AFC

Remaining Schedule

vs Jacksonville Jaguars

at Kansas City Chiefs

vs Los Angeles Chargers

Denver is the first team in the AFC to clinch a playoff berth & they have the inside track to the number one overall seed & a first round bye.

Clinching Scenario- Win vs Jacksonville or Chargers loss clinches the AFC West.

Remaining Schedule

at Baltimore Ravens

at New York Jets

vs Miami Dolphins

New England blew a big lead against Buffalo & a chance to wrap up the AFC East. The Patriots still hold a one game lead in the division & a pretty favorable schedule to finish the season.

Clinching Scenario- Win vs Baltimore, or Colts or Texans loss clinches a playoff berth.

Remaining Schedule

at Denver Broncos

at Indianapolis Colts

vs Tennessee Titans

Jacksonville maintained their one game lead in the AFC South, but the Jaguars have a tough road game this week & Houston is breathing down their necks.

Clinching Scenario- Win vs Denver & Colts or Texans loss clinches a playoff berth.

Remaining Schedule

at Detroit Lions

at Cleveland Browns

vs Baltimore Ravens

Pittsburgh currently leads the AFC North & holds the fourth seed in the AFC, but their position is precarious. The Steelers could still miss the playoffs entirely. Their schedule isn’t easy, with the rematch with Baltimore looming in the final week.

Remaining Schedule

at Dallas Cowboys

vs Houston Texans

at Denver Broncos

The Chargers ended Kansas City’s run of postseason appearances & greatly enhanced their own playoff chances, but that finishing schedule is brutal.

Clinching Scenario- Win vs Dallas & Colts or Texans loss clinches a playoff berth.

Remaining Schedule

at Cleveland Browns

vs Philadelphia Eagles

vs New York Jets

Buffalo stayed alive in the AFC East race, but the Bills need help to surpass New England.

Clinching Scenario- Win vs Cleveland & Colts or Texans loss clinches a playoff berth.

Remaining Schedule

vs Las Vegas Raiders

at Los Angeles Chargers

vs Indianapolis Colts

Houston kept pace in the AFC South. The Texans have a rather favorable schedule to make the playoffs & possibly catch Jacksonville for the division title.

Remaining Schedule

vs San Francisco 49ers

vs Jacksonville Jaguars

at Houston Texans

Indianapolis showed some fight in their first game with the un-retired Philip Rivers, but they’re now 2 games back in the division & a full game back of a playoff spot. That schedule is super tough, as well.

Remaining Schedule

vs New England Patriots

at Green Bay Packers

at Pittsburgh Steelers

Baltimore eliminated Cincinnati & kept pace in the AFC North. The schedule is tough, but it will probably come down to that final game in Pittsburgh.

Eliminated This Week

Games to Watch

Week 16– Jacksonville Jaguars @ Denver Broncos

Denver wants to hold onto the #1 seed & Jacksonville wants to stay one game ahead of Houston in the AFC South. This game will go a long way into determining both.

Week 16– San Francisco 49ers @ Indianapolis Colts

The Niners are solidly in the playoffs, but if the Colts want their last two games against division rivals to mean anything, it feels like this is a must win for them.

Week 16– New England Patriots @ Baltimore Ravens

Patriots could clinch a playoff berth. Baltimore could keep pace with or tie Pittsburgh. Buffalo could catch New England.

Week 17– Houston Texans @ Los Angeles Chargers

Both teams are in good shape to make the playoffs, though nothing is clinched yet. This game will go a long way in determining seeding.

Week 18– Baltimore Ravens @ Pittsburgh Steelers

The AFC North always seems to come down to these two and it certainly appears as if this final week matchup will settle it once again.

My AFC Picks

1. Denver Broncos (14-3) AFC West Champions
2. New England Patriots (14-3) AFC East Champions
3. Houston Texans (12-5) AFC South Champions
4. Baltimore Ravens (8-9) AFC North Champions
5. Buffalo Bills (13-4)
6. Jacksonville Jaguars (12-5)
7. Los Angeles Chargers (10-7)

NFC

Remaining Schedule

at Seattle Seahawks

at Atlanta Falcons

vs Arizona Cardinals

The Rams seem like the most complete team in the NFL. This week’s trip to Seattle has massive implications.

Remaining Schedule

vs Green Bay Packers

at San Francisco 49ers

vs Detroit Lions

Chicago jumped back ahead of Green Bay in the NFC North race with a huge matchup against their bitter rivals this week. The Bears can seize total control of the division & keep their hopes alive for the #1 seed with a win.

Clinching Scenario- Win vs Green Bay & Lions loss clinches a playoff berth.

Remaining Schedule

at Washington Commanders

at Buffalo Bills

vs Washington Commanders

Any Philadelphia win or Dallas loss will give the Eagles the NFC East for a second consecutive season.

Clinching Scenario- Win vs Washington or Cowboys loss clinches the NFC East.

Remaining Schedule

at Carolina Panthers

at Miami Dolphins

vs Carolina Panthers

The two games with Carolina will decide if Tampa Bay maintains their grip on the AFC South.

Remaining Schedule

vs Los Angeles Rams

at Carolina Panthers

at San Francisco 49ers

Seattle has two tough division games sandwiched around a trip to Carolina that will determine their fate. The could end up anywhere from the #1 seed to the seventh seed.

Clinching Scenario- Win vs Los Angeles or Lions loss clinches a playoff berth.

Remaining Schedule

at Indianapolis Colts

vs Chicago Bears

vs Seattle Seahawks

The Niners have been quietly hanging around in the NFC West & they find themselves with a shot at not only winning the division but getting the #1 seed, as well.

Clinching Scenario- Win vs Indianapolis or Lions loss clinches a playoff berth.

Remaining Schedule

at Chicago Bears

vs Baltimore Ravens

at Minnesota Vikings

This week’s trip to Chicago will determine if Green Bay is taking the NFC North or battling for a wildcard spot.

