Thursday Night Football: Bengals @ Ravens 7:15PM (Prime)
The Baltimore Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals both showcased explosive offenses last week, bouncing back from disappointing Week 8 performances. For the Bengals, an upcoming three-game stretch against the Ravens, Chargers, and Steelers will be critical in determining if they can make a playoff push. In their last meeting with Baltimore, Cincinnati had a chance to win in overtime, but a botched field goal snap and conservative play-calling allowed the Ravens to escape with the victory.
While overtaking the Chiefs for the AFC’s top seed seems unlikely for Baltimore, they’re focused on catching the Bills for the No. 2 seed to potentially avoid a playoff trip to Buffalo. The Ravens’ defense looked dominant last week, holding the Broncos to just 10 points. They’ll need a similar defensive performance this week, as the Bengals racked up 38 points in their last clash with Baltimore.
Ultimately, this game will hinge on Cincinnati’s ability to contain Ravens running back Derrick Henry. If the Bengals can neutralize Henry and push Baltimore into relying on its passing game, they could be well-positioned to pull off a win.
Prediction: 30-27 Ravens
Sunday Germany Game: Giants vs. Panthers 8:30 AM (NFL Network)
Germany’s love of beer might come in handy for fans as the Carolina Panthers and New York Giants face off overseas. The Panthers are coming off a surprising win over the Saints, where Bryce Young put in a solid, if unspectacular, performance. While Young’s play has often been criticized, a merely average outing against New Orleans was an improvement. Carolina’s defense also stepped up, holding the Saints to just 22 points.
Now they face a Giants team in free fall. New York has lost four straight, three of them by double digits. Despite leading the league in sacks, the Giants’ defense has allowed at least 26 points in each of the last three games and has struggled against the run, surrendering over five yards per carry to running backs. This could set the stage for Carolina’s Chuba Hubbard to make a big impact on the ground.
The Panthers plan to keep starting Young, hoping he’ll gain confidence down the stretch. With a thin QB draft class this year, the team is focused on seeing progress from their second-year signal caller. Simplifying the game plan, especially against a Giants defense that struggles against the run, might be the key.
Whether this game becomes an entertaining showdown between struggling teams or a slow-paced affair, it’s sure to keep fans in Germany on their toes.
Prediction: 21-17 Panthers
Sunday Noon Window
Patriots @ Bears (FOX)
It’s been a tough return from the bye week for the Chicago Bears, who have dropped both games since, including a 29-9 blowout loss to the Cardinals. The Bears’ formula for success is straightforward: run the ball and limit Caleb Williams’ passing attempts. When Chicago went on a three-game win streak earlier this season, Williams never threw more than 27 passes in a game. Last week, however, he attempted over 40 passes—far from the Bears’ ideal game plan.
Chicago will face a Patriots rush defense that has struggled, most recently allowing Tony Pollard to gain over 120 yards on 4.6 yards per carry. New England’s rookie QB, Drake Maye, showed flashes against the Titans, making a clutch play to push the game into overtime, though he sealed a 20-17 loss with a rookie mistake, throwing an ill-advised 50/50 ball that was picked off in OT.
As always, New England’s chances hinge on their defense holding opponents under 20 points. If they can, they have a shot; if not, they’re likely headed for another loss. The Bears should focus on a run-heavy attack with Deandre Swift to control the game. If they put the ball in Williams’ hands too often, however, things could quickly unravel for Chicago.
Prediction: 20-17 Bears
Bills @ Colts (CBS)
Tyler Bass may have saved his Buffalo career with a clutch 61-yard game-winning field goal against Miami, bouncing back from a missed PAT that gave the Dolphins a chance to tie. Josh Allen, meanwhile, threw his second interception in as many games, continuing a trend of high-risk throws. According to Pro Football Focus, Allen entered last week with 12 turnover-worthy throws but only one actual interception—a trend the Bills hope he can reverse.
Though the Bills, as an AFC powerhouse, might seem like a clear favorite against the Colts, the matchup isn’t so straightforward. Every Colts game this season has been decided by one score, making them resilient if inconsistent. Their defense is puzzling; they’ve allowed the fourth most yards per game but surrender only 21 points per contest. The Colts hope Jonathan Taylor can capitalize against a middle-of-the-pack Bills run defense, while Joe Flacco looks to regain his rhythm after being named the starter last week.
