The 2024 NFL common season comes right down to Week 18, with two playoff spots up for grabs and postseason seeding to be decided. With 16 video games left, we’ve got you lined with what that you must know heading into the weekend.
Our NFL Nation reporters have keys to each sport, and analytics author Seth Walder makes a daring prediction for every matchup. The ESPN Analysis group supplies a giant stat to know and a betting nugget for every contest, whereas our Soccer Energy Index (FPI) goes contained in the numbers with a sport projection and a have a look at the playoff image. Fantasy analyst Eric Moody finds fantasy soccer X components, and three analysts — Kalyn Kahler, Moody and Walder — give us remaining rating picks for each sport. All the pieces you need to know is right here in a single spot that will help you prepare for a loaded weekend of soccer.
Let’s get into the complete Week 18 slate, together with a high-stakes matchup between the Vikings and Lions in sport No. 272 of the season, together with the Broncos seeking to sweep the Chiefs and get into the playoffs. There are two video games Saturday, with the AFC North to be determined, and 14 extra on Sunday.
Leap to a matchup:
CLE-BAL | CIN-PIT | CAR-ATL
WSH-DAL | CHI-GB | HOU-TEN
JAX-IND | BUF-NE | NYG-PHI
NO-TB | KC-DEN | LAC-LV
SEA-LAR | MIA-NYJ | SF-ARI | MIN-DET
Saturday, 4:30 p.m. ET | ESPN/ABC/ESPN+ | ESPN BET: BAL -19.5 (41.5 O/U)
Browns storyline to look at: Defensive finish Myles Garrett is tied with Trey Hendrickson for the NFL lead with 14 sacks. Garrett, the reigning Defensive Participant of the Yr, has by no means completed a season because the sack chief. In 13 video games in opposition to the Ravens, Garrett has 8.5 sacks, together with 5.5 takedowns of quarterback Lamar Jackson. — Daniel Oyefusi
Ravens storyline to look at: Jackson and the Ravens can win their fourth AFC North title up to now seven seasons with a victory over the last-place Browns. Jackson has flourished at this level of the season with a 4-0 profession document in video games performed in Weeks 17 and 18, throwing 10 landing passes and one interception. Cleveland has usually struggled late within the season, successful solely two of its previous 14 regular-season finales. — Jamison Hensley
Stat to know: Ravens working again Derrick Henry is 78 speeding yards shy of passing Tiki Barber (1,860 in 2005) for probably the most rush yards by a participant age 30 or older in a season in NFL historical past. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Browns linebacker Mohamoud Diabate will document double-digit tackles for the primary time in his profession. ESPN’s Soccer Energy Index favors the Ravens by 18.7 factors on this contest, so a possible blowout for Baltimore ought to result in a run-heavy sport script that ought to create deal with alternatives for Cleveland’s linebackers. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Ravens can clinch the AFC North and No. 3 seed within the AFC with a win/tie or Steelers loss/tie vs. the Bengals. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Accidents: Browns | Ravens
Fantasy X issue: Henry. A win over the Browns secures the AFC North and a house playoff sport. Henry needs to be given ample touches, and if he scores in Week 18 to succeed in 15 touchdowns for the season, he’ll earn a $500,000 incentive. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Browns are 0-5 in opposition to the unfold (ATS) of their previous 5 video games, their longest single-season ATS dropping streak since 2017. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Kahler’s decide: Ravens 27, Browns 14
Moody’s decide: Ravens 28, Browns 9
Walder’s decide: Ravens 24, Browns 13
FPI prediction: BAL, 89.8% (by a median of 18.8 factors)
Saturday, 8 p.m. ET | ESPN/ABC/ESPN+ | ESPN BET: CIN 2.5 (48.5 O/U)
Bengals storyline to look at: Cincinnati’s protection is aware of it could’t have a repeat of its final efficiency in opposition to Pittsburgh. Preserving the Steelers from choosing up further yards is a serious level of emphasis heading into the must-win finale. Within the Week 13 loss, the Bengals gave up 264 yards after the catch, per ESPN Analysis. That is probably the most surrendered by any group this season. — Ben Child
Steelers storyline to look at: The Steelers and Bengals have trended in reverse instructions since their Week 13 assembly. Whereas the Bengals are using a four-game win streak coming into the regular-season finale with their playoff hopes on the road, the Steelers are attempting to interrupt a three-game slide earlier than they begin postseason play. Among the many Steelers’ priorities is getting again to the turnover tradition that largely set the tone of their 10-3 begin. Although the Steelers are tied atop league standings with 31 takeaways, the turnover differential has gone the unsuitable course up to now three weeks — 5 turnovers to 3 takeaways. — Brooke Pryor
Stat to know: Steelers edge rusher T.J. Watt has gone two straight video games with out a sack. He hasn’t gone three straight with out one this season. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Bengals edge rusher Trey Hendrickson will document no less than two sacks, successful the sack crown and reentering the Defensive Participant of the Yr dialog in a sport during which he’ll outshine Watt. Hendrickson is presently 60-1 to win the award at ESPN BET. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Steelers can clinch the AFC North and the No. 3 seed within the AFC with a win and a Ravens loss vs. the Browns. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Accidents: Bengals | Steelers
Fantasy X issue: Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow. Cincinnati is battling for the AFC’s remaining playoff spot. To get in, the Bengals should win and want losses from the Dolphins and Broncos. They play first, so anticipate Burrow, coming off a season-high 37 fantasy factors in Week 17, to lean closely on receiver Ja’Marr Chase. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Bengals are 5-0 ATS as highway favorites this season. They’re 7-1 ATS general on the highway this season. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Kahler’s decide: Bengals 28, Steelers 26
Moody’s decide: Bengals 28, Steelers 24
Walder’s decide: Bengals 23, Steelers 20
FPI prediction: PIT, 53.2% (by a median of 1.0 factors)
1:19
Shannon Sharpe cannot imagine anybody believes Burrow is the MVP over Lamar
Shannon Sharpe argues that Lamar Jackson is way extra deserving of the NFL MVP than Joe Burrow.
