NFL 2024 Week 18 Recap

Hello readers! Another week of National Football League action has come to an end. The regular season brought some interesting storylines. Such storylines like an upset in Pittsburgh, a possible final game in East Rutherford, a last second victory in Dallas, an upset in New England and a season finale to behold in Detroit. The final week might mark the final time players wear cleats and pads, while others will continue their careers into the next season. Of the 32 teams that began the season at 0-0, 14 of them will move onto the playoffs while 18 of them will spend the long months assessing their team and prepare for the following season. In this post, I will do a recap of the games. Let's get to work!

NFL Week 18 Freaky Stat
Bailey Zappe will be the 40th starting quarterback for the Browns since returning to the NFL in 1999. The Green Bay Packers had just eight different starting quarterbacks in that time.

NFL Week 18 Recap

Cleveland 10, Baltimore 35
Pick: Ravens
The Ravens win and lock up the AFC North. Bailey Zappe hit 16 of 31 passes for 170 yards with a touchdown pass and two interceptions. One of the interceptions being a pick-six. Zappe, who had played in New England last season, made his season debut in this game. He would see the bench as Dorian Thompson-Robinson made some play time and hit 2 of 3 passes for 13 yards. Donta Foreman had 10 carries for 27 yards in the game. Jacob Kibodi had the longest run in the game of 17 yards while adding five carries and 24 rushing yards in the game. Jerry Jeudy had six catches for 63 yards in the game and had a catch that went for a 30-yard gain in the game. Jordan Akins had the touchdown pass from Zappe. It would be the only offensive score in the game. Cleveland never really had an opportunity to get a lead but they kept it close in the 2nd half to the point where it was a 14-3 lead at halftime. By the time the game ended it would be a 21-7 run for the Ravens. For the Browns, they finish their crummy season with a 3-14 record with 230 yards of offense.

Lamar Jackson hit 16 of 32 passes for 217 yards with two touchdowns and had nine carries for 63 yards. Rashod Bateman and Mark Andrews were the Ravens that caught the passes from Jackson for touchdowns. Derrick Henry would do Derrick Henry things as he had 20 carries for 138 yards for two touchdowns. He would have a carry of 43 yards that was the longest run play for the Ravens. Rashod Bateman was the leading receiver with five catches for 76 yards in the game. Mark Andrews would have a catch that went for a 30-yard gain that was the longest pass play for the Ravens. The offense would shine in this game but the defense would get things started as Nate Wiggins, a rookie out of Clemson, intercepted a Zappe pass for a touchdown that would get the Ravens their first touchdown. The game for Baltimore was pretty much to cause mayhem for the Browns and let Derrick Henry loose and they did just that. It was also Derrick Henry's birthday on Saturday. Michael Pierce, a 355-pound lineman, would intercept a pass as well but wouldn't go the distance. He probably could've if he wanted to. For the Ravens, they clinch the AFC North with a 12-5 record with 437 total yards.

Next week:

Cleveland: visit the Rock and Roll museum probably
Baltimore: vs Pittsburgh

TW: 1-0

Cincinnati 19, Pittsburgh 17
Pick: Steelers 

Cincinnati holds off the Steelers late. Joe Burrow hit 37 of 46 passes for 277 yards with a touchdown and an interception. Ja'Marr Chase was the Bengal that caught the pass from Burrow. Khalil Herbert carried 20 times for 69 yards. He would have a run of eight yards that was the longest run in the game. Ja'Marr Chase was the leading receiver with 10 catches for 96 yards with a catch that went for a 19-yard gain. That was the longest pass play for the Bengals in the game. The Bengals would jump out and score 16 points into the 4th quarter. They had a 19-7 lead. The defense would actually do better against Pittsburgh than I had thought. With the win, they did their part to get a win but they will need help from the Chiefs and Jets to get in. For the Bengals, they improve to 9-8 on the season with 314 total yards.

Russell Wilson had 17 of 31 passes for 148 yards with a touchdown. The touchdown pass went to Pat Friermuth in the game. Najee Harris had 12 carries for 36 yards with a touchdown run. Russell Wilson would run the longest play in the game on a 12-yard run. Pat Friermuth had eight catches for 85 yards to be the leading receiver for the Steelers. The Steelers had a lackluster effort on offense in an opportunity where they could've done something to build momentum into next week as they have won a playoff berth. With a 10-3 record at Week 14 and now a 10-7 record it feels like the Steelers might be a one and done team. For the Steelers, they drop to 10-7 with 193 total yards.

Next week:
Cincinnati: go and enjoy their lives or something. What is there to do in Cincinnati?
Pittsburgh: @ Baltimore

TW: 1-1

Buffalo 16, New England 23
Pick: Bills
The Bills give the Pats the win. Josh Allen would start in the game but would play in one play to keep up his consecutive game streak. Mitchell Trubisky would play most of the game with 15 of 21 passes for 101 yards with a touchdown. The touchdown pass went to Ray Davis. Mike White would play some as he hit 3 of 11 passes for 28 yards. Ray Davis would be the leading rusher with 15 carries for 64 yards in the game. He had the longest run in the game with a 23-yard carry. James Cook had 10 carries for 28 yards with a rushing touchdown. Curtis Samuel was the leading receiver with seven catches for 52 yards. Keon Coleman had a catch that went for a 20-yard gain that was the longest pass play for the Bills. Buffalo would play the game with some fire but they would mostly play with their food as they would let the Patriots win the game. The Bills would have a hand tied to their back so to speak. For the Bills, they finish the season with a 13-4 record with 259 yards of offense. 

Drake Maye would play a series in the game with one pass attempt for an incompletion. His day was over. Joe Milton III, a rookie out of Tennessee, would play the rest with 22 of 29 passes for 241 yards with a touchdown pass to Kayshon Boutte. Antonio Gibson had 12 carries for 41 yards in the game and had a run of 15-yards that was the longest run play for the Patriots. Joe Milton would score his first rushing touchdown in the game on his first drive of his career. He had 10 carries for 16 yards in the game. Kayshon Boutte would have seven catches for 117 yards. He breaks a streak of 15 games with no 100-yard receiving receiver for the Patriots. He also had a catch that went for a 48-yard gain that was a result of his touchdown. The game was impressive to see what Milton would do in an NFL game. It might give him some promotion as a backup to Drake Maye in the course of the following months. The win knocks them off the #1 draft pick spot but won't fall further than #4. For the Patriots, they finish the season with a 4-13 record with 309 total yards. 

Next week:
Buffalo: vs Denver
New England: watch Celtics game or eat clam chowder

TW: 1-2

Carolina 44, Atlanta 38 (F/OT)
Pick: Falcons
Miles Sanders overtime touchdown ends a thriller in Atlanta. Bryce Young hit 25 of 34 passes for 251 yards with three touchdowns and ran for two touchdowns in the game. Miles Sanders had 17 carries for 66 yards with a touchdown that ended up being the overtime-winner. The longest run was a 26-yard gain by Raheem Blackshear. Jalen Coker played quarterback in the game with a pass that went for a 19-yard gain and caught seven passes for 62 yards. The longest pass play was a 33-yard gain that was caught by Miles Sanders. Carolina had some hope to build off of for the next season. Bryce Young would play his best game this season in this one as he accounted for five touchdowns. The win sends Falcons home. For the Panthers, they finish with a 5-12 record with 425 total yards. 

Michael Penix Jr. had 21 of 38 passes completed for 312 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. Both touchdown passes went to Drake London. Bijan Robinson had 28 carries for 170 yards and two touchdowns. He had the longest run of the game with a 20-yard gain for a carry. Drake London had 10 catches for 187 yards in the game. He wouldn't have the longest pass play as RayRay McCloud had a catch that went for a 42-yard gain to be the longest pass play for the Falcons. A valiant effort for the Falcons but they wasted two great games by Bijan Robinson and Drake London and their defense wouldn't be able to stop the Bryce Young led Panthers. The loss ends slim hopes of getting into the playoffs. For the Falcons, they finish with an 8-9 record with 537 total yards in the game. 

Next week:
Carolina: watch Duke basketball
Atlanta: eat Chick-Fil-A or something

TW: 1-3

Chicago 24, Green Bay 22
Pick: Packers
Chicago gets a rare win in Lambeau. Caleb Williams hit 21 of 29 passes for 148 yards with a touchdown pass. The touchdown went to DJ Moore. Keenan Allen would play quarterback for one play but it would get intercepted. Dandre Swift had 20 carries for 65 yards with a rushing touchdown. He had a run of 14 yards that was the longest run play for the Bears. DJ Moore had nine catches for 86 yards in the game. He caught a pass that went for a 32-yard gain that was the longest pass play for the Bears. Chicago got a boost of offense on special teams as Josh Blackwell returned a punt and ran it back to the endzone for a 94-yard punt-six. Despite the season being a long one and tough to swallow, the win does break a losing streak dating back to October 13th where the Bears whooped the Jaguars 35-16. For the Bears, they finish with a 5-12 record with 224 total yards. 

Jordan Love hit 7 of 12 passes for 69 yards in the game. He would leave the game with a hand injury but was ruled able to go. Head coach Matt LaFleur would not let him play another snap in the game. Malik Willis had 10 of 13 passes completed for 136 yards. Emanuel Wilson had 14 carries for 73 yards in the game with a touchdown. Josh Jacobs had six carries for 44 yards in the game with a touchdown as well. He would see the bench after the 2nd quarter. The longest run play was a 23-yard run by Christopher Brooks who had eight carries for 59 yards. Malik Heath had three catches for 53 yards in the game with a catch that went for a 41-yard gain. That was the longest pass play for the Packers. A quiet game for the Packers who wouldn't move up or down in the seeding but will have to play for the 7th seed and head to Philadelphia next week. For the Packers, they finish the season with a 11-6 record with 367 yards of offense. 

