The playoff picture is coming in.
Some teams punched their tickets to the playoffs: The Chiefs are once again AFC West champions after demolishing the Steelers. The Cowboys clinched the NFC East before taking the field, but went on to blow out Washington regardless.
Other teams, however, haven’t been fortunate.
Although the Cardinals clinched a playoff berth, they took yet another step in the wrong direction after losing their third straight game. The 49ers and Chargers are also jeopardizing their playoff chances after stumbling against the Titans and Texans, respectively.
And on the other side, there appears to be a two-team race for the 1st overall pick between the Jaguars and Lions.
All part of another week of blowout, heart attacks, and upsets that shook up the NFL.
Key:
e - Eliminated from playoff contention
x - Clinched playoff berth
y - Clinched division title
#32: e - Jacksonville Jaguars
Week 16 @ NYJ: L, 21-26 | Record: 2-13
Previous Rank: #32
There is no rock bottom for the 2021 Jaguars. In Week 16, they faced a bad Jets team that had their entire defensive line on the COVID list. They still found a way to lose, stopped on 4th & Goal at the one in the final seconds of a 26-21 loss. That they lost to the Jets for their 7th straight loss was bad but not unexpected. They score the fewest points per game and allow the 6th-most. But the news got worse. They had their fair share of injuries on offense, but Week 16 was the biggest blow to it all: James Robinson tore his Achilles in the 1st quarter after having one of his best games of the season the week before. With two games left against wild card contenders in the Patriots and the Colts, a Robinson-less team is highly unlikely to win another game this season. They’re now on a collision course for the 1st overall pick for the second straight year. By the time the Draft arrives, they will be with a new head coach and a dismal 3-30 record in the last two seasons. The search for a new coach has already began, and Dan Quinn has declined to interview with the Jags. What they need is a coach that can properly develop Trevor Lawrence. The offense sucks, but a new coach can help do wonders for him, and he has every tool teams want in a young QB.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Trevor Lawrence
RB: Dare Ogunbowale
WR: Marvin Jones Jr., Laquon Treadwell, Laviska Shenault Jr.
TE: Chris Manhertz
OL: Walker Little (LT), Andrew Norwell (LG), Tyler Shatley (C), KC McDermott (RG), Jawaan Taylor (RT)
DL: Malcom Brown (LDE), DaVon Hamilton (NT), Roy Robertson-Harris (RDE)
EDGE: Josh Allen (WLB), Jihad Ward (SLB)
ILB: Damien Wilson (LILB), Myles Jack (RILB)
CB: Tyson Campbell (LCB), Tre Herndon (RCB)
S: Daniel Thomas (SS), Andre Cisco (FS)
ST: Matthew Wright (K), JK Scott (P), Ross Matiscik (LS)
RS: Jaydon Mickens
#31: e - New York Giants
Week 16 @ PHI: L, 10-34 | Record: 4-11
Previous Rank: #29
If you want to know how truly bad the Giants have been this season, the Cowboys have scored ten more points in one game than the Giants did all of December. The effort they put up against the Eagles wasn’t even laughable—it was depressing. Jake Fromm completed just six of 17 pass attempts for 25 yards, while Saquon Barkley rushed 15 times and barely cracked 30 yards on the ground. It’s now at the point of a bad season where losing is inevitable. The only goal for them now is to avoid being embarrassed. They failed at that in Week 16, where the Eagles were sleepy early on, allowing the Giants to hang around for the 1st half, but later pulled away in the 2nd half with ease to hand Big Blue their 4th straight loss. Fromm’s NFL debut was so bad that Joe Judge pulled him in favor of Mike Glennon in the 3rd quarter. Even if Judge insisted his team is going in the right direction, even he admitted that the debacle at Philly was not a good look on the team. “It’s not good enough,” said Judge. “Point blank, I’m not going to make excuses or church it up right there. Collectively, it’s not good enough.” With him going 10-21 as a head coach, the results the Giants have been putting up on the field may not be his problem anymore. The Giants also have a decision to make regarding Daniel Jones’ 5th-year option to commit to him beyond 2022. Should Dave Gettleman leave, the new Giants GM has a lot to consider. Jones actually was slightly more accurate in his 3rd season and cut down on the turnovers before his season-ending neck injury late in November. He even played behind a shaky O-line while Barkley dealt with injuries for the majority of the last two seasons.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Mike Glennon
RB: Saquon Barkley
WR: Kenny Golladay, Pharoh Cooper
TE: Evan Engram, Kyle Rudolph
OL: Andrew Thomas (LT), Ben Bredeson (LG), Matt Skura (C), Will Hernandez (RG), Nate Solder (RT)
DL: Dexter Lawrence (LDE), Austin Johnson (NT), Leonard Williams (RDE)
EDGE: Lorenzo Carter (WLB), Azeez Ojulari (SLB)
ILB: Tae Crowder (LILB), Reggie Ragland (RILB)
CB: James Bradberry (LCB), Aaron Robinson (RCB)
S: Xavier McKinney (SS), Logan Ryan (FS)
ST: Graham Gano (K), Riley Dixon (P), Casey Kreiter (LS)
RS: Pharoh Cooper
#30: e - New York Jets
Week 16 vs. JAX: W, 26-21 | Record: 4-11
Previous Rank: #31
There were a lot of big games in Week 16, but there was no bigger game than the showdown between the Jaguars and Jets at MetLife Stadium. At least regarding positioning for the 2022 Draft. All jokes aside, this was a game played by teams desperate for bright futures. It was also the end of a wild week for the Jets, who had several players on the COVID list, and also had head coach Robert Saleh watching from his couch. Zach Wilson dodged a pair of Jaguars pass rushers and ran into the open field, juking out a defender near the sideline before finishing his unlikely trip to the end zone. The 52-yard touchdown run was the longest rushing score by a QB in Jets franchise history and a reminder of how dynamic and athletic the 2nd overall pick is. His rookie season has been difficult, but his elusiveness and his arm talent are very much there, the former evidenced by his 91 rushing yards in this game. He has the tools to be a successful QB—it’s on him and the team to find a way to get things together. Postgame, acting head coach Ron Middleton praised the professionalism of the players. “It was just the culmination of the week, everybody being professional, everybody going about their job with all the adversity,” said Middleton. With rookie running back Michael Carter topping 100 rushing yards for the first time this season and Wilson having one of his better games, it is something the Jets can point to as a sign of progress. However, with the Buccaneers and Bills up next to close out the season, this may be the last win of the Jets’ season, so the next signs of progress could come next spring.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Zach Wilson
RB: Michael Carter
WR: Keelan Cole, Denzel Mims, Braxton Berrios
TE: Tyler Kroft
OL: George Fant (LT), Alijah Vera-Tucker (LG), Dan Feeney (C), Laurent Duvernay-Tardif (RG), Morgan Moses (RT)
DE: John Franklin-Myers (LDE), Ronald Blair (RDE)
DT: Sheldon Rankins (LDT), Folorunso Fatukasi (RDT)
LB: Del’Shawn Phillips (WLB), CJ Mosley (MLB), Quincy Williams (SLB)
CB: Brandin Echols (LCB), Bryce Hall (RCB)
S: Ashtyn Davis (SS), Elijah Riley (FS)
ST: Eddy Piñeiro (K), Braden Mann (P), Thomas Hennessy (LS)
RS: Braxton Berrios
#29: e - Carolina Panthers
Week 16 vs. TB: L, 6-32 | Record: 5-10
Previous Rank: #28
The Panthers’ 3-0 start to the season is becoming harder to believe by the weeks. They just have two wins in 12 games ever since. Whether it be Cam Newton or Sam Darnold under center, they couldn’t get any offense going as of late. Darnold, especially, has been really disappointing this season, and he hasn’t been any better with the Panthers than he has been with the Jets, save for a few moments this season. Newton coming back to Carolina was nice for a feel-good story, but he’s clearly not the answer considering the stage of the career he is at. That’s putting a lot of pressure on the Panthers defense to be perfect, and they’re folding under pressure too. The resulting 32-6 loss to the injury-plagued Bucs showed how far the Panthers have fallen. And even if the Panthers are falling apart, Matt Rhule insisted that there are better times in the future in Charlotte, where he said, “I believe 1,000 percent the process is working.” Yeah no. Panthers fans were chanting “Fire Rhule” throughout Bank of America Stadium, which shows how much the Panthers have disintegrated. It’s becoming less certain with every loss that he will be part of said process in 2022. And his best chance on that relies with his ability to keep a low profile.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Sam Darnold
