The Week 15 NFL schedule for the 2024 season is stacked with nice matchups, and we have got you coated with what that you must know heading into the weekend.
Our NFL Nation reporters deliver us the largest keys to each recreation, and analytics author Seth Walder makes a daring prediction for every matchup. The ESPN Research crew offers an enormous stat to know and a betting nugget for every contest, whereas our Football Power Index (FPI) goes contained in the numbers with a recreation projection and a take a look at the playoff image. Fantasy analyst Eric Moody finds fantasy football X components, and three analysts — Kalyn Kahler, Moody and Walder — give us closing rating picks for each recreation. Everything you wish to know is right here in a single spot that can assist you prepare for a loaded weekend of NFL football.
Let’s get into the total Week 15 slate, together with the Browns taking up the Chiefs, the “Pennsylvania State Championship” and the Bills visiting the Lions. It all culminates with a pair of “Monday Night Football” matchups — the Bears go to the Vikings (8 p.m. ET) on ABC/ESPN+ and the Falcons tackle the Raiders (8:30 p.m. ET) on ESPN. (Game occasions are Sunday until in any other case famous.)
Jump to a matchup:
KC-CLE | CIN-TEN | WSH-NO
BAL-NYG | DAL-CAR | NYJ-JAX
MIA-HOU | IND-DEN | BUF-DET
PIT-PHI | NE-ARI | TB-LAC
GB-SEA | CHI-MIN | ATL-LV
Thursday: LAR 12, SF 6
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: KC -4.5 (43.5 O/U)
Chiefs storyline to observe: Quarterback Patrick Mahomes has been sacked 13 occasions up to now three video games and already extra occasions (35) than ever in a season (his earlier excessive was 28 in 2021). Now, the Chiefs face reigning Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett with a shaky deal with scenario. Mahomes made the passing recreation work last week in opposition to the Chargers regardless of heavy strain by throwing many fast passes, however the Chiefs would favor extra massive cross performs, which will likely be tough to get with out improved safety. — Adam Teicher
Browns storyline to observe: Can quarterback Jameis Winston stay affected person and stack methodical scoring drives in opposition to a Chiefs protection that has allowed the second-fewest explosive performs (64) within the NFL via Week 14? Winston has supplied extra explosiveness within the passing recreation, however he additionally has been turnover-prone, main the league with 9 interceptions since he took over because the starter in Week 8. Limiting Kansas City’s possessions will likely be key if the Browns wish to pull off the upset. — Daniel Oyefusi
Stat to know: Browns extensive receiver Jerry Jeudy has 50-plus receiving yards in six consecutive video games, which is the longest of his profession.
Bold prediction: Browns cornerback Denzel Ward will give up no a couple of reception to extensive receiver DeAndre Hopkins. Ward is coming off a recreation during which he wasn’t even focused, per NFL Next Gen Stats, and I anticipate the Chiefs should depend on their different playmakers. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Chiefs have a 77% probability to earn the highest seed within the AFC, per ESPN Analytics. That rises to 87% with a win and falls to 61% with a loss. Read more.
Fantasy X issue: Chiefs working again Isiah Pacheco. With windy, wet climate anticipated in Cleveland, the Chiefs would possibly lean closely on the working recreation. Pacheco had 16 touches final week in simply his second recreation again from a fractured fibula. Expect an analogous workload. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Chiefs are 0-7 in opposition to the unfold (ATS) of their previous seven video games. No crew has received the Super Bowl in the identical season it had a six-game ATS dropping streak. Read more.
Kahler’s decide: Chiefs 24, Browns 17
Moody’s decide: Chiefs 23, Browns 20
Walder’s decide: Browns 26, Chiefs 23
FPI prediction: KC, 58.8% (by a median of three.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Mahomes on upcoming schedule: ‘Not a good feeling’ … Haslam backs Stefanski, GM, will look at all else … .Five players Cleveland could be evaluating for 2025
1 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: CIN -5 (46.5 O/U)
Bengals storyline to observe: Quarterback Joe Burrow goes up in opposition to one among his most imposing foes in Titans defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons. Simmons has 3.5 sacks and 10 pressures in three profession video games versus the Bengals, together with Cincinnati’s playoff win in 2021, and Burrow has a 0.4 QBR when Simmons will get the primary strain. But Burrow is prepared: “This yr, I’m making performs at a a lot greater fee than I ever had earlier than outdoors of the construction.” — Ben Baby
Titans storyline to observe: Ja’Marr Chase leads all extensive receivers in receptions (93), yards (1,319) and touchdowns (15), however the Titans’ cross protection is tops within the league, permitting 175.5 yards per recreation. Rookie cornerback Jarvis Brownlee Jr. is trying ahead to the matchup. “He’s one of many high receivers,” he stated. “You dwell for moments like this. Every week has been a problem for me as a rookie, however this week is a chance to maintain placing the NFL on discover.” — Turron Davenport
Stat to know: The Titans’ loss to the Jaguars last Sunday clinched their third straight season with 10 or extra losses. It’s the primary time the franchise has completed that since 1983 to 1986, when the crew was the Houston Oilers.