Clinching Scenario- Win vs Chicago & Lions loss clinches a playoff berth.

Remaining Schedule

vs Pittsburgh Steelers

at Minnesota Vikings

at Chicago Bears

Detroit is two games back in both the division and wildcard race, but they can still get either with a final week victory in Chicago & an extra loss for the Bears or two losses for Green Bay.

Remaining Schedule

vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers

vs Seattle Seahawks

at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Those two games with Tampa will decide Carolina’s fate, unless they lose the first & drop the game vs Seattle & the Bucs beat Miami, then that last one is meaningless.

Remaining Schedule

vs Los Angeles Chargers

at Washington Commanders

at New York Giants

Dallas is still alive, barely, but their only shot is the division & there is no margin for error. The Cowboys must win out & have Philly lose out.

Eliminated This Week

Games to Watch

Week 16– Los Angeles Rams @ Seattle Seahawks

The biggest heavyweight fight of the year. Rams could all but clinch the NFC West with a win. A Seattle win would give them first place with a huge date with San Francisco looming in the final week.

Week 16– Green Bay Packers @ Chicago Bears

Whoever wins this one will be in control of the NFC North. Chicago has the tougher remaining schedule, but a win gives them essentially a 2 game lead.

Week 16– Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Carolina Panthers

The winner would be in control of the NFC South with a chance to clinch the following week because both teams have difficult games in week 17.

Week 17– Chicago Bears @ San Francisco 49ers

Both teams could possibly clinch a playoff spot with a victory or set themselves up for a nervous week 18 with a loss.

Week 18– Seattle Seahawks @ San Francisco 49ers

Regardless of how the Rams-Seahawks battle shakes down, this final week game will have major seeding implications.

My NFC Picks

1. Los Angeles Rams (13-4) NFC West Champions
2. Chicago Bears (12-5) NFC North Champions
3. Philadelphia Eagles (11-6) NFC East Champions
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-8) NFC South Champions
5. Seattle Seahawks (13-4)
6. San Francisco 49ers (12-5)
7. Green Bay Packers (11-5-1)

x- denotes clinched playoff berth

Previous: #1, won vs #13 Detroit, 41-34

Rams clinched a playoff berth. Big game this week in Seattle, but it feels like the NFC runs through LA.

Upcoming: at #3 Seattle

Previous: #4, won vs #5 Green Bay, 34-26

Broncos got a statement victory & clinched a playoff berth. The AFC runs through Mile High.

Upcoming: vs #11 Jacksonville

Previous: #2, won vs #21 Indianapolis, 18-16

Seahawks got a rather underwhelming win this week, big chance to wrest control of the NFC West and the NFC as a whole away from LA this week.

Upcoming: vs #1 LA Rams

Previous: #3, lost vs #7 Buffalo, 35-31

Patriots missed their chance to clinch the AFC East, but they’re still in good shape to carry it.

Upcoming: at #15 Baltimore

Previous: #6, won vs #26 Arizona, 40-20

Texans are rolling right now. Can they make up that one game and wrest the division from Jacksonville?

Upcoming: vs #32 Las Vegas

Previous: #7, won vs #3 New England, 35-31

Bills kept their slim hopes for the division title alive, they need New England to drop another.

Upcoming: at #31 Cleveland

Previous: #8, won vs #30 Tennessee, 37-24

Niners still have a shot at getting the #1 seed in the NFC.

Upcoming: at #18 Indianapolis

Previous: #9, won vs #31 Cleveland, 31-3

Bears jumped back into first in the NFC North and can pretty much lock it up with a win at home against Green Bay.

Upcoming: vs #10 Green Bay

Previous: #10, won vs #32 Las Vegas, 31-0

Philly can clinch the NFC East with a victory or a Dallas loss.

Upcoming: at #26 Washington

Previous: #5, lost at #4 Denver, 34-26

Packers lost first place in the NFC North, and even worse, they lost Micah Parsons for the season.

Upcoming: at #8 Chicago

Previous: #11, won vs #28 NY Jets, 48-20

Jaguars are hitting their stride, but Houston is hot on their heels.

Upcoming: at #2 Denver

Previous: #12, won at #20 Kansas City, 16-13

Huge win for the Chargers, taking a step closer to a playoff berth & eliminating the rival Chiefs.

Upcoming: at #20 Dallas

Previous: #13, lost at #1 LA Rams, 41-34

Lions have just about exhausted any margin for error, they pretty much need to win out.

Upcoming: vs #14 Pittsburgh

Previous: #16, won vs #18 Miami, 28-15

Steelers maintained their one game lead in the AFC North, the final week showdown with Baltimore probably decides their fate.

Upcoming: at #13 Detroit

Previous: #19, won at #22 Cincinnati, 24-0

Impressive bounce back win for the Ravens, keeping pace in the AFC North.

Upcoming: vs #4 New England

Previous: #14, lost at #25 New Orleans, 20-17

Carolina squandered a golden opportunity to seize control of the NFC South, still have 2 games versus Tampa.

Upcoming: vs #17 Tampa Bay

Previous: #15, lost vs #24 Atlanta, 29-28

Tampa might have hit rock bottom this week, but Carolina couldn’t capitalize.

Upcoming: at #16 Carolina

Previous: #21, lost at #2 Seattle, 18-16

Colts lost, again, but they hung tough & they’re still alive.

Upcoming: vs #7 San Francisco

Previous: #23, won at #17 Dallas, 34-26

Despite the win. Minnesota was eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: at #29 NY Giants

Previous: #17, lost vs #23 Minnesota, 34-26

Dallas has no margin for error. Any loss or Philly win eliminates them.

Upcoming: vs #12 LA Chargers

Previous: #18, lost at #16 Pittsburgh, 28-15

Miami is eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: vs #25 Cincinnati

Previous: #20, lost vs #12 LA Chargers, 16-13

Kansas City is eliminated from playoff contention AND they lost Patrick Mahomes.

