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NFL Nation, ESPN
The Week 15 NFL schedule for the 2023 season is stacked with nice matchups, and we now have you coated with what you want to know heading into the weekend. Our NFL Nation reporters deliver us the largest keys to each recreation and a daring prediction for every matchup.
Moreover, ESPN Stats & Data offers an enormous stat to know and a betting nugget for every contest, and our Soccer Energy Index (FPI) goes contained in the numbers with a recreation projection and a have a look at the playoff image. Analytics author Seth Walder picks out every matchup’s greatest X issue, and fantasy analyst Eric Moody fingers out useful fantasy soccer intel. Lastly, Walder and Moody give us remaining rating picks for each recreation. Every little thing you wish to know is right here in a single spot that can assist you prepare for a loaded weekend of NFL soccer.
Let’s get into the total Week 15 slate, together with three video games on Saturday, the Dallas Cowboys visiting the Buffalo Payments and a Lamar Jackson vs. Trevor Lawrence matchup on Sunday night time. All of it culminates with a “Monday Night time Soccer” matchup between the Eagles and the Seahawks on ESPN. (Sport instances are Sunday except in any other case famous, and all playoff percentages are by way of ESPN’s FPI.)
Leap to a matchup:
MIN-CIN | PIT-IND | DEN-DET
CHI-CLE | TB-GB | HOU-TEN
NYJ-MIA | NYG-NO | KC-NE
ATL-CAR | WSH-LAR | SF-ARI
DAL-BUF | BAL-JAX | PHI-SEA
Thursday: LV 63, LAC 21
Saturday, 1 p.m. ET | NFL Community | Unfold: CIN -3 (40.5)
Storyline to observe: Quarterback Jake Browning and the Bengals’ offense — coming off back-to-back wins — must take care of probably the greatest defenses within the league on this weekend’s matchup. Over the previous eight weeks, the Vikings lead the NFL in fewest factors allowed per drive (1.4) and fewest factors allowed per recreation (15.3), largely due to a really robust pink zone protection. — Ben Child
Daring prediction: Vikings tight finish T.J. Hockenson will catch at the least eight passes. The Bengals’ protection has allowed extra receptions (88) and yards (935) to opposing tight ends than every other staff, and Hockenson leads the NFL in catches by tight ends (85) and is second in yards (839). A few of that manufacturing has been the results of receiver Justin Jefferson‘s accidents, however even with Jefferson again on the sector in Cincinnati, quarterback Nick Mullens will nonetheless contemplate Hockenson a major goal. — Kevin Seifert
Stat to know: The Bengals are 4-0 towards NFC groups this season and have gained eight straight towards the convention, which is tied with Ravens for the longest energetic win streak towards nonconference opponents and tied for the longest streak in franchise historical past (additionally eight straight from 2004 to ’05).
Matchup X issue: Vikings linebacker Ivan Tempo Jr. The undrafted rookie has performed 100% of the Vikings’ defensive snaps over Minnesota’s previous three video games and is delivering. He ranks seventh in run cease win fee (39.9%) this season amongst linebackers and has 2.5 sacks, an interception and a pressured fumble. — Walder
What’s at stake: In one of many greatest video games of the week when it comes to playoff swings, the Bengals can enhance to 35% to make the playoffs in the event that they win — however a loss shrinks their odds to 10%. The Vikings, in the meantime, are chasing an NFC wild-card spot and are nonetheless alive within the NFC North race. They’d have a 79% likelihood to make the playoffs and 21% likelihood to take the division with a win, however these numbers fall to 51% and eight%, respectively, in the event that they lose. Learn extra.
What to know for fantasy: Fantasy managers ought to believe in Hockenson this week. There isn’t any protection within the league that offers up extra fantasy factors to tight ends than the Bengals. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Vikings are 4-0 towards the unfold (ATS) of their previous 4 video games as an underdog. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Bengals 23, Vikings 15
Walder’s decide: Bengals 24, Vikings 17
FPI prediction: CIN, 56.5% (by a mean of two.2 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Mullens makes historical past for Vikings with eye on postseason … Extra stability has led to Bengals’ Burrow-less offensive resurgence … Chase says he is ‘100%’ taking part in on Saturday
Saturday, 4:30 p.m. ET | NFL Community | Unfold: IND -1.5 (42.5)
Storyline to observe: The Steelers have gained eight consecutive video games towards the Colts together with regular-season and postseason video games. It is a exceptional streak that started in 2011, with the Colts’ final win coming in 2008 with quarterback Peyton Manning underneath heart. Pittsburgh coach Mike Tomlin, who was employed in 2007, is 8-1 towards Indianapolis and has by no means misplaced at Lucas Oil Stadium. — Stephen Holder
Daring prediction: Colts rookie tight finish Will Mallory will rating his first NFL landing. Mallory, who sees the fewest snaps of the Colts’ 4 tight ends, had a career-high 5 receptions towards the Bengals final week. Of their previous two losses, the Steelers’ protection gave up three touchdowns to tight ends as New England and Arizona took benefit of mismatches within the secondary and the Steelers’ depleted inside linebacker corps. Although the Colts’ tight ends have not been constant, the place group mixed for eight catches, 65 yards and a landing towards the Bengals — a protection the Steelers exploited earlier this season with a profession day by TE Pat Freiermuth. — Brooke Pryor
Stat to know: Colts receiver Michael Pittman Jr. has 982 receiving yards. With 18 extra yards, he could be the fourth Colts participant with a number of seasons with 1,000 yards receiving, becoming a member of Reggie Wayne (eight), Marvin Harrison (eight) and T.Y. Hilton (5).
