NFL power rankings, Week 16: Broncos fall, Titans surge
In our Week 16 NFL power rankings, the Tennessee Titans took a huge step forward with their win while the Denver Broncos are sliding horribly.
Dec 18, 2016; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Robert Griffin III (10) runs with the ball and is pursued by Buffalo Bills defensive end Leger Douzable (91) during the second half at New Era Field. Bills beat the Browns 33-13. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports
Cleveland Browns
0-14
Last week: L, 33-13, at BUFLast rank: 32nd
Next Week: The Browns have a home date with the San Diego Chargers, who are coming off a frustrating 19-16 home loss to the Oakland Raiders. The Bolts are just 3-14 in their last 17 road contests (2-5 this season) dating back to the final Sunday of the 2014 season.
Draft talk: Another afternoon where an opposing team ran the ball at will. There’s a few ways to prevent that from happening on a weekly basis: Either bolster the defensive front seven with some run-stoppers or upgrade your own offensive line and do unto others what the opposition has been doing to you. The Browns do have a pair of first-round picks in April at the moment.
Dec 18, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; San Francisco 49ers tight end Blake Bell (84) is injured as he is tackled by Atlanta Falcons free safety Ricardo Allen (37) and strong safety Keanu Neal (22) during the first half at the Georgia Dome. The Falcons defeated the 49ers 41-13. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
San Francisco 49ers
1-13
Last week: L, 41-13, at ATLLast rank: 31st
Next Week: San Francisco will try to avoid being swept on the road when they make the short trip to Los Angeles to visit the faltering Rams. Both teams have had horrendous seasons, with changes at quarterback preventing the offenses from finding any momentum. Expect this game to be borderline unwatchable.
Draft talk: Depending on if Chip Kelly remains the head coach through one season, the 49ers could look at which quarterback they could reach for and still come out on top. Mitch Trubisky projects to be the best option if he declares, while Deshaun Watson could best fit what Kelly likes to run. If San Francisco decides to go best player available, they could be looking at some Alabama stars such as Jonathan Allen or Reuben Foster.
Dec 18, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) walks off the field after not converting a fourth down during the fourth quarter against the Jacksonville Jaguars at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Jacksonville Jaguars
2-12
Last week: L, 21-20, at HOULast rank: 30th
Next Week: It’s a rematch with the much-improved Tennessee Titans, who are coming off a thrilling 19-17 win at Kansas City. Earlier this season at Nashville, the Jaguars were pummeled on a Thursday night, 36-22. These are two teams headed in opposite directions. But it’s worth noting that these rivals have split their season series seven consecutive years dating back to 2009.
Draft talk: You almost want to make this a discussion about what the team is going to do about their head-coaching situation following the dismissal of Bradley. Who know what direction this team is headed in when it comes to their sideline leader. But it’s suddenly a club that looks inept on offense and some line upgrades would help.
Dec 15, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Los Angeles Rams punter Johnny Hekker (6) reacts after throwing an incomplete pass on the fourth down against the Los Angeles Rams during a NFL football game at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Los Angeles Rams
4-10
Last week: L, 24-3, at SEALast rank: 29th
Next Week: Chip Kelly and the 49ers make the short trip to Inglewood for a game expected to be nearly unwatchable. Jared Goff has the opportunity to win his first NFL game against a 49ers defense that has allowed the most yards per game to opposing offenses. Will that alone be enough to push the Rams over the hump for their first win since an embarrassing 9-6 game against the Jets?
Draft talk: No first round pick means the Rams will be inactive for the early portion of this years NFL Draft. With little ammunition to make a move into the first round, Los Angeles will focus on drafting interior offensive linemen and cornerbacks in the later rounds.
Dec 18, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears running back Jordan Howard (24) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Green Bay Packers during the second half at Soldier Field. Green Bay defeats Chicago 30-27. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Chicago Bears
3-11
Last week: L, 30-27, vs. GBLast rank: 28th
Next Week: Chicago hosts the Redskins for the home finale at Soldier Field. Washington is making a playoff push late thanks to Kirk Cousins and the defense, presenting a tough match up for John Fox. With Fox most likely coaching in his last game at Soldier Field, you know the pressure to compete hard will be on.
