NFL Week 15 picks, schedule, odds, accidents, fantasy suggestions
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NFL Nation, ESPN
The Week 15 NFL schedule for the 2024 season is stacked with nice matchups, and we have got you coated with what it is advisable know heading into the weekend.
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 Analysis workforce 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 recreation projection and a have a look at the playoff image. Fantasy analyst Eric Moody finds fantasy soccer X elements, and three analysts — Kalyn Kahler, Moody and Walder — give us last rating picks for each recreation. Every thing you wish to know is right here in a single spot that will help you prepare for a loaded weekend of NFL soccer.
Let’s get into the complete Week 15 slate, together with the Browns taking over the Chiefs, the “Pennsylvania State Championship” and the Payments visiting the Lions. All of it culminates with a pair of “Monday Evening Soccer” 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. (Sport occasions are Sunday except in any other case famous.)
Leap 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 look at: 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 Participant of the Yr Myles Garrett with a shaky deal with scenario. Mahomes made the passing recreation work final week in opposition to the Chargers regardless of heavy stress by throwing many fast passes, however the Chiefs would like extra massive cross performs, which will likely be tough to get with out improved safety. — Adam Teicher
Browns storyline to look at: 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 offered 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 Metropolis’s possessions will likely be key if the Browns wish to pull off the upset. — Daniel Oyefusi
Stat to know: Browns large receiver Jerry Jeudy has 50-plus receiving yards in six consecutive video games, which is the longest of his profession.
Daring prediction: Browns cornerback Denzel Ward will give up no a couple of reception to large receiver DeAndre Hopkins. Ward is coming off a recreation through which he wasn’t even focused, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats, and I anticipate the Chiefs must 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. Learn extra.
Fantasy X issue: Chiefs operating again Isiah Pacheco. With windy, wet climate anticipated in Cleveland, the Chiefs may lean closely on the operating recreation. Pacheco had 16 touches final week in simply his second recreation again from a fractured fibula. Count on 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 workforce has received the Tremendous Bowl in the identical season it had a six-game ATS dropping streak. Learn extra.
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 mean of three.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Mahomes on upcoming schedule: ‘Not feeling’ … Haslam backs Stefanski, GM, will have a look at all else … .5 gamers Cleveland could possibly be evaluating for 2025
1 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: CIN -5 (46.5 O/U)
Bengals storyline to look at: Quarterback Joe Burrow goes up in opposition to considered one of 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 stress. However Burrow is prepared: “This 12 months, I am making performs at a a lot increased charge than I ever had earlier than exterior of the construction.” — Ben Child
Titans storyline to look at: Ja’Marr Chase leads all large 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 wanting ahead to the matchup. “He is one of many prime receivers,” he stated. “You reside for moments like this. Each 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 final Sunday clinched their third straight season with 10 or extra losses. It is the primary time the franchise has accomplished that since 1983 to 1986, when the workforce was the Houston Oilers.
Daring prediction: The Bengals will rating 40-plus factors. I’ve little or no religion on this Titans workforce that ranks twenty fifth and twenty fourth in offensive and defensive EPA per play, respectively, since Week 10, and Cincinnati has the aptitude to be distinctive. — Walder
What’s at stake: Though the Titans have been knocked out of the playoffs, the Bengals nonetheless have a 3% probability on the postseason after their Monday evening win over the Cowboys. Learn extra.
Fantasy X issue: Titans operating 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 charge (29.4%) and simply allowed 141 whole yards to Cowboys operating 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. Learn extra.
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 mean of 4.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Burrow laments violations of privateness after residence break-in … Titans enjoying for pleasure regardless of no playoffs, targeted 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 look at: Cornerback Marshon Lattimore will most likely make his Commanders debut this week in opposition to the workforce that traded him Nov. 5. Lattimore has missed his previous 5 video games due to a hamstring damage. Washington has been mum on the way it will use him, however the Commanders know he has excelled at press man protection. Within the first 13 video games, Washington ranked thirteenth in variety of occasions it performed press man; as Lattimore settles in, that quantity ought to improve. — John Keim
Saints storyline to look at: Quarterback Derek Carr is each within the concussion protocol and nursing a hand damage 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 observe this week, the Saints plan to begin Jake Haener over rookie Spencer Rattler if Carr is dominated out. — Katherine Terrell
Stat to know: Saints operating again Alvin Kamara is 62 speeding yards from reaching the primary 1,000-yard speeding season of his profession.