RB: Chuba Hubbard
WR: DJ Moore, Robby Anderson, Brandon Zylstra
TE: Ian Thomas
OL: Dennis Daley (LT), Michael Jordan (LG), Pat Elflein (C), John Miller (RG), Taylor Moton (RT)
DE: Brian Burns (LDE), Morgan Fox (RDE)
DT: Derrick Brown (LDT), DaQuan Jones (RDT)
LB: Shaq Thompson (LILB), Jermaine Carter Jr. (RILB)
CB: CJ Henderson (LCB), Rashaan Melvin (RCB), Keith Taylor Jr. (NB)
S: Juston Burris (SS), Jeremy Chinn (FS)
ST: Lirim Hajrullahu (K), Lachlan Edwards (P), JJ Jansen (LS)
RS: Ameer Abdullah (KR), Alex Erickson (PR)
#28: e - Detroit Lions
Week 16 @ ATL: L, 16-20 | Record: 2-12-1
Previous Rank: #27
The losses may be piling up for the Lions, but these Lions are not the kind of team that lies down to die like they used to. They may be bad, but they have fought hard every game under first-year head coach Dan Campbell, giving every team everything they got for 60 minutes. That was on display again in Week 16. There was no shortage of adversity—the Lions were without their top offensive weapons (D’Andre Swift and TJ Hockenson) for weeks. Against the Falcons, they didn’t have Jared Goff (COVID) and were forced to start Tim Boyle. As has been the case many times this season, Boyle and the Lions played good enough to hang around, only for a late-game miscue seal yet another loss. This time around, it was a game-sealing interception into triple coverage. This end result keeps the Lions in the running for the 1st overall pick next April and gives them a cushion of sorts. With a trip to Seattle and a home game against the Packers left on the schedule, if they lose either game, they won’t pick lower than 2nd overall. There may be the notion that Campbell and the Lions will bite a kneecap off of anyone who suggests the idea of tanking around the team. Because when you add talent to the level of fight the Lions have, they may be getting something.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Tim Boyle
RB: D’Andre Swift, Jamaal Williams
WR: Amon-Ra St. Brown, Trinity Benson
TE: Jared Pinkney
OL: Taylor Decker (LT), Jonah Jenkins (LG), Evan Brown (C), Tommy Kraemer (RG), Penei Sewell (RT)
DL: Levi Onwuzurike (LDE), Alim McNeill (NT), Nick Williams (RDE)
EDGE: Julian Okwara (WLB), Charles Harris (SLB)
ILB: Anthony Pittman (LILB), Jalen Reeves-Maybin (RILB)
CB: Ifeatu Melifonwu (LCB), Will Harris (RCB)
S: Dean Marlowe (SS), Tracy Walker III (FS)
ST: Riley Patterson (K), Jack Fox (P), Scott Daly (LS)
RS: Godwin Igwebuike (KR), Amon-Ra St. Brown (PR)
#27: e - Houston Texans
Week 16 vs. LAC: W, 41-29 | Record: 4-11
Previous Rank: #30
Not a lot has gone right for the Texans this season. A meaningless win over the Chargers isn’t going to change it or take away the boiling cloud of uncertainty that is around the franchise. But getting their second win of the season over a team that could possibly make the playoffs has to feel good. Despite having 16 players on the COVID list, including their best edge rusher (Jonathan Greenard), leading tackler (Kamu Grugier-Hill), and top wide receiver (Brandin Cooks), they handled the Chargers with ease to get their second straight win. Here, it was the offense that had their best performance of the season. Rex Burkhead torched an extremely vulnerable Chargers run defense for 149 yards and two touchdowns, while Davis Mills completed 21 of 27 passes for 254 yards and two touchdowns with no turnovers. This continues a string of intriguing performances from Mills, a 3rd round rookie who has played smart and efficiently since taking the starting job from Tyrod Taylor three weeks ago. That doesn’t mean he has the starting job sealed up for 2022. He still has a shot, but the 2022 Draft doesn’t have a great QB class, so it’s likely they may address other needs and settle the QB talk for later. Postgame, David Culley praised his players for facing adversity head-on. “Those guys came in, and they showed that they were ready to do what we needed to get done,” he said. “This team is so resilient. They’ve never really worried about what happens on the outside. All we’ve tried to do is just get better.” Keeping their momentum is not going to be easy, however. Their last two games are against teams that would make the playoffs if the season ended today. But nobody thought the Texans had a chance against the Chargers, so, anything can happen.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Davis Mills
RB: Rex Burkhead
WR: Brandin Cooks, Nico Collins, Chris Conley
TE: Pharaoh Brown
OL: Geron Christian Sr. (LT), Lane Taylor (LG), Justin Britt (C), Max Scharping (RG), Charlie Heck (RT)
DE: Jonathan Greenard (LDE), Jacob Martin (RDE)
DT: Maliek Collins (LDT), DeMarcus Walker (RDT)
LB: Eric Wilson (WLB), Kamu Grugier-Hill (MLB), Christian Kirksey (SLB)
CB: Desmond King II (LCB), Terrance Mitchell (RCB)
S: Eric Murray (SS), Justin Reid (FS)
ST: Ka’imi Fairbairn (K), Cameron Johnston (P), Jon Weeks (LS)
RS: Tremon Smith (KR), Desmond King II (PR)
#26: Washington Football Team
Week 16 @ DAL: L, 14-56 | Record: 6-9
Previous Rank: #23
OH MY GOD. WHAT JUST HAPPENED?! That felt like the Cowboys were playing an entirely different sport than Washington on Sunday Night Football. Washington trailed 42-7(!!!) on the way to losing 56-14 that should send a reminder on how much work needs to be done to get the organization back to being a true contender. Taylor Heinicke was overwhelmed in his return to the team after a COVID absence, and he couldn’t get anything before he was mercifully pulled in favor of Kyle Allen in the 4th quarter. Washington didn’t just lose this game. They got absolutely smoked. It was evident when Jonathan Allen and Da’Ron Payne had a scuffle from the benches. And this is not because of Heinicke. But it should serve as a reminder that the franchise should be aggressive on upgrading the QB position that is rapidly approaching. Heinicke has been serviceable for Washington this season, and he has been exciting at times. But if Washington decides to roll with him for 2022, something is going wrong with their offseason plan. This smoking shows how far Washington is from being the best team in the division at so many positions. There were also injuries and inconsistent play on defense. The secondary has been mostly disappointing. It shows how much of a disappointment Washington has been this season.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Taylor Heinicke
RB: Jaret Patterson
WR: Terry McLaurin, Cam Sims, Adam Humphries
TE: John Bates
OL: Charles Leno Jr. (LT), Jamil Douglas (LG), Keith Ismael (C), Brandon Scherff (RG), Cornelius Lucas (RT)
DE: Bunmi Rotimi (LDE), Casey Toohill (RDE)
DT: Da’Ron Payne (LDT), Jonathan Allen (RDT)
LB: Cole Holcomb (WLB), Jamin Davis (MLB), David Mayo (SLB)
CB: Kendall Fuller (LCB), Danny Johnson (RCB)
S: Jeremy Reaves (SS), Kamren Curl (FS)
ST: Joey Slye (K), Ryan Winslow (P), Camaron Cheeseman (LS)
RS: DeAndre Carter
#25: e - Seattle Seahawks
Week 16 vs. CHI: L, 24-25 | Record: 5-10
Previous Rank: #24
It’s over for the Seahawks. After losing in a heartbreaker to the Bears in Seattle, they have officially been eliminated from playoff contention. But the harsh reality is that the 2021 season for the Seahawks has been over for a long time. The offense has been inconsistently messy. The defense is the NFC’s worst in terms of yards per game allowed. The latter collapsed in the final two minutes, giving up an 80-yard touchdown drive and a two-point conversion, then the former failed to move the ball past midfield before a turnover on downs. The loss clinched the first double-digit loss season in the Pete Carroll era. The coach himself even delivered yet another grim postmortem in a season filled with them. “That was about as disappointing a loss as we’ve had,” said Carroll. “We were in control in so many ways in that game to go win it and put it away and we just never did, and let them stay alive. They found a way to make their plays.” With just two more games to play, the uncertain futures of Carroll and Russell Wilson could crumble this franchise down. And it’s hard to imagine they find a better QB than Wilson. Both sides may need a fresh start. This is going to be an offseason to forget in Seattle.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Russell Wilson