Matchup X issue: Colts edge rusher Kwity Paye. Since Week 10, Paye ranks second in cross rush win fee at edge (28.0%), behind solely Micah Parsons (43.2%). In that very same span, Steelers OT Broderick Jones ranks fiftieth of 67 tackles in cross block win fee (85.4%). — Walder
What’s at stake: This one is large for the AFC wild-card race. Indy can improves its odds to 64% in a win, however dropping to Pittsburgh drops that to 22%. And the Steelers could be at 48% in the event that they get again on observe this week, however one other loss dims their playoff gentle to 10%. Learn extra.
What to know for fantasy: The Colts quit the third-most fantasy factors per recreation to operating backs. In consecutive video games, Najee Harris has had 15 touches, whereas Jaylen Warren has had 10 or extra. Each gamers are projected to attain 11 or extra fantasy factors and could be relied upon in lineups. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: 5 of six Colts residence video games have gone over the overall this season. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Colts 24, Steelers 17
Walder’s decide: Steelers 23, Colts 22
FPI prediction: PIT, 55.8% (by a mean of two factors)
Matchup must-reads: Roethlisberger says Steelers custom could be completed … Colts lacking Taylor as run recreation struggles … Watt out of protocol, cleared to play vs. Colts
1:50
McAfee: Steelers followers’ nightmare may develop into a actuality
Pat McAfee reacts to Ben Roethlisberger’s feedback that the Steelers’ custom could be completed.
Saturday, 8:15 p.m. ET | NFL Community | Unfold: DET -4 (47.5)
Storyline to observe: The Lions have misplaced two of their previous three video games, whereas the Broncos have gained six of their previous seven and want to climb the AFC West ladder. It is going to even be a reunion for Lions coach Dan Campbell and his mentor Sean Payton, now the coach of the Broncos. Campbell spent 5 seasons on Payton’s employees as an assistant head coach/tight ends coach from 2016 to ’20 and likewise performed on groups Payton coached. “I’ve acquired an incredible quantity of respect for Sean and all the pieces about him,” Campbell mentioned throughout Thursday’s apply. “And possibly the best praise I may give to him is that he believed in me at all times and he gave me that shot as a participant and a coach.” — Eric Woodyard
Daring prediction: The Broncos’ protection, with 20 sacks and 18 takeaways over the previous seven video games, will sack Lions quarterback Jared Goff at the least 4 instances and intercept him at the least as soon as. Solely two groups have sacked Goff at the least 4 instances and had at the least one interception in the identical recreation this season — Baltimore (Oct. 22) and Chicago final week. These additionally occur to be the 2 lowest-scoring video games of the Lions’ season. — Jeff Legwold
Stat to know: Broncos receiver Courtland Sutton has had a landing reception in all six street video games. He can develop into the fifth participant in NFL historical past with a receiving landing in his staff’s first seven street video games of a season.
Matchup X issue: Goff. Since Week 11, he ranks twenty second in QBR (40.8), seventeenth in completion proportion over expectation (minus-2.2%) and twenty seventh in off-target fee (17.4%). Detroit must get its offense on observe once more earlier than the playoffs. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Lions can take one other step towards the NFC North title in the event that they win Saturday night time (90% in a win, 74% in a loss). And the Broncos may make some AFC wild-card noise in the event that they get the victory — their playoff odds would soar to 65%, whereas a loss places them at 31%. And sure, Denver remains to be alive within the AFC West, but it surely possible wants a win to maintain that going (13% in that situation). Learn extra.
What to know for fantasy: Russell Wilson and his receivers have a bonus. Detroit’s protection has given up the fourth-most fantasy factors per recreation to quarterbacks and the ninth most to broad receivers. Fantasy managers will need Wilson and Sutton, who has scored touchdowns in 10 of 13 video games, in lineups. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Lions are 31-16 ATS underneath Campbell, the second-best ATS document since 2021 (behind solely the Cowboys). Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Lions 29, Broncos 26
Walder’s decide: Lions 24, Broncos 20
FPI prediction: DET, 59.3% (by a mean of three.2 factors)
Matchup must-reads: How Denver’s protection turned catastrophe into dominance … Gardner-Johnson (torn pectoral) cleared to return … Lions out of the blue trying susceptible after scorching begin
1 p.m. ET | FOX | Unfold: CLE -3 (38.5)
Storyline to observe: The final time these two groups met, in 2021, Cleveland’s Myles Garrett had nearly as many sacks (4.5) as Chicago quarterback Justin Fields had completions (6). Fields is surging since coming back from damage in Week 11 — with a 66.7% completion proportion, 609 passing yards and three touchdowns (one speeding) in three video games — however will face an enormous take a look at working towards the Browns’ swarming defensive position. — Jake Trotter
Daring prediction: The Bears’ protection could have one other three-takeaway efficiency, which can deliver its four-game complete to 11, towards a Browns offense that has been susceptible to turnovers. Cleveland quarterback Joe Flacco has thrown an interception in every of his two begins, and the Browns fumbled twice final week. Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson and security Jaquan Brisker will every come away with an interception in Week 15. — Courtney Cronin
Stat to know: The Browns are 2-2 towards NFC groups this season, profitable each video games at residence (vs. 49ers, Cardinals) and dropping each on the street (at Seahawks, Rams).