Upcoming: at #30 Tennessee

Previous: #24, won at #15 Tampa Bay, 29-28

Atlanta is eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: at #27 Arizona

Previous: #25, won vs #14 Carolina, 20-17

New Orleans is eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: vs #28 NY Jets

Previous: #22, lost at #19 Baltimore, 24-0

Cincinnati is eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: vs #19 Baltimore

Previous: #27, won at #29 NY Giants, 29-21

Washington is eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: vs #9 Philadelphia

Previous: #26, lost at #6 Houston, 40-20

Arizona is eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: vs #23 Atlanta

Previous: #28, lost at #11 Jacksonville, 48-20

Jets are eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: at #24 New Orleans

Previous: #29, lost vs #27 Washington, 29-21

Giants are eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: vs #19 Minnesota

Previous: #30, lost at #8 San Francisco, 37-24

Tennessee is eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: vs #22 Kansas City

Previous: #31, lost at #9 Chicago, 31-3

Cleveland is eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: vs #6 Buffalo

Previous: #32, lost at #10 Philadelphia, 31-0

Las Vegas is eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: at #5 Houston

Last Week: 8-6 / 10-4

Season: 136-72 / 110-98

Atlanta Falcons (+5.5) @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Tampa needs this, and they should win, but I don’t trust them to cover.

Cleveland Browns @ Chicago Bears (-7)

Bears bounce back from a hard fought loss with a resounding victory.

Buffalo Bills @ New England Patriots (+1.5)

I like the Patriots to sew up the division at home.

Baltimore Ravens @ Cincinnati Bengals (+1.5)

I like the Bengals to keep their slim hopes alive with a home win.

New York Jets (+12.5) @ Jacksonville Jaguars

Jaguars continue their march to the playoffs, but that’s a lot of points to cover.

Los Angeles Chargers @ Kansas City Chiefs (-4.5)

In a must win game, at home, against a division rival, I am not picking against KC.

Arizona Cardinals (+9.5) @ Houston Texans

Texans will win, but Arizona keeps it close.

Washington Commanders @ New York Giants (-1.5)

An NFC East battle no one cares about, Giants might have a little more fight in them.

Las Vegas Raiders (+11.5) @ Philadelphia Eagles

Philly should win easily, but I don’t trust them to cover double digits.

Indianapolis Colts @ Seattle Seahawks (-10.5)

Seattle will roll as Indy’s season completely implodes.

Green Bay Packers @ Denver Broncos (+1.5)

I’ll take the home team Broncos & the points in this battle of Super Bowl contenders.

Tennessee Titans @ San Francisco 49ers (-12.5)

Niners will roll coming off their bye week.

Carolina Panthers (-2.5) @ New Orleans Saints

Carolina keeps pace in the NFC South coming off their bye week.

Detroit Lions (+5.5) @ Los Angeles Rams

Detroit is desperate to keep winning and keeping their playoff hopes alive, but the Rams at home are too tough.

Minnesota Vikings @ Dallas Cowboys (-6)

Cowboys keep their slim hopes alive and extinguish Minnesota’s.

Miami Dolphins (+3) @ Pittsburgh Steelers

Miami keeps the AFC playoff picture muddy with an impressive road win.

Week 14 Recap

BJ & Da’Bears vs Achane in the Membrane

This was a meaningless game. Both of us were already eliminated, so just for my own amusement, I replaced most of my normal starters. The results were predictable.

Caleb Williams, who I played simply because I have no other quarterback on my roster, was the only player that truly showed up.

The Los Angeles Chargers defense also had a nice game.

Anyway, let’s leave this one behind and move on to the Toilet Bowl.

Week 15 Preview

TOILET BOWL: ROUND 1

BJ & Da’ Bears vs Make Fantasy Great Again

Previous Matchup

In our first matchup, I made managerial mistakes that cost me a victory, which has been one of the stories of my season.

I’m a heavy underdog in this one, and for good reason. We’ll see how it plays out.

My keys to the week:

1. Caleb Williams– In our first matchup, Williams managed only 6 points. If I’m to advance, I need him to be closer to a QB1 this time.
2. Trey McBride– McBride has been my MVP this season and I need him to continue his run of great performances.
3. Tetairoa McMillan– McMillan has played himself into consideration to be one of my keepers for next season. I need another strong showing.
4. Kyle Monangai– A good showing from Monangai against a tough Browns defense would warm my heart, even if my team should lose.

Week 14 Recap

Trash Pandas vs Xandar Guardians

Big win for the Pandas! I didn’t clinch a playoff spot, but nearly did. I won or tied every position battle except kicker, where I lost 4-0.

I listed Trevor Lawrence as one of my keys since I opted to start him over Justin Herbert. That decision paid off. Lawrence outscored Herbert & won the QB matchup for me, 23-19.

The story of this game was told on Thursday night, when Jahmyr Gibbs romped for 30 points. I rode my season long MVP to another victory & probable playoff berth.

Even with Bhayshul Tuten putting up a zero, I won the RB battle 30-18.

WR had the makings of a disaster when Rome Odunze & Marvin Harrison Jr were both ruled out. I picked up Isaac TeSlaa & Luther Burden III. Neither had big games, but they did enough to win the WR matchup 14-13.

Brock Bowers didn’t have a great matchup, but he still won the TE battle 10-0.

I already had the game won when Monday night came around, but I kept the Philadelphia Eagles defense in and they were able to equal the output of the Denver Broncos.

Week 15 Preview

Trash Pandas vs Lancaster Lightning

Previous Matchup

In the first matchup with Lancaster Lightning, I rebounded from one of my worst fantasy football weeks & exploded for one of my best of the season. I wouldn’t mind history repeating itself.

It’s pretty simple, a win this week guarantees a playoff spot and gives me a chance to win the division & get a higher seed. I probably still make the playoffs with a loss, but I’d be relegated to the 7th or 8th seed and a tough first round matchup.

