis Winston taking over for Deshaun Watson predictably created this idea that Winston could be brought back as the starter next year. Cleveland can't go back to Watson, no matter how much he's getting paid, but Winston can't be the move, either. Another three interceptions in Sunday's loss to the Chiefs gives him 12 in just seven starts. This time, the turnovers were enough to get him benched. While it's true that Winston's ability and willingness to push the ball downfield has unlocked an element that was previously missing from the Browns' offense, it's probably also true that a lot of passers could have done the same - many without averaging nearly two interceptions per game. Cleveland needs to capitalize on its favorable draft position and take a chance on a young quarterback. That might be the only way out of the cap nightmare created by the Watson blunder.</p><p><strong>Finding a way to lose</strong></p><p>Bo Nix did everything he could to hand the Colts a win, but they simply would not be denied in their efforts to give this game away. There were plenty of Anthony Richardson mistakes - a far too common occurrence during a rocky sophomore season. Then there was Jonathan Taylor dropping the ball before the end zone on a long run that would have given Indy a 19-7 lead. Michael Pittman's fumble promptly wasted Nix's third interception of the day. And then the cherry on top: an all-time trick-play disaster that saw the Broncos step in front of a double-pass attempt and run it all the way back to ice the game. A win would have given the Colts a chance to sneak into the playoffs. Instead, an embarrassing loss effectively ends their season.</p><p><strong>OROY clarity</strong></p><p>Speaking of Nix, we can all agree to ease up on the Offensive Rookie of the Year hype now, right? If a quarterback is taking home this award at season's end, it should probably be Jayden Daniels, who is posting the sixth-most EPA/dropback from a rookie QB since 2000, according to TruMedia. Nix is tied for 31st with names like Mike Glennon and Brandon Weeden. If voters are willing to open their minds beyond one position, Brock Bowers and Brian Thomas Jr. are incredibly deserving candidates. Either way, excitement for the arrival of a young passer doesn't need to slip into egregious quarterback bias in award season.</p><p><strong>Curtains for Levis?</strong></p><p>Will Levis under center has created some brief moments of excitement in Tennessee. Unfortunately for the Titans, those glimmers have been completely overshadowed by some baffling mistakes. Levis was particularly bad this week against a dreadful Bengals defense, serving up three interceptions and a fumble before getting benched for Mason Rudolph. The Titans can't afford to go into another season hoping he'll finally put it all together. They'll have an opportunity to land a quarterback with an early pick in this year's draft, and taking another swing is the only way to potentially get this organization headed back in the right direction.</p><p><strong>Stingley soaring</strong></p><p>Derek Stingley Jr. continues to be a bright spot in an up-and-down season in Houston. The Texans cornerback has taken the next step toward elite status in his third year after joining the club as the No. 3 overall pick. He was the key to putting away a crucial win over the Dolphins this week, notching a pair of fourth-quarter interceptions on passes intended for Tyreek Hill. Stingley doesn't yet get the same national attention as fellow 2022 first-rounder Sauce Gardner, but he should be right there with the Jets star in looking to reset the cornerback market. Both will top Patrick Surtain's record-setting deal sooner than later.</p><h3>Stat of the week</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Lamar Jackson has 2 games with 5+ pass TD and 0 INT this season. <br><br>The only two seasons a player had more were Tom Brady’s 2007 MVP season and Jackson’s 2019 MVP season (each had 3 such games). <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RavensFlock?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RavensFlock</a> <a href="https://t.co/kxFyea3LJR">https://t.co/kxFyea3LJR</a></p>— Tony Holzman-Escareno (@FrontOfficeNFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/FrontOfficeNFL/status/1868401740506353733?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29454792/related

Key takeaways and analysis from Week 15 in the NFL

<p><em>Sunday Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.</em></p><h3>Don't let them get hot</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759684/cropped_GettyImages-2188931217.jpg?ts=1733703486" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759684/w220xh124_GettyImages-2188931217.jpg?ts=1733703486 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759684/w320xh180_GettyImages-2188931217.jpg?ts=1733703486 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759684/w640xh360_GettyImages-2188931217.jpg?ts=1733703486 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759684/w768xh432_GettyImages-2188931217.jpg?ts=1733703486 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759684/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2188931217.jpg?ts=1733703486 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Katelyn Mulcahy / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Nobody will want to see the Rams in the playoffs.</p><p>It's been an up-and-down year to this point, with L.A. seeming varying levels of contender and pretender depending on the week. But the aura of a sneaky dark horse has remained throughout. Sunday's shootout win over the Bills is evidence of that sky-high ceiling.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Josh Allen bolstered his MVP case by throwing for 342 yards, running for another 82, and becoming the first quarterback in NFL history to have three passing touchdowns and three rushing touchdowns in one game. Somehow, that wasn't enough.</p><p>The Rams' offense, as we saw this week, can be just as good when healthy and firing on all cylinders. Matthew Stafford was nearly perfect while throwing for a season-high 320 yards and two touchdowns. An 11-of-15 rate on third downs sums up the consistency with which the veteran quarterback found Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp on key plays throughout the day.</p><p>Now 7-6, the Rams may still seem like a long shot to get into the postseason. Don't get too caught up in their 33% playoff odds, though. L.A. is still in control of its own destiny in the NFC West. Having already secured a win over the first-place Seahawks, who hold a one-game division lead, the Rams can take the tiebreaker with a win in the regular-season finale.</p><p>It may take a perfect finish with the Seahawks also peaking, but that's well within the realm of possibility if these are the Rams we get going forward. This team knows as well as anyone that making a run is all about getting hot at the right time.</p><h3>Zero regrets</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759720/cropped_GettyImages-2188918417.jpg?ts=1733714456" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759720/w220xh124_GettyImages-2188918417.jpg?ts=1733714456 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759720/w320xh180_GettyImages-2188918417.jpg?ts=1733714456 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759720/w640xh360_GettyImages-2188918417.jpg?ts=1733714456 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759720/w768xh432_GettyImages-2188918417.jpg?ts=1733714456 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759720/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2188918417.jpg?ts=1733714456 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Stephen Maturen / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Kirk Cousins returning to Minnesota could have been the ultimate revenge game. There's nothing quite like showing your old team that they made a mistake by letting you go.</p><p>Unfortunately for the Falcons quarterback, that's simply not the case here. The Vikings getting their 11th win of the season - a feat accomplished just once in six years with Cousins - validates the decision-making process almost as much as the eye test.</p><p>Cousins, who joined Atlanta on a four-year, $160-million deal in March, looks like a shell of his former self. While a 344-yard day might seem impressive on the stat sheet, another two interceptions gives him eight during the Falcons' four-game losing streak. He's the first quarterback since Brett Favre in 2005 to throw that many picks while being held without a touchdown over a four-game stretch of regular-season play, according to <a href="https://x.com/marcraimondi/status/1865888645166907869">ESPN Stats and Info</a>.</p><p>Sam Darnold, meanwhile, continues to outplay the one-year, $10-million contract he signed to replace Cousins in Minnesota. Turnovers and sacks have been problematic at times, but his performance against Atlanta was the perfect example of what this offense can be when he does avoid the negative plays. Darnold completed 22 of 28 passes on the day, throwing for 347 yards, five touchdowns, and no interceptions. He's the first Vikings quarterback to post a five-score game since Daunte Culpepper in 2004.</p><p>Going from Cousins to Darnold is the primary reason why so many in the football world considered the Vikings to be the clear underdog in an ultra-competitive NFC North. The Falcons were seen as a likely contender after their aggressive move to address the quarterback position. As always, nobody knows anything.</p><p>Cousins flopping in Atlanta while his former team only gets better should serve as a cautionary tale for teams weighing the possibility of paying an aging quarterback coming off a major injury. The best deals are often the ones you don't make.</p><h3>Quick slants</h3><p><strong>An extremely Chiefs win</strong></p><p>The Chiefs secured their ninth straight AFC West title with a 19-17 victory over the Chargers on Sunday night. That now means 10 of 12 wins this season have been of the one-score variety. That's never been a sustainable model for success, but these are the Chiefs we're talking about. They've kind of perfected it.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">the chiefs offense is 1st in EPA/play and 1st in success rate on late downs this season<br><br>in "got to have it" situations, they're usually going to get it</p>— Tej Seth (@tejfbanalytics) <a href="https://twitter.com/tejfbanalytics/status/1865974256401527127?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The non-Chiefs fans of the world are presumably desperate to see this team fail in the playoffs. That wishful thinking, combined with the fact that they've had to eke out wins like this, will lead to some predictions of their demise. We should know better by now, though, shouldn't we? This isn't a matter of getting lucky. The Chiefs are just that good when it matters most.</p><p><strong>Eagles starting slow</strong></p><p>A win is a win. In that sense, there's little reason to overthink the Eagles needing to sweat out their game against the Panthers. But this habit of stumbling out of the gate is not going to fly in the playoffs. A scoreless opening 15 minutes against the NFL's No. 32 scoring defense leaves the Eagles stuck on 17 first-quarter points this year. If that seems bad, it's because it is. It's the worst total in the league. Philly has all the pieces to win a Super Bowl, but these slow starts can't continue. Jumping ahead and then leaning on the run game throughout is the clear recipe for success with this offense. Being forced to play from behind and go pass-heavy against better opponents could lead to more postseason disappointment.</p><p><strong>Key coaching blunders</strong></p><p>Josh Allen's heroic efforts may not have been wasted were it not for two curious decisions late in the fourth quarter. First, Sean McDermott opted to accept a holding call that gave the Rams a second (albeit longer) chance on third down in Bills territory while ahead by three points. Maybe the Rams go for it on fourth-and-6 and convert, as they did on the eventual fourth-and-5 after an 11-yard gain on the third-down repeat. But giving them two shots at it seemed misguided either way. Then, with the Bills at the goal line trailing by two scores, a first-down QB sneak stopped short led to McDermott calling a timeout with 1:02 to play. Wasting a timeout in that spot effectively gave Buffalo no time to get the ball back after an unsuccessful onside kick. Game management doesn't need to be this difficult.</p><p><strong>Bad teams stay bad</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759576/cropped_GettyImages-2188893146.jpg?ts=1733684855" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759576/w220xh124_GettyImages-2188893146.jpg?ts=1733684855 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759576/w320xh180_GettyImages-2188893146.jpg?ts=1733684855 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759576/w640xh360_GettyImages-2188893146.jpg?ts=1733684855 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759576/w768xh432_GettyImages-2188893146.jpg?ts=1733684855 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759576/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2188893146.jpg?ts=1733684855 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Megan Briggs / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>This should have been the week the Jets finally got back in the win column. Aaron Rodgers had recorded his first 300-yard game in 35 outings when they had the Dolphins on the ropes late in the fourth quarter. But there's always time for this team to make another inexcusable mistake. Davante Adams allowing himself to be pushed out of bounds after a third-down back-shoulder catch stopped the clock at 52 seconds. The Jets would have been able to run the clock almost all the way down before their go-ahead field goal if he had gone down in the field of play, as Miami was out of timeouts. Instead, the Dolphins were gifted enough time to march down the field and answer with a game-tying kick. An eight-play touchdown drive in overtime ensured the Jets wouldn't see the ball again, dropping them to 3-10 on the season and officially knocking them out of playoff contention for the 14th straight year.</p><p><strong>Too little, too late</strong></p><p>The 49ers team we saw this week looked a lot like the one that was competing for Super Bowls for the better part of the past five years. Injuries haven't done them any favors, to be sure, but where has this been all season? It took all of two quarters for the 49ers to put away the Bears on Sunday afternoon. San Francisco entered halftime up 24-0 on the scoreboard and 320-4 in the yardage battle. The second half was similarly one-sided en route to a 38-13 final. This team has everything it needs to make some noise in the playoffs, but it'd take a miracle to get there. At 6-7, running the table likely wouldn't even be enough.</p><p><strong>Myth busted?</strong></p><p>Anyone hoping the Bears would get the "fired coach boost" from dumping Matt Eberflus is going to be disappointed. Chicago was a familiar brand of bad in the first game with Thomas Brown as the interim coach, barely putting up a fight in San Francisco. The Bears are going to need a full reset with a new staff to get this thing back on track. They'll have to hope the job is every bit as attractive as they think it is in the upcoming coaching cycle. This team can't afford to make another mistake in that spot.</p><p><strong>A costly win</strong></p><p>In-game tanking isn't a real thing in the NFL, so nobody should be surprised to see bottom-feeders going all out for wins. There's no reason for players and coaches to play for draft position. That being said, Sunday's win over Tennessee was still less than ideal looking to the future in Jacksonville. The Jaguars getting their third victory of the season tentatively sees them fall from No. 1 to No. 5 in the projected 2025 draft order. An early run on quarterbacks could push another coveted player down the board, but the real value in Jacksonville getting the top pick would be shopping it to a QB-needy team. Stockpiling assets to rebuild the organization would be a lot more valuable than a meaningless win in December.</p><p><strong>A two-horse race?</strong></p><p>Jacksonville's victory leaves the Raiders and Giants as the NFL's only two-win teams through 14 weeks. Las Vegas currently holds the No. 1 pick based on the strength-of-schedule tiebreaker, but it's close enough that it could flip back and forth down the stretch. And we probably shouldn't be counting on one of these teams to get a win to create some separation. The Raiders figure to be starting Desmond Ridder for the last four weeks after losing Aidan O'Connell to a knee injury in Sunday's loss to the Bucs. The Giants, meanwhile, have proved that it doesn't matter which of their signal-callers is under center - points are tough to come by. These teams desperately need to get it right with their opportunity to draft a new quarterback.</p><h3>Stat of the week</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Entering today, teams with at least six touchdowns and zero giveaways in a game were 245-0 in the Super Bowl era (including playoffs)<br><br>The Bills are the first to do so in a loss</p>— Dante Koplowitz-Fleming (@DanteKopFlem) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanteKopFlem/status/1865918713016574003?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>

