Week 17 NFL showdown: as the season narrows to a two-week sprint, every game carries playoff implications and the chance to lock the No. 1 seed.
The Season Tightens
The season has narrowed to a two-week sprint, with playoff berths being clinched and teams still fighting for the coveted No. 1 seed in each conference.
Thursday Night Highlights
Thursday night kicks off the slate with three Christmas-day contests, the headline matchup featuring the 12-3 Denver Broncos traveling to the 6-9 Kansas City Chiefs, a game that could shape the AFC’s top spot.
Saturday Showdowns
Saturday sees two pivotal clashes. In the AFC, the Houston Texans will host the Los Angeles Chargers, a showdown that may determine each side’s chances to push further into the postseason.
Sunday Early Action
Early Sunday offers the Jacksonville Jaguars an opportunity to keep their momentum heading into the final stretch, while the Indianapolis Colts will battle for playoff odds on home turf.
Late Sunday Climax
The late Sunday window features a crucial matchup between the New York Giants and the Las Vegas Raiders, both sitting at 2-13 and fighting for the sole No. 1 draft pick in April.
Sunday Night Football
NBC’s Sunday Night Football brings an NFC showdown: the 11-4 San Francisco 49ers will host the 11-4 Chicago Bears. Brock Purdy and his teammates will control their destiny for the No. 1 seed if they win, while Caleb Williams and the Bears will aim to make a statement under the lights.
Monday Night Finale
Monday Night Football concludes the week with the 11-4 Los Angeles Rams visiting the 6-9 Atlanta Falcons. An upset by the Falcons would shift both the draft board and the No. 1 seed race, especially since the Rams hold Atlanta’s first-round pick this year.
Draft Pick Battle
With the regular season winding down, the two teams holding the worst records-Giants and Raiders-will face off this week, a result that could seal the deal for the No. 1 pick in April.
Super Bowl Countdown
As teams battle for playoff spots, fans will also be watching the countdown to Super Bowl 60, though details on its location and date remain to be announced.
Key Takeaways
- Chiefs vs Broncos could decide the AFC’s No. 1 seed.
- 49ers vs Bears will determine the NFC’s top spot.
- A Rams vs Falcons upset could alter the draft board.
The final week of the NFL season is shaping up to be a rollercoaster, with every game carrying playoff implications and the potential to alter the draft landscape.