Draft talk: Quarterback is the major question for Chicago, who needs to cut the cord with Jay Cutler sooner rather than later. This upcoming draft is not the best year to find a franchise quarterback, however the Bears can not wait. Unless they hire Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, and trade for Jimmy Garoppolo, Chicago needs to focus on finding their next quarterback come April.
Dec 17, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets head coach Todd Bowles coaches against the Miami Dolphins during the third quarter at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
New York Jets
4-10
Last week: L, 34-13, vs. MIALast rank: 27th
Next Week: It’s the second of their two meetings with the New England Patriots, who came up with a 22-17 victory in Week 12 at MetLife Stadium. The Jets have lost seven straight regular-season games at Foxborough dating back to 2009. But New York came away with a 28-21 upset win in the 2010 AFC Divisional Playoffs.
Draft talk: Once again, Todd Bowles’ defense gave up too many big plays – including long touchdown receptions to Dolphins wide receivers Kenny Still (52 yards) and Jarvis Landry (66 yards) on Saturday night. Some early help for the secondary would be a wise move. And an edge rusher for a team with only 15 sacks in their last 13 games this season would be a good addition to the wish list.
Dec 18, 2016; Baltimore, MD, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz (11) passes against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports
Philadelphia Eagles
5-9
Last week: L, 27-26, at BALLast rank: 24th
Next Week: Philadelphia returns home for the final two games of the regular season. With the playoffs out of reach, the Eagles will look to play spoiler when the Giants drive down I-95. New York knocked off the Eagles midway through the season, so the Eagles will be looking for revenge on Thursday Night Football.
Draft talk: Eagles general manager Howie Roseman did an excellent job last year moving from the 13th pick to number two for Carson Wentz. This year he’ll have the Minnesota Vikings pick to work with, and will focus on adjusting both the wide receiver and cornerback corp. Offensive line and linebacker depth will also be an area of focus this offseason for Roseman.
Dec 4, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) passes against the Seattle Seahawks during the first quarter at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
Carolina Panthers
5-8
Last week: Mon. night at WSHLast rank: 25th
Next Week: Coming off a short week, the Panthers host the Falcons for their final home game of the season. Atlanta scored six touchdowns against the Panthers, four of which were thrown by Matt Ryan. With questionable talent in the secondary, Ryan is due for a game as equally impressive as their last meeting.
Draft talk: Carolina needs to better protect Cam Newton, and who better than Cam Robinson? Other than finding some offensive linemen, the Panthers should find a replacement for Josh Norman. A more reliable running back can also be found in the late rounds for the Panthers.
Dec 18, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers running back Ronnie Hillman (36) is pursued by Oakland Raiders linebacker Malcolm Smith (53) during a NFL football game at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
San Diego Chargers
5-9
Last week: L, 19-16, at OAKLast rank: 22nd
Next Week: The disappointing Chargers head east to take on the winless Cleveland Browns, who lost to the Buffalo Bills by 20 points on Sunday at Orchard Park. McCoy’s squad is 2-5 on the road this year but those wins have come over a pair of first-place clubs in the Atlanta Falcons and Houston Texans.
Draft talk: We have mentioned it before in these pages but it may be time to address an early pick on the quarterback position. The Chargers could also use some help in the secondary, perhaps at safety, and are in need of some much-needed depth at wide receiver.
Dec 18, 2016; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton (14) looks to pass against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first half at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
Cincinnati Bengals
5-8-1
Last week: L, 24-20, vs. PITLast rank: 21st
Next Week: The Bengals need to get their holiday shopping done early as they travel to Houston for a Saturday night tilt at Houston on Christmas Eve. The Texans knocked off Lewis’ team on a Monday night at Cincinnati a year ago. The Bengals may also be facing Houston quarterback Tom Savage, who could make his first NFL start in this tilt.
Draft talk: Once the Ravens won on Sunday, Marvin Lewis’ club was mathematically eliminated from the playoffs. They will miss the postseason for the first time since 2010. As for looking ahead, that defensive front could use some more help in terms of run stopping and pressuring opposing quarterbacks.
Dec 18, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald (11) looks on after losing 41-48 to the New Orleans Saints at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Arizona Cardinals
5-8-1
Last week: L, 48-41, vs. NOLast rank: 20th
Next Week: Arizona travels north to Seattle on Christmas Eve for a date with the Seahawks. These two teams tied in their first meeting of the season, both failing to reach the endzone in the 6-6 series opener. With Seattle playing inconsistently on offense all year, Arizona has the opportunity to play spoiler, and push the Seahawks out of home field advantage contention.
