NFL 2024 Week 14 Recap

 Hello readers! Another week of National Football League action has come to an end. The week that was week 14 provided us some interesting storylines. Such storylines like: a back-and-forth affair in Detroit, a near scare in Philadelphia, a low-scoring affair in Tennessee, a reunion in Minnesota, a shootout in Los Angeles and a scorigami in Miami. All those games and more in this week's recap post!

NFL Week 14 Freaky Stat

The Steelers win against the Browns at home is their 21st straight win. It certainly reminds Browns fans of their winless streak against the Steelers in Three Rivers Stadium during the 1970s and 1980s. Seattle is 10-1-1 against the Cardinals in State Farm Stadium since 2013. 

NFL Week 14 Recap

Green Bay 31, Detroit 34

Pick: Packers

A close game and the Lions clinch a playoff berth. Jordan Love hit 12 of 20 passes for 206 yards with a touchdown pass to Tucker Kraft. A quiet game for him somewhat. A person who didn't have a quiet game was Josh Jacobs with 18 carries for 66 yards with three touchdown runs from 1, 6 and 4 yard runs. He had a run that went for 19 yards that was the longest run for the Packers. Christian Watson had four catches for 114 yards and had a catch for a 59-yard gain in the game. It was a closer result for the Packers than their last meeting with the Lions. Suffice to say I think the big thing was not getting a touchdown on their last drive was what doomed them. Having Detroit having to go downfield to score a touchdown would've made it a bit of a challenge for the Lions. Suffice to say, the Packers wouldn't get it done. For the Packers, they had 298 total yards in the game and drop to 9-4 on the season. 

Jared Goff had 32 of 41 passes completed for 283 yards with three touchdowns and one interception. A pretty solid day for him. David Montgomery had 14 carries for 51 yards with a touchdown run that started things for the Lions. Jahmyr Gibbs had 15 carries for 43 yards and had a 20-yard run that was the longest in the game. Jameson Williams had five catches for 80 yards and had a catch that went for a 28-yard gain that was the longest pass play for the Lions. Tim Patrick caught two and Jahmyr Gibbs had one of the three touchdowns that Jared Goff threw for scores. It was a similar gameplan for the Lions in this game, get the running game going, get to the quarterback, have Jared Goff play game manager while taking risks. One such risk was going for it on 4th down on a risky 4th down and one play on a snap that was botched but Jared Goff nevertheless flipped it to David Montgomery for a 7-yard gain. There was controversy on the play regarding whether or not Jared Goff knee was down meaning the play was dead.  Two plays later, the Lions would kick a 35-yard field goal to win it. For the Lions, they improve to 12-1 and clinch a playoff berth in consecutive seasons since 1993 to 1995 while gaining 391 total yards in the game.

Next week:

Green Bay: @ Seattle
Detroit: vs Buffalo

TW: 0-1

Carolina 16, Philadelphia 22

Pick: Eagles

The Eagles survive against the Panthers. Bryce Young hit 19 of 34 passes for 191 yards with a touchdown and an interception. The touchdown went to Tommy Tremble on a 3-yard score. The interception happened in the 2nd drive of the 2nd quarter. Chuba Hubbard had a solid game again with 26 carries for 92 yards with a touchdown run on a 1-yard run up the middle but would have a point after attempt missed. He had a run of 15 yards that was the longest in the game for a run play for Carolina. Adam Thielen had a solid game with nine catches for 102 yards. The longest pass play was a Xavier Legette catch for a 31-yard gain. He had a pass that might've been the go-ahead touchdown but he dropped it sadly. Have to make it when the game is on the line. For another week, the Panthers would play their butts off in a strong effort but sadly no win. The Panthers had 302 total yards but drop to 3-10 on the season as their playoff hopes fade to near 0%. 

Jalen Hurts had 14 of 21 passes for 108 yards with two touchdown passes to Devonta Smith and Grant Calcaterra for scores. It would be another 100-yard day for Saquon Barkley as he had 20 carries for 124 yards. Jalen Hurts was also effective as a runner as he ran for a touchdown on a 1-yard play. He had a run of 35 yards that was the longest play in the game. AJ Brown had four catches for 43 yards in the game. Devonta Smith had a catch for a 27-yard gain in the game that was the longest pass play for the Eagles. A bit of a scare for the Eagles but nonetheless it meant more of taking care of business as they hold onto their NFC East lead this season. It likely gives them a wider cushion as Washington is on a bye this week. For the Eagles, they had 292 total yards in the game and move up to 11-2 on the season. 

Next week:

Carolina: vs Dallas
Philadelphia: vs Pittsburgh

TW: 1-1

Atlanta 21, Minnesota 42

Pick: Vikings

Minnesota overwhelms Kirk Cousins in his return to the Twin Cities. Kirk Cousins hit 23 of 37 passes for 344 yards with two interceptions in the 1st and 4th quarters. The run game would do the scoring in this one. Bijan Robinson had 22 carries for 92 yards with a touchdown. Tyler Allgeier had nine carries for 63 yards in the game with a touchdown. Younghoe Koo had two field goals in the game. Tyler Allgeier had a 25-yard run that was the longest run in the game. Darnell Mooney caught six catches for 142 yards with a 49-yard gain for a catch in the game that was the longest pass play for the Falcons in this one. The Falcons in this one would get overmatched with their defense and turning it over with the two interceptions but also a fumble in the Falcons first drive in the 4th quarter. Something that the Falcons didn't need in this one. For the Falcons, they had 496 total yards in the game but they drop to 6-6 and drop out of 1st place in the NFC South with a Buccaneers win against the Raiders. 