Matchup X issue: Johnson. The Chicago nook is on hearth. Johnson has allowed 0.7 yards per protection snap this season, lowest amongst all exterior corners with at the least 250 protection snaps. And he is coming off a recreation wherein he allowed zero receptions and caught a decide. — Walder
What’s at stake: Beating Chicago would up Cleveland’s playoff possibilities to 89% (68% in a loss) and division odds to fifteen% (3% in a loss). Learn extra.
What to know for fantasy: DJ Moore has scored 22 or extra fantasy factors in three consecutive video games. Over that timeframe, he has averaged 10.6 targets per recreation. The Browns’ protection has allowed the second-fewest fantasy factors per recreation to broad receivers. Nevertheless, contemplating how a lot Fields depends on Moore, fantasy managers ought to nonetheless embody him of their lineups. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Browns are 6-1 ATS at residence this season with unders going 5-1-1. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Browns 21, Bears 16
Walder’s decide: Browns 23, Bears 17
FPI prediction: CLE, 57.4% (by a mean of two.5 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Has Eberflus completed sufficient to maintain his job? … Browns lose two key defensive gamers to damage … Ngakoue headed to IR with damaged ankle … Stefanski improbably main Browns to thick of AFC playoff race
0:48
Why Justin Fields is a top-10 fantasy QB in Week 15
Discipline Yates considers Justin Fields a fantasy starter vs. the Browns this week.
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Unfold: GB -3.5 (41.5)
Storyline to observe: That is the third straight yr that Baker Mayfield has come to Lambeau Discipline — together with his third completely different staff. He mixed to throw 5 interceptions (4 in 2021 with the Browns and one final season with the Rams) in these two video games. Nevertheless, the Packers have intercepted the ball solely six instances this season, together with only one up to now 5 video games. — Rob Demovsky
Daring prediction: Buccaneers operating again Rachaad White could have one other 100-yard speeding efficiency with a landing. The Packers have struggled to cease the run, and since Week 10, they’ve given up 170.4 speeding yards per recreation, the second most within the league. — Jenna Laine
Stat to know: Packers quarterback Jordan Love has been wonderful towards the blitz, rating fourth in QBR whereas throwing eight passing touchdowns and no interceptions. He’ll look to maintain that going towards a Buccaneers protection that ranks third in blitz fee.
Matchup X issue: The Buccaneers’ offensive line. Tampa Bay’s cross safety has been beneath common, but it surely recorded the very best cross block win fee amongst all groups in Week 14. If the Bucs can preserve that up, that may give Mayfield and the offense an opportunity to upset the Packers. — Walder
What’s at stake: Tampa Bay is searching for the NFC South title, and a win would enhance it to 49% there. It could additionally give the Bucs a 65% likelihood to make the playoffs total. However dropping to Inexperienced Bay knocks their division hopes to 26% and playoff chance to 29%. The Packers, in the meantime, could possibly be 65% to make the playoffs in the event that they win, however a second straight loss to a sub-.500 staff would slide them to 26%. Learn extra.
Accidents: Buccaneers | Packers
What to know for fantasy: Deebo Samuel (5) and Jayden Reed (2) are the one receivers to have scored a number of speeding touchdowns this season. Reed is being relied on as a rusher and receiver and must be included in fantasy lineups towards a Buccaneers protection that offers up the sixth-most fantasy factors per recreation to broad receivers. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Packers have gained and coated three straight residence video games. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Packers 24, Buccaneers 19
Walder’s decide: Packers 27, Buccaneers 16
FPI prediction: GB, 56.4% (by a mean of two.2 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Mayfield’s resiliency fuels Bucs’ comeback in Atlanta … What loss to Giants did to Packers’ momentum, playoff odds
0:47
Why Jordan Love is a mid-tier QB1 in Week 15
Matt Bowen breaks down why Jordan Love’s matchup makes him a strong fantasy begin this week.
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Unfold: TEN -2.5 (37.5)
Storyline to observe: The Titans have 10 passing performs of 40-plus yards this season (three-way tie for second place). Rookie QB Will Levis is liable for 5 of them in his seven begins. Houston’s secondary is permitting 246.9 passing yards per recreation (which ranks twenty sixth within the NFL). There must be alternatives for Levis to proceed his success at residence, the place he has 647 passing yards and 5 landing passes in three video games. — Turron Davenport
Daring prediction: The Texans will rush for greater than 200 yards on the bottom. The Titans rank 14th in speeding yards allowed per recreation (110), and the Texans rank twenty sixth in speeding yards per recreation (96). But when they wish to win, the Texans haven’t any alternative however to decide to the bottom recreation with C.J. Stroud possible out due to a concussion. — DJ Bien-Aime
Stat to know: Titans operating again Derrick Henry has at the least two speeding touchdowns in three straight video games for the second time in his profession, which ties the Jaguars’ Travis Etienne Jr. for the longest such streak this season. No NFL participant has rushed for a number of touchdowns in 4 straight video games because the Chargers’ LaDainian Tomlinson did so in eight consecutive video games in 2006.
