Week 17 began off with two highway groups, the Chiefs and Ravens, grabbing wins over the Steelers and Texans, respectively, on Christmas Day. The motion continues with a weekend stacked with nice matchups, and now we have you lined with what it is advisable to know.
Our NFL Nation reporters deliver us the most important keys to each recreation, and analytics author Seth Walder makes a daring prediction for every matchup. The ESPN Research crew gives 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 ultimate rating picks for each recreation. Everything you need to know is right here in a single spot that will help you prepare for a loaded weekend of NFL football.
Let’s get into the complete Week 17 slate, together with a Ja’Marr Chase vs. Pat Surtain II matchup and an enormous NFC North showdown between the Packers and Vikings. It all culminates with a “Monday Night Football” matchup between the Lions and the 49ers on ESPN. (Game instances are Sunday except in any other case famous.)
Jump to a matchup:
LAC-NE | DEN-CIN | ARI-LAR
DAL-PHI | NYJ-BUF | LV-NO
IND-NYG | CAR-TB | TEN-JAX
MIA-CLE | GB-MIN | ATL-WSH
Thursday: SEA 6, CHI 3
Wednesday: KC 29, PIT 10; BAL 31, HOU 2
Saturday, 1 p.m. ET | NFL Network | ESPN BET: LAC -4.5 (42.5 O/U)
Chargers storyline to observe: The Patriots’ protection might make it troublesome for the Chargers to punch their ticket to the playoffs. Quarterback Justin Herbert ranks twenty ninth of 33 qualifying QBs in QBR (46.8) in opposition to man protection this season. The Patriots’ protection makes use of man protection on the seventh-highest price within the NFL (51.8%). If Herbert does discover success in opposition to New England and throws for 153 or extra passing yards, he’ll move Peyton Manning for probably the most passing yards in a quarterback’s first 5 seasons in NFL historical past (20,618). — Kris Rhim
Patriots storyline to observe: Coach Jerod Mayo says the Patriots have had conversations concerning the function of playoff spoiler in opposition to the Chargers. “It simply goes again to whoever’s taking part in the very best that day. What you probably did final week, or the week earlier than, actually would not matter, and that is the wonder about this recreation,” he mentioned. One potential concern for New England is at heart, the place starter Ben Brown is in concussion protocol. That might open the door for Cole Strange to make his first begin on the place after opening his profession at left guard. — Mike Reiss
Stat to know: With a loss, the Patriots will clinch a sub-.300 win share in consecutive seasons for the primary time in franchise historical past. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Chargers security Derwin James Jr. will report an interception. The three Patriots gamers with the best goal charges are slot receiver DeMario Douglas, tight finish Hunter Henry and tight finish Austin Hooper. Quarterback Drake Maye might want to ship some balls in James’ route. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Chargers can punch their ticket to the playoffs with a win over the Patriots. They may make the postseason if the Colts and Dolphins each lose to the Giants and Browns, respectively. Read more. — ESPN Research
Fantasy X issue: Henry. He has averaged 11.4 fantasy factors per recreation since Drake Maye took over because the beginning quarterback. In reality, Henry has seen not less than eight targets in 4 of his previous 5 video games. Against his former crew this week, anticipate him to be extremely motivated and a key participant in New England’s offense. See Week 17 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Patriots are 8-15 in opposition to the unfold (ATS) after a loss because the begin of final season. Read more. — ESPN Research
Kahler’s choose: Chargers 30, Patriots 17
Moody’s choose: Chargers 21, Patriots 14
Walder’s choose: Chargers 27, Patriots 16
FPI prediction: LAC, 60.7% (by a mean of three.9 factors)
Saturday, 4:30 p.m. ET | NFL Network | ESPN BET: CIN -3.5 (49.5 O/U)
Broncos storyline to observe: The Broncos definitely hope cornerback Riley Moss may be again within the lineup for this one — he was a full participant in apply this week. In the three video games since Moss sprained an MCL on Nov. 24 in opposition to the Raiders, Denver surrendered 30 factors or extra in two video games and gave up two of their three highest yardage totals of the season. Moss has been the best choice for the Broncos within the high-traffic place that’s reverse of Pat Surtain II. Against a Bengals crew that has thrown the ball 226 extra instances than it has run it, the Broncos will want each possibility in move protection to clinch a playoff spot. — Jeff Legwold