Daring prediction: Somebody will return a kickoff for a landing. The Commanders and Saints rank final and second-to-last when it comes to most kick return yards allowed over expectation at 287 and 147, respectively, per NFL Subsequent 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. Learn extra.
Accidents: Commanders | Saints
Fantasy X issue: Commanders operating again Brian Robinson Jr. The Saints’ protection provides up the eighth-most fantasy factors per recreation to operating 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 information this season. Learn extra.
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 mean of seven.7 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Commanders WR Brown out with ‘vital’ damage … Saints QB Carr ‘week-to-week’ with hand damage, concussion … How Washington received its offense rolling once more
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: BAL -16 (42.5 O/U)
Ravens storyline to look at: This has the makings of an enormous day for operating 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 twenty years. Baltimore is averaging 5.72 yards per rush try, which is the second greatest in NFL historical past behind the 1963 Browns. — Jamison Hensley
Giants storyline to look at: With Tommy DeVito beginning 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. Within the three video games since shifting 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 damage, 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.
Daring prediction: Giants operating again Tyrone Tracy Jr. will report fewer than 30 speeding yards. The Ravens have the highest-ranked run protection when it comes to 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. Learn extra.
Fantasy X issue: Malik Nabers. He’s coming off a powerful Week 14 efficiency through which he had 14.9 fantasy factors, enjoying 93.2% of the snaps and operating 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. Learn extra.
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 mean of 13.8 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Ravens say WR Johnson’s suspension is not a distraction … Giants coach Brian Daboll, GM Joe Schoen are within the highlight
1:15
Schefter to McAfee: Unusual 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 look at: Final 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 to this point with leaders corresponding to 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 look at: 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 reveals how properly they’ve performed in three consecutive shut losses, together with 22-16 final week at Philadelphia. Quarterback Bryce Younger is a giant cause. His 60 Complete QBR since Week 9 is best 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).
Daring prediction: Panthers edge D.J. Wonnum will report 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 improve to 19.1% with a loss. Learn extra.
Fantasy X issue: Cowboys operating again Rico Dowdle. He is 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 operating 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 most effective mark within the NFL. Learn extra.
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 mean of 1.0 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Chasing 1,000 yards, RB Dowdle a uncommon brilliant spot for 5-8 Cowboys … Will Dalton return to again up Younger 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 look at: Quarterback Aaron Rodgers is coming off his most prolific recreation of the season (339 passing yards) because the Jets’ offense continues to indicate 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 a number 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. — Wealthy Cimini
Jaguars storyline to look at: 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 is on tempo to be Jacksonville’s second-highest yards per recreation allowed via a season in franchise historical past (2020, 417.7).
Daring prediction: Jaguars large receiver Brian Thomas Jr. will report 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 isn’t enjoying properly this season. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Jaguars and the Jets have been eradicated from the playoff race, and each could possibly be choosing within the prime 5 of the 2025 draft. They’ve 54.1% and 36.1% odds, respectively, at a top-five choice, per ESPN’s FPI. Learn extra.
Fantasy X issue: Rodgers. He had his first 300-yard passing recreation since Week 14 of 2021 final week. Now, he and large receivers Garrett Wilson and Davante Adams are in an excellent 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. Learn extra.
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 mean of 4.9 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Rodgers acknowledges ‘some type of curse’ Jets should snap … Jaguars’ Hines-Allen, Thomas chasing workforce information vs. Jets … Jets collapse once more, lengthen postseason drought to 14 seasons
0:30
ESPN 30 for 30: ‘The New York Sack Change’ trailer
Check out the trailer for “The New York Sack Change,” detailing the New York Jets’ dominant defensive position of the Eighties.
