Detroit Lions (13-2) and Kansas City Chiefs (14-1) Remain at the Top
The Detroit Lions and Kansas City Chiefs maintained their positions at the top of the pecking order in the NFL after Week 16. The Minnesota Vikings (13-2) and Buffalo Bills (12-3) are vying for the number one seeds in the postseason.
The Washington Commanders (10-5) ended the Philadelphia Eagles’ 10-game winning streak, propelling the top spot in the NFC East back into play. The Los Angeles Rams (9-6) moved ahead of the Seattle Seahawks (8-7) in the NFC West with a road win against the New York Jets.
Saquon Barkley has a chance to break Eric Dickerson’s single-season rushing record, which stands at 2,105 yards. He needs 268 yards in the last two games.
Week 16 saw notable achievements, including Myles Garrett’s 100th sack, tying Hall of Famer Bruce Smith as the fourth-fastest player to reach the mark.
Key Performances
* Jayden Daniels, QB, Commanders: Daniels completed 24 of 39 passes for 258 yards and five touchdowns, tying a league record.
* Brandon Aubrey, K, Cowboys: Aubrey made three field goals from beyond 50 yards, breaking the single-season record.
* Justin Jefferson, WR, Vikings: Jefferson recorded season highs in receptions (10) and receiving yards (144) for two scores.
* Ben Johnson, OC, Lions: Johnson’s latest trick play design, the “Stumble Bum” play, resulted in a 21-yard TD reception.
* Jonathan Taylor, RB, Colts: Taylor rushed for 219 yards and three touchdowns, becoming the second player in team history to achieve the feat.
Players Who Struggled
* Kyler Murray, QB, Cardinals: Murray had two turnovers, including an interception, in Arizona’s overtime loss to the Carolina Panthers.
* Geno Smith, QB, Seahawks: Smith finished with 314 yards and three touchdowns, but also had two interceptions.
* Pittsburgh Steelers: The Steelers are on a two-game losing streak and are tied with the Baltimore Ravens for the top spot in the AFC North.
* Eric D. Williams has covered the NFL for over a decade, reporting on the Los Angeles Rams, Los Angeles Chargers, and Seattle Seahawks. Follow him on Twitter @eric_d_williams.