Draft talk: Arizona will be looking to draft help on defense, either a pass rusher or cornerback help. Several members of the Cardinals front seven will be heading into free agency, and Patrick Peterson needs help on the other side of the field. Finding a young quarterback to be groomed behind Carson Palmer could be addressed in the later rounds. If Brad Kaaya, C.J. Bethard, or Josh Dobbs are available on either day two or three, the Cardinals could develop one of them to take over in 2018.
Dec 18, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) looks on during the fourth quarter against the Indianapolis Colts at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Colts defeated the Vikings 34-6. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Minnesota Vikings
7-7
Last week: L, 34-6, vs. INDLast rank: 19th
Next Week: The Vikings travel to Green Bay hoping for a Christmas Eve miracle with their playoff hopes on the line. Green Bay lost the series opener when Minnesota was on their undefeated streak to start the season, but this is an entirely different Vikings team. Both would love to have this game in hand to boost their season resume.
Draft talk: Minnesota will go into the NFL Draft in Philadelphia with no first round pick, thanks to the trade with the Eagles for Sam Bradford. With the long-term health of Teddy Bridgewater unknown, the Vikings may need to look past Sam Bradford at quarterback. For now, drafting help on the offensive line, secondary, and possibly finding the long-term replacement for Adrian Peterson become priority once April swings around.
Dec 18, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; New Orleans Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas (13) catches a touchdown against Arizona Cardinals cornerback Brandon Williams (13) in the fourth quarter at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Saints defeated the Cardinals 48-41. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
New Orleans Saints
6-8
Last week: W, 48-41, at AZLast rank: 26th
Next Week: New Orleans returns home for their final game in the Superdome when the Buccaneers travel to Louisiana. Drew Brees threw three touchdowns in the first half of the Saints game against Arizona, and will look to stay hot against a Buccaneers defense that has allowed far too many passing touchdowns this season.
Draft talk: Sean Payton may be out the door should a team offer a draft pick to the Saints, helping New Orleans continue to restructure their putrid defense. Finding depth in the secondary, interior defensive line, and linebacker will be needed. Finding a possible replacement to the aging Drew Brees is also an option in the later rounds.
Dec 18, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck (12) celebrates on his bench after leaving the game against the Minnesota Vikings in the fourth quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Colts won 34-6. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports
Indianapolis Colts
7-7
Last week: W, 34-6, at MINLast rank: 23rd
Next Week: The Colts head west to face the Oakland Raiders, who have secured a playoff appearance thanks to their 19-16 win over the San Diego Chargers. It may surprise some to know that the Colts have a winning record on the road this season (4-3) and face a Raiders’ club that’s lost on its own turf to both the Falcons and Chiefs earlier this year.
Playoff hopes: Hanging on by a thread and at the mercy of both the Houston Texans and Tennessee Titans, both at 8-6 and one game ahead of the Colts in the AFC South standings. Indianapolis swept the Titans this season but lost both of their encounters to Houston. It’s safe to say they’re going to need more than a little help.
Dec 18, 2016; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills running back LeSean McCoy (25) runs with the ball during the second half against the Cleveland Browns at New Era Field. Bills beat the Browns 33-13. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports
Buffalo Bills
7-7
Last week: W, 33-13, vs. CLELast rank: 18th
Next Week: The Bills host the Dolphins hoping to avenge a 28-25 loss at Miami in Week 7. That game saw second-year running back Jay Ajayi roll up 214 yards on the ground against the Buffalo defense. The Bills look to avoid their first season sweep at the flippers of the Dolphins since 2011.
Playoff hopes: They’re barely alive but Ryan’s team still has a pulse. We have learned to never say never in this league but there are numerous factors working against the Bills, in particular a 4-6 record within the conference this year.
Dec 18, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; New England Patriots outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy (53) forces a fumble against Denver Broncos wide receiver Jordan Norwood (11) in the fourth quarter at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Patriots won 16-3. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Denver Broncos
8-6
Last week: L, 16-3, vs. NELast rank: 13th
Next Week: The Broncos head to a place where they have won five straight games. Arrowhead Stadium has been very good to Denver as of late, although the real issue is the fact that Andy Reid’s Chiefs already have a 30-27 overtime win over Kubiak’s team and will be looking for the Kansas City’s first sweep of this club since 2002.