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: HOU -3 (46.5 O/U)
Dolphins storyline to look at: Keep watch over the turnover battle; Houston’s protection intercepts passes on the second-highest charge 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 charge 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 getting back from injured reserve. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Texans storyline to look at: 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 dealing with split-safety coverages and is finishing 63% of his passes (twenty seventh) with six touchdowns and 6 interceptions. Additionally, the Texans have a speeding success charge 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. Solely Joe Montana (eight straight in 1989) has an extended streak since this was first tracked in 1933.
Daring 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 another NFL workforce. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Dolphins maintain a 14% probability to make the playoffs, in keeping 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. Learn extra.
Fantasy X issue: Dolphins large receiver Tyreek Hill. He and Jaylen Waddle are in an excellent spot this week in opposition to the Texans. Houston’s protection permits the sixth-most fantasy factors to large 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 most effective mark within the NFL. Learn extra.
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 mean of 1.9 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Miami retains slim playoff hopes alive with OT win vs. Jets … How the Texans constructed a profitable basis to assist QB Stroud … Tua employed personal safety after automotive break-in … RB Mixon’s manufacturing has been key for Texans
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: DEN -4 (43.5 O/U)
Colts storyline to look at: Sunday’s recreation is huge for the Colts as a result of the Broncos are their major challenger for the ultimate AFC wild-card spot. However the Colts have not fared properly in pivotal late-season video games in recent times. 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 look at: The Broncos, who lead the league with 47 sacks, should resolve Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson. He’s final within the league in completion proportion (47.4%), however he’s additionally frequently on the hunt for the large 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 workforce within the NFL. Solely the Falcons have a neater ending slate.
Daring prediction: Colts edge Laiatu Latu will report a sack. Latu has been enhancing a bit of bit every recreation, with two sacks and a 22% cross rush win charge at edge (eighth highest) since Week 10. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Broncos’ probabilities on the playoffs improve 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. Learn extra.
Fantasy X issue: Broncos quarterback Bo Nix. He’s in an excellent 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. Learn extra.
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 mean of two.4 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Colts DB Moore stays a key participant … Mims could possibly be X consider Broncos’ playoff push
0:44
Why Stephania Bell is beginning Bo Nix in fantasy
Stephania Bell explains why Bo Nix has been such a drive for the Broncos this fantasy season.
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: DET -2.5 (54.5 O/U)
Payments storyline to look at: Can the Payments’ protection rebound from final 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 believe we have got to get again to good basic soccer,” coach Sean McDermott stated on the protection bouncing again. “I believe that is actually the place it begins and enjoying with a sure angle.” — Alaina Getzenberg
Lions storyline to look at: The Lions are conscious that this could possibly be a Tremendous Bowl LIX preview, however the mindset coming into this week is not any totally 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. Security Kerby Joseph is among 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 workforce like this, I really feel like they have guys, however we have got guys additionally,” Joseph advised ESPN. “It is only a competitors to go head-to-head in opposition to the most effective.” — Eric Woodyard
Stat to know: The Payments 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.
Daring prediction: The Lions will block a punt. The Payments are permitting a 14% stress charge on punts, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. That is the second-highest charge 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 keeping with ESPN Analytics, which will increase to 84.9% with a win. The Payments’ odds of incomes the No. 1 seed within the AFC improve to 30% with a win. Learn extra.
Fantasy X issue: Lions operating 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 charge (71.9%). The Payments’ protection provides up the third-most fantasy factors per recreation to operating backs. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Payments have gone over their workforce whole in 11 of 13 video games, which is the very best mark within the NFL. Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Lions 30, Payments 28
Moody’s decide: Payments 33, Lions 30
Walder’s decide: Lions 30, Payments 24
FPI prediction: DET, 57.5% (by a mean of two.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: How Lions and Payments match up forward of recreation of the season … Lions host Payments in potential Tremendous Bowl preview
4:25 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: PHI -5.5 (43.5 O/U)
Steelers storyline to look at: The unofficial Pennsylvania State Championship goes to come back 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 facet, Pittsburgh’s younger offensive line will face its hardest take a look at of the season in opposition to a pair of maulers in defensive tackles Jordan Davis and Jalen Carter. “It is an excellent problem,” offensive coordinator Arthur Smith stated. “It is what you need. You do not need issues to be simple. If we’ll get to the place we wish to go, we have now to get via these challenges.” — Brooke Pryor
Eagles storyline to look at: The core concern that sparked the Jalen Hurts–A.J. Brown drama is the workforce’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’s an urgency to get the aerial recreation buzzing earlier than the playoffs. “We’re engaged on it,” deal with Jordan Mailata stated. “I am excited for this week.” — Tim McManus
Stat to know: The Steelers have misplaced 10 consecutive highway video games versus the Eagles, courting to 1965. That’s tied for his or her longest highway dropping streak in opposition to a single opponent in franchise historical past.