Bold prediction: The Bengals will rating 40-plus factors. I’ve little or no religion on this Titans crew that ranks twenty fifth and twenty fourth in offensive and defensive EPA per play, respectively, since Week 10, and Cincinnati has the potential to be distinctive. — Walder
What’s at stake: Although the Titans have been knocked out of the playoffs, the Bengals nonetheless have a 3% probability on the postseason after their Monday night win over the Cowboys. Read more.
Fantasy X issue: Titans working again Tony Pollard. He thrives with quantity. This season, he is averaging 14.4 fantasy factors per recreation when he will get 16-plus touches. The Bengals’ defensive entrance ranks twenty fourth in run cease win fee (29.4%) and simply allowed 141 whole yards to Cowboys working again Rico Dowdle on 19 touches. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Bengals are 4-0 ATS as highway favorites this season. Burrow is 12-4 ATS as a highway favourite in his profession. Read more.
Kahler’s decide: Bengals 35, Titans 20
Moody’s decide: Bengals 35, Titans 21
Walder’s decide: Bengals 42, Titans 14
FPI prediction: CIN, 61.8% (by a median of 4.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Burrow laments violations of privacy after home break-in … Titans playing for pride despite no playoffs, focused on Bengals
1:39
How do the Bengals proceed with Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins?
Domonique Foxworth and Dan Graziano break down the way forward for the Bengals after a disappointing 2024 season.
1 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: WSH -7.5 (43.5 O/U)
Commanders storyline to observe: Cornerback Marshon Lattimore will most likely make his Commanders debut this week in opposition to the crew that traded him Nov. 5. Lattimore has missed his previous 5 video games due to a hamstring harm. Washington has been mum on the way it will use him, however the Commanders know he has excelled at press man protection. In the primary 13 video games, Washington ranked thirteenth in variety of occasions it performed press man; as Lattimore settles in, that quantity ought to enhance. — John Keim
Saints storyline to observe: Quarterback Derek Carr is each within the concussion protocol and nursing a hand harm that would trigger him to overlook time. On Thursday, a supply advised ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler that, after interim coach Darren Rizzi held an open competitors in apply this week, the Saints plan to begin Jake Haener over rookie Spencer Rattler if Carr is dominated out. — Katherine Terrell
Stat to know: Saints working again Alvin Kamara is 62 speeding yards from reaching the primary 1,000-yard speeding season of his profession.
Bold prediction: Someone will return a kickoff for a landing. The Commanders and Saints rank final and second-to-last by way of most kick return yards allowed over expectation at 287 and 147, respectively, per NFL Next Gen Stats. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Commanders have an 85% probability to make the postseason, per ESPN Analytics, and people odds would rise to 92% with a win and fall to 68% with a loss. The Saints have lower than a 1% shot to make the playoffs. Read more.
Injuries: Commanders | Saints
Fantasy X issue: Commanders working again Brian Robinson Jr. The Saints’ protection provides up the eighth-most fantasy factors per recreation to working backs. Robinson has been on hearth, scoring 14-plus fantasy factors in two of his previous three video games. With Austin Ekeler (concussion) on IR, anticipate Robinson to get a heavy workload. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Saints are 0-6 outright and ATS in opposition to groups with profitable data this season. Read more.
Kahler’s decide: Commanders 28, Saints 21
Moody’s decide: Commanders 30, Saints 13
Walder’s decide: Commanders 24, Saints 6
FPI prediction: WSH, 69.9% (by a median of seven.7 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Commanders WR Brown out with ‘significant’ injury … Saints QB Carr ‘week-to-week’ with hand injury, concussion … How Washington got its offense rolling again
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: BAL -16 (42.5 O/U)
Ravens storyline to observe: This has the makings of an enormous day for working again Derrick Henry and the Ravens’ speeding assault. The Giants are giving up 4.9 yards per carry this season, which is tied for the franchise’s second-worst efficiency over the previous 20 years. Baltimore is averaging 5.72 yards per rush try, which is the second finest in NFL historical past behind the 1963 Browns. — Jamison Hensley
Giants storyline to observe: With Tommy DeVito starting at quarterback, the Giants will attempt to get the ball downfield, particularly in opposition to the Ravens’ Thirty second-ranked cross protection. Baltimore has allowed 264.9 passing yards per recreation this season. In the three video games since moving on from Daniel Jones, the Giants have tried 13 passes of 20-plus yards with DeVito and Drew Lock, who’s out with a heel harm, at quarterback, seventh most within the NFL. — Jordan Raanan
Stat to know: Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson has 29 passing touchdowns this season, which is the second most within the NFL behind Joe Burrow‘s 33 and already his most since having 36 in his unanimous MVP season in 2019.
Bold prediction: Giants working again Tyrone Tracy Jr. will file fewer than 30 speeding yards. The Ravens have the highest-ranked run protection by way of EPA per play, and there is a fairly good probability the Giants will fall behind early and begin throwing downfield. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Ravens are nonetheless within the hunt for the AFC North crown, holding a 20% probability to win the division in contrast with the Steelers’ 80%. Their odds enhance to 23% with a win and fall to six% with a loss. Read more.
