AFC

Remaining Schedule

at Kansas City Chiefs

vs Los Angeles Chargers

Denver controls their own destiny for the AFC West & the #1 seed.

Clinching Scenario- Win vs Kansas City & Chargers loss clinches AFC West.

Remaining Schedule

at New York Jets

vs Miami Dolphins

Patriots have a favorable closing schedule.

Clinching Scenario- Win vs NY Jets & Bills loss clinches AFC East.

Remaining Schedule

at Indianapolis Colts

vs Tennessee Titans

Jaguars got a statement win & stayed in the hunt for the #1 seed.

Clinching Scenario- Win vs Indianapolis & Texans loss clinches AFC South.

Remaining Schedule

at Cleveland Browns

vs Baltimore Ravens

Steelers are peaking at the right time.

Clinching Scenario- Win vs Cleveland or Ravens loss clinches AFC North.

Remaining Schedule

vs Houston Texans

at Denver Broncos

Chargers clinched a playoff spot and still have eyes on the division title.

Remaining Schedule

vs Philadelphia Eagles

vs New York Jets

Bills are in, but still looking to improve their seed.

Remaining Schedule

at Los Angeles Chargers

vs Indianapolis Colts

Texans nearly stumbled, but they’re on the verge of clinching a playoff spot and still have a shot at the division.

Clinching Scenario- Win vs LA Chargers or Colts loss clinches a playoff berth.

Remaining Schedule

vs Jacksonville Jaguars

at Houston Texans

Colts playoff hopes are hanging by a thread.

Remaining Schedule

at Green Bay Packers

at Pittsburgh Steelers

Ravens playoff chances are on life support.

Games to Watch

Week 17– Houston Texans @ Los Angeles Chargers

Houston clinches with a win. Both teams need a win to keep their division hopes alive.

Week 17– Baltimore Ravens @ Green Bay Packers

Baltimore is eliminated with a loss. Green Bay clinches a playoff spot with a win.

Week 17– Philadelphia Eagles @ Buffalo Bills

Buffalo needs a victory to keep their division hopes alive.

Week 18– Los Angeles Chargers @ Denver Broncos

This one has the potential to decide the AFC West & the number one seed.

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

NFC

Remaining Schedule

at Carolina Panthers

at San Francisco 49ers

Seahawks have vaulted into the driver’s seat in the NFC.

Clinching Scenario- Win vs Carolina & Rams loss & 49ers loss clinches NFC West.

Remaining Schedule

at San Francisco 49ers

vs Detroit Lions

Bears are in, now they look to sew up the division.

Clinching Scenario- Win vs San Francisco or Packers loss clinches NFC North.

Remaining Schedule

at Buffalo Bills

vs Washington Commanders

Eagles have clinched NFC East.

Remaining Schedule

vs Seattle Seahawks

at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Carolina has the edge in the NFC South, for now.

Clinching Scenario- Win vs Seattle & Buccaneers loss clinches NFC South.

Remaining Schedule

vs Chicago Bears

vs Seattle Seahawks

Niners control their own destiny for the division and the number one seed.

Remaining Schedule

at Atlanta Falcons

vs Arizona Cardinals

Rams have fallen all the way down to sixth and made their playoff road that much harder.

Remaining Schedule

vs Baltimore Ravens

at Minnesota Vikings

Packers may have lost their chance at the division, but they should still make the playoffs.

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

Remaining Schedule

at Minnesota Vikings

at Chicago Bears

Detroit is on life support.

Remaining Schedule

at Miami Dolphins

vs Carolina Panthers

Tampa is still in decent shape to win the NFC South.

Eliminated This Week

Games to Watch

Week 17– Chicago Bears @ San Francisco 49ers

This game has huge seeding implications for both teams.

Week 17– Baltimore Ravens @ Green Bay Packers

Packers are in with a win & Baltimore and Detroit are eliminated.

Week 17– Seattle Seahawks @ Carolina Panthers

Both teams looking to strengthen their grasp on their respective divisions.

Week 18– Carolina Panthers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

This game likely decides the NFC South and the final playoff spot.

Week 18– Seattle Seahawks @ San Francisco 49ers

This one could decide the NFC West and determine the #1 seed.

My NFC Picks

1. San Francisco 49ers (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. Los Angeles Rams (13-4)
7. Green Bay Packers (11-5-1)

x- denotes clinched playoff berth

y- denotes clinched division

Previous: #3, won vs #1 LA Rams, 38-37

Seahawks engineered a big comeback against the Rams & are now in the driver’s seat in the NFC.

Upcoming: at #14 Carolina

Previous: #1, lost at #3 Seattle, 38-37

I still think the Rams are the best team in the NFL, but they’ve made it really hard on themselves.