Next week:
Chicago: stay at home, too cold outside
Green Bay: @ Philadelphia

TW: 1-4

Houston 23, Tennessee 14
Pick: Texans
Houston gets a win. CJ Stroud hit 6 of 6 passes for 50 yards with a touchdown pass to Nico Collins. Stroud wouldn't finish the game as he would get rest for the rest of the game. Davis Mills had 12 of 22 passes for 128 yards in the game. Dameon Pierce had 19 carries for 176 yards with a carry that went for a 92-yard gain. That was the longest run play for the Texans in the game and would result in a touchdown. Robert Woods had two catches that went for 39 yards to be the leading receiver for the Texans. He had a catch that went for a 24-yard gain to have the longest pass play for the Texans. Houston was having some slack of being the weaker of the division winners. They still do feel that way of being a one-and-done team but they do have some momentum going into next week. For the Texans, they finish with a 10-7 record with 374 total yards. 

Will Levis started for the Titans and hit 9 of 17 passes for 175 yards and a touchdown pass to Tay Martin. Mason Rudolph had 7 of 9 passes for 70 yards in the game. Tony Pollard had 22 carries for 62 yards in the game. He had a run of 11 yards that was the longest run in the game for the Titans. Calvin Ridley had three catches for 76 yards in the game to be the Titans leading receiver. Tay Martin had a catch that went for a 49-yard gain that was part of the touchdown play for the Titans. Tennessee donned the Oilers uniforms for this one to rub it in to the Texans. Houston would answer accordingly. Despite the loss, the Titans gained the #1 pick in this spring's draft. For the Titans, they drop to 3-14 on the season with 314 total yards in the game. 

Next week:
Houston: vs LA Chargers
Tennessee: watch a Grand Ole Opry show

TW: 2-4

Jacksonville 23, Indianapolis 26 (F/OT)
Pick: Colts
The Colts get a win at home. Mac Jones hit 20 of 32 passes for 225 yards with a touchdown and an interception. Parker Washington was the lucky recipient of the pass by Mac Jones. Tank Bigsby carried the ball 14 times for 39 yards in the game for a rushing touchdown. The longest run was a 22-yard run by Dernest Johnson. Brian Thomas Jr. had seven catches for 103 yards in the game and caught a pass that went for a 41-yard gain that was the longest pass play for the Jaguars. Jacksonville didn't have a lot to play for in this one as they were pretty much playing for their jobs. They likely need the loss to draft a top-10 pick in this spring's draft. It might be a possibility for the Jaguars to let go Doug Pederson. For the Jaguars, they finish with a 4-13 record with 319 total yards in the game. 

Joe Flacco hit 23 of 40 passes for 264 yards with a touchdown pass. The touchdown pass went to Alec Pierce. Jonathan Taylor was used a lot in the game as he carried for 34 times for 177 yards with a touchdown run. He would obviously have the longest run play for a gain of 17 yards in the game. Josh Downs had 10 catches for 94 yards in the game. Alec Pierce had a catch that went for a 40-yard gain that was the longest pass play for the Colts. Indianapolis didn't have a lot to play for as well as they got eliminated a few weeks ago but they would fight for their jobs and pride as they would fight tooth and nail against the Jaguars to get almost a .500 finish. For the Colts, they finish with a win at a 8-9 record with 429 total yards in the game. 

Next week:
Jacksonville: I don't know, what is there to do in Jacksonville
Indianapolis: see a Hoosiers basketball game or something

TW: 3-4

New Orleans 19, Tampa Bay 27
Pick: Buccaneers
Struggles for the Bucs but would overcome it to win. Spencer Rattler hit 26 of 42 passes for 240 yards with a touchdown pass to Dante Pettis. Clyde Ewards-Helaire rushed eight times for 26 yards in the game and had the longest run for the Saints on a 12-yard carry. Josh Johnson had six catches for 80 yards and had a 26-yard pass play that he caught for that much of a gain. New Orleans had an opportunity to give the Falcons some hope as they were up 16-6 in the 2nd quarter. The Buccaneers would overcome the deficit and the rest is history as the Saints falter after starting at 2-0 to begin the season. For the Saints, they finish with a 5-12 on the season with 292 total yards. 

Baker Mayfield had 21 of 32 passes for 221 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. The touchdowns went to Jalen McMillan and Payne Durham. Bucky Irving had 19 carries for 89 yards in the game with a touchdown run on a 11-yard play. Baker Mayfield had nine carries for 68 yards in the game and had the longest run play of a 28-yard gain on the run. Mike Evans had nine catches for 89 yards. He ties Jerry Rice for the most consecutive 1,000 yard seasons with 11 straight seasons. He'll likely be smelling the Hall of Fame sometime soon in the future. The longest pass play for the Buccaneers was a 33-yard gain for a catch by Jalen McMillan that was the touchdown score. The Buccaneers would start off slow as the Saints and Buccaneers traded field goals and then the Saints would jump out to a 16-6 lead but the Buccaneers with their experience would turn it around. They finished with a 21-3 run to get the win. For the Buccaneers, they win the NFC South with a 10-7 record and had 395 total yards in the game. 

Next week:
New Orleans: eat some gumbo or something.
Tampa Bay: vs Washington

TW: 4-4

NY Giants 13, Philadelphia 20
Pick: Eagles
Philly walks away with a dub. Drew Lock hit 22 of 29 passes for 138 yards with a touchdown and an interception. The touchdown went to Malik Nabers to finish up his solid rookie season. Tyrone Tracy Jr. had 14 carries for 59 yards in the game and had a carry that went for a 16-yard gain that was the longest run in the game. Malik Nabers had five catches for 64 yards in the game but also had the longest pass play with a catch that went for a 45-yard gain. The game was pretty much a mirror to most of the games that the Giants have had this season. Not a lot of offense and the defense being out for way too long at times. The Giants will have some things to figure out over the next few months in terms of direction. For the Giants, they finish the year with a 3-14 record with 238 total yards on the game. 

Tanner McKee had 27 of 41 passes for 269 yards with two touchdowns in the game. He would start the game again for the Eagles. Will Shipley had 10 carries for 32 yards in the game. He had the longest run in the game with a carry of 7 yards for a gain. Saquon Barkley would not play as he would see himself in street clothes for rest to get to the playoffs next week. Jahan Dotson had seven catches for 94 yards in the game. He had a catch that went for a 19-yard gain that was the longest pass play for the Eagles. Despite a limited cast of starters and 1st stringers, the Eagles would mostly have their way with the Giants in this one. It was a safe bet for the Eagles to rest starters to prepare for the road that is to get back to the Super Bowl. For the Eagles, they finish the regular season with a 14-3 record with 303 total yards. 

Next week:
NY Giants: stay out of New Jersey, too many drones
Philadelphia: vs Green Bay

TW: 5-4

Washington 23, Dallas 19
Pick: Cowboys
Jayden Daniels hit 6 of 12 passes for 38 yards but would see the bench for rest in the game. Marcus Mariota had 15 of 18 passes for 161 yards with two touchdowns. Zach Ertz and Terry McLaurin were the players that caught the passes for touchdowns for the Commanders. It was the McLaurin touchdown that would be the go-ahead touchdown for the Commanders. Marcus Mariota would also rush five times for 56 yards with a touchdown run. He had a run of 33 yards that was the longest run in the game for the Commanders. Terry McLaurin had eight catches for 62 yards in the game to be the leading receiver. The longest pass play was a catch by Olamide Zaccheaus with a catch that went for a 29-yard gain. Washington didn't have a lot to play for but to get a better seeding in the playoffs but also beating Dallas has to feel good for the Commanders fans. At least to beat your longtime rival. For the Commanders, they improve to 12-5 on the season to finish it with 269 total yards. 

Trey Lance went 20 of 34 passes for 244 yards in the game. He would make his first start for the Cowboys in the game. Rico Dowdle had 22 carries for 72 yards with a touchdown run in the game. It was the only touchdown for the Cowboys in the game. The longest run in the game was a Deuce Vaughn run that went for a 12-yard gain. Jake Tolbert had four catches for 98 yards in the game to be the leading receiver. Kavonte Turpin had a catch that went for a 33-yard gain that was the longest pass play for the Cowboys. Brandon Aubrey hit four field goals in the game with a longest kick was a 41-yard attempt for Dallas. A bit of a whimper of a finish as the Cowboys were one of the better teams to in December with wins but falter at the end as the Terry McLaurin touchdown came with two seconds left in the game. For the Cowboys, they finish with a 7-10 record with 378 total yards in the game. 

Next week:
Washington: @ Tampa Bay
Dallas: watch the Cotton Bowl later in the week.

TW: 5-5

Kansas City 0, Denver 38
Pick: Broncos

The Broncos shut down the Chiefs to get a playoff berth. Carson Wentz started for the Chiefs. He wouldn't do a whole lot as he hit 10 of 17 passes for 98 yards in the game. Carson Steele had eight carries for 25 yards in the game. He and Chris Oladokun had a run of 5 yards to be the longest run in the game. Nikko Remigio had two catches for 48 yards to be the leading receiver for the Chiefs. He had a catch that went for the longest pass play for the Chiefs with a 25-yard gain. Kansas City wouldn't do a whole lot on offense as most of their starters would not play in the game. It was mostly full of 2nd stringers and players on the practice squad probably. With the #1 seed locked up the Chiefs will not play next week and will play the weekend of either the 18th or 19th. For the Chiefs, they finish with a 15-2 record with 98 total yards. 

