NFL Week 15 picks, schedule, odds, injuries, fantasy tips

The Week 15 NFL schedule for the 2024 season is stacked with nice matchups, and we have you coated with what you want to know heading into the weekend.

Our NFL Nation reporters convey us the most important keys to each recreation, and analytics author Seth Walder makes a daring prediction for every matchup. The ESPN Analysis crew offers an enormous stat to know and a betting nugget for every contest, whereas our Soccer Energy Index (FPI) goes contained in the numbers with a recreation projection and a have a look at the playoff image. Fantasy analyst Eric Moody finds fantasy soccer X components, and three analysts — Kalyn Kahler, Moody and Walder — give us remaining rating picks for each recreation. Every thing you wish to know is right here in a single spot that will help you prepare for a loaded weekend of NFL soccer.

Let’s get into the total Week 15 slate, together with the Browns taking over the Chiefs, the “Pennsylvania State Championship” and the Payments visiting the Lions. All of it culminates with a pair of “Monday Night time Soccer” matchups — the Bears go to the Vikings (8 p.m. ET) on ABC/ESPN+ and the Falcons tackle the Raiders (8:30 p.m. ET) on ESPN. (Recreation occasions are Sunday except in any other case famous.)

Soar to a matchup:KC-CLE | CIN-TEN | WSH-NOBAL-NYG | DAL-CAR | NYJ-JAXMIA-HOU | IND-DEN | BUF-DETPIT-PHI | NE-ARI | TB-LACGB-SEA | CHI-MIN | ATL-LV

Thursday: LAR 12, SF 6

1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: KC -4.5 (43.5 O/U)

Chiefs storyline to look at: Quarterback Patrick Mahomes has been sacked 13 occasions up to now three video games and already extra occasions (35) than ever in a season (his earlier excessive was 28 in 2021). Now, the Chiefs face reigning Defensive Participant of the 12 months Myles Garrett with a shaky deal with state of affairs. Mahomes made the passing recreation work final week in opposition to the Chargers regardless of heavy stress by throwing many fast passes, however the Chiefs would like extra huge move performs, which might be troublesome to get with out improved safety. — Adam Teicher

Browns storyline to look at: Can quarterback Jameis Winston stay affected person and stack methodical scoring drives in opposition to a Chiefs protection that has allowed the second-fewest explosive performs (64) within the NFL via Week 14? Winston has supplied extra explosiveness within the passing recreation, however he additionally has been turnover-prone, main the league with 9 interceptions since he took over because the starter in Week 8. Limiting Kansas Metropolis’s possessions might be key if the Browns wish to pull off the upset. — Daniel Oyefusi

Stat to know: Browns extensive receiver Jerry Jeudy has 50-plus receiving yards in six consecutive video games, which is the longest of his profession.

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Daring prediction: Browns cornerback Denzel Ward will give up no a couple of reception to extensive receiver DeAndre Hopkins. Ward is coming off a recreation wherein he wasn’t even focused, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats, and I count on the Chiefs should depend on their different playmakers. — Walder

What’s at stake: The Chiefs have a 77% likelihood to earn the highest seed within the AFC, per ESPN Analytics. That rises to 87% with a win and falls to 61% with a loss. Learn extra.

Accidents: Chiefs | Browns

Fantasy X issue: Chiefs operating again Isiah Pacheco. With windy, wet climate anticipated in Cleveland, the Chiefs would possibly lean closely on the operating recreation. Pacheco had 16 touches final week in simply his second recreation again from a fractured fibula. Count on the same workload. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Chiefs are 0-7 in opposition to the unfold (ATS) of their previous seven video games. No crew has received the Tremendous Bowl in the identical season it had a six-game ATS shedding streak. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Chiefs 24, Browns 17Moody’s decide: Chiefs 23, Browns 20Walder’s decide: Browns 26, Chiefs 23FPI prediction: KC, 58.8% (by a mean of three.6 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Mahomes on upcoming schedule: ‘Not a superb feeling’ … Haslam backs Stefanski, GM, will have a look at all else … .5 gamers Cleveland may very well be evaluating for 2025

1 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: CIN -5 (46.5 O/U)

Bengals storyline to look at: Quarterback Joe Burrow goes up in opposition to one in every of his most imposing foes in Titans defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons. Simmons has 3.5 sacks and 10 pressures in three profession video games versus the Bengals, together with Cincinnati’s playoff win in 2021, and Burrow has a 0.4 QBR when Simmons will get the primary stress. However Burrow is prepared: “This yr, I am making performs at a a lot increased charge than I ever had earlier than exterior of the construction.” — Ben Child

Titans storyline to look at: Ja’Marr Chase leads all extensive receivers in receptions (93), yards (1,319) and touchdowns (15), however the Titans’ move protection is tops within the league, permitting 175.5 yards per recreation. Rookie cornerback Jarvis Brownlee Jr. is wanting ahead to the matchup. “He is one of many high receivers,” he stated. “You reside for moments like this. Each week has been a problem for me as a rookie, however this week is a chance to maintain placing the NFL on discover.” — Turron Davenport

Stat to know: The Titans’ loss to the Jaguars final Sunday clinched their third straight season with 10 or extra losses. It is the primary time the franchise has achieved that since 1983 to 1986, when the crew was the Houston Oilers.