My keys to the week:

1. Jahmyr Gibbs- He’s been everything I expected when I drafted him in the first round & I’ll ride him as far as he can take me. The matchup this week isn’t the greatest, but Gibbs is capable of putting up big numbers in any game.
2. Brock Bowers- My receivers are a big question mark once again this week, so I need Bowers to make up the difference. The Raiders don’t have a good matchup, but the offense runs through Bowers.
3. TreVeyon Henderson- Buffalo has a porous run defense so New England should take advantage. I really hope they’ve come to the realization that Henderson should be getting the bulk of the carries.
4. Trevor Lawrence- Right now, I’m leaning heavily towards starting Lawrence again. His ceiling isn’t as high as Herbert’s, but I think he’s got a safer floor.

AFC

Remaining Schedule

vs Green Bay Packers

vs Jacksonville Jaguars

at Kansas City Chiefs

vs Los Angeles Chargers

The AFC currently runs through Denver, but that could change. The Broncos are virtually a lock to make the playoffs & it would take an utter collapse to lose the division, but the battle for the #1 seed will be tough. Denver doesn’t have any cupcakes left on the schedule.

Remaining Schedule

vs Buffalo Bills

at Baltimore Ravens

at New York Jets

vs Miami Dolphins

New England is nearly a lock to win the AFC East, even with a loss to Buffalo next week. The Patriots also have a really good chance to be the #1 seed, their remaining schedule is considerably easier than Denver’s.

Remaining Schedule

vs New York Jets

at Denver Broncos

at Indianapolis Colts

vs Tennessee Titans

Jacksonville currently sits alone atop the AFC South & with 9 wins, the Jaguars are a virtual lock to make the playoffs. The division, however, is up in the air, with a red hot Houston breathing down their necks. Unfortunately, Jacksonville & Houston will not play each other over the next four weeks.

Remaining Schedule

vs Miami Dolphins

at Denver Broncos

at Cleveland Browns

vs Baltimore Ravens

Pittsburgh currently leads the AFC North & holds the fourth seed in the AFC, but their position is precarious. The Steelers could still miss the playoffs entirely. Their schedule isn’t easy, with the rematch with Baltimore looming in the final week. A rejuvenated Cincinnati is also lurking. Winning the division seems like the only path for Pittsburgh as a wildcard is a very, very long shot.

Remaining Schedule

at Kansas City Chiefs

at Dallas Cowboys

vs Houston Texans

at Denver Broncos

The Chargers have one of the toughest closing schedules of any playoff contender, not a single cupcake involved. They’re in good shape now, but every win is critical.

Remaining Schedule

at New England Patriots

at Cleveland Browns

vs Philadelphia Eagles

vs New York Jets

A loss in New England will end Buffalo’s hopes of winning the AFC East & getting a top three seed, but the Bills are a virtual lock for the playoffs. In a playoff scene that could be missing Kansas City & Baltimore, some may think this is Buffalo’s year, but if they have to win three tough road games to make the Super Bowl, I’m skeptical.

Remaining Schedule

vs Arizona Cardinals

vs Las Vegas Raiders

at Los Angeles Chargers

vs Indianapolis Colts

Houston has worked themselves all the way back into the playoffs, if the season ended today, but they have their sights set higher. Texans are just a game behind Jacksonville in the AFC South, they don’t play each other, but one little slip by the Jags & Houston will pounce.

Remaining Schedule

at Seattle Seahawks

vs San Francisco 49ers

vs Jacksonville Jaguars

at Houston Texans

Indianapolis was already in a full on collapse before they lost Daniel Jones for the season. They shouldn’t let the Jones’ injury change the narrative, the Colts were a long shot to make the playoffs with that closing schedules.

Remaining Schedule

at Cincinnati Bengals

vs New England Patriots

at Green Bay Packers

at Pittsburgh Steelers

Baltimore should stay alive until the final week, when they visit Pittsburgh, because the AFC North is very weak. The Ravens have a tough schedule & they haven’t looked good lately.

Remaining Schedule

vs Los Angeles Chargers

at Tennessee Titans

vs Denver Broncos

at Las Vegas Raiders

Kansas City pretty much has to run the table to make the playoffs, but don’t doubt for a second that Patrick Mahomes, Andy Reid & the Chiefs aren’t capable of doing just that. Their two toughest games are in Arrowhead. Don’t count out KC until they are officially eliminated.

Remaining Schedule

at Pittsburgh Steelers

vs Cincinnati Bengals

vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers

at New England Patriots

Miami also needs to run the table, and get some help, to make the playoffs. The schedule is tough, but manageable, especially if New England has everything wrapped up by the final week. Dolphins are a long shot, but still alive.

Remaining Schedule

vs Baltimore Ravens

at Miami Dolphins

vs Arizona Cardinals

vs Cleveland Browns

Cincinnati is still alive because of a bad AFC North, but any loss will all but eliminate the Bengals. Call me crazy, but with a healthy Joe Burrow, I think Cincy has a legitimate shot.

Games to Watch

Week 15– Los Angeles Chargers @ Kansas City Chiefs

KC has no margin for error & LA has a brutal schedule. Feels like the winner of this one will make the playoffs, the loser could be out.

Week 18– Baltimore Ravens @ Pittsburgh Steelers

The AFC North usually comes down to these 2 teams, and this game will, again, decide the winner of the division. But, there’s a caveat, I think it will be between the Steelers & a resurgent Cincy. If Pittsburgh wins this, they’re in, lose & I think the Bengals sneak in.

Week 15– Buffalo Bills @ New England Patriots

This game will probably have no bearing on the AFC East, I don’t think Buffalo will make up two games in 4 weeks, but it could be the difference between the Pats having the #1 seed and a bye or being #2.

Week 15– Green Bay Packers @ Denver Broncos

Huge heavyweight fight. Broncos need it in their battle for the #1 seed, Packers need it to maintain their lead in the NFC North. This one will have a lot of seeding implications.