Bo Nix hit 26 of 29 passes for 321 yards with four touchdowns in the game. Cortland Sutton had one, Marvin Mims had two and Devaughn Vele had the other to the total of four in the game. Bo Nix was also the leading rusher with seven carries for 47 yards and had a run of 27 yards that was the longest run in the game for the Broncos. Audric Estime had 12 carries for 34 yards with a rushing touchdown. Jaleel McLaughlin had 16 carries for 39 yards in the game. Cortland Sutton had five catches for 98 yards in the game and had a catch that went for a 47-yard gain that was the longest pass play for the Broncos. Well the near decade of playoff futility has washed away as the Broncos are the final team to clinch a playoff berth and it is their first since the 2015 season. For the Broncos, they finish with a 10-7 record with 479 total yards in the game. 

Next week:
Kansas City: have some BBQ or something that Kansas City has to offer while you're on that bye
Denver: @ Buffalo

TW: 6-5

LA Chargers 34, Las Vegas 20
Pick: Chargers
Chargers get a win on the road. Justin Herbert hit 28 of 36 passes for 346 yards with two touchdowns. The touchdowns went to Will Dissly and DJ Chark. Hassan Haskins had a rushing touchdown while getting 12 carries for 33 yards in the game. JK Dobbins was the leading rusher with 18 carries for 63 yards in the game. The longest run was a run by Justin Herbert that went for a 41-yard gain. Quentin Johnston had 13 catches for 186 yards in the game. A big day for him indeed. Ladd McConkey had a catch that went for a 47-yard gain that was the longest pass play for the Chargers. It was somewhat of a meaningless game for the Chargers but it did implicate some pride as they played against rival Raiders. They have gained a playoff berth before this week. For the Chargers, they get to 11-6 with 473 total yards in the game. 

Aidan O'Connell had 24 of 34 passes for 214 yards with two touchdowns and one interception in the game. Jakobi Meyers and Brock Bowers were the Raiders that caught the passes from O'Connell. Alexander Mattison had six carries for 20 yards in the game and had a run of 11 yards that was the longest run in the game for the Silver and Black. The leading receiver was Jakobi Meyers with nine catches for 123 yards and caught a pass of 25 yards to be the longest pass play for the Raiders. It was a game that the Raiders probably needed to lose as they are not a good team and will need some high draft pick help to fill a few holes in their roster. Possibly on offense. For the Raiders, they finish the season dropping to 4-13 on the season with 264 total yards. 

Next week:
LA Chargers: @ Houston
Las Vegas: you're in Vegas, there's millions of things to do.

TW: 7-5

Miami 20, NY Jets 32
Pick: Dolphins
Tyler Huntley hit 25 of 41 passes for 227 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions. The touchdown pass went to Jonnu Smith. De'Von Achane had 11 carries for 121 yards in the game and scored a touchdown on a 11-yard play. He had a run that went for a 61-yard gain that was the longest run for the Dolphins in the game. Jonnu Smith had nine catches for 56 yards in the game to be the leading receiver for the Dolphins. The longest pass play was a Jaylen Waddle catch that went for a 23-yard gain. The game was not a guarantee for the Dolphins to win as they needed to win and get help to get into the playoffs. Inconsistent play, turnovers and injuries doomed the Dolphins this season and this game was in general no different. For the Dolphins, they drop to 8-9 to finish the season with 334 total yards. 

Aaron Rodgers played well in the game. He hit 23 of 36 passes for 274 yards with four touchdowns and an interception. Of the four passes for scores, it went to Davante Adams, Alan Lazard, Tyler Conklin and Breece Hall. The touchdown to Conklin was Aaron Rodgers 500th touchdown pass in his career. He finished the game with 503. Breece Hall had 12 carries for 57 yards in the game. The longest run play was a carry that went for 20 yards by Isaiah Davis who had four carries for 41 yards. Davante Adams had six catches for 88 yards in the game. Alan Lazard had the longest pass play with a catch that went for a 43-yard gain. It was a game where the Jets would have fun as they were out of the playoffs but would play spoiler to the Dolphins who were still hoping to get in. If it was the end of the line for Aaron Rodgers the final image would be at the end of the game with his friend Davante Adams walking off the field and in through the tunnel and to the locker room. For the Jets, they finish with a 5-12 record with 375 total yards. 

Next week:
Miami: watch Miami Vice re-runs. 
NY Jets: see NY Giants

TW: 7-6

Seattle 30, LA Rams 25
Pick: Seahawks
Geno Smith hit 20 of 27 passes for 223 yards with four touchdowns. The four touchdowns went to: Noah Fant, DK Metcalf, AJ Barner and Jake Bobo. Zach Charbonnet had 14 carries for 59 yards in the game. Geno Smith would have the longest run play in the game for Seattle with a carry of 15 yards. Noah Fant had five catches for 63 yards in the game. The longest pass play was a 32-yard play with catches to Noah Fant and Zach Charbonnet. Seattle would fight tooth and nail to get a win in this one but the Seahawks get a bit of revenge and momentum as they close out the season with rookie head coach Mike MacDonald. For the Seahawks, they finish with a 10-7 record with 336 total yards in the game. 

Jimmy Garoppolo hit 27 of 41 passes for 334 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. Tyler Higbee and Tyler Johnson were the Rams that caught the passes from Garoppolo for the touchdowns. Ronnie Rivers had 12 carries for 48 yards in the game and had a run of nine yards that was the longest run for the Rams. Jordan Whittington had three catches for 86 yards in the game. He had a catch that went for a 50-yard gain that was the longest pass play for the Rams. Matthew Stafford would not take a snap in this one as he would get the rest for the playoffs that start next week. Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp would not play in this game as well. The Rams have already won the NFC West and will play next week. For the Rams, they drop to 10-7 on the season with 403 total yards in the game. 

Next week:
Seattle: drink Starbucks and listen to Nirvana
LA Rams: vs Minnesota

TW: 8-6

San Francisco 24, Arizona 47
Pick: Cardinals
Arizona wins against San Francisco. Josh Dobbs hit 29 of 43 passes for 326 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions. Ricky Pearsall and Kyle Juszczyk were the 49ers that caught the passes from Dobbs. Josh Dobbs had eight carries for 17 yards with a touchdown run up the middle for a 1-yard score. Patrick Taylor had 17 carries for 109 yards in the game and had a carry that went for a 29 yard gain in the game. Ricky Pearsall had six catches for 69 yards in the game. The longest pass play was a Kyle Juszczyk catch that went for a 36-yard gain. The title defense season is over and the 49ers will miss the playoffs. The missed opportunity will be a self-reflection as they will have to make a ton of choices of player personnel in free agency. For the 49ers, they drop to 6-11 on the season with 436 total ayrds in the game. 

Kyler Murray had 25 of 35 passes for 242 yards with four touchdowns in the game. Of the four touchdowns, Greg Dortch had two, Marvin Harrison Jr. had one and Trey McBride had one for the total of four. Tony Jones had four carries for 55 yards with a touchdown on a 46-yard run. Michael Carter had a touchdown run as well on a 4-yard play and had 17 carries for 43 yards in the game. Trey McBride had seven catches for 65 yards to be the Cardinals leading receiver. He had a catch of 28 yards that was the longest pass play for the Cardinals. Arizona would put the hurt on the 49ers as they would capitalize on the 49ers mistakes and would run over the 49ers defense lead by Nick Bosa. The win won't give the Cardinals a playoff spot but it gives them some hope of getting back to the playoffs next season. For the Cardinals, they finish with a 8-9 record with 393 total yards in the game. 

Next week:
San Francisco: watch 49ers highlights from 1981 to 1998
Arizona: wrangle rattlesnakes or something

TW: 9-6

Minnesota 9, Detroit 31
Pick: Vikings
The season finale ends on a blowout. Sam Darnold hit 18 of 41 passes for 166 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions. Cam Akers had six carries for 65 yards and had one carry go for a 58-yard gain in the game. Aaron Jones had 10 carries for 45 yards. Justin Jefferson had three catches for 54 yards in the game and had a catch that went for a 31 yard gain. Minnesota's normally powerful offense just got manhandled and the defense kind of had a rough day. Maybe it was more of a game that was a wake up call that the Vikings aren't quite as good as they thought they were. They'll need to figure it out as they have to take the road to the playoffs. For the Vikings, they finish with a 14-3 record with 262 total yards in the game. 

Jared Goff hit 27 of 33 passes for 231 yards with a touchdown and two interceptions. Jahmyr Gibbs had was the player that caught the touchdown pass. Gibbs would do most of his damage on the ground as he had 23 carries for 139 yards for three touchdowns. He did have a run that went for a 47-yard gain but it wasn't part of a touchdown. Amon Ra St. Brown caught six passes for 77 yards to be the leading receiver. He did have a catch that went for a 23-yard gain that was the longest pass play for the Lions in the game. Questions surrounding the Lions defense would prove to be washed away as they really made the normally powerful passing game of Minnesota's held to just 142 net yards and the Vikings running game to 120. Suffice to say, the Lions are now NFC North champions for the 2nd straight year, have the #1 seed for the first time in their history and have 15 wins which is a franchise record. For the Lions, they finish with a 15-2 record with 394 yards of offense in the game. 

Next week:
Minnesota: @ LA Rams
Detroit: 1st round bye, probably go see Motown museum

TW: 9-7

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
Week 15: 13-3
Week 16: 12-4
Week 17: 12-4

Week 18: 9-7
Total: 193-80

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 Thursday/Friday for the Super Wild Card Weekend Picks post! Enjoy your week!