Sam Darnold was on fire in this game as he had 22 of 28 passes for 347 yards with five touchdowns. Of the five touchdowns, Jordan Addison had three and Justin Jefferson had two. One of the Justin Jefferson touchdowns happened on a play where he had waved his hand for most of the play before getting the ball on a 52-yard play. Aaron Jones got involved in the scoring fest with a touchdown run while finishing the game with 13 carries for 73 yards. The longest run in the game was a Cam Akers run for a 25-yard gain while compiling 37 yards on five carries. Minnesota had two 100-yard receiving days with Jordan Addison getting eight catches for 133 yards and Justin Jefferson had seven catches for 132 yards in the game. The offense was just on fire in the game and their defense would put the hurt on Kirk Cousins during the game. Before and after the game it was nothing but love for the former Vikings quarterback. For the Vikings, they had 433 total yards in the game with a 11-2 record. 

Next week:

Atlanta: @ Las Vegas (Monday night)
Minnesota: vs Chicago (Monday night)

TW: 2-1

Cleveland 14, Pittsburgh 27

Pick: Steelers

Pittsburgh overwhelms Cleveland in a revenge game in sunny bright Pittsburgh. Jameis Winston had 24 of 41 passes for 212 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions. Jerry Jeudy and David Njoku were the players that caught the passes from Winston. The interceptions happened in the 1st and 4th quarters. Nick Chubb had 11 carries for 48 yards in the game with a 19-yard run being the longest run in the game. Winston and Jerome Ford had 28 yards rushing in the game. Jerry Jeudy had five catches for 64 yards in the game with a 35-yard gain being the longest play for the Browns. It would be a sunny day in the Steel City compared to the snowy white out game in Cleveland a few weeks ago. Along with the turnovers, the Browns had two field goals that missed the middle of the uprights. Not quite on Winston. For the Browns, they had 300 total yards but drop to 3-10 on the season. 

Russell Wilson had 15 of 26 passes completed for 158 yards with two touchdowns to Pat Friermuth and Van Jefferson. Najee Harris had 16 carries for 53 yards with a touchdown run on a 1-yard run up the middle and had a 20-yard run that was the longest run in the game. The leading receiver was Pat Friermuth who caught three passes for 48 yards in the game. The longest pass play for the Steelers was a Mike Williams catch for a 22-yard gain. Scott Miller and Pat Friermuth had catches for 21-yard gains in the game. Pittsburgh would have some struggle in the game with the loss of George Pickens to injury but would keep on going as Scott Miller would step up in a 2nd receiver role. For the Steelers, they had 267 total yards in the game but improve to 10-3 on the season. 

Next week:

Cleveland: vs Kansas City

Pittsburgh: @ Philadelphia

TW: 3-1

Jacksonville 10, Tennessee 6

Pick: Jaguars

Ugly game but the Jaguars get a win against the Titans. Mac Jones hit 23 of 31 passes for 220 yards with two interceptions in the 1st and 2nd quarters. The quarterback would calm down a bit after the 1st half. Tank Bigsby had 18 carries for 55 yards with the lone touchdown for the Jaguars on a 8-yard run to the left with 6:51 left in the game. Travis Etienne had four carries for 20 yards in the game. Brian Thomas Jr. was the leading receiver with eight catches for 86 yards in the game. His catch for a 31-yard gain was the longest play for the Jaguars in this game. It was a quiet game for the Jaguars and while the turnovers did hurt their chances to win their defense would hold their own against a Titans team that is pretty much in the same boat as them. For the Jaguars, they had 290 total yards in the game and improve to 3-10 on the season. 

Will Levis had 19 of 32 passes for 168 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions in the game. He had a run for a 3-yard gain. Tony Pollard had 21 carries for 102 yards in the game with a 21-yard run that was the longest run in the game for the Titans. Calvin Ridley had seven catches for 59 yards in the game with a 30-yard run that was the longest play for the Titans in the game. Titans kicker Nick Folk had two field goals in the game with a 46 and a 39 yard kick that was good for the Titans. Jacksonville would score 10 unanswered points in the game after the 39-yard field goal. It was a quiet game for the Titans as they really struggled to get points in this one. A rarity as the Jaguars defense was not the greatest in the NFL. For the Titans, they had 272 total yards in the game while dropping to 3-10 on the season. 

Next week:

Jacksonville: vs NY Jets
Tennessee: vs Cincinnati

TW: 4-1

Las Vegas 13, Tampa Bay 28

Pick: Buccaneers

Buccaneers pick up big win against the lowly Raiders. Aidan O'Connell had 11 of 19 passes completed for 104 yards with an interception. He didn't finish the game as he left in an air cast with a left knee injury designation. Desmond Ridder would provide the Raiders some offense with 12 of 18 passes for 101 yards. At least they didn't lose their spirit after the O'Connell injury. Sincere McCormick had 15 carries for 78 yards with a 29-yard run that was the longest run play for the Raiders. Aidan O'Connell the runner had a touchdown on a 1-yard run. Michael Mayer had seven catches for 68 yards in the game with a catch for a 29-yard gain that was the longest pass play in the game for the Raiders. The quarterback carousel continues for the Raiders as instability at the position continues. For the Raiders, they had 286 total yards in the game but drop to 2-11 on the season. 

Baker Mayfield had 18 of 29 passes completed for 295 yards with three touchdowns and two interceptions. Jalen McMillan had two and Rachaad White had one of the three touchdowns thrown by Baker Mayfield for touchdowns. A bit of a concern with the turnovers but if it was any other team it migh've been a bit more troublesome. Rachaad White had 17 carries for 90 yards with a touchdown. Sean Tucker had three carries for 47 yards with a 34-yard run that was the longest run in the game. Cade Otton had three catches for 70 yards in the game. He had a catch for a 44-yard gain that was the longest pass play for the Buccaneers. The win moves the Buccaneers past the Falcons in the wild NFC South's coveted 1st place. For the Buccaneers, they had 420 total yards in the game while improving to 7-6. 