Indianapolis is 3-1 at home this season, proving a tough opponent at Lucas Oil Stadium. If the Colts can generate turnovers and create short fields or defensive scores, they have a real shot at an upset. For Buffalo, this is one of those games where it doesn’t matter how they win—just that they do.
Prediction: 28-21 Bills
Falcons @ Saints (FOX)
The New Orleans Saints have fired head coach Dennis Allen following a dismal showing last week against the Panthers. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Falcons enter this matchup on a roll, winning five of their last six games and averaging 33 points per game in that stretch, aside from a single off-game against the Seahawks. With the rest of the NFC South holding losing records, the Falcons have a prime opportunity to solidify their division lead by taking care of business against a reeling Saints team.
The Saints’ run defense has struggled, allowing over five yards per carry to running backs, setting up a favorable matchup for the Falcons’ Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier. Even if New Orleans finds a way to slow down the ground game, Kirk Cousins poses a potent threat through the air, coming off two stellar games with seven touchdowns and no interceptions. On defense, Atlanta has been steady, and an average performance should be enough to handle the Saints.
In their previous matchup, the Falcons’ defense came up big with a pick-six to seal the win. This rivalry is one of the most intense in the NFL, so an upset is always possible, especially in New Orleans. However, given the Saints’ lackluster performances of late, it’s hard to back them in this one.
Prediction: 31-17 Falcons
49ers @ Buccaneers (FOX)
This game could be the most pivotal matchup this week for playoff implications, as both the San Francisco 49ers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers are fighting to stay in the postseason hunt. The 49ers have struggled to shake off a Super Bowl hangover, stumbling to a 4-4 record. However, they’re coming in with some momentum after a solid win against the Cowboys in Week 8 and a week off to regroup.
The key battle in this matchup will be the Buccaneers’ passing game versus a 49ers defense that has been average overall but has excelled in pass defense, holding opposing QBs to the fourth-lowest rating in the league. Tampa Bay’s Baker Mayfield led a gutsy drive to push last week’s game against the Chiefs into overtime, and he’ll need to summon similar magic to prevail in what may be a must-win for the Buccaneers.
Christian McCaffrey is set to make his 49ers debut, adding a dynamic weapon to San Francisco’s offense. His presence shifts the odds, and Vegas agrees, making the 49ers a touchdown favorite on the road. With the defending NFC champs now entering a crucial four-game stretch, look for them to come out strong, aiming to right their season’s course.
Prediction: 27-23 49ers
Steelers @ Commanders (CBS)
At the season’s start, few would have expected both the Pittsburgh Steelers and Washington Commanders to be leading their respective divisions by this point. A win here would not only keep Pittsburgh atop the AFC North, but it would also send a strong message if they can contain one of the league’s top offenses. The Steelers have been road warriors, posting a 3-1 away record, and if their offense can keep up its recent trend of 26+ points per game, they’ll be a formidable challenge.
The Commanders, meanwhile, are undefeated at home, outscoring opponents 113-53. But their last encounter with a high-caliber defense, like the Steelers’, was a close call; they were held to 12 points by the Bears until a miraculous Hail Mary sealed an 18-15 win. The X-factor will be Washington’s offensive line, which has excelled at pass protection but now faces T.J. Watt, one of the league’s premier pass rushers.
Much of the spotlight will be on Russell Wilson, whose impact on Pittsburgh’s offense has been substantial, even if somewhat underappreciated. A Steelers victory here could spark serious conversations about their potential to challenge the Chiefs in the AFC. Although Washington is the favorite, this game could be a defining statement for Pittsburgh’s season.
Prediction: 24-23 Steelers
Vikings @ Jaguars (FOX)
Vikings fans can breathe a sigh of relief after their team snapped a two-game losing streak with a Sunday Night Football win over the Colts. However, the victory wasn’t flawless; Minnesota’s offense struggled to reach the 20-point mark. Fortunately, the defense stepped up, holding the Colts to just six points, with the only other touchdown allowed coming from a scoop-and-score in the second quarter.