Week 16– Cincinnati Bengals @ Miami Dolphins

Both teams could be eliminated by then, but one of them almost certainly will be afterwards. Both Cincy & Miami have no margin for error which raises the stakes for this one.

My AFC Picks

1. Denver Broncos (14-3) AFC West Champions
2. New England Patriots (14-3) AFC East Champions
3. Houston Texans (12-5) AFC South Champions
4. Cincinnati Bengals (8-9) AFC North Champions
5. Buffalo Bills (13-4)
6. Jacksonville Jaguars (12-5)
7. Kansas City Chiefs (10-7)

NFC

Remaining Schedule

vs Detroit Lions

at Seattle Seahawks

at Atlanta Falcons

vs Arizona Cardinals

The division and conference #1 seed will be decided in two weeks when the Rams travel to Seattle. LA will be either the first or fifth seed in the NFC.

Remaining Schedule

at Denver Broncos

at Chicago Bears

vs Baltimore Ravens

at Minnesota Vikings

Green Bay has two tough road games the next two weeks that will ultimately decide what seed they end up with. Packers could end up as the #1 seed if they run the table.

Remaining Schedule

vs Las Vegas Raiders

at Washington Commanders

at Buffalo Bills

vs Washington Commanders

Philadelphia is scuffling & their fans are in panic mode, but a favorable closing schedule means they should easily clinch the #3 seed in the NFC. Eagles need to fix things to defend their title, but they certainly have the chance to do so.

Remaining Schedule

vs Atlanta Falcons

at Carolina Panthers

at Miami Dolphins

vs Carolina Panthers

Tampa’s playoff destiny will be decided by those two games with Carolina. Buccaneers are floundering, but the division still runs through them, for now.

Remaining Schedule

vs Indianapolis Colts

vs Los Angeles Rams

at Carolina Panthers

at San Francisco 49ers

Seattle is in much the same boat as the LA Rams, that matchup next week is huge, but the Seahawks also have two tough road games to finish the season.

Remaining Schedule

vs Tennessee Titans

at Indianapolis Colts

vs Chicago Bears

vs Seattle Seahawks

San Francisco has a firm grip on a wildcard spot, but they should still have eyes on the division title. Two tough games to finish the season, but the Niners get them both at home.

Remaining Schedule

vs Cleveland Browns

vs Green Bay Packers

at San Francisco 49ers

vs Detroit Lions

Chicago lost first place in the NFC North & the #1 seed, but they have a shot to get both back rather quickly. The rematch with Green Bay will decide the division. If the Bears defend their home field, they should be no worse than the second seed.

Remaining Schedule

at Los Angeles Rams

vs Pittsburgh Steelers

at Minnesota Vikings

at Chicago Bears

Detroit controls their own destiny, for now, because of the final week matchup with Chicago. The Lions, however, don’t have the easiest of schedules. Every loss hurts.

Remaining Schedule

at New Orleans Saints

vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers

vs Seattle Seahawks

at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Carolina’s season hinges on those two games with Tampa. Panthers best bet to make the playoffs is to win the NFC South.

Remaining Schedule

vs Minnesota Vikings

vs Los Angeles Chargers

at Washington Commanders

at New York Giants

Dallas is still alive because of Philly’s struggles, but the Cowboys have no margin for error. This week’s matchup with Minnesota probably eliminates one of them.

Remaining Schedule

at Dallas Cowboys

at New York Giants

vs Detroit Lions

vs Green Bay Packers

Minnesota is still mathematically alive, so I’m including them in this list. The Vikings, however, are the longest of long shots. Three very tough games in the last four, I expect them to be eliminated quickly.

Games to Watch

Week 16– Green Bay Packers @ Chicago Bears

This game will likely decide the NFC North champion. Packers have a tough one the week before, then easier ones after this. Bears have what should be an easy one before this, but 2 tougher ones to finish the season.

Week 16– Los Angeles Rams @ Seattle Seahawks

Huge, huge game with major implications. Winner will probably win the NFC West and the #1 seed & first round bye. Loser will end up the fifth seed & on the road in the playoffs.

Week 16– Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Carolina Panthers

Week 18– Carolina Panthers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Lump these two together because these will decide the NFC South. One team will get in & host a playoff game, the other will go home for the offseason.

Week 15– Minnesota Vikings @ Dallas Cowboys

Both teams are long shots, but one of them will almost certainly be eliminated after this one.

My NFC Picks

1. Los Angeles Rams (13-4) NFC West Champions
2. Chicago Bears (12-5) NFC North Champions
3. Philadelphia Eagles (11-6) NFC East Champions
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-8) NFC South Champions
5. Seattle Seahawks (13-4)
6. San Francisco 49ers (12-5)
7. Green Bay Packers (11-5-1)

Previous: #1, won at Arizona, 45-17

The week 16 rematch with Seattle looms large for division & conference supremacy.

Upcoming: vs #13 Detroit

Previous: #2, won at #23 Atlanta, 37-9

As stated above, the rematch with LA will determine a lot.

Upcoming: vs #21 Indianapolis

Previous: #3, BYE

Patriots could clinch division with win versus Buffalo.

Upcoming: vs #7 Buffalo

Previous: #4, won at #31 Las Vegas, 24-17

Denver has a stranglehold on the division & should be either the 1 or 2 seed.

Upcoming: vs #5 Green Bay

Previous: #7, won vs #5 Chicago, 28-21

Green Bay outlasted Chicago & took over first place in the North & the #2 seed, for now.

Upcoming: at #4 Denver

Previous: #9, won at #19 Kansas City, 20-10

Signature win for CJ Stroud, Demeco Ryans & this Texans team vs KC. Houston is the team nobody wants to face in the playoffs.

Upcoming: vs #26 Arizona

Previous: #10, won vs #20 Cincinnati, 39-34

Bills narrowly avoided a home loss to Cincy. Big game in New England if they have any hope of earning a home playoff game.

