Buccaneers Clinch NFC South Title, Evans Reaches Historic Milestone
Baker Mayfield orchestrated a remarkable comeback victory for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, securing their fourth consecutive NFC South title with a 27-19 win over the New Orleans Saints. Mayfield’s performance was a dual threat, showcasing his arm with a 32-yard touchdown pass to Jalen McMillan, and his legs with a crucial 28-yard scramble for a first down. This decisive drive ultimately set the stage for Mike Evans to achieve an unprecedented feat. On the final play of the game, Evans caught a nine-yard pass, surpassing 1,000 receiving yards for the 11th consecutive season, tying Jerry Rice’s NFL record. The Buccaneers’ victory, coupled with a potential loss by the Los Angeles Rams, would secure them the NFC’s No. 3 seed in the playoffs.
Texans End Season on High Note, Secure Wild Card Spot
The Houston Texans concluded their regular season with a convincing 23-14 victory over the Tennessee Titans, snapping a two-game losing streak and solidifying their place in the AFC playoffs. CJ Stroud’s efficient performance, completing all six of his passes for 50 yards and a touchdown on the opening drive, highlighted the Texans’ dominance. This win also marked their first since clinching their second consecutive AFC South title. The Texans now await their wild-card opponent, either the Los Angeles Chargers or the Pittsburgh Steelers. Meanwhile, the Titans’ season ended on a disappointing note, securing them the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NFL draft.
Bears Snap Losing Streak with Thrilling Victory Over Packers
In a stunning upset, the Chicago Bears defeated the Green Bay Packers 24-22, ending a 10-game losing streak and an 11-game losing streak against their rivals. Caleb Williams led the Bears’ game-winning drive, culminating in a 51-yard field goal by Cairo Santos as time expired. The victory marked a significant turnaround for the Bears, who overcame a late field goal by the Packers and a fumble by DJ Moore that had initially set up Green Bay’s scoring opportunity. The Packers, despite the loss, secured the No. 7 seed in the NFC playoffs, setting up a wild-card matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles. Their playoff hopes, however, may be tempered by injuries to quarterback Jordan Love and wide receiver Christian Watson.
Eagles Rest Starters, Prepare for Playoffs; Barkley Falls Short of Record
The Philadelphia Eagles secured a 20-13 victory over the New York Giants, but the focus shifted to their strategic resting of key starters in preparation for the playoffs. The decision meant that Saquon Barkley missed the opportunity to break Eric Dickerson’s NFL single-season rushing record, finishing just 101 yards short. Tanner McKee led the Eagles’ offense, throwing for 269 yards and two touchdowns in the win. While the Eagles secured the No. 2 seed in the NFC, the decision to rest their stars sparked some debate among fans.
Patriots Upset Bills, Impacting NFL Draft Order; Commanders Clinch Playoff Berth
The New England Patriots concluded their season with a surprising 23-16 victory over the Buffalo Bills, a win that cost them the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NFL draft. Joe Milton III’s impressive NFL debut, highlighted by a passing and a rushing touchdown, contributed significantly to the Patriots’ upset. Meanwhile, the Washington Commanders secured the sixth seed in the NFC playoffs with a thrilling 23-19 victory over the Dallas Cowboys, thanks to a late touchdown pass from Marcus Mariota to Terry McLaurin. The Commanders’ victory was further aided by the Green Bay Packers’ loss to the Chicago Bears.
Colts, Panthers Secure Final Wins; Falcons’ Season Ends
The Indianapolis Colts ended their season on a high note, defeating the Jacksonville Jaguars 26-23 in overtime, thanks to Jonathan Taylor’s impressive rushing performance. The Carolina Panthers also celebrated a final win, defeating the Atlanta Falcons 44-38 in overtime, fueled by Bryce Young’s exceptional dual-threat capabilities. Despite impressive performances by both Michael Penix Jr. and Bijan Robinson for the Falcons, their playoff hopes were dashed earlier by the Buccaneers’ victory. The Falcons and Panthers concluded their season, marking a seventh consecutive year without a playoff appearance for both teams.