-Tom

NFL 2024 Week 18 Picks

Hello readers! Another week of National Football League action is coming upon us yet again. The regular season finale is here. By week's end 14 of the 32 teams will move on and continue their season and the rest will go home and plan for next season. There are still a few teams left to lock up either their division or lock up a playoff spot. In this post, I will highlight the latest playoff picture, a preview and picks for Week 18, the Early and Late TV broadcast pairings that FOX and CBS will have for the Sunday afternoon slate. A lot to get to, so let's get started!

NFL Playoff Picture: Week 18

The final week still has a few teams left to get in. There's one division yet to be decided while there is a wild card spot yet to be decided as well. Let's look at the NFC. 

Seeding

1st seed: Detroit Lions (14-2)(clinched playoff berth)

2nd seed: Philadelphia Eagles (13-3) (clinched NFC East)

3rd seed: Los Angeles Rams (10-6) (clinched NFC West)

4th seed: Tampa Bay Buccaneers 

5th seed: Minnesota Vikings (14-2) (clinched playoff berth)

6th seed: Washington Commanders (11-5) (clinched playoff berth)

7th seed: Green Bay Packers (11-5) (Clinched playoff berth)

Super Wild Card Weekend Matchups

Green Bay @ Philadelphia

Washington @ LA Rams

Minnesota @ Tampa Bay

In the Hunt

Atlanta (8-8)

Better Luck Next Year

Seattle (9-7), Dallas (7-9), Arizona (7-9), San Francisco (0-0), New Orleans (5-11), Chicago (4-12), Carolina (4-12), NY Giants (3-13)

Tampa can clinch the NFC South with a win or Falcons loss. Minnesota can clinch the NFC North, #1 seed and homefield advantage with a win against Detroit. A few things to keep an eye on as Falcons and Buccaneers aren't playing against each other. Let's look at the AFC. 

Seeding

1st seed: Kansas City Chiefs (15-1) (Clinched AFC West and homefield advantage)

2nd seed: Buffalo Bills (13-3) (Clinched AFC East)

3rd seed: Baltimore Ravens (11-5) (clinched playoff berth)

4th seed: Houston Texans (9-7) (clinched AFC South)

5th seed: Pittsburgh Steelers (10-6) (clinched playoff berth)

6th seed: Los Angeles Chargers (10-6) (clinched playoff berth)

7th seed: Denver Broncos (9-7)

Super Wild Card Weekend Matchups

Denver @ Buffalo

LA Chargers @ Baltimore

Pittsburgh @ Houston

In the Hunt

Miami (8-8), Cincinnati (8-8)

Better Luck Next Year

Indianapolis (7-9), NY Jets (4-12), Las Vegas (4-12), Jacksonville (4-12), Cleveland (3-13), Tennessee (3-13), New England (3-13)

Baltimore can clinch the AFC North with a win or Steelers loss. Same story for the Steelers. Denver can clinch a playoff berth with a win or a Dolphins loss or tie plus Bengals loss or tie.

Week 18 Preview

The eighteenth week of the National Football League's regular season starts in Baltimore, Maryland and finish up in Detroit, Michigan. The week features all division games. There will be eight NFC games and eight AFC games. Week 18 will have two Saturday games, eight early games five late games and a Sunday night game. Both FOX and CBS will have doubleheaders this week. Let's get to the picks

Week 18 Picks

Note: All game times are in US Eastern.

Cleveland (3-13) @ Baltimore (11-5) (ABC; 4:30 pm)

Pick: Ravens

The Browns lost to the Dolphins and the Ravens beat the Texans last week. Cleveland has had a rough season. Not to say that Browns fans aren't used to it. Last week, the Browns offense wasn't able to do a lot of anything. Their offense is banged up by injuries, their quarterback situation is pretty much left to be desired. The Browns face off against the Ravens in the season finale. The last time these two teams met it was an upset victory for the Browns. Things have changed since then. Barring the Ravens reverting back to their early days, I don't see the Browns pulling off a victory in this one. It doesn't seem likely. 

Baltimore would just need to do one thing to clinch their division: win. John Harbaugh is certainly looking to seek revenge over the Browns upset win earlier in the season. Baltimore has done it with their versatile balanced attack with Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry running the football with the occasional pass play. With a defense that is just as problematic for offenses, I think the Ravens take this game and make clear that they're AFC North champions for another year. I'll take the Ravens. 

All-time series: Ravens lead 36-15

Cincinnati (8-8) @ Pittsburgh (10-6) (ABC; 8:00 pm)

Pick: Steelers

The Bengals beat the Broncos and the Steelers lost to the Chiefs last week. Cincinnati is close to doing something most people never thought they would be able to. They had started 0-3 to start the season and proceed to go on a 8-5 record since then. The offense of Cincy's has been quite the thing to watch. The defense is well left to be desired as they give up about as much points as they score. The Bengals will need to win this game and get some help to get into the tournament. 

Pittsburgh has been having a rough go of it with losing games this late in the season. You'd like to have some wins this time of year to gain some momentum. They certainly had that momentum going for them when they went to the Super Bowl in 2008. The offense has been kind of the big thing that has been hindering them this part of the season. Russell Wilson has been one of the reasons. Something has to be off with him to be that weird. Defense will need to rule the day in the season finale. The Steelers have a playoff berth but they look vulnerable. I'll take the Steelers despite the offense. 

All-time series: Steelers lead 71-39

Buffalo (13-3) @ New England (3-13) (CBS; 1:00 pm)

Pick: Bills

The Bills beat the Jets and the Patriots lost to the Chargers last week. Buffalo has had quite the season. They aren't in the drivers seat for the #1 seed but they aren't likely going to drop out of the 2nd seed either. It could be possible that they might rest starters for this game and have the Patriots possibly get a win by a field goal. I'm under the assumption that the Bills will start for a part of the game and let the 2nd stringers go and make a name for themselves. Hard to say what will happen. They could proceed to put up a 40 burger on the Patriots and they salt the earth around Gillette Stadium. 

Drake Maye has been the best thing to happen for the Patriots this season. The quarterback, despite the offensive line issues and turnovers, has a touchdown pass streak going into eight games. The team isn't very good on the rest of the offense and the defense has easily taken a step back. The press has given their opinions that it is possible that head coach Jerod Mayo will return next year. For the sake of rebuilding, it is a given to let him try to build something. This game, will depend on whether if the Bills will rest their starters or if they just go all gung-ho on the Patriots and put the hurt on them. The offense hasn't had a great year and I can't expect the defense to make much noise in this one. I'll take the Bills. 

All-time series: Patriots lead 78-51-1

Carolina (4-12) @ Atlanta (8-8) (CBS; 1:00 pm)

Pick: Falcons

The Panthers lost to the Buccaneers and the Falcons lost to the Commanders last week. Carolina has improved a little bit since last year. They just haven't made a big step. The offseason will have to be emphasized on the defense. A good defense will help their offense get better. For this game, the Panthers might do alright against Michael Penix Jr. a quarterback with a small sample size of stats. Or they could just get walked over by him. The key to a Panthers win will be getting Chuba Hubbard back as he is the biggest cog in the offense for the Panthers. 

The verdict on Michael Penix Jr. is still out there. With two starts under his belt with 463 passing yards with a touchdown and two interceptions. I'm not sure what to think about Penix Jr. He is a talent with potential who is probably more of a pocket passer at this point than being a running quarterback that can make plays with his feet. Atlanta's offense in the run game did well against the Panthers but their offense in general should do well as the Panthers defense is kind of a walking carpet in the NFC South. I have to expect that Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgier to do well in this one. I'll take the Falcons. 

All-time series: Falcons lead 37-22

Chicago (4-12) @ Green Bay (11-5) (FOX; 1:00 pm)

Pick: Packers

The Bears lost to the Seahawks and the Packers lost to the Vikings last week. A lot of hype had been placed on the Bears in the preseason. With many additions from free agency and draft to the offense. The Bears looked like to be the team to break out of the basement and have a quarterback to really make some noise. Like most things, the hype would deflate. Chicago hasn't won a game since whooping the Jaguars in London back in October. It really started with the loss to Washington. Anyway, for this game the Bears offense will keep this close but the Packers defense has to have a chip on its shoulder and really go after Caleb Williams in this one. I can't wait to stop talking about them until at least later next year. 

Green Bay has pretty much played 3rd fiddle to the Lions and Vikings this season. It might play out well to their liking as the Lions and Vikings will play to beat up each other in the finale. Green Bay has had a good season, they gotten a revitalized season out of Josh Jacobs and Jordan Love has done better as of late. The Packers might struggle to get a win if Christian Watson isn't available to help out the passing game. The last time these two teams played was a blocked field goal by Green Bay as it was a potential game-winning one. I have to think that the Packers will try to avoid that in this game. I'll take the Pack. 

All-time series: Packers lead 108-95-6

Houston (9-7) @ Tennessee (3-13) (CBS; 1:00 pm)

Pick: Texans

The Texans lost to the Ravens and the Titans lost to the Jaguars last week. The Texans have done a few things right this season. They have progressed along and won the AFC South as well as steady the ship that is CJ Stroud's sophomore season. That's about it as Houston is perhaps the weakest of the AFC division winners. Vulnerable is what I would characterize them as. The offense has been somewhat of a mixed bag as they can beat up on lesser opponents but if they want to get to that next level they need to beat the best. At times that level seems to be a mountain. I think the Texans should be able to win this game but unless proven otherwise, they're a one and done team next week. 