Matchup X issue: Texans cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. He has allowed minus-12.5 EPA as the closest defender since Week 10, in accordance with NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. And he and the remainder of the younger Texans stars will current a problem for Levis. — Walder
What’s at stake: All playoff eyes are on the Texans right here, who could be at 58% to make the playoffs in the event that they beat their division foe. However a loss means simply 25% chance that DeMeco Ryans’ staff performs further soccer in his first season as head coach. Houston’s possibilities to win the division can slide from 13% (win) to 2% (loss). Learn extra.
What to know for fantasy: Tennessee receiver DeAndre Hopkins has averaged 8.5 targets and 17.0 fantasy factors because the Titans’ Week 7 bye. This season, the Texans’ protection has given up the seventh-most passing yards per recreation. It is also value noting that Houston’s protection has allowed the ninth-most receptions and sixth-most receiving yards to opposing operating backs — which bodes effectively for Titans RB Tyjae Spears. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Titans are 2-6 outright and ATS towards groups at the moment with profitable information. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Titans 24, Texans 20
Walder’s decide: Texans 20, Titans 10
FPI prediction: HOU, 56.8% (by a mean of two.3 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Eiselen’s journey from rugby in South Africa to being starstruck by Brady … Levis leads 2 late TD drives as Titans pull off MNF shocker … Levis is engaged on sliding
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Unfold: MIA -8.5 (37.5)
Storyline to observe: The Dolphins’ offense is hurting. Beginning offensive linemen have missed a mixed 21 video games to damage this season, and that quantity will develop earlier than the tip of the yr. Guard Connor Williams will miss the rest of the season, and OT Robert Hunt isn’t anticipated to play — though OT Terron Armstead may make his return to the sector. Miami is also with out broad receiver Tyreek Hill, who injured his ankle in Monday’s loss to the Titans. His absence would mark uncharted territory as Hill has but to overlook a recreation since he was traded to the Dolphins in 2022. Can the Jets capitalize on Miami’s accidents? — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Daring prediction: Jets quarterback Zach Wilson will carry out higher towards the Dolphins than Tim Boyle did three weeks in the past — however he additionally will not come near duplicating his career-best recreation from final week (117.9 passer score towards the Texans). Wilson hasn’t performed effectively towards Miami (zero landing passes in two begins), and he shall be pissed off by the Vic Fangio-coached protection, to not point out cornerbacks Jalen Ramsey and Xavien Howard. — Wealthy Cimini
Stat to know: The Jets have misplaced 10 straight division street video games, the longest energetic streak within the NFL and the Jets’ second longest because the 1970 merger (12 straight from 1994 to ’97).
Matchup X issue: Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. He struggled Monday with out Hill and now could be going through the protection that, in accordance with ESPN’s FPI, is the perfect within the NFL. This shall be a take a look at for the Dolphins’ offense — particularly if Hill is out or restricted once more. — Walder
What’s at stake: Is Aaron Rodgers returning this season? Properly, even when the Jets win, their playoffs odds could be 1%. The Dolphins, nonetheless, may soar to 99% in the event that they get the W, together with an 81% likelihood to take the AFC East. A second straight dangerous loss would slide Miami’s playoff possibilities barely to 85%, and its division hopes to 62%. Learn extra.
What to know for fantasy: This season, Tagovailoa and Hill have linked 97 instances for 1,542 yards. Hill’s availability will both positively or negatively impression Tagovailoa’s fantasy potential towards a Jets protection that enables the second-fewest fantasy factors per recreation to quarterbacks. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Dolphins are 7-2 ATS as favorites this season. Tagovailoa is 17-11 ATS in his profession as a favourite, together with 9-4 ATS when laying at the least six factors. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Dolphins 34, Jets 14
Walder’s decide: Dolphins 20, Jets 16
FPI prediction: MIA, 80.3% (by a mean of 11.3 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Dolphins want to beat loss to Titans, concentrate on Jets … Wilson is auditioning for Jets backup, different NFL groups … Dolphins lose Williams to torn ACL
0:57
Yates: De’Von Achane is a lineup lock if he performs
Discipline Yates isn’t hesitating to start out De’Von Achane if he begins in Week 15 towards the Jets.
1 p.m. ET | FOX | Unfold: NO -6 (39.5)
Storyline to observe: The Saints’ passing offense has been struggling, and quarterback Derek Carr had solely 37 passing yards by way of most of Sunday’s win towards the Panthers earlier than throwing late touchdowns to Jimmy Graham and Chris Olave. He completed with 119 passing yards. Carr and the offense will look to get again on observe towards a Giants protection giving up 189.7 passing yards per recreation over the previous 4 weeks. — Katherine Terrell
Daring prediction: Giants operating again Saquon Barkley will rush for 120-plus yards. It is notable as a result of he has topped 100 yards on the bottom solely as soon as this season. However he is motivated by a late fumble towards Inexperienced Bay, and the Saints’ protection has allowed greater than 150 speeding yards in 4 of its previous six video games. — Jordan Raanan
Stat to know: Giants QB Tommy DeVito has seven passing touchdowns in 4 profession begins, tied for the second-most passing touchdowns by a participant by way of their first 4 begins with the Giants since quarterback begins have been first tracked in 1950 (trailing solely Fran Tarkenton’s eight passing touchdowns in 1967).
