The Week 12 NFL schedule for the 2025 season brings some thrilling matchups.
The Chiefs hope to get their season again on observe in opposition to the Colts, historic nemesis Aaron Rodgers might make his return to Chicago, and two of the league’s most fun offenses — the Bucs and the Rams — face off.
We’ve got you lined with every thing it’s essential know. Our NFL Nation reporters take you contained in the locker room with the most effective factor they heard this week, and ESPN Analysis offers a key stat to know and a betting nugget for every contest. Plus, analytics author Seth Walder makes a daring prediction for every matchup, and fantasy analyst Eric Moody shares fantasy soccer intel. We even have Soccer Energy Index (FPI) recreation projections, and three analysts — Pamela Maldonado, Moody and Walder — give us closing rating picks for each recreation.
Let’s get into the total Week 12 slate, which culminates with a “Monday Evening Soccer” matchup between the Panthers and 49ers on ESPN. (Recreation occasions are Sunday except in any other case famous.)
Bounce to a matchup:
IND-KC | MIN-GB | NYG-DET
NE-CIN | PIT-CHI | NYJ-BAL
SEA-TEN | JAX-ARI | CLE-LV
PHI-DAL | ATL-NO | TB-LAR
CAR-SF
Thursday: BUF-HOU
Bye: DEN, MIA, LAC, WSH
1 p.m. ET | CBS
ESPN BET: KC -3.5 (49.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Colts: The Colts might have their full, revamped secondary intact for the primary time this season with CB Charvarius Ward nearing his return from injured reserve (concussion). That would give the Colts a lineup of Ward, Sauce Gardner and Kenny Moore II (slot) at CB, with Cam Bynum and Nick Cross at security. It offers the Colts limitless flexibility when it comes to matchups and coverages and comes simply in time to face QB Patrick Mahomes on the street. — Stephen Holder
What we’re listening to on the Chiefs: The Chiefs are expressing loads of urgency for his or her closing seven video games of the common season and hope a win can propel them to make a run to clinch a playoff spot. Mahomes basically mentioned the Chiefs’ season comes all the way down to the subsequent seven weeks. “Clearly we’re 5-5 and never the place we need to be at, however we get to put in writing the remainder of this season’s story — it begins this week in opposition to the Colts at Arrowhead,” Mahomes mentioned. “I am excited for us to go on the market and do it.” — Nate Taylor
Stat to know: Colts QB Daniel Jones has 4 interceptions in his previous two video games after throwing solely three in his first eight video games this season. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Chiefs WR Rashee Rice will document at the very least eight receptions. Thirty-eight % of targets in opposition to the Colts go to gamers aligned within the slot, which is third most of all defenses. Rice can have success from enjoying inside. — Walder
Accidents: Colts | Chiefs
Fantasy nugget: Chiefs TE Travis Kelce is trending up on the good time. He had a season-high 13 targets and 24.1 fantasy factors final week, and he has scored at the very least 21 factors in two of his previous three video games. The whole suggests this may very well be a high-scoring matchup, and the rapport between Kelce and Mahomes is properly documented. Indianapolis’ protection has additionally allowed the fourth-most fantasy factors per recreation to TEs. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Colts are 7-3 ATS (in opposition to the unfold) this season. Overs are 4-1 of their previous 5 video games. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Colts 30, Chiefs 27
Moody’s choose: Chiefs 27, Colts 24
Walder’s choose: Chiefs 24, Colts 20
FPI prediction: KC, 61.5% (by a median of 4.5 factors)
Matchup must-reads: RB Taylor and 4 QBs; handicapping the NFL MVP race … Why Chiefs are 5-5 and what’s subsequent … Chiefs LT Simmons mum on 22-day absence
1 p.m. ET | Fox
ESPN BET: GB -6 (41.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Vikings: Minnesota has received 38 video games since hiring coach Kevin O’Connell previous to the 2022 season. Of these victories, 33 have come when the Vikings had been forward and even within the turnover battle. This season, turnovers have been a key metric of their disappointing begin. They’ve dedicated the second-most turnovers (18) and are tied for sixth fewest in takeaways (9), 5 of which got here in a single recreation. Defensive coordinator Brian Flores mentioned this week that he believes within the workforce’s course of for forcing turnovers, however the Vikings should earn them in opposition to the Packers, whose seven turnovers this season are tied for the fourth fewest. — Kevin Seifert
What we’re listening to on the Packers: The Packers had lifelike photographs at 4 or 5 interceptions in opposition to Jameis Winston and the Giants final week and got here up with only one, by security Evan Williams. The others slipped by their fingers or had been tipped. Inexperienced Bay has intercepted solely 4 passes by the primary 10 video games after selecting off 17 passes final season. “The picks are going to return,” mentioned security Xavier McKinney, who has two. “Simply imagine me once I inform you. The. Picks. Will. Come.” Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy has thrown eight interceptions in simply 5 video games this season. Solely 5 quarterbacks have thrown extra picks this season. — Rob Demovsky
Stat to know: The Packers offense has an NFL-best 49% third-down conversion price this season. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: The Vikings can have a minus-10% or decrease move price over expectation, in accordance with NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. With McCarthy struggling, I anticipate Minnesota will attempt to take a extra run-heavy strategy because it makes an attempt to upset its division rival. — Walder
2:08
Wealthy Eisen is outraged by J.J. McCarthy criticism
Wealthy Eisen sees flashes of greatness from J.J. McCarthy and predicts a street win at Inexperienced Bay.