RB: Rashaad Penny
WR: Tyler Lockett, DK Metcalf, Freddie Swain
TE: Gerald Everett
OL: Duane Brown (LT), Kyle Fuller (LG), Ethan Pocic (C), Gabe Jackson (RG), Jake Curhan (RT)
DE: Rasheem Green (LDE), Kerry Hyder Jr. (RDE)
DT: Poona Ford (LDT), Al Woods (RDT)
LB: Jordyn Brooks (WLB), Bobby Wagner (MLB), Benson Mayowa (SLB)
CB: DJ Reed (LCB), John Reid (RCB)
S: Ryan Neal (SS), Quandre Diggs (FS)
ST: Jason Myers (K), Michael Dickson (P), Tyler Ott (LS)
RS: DeeJay Dallas (KR), Freddie Swain (PR)
#24: e - Chicago Bears
Week 16 @ SEA: W, 25-24 | Record: 5-10
Previous Rank: #26
Matt Nagy’s future in Chicago has been a hot topic for what has mostly been a miserable season for the Bears. At this point, it’s unlikely they anything through the next few weeks will change his fate. Given that they had to send out a third-string QB in Week 16, it felt good upsetting the Seahawks in Seattle… where it apparently snows. It helps when said third-string QB is Nick Foles, who has a Super Bowl MVP to his resume. Trailing by one point with 61 seconds left after a Jimmy Graham touchdown, Nagy decided to pull out the big guns and seal a win with a two-point conversion, and his boldness was rewarded when Foles connected with Damiere Byrd in the back of the end zone. It’s a feel-good win for a team that hasn’t been having a lot to feel good. It’s not enough to prevent the inevitable, but they should be proud of their efforts. They still have to find a head coach that can properly develop Justin Fields, who has been having a rough rookie season by nearly every statistical and narrative standard. Despite it all, his athleticism, arm talent, and ability to throw on the run should excite Bears fans heading into 2022 along with a new coaching staff.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Andy Dalton
RB: David Montgomery
WR: Allen Robinson II, Darnell Mooney, Marquise Goodwin
TE: Cole Kmet
OL: Jason Peters (LT), Cody Whitehair (LG), Sam Mustipher (C), James Daniels (RG), Germain Ifedi (RT)
DL: Akiem Hicks (LDE), Eddie Goldman (NT), Bilal Nichols (RDE)
EDGE: Bruce Irvin (WLB), Robert Quinn (SLB)
ILB: Roquan Smith (LILB), Alec Ogletree (RILB)
CB: Jaylon Johnson (LCB), Artie Burns (RCB)
S: Tashaun Gipson (SS), Eddie Jackson FS)
ST: Cairo Santos (K), Pat O’Donnell (P), Patrick Scales (LS)
RS: Jakeem Grant
#23: Denver Broncos
Week 16 @ LV: L, 13-17 | Record: 7-8
Previous Rank: #22
It’s true that the Broncos have the 6th-ranked defense in the NFL. It’s true that they have a solid trio of wide receivers in Courtland Sutton, Jerry Jeudy, and Tim Patrick. It’s true that they have a one-two punch in the backfield in Melvin Gordon and Javonte Williams. But there is no question on what their biggest offseason priority is this offseason: To find their guy under center. Their quarterbacking play has been abysmal this season. Teddy Bridgewater suffered a scary head injury in Week 15, but he hasn’t looked like that guy for the Mile High City. Drew Lock certainly is not, either, especially when the offense has to get jump-started in a must-win game. Lock threw for just 153 yards and led the offense to a grand total of eight 1st downs in the 17-13 loss to the Raiders. The run game was stuck in mud, managing just 18 yards on 16 carries, but the Raiders stacked the box because they didn’t think Lock could make them pay for it. Vic Fangio even admitted after the game that the offense was what it was—offensive. “They did a good job up front on us,” he said. “We could never seem to get our backs through the first wave of the defensive line and we had a hard time finding any room there. You get 158 yards of offense and eight first downs, it’s hard to say anything good about the offense.” At 7-8, the Broncos are once again a mediocre team trapped in QB purgatory. This should make the Broncos the first possible destination for every QB available this offseason. They have the pieces on both sides of the ball and can make the leap next season with a QB who can really make defenses pay for stacking the box. Will this offseason be the offseason where it finally happens? Find out next time on Dragon Ball: Denver Broncos edition.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Drew Lock
RB: Melvin Gordon III, Javonte Williams
WR: Courtland Sutton, Kendall Hinton
TE: Noah Fant
OL: Garett Bolles (LT), Dalton Risner (LG), Lloyd Cushenberry III (C), Quinn Meinerz (RG), Cam Fleming (RT)
DL: Shelby Harris (LDL), Dre’Mont Jones (RDL)
EDGE: Malik Reed (WLB), Aaron Patrick (SLB)
ILB: Micah Kiser (LILB), Justin Strnad (RILB)
CB: Kyle Fuller (LCB), Pat Surtain II (RCB), Bryce Callahan (NB)
S: Kareem Jackson (SS), Justin Simmons (FS)
ST: Brandon McManus (K), Sam Martin (P), Jacob Bobenmoyer (LS)
RS: Diontae Spencer
#22: Atlanta Falcons
Week 16 vs. DET: W, 20-16 | Record: 7-8
Previous Rank: #25
The Falcons are not a good football team. They have just one win this season against a team with a winning record—Week 7 against a Dolphins team that was in the middle of a seven-game losing streak. But after beating the Lions, they are just one game under .500 and on the fringes of playoff contention. In nine one-score games this season, they’re quietly 7-2. Matt Ryan told reporters after the win that those counting the Falcons out are doing fool’s errands. “It’s a gritty group for sure,” said Ryan. “It hasn’t been perfect by any stretch of the imagination throughout the year, but when we’ve been in one-score games we’ve done a good job.” And in a way, yes, give the Falcons credit—they are staying in the picture. Yes, they needed a goal-line interception from Foyesade Oluokun in the final minute to hold off the Tim Boyle-led Lions, but it’s something to be said for the ability to win close games on the regular. Four of their seven one-possession wins have come by four points or fewer. Whether it be luck or skill, it doesn’t matter. Sometimes, teams will have to win ugly, and the Falcons did what they do at their best: Winning ugly. If they can get wins in their last two games, they will post a winning record for the first time since 2017. But getting those wins isn’t going to be easy. They first travel up north to face the AFC East-leading Bills, followed by a home date with the Saints. A split is not going to cut it. Not-so-fun fact: The Falcons’ win in this game was their first at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in 390 days. During that time span, the Braves won the World Series.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Matt Ryan
RB: Cordarrelle Patterson
WR: Russell Gage, Olamide Zaccheaus, Christian Blake
TE: Kyle Pitts
OL: Jake Matthews (LT), Jalen Mayfield (LG), Matt Hennessy (C), Chris Lindstrom (RG), Kaleb McGary (RT)
DL: Mike Pennel (LDE), Ta’Quon Graham (NT), Grady Jarrett (RDT)
EDGE: Steven Means (WLB), Dante Fowler Jr. (SLB)
ILB: Deion Jones (LILB), Foyesade Oluokun (RILB)
CB: AJ Terrell (LCB), Avery Williams (RCB)
S: Duron Harmon (SS), Shawn Williams (FS)
ST: Younghoe Koo (K), Thomas Morstead (P), Josh Harris (LS)
RS: Avery Williams
#21: Minnesota Vikings
Week 16 vs. LAR: L, 23-30 | Record: 7-8
Previous Rank: #16
Week 16 may have marked the end of an era in the Twin Cities. Even though they lost, they’re technically still alive for a playoff spot, but they would need to win their final two games of the season plus some outside help. However, signs are pointing to the Vikings missing the playoffs for the third time in four years. And this could be the end of the road for Mike Zimmer. There was a lot of speculation about his future after eight seasons as their head coach—speculation leading up to his downfall. But the reality with their loss to the Rams shows everything wrong with them. Many of the problems are not new. He’s a defensive-minded coach, but the defense has ranked 27th or worse for two straight years. The team just simply refuses to go on hot streaks or win close games. They haven’t won three straight games in over a calendar year either. Any game they play, they find ways to turn it into a nail-biter. But being entertaining and being good are two different things. They had the chance to beat the Rams but were deeply uneven that had breakdowns offensively, defensively, and on special teams. Vikings fans may be seeing enough from Zimmer already. Changes need to be made to get them out of the hamster wheel. Even worse, Kirk Cousins has been placed on the COVID list, so they’re going to have to turn to “Mr. Week 17,” also known as Sean Mannion. (Side note: Mannion has started in a Week 17 game in 2017 and 2019).