This week, they’ll face a Jaguars team that has looked uninspired and faces a potential season-ending loss if they can’t pull off a win. Jacksonville’s porous pass defense is up against one of the league’s most dangerous threats in Justin Jefferson, which could spell trouble for the Jaguars. Still, Jacksonville has shown some resilience, losing five of their seven games by five points or fewer, making this game less of a lock than it might seem.
For the Jaguars to have a shot, they’ll need to capitalize on any turnover-prone tendencies from Vikings QB Sam Darnold, who had three giveaways against the Colts. Expect Aaron Jones to be a focal point for the Vikings, with the potential for over 100 yards from scrimmage, as Minnesota aims to play a clean, controlled game.
Prediction: 27-18 Vikings
Broncos @ Chiefs (CBS)
The Denver Broncos defense was humbled last week, allowing 41 points to the Ravens after giving up just 40 combined points in their prior three games. Baltimore’s offense had its way, with Lamar Jackson going 16-of-19 for 280 yards, while Derrick Henry powered his way to 100 yards and two scores on the ground. Now, Denver’s defense faces a defining moment: Are they an elite unit, or have they simply capitalized on weaker opponents?
This week, they’ll be up against a resurgent Patrick Mahomes, who threw for just under 300 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions in a strong performance against Tampa Bay. Despite Mahomes’ big night, the Chiefs still needed overtime to secure the win, with costly mistakes from Xavier Worthy and Travis Kelce keeping the Buccaneers in the game.
On the other side, Broncos rookie QB Bo Nix has shown flashes but struggled against Baltimore, completing under 60% of his passes with an interception and no touchdowns. Nix’s mobility could be a factor to watch, as Kansas City’s defense has faced only one mobile QB this year—Lamar Jackson, who ran for over 120 yards against them.
With the Chiefs looking ahead to a crucial matchup against Buffalo next week, this game has all the makings of a trap. Denver will be motivated to prove last week was an anomaly and to reassert themselves in the AFC West. The Chiefs may have their sights on the one-seed, but last time they met, Denver stunned them 24-9. If history is any indication, this one won’t be easy.
Prediction 26-20 Chiefs
Sunday Afternoon Window
Titans @ Chargers (FOX)
The Chargers are coming off a dominant defensive showing against the Browns, intercepting Jameis Winston three times and holding Cleveland to just 10 points. Now, they turn their focus to a Titans squad that barely managed 20 points against a struggling New England Patriots defense. On the offensive side, Justin Herbert has been heating up, averaging 286 yards and five touchdowns with no interceptions over his past four games. If Herbert maintains this level of play, paired with a top-ranked defense, the Chargers could be the AFC Wild Card team no one wants to face in the playoffs.
The Titans, meanwhile, escaped with an overtime win against the Patriots, but their offense remains a concern. Tennessee has moved on from Will Levis, with Mason Rudolph now leading the way. The offensive spotlight is on Tony Pollard, who posted over 120 rushing yards against New England, but he faces a stiffer challenge against the Chargers’ defense, which has been allowing fewer than 13 points per game.
After a disastrous 52-point showing against the Lions, the Titans defense steadied itself but will face a Chargers team with a clear identity. The Chargers play smart, controlled football, scoring around 23 points per game and leaning on their defense to secure victories. While some may question the Chargers’ potential against elite competition, they should have little trouble handling a Titans team that’s struggled to find consistency.
Prediction: 23-10 Chargers
Eagles @ Cowboys (CBS)
The rivalry between the Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles is as fierce as it gets in the NFC East, and if the opportunity arises, Philadelphia will certainly look to run up the score in Dallas. Unfortunately for the Cowboys, that reality is looking all too possible, as they’re 0-3 at home this season and have been outscored 119-53 in those contests. Despite some doubts about the Eagles’ coaching, their talent speaks for itself. With a 6-2 record and a three-game winning streak, Philadelphia is coming in hot.
On the other hand, Dallas seems to be going through a period of despair that only comes when a preseason Super Bowl favorite falls into a freefall. The Cowboys have struggled to put points on the board unless the game is well out of reach. Their defense, which has allowed 27 or more points in five games this season, has also failed to live up to expectations.
To make matters worse, Dak Prescott is likely to miss this game due to a hamstring injury, which means Cooper Rush will take over under center. The silver lining for Dallas is the possible return of star linebacker Micah Parsons, which could give the defense a boost.