Tennessee has been pretty awful on offense. Most of their issues has been on the quarterback but offensive line issues and the offensive line. On defense, the Titans have something to work with as if you actually looked at their numbers this season, they would be one of the better defenses. They have the #1 ranked pass defense allowing just 189.9 yards/game. Getting a person that can disrupt the pass rush would be an ideal one as they are 22nd in stopping the run. In this game, the Joe Mixon vs the defensive front will be something to keep an eye on. Suffice to say, the Texans should win this game. I'll take them as they are just not good enough to keep up with the Texans enough to get a win. I could be wrong. 

All-time series: Titans lead 24-21

Jacksonville (4-12) @ Indianapolis (7-9) (FOX; 1:00 pm)

Pick: Colts

The Jaguars beat the Titans and the Colts lost to the Giants last week. Jacksonville has had a rough season this year. A lot of their problems stem from the offense with quarterback. Trevor Lawrence has off year and hasn't had a healthy season either. It is a limp to the finish for the Jaguars as they missed the playoffs for the 2nd straight season. The future is somewhat decent as they do have a high draft pick next spring. In this game the Jaguars will have to contend with a Colts team that got eliminated last week and will have to play for their jobs. Jacksonville will as well. The Jaguars might struggle in this one as they are not good at stopping the pass or the run let alone generating offense. 

Indianapolis laid an egg against the Giants. An even bigger egg was missing the playoffs again as they haven't been in the tournament since 2020. The Colts defense let 45 points go by them against one of the worser offenses in the league.. Fortunately for them, the Jaguars are not a great offense. You have to expect defensive coordinator Gus Bradley to light a fire in his defensive players. If they can go after Mac Jones in this game, they should have better results. On offense, they should have an advantage as well as whoever is quarterback can pass the ball fairly well on these guys. Despite missing the playoffs, they might be able to get to a 8-9 season. I'll take the Colts. 

All-time series: Colts lead 27-20

New Orleans (5-11) @ Tampa Bay (9-7) (FOX; 1:00 pm)

Pick: Buccaneers

The Saints lost to the Raiders and the Buccaneers beat the Panthers last week. The Saints are just limping along to the finishing line this season. They won't be playing next week but after two weeks, you had half expecting them to make it there. They were scoring points left and right and then the wheels fell off after losing to these Buccaneers at home. The Saints dilemma is the quarterback. They haven't had stability at quarterback as they have gone to three different quarterbacks in Derek Carr, Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener. New Orleans also fired their head coach as well. In this game, the Saints have opportunity to play spoiler but they need to play their best ball this season and get a win. Atlanta will be watching close by likely as they also play during the early window. How they can achieve this: taking the ball away from Baker Mayfield and sustain drives. Vegas tabbed this game being the Bucs as 13-point favorites. 

Tampa Bay has opportunity to get its fourth straight division crown in a division that had seen a different champion win it every year. To win the division is very simple: win and they're in. Their opponents won't likely make it easy but it is rarely ever easy in the National Football League. Tampa's offensive line is one of the underrated in the league as they can both support the run and pass plays. I think the running game will be wise to use in this game. Ball protection will be ideal as Baker Mayfield has been known to play a gunslinger role and toss passes that land in the opposing side. I think the Buccaneers will just be too much for the Saints to handle. I'll take the Bucs. 

All-time series: Saints lead 40-26

NY Giants (3-13) @ Philadelphia (13-3) (CBS; 1:00 pm)

Pick: Eagles

The Giants got a win against the Colts and the Eagles beat the Cowboys last week. New York gave its fans some glimmer of hope as they put on an offensive showcase and hung 45 points on the Colts and sent their playoff hopes down the drain in the New Jersey sewer system. The Giants this week will hope to play a similar fashion game against rival Philadelphia as they hope to dash some momentum in them. The offense has seem some promising stars in Tyrone Tracy Jr. and Malik Nabers getting better and better each week. I think they will have a tough time against the Eagles despite Saquon Barkley not playing in this game. 

Philadelphia has had a great year. The catalyst of that successful season has been Saquon Barkley. He crossed the 2,000 yard plateau this season and almost gunned for the single season rushing mark set by Erik Dickerson. The hall of famer will be at ease as Barkley will be sitting this one out. The Eagles offense without Barkley has some players that can be just as good. Kenneth Gainwell hasn't had a lot of carries but I have to expect that he will be used a fair bit in this one. I'm not sure who else will rest but I have to expect Jalen Hurts will sit this one out as well. Despite the starters resting, I think the Eagles will take this one. 

All-time series: Eagles lead 94-88-2

Washington (11-5) @ Dallas (7-9) (FOX; 1:00 pm)

Pick: Cowboys

The Commanders beat the Falcons and the Cowboys lost to the Eagles last week. Washington has had a good season. It is their first season with more than 10 wins since 1991 when they won 14 games and won a Super Bowl. The potential of Jayden Daniels is quite good but the numbers that he has is not quite up to the Mark Rypien numbers in that season. Jayden Daniels is quite possibly the lock for Rookie of the Year on offense. With 25 passing touchdowns and six rushing touchdowns with 3,530 passing yards. I think it is possible. In this game, the Commanders are going to have to have to play their better games in this one. If the defense can make Dallas be a one-dimensional offense they should do well as the Cowboys were really limited on the running game last week. Rendering Cooper Rush to beat you by himself will help. On offense, jump on Dallas early. 

Dallas was having a particularly rough season at least for quite a while. They were at one point 3-7 with a pretty bleak outlook. While they are out of the playoffs, they do have something to build on and Dak Prescott will be back by the time next season starts. In this game, the Cowboys might have a good shot to get a win. The last time these two teams met it was a defensive struggle and then the 4th quarter happened and the Cowboys and Commanders traded blows where the Cowboys won by a 34-26 victory. Dallas had a rough time running the football. They also turned the ball early and that was one of the reasons why they got blown out by Philadelphia. They will need to protect the ball as well. I'll take the Cowboys to win by a field goal. I can't trust the Commanders to win against a fairly decent offense in Dallas. 

All-time series: Cowboys lead 79-48-2

Kansas City (15-1) @ Denver (9-7) (CBS; 4:25 pm)

Pick: Broncos

The Chiefs beat the Steelers and the Broncos lost to the Bengals last week. Kansas City locked up the #1 seed in the AFC and have the best record in the NFL. The Chiefs don't have a lot to play for in this game but they do have a chance to become the first team to go 16-1 in the 17-game schedule era. Patrick Mahomes and the starters will not play in this game. This will mean that journeyman Carson Wentz will get a chance to play. He will play in his 2nd straight Week 18 game as he played as a member of the Rams last season. I don't know what the verdict on Wentz as a Chief is but his track record hasn't been great. I think the Broncos defense might do alright against him. 

Denver has had a remarkable season. They achieved their first winning season in almost a decade and they have a chance to get to the playoffs for the first time since 2015 when they won the Super Bowl. The Broncos just need to win and they're in. Bo Nix and the offense has had a good year with Nix being a reasonable candidate for Rookie of the Year. The defense has come around and do well. Last week, the Broncos missed a chance to clinch a playoff spot but they can do so in this one. As long as Bo Nix doesn't throw interceptions and play what he is capable of and go after Carson Wentz, the Broncos should be able to win. Plus it is also in Denver where the altitude will be a factor. 

All-time series: Chiefs lead 73-56

LA Chargers (10-6) @ Las Vegas (4-12) (CBS; 4:25 pm)

Pick: Chargers

The Chargers beat the Patriots and the Raiders beat the Saints last week. Jim Harbaugh has turned the culture of the Chargers around and got them to the playoffs for the first time in two seasons. The offense is more balanced as Justin Herbert is passing better but not quite the gunslinger or pure passer that he was prior to Harbaugh's arrival. The running game has been the most improved JK Dobbins and Gus Edwards running the football. The defense isn't a slouch either. I think the thing to keep an eye on is the Chargers defense vs the Raiders offense. 

The Raiders have had a rough one of a season. The offense has had a trying time finding stability. Sad fact of life that the quarterback will get the blame for anything that goes wrong on offense. The Raiders case is pretty much they are not that good at quarterback. Aidan O'Connell hasn't proven to be a solid starter that can get touchdowns in the league. The good news for the Raiders is that they have won two straight games. Also, they have a solid talent in tight end with Brock Bowers which seemed like a weird pick up when they already had a tight end that was good. The Raiders tend to win these matchups but I'm leaning towards the Chargers due to having a better offense. I'll take the Chargers. 

All-time series: Raiders lead 69-59-2

Miami (8-8) @ NY Jets (4-12) (FOX; 4:25 pm)

Pick: Dolphins

The Dolphins beat the Browns and the Jets lost to the Bills last week. Miami has had a rough but good season kind of. More average than anything. Tua Tagovailoa has spent a fair amount of time in injury. He didn't play last week as Tyler Huntley started against Cleveland. Huntley will likely start again as Tagovailoa is dealing with a hip injury. The last time the Dolphins and Jets met it was a overtime thriller won it on a late touchdown 32-26 victory. I would assume the gap between the teams is more level. Huntley played well as he threw and rushed for a touchdown while only missing on four passes. the Jets defense is fairly good so I would assume that he might struggle a bit. 

New York was supposed to have at least 10 wins at this point of the season. Much to everyone's surprise, they have just four wins. Aaron Rodgers has been the reason for the blame but rightly so for the blame. New York's running game hasn't been the best it should be either. Discipline on offense is the thing that hurts a football team as well as turnovers. The Jets had more penalties than points last week. I would have to expect more of the same as they take on the limping Dolphins. Miami needs to win and have some help in order to get in. The Jets could play spoiler as the Dolphins have more to lose than to really gain at this point. I don't trust the Jets so I'll take the Dolphins. 