Bengals storyline to observe: Ja’Marr Chase versus Pat Surtain II. It would not get higher than this. Chase is vying to turn into the fifth participant because the NFL-AFL merger in 1970 to win the receiving triple crown, when a participant leads the league in receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns. Surtain leads all cornerbacks in anticipated factors added when focused as the closest defender (negative-25.8), per NFL Next Gen Stats. It can be a battle of the very best in opposition to the very best. — Ben Baby
Stat to know: The Bengals are 0-7 in opposition to groups with profitable information this season, which is tied with the Jaguars and Patriots for probably the most losses with no win. Strangely, the Bengals have averaged 30.3 factors per recreation in these losses. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Surtain will enable fewer than 50 receiving yards to Chase. It takes a star to cease Chase, however that is precisely what Surtain is. He has allowed 0.5 yards per protection snap this season, which is the very best amongst exterior corners, per NFL Next Gen Stats. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Broncos can clinch a playoff spot with a win, which might be their first because the 2015 season, after they received Super Bowl 50. On the opposite finish, the Bengals can hold their slim postseason hopes alive (7% likelihood, per ESPN Analytics) with a victory. Cincinnati can be eradicated with a loss. Read more. — ESPN Research
Fantasy X issue: Broncos quarterback Bo Nix. He’s the QB10 in ESPN leagues and attracts a good matchup in opposition to a Bengals protection permitting the sixth-most fantasy factors per recreation to quarterbacks. With his high goal, Courtland Sutton, Nix is in a primary spot to ship in one of many highest fantasy totals of the week. See Week 17 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Bengals have lined three straight video games, whereas 4 straight Broncos video games have gone over the overall. Read more. — ESPN Research
Kahler’s choose: Bengals 28, Broncos 26
Moody’s choose: Bengals 31, Broncos 23
Walder’s choose: Bengals 24, Broncos 20
FPI prediction: CIN, 57.2% (by a mean of two.8 factors)
6:11
Breaking down the Chiefs and Bengals AFC playoff footage
Shannon Sharpe, Stephen A. Smith and Dan Orlovsky focus on the Chiefs’ quest for the 1-seed, in addition to the Bengals’ probabilities on the playoffs.
Saturday, 8 p.m. ET | NFL Network | ESPN BET: LAR -6.5 (47.5 O/U)
Cardinals storyline to observe: Even although the Cardinals had been eradicated from playoff rivalry Sunday, quarterback Kyler Murray nonetheless has one thing to show. He has struggled since Arizona’s bye in Week 11 with a touchdown-to-interception ratio of 4-to-6 prior to now 5 video games, by which the Cardinals have gone 1-4. Before the bye, nonetheless, Murray threw 12 touchdowns versus three interceptions. He nonetheless has two video games left enhance and, in any case, even out his ratio. — Josh Weinfuss
Rams storyline to observe: Quarterback Matthew Stafford didn’t have a passing landing in Week 2 in opposition to the Cardinals. That was one among 5 video games this season by which he has not thrown a landing, probably the most in a single season in his profession, in accordance with ESPN Research. He has thrown only one landing move prior to now two weeks regardless of the Rams being on a four-game win streak. Since shedding to Arizona, Los Angeles has not misplaced a divisional recreation. — Sarah Barshop
Stat to know: Tight finish Trey McBride has 92 receptions and nil receiving touchdowns. If this continues, it will likely be probably the most receptions with no landing in a season (earlier report was 86 by Diontae Johnson in 2022). — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Rams extensive receiver Puka Nacua will report not less than 139 receiving yards to cross the 1,000-yard barrier. His effectivity numbers are outrageous. He has been focused on 39% of his targets and is averaging 3.6 yards per route, each highest amongst extensive receivers with not less than 200 routes run. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Rams wish to turn into the primary crew to make the playoffs in back-to-back seasons after discovering themselves three video games below .500. They have to win Saturday and clinch power of victory over Seattle to safe a postseason berth. Read more. — ESPN Research