Accidents: Vikings | Packers
Fantasy nugget: Vikings RB Aaron Jones Sr. faces his former workforce, and whereas I am shopping for into the revenge-game narrative, the matchup is legitimately favorable given how Inexperienced Bay has struggled in opposition to RBs recently. The Packers protection has allowed the seventh-most speeding yards per recreation over the previous three weeks. And Jones has scored at the very least 11 fantasy factors in three straight video games. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Packers are 1-5 ATS in opposition to groups with dropping information this season. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Packers 27, Vikings 13
Moody’s choose: Packers 27, Vikings 20
Walder’s choose: Packers 24, Vikings 16
FPI prediction: GB, 71.3% (by a median of 8.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: QB McCarthy’s struggles limiting Vikings’ possibilities to win … Why Packers’ playoff hopes may relaxation on subsequent three video games
1 p.m. ET | Fox
ESPN BET: DET -10 (50.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Giants: “Aggressive.” That’s how Giants offensive coordinator Tim Kelly described the Lions’ protection below Kelvin Sheppard. Detroit hasn’t allowed a 300-yard passer or a 100-yard rusher this season. Take into account {that a} problem for rookie QB Jaxson Dart, who has already helped the Giants rating 30-plus factors in opposition to the Broncos and Eagles this season. — Jordan Raanan
What we’re listening to on the Lions: Coach Dan Campbell was chosen by the Giants because the 79th choose of the 1999 NFL draft. He suited up with them from 1999 to 2002 and developed his basis there. “Clearly, [Giants president and CEO] Mr. [John] Mara remains to be there, and he was there once I was there and that Mara household will at all times imply one thing to me,” Campbell mentioned. “… I had 4 good years there, and it felt like a household.” — Eric Woodyard
Stat to know: Since Campbell grew to become coach in 2021, the Lions have gone for it on fourth down 32% of the time, the best mark within the NFL. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Giants edge Abdul Carter can have a large enough recreation that he’ll vault himself into second place within the Defensive Rookie of the 12 months odds. (He is at present sixth.) Maybe final week’s opening sequence benching will likely be a wake-up name. — Walder
Accidents: Giants | Lions
Fantasy nugget: Lions WR Jameson Williams has been distinctive for managers over the previous three video games for the reason that Lions got here out of their bye. He has seen at the very least six targets and scored 16.0 or extra fantasy factors in three straight video games, together with a season-high 23.9 factors in Week 10. Williams is in a terrific spot in opposition to a Giants protection that has allowed the seventh-most fantasy factors per recreation. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Giants are 8-15 ATS on the street since 2023. They’re 0-6 outright on the street this season (3-3 ATS). Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Lions 34, Giants 10
Moody’s choose: Lions 34, Giants 17
Walder’s choose: Lions 25, Giants 24
FPI prediction: DET, 70.9% (by a median of 8 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Giants’ teaching search: What it means for Schoen to run it … Lions’ Hutchinson ‘excited’ for key 3-game stretch … Goff, Lions shut down in loss to Eagles
1 p.m. ET | CBS
ESPN BET: NE -6.5 (50.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Patriots: New England is 5-0 on the street this season — the NFL’s solely undefeated workforce away from dwelling — and WR Stefon Diggs mentioned coach Mike Vrabel has preached a “pack the identification” message to gamers. The Patriots delight themselves on an identification that begins with “effort and end” and that typically requires an additional edge on the street. “Going right into a hostile atmosphere, bringing your guys with you. Entering into with a f— it mindset,” Diggs mentioned. — Mike Reiss
What we’re listening to on the Bengals: Regardless of whether or not it is Joe Burrow or Joe Flacco at QB on Sunday, the Bengals’ starter should deal with a robust Patriots secondary. WR Tee Higgins has scored touchdowns in 4 straight video games. With Ja’Marr Chase suspended, Higgins will seemingly be matched up in opposition to New England’s Christian Gonzalez, who has not allowed a landing as the closest defender this season. Stated Bengals offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher: “They in all probability view [Gonzalez] as their finest one if that is the one they’re touring on the opponent’s high man. And I believe they’re proper to really feel that method about him.” — Ben Child