Fantasy X issue: Malik Nabers. He is coming off a powerful Week 14 efficiency during which he had 14.9 fantasy factors, taking part in 93.2% of the snaps and working routes on 90% of the Giants’ 51 cross performs. Now, he faces a Ravens protection that’s giving up the third-most fantasy factors per recreation to receivers. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The previous eight highway favorites of 14-plus factors are 1-7 ATS, with three outright losses. Read more.
Kahler’s decide: Ravens 30, Giants 17
Moody’s decide: Ravens 34, Giants 17
Walder’s decide: Ravens 30, Giants 13
FPI prediction: BAL, 81.5% (by a median of 13.8 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Ravens say WR Johnson’s suspension isn’t a distraction … Giants coach Brian Daboll, GM Joe Schoen are in the spotlight
1:15
Schefter to McAfee: Strange to see Justin Tucker struggling
Adam Schefter talks to Pat McAfee about Justin Tucker’s struggles kicking for the Ravens this season.
1 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: CAR -3 (43.5 O/U)
Cowboys storyline to observe: Last week’s loss to Cincinnati left the Cowboys as down as they’ve been all season, so how do the gamers reply on a brief week in opposition to the Panthers, who’ve performed higher of late? The gamers have continued to battle underneath coach Mike McCarthy, however this will likely be his greatest problem thus far with leaders reminiscent of quarterback Dak Prescott (hamstring) and Zack Martin (ankle) out for the season. A two-game profitable streak had the Cowboys dreaming of a playoff run. At 5-8, they aren’t out of the chase but, however a loss to the Panthers would imply their first sub-.500 end since 2020. — Todd Archer
Panthers storyline to observe: The Panthers are favored for the primary time in 34 video games, going again to 2022 in opposition to the Steelers. They misplaced that recreation, however the reality they’re favored this week exhibits how effectively they’ve performed in three consecutive shut losses, together with 22-16 last week at Philadelphia. Quarterback Bryce Young is an enormous motive. His 60 Total QBR since Week 9 is healthier than Patrick Mahomes’ and higher than these of the three different QBs within the NFC South. — David Newton
Stat to know: The Cowboys and Panthers have two of the worst speeding defenses within the NFL. Carolina ranks final in rush yards allowed per recreation (170.1), and Dallas ranks thirtieth (141.9).
Bold prediction: Panthers edge D.J. Wonnum will file a sack. He has recorded three in 4 video games, and he ought to win his matchup in opposition to both Chuma Edoga or Tyler Guyton. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Panthers maintain a ten.5% probability to get the No. 1 decide within the 2025 NFL draft, that are the third-highest odds, per ESPN’s FPI, behind these of the Giants (41%) and Patriots (24%). Their probabilities enhance to 19.1% with a loss. Read more.
Fantasy X issue: Cowboys working again Rico Dowdle. He’s coming into his personal this season, speeding for greater than 100 yards in consecutive video games for the primary time in his profession. Dowdle has had 18 or extra touches and 15 or extra fantasy factors in consecutive video games. No different protection permits extra fantasy factors per recreation to working backs than the Panthers do. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: First-half overs in Panthers video games are 11-1-1 this season, which is the very best mark within the NFL. Read more.
Kahler’s decide: Panthers 27, Cowboys 23
Moody’s decide: Panthers 28, Cowboys 24
Walder’s decide: Cowboys 19, Panthers 16
FPI prediction: DAL, 52.9% (by a median of 1.0 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Chasing 1,000 yards, RB Dowdle a rare bright spot for 5-8 Cowboys … Will Dalton return to back up Young at quarterback? … Panthers early favorites vs. Cowboys; first time since 2022
1 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: NYJ -3.5 (43.5 O/U)
Jets storyline to observe: Quarterback Aaron Rodgers is coming off his most prolific recreation of the season (339 passing yards) because the Jets’ offense continues to point out indicators of enchancment. New York has scored 74 factors up to now three video games, a relative explosion. The Jaguars are permitting a league-high 391 yards per recreation, however they play lots of man-to-man protection — and that causes issues for the Jets. Rodgers ranks Twenty ninth out of 33 certified quarterbacks in QBR (45) in opposition to man-to-man. — Rich Cimini
Jaguars storyline to observe: In his previous 5 begins (three with the Jaguars, two with the Patriots), quarterback Mac Jones is 1-4 and has averaged 145.6 passing yards per recreation. He additionally has thrown eight interceptions with zero TD passes, and his groups have scored a mixed 36 factors. Now, he faces a Jets protection that ranks fourth in yards allowed per recreation (306.8) and passing yards allowed per recreation (186.9). — Michael DiRocco
Stat to know: The Jaguars’ protection ranks final in yards allowed per recreation (396.1). That’s on tempo to be Jacksonville’s second-highest yards per recreation allowed via a season in franchise historical past (2020, 417.7).