Upcoming: vs #3 New England

Previous: #8, BYE

Niners come off their bye one game back in the NFC West & a strong grip on a wildcard spot.

Upcoming: vs #30 Tennessee

Previous: #5, lost at #7 Green Bay, 28-21

Bears fell behind Green Bay in the NFC North & down to the 7th seed, but they have a chance to flip that again over the next two weeks.

Upcoming: vs #31 Cleveland

Previous: #6, lost at #18 LA Chargers, 22-19

I’m officially worried about Philly after their third straight loss. They could have sealed the division with a win, now they still haven’t clinched a playoff berth, yet.

Upcoming: vs #32 Las Vegas

Previous: #14, won vs #15 Indianapolis, 36-19

Jaguars have seized control of the AFC South, but Houston is hot on their heels.

Upcoming: vs #28 NY Jets

Previous: #18, won vs #6 Philadelphia, 22-19

Huge win for the Chargers, solidifying their position in the playoff race.

Upcoming: at #20 Kansas City

Previous: #12, won vs #17 Dallas, 44-30

Lions got a much needed win & now control their own destiny because of the their week 18 matchup with Chicago.

Upcoming: at #1 LA Rams

Previous: #16, BYE

Carolina returns from their bye with a clear path to the postseason, those 2 games with Tampa will determine their fate.

Upcoming: at #25 New Orleans

Previous: #13, lost vs #30 New Orleans, 24-20

Tampa is struggling but with two games left versus Carolina, they still control their own destiny.

Upcoming: vs #24 Atlanta

Previous: #21, won at #11 Baltimore, 27-22

Steelers gained the upper hand in the AFC North, but their position is far from solid.

Upcoming: vs #18 Miami

Previous: #17, lost at #12 Detroit, 44-30

Despite the loss, Dallas stays alive because of Philly’s struggles.

Upcoming: vs #23 Minnesota

Previous: #22, won at #26 NY Jets, 34-10

Dolphins have surged back into the playoff race, but they have no margin for error.

Upcoming: at #16 Pittsburgh

Previous: #11, lost vs #21 Pittsburgh, 27-22

Ravens still have a shot, but they look like a team that’s lost its way.

Upcoming: at #22 Cincinnati

Previous: #19, lost vs #9 Houston, 20-10

KC is still alive, but they’re hanging by a thread.

Upcoming: vs #12 LA Chargers

Previous: #15, lost at #14 Jacksonville, 36-19

Colts were already in free fall, now they’ve lost Daniel Jones for the season.

Upcoming: at #2 Seattle

Previous: #20, lost at #10 Buffalo, 39-34

Cincy let one slip away in Buffalo, but they could still run the table & win the AFC North.

Upcoming: vs #19 Baltimore

Previous: #28, won vs #24 Washington, 31-0

Minnesota is still mathematically alive, but it probably won’t be for long.

Upcoming: at #17 Dallas

Previous: #23, lost vs #2 Seattle, 37-9

Atlanta is eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: at #15 Tampa Bay

Previous: #30, won at #13 Tampa Bay, 24-20

New Orleans is eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: vs #14 Carolina

Previous: #25, lost vs #1 LA Rams, 45-17

Arizona is eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: at #6 Houston

Previous: #24, lost at #28 Minnesota, 31-0

Washington is eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: at #29 NY Giants

Previous: #26, lost vs #22 Miami, 34-10

Jets are eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: at #11 Jacksonville

Previous: #29, BYE

Giants are eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: vs #27 Washington

Previous: #32, won at #27 Cleveland, 31-29

Tennessee is eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: at #8 San Francisco

Previous: #27, lost vs #32 Tennessee, 31-29

Cleveland is eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: at #9 Chicago

Previous: #31, lost vs #4 Denver, 24-17

Las Vegas is eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: at #10 Philadelphia

AFC

Locks

Remaining Schedule

Week 14– BYE

Week 15– vs Buffalo Bills

Week 16– at Baltimore Ravens

Week 17– at New York Jets

Week 18– vs Miami Dolphins

Patriots are in the drivers seat for the AFC East title, even with a loss to Buffalo they’d be a game up. Tight battle with Denver for #1 seed, might need to go 4-0 to get it.

Remaining Schedule

Week 14– at Las Vegas Raiders

Week 15– vs Green Bay Packers

Week 16– vs Jacksonville Jaguars

Week 17– at Kansas City Chiefs

Week 18– vs Los Angeles Chargers

Assuming Broncos take care of business versus Vegas, they’ll be tied with New England in the race for #1 seed. The road for Denver, however, is much tougher. Their last four games could all have major playoff implications. They could officially eliminate the Chiefs in week 17.

Controlling Their Destiny, for now

Remaining Schedule

Week 14– vs Indianapolis Colts

Week 15– vs New York Jets

Week 16– at Denver Broncos

Week 17– at Indianapolis Colts

Week 18– vs Tennessee Titans

Jaguars have two huge matchups with Indianapolis down the stretch. If they can split with Indy & take care of business against the Jets & Titans, they should get a playoff spot, possibly win the division.

Remaining Schedule

Week 14– at Jacksonville Jaguars

Week 15– at Seattle Seahawks

Week 16– vs San Francisco 49ers

Week 17– vs Jacksonville Jaguars

Week 18– at Houston Texans

Colts are currently tied for first with Jacksonville & they play the Jaguars twice down the stretch. It feels like Indy needs to win both of those to have any shot at the playoffs because their schedule is very tough. After dominating the first two months of the season, the Colts could very well miss the playoffs.

Remaining Schedule

Week 14– vs Cincinnati Bengals

Week 15– at New England Patriots

Week 16– at Cleveland Browns

Week 17– vs Philadelphia Eagles

Week 18– vs New York Jets

Barring a complete collapse, the Bills should make the playoffs. The division, however, may be out of reach. Even if they win in New England, they’ll need help to overtake the Patriots.