Stat to know: The Bengals have allowed 27-plus factors in 9 consecutive video games, which is tied with the 1964 Broncos and 2020 Chargers for the longest single-season streak in NFL historical past. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Patriots WR DeMario Douglas will document 4 or extra receptions, at the very least tying his season excessive. Douglas works over the center of the sector, which is the place offenses are inclined to assault the Bengals protection. 53% of targets in opposition to Cincinnati are between the numbers, the sixth-highest price within the league. — Walder
1:10
Herbstreit to McAfee: If Joe Burrow is wholesome, he’s going to play
Kirk Herbstreit joins Pat McAfee and weighs in on the mindset of a participant equivalent to Joe Burrow in relation to getting back from harm.
Accidents: Patriots | Bengals
Fantasy nugget: Patriots RB TreVeyon Henderson has been very good over the previous three video games with Rhamondre Stevenson out with a toe harm. He had at the very least 15 touches in every matchup, together with 24 in Week 11. Henderson averaged 24.3 fantasy factors over that span. Even when Stevenson returns this week, Henderson ought to nonetheless lead the Patriots backfield. Cincinnati’s protection has given up essentially the most fantasy factors per recreation to RBs. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: All 5 Bengals dwelling video games have gone over the overall. Overs are 4-1 in Bengals video games if Flacco begins. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Patriots 28, Bengals 7
Moody’s choose: Patriots 31, Bengals 20
Walder’s choose: Patriots 30, Bengals 27
FPI prediction: NE, 53.6% (by a median of 1.4 factors)
Matchup must-reads: The race for NFL MVP: How does QB Maye stack up?
1 p.m. ET | CBS
ESPN BET: CHI -2.5 (45.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Steelers: All eyes are on QB Aaron Rodgers’ left wrist per week after he sustained a fracture late within the second quarter in opposition to the Bengals. Rodgers did not return in that recreation, however he is not ruling out enjoying this week in a metropolis the place he has had loads of earlier success. “There’s incentive for each opponent, however I’ve loved many a Sunday and Monday and Thursdays in that metropolis,” he mentioned of enjoying Chicago. Rodgers mentioned the important thing to his availability is much less about ache administration and extra about “security” and with the ability to defend himself. He said that it is extra snug to obtain the snap in shotgun than it’s below heart, however his purpose is to have the ability to take snaps below heart, too. — Brooke Pryor
What we’re listening to on the Bears: Every week after the Vikings blitzed Caleb Williams on a whopping 66.7% of his dropbacks, the Bears anticipate a equally aggressive strategy from a Steelers protection that has blitzed on the fourth-highest price (34%) within the NFL this season. “They have some werewolves on the surface that reveals up,” coach Ben Johnson mentioned, referencing the fast pressures generated by edge rushers T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith. “When you’ve gotten each side that you just’re involved about, that is the place you bought to be fairly artistic as a play designer to be sure that they do not have an effect on the sport in a unfavourable style.” Williams has seven touchdowns to zero interceptions when blitzed however has both over- or under-thrown a receiver on 28% of his move makes an attempt when dealing with added stress. — Courtney Cronin
Stat to know: The Bears have an NFL-best 22 takeaways and 15 interceptions this season. Chicago has a 7-1 document, outscoring its opponents by 39 factors, when ending with at the very least one takeaway. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: The Steelers’ protection will drive a turnover in opposition to play-action. Chicago runs play-action 31% of the time, third most within the NFL, however the Steelers are probably the greatest defenses in opposition to it (regardless of being a middle-of-the-pack protection on all different performs), with a minus-.15 EPA per play allowed (second finest) and 43% success price allowed (sixth finest). — Walder