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Sean Mannion
RB: Dalvin Cook
WR: Justin Jefferson, KJ Osborn, Dede Westbrook
TE: Tyler Conklin
OL: Christian Darrisaw (LT), Ezra Cleveland (LG), Garrett Bradbury (C), Wyatt Davis (RG), Brian O’Neill (RT)
DE: DJ Wonnum (LDE), Tashawn Bower (RDE)
DT: Armon Watts (LDT), Dalvin Tomlinson (RDT)
LB: Chazz Surratt (WLB), Eric Kendricks (MLB), Anthony Barr (SLB)
CB: Patrick Peterson (LCB), Mackensie Alexander (RCB)
S: Harrison Smith (SS), Xavier Woods (FS)
ST: Greg Joseph (K), Jordan Berry (P), Andrew DePaola (LS)
RS: Kene Nwangwu (KR), KJ Osborn (PR)
#20: New Orleans Saints
Week 16 vs. MIA: L, 3-20 | Record: 7-8
Previous Rank: #20
If there is a team that should get a pass for their season falling apart, it’s the Saints. It may not get them to the playoffs, but while they are not out of it after falling at home to the Dolphins, it’s going to take wins over the Panthers and Falcons to finish the season above .500, and some outside help to make the postseason. But even getting to the playoffs is a tall task. There’s no team in the NFL where their most important position has been ravaged by injuries than the Saints. Jameis Winston suffered a season-ending knee injury. Taysom Hill has been in and out of the lineup. Both Hill and Trevor Siemian landed on the COVID list, forcing the Saints to start Ian Book. While he realized a dream with his first career start in the NFL, it felt more like a nightmare by his second snap when he threw a pick six on his second career pass. Book was mauled by the relentless Dolphins defense, sacked eight times behind a makeshift O-line without Terron Armstead and Ryan Ramczyk, and the Saints could not manage a single 3rd down conversion in 12 attempts. So long as the situation under center is a mess, the ceiling in the Big Easy is going to be closer to middle-tier than contender. Like the Ravens, the Saints are enduring too much. It’s a shame for the Saints, because the QB play without Winston has been bad. They’re wasting a season of an outstanding defense.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Taysom Hill
RB: Alvin Kamara
WR: Marquez Callaway, Lil’Jordan Humphrey, Deonte Harris
TE: Adam Trautman
OL: James Hurst (LT), Calvin Throckmorton (LG), Cesar Ruiz (C), James Carpenter (RG), Caleb Benenoch (RT)
DE: Cameron Jordan (LDE), Marcus Davenport (RDE)
DT: David Onyemata (LDT), Shy Tuttle (RDT)
LB: Kwon Alexander (LILB), Demario Davis (RILB)
CB: Paulson Adebo (LCB), Marshon Lattimore (RCB), PJ Williams (NB)
S: Malcolm Jenkins (SS), CJ Gardner-Johnson (FS)
ST: Brett Maher (K), Blake Gillikin (P), Zach Wood (LS)
RS: Deonte Harris
#19: Cleveland Browns
Week 16 @ GB: L, 22-24 | Record: 7-8
Previous Rank: #18
The Browns have mastered the art of disappointment year in and year out. In a game against the Packers that they really needed to win, they outgained the NFC’s top-seeded team by almost 100 yards. Nick Chubb spearheaded a ground attack that amassed over 200 yards. So why did Kevin Stefanski put his faith in Baker Mayfield over Chubb when Mayfield threw three interceptions in the first half before throwing his fourth in the Browns’ final drive of the game? Stefanski called five straight passing plays on the game-deciding drive, and Rasul Douglas picked off the final pass to ensure a 24-22 loss. Mayfield didn’t shy away from the blame when speaking to reporters. “It was just missed throws,” said Mayfield. “Uncharacteristic, and I hurt this team. That’s the most frustrating thing for me, because I thought our defense played tremendous against a really, really good offense. But when you turn the ball over on your own territory, in the red zone, and around midfield and give them extra opportunities, they’re going to take advantage of it.” Stefanski is one of the better offensive minds in the league, but he has to realize the limitations of his QB and ride with the true star of the Browns offensive attack. Mayfield is better than some QBs in the NFL, but he’s not good enough to take a team to the playoffs and make a run for a Super Bowl. He makes a lot of mistakes and all the saga between him and Odell Beckham Jr. should raise questions on if he is a leader. At 7-8, the Browns’ playoff hopes are on life support. But in addition to needing wins at Pittsburgh in Week 17 and at home against the Bengals in Week 18, they need several things to go their way too. And they’re not the kind of team that would get good luck in their favor.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Baker Mayfield
RB: Nick Chubb
WR: Jarvis Landry, Donovan Peoples-Jones, Rashard Higgins
TE: Austin Hooper
OL: Jedrick Wills Jr. (LT), Joel Bitonio (LG), JC Tretter (C), Wyatt Teller (RG), James Hudson III (RT)
DE: Myles Garrett (LDE), Jadeveon Clowney (RDE)
DT: Malik Jackson (LDT), Malik McDowell (RDT)
LB: Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah (WLB), Anthony Walker Jr. (MLB), Sione Takitaki (SLB)
CB: Denzel Ward (LCB), Greg Newsome II (RCB)
S: Grant Delpit (SS), MJ Stewart Jr. (FS)
ST: Chase McLaughlin (K), Dustin Colquitt (P), Charley Hughlett (LS)
RS: Demetric Felton (KR), Donovan Peoples-Jones (PR)
#18: Pittsburgh Steelers
Week 16 @ KC: L, 10-36 | Record: 7-7-1
Previous Rank: #17
In Mike Tomlin’s 15 years as the Steelers’ head coach, his teams have never had a losing season. If the blowout loss to the Chiefs is any indication, this season could be the season that it ends. All the issues that were plaguing the Steelers throughout the 2021 season were evident in this game. The offense was a mess that couldn’t get going until the game was well out of hand. The defense was carved up with easy by the Chiefs, and it’s hard to imagine any Steelers defense having being this bad. They’re not a bad team, but they’re not good enough to compete with the top teams in the league. The 1st half struggles are on historic proportions: They have been outscored 97-9 in the 1st half in their last five games, not scoring a touchdown in the process. You have to go back to 1940 to find the last Steelers team to accomplish that. They may be a .500 team, but they have been outscored by 70 points this season. Even if they are still in playoff contention, this blowout felt more like the demise of the franchise more than just an albatross. Ben Roethlisberger, outside of some clutch moments this season, has been bringing little to nothing to the table at the stage of his career that he is in. The ground game is stagnant because of the poor O-line play. They can still get to the playoffs, but the bigger picture is very evident: A lot of changes are needed this offseason.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Ben Roethlisberger
RB: Najee Harris
WR: Diontae Johnson, Chase Claypool, Ray-Ray McCloud
TE: Pat Freiermuth
OL: Dan Moore Jr. (LT), Joe Haeg (LG), Kendrick Green (C), Trai Turner (RG), Chukwuma Okorafor (RT)
DL: Carlos Davis (LDL), Cameron Heyward (RDL)
EDGE: TJ Watt (WLB), Alex Highsmith (SLB)
ILB: Marcus Allen (LILB), Robert Spillane (RILB)
CB: Joe Haden (LCB), Cam Sutton (RCB), Tre Norwood (NB)
S: Terrell Edmunds (SS), Minkah Fitzpatrick (FS)
ST: Chris Boswell (K), Corliss Waitman (P), Christian Kuntz (LS)
RS: Ray-Ray McCloud
#17: Baltimore Ravens
Week 16 @ CIN; L, 21-41 | Record: 8-7
Previous Rank: #15