Remaining Schedule

Week 14– vs Philadelphia Eagles

Week 15– at Kansas City Chiefs

Week 16– at Dallas Cowboys

Week 17– vs Houston Texans

Week 18– at Denver

The Chargers currently occupy a playoff spot and they trail Denver by 2 in the AFC West, but they have a very difficult schedule & they’ve had a rash of injuries. They control their own destiny for the postseason, but it might be fleeting.

Remaining Schedule

Week 14– vs Pittsburgh Steelers

Week 15– at Cincinnati Bengals

Week 16– vs New England Patriots

Week 17– at Green Bay Packers

Week 18– at Pittsburgh Steelers

Baltimore controls their own destiny because they have two games versus Pittsburgh and one against Cincinnati. Win those three and they should take the AFC North. Lose one or more and they likely miss the playoffs because their other games are tough.

Remaining Schedule

Week 14– at Baltimore Ravens

Week 15– vs Miami Dolphins

Week 16– at Detroit Lions

Week 17– at Cleveland Browns

Week 18– vs Baltimore Ravens

Pittsburgh needs at least a split with Baltimore and probably a win versus Cleveland to have a shot. They have a slightly easier schedule than Baltimore, but they’ve been faltering.

Lurking

Remaining Schedule

Week 14– at Kansas City Chiefs

Week 15– vs Arizona Cardinals

Week 16– vs Las Vegas Raiders

Week 17– at Los Angeles Chargers

Week 18– vs Indianapolis Colts

The battle with Kansas City is huge. With a win they could solidify their position and all but eliminate the Chiefs. Houston has a favorable schedule down the stretch and a real shot to make up the one game deficit and win the AFC South.

Needing Help

Remaining Schedule

Week 14– vs Houston Texans

Week 15– vs Los Angeles Chargers

Week 16– at Tennessee Titans

Week 17– vs Denver Broncos

Week 18– at Las Vegas Raiders

The Chiefs run of AFC West titles is pretty much over and they have little margin for error in the race for a wildcard, but as long as they have a pulse you cannot count them out.

Remaining Schedule

Week 14– at New York Jets

Week 15– at Pittsburgh Steelers

Week 16– vs Cincinnati Bengals

Week 17– vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Week 18– at New England Patriots

The Dolphins need to run the table to have any chance. A tall task, but possible, especially since New England might have nothing to play for in the final week.

Remaining Schedule

Week 14– at Buffalo Bills

Week 15– vs Baltimore Ravens

Week 16– at Miami Dolphins

Week 17– vs Arizona Cardinals

Week 18– vs Cleveland Browns

Cincy dug a deep hole for themselves during Joe Burrow’s absence, but somehow they’re still alive. Buffalo isn’t necessarily a must win, if they can win their last 4 they could have a shot.

My Picks

1. DENVER BRONCOS (AFC West Champion)
2. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (AFC East Champion)
3. HOUSTON TEXANS (AFC South Champion)
4. CINCINNATI BENGALS (AFC North Champion)
5. BUFFALO BILLS
6. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
7. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

NFC

Locks

Remaining Schedule

Week 14– at Arizona Cardinals

Week 15– vs Detroit Lions

Week 16– at Seattle Seahawks

Week 17– at Atlanta Falcons

Week 18– vs Arizona Cardinals

The week 16 battle with Seattle looms large, it could decide the division & possibly the #1 seed.

Remaining Schedule

Week 14– at Atlanta Falcons

Week 15– vs Indianapolis Colts

Week 16– vs Los Angeles Rams

Week 17– at Carolina Panthers

Week 18– at San Francisco 49ers

Again, that week 16 matchup with the Rams is huge. Seattle will make the playoffs, but if they lose to LA & San Francisco they could end up with the 7 seed.

Remaining Schedule

Week 14– at Los Angeles Chargers

Week 15– vs Las Vegas Raiders

Week 16– at Washington Commanders

Week 17– at Buffalo Bills

Week 18– vs Washington Commanders

It would take an epic collapse for Philly not to win the division or make the playoffs. Number one seed is still in play, but I think LA or Seattle will pull away with that.

Controlling their Destiny, sort of

Remaining Schedule

Week 14– at Green Bay Packers

Week 15– vs Cleveland Browns

Week 16– vs Green Bay Packers

Week 17– at San Francisco 49ers

Week 18– vs Detroit Lions

Those two Packers games probably decide the division. If Chicago defends their home field, they’ll win the NFC North. Probably need a minimum 4-1 to get the #1 seed.

Remaining Schedule

Week 14– vs Chicago Bears

Week 15– at Denver Broncos

Week 16– at Chicago Bears

Week 17– vs Baltimore Ravens

Week 18– at Minnesota Vikings

Green Bay probably needs to sweep Chicago to win the division. Not an easy road, but the Packers should make the playoffs.

Remaining Schedule

Week 14– vs New Orleans Saints

Week 15– vs Atlanta Falcons

Week 16– at Carolina Panthers

Week 17– at Miami Dolphins

Week 18– vs Carolina Panthers

Those two games with Carolina will decide the division. Bucs have an outside shot of a wildcard, but it seems like winning the division is their best bet.

Remaining Schedule

Week 14– BYE

Week 15– vs Tennessee

Week 16– at Indianapolis Colts

Week 17– vs Chicago Bears

Week 18– vs Seattle Seahawks

Niners are a near lock for the playoffs and they’re right there in the NFC West race, but they need help. The final two versus Chicago & Seattle could determine seeding.

Right There

Remaining Schedule

Week 14– BYE

Week 15– at New Orleans Saints

Week 16– vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Week 17– vs Seattle Seahawks

Week 18– at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Panthers best bet is to win the NFC South, and the two games against Tampa should decide the division.

Need Help

Remaining Schedule

Week 14– vs Dallas Cowboys

Week 15– at Los Angeles Rams

Week 16– vs Pittsburgh Steelers

Week 17– at Minnesota Vikings

Week 18– at Chicago Bears

Lions have little margin for error. It feels like the Dallas game is a must win for both. Their division hopes are probably lost.