Accidents: Steelers | Bears
Fantasy nugget: Bears WR Rome Odunze had a sizzling begin to the season, averaging 19.9 fantasy factors over the primary 5 video games. Nevertheless, since Chicago’s bye, he has scored double-digit fantasy factors in solely two of his previous six video games. The expertise is there, and Odunze has produced at any time when he will get targets. He ought to get an opportunity in opposition to a Steelers protection that has allowed essentially the most receptions and fantasy factors per recreation to WRs. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Steelers are 1-5 ATS of their previous six street video games (1-3 ATS this season). Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Bears 16, Steelers 15
Moody’s choose: Bears 24, Steelers 17
Walder’s choose: Steelers 19, Bears 16
FPI prediction: CHI, 52.5% (by a median of 0.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Steelers’ QB Rodgers: Have to have the ability to defend self to play
1 p.m. ET | CBS
ESPN BET: BAL -13.5 (44.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Jets: The Jets hope that QB Tyrod Taylor, who replaces the struggling Justin Fields, will enable them to open up the passing assault. The purpose is to get younger move catchers Adonai Mitchell, John Metchie III and Mason Taylor extra concerned. That wasn’t occurring with Fields, because the Jets had been held to below 140 internet passing yards in three of the previous 4 video games. “We’ve got to do one thing to get this workforce going offensively within the passing recreation, and I simply felt prefer it was time to [change QBs].” — Wealthy Cimini
What we’re listening to on the Ravens: Defending QB Lamar Jackson has been a problem. He has been sacked a median of three.2 occasions per recreation, which is essentially the most of his eight-year profession. Baltimore is dealing with a Jets protection that has recorded 8.0 sacks in its previous two video games. “We’re placing the most effective 5 gamers on the market, they usually’re enjoying fairly darn good,” coach John Harbaugh mentioned of his offensive line. “Can they play higher? Certain.” Accidents are beginning to pile up for Jackson, who has an ankle concern after coping with knee soreness final week. — Jamison Hensley
Stat to know: The Jets’ lone takeaway this season is the fewest by any workforce by 10 video games in a season all time. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Mitchell will document 70 or extra receiving yards. I nonetheless imagine! Mitchell was focused six occasions in his Jets debut, however he struggled mightily to carry on to the ball. Ultimately, he’s going to interrupt out for an enormous recreation. — Walder
2:02
Kurt Warner: I am undecided Justin Fields will get one other full-time beginning QB shot
Kurt Warner joins Wealthy Eisen and weighs in on Justin Fields’ future after a troublesome season to this point with the Jets.
Accidents: Jets | Ravens
Fantasy nugget: Ravens WR Zay Flowers hasn’t put up massive fantasy numbers since popping out of the Week 7 bye, averaging simply 6.2 targets and 12.2 fantasy factors per recreation. That is an affordable ground for Flowers, however his ceiling may very well be increased this week. Over the previous 4 weeks, New York’s protection ranks inside the highest 10 in fantasy factors allowed to WRs. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Jackson is 11-5-1 ATS as a double-digit favourite within the common season (17-0 outright) with three straight covers (1-0 ATS this season). Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Ravens 27, Jets 19
Moody’s choose: Ravens 34, Jets 17
Walder’s choose: Ravens 26, Jets 16
FPI prediction: BAL, 79.7% (by a median of 13.1 factors)
Matchup must-reads: What does Fields’ benching imply for Jets? … What occurred to final yr’s AFC juggernauts? … Regardless of the drops, Jets’ Mitchell reveals promise in debut
1 p.m. ET | Fox
ESPN BET: SEA -13 (40.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Seahawks: The Seahawks had an opportunity to beat the Rams final week, regardless of QB Sam Darnold’s 4 interceptions, as a result of their protection saved giving them possibilities. That unit goes from one finish of the opposing QB spectrum to the opposite this week. Whereas Matthew Stafford is a Seventeenth-year veteran and enjoying at an MVP stage, Titans rookie Cam Ward ranks final amongst 33 certified QBs in Complete QBR (28.1). However Seattle is not overlooking his potential. “Unimaginable arm expertise, he makes a ton of throws, and from funky platforms,” coach Mike Macdonald mentioned. “So you have to play the entire play by it and in case you begin making issues up and never dealing with your assignments by the echo of the whistle, he can undoubtedly make you pay.” — Brady Henderson