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Key takeaways and analysis from Week 14 in the NFL

It's time to settle the running backs debate once and for all.  Our own Scott Stinson argued over...

<p>It's time to settle the running backs debate once and for all.</p><p>Our own Scott Stinson argued over the weekend that Saquon Barkley's monster production in Philadelphia <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3141113" href="https://thescore.com/news/3141113">should have limited impact</a> on how we see players at the position. Stinson makes a strong case, and one that'll be supported by much of the football community. I'm here to argue the opposite.</p><p>Nobody denies scheme and supporting cast provide a necessary baseline for run-game success. That's never going to change. But this season is proving that true difference-makers can still maximize those factors in pushing an offense over the top. The value of a star running back couldn't be more clear.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Take the Eagles, for example. Barkley hasn't put himself on pace to break Eric Dickerson's single-season rushing record by merely having a few holes opened up for him. Philly's offensive foundation is more potent than anything he had with the Giants, to be sure, but Barkley's ability to create extra yards with vision, burst, and elusiveness is making the Eagles a threat to score from <em>anywhere</em> on the field.</p><p>An ever-evolving advanced data set even gives us the numbers to back it up: Barkley currently leads the league with 452 rushing yards over expected, adding nearly two yards per carry for Phily's offense, according to Next Gen Stats.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Rushing yards over expected" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-psWRJ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/psWRJ/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="331" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Josh Jacobs, the other star runner who landed a big-money deal to join a new team this offseason, is elevating an excellent run game in Green Bay. He forced a league-best 15 missed tackles in a Week 12 win over the 49ers, and his nine games of 50-plus yards after contact currently ranks tied for second.</p><p>The Ravens signing Derrick Henry isn't quite the same case of a bold organization being vindicated, as he settled for a two-year, $16-million contract in free agency. But his continued dominance after joining Baltimore should leave numerous teams - hello, Cowboys - embarrassed over their unwillingness to pay up.</p><p>Arguments in favor of careful spending at running back would be logical if the market was exploding like it is at other positions. Multiple guaranteed years of receiver-type money would be a risky proposition for high-volume players who don't typically have long careers. But that's simply not what's happening in today's NFL.</p><p>The running back market has stagnated and overcorrected so much since the infamous Todd Gurley and Le'Veon Bell deals that proven game-changers like Barkley and Jacobs can be signed for under $13 million per year - less than 5% of the 2024 salary cap.</p><p>A quick look at other names pulling in that kind of money this year paints the picture of a new market inefficiency:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Offseason signings for RB money" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-AAAEi" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/AAAEi/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="239" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Go ahead and pinch pennies if replacement-level production is all you want out of your ball carriers. It's certainly easy enough to find running backs who can get production the system provides.</p><p>But the only teams left looking silly this year are the ones who didn't bother to keep their superstars from walking out the door. The Giants, Raiders, and Titans are each unsurprisingly posting negative team rush yards over expected.</p><p>The Eagles, Packers, and Ravens - the three league leaders in that category - understood that true difference-makers at the position raise the offense's ceiling. It's no coincidence they all enter the stretch run with legitimate Super Bowl aspirations.</p><p>Pay good players. It doesn't need to be any more complicated than that.</p>

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Counterpoint: Saquon's dominance disproves narratives about RB value