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: ATL 7.5 (47.5 O/U)
Panthers storyline to look at: The Panthers in all probability once more will likely be with out a number of key members of a protection that gave up 551 yards and 5 landing passes final week at Tampa Bay. They will be going through an Atlanta group that had 423 yards, together with 198 speeding, in a 38-20 victory in Charlotte earlier this season. The identical issues persist for Carolina. It may well’t cease the run, which opens all the pieces up for the opponent. — David Newton
Falcons storyline to look at: All eyes will likely be on rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who will likely be making his third profession begin. Penix has made huge throws in two inconsistent performances. If he performs nicely, it’s going to hold good vibes going into the postseason or subsequent season. — Marc Raimondi
Stat to know: Panthers quarterback Bryce Younger is winless in 12 profession highway begins, tied with Gary Huff (1974-77) for the fourth-most consecutive highway losses by a beginning quarterback to start his profession. With a loss Sunday, Younger would tie Joey Harrington (2002-03) and David Klingler (1992-94) for the second-longest such streak behind Steve DeBerg (14 straight from 1978-79). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: The Falcons will mix to run for no less than 200 yards in opposition to Carolina. Atlanta runs outdoors zone 69% of the time, the very best charge within the NFL. And no group surrenders extra yards per outdoors zone carry than the Panthers at 5.2. In a must-win sport for the Falcons, it is sensible for them to use Carolina’s weak spot. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Falcons can clinch the NFC South with a win and a Buccaneers loss vs. the Saints. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Accidents: Panthers | Falcons
Fantasy X issue: Falcons working again Bijan Robinson. Count on the Falcons to maintain leaning on Robinson in opposition to a Panthers protection that enables probably the most fantasy factors to working backs. Robinson has 20-plus touches in 5 straight video games and 20-plus fantasy factors in 4 of them. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Overs are 9-1 in NFC South matchups this season, together with 5-0 in Panthers video games. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Kahler’s decide: Falcons 24, Panthers 17
Moody’s decide: Falcons 25, Panthers 20
Walder’s decide: Falcons 23, Panthers 19
FPI prediction: ATL, 73.4% (by a median of 9.4 factors)
1 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: WSH -6 (44.5 O/U)
Commanders storyline to look at: Dallas did a great job in opposition to Washington’s offense within the first assembly between these groups, holding quarterback Jayden Daniels to 81 passing yards and an interception within the first three quarters. However since that sport Daniels has thrown 13 touchdowns to 4 interceptions. He has rushed for 208 yards mixed the previous two weeks. — John Keim
Cowboys storyline to look at: Will quarterback Trey Lance make the primary begin of his Cowboys’ profession and simply the fifth of his profession — and first since Sept. 18, 2022, when he was with San Francisco? Cooper Rush has began the previous eight video games, however perhaps it is time to get a have a look at Lance, who was acquired final season for a fourth-round decide. The Cowboys will look to keep away from a seventh house loss, which might tie for the second most at house in group historical past (2015). — Todd Archer
Stat to know: The Cowboys have an NFL-worst minus-116 level margin at house this season after having the most effective house level margin within the league final season (plus-172). With a nine-point loss, they’d tie the worst house level margin in a season in franchise historical past (minus-125 in 1960). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Cowboys cornerback DaRon Bland will document his first interception of the season. That is extra intestine really feel than something however as random as interceptions are, 14 for Bland over his first two seasons within the league definitely tells us one thing about his skill as a ball hawk. I say he grabs one in Week 18. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Commanders have a 73% likelihood of incomes the No. 6 seed within the NFC, in line with ESPN’s FPI. They will clinch the 6-seed with win or a Packers loss vs. the Bears. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
1:17
Why the Cowboys and Mike McCarthy ought to half methods
Jason McCourty evaluates whether or not the Cowboys and coach Mike McCarthy ought to half methods after the season.