Playoff hopes: Although the reigning Super Bowl champions haven’t been eliminated from playoff contention and an opportunity to defend their Lombardi Trophy, it certainly isn’t looking good. What we do know is that the team’s five-year reign as AFC West champs has officially come to an end. At 8-6 and two games to play, even winning out may not be enough to secure a spot.
Dec 18, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans running back Lamar Miller (26) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Jacksonville Jaguars at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Houston Texans
8-6
Last week: W, 21-20, vs. JAXLast rank: 17th
Next Week: Never mind who they are playing. The big question this week will be who the Texans starting quarterback will be on Christmas Eve night vs. Cincinnati. Was Sunday’s miserable day the last straw for Brock Osweiler for a bit? Or will O’Brien reinsert him into the lineup against the Bengals?
Playoff hopes: The Texans just have to keep doing what they’re doing. Wins in the final two weeks over the visiting Bengals and at Nashville will give the franchise its fourth division title in six years. It’s been an erratic season for this club but they are still in prime position to return to the playoffs for a second straight year.
Dec 18, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) throws a pass in the fourth quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Dallas Cowboys won 26-20. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
8-6
Last week: L, 26-20, at DALLast rank: 9th
Next Week: Tampa Bay heads to New Orleans for their last game at the Superdome. Looking to stay in the division title race, the Buccaneers need to win their remaining two games to keep their record within the division competitive. Jameis Winston did not have his best performance two weeks ago against the Saints, but should have an opportunity to pick apart the worst defense in the NFL the second time around.
Playoff hopes: The race in the NFC South remains tight, and there is a chance two teams from the division fight their way into the playoffs. With Tampa Bay and Atlanta splitting their season series, anything is still possible with the final two games coming against division opponents.
Nov 24, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Washington Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins (8) throws the ball against the Dallas Cowboys during the second half at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Washington Redskins
7-5-1
Last week: Mon. night vs. CARLast rank: 14th
Next Week: After their Monday night game against Carolina, the Redskins travel to Chicago for a Christmas Eve game against the Bears. Chicago played tough against the Packers, and Matt Barkley has seen this Redskins team before from his time with the Eagles.
Playoff hopes: Washington needs to win out for a chance of securing one of the two remaining playoff spots in the NFC. If they can not clinch a wild card game, they will turn their focus to the offseason. Re-signing Kirk Cousins, making decisions at wide receiver, and adding some pass rushers through the draft will be on the list of things to do for Dan Snyder and his staff.
Dec 17, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Miami Dolphins tight end Dion Sims (80) celebrates his touchdown against the New York Jets during the third quarter at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Miami Dolphins
9-5
Last week: W, 34-13, at NYJLast rank: 16th
Next Week: After completing a sweep of the Jets for the first time since 2009, the Dolphins make their way to north to chilly Orchard Park. Led by running back Jay Ajayi and his 214 yards rushing in 28 carries (1 touchdown), Miami came away with a 28-25 victory back in Week 7. Miami can sweep the series for the first time since 2011.
Playoff hopes: We haven’t seen the Dolphins in the postseason since ’08. That’s when head coach Tony Sparano, quarterback Chad Pennington and company won the AFC East with an 11-5 record. And if they’re going to earn a postseason invitation it will have to be of the wild card variety after New England wrapped up the division on Sunday at Denver.
Dec 18, 2016; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens tight end Darren Waller (84) runs the ball against the Philadelphia Eagles at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports
Baltimore Ravens
8-6
Last week: W, 27-26, vs. PHILast rank: 12th
Next Week: The Ravens look to remain perfect against their AFC North rivals this season when they head to Heinz Field looking for their second straight season sweep of the Steelers. Including a wild card win in 2014, Baltimore has taken four straight from the Black and Gold – including their last two appearances at Heinz Field.
Playoff hopes: It’s pretty simple: The Ravens have to win next week to secure a sweep of the Steelers. A win by Pittsburgh gives Mike Tomlin’s club the division title. Baltimore would not be eliminated with a loss next week but will have to get some help, especially when it comes to someone knocking off the hot Miami Dolphins.
Green Bay Packers
8-6
Last week: W, 30-27, at CHILast rank: 11th
Next Week: Green Bay leaves the frigid tundra for the warmth inside U.S. Bank Stadium against the Vikings. A loss for either team could knock them out of the playoffs, placing major pressure on both sides to finish the season strong. Minnesota has been marred by injuries this year, while the Packers have fought through them with success.