If the Ravens miss the playoffs, Week 16 will be looked back on as when the ongoing flood of injuries that have been plaguing them have got the best of them. That they were forced to start Josh Johnson at QB against a surging Bengals team was bad enough. But it was the patchwork secondary that was endlessly torched, allowing a staggering 525 passing yards and four touchdowns to Joe Burrow. Playing a 3rd-string QB and missing an absurd 33 players to the IR or the COVID list, this was a relentless beatdown at the hands of a Bengals team that took advantage of the opportunity to embarrass their longtime bully. This wasn’t a heartbreak of the preceding weeks that saw them miss out on two-point conversions and lose three straight games by a total of four points. This was a pounding that left the Ravens on the fringes of the playoffs with just two games left to play. The good news is that their final two games of the season are at home. The bad news is that neither of those games are easy. It’s hard to see them beating the Rams with new leaks coming by the days, and the season finale against the Steelers could be more about pride than the playoffs. The losing streak is much deeper than Lamar Jackson’s injury. The defense, a once-feared force to be reckoned with, has just four takeaways in their last eight games, and this unit is a big reason why the Ravens have a negative scoring margin this season. Like the Steelers, the Ravens are better off missing the playoffs for draft capital purposes, because they are clearly not a Super Bowl contender.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Tyler Huntley
RB: Devonta Freeman
WR: Marquise Brown, Sammy Watkins, Rashod Bateman
TE: Mark Andrews
OL: Alejandro Villanueva (LT), Ben Cleveland (LG), Bradley Bozeman (C), Kevin Zeitler (RG), Patrick Mekari (RT)
DL: Justin Madubuike (LDE), Brandon Williams (NT), Calais Campbell (RDE)
EDGE: Tyus Bowser (WLB), Justin Houston (SLB)
ILB: Josh Bynes (LILB), Patrick Queen (RILB)
CB: Jimmy Smith (LCB), Tavon Young (RCB)
S: Chuck Clark (SS), Brandon Stephens (FS)
ST: Justin Tucker (K), Sam Koch (P), Nick Moore (LS)
RS: Devin Duvernay
#16: Las Vegas Raiders
Week 16 vs. DEN: W, 17-13 | Record: 8-7
Previous Rank: #21
Every passing week, the Raiders are living to fight another day. It has been dangerous for them, but they’re still alive. They haven’t won in the prettiest of ways—they won a pair of low-scoring games in the past two weeks. But after surviving the Browns in Cleveland on a Daniel Carlson game-winning field goal, they outlasted the Broncos in Las Vegas to get above .500 for the second time since their bye week. The 17-13 win doesn’t tell the full story of a mostly dominant performance by the Raiders, who had three turnovers but outgained the Broncos 342-158 and allowed just eight 1st downs. The defense has improved down the stretch, holding three of their last four opponents to 17 or fewer points. At 8-7 and despite everything they have been through this season, they are still in the mix for the AFC’s final playoff seed. But if they want to secure that spot, they need to beat both the Colts and Chargers. But the win over the surging Colts is not going to be easy. Plus, the Raiders lost their first meeting against the Chargers back in Week 4. However, they enter 2022 with something to play for. Given all the adversity they faced, this is an accomplishment.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Derek Carr
RB: Josh Jacobs
WR: Hunter Renfrow, Bryan Edwards, Zay Jones
TE: Foster Moreau
OL: Kolton Miller (LT), John Simpson (LG), Andre James (C), Alex Leatherwood (RG), Brandon Parker (RT)
DE: Maxx Crosby (LDE), Yannick Ngakoue (RDE)
DT: Solomon Thomas (LDT), Quinton Jefferson (RDT)
LB: Cory Littleton (LILB), Denzel Perryman (RILB)
CB: Brandon Facyson (LCB), Casey Hayward Jr. (RCB), Nate Hobbs (NB)
S: Dallin Leavitt (SS), Tre’von Moehrig (FS)
ST: Daniel Carlson (K), AJ Cole III (P), Trent Sieg (LS)
RS: Peyton Barber (KR), Hunter Renfrow (PR)
#15: Los Angeles Chargers
Week 16 @ HOU: L, 29-41 | Record: 8-7
Previous Rank: #11
Entering Week 16, the Chargers were in the thick of the playoff hunt in the AFC West. An overtime loss to the Chiefs shut away any chance they had of winning the division. COVID eventually came for them, which sent them to Houston without Austin Ekeler, Mike Williams, and Joey Bosa. Yes, they had a COVID outbreak within the team, but the Texans had a COVID outbreak of their own too. So there’s no excuse for being thoroughly outplayed on both sides of the ball by a Texans team without Brandin Cooks and Jonathan Greenard. That 41-29 beating to the previously three-win Texans is hard to count as anything other than a disappointment. Run defense continues to be a major issue, as they gave up 189 yards on the ground, with Rex Burkhead making up most of those rushing yards. Three turnovers, two of them being interceptions by Justin Herbert and a killer fumble by Justin Jackson, was part of the recipe of the upset. This was a stunning upset that leaves the Chargers with no margin for error in their final two games—games in which their opponents, the Broncos and Raiders, are just as desperate as the Chargers are.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Justin Herbert
RB: Austin Ekeler
WR: Keenan Allen, Mike Williams, Jalen Guyton
TE: Stephen Anderson
OL: Rashawn Slater (LT), Matt Feiler (LG), Corey Linsley (C), Senio Kelemete (RG), Michael Schofield III (RT)
DL: Jerry Tillery (LDL), Justin Jones (RDL)
EDGE: Joey Bosa (WLB), Uchenna Nwosu (SLB)
ILB: Nick Niemann (LILB), Kyzir White (RILB)
CB: Chris Harris Jr. (LCB), Michael Davis (RCB), Asante Samuel Jr. (NB)
S: Derwin James Jr. (SS), Trey Marshall (FS)
ST: Tristan Vizcaino (K), Ty Long (P), Beau Brinkley (LS)
RS: Andre Roberts (KR), Jalen Guyton (PR)
#14: Philadelphia Eagles
Week 16 vs. NYG: W, 34-10 | Record: 8-7
Previous Rank: #19
The Eagles’ win over the Giants shows exactly why it’s hard to take them seriously this season. In the first half, they looked mediocre at best, especially on offense. But whatever Nick Sirianni did to motivate his team at halftime worked. Because the ground game got going in the second half, with the defense completely shutting down Big Blue. A 3-3 contest at the half went on to become a 34-10 beating. At 8-7 the Eagles are now in the NFC playoff bracket. Jalen Hurts led three touchdown drives in the second half, and the Eagles defense had no problem obliterating an inept Giants offense led by first-time starter Jake Fromm and, later, eternal journeyman Mike Glennon. Hurts, however, was not a factor in the ground game for the second straight week, which shows that his ankle is not at 100%. But he credited his team’s resiliency for six wins in their last eight games. “Another week where we came out and didn’t execute like we wanted to, but I’ve always admired the grit and perseverance of the team,” he said. “We have so much character in how we do things, how we operate, how we’re able to overcome.” This resiliency is going to be put to the test—after a trip to Washington, they will host the Cowboys in Week 18 that could decide if they make the playoffs. They may not be Super Bowl contenders, but this now marks three straight wins by double digit margins for a team that hasn’t expected anything this season but now has a plus-80 scoring margin.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Jalen Hurts
RB: Jordan Howard
WR: DeVonta Smith, Quez Watkins, Jalen Reagor
TE: Dallas Goedert
OL: Jordan Mailata (LT), Landon Dickerson (LG), Jason Kelce (C), Nate Herbig (RG), Lane Johnson (RT)
DE: Josh Sweat (LDE), Tarron Jackson (RDE)
DT: Javon Hargrave (LDT), Fletcher Cox (RDT)
LB: Alex Singleton (WLB), TJ Edwards (MLB), Genard Avery (SLB)
CB: Darius Slay Jr. (LCB), Avonte Maddox (RCB)
S: Rodney McLeod Jr. (SS), Anthony Harris (FS)
ST: Jake Elliott (K), Arryn Siposs (P), Rick Lovato (FS)
RS: Jalen Reagor
#13: San Francisco 49ers
Week 16 @ TEN: L, 17-20 | Record: 8-7
Previous Rank: #10
Jimmy Garoppolo has been the Niners’ best QB this season, and he has been so steady in the recent weeks that it’s understandable if Niners fans were in a false sense of security. The glaring reality is that he is very hit-or-miss. He missed badly against the Titans. They dominated the 1st half in the tilt in Nashville. But thanks to a missed throw to a wide-open Kyle Juszczyk in the end zone, their lead was just by 10 at halftime. The lead evaporated after Garoppolo threw two ugly picks, mistakes that have them in the middle of a frustrating season. In the seven games where he hasn’t thrown an interception the Niners are undefeated. In the seven games where he has been, the Niners have won just once. In their eight wins, Garoppolo has two giveaways. In the six losses where he was under center, he turned over the ball 11 times. They still are in good shape for a playoff berth, but their ability to trust the QB in a big spot has been shaken up. To add injury to insult, he suffered a torn ligament and fracture on his thumb that puts his status against the Texans in doubt. San Fran could be forced to turn the reins of the offense over to Trey Lance at a time in a season where there is no margin for error. But regardless of what happens, the Niners look ready to move on from Garoppolo and build on Lance in 2022.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Trey Lance