Daring 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 stunned if the Eagles attempt to drive the ball to Brown early. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Steelers can clinch a playoff berth with a win or tie. They’ll additionally attain the postseason this weekend with a Miami loss or tie and an Indianapolis loss or tie. Learn extra.
Fantasy X issue: Barkley. He’s averaging 22.7 touches and 23.1 fantasy factors per recreation. Although the Steelers have accomplished properly limiting operating again manufacturing, Philly’s offensive line — ranked eighth in run block win charge (73.4%) — ought to create operating 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. Learn extra.
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 mean of 4.2 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Steelers coming into hardest section of the season … QB Hurts, WR Brown clear air, say Graham ‘misspoke’
1:36
Mike Tomlin cites expertise as cause he selected Russell Wilson as Steelers’ QB
Mike Tomlin explains to Pat McAfee why he made the choice to choose Russell Wilson because the Steelers’ beginning quarterback.
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: ARI -6 (46.5 O/U)
Patriots storyline to look at: 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. Earlier than 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 look at: This may be the sport the Cardinals’ offense breaks out of its pink zone rut. Arizona’s pink zone charge 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 is internet hosting a Patriots workforce that’s tied for twenty first in pink zone protection, permitting a charge of 60.9%. Serving to 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. Throughout that span, their 15.3 factors per recreation ranks Twenty ninth within the league.
Daring prediction: Cardinals kicker Chad Ryland will miss a kick — discipline objective or PAT — from 45 yards or nearer in opposition to his previous workforce. Ryland, who missed a 40-yard discipline objective final week, is ranked final amongst lively kickers in ESPN Analytics’ kicker rankings. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Cardinals nonetheless have a slender probability on the postseason with 9% odds. That will increase to 10% with a win and drops to 4% with a loss. Learn extra.
Accidents: Patriots | Cardinals
Fantasy X issue: Patriots tight finish Hunter Henry. He has been the Patriots’ most dependable cross catcher this season. He leads the workforce with 83 targets and 610 receiving yards. Henry has seen eight or extra targets in three straight video games and may 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. Learn extra.
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 mean of 8.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: How QB Maye has developed into chief Patriots want … Cardinals searching for solutions as dropping streak reaches 3
4:25 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: LAC -3 (45.5 O/U)
Buccaneers storyline to look at: 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. That is arguably their hardest remaining opponent, because it’s the one one with a profitable report. The Chargers’ protection makes this notably 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 look at: The Chargers have not misplaced back-to-back video games since Weeks 3 and 4, once they fell to the Chiefs and Steelers, respectively. A part of the rationale they misplaced these video games was that quarterback Justin Herbert had a excessive proper ankle sprain. Herbert is navigating one other ankle sprain this week, this time to his left ankle. If Herbert performs, he could possibly be restricted as a runner, which might 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.
Daring prediction: Buccaneers large 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 Subsequent 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 improve to 87% with a win and fall to 63% with a loss. Learn extra.
Accidents: Buccaneers | Chargers
Fantasy X issue: Herbert. He has been quiet these days, averaging simply 13.1 fantasy factors per recreation over the previous three. However the Buccaneers’ protection provides up essentially the most fantasy factors per recreation to quarterbacks. With large receiver Ladd McConkey again within the combine, Herbert is in an excellent spot. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Chargers are 10-3 ATS this season, tied for the most effective report within the NFL. They’re 6-1 ATS of their previous seven video games. Learn extra.