Daring prediction: The Bengals will rating 40-plus factors. I’ve little or no religion on this Titans crew that ranks twenty fifth and twenty fourth in offensive and defensive EPA per play, respectively, since Week 10, and Cincinnati has the potential to be distinctive. — Walder

What’s at stake: Though the Titans have been knocked out of the playoffs, the Bengals nonetheless have a 3% likelihood on the postseason after their Monday evening win over the Cowboys. Learn extra.

Accidents: Bengals | Titans

Fantasy X issue: Titans operating again Tony Pollard. He thrives with quantity. This season, he is averaging 14.4 fantasy factors per recreation when he will get 16-plus touches. The Bengals’ defensive entrance ranks twenty fourth in run cease win charge (29.4%) and simply allowed 141 complete yards to Cowboys operating again Rico Dowdle on 19 touches. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Bengals are 4-0 ATS as street favorites this season. Burrow is 12-4 ATS as a street favourite in his profession. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Bengals 35, Titans 20Moody’s decide: Bengals 35, Titans 21Walder’s decide: Bengals 42, Titans 14FPI prediction: CIN, 61.8% (by a mean of 4.6 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Burrow laments violations of privateness after residence break-in … Titans enjoying for delight regardless of no playoffs, centered on Bengals

1 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: WSH -7.5 (43.5 O/U)

Commanders storyline to look at: Cornerback Marshon Lattimore will most likely make his Commanders debut this week in opposition to the crew that traded him Nov. 5. Lattimore has missed his previous 5 video games due to a hamstring damage. Washington has been mum on the way it will use him, however the Commanders know he has excelled at press man protection. Within the first 13 video games, Washington ranked thirteenth in variety of occasions it performed press man; as Lattimore settles in, that quantity ought to improve. — John Keim

Saints storyline to look at: Quarterback Derek Carr is each within the concussion protocol and nursing a hand damage that would trigger him to overlook time. On Thursday, a supply advised ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler that, after interim coach Darren Rizzi held an open competitors in follow this week, the Saints plan to start out Jake Haener over rookie Spencer Rattler if Carr is dominated out. — Katherine Terrell

Stat to know: Saints operating again Alvin Kamara is 62 dashing yards from reaching the primary 1,000-yard dashing season of his profession.

Daring prediction: Somebody will return a kickoff for a landing. The Commanders and Saints rank final and second-to-last by way of most kick return yards allowed over expectation at 287 and 147, respectively, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. — Walder

What’s at stake: The Commanders have an 85% likelihood to make the postseason, per ESPN Analytics, and people odds would rise to 92% with a win and fall to 68% with a loss. The Saints have lower than a 1% shot to make the playoffs. Learn extra.

Accidents: Commanders | Saints

Fantasy X issue: Commanders operating again Brian Robinson Jr. The Saints’ protection offers up the eighth-most fantasy factors per recreation to operating backs. Robinson has been on hearth, scoring 14-plus fantasy factors in two of his previous three video games. With Austin Ekeler (concussion) on IR, count on Robinson to get a heavy workload. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Saints are 0-6 outright and ATS in opposition to groups with successful data this season. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Commanders 28, Saints 21Moody’s decide: Commanders 30, Saints 13Walder’s decide: Commanders 24, Saints 6FPI prediction: WSH, 69.9% (by a mean of seven.7 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Commanders WR Brown out with ‘important’ damage … Saints QB Carr ‘week-to-week’ with hand damage, concussion … How Washington received its offense rolling once more

1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: BAL -16 (42.5 O/U)

Ravens storyline to look at: This has the makings of an enormous day for operating again Derrick Henry and the Ravens’ dashing assault. The Giants are giving up 4.9 yards per carry this season, which is tied for the franchise’s second-worst efficiency over the previous 20 years. Baltimore is averaging 5.72 yards per rush try, which is the second greatest in NFL historical past behind the 1963 Browns. — Jamison Hensley

Giants storyline to look at: With Tommy DeVito beginning at quarterback, the Giants will attempt to get the ball downfield, particularly in opposition to the Ravens’ Thirty second-ranked move protection. Baltimore has allowed 264.9 passing yards per recreation this season. Within the three video games since shifting on from Daniel Jones, the Giants have tried 13 passes of 20-plus yards with DeVito and Drew Lock, who’s out with a heel damage, at quarterback, seventh most within the NFL. — Jordan Raanan

Stat to know: Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson has 29 passing touchdowns this season, which is the second most within the NFL behind Joe Burrow’s 33 and already his most since having 36 in his unanimous MVP season in 2019.