While I expect the Eagles to win, don’t be surprised if this game is closer than anticipated. It feels like this season, whenever a blowout is expected, the opposite tends to happen. While it would be an improbable upset for Dallas, that’s why the saying “Any Given Sunday” holds true.
Prediction: 30-22 Eagles
Jets @ Cardinals (CBS)
For those hoping for the downfall of the New York Jets, last week was a disappointment as they managed to outlast the Texans on Thursday Night Football. The Jets won the way they have to—dinking and dunking down the field, avoiding turnovers, and relying on their defense to keep them in the game. At 5-4, their path to a potential 10-7 record and a playoff berth remains alive, but they can’t afford any slip-ups against the Cardinals, especially with tough games against the Dolphins and Bills still on the schedule.
The Arizona Cardinals are coming in on a high, with back-to-back impressive offensive performances, scoring 28 or more points in consecutive weeks for the first time since Weeks 1 and 2. At 5-4, they lead the NFC West, but there’s still a general sense of doubt surrounding the team. The Cardinals remain one of the most unpredictable teams in the league, just as likely to win big as they are to lose by multiple scores.
This matchup is fascinating. A win for the Cardinals would solidify their position atop the NFC West, though it wouldn’t fully shake off the skepticism about their consistency. For the Jets, every game from here on out feels like a playoff game, and while that urgency can provide a short-term spark, it may start to wear on them down the stretch. This is a critical game for both teams, with huge playoff implications on the line.
Prediction: 24-23 Cardinals
Sunday Night Football: Lions @ Texans 7:20 PM (NBC)
The Houston Texans may be one of the more overrated teams in football right now. Even at full health, their offense has struggled to close out games against quality opponents, while their defense, though solid, hasn’t consistently made the big stops when needed. Despite all that, they’re in the weak AFC South, so it’s looking likely they’ll still secure a top-four seed for the playoffs. Quarterback C.J. Stroud is coming off his worst performance as a pro, completing just 11 of 30 passes for 191 yards with no touchdowns, continuing his up-and-down sophomore campaign.
On the flip side, the Detroit Lions have been playing some of the most dominant football in the league. They went into Lambeau Field in cold, wet conditions and walked out with a 24-14 win, continuing their impressive run. The Lions’ defense has been on fire, holding three of their last four opponents to under 15 points, while David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs continue to physically wear down defenses on the ground.
Detroit is simply the better team across the board. Despite the injury to Aiden Hutchinson, their defense remains a force, while the Texans are dealing with a banged-up receiving corps. The Lions’ secondary has been a nightmare for opposing passers, picking off 11 passes and allowing just six touchdowns through the air. With so much working against the Texans in this matchup, it’s hard to imagine them pulling off an upset here. The Lions should take this one with ease.
Prediction: 28-20 Lions
Monday Night Football: Dolphins @ Rams 7:15 PM (ESPN/ABC)
Three weeks ago, if you’d asked me about this game, I would’ve suggested spending some quality time with your in-laws instead—it seemed like one of the least intriguing matchups of the week. But now, with both teams healthy and desperate for a late playoff charge, this game has become much more compelling.
The Miami Dolphins, despite the return of Tua Tagovailoa, have struggled to put it all together, losing two straight on walk-off field goals, the latest being a 61-yard bomb from Tyler Bass against the Bills. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Rams are back to full strength on offense and have closed the gap to just one game behind the Arizona Cardinals for the lead in the NFC West. The big question here is: which revitalized passing game is the more legitimate threat?
It’s tough to assess these offenses by their regular season numbers, considering neither has been at full strength for the majority of the year. However, when both units are healthy, the aerial attack from both teams is among the most dangerous in the league. On paper, the Dolphins boast the better defense—statistically and in terms of big names—but the Rams’ defense has been very steady in recent weeks, allowing 20 points or fewer in three straight games. In contrast, the Dolphins have given up 28 or more points in consecutive weeks.
This game will come down to which offense can execute more efficiently while the defenses continue to prove themselves under pressure. With playoff hopes on the line, this one should be an exciting battle between two high-powered teams.
Prediction 28-27 Rams
Overall Record: 91-47 (Last Week 10-5)