Bold prediction: Jaguars extensive receiver Brian Thomas Jr. will file 100-plus receiving yards. He has gotten double-digit targets in every of the previous two video games, which is what Jacksonville must do. And even when Sauce Gardner (hamstring) performs, he’s not taking part in effectively this season. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Jaguars and the Jets have been eradicated from the playoff race, and each could possibly be selecting within the high 5 of the 2025 draft. They have 54.1% and 36.1% odds, respectively, at a top-five choice, per ESPN’s FPI. Read more.
Fantasy X issue: Rodgers. He had his first 300-yard passing recreation since Week 14 of 2021 final week. Now, he and extensive receivers Garrett Wilson and Davante Adams are in an awesome place in opposition to a Jaguars protection that permits the second-most passing yards per recreation. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Jets are 3-12 ATS of their previous 15 video games as favorites, together with 1-6 ATS of their previous seven video games. Read more.
Kahler’s decide: Jets 21, Jaguars 17
Moody’s decide: Jets 20, Jaguars 13
Walder’s decide: Jets 20, Jaguars 17
FPI prediction: NYJ, 62.9% (by a median of 4.9 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Rodgers acknowledges ‘some sort of curse’ Jets have to snap … Jaguars’ Hines-Allen, Thomas chasing team records vs. Jets … Jets collapse again, extend postseason drought to 14 seasons
0:30
ESPN 30 for 30: ‘The New York Sack Exchange’ trailer
Take a take a look at the trailer for “The New York Sack Exchange,” detailing the New York Jets’ dominant line of defense of the Eighties.
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: HOU -3 (46.5 O/U)
Dolphins storyline to observe: Keep an eye fixed on the turnover battle; Houston’s protection intercepts passes on the second-highest fee within the NFL at 3.72%. Miami, then again, has thrown interceptions on simply 1.1% of its cross makes an attempt this season — the fourth-lowest fee within the league. Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has thrown 11 touchdowns to zero interceptions in his previous 4 video games and has a 15-1 touchdown-to-interception ratio in seven video games since coming back from injured reserve. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Texans storyline to observe: Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud has had the second-most dropbacks (252) in opposition to two-split protection, and the Dolphins run split-safety seems to be on 47% of opposing quarterbacks’ dropbacks. That could possibly be an issue for Stroud, as he has a QBR of 36 (thirtieth) when going through split-safety coverages and is finishing 63% of his passes (twenty seventh) with six touchdowns and 6 interceptions. Also, the Texans have a speeding success fee of 34% in opposition to two-high protection, third worst. — DJ Bien-Aime
Stat to know: Tagovailoa has accomplished 70% or extra of his passes in seven straight video games, which is the longest streak in Dolphins historical past and tied for the second longest in a season. Only Joe Montana (eight straight in 1989) has an extended streak since this was first tracked in 1933.
Bold prediction: Texans tight finish Dalton Schultz will rating a landing in his second consecutive recreation. Of targets in opposition to the Dolphins, 24% go to tight ends, which is greater than some other NFL crew. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Dolphins maintain a 14% probability to make the playoffs, in line with ESPN Analytics. That will increase to 27% with a win and reduces to 4% with a loss. The Texans can clinch the AFC South with a win and an Indianapolis loss. Read more.
Fantasy X issue: Dolphins extensive receiver Tyreek Hill. He and Jaylen Waddle are in an awesome spot this week in opposition to the Texans. Houston’s protection permits the sixth-most fantasy factors to extensive receivers. Hill has posted nine-plus targets and 20-plus fantasy factors in back-to-back video games. Waddle has hit these marks in two of his previous three. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Texans are 11-2 ATS within the first half this season, which is tied for the very best mark within the NFL. Read more.
Kahler’s decide: Dolphins 28, Texans 26
Moody’s decide: Texans 31, Dolphins 28
Walder’s decide: Dolphins 23, Texans 20
FPI prediction: HOU, 54.7% (by a median of 1.9 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Miami keeps slim playoff hopes alive with OT win vs. Jets … How the Texans built a winning foundation to support QB Stroud … Tua hired own security after car break-in … RB Mixon’s production has been key for Texans
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: DEN -4 (43.5 O/U)
Colts storyline to observe: Sunday’s recreation is very large for the Colts as a result of the Broncos are their major challenger for the ultimate AFC wild-card spot. But the Colts have not fared effectively in pivotal late-season video games lately. A few notable failures embody final season’s Week 18 loss to the Texans that decided the winner of the AFC South. And in 2021, with the Colts poised to clinch a playoff spot simply, they shockingly misplaced to the Raiders and Jaguars in Weeks 17 and 18, respectively, knocking Indianapolis out of the postseason. — Stephen Holder
Broncos storyline to observe: The Broncos, who lead the league with 47 sacks, should clear up Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson. He is final within the league in completion share (47.4%), however he’s additionally regularly on the hunt for the massive play as he leads the NFL in air yards per try (12.1). The Broncos cannot get lulled by the incompletions and let Richardson make the one or two difference-making performs in a recreation Denver desperately must strengthen its playoff probabilities — Jeff Legwold
Stat to know: The Colts have the second-easiest remaining schedule of any crew within the NFL. Only the Falcons have a better ending slate.