Daring prediction: Giants operating again Tyrone Tracy Jr. will document fewer than 30 dashing yards. The Ravens have the highest-ranked run protection by way of EPA per play, and there is a fairly good likelihood the Giants will fall behind early and begin throwing downfield. — Walder

What’s at stake: The Ravens are nonetheless within the hunt for the AFC North crown, holding a 20% likelihood to win the division in contrast with the Steelers’ 80%. Their odds enhance to 23% with a win and fall to six% with a loss. Learn extra.

Accidents: Ravens | Giants

Fantasy X issue: Malik Nabers. He’s coming off a robust Week 14 efficiency wherein he had 14.9 fantasy factors, enjoying 93.2% of the snaps and operating routes on 90% of the Giants’ 51 move performs. Now, he faces a Ravens protection that’s giving up the third-most fantasy factors per recreation to receivers. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The previous eight street favorites of 14-plus factors are 1-7 ATS, with three outright losses. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Ravens 30, Giants 17Moody’s decide: Ravens 34, Giants 17Walder’s decide: Ravens 30, Giants 13FPI prediction: BAL, 81.5% (by a mean of 13.8 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Ravens say WR Johnson’s suspension is not a distraction … Giants coach Brian Daboll, GM Joe Schoen are within the highlight

1 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: CAR -3 (43.5 O/U)

Cowboys storyline to look at: Final week’s loss to Cincinnati left the Cowboys as down as they’ve been all season, so how do the gamers reply on a brief week in opposition to the Panthers, who’ve performed higher of late? The gamers have continued to battle below coach Mike McCarthy, however this might be his largest problem thus far with leaders resembling quarterback Dak Prescott (hamstring) and Zack Martin (ankle) out for the season. A two-game successful streak had the Cowboys dreaming of a playoff run. At 5-8, they don’t seem to be out of the chase but, however a loss to the Panthers would imply their first sub-.500 end since 2020. — Todd Archer

Panthers storyline to look at: The Panthers are favored for the primary time in 34 video games, going again to 2022 in opposition to the Steelers. They misplaced that recreation, however the reality they’re favored this week reveals how nicely they’ve performed in three consecutive shut losses, together with 22-16 final week at Philadelphia. Quarterback Bryce Younger is an enormous motive. His 60 Whole QBR since Week 9 is healthier than Patrick Mahomes’ and higher than these of the three different QBs within the NFC South. — David Newton

Stat to know: The Cowboys and Panthers have two of the worst dashing defenses within the NFL. Carolina ranks final in rush yards allowed per recreation (170.1), and Dallas ranks thirtieth (141.9).

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Daring prediction: Panthers edge D.J. Wonnum will document a sack. He has recorded three in 4 video games, and he ought to win his matchup in opposition to both Chuma Edoga or Tyler Guyton. — Walder

What’s at stake: The Panthers maintain a ten.5% likelihood to get the No. 1 decide within the 2025 NFL draft, that are the third-highest odds, per ESPN’s FPI, behind these of the Giants (41%) and Patriots (24%). Their probabilities improve to 19.1% with a loss. Learn extra.

Accidents: Cowboys | Panthers

Fantasy X issue: Cowboys operating again Rico Dowdle. He is coming into his personal this season, dashing for greater than 100 yards in consecutive video games for the primary time in his profession. Dowdle has had 18 or extra touches and 15 or extra fantasy factors in consecutive video games. No different protection permits extra fantasy factors per recreation to operating backs than the Panthers do. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: First-half overs in Panthers video games are 11-1-1 this season, which is the very best mark within the NFL. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Panthers 27, Cowboys 23Moody’s decide: Panthers 28, Cowboys 24Walder’s decide: Cowboys 19, Panthers 16FPI prediction: DAL, 52.9% (by a mean of 1.0 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Chasing 1,000 yards, RB Dowdle a uncommon brilliant spot for 5-8 Cowboys … Will Dalton return to again up Younger at quarterback? … Panthers early favorites vs. Cowboys; first time since 2022

1 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: NYJ -3.5 (43.5 O/U)

Jets storyline to look at: Quarterback Aaron Rodgers is coming off his most prolific recreation of the season (339 passing yards) because the Jets’ offense continues to indicate indicators of enchancment. New York has scored 74 factors up to now three video games, a relative explosion. The Jaguars are permitting a league-high 391 yards per recreation, however they play a number of man-to-man protection — and that causes issues for the Jets. Rodgers ranks Twenty ninth out of 33 certified quarterbacks in QBR (45) in opposition to man-to-man. — Wealthy Cimini

Jaguars storyline to look at: In his previous 5 begins (three with the Jaguars, two with the Patriots), quarterback Mac Jones is 1-4 and has averaged 145.6 passing yards per recreation. He additionally has thrown eight interceptions with zero TD passes, and his groups have scored a mixed 36 factors. Now, he faces a Jets protection that ranks fourth in yards allowed per recreation (306.8) and passing yards allowed per recreation (186.9). — Michael DiRocco

Stat to know: The Jaguars’ protection ranks final in yards allowed per recreation (396.1). That is on tempo to be Jacksonville’s second-highest yards per recreation allowed via a season in franchise historical past (2020, 417.7).