What we’re listening to on the Titans: The Titans have the NFL’s worst speeding assault, averaging 78.9 yards per recreation. Interim coach Mike McCoy mentioned he’d wish to get again to a number of the success the workforce had earlier than combating solely 58 speeding yards in final week’s 16-13 loss to Houston. Ward pointed to the run recreation additionally serving to arrange the passing recreation with play-action. The Seahawks’ sixth-ranked run protection poses a major problem this week. — Turron Davenport
Stat to know: Seahawks WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba has a league-leading seven video games this season with 100 receiving yards (most in a season in Seahawks historical past). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Titans LB Cedric Grey, who performed 100% of the workforce’s defensive snaps final week for the primary time this season, will document at the very least 12 mixed tackles. I anticipate Seattle to get out to an enormous lead after which depend on the working recreation to work the clock, leading to loads of sort out alternatives for Titans LBs. — Walder
Accidents: Seahawks | Titans
Fantasy nugget: Seahawks RB Kenneth Walker III was one of many few vibrant spots final week, posting 19 touches and a season-high 20.1 fantasy factors. He additionally completed with six extra touches than Zach Charbonnet, and Walker now averages 4.2 yards per carry in contrast with Charbonnet’s 3.4. He is in a terrific spot behind an offensive line that ranks eighth in run block win price (72.8%), dealing with a Titans protection that has allowed the fifth-most fantasy factors per recreation to RBs. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Titans have lined back-to-back video games coming into this week. That is the primary time they’ve lined consecutive video games for the reason that first two weeks of 2023. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Seahawks 28, Titans 7
Moody’s choose: Seahawks 37, Titans 14
Walder’s choose: Seahawks 30, Titans 13
FPI prediction: SEA, 75.8% (by a median of 10.7 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Simmons fed up with Titans’ false begins … Darnold says NFL-worst 20 turnovers ‘unacceptable’ … Titans run recreation has struggled since RB Henry’s departure
4:05 p.m. ET | CBS
ESPN BET: JAX -3 (47.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Jaguars: Cardinals tight finish Trey McBride is just not matchup for the Jaguars, who rank sixth in receiving yards allowed (694) and seventh in receptions (64) by TEs. McBride leads the place in catches (71) and yards (718). “You have to have eyes on him and perceive the place he’s within the formation always,” coach Liam Coen mentioned. “Constructing a plan round stopping guys like that’s mixing up seems … and current them and be sure that perhaps you’ve gotten some areas within the crimson space, no matter it’s, to double him or take away their finest participant.” — Michael DiRocco
What we’re listening to on the Cardinals: A subject all week has been the Cardinals’ 17 penalties in opposition to the 49ers and the way they’ll forestall that type of efficiency from occurring once more — particularly the pre-snap penalties, which coach Jonathan Gannon calls “non-negotiables.” It comes down to higher decision-making, he mentioned. It is also “very difficult” to maintain gamers assured, and it is “deflating” after going backward earlier than the snap. “I believe that was an anomaly on this course of, nevertheless it undoubtedly goes again to course of,” QB Jacoby Brissett mentioned. — Josh Weinfuss
Stat to know: The Jaguars have 13 drops by WRs this season, 5 greater than some other workforce. (Their 21 drops general lead the NFL.) — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Jaguars DT Arik Armstead will document a sack. Armstead has 5.5 sacks on the season and ranks eighth in move rush win price as a defensive sort out (11.8%), and Brissett has taken sacks at a 7.5% clip, a barely above common price. — Walder
1:25
Stephania Bell: ‘Jacoby Brissett is fantasy gold’
Subject Yates, Daniel Dopp and Stephania Bell focus on Jacoby Brissett’s productive fantasy performances since taking on for Kyler Murray.