Upcoming: at #22 Atlanta

Previous: #7, won at #18 Indianapolis, 48-27

If the Niners win their last two games they will claim the #1 seed in the NFC.

Upcoming: vs #7 Chicago

Previous: #11, won at #2 Denver, 34-20

I believe Jacksonville may be the best team in the AFC.

Upcoming: at #18 Indianapolis

Previous: #4, won at #15 Baltimore, 28-24

Patriots have a great chance to claim the #1 seed in the AFC, I’m just not sure I trust them in the playoffs.

Upcoming: at #29 NY Jets

Previous: #2, lost vs #11 Jacksonville, 34-20

Denver still has the top seed and they have the defense to win a championship, but I don’t trust Bo Nix and that offense.

Upcoming: vs #11 Jacksonville

Previous: #8, won vs #10 Green Bay, 22-16

Bears pulled off an epic comeback and seized control of the NFC North & still have a shot at the #1 seed.

Upcoming: at #3 San Francisco

Previous: #5, won vs #32 Las Vegas, 23-21

Much like Denver, I trust the Houston defense but not CJ Stroud and the Texans offense.

Upcoming: at #11 LA Chargers

Previous: #6, won at #31 Cleveland, 23-20

Many think the AFC is set up for Buffalo to finally make a Super Bowl, I am not one of those.

Upcoming: vs #10 Philadelphia

Previous: #9, won at #26 Washington, 29-18

Philly clinched the NFC East and can be no worse than the #3 seed.

Upcoming: at #9 Buffalo

Previous: #12, won at #20 Dallas, 34-17

Chargers have clinched a playoff berth despite a rash of injuries to their offensive line.

Upcoming: vs #8 Houston

Previous: #14, won at #13 Detroit, 29-24

Pittsburgh is playing their best football at the right time of the season.

Upcoming: at #30 Cleveland

Previous: #10, lost at #8 Chicago, 22-16

Packers dropped a heartbreaker and have little chance to win the division, but they’re still in a strong position to make the playoffs.

Upcoming: vs #16 Baltimore

Previous: #16, won vs #17 Tampa Bay, 23-20

Panthers are in the driver’s seat in the NFC South, for now.

Upcoming: vs #1 Seattle

Previous: #13, lost vs #14 Pittsburgh, 29-24

Detroit’s playoff hopes are on life support.

Upcoming: at #19 Minnesota

Previous: #15, lost vs #4 New England, 28-24

Ravens playoff hopes barely have a pulse.

Upcoming: at #13 Green Bay

Previous: #17, lost at #16 Carolina, 23-20

Tampa’s collapse has been stunning, but they still have a decent shot to win the NFC South.

Upcoming: at #23 Miami

Previous: #18, lost vs #7 San Francisco, 48-27

Indy’s collapse isn’t all on the injury to Daniel Jones.

Upcoming: vs #4 Jacksonville

Previous: #19, won at #29 NY Giants, 16-13

Vikings are eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: vs #15 Detroit

Previous: #20, lost vs #12 LA Chargers, 34-17

Cowboys are eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: at #26 Washington

Previous: #25, won vs #21 Miami, 45-21

Bengals are eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: vs #28 Arizona

Previous: #23, won at #27 Arizona, 26-19

Falcons are eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: vs #2 LA Rams

Previous: #21, lost vs #25 Cincinnati, 45-21

Dolphins are eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: vs #17 Tampa Bay

Previous: #24, won vs #28 NY Jets, 29-6

Saints are eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: at #27 Tennessee

Previous: #22, lost at #30 Tennessee, 26-9

Chiefs are eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: vs #6 Denver

Previous: #26, lost vs #9 Philadelphia, 29-18

Commanders are eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: vs #20 Dallas

Previous: #30, won vs #22 Kansas City, 26-9

Titans are eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: vs #24 New Orleans

Previous: #27, lost vs #23 Atlanta, 26-19

Cardinals are eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: at #21 Cincinnati

Previous: #28, lost at #24 New Orleans, 29-6

Jets are eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: vs #5 New England

Previous: #31, lost vs #6 Buffalo, 23-20

Browns are eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: vs #12 Pittsburgh

Previous: #29, lost vs #19 Minnesota, 16-13

Giants are eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: at #32 Las Vegas

Previous: #32, lost at #5 Houston, 23-21

Raiders are eliminated from playoff contention.

Upcoming: vs #31 NY Giants

Last Week: 8-8 / 4-12

Season: 144-80 / 114-110

Los Angeles Rams (-1.5) @ Seattle Seahawks

I won’t be shocked if Seattle wins this heavyweight battle, but I think the Rams take control of the NFC here.