Daring prediction: Jaguars extensive receiver Brian Thomas Jr. will document 100-plus receiving yards. He has gotten double-digit targets in every of the previous two video games, which is what Jacksonville must do. And even when Sauce Gardner (hamstring) performs, he isn’t enjoying nicely this season. — Walder

What’s at stake: The Jaguars and the Jets have been eradicated from the playoff race, and each may very well be selecting within the high 5 of the 2025 draft. They’ve 54.1% and 36.1% odds, respectively, at a top-five choice, per ESPN’s FPI. Learn extra.

Accidents: Jets | Jaguars

Fantasy X issue: Rodgers. He had his first 300-yard passing recreation since Week 14 of 2021 final week. Now, he and extensive receivers Garrett Wilson and Davante Adams are in an incredible place in opposition to a Jaguars protection that enables the second-most passing yards per recreation. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Jets are 3-12 ATS of their previous 15 video games as favorites, together with 1-6 ATS of their previous seven video games. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Jets 21, Jaguars 17Moody’s decide: Jets 20, Jaguars 13Walder’s decide: Jets 20, Jaguars 17FPI prediction: NYJ, 62.9% (by a mean of 4.9 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Rodgers acknowledges ‘some kind of curse’ Jets must snap … Jaguars’ Hines-Allen, Thomas chasing crew data vs. Jets … Jets collapse once more, lengthen postseason drought to 14 seasons

1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: HOU -3 (46.5 O/U)

Dolphins storyline to look at: Keep watch over the turnover battle; Houston’s protection intercepts passes on the second-highest charge within the NFL at 3.72%. Miami, alternatively, has thrown interceptions on simply 1.1% of its move makes an attempt this season — the fourth-lowest charge within the league. Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has thrown 11 touchdowns to zero interceptions in his previous 4 video games and has a 15-1 touchdown-to-interception ratio in seven video games since getting back from injured reserve. — Marcel Louis-Jacques

Texans storyline to look at: Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud has had the second-most dropbacks (252) in opposition to two-split protection, and the Dolphins run split-safety seems to be on 47% of opposing quarterbacks’ dropbacks. That may very well be an issue for Stroud, as he has a QBR of 36 (thirtieth) when dealing with split-safety coverages and is finishing 63% of his passes (twenty seventh) with six touchdowns and 6 interceptions. Additionally, the Texans have a dashing success charge of 34% in opposition to two-high protection, third worst. — DJ Bien-Aime

Stat to know: Tagovailoa has accomplished 70% or extra of his passes in seven straight video games, which is the longest streak in Dolphins historical past and tied for the second longest in a season. Solely Joe Montana (eight straight in 1989) has an extended streak since this was first tracked in 1933.

Daring prediction: Texans tight finish Dalton Schultz will rating a landing in his second consecutive recreation. Of targets in opposition to the Dolphins, 24% go to tight ends, which is greater than another NFL crew. — Walder

What’s at stake: The Dolphins maintain a 14% likelihood to make the playoffs, based on ESPN Analytics. That will increase to 27% with a win and reduces to 4% with a loss. The Texans can clinch the AFC South with a win and an Indianapolis loss. Learn extra.

Accidents: Dolphins | Texans

Fantasy X issue: Dolphins extensive receiver Tyreek Hill. He and Jaylen Waddle are in an incredible spot this week in opposition to the Texans. Houston’s protection permits the sixth-most fantasy factors to extensive receivers. Hill has posted nine-plus targets and 20-plus fantasy factors in back-to-back video games. Waddle has hit these marks in two of his previous three. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Texans are 11-2 ATS within the first half this season, which is tied for the very best mark within the NFL. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Dolphins 28, Texans 26Moody’s decide: Texans 31, Dolphins 28Walder’s decide: Dolphins 23, Texans 20FPI prediction: HOU, 54.7% (by a mean of 1.9 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Miami retains slim playoff hopes alive with OT win vs. Jets … How the Texans constructed a successful basis to help QB Stroud … Tua employed personal safety after automobile break-in … RB Mixon’s manufacturing has been key for Texans

4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: DEN -4 (43.5 O/U)

Colts storyline to look at: Sunday’s recreation is huge for the Colts as a result of the Broncos are their main challenger for the ultimate AFC wild-card spot. However the Colts have not fared nicely in pivotal late-season video games in recent times. A few notable failures embody final season’s Week 18 loss to the Texans that decided the winner of the AFC South. And in 2021, with the Colts poised to clinch a playoff spot simply, they shockingly misplaced to the Raiders and Jaguars in Weeks 17 and 18, respectively, knocking Indianapolis out of the postseason. — Stephen Holder

Broncos storyline to look at: The Broncos, who lead the league with 47 sacks, should resolve Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson. He’s final within the league in completion proportion (47.4%), however he’s additionally regularly on the hunt for the large play as he leads the NFL in air yards per try (12.1). The Broncos cannot get lulled by the incompletions and let Richardson make the one or two difference-making performs in a recreation Denver desperately must strengthen its playoff probabilities — Jeff Legwold

Stat to know: The Colts have the second-easiest remaining schedule of any crew within the NFL. Solely the Falcons have a neater ending slate.