Fantasy X issue: Rams working again Kyren Williams. Great issues occur when the Rams give Williams the ball. He had 24 or extra touches in three of his previous 4 video games and scored 18 or extra fantasy factors in every of these. Plus, the Cardinals’ protection provides up the seventh-most fantasy factors per recreation to working backs. See Week 17 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Cardinals have lined 4 straight video games as underdogs (6-2 ATS this season, 4-1 ATS as highway underdogs). Read more. — ESPN Research
Kahler’s choose: Cardinals 27, Rams 25
Moody’s choose: Rams 27, Cardinals 16
Walder’s choose: Rams 34, Cardinals 21
FPI prediction: LAR, 55.2% (by a mean of two.0 factors)
1 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: PHI -7.5 (40.5 O/U)
Cowboys storyline to observe: Quarterback Cooper Rush can be making the 14th begin of his profession and his third in opposition to the Eagles. The first two didn’t go nicely. In his first begin changing Dak Prescott this season, Rush threw for 45 yards on 13-of-23 passing in a 34-6 loss to Philadelphia. In 2022, he was intercepted thrice in a 26-17 loss at Lincoln Financial Field, which was his first defeat as a beginning quarterback. In his previous two begins, he has gotten the ball out rapidly and never been intercepted. If the Cowboys need to end scorching regardless of being eradicated from playoff rivalry, Rush has to avoid errors. — Todd Archer
Eagles storyline to observe: The Eagles are coping with uncertainty at quarterback. Jalen Hurts has but to apply this week and stays in concussion protocol. Kenny Pickett injured his ribs whereas filling in for Hurts in opposition to the Commanders, however he has been in a position to apply and mentioned Thursday he’s “ready to go” in opposition to Dallas. He mentioned he’ll put on further padding to guard his ribs. If Hurts cannot play, 2023 sixth-round choose Tanner McKee would assume the function of No. 2 quarterback behind Pickett. — Tim McManus
Stat to know: Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons is a half-sack away from being the fourth participant to succeed in double-digit sacks in every of his first 4 seasons since particular person sacks had been first tracked in 1982. The others are all Hall of Famers in Dwight Freeney, Derrick Thomas and Reggie White. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean will lead the league in tackles in Week 17. Dean is coming off 4 consecutive video games of double-digit tackles and ranks fourth amongst linebackers in run cease win price. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Eagles can clinch the NFC East division with a win or a Commanders loss to the Falcons on Sunday. This would mark the twentieth straight season the division has not had a repeat champion, which is the longest streak in NFL historical past. Read more. — ESPN Research
1:10
Stephen A.: Jalen Hurts’ harm an even bigger deal than Jayden Daniels’ large recreation
Stephen A. Smith explains why Jalen Hurts’ harm was an even bigger headline than Jayden Daniels’ stellar recreation within the Commanders’ win over the Eagles.
Fantasy X issue: Eagles working again Saquon Barkley is 268 yards away from breaking the league’s single-season speeding report. With the Cowboys’ protection rating twenty eighth in run cease win price (27.8%), he has an opportunity to make historical past. See Week 17 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Cowboys are 4-1 ATS of their previous 5 video games. They are 5-12 ATS of their previous 17 video games as underdogs. Read more. — ESPN Research
Kahler’s choose: Eagles 33, Cowboys 24
Moody’s choose: Eagles 34, Cowboys 21
Walder’s choose: Eagles 27, Cowboys 20
FPI prediction: PHI, 76.8% (by a mean of 10.9 factors)
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: BUF -8.5 (46.5 O/U)
Jets storyline to observe: There’s nothing on the road for the Jets, besides some particular person milestones: Quarterback Aaron Rodgers wants one landing move to turn into the fifth participant in NFL historical past to succeed in 500. Wide receiver Garrett Wilson wants 13 receiving yards to hit 1,000 for the third straight season, one thing no Jets receiver has performed since 1966-68 (George Sauer). Davante Adams wants 72 receiving yards to succeed in 1,000 for the fourth straight season and the sixth time prior to now seven seasons. — Rich Cimini
Bills storyline to observe: While Josh Allen had success in opposition to the Jets earlier this season, it’s a crew that has given him hassle prior to now. He has thrown 14 touchdowns to 11 interceptions in 12 video games, however he has overwhelmed them in eight of these conferences. A win over the Jets would enhance Allen’s résumé for his first MVP award after Lamar Jackson‘s robust outing in opposition to the Texans on Christmas. — Alaina Getzenberg