Accidents: Commanders | Cowboys
Fantasy X issue: Daniels. He goals to make a remaining assertion in his Offensive Rookie of the Yr push in opposition to a Dallas protection that has given up the second-most fantasy factors per sport to quarterbacks. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: That is the primary time the Commanders are highway favorites in Dallas since 2017 (-1.5). They haven’t laid a area purpose in Dallas since 2000. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Kahler’s decide: Commanders 28, Cowboys 20
Moody’s decide: Commanders 23, Cowboys 20
Walder’s decide: Cowboys 23, Commanders 20
FPI prediction: WSH, 65.3% (by a median of 5.7 factors)
1 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: GB -10 (41.5 O/U)
Bears storyline to look at: Quarterback Caleb Williams is closing in on one ill-fated document to finish his rookie season. The No. 1 decide has been sacked 67 occasions — the second most to David Carr’s 76 sacks taken in 2002 as a rookie — and faces a Packers protection that has the seventh-most sacks (44) this season. — Courtney Cronin
Packers storyline to look at: Packers coach Matt LaFleur will likely be teaching his one centesimal regular-season sport Sunday (he holds a 67-32 document), and he has by no means misplaced to the Bears. His 11-0 mark in opposition to Chicago is tied for the longest successful streak in opposition to a division group to start a training profession because the 1970 merger. — Rob Demovsky
Stat to know: Packers working again Josh Jacobs has seven straight video games with a speeding landing, which is tied with Paul Hornung (1960) for the longest streak in Inexperienced Bay historical past. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson will not hand over a single reception of 10-plus air yards. Johnson has had one other very stable season, giving up simply 0.8 yards per protection snap — fifth finest amongst outdoors corners with no less than 200 protection snaps, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Bears are projected to choose No. 9 within the 2025 draft coming into Week 18, in line with ESPN’s FPI. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Accidents: Bears | Packers
Fantasy X issue: Packers tight finish Tucker Kraft. Kraft’s targets and fantasy manufacturing have been inconsistent recently, however he is in an amazing spot this week. The Bears’ protection provides up the sixth-most receiving yards per sport to tight ends. Kraft has an excellent alternative to ship stable manufacturing for fantasy managers. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Bears are 0-7 outright on the highway this season (2-5 ATS). Unders are 6-1 in Bears highway video games. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Kahler’s decide: Packers 24, Bears 20
Moody’s decide: Packers 30, Bears 14
Walder’s decide: Packers 27, Bears 20
FPI prediction: GB, 74.7% (by a median of 9.9 factors)
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: TEN -2 (36.5 O/U)
Texans storyline to look at: Coach DeMeco Ryans informed reporters Monday that “everybody will likely be on the market enjoying” so anticipate to see necessary starters in opposition to the Titans. How lengthy although? That is to be decided, nevertheless it’s extremely unlikely the Texans play their starters the entire means since successful or dropping would not have an effect on their seeding for the playoffs. — DJ Bien-Aime
Titans storyline to look at: The Titans plan to make use of quarterbacks Mason Rudolph and Will Levis within the season finale in opposition to the Texans. It is an attention-grabbing resolution contemplating Tennessee can fall as a low as seventh within the draft if it beats Houston whereas a loss would safe no less than the No. 2 choice. The Texans have already secured the fourth seed within the playoffs whatever the sport’s final result so that is a kind of video games the place successful might be a destructive for the Titans long run. — Turron Davenport
Stat to know: Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud is one landing go away from turning into the seventh QB in NFL historical past with 3,500 passing yards and 20 landing passes in every of his first two NFL seasons (Justin Herbert, Kyler Murray, Baker Mayfield, Jameis Winston, Andrew Luck and Peyton Manning). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: The Titans will win by 10 or extra factors. The sensible transfer for each of those groups is to lose this sport: as a result of a win hurts Tennessee’s draft inventory and Houston is locked in to the No. 4 seed within the postseason. However my guess is the Texans will take their foot off the gasoline rather more than the Titans will. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Titans have an 11.9% likelihood to earn the No. 1 decide within the 2025 draft, in line with ESPN’s FPI. They will safe the highest decide with a loss and a Patriots win vs. the Payments. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Accidents: Texans | Titans
Fantasy X issue: Titans working again Tony Pollard. He has 1,017 speeding yards and 5 touchdowns. Pollard has one thing to play for this week. He’ll earn a $250,000 bonus if he hits 1,100 yards and one other $200,000 for reaching seven touchdowns. Count on Pollard to be financially motivated in opposition to the Texans. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Titans are 0-7 ATS at house this season (1-6 outright). The one two groups up to now 30 seasons to complete winless ATS at house are the 2019 Buccaneers (0-6-2) and the 2012 Eagles (0-8). Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Kahler’s decide: Texans 25, Titans 14