Daring prediction: Colts edge Laiatu Latu will document a sack. Latu has been bettering a little bit bit every recreation, with two sacks and a 22% move rush win charge at edge (eighth highest) since Week 10. — Walder

What’s at stake: The Broncos’ probabilities on the playoffs improve to 92% with a win and reduce to 50% with a loss, per ESPN Analytics. The Colts’ odds on the postseason climb to 53% with a win and fall to six% with a loss. Learn extra.

Accidents: Colts | Broncos

Fantasy X issue: Broncos quarterback Bo Nix. He’s in an incredible spot popping out of the bye week. Nix will face a Colts protection that has allowed the seventh-most passing yards per recreation. He has been constant, scoring 17-plus fantasy factors in 4 of his previous six video games, together with two with 28 or extra. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Colts have coated 5 straight video games after a bye. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Broncos 28, Colts 17Moody’s decide: Broncos 24, Colts 19Walder’s decide: Broncos 24, Colts 17FPI prediction: DEN, 56.5% (by a mean of two.4 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Colts DB Moore stays a key participant … Mims may very well be X consider Broncos’ playoff push

4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: DET -2.5 (54.5 O/U)

Payments storyline to look at: Can the Payments’ protection rebound from final week’s loss to the Rams? The unit is coming off its worst efficiency of the season, permitting 44 factors and conversions on 11 of 15 third-down makes an attempt. A major problem awaits within the league’s highest-scoring offense (32.1 factors per recreation). “I feel we have to get again to good elementary soccer,” coach Sean McDermott stated on the protection bouncing again. “I feel that is actually the place it begins and enjoying with a sure angle.” — Alaina Getzenberg

Lions storyline to look at: The Lions are conscious that this may very well be a Tremendous Bowl LIX preview, however the mindset coming into this week is not any completely different. Three of the 4 NFC North groups have at the least 9 wins, so Detroit has been examined inside its division en path to clinching a playoff spot already. Security Kerby Joseph is among the guys within the locker room who is not permitting teammates to make this recreation any larger than what it’s. “Going in opposition to a crew like this, I really feel like they have guys, however we have guys additionally,” Joseph advised ESPN. “It is only a competitors to go head-to-head in opposition to the very best.” — Eric Woodyard

Stat to know: The Payments have scored 30-plus factors in seven straight video games, which is the longest streak in franchise historical past and one shy of the longest in NFL historical past.

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Daring prediction: The Lions will block a punt. The Payments are permitting a 14% stress charge on punts, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. That is the second-highest charge within the league, behind solely the 49ers. — Walder

What’s at stake: The Lions have a 75.7% likelihood to earn the No. 1 seed within the NFC, based on ESPN Analytics, which will increase to 84.9% with a win. The Payments’ odds of incomes the No. 1 seed within the AFC improve to 30% with a win. Learn extra.

Accidents: Payments | Lions

Fantasy X issue: Lions operating backs David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs. This duo is on hearth this season, averaging 32.6 touches and 34.6 fantasy factors per recreation behind a Detroit offensive line that ranks thirteenth in run block win charge (71.9%). The Payments’ protection offers up the third-most fantasy factors per recreation to operating backs. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Payments have gone over their crew complete in 11 of 13 video games, which is the best mark within the NFL. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Lions 30, Payments 28Moody’s decide: Payments 33, Lions 30Walder’s decide: Lions 30, Payments 24FPI prediction: DET, 57.5% (by a mean of two.6 factors)

Matchup must-reads: How Lions and Payments match up forward of recreation of the season … Lions host Payments in doable Tremendous Bowl preview

4:25 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: PHI -5.5 (43.5 O/U)

Steelers storyline to look at: The unofficial Pennsylvania State Championship goes to return right down to the trenches. The Steelers, boasting a top-five dashing protection that has restricted opponents to 91.5 yards per recreation, will sq. off in opposition to the league’s main rusher in Saquon Barkley. On the flip aspect, Pittsburgh’s younger offensive line will face its hardest check of the season in opposition to a pair of maulers in defensive tackles Jordan Davis and Jalen Carter. “It is an incredible problem,” offensive coordinator Arthur Smith stated. “It is what you need. You don’t need issues to be straightforward. If we will get to the place we wish to go, we have now to get via these challenges.” — Brooke Pryor

Eagles storyline to look at: The core situation that sparked the Jalen Hurts-A.J. Brown drama is the crew’s slumping move recreation. Reliant on Barkley and the bottom assault, Philadelphia is final within the NFL in passing makes an attempt (328) and thirty first in passing yards (2,348). Establishing a rhythm between Hurts and his receivers has been a problem. There’s an urgency to get the aerial recreation buzzing earlier than the playoffs. “We’re engaged on it,” deal with Jordan Mailata stated. “I am excited for this week.” — Tim McManus

Stat to know: The Steelers have misplaced 10 consecutive street video games versus the Eagles, courting to 1965. That’s tied for his or her longest street shedding streak in opposition to a single opponent in franchise historical past.