Stat to know: The Bills are 23-5 in division video games since 2020, which is the second-best report in that span (Kansas City is 24-5). The Jets are 5-23 in division video games since 2020, which is the worst report in that span. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Jets defensive deal with Quinnen Williams will report not less than three pressures. He ranks second in move rush win price amongst defensive tackles over the previous three weeks, however Allen is terribly arduous to sack. Hence, the pressures — even when they do not end in sacks. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Bills are now not within the working for the No. 1 seed within the AFC after the Chiefs’ win over the Steelers on Christmas. But Buffalo can lock up the No. 2 seed with a win over the Jets on Sunday. Read more. — ESPN Research
Fantasy X issue: Adams. He has been on hearth recently, recording 11 or extra targets and 17 or extra fantasy factors in 4 straight video games. Now, Rodgers and Adams can check their chemistry in opposition to the Bills’ protection, which is within the high 10 for many receiving yards and touchdowns to receivers since Week 12. See Week 17 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Bills are 7-0 outright at dwelling. Six of these seven video games have gone over the overall. Read more. — ESPN Research
Kahler’s choose: Bills 33, Jets 20
Moody’s choose: Bills 34, Jets 23
Walder’s choose: Bills 30, Jets 12
FPI prediction: BUF, 71.6% (by a mean of 8.5 factors)
1 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: LV -1 (37.5 O/U)
Raiders storyline to observe: Derek Carr spent 9 seasons because the Raiders’ beginning quarterback however by no means had a rookie fairly like tight finish Brock Bowers, who wants simply 10 receiving yards to eclipse Mike Ditka’s 1961 single-season receiving yardage report (1,076 yards) for a rookie tight finish. Bowers already owns the single-season rookie tight finish catch report with 101 receptions and, with 4 catches in New Orleans, would surpass Rams receiver Puka Nacua‘s single-season rookie receptions mark. — Paul Gutierrez
Saints storyline to observe: Saints interim coach Darren Rizzi continues to say that working again Alvin Kamara (groin) and Carr are week-to-week with their respective accidents. Carr, who has a fractured nonthrowing hand, has not practiced in a number of weeks however can be going through his outdated crew if he performed Sunday. The Saints, who had been shut out final week, wish to keep away from being held below 10 factors in back-to-back video games for simply the second time since 2000. — Katherine Terrell
Stat to know: Spencer Rattler has three straight begins with fewer than 175 passing yards. Another such recreation would make him the primary Saints quarterback to succeed in that mark in 4 straight video games since Steve Walsh in 1990. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Saints working again Kendre Miller will rush for 90-plus yards. The Saints run exterior zone 61% of the time, second most within the NFL. And whereas the Raiders rank 14th in EPA allowed per designed carry total, they rank twenty third when going through exterior zone. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Raiders have a 1.3% likelihood to obtain the No. 1 choose in 2025 NFL draft, per ESPN Analytics, after holding 14% odds previous to their Week 16 win. A loss would enhance their probabilities to three%, whereas a win would give them much less then a 0.1% likelihood. Read more. — ESPN Research
Fantasy X issue: Raiders working again Alexander Mattison. Mattison and Ameer Abdullah had an analogous variety of touches in Week 16 with Sincere McCormick (ankle) on IR. Now, they’re up in opposition to a Saints protection permitting the sixth-most fantasy factors per recreation to working backs. Both are on the flex radar in deeper codecs. See Week 17 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Unders are 10-5 when Raiders quarterback Aidan O’Connell begins, together with 4-0 in his previous 4 video games. Read more. — ESPN Research
Kahler’s choose: Saints 20, Raiders 14
Moody’s choose: Raiders 19, Saints 18
Walder’s choose: Saints 19, Raiders 16
FPI prediction: LV, 57.2% (by a mean of three.0 factors)
1:01
Why Brock Bowers is already a fantasy star in his rookie season
Eric Moody particulars the historic numbers Raiders TE Brock Bowers is placing up in his rookie season.
