NFL Week 17: Playoff Races Heat Up, Key Matchups Set for Week 18
UPDATE: The NFL playoff picture is rapidly taking shape as Week 17 concludes, leaving critical matchups for Week 18 that will determine division champions. Just hours ago, the Pittsburgh Steelers suffered a shocking 13-7 defeat to the Cleveland Browns at Huntington Bank Field, setting the stage for an intense showdown against the Baltimore Ravens next week.
In a high-stakes game, Derrick Henry propelled the Ravens to a stunning 41-24 victory over the Green Bay Packers, positioning Baltimore for a shot at the AFC North title. The implications are massive: whoever wins their matchup in Week 18 will secure the division crown and a coveted playoff spot.
Meanwhile, the NFC South remains fiercely contested despite both the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers falling short in their recent games. With playoff aspirations hanging in the balance, their upcoming clash will serve as a de facto title game, as NFL tiebreakers leave no room for error.
Even as eyes are glued to the playoff race, the battle for the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft intensified during the afternoon slate. The New York Giants dominated the Las Vegas Raiders with a decisive 34-10 victory, relinquishing the top draft position now claimed by Las Vegas.
As the regular season nears its conclusion, fans are left on the edge of their seats. Here’s a quick recap of the pivotal scores from Week 17:
Thursday, December 25:
– Dallas Cowboys 30, Washington Commanders 23
– Minnesota Vikings 23, Detroit Lions 10
– Denver Broncos 20, Kansas City Chiefs 13
Saturday, December 27:
– Houston Texans 20, Los Angeles Chargers 16
– Baltimore Ravens 41, Green Bay Packers 24
Sunday, December 28:
– Cincinnati Bengals 37, Arizona Cardinals 14
– Cleveland Browns 13, Pittsburgh Steelers 7
– New Orleans Saints 34, Tennessee Titans 26
– Jacksonville Jaguars 23, Indianapolis Colts 17
– Miami Dolphins 20, Tampa Bay Buccaneers 17
– New England Patriots 42, New York Jets 10
– Seattle Seahawks 27, Carolina Panthers 10
– New York Giants 34, Las Vegas Raiders 10
– Philadelphia Eagles 13, Buffalo Bills 12
– San Francisco 49ers vs. Chicago Bears (TBD)
The NFL’s most exciting week is just around the corner, with playoff positions and future drafts hanging in the balance. Fans are urged to stay tuned for the thrilling conclusions to these matchups!
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