Next week:

Las Vegas: vs Atlanta
Tampa Bay: @ LA Chargers

TW: 5-1

New Orleans 14, NY Giants 11

Pick: Giants

New Orleans staves off the Giants in East Rutherford. Derek Carr had 20 of 31 passes for 219 yards with a touchdown and an interception. The touchdown went to Juwan Johnson. Alvin Kamara had 1 carries for 44 yards in the game with a 16-yard run that was the longest run in the game. Kendre Miller had 10 carries for 32 yards in the game with a touchdown that got the Saints on the board with 1:27 left in the 1st quarter. Marquez Valdes-Scantling with four catches for 51 yards in the game. The longest pass play was a catch by Foster Moreau for a 32-yard gain. A game that was kind of like their season with not a lot of points but it was enough for them to get a win. For the Saints, they had 292 total yards in the game and improve to 5-8 on the season. 

Drew Lock had 21 of 49 passes for 227 yards with an interception in the 2nd drive in the 4th quarter that might've costed them more had they not missed the field goal. Drew Lock was the leading rusher with five carries for 59 yards in the game. He had the longest run in the game on a 25-yard run. Tyrone Tracy Jr. had 16 carries for 45 yards with a touchdown run that was the lone touchdown for the G-men in the game. Malik Nabers had five catches for 79 yards in the game. He had a catch that went for a 23-yard gain in the game. Graham Gano had a chance to notch the game at 14-14 but he would miss the attempt from 35 yards as it was blocked. It was one opportunity but the Giants had another as Drew Lock had a pass intercepted on the drive previous. For the Giants, they had 325 total yards in the game and drop to 2-11 on the season. 

Next week:

New Orleans: vs Washington
NY Giants: vs Baltimore

TW: 6-2

NY Jets 26, Miami 32 (F/OT)

Pick: Dolphins

A Tua Tagovailoa to Jonnu Smith connection proves to be the winner for the Dolphins. Aaron Rodgers had 27 of 39 passes for 339 yards with a touchdown pass to Davante Adams. Shocking I know. Braelon Allen had 11 carries for 43 yards. The longest run was a Isiah Davis run for a 17-yard run with 10 carries for 40 yards with a touchdown. Garrett Wilson had seven catches for 114 yards with a catch for a 42-yard gain that was the longest pass play for the Jets. Davante Adams had nine catches for 109 yards in the game with a catch for a 34-yard gain. Penalties would hurt the Jets, much like their season has, as they were hit with 10 infractions for 83 yards. For the Jets, they had 402 total yards in the game and drop to 3-10 on the season and are eliminated from the playoffs. 

Tua Tagovailoa had 33 of 47 passes for 331 yards with two touchdowns. Tyreek Hill caught one and Jonnu Smith caught the other for the game-winning score. De'Von Achane had 14 carries for 24 yards with a touchdown run as well. He had a run that was the longest run for the Dolphins on a 7-yard run. Tyreek Hill was the leading receiver for the Dolphins with 10 catches for 115 yards and had the longest pass play on a catch that went for a 21-yard gain. Jaylen Waddle waddled his way with nine catches for 99 yards in the game. It was a game where both teams would struggle on 3rd down with the Jets having 4 of 12 conversions while the Dolphins going 1 of 9 on 3rd down. It was rough one. Suffice to say, the Dolphins would get a big win to creep up in the AFC wild card race while needing help the rest of the way to get in. For the Dolphins, they had 375 total yards and improve to 6-7 on the season.

Next week:

NY Jets: @ Jacksonville
Miami: @ Houston

TW: 7-2

Seattle 30, Arizona 18

Pick: Seahawks

Seattle takes care of business against rival Arizona. Geno Smith hit 24 of 30 passes for 233 yards with a touchdown pass to Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Zach Charbonnet would have a stellar day with 22 carries for 134 yards rushing with two touchdowns and had seven catches for 59 yards to a total of 37 fantasy points. His 51 yard run was the longest play for the Seahawks in the game. Jaxon Smith-Njigba was the leading receiver for the Seahawks with five catches for 82 yards and had a catch that went for a 24-yard gain to be the longest pass play for the Seahawks. Seattle would jump out early with 17 points in the 1st quarter. It might've been more but it seems that the gas was let off a bit and let the defense take care of business. For the Seahawks, they improve to 8-5 with 409 total yards and ride a 4-game winning streak with sole possession of 1st place in the NFC West. 

Kyler Murray would have a challenging day with 25 of 38 passes for 259 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions. The touchdowns went to Michael Wilson and James Conner in the game. James Conner would contribute 18 carries for 90 yards in the run game and had a 23-yard run that was the longest run for the Cardinals in the game. Trey McBride had seven catches for 70 yards in the game to be the leading receiver for the Cardinals. Michael Wilson had the longest pass play as he caught a pass that went for a 41-yard gain for the touchdown. Seattle would pressure Murray fairly often but not a lot of sacks as they would get to the quarterback two times for 24 yards. Turnovers would be the thing that would doom the Cardinals in this one, much like their previous matchup. For the Cardinals, they had 356 total yards but drop to 6-7 and have a 3-game losing streak. 

Next week:

Seattle: vs Green Bay (Sunday night)
Arizona: vs New England

TW: 8-2

Buffalo 42, LA Rams 44

Pick: Bills

A big day for Josh Allen but a loss sadly. Josh Allen had 22 of 37 passes completed for 342 yards with three touchdowns and had 82 rushing yards with three touchdowns. He had a run of 30 yards that was the longest in the game for the Bills. For those of you who had him for fantasy football, he had 57 points. James Cook had six carries for 20 yards in the game. The Bills that caught the passes from Allen were Khalil Shakir, Mack Hollins and Ty Johnson. Khalil Shakir had five catches for 106 yards in the game with a catch for a 51-yard gain to be the longest pass play in the game. The Bills really played ball with the Rams. The sad thing is that the Bills had just Josh Allen and the Rams to deal with in reality. It would be a game that defense would not come at a premium as the Bills defense allowed 44 points in a game. For the Bills, they had 445 total yards in the game and drop to 10-3 on the season. 