Accidents: Jaguars | Cardinals
Fantasy nugget: Jaguars RB Travis Etienne Jr. has had at the very least 18 touches and 15 or extra fantasy factors in every of his previous three video games, together with 19.3 factors final week. He is in a terrific spot, working behind an offensive line that ranks first in run block win price (75%). Arizona’s protection has allowed the eighth-most speeding yards per recreation over the previous three weeks. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Overs are 4-1 when Brissett begins this season (Cardinals: 3-2 ATS, 0-2 ATS in previous two). Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Jaguars 17, Cardinals 10
Moody’s choose: Cardinals 28, Jaguars 24
Walder’s choose: Jaguars 23, Cardinals 16
FPI prediction: JAX, 54.2% (by a median of 1.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Why Coen desires QB Lawrence, Jaguars to ‘reduce it unfastened’ … Playing cards’ Harrison out as appendectomy restoration continues … Supply: Cardinals’ Demercado has excessive ankle sprain
4:05 p.m. ET | CBS
ESPN BET: LV -4 (36.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Browns: QB Shedeur Sanders will make his first begin for the Browns, and after an uneven NFL debut within the second half in opposition to the Ravens, he is getting all of the follow reps as he prepares to face Las Vegas. With per week of follow because the starter and a recreation plan tailor-made to him, the hope is that Sanders is extra snug as he tries to turn out to be the primary Browns rookie to win his first begin since Eric Zeier in 1995, breaking a string of 17 consecutive losses. “I believe it’ll be thrilling … I do know you may’t miss it — you can’t miss this second,” Sanders mentioned. “… We going on the market with a goal, going on the market mentally prepared, no distractions, no something, and I will be excited.” — Daniel Oyefusi
What we’re listening to on the Raiders: The offensive line, which featured backups Stone Forsythe and Will Putnam, failed to carry up on Monday night time. Las Vegas gave up 16 pressures, 4 sacks and averaged 2.3 yards per carry. The unit faces one other massive take a look at: Browns edge rusher Myles Garrett. “He is acquired velocity, he is acquired energy, and he is very disruptive,” QB Geno Smith mentioned. “You may see it. He is had a very sizzling previous three weeks, and we acquired to chill him down.” — Ryan McFadden
Stat to know: Smith has 12 touchdowns and 13 interceptions this season, making him one in all two certified QBs with extra interceptions than passing touchdowns. (The opposite is J.J. McCarthy.) — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Raiders edge Maxx Crosby will document at the very least 2.0 sacks. Final season at Colorado, Sanders took sacks on 7.5% of his dropbacks, which ranked one hundred and fifth out of 127 qualifying passers. — Walder
Accidents: Browns | Raiders
Fantasy nugget: Browns RB Quinshon Judkins has solely 16.4 whole fantasy factors in two video games for the reason that Browns’ bye, harm by Cleveland’s struggling offense and a nonexistent passing recreation that has let defenses key on him. Nonetheless, he has seen at the very least 17 touches in each video games. Sanders and the Browns might rely extra on Judkins and the bottom recreation. It helps that Las Vegas ranks inside the highest 10 in each speeding yards allowed and yards per carry allowed to RBs. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: 4 straight Browns video games have gone over the overall. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Raiders 17, Browns 10
Moody’s choose: Browns 16, Raiders 13
Walder’s choose: Raiders 14, Browns 10
FPI prediction: LV, 65.1% (by a median of 5.8 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Browns’ Sanders to start out at QB1: Answering key questions concerning the transfer … Raiders’ Carroll: ‘No hesitation’ in defending struggling Smith … Why did the Raiders abandon the run recreation vs. the Cowboys?
4:25 p.m. ET | Fox
ESPN BET: PHI -3.5 (47.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Eagles: A part of the explanation the Eagles’ protection has taken off not too long ago is the development in opposition to the run — and that has loads to do with the return of LB Nakobe Dean from a torn patellar tendon. Philadelphia was permitting 4.7 yards per rush and 127 yards per recreation in Weeks 1-5, in contrast with 3.9 yards per rush and 101.4 yards per recreation since Dean was reinserted into the defensive lineup in Week 6. “I believe as a unit we’re simply enjoying it higher,” mentioned coordinator Vic Fangio. “Clearly, Nakobe helps. Final two weeks, [Jaelan] Phillips helps. I believe Jalen Carter has actually kicked up his recreation right here recently, so it is a mixture of a bunch of issues.” — Tim McManus
What we’re listening to on the Cowboys: Was the defensive success on Monday simply because they had been enjoying in opposition to the Raiders, or is there one thing completely different a few protection that now has Quinnen Williams, Logan Wilson, DeMarvion Overshown and beginning safeties Malik Hooker and Donovan Wilson on the sector and wholesome? The Eagles’ offense represents a way more tough take a look at with Jalen Hurts, DeVonta Smith, A.J. Brown and Saquon Barkley, although the Cowboys did enable simply 302 yards and 24 factors when these groups met in Week 1. — Todd Archer
Stat to know: Cowboys QB Dak Prescott has received 18 straight dwelling division video games that he has began, tied with Brett Favre (1994-98) for the second-longest streak by a beginning QB for the reason that 1970 merger after Tom Brady’s 20-game streak from 2007 to 2014. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Hurts will full a number of 40-plus-yard passes in a win. The Eagles rank second in air yards per try (8.7), whereas Dallas’ protection ranks second in air yards allowed per try (8.0) — Walder
1:19
Orlovsky: What is going on on with Jalen Hurts is ‘so disrespectful’
Dan Orlovsky explains why the Eagles’ reported locker room frustration directed towards Jalen Hurts is “disrespectful.”