1 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: IND -7.5 (40.5 O/U)
Colts storyline to observe: Quarterback Anthony Richardson is coming off a career-high 70 speeding yards in final week’s win over the Titans, a continuation of the crew’s latest elevated dedication in his working skill. Richardson’s speeding frequency has picked up since he returned to the beginning lineup in Week 11, going from averaging 6.83 rushes per recreation earlier than his benching to 9.0 since returning. Importantly, Richardson’s runs of late should not scrambles however usually designed runs; he has had 4 video games with seven or extra such runs in his previous 5 begins. — Stephen Holder
Giants storyline to observe: The Giants will attempt to finish a franchise-record 10-game skid with Drew Lock in once more at quarterback. Coach Brian Daboll thinks the continuity with Lock might assist as they’re additionally making an attempt to keep away from turning into the primary crew in NFL historical past to complete a season 0-9 at dwelling. Rookie extensive receiver Malik Nabers mentioned he needs to reward the followers who’ve come out to help them this season with a victory. This is their final likelihood. — Jordan Raanan
Stat to know: The Colts set a franchise report with 335 speeding yards in opposition to the Titans final week, which can be probably the most by any crew in a single recreation this season. The Giants have the second-worst speeding protection, permitting 142.6 yards per recreation on the bottom. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Giants tight finish Daniel Bellinger will catch a landing. The Colts enable targets to tight ends on 22% of dropbacks, the third-highest price within the league. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Colts could possibly be eradicated from playoff rivalry earlier than they even play this Sunday if the Chargers and Broncos each win their Saturday contests. If that does not occur, Indianapolis would nonetheless be eradicated with a loss. Read more. — ESPN Research
Fantasy X issue: Giants working again Tyrone Tracy Jr. He had 11 touches and 16.9 fantasy factors in Week 16, persevering with to point out worth regardless of the ups and downs of the Giants’ offense. His receiving skill retains him related in fantasy. Also, the Colts protection has allowed the eighth-most fantasy factors per recreation to working backs. See Week 17 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Colts are 6-1 outright and ATS in opposition to groups with shedding information this season. They haven’t closed as not less than landing favorites since Week 1 of 2022. Read more. — ESPN Research
Kahler’s choose: Colts 21, Giants 17
Moody’s choose: Colts 28, Giants 19
Walder’s choose: Colts 23, Giants 17
FPI prediction: IND, 68.3% (by a mean of seven.3 factors)
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: TB -8 (48.5 O/U)
Panthers storyline to observe: The Bucs had a season-high 236 speeding yards in opposition to the Panthers in a Week 13 win, however they nonetheless wanted a fumble by Chuba Hubbard in extra time to win it. Quarterback Bryce Young accomplished 26 of 46 move makes an attempt for 298 yards in that matchup. He enters this contest off a three-touchdown efficiency (two passing, one speeding) that made him one of many highest-rated quarterbacks in Week 16. — David Newton
Buccaneers storyline to observe: The Bucs now not management their very own future within the NFC South after losing to the Cowboys final week. Revisiting fundamentals has been an enormous level of emphasis. The Bucs’ 12 misplaced turnovers since Week 12 is third most within the NFL, and a misplaced fumble by Rachaad White on the ultimate drive in opposition to Dallas doomed them, whereas a compelled fumble by Anthony Nelson that was recovered by Yaya Diaby in Week 13 arrange an extra time win at Carolina. — Jenna Laine
0:55
Field Yates: Chuba Hubbard has been an unbelievable story
Field Yates discusses the spectacular play of the Panthers and Chuba Hubbard.