Matthew Stafford had 23 of 30 passes completed for 320 yards with two touchdowns to Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp. Kyren Williams would have a good day running the ball as he had 29 carries for 87 yards and two touchdowns. He had a run for a 12-yard gain that was the longest run in the game. Puka Nacua had a run for a touchdown on a designed sweep play to the left. Puka Nacua had 12 catches for 162 yards. The longest play in the game was a Cooper Kupp catch that went for a 37-yard gain The Rams had a blocked punt that was recovered by Hunter Long for a touchdown. The game played well for the Rams as the blocked punt might've been the key play as without it it might've been a different score in this game. The game sort of felt like a Madden contest kind of. For the Rams, they had 457 total yards in the game and improve to 7-6 on the season. 

Next week:

Buffalo: @ Detroit
LA Rams: @ San Francisco (Thursday night)

TW: 8-3

Chicago 13, San Francisco 38

Pick: 49ers

The 49ers overwhelm the Bears at home. Caleb Williams had 17 of 23 passes for 134 yards with two touchdowns. The touchdowns went to Rome Odunze on 4 and 14 yard plays. Dandre Swift had 14 carries for 38 yards. Caleb Williams would run a fair bit with four carries for 27 yards with a 10-yard run being the longest run for the Bears. DJ Moore had six catches for 49 yards in the game to be the leading receiver for the Bears. Rome Odunze had the longest pass play with a catch that went for a 17-yard gain. The game was a rough one for the Bears as their offense had more punts (5) than offensive yardage in a half (4). Sadly the Bears would get better in the game but by the time they scored their first touchdown, it was much too late. For the Bears, they had 162 total yards in the game and drop to 4-9 on the season. 

Brock Purdy hit 20 of 25 passes for 325 yards in the game with two touchdowns. Brandon Allen would come in relief and throw an interception in the game. It would happen late in the game. Isaac Guerendo had 15 carries for 78 yards with two touchdowns and had a 30-yard run that was the longest in the game. Juaun Jennings was the player that caught the passes from Purdy for scores of 7 and 16 yard plays. Patrick Taylor had seven carries for 25 yards with a touchdown on a 3-yard run. George Kittle had a game with six catches for 151 yards. The longest pass play for the 49ers was a catch by Juaun Jennings for a 39-yard gain. It would be a game where the 49ers would score early and often with 24 points in the 1st half. Something that they would falter in past games as they would not hold onto leads. For the 49ers, they had 452 total yards in the game and improve to 6-7 on the season with a big game on Thursday. 

Next week:

Chicago: @ Minnesota
San Francisco: vs LA Rams (Thursday night)

TW: 9-3

LA Chargers 17, Kansas City 19

Pick: Chiefs

Matthew Wright field goal and the Chiefs are champions of the AFC West for the 9th straight year. Justin Herbert hit 21 of 30 passes for 213 yards with a touchdown to Quentin Johnston. Gus Edwards had 10 carries for 36 yards with a touchdown run. Tylor Heinicke had a run of 12 yards that was the longest run for the Chargers in the game. Who knew he was a running back as he was more of a quarterback. Joshau Palmer had six catches for 78 yards in the game and had a catch that went for a 38-yard gain. The Chargers defense would put the hurt a bit on Patrick Mahomes as they would sack him three times and hit him 12 times. The offense would only put up 17 points but would almost win the game barring a few first downs for the Chiefs and a Matthew Wright doink that sadly went through. For the Chargers, they drop to 8-5 on the season with 288 total yards in the game. 

Patrick Mahomes hit 24 of 37 passes for 210 yards with a touchdown. The touchdown went to DeAndre Hopkins for a 9-yard score. Isiah Pacheco had 14 carries for 55 yards in the game. Mahomes had a 10-yard run that was the longest run for the Chiefs in the game. Travis Kelce had five catches for 45 yards to be the leading receiver for the Chiefs. The longest pass play was a JuJu Smith-Schuster catch for a 26 yard gain. It was another game where the Chiefs offense would be quiet as the defense would hold down the fort while their offense had three sacks and a dozen hits. Matthew Wright would hit a field goal but it would take a doink for it to go through and the Chiefs to win the AFC West for the 9th straight season. The Broncos in 2015 were the last team to win the division that wasn't the Chiefs. For the Chiefs, they finish with 298 total yards and a 12-1 record with a two-game cushion in the top spot for the AFC. 

Next week:

LA Chargers: vs Tampa Bay
Kansas City: @ Cleveland

TW: 10-3

Cincinnati 27, Dallas 20

Pick: Bengals

Bengals win it in a last minute crazy sort of way. Joe Burrow hit 33 of 44 passes for 369 yards with three touchdowns and an interception. Ja'Marr Chase had two and Chase Brown had one of the touchdowns that were thrown by Burrow for scores. It would be the 2nd Chase touchdown that gave the Bengals the lead with about a minute left in the game. Chase Brown had 14 carries for 58 yards. The longest run in the game was a Ja'Marr Chase designed run in a sweep that went for a 14-yard gain. It was also Chase that was the leading receiver with 14 catches for 177 yards and had the longest play in the game with a 40-yard gain that was the longest in the game that was also the touchdown. The go-ahead touchdown was a result of a rushed punt that was recovered by Cincinnati after Dallas had muffed the punt. The win was without its faults as the Bengals pass protection and penalties hurt them when it came down to it. For the Bengals, they had 433 total yards in the game and improve to 5-8 on the season. 