<p><em>Sunday Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.</em></p><h3>Russ cookin'</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758330/cropped_GettyImages-2187738369.jpg?ts=1733085217" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758330/w220xh124_GettyImages-2187738369.jpg?ts=1733085217 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758330/w320xh180_GettyImages-2187738369.jpg?ts=1733085217 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758330/w640xh360_GettyImages-2187738369.jpg?ts=1733085217 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758330/w768xh432_GettyImages-2187738369.jpg?ts=1733085217 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758330/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2187738369.jpg?ts=1733085217 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Andy Lyons / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Your eyes do not deceive you.</p><p>The Steelers are 9-3 and already well on their way to the playoffs, no longer the scrappy but ultimately unserious contender of years past. The key to it all: Russell Wilson turning back the clock.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Wilson put together his best performance of the season Sunday afternoon in Cincinnati, completing 29 of 38 passes for 414 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. That sets a new Steelers record for passing yards in a game against the Bengals and also marks the second-best total of Wilson's career.</p><p>It doesn't look pretty at times, as there are still some signs of an aging passer. I've admittedly been skeptical of the sustainability of a quarterback that leans so heavily on deep balls down the sideline while largely ignoring the middle of the field. But even that may now be changing.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Russell Wilson set a personal record today: <br><br>261 yards on throws between the numbers <a href="https://t.co/dXvxW4WCb1">pic.twitter.com/dXvxW4WCb1</a></p>— Theo Ash (@TheoAshNFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheoAshNFL/status/1863332594848264452?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Nobody saw this kind of resurgence coming when Wilson was released by Denver in the offseason. The Broncos were so desperate to move on that a fully guaranteed salary of nearly $38 million was no obstacle. In most cases, that would tell you all you need to know about a player's future prospects.</p><p>Instead, it's proving to be yet another important reminder that fit and situation matter. Wilson was weighing down Sean Payton's offense. Now, in a situation more willing to build around what he does best, he's elevating his surroundings.</p><p>The Steelers have a fascinating decision to make in the offseason ahead. Wilson will be looking to get paid after dazzling on a league-minimum deal, and Pittsburgh may have no choice but to do whatever it takes to keep him around. Assessing the value of a 36-year-old quarterback is going to be difficult, but that's a problem for another day.</p><p>Wilson giving the Steelers a chance against anyone they'll meet in January is all that matters right now.</p><h3>Cousins falling apart</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758410/cropped_GettyImages-2187252716.jpg?ts=1733101151" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758410/w220xh124_GettyImages-2187252716.jpg?ts=1733101151 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758410/w320xh180_GettyImages-2187252716.jpg?ts=1733101151 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758410/w640xh360_GettyImages-2187252716.jpg?ts=1733101151 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758410/w768xh432_GettyImages-2187252716.jpg?ts=1733101151 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758410/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2187252716.jpg?ts=1733101151 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Falcons are in trouble.</p><p>Three straight losses have seen a comfortable lead atop the NFC South effectively disappear. While the head-to-head tiebreaker still puts Atlanta in front of Tampa Bay, it's starting to feel like that won't matter by the end of the season.</p><p>Unfortunately for the Falcons, the player who was supposed to put them over the top has been the driving force in the stunning collapse. Kirk Cousins hasn't managed a single touchdown during the three-game skid. His four interceptions Sunday against the Chargers may well have been the difference in the 17-13 home defeat.</p><p>The recent struggles represent another twist in what's been a roller-coaster season for the $180-million free-agent addition. Early concerns about his ability to return to form after last year's Achilles injury were quickly dispelled with a promising 6-2 stretch. But the last few weeks have looked a lot more like his dreadful opener.</p><p>Cousins playing at this level is naturally going to lead to some questions about a potential quarterback change. If Michael Penix Jr. was worth the No. 8 pick in the draft, surely he's worth a look when your season is on the ropes. No matter what the team decides, it's starting to seem like it was a mistake to dish out $100 million in guarantees to a 36-year-old coming off a major injury.</p><p>The Falcons would take $65 million in dead money against the cap to move on from Cousins after this season, according to Over The Cap. Already having his replacement in house is a plus, but the long-term ramifications of that misguided deal could wash out much of the value that comes with a rookie quarterback contract.</p><h3>The Tucker dilemma</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758413/cropped_GettyImages-2187768120.jpg?ts=1733101386" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758413/w220xh124_GettyImages-2187768120.jpg?ts=1733101386 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758413/w320xh180_GettyImages-2187768120.jpg?ts=1733101386 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758413/w640xh360_GettyImages-2187768120.jpg?ts=1733101386 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758413/w768xh432_GettyImages-2187768120.jpg?ts=1733101386 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758413/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2187768120.jpg?ts=1733101386 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Greg Fiume / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Ravens may soon have an uncomfortable decision to make.</p><p>Justin Tucker has been the best kicker in football for most of his Hall of Fame career. Baltimore never had to think twice about sending him onto the field, no matter how long the try. That's no longer the case.</p><p>Another pair of missed field goals in Sunday's loss to the Eagles, along with a shanked extra point, make this situation too alarming to ignore. Tucker has now missed eight field goals on the season, already the worst total of his career. His 70.4% conversion rate is the lowest of any kicker with more than 15 attempts this season.</p><p>It's tough to say whether Tucker is past his prime or simply working through a case of the yips. He's still only 35, which isn't exactly old by kicker standards. Maybe he gets it back at some point. But do the Ravens really have time to wait and find out?</p><p>As things currently stand, he's costing them games. Tucker's pair of misses were ultimately the difference in a recent two-point loss to the Steelers, and that was again the case in a heavyweight matchup with the Eagles. The Ravens would probably be 10-3 and sitting pretty atop the AFC North were it not for a few of those misfires. Instead, they're 8-5 and facing the prospect of playing all playoff games on the road.</p><p>Parting ways with Tucker in the middle of the season would likely be a controversial move both within and outside the organization. Ideally he gets back on track after the bye and saves the team from having to make any such decision. But time is running out.</p><p>The Ravens can't afford to be doing this in the playoffs.</p><h3>Quick slants</h3><p><strong>Circle the wagons</strong></p><p>Is there anyone having more fun than the Bills right now? More specifically, is there anyone having more fun than Josh Allen? The superstar quarterback looked right at home in the snowy Buffalo conditions on Sunday night, doing what he does best to all but end the 49ers' playoff hopes. In case you missed it, his backyard football style gave us one of the coolest plays you will ever see.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">"Amari Cooper to Josh Allen for the TD!" is a new one 😂<br><br>📺: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SFvsBUF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SFvsBUF</a> on NBC/Peacock<br>📱: Stream on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NFLPlus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NFLPlus</a> <a href="https://t.co/scnnIT0NOL">pic.twitter.com/scnnIT0NOL</a></p>— NFL (@NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1863421709275247030?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Allen gets credit for both a passing touchdown and a receiving touchdown on this one. I'm not sure how much sense that makes, but it's incredible so we'll allow it. Unless that's what cost you your fantasy matchup this week. In that case, I am very sorry. The important point: the Bills are unbelievably fun. And good. I may not take them over the Ravens or Chiefs on paper, but what does that matter? The Chiefs better not let the Bills get that No. 1 seed, because I don't know that anyone is beating this team in Buffalo right now.</p><p><strong>Bengals are cooked</strong></p><p>The possibility of the Bengals running the table and sneaking into the playoffs, however unlikely, was juicy. I held out hope as long as I could, for no reason other than the potential entertainment. But it's officially time to move on. Sunday's loss to the Steelers drops Cincinnati to an unfathomable 4-8 mark on the year, making it all but impossible to chase down a wild-card spot. More than the reality of the standings, though, this week's defeat was another reminder that there's only so much an offense can do, no matter how elite. Cincinnati is now 0-7 against teams .500 or better despite scoring a league-leading 30.3 points per game in such matchups, according to <a href="https://x.com/FrontOfficeNFL/status/1863353439683752076">NFL research</a>. We'd be looking at a completely different team if the defense could get the occasional stop. That simply hasn't happened this year.</p><p><strong>Bryce does it again</strong></p><p>A promising performance against the Chiefs was evidently no mirage. Bryce Young is legitimately taking steps toward becoming the type of player the Panthers thought they were getting in last year's draft. The former No. 1 pick was equally as impressive in Sunday's loss to the Bucs, throwing for 298 yards and one touchdown while adding another on the ground. The 25-yard strike to help force overtime in the final minute was another flash of the confidence and playmaking ability we saw at Alabama. He's stepping up under pressure and delivering on the move. While concern about Young's slow start was well-warranted, we ought to exercise a little more patience with these young passers. The Panthers managed to do so, and they may yet end up with a franchise quarterback as a result.</p><p><strong>Back in rhythm</strong></p><p>Panic about the Kliff Cliff can officially be put on hold, at least for one week. The Commanders came through with something of a statement performance amid growing concern about Kliff Kingsbury offenses in the second half of the season, tying a season high with 42 points against the Titans. I know what you're thinking. The Titans? But don't lump this defense in with the chaos we see on the other side of the ball. Tennessee entered this week ranked second in total yards allowed and ninth against the run. The Commanders were able to get the run game back on track anyway, racking up 267 yards and three scores on the ground. Jayden Daniels also added three passing touchdowns while completing 25 of 30 attempts. Is Kingsbury finally making adjustments?</p><p><strong>Matchup proof</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758386/cropped_GettyImages-2187758595.jpg?ts=1733097947" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758386/w220xh124_GettyImages-2187758595.jpg?ts=1733097947 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758386/w320xh180_GettyImages-2187758595.jpg?ts=1733097947 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758386/w640xh360_GettyImages-2187758595.jpg?ts=1733097947 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758386/w768xh432_GettyImages-2187758595.jpg?ts=1733097947 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758386/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2187758595.jpg?ts=1733097947 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Patrick Smith / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It seemed like the Eagles were going to need a big game out of Jalen Hurts to get a win in Baltimore. The Ravens' defense entered this week ranked third in EPA/rush and 27th in EPA/pass, according to TruMedia. Philly couldn't quite take advantage of a leaky pass defense, though, so it quickly became another Saquon Barkley game. Perhaps we shouldn't be surprised that he was up to the task. The star running back recorded 107 yards on the day, the best individual total against the Ravens' defense this season. The highlight was a physical 25-yard score to effectively put the game out of reach in the fourth quarter. Barkley's eighth 100-yard game of the season keeps him on pace to break Eric Dickerson's single-season rushing record. He's making the best non-QB MVP case we've seen since Adrian Peterson.</p><p><strong>Feed him</strong></p><p>The Vikings came away with yet another win Sunday against the Cardinals, so nobody in Minnesota is going to have too many complaints. But the passing game is leaving something to be desired. Might the answer be as simple as feeding the best receiver in football? Justin Jefferson now has 100 targets on the year, so it's not like we're talking about an egregious lack of usage. But he's also received double-digit targets only once this year after doing so in seven of his 10 games in 2023. It's probably no coincidence that he's now gone six straight games without finding the end zone and has topped the 100-yard mark only three times on the year. The overall production remains strong, and the Vikings are winning, but these victories probably wouldn't be so stressful if the ball was in Jefferson's hands more often. Postseason success will probably depend on it, too.</p><p><strong>A comedy of errors</strong></p><p>Are you the type of football fan who enjoys a little chaos every now and then? If so, please do yourself a favor and rewatch Sunday's game between the Seahawks and Jets. Seattle came away with the win despite coughing up the ball on two different kick returns and turning it over on downs after an excruciating eight-play sequence inside New York's 5-yard line. The key play: a 92-yard pick-6 from Seahawks star Leonard Williams in his return to New York. The unlikely revenge-game score set a new record for longest touchdown by a defensive lineman and, more importantly, kept the Jets from going up 28-7 midway through the second quarter. New York didn't manage a single point from then on, giving Geno Smith the opportunity to complete his own revenge game with a go-ahead TD drive in the fourth quarter. A true masterpiece all around.</p><p><strong>A rising star</strong></p><p>We already covered the Falcons' angle of Sunday's game against the Chargers - it was undeniably bad. But don't overlook the unit that forced Cousins into all those turnovers. The Chargers had a bottom-five defense in EPA/play last season, according to TruMedia. Jesse Minter's arrival as Jim Harbaugh's defensive coordinator is paying immediate dividends, as L.A. has flown all the way up to the top four in that category in 2024. Minter won't get as much fanfare as names like Bill Belichick, Mike Vrabel, or Ben Johnson in the upcoming coaching cycle, but a smart organization is going to scoop him up while it still has the chance.</p><h3>Stat of the week</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">This is 21st straight season the Steelers will finish without a losing record (2004-2024), tying the Cowboys (1965-1985) for longest streak in NFL history.<br><br>Mike Tomlin gets 18th straight year with non-losing record too.</p>— Daniel Valente (@StatsGuyDaniel) <a href="https://twitter.com/StatsGuyDaniel/status/1863336509014728893?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2024</a>
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Key takeaways and analysis from Week 13 in the NFL