Moody’s decide: Texans 20, Titans 10
Walder’s decide: Titans 26, Texans 13
FPI prediction: HOU, 51.9% (by a median of 1.1 factors)
1 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: IND -5 (43.5 O/U)
Jaguars storyline to look at: Defensive ends Travon Walker and Josh Hines-Allen have the prospect to turn into solely the second and third gamers in franchise historical past to put up 10 or extra sacks in back-to-back seasons (Calais Campbell did it in 2017-18). Hines-Allen (eight sacks this season), who wants 2.5 sacks to interrupt the franchise profession document (55), has 10.5 sacks in 10 video games in opposition to the Colts. Walker (9.5 sacks this season) has 4.5 sacks in 5 video games in opposition to the Colts, together with three within the Jaguars’ 37-34 victory earlier this season. — Michael DiRocco
Colts storyline to look at: Working again Jonathan Taylor has put collectively considered one of his finest stretches in years, courting to his All-Professional, league-leading efficiency in 2021. He has averaged 136.5 speeding yards in his previous 4 video games, with 5 touchdowns up to now two weeks. Apparently, two of the highest three speeding performances of Taylor’s profession have come within the remaining week of the season (253 yards in 2021 and 188 yards final season). — Stephen Holder
Stat to know: Jaguars receiver Brian Thomas Jr. has 10 landing receptions, tied for second most in Jaguars historical past (Allen Robinson had 14 in 2015). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Colts huge receiver Josh Downs will end the season sturdy with a 90-plus receiving-yard sport. Downs nonetheless has an 84 open rating, tied for the third highest amongst huge receivers. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Jaguars enter with a 60% likelihood to finish up with a top-five draft decide, in line with ESPN’s FPI. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Accidents: Jaguars | Colts
Fantasy X issue: Colts huge receiver Michael Pittman Jr. He had a season-high 10 targets and scored 25.9 fantasy factors in Week 17 with Joe Flacco at quarterback. He’ll face a Jaguars protection that provides up probably the most receiving yards per sport (257.7). Pittman is ready up for an additional huge efficiency with Flacco beneath middle once more for the injured Anthony Richardson (again). See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Jaguars are 15-3-1 ATS vs. the Colts over the previous 10 seasons. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Kahler’s decide: Colts 20, Jaguars 14
Moody’s decide: Jaguars 27, Colts 20
Walder’s decide: Colts 20, Jaguars 17
FPI prediction: IND, 58.5% (by a median of three.3 factors)
2:55
Stephen A. on Eagles benching Saquon: ‘I hate this resolution’
Stephen A. Smith understands the Eagles’ resolution to relaxation Saquon Barkley, however he’s not a fan of it.
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: BUF -2.5 (38.5 O/U)
Payments storyline to look at: The Payments are locked in to the No. 2 seed within the AFC, so the sport will characteristic a mixture of the group’s typical starters and gamers whom the group needs “to check out as nicely,” per coach Sean McDermott. Quarterback Josh Allen will begin the sport to keep up his consecutive begins streak (presently 104 video games), however then Mitchell Trubisky will take over. The purpose for the Payments, in line with McDermott, is to win the sport and are available out of the week as recent and wholesome as potential for the postseason. — Alaina Getzenberg
Patriots storyline to look at: Patriots coach Jerod Mayo says rookie quarterback Drake Maye is predicted to begin and that the group is enjoying to win regardless of having pole place for the No. 1 decide within the draft. A win would open the likelihood that the Titans, Browns or Giants might wind up with the highest decide relying on what occurs of their video games in Week 18. — Mike Reiss
Stat to know: The Payments have had 12 video games this season with 30-plus factors, tied for the second most in a season in NFL historical past behind the 2013 Broncos (13). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Payments working again Ty Johnson will document no less than 4 receptions. With Buffalo capable of relaxation starters in Week 18, that ought to clear the way in which for extra enjoying time for Johnson, the group’s third-string again. And he has proven he is able to making an impression within the passing sport, most notably in Week 15 when he caught 5 passes for 114 yards in opposition to the Lions. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Patriots have a 78% likelihood to earn the No. 1 decide within the 2025 draft, per ESPN’s FPI. They will safe the highest decide with a loss. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Accidents: Payments | Patriots
Fantasy X issue: Payments working again Ray Davis. He could lead on the Payments’ backfield with Buffalo already locked into the No. 2 seed. Bear in mind Week 6 when Davis had 23 touches and 18.2 fantasy factors when James Cook dinner was out? This week, he has an amazing matchup in opposition to a Patriots protection that has given up the third-most RB speeding yards. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Overs are 6-1 in Patriots house video games this season, and 7-1 within the Payments’ previous eight video games general. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Kahler’s decide: Payments 21, Patriots 17