Stat to know: Bucs quarterback Baker Mayfield leads the NFC with 34 passing touchdowns. He is seeking to be part of Tom Brady (40 in 2020 and 43 in 2021) as the one quarterbacks in franchise historical past with 35-plus passing touchdowns in a single season. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Bucs extensive receiver Jalen McMillan will report a season excessive in receiving yards (76 or extra). He has 50-plus yards in every of his previous three video games. And not less than a part of the time in opposition to the Panthers he’ll face Michael Jackson, who’s permitting 1.6 yards per route run — greater than common for an out of doors nook, per NFL Next Gen Stats. — Walder
What’s at stake: Tampa Bay can be eradicated from playoff rivalry with a loss and a Falcons win against the Commanders. If that does not occur, there are a number of eventualities by which Tampa Bay can clinch a postseason spot in Week 18, depending on outcomes from Atlanta and Washington. Read more. — ESPN Research
Injuries: Panthers | Buccaneers
Fantasy X issue: Panthers extensive receiver Adam Thielen. He has been excellent not too long ago, posting seven or extra targets and 15-plus fantasy factors in three of his previous 4 video games. His chemistry with Young is simple, and this duo ought to exploit a Buccaneers secondary that has allowed large video games to extensive receivers. See Week 17 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Panthers are 6-0 ATS of their previous six video games as underdogs. They are 6-1 ATS of their previous seven video games total. Read more. — ESPN Research
Kahler’s choose: Buccaneers 30, Panthers 24
Moody’s choose: Buccaneers 28, Panthers 23
Walder’s choose: Buccaneers 31, Panthers 27
FPI prediction: TB, 80.1% (by a mean of 12.8 factors)
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: TEN -1 (39.5 O/U)
Titans storyline to observe: The Titans scored touchdowns on all seven of their pink zone visits over the previous two weeks. Offensive coordinator Nick Holz mentioned the advance got here principally from a simpler run recreation contained in the 20-yard line and fewer penalties. Tennessee’s streak of consecutive touchdowns contained in the pink zone began after going 0-for-2 against the Jaguars in Week 14. — Turron Davenport
Jaguars storyline to observe: Rookie extensive receiver Brian Thomas Jr. has already set franchise rookie information in yards (1,088), catches (73) and receiving touchdowns (9). His subsequent landing catch will make him one among solely 5 gamers in franchise historical past with double-digit landing catches in a season. The solely Jacksonville participant with greater than 10 landing catches in a season is Allen Robinson, who had 14 in 2015. — Michael DiRocco
Stat to know: The Jaguars have a takeaway in 5 straight video games, which is tied for the longest such streak in franchise historical past. But their eight whole takeaways this season is the fewest within the NFL. No different crew is beneath 10. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Titans defensive deal with Jeffery Simmons will report a number of tackles for loss. He has recorded 11 on the season and ranks ninth in run cease win price amongst defensive linemen. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Jaguars and Titans each have slim probabilities on the No. 1 choose, with odds of 10.1% and 5.2%, respectively, per ESPN Analytics. But they’re assured a spot within the high 10, and Jacksonville has an 85% likelihood of choosing within the high 5. Read more. — ESPN Research
Fantasy X issue: Titans working again Tyjae Spears. In Week 16, he completed with extra touches and snaps than Tony Pollard, who’s coping with an ankle harm. Spears’ function within the Titans’ backfield is rising, and he has a good matchup in opposition to a Jaguars protection that permits the second-most fantasy factors to working backs. See Week 17 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Jaguars are 6-3 ATS of their previous 9 video games. Over the previous seven seasons, they’re 7-15 ATS as dwelling favorites. Read more. — ESPN Research
Kahler’s choose: Jaguars 20, Titans 12
Moody’s choose: Jaguars 17, Titans 14
Walder’s choose: Titans 22, Jaguars 19
FPI prediction: TEN, 59.4% (by a mean of three.7 factors)
4:05 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: MIA -6.5 (39.5 O/U)
Dolphins storyline to observe: The Dolphins’ run recreation was resurgent in Week 16, with them speeding for 166 yards — their first time cracking 100 yards since Week 9. Perhaps uncoincidentally, final week’s recreation marked the return of offensive guard Isaiah Wynn, who performed 34 offensive snaps in opposition to the 49ers. Wynn is anticipated to proceed to both combine in or dominate snaps at proper guard in opposition to a Browns protection that has allowed not less than 100 speeding yards in all however two video games this season. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Browns storyline to observe: In quarterback Tua Tagovailoa‘s first two seasons with coach Mike McDaniel, he posted the second-highest uncooked QBR (88.4) when going through Cover 1. But that has modified in 2024; Tagovailoa has posted the third-lowest QBR (26.1) in opposition to the protection. That might play into the palms of a Browns protection that makes use of the best price of Cover 1 within the NFL. — Daniel Oyefusi