Cooper Rush had 16 of 31 passes for 183 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. The passing touchdowns went to CeeDee Lamb and Brandin Cooks with the Lamb touchdown being the first one. Rico Dowdle had 18 carries for 131 yards with a 27-yard run that was the longest run in the game. CeeDee Lamb was the leading receiver for the Cowboys with six catches for 93 yards and had a 43 yard gain with a catch. The Cowboys loss will likely mean that they won't make it to the playoffs if the cards play it right. They certainly played well enough to get to where they were in this game. Right up until the close of the game they had a chance to get a win had they held the ball. For the Cowboys, they had 322 total yards in the game and drop to 5-8 on the season. 

Next week:

Cincinnati: @ Tennessee
Dallas: @ Carolina

TW: 11-3

Records

2024:
Week 1: 14-2
Week 2: 10-6

Week 3: 10-6

Week 4: 10-6
Week 5: 3-11

Week 6: 13-1

Week 7: 13-2

Week 8: 9-7

Week 9: 12-3

Week 10: 10-4

Week 11: 11-3

Week 12: 7-6

Week 13: 14-2

Week 14: 11-3

Total: 147-62

2012: 164-90-2

2013: 162-92-1

2014: 172-83-1

2017: 164-92

2018: 156-98-2
2019: 161-94-1

2020: 167-88-1 

2021: 173-98-1
2022: 166-103-2
2023: 161-111

See you all on Wednesday/Thursday for the Week 14 Picks post! Enjoy your week!

-Tom

NFL 2024 Week 14 Picks

 Hello readers! Another week of National Football League action is coming upon us yet again. The week that was Week 13 brought us time for family, friends, food and football on Thanksgiving and then the leftovers on Friday and Sunday. As we get into the month of December, it is the last full month of football of regular season play and teams make an attempt to make a run to the playoffs. In this post I will do a playoff picture for Week 14, a preview of the week's action, my picks for the games and the Early and Late TV Broadcast pairings that FOX and CBS will put on the Sunday afternoon games.

NFL Playoff Picture: Week 14

Week 14 brings forth with at least five more weeks of regular season play, including this week. Some teams have punched their tickets for more football while some have been eliminated from playing past Week 18. Let's take a look at the AFC.

Seeding

1st seed: Kansas City Chiefs (11-1) (clinched playoff berth)

2nd seed: Buffalo Bills (10-2) (clinched AFC East)

3rd seed: Pittsburgh Steelers (9-3)

4th seed: Houston Texans (8-5)

5th seed: Los Angeles Chargers (8-4)

6th seed: Baltimore Ravens (8-5)

7th seed: Denver Broncos (8-5)

Super Wild Card Weekend Matchups

Denver @ Buffalo

Baltimore @ Pittsburgh

LA Chargers @ Houston

In the Hunt

Indianapolis (6-7), Miami (5-7), Cincinnati (4-8), Cleveland (3-9), NY Jets (3-9), Tennessee (3-9)

Better Luck Next Year

New England (3-10), Jacksonville (2-10), Las Vegas (2-10)

The AFC is a bit more sound in terms of positioning. The Ravens are ahead of the Broncos based on head-to-head record. Cleveland and Tennessee are ahead of New York based on conference record. The Browns and Titans have a 3-4 record in the AFC while New York has a 3-5 record. Cleveland is ahead of Tennessee based on strength of victory. Let's look at the NFC. 

Seeding

1st seed: Detroit Lions (11-1)

2nd seed: Philadelphia Eagles (10-2)

3rd seed: Seattle Seahawks (7-5)

4th seed: Atlanta Falcons (6-6)

5th seed: Minnesota Vikings (10-2)

6th seed: Green Bay Packers (9-3)

7th seed: Washington Commanders (8-5)

Super Wild Card Weekend Matchups

Washington @ Philadelphia

Green Bay @ Seattle

Minnesota @ Atlanta

In the Hunt

Tampa Bay (6-6), Arizona (6-6), LA Rams (6-6), San Francisco (5-7), Dallas (5-7), New Orleans (4-8), Chicago (4-8), Carolina (3-9)

Better Luck Next Year

NY Giants (2-10)

The first three seeds won't change teams in the near future likely as their opposing division rivals have at least a worse head-to-head record. Tampa Bay is behind Atlanta based on head-to-head record. Barring a major collapse the five through seven seeds won't change at all likely. 

Week 14 Preview

The Fourteenth week of the National Football League's regular season will start at Detroit, Michigan and finish up in Arlington, Texas. Week 14 features a 13-game slate where 26 teams will play. Teams on a bye this week are the Baltimore Ravens, Denver Broncos, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, New England Patriots and Washington Commanders. There will be three interconference games, six division games, four NFC games this week. Week 14 features a Thursday night game, seven early games, three late games, a Sunday night game and a Monday night game. Doubleheader this week goes to FOX and CBS will have the single, regional game. Let's get to the picks! 

Week 14 Picks

Note: All game times are in US Eastern.

Green Bay (9-3) @ Detroit (11-1) (Amazon; 8:15 pm)

Pick: Packers

The Packers beat the Dolphins and the Lions beat the Bears last week. Green Bay really showed themselves off to the country in beating a relatively good team in Miami. Granted in talent not on record for the Dolphins. The pickup of Josh Jacobs has been a nice thing for the Pack as they add another weapon on an offense that is very solid. Jordan Love has been a bit of an enigma for this season of hope for the Packers as he has 20 touchdowns but also 11 interceptions. The last time they played the Lions, they abused the Packers in the rain soaked Lambeau Field and kind of embarrassed them. They need to play smarter and beat them at their own game. What I mean by that is sustain drives and when it comes to 4th down situations, take advantage of them. Keep the Lions off the field. 

Detroit did get a win against Chicago last week. The offense would do a majority of its scoring in the 1st half and then just played hold off the opposition until the final whistle. It would take a sack and Matt Eberflus time management fail for the Lions to win last week. Detroit hasn't been looking that great these past few weeks and it feels evident in that they don't keep moving the ball down the field and let the opposition attempt to make a mistake but don't for some reason. It's not a formula for success. The Lions should be able to win this game but they cannot let themselves fall back to their old ways and shoot themselves in the foot. I'll take a risk and take the Packers. 