All-time series: Dolphins lead 61-56-1

Seattle (9-7) @ LA Rams (10-6) (FOX; 4:25 pm)

Pick: Seahawks

The Seahawks beat the Bears and the Rams beat the Cardinals last week. Seattle was having a kind of successful season. At least somewhat successful under new head coach Mike MacDonald. It is something to build off of for next year. The Seahawks in this game don't have a lot to play for but the opportunity to take over the series tally as both teams are tied with 27 wins. Geno Smith has had kind of an off year with 15 interceptions which pretty much leads the league. He does have 4,000 yards this season. Seattle's defense has been a bit of a question mark for most of the season and their offense has as well. 

The Rams have locked up the NFC West and won't likely move much forward or backward at this point. As a result of this, Matthew Stafford will rest and backup Jimmy Garoppolo will start. Yeah I kind of forgot that he was still in the league. It is hard to say what to expect from the former Patriot and 49ers player. The guy is still relatively fresh this season and it has to be expected that he will provide some offense. I'm not sure who else will sit but I have to expect that the Rams offense can still provide some help to their defense and get a win. The fact that Stafford is resting I would assume that Cooper Kupp will sit and Puka Nacua. I'll take the Seahawks as a safe bet. 

All-time series: Series tied 27-27

San Francisco (6-10) @ Arizona (7-9) (FOX; 4:25 pm)

Pick: Cardinals

The 49ers lost to the Lions and the Cardinals lost to the Rams last week. Both teams are limping to the finish and will not play next week. San Francisco had the expectation that they would make it past this week and into the playoffs. Injuries and inconsistent play has doomed their season to a current 6-10 campaign. For this game, the 49ers will likely not start Brock Purdy and that spells pretty much doom for their chances to get passing touchdowns at least a lot of them. Purdy and 12 other 49ers will likely not play in this game. A sad thing as the offseason will mean a lot of turnover. For this game, the Cardinals might find some advantage in the passing game and the run game if most of the 49ers starters are banged up. I would have to assume the Cardinals defense won't allow 30 points. 

Arizona has as well faced a lot of injuries and adversity this season. They had at one point had a 6-4 record with their lone win during that time against New England. The offense and defense have largely been the blame on the collapse but perhaps more on Kyler Murray since he's the offense's scapegoat. He just looks a little off and not himself at times. Against a banged up 49ers team and without most of their offensive starters, I would have to expect that the Cardinals to put up points like a juggernaut at times. I would be surprised if the 49ers win this game and allow likely starter Brandon Allen 3-4 touchdowns on the Cardinals defense. I'll take Arizona. 

All-time series: 49ers lead 36-30

Minnesota (14-2) @ Detroit (14-2) (NBC; 8:20 pm)

Pick: Vikings

The Vikings beat the Packers and the Lions beat the 49ers last week. Oh baby, what a season finale this will be. This is the kind of game that you don't really know who is going to win. Minnesota and Detroit have 14 wins each in the NFC North and that doesn't happen very often in the National Football League. It'll be a war in Ford Field. The Vikings in this game have probably the better passing offense than the Lions but they don't have a great run offense. The game will likely come down to who has the ball last and if they have the lead when they have the said ball. Which team that can get the first turnover and who can really get stops. 

Detroit is having one of its best seasons in their history. They have never won 14 games in a season let alone 15. Then there's Minnesota who was in the middle of a rebuilding year (at least we thought) and they too have 14 wins. The Lions offense should do fine as they can hit you in a multitude of ways. Either the run with three different players or by the pass with a multitude of wide receivers. I do think that the Lions defense is not at good as the Vikings defense, both of them pride on stopping the run. The last time these two teams met it was a Lions win 31-29 with the Lions Jake Bates hitting a field goal late in the game. It's a toss-up and might come down to a eeny meeny miny moe pick. The pick is Vikings. 

All-time series: Vikings lead 80-44-2

Early & Late Game TV Broadcast Pairings

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

CBS Early

Carolina @ Atlanta

Ian Eagle, Charles Davis

NY Giants @ Philadelphia

Andrew Catalon, Tiki Barber, Jason McCourty

Buffalo @ New England

Spero Dedes, Adam Archuleta

Houston @ Tennessee

Tom McCarthy, Ross Tucker, Jay Feely

CBS Late

Kansas City @ Denver

Jim Nantz, Tony Romo

LA Chargers @ Las Vegas

Kevin Harlan, Trent Green

FOX Early

New Orleans @ Tampa Bay

Kevin Burkhardt, Tom Brady

Washington @ Dallas

Adam Amin, Mark Sanchez

Chicago @ Green Bay

Kevin Kugler, Daryl Johnston

Jacksonville @ Indianapolis

Jason Benetti, Brady Quinn

FOX Late

Miami @ NY Jets

Joe Davis, Greg Olson

Seattle @ LA Rams

Kenny Albert, Jonathan Vilma

San Francisco @ Arizona

Chris Myers, Mark Schlereth

For more information on which game is being shown in your area check out: NFL 2024 Maps: Week 18

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

Week 15: 13-3

Week 16: 12-4

Week 17: 12-4

Total: 184-73

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 Sunday night game for the Week 18 Recap! Enjoy the games!

-Tom

NFL 2023 Week 18 Recap

 Hello readers! Another week of National Football League action has come to an end. The regular season finale brought us some interesting storylines. Such storylines like upsets in New Jersey and Tennessee, football weather in New England, a battle in the AFC East for that division title, and a new champion in the NFC East. All those games and more in this week's recap post!

NFL Week 18 Freaky Stat

For the first time since 1935, an NFL division has all of its teams finish above .500 in the same season as the AFC North has all of its teams with more wins than losses. The last time a division had that happen to them was the Western division in 1935.

NFL Week 18 Recap

Pittsburgh 17, Baltimore 10: TW: Steelers; CV: Ravens

In rainy Baltimore, the Steelers took care of business on their end. Mason Rudolph was nearly flawless in his start as he hit 18 of 20 passes for 152 yards and a touchdown. The touchdown went to Diontae Johnson for a 71-yard big play. The play happened as the first play of the 4th quarter. Najee Harris would do the rest of the work as he ran for 112 yards with a touchdown run of a 6-yard run for the Steelers first touchdown. Jaylen Warren rushed for 33 yards on nine carries. With the 71-yard touchdown, Johnson's game stats accounted for four catches for 89 yards. Pittsburgh finished with 289 yards of offense. Tyler Huntley started for the Ravens as Lamar Jackson rested for the playoff run. Huntley hit 15 of 28 passes for 146 yards with a touchdown pass to Isaiah Likely. The Likely touchdown came on a 27-yard play where the tight end stretched out his arm long enough to get the six. Gus Edwards rushed for 48 yards on 10 carries in the game. Huntley got 40 yards rushing on eight carries. Baltimore got 224 yards of offense in the game. It was a mostly defensive battle as neither team got to 300 yards of offense and would go below 50% in 3rd down conversions. The win might be a costly one for the Steelers as TJ Watt was helped off the field with a knee injury that might impact the Steelers chances the rest of the way of winning a playoff game. For the Steelers, they win with a record of 10-7 and have a shot to get into the playoffs but need a Bills loss, Jaguars loss/tie, or Texans-Colts ending in a tie to clinch a berth. For the Ravens, they drop to 13-4 with a bye week to rest up and play in two weeks for the Divisional playoff. 

Update: With the Jaguars loss, the Steelers are in the playoffs. 

Next week: 
Pittsburgh: Wild Card Playoffs @ Buffalo
Baltimore: Bye week

TW: 1-0; CV: 0-1

Houston 23, Indianapolis 19: TW: Texans; CV: Colts

The turnaround from 3-13-1 in 2022 to 10-7 in 2023 has Houston buzzing. CJ Stroud came out firing hitting Nico Collins for a 75-yard touchdown on the team's first play. Stroud would hit another touchdown, this time to Andrew Beck in the 2nd quarter. Stroud finished with 20 of 26 pass completions for 264 yards. Devin Singletary rushed into the endzone for the Texans 3rd touchdown in the 4th quarter. He rushed for 63 yards in the game. Nico Collins feasted on the Colts defense, catching nine passes for 195 yards, 75 of them coming from the touchdown. Houston finished with 306 total yards in the game. Gardner Minshew played a supporting role in the Colts offense. He hit 13 of 24 passes for 141 yards. The Colts lone touchdown came on a Jonathan Taylor 49-yard run to the house in the 3rd quarter. Taylor finished with 188 total yards in the game. Zack Moss had 30 yards rushing in the game. Indy would get a safety on a Cameron Johnston play on the Texans 23-yard line. There was some oddities in the game as Colts third string running back Tyler Goodson failed to catch a pass on a crucial 4th down play with a 1:05 left in the game. For the Texans, the Cinderella season continues for CJ Stroud and head coach DeMeco Ryans as they head into the playoffs with a 10-7 record. For the Colts, the up and down season ends in heartbreak as they fall to 9-8 and miss the playoffs. 

Next week:
Houston: Wild Card Playoffs vs Cleveland
Indianapolis: Go see a Pacers or Hoosiers game. 