Daring prediction: Brown will obtain at the least 4 first-quarter targets. In an effort to squash the potential strife over Philadelphia’s passing recreation, I would not be shocked if the Eagles attempt to drive the ball to Brown early. — Walder

What’s at stake: The Steelers can clinch a playoff berth with a win or tie. They’ll additionally attain the postseason this weekend with a Miami loss or tie and an Indianapolis loss or tie. Learn extra.

Accidents: Steelers | Eagles

Fantasy X issue: Barkley. He’s averaging 22.7 touches and 23.1 fantasy factors per recreation. Although the Steelers have achieved nicely limiting operating again manufacturing, Philly’s offensive line — ranked eighth in run block win charge (73.4%) — ought to create operating lanes for Barkley in opposition to Pittsburgh’s defensive entrance. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Steelers have received seven straight video games as underdogs, tied for the second-longest streak because the 1970 merger. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Steelers 24, Eagles 22Moody’s decide: Eagles 27, Steelers 23Walder’s decide: Steelers 26, Eagles 24FPI prediction: PHI. 60.5% (by a mean of 4.2 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Steelers coming into hardest part of the season … QB Hurts, WR Brown clear air, say Graham ‘misspoke’

4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: ARI -6 (46.5 O/U)

Patriots storyline to look at: Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye (345 yards, 1 TD) and Cardinals sixth-year quarterback Kyler Murray (444 yards, 4 TDs) have mixed for 789 dashing yards and 5 dashing TDs this season. This displays how each groups’ defensive plans to restrict QB scrambles may very well be the important thing. Earlier than the Patriots’ bye, Maye’s 41-yard run in a Week 13 loss to the Colts tied for the third-longest run by a quarterback in Patriots historical past. — Mike Reiss

Cardinals storyline to look at: This is likely to be the sport the Cardinals’ offense breaks out of its purple zone rut. Arizona’s purple zone charge up to now three video games, all losses, is eighteen.2% in contrast with 63.3% within the first 10 video games when Arizona was 6-4. It is internet hosting a Patriots crew that’s tied for twenty first in purple zone protection, permitting a charge of 60.9%. Serving to the Cardinals’ possibilities of discovering their purple zone rhythm is the Patriots’ defensive struggles in goal-to-go conditions. They’ve allowed touchdowns on 80% of probabilities whereas Arizona has scored touchdowns on simply 25% of its purple zone journeys up to now three weeks. — Josh Weinfuss

Stat to know: The Cardinals have misplaced three video games in a row (Weeks 12-14) after a four-game successful streak. Throughout that span, their 15.3 factors per recreation ranks Twenty ninth within the league.

Daring prediction: Cardinals kicker Chad Ryland will miss a kick — area aim or PAT — from 45 yards or nearer in opposition to his outdated crew. Ryland, who missed a 40-yard area aim final week, is ranked final amongst energetic kickers in ESPN Analytics’ kicker scores. — Walder

What’s at stake: The Cardinals nonetheless have a slender likelihood on the postseason with 9% odds. That will increase to 10% with a win and drops to 4% with a loss. Learn extra.

Accidents: Patriots | Cardinals

Fantasy X issue: Patriots tight finish Hunter Henry. He has been the Patriots’ most dependable move catcher this season. He leads the crew with 83 targets and 610 receiving yards. Henry has seen eight or extra targets in three straight video games and may keep busy in opposition to the Cardinals. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Overs are 6-2 when Maye begins, and three straight Patriots video games have gone over the overall. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Cardinals 24, Patriots 17Moody’s decide: Cardinals 20, Patriots 19Walder’s decide: Cardinals 21, Patriots 17FPI prediction: ARI, 71.8% (by a mean of 8.6 factors)

Matchup must-reads: How QB Maye has developed into chief Patriots want … Cardinals seeking solutions as shedding streak reaches 3

4:25 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: LAC -3 (45.5 O/U)

Buccaneers storyline to look at: The Bucs have received three straight video games to get to 7-6 and transfer forward of the Falcons into first place within the NFC South. That is arguably their hardest remaining opponent, because it’s the one one with a successful document. The Chargers’ protection makes this significantly difficult for quarterback Baker Mayfield & Co. Los Angeles permits a league-low 15.9 factors per recreation and has given up solely 15 passing touchdowns this season. — Jenna Laine

Chargers storyline to look at: The Chargers have not misplaced back-to-back video games since Weeks 3 and 4, once they fell to the Chiefs and Steelers, respectively. A part of the explanation they misplaced these video games was that quarterback Justin Herbert had a excessive proper ankle sprain. Herbert is navigating one other ankle sprain this week, this time to his left ankle. If Herbert performs, he may very well be restricted as a runner, which might damage the Chargers’ probabilities and cause them to dropping two video games in a row for the second time this season. — Kris Rhim

Stat to know: The Bucs are using a three-game win streak after shedding 4 straight from Week 7 to Week 10. They’ve rushed for at the least 150 yards in all three video games, which is tied for the longest streak in franchise historical past.

