Here is a preview and prediction for every game this week that features an AFC team!
Los Angeles Chargers at New England Patriots
The 9-6 Chargers, led by QB Justin Herbert, look to clinch a playoff spot with a win. The 3-12 Patriots gave the Buffalo Bills a scare, leading 14-0 early but ultimately lost 24-21. Even though the Patriots were a bit pesky last week, I think Herbert gets the job done sending the Chargers into the playoffs.
Score Prediction: Chargers 24 – Patriots 17
Denver Broncos at Cincinnati Bengals
The 9-6 Broncos, led by QB Bo Nix, can also clinch a playoff spot with a win. The 7-8 Bengals, led by QB Joe Burrow, also need a win to keep their slim playoff hopes alive. Denver has the better defense, and I think WR Courtland Sutton has a huge game in a high-scoring affair.
Score Prediction: Broncos 31 – Bengals 24
Indianapolis Colts at New York Giants
The 7-8 Colts are holding onto very slim playoff hopes. RB Jonathan Taylor is gelling at the right time after rushing for over 200 yards and scoring 3 touchdowns in week 16. The 2-13 Giants season can’t end fast enough for their fans. One silver lining is they clinch the number 1 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft if they were to lose out. I expect Taylor to have another big game in a Colt’s win.
Score Prediction: Colts 24 – Giants 13
New York Jets at Buffalo Bills
The 4-11 Jets, led by QB Aaron Rodgers, are the most disappointing team in the league. They will play hard, but will it be enough to upset the Bills? The 12-3 Bills, led by QB Josh Allen, can clinch the AFC 2 seed with a win. I think they get it, as I don’t think Allen will lose at home.
Score Prediction: Bills 27 – Jets 20
Tennessee Titans at Jacksonville Jaguars
The 3-12 Titans and the 3-12 Jaguars are both in contention for the number one overall pick. Whoever wins will do a disservice to their 2025 draft status. The Jaguars have been playing better and rookie WR Brian Thomas Jr. has been outstanding and could be the difference in this one.
Score Prediction: Jaguars 17- Titans 13
Las Vegas Raiders at New Orleans Saints
The 3-12 Raiders and the 5-10 Saints are also out of playoff contention. The Raiders do have a bit more going for them, as they are healthier than the depleted Saints.
Score Prediction: Raiders 23 – Saints 13
Miami Dolphins at Cleveland Browns
The 7-8 Dolphins are desperate for a win as they are hanging onto slim playoff hopes. The 3-12 Browns are reeling as their offense has been anemic. The Dolphins have too many weapons, and their defense should clamp the Browns down.
Score Prediction: Dolphins 23 – Browns 10