Bold prediction: Colts edge Laiatu Latu will file a sack. Latu has been bettering a little bit bit every recreation, with two sacks and a 22% cross rush win fee at edge (eighth highest) since Week 10. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Broncos’ probabilities on the playoffs enhance to 92% with a win and reduce to 50% with a loss, per ESPN Analytics. The Colts’ odds on the postseason climb to 53% with a win and fall to six% with a loss. Read more.
Fantasy X issue: Broncos quarterback Bo Nix. He is in an awesome spot popping out of the bye week. Nix will face a Colts protection that has allowed the seventh-most passing yards per recreation. He has been constant, scoring 17-plus fantasy factors in 4 of his previous six video games, together with two with 28 or extra. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Colts have coated 5 straight video games after a bye. Read more.
Kahler’s decide: Broncos 28, Colts 17
Moody’s decide: Broncos 24, Colts 19
Walder’s decide: Broncos 24, Colts 17
FPI prediction: DEN, 56.5% (by a median of two.4 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Colts DB Moore remains a key player … Mims could be X factor in Broncos’ playoff push
0:44
Why Stephania Bell is beginning Bo Nix in fantasy
Stephania Bell explains why Bo Nix has been such a pressure for the Broncos this fantasy season.
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: DET -2.5 (54.5 O/U)
Bills storyline to observe: Can the Bills’ protection rebound from last week’s loss to the Rams? The unit is coming off its worst efficiency of the season, permitting 44 factors and conversions on 11 of 15 third-down makes an attempt. A major problem awaits within the league’s highest-scoring offense (32.1 factors per recreation). “I feel we have got to get again to good basic soccer,” coach Sean McDermott stated on the protection bouncing again. “I feel that is actually the place it begins and taking part in with a sure perspective.” — Alaina Getzenberg
Lions storyline to observe: The Lions are conscious that this could possibly be a Super Bowl LIX preview, however the mindset getting into this week is not any completely different. Three of the 4 NFC North groups have at the very least 9 wins, so Detroit has been examined inside its division en path to clinching a playoff spot already. Safety Kerby Joseph is likely one of the guys within the locker room who is not permitting teammates to make this recreation any greater than what it’s. “Going in opposition to a crew like this, I really feel like they have guys, however we have got guys additionally,” Joseph advised ESPN. “It’s only a competitors to go head-to-head in opposition to the very best.” — Eric Woodyard
Stat to know: The Bills have scored 30-plus factors in seven straight video games, which is the longest streak in franchise historical past and one shy of the longest in NFL historical past.
Bold prediction: The Lions will block a punt. The Bills are permitting a 14% strain fee on punts, per NFL Next Gen Stats. That’s the second-highest fee within the league, behind solely the 49ers. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Lions have a 75.7% probability to earn the No. 1 seed within the NFC, in line with ESPN Analytics, which will increase to 84.9% with a win. The Bills’ odds of incomes the No. 1 seed within the AFC enhance to 30% with a win. Read more.
Fantasy X issue: Lions working backs David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs. This duo is on hearth this season, averaging 32.6 touches and 34.6 fantasy factors per recreation behind a Detroit offensive line that ranks thirteenth in run block win fee (71.9%). The Bills’ protection provides up the third-most fantasy factors per recreation to working backs. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Bills have gone over their crew whole in 11 of 13 video games, which is the best mark within the NFL. Read more.
Kahler’s decide: Lions 30, Bills 28
Moody’s decide: Bills 33, Lions 30
Walder’s decide: Lions 30, Bills 24
FPI prediction: DET, 57.5% (by a median of two.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: How Lions and Bills match up ahead of game of the season … Lions host Bills in possible Super Bowl preview
4:25 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: PHI -5.5 (43.5 O/U)
Steelers storyline to observe: The unofficial Pennsylvania State Championship goes to return all the way down to the trenches. The Steelers, boasting a top-five speeding protection that has restricted opponents to 91.5 yards per recreation, will sq. off in opposition to the league’s main rusher in Saquon Barkley. On the flip aspect, Pittsburgh’s younger offensive line will face its hardest check of the season in opposition to a pair of maulers in defensive tackles Jordan Davis and Jalen Carter. “It’s an awesome problem,” offensive coordinator Arthur Smith stated. “It’s what you need. You don’t desire issues to be simple. If we’ll get to the place we wish to go, we now have to get via these challenges.” — Brooke Pryor
Eagles storyline to observe: The core subject that sparked the Jalen Hurts–A.J. Brown drama is the crew’s slumping cross recreation. Reliant on Barkley and the bottom assault, Philadelphia is final within the NFL in passing makes an attempt (328) and thirty first in passing yards (2,348). Establishing a rhythm between Hurts and his receivers has been a problem. There is an urgency to get the aerial recreation buzzing earlier than the playoffs. “We’re engaged on it,” deal with Jordan Mailata stated. “I’m excited for this week.” — Tim McManus
Stat to know: The Steelers have misplaced 10 consecutive highway video games versus the Eagles, relationship to 1965. That is tied for his or her longest highway dropping streak in opposition to a single opponent in franchise historical past.