Moody’s decide: Payments 20, Patriots 19
Walder’s decide: Payments 19, Patriots 16
FPI prediction: BUF, 78% (by a median of 11.5 factors)
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: PHI -3 (37.5 O/U)
Giants storyline to look at: The Giants need to win their second straight season finale in opposition to an unmotivated Eagles group. This one might include extra penalties. New York might fall as little as ninth within the draft order with a win, however as coach Brian Daboll mentioned repeatedly all through the week, that is not on their thoughts. “We’re simply on the point of play the Eagles,” he mentioned. That appears to be with rookie huge receiver Malik Nabers & Co. enjoying their regular roles. — Jordan Raanan
Eagles storyline to look at: Eagles working again Saquon Barkley is predicted to sit down out, ending his pursuit of the all-time single-season speeding document. Philadelphia will relaxation key gamers because it gears up for its playoff run because the No. 2 seed within the NFC. Barkley would’ve wanted solely 101 yards to interrupt Eric Dickerson’s mark of two,105. He might have made historical past in opposition to his former group, however well being within the title of a Tremendous Bowl run is being prioritized. — Tim McManus
Stat to know: The Giants’ Nabers has 104 receptions, which is 2 shy of passing Puka Nacua for second most by a rookie in NFL historical past (Brock Bowers has probably the most with 108 coming into Week 18). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Giants edge rusher Brian Burns may have two or extra sacks. In a season during which a lot has gone unsuitable for the Giants, no less than their huge offseason acquisition in Burns has carried out nicely. He’s tied for sixth within the NFL with 57 go rush wins. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Giants have an 87.4% likelihood to have a top-five decide in April’s draft, in line with ESPN’s FPI. However they’ve solely a 0.8% likelihood to pick No. 1. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Accidents: Giants | Eagles
Fantasy X issue: Eagles working again Kenneth Gainwell. Philadelphia plans to relaxation some gamers after securing its playoff spot with final week’s win over the Cowboys. Gainwell hasn’t performed a lot this season however has managed 276 yards on 64 carries. He is up in opposition to a Giants protection that has struggled all yr, giving up the second-most speeding yards per sport (146.6). See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Giants are 2-9 ATS of their previous 11 video games. They’re 0-4 of their previous 4 highway video games. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Kahler’s decide: Eagles 24, Giants 17
Moody’s decide: Eagles 24, Giants 13
Walder’s decide: Giants 23, Eagles 17
FPI prediction: PHI, 82.9% (by a median of 14.3 factors)
1 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: TB -13.5 (43.5 O/U)
Saints storyline to look at: The Saints mentioned they’re going to play for the group within the wake of the lethal pickup truck assault within the French Quarter on Wednesday morning. Saints coach Darren Rizzi says he hopes the group can elevate spirits in its season finale, which can conclude the Saints’ fourth straight season with out a playoff berth. The standing of working again Alvin Kamara (groin), Derek Carr (hand) and Chris Olave (concussion) stay unknown. — Katherine Terrell
Buccaneers storyline to look at: There’s historical past on the road for huge receiver Mike Evans, who wants 85 yards to tie Jerry Rice for probably the most consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons (11). He has reached 85 yards solely 3 times in his profession in opposition to the Saints, and the final time was 2018. — Jenna Laine
Stat to know: The Saints have been held beneath 20 factors in 5 consecutive video games coming into Sunday. A sixth such sport would break a tie for his or her longest such single-season streak since a nine-game streak in 1996. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Bucs edge rusher Yaya Diaby will document a sack. Diaby is sizzling, with a 22% go rush win charge at edge since Week 14 that ranks sixth in that span, together with 1.5 sacks in his previous two video games. In Week 18, he’ll principally face rookie Taliese Fuaga, whose 83% go block win charge ranks 59th out of 66 tackles. — Walder
What’s at stake: Tampa Bay can clinch the NFC South with a win/tie or a Falcons loss/tie in opposition to Carolina. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Accidents: Saints | Buccaneers
Fantasy X issue: Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield. Mayfield’s contract consists of $500,000 incentives for rating within the high 10 within the league or high 5 within the NFC in passer ranking, landing passes, passing yards, completion proportion and yards per go try. He is set to hit all of them coming into the final week of the common season. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Saints are 0-5 ATS of their previous 5 highway video games. They’re 1-7 ATS in opposition to groups with successful data this season. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Kahler’s decide: Buccaneers 30, Saints 20