<p><em>Sunday Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.</em></p><h3>It's OK to pay RBs</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757178/cropped_GettyImages-2186721684.jpg?ts=1732507857" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757178/w220xh124_GettyImages-2186721684.jpg?ts=1732507857 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757178/w320xh180_GettyImages-2186721684.jpg?ts=1732507857 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757178/w640xh360_GettyImages-2186721684.jpg?ts=1732507857 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757178/w768xh432_GettyImages-2186721684.jpg?ts=1732507857 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757178/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2186721684.jpg?ts=1732507857 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ronald Martinez / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>A running back getting anything resembling a big-money contract inevitably creates a stir in today's anti-RB world. Does it really have to be this way, though? Make all the position-value arguments you want - good football players are good football players.</p><p>Saquon Barkley, most notably, has been spectacular after joining the Eagles on a three-year, $37.75-million deal in free agency. His franchise-record 255-yard effort against the Rams on Sunday night puts him up to 1,392 rushing yards on the year, already setting a new career high after 11 games.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The blazing start also has Barkley on a 17-game pace for 2,151 rushing yards, which would break the single-season record set by Eric Dickerson in 1984. He's in the mix to be the first running back to take home MVP honors since Adrian Peterson in 2012.</p><p>Josh Jacobs, who landed in Green Bay on a four-year, $48-million deal, has been an important addition to the Packers' offense amid an up-and-down season for Jordan Love. Jacobs put together his most productive game yet in Sunday's win over the 49ers, running for 106 yards and three touchdowns. His 15 missed tackles on the day represent the most of any ball carrier in a game this season, according to Next Gen Stats.</p><p>And then there's Derrick Henry, who had to settle for a two-year, $16-million deal to join the Ravens. The future Hall of Famer enters Monday night with 1,185 rushing yards, putting him second between Barkley and Jacobs among the NFL's leading rushers. Remember when Jerry Jones claimed the Cowboys simply couldn't afford Henry in free agency?</p><p>Yes, average running backs can produce at a decently high level by getting what's blocked for them as part of a good system. If you've got a great supporting cast, you can absolutely get away with hoping to hit on some late-round picks at running back. But these special players can, and will, take your offense to another level.</p><p>At a time when the premier free agents at the position are pulling in less than $13 million, how is this even still a discussion?</p><p>Don't be like the Giants - pay good players.</p><h3>Not again, Kliff</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757180/cropped_GettyImages-2184858497.jpg?ts=1732507995" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757180/w220xh124_GettyImages-2184858497.jpg?ts=1732507995 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757180/w320xh180_GettyImages-2184858497.jpg?ts=1732507995 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757180/w640xh360_GettyImages-2184858497.jpg?ts=1732507995 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757180/w768xh432_GettyImages-2184858497.jpg?ts=1732507995 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757180/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2184858497.jpg?ts=1732507995 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Scott Taetsch / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It was only fair to exercise a little bit of patience before declaring that Kliff Kingsbury's offense was once again falling off a ... cliff in the second half of the season.</p><p>I, for one, shrugged off last week's performance in Philadelphia as a matter of Washington being overwhelmed by an objectively more talented Eagles team. There's no such excuse available this time around.</p><p>Sunday's game against a horrific Cowboys defense should have been the perfect get-right spot for the Commanders' offense. While the final score may seem like an indication of an improved effort on that side of the ball, it's more so a reflection of some all-time wackiness in the fourth quarter. A few late explosives do little to mask the stench that emanated from that unit throughout the rest of the day.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Week</th>
<th>Offensive EPA</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1-9</td>
<td>11.0 (avg)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td>-4.08</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11</td>
<td>-4.83</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12</td>
<td>-5.73</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>(EPA model via TruMedia)</p><p>Maybe a second-half drop-off was inevitable for this offense, as it's tough to sustain a high-level passing game with one reliable threat at receiver, and the shortcomings on the offensive line don't help, either. But it seemed like a strong run game, at the very least, could keep things humming down the stretch.</p><p>Jayden Daniels was the only player to put up respectable rushing numbers against a Cowboys defense that entered this week a distant last in rush EPA. Commanders running backs averaged 3.3 yards per carry on the day.</p><p>Kingsbury is going to need to buck this career-long trend and make some adjustments if Washington is going to hold onto its playoff spot and make any noise in January. Doing so will probably be the key to his chances of getting another head coaching job, too.</p><h3>No room for error</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757149/cropped_GettyImages-2186691253.jpg?ts=1732493609" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757149/w220xh124_GettyImages-2186691253.jpg?ts=1732493609 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757149/w320xh180_GettyImages-2186691253.jpg?ts=1732493609 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757149/w640xh360_GettyImages-2186691253.jpg?ts=1732493609 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757149/w768xh432_GettyImages-2186691253.jpg?ts=1732493609 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757149/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2186691253.jpg?ts=1732493609 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Stacy Revere / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The 49ers never stood much of a chance this week in Green Bay. A long list of injury absences, including Brock Purdy, Trent Williams, and Nick Bosa, was always going to be too much to overcome against this kind of opponent.</p><p>In that sense, there's not a whole lot we can take away from this result. San Francisco still has all the pieces it needs for another playoff run, assuming key players are back on the field down the stretch. Time is running out, though.</p><p>Sunday's defeat drops the 49ers to 5-6 with six games to play. That means it could take a perfect finish to get them back to the playoffs. At worst, they'll need to go 5-1 in their remaining games. That's a big enough ask when you consider their inconsistent level of play to this point, but it feels nearly impossible when factoring in the remaining schedule.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Week</th>
<th>Opponent</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>13</td>
<td>@ Bills</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>14</td>
<td>vs. Bears</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>15</td>
<td>vs. Rams</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>16</td>
<td>@ Dolphins</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>17</td>
<td>vs. Lions</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>18</td>
<td>@ Cardinals</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Difficult matchups with the Bills and Lions, alone, may be enough to keep San Francisco out of the playoffs for the first time since 2020. Add in a few other challenging opponents, including the pair of remaining NFC West games, and the 49ers own the NFL's fifth-toughest remaining schedule.</p><p>A down year may be tolerable for most teams, but it's important to remember the window for this core was already closing. Williams is in the late stages of his career as one of the best left tackles we've ever seen, and a looming extension for Purdy is drastically going to change how the roster can be constructed.</p><p>The 49ers may have missed their best chance to win a Super Bowl with this star-studded team.</p><h3>Quick slants</h3><p><strong>Patience is key</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757107/cropped_GettyImages-2186661968.jpg?ts=1732508105" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757107/w220xh124_GettyImages-2186661968.jpg?ts=1732508105 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757107/w320xh180_GettyImages-2186661968.jpg?ts=1732508105 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757107/w640xh360_GettyImages-2186661968.jpg?ts=1732508105 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757107/w768xh432_GettyImages-2186661968.jpg?ts=1732508105 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757107/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2186661968.jpg?ts=1732508105 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Matt Kelley / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It seems Bryce Young may have benefitted from the opportunity to take a step back and reset. The 2023 No. 1 pick has now started four games since making his return to the field after over a month on the sideline, with each appearance more encouraging than the last. Young was the primary factor in the Panthers giving the Chiefs a scare this week. He was blitzed on a season-high 40% of his dropbacks on the day, completing 11 of 14 passes for 123 yards and a touchdown in those opportunities, according to Next Gen Stats. He also went 9 of 16 for 165 yards on attempts of 10-plus air yards. The Panthers could have completely thrown in the towel when Young didn't look the part early in Year 2. They deserve credit for taking their time and turning away trade inquiries they received at the deadline. Young still has a chance to emerge as a true franchise quarterback, even if it takes longer than many would have liked.</p><p><strong>Texans in trouble</strong></p><p>The Texans were supposed to take the next step and emerge as a Super Bowl contender this season. Instead, they've mastered the art of finding ways to lose. C.J. Stroud is making the kind of mistakes nobody expected after a spectacular rookie season, and some untimely big plays are washing out some otherwise strong defensive performances. We saw it in Week 10 against the Lions, where the Texans somehow fell short despite intercepting Jared Goff five times. Bewildering football was again an issue this week, as Houston fell to a dreadful Titans team despite getting to Will Levis for eight sacks and taking an interception back for a touchdown. Houston is going to cruise to another AFC South title, but it's getting tough to expect much beyond that. Upgrading the offensive line to better support Stroud's development is a must looking ahead to the offseason.</p><p><strong>Back in business</strong></p><p>Tua Tagovailoa will forever be battling the "system quarterback" label. That's just the unfortunate reality of being surrounded by dynamic weapons in a QB-friendly scheme. But this isn't an offense that can be run by anyone you throw out there. This season has given us all the evidence we need on that front. The Dolphins were embarrassing to watch in Tua's absence. In the five games since his return, Miami's offense is tied with Detroit and Baltimore for the second-most EPA/play. A tough test awaits Thursday night in Green Bay. If the Dolphins can make it four straight wins, we should probably start having a conversation about whether this team has what it takes to sneak into the playoffs.</p><p><strong>Silver lining</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757181/cropped_GettyImages-2186665685.jpg?ts=1732508247" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757181/w220xh124_GettyImages-2186665685.jpg?ts=1732508247 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757181/w320xh180_GettyImages-2186665685.jpg?ts=1732508247 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757181/w640xh360_GettyImages-2186665685.jpg?ts=1732508247 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757181/w768xh432_GettyImages-2186665685.jpg?ts=1732508247 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757181/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2186665685.jpg?ts=1732508247 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Luke Hales / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Another heartbreaking defeat marks five straight losses for the Bears, all but ensuring that Chicago will miss out on the playoffs for a fourth consecutive season. That's a particularly disappointing outcome after a favorable schedule helped the Bears jump out to a 4-2 start. But we're well past the point where wins and losses are determining success for this team. This year is all about the development of Caleb Williams, and Bears fans should be thrilled that everything appears to be back on track in that department. The change at offensive coordinator led to some immediate results last week, and Williams followed that up with a season-best performance against a tough Minnesota defense on Sunday. A few big-time throws, including a sensational heave on the run, offer an important reminder of his ceiling - there aren't many quarterbacks with his physical gifts. The right coaching hires could lead to a lot of fun next season in Chicago.