Bold prediction: Brown will obtain at the very least 4 first-quarter targets. In an effort to squash the potential strife over Philadelphia’s passing recreation, I would not be shocked if the Eagles attempt to pressure the ball to Brown early. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Steelers can clinch a playoff berth with a win or tie. They may attain the postseason this weekend with a Miami loss or tie and an Indianapolis loss or tie. Read more.
Fantasy X issue: Barkley. He is averaging 22.7 touches and 23.1 fantasy factors per recreation. Though the Steelers have completed effectively limiting working again manufacturing, Philly’s offensive line — ranked eighth in run block win fee (73.4%) — ought to create working lanes for Barkley in opposition to Pittsburgh’s defensive entrance. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Steelers have received seven straight video games as underdogs, tied for the second-longest streak because the 1970 merger. Read more.
Kahler’s decide: Steelers 24, Eagles 22
Moody’s decide: Eagles 27, Steelers 23
Walder’s decide: Steelers 26, Eagles 24
FPI prediction: PHI. 60.5% (by a median of 4.2 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Steelers entering toughest phase of the season … QB Hurts, WR Brown clear air, say Graham ‘misspoke’
1:36
Mike Tomlin cites expertise as motive he selected Russell Wilson as Steelers’ QB
Mike Tomlin explains to Pat McAfee why he made the choice to select Russell Wilson because the Steelers’ beginning quarterback.
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: ARI -6 (46.5 O/U)
Patriots storyline to observe: Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye (345 yards, 1 TD) and Cardinals sixth-year quarterback Kyler Murray (444 yards, 4 TDs) have mixed for 789 speeding yards and 5 speeding TDs this season. This displays how each groups’ defensive plans to restrict QB scrambles could possibly be the important thing. Before the Patriots’ bye, Maye’s 41-yard run in a Week 13 loss to the Colts tied for the third-longest run by a quarterback in Patriots historical past. — Mike Reiss
Cardinals storyline to observe: This may be the sport the Cardinals’ offense breaks out of its pink zone rut. Arizona’s pink zone fee up to now three video games, all losses, is eighteen.2% in contrast with 63.3% within the first 10 video games when Arizona was 6-4. It’s internet hosting a Patriots crew that’s tied for twenty first in pink zone protection, permitting a fee of 60.9%. Helping the Cardinals’ possibilities of discovering their pink zone rhythm is the Patriots’ defensive struggles in goal-to-go conditions. They’ve allowed touchdowns on 80% of probabilities whereas Arizona has scored touchdowns on simply 25% of its pink zone journeys up to now three weeks. — Josh Weinfuss
Stat to know: The Cardinals have misplaced three video games in a row (Weeks 12-14) after a four-game profitable streak. During that span, their 15.3 factors per recreation ranks Twenty ninth within the league.
Bold prediction: Cardinals kicker Chad Ryland will miss a kick — discipline objective or PAT — from 45 yards or nearer in opposition to his previous crew. Ryland, who missed a 40-yard discipline objective final week, is ranked final amongst energetic kickers in ESPN Analytics’ kicker rankings. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Cardinals nonetheless have a slim probability on the postseason with 9% odds. That will increase to 10% with a win and drops to 4% with a loss. Read more.
Injuries: Patriots | Cardinals
Fantasy X issue: Patriots tight finish Hunter Henry. He has been the Patriots’ most dependable cross catcher this season. He leads the crew with 83 targets and 610 receiving yards. Henry has seen eight or extra targets in three straight video games and will keep busy in opposition to the Cardinals. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Overs are 6-2 when Maye begins, and three straight Patriots video games have gone over the full. Read more.
Kahler’s decide: Cardinals 24, Patriots 17
Moody’s decide: Cardinals 20, Patriots 19
Walder’s decide: Cardinals 21, Patriots 17
FPI prediction: ARI, 71.8% (by a median of 8.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: How QB Maye has evolved into leader Patriots need … Cardinals in search of answers as losing streak reaches 3
4:25 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: LAC -3 (45.5 O/U)
Buccaneers storyline to observe: The Bucs have received three straight video games to get to 7-6 and transfer forward of the Falcons into first place within the NFC South. This is arguably their hardest remaining opponent, because it’s the one one with a profitable file. The Chargers’ protection makes this significantly difficult for quarterback Baker Mayfield & Co. Los Angeles permits a league-low 15.9 factors per recreation and has given up solely 15 passing touchdowns this season. — Jenna Laine
Chargers storyline to observe: The Chargers have not misplaced back-to-back video games since Weeks 3 and 4, after they fell to the Chiefs and Steelers, respectively. Part of the rationale they misplaced these video games was that quarterback Justin Herbert had a excessive proper ankle sprain. Herbert is navigating another ankle sprain this week, this time to his left ankle. If Herbert performs, he could possibly be restricted as a runner, which may damage the Chargers’ probabilities and cause them to dropping two video games in a row for the second time this season. — Kris Rhim
Stat to know: The Bucs are using a three-game win streak after dropping 4 straight from Week 7 to Week 10. They’ve rushed for at the very least 150 yards in all three video games, which is tied for the longest streak in franchise historical past.