RB: Elijah Mitchell (RB), Kyle Juszczyk (FB)
WR: Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk
TE: George Kittle
OL: Trent Williams (LT), Laken Tomlinson (LG), Alex Mack (C), Daniel Brunskill (RG), Tom Compton (RT)
DE: Arik Armstead (LDE), Nick Bosa (RDE)
DT: Kentavius Street (LDT), DJ Jones (RDT)
LB: Fred Warner (LILB), Marcell Harris (RILB)
CB: Deommodore Lenoir (LCB), Josh Norman (RCB), K’Waun Williams (NB)
S: Jaquiski Tartt (SS), Jimmie Ward (FS)
ST: Robbie Gould (K), Colby Wadman (P), Taybor Pepper (LS)
RS: Ambry Thomas (KR), Brandon Aiyuk (PR)
#12: Tennessee Titans
Week 16 vs. SF: W, 20-17 | Record: 10-5 Previous Rank: #14
In the past month, the Titans were stumbling, having lost three of their last four, going from top seed in the AFC to having just a one-game lead over the Colts in the AFC South. They halted the skid on Thursday Night after coming back down to beat the 49ers. They’re all but certainly making the playoffs as the AFC South champions for the second straight year. AJ Brown played savior to the Titans offense, racking up 11 catches for 145 yards and a touchdown in the winning effort. This was his first game in five weeks, and he reminded everyone that the offensive attack needs its top wideout to remain functional. He was vital on 3rd down—his eight catches in those critical situations were the most by anyone in 30 years. He wasn’t the only reason the Titans won, but he was a big one. Whether or not they are a real threat to represent the AFC in Super Bowl LVI is a big question, but there is not question that the offense played its best game in weeks with Brown and Julio Jones back. If Derrick Henry can come back for the playoffs, then their viability as a Super Bowl contender will skyrocket. Changes happen fast in the NFL.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Ryan Tannehill
RB: D’Onta Foreman
WR: AJ Brown, Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, Chester Rogers
TE: Geoff Swaim
OL: Taylor Lewan (LT), Rodger Saffold III (LG), Ben Jones (C), Nate Davis (RG), David Quessenberry (RT)
DL: Jeffery Simmons (LDE), Teair Tart (NT), Denico Autry (RDE)
EDGE: Harold Landry (WLB), Bud Dupree (SLB)
ILB: David Long Jr. (LILB), Zach Cunningham (RILB)
CB: Janoris Jenkins (LCB), Kristian Fulton (RCB)
S: Amani Hooker (SS), Kevin Byard (FS)
ST: Randy Bullock (K), Brett Kern (P), Morgan Cox (LS)
RS: Dontrell Hilliard (KR), Chester Rogers (PR)
#11: x - Arizona Cardinals
Week 16 vs. IND: L, 16-22 | Record: 10-5
Previous Rank: #7
It’s happening again, isn’t it? Last season, the Cardinals ended the month of December at 6-5 and in the thick of the NFC playoff hunt. They won just two more games for the rest of the year, falling to the Rams in Week 17, which handed the final playoff spot to the Bears. That’s not happening this season. Because the Vikings lost to the Rams, the Cardinals are in the playoffs. But after falling to the Colts, the Cardinals have now lost three straight games and are out of first place in the NFC West. This is the 4th straight game the Cardinals lost at home, and they have now lost five of their last eight after their 7-0 start. Kliff Kingsbury told reporters that the Redbirds have issues to solve—quickly. “We continue to find ways to lose; critical situations, penalties, things of that nature,” he said. “We’ve got to get it turned around somewhere.” And it’s not just one facet. The offense struggled without DeAndre Hopkins. The defense is suffering critical injuries. The special teams was a disaster against the Colts. It’s fair to wonder if the Cardinals are a team that peaked at the wrong time. A lot needs to be cleaned up.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Kyler Murray
RB: Chase Edmonds
WR: AJ Green, Christian Kirk, Antoine Wesley
TE: Zach Ertz
OL: Josh Miles (LT), Justin Pugh (LG), Rodney Hudson (C), Max Garcia (RG), Kelvin Beachum (RT)
DL: Michael Dogbe (LDE), Corey Peters (NT), Zach Allen (RDE)
EDGE: Chandler Jones (WLB), Dennis Gardeck (SLB)
ILB: Jordan Hicks (LILB), Isaiah Simmons (RILB)
CB: Byron Murphy Jr. (LCB), Antonio Hamilton (RCB)
S: Jalen Thompson (SS), Budda Baker (FS)
ST: Matt Prater (K), Andy Lee (P), Aaron Brewer (LS)
RS: Eno Benjamin (KR), Christian Kirk (PR)
#10: Miami Dolphins
Week 16 @ NO: W, 20-3 | Record: 8-7
Previous Rank: #12
The Dolphins are only two weeks away from one of the greatest comeback stories in NFL history. After winning Week 1, they dropped seven straight games. Midway in the season, it appeared they had a better chance at a top 5 pick in the 2022 Draft than making the playoffs. But it seemed the Fins lured the rest of the AFC to a false sense of security. Because after dismantling an offensively challenged Saints team led by a 4th-string QB in Ian Book, the Fins became the first team to have a seven-game losing streak and seven-game winning streak in the same season. They are now back above .500 and have the 7th seed in the AFC playoff bracket. It’s only fitting a team pulled this off in an unstable 2021 season. Offensive coordinator George Godsey built a game plan that emphasized the playmaking of Jaylen Waddle, who continues to look like an emerging superstar. The defense swarmed all over the Saints’ decimated offense, sacking Book eight times. There’s no time for celebration yet, however. The AFC is a logjam of seven- and eight-win teams fighting for the final two spots. Both teams left on their schedule, the Titans and Patriots, would be in the playoffs if the season ended today. While there is work to be done and the Fins aren’t a team without flaws, the resiliency and determination they have in turning things around after a miserable start is impressive.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Tua Tagovailoa
RB: Duke Johnson
WR: Jaylen Waddle, DeVante Parker, Albert Wilson
TE: Mike Gesicki
OL: Liam Eichenberg (LT), Austin Jackson (LG), Michael Deiter (C), Robert Hunt (RG), Jesse Davis (RT)
DL: Emmanuel Ogbah (LDE), Raekwon Davis (NT), Christian Wilkins (RDE)
EDGE: Andrew Van Ginkel (WLB), Jaelan Phillips (SLB)
ILB: Elandon Roberts (LILB), Jerome Baker (RILB)
CB: Xavien Howard (LCB), Byron Jones (RCB)
S: Eric Rowe (SS), Jevon Holland (FS)
ST: Jason Sanders (K), Michael Palardy (P), Blake Ferguson (LS)
RS: Jaylen Waddle
#9: Cincinnati Bengals
Week 16 vs. BAL: W, 41-21 | Record: 9-6
Previous Rank: #13
The question on Joe Burrow’s viability as the Bengals’ franchise QB is already settled. If there were any doubts left, they were answered against the Ravens. All he did was scorched the Ravens for a career-high 525 passing yards and four touchdowns in the Bengals’ second blowout over the Ravens. With less than two minutes left and Cincy ahead by 20 points, Burrow connected on a 52-yard strike with Joe Mixon to ensure the 500-yard game. This win puts them in the driver’s seat for the AFC North, and after the game, Burrow was asked if it felt good to deliver such a historic performance days after Ravens defensive coordinator Don Martindale said people should not hesitate to “buy a gold jacket” for the young Bengals QB. Burrow smiled and answered, “Maybe.” But the job is not done. Burrow added that getting the Bengals to the playoffs for the first time since 2015 is more important than just stats. “We’re right where we want to be,” he said. “We knew we had a chance to be in this position in training camp. We knew the kind of team we had. You couldn’t ask for a better situation right now. We control our destiny. Win these next two games, and we’ve got the division locked.” This blowout is yet another big step for the Bengals. They’re ready for the pressure of meaningful football. As long as the front five can keep him upright, the pass attack can scorch any defense. His 525 passing yards are the 4th-most in NFL history, but the fact that he is still the league’s most sacked QB is a major concern. Still, he is now an elite QB with outstanding pocket presence and legitimate escapability to extend plays and let his skill position players do the work. Week 17’s visit from the white-hot Chiefs is the real test. If Burrow can find a way to pull off a win, the Bengals will be a legitimate threat in the AFC.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Joe Burrow