Moody’s decide: Buccaneers 35, Saints 14
Walder’s decide: Buccaneers 24, Saints 16
FPI prediction: TB, 79.7% (by a median of 12.3 factors)
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: DEN -10.5 (40.5 O/U)
Chiefs storyline to look at: The Chiefs have clinched the AFC 1-seed, so Carson Wentz will begin at quarterback and different backups will fill their lineup. How aggressive can they be in opposition to the Broncos, who’re enjoying for a spot within the postseason? The Chiefs have usually executed nicely in such conditions with Andy Reid as their coach. They beat the Chargers in Week 18 final season with Blaine Gabbert at quarterback. — Adam Teicher
Broncos storyline to look at: Backups or not for the Chiefs, the Broncos have not gained house video games in opposition to Kansas Metropolis in back-to-back seasons since defeating the Chiefs in Denver in each 2013 and 2014. Because the league chief in sacks (58) and No. 5 in scoring protection (19.4 PPG), how the Broncos hold the warmth on Wentz might nicely tilt the scales. — Jeff Legwold
Stat to know: The Chiefs haven’t scored greater than 30 factors in a sport this season. Kansas Metropolis might be a part of the 1971 Vikings and 1977 Broncos as the one groups because the 1970 merger to complete with the most effective document within the NFL whereas not scoring greater than 30 factors in a single sport. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Broncos guard Quinn Meinerz will put up a 100% go block win charge. I am assuming Chris Jones will both skip or principally skip this one, and that ought to make life loads simpler for Meinerz and fellow guard Ben Powers. Meinerz ranks third this season in go block win charge (96.4%). — Walder
What’s at stake: The Broncos can clinch a playoff berth with a win/tie or a Bengals loss/tie vs. the Steelers, plus a Dolphins loss/tie vs. the Jets. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Accidents: Chiefs | Broncos
Fantasy X issue: Broncos quarterback Bo Nix. Nix has scored 20-plus fantasy factors in back-to-back video games and would possibly face Kansas Metropolis’s backups, because the Chiefs don’t have anything on the road. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Broncos are 7-0 ATS as favorites this season. No group within the Tremendous Bowl period has gone 8-0 ATS in a single common season as favorites. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Kahler’s decide: Broncos 24, Chiefs 20
Moody’s decide: Broncos 27, Chiefs 13
Walder’s decide: Broncos 24, Chiefs 21
FPI prediction: DEN, 51.6% (by a median of 0.8 factors)
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: LAC -4 (41.5 O/U)
Chargers storyline to look at: If the Steelers lose to the Bengals on Saturday, a win over the Raiders would earn the Chargers the No. 5 seed within the AFC. If the Steelers lose, the Chargers are locked into the sixth seed with nothing to play for in opposition to the Raiders. Coach Jim Harbaugh has made it clear that the Chargers need the fifth seed however did not say whether or not the group would play its key gamers Sunday if the Steelers lose. “Eleven wins sounds higher than 10,” Harbaugh mentioned. — Kris Rhim
Raiders storyline to look at: Lose to the Chargers and the Raiders go 0-6 within the AFC West for the primary time since 2006. However beat the Chargers, who is perhaps resting gamers in anticipation of the playoffs, and the all of a sudden rollicking Raiders shut the season on a three-game successful streak after dropping 10 straight, their longest in-season dropping streak since 2014. The QB-needy Raiders’ current successful methods have value them a shot on the No. 1 decide, not that the present employees and roster care. “Simply attempting to remain within the current,” coach Antonio Pierce mentioned. “Cannot dwell up to now, cannot fear in regards to the future.” — Paul Gutierrez
Stat to know: Raiders rookie Brock Bowers is 9 receptions shy of passing Zach Ertz in 2018 (116) for many receptions in a season by a decent finish in NFL historical past. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Chargers defensive again Derwin James Jr. will document an interception. No participant who strains up primarily at slot nook and has no less than 200 protection snaps is giving up fewer yards per protection snap than James at 0.6. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Chargers have a 26% likelihood to earn the No. 5 seed within the AFC, in line with ESPN’s FPI. They will clinch the 5-seed with win and a Steelers loss vs. the Bengals. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Accidents: Chargers | Raiders
Fantasy X issue: Chargers working again J.Ok. Dobbins. He faces a Raiders protection he dominated in Week 1, scoring 22.9 fantasy factors. The Las Vegas protection is a middle-of-the-road unit in opposition to the run, giving Dobbins one other likelihood to shine. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Raiders quarterback Aidan O’Connell is 13-3 ATS in his profession, which is tied for the second-best begin by 16 video games by any quarterback within the Tremendous Bowl period. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Kahler’s decide: Chargers 28, Raiders 17
Moody’s decide: Chargers 23, Raiders 20
Walder’s decide: Chargers 24, Raiders 18
FPI prediction: LAC, 55.6% (by a median of two.1 factors)
4:25 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: SEA -6.5 (38.5 O/U)
