Five Things to Watch in NFL Week 12: Super Bowl Hangovers, Sibling Rivalries, and Playoff Implications
The NFL season is heating up as we head into Week 12, and there’s no shortage of drama, storylines, and high-stakes matchups to keep fans glued to their screens. From a potential Super Bowl hangover to a clash between coaching brothers, here are five things you need to know heading into this pivotal week of football action.
1. The Eagles Face a Super Bowl Hangover Test
The Philadelphia Eagles are flying high with a 9-1 record, but their mettle will be tested in a rematch of last season’s Super Bowl against the Kansas City Chiefs. The Chiefs, sitting at 7-3, are looking to bounce back after a surprising loss to the Denver Broncos in Week 8. This game is more than just a rematch—it’s a litmus test for both teams as they gear up for the postseason.
Philadelphia’s offense, led by Jalen Hurts, has been electric, but the Chiefs’ defense has been one of the league’s best this season. Can the Eagles prove they’re still the team to beat, or will Kansas City remind everyone why they’re the reigning champs? This Monday night showdown is must-watch TV.
2. The Harbaugh Bowl: Ravens vs. Chargers
It’s always a family affair when John Harbaugh’s Baltimore Ravens take on Jim Harbaugh’s Los Angeles Chargers. The Ravens, boasting an 8-3 record, are one of the AFC’s top teams, while the Chargers (4-6) are fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive. This game could have major implications for both teams, especially with the Ravens looking to solidify their position atop the AFC North.
Lamar Jackson has been playing at an MVP level, and the Ravens’ defense has been suffocating opponents. On the other hand, Justin Herbert and the Chargers’ offense have struggled with consistency. Can the Chargers pull off an upset, or will the Ravens continue their march toward the postseason?
3. The Cowboys’ Playoff Push
The Dallas Cowboys (7-3) are in the thick of the NFC playoff race, and they’ll look to keep their momentum going against the Washington Commanders (4-7) on Thanksgiving Day. Dallas has been dominant at home this season, and their defense, led by Micah Parsons, has been a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks.
Washington, meanwhile, is coming off a tough loss to the New York Giants and will need a near-perfect performance to take down the Cowboys. This game could be a turning point for both teams as they fight for postseason positioning.
4. Can the Bills Turn Things Around?
The Buffalo Bills (6-5) have been one of the league’s most inconsistent teams this season, and they’ll face a tough test against the New York Jets (4-6). Buffalo’s offense, led by Josh Allen, has shown flashes of brilliance, but turnovers and defensive lapses have plagued them all year.
The Jets, on the other hand, are dealing with their own struggles, particularly at the quarterback position. This AFC East matchup could be a make-or-break game for both teams as they try to stay in the playoff hunt.
5. The NFC South Race Heats Up
The NFC South has been one of the most unpredictable divisions this season, and Week 12 could provide some clarity. The New Orleans Saints (5-5) will take on the Atlanta Falcons (4-6) in a game that could have major implications for the division title. Both teams have been inconsistent, but a win here could give one of them a much-needed boost heading into the final stretch of the season.
With so much on the line, expect a hard-fought battle between these division rivals. The Saints’ defense will need to step up, while the Falcons will rely on their ground game to control the clock and keep the Saints’ offense off the field.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Philadelphia Eagles vs. Kansas City Chiefs: A Super Bowl rematch with major playoff implications.
- Baltimore Ravens vs. Los Angeles Chargers: Can the Chargers keep their season alive against one of the AFC’s best?
- Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Commanders: A Thanksgiving Day clash with playoff positioning on the line.
- Buffalo Bills vs. New York Jets: Will the Bills find consistency, or will the Jets play spoiler?
- New Orleans Saints vs. Atlanta Falcons: A pivotal NFC South showdown.
Week 12 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting weeks of the NFL season, with plenty of storylines to follow and games that could have a lasting impact on the playoff picture. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just tuning in for the holiday games, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this week.
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