Playoff hopes: Green Bay’s recent win streak has kept them in the playoff hunt down the stretch, but will it be enough? With the Packers taking game one against the Lions, the New Years day game in Detroit could be a win or go home scenario.
Dec 18, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Devonta Freeman (24) reacts with Tevin Coleman (26) and Patrick DiMarco (42) after scoring a touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers during the second half at the Georgia Dome. The Falcons defeated the 49ers 41-13. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Atlanta Falcons
9-5
Last week: W, 41-13, vs. SFLast rank: 10th
Next Week: The Falcons travel to Carolina for a Christmas Eve game against their Panthers, as Atlanta looks to reach double-digit wins, and have a record above .500, for the first time since 2012. Atlanta scored 48 points the last time they played the Panthers, and with their recent success on offense, I would not put it past Matt Ryan to have that type of success again.
Playoff hopes: After converting 550 yards of offense against the 49ers, the Falcons sit at first place in the NFC North. With the season-series tied between them and the Buccaneers, winning out is key for the Falcons with Carolina and New Orleans remaining on the docket to end the season.
Dec 18, 2016; Kansas City, MO, USA; Tennessee Titans kicker Ryan Succop (4) kicks the winning field goal during the second half against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. Tennessee won 19-17. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
Tennessee Titans
8-6
Last week: W, 19-17, at KCLast rank: 15th
Next Week: The team makes the somewhat short trip to Jacksonville to face a team that just fired its head coach. The2-12 Jaguars relieved Gus Bradley of his job following a 21-20 loss at Houston in which his team squandered a 13-0 second-quarter lead. The Titans rolled the Jaguars, 36-22, on a Sunday night at Nashville earlier this year.
Playoff hopes: What an amazing turnaround. The Titans haven’t been to the postseason since winning the AFC South in 2008. They remained tied with the Houston Texans at the top of the division and have now won three more games than they did from 2014-15 (5). That Week 17 showdown at home with Houston could easily be for the title.
Dec 18, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants running back Rashad Jennings (23) carries the ball as Detroit Lions middle linebacker Tahir Whitehead (59) tackles during second half at MetLife Stadium. The Giants won 17-6. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports
Detroit Lions
9-5
Last week: L, 17-6, at NYGLast rank: 5th
Next Week: The Lions continue their road trip, with a trip to Dallas next up on the schedule. With a primetime atmosphere in Jerry World for Monday Night Football, the Lions will have a major test that could determine their playoff fate. Detroit has allowed the second fewest rushing touchdowns in the NFL this year, presenting a unique challenge for rookie Ezekiel Elliott.
Playoff hopes: Detroit remains atop the NFC North thanks to their prolonged winning streak, but the Vikings and Packers are still within striking distance. A New Years Day showdown with the Packers could ultimately be for the NFC North division title.
Dec 15, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks defensive end Frank Clark (55), defensive end Cliff Avril (56) and defensive end Cassius Marsh (91) celebrate after a sack against the Los Angeles Rams during a NFL football game at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Seattle Seahawks
9-4-1
Last week: W, 24-3, vs. LALast rank: 8th
Next Week: Seattle looks to stay undefeated at home this season with the Cardinals arriving on Christmas Eve. Arizona will be looking to play spoiler with running back David Johnson carrying the load for Carson Palmer. The veteran quarterback looks to be towards the end of his career, which could signal a change this offseason.
Playoff hopes: Seattle needs to clinch homefield advantage heading into the playoffs. With the Giants already one step ahead of them, winning out is key for the Seahawks as they prepare for another playoff chase. Establishing a consistent running game through the motley of injuries is also crucial for a team that has started three different backs this season.
Dec 18, 2016; Kansas City, MO, USA; Tennessee Titans cornerback LeShaun Sims (36) intercepts a pass intended for Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Jeremy Maclin (19) during the second half at Arrowhead Stadium. The Titans won 19-17. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
Kansas City Chiefs
10-4
Last week: L, 19-17, vs. TENLast rank: 3rd
Next Week: It’s another Sunday evening encounter with the Denver Broncos. Only this time it will be Christmas night and the game at Arrowhead Stadium. Back in Week 12 in the Mile High City, Kansas City mounted a late TD drive to send the game into overtime and Andy Reid’s team came away with the 30-27 win. But it’s worth noting that the Broncos have won their last five games at Kansas City.