</p><p><strong>Levis roller coaster</strong></p><p>Will Levis is a fascinating watch. That can be a compliment or a critique. In his case, it depends on the snap. Sunday's game in Houston was mostly good. He completed 18 of 24 passes for 278 yards and two touchdowns, making plenty of big plays against a stout Texans defense. He also took eight sacks and almost gave the game away with another brutal pick-6. The negative plays are almost certainly enough to have the Titans looking elsewhere at quarterback, but he also clearly still has some upside. The Titans getting a win to tentatively move outside the top-five picks probably helps his chances of sticking around beyond this year.</p><p><strong>Seahawks' defense steps up</strong></p><p>The Seahawks are still searching for consistency on defense, but the flashes of brilliance have been incredibly impressive. Sunday's game against the Cardinals represented the unit's best performance to date, holding Arizona to a pair of field goals and pulling away for good with a second-half pick-6. This is exactly why Mike Macdonald was one of the top candidates in last year's coaching cycle. Give him an offseason to bring in more players to fit his defensive scheme, and we could see many more results like this. The future is bright in Seattle.</p><p><strong>Draft order check-in</strong></p><p>A cluster of two-win teams has been reduced as the Titans and Browns each picked up their third victory of the season this week. That now leaves the Jaguars, Giants, and Raiders as the front-runners for the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. A tough finishing schedule, along with the move to start Tommy DeVito, may well make the Giants the current favorite. But a Week 16 Toilet Bowl between the Jaguars and Raiders will be a pivotal moment looking ahead to April.</p><h3>Stat of the week</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Saquon Barkley now has more rushing yards (255) than the entire Giants offense gained through the run *and* the pass (245) on Sunday.</p>— Bill Barnwell (@billbarnwell) <a href="https://twitter.com/billbarnwell/status/1860903367293231204?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2024</a>
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https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29168997/related

Key takeaways and analysis from Week 12 in the NFL

Most teams will only ever go as far as their quarterback takes them. That's the reality of today'...

<p>Most teams will only ever go as far as their quarterback takes them. That's the reality of today's game, like it or not.</p><p>The upcoming 2024 stretch run offers the perfect opportunity to check in on the state of NFL QB play, perhaps offering some hints as to which teams truly have what it takes to contend.</p><h3>Mahomes tier 🐐</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="The Mahomes tier" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Rs7oi" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Rs7oi/6/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="115" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Sure, there are probably a few QBs who've outplayed Patrick Mahomes so far this season. But we're still talking about one of the best to ever do it. Can we truly take any ranking seriously if the Chiefs superstar isn't alone at the top? Rival QBs may put up better numbers for stretches here and there, but we all know who we're taking to win us a game. Mahomes is in a class of his own until that changes, and don't count on it happening any time soon.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>MVP talents 🤩</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP talents" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-o28WC" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/o28WC/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="158" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Lamar Jackson's the best player in football to this point in the season, making him the most-deserving candidate for a third career MVP award. Josh Allen isn't far behind, though, and his ability to consistently take his game to another level in the biggest moments is as close as it gets to Mahomes. Joe Burrow won't get any MVP love unless he drags the Bengals all the way back from their 4-7 start, but he's playing the best football of his career. Meanwhile, Justin Herbert has always been an elite talent and he'll finally start getting respect now that he has some semblance of stability around him. The NFL's top five QBs all playing in the same conference creates quite the gauntlet for AFC teams.</p><h3>Proven studs 😎</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Proven studs" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-gDQXJ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/gDQXJ/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="183" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>The guys in this group fall short of the truly elite category for one reason or another, though you can't ask for much more from your QBs. Matthew Stafford's continued an incredible level of play into his age-36 season and is forever a shining example of how to tear apart a defense working exclusively from the pocket. Jared Goff's supporting cast will get the majority of the credit in Detroit, but the Lions aren't the team they've become without the nine-year veteran under center.</p><p>Houston's offensive line issues aren't going to fool us into thinking C.J. Stroud is no longer the QB we saw as a rookie last year, and Jordan Love's big-play prowess far outweighs his turnover issues, even if he does veer into Brett Favre territory more than you'd like. Kyler Murray is once again becoming a nightmare to defend after returning from a 2022 knee injury.</p><h3>Middle class 👍</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="The middle class" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-LEK89" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/LEK89/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="233" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>You can win with these guys, and most teams with QBs in this group are doing so <em>(*glares at Jaguars*)</em>. Geno Smith's ability to put the Seahawks on his back no matter how often his offensive line gets him beat up means he belongs alongside the other proven studs, though the consistency isn't quite there. Jalen Hurts does more than enough for the Eagles to win, but the supporting cast handles much of the heavy lifting in Philly. Improving Hurts' ability to see plays through from the pocket would make that offense unstoppable.</p><p>Tua Tagovailoa and Brock Purdy are both high-level point guards in star-studded offenses, but aren't quite the ceiling-raisers we see in the tiers above. The same can be said about Kirk Cousins and Baker Mayfield, who routinely exceed expectations while also leaving us wanting more. Trevor Lawrence still has the upside to be a tier or two higher than this, but we can't ignore what we've seen over the past calendar year. A rough situation in Jacksonville has led to some unfortunate regression.</p><h3>Exciting rookies 📈</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Exciting rookies" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-efWJa" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/efWJa/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="158" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>We're getting close to having enough exposure to this group to start slotting them into other tiers, but keeping them together still feels right for the time being. All four give their teams reason to be optimistic for the future, at the very least. Jayden Daniels is the runaway favorite for Offensive Rookie of the Year and his arrival's pushed the Commanders into immediate playoff contention.</p><p>Caleb Williams finds himself in a tough situation with the Bears' offense, but we've seen more than enough flashes to be confident he'll be a great NFL QB. Drake Maye's been balling out before the Patriots even get the chance to build a competent offense around him, while Bo Nix has quietly taken steps toward mastering Sean Payton's offense as a rookie. This crop already has the makings of an elite QB class, and that's before we get to see another pair of first-rounders in Michael Penix Jr. and J.J. McCarthy.</p><h3>Veteran stopgaps 🤷</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Stopgap veterans" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-9TxEv" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/9TxEv/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="133" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Russell Wilson not cracking the middle class after his hot Pittsburgh start is bound to be controversial, but let's try to look at this rationally. He certainly throws a beautiful deep ball down the sidelines, and the Steelers - unlike the Broncos the two years prior - truly don't need (or ask) him to do much else. But the results could look very different if that changes. Wilson's still the kind of limited veteran you don't want to commit to long term, so the stopgap label is more than fair. The same goes for Derek Carr and Sam Darnold, who started the year strong only to fade back. These are QBs you can win with in the right situation. That's been the case for both the Steelers and Vikings, to this point. </p><h3>Washed 🚨</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Washed alert" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-wCJkF" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/wCJkF/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="83" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>We had much hope for Aaron Rodgers heading into this year. Who didn't? Sure, a 40-year-old coming off a torn Achilles could have been viewed as a recipe for disaster, but it seemed like basic above-average QB play was all the Jets needed to take off, and surely a legendary Rodgers could provide it. But it was too much to ask, and Rodgers looks nothing like the QB he was in Green Bay. Not only has he lost the mobility that was so pivotal to his game, but he's also now misfiring on in-rhythm throws he used to hit in his sleep. Rodgers needs a much better situation to squeeze even one more year out of his Hall of Fame career. His days of elevating his team are long gone.</p><h3>Give them time 🤞</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Give them time" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-S75oI" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/S75oI/3/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="153" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Anthony Richardson's the more interesting name in this category, as a unique set of physical gifts gives him a ceiling in line with some of the league's true superstars. Experience may be all he needs to sort out some of his accuracy and decision-making issues, and early polish displayed in terms of pocket management is incredibly promising to that end. The Colts should be encouraged by what he showed after a two-week benching.</p><p>Bryce Young's probably still a long shot to become a high-level starter. He entered the league as an all-time size outlier and his early struggles seemingly confirmed that the issue was going to be a major problem for him in the NFL. Much like Richardson, though, Young made some major improvements after spending a few games on the sidelines - there's still a reason he was the consensus 2023 No. 1 pick despite valid stature concerns. The Panthers should be careful to not panic and give Young every opportunity to make good on his potential. It could still pay off with some patience.</p><h3>Tank watch 😬</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Tank watch" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-ZFzY9" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ZFzY9/3/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="215" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Things are bleak for any team stuck starting one of these guys, whether due to injury, poor decision-making, or the benching of a supposed franchise QB (Giants and Daniel Jones). </p><p>But there's bright side here. All five of these teams are in the running for a top pick in next year's draft and playing these QBs isn't going to hurt their chances. While there's still some hope for Will Levis as a long-term starter, it's fading quickly, and the Titans (along with the other four teams) will be hard-pressed to pass on a top QB prospect in April, even if it's a down year for the position.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29114458/related