Accidents: Eagles | Cowboys
Fantasy nugget: The Eagles offense has struggled this season, as Philadelphia ranks twenty fifth in whole yards per recreation. This has clearly impacted WRs Brown and Smith from a fantasy perspective, with the duo averaging simply 13.9 targets per recreation and each rating exterior the highest 15 in fantasy factors on the place. Nevertheless, it is robust to fade this pair in opposition to a Cowboys protection that has allowed the second-most fantasy factors per recreation to opposing receivers. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Cowboys are 3-1 ATS as underdogs this season, together with overlaying as 7.5-point street underdogs in opposition to the Eagles in Week 1 (misplaced 24-20; below 47.5 factors). Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Eagles 27, Cowboys 20
Moody’s choose: Eagles 24, Cowboys 21
Walder’s choose: Eagles 28, Cowboys 20
FPI prediction: PHI, 56.6% (by a median of two.7 factors)
Matchup must-reads: How for much longer do the Eagles O-Line must miss Johnson’s dominance? … A Cowboys run to the playoffs? QB Prescott says, ‘Why not?’
4:25 p.m. ET | Fox
ESPN BET: NO -1.5 (38.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Falcons: Atlanta will likely be going into the sport in opposition to its largest rival with out beginning QB Michael Penix Jr. (torn ACL) and high WR Drake London (posterior cruciate ligament harm). With out London, offensive coordinator Zac Robinson mentioned he expects a excessive quantity of targets for Darnell Mooney, and it is a matter of time earlier than Mooney breaks out after early-season accidents. — Marc Raimondi
What we’re listening to on the Saints: The Saints parted methods with one other receiver after Brandin Cooks requested for his launch. Which means one other changeup for rookie QB Tyler Shough, who’s coming off his first win as a starter. With out Cooks and Rashid Shaheed, who was traded to the Seahawks, Devaughn Vele and Mason Tipton will likely be subsequent in line to get extra snaps. However Shough has been constructing chemistry with TE Juwan Johnson and WR Chris Olave, each of whom had massive video games in opposition to the Panthers earlier than the bye. — Katherine Terrell
Stat to know: Falcons RB Bijan Robinson has six profession video games with a number of speeding touchdowns; one other would break the tie with Devonta Freeman and William Andrews for third most in franchise historical past. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Saints RB Alvin Kamara will document his second straight recreation with 100-plus mixed speeding and receiving yards. The Falcons protection is permitting a 48% success price to designed runs, third worst amongst defenses. So Kamara ought to have a better time than regular working the ball. — Walder
Accidents: Falcons | Saints
Fantasy nugget: Over his previous 4 video games, Olave has averaged 7.7 targets and 17.7 fantasy factors per recreation. One other Saints participant trending up is Johnson, who has scored 10 or extra fantasy factors in 4 straight video games, together with a 19.2-point efficiency. The matchup is especially good for Olave in opposition to a Falcons protection that has struggled not too long ago in opposition to exterior receivers. Over the previous three video games, Atlanta has allowed the third-most passing yards per recreation. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Kirk Cousins is 1-5 ATS in his previous six begins. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Falcons 25, Saints 20
Moody’s choose: Saints 24, Falcons 20
Walder’s choose: Saints 20, Falcons 17
FPI prediction: ATL, 55% (by a median of 1.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Shough ‘feels extra snug every day’ as Saints QB1 … Saints waive veteran WR Cooks at his request
8:20 p.m. ET | NBC
ESPN BET: LAR -7 (49.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Buccaneers: Tampa Bay should work out a approach to navigate the Rams’ stingy protection. The Bucs enable the second-fewest factors (17.2) and are tied for the second-most takeaways (18). “They’ve invested lots of capital into the entrance seven in the previous couple of drafts,” QB Baker Mayfield mentioned. “… [Jared] Verse and [Byron] Younger on the perimeters, the inside guys are additionally enjoying properly. … They’re successful lots of one-on-ones, making performs and the back-end guys are enjoying aggressively due to it.” — ESPN Employees
What we’re listening to on the Rams: QB Matthew Stafford has 20 passing touchdowns in opposition to the blitz this season, which leads the NFL. In line with ESPN Analysis, he’s tied with Tom Brady (2012) for the third most by any QB in a season since ESPN started monitoring blitzes. On Sunday, he will likely be dealing with a Bucs workforce that has blitzed on the highest price of any workforce (37%) since coach Todd Bowles joined the workforce in 2019. Tampa Bay is blitzing 33% of the time this season. — Sarah Barshop
Stat to know: WR Davante Adams has 4 consecutive video games with a landing reception, which is one shy of tying the second-longest streak by a Rams participant for the reason that 1970 merger (1973 Harold Jackson, 2003 Torry Holt, 2006 Torry Holt and 2019 Cooper Kupp) trailing solely Henry Ellard (six straight, 1988-89). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Stafford will throw for 350-plus passing yards. The Bucs have a pass-inducing protection, with the third-highest move price over expectation in opposition to them (plus-1%) per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats, which ought to end in a serious bounce-back in manufacturing after his 130-yard recreation final week. — Walder
1:27
Why Wealthy Eisen sees Matthew Stafford rising as NFL MVP
Wealthy Eisen explains why Matthew Stafford has the numbers to justify being the NFL MVP this season.