Playoff hopes: The latest picture has the Chiefs one game out of first place in the AFC West behind the Oakland Raiders, who have already wrapped up a playoff berth this year. Reid’s team is close to a third postseason berth in four years but aren’t quite there yet.
Dec 18, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants running back Paul Perkins (28) carries the ball against the Detroit Lions during second half at MetLife Stadium. The Giants won 17-6. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports
New York Giants
10-4
Last week: W, 17-6, vs. DETLast rank: 6th
Next Week: The Giants have a short week with the Eagles on Thursday Night Football. With the Eagles looking to play spoiler, the Giants need to play smart when they enter hostile territory on the road. Odell Beckham Jr. should have a monster game considering the Eagles cornerbacks are among the weakest in the league, and are susceptible to big plays.
Playoff hopes: New York is looking to snag a wild card spot, and develop into the perennial playoff threat they’re known for being. With the opportunity to win the majority of their division games, the Giants must pull off the season sweep of Philadelphia.
Pittsburgh Steelers
9-5
Last week: W, 24-20, at CINLast rank: 7th
Next Week: It’s the first of two home games to close the season for Mike Tomlin’s team as they welcome the Baltimore Ravens on Christmas afternoon. John Harbaugh’s club remains one game behind the Steelers in the AFC North. Dating back to the team’s playoff encounter in 2014, the Ravens have prevailed in the last four meetings.
Playoff hopes: A Pittsburgh victory would give Tomlin and company their second division title in three years. But the Steelers have already fallen to the Ravens once this year (21-14 at Baltimore) and if they don’t secure the AFC North they’re far from a lock to get to the playoffs.
Dec 18, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders linebacker Malcolm Smith (53) celebrates with linebacker Daren Bates (56) and defensive tackle Darius Latham (75) after a fumble recovery in the fourth quarter against the San Diego Chargers during a NFL football game at Qualcomm Stadium. The Raiders defeated the Chargers 19-16. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Oakland Raiders
11-3
Last week: W, 19-16, at OAKLast rank: 4th
Next Week: The Raiders host quarterback Andrew Luck and the feisty Indianapolis Colts, who come off a 34-6 drubbing of the Vikings at Minnesota. Del Rio’s team is 5-2 at home this season and Murray and the team’s ground attack will test Chuck Pagano’s defensive unit early and often.
Playoff hopes: As previously mentioned, the Silver and Black is back in the postseason for ’02. There’s still work to be done in terms of securing the AFC West, something else the Raiders haven’t done in 14 years. The Chiefs’ upset loss to the Tennessee Titans opened the door for Del Rio and company.
uDec 18, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) after the game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field. The Patriots won 16-3. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
New England Patriots
12-2
Last week: W, 16-3, at DENLast rank: 2nd
Next Week: Back in Week 12 at MetLife Stadium, New England rallied for a 22-17 win over the rival New York Jets. Now the Pats look to complete the season sweep for the second time in three years. The Green and White, owners of a 4-10 mark, has lost seven straight regular-season games at Foxborough.
Playoff hopes: With both the AFC East and a first-round playoff bye secured, the Patriots now have their sight sets on the best record in the conference. Winners of at least 12 games for the seventh consecutive season, New England has a shot of being the AFC’s top seed for the first time since 2014 and the fourth times in seven years.
Dec 18, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott (21) runs the ball against Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Brent Grimes (24) in the fourth quarter at AT&T Stadium. Dallas Cowboys won 26-20. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Dallas Cowboys
12-2
Last week: W, 26-20, vs. TBLast rank: 1st
Next Week: Dallas hosts the Lions for Monday Night Football, where they have an opportunity to secure their spot atop the NFC playoff picture. Detroit has only allowed six rushing touchdowns this season, creating a unique challenge for rookie Ezekiel Elliott. Dallas needs to find answers for reaching the injured Matthew Stafford, but being among the worst pass rushing teams in the league could also be an issue the Cowboys need to gameplan for.
Playoff hopes: Dallas will have homefield advantage once the playoffs roll around, and having the bye week could ultimately be a good thing for Dak Prescott. Giving the rookie a week to correct all of his mistakes heading into the biggest game of his life can only spell good things for the Cowboys.
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