The NFL’s Week 16 is poised to deliver drama as Buffalo overcomes a 21‑point deficit in Foxborough, Kansas City’s season ends with a Mahomes injury, and Los Angeles secures a playoff berth behind Matthew Stafford.
Thursday Night Football
The Los Angeles Rams (11‑3) will host the Seattle Seahawks (11‑3) on Thursday Night Football. Both squads are chasing the top spot in the NFC and the NFC West. Rams have already clinched the first NFC playoff berth, while Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold will need a standout performance to keep the division title within reach.
Saturday Games
- Philadelphia Eagles (9‑5) vs Washington Commanders (4‑10) – Marcus Mariota will start the season as the Commanders’ quarterback after Jayden Daniels’ injury.
- Green Bay Packers (9‑4‑1) vs Chicago Bears (10‑4) – Jordan Love will lead the Packers into a key NFC North matchup, with Caleb Williams hoping to give the Bears a cushion in the division.
Sunday Games
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7‑7) vs Carolina Panthers (7‑7) – The winner will control the NFC South as the season approaches its end.
- Jacksonville Jaguars (10‑4) vs Denver Broncos (12‑2) – The Jaguars aim to cement their position atop the AFC South, while the Broncos seek one step closer to securing the AFC’s No. 1 seed.
- New England Patriots (11‑3) vs Baltimore Ravens (7‑7) – Sunday Night Football will feature the AFC matchup, with the Patriots’ 10‑game win streak ending and the Ravens looking to stay in the AFC North title race.
Monday Night Football
The 49ers (10‑4) will travel to Indianapolis (8‑6). The Colts fell to 8‑6 after a 7‑1 start, and injuries have taken a toll. 44‑year‑old Philip Rivers will start for the Colts after a dramatic return from retirement, a result that could hurt either team’s season objectives.
Key Takeaways
- Rams vs Seahawks could decide the NFC West and the top NFC seed.
- Jaguars vs Broncos matchup may shift the AFC South standings.
- 49ers vs Colts could impact both teams’ playoff chances.
Week 16’s slate promises to tighten playoff races across both conferences, with every game carrying significant implications for the remaining teams.