All-time series: Packers lead 106-77-7

Carolina (3-9) @ Philadelphia (10-2) (FOX; 1:00 pm)

Pick: Eagles

The Panthers lost to the Buccaneers and the Eagles beat the Ravens last week. Carolina has had a trying season. No question about that. The offense really did well against the Buccaneers and the defense did its part. They just sadly lost by not making a few more plays to win at overtime. In this game, I think the Panthers will struggle. The defense will need to step up and stop the run of not just Saquon Barkley but also Jalen Hurts. The offense needs to do well as their opposition is also a top ranked defense. Essentially it is a "good luck, you'll need it" sort of game for Carolina. 

The Eagles look like a really great team. The offense is just great at the run with Saquon Barkley. The running back is having a great year after being a Giant for the first part of his career. He found a new home as he proceeds to get yard after yard and make defensive tackles look silly. The pass offense is just as good as they have a plethora of pass catchers that can get yards. The defense is good as well. They seemed to have figured themselves out after the brutal loss to the Buccaneers. Since the bye week, they have won eight straight games. Maybe the game can be a decent one for the Panthers to cause a fuss for the Eagles, but I think they will win. 

All-time series: Eagles lead 8-5

Atlanta (6-6) @ Minnesota (10-2) (FOX; 1:00 pm)

Pick: Vikings

The Falcons lost to the Chargers and the Vikings beat the Cardinals last week. Kirk Cousins comes back to Minnesota. A bit surprising this game isn't a bigger game and not an early game. Suffice to say, the game might be more important if the Falcons didn't crap the bed. The Falcons last week really had a rough one with Kirk Cousins throwing four interceptions. In this game, Kirk needs to stop the bleeding and stop turning it over. It'll be a tall task for the Falcons defense to go after Sam Darnold as most teams haven't figured it out. I feel the Falcons will need to play their best ball in order to win and that doesn't seem like a good time for the Falcons.

Minnesota has been playing really well. It should be noted that the Vikings might struggle with JJ McCarthy and Sam Darnold under center. Then again the rest of the team really stepped up and made Darnold look like Randall Cunningham or something. The Vikings really play team offense as they have a group that can hurt you. Justin Jefferson has 1,000 receiving yards for the fifth consecutive season. The defense is the group that has been the most improved under the tutelage of Brian Flores. Flores is an underrated defensive coordinator. It seems a bit of a tough call to choose the Falcons as their team is very suspect. I'll go with the Vikings.

All-time series: Vikings lead 21-12

Cleveland (3-9) @ Pittsburgh (9-3) (CBS; 1:00 pm)

Pick: Steelers

The Browns lost to the Broncos and the Steelers beat the Bengals last week. Cleveland has been a bit of a revitalized team with Jameis Winston. He has lifted this team offensively with big passing yards numbers and touchdowns but also has been a bit of a gunslinger with the interceptions as well. The matchup against the Steelers a few weeks ago was in a snowstorm but he still had a solid game. The running game got going as well. I just think that in terms of playing in Acrisure Stadium (I prefer Heinz Field btw) the Steelers will defend their home turf and make the Browns pay for every yard.

Pittsburgh has had a successful season with Russell Wilson at quarterback. It seems crazy that the Broncos are paying him to not be on their team. Pittsburgh got going once they dropped Justin Fields to the bench and Wilson to the forefront. Russell Wilson against Cleveland a few weeks ago had a solid game as he did throw a touchdown pass and almost threw for 300 yards. I don't know how much the weather will affect the game but I would assume it won't snow. I have to think that the Steelers won't let the Browns sweep them in a successful season. At least not in front of their fans. I think the Steelers will win it by a touchdown by Wilson to Pickens.

All-time series: Steelers lead 81-64-1

Jacksonville (2-10) @ Tennessee (3-9) (CBS; 1:00 pm)

Pick: Jaguars

The Jaguars lost to the Texans and the Titans lost to the Commanders last week. Jacksonville suffered a rough one against Houston. They lost Trevor Lawrence to an injury yet again. Unfair as it is to lose Trevor Lawrence like that, the suspension of Azeez Al-Shaair was certainly justifiable. Mac Jones in his absence actually did well. A surprise to many that has been following him since 2022. Mac just needs to do better with his decision making as he does have a decent group to work with. Maybe he just needs a bit more reps. He will need to be better as the Titans are a pretty formidable defense.

Tennessee suffered a pretty disheartening defeat against Washington. The defense kind of got exposed a bit but the Commanders are a pretty good team. At least you have to give them that. The superb defensive rankings kind overshadow how poor the offense is. Will Levis has been playing better in recent weeks so maybe there might be a bit of a turning point. The defense will need to be on their toes as the Jaguars do have a decent running attack. The key for them is to go after Mac Jones early and often. For some odd reason I do like the Jaguars to play a bit of a spoiler against Tennessee. I don't have much to lose as both teams aren't really going anywhere.

All-time series: Titans lead 35-24

Las Vegas (2-10) @ Tampa Bay (6-6) (CBS; 1:00 pm)

Pick: Buccaneers

The Raiders lost to the Chiefs and the Buccaneers beat the Panthers last week. Las Vegas in the midst of a terrible season. The quarterback situation hasn't been the most ideal for sure. The only quarterback that has done halfway decent is Aidan O'Connell but he has been a bit of an injury bug. Gardner Minshew has been lost to the Raiders this season with a shoulder injury. O'Connell seems like the person that should take the starter spot. The Raiders run game has been the real culprit this season. That and the Raiders defense outside of Maxx Crosby is kind of not great. I just think the Raiders are just playing out to finish the season. I don't honestly see them beating the Buccaneers.