Stat to know: Browns extensive receiver Jerry Jeudy had simply three targets final week against the Bengals, which is tied for a season low. His 72 receptions and 1,072 receiving yards on the season are already profession highs. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Dolphins edge rusher Chop Robinson will report not less than one sack and turn into the solo sack chief amongst rookies (he’s at the moment tied with Braden Fiske at 6.0). Robinson ranks eighth amongst all gamers in move rush win price (20.6%). — Walder
What’s at stake: The Dolphins now have a 7.6% likelihood to make the playoffs, per ESPN Analytics. They can be eradicated from postseason rivalry with a loss or wins by the Chargers and Broncos on Saturday. Read more. — ESPN Research
Fantasy X issue: Dolphins tight finish Jonnu Smith. He has been on a roll, with not less than 11 targets in three of his previous six video games and 20 or extra fantasy factors in 4 of these. While the Browns’ protection is common in relation to defending tight ends, it is arduous to disregard his optimistic momentum. See Week 17 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Browns are 4-11 ATS this season, 1-6 ATS of their previous seven video games and 0-4 ATS of their previous 4 video games. Read more. — ESPN Research
Kahler’s choose: Dolphins 28, Browns 24
Moody’s choose: Dolphins 30, Browns 20
Walder’s choose: Dolphins 20, Browns 14
FPI prediction: MIA, 54.1% (by a mean of 1.7 factors)
0:52
Why Cockcroft likes streaming Colts and Dolphins defenses in Week 17
Tristan Cockcroft explains why he likes the Colts and Dolphins defenses going up in opposition to the struggling offenses of the Giants and Browns.
4:25 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: GB -1 (48.5 O/U)
Packers storyline to observe: Quarterback Jordan Love struggled in opposition to the blitz within the first seven video games of the season, which included the Packers’ Week 4 loss to the Vikings, posting the third-worst QBR when blitzed throughout that span. In the six video games since, he has a QBR of 97 in opposition to the blitz, which leads the NFL in that class. The Vikings have the best blitz price within the NFL at 38%. — Rob Demovsky
Vikings storyline to observe: Sam Darnold is seeking to turn into the primary quarterback in NFL historical past to win 14 video games in his first season with a brand new crew. If that occurs, and the Vikings sweep the Packers for less than the fourth time prior to now 25 seasons, they’re going to hold themselves on monitor for an enormous Week 18 game at Detroit that might decide the No. 1 seed within the NFC. After struggling by way of a spate of midseason turnovers, Darnold has thrown 15 landing passes with one interception over his previous six video games. — Kevin Seifert
Stat to know: The Packers are 1-3 in NFC North video games this season. A loss would clinch their fourth season below .500 in divisional matchups since 2002 and their first since 2018. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Vikings edge Jonathan Greenard will report not less than 1.5 sacks. Over the previous three weeks, Greenard’s 29% move rush win price at edge leads the league. — Walder
What’s at stake: Both groups are within the playoffs, however the Vikings can enhance their probabilities on the NFC North title Sunday. Their odds improve to 36% with a win and fall to 14% with a loss, per ESPN Analytics. Minnesota can win the North both by profitable out or by the Lions shedding out. Read more. — ESPN Research
Fantasy X issue: Vikings working again Aaron Jones. He has had a stable first season with Minnesota, averaging 18.3 touches and 14.5 fantasy factors per recreation. Now, he has one other likelihood in opposition to his former crew at dwelling after scoring 17.9 fantasy factors at Green Bay in Week 4. See Week 17 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Packers have lined 4 straight video games, whereas the Vikings have lined three straight. Read more. — ESPN Research
Kahler’s choose: Packers 30, Vikings 27
Moody’s choose: Vikings 23, Packers 20
Walder’s choose: Packers 20, Vikings 17
FPI prediction: GB, 54.8% (by a mean of two.3 factors)
8:20 p.m. ET | NBC/Peacock | ESPN BET: WSH -4.5 (48.5 O/U)
Falcons storyline to observe: Running again Bijan Robinson‘s spectacular season has gone considerably below the radar, and Atlanta will want an enormous recreation from him in opposition to the Commanders. Robinson has the third-most yards within the league working exterior the tackles (885 yards with 9 touchdowns), whereas Washington has allowed the second-most yards per carry (5.7) on such runs. — Marc Raimondi