Seahawks storyline to look at: The Seahawks had been eradicated from playoff competition in Week 17, however do not inform Geno Smith that their regular-season finale is meaningless. The quarterback has $6 million on the road within the type of three contract escalators for 2025, every value $2 million. He’d hit one if the Seahawks earn their tenth win of the season. He wants 185 passing yards to hit one other. The opposite one is tied to Smith ending the yr at or above 69.76% completion charge; he is at 70.24% now. — Brady Henderson
Rams storyline to look at: With the Rams clinching the NFC West in Week 17, quarterback Matthew Stafford is not going to play in opposition to Seattle. As an alternative, it will likely be backup quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo getting the beginning. When requested whether or not he sees this sport as an audition for an opportunity to begin subsequent season, Garoppolo mentioned, “I feel anytime you get on the grass in dwell motion, that is your résumé.” Garoppolo is 1-4 in 5 profession begins in opposition to Seattle in his profession. — Sarah Barshop
Stat to know: Smith is 186 passing yards away from breaking the Seahawks’ document for a single season (4,282 yards, a mark he set in 2022). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Rams defensive deal with Kobie Turner may have no less than three pressures and/or a sack. Turner will likely be squaring off in opposition to Seahawks backup middle Olu Oluwatimi, who would rank twenty seventh out of 34 facilities in go block win charge if he certified. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Rams can clinch the No. 3 seed within the NFC with a win/tie or a Buccaneers loss/tie vs. the Saints. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Accidents: Seahawks | Rams
Fantasy X issue: Rams working again Blake Corum. Corum is being arrange for an expanded position, as Los Angeles in all probability will relaxation its starters. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Seahawks are 0-6 ATS in opposition to groups with successful data this season. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Kahler’s decide: Rams 30, Seahawks 28
Moody’s decide: Seahawks 27, Rams 17
Walder’s decide: Rams 30, Seahawks 20
FPI prediction: LAR, 56.4% (by a median of two.5 factors)
4:25 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: MIA -1 (38.5 O/U)
Dolphins storyline to look at: The Dolphins are making ready as if quarterback Tyler Huntley will make his fifth begin of the season Sunday in opposition to the Jets, with Tua Tagovailoa nonetheless working by the hip harm that stored him out of their Week 17 sport in opposition to the Browns. Huntley struggled to know a fancy Miami offense in his first three begins of the season however shined in opposition to Cleveland, admitting after that he has a far superior understanding of this method than he did in Week 7. With a playoff berth probably on the road, Miami will face a Jets protection that has put up the fourth-fewest defensive anticipated factors added since being eradicated from playoff competition in Week 14. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Jets storyline to look at: This might be quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ remaining sport with the Jets; it may be his remaining sport as an NFL participant, because the 41-year-old future Corridor of Famer is undecided on whether or not to return for a twenty first season. Rodgers, who appears resigned to the chance that he will not be again with the Jets, hopes to finish with one final milestone. He wants one landing go to turn into the fifth participant in historical past with 500. — Wealthy Cimini
Stat to know: Jets huge receiver Garrett Wilson has 97 receptions, three shy of turning into the second participant in franchise historical past with 100 receptions in a single season (Brandon Marshall, 109 in 2015). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Dolphins Calais Campbell, Chop Robinson and Zach Sieler will all document no less than half a sack. Every has had a powerful season and, with Miami’s playoff hopes nonetheless alive, can ship essential blows in opposition to Rodgers. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Dolphins can clinch a playoff berth with a win and a Broncos loss to the Chiefs. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Accidents: Dolphins | Jets
Fantasy X issue: Rodgers. He is nonetheless chasing that five hundredth landing go in his 20-year profession and can begin in Week 18. It might be becoming for Davante Adams to be the one to catch the milestone go. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Dolphins highway video games are 7-1 to the beneath this season, with 4 straight highway video games going beneath the full. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Kahler’s decide: Jets 24, Dolphins 17
Moody’s decide: Jets 23, Dolphins 20
Walder’s decide: Dolphins 27, Jets 14
FPI prediction: MIA, 53.5% (by a median of 1.4 factors)
4:25 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: ARI -4.5 (42.5 O/U)
49ers storyline to look at: All that is left for the Niners on this misplaced season is satisfaction and a handful of particular person achievements. A type of is for defensive finish Nick Bosa, who’s pursuing a fourth straight season with double-digit sacks. Bosa, who sat out time with hip and indirect accidents, has 9.0 sacks for the season and wishes yet one more to succeed in no less than 10 for a fourth straight time. Extra unlikely, although not fully out of the realm of chance with Arizona enjoying backups at each deal with spots, Bosa wants 4.5 sacks to go Charles Haley for second on the franchise record. — Nick Wagoner