Bold prediction: Buccaneers extensive receiver Sterling Shepard will likely be held to fewer than 10 yards. Chargers defensive again Derwin James Jr. has allowed simply 0.6 yards per protection snap this season, which is the bottom amongst gamers who primarily line up within the slot and have performed at the very least 200 protection snaps, per NFL Next Gen Stats. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Buccaneers maintain a one-game lead over the Falcons within the NFC South. Their probabilities to win the division title enhance to 87% with a win and fall to 63% with a loss. Read more.
Injuries: Buccaneers | Chargers
Fantasy X issue: Herbert. He has been quiet currently, averaging simply 13.1 fantasy factors per recreation over the previous three. But the Buccaneers’ protection provides up essentially the most fantasy factors per recreation to quarterbacks. With extensive receiver Ladd McConkey again within the combine, Herbert is in an awesome spot. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Chargers are 10-3 ATS this season, tied for the very best file within the NFL. They are 6-1 ATS of their previous seven video games. Read more.
Kahler’s decide: Chargers 24, Buccaneers 20
Moody’s decide: Chargers 24, Buccaneers 21
Walder’s decide: Chargers 24, Buccaneers 16
FPI prediction: LAC, 51.5% (by a median of 0.5 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Bucs control playoff fate with four games left … S Winfield Jr. has knee sprain, out couple weeks
1:30
Bucs All-Pro left deal with Tristan Wirfs spreads vacation cheer by visiting sufferers
Bucs All-Pro left deal with Tristan Wirfs spreads vacation cheer by visiting sufferers at Muma Children’s Hospital in Tampa, Fla., the place his son Julius was born. As a part of the hospital’s “Operation Santa” marketing campaign, he is matching all donations as much as $25,000.
8:20 p.m. ET | NBC/Peacock | ESPN BET: GB -2.5 (45.5 O/U)
Packers storyline to observe: Running again Josh Jacobs has 11 speeding touchdowns this season, together with seven over the previous three video games — tied for the second most in a three-game span in Packers historical past. Though the Seahawks have allowed 4.7 yards per carry (solely six groups have allowed extra per carry this season), they’ve given up simply 10 speeding touchdowns this season (seventh fewest). And the final time Jacobs performed in opposition to the Seahawks (as a member of the Raiders in 2022), he totaled 303 yards from scrimmage, together with 229 speeding and two touchdowns in an additional time win. — Rob Demovsky
Seahawks storyline to observe: The Seahawks’ embattled offensive line is coming off its finest efficiency of the season. In addition to paving the best way for 176 speeding yards within the win over Arizona last week, the group allowed solely two quarterback hits and a 16.7% strain fee — each season lows — and didn’t permit a sack for the primary time this season. The Cardinals haven’t got an elite cross rush, however neither do the Packers, who’re twenty eighth in strain fee and twenty sixth in cross rush win fee. — Brady Henderson
Stat to know: The Packers haven’t misplaced to a crew outdoors of their division since Week 1 in opposition to the Eagles.
Bold prediction: The Seahawks will file an interception in opposition to quarterback Jordan Love by disguising their security shell. Seattle employs a security disguise — pivoting from single-high to two-high or vice versa — 31% of the time, the seventh-highest fee within the NFL. Green Bay has the Twenty ninth-highest EPA per dropback in opposition to security disguise performs. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Packers have all however secured a spot within the playoffs with 99% odds. The Seahawks can enhance their probabilities to 73% with a win, however these probabilities fall to 45% with a loss. Read more.
Fantasy X issue: Jacobs. With a tricky highway check in Seattle, establishing the run via Jacobs will likely be vital. Since the Packers’ bye, Jacobs has 18-plus touches and 20-plus fantasy factors in 4 straight video games. Seattle’s protection permits the eighth-most speeding yards to working backs. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Seahawks have coated 4 straight video games as underdogs. Read more.