Matchup X issue: Giants broad receiver Wan’Dale Robinson. He is coming off his greatest receiving recreation of the season, catching six passes for 79 yards within the Giants’ dramatic win over the Packers. If Robinson can develop right into a constant playmaker, that will go far for the Giants’ offense. — Walder
What’s at stake: New Orleans could make a transfer within the NFC South right here, enhancing its possibilities to 36% (and 45% for the playoffs) with a win. Lose, and it is an uphill climb, although. The Saints would then be at 18% to make the playoffs, with 15% of that going towards a division title. And on the opposite sideline, can DeVito get the Giants one other win? It could put New York at 2% to make the playoffs. Learn extra.
What to know for fantasy: On the street, the Giants’ protection has allowed 3.4 touchdowns per recreation, the fourth-highest fee within the NFL. As a result of New York’s protection offers up the third-most fantasy factors to broad receivers, Olave is in a terrific spot on the Caesars Superdome. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Saints are 1-5 ATS at residence this season. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Saints 21, Giants 17
Walder’s decide: Saints 19, Giants 16
FPI prediction: NO, 79.4% (by a mean of 10.9 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Does DeVito have a future with the Giants? … Graham serving to Saints resolve pink zone woes … DeVito’s agent, Stellato, embraces viral fame … Shaheed (thigh) plans to play vs. Giants
1 p.m. ET | FOX | Unfold: KC -7.5 (37.5)
Storyline to observe: Patriots coach Invoice Belichick is second on the all-time wins checklist (332, together with playoffs), whereas Chiefs coach Andy Reid is closing floor shortly as his 277 victories rank him fourth all time. That is the primary time that two head coaches within the prime 5 in profession regular-season wins have confronted one another since Week 4 of 1990 when Don Shula’s Dolphins met Chuck Noll’s Steelers. This recreation was initially scheduled for ESPN’s “Monday Night time Soccer” earlier than turning into the first-ever MNF recreation flexed to Sunday (that is the primary yr the league has experimented with flexing Monday video games), primarily as a result of Patriots’ struggles. — Mike Reiss
Daring prediction: The Chiefs will sack Patriots quarterback Bailey Zappe at the least 4 instances. The cross rush has been the perfect a part of the Chiefs’ protection in current video games. They’re tied for the third-most sacks within the league with 42. Patriots quarterbacks have been sacked 14 instances up to now 4 video games, and the Chiefs ought to have loads of alternative so as to add to that complete. — Adam Teicher
Stat to know: Chiefs tight finish Travis Kelce is six receptions shy of 900 for his profession. Sunday shall be his 157th profession recreation. He additionally has 74 profession receiving touchdowns, two shy of matching Tony Gonzalez for essentially the most in Chiefs historical past.
Matchup X issue: Chiefs DT Chris Jones. So long as Jones and the Chiefs’ protection deal with enterprise in what must be a cake task, the Chiefs’ lack of receivers will not even matter. The protection can set the struggling Chiefs offense up for achievement. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Chiefs can get proper right here and put themselves at 95% to win the AFC West if they will simply beat the Patriots (Kansas Metropolis’s playoff possibilities could be at 84% in a loss). New England is eradicated from the playoffs, however a loss would imply a 4% likelihood on the No. 1 decide within the 2024 draft. Learn extra.
What to know for fantasy: Patriots operating again Ezekiel Elliott has had 21 touches in two consecutive video games with Rhamondre Stevenson coping with a excessive ankle sprain. Due to Elliott’s quantity, he is firmly on the radar as an RB2. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Patriots are 3-10 ATS this season, the worst cowl proportion within the NFL. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Chiefs 27, Patriots 13
Walder’s decide: Chiefs 30, Patriots 9
FPI prediction: KC, 76.1% (by a mean of 9.4 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Mahomes’ message to Toney: ‘Simply be you’ … Belichick on Patriots future: ‘I am preparing for Ok.C.’ … Mahomes regrets outburst, interplay with Allen … What’s subsequent for Belichick and the Patriots?
0:33
Is Rashee Rice a top-20 fantasy WR in Week 15?
Liz Loza explains how Rashee Rice is dominating the WR place, coming in as WR1 for the Kansas Metropolis Chiefs.