Ranking NFL QBs heading into the stretch run

<p><em>Sunday Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.</em></p><h3>Allen is that dude</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755942/cropped_GettyImages-2185295959.jpg?ts=1731889629" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755942/w220xh124_GettyImages-2185295959.jpg?ts=1731889629 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755942/w320xh180_GettyImages-2185295959.jpg?ts=1731889629 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755942/w640xh360_GettyImages-2185295959.jpg?ts=1731889629 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755942/w768xh432_GettyImages-2185295959.jpg?ts=1731889629 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755942/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2185295959.jpg?ts=1731889629 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Timothy T Ludwig / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It was only two weeks ago when we talked about Lamar Jackson as the clear front-runner for this year's MVP award. That should probably remain the case, but it's becoming clear that his top competition isn't going to let him run away with it.</p><p>That top competition is Josh Allen. The Bills quarterback had another signature moment in a big spot Sunday afternoon, helping his team hand the rival Chiefs their first loss of the season. The win moves Buffalo to 9-2, just one game back of Kansas City for the AFC's No. 1 seed.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>I was, admittedly, among the many who weren't all that high on the Bills heading into this campaign. In retrospect, it looks like a bad take, but there was plenty of reason to think this might be a transition year in Buffalo. The coaching staff deserves all the credit in the world for guiding the defense through major personnel losses on the back end. A productive run game, along with the addition of Amari Cooper, has helped the offense work past some shortcomings at receiver.</p><p>But none of that is as important as the factor that, above all else, will make this team a Super Bowl contender year after year: having one of the two best quarterbacks on the planet.</p><p>Allen's development into the player he is after an Anthony Richardson-like start to his career doesn't get nearly enough attention. He has as much arm talent as any quarterback in league history and is a nightmare to defend as a runner. As we saw against the Chiefs, the biggest moments are when Allen does his best work. He throws on the Superman cape and refuses to be denied.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">On 4th &amp; 2 with 2:27 left in regulation, Josh Allen dropped back before breaking off a 26-yard TD run.<br><br>Allen had just a 1.2% chance of scoring a touchdown once he tucked the ball to run. It was Allen's first scramble TD run against the Chiefs in his career.<br><br>Powered by <a href="https://twitter.com/awscloud?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@awscloud</a> <a href="https://t.co/xGduuXq6Bb">pic.twitter.com/xGduuXq6Bb</a></p>— Next Gen Stats (@NextGenStats) <a href="https://twitter.com/NextGenStats/status/1858306931460649092?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 18, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>This level of inevitability, always coming through and elevating everyone around him, is as close as it gets to Patrick Mahomes. Allen now has four wins over the Chiefs signal-caller, the most of any opponent. Sunday's 30-point output was also the most Kansas City has given up since Oct. 3, 2022, against Tom Brady.</p><p>Allen will be considered a tier below his biggest rival until he can translate the regular-season success into the playoffs, but that may only be a matter of time.</p><p>The Bills know they can hang with the champs, and they have everything they need to get a Lombardi Trophy of their own this year.</p><h3>Chargers are here</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755998/cropped_GettyImages-2185317341.jpg?ts=1731906512" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755998/w220xh124_GettyImages-2185317341.jpg?ts=1731906512 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755998/w320xh180_GettyImages-2185317341.jpg?ts=1731906512 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755998/w640xh360_GettyImages-2185317341.jpg?ts=1731906512 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755998/w768xh432_GettyImages-2185317341.jpg?ts=1731906512 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755998/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2185317341.jpg?ts=1731906512 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ronald Martinez / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Jim Harbaugh is building something special.</p><p>The Chargers head coach would've been forgiven if he needed a year or two to get things in order after inheriting a mess from Brandon Staley. That's certainly what the majority of the football world was expecting.</p><p>But this team doesn't care about our timelines. A big win over the Bengals on Sunday night should eliminate any remaining doubt about the speed with which the Chargers could turn things around and emerge as a legitimate threat in the AFC. They're already here.</p><p>The immediate ascent on defense, in particular, has been incredible. Jesse Minter's arrival as defensive coordinator has helped this group go from 28th in EPA/play in 2023 to third this season, according to TruMedia.</p><p>The offense has required a little patience, as the Chargers started the year with a more traditional run-heavy approach. That'll always be a part of Harbaugh's philosophy, but the coaching staff has slowly begun to open things up for their superstar quarterback, and we saw the result Sunday night.</p><p>It was one big-time throw after another for Justin Herbert, providing an important reminder of how spectacular he can be with some semblance of stability around him. And it's only going to get better.</p><p>The Chargers looking this good and effectively being locked into a playoff spot in the first season of this new regime bodes extremely well for what's to come. Think about what this team might look like when the front office gets the chance to add a few more weapons alongside its top-five quarterback. Or when the defense can improve its talent in the secondary.</p><p>Harbaugh may soon have another powerhouse program.</p><h3>Quick slants</h3><p><strong>The real best chance to win</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755877/cropped_GettyImages-2185281591.jpg?ts=1731906571" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755877/w220xh124_GettyImages-2185281591.jpg?ts=1731906571 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755877/w320xh180_GettyImages-2185281591.jpg?ts=1731906571 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755877/w640xh360_GettyImages-2185281591.jpg?ts=1731906571 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755877/w768xh432_GettyImages-2185281591.jpg?ts=1731906571 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755877/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2185281591.jpg?ts=1731906571 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Al Bello / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Anthony Richardson's performance upon returning to the lineup this week was an example of why his future is still so bright. Richardson played the best game of his young career in leading the Colts to a crucial win over the Jets, making his presence felt as a runner and passer. The sophomore quarterback was much improved in the accuracy department, in particular, going an impressive 9 of 12 for 185 yards on passes traveling 10-plus yards downfield, according to <a data-in-app-uri="" href="">Next Gen Stats</a>. There will continue to be ups and downs, but this is why you let a player like this work through the issues. The upside is undeniable.</p><p><strong>Nix heating up</strong></p><p>The Broncos selecting Bo Nix with the No. 12 pick in this year's draft was largely met with skepticism. Don't look now, but the rookie quarterback is on track to make the doubters look silly. Sean Payton deserves a lot of credit, as the play designs in this offense routinely have receivers running free in rhythm. But make no mistake, Nix is getting better every week. His continued ascent culminated in a 38-6 drubbing of the Falcons this week, with Nix recording his first 300-yard game and posting the most dropback EPA (23.3) of any rookie quarterback this season, according to TruMedia. It should be noted that this production is also coming before Denver truly has the opportunity to load up on playmakers around him.</p><p><strong>Addition by subtraction</strong></p><p>The Bears came up short this week, as a blocked kick extended their losing streak against the Packers in heartbreaking fashion. However, the result is secondary to Chicago's offensive improvements. The decision to have Thomas Brown take over as offensive coordinator for Shane Waldron provided immediate results. Most notably, Caleb Williams looked a lot more comfortable in the pocket. He was seemingly given more answers to get rid of the ball in rhythm and had no hesitation about taking off to scramble when things broke down. This is how you set your young quarterback up for success with a struggling offensive line. Better late than never.</p><p><strong>Unfamiliar territory</strong></p><p>Justin Tucker wasn't going to be able to do it forever, and it was only a matter of time before the best kicker in NFL history started to fall off. Unfortunately for the Ravens, it seems to be happening at a time when they have a legitimate chance to go on a Super Bowl run. Tucker's pair of missed field goals made the difference in Sunday's two-point loss to the Steelers. That makes it six misses on the year, one short of his career worst. Baltimore can't afford to leave that many points on the field against teams it could meet in the AFC playoffs.</p><p><strong>Dolphins still alive</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755891/cropped_GettyImages-2185265375.jpg?ts=1731881883" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755891/w220xh124_GettyImages-2185265375.jpg?ts=1731881883 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755891/w320xh180_GettyImages-2185265375.jpg?ts=1731881883 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755891/w640xh360_GettyImages-2185265375.jpg?ts=1731881883 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755891/w768xh432_GettyImages-2185265375.jpg?ts=1731881883 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755891/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2185265375.jpg?ts=1731881883 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Rich Storry / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Miami's offense has quietly gotten back on track since Tua Tagovailoa's return. The Dolphins put up a season-high 34 points in Sunday's win over the Raiders, with a short end-of-half possession in the second quarter being the only one that didn't end in a score. This team's still a long shot for the playoffs at 4-6, but the offense returning to this level of play at least gives it an opportunity to run off some wins down the stretch. A finishing schedule that includes two games against the Jets and matchups with the Patriots and Browns also helps their chances.</p><p><strong>Bowers already elite</strong></p><p>Don't let the sad state of the Raiders cause you to overlook the instant superstar production from their first-round pick. Brock Bowers was at it again Sunday in Miami, recording 13 receptions for 126 yards and one touchdown. The monster performance set a new single-game record for catches by a rookie tight end and already puts him up to 70 on the year. That's second only to Ja'Marr Chase among all pass catchers this season. Jayden Daniels remains the front-runner for Offensive Rookie of the Year honors, and deservedly so, but Bowers has been equally impressive. His rare combination of route-running skills and playmaking ability after the catch is already making him one of the best tight ends in the game.</p><p><strong>Making it look easy</strong></p><p>The Lions had to find a different way to get it done last week, winning despite five interceptions from Jared Goff. A matchup with the Jaguars defense provided the perfect opportunity to get things back on track this week. Goff was nearly perfect, completing 24 of 29 passes for 412 yards and four touchdowns. Detroit also put up 196 rushing yards in the 52-6 rout. The club's 645 yards of total offense are the most league-wide this season, and Sunday's yardage differential (plus-475) is the biggest margin in a game since 1979. The Jaguars may qualify as a helpless opponent, but there's no denying that this Lions offense is a wagon.</p><p><strong>Leaving the door open</strong></p><p>The Falcons know how to punish those who dare to believe. Following up last week's loss to the Saints with a blowout defeat in Denver suddenly has Atlanta sitting at 6-5 and at risk of surrendering its stranglehold on the division. Earning a tiebreaker over Tampa Bay by sweeping the season series gives the Falcons a bit of room for error, but it's fading fast. December games against the Chargers, Vikings, and Commanders will present a major challenge if the recent run of play continues. The Bucs, who may have Mike Evans back in the lineup next week, finish the year with the second-easiest schedule in football. The NFC South is still very much up for grabs.</p><p><strong>NFC West madness</strong></p><p>Geno Smith didn't have any interest in letting his team fall out of the playoff race. The Seahawks quarterback took over late in Sunday's game against the 49ers, capping an 80-yard drive with a 13-yard touchdown scamper with seconds to play. Smith's heroics allowed Seattle to improve to 5-5. Equally as important, the result dropped the 49ers to 5-5. With the Rams also sitting at 5-5, creating a three-way tie one game back of the first-place Cardinals, the NFC West is shaping up for a fascinating finish. All four have looked like playoff teams at one point or another. Can at least one find some consistency down the stretch?</p><h3>Stat of the week</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Winning % as Jets starting QB:<br>Zach Wilson .364<br>Sam Darnold .342<br>Aaron Rodgers .273</p>— Steve Palazzolo (@StevePalazzolo_) <a href="https://twitter.com/StevePalazzolo_/status/1858256527766790330?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29084564/related