Kahler’s decide: Packers 19, Seahawks 17
Moody’s decide: Seahawks 26, Packers 19
Walder’s decide: Seahawks 20, Packers 17
FPI prediction: GB, 62.5% (by a median of 4.8 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Why WR Reed didn’t get a catch in Packers’ loss to Lions … Reemergence of run game powers Seahawks to fourth straight win
Monday, 8 p.m. ET | ABC/ESPN+ | ESPN BET: MIN -6 (43.5 O/U)
Bears storyline to observe: Quarterback Caleb Williams had a powerful efficiency in opposition to the Vikings’ strain in Week 12, recording his first multi-touchdown recreation in opposition to the blitz (9-of-12 for 128 yards, 2 TDs). The Bears combatted the strain by placing Williams in conditions to get the ball out rapidly, resulting in his lowest time to cross (2.42 seconds). The rematch would possibly present the backdrop for an additional profitable day for Williams establishing a deep passing assault. He was 5-of-12 for 141 yards on passes with 15-plus air yards in opposition to Minnesota, his most completions on these passes in a recreation thus far. — Courtney Cronin
Vikings storyline to observe: The Bears gained 398 yards in opposition to the Vikings’ protection within the Week 12 matchup. In the 2 video games since, the Vikings have given up 406 and 496 yards to the Cardinals and Falcons, respectively. Yards allowed do not inform all the story of any scheme, however defensive coordinator Brian Flores has responded with some urgency. He has combined extra younger gamers into his personnel rotations and even put aside a apply day for tackling drills. If that does not work, the Vikings will want continued excessive manufacturing from their offense to compensate. — Kevin Seifert
Stat to know: Vikings extensive receiver Justin Jefferson had 132 receiving yards with two touchdowns in Week 14 in opposition to the Falcons. He has by no means had back-to-back video games with a number of receiving touchdowns in his profession.
Bold prediction: Vikings linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel will file his third defensive landing of the season. It’s only a feeling, however I’ll fortunately wager on this Vikings protection in opposition to the Bears’ offense any day. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Vikings can attain the playoffs with a win or a tie. They may clinch a spot this weekend if the Rams both lose or tie in opposition to the 49ers, or the Seahawks both lose or tie in opposition to the Packers. Read more.
Fantasy X issue: Bears extensive receiver Rome Odunze. He is coming off his second-best fantasy efficiency of the season, placing up 20.2 factors in Week 14. He’s in an awesome spot in opposition to a Vikings protection that permits essentially the most fantasy factors per recreation to extensive receivers. Odunze has additionally averaged 0.96 fantasy factors per goal this season. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Bears are 0-6 outright on the highway this season (2-4 ATS). Unders are 5-1 in Bears highway video games this season. Read more.
Kahler’s decide: Vikings 30, Bears 20
Moody’s decide: Vikings 34, Bears 27
Walder’s decide: Vikings 31, Bears 13
FPI prediction: MIN, 65.3% (by a median of 6.0 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Bears seek answers after losing interim coach Thomas Brown’s debut
1:04
Shannon Sharpe: Vikings should not pay Sam Darnold
Shannon Sharpe explains why he wouldn’t give Sam Darnold a long-term contract regardless of his stellar season for the Vikings.
Monday, 8:30 p.m. ET | ESPN | ESPN BET: ATL -4 (44.5 O/U)
Falcons storyline to observe: With quarterback Kirk Cousins within the worst hunch of his profession (eight interceptions up to now 4 video games), the Falcons may look to ascertain the working recreation early. Atlanta is one among solely two groups within the NFL with two working backs — Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier — exceeding plus-70 speeding yards over anticipated on designed runs. Meanwhile, the Raiders have allowed the second-most speeding yards over anticipated on designed runs (plus-213) this season. — Marc Raimondi
Raiders storyline to observe: With QB Aidan O’Connell nursing a bone bruise on his left knee, Desmond Ridder may be in line for a revenge recreation in opposition to Atlanta. Ridder, drafted within the third spherical by the Falcons in 2022, was traded to the Cardinals in March after going 8-9 as a starter in two seasons. He was signed by the Raiders off Arizona’s apply squad in October, two days after O’Connell broke the thumb on his proper (passing) hand. So, with Gardner Minshew completed for the season due to a broken collarbone, Ridder’s first begin for Las Vegas would possibly come in opposition to his first NFL crew. “God,” Ridder stated, “works in mysterious methods.” — Paul Gutierrez
Stat to know: The Falcons’ four-game dropping streak is their longest since 2022. They have not misplaced 5 straight since 2020.
Bold prediction: Raiders linebacker Robert Spillane will lead the league in tackles in Week 15. Atlanta ranks third in run fee over expectation, per NFL Next Gen Stats, and that ought to play proper into Spillane’s favor to rack up numbers. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Falcons had 85% odds of profitable their division previous to their four-game dropping streak (at the moment 26%, per ESPN Analytics). Their probabilities on the NFC South title enhance to 37% with a win and fall to 12% with a loss. Read more.
Fantasy X issue: Raiders extensive receiver Jakobi Meyers. He has had 10-plus targets in three straight video games and scored 15-plus fantasy factors in two of them. Now, Meyers faces the Falcons’ protection, which has struggled in opposition to extensive receivers. Only the Ravens have allowed extra fantasy factors per recreation to receivers this season. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Falcons are 0-3 ATS of their previous three highway video games. They are 6-14 ATS of their previous 20 highway video games. Read more.
Kahler’s decide: Falcons 24, Raiders 17
Moody’s decide: Raiders 23, Falcons 20
Walder’s decide: Falcons 26, Raiders 16
FPI prediction: ATL, 55.8% (by a median of two.5 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Falcons’ plan not to rush rookie QB Penix into action … Raiders DE Snowden facing DUI charge … Falcons riding with Cousins despite struggles