RB: Joe Mixon
WR: Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, Tyler Boyd
TE: CJ Uzomah
OL: Jonah Williams (LT), Quinton Spain (LG), Trey Hopkins (C), Hakeem Adeniji (RG), Isaiah Prince (RT)
DE: Sam Hubbard (LDE), Trey Hendrickson (RDE)
DT: DJ Reader (LDT), Larry Ogunjobi (RDT)
LB: Logan Wilson (LILB), Markus Bialey (RILB)
CB: Eli Apple (LCB), Chidobe Awuzie (RCB), Mike Hilton (NB)
S: Vonn Bell (SS), Jessie Bates III (FS)
ST: Evan McPherson (K), Kevin Huber (P), Clark Harris (LS)
RS: Trent Taylor
#8: New England Patriots
Week 16 vs. BUF: L, 21-33 | Record: 9-6
Previous Rank: #6
There hasn’t been a team that made a bigger in-season push through the power rankings than the Patriots. They began the season as a middle-of-the-pack team with a rookie QB. They entered Week 16 in the driver’s seat for the AFC East—a division they could lock up with a win over the Bills. There’s just one problem: The Bills were not willing to hand over the AFC East crown. For the first time in a long time, the Patriots were handled with ease. The Pats’ top-ranked defense failed to force a punt as they were not as successful in holding Josh Allen and co. in check like the first meeting. Offensively, Mac Jones struggled, throwing for just 145 yards and three interceptions. Jones developed nicely this season, but the Pats had no answers for Allen—on defense or at QB. It’s hardly time to panic in New England. They may have lost back-to-back games to the Colts and Bills, but they still remain a dangerous team. But people may have overestimated how the Pats are to the top teams in the AFC. It makes people wonder if they are simply a step behind true Super Bowl contenders in the AFC.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Mac Jones
RB: Damien Harris
WR: Jakobi Meyers, Kendrick Bourne
TE: Hunter Henry, Jonnu Smith
OL: Isaiah Wynn (LT), Ted Karras (LG), David Andrews (C), Shaq Mason (RG), Trent Brown (RT)
DE: Christian Barmore (LDE), Davon Godchaux (NT), Lawrence Guy (RDE)
EDGE: Matt Judon (WLB), Kyle Van Noy (SLB)
ILB: Dont’a Hightower (LILB), Ja’Whaun Bentley (RILB)
CB: JC Jackson (LCB), Jalen Mills (RCB)
S: Kyle Dugger (SS), Devin McCourty (FS)
ST: Nick Folk (K), Jake Bailey (P), Joe Cardona (LS)
RS: Gunner Olszewski
#7: Buffalo Bills
Week 16 @ NE: W, 33-21 | Record: 9-6
Previous Rank: #9
For two decades, the Patriots were the kings of the AFC East. While it wasn’t the case last season, it appeared that after the Pats beat the Bills in Buffalo a few weeks ago that the Pats would reclaim the throne. Josh Allen and co. had other plans. At Gillette Stadium, the Bills sent a message that they are still the kings of the division, taking care of the Pats in decisive fashion. Allen topped 300 passing yards and three touchdowns against the top-ranked defense in the league, while the Bills defense held Mac Jones and the Pats to just 288 total yards and picked off Jones three times. All nine Bills wins have come by at least 12 points, and they lead the NFL in point differential by a large margin. They haven’t had luck go their way this season, but they can absolutely challenge the Chiefs. They now control their own destiny: Win the next two weeks, and they repeat as AFC East champions. This wouldn’t be possible without Allen, whose elite arm talent and running ability allowed the Bills to move the chains at critical spots and score touchdowns when needed. He is a franchise QB in every facet.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Josh Allen
RB: Devin Singletary
WR: Stefon Diggs, Gabriel Davis, Cole Beasley
TE: Dawson Knox
OL: Spencer Brown (LT), Jon Feliciano (LG), Mitch Morse (C), Cody Ford (RG), Daryl Williams (RT)
DE: Gregory Rousseau (LDE), Jerry Hughes (RDE)
DT: Star Lotulelei (LDT), Ed Oliver (RDT)
LB: Matt Milano (WLB), Tremaine Edmunds (MLB), AJ Klein (SLB)
CB: Taron Johnson (LCB), Levi Wallace (RCB)
S: Jordan Poyer (SS), Micah Hyde (FS)
ST: Tyler Bass (K), Matt Haack (P), Reid Ferguson (LS)
RS: Isaiah McKenzie
#6: Indianapolis Colts
Week 16 @ ARZ: W, 22-16 | Record: 9-6
Previous Rank: #8
At the start of the season, it seemed the Colts forgot the regular season started in September. But after downing the Cardinals, they are rolling. Ever since that winless September, they have pulled off nine wins in 12 games. Ever since their Halloween loss to the Titans, they lost just once: A one-score defeat to the defending Super Bowl champions. Whether they started slow, or bloomed late, they are now one of the hottest teams in the AFC. Carson Wentz was efficient, working through his progressions and finding the right guys. His laser to Dezmon Patton at the back of the end zone was the dagger in an impressive road win and showed that he is once again a QB to be reckoned with. He isn’t perfect—he’s still prone to playing hero ball—but when he is in his game, he makes the Colts look like the most dangerous team in the league. It’s not going to be enough to catch the Titans in the AFC South, but when you factor in Jonathan Taylor and a top 10 scoring defense, the Colts have established themselves as the kind of team nobody wants to face in the Wild Card Round.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Carson Wentz
RB: Jonathan Taylor
WR: Michael Pittman Jr., TY Hilton, Zach Pascal
TE: Jack Doyle
OL: Matt Pryor (LT), Quenton Nelson (LG), Ryan Kelly (C), Mark Glowinski (RG), Braden Smith (RT)
DE: Kwity Paye (LDE), Al-Quadin Muhammad (RDE)
DT: DeForest Buckner (LDT), Grover Stewart (RDT)
LB: Darius Leonard (LILB), Bobby Okereke (RILB)
CB: Rock Ya-Sin (LCB), Xavier Rhodes (RCB), Kenny Moore II (NB)
S: Khari Willis (SS), George Odum (FS)
ST: Michael Badgley (K), Rigoberto Sanchez (P), Luke Rhodes (LS)
RS: Isaiah Rodgers (KR), Nyheim Hines (PR)
#5: xy - Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Week 16 @ CAR: W, 32-6 | Record: 11-4
Previous Rank: #5
It’s been a tumultuous week for the Buccaneers. Their shutout loss to the Saints involved a lot more than just losing. Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, Leonard Fournette, and Lavonte David were all lost because of significant injuries. All but Evans were already placed on the IR. You would never know that they were shorthanded in their blowout over the hapless Panthers. It was a win that got them their first NFC South title since 2007, and with 11 wins, they have matched their regular season total from last season’s Super Bowl-winning team. It was an optimal outcome for a team missing not just Evans, Godwin, Fournette, and David, but also Jason Pierre-Paul and Antoine Winfield Jr. because of injuries and COVID designations. Tom Brady got by with help from Antonio Brown, who missed nine weeks because of injury and a suspension for faking a vaccination card. Brown paced all receivers with 10 catches for 101 yards on a whopping 15 targets. He’s a very hard guy to root for, but the Bucs are willing to live with his off-the-field drama as long as he remains an impact player, especially given that they’re shorthanded. With only a rematch with the Panthers and a tilt with a terrible Jets team left, they have a good chance of setting the team record for wins. But it won’t make this season a success any more than the division crown. Except for one thing: A trip to LA and a win in Super Bowl LVI. Getting back the banged-up Bucs past the Packers, Rams, and Cowboys could be a tall task, even for Brady.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Tom Brady