Tampa has been an average team. The record of 6-6 pretty much tells the tale for sure. They almost had a 5-7 record against the Panthers had Chuba Hubbard not fumble the ball on their first drive in overtime. In other words, they survived a scare. The Raiders aren't a great team but they can still play the spoiler. Not necessarily a great thing for a team that is trying to get the NFC South division crown. They cannot play down to their competition for the 2nd straight week. Baker Mayfield is a better quarterback than that. I honestly think the Buccaneers should win this game but the Raiders playing spoiler can't be ruled out.

All-time series: Raiders lead 7-4

New Orleans (4-8) @ NY Giants (2-10) (FOX; 1:00 pm)

Pick: Giants

The Saints lost to the Rams and the Giants lost to the Cowboys last week. New Orleans suffered a bit of a rough loss against the Rams. The offense did okay in the first part of the game but the offense went lax the rest of the way. Enough for the Rams to proceed to score three touchdowns in the 4th quarter. The offense which had been so good in the early part of the season has drifted back to being inept and lifeless. The Derek Carr to Marques Valdez-Scantling connection has done its part and did well. The Saints will really need to play better against a sad Giants team.

The Giants last week against the Cowboys nearly won as they lost 27-20 on Thanksgiving. A bit of a sour sort of game as the game really felt like a Cowboys romping. Drew Lock started for the Giants and did well as a runner but not quite as good as a passer. New York has Tyrone Tracy Jr. as a running back which isn't a bad option and Malik Nabers has been a stud for a wide receiver for them in an offense that has lacked prowess. The defense will be the key for the matchup as the defense has been doing its part and will need to keep this game in reach for their offense. I'll go with another upset as the Giants win against the Saints.

All-time series: Giants lead 17-15

NY Jets (3-9) @ Miami (5-7) (CBS; 1:00 pm)

Pick: Dolphins

The Jets lost to the Seahawks and the Dolphins lost to the Packers last week. New York once again as won a 9th straight losing season as they haven't won more games than losing them since 2015. A streak that is the longest currently. The Jets have done everything to better their team. Whether it is firing a head coach, firing an offensive coordinator, getting a wide receiver for their quarterback to throw to. I think the thing is this: Aaron Rodgers is somewhat washed up. At this point, the least they can do is try to win games and play spoiler to the Dolphins that are trying to get into the playoffs. The matchup itself doesn't seem like a great one but the Jets do have somewhat of a better situation at quarterback I guess than Zach Wilson.

Miami suffered a setback last week against Green Bay. The defense couldn't do a whole lot against the Packers as they rampaged over the Dolphins. The offense kept it sort of close but the Dolphins were really outclassed in the game. It sort of proved that they aren't quite as good as they think they are. The game this week against the Jets should be a game where they should win. The defense might have some trouble as their running game is a fairly decent one. The passing game is eh not as great. Miami just needs to sustain drives and make their defense bend. If they can do that they should be able to win. Feed De'Von Achane the ball and they should be able to win.

All-time series: Dolphins lead 60-56-1

Seattle (7-5) @ Arizona (6-6) (CBS; 4:05 pm)

Pick: Seahawks

The Seahawks beat the Jets and the Cardinals lost to the Vikings last week. The last time these two teams met it was a defensive struggle but the Seahawks won it with a defensive showing that is arguably their best performance of the season. Remember, the defense was a pitiful sort when Mike MacDonald is a defensive minded head coach. In the rematch contest, I don't know how well these two teams will do. In a different environment might spell doom or happiness for the Seahawks. All I know is that the offense of Seattle isn't too shabby but Geno Smith has had an off year with just 13 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.

Arizona was having a solid season with a 6-4 record but two losses to these Seahawks and the Vikings has been a bit of a rough thing to see. They haven't won a game in nearly a month (winning against the Jets 31-6). Maybe having the Cardinals play at home might get them back to form a bit. James Conner has been a decent back for the Cardinals and Marvin Harrison Jr. has been a star slowly in the making. Only Trey McBride has more receptions and receiving yards than Harrison. Kyler Murray didn't play well against the Seahawks in Week 12 as he had an interception that went for a pick-six. The offense only scored six points in the loss but only gave up 16. I think the offense needs to get back to playing better and keep the foot on the gas as they did sort of let the Vikings come back and win it last week. I'll take the Seahawks.

All-time series: Seahawks lead 28-22-1

Buffalo (10-2) @ LA Rams (6-6) (FOX; 4:25 pm)

Pick: Bills

The Bills beat the 49ers and the Rams beat the Saints last week. The marquee game on FOX this week is Buffalo against the Rams of Los Angeles. Buffalo comes into this game with a lock on the AFC East for the fifth straight year. After many years of Patriots dominance, it seems that if you win that division, you'll likely hold onto it for a while. The Bills in this matchup won't be playing in the snow as it is in sunny southern California. This game feels like a bit of a risk as the Rams do have an offense that can keep Josh Allen on the sideline. I think the Bills run offense should find some good in the run defense of the Rams as they allow 144.2 yards/game. I think its a matchup that the Bills will win but maybe the Rams can keep it close.

The Rams come into this game with a big win against the Saints. They were shut out for the first time since 2016. Something that never happens in the Sean McVay era with the Rams. They wouldn't score a touchdown until the middle of the 3rd quarter. By the end of the game they would score two more and win 21-14 against the Saints. The offense needs to score more sooner than the 3rd quarter. Otherwise it'll be a long day for them. Beating the Bills is no small feat but it is possible to do. The Rams need to pressure Josh Allen all day and force him to beat you and to try to slow down the Bills running game. Buffalo is a running team and the Rams should try to match that firepower. I think Buffalo will win it by a late touchdown.