1 p.m. ET | FOX | Unfold: ATL -3 (34.5)
Storyline to observe: This recreation issues extra for Atlanta, in a three-way tie with New Orleans and Tampa Bay for the NFC South division lead. The Panthers have been centered the previous few weeks on establishing the operating recreation to take strain off quarterback Bryce Younger, and the Falcons have a top-15 run protection that has allowed an NFL-low 5 speeding touchdowns. Younger is coming off arguably the worst recreation (36.1% completion proportion) of his rookie season and goes towards an Atlanta protection that intercepted him twice within the season opener. — David Newton
Daring prediction: This recreation will not be determined till late within the fourth quarter. Whereas Carolina has the NFL’s worst document, the Panthers have been inside one possession within the fourth quarter of their previous 5 video games (all losses). Atlanta has been in one-possession video games in eight of its previous 9 contests. Count on to see that once more — and see the Falcons use a mixture of Tyler Allgeier and Bijan Robinson to shut out the sport with two run-heavy possessions, giving Robinson over 100 all-purpose yards. — Michael Rothstein
Stat to know: The Panthers have scored fewer than 20 factors in seven straight video games, already the longest streak in franchise historical past. Ought to they rating fewer than 20 factors on Sunday, they are going to tie the Giants for the longest such streak by any staff this season (eight video games).
Matchup X issue: Panthers cornerback Jaycee Horn. Final week was Horn’s first recreation again taking part in 100% of snaps. To date in a tiny pattern, he has allowed a excessive 2.0 yards per protection snap, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. However we all know he is able to being a difference-maker on protection. Carolina will want him to decelerate Drake London after they match up, as London is coming off a 172-yard receiving recreation. — Walder
What’s at stake: Extra NFC South intrigue! The Falcons would have a 47% likelihood to make the playoffs and 41% likelihood to win the division in the event that they beat the Panthers, however they’d plummet to 17% and 14%, respectively, if they cannot get it completed. The Panthers are the one NFC South staff that’s eradicated, and regardless that their draft decide could be 98% to finish up No. 1 in the event that they lose, these rights belong to the Bears. Learn extra.
What to know for fantasy: The Falcons (31.7) common the third-most speeding makes an attempt per recreation and face a Panthers protection that has given up the fourth-most fantasy factors per recreation to operating backs. In two of his previous three video games, Robinson has scored 20 or extra fantasy factors. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Falcons are 5-1 ATS of their previous six division video games (they didn’t cowl final week). Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Falcons 27, Panthers 17
Walder’s decide: Falcons 30, Panthers 13
FPI prediction: ATL, 66.5% (by a mean of 5.7 factors)
Matchup must-reads: How the Falcons’ ‘positionless angle’ may have an effect on Pitts’ future … What Younger, 1-12 Panthers can study from 1-15 2001 staff … Was loss to Saints ‘all-time low’ for Younger, Panthers?
4:05 p.m. ET | CBS | Unfold: LAR -6.5 (50.5)
Storyline to observe: Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford has thrown at the least three touchdowns in three straight video games, tied for the longest streak of his profession. The Commanders are the NFL’s worst passing protection in DVOA and have allowed a league-high 30 passing touchdowns. The final Rams quarterback with an extended streak was Kurt Warner, who had 4 such video games in 1999, in accordance with ESPN Stats & Data. — Sarah Barshop
Daring prediction: Rams receiver Puka Nacua could have three 20-yard performs Sunday, together with one for a landing. He’s fourth within the NFL with 21 receptions of 20 yards or extra, and their offense additionally ranks fourth in such performs. In the meantime, Washington ranks final in passing yards allowed per recreation and has allowed the second-most cross performs for 20 yards or extra. — John Keim
Stat to know: With two sacks Sunday, Commanders quarterback Sam Howell would develop into the fourth completely different participant (fifth occasion) of a quarterback taking at the least 60 sacks by way of their first 14 video games of a season. Howell has taken a number of sacks in all however one recreation this season (Week 8 vs. the Eagles).
Matchup X issue: Rams edge rusher Byron Younger. The rookie has six sacks to date and now has an excellent likelihood to get extra going through a staff with a ten% sack fee (although Howell’s sacks have come means down because the begin of the yr). — Walder
What’s at stake: The Rams have an enormous swing in play right here. Win, they usually have 50% likelihood to make the postseason. However lose, and it is simply 14%. Learn extra.
Accidents: Commanders | Rams
What to know for fantasy: The Commanders’ protection offers up the second-most fantasy factors to quarterbacks. Huge receivers additionally rating the second-most fantasy factors per recreation towards Washington’s protection. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Commanders are 5-1 ATS as street underdogs this season. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Rams 33, Commanders 19
Walder’s decide: Rams 34, Commanders 30
FPI prediction: LAR, 75.3% (by a mean of 9.1 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Contained in the Commanders’ high-stakes season and what comes subsequent … Two Rams land within the newest top-10 rookie rankings … Upset Commanders gamers not solely ones pissed off
0:32
Why Eric Karabell likes Puka Nacua’s fantasy outlook in Week 15
Eric Karabell breaks down why Puka Nacua’s matchup this week with the Commanders is enticing.