Key takeaways and analysis from Week 11 in the NFL

<p><em>Sunday Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.</em></p><h3>All they do is win</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754634/cropped_GettyImages-2184051743.jpg?ts=1731271652" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754634/w220xh124_GettyImages-2184051743.jpg?ts=1731271652 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754634/w320xh180_GettyImages-2184051743.jpg?ts=1731271652 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754634/w640xh360_GettyImages-2184051743.jpg?ts=1731271652 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754634/w768xh432_GettyImages-2184051743.jpg?ts=1731271652 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754634/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2184051743.jpg?ts=1731271652 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jamie Squire / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Chiefs are inevitable.</p><p>We've known this to be true for years, but it somehow doesn't get any easier to believe. They're just built different.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Broncos did everything right. Vance Joseph's defense was once again swarming. Denver put Patrick Mahomes under pressure on 40.8% of dropbacks, the highest rate he's faced since Week 8 of last season, according to Next Gen Stats. The result: Kansas City was limited to a season-low 16 points.</p><p>The Broncos' offense did its part, too. Bo Nix wasn't spectacular, but he avoided catastrophic mistakes and made a few big passes. Trailing by two, getting the offense in position for a 35-yard field-goal try as time expired should've been enough for the win. But this is the Chiefs we're talking about.</p><p>The coaching prowess and seemingly infectious knack for making big plays also extends to Dave Toub's special teams unit. An incredible surge off the left side saw the Chiefs break through for the game-winning block, keeping their undefeated run alive in thrilling fashion.</p><p>Squeaking by Denver marks Kansas City's seventh one-score victory this season. Leaning so heavily on tightly contested wins has typically been both unsustainable and a surefire sign of impending regression. But that's for all of the normal teams.</p><p>Is anyone really betting against the Chiefs finishing the perfect season? This team doesn't know anything other than winning. The Patriots vibes are real.</p><h3>Tomlin, too</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754643/cropped_GettyImages-2184038643.jpg?ts=1731273850" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754643/w220xh124_GettyImages-2184038643.jpg?ts=1731273850 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754643/w320xh180_GettyImages-2184038643.jpg?ts=1731273850 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754643/w640xh360_GettyImages-2184038643.jpg?ts=1731273850 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754643/w768xh432_GettyImages-2184038643.jpg?ts=1731273850 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754643/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2184038643.jpg?ts=1731273850 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Patrick Smith / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Speaking of teams that always find a way, how about those Steelers?</p><p>Sunday's game in Washington marked Pittsburgh's first real test with Russell Wilson at the helm. Sure, beating two bad New York clubs at home was fun, but it's not quite the same measuring stick as playing one of the league's hottest teams on the road.</p><p>To the surprise of no one who's ever watched a Mike Tomlin-coached team, the Steelers were up to the task.</p><p>Wilson's limitations showed up at various times throughout the day. The Commanders' consistent pressure highlighted his lack of pocket presence and improv skills at this point in his career. And we're long past a point where we should be expecting him to ever make use of the middle of the field.</p><p>But here's the thing: It doesn't much matter in Pittsburgh. It might be different in other situations, as was the case for the last two years in Denver. But as a team that understands its identity - running the ball and playing good defense - all the Steelers need from Russ is the one thing he still does best. And does he ever still throw a beautiful deep ball.</p><p>This is exactly why Mike Williams was the perfect addition at the trade deadline. He's not a complement to George Pickens in the traditional sense - they're both dominant ball-winners who can stretch the field on the boundary. But Williams torching the Commanders for the go-ahead 32-yard TD late in the fourth quarter offered a glimpse of the good things to come.</p><p>Tomlin has been proven right by turning to Wilson as his starter. More importantly, though, he knows exactly how to win with him: lean all the way into the things Russ does best. There's a reason Tomlin has never had a losing season in the NFL.</p><p>Now 7-2, Pittsburgh's floor seems to be an AFC wild-card spot. Next week's game against the Ravens will tell us a lot about the team's ceiling.</p><h3>Time for change</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754647/cropped_GettyImages-2184059233.jpg?ts=1731301339" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754647/w220xh124_GettyImages-2184059233.jpg?ts=1731301339 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754647/w320xh180_GettyImages-2184059233.jpg?ts=1731301339 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754647/w640xh360_GettyImages-2184059233.jpg?ts=1731301339 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754647/w768xh432_GettyImages-2184059233.jpg?ts=1731301339 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754647/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2184059233.jpg?ts=1731301339 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Reaves / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>There's nothing left to see in Chicago, folks.</p><p>Some teams don't like to fire coaches during the season - it's admittedly a pretty rough look. And if you want to be optimistic, the Bears are only one game below .500.</p><p>But that won't pass the smell test for anyone who's had the misfortune of watching this team. More importantly, delaying the inevitable won't do your young quarterback any favors.</p><p>The changes should, of course, start at offensive coordinator immediately. Shane Waldron has been a disaster hire, and things are only getting worse. Chicago has been the worst offense in football in the three games since a schedule-assisted win streak, and it's not even close.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754742/Screenshot_2024-11-10_at_10.11.05_PM.jpg?ts=1731294698" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754742/Screenshot_2024-11-10_at_10.11.05_PM.jpg?ts=1731294698 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754742/Screenshot_2024-11-10_at_10.11.05_PM.jpg?ts=1731294698 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754742/Screenshot_2024-11-10_at_10.11.05_PM.jpg?ts=1731294698 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754742/Screenshot_2024-11-10_at_10.11.05_PM.jpg?ts=1731294698 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754742/Screenshot_2024-11-10_at_10.11.05_PM.jpg?ts=1731294698 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Offensive EPA, Weeks 8-10 (via TruMedia) <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p>Caleb Williams hasn't thrown a touchdown since Oct. 13 in London. While the hope with any superstar prospect is that he shows the ability to elevate his surroundings, it's tough to feel like he has much of a chance in this rapidly deteriorating situation. The offensive line is a mess, and the scheme has shown no ability to mask those deficiencies.</p><p>Matt Eberflus will probably avoid getting shown the door until the end of the season, but what does that accomplish? Waldron was Eberflus' second offensive coordinator hire, and he's somehow been even worse than Luke Getsy. Eberflus will get credit for his defense, but that unit has given up 526 rushing yards over the last three games.</p><p>The issues clearly start at the top. A 19-3 home loss to a team like the Patriots offers a great opportunity to make a change and try to avoid a truly damaging experience for this roster's most important player.</p><p>Sitting back and watching a young team get worse every week isn't an option.</p><h3>Quick slants</h3><p><strong>Team of destiny</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754761/cropped_GettyImages-2184094072.jpg?ts=1731299574" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754761/w220xh124_GettyImages-2184094072.jpg?ts=1731299574 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754761/w320xh180_GettyImages-2184094072.jpg?ts=1731299574 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754761/w640xh360_GettyImages-2184094072.jpg?ts=1731299574 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754761/w768xh432_GettyImages-2184094072.jpg?ts=1731299574 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754761/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2184094072.jpg?ts=1731299574 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Alex Slitz / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Detroit was the team that could do no wrong for the last six games. Jared Goff threw 22 incompletions over that stretch, while the Lions put up 26 touchdowns. That's not the team we saw Sunday night against the Texans. With the run game bottled up and the offense almost exclusively in his hands, Goff's decision-making crumbled. His five interceptions were the most since Jameis Winston in 2019. Yet the Lions managed to stay in it and win anyway. That makes Goff just the third QB this century (Matt Ryan - 2012, Tony Romo - 2007) to win a game while throwing five picks. If that isn't enough for a fellow contender to put away this squad, it's tough to imagine many teams being able to hang with them in far less wacky games. The Lions are the team to beat in the NFC, and they're probably the Chiefs' biggest obstacle to a three-peat.</p><p><strong>It's so over</strong></p><p>The Jets were already cooked heading into this week, so it's not like we're breaking new ground here. But the result in Arizona leaves no doubt whatsoever. Faced with an opportunity to build off a big win over Houston and at least keep hope alive for a miraculous second half, New York put forth its most pathetic effort yet. The offense managed all of two field goals, while the defense was routinely picked apart en route to a 31-6 loss. The Jets are a bad football team with a 41-year-old quarterback who'll account for $49 million in dead money in 2025 with a release or retirement, according to Over The Cap. They'll get a few wins with a favorable schedule down the stretch, but at what cost? Any victory from here does little more than push them out of position to draft a new quarterback. That'd be an oddly fitting cherry on top of a wildly disappointing Aaron Rodgers era in New York.</p><p><strong>Cardinals deserve respect</strong></p><p>Diving into the sad state of the Jets is a necessity, but that's not to say their issues were the only story in Sunday's game. The Cardinals have quietly emerged as one of the most enjoyable teams in football. Kyler Murray looks more and more like his old self with every passing week, and his connection with Marvin Harrison Jr. is slowly becoming what we'd all hoped heading into the season. The defense, meanwhile, hasn't allowed a touchdown in three straight home games. That marks the first time the Cardinals have accomplished that feat <a href="https://x.com/CardsMarkD/status/1855764306241147199">since</a> 1926. This is a frisky team that nobody will want to meet in January. Give them another year to build the roster, and we could be looking at a nice window for contention.</p><p><strong>Baker did everything he could</strong></p><p>The Bucs ultimately came up short in their bid to shock the 49ers in Christian McCaffrey's return. But while a pedestrian stat line from Baker Mayfield won't turn heads, it should be noted that the box score doesn't do justice to his crunch-time efforts. The Bucs quarterback willed the offense down the field on a late game-tying field-goal drive, with the highlight being a truly heroic effort to hold off Nick Bosa on fourth down and deliver a strike to move the chains.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">BAKER &amp; RACHAAD KEEP IT ALIVE 🤯<br><br>📺: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SFvsTB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SFvsTB</a> on FOX <a href="https://t.co/9tQ4uwNm6s">pic.twitter.com/9tQ4uwNm6s</a></p>— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) <a href="https://twitter.com/Buccaneers/status/1855713182188183741?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 10, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>An injury-ravaged offense is bound to look better with Mike Evans' expected return after next week's bye, at which point Mayfield will start getting some love for his impressive level of play. But a 4-6 record means the Bucs may have to be perfect from here on out to give themselves a chance at the playoffs.</p><p><strong>We're done here</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754608/cropped_GettyImages-2183361380.jpg?ts=1731263250" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754608/w220xh124_GettyImages-2183361380.jpg?ts=1731263250 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754608/w320xh180_GettyImages-2183361380.jpg?ts=1731263250 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754608/w640xh360_GettyImages-2183361380.jpg?ts=1731263250 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754608/w768xh432_GettyImages-2183361380.jpg?ts=1731263250 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754608/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2183361380.jpg?ts=1731263250 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">DeFodi Images / DeFodi Images / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It's tough to watch Daniel Jones play football. That's nothing new for the majority of us. Don't be surprised if the Giants finally decide they've seen enough, too. Another frustrating day from Jones in Germany was ultimately the difference in an embarrassing loss to the Panthers. The Giants, now 2-8, have nothing to lose by seeing if Drew Lock can provide a spark under center. There's also no reason for them to risk an injury that could lock Jones in for another $23 million in guarantees, according to Over The Cap. The decision seems obvious, but we could probably say that about a lot of things the Giants have done wrong over the years.</p><p><strong>McCarthy's injury looms large</strong></p><p>Any MVP talk surrounding Sam Darnold was always a little excessive, but the early-season hype was well-warranted. The veteran quarterback had been playing better than anyone could've expected and was a key factor in Minnesota's 5-0 start. While the Vikings may still be headed for a playoff berth, the quarterback play has taken a turn for the worse. Darnold nearly gave away Sunday's game against the Jaguars, coughing up three interceptions to the NFL's worst defense by EPA/pass. His decision-making is becoming a real problem, but the preseason injury to rookie first-rounder J.J. McCarthy means the Vikings have no choice but to ride this out. Their ceiling will depend on how hot (or not) Darnold is in January. That's a dangerous game to play.</p><p><strong>tHe BeSt ChAnCe To WiN</strong></p><p>I hate to bring this up again (no I don't), but it needs to be said. The Colts explained the strange move to bench Anthony Richardson by going to an old Coach Speak staple: Joe Flacco gives them the best chance to win. Two weeks later, how's that working out for them? Flacco turned the ball over four times in Sunday's loss to the Bills, Indy's second straight defeat. For those keeping score at home, Richardson has never turned the ball over that many times in a game. The sophomore quarterback undoubtedly has a lot to clean up. Taking a seat after only 10 starts and watching from the sideline as a 39-year-old quarterback serves up turnovers probably won't help him do that. Play the kid.</p><p><strong>The fired-coach boost?</strong></p><p>It's real. It has to be. What other explanation could there possibly be for this version of the Saints beating a legitimately good Falcons team? (Ignore the fact that Younghoe Koo missed three field goals in the three-point loss.) We should all choose to believe that dumping your head coach, assuming said head coach wasn't well-liked in the locker room, inevitably results in an emotions-driven one-game uptick in performance. There are at least five teams in the league right now who could justify testing the theory for us. Take your pick.</p><h3>Stat of the week</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Per <a href="https://twitter.com/NextGenStats?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NextGenStats</a>, Russell Wilson ranks 6th in total EPA gained on throws of 20+ yards.<br><br>He has played 3 games.</p>— Robert Mays (@robertmays) <a href="https://twitter.com/robertmays/status/1855732714395128214?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 10, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Quote of the week</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Darren Rizzi said he clogged the toilet in the head coach’s locker room when he got to the stadium today and thought “this is going to be a crappy day.”</p>— Katherine Terrell (@Kat_Terrell) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kat_Terrell/status/1855724979209535728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 10, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28994984/related