Cardinals storyline to look at: Marvin Harrison Jr. is coming off considered one of his finest video games of the season, a 96-yard efficiency in opposition to the Rams, which put him at 822 yards for the season. He is now 15 yards shy of passing his father, Corridor of Fame receiver Marvin Harrison Sr., for yards as a rookie. Harrison Sr. had 836 yards in 1996 — six years earlier than Harrison Jr. was born. Harrison Sr. did not have his first 1,000-yard season till his fourth yr after which put up eight straight. Harrison Jr. had 36 yards on two catches in his first sport of the season in opposition to the Niners. — Josh Weinfuss
Stat to know: 49ers tight finish George Kittle is searching for 100 receiving yards in three straight video games for the primary time in his profession. The final 49ers participant with 100 receiving yards in three straight video games was Jerry Rice in 1995. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Cardinals edge Mack Wilson Sr. will bat down a go. Wilson has three batted passes to this point this season and in addition has a 16% go rush win charge, roughly common for an edge rusher. And he’ll be going after backup quarterback Joshua Dobbs. — Walder
Accidents: 49ers | Cardinals
Fantasy X issue: Cardinals working again Michael Carter. James Conner (knee) and Trey Benson (ankle) are on injured reserve, leaving Carter as Arizona’s possible lead again. He’ll face a 49ers protection that has given up the fifth-most fantasy factors per sport to working backs. Carter’s quantity might make him a stable choice in Week 18. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Cardinals have lined 5 straight video games as underdogs. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Kahler’s decide: Cardinals 30, 49ers 21
Moody’s decide: 49ers 31, Cardinals 24
Walder’s decide: Cardinals 28, 49ers 23
FPI prediction: SF, 55.5% (by a median of 1.9 factors)
8:20 p.m. ET | NBC/Peacock | ESPN BET: DET -3 (56.5 O/U)
Vikings storyline to look at: The Vikings do not want any further motivation for Sunday evening’s sport, however the penalties of a win can be huge. They’re the NFL’s oldest group, primarily based on snap-weighted age, and would absolutely profit from a first-round playoff bye. Lions coach Dan Campbell is 4-1 in opposition to Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell, largely due to what O’Connell termed “self-inflicted” causes. Certainly, the Vikings have dedicated 9 turnovers and had a minus-seven turnover margin in these 4 losses. Taking part in a clear sport, or no less than matching their turnovers with takeaways, is probably the most essential variable for Sunday evening. — Kevin Seifert
Lions storyline to look at: Changing into the NFC’s No. 1 seed has been a purpose in Detroit because the Lions fell quick within the 2023 NFC Championship Sport to San Francisco. Campbell sees it “proper right here in our palms” in opposition to Minnesota as a victory in Week 18 would safe that. Detroit needs to clinch home-field benefit all through the playoffs to chase its final purpose. “Everyone knows what the prize is and that is a Tremendous Bowl,” Campbell mentioned Wednesday. “You attempt to set your self up the most effective you may and that is why you set these objectives on the market.” — Eric Woodyard
Stat to know: Lions working again Jahmyr Gibbs has had 100-plus speeding yards up to now two video games. A 3rd can be the longest streak by a Lion since Barry Sanders in 1998 (5 straight). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: The Lions will rating a D/ST landing. I’ve a mannequin for this, and it spits out a 16% likelihood for Detroit’s protection or particular groups to document a landing. Maybe it is security Kerby Joseph, aggrieved over his Professional Bowl snub, channeling his anger into a tenth decide that he returns for a landing. Or defensive finish Za’Darius Smith strip-sacking quarterback Sam Darnold for a fumble a teammate returns. Or security Brian Department slicing off a go and taking it the gap. — Walder
What’s at stake: This would be the first matchup within the remaining week of the common season with the winner securing the No. 1 seed in a convention because the 11-4 Giants and 11-4 Cowboys met within the remaining week in 1993. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Accidents: Vikings | Lions
Fantasy X issue: Vikings huge receiver Jordan Addison. He has had no less than eight targets and scored 13-plus fantasy factors in 4 straight video games, together with two with 19 or extra. This matchup initiatives to be a high-scoring affair, and the Lions hand over the second-most fantasy factors per sport to huge receivers. He is in an amazing spot to ship once more this week. See Week 18 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Vikings have lined 4 straight video games and are 12-4 ATS this season, tied for the most effective document within the NFL. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Kahler’s decide: Lions 34, Vikings 31
Moody’s decide: Lions 31, Vikings 28
Walder’s decide: Lions 38, Vikings 31
FPI prediction: DET, 64.5% (by a median of 5.5 factors)