Daring prediction: Buccaneers extensive receiver Sterling Shepard might be held to fewer than 10 yards. Chargers defensive again Derwin James Jr. has allowed simply 0.6 yards per protection snap this season, which is the bottom amongst gamers who primarily line up within the slot and have performed at the least 200 protection snaps, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. — Walder

What’s at stake: The Buccaneers maintain a one-game lead over the Falcons within the NFC South. Their probabilities to win the division title improve to 87% with a win and fall to 63% with a loss. Learn extra.

Accidents: Buccaneers | Chargers

Fantasy X issue: Herbert. He has been quiet these days, averaging simply 13.1 fantasy factors per recreation over the previous three. However the Buccaneers’ protection offers up probably the most fantasy factors per recreation to quarterbacks. With extensive receiver Ladd McConkey again within the combine, Herbert is in an incredible spot. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Chargers are 10-3 ATS this season, tied for the very best document within the NFL. They’re 6-1 ATS of their previous seven video games. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Chargers 24, Buccaneers 20Moody’s decide: Chargers 24, Buccaneers 21Walder’s decide: Chargers 24, Buccaneers 16FPI prediction: LAC, 51.5% (by a mean of 0.5 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Bucs management playoff destiny with 4 video games left … S Winfield Jr. has knee sprain, out couple weeks

8:20 p.m. ET | NBC/Peacock | ESPN BET: GB -2.5 (45.5 O/U)

Packers storyline to look at: Working again Josh Jacobs has 11 dashing touchdowns this season, together with seven over the previous three video games — tied for the second most in a three-game span in Packers historical past. Although the Seahawks have allowed 4.7 yards per carry (solely six groups have allowed extra per carry this season), they’ve given up simply 10 dashing touchdowns this season (seventh fewest). And the final time Jacobs performed in opposition to the Seahawks (as a member of the Raiders in 2022), he totaled 303 yards from scrimmage, together with 229 dashing and two touchdowns in an additional time win. — Rob Demovsky

Seahawks storyline to look at: The Seahawks’ embattled offensive line is coming off its greatest efficiency of the season. Along with paving the way in which for 176 dashing yards within the win over Arizona final week, the group allowed solely two quarterback hits and a 16.7% stress charge — each season lows — and didn’t enable a sack for the primary time this season. The Cardinals haven’t got an elite move rush, however neither do the Packers, who’re twenty eighth in stress charge and twenty sixth in move rush win charge. — Brady Henderson

Stat to know: The Packers haven’t misplaced to a crew exterior of their division since Week 1 in opposition to the Eagles.

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Daring prediction: The Seahawks will document an interception in opposition to quarterback Jordan Love by disguising their security shell. Seattle employs a security disguise — pivoting from single-high to two-high or vice versa — 31% of the time, the seventh-highest charge within the NFL. Inexperienced Bay has the Twenty ninth-highest EPA per dropback in opposition to security disguise performs. — Walder

What’s at stake: The Packers have all however secured a spot within the playoffs with 99% odds. The Seahawks can enhance their probabilities to 73% with a win, however these probabilities fall to 45% with a loss. Learn extra.

Accidents: Packers | Seahawks

Fantasy X issue: Jacobs. With a tricky street check in Seattle, establishing the run via Jacobs might be necessary. Because the Packers’ bye, Jacobs has 18-plus touches and 20-plus fantasy factors in 4 straight video games. Seattle’s protection permits the eighth-most dashing yards to operating backs. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Seahawks have coated 4 straight video games as underdogs. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Packers 19, Seahawks 17Moody’s decide: Seahawks 26, Packers 19Walder’s decide: Seahawks 20, Packers 17FPI prediction: GB, 62.5% (by a mean of 4.8 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Why WR Reed did not get a catch in Packers’ loss to Lions … Reemergence of run recreation powers Seahawks to fourth straight win

Monday, 8 p.m. ET | ABC/ESPN+ | ESPN BET: MIN -6 (43.5 O/U)