Key takeaways and analysis from Week 10 in the NFL

<p><em>Sunday Rundown recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.</em></p><h3>MV3?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753361/cropped_GettyImages-2182079139.jpg?ts=1730675827" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753361/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182079139.jpg?ts=1730675827 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753361/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182079139.jpg?ts=1730675827 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753361/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182079139.jpg?ts=1730675827 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753361/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182079139.jpg?ts=1730675827 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753361/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182079139.jpg?ts=1730675827 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">AAron Ontiveroz / Denver Post / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The MVP race isn't much of a race at all as we pass the season's unofficial halfway mark.</p><p>A few candidates are making interesting cases, including some pleasant surprises, like Jared Goff and Jayden Daniels. But Lamar Jackson remains in a tier of his own. It's not every day you see a two-time MVP taking his game to another level and playing the best football of his career.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>This week's matchup against Denver's top-ranked defense by EPA/play had the appearance of an intriguing test heading into the game. But it took all of two quarters to confirm that it would simply be another day at the office for the Ravens' offense. Jackson was in complete control, throwing three touchdowns while completing 16 of 19 passes for 280 yards and a ridiculous 14.7 yards per attempt.</p><p>Lamar has been especially spectacular over the last five weeks, leading the league in passing yards and passing touchdowns during that span. He also tops all quarterbacks in EPA/dropback through nine games. The only comparable starts in league history are from some of the best QB seasons we've ever seen.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753412/Screenshot_2024-11-03_at_10.05.13_PM.jpg?ts=1730689563" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753412/Screenshot_2024-11-03_at_10.05.13_PM.jpg?ts=1730689563 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753412/Screenshot_2024-11-03_at_10.05.13_PM.jpg?ts=1730689563 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753412/Screenshot_2024-11-03_at_10.05.13_PM.jpg?ts=1730689563 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753412/Screenshot_2024-11-03_at_10.05.13_PM.jpg?ts=1730689563 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753412/Screenshot_2024-11-03_at_10.05.13_PM.jpg?ts=1730689563 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">via TruMedia <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p>There's still plenty of time, and we've seen MVP front-runners fall off before, but Jackson is well on his way to becoming only the seventh player in NFL history to win the award three times. Matching Tom Brady's career total by his age-27 season would be one heck of an achievement for a perennially under-appreciated player.</p><p>In many ways, Jackson's legacy as one of the best players of this generation is already locked in. The fact that he only keeps getting better bodes extremely well for his chances of getting over the hump in the playoffs sooner rather than later.</p><p>Could this finally be the year?</p><h3>As bleak as it gets</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753365/cropped_GettyImages-2182710173.jpg?ts=1730677115" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753365/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182710173.jpg?ts=1730677115 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753365/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182710173.jpg?ts=1730677115 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753365/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182710173.jpg?ts=1730677115 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753365/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182710173.jpg?ts=1730677115 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753365/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182710173.jpg?ts=1730677115 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Grant Halverson / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Do you find yourself down in the dumps about the state of your favorite team? Are you wondering how it could get any worse? Try being the Saints.</p><p>Sunday's result in Carolina made it seven straight losses after an exciting and ultimately misleading 2-0 start. Injuries have been a factor in this skid, but falling to this version of the Panthers in Derek Carr's return to the lineup is just about as bad as it gets. The worst part - there's no way out.</p><p>Some truly reckless salary-cap management dating back to the Sean Payton era has put this organization in an unfathomable position when it comes to roster building. New Orleans is already $61 million over the projected salary cap for next season, according to Over The Cap.</p><p>It's become something of a yearly tradition for the Saints. You'll hear people claim the salary cap isn't real, suggesting that teams move money around to get under the cap all the time. But long-term negligence eventually catches up to you, and that's what the Saints are experiencing right now.</p><p>Contractual obligations have been pushed to the future so regularly that cutting big-name players doesn't even create salary-cap space at this point. The only way for the Saints to get under the cap, which is a must before the start of every new league year, is to restructure contracts and push even more money to the future. That means doubling and tripling down on commitments to players you may not even want around.</p><p>It's going to take several years for this organization to clean up the mess it created for itself. So, while you can certainly call for personnel changes, like the seemingly inevitable firing of Dennis Allen, it's fair to wonder which top coaching candidate will sign up for this.</p><p>The Saints could be headed for a long spell in the basement.</p><p><em>Editor's note: The Saints reportedly <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3117627" href="https://thescore.com/news/3117627">fired</a> Dennis Allen on Monday.</em></p><h3>What did you expect?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753398/cropped_GettyImages-2181619181.jpg?ts=1730682609" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753398/w220xh124_GettyImages-2181619181.jpg?ts=1730682609 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753398/w320xh180_GettyImages-2181619181.jpg?ts=1730682609 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753398/w640xh360_GettyImages-2181619181.jpg?ts=1730682609 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753398/w768xh432_GettyImages-2181619181.jpg?ts=1730682609 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753398/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2181619181.jpg?ts=1730682609 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jack Gorman / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Colts made the curious decision to bench Anthony Richardson in favor of Joe Flacco heading into Sunday night's game against the Vikings.</p><p>I wrote about the move earlier in the week, laying out the apparently controversial <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3112912" href="https://thescore.com/news/3112912">case against turning to Flacco</a>. While I understand many were tired of watching Richardson complete less than 50% of his passes and eager to make a big deal about him tapping out for a play, the potential payoff wasn't worth sitting a player who needs reps to develop. That's exactly what we saw play out on national TV.</p><p>Is Flacco going to complete more passes? Sure. He put up a much improved and not at all similar 59.2% rate this week. He also chipped in an interception while leading Indy's offense to a pair of field goals. In total, the Colts posted a season-low negative-0.35 EPA/play on offense, according to <a href="https://x.com/minakimes/status/1853290154930123106">ESPN's Mina Kimes</a>.</p><p>None of this is meant to blast Flacco. He is what he is at this point in his career: an extremely fine QB who's ideally no more than your backup. And it's worth mentioning that the Vikings' defense presents a difficult matchup for any opponent.</p><p>Even if Richardson wasn't completing enough passes, his athleticism could have been useful on designed runs and as a means of dealing with Minnesota's pressure packages. Instead, we all have to pretend that Richardson will learn something watching from the sideline as a 39-year-old veteran plays mediocre football.</p><p>The Colts sit at 4-5 heading into a meeting with the Bills, further illustrating that there really isn't anything to be gained from playing a marginally better passer if it comes at the expense of the player who's supposed to represent your future. Realistically, this team isn't going anywhere this season. At best, Indy is probably looking at a one-and-done appearance in the wild-card round. Is maximizing that limited potential more important than seeing things through with a supremely talented 22-year-old quarterback?</p><p>Smart teams should be calling the Colts before Tuesday's trade deadline to see how genuine they are about their belief in Richardson. The handling of this situation calls that into question.</p><h3>Quick slants</h3><p><strong>Look how far they've come</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753388/cropped_GettyImages-2182102734.jpg?ts=1730681063" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753388/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182102734.jpg?ts=1730681063 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753388/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182102734.jpg?ts=1730681063 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753388/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182102734.jpg?ts=1730681063 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753388/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182102734.jpg?ts=1730681063 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753388/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182102734.jpg?ts=1730681063 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Kevin Sabitus / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Remember when Detroit rolling into Green Bay pretty much guaranteed a win for the home side? Times certainly have changed. Another outstanding effort by the Lions gave them their third straight road win in Green Bay, the first time they've accomplished that feat since 1988. Maybe it's a different game without the rain, or if a groin injury doesn't hobble Jordan Love. But don't be so sure. Detroit's offense isn't making mistakes right now. Jared Goff has thrown just 24 incompletions during the team's six-game win streak. The Lions' offense has 28 touchdowns over that stretch. This is the most complete team in football right now and should be everyone's favorite to come out of the NFC.</p><p><strong>Commanders keep getting better</strong></p><p>It may be hard to believe, but this Commanders team is absolutely for real. It's not just the offense, either. Washington's defense didn't get off to the best of starts this season, ranking a distant last place in EPA/play over the first three weeks, according to TruMedia. That same group is tied for seventh over the six weeks since. Dan Quinn may not have seemed like the most spectacular hire, but the results speak for themselves. The efficiency of this turnaround should provide hope for all the other sad-sack franchises in the game today. Making the right hire at head coach and hitting on your QB pick in the draft can be all you need to get rolling.</p><p><strong>More of the same</strong></p><p>Something had to give. Chicago's offense entered this week ranked 29th in pressures allowed, while Arizona's defense was 30th in defensive pressure rate. But anyone who's spent any time watching the Bears this season can probably guess how this one shook out. Even the favorable matchup in Arizona wasn't enough to get the protection plan sorted out, as Caleb Williams was again under constant duress.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Wow. <a href="https://twitter.com/NextGenStats?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NextGenStats</a> says *16* different Cardinals got a pressure against the Bears this Sunday. Most individual players to get a pressure for a defense since 2018.<br><br>Cardinals walked into the game with a 26.6% pressure rate and pressured Caleb on 46% of dropbacks</p>— Benjamin Solak (@BenjaminSolak) <a href="https://twitter.com/BenjaminSolak/status/1853235409989284086?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>As if you needed another reason to doubt the competence of this coaching staff, Williams remained in the game throughout the 29-9 loss and limped off the field after getting banged up on the final play. The Bears must make major changes to avoid wasting one of the league's brightest young talents.</p><p><strong>Herbert balling</strong></p><p>The Chargers leaning so heavily on the run game isn't going to get Justin Herbert as much recognition as he deserves, so we'll attempt to make up for it here. Finally afforded some stability with a new coaching staff, Herbert is unsurprisingly playing at an All-Pro level. There are multiple throws in every Chargers game, no matter what the final stats say, that offer a reminder of his standing among the NFL's best. Give the Chargers an offseason to add weapons around him, and the elite-level production will likely follow. At that point, there will be little argument against his case as one of the top-five quarterbacks in the game today.</p><p><strong>Rams building something</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753430/cropped_GettyImages-2182727152.jpg?ts=1730696786" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753430/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182727152.jpg?ts=1730696786 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753430/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182727152.jpg?ts=1730696786 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753430/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182727152.jpg?ts=1730696786 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753430/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182727152.jpg?ts=1730696786 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753430/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182727152.jpg?ts=1730696786 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Steph Chambers / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>You've already seen high praise for the Rams' drafting prowess in this space, but it's worth rehashing after this week. This was supposed to be a rough year for Los Angeles' defense. How could we expect anything different after an already thin group lost an all-time great? The rapid growth of this Rams defense, led by Defensive Rookie of the Year favorite Jared Verse, has been one of the best stories of this season. And Sunday's effort may be the unit's most impressive yet, as L.A. got to Geno Smith for seven sacks and three interceptions before coming up with a huge fourth-down stop in overtime. The defense's knack for making big plays will allow the Rams to compete if the offensive skill players stay healthy.</p><p><strong>Not quite ready</strong></p><p>A 5-3 start made the Broncos one of the NFL's most pleasant surprises over the season's first month. They may challenge for a playoff spot down the stretch, but this week's result suggests the hot start was at least a little bit inflated by a favorable schedule. The defensive magic ran out against Lamar Jackson and the Ravens, with Denver giving up points on seven straight drives from the middle of the first quarter on. And this isn't the kind of offense that'll stand much of a chance in a shootout. Sean Payton has the Broncos heading in the right direction, but it's going to take some time.</p><p><strong>Deadline shaping up nicely</strong></p><p>The argument for pushing back the NFL trade deadline has always been that a few extra weeks could help teams better understand how they stack up for the stretch run. There should be no uncertainty on that front this year. Through nine weeks, there are already 11 teams with at least six wins. On the other end of the spectrum, nine clubs have two victories. There's a real opportunity for the trade market to pick up in a big way before Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET.</p><p><strong>A surprise trade candidate?</strong></p><p>Recent trades involving the biggest names available at receiver have the potential to impact the excitement of deadline day. But can we be sure that the crystal-clear divide between contenders and pretenders won't lead to a surprise deal or two? It's a long shot, but what about Tyreek Hill? The Dolphins are pretty much cooked at 2-6, and their offense doesn't have the same juice as years past. Hill hasn't managed anything close to his typical impact, even when Tua Tagovailoa has been on the field. Could a Dolphins team that needs to reset the roster and the cap situation potentially be open to an offer while Hill's value is still in the neighborhood of a premium draft pick? He could be the one player the Chiefs are willing to go all-out to get.</p><h3>Stat of the week</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Most losses as starting QB thru:<br>4 seasons: David Carr 43<br>5 seasons: David Carr 53<br>6 seasons: David Carr 56<br>7 seasons: Derek Carr 63<br>8 seasons: Derek Carr 70<br>9 seasons: Derek Carr 79<br>10 seasons: Derek Carr 87<br>11 seasons: Derek Carr and Archie Manning 91</p>— Josh Dubow (@JoshDubowAP) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoshDubowAP/status/1853189055342948761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>

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Key takeaways and analysis from Week 9 in the NFL

It took 10 games for the Colts to decide they've seen enough of Anthony Richardson. At least for ...

<p>It took 10 games for the Colts to decide they've seen enough of Anthony Richardson. At least for now. </p><p>Indianapolis responded to the sophomore quarterback's latest stinker - a 10-for-32 showing in a narrow loss to the Texans - by announcing Joe Flacco is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3112869" href="https://thescore.com/news/3112869">taking over</a> as the starter "going forward." This probably isn't a brief reset, in other words.</p><p>On one hand, it's easy to see why the Colts felt the need to make a change. Richardson's completing a putrid 44.4% of his passes across six starts this season, the worst rate from a QB with 100-plus pass attempts since Josh Freeman in 2013. Jacoby Brissett holds the second-lowest mark in the league this season at 59.1%.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Indy's offense operated at a much more consistent level in Flacco's three appearances this year, with the 17-year veteran completing passes at a 65.7% clip while posting a 7-to-1 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Richardson's thrown only four touchdowns to seven picks in comparison.</p><p>That's the rationale. And clear as it may be, none of it justifies the move. Not when you're trying to build a sustained winner.</p><p>It's tough to imagine the ceiling for the 2024 Colts with a 39-year-old Flacco being any higher than abbreviated playoff appearance. If all of this leads to a Wild Card Weekend beatdown in Buffalo or Baltimore, what exactly is accomplished in the long view? Another playoff participation <a href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/news/779605">banner</a>?</p><p>The Colts should have understood better than anyone that Richardson would need time to realize his potential. Remember, we're talking about a QB prospect who made the jump to the NFL after only 13 starts in college. Unicorn-like physical skills were more than enough to make Indy overlook his lack of experience, but live reps were always going to be essential to help him work through accuracy, timing, and decision-making issues.</p><p>He can't be expected to do that watching from the sidelines, and Flacco stepping into the starting role means there likely won't be any first-team practice reps for Richardson, either.</p><p>The Colts will continue to say they believe in Richardson and that sending him to the bench doesn't mean they're giving up on him. Maybe that's true. But benching him after 10 games has the potential to sabotage his development.</p><p>If you're willing to look beyond the numbers and truly assess what we're seeing on Sundays, all the raw traits of a high-level quarterback are still readily apparent. Richardson's arm talent remains as good as it gets. His pocket management is miles better than most passers with such limited experience. He also has the athleticism to create outside of structure, an essential skill for top QB play in today's game.</p><p>Truth is, we're probably not even having this discussion if Richardson's receivers didn't let him down on several occasions against Houston when he was accurate with the ball. Instead, he pulled himself from the game for a quick breather - a quarterback faux pas he surely won't make again - and <em>that</em> ends up seeming like a factor in his benching.</p><p>If you can't get past the disappointing stats, fair enough. They're very bad! But it's worth remembering that there's another quarterback - in this very same mold, no less - who overcame an oddly similar start to become one of the best on the planet:</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752666/Screenshot_2024-10-30_at_4.58.52_PM.jpg?ts=1730321973" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752666/Screenshot_2024-10-30_at_4.58.52_PM.jpg?ts=1730321973 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752666/Screenshot_2024-10-30_at_4.58.52_PM.jpg?ts=1730321973 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752666/Screenshot_2024-10-30_at_4.58.52_PM.jpg?ts=1730321973 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752666/Screenshot_2024-10-30_at_4.58.52_PM.jpg?ts=1730321973 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752666/Screenshot_2024-10-30_at_4.58.52_PM.jpg?ts=1730321973 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p>(Stats source: <a href="https://www.trumedianetworks.com/">TruMedia</a>)</p><p>I'm not saying Richardson will ever be Josh Allen. The Bills star is the exception and not the rule when it comes to players going from early-career disaster to certified elite QB. Those are unfair expectations to put on anyone.</p><p>But Richardson's path to success was always going to look a lot like Allen's. While there are plenty of examples of young passers who clearly didn't have it from the jump, forcing their teams to pivot in short order, Richardson doesn't yet fall into that category. Not by a long shot.</p><p>Teams should be more willing to weather early struggles if a QB demonstrates the traits of a true difference-maker, unrefined as they may be. The long-term payoff is the reason you draft these players where you do.</p><p>We've seen that play out over the last five years with the Bills, who've become a perennial Super Bowl contender on the back of an elite quarterback. Meanwhile, the Colts seem intent on showing us how things could have turned out if Buffalo gave up when times weren't so great.</p><p>There's no use taking a home-run swing if you're not committed to seeing it through.</p>

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Why the Colts benching Richardson doesn't make any sense

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/dan-wilkins/content_cards