Remaining Schedule

Week 14– at Detroit Lions

Week 15– vs Minnesota Vikings

Week 16– vs Los Angeles Chargers

Week 17– at Washington Commanders

Week 18– at New York Giants

Dallas has no margin for error. Any loss probably eliminates them from division contention & playoff contention.

My Picks

1. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS (NFC West Champion)
2. CHICAGO BEARS (NFC NORTH Champion)
3. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES (NFC East Champion)
4. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS (NFC South Champion)
5. LOS ANGELES RAMS
6. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS
7. GREEN BAY PACKERS

Last Week: 11-5 / 10-6

Season: 128-66 / 100-94

Dallas Cowboys (+3) @ Detroit Lions

Huge game. One of these teams will stay alive, the other will be on the ropes. I’ll take Detroit in a tight one.

Pittsburgh Steelers (+6.5) @ Baltimore Ravens

Battle for first place in the AFC North. Baltimore hasn’t been firing on all cylinders, but Pittsburgh has been worse.

Cincinnati Bengals (+6.5) @ Buffalo Bills

Joe Burrow is back & Cincy is looking to make a push, but winning in Buffalo is tough.

Seattle Seahawks (-8) @ Atlanta Falcons

Seattle seems destined for a deep playoff run. Atlanta seems destined for a complete overhaul.

Tennessee Titans (+3.5) @ Cleveland Browns

Myles Garrett could break the single season sack record in this game. Other than that, there’s no reason to watch this one.

Indianapolis Colts @ Jacksonville Jaguars (+1.5)

Winner gets sole possession of first place in the AFC South. Jacksonville has the momentum.

Washington Commanders (-1.5) @ Minnesota Vikings

Two teams that aren’t mathematically eliminated yet, but they’re eliminated. Jayden Daniels might be back, so I’ll take Washington.

Miami Dolphins (-2.5) @ New York Jets

Miami looking to stay alive, the Jets looking to play spoiler. Miami has been kind of hot lately.

New Orleans Saints (+8) @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Tampa has an excellent chance to pull a full game ahead in the NFC South.

Denver Broncos @ Las Vegas Raiders (+7.5)

Broncos will win, but they don’t cover against anyone.

Chicago Bears (+5.5) @ Green Bay Packers

Battle for first in the NFC North. I’ll give the nod to the home team, reluctantly.

Los Angeles Rams (-8) @ Arizona Cardinals

Rams bounce back by blasting a Cardinals team just playing for pride.

Houston Texans (+3.5) @ Kansas City Chiefs

Houston has been hot and I want to pick them, I just can’t pick against Mahomes in December, yet.

Philadelphia Eagles (-3.5) @ Los Angeles Chargers

Philly bounces back against a banged up QB playing behind a banged up offensive line.

BYES

Week 13 Recap

Trash Pandas vs Achilles Heels

This was a bad loss for the Pandas. I could’ve all but clinched a playoff spot with a win, nearly sewed up the division & stayed undefeated in it. Instead, I’ve fallen a game back in the division race & dropped down to the seventh seed.

The week started bad when Jahmyr Gibbs managed only 7 points against Green Bay on Thanksgiving Day.

It got worse on Black Friday when Rome Odunze threw up a goose egg & the Philadelphia Eagles defense managed only 1 point, but my Bears got a HUGE win, so I’m not complaining.

My opponent had some good performances during the early slate on Sunday, but I was able to chip away during the afternoon games. Brock Bowers was pretty much the dominant force he usually is, scoring 18 points & winning the TE battle by 16.

Ernest Jones IV had one of the the better IDP games on the season and gave me some hope going into Sunday night.

Unfortunately, Bo Nix put up 30 to beat Justin Herbert by 12 points in the QB matchup.

I still had a slight chance on Monday night with TreVeyon Henderson & Andy Borregales going. It was frustrating to watch New England essentially split touches between Henderson & Rhamondre Stevenson, even though Henderson is clearly the superior back.

I’m disappointed, but on the bright side, I didn’t make any managerial mistakes that cost me this game, I just got beat.

Jones IV gets my MVP, now on to the next one.

Week 14 Preview

Trash Pandas vs Xandar Guardians

Previous Matchup

This is a big matchup for both of us. The winner essentially clinches a playoff spot, while the loser enters the final week desperate.

I won our first matchup by getting solid, if unspectacular, performances from every player on my roster. I did cost myself nearly 40 points by not playing the right kicker, but it didn’t hurt me.

Right now, I’ve got about a 50/50 chance to win this. I lost Henderson to a bye, my opponent lost Amon-Ra St. Brown to injury. I need to pick up a kicker.

My keys to the week:

1. Trevor Lawrence: Managerial decision to go with Lawrence over Herbert. Lawrence’s matchup is only slightly better, but Herbert is dealing with a broken left hand & is playing behind a banged up offensive line against what I presume will be a pissed off Philly defense. I think Lawrence gives me the better chance at winning.
2. Jahmyr Gibbs: I need a bounce back week from Gibbs, badly. TreVeyon Henderson is on bye. Brock Bowers has a terrible matchup & my receivers don’t have good ones. Gibbs’ matchup isn’t as great as it would have been earlier in the season, but Dallas’ defense can still give up some chunk plays. Hopefully those go to Gibbs.
3. Philadelphia Eagles: The Philly defense was bullied by Chicago, so hopefully they come into this one pissed off. The Chargers offensive line is banged up and so is Herbert. I want a bunch of sacks and a turnover or 2.
4. Bhayshul Tuten: Henderson is on bye, so Tuten gets the start. I haven’t settled on which WRs I’ll play, only Jordan Addison has a decent matchup, but he’s got JJ McCarthy throwing, so I’m not sure I can count on getting much there. Tuten has been getting more touches recently and scored a TD last week. I’d love double digits from him.