Bears storyline to look at: Quarterback Caleb Williams had a robust efficiency in opposition to the Vikings’ stress in Week 12, recording his first multi-touchdown recreation in opposition to the blitz (9-of-12 for 128 yards, 2 TDs). The Bears combatted the stress by placing Williams in conditions to get the ball out rapidly, resulting in his lowest time to move (2.42 seconds). The rematch would possibly present the backdrop for one more profitable day for Williams establishing a deep passing assault. He was 5-of-12 for 141 yards on passes with 15-plus air yards in opposition to Minnesota, his most completions on these passes in a recreation thus far. — Courtney Cronin

Vikings storyline to look at: The Bears gained 398 yards in opposition to the Vikings’ protection within the Week 12 matchup. Within the two video games since, the Vikings have given up 406 and 496 yards to the Cardinals and Falcons, respectively. Yards allowed do not inform all the story of any scheme, however defensive coordinator Brian Flores has responded with some urgency. He has blended extra younger gamers into his personnel rotations and even put aside a follow day for tackling drills. If that does not work, the Vikings will want continued excessive manufacturing from their offense to compensate. — Kevin Seifert

Stat to know: Vikings extensive receiver Justin Jefferson had 132 receiving yards with two touchdowns in Week 14 in opposition to the Falcons. He has by no means had back-to-back video games with a number of receiving touchdowns in his profession.

Daring prediction: Vikings linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel will document his third defensive landing of the season. It is only a feeling, however I will fortunately wager on this Vikings protection in opposition to the Bears’ offense any day. — Walder

What’s at stake: The Vikings can attain the playoffs with a win or a tie. They’ll additionally clinch a spot this weekend if the Rams both lose or tie in opposition to the 49ers, or the Seahawks both lose or tie in opposition to the Packers. Learn extra.

Accidents: Bears | Vikings

Fantasy X issue: Bears extensive receiver Rome Odunze. He’s coming off his second-best fantasy efficiency of the season, placing up 20.2 factors in Week 14. He is in an incredible spot in opposition to a Vikings protection that enables probably the most fantasy factors per recreation to extensive receivers. Odunze has additionally averaged 0.96 fantasy factors per goal this season. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Bears are 0-6 outright on the street this season (2-4 ATS). Unders are 5-1 in Bears street video games this season. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Vikings 30, Bears 20Moody’s decide: Vikings 34, Bears 27Walder’s decide: Vikings 31, Bears 13FPI prediction: MIN, 65.3% (by a mean of 6.0 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Bears search solutions after shedding interim coach Thomas Brown’s debut

Monday, 8:30 p.m. ET | ESPN | ESPN BET: ATL -4 (44.5 O/U)

Falcons storyline to look at: With quarterback Kirk Cousins within the worst stoop of his profession (eight interceptions up to now 4 video games), the Falcons might look to ascertain the operating recreation early. Atlanta is one in every of solely two groups within the NFL with two operating backs — Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier — exceeding plus-70 dashing yards over anticipated on designed runs. In the meantime, the Raiders have allowed the second-most dashing yards over anticipated on designed runs (plus-213) this season. — Marc Raimondi

Raiders storyline to look at: With QB Aidan O’Connell nursing a bone bruise on his left knee, Desmond Ridder is likely to be in line for a revenge recreation in opposition to Atlanta. Ridder, drafted within the third spherical by the Falcons in 2022, was traded to the Cardinals in March after going 8-9 as a starter in two seasons. He was signed by the Raiders off Arizona’s follow squad in October, two days after O’Connell broke the thumb on his proper (passing) hand. So, with Gardner Minshew achieved for the season due to a damaged collarbone, Ridder’s first begin for Las Vegas would possibly come in opposition to his first NFL crew. “God,” Ridder stated, “works in mysterious methods.” — Paul Gutierrez

Stat to know: The Falcons’ four-game shedding streak is their longest since 2022. They have not misplaced 5 straight since 2020.

Daring prediction: Raiders linebacker Robert Spillane will lead the league in tackles in Week 15. Atlanta ranks third in run charge over expectation, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats, and that ought to play proper into Spillane’s favor to rack up numbers. — Walder

What’s at stake: The Falcons had 85% odds of successful their division previous to their four-game shedding streak (presently 26%, per ESPN Analytics). Their probabilities on the NFC South title enhance to 37% with a win and fall to 12% with a loss. Learn extra.

Accidents: Falcons | Raiders

Fantasy X issue: Raiders extensive receiver Jakobi Meyers. He has had 10-plus targets in three straight video games and scored 15-plus fantasy factors in two of them. Now, Meyers faces the Falcons’ protection, which has struggled in opposition to extensive receivers. Solely the Ravens have allowed extra fantasy factors per recreation to receivers this season. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Falcons are 0-3 ATS of their previous three street video games. They’re 6-14 ATS of their previous 20 street video games. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Falcons 24, Raiders 17Moody’s decide: Raiders 23, Falcons 20Walder’s decide: Falcons 26, Raiders 16FPI prediction: ATL, 55.8% (by a mean of two.5 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Falcons’ plan to not rush rookie QB Penix into motion … Raiders DE Snowden dealing with DUI cost … Falcons using with Cousins regardless of struggles