All-time series: Bills lead 9-5

Chicago (4-8) @ San Francisco (5-7) (FOX; 4:25 pm)

Pick: 49ers

The Bears lost to the Lions and the 49ers lost to the Bills last week. Chicago has been a disappointment, that's for sure this season. The offense, that was touted as being one of the better ones in the league, has suffered. Enough so for head coach Matt Eberflus to be fired the day after one of the worst moments of clock management this season. In his stead is Thomas Brown, the man who took over as offensive coordinator a month ago, is now also the interim head coach. The vibe from him is that he is in general a popular fellow among the individuals of the organization. Time for the Bears to go up against the defending conference champions. Chicago has the pieces to do things on offense and a defense that can do well enough to keep them in games, they just don't have the right coaching I think to utilize them. I am not saying that Thomas Brown is the next answer to help the Bears problems, but that he is their best shot to get back on track.

San Francisco has been suffering a rough defense of a conference title this season. The hangover is real it seems. Christian McCaffrey is lost for the season again after participating in a few games this season. The loss is kind of a big one but Jordan Mason sort of became a solid running back for the 49ers. The injuries have been a recurring theme for the 49ers not just this season but in past seasons. They have so many injuries one year and then when they don't they make it to a Super Bowl and face off against Patrick Mahomes. You know the rest of the story. San Francisco in this contest should be able to find some advantages in the running and passing game. At this point the 49ers have no choice but to try and make a run this season and hope for the best. I don't know if the window for a Super Bowl win is closing but it is starting to inch closer and closer to reality. I don't know how well the Bears can respond to a new head coach but I think the 49ers will take this one.

All-time series: 49ers lead 35-33-1

LA Chargers (8-4) @ Kansas City (11-1) (NBC; 8:20 pm)

Pick: Chiefs

The Chargers beat the Falcons and the Chiefs beat the Raiders last week. Los Angeles has been having a solid season with Jim Harbaugh captaining the ship. Turnarounds have been this guy's moniker as he is leading the Chargers on a cusp of a playoff berth. Standing in their way of that is a Chiefs team that has been playing with luck for most of the season. The last time these teams played was a close 17-10 loss. The Chargers wouldn't get a lot of offense going as the Chiefs defense would put forth a limiting effort on them. Justin Herbert had 179 passing yards. It will have to be a better effort for the Chargers in this game. They cannot possibly let this game any closer. Luck will find the Chiefs likely.

The Chiefs this season are kind of a weird team. They have a 11-1 record but with records, it can be a bit deceiving. Some of their lucky moments was a blocked field goal against Denver, a field goal against Carolina in a win, and a botched snap against Las Vegas last week. As well as a touchdown that was ruled out of bounds as the Ravens had a player not have both feet in the endzone. The Chiefs are likely going to again have some luck on their side as they play against a division rival again. Until the Chargers prove to me otherwise, I think the Chargers will still play 2nd fiddle to the Chiefs in the division. I'll take the Chiefs.

All-time series: Chiefs lead 70-58-1

Cincinnati (4-8) @ Dallas (5-7) (ABC; 8:15 pm)

Pick: Bengals

The Bengals lost to the Steelers and the Cowboys beat the Giants last week. Cincinnati has been a team of great and terrible all in the same team. Great offense and a terrible defense. Not a recipe for success. I did see a good stat that Joe Burrow has 30 touchdowns and five interceptions. He is the only quarterback in NFL history whose team has a losing record, all other quarterbacks with those similar numbers have a winning record. That's how bad their defense is. Sadly they face against a Dallas team that is starting to turn a corner a little bit with Cooper Rush at quarterback. The Bengals offense might be facing off against a decent defense and might face some trouble.

The Cowboys have been turning a bit of a corner. After the rough loss to the Texans on Monday night, the Cowboys have won two straight games. The offense has been playing well and the defense has done its part in stopping teams and getting turnovers. The team win against New York was evident of that. Cooper Rush has been a decent story in the absence of Dak Prescott. In terms of the matchup of Cowboys offense vs Bengals defense, the Cowboys offense seems to be a bit of a mismatch it seems. The defense of Cincy's is really bad. Not great on the pass defense as much as their run defense. I don't really want to see the Cowboys any longer past Week 18. I hope that their season ends at this point and they miss the playoffs again. Can't lose to Green Bay in the playoffs if you're not in them. I'll go with Cincinnati.

All-time series: Cowboys lead 10-4

Early & Late Game TV Broadcast Pairings

Note: Games in bold are being shown in my area, check local listings

CBS Single

NY Jets @ Miami

Kevin Harlan, Trent Green

Cleveland @ Pittsburgh

Jim Nantz, Tony Romo

Las Vegas @ Tampa Bay

Spero Dedes, Adam Archuleta

Jacksonville @ Tennessee

Andrew Catalon, Tiki Barber, Jason McCourty

Seattle @ Arizona (Late)

Ian Eagle, Charles Davis

FOX Early

New Orleans @ NY Giants

Kevin Kugler, Daryl Johnston

Carolina @ Philadelphia

Adam Amin, Mark Sanchez

Atlanta @ Minnesota

Joe Davis, Greg Olson

FOX Late

Buffalo @ LA Rams

Kevin Burkardt, Tom Brady

Chicago @ San Francisco

Kenny Albert, Jonathan Vilma

For more information on which game is being shown in your area check out: NFL 2024 Week 14 Maps

Records

2024:
Week 1: 14-2
Week 2: 10-6

Week 3: 10-6

Week 4: 10-6
Week 5: 3-11

Week 6: 13-1

Week 7: 13-2

Week 8: 9-7

Week 9: 12-3

Week 10: 10-4

Week 11: 11-3

Week 12: 7-6

Week 13: 14-2

Total: 136-59

2012: 164-90-2

2013: 162-92-1

2014: 172-83-1

2017: 164-92

2018: 156-98-2
2019: 161-94-1

2020: 167-88-1 

2021: 173-98-1
2022: 166-103-2
2023: 161-111

See you all after the Monday night game for the Week 14 Recap! Enjoy the games!

-Tom