Philadelphia Eagles (-6.5) @ Washington Commanders

I’m not sure Philly has completely solved their offensive woes, but they have enough to handle Washington and wrap up the NFC East.

Green Bay Packers @ Chicago Bears (+1.5)

I liked the Bears to avenge their loss from two weeks ago before Micah Parsons went down. I like them even more now.

New York Jets @ New Orleans Saints (-4.5)

Saints have fought hard pretty much all season, the Jets have not.

Buffalo Bills (-10) @ Cleveland Browns

This one will never be in doubt, Bills roll.

Kansas City Chiefs @ Tennessee Titans (+3.5)

The Chiefs are eliminated and lost Mahomes. First time I’m picking the Titans to win all season.

Los Angeles Chargers (+1.5) @ Dallas Cowboys

Cowboys could be eliminated before kickoff, the game will mean more to LA.

Minnesota Vikings (-3) @ New York Giants

Battle of eliminated teams, I think the Vikings have the momentum.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Carolina Panthers (+3)

First of two battles to decide the NFC South, I’ll take the Panthers at home.

Cincinnati Bengals @ Miami Dolphins (+2.5)

Both teams are eliminated, but I think Miami has more fight in them.

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Denver Broncos (-3)

Big matchup in Mile High, the Broncos clinch the AFC West with a win.

Atlanta Falcons @ Arizona Cardinals (+2.5)

Both teams are eliminated, call it a hunch but I like Arizona at home.

Las Vegas Raiders @ Houston Texans (-14.5)

I’m tempted to pick the Texans in a shutout here, but I’ll give Vegas a touchdown.

Pittsburgh Steelers (+7) @ Detroit Lions

Lions need the win more and they’re at home.

New England Patriots (+3) @ Baltimore Ravens

Are the young Patriots ready to win a December road game against a playoff caliber opponent? I am not so sure.

San Francisco 49ers @ Indianapolis Colts (+6)

Niners clinch a playoff spot with a win.

Week 15 Recap

Trash Pandas vs Lancaster Lightning

Wow! I love fantasy football!

I thought, for sure, that I lost this week after Kyle Pitts had an all-time tight end fantasy game on Thursday night, but then the Sunday one o’clock window came.

Trevor Lawrence had a game for the ages. SIX total touchdowns & 70 points! He won the QB matchup by 28 and gets my MVP.

I won the RB duel 55-4 despite Jahmyr Gibbs only putting up 5 points because TreVeyon Henderson exploded for 50!

Wide receiver was an issue for me going into the week as my top two, Rome Odunze & Marvin Harrison Jr, both missed the previous game. Harrison was ruled out again, but Odunze was slated to go. Two minutes before kickoff, Odunze gets ruled out but he was already locked into my lineup. It could have been catastrophic, but ended up not hurting me, though I lost the WR battle, 34-8.

The TE battle was a bloodbath as Brock Bowers had a complete dud, while Pitts had a monster game. I lost this matchup, 41-4.

Dalton Schultz won the flex battle, 14-8.

The Philadelphia Eagles defense pitched a shutout and won the team defense matchup by 31 points.

The final score became a lot closer because I got crushed at kicker, 48-7.

This epic win, coupled with a loss by the division leader vaulted me into first place in the division and the #2 overall seed for the playoffs.

Week 16 Preview

Playoffs Round 1

Trash Pandas vs Achilles Heels

Previous Matchups

For the second time in three seasons the Pandas & Heels face off three times in a season. My opponent has, quite literally, been my Achilles heel, as I have a 1-6 record versus them. My only win coming in week one this season.

We split the season series this year and, coincidentally, also scored the exact same amount of points in the two matchups. My loss in week 13 was my only division loss of the season.

This is projected to be another close one. I need to keep an eye on my receivers as I have injury issues with all of them.

My keys to the week:

1. Justin Herbert- Even after Trevor Lawrence’s monster game, Herbert moves back into my starting lineup because he has a much better matchup than Lawrence. Don’t make me regret it.
2. Jahmyr Gibbs & TreVeyon Henderson- I feel like I have a distinct advantage at RB, especially since I think Devon Achane is projected way too high. If Gibbs & Henderson perform like they’re capable of, they could carry me to the next round.
3. Rome Odunze & Luther Burden III- One of the Bears receivers needs to be healthy for me, it would be even better if Marvin Harrison Jr was as well. I need my receivers not to squander any advantage my RBs might have.
4. Dalton Schultz– My stud TE, Brock Bowers, has a terrible matchup but I’m still playing him because I just can’t not. I’m also playing his counterpart, Schultz, because he has a much better matchup. It would be huge if my TE2 wins the flex battle.

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)