4:05 p.m. ET | CBS | Unfold: SF -12 (47.5)
Storyline to observe: Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray hasn’t performed the 49ers since October 2021, a stretch of 4 video games and greater than two years, due to accidents. The final time he lined up towards San Francisco, he gained. Murray is 2-2 since he returned from an ACL damage and refreshed coming off the bye. The Niners have no contemporary tape of going through Murray, together with tape of Murray within the Cardinals’ new scheme. With the Niners probably down some gamers on protection, particularly of their entrance seven, Murray might need a chance to upset a possible Tremendous Bowl staff. — Josh Weinfuss
Daring prediction: Niners quarterback Brock Purdy will cross for greater than 300 yards and three touchdowns for the third time this season. Purdy was practically good within the first assembly between these groups, throwing for 283 yards and a landing with only one incompletion. Given the state of Arizona’s secondary, the Cardinals’ incapacity to generate cross rush (they’ve the fourth-lowest strain fee within the NFL) and the Niners’ accidents on protection, this has the makings of a high-scoring recreation that enables Purdy to proceed including the counting stats which have him squarely within the NFL MVP dialog. — Nick Wagoner
Stat to know: Purdy has gained his first six division video games; that is tied for the fourth-longest streak to start a participant’s profession because the 1970 merger. Ought to he win Sunday in Arizona, he can tie Ben Roethlisberger for the third-longest streak.
Matchup X issue: Murray. Sure, he has delivered two wins in 4 video games, however he has only a 50.0 QBR and a negative-5% completion proportion over expectation, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. He is allowed a while to shake off the rust, however Murray must be higher than these numbers counsel. — Walder
What’s at stake: Two very completely different ends of the spectrum right here. We begin with the 49ers, who would love a win to push them to a 63% likelihood to earn a first-round bye (25% in a loss). And the Cardinals may preserve their No. 1 decide desires alive in the event that they do lose (2%). Learn extra.
What to know for fantasy: Niners operating again Christian McCaffrey has averaged 21.4 touches and 24 fantasy factors. In opposition to a Cardinals protection that offers up the second-most fantasy factors per recreation to operating backs, McCaffrey may present a matchup-winning efficiency. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Overs are 5-0-1 in Cardinals residence video games this season. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: 49ers 31, Cardinals 16
Walder’s decide: 49ers 27, Cardinals 17
FPI prediction: SF, 85.1% (by a mean of 13.8 factors)
Matchup must-reads: 4 unsung heroes who’ve helped the 49ers thrive … How Murray modified his footwork for West Coast offense … Lengthy passes have made 49ers’ offense tough to defend
4:25 p.m. ET | FOX | Unfold: BUF -2 (50.5)
Storyline to observe: This can be a large recreation for each groups given the playoff implications concerned. However this recreation may very effectively come right down to which protection coping with accidents could make extra stops towards offenses with the potential to place up large factors. The Cowboys’ offense leads the NFL in factors per recreation (32.4), whereas the Payments are fifth (26.8). — Alaina Getzenberg
Daring prediction: Payments quarterback Josh Allen will lead the Payments in speeding towards the Cowboys and push for 100 yards. The Cowboys are one in all seven groups to not enable a 100-yard rusher this season, however they’ve had points with quarterbacks. 5 instances quarterbacks have had greater than 30 yards speeding vs. Dallas, together with 55 from Joshua Dobbs in a Week 3 loss to Arizona. With out nostril deal with Johnathan Hankins, the Cowboys’ run protection has a gap to fill, and Allen will take benefit. — Todd Archer
Stat to know: Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott has a number of passing touchdowns in seven straight video games, tied with Tony Romo for the second-longest streak in Cowboys historical past (Don Meredith had 12 straight from 1965 to ’66).
Matchup X issue: Cowboys defensive deal with Osa Odighizuwa. Quietly, he is having an enormous season as a pass-rusher. He has simply three sacks, however his 20% cross rush win fee at defensive deal with places him second on the place, behind solely Aaron Donald. — Walder
What’s at stake: Huge one right here. In Dallas, a win would imply it has a 44% likelihood to take the NFC East and a 19% likelihood to complete with the No. 1 seed. A loss? These numbers could be 20% and three%, respectively. And the Payments could possibly be chasing not solely the playoffs (66% with a win, 30% with a loss) but in addition a division title (34% with a win, 13% with a loss). Learn extra.
What to know for fantasy: The Cowboys’ secondary has allowed the fifth-fewest passing yards per recreation to opponents. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Payments are 2-7 ATS of their previous 9 video games. Unders are 5-1 within the Payments’ previous six video games. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Cowboys 28, Payments 25
Walder’s decide: Payments 27, Cowboys 23
FPI prediction: DAL, 50.3% (by a mean of 0.2 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Cowboys ‘did not miss a beat’ after McCarthy’s surgical procedure … Cook dinner, Payments’ protection making strides forward of playoff run … How the Eagles, Niners or Cowboys may declare the No. 1 seed
0:38
Why Josh Allen can nonetheless be began with confidence in Week 15
Liz Loza breaks down why Josh Allen must be in fantasy managers’ lineups vs. Dallas.
8:20 p.m. ET | NBC | Unfold: BAL -3 (42.5)
Storyline to observe: One week after going through the top-ranked protection (Cleveland), the Jaguars get the No. 2 protection with the Ravens. Baltimore leads the league in sacks (49), which isn’t good for a Jaguars offensive line on its fourth left deal with and third left guard due to accidents. Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence has been sacked 31 instances this season, which is one shy of his profession excessive set in 2021. — Mike DiRocco
Daring prediction: Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson will throw for greater than 300 yards in back-to-back video games for the second time in his profession. Jackson ranks sixteenth within the NFL with 225.7 yards passing per recreation, however he threw for 316 yards towards the Rams on Sunday. The Jaguars have allowed 265.2 passing yards per recreation, second worst within the NFL, and have given up 300 yards by way of the air in every of their previous three video games to C.J. Stroud, Jake Browning and Joe Flacco. — Jamison Hensley
Stat to know: Jaguars operating again Travis Etienne Jr. has been held underneath 100 speeding yards in eight consecutive video games, the longest streak in his profession. He wants one speeding landing to be the primary Jaguars participant with 10 speeding touchdowns in a season since Maurice Jones-Drew in 2009 (15).