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 mean of 0.5 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Bucs management playoff destiny with 4 video games left … S Winfield Jr. has knee sprain, out couple weeks
1:30
Bucs All-Professional left deal with Tristan Wirfs spreads vacation cheer by visiting sufferers
Bucs All-Professional left deal with Tristan Wirfs spreads vacation cheer by visiting sufferers at Muma Youngsters’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 look at: Operating 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. Although 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 time beyond regulation win. — Rob Demovsky
Seahawks storyline to look at: The Seahawks’ embattled offensive line is coming off its greatest efficiency of the season. Along with paving the best way for 176 speeding yards within the win over Arizona final week, the group allowed solely two quarterback hits and a 16.7% stress charge — each season lows — and didn’t enable 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 stress charge and twenty sixth in cross rush win charge. — Brady Henderson
Stat to know: The Packers haven’t misplaced to a workforce exterior of their division since Week 1 in opposition to the Eagles.
Daring prediction: The Seahawks will report 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 charge within the NFL. Inexperienced 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. Learn extra.
Fantasy X issue: Jacobs. With a tricky highway take a look at in Seattle, establishing the run via Jacobs will likely be essential. For the reason that 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 operating backs. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Seahawks have coated 4 straight video games as underdogs. Learn extra.
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 mean of 4.8 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Why WR Reed did not get a catch in Packers’ loss to Lions … Reemergence of run recreation powers Seahawks to fourth straight win
Monday, 8 p.m. ET | ABC/ESPN+ | ESPN BET: MIN -6 (43.5 O/U)
Bears storyline to look at: Quarterback Caleb Williams had a powerful efficiency in opposition to the Vikings’ stress 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 stress by placing Williams in conditions to get the ball out shortly, resulting in his lowest time to cross (2.42 seconds). The rematch may present the backdrop for one more 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 to this point. — Courtney Cronin
Vikings storyline to look at: The Bears gained 398 yards in opposition to the Vikings’ protection within the Week 12 matchup. Within the two video games since, the Vikings have given up 406 and 496 yards to the Cardinals and Falcons, respectively. Yards allowed do not inform the complete story of any scheme, however defensive coordinator Brian Flores has responded with some urgency. He has blended extra younger gamers into his personnel rotations and even put aside a observe 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 large 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.
Daring prediction: Vikings linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel will report his third defensive landing of the season. It is only a feeling, however I will 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’ll additionally 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. Learn extra.
Fantasy X issue: Bears large receiver Rome Odunze. He’s coming off his second-best fantasy efficiency of the season, placing up 20.2 factors in Week 14. He is in an excellent spot in opposition to a Vikings protection that permits essentially the most fantasy factors per recreation to large 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. Learn extra.
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 mean of 6.0 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Bears search solutions after dropping 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 look at: With quarterback Kirk Cousins within the worst stoop of his profession (eight interceptions up to now 4 video games), the Falcons might look to determine the operating recreation early. Atlanta is considered one of solely two groups within the NFL with two operating backs — Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier — exceeding plus-70 speeding yards over anticipated on designed runs. In the meantime, the Raiders have allowed the second-most speeding yards over anticipated on designed runs (plus-213) this season. — Marc Raimondi
Raiders storyline to look at: 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 observe squad in October, two days after O’Connell broke the thumb on his proper (passing) hand. So, with Gardner Minshew accomplished for the season due to a damaged collarbone, Ridder’s first begin for Las Vegas may come in opposition to his first NFL workforce. “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.
Daring prediction: Raiders linebacker Robert Spillane will lead the league in tackles in Week 15. Atlanta ranks third in run charge over expectation, per NFL Subsequent 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. Learn extra.
Fantasy X issue: Raiders large 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 large receivers. Solely 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’re 6-14 ATS of their previous 20 highway video games. Learn extra.
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 mean of two.5 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Falcons’ plan to not rush rookie QB Penix into motion … Raiders DE Snowden dealing with DUI cost … Falcons using with Cousins regardless of struggles