RB: Ronald Jones II
WR: Mike Evans, Antonio Brown, Tyler Johnson
TE: Rob Gronkowski
OL: Donovan Smith (LT), Ali Marpet (LG), Ryan Jensen (C), Alex Cappa (RG), Tristan Wirfs (RT)
DL: Ndamukong Suh (LDE), Vita Vea (NT), William Gholston (RDE)
EDGE: Anthony Nelson (WLB), Joe Tryon-Shoyinka (SLB)
ILB: Devin White (LILB), Kevin Minter (RILB)
CB: Carlton Davis (LCB), Sean Murphy-Bunting (RCB)
S: Antoine Winfield Jr. (SS), Jordan Whitehead (FS)
ST: Ryan Succop (K), Sterling Hofrichter (P), Zach Triner (LS)
RS: Kenjon Barner
#4: x - Los Angeles Rams
Week 16 @ MIN: W, 30-23 | Record: 11-4
Previous Rank: #3
Matt Stafford is back in the playoffs. After downing the Vikings, the Rams are officially back to the playoffs. In fact, the win, along with a Cardinals loss, gets them in 1st place in the division. They are one of three division leaders one game back of the Packers, in contention for a 1st round bye and homefield advantage. But this was a game the Rams won in spite of Stafford, as he threw for just 197 yards and three interceptions. His teammates were there to pick him up in the all-important win. Aaron Donald and Jalen Ramsey powered the defense, Sony Michel was efficient on the run, Brandon Powell had a massive special teams score, and Cooper Kupp once again made big plays when it mattered most, this time with a 37-yard reception that set up the game-sealing field goal in the 4th quarter. When everything is rolling, they have the talent to beat anyone. But they haven’t fired on all cylinders as of late. They were outgained and were minus-two in turnovers. Normally, the Rams would fall apart when Stafford struggles, which would lead to a one-and-done match. But they showed they can thrive without good QB play, and they’re on the road to winning the NFC West because of it.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Matt Stafford
RB: Sony Michel
WR: Cooper Kupp, Odell Beckham Jr., Van Jefferson
TE: Tyler Higbee
OL: Andrew Whitworth (LT), David Edwards (LG), Brian Allen (C), Austin Corbett (RG), Rob Havenstein (RT)
DL: A’Shawn Robinson (LDE), Greg Gaines (NT), Aaron Donald (RDE)
EDGE: Leonard Floyd (WLB), Von Miller (SLB)
ILB: Christian Rozeboom (LILB), Troy Reeder (RILB)
CB: Darious Williams (LCB), Jalen Ramsey (RCB)
S: Jordan Fuller (SS), Taylor Rapp (FS)
ST: Matt Gay (K), Johnny Hekker (P), Matt Orzech (LS)
RS: Brandon Powell (KR), Cooper Kupp (PR)
#3: xy - Dallas Cowboys
Week 16 vs. WSH: W, 56-14 | Record: 11-4
Previous Rank: #4
Thanks to the Raiders’ win over the Broncos, the Cowboys clinched the NFC East before even taking the field against Washington. But the Cowboys felt in the mood to send a message to the NFL, because they didn’t keep their feet on the gas pedal. They sped laps around Washington. They made it clear that they have their sights set on something more than just winning the division. The offense is back on track with weapons aplenty and all the key players in place, except for Tyron Smith, who should return from an ankle injury in the coming weeks. Dak Prescott got out of his slump with four touchdowns in the first half alone. Micah Parsons is a game-wrecker and Trevon Diggs is a premier ballhawk. DeMarcus Lawrence even had a 40-yard pick six for an opportunistic defense that rattled Taylor Heinicke nonstop. The special teams thrived too, scoring a touchdown on a blocked punt. The 56-14 final score showed the full story of the game: They heard all the talk about them being a first round exit and took it personal. They’re now in full go and are a figure of intimidation in the NFC. The top seed is well within grasp—only the Packers look as potent.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Dak Prescott
RB: Ezekiel Elliott
WR: CeeDee Lamb, Amari Cooper, Michael Gallup
TE: Dalton Schultz
OL: Tyron Smith (LT), Connor Williams (LG), Tyler Biadasz (C), Zack Martin (RG), La’el Collins (RT)
DE: DeMarcus Lawrence (LDE), Randy Gregory (RDE)
DT: Neville Gallimore (LDT), Carlos Watkins (RDT)
LB: Leighton Vander Esch (LILB), Micah Parsons (RILB)
CB: Anthony Brown (LCB), Trevon Diggs (RCB), Jourdan Lewis (NB)
S: Jayron Kearse (SS), Damontae Kazee (FS)
ST: Greg Zuerlein (K), Bryan Anger (P), Jake McQuaide (LS)
RS: Tony Pollard (KR), CeeDee Lamb (PR)
#2: xy - Green Bay Packers
Week 16 vs. CLE: W, 24-22 | Record: 12-3
Previous Rank: #1
There hasn’t been a more blessed team at QB in the last quarter-century than the Packers, who transitioned from one MVP in Brett Favre to another in Aaron Rodgers. The latter became the Packers’ all-time leader in touchdown passes, but it was the opportunistic defense that led the way to a 4th straight win that keeps them in the running for a 1st round bye and homefield advantage throughout the playoffs. It wasn’t without flaws, however, as they were outgained by almost 100 yards and surrendered 219 yards on the ground. But thanks to picking off Baker Mayfield four times, three touchdowns from Rodgers, and a big game from Davante Adams, they’re 12-3 and in the driver’s seat for the top seed in the NFC. They may want to start closing out their opponents with more energy, however. For the second straight week, they allowed their opponent to cut a comfy 4th quarter lead, but also for the second straight week, the defense got the stop they needed to seal the win. This time, the hero was Rasul Douglas, who ended the Browns’ final drive with an interception, his second of the game, and his 5th of the season—impressive for someone who got signed off the Cardinals’ practice squad. There isn’t a clear frontrunner for the NFC this season, though, and that makes homefield advantage all the more important, even if said homefield advantage is in the Frozen Tundra.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Aaron Rodgers
RB: Aaron Jones
WR: Davante Adams, Allen Lazard, Marquez Valdes-Scantling
TE: Josiah Deguara
OL: Yosh Nijman (LT), Jon Runyan (LG), Lucas Patrick (C), Royce Newman (RG), Dennis Kelly (RT)
DL: Dean Lowry (LDE), Kenny Clark (NT), Tyler Lancaster (RDE)
EDGE: Preston Smith (WLB), Rashan Gary (SLB)
ILB: De’Vondre Campbell (LILB), Krys Barnes (RILB)
CB: Eric Stokes (LCB), Kevin King (RCB)
S: Adrian Amos (SS), Darnell Savage Jr. (FS)
ST: Mason Crosby (K), Corey Bojorquez (P), Steven Wirtel (LS)
RS: David Moore
#1: xy - Kansas City Chiefs
Week 16 vs. PIT: W, 36-10 | Record: 11-4
Previous Rank: #2
Remember when people were wondering what was “wrong” with the Chiefs? Yeah, that was stupid. After blowing out the Steelers at Arrowhead, the Chiefs have clinched the AFC West for the 6th season in a row. After a 3-4 start, the Chiefs have now won eight straight games to claim the top spot in the AFC. The offense didn’t miss a beat against the Steelers despite missing Travis Kelce and with Tyreek Hill being a non-factor. Patrick Mahomes threw three touchdown passes and got contributions from some of his role players. The surging defense completely shut down the Steelers, snagging three takeaways and not allowing a point until the game was entirely out of reach. The gap between the Chiefs and any other AFC team that is fighting for a wild card spot is getting larger by the weeks. Mahomes has cut down on the turnovers that was a recurring problem earlier in the season, and the defense has played as well as any team. Given the level they are playing at, the only team that can keep them away from a third straight Super Bowl is themselves.
Week 17 Projected Starters
QB: Patrick Mahomes II
RB: Darrel Williams
WR: Tyreek Hill, Mecole Hardman, Byron Pringle
TE: Travis Kelce
OL: Orlando Brown Jr. (LT), Joe Thuney (LG), Creed Humphrey (C), Trey Smith (RG), Lucas Niang (RT)
DE: Chris Jones (LDE), Frank Clark (RDE)
DT: Jarran Reed (LDT), Derrick Nnadi (RDT)
LB: Nick Bolton (WLB), Anthony Hitchens (MLB), Willie Gay (SLB)
CB: Charvarius Ward (LCB), L’Jarius Sneed (RCB)
S: Tyrann Mathieu (SS), Juan Thornhill (FS)
ST: Harrison Butker (K), Tommy Townsend (P), James Winchester (LS)
RS: Byron Pringle (KR), Mike Hughes (PR)
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