TW: 2-0; CV: 0-2

Atlanta 17, New Orleans 48: TW: Falcons; CV: Saints

The Saints overcome the Falcons at home. Desmond Ridder had gotten off to a good start with 22 of 30 passes for 291 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. The good start came on the 1st half. The two touchdowns came to Bijan Robinson whose touchdown came on a 71-yard pass play to him. The next touchdown went to Jonnu Smith. Logan Woodside played some quarterback and hit 3 of 4 passes for 27 yards with an interception as well. Bijan Robinson had 28 rushing yards and caught seven passes for 103 yards. Atlanta had 389 total yards in the game. Derek Carr had a good game with 22 of 28 passes for 264 yards with four touchdowns. At Perry caught two, Chris Olave caught one and Rashid Shaheed caught the other pass from Carr. Kendre Miller rushed for 73 yards with a touchdown. Jamaal Williams scored the other touchdown while getting 26 yards rushing. The game was tied at 17 at halftime. The Saints would go ahead and score 31 unanswered points in the game. New Orleans had 400 total yards in the game. There was some controversy at the end of the game as Falcons head coach Arthur Smith was upset at Saints head coach Dennis Allen's decision to go for a late touchdown with less than a minute left. For the Falcons, they are out of the playoffs as they drop to 7-10 with questions a plenty in the offseason. For the Saints, they have slim hope of making it into the postseason as they need help to get in. 

Next week:
Atlanta: Get some Chick Fil-A
New Orleans: eat gumbo

TW: 2-1; CV: 1-2

Cleveland 14, Cincinnati 31: TW: Bengals; CV: Browns

Cleveland falters in the season finale. Jake Driskel started for the Browns. He hit 13 of 26 passes for 166 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions. Both touchdowns went to David Bell. The two interceptions happened in the first half. Pierre Strong Jr. got 14 carries for 65 yards in the game. Cleveland had 244 total yards of offense in the game. Jake Browning was efficient in the game. He hit 18 of 24 passes for 156 yards with three touchdowns and an interception. Browning's touchdowns went to Joe Mixon for one score and two scores to Andrei Iosivas in the game. Joe Mixon would rush into the endzone as well and got 14 carries for 111 yards. Chase Brown had 43 yards rushing with 11 carries. Cincinnati's offense put together 328 total yards in the game. For the Browns, they will drop to 11-6 but will play next week in the playoffs. For the Bengals, their hopeful season ends with disappointment but have a 9-8 record to be hopeful for. 

Next week: 
Cleveland: Wild Card Playoffs @ Houston
Cincinnati: Wait for Cincinnati Reds baseball to happen. 

TW: 3-1; CV: 1-3

Jacksonville 20, Tennessee 28: TW: Jaguars; CV: Titans

Turnovers doom the Jaguars in Nashville. Trevor Lawrence hit 29 of 43 passes for 280 yards with two touchdowns but also tossed two interceptions. The interceptions were what really killed the Jaguars in the game. The two touchdowns went to Calvin Ridley and Evan Engram. Calvin Ridley had six catches for 106 yards. Ryan Tannehill had 17 of 26 passes for 168 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. DeAndre Hopkins and Tyjae Spears had the touchdown catches from Tannehill. The Titans offense had a boost from their running game. Derrick Henry had 19 carries for 153 yards and a touchdown. Tyjae Spears had 25 rushing yards with a touchdown. Both teams eclipsed 300+ yards of offense as the Jaguars had 362 yards and the Titans had 327 yards. The game might've been a somber one as it might've been the last for Ryan Tannehill and Derrick Henry as Titans. Of course a lot of speculation of course. For the Jaguars, they falter and go from 8-3 to 9-8 to finish the season and miss the playoffs. For the Titans, they help the Bills and Steelers get into the playoffs with their win and jump to 6-11 to finish 2023. 

Next week: 
Jacksonville: I don't know, what is there to do in Jacksonville. 
Tennessee: watch a show at the Grand Ole Opry

TW: 3-2; CV: 2-3

Minnesota 20, Detroit 30: TW: Lions; CV: Vikings

Frustration across the board for the Vikings as they fall to Detroit. Nick Mullens hit 30 of 44 passes for 396 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions. Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison were the players that caught the touchdown passes from Mullens. Things got a bit heated with Jefferson who showed his frustrations on the sideline. He wouldn't be mad about his 12 catches, 192 receiving yard performance in the game. Tyson Chandler had 69 yards rushing with 12 carries. Minnesota had 448 total yards in the game. Jared Goff had a solid day throwing the ball as he hit 23 of 32 passes for 320 yards with two touchdowns. AmonRa St. Brown and Sam LaPorta were the players that caught the passes from Goff. Detroit's running game wouldn't get a lot but they scored touchdowns. David Montgomery rushed for 40 yards with a touchdown. Jahmyr Gibbs had 30 yards rushing with a touchdown. AmonRa St. Brown caught seven passes for 144 yards. Detroit had 381 total yards of offense in the game. For the Vikings, they are eliminated from the playoffs with a 7-10 record in a season of roller coasters. For the Lions, they improve to 12-5 and will host a playoff game next week for the first time in 30 yards. Jared Goff will play against his old team the Rams and his head coach Sean McVay. 

Next week: 
Minnesota: Eat some lutefisk or something
Detroit: Wild Card Playoffs vs LA Rams

TW: 4-2; CV: 2-4

NY Jets 17, New England 3: TW: Patriots; CV: Jets

Bill Belichick's former team beats him in what possibly was his last game in Foxboro. Trevor Siemian hit 8 of 20 passes for 70 yards. Breece Hall rushed for 178 yards on 37 carries with a touchdown. He had a run of 50 yards that was for the touchdown. Greg Zuerlein hit 3 of 4 field goals in the game for the Jets. Overall, the Jets got 254 total yards in the game. Bailey Zappe hit 12 of 30 passes for 88 yards and had two interceptions. The last interception would help the Jets get the Hall touchdown. Ezekiel Elliott rushed for 54 yards on 13 carries. New England had one of their worst offensive performances in a season full of offensive ineptitude with 119 total yards. The game wasn't designed for the passing game as snow was falling heavily in Gillette Stadium. For the Jets, their long season ends with their first win against the Patriots since 2015 and a 7-10 record. For the Patriots, their roughest season in Bill Belichick's career ends with a 4-13 record. 

Next week: 
NY Jets: attend a wellness retreat with Aaron Rodgers or something
New England: eat some clam chowder or something

TW: 4-3; CV: 3-4

Tampa Bay 9, Carolina 0: TW: Buccaneers; CV: Panthers

Three Chase McLaughlin field goals enough for the Buccaneers to win the NFC South. Baker Mayfield hit 20 of 32 passes for 137 yards. Chris Godwin caught the majority of the passes as he caught six of those passes for 51 yards. Rachaad White had a solid day running the ball with 75 yards rushing on 19 carries. Chase McLaughlin was the scorer as he hit field goals from 57, 36 and 39 yards. Tampa had 228 total yards of offense. Bryce Young hit 11 of 18 passes for 94 yards. A majority of the receiving yards went to DJ Chark for 46 yards. Chuba Hubbard got 23 carries for 83 yards. Carolina got 199 total yards of offense in the game. The Panthers had some chances of scoring as they had a couple of drives that went beyond 10 yards. Two drives that went 64 and 38 yards ended up being fumbles. For the Buccaneers, they clinch the NFC South for the third straight year with a 9-8 record. For the Panthers, they wrap up a terrible season with a 2-15 record. 

Next week: 
Tampa Bay: Wild Card Playoffs vs Philadelphia
Carolina: watch a Tar Heels or Blue Devils baskeball game. 

TW: 5-3; CV: 3-5

Chicago 9, Green Bay 17: TW: Packers; CV: Bears

Chicago limited in the season finale as the Packers clinch a playoff spot. Justin Fields hit 11 of 16 passes for 148 yards. He didn't throw a touchdown but didn't throw an interception either. DJ Moore caught 64 of those 148 yards while catching four passes. Chicago's running game wouldn't amount to much as Khalil Herbert rushed for 28 yards on 12 carries. Justin Fields had 27 yards rushing on 8 carries. Chicago was limited to 192 total yards in the game. Jordan Love hit 27 of 32 passes for 316 yards with two touchdowns. Both of those touchdowns went to Dontayvion Wicks. Jayden Reed caught four passes for 112 yards. Aaron Jones would also eclipse the century mark in the game with 22 carries for 111 yards. The Packers put up a storm on offense with 432 total yards in the game. Though in the points department it looked like they were limited in the yardage department. Suffice to say, I don't think it matters now. For the Bears, the season ends with another loss to the Packers as the Bears finish with a 7-10 record. For the Packers, they clinch a playoff spot with a 9-8 record. 

Next week:
Chicago: Watch a Bulls game or something
Green Bay: Wild Card playoffs @ Dallas

TW: 6-3; CV: 3-6

Dallas 38, Washington 10: TW: Commanders; CV: Cowboys

Dallas wins the NFC East and the #2 seed in the playoffs. Dak Prescott hit 31 of 36 passes for four touchdowns and one interception. At least one of those incompletions was that interception. With the victory in hand, Dallas sent out Cooper Rush for some playtime as the backup hit 3 of 4 passes for 30 yards. CeeDee Lamb caught two, Brandin Cooks caught one and Jalen Brooks caught one of the four passes thrown by Prescott. Joining in the touchdown parade was Tony Pollard who rushed in for six points while getting 70 yards in the game. Dallas put up 440 total yards in the game. Both teams would get some help on special teams as the Cowboys blocked a punt and the Commanders blocked a field goal. Sam Howell was effective in the season finale last year against Dallas. This time, he wasn't as lucky. He hit 19 of 27 passes for 153 yards with a touchdown and threw two interceptions. Washington's lone touchdown went to Brian Robinson Jr. on a 1-yard short pass. Washington was limited on rushing offense as Brian Robinson was held to nine carries for 25 yards. Terry McLaurin had six catches for 56 yards in the contest. Washington's offense was limited to 180 yards of offense. For the Cowboys, they win the NFC East and clinch the #2 seed with a 12-5 record. For the Commanders, they drop to 4-13 and finish the season going 2-13 since starting 2-0 on the season. 