Commanders storyline to observe: If Washington needs to win and safe its spot within the playoffs, it’s going to need to get its working backs going. The Commanders have averaged 2.64 yards per carry the previous two weeks and can face an Atlanta protection that ranks ninth in yards per carry allowed (4.3). — John Keim
Stat to know: Michael Penix Jr. is in search of to turn into the primary quarterback in Falcons historical past to win his first two profession begins. He received against the Giants with no passing or speeding landing, and a quarterback hasn’t performed that in his first two profession begins because the Dolphins’ Damon Huard in 1999. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Falcons extensive receiver Drake London will report his second recreation with 100-plus receiving yards of the season. London enters Week 17 with an 80 open score, which is tied for ninth amongst all eligible receivers. — Walder
What’s at stake: Both groups’ probabilities on the postseason could possibly be affected by the Buccaneers this weekend. The Falcons can clinch the NFC South title and their first playoff berth since 2017 with a win and a Tampa Bay loss to Carolina. The Commanders can safe their first playoff look since 2020 with a win or a Bucs loss. Read more. — ESPN Research
Injuries: Falcons | Commanders
Fantasy X issue: Commanders extensive receiver Terry McLaurin. The Falcons’ protection has allowed the third-most fantasy factors per recreation to extensive receivers, and it has actually struggled in opposition to perimeter receivers. McLaurin has been on hearth recently, scoring 17 or extra fantasy factors in 4 straight video games. Given the matchup, he has an actual shot at being the highest fantasy receiver this week. See Week 17 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Four straight Commanders dwelling video games have gone over the overall. Six of the previous seven Falcons video games have gone below the overall. Read more. — ESPN Research
Kahler’s choose: Commanders 30, Falcons 28
Moody’s choose: Commanders 27, Falcons 23
Walder’s choose: Commanders 27, Falcons 23
FPI prediction: WSH, 60.5% (by a mean of three.9 factors)
2:08
Adam Schefter breaks down Kirk Cousins’ Falcons future
Adam Schefter lays out the choice forward for the Falcons after benching Kirk Cousins.
8:15 p.m. ET, Monday | ESPN/ABC/ESPN+ | ESPN BET: DET -3.5 (50.5 O/U)
Lions storyline to observe: In a rematch of final season’s NFC Championship Game, receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown is searching for revenge after Detroit blew a 17-point halftime lead and missed its first Super Bowl look. He described it as being “like a horror film” and one of many worst losses of his total life. “I really feel like every participant that was right here final 12 months is aware of the sensation that we had final 12 months and we need to go in there and hopefully come out with a W,” St. Brown mentioned. — Eric Woodyard
49ers storyline to observe: Much has modified for the 49ers since these groups final met. The Lions have continued to ascend, whereas the Niners have taken a big step again. Since 2000, this would be the ninth time the groups that met in a convention championship recreation will play once more the next season. The dwelling crew received seven of the eight earlier instances. But with Detroit nonetheless combating for the highest seed and carrying an ideal highway report, the 49ers will want an enormous turnaround to drag this off. One place they may begin? Generating turnovers. They have only one takeaway of their previous 5 video games (tied for second fewest in that span). — Nick Wagoner
Stat to know: The Lions are 7-0 on the highway, which is their longest highway win streak in franchise historical past. They’ve misplaced 14 consecutive highway video games to the 49ers, although, together with the playoffs. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: 49ers extensive receiver Jauan Jennings will report not less than six receptions. Thirty p.c of Lions’ opponent dropbacks end in a goal to a slot receiver, which is the second-highest price within the league, per NFL Next Gen Stats. No one has performed extra snaps from the slot for San Francisco this season than Jennings. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Lions can clinch the No. 1 seed and home-field benefit for the playoffs with a win and a Vikings loss to the Packers on Sunday. Read more. — ESPN Research
Fantasy X issue: 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy. He bounced again in Week 16 with 21.1 fantasy factors, which helped erase the sting of his tough 3.9-point outing in opposition to the Rams in Week 15. He’s in an excellent spot this week, going through a Lions protection that has given up probably the most fantasy factors to quarterbacks over the previous 4 weeks. See Week 17 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Lions are 9-2 outright and 8-3 ATS in prime-time video games below coach Dan Campbell. Read more. — ESPN Research
Kahler’s choose: Lions 40, 49ers 24
Moody’s choose: Lions 31, 49ers 24
Walder’s choose: Lions 31, 49ers 20
FPI prediction: DET, 61.8% (by a mean of 4.5 factors)