Matchup X issue: Ravens pass-rushers Jadeveon Clowney, Odafe Oweh and Justin Madubuike. The Jaguars have the Thirtieth-ranked cross block win fee (48.3%) within the NFL, and Baltimore’s protection, with all of its simulated pressures, ought to be capable to take benefit. — Walder
What’s at stake: The Ravens’ odds within the AFC North swing between 80% (loss) and 94% (win) on Sunday, however they may even have an interest within the convention seeding. A victory means 68% odds on the prime seed and a bye, whereas a loss slips them to 30%. The Jaguars look good to take the AFC South if they will get a win (95%, versus 79% in a loss), however their No. 1 seed hopes would nonetheless be simply 13% even when they arrive out of Sunday victorious. Learn extra.
What to know for fantasy: For fantasy managers, Zay Flowers is trending up on the good time. In two consecutive video games, the Ravens receiver has had eight or extra targets and scored 20 or extra fantasy factors. Prior to now 4 weeks, the Jaguars’ protection has allowed the fourth-most fantasy factors per recreation to broad receivers. Additionally, Jacksonville’s protection offers up the third-most fantasy factors per recreation to quarterbacks, which bodes effectively for Jackson. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Jaguars are 7-3 ATS of their previous 10 video games. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Ravens 25, Jaguars 24
Walder’s decide: Ravens 28, Jaguars 17
FPI prediction: BAL, 63.8% (by a mean of 4.7 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Ravens signing Cunningham, reuniting him with Jackson … Ex-Jaguars worker pleads responsible to prices over staff theft … Ravens’ Jackson spurs Tremendous Bowl aspirations
Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET | ESPN | Unfold: PHI -3.5 (47.5)
Storyline to observe: It is a matchup of two of the main candidates for Defensive Rookie of the 12 months. Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon, the fifth total decide, has 3.0 sacks, 16 passes defensed and a 97-yard pick-six on his résumé. Eagles defensive deal with Jalen Carter, chosen 4 spots after Witherspoon, has 4.0 sacks, six tackles for loss and the fourth-best cross rush win fee amongst inside defenders. With a nationwide viewers watching Monday night time, this recreation may go a great distance in figuring out the DROY winner. — Brady Henderson
Daring prediction: Seattle rookie receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba will set a profession excessive in receiving yards. The Eagles’ cross protection, ranked twenty eighth within the NFL, is especially susceptible over the center. Smith-Njigba strains up within the slot on 67% of his snaps, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats, and has an excellent shot at producing an explosive play or two and surpassing his earlier excessive of 63 yards. — Tim McManus
Stat to know: The Seahawks are 13-4 (.765) on “Monday Night time Soccer” underneath coach Pete Carroll. Solely the Steelers have a greater profitable proportion on MNF since 2010 (.833, 15-3 document).
Matchup X issue: Seahawks broad receiver Tyler Lockett. He is having a down yr with simply 1.7 yards per route run — he was at 2.1 and a couple of.5 in 2022 and 2021, respectively — and Seattle goes to wish his unbelievable deep-ball potential to tug off this upset. — Walder
What’s at stake: Philly is out of the blue keeping off Dallas within the NFC East, although a win would assist its case there. The Eagles could be 81% to win the division in the event that they win on the street Monday, whereas a loss would make it a 50-50 endeavor. (High seed implications listed below are Philadelphia both being at 44% in a win or 10% in a loss.) After which there are the Seahawks amid a tricky stretch of their schedule. Seattle’s playoff possibilities could be regular at 46% if it wins however simply 11% if it drops one other recreation. Learn extra.
What to know for fantasy: Seattle operating backs Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet have a tough matchup towards an Eagles protection that enables the fewest fantasy factors per recreation to operating backs. The Seahawks usually tend to lean on the passing recreation towards Philadelphia. The Eagles’ protection offers up essentially the most fantasy factors per recreation to broad receivers. See Week 15 rankings. — Moody
2:01
Can Jaxon Smith-Njigba escape in a terrific matchup vs. Eagles?
Daniel Dopp, Discipline Yates and Tyler Fulghum break down whether or not fantasy managers ought to begin Jaxon Smith-Njigba on Monday Night time Soccer.
Betting nugget: 5 straight Eagles video games following a loss have gone underneath the overall. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Eagles 31, Seahawks 21
Walder’s decide: Eagles 28, Seahawks 20
FPI prediction: PHI, 57.6% (by a mean of two.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: What the Eagles want to repair to win the No. 1 seed … Seahawks anticipate Witherspoon again for MNF … How Philadelphia, San Francisco or Dallas may take the highest NFC spot … Injured Seahawks QB Smith ‘feels actually good,’ Carroll says