Next week:
Dallas: Wild Card playoffs vs Green Bay
Washington: Go see the Smithsonian Institute's many buildings

TW: 6-4; CV: 4-6

Denver 14, Las Vegas 27: TW: Raiders; CV: Broncos

The Raiders end on a high note against rival Denver. Jarrett Stidham hit 20 of 34 passes for 272 yards with a touchdown and an interception. The touchdown went to Jerry Jeudy. Javonte Williams had 32 yards rushing on nine carries with a rushing touchdown. The touchdowns would come for Denver in the 2nd and 4th quarters. The Broncos had 286 total yards in the game. Aidan O'Connell hit 20 of 31 psases for 244 yards with two touchdowns. Jakobi Meyers and Davante Adams caught the passes from O'Connell. Jakobi Meyers played running back for one play with a touchdown on a 5-yard sweep play. Zamir White had 25 carries for 112 yards in the game. Las Vegas had 359 total yards in the game. For the Broncos, they will not sniff the playoffs and will have to wait for another season to have a chance to make it back with a 8-9 record. For the Raiders, they improve to 8-9 but won't make it to the playoffs. They will get to watch the Super Bowl in their own stadium like the rest of America. 

Next week:
Denver: see a Denver Nuggets or Colorado Avalanche game
Las Vegas: go see a show at the MGM Grand

TW: 7-4; CV: 4-7

Kansas City 13, LA Chargers 12: TW: Chiefs; CV: Chargers

The Chiefs win in Hollywood. Blaine Gabbert started for the Chiefs. Gabbert hit 15 of 30 passes for 154 yards with an interception. Lamical Perine was the leading rusher for the Chiefs with 21 carries for 76 yards. Mecole Hardman caught six passes for 77 yards. Kansas City was held without an offensive touchdown. They did get a defensive touchdown on an Easton Stick fumble that was caused by Charles Omenihu and recovered by Mike Edwards for a 97-yard touchdown. Harrison Butker hit two field goals in the game. Kansas City had 268 total yards in the game. Easton Stick hit 28 of 47 passes for 258 yards. Donald Parham Jr was the player that caught five of those passes for 83 yards. Easton Stick was also the leading rusher for the Chargers with 13 carries for 77 yards. Austin Ekeler was held to 11 yards rushing on 10 carries. With 54 seconds left in the game, Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker hit the game winning field goal from 41 yards. It would give the Chiefs the win and some momentum going into next week. For the Chiefs, they improve to 11-6 with a home playoff game next week. For the Chargers they drop to 5-12 with a long offseason ahead for them. 

Next week:
Kansas City: Wild Card playoffs vs Miami

LA Chargers: Go see the Hollywood sign

TW: 8-4; CV: 4-8

LA Rams 21, San Francisco 20: TW: Rams; CV: 49ers

The Carson Wentz show takes care of business against the 49ers. Wentz hit 17 of 24 passes for 163 yards with two passing touchdowns and an interception. He also rushed into the endzone for six points while getting 56 rushing yards in the game. Puka Nacua caught one of Wentz's passes and Tyler Johnson caught the other one. Puka Nacua caught the pass while getting 41 yards receiving. He ties a rookie wide receiving record with 1,473 yards, a record that was held by Bill Groman in 1960 when he was with the Houston Oilers. Ronnie Rivers had 52 rushing yards on 13 carries. Los Angeles had 258 total yards in the game. Sam Darnold started in the game for the 49ers. He hit 16 of 26 passes for 189 yards with a touchdown pass to Ronnie Bell. Darnold would also get a rushing touchdown while getting 19 rushing yards in the game. Elijah Mitchell had 52 yards rushing with a touchdown run. It would be the Wentz touchdown rush and the ensuing two-point conversion the win. The two-point conversion was a pass play from Wentz to Tutu Atwell. San Francisco had an even 300 yards of offense in the game. For the Rams, they gain the 6th seed and will go on the road next week with a 10-7 record. For the 49ers, they drop to 12-5 with a bye week and will head into the Divisional playoff. 

Next week: 
LA Rams: Wild Card playoffs @ Detroit

San Francisco: Bye

TW: 9-4; CV: 4-9

Philadelphia 10, NY Giants 27: TW: Eagles; CV: Giants

The Giants play spoiler to the Eagles plans to win the NFC East. Jalen Hurts started the game and hit 7 of 16 passes for 55 yards with an interception. He wouldn't finish the game as Marcus Mariota came in. Mariota hit 13 of 20 passes for 148 yards with a touchdown and an interception. The touchdown pass went to Quez Watkins. Watkins caught eight passes for 93 yards. Kenneth Gainwell had 62 yards rushing on seven carries. Marcus Mariota would get 46 yards rushing on six carries. Philadelphia got 299 yards of offense in the game. Tyrod Taylor started the game and hit 23 of 32 passes for 297 yards with a touchdown and an interception. Darius Slayton was the Giant that caught the pass from Taylor. Folk hero Tommy DeVito came in the game and hit 2 for 2 passes for 14 yards. Truly he was the player of the game. Saquon Barkley got two scores on 46 yards rushing in the game. He was possibly playing his last game in Big Blue colors. New York racked up 415 total yards in the game. For the Eagles, they drop to 11-6 and will have to go on the road to Tampa next week for the playoffs. For the Giants, their disappointing season ends but on a high note as they improve to 6-11. 

Next week: 
Philadelphia: Wild Card playoffs @ Tampa Bay
NY Giants: eat some pastrami sandwiches in New York

TW: 9-5; CV: 5-9

Seattle 21, Arizona 20: TW: Cardinals; CV: Seahawks

A Matt Prater field goal miss dooms the Cardinals in finale. Geno Smith hit 16 of 28 passes for 189 yards and two touchdown passes. Will Dissly caught the first touchdown on a 19-yard short pass. Tyler Lockett caught the 2nd for a 34-yard big play. Kenneth Walker III rushed for 78 yards on 17 carries in the game. Seattle had 327 total yards in the game. Kuler Murray hit 22 of 30 passes for 262 yards with a touchdown pass to Trey McBride that gave the Cardinals a 20-13 lead in the 4th quarter. James Conner had a great day running the ball as he rushed for 150 yards with a touchdown on 27 carries. His longest run was a 29-yard run. Michael Wilson caught six passes for 95 yards in the game. Arizona put out a good offensive performance with 466 total yards. With a second left in the game, Matt Prater tried to hit a 51-yard field goal that would go to the right. For the Seahawks, they won't sniff the playoffs due to the Packers win but improve to 9-8 on the season. For the Cardinals, they fall to 4-13 with some uncertainty for Kyler Murray heading into the offseason. 

Next week:
Seattle: throw fish at the fish market or something
Arizona: go catch a Phoenix Suns game or something

TW: 9-6; CV: 6-9

Buffalo 21, Miami 14: TW: Bills; CV: Dolphins

It was an ugly game but the Bills are AFC East champions. Josh Allen hit 30 of 38 passes for 359 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions. Dawson Knox caught one pass and Trent Sherfield caught the other touchdown from Allen. Josh Allen was the leading rusher for Buffalo with 67 yards on 15 carries. James Cook had 36 yards rushing on 13 carries. Khalil Shakir caught six passes for 105 yards for the Bills. Buffalo's special teams got a boost in scoring as Deonte Harty ran it back to the endzone for 96 yards. Tua Tagovailoa hit 17 of 27 passes for 173 yards with a touchdown pass to Tyreek Hill and tossed two interceptions. De'Von Achane rushed for 56 yards with a touchdown. Jeff Wilson rushed for 45 yards in the game on nine carries. Tyreek Hill caught seven passes for 82 yards, finishing the regular season with 1,717 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns. The total yardage in the game was 473 for Buffalo and 275 for Miami. A certainly interesting offensive showcase for the two teams. The game would see five turnovers in the game. For the Bills, they win the AFC East and a home playoff game with a 11-6 record. For the Dolphins, the loss will hurt as they drop to 11-6 and will have to travel to Kansas City. 

Next week: 
Buffalo: Wild Card Playoffs vs Pittsburgh
Miami: Wild Card Playoffs @ Kansas City

TW: 10-6; CV: 6-10

Records

Cardinal Viking:

2023: 
Week 1: 10-6

Week 2: 10-6

Week 3: 8-8

Week 4: 13-3
Week 5: 6-8

Week 6: 9-6

Week 7: 4-9

Week 8: 10-6

Week 9: 8-6
Week 10: 6-8

Week 11: 7-7

Week 12: 9-7

Week 13: 9-4

Week 14: 5-10

Week 15: 10-6

Week 16: 10-6

Week 17: 7-9

Week 18: 6-10

Total: 147-125

2017: 167-89
2018: 156-98-2
2019: 151-104-1
2020: 163-92-1
2021: 167-104-1
2022: 157-112-2

My record: 

2023:
Week 1: 9-7

Week 2: 11-5
Week 3: 11-5

Week 4: 14-2

Week 5: 7-7

Week 6: 8-7

Week 7: 5-8

Week 8: 10-6

Week 9: 9-5
Week 10: 7-7

Week 11: 11-3

Week 12: 8-8

Week 13: 9-4

Week 14: 4-11

Week 15: 10-6

Week 16: 9-7

Week 17: 9-7

Week 18: 10-6

Total: 161-111

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

See you all on Wednesday/Thursday for the Super Wild Card Weekend Picks post! Enjoy your week!

-Tom