Accidents: Buccaneers | Rams
Fantasy nugget: Rams RB Kyren Williams is sharing a few of his workload with Blake Corum, however he is nonetheless a must-start in an offense that ranks eighth in whole yards and sixth in factors per recreation. Since popping out of their Week 8 bye, Williams has scored 16 or extra fantasy factors in three straight video games. The Buccaneers protection permits the seventh-most fantasy factors per recreation to RBs. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Tampa Bay is 8-2 ATS after a loss for the reason that begin of final season (13-5 ATS with Mayfield). Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Rams 31, Buccaneers 25
Moody’s choose: Rams 33, Buccaneers 20
Walder’s choose: Rams 30, Buccaneers 17
FPI prediction: LAR, 64.2% (by a median of 5.5 factors)
Matchup must-reads: How QB Mayfield’s ‘spark’ got here again after 5 video games with the Rams: ‘It was life-changing’
Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET | ESPN
ESPN BET: SF -7 (49.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Panthers: You would name this the Christian McCaffrey recreation. It is the primary time the Panthers have confronted the RB since buying and selling him halfway by the 2022 season. Present Carolina RB Chuba Hubbard calls McCaffrey, who leads the NFL in scrimmage yards, the most effective again he has seen. To stay related within the NFC and hold tempo with the Bucs within the South, the league’s Seventeenth-ranked run protection goes to must discover a approach to cease their No. 8 choose in 2017 — which by coincidence is the final yr the Panthers received a Monday night time recreation. — David Newton
What we’re listening to on the 49ers: This recreation has all of the makings of a shootout contemplating each groups have persistently struggled to generate move rush this season. The Panthers are twenty fifth in move rush win price (33.3%) and thirty first in stress price (25.1%), whereas the Niners are thirty first in move rush win price (30.8%) and thirty second in stress price (21.5%). It is unlikely both facet will abruptly repair this concern however the facet that protects higher and takes care of the ball will undoubtedly have a leg up in a recreation with critical NFC playoff implications. — Nick Wagoner
Stat to know: The 49ers are utilizing movement on the snap 41% of the time this season, which is the fourth-highest price in NFL. In the meantime, the Panthers are permitting the fifth-most yards per play (6.2) and second-most yards per recreation (141.0) when opponents use movement on the snap this season. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: McCaffrey will document 100 or extra receiving yards. Not that the 49ers want a lot of an excuse to get the ball to their star RB, however the Panthers enable targets to the place 21% of the time, third most of all defenses. — Walder
Accidents: Panthers | 49ers
Fantasy nugget: Panthers QB Bryce Younger is coming off a season-high 31.8 fantasy factors. He has struggled as a passer for many of the season however may very well be in retailer for an additional enormous recreation, alongside along with his No. 1 receiver Tetairoa McMillan, in opposition to a 49ers protection that has given up the fifth-most passing yards per recreation this season. San Francisco’s protection did quit 21.8 fantasy factors to Cardinals QB Jacoby Brissett final week. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Panthers are 6-4 outright as underdogs this season (7-3 ATS), essentially the most outright wins within the NFL. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: 49ers 26, Panthers 17
Moody’s choose: 49ers 38, Panthers 27
Walder’s choose: 49ers 27, Panthers 17
FPI prediction: SF, 72.6% (by a median of 9.2 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Why RB McCaffrey commerce helped 49ers, not the Panthers … With QB Purdy again, are 49ers poised to make playoff run?
