The Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens emerged as the big winners on Christmas Day, while the Pittsburgh Steelers and Houston Texans took tough losses. As the NFL playoff picture takes shape, here’s a closer look at who’s trending up and who’s falling behind.
Winners
Kansas City Chiefs’ Offense Heating Up at the Right Time
Just like last season, the Chiefs are finding their groove in December. With Xavier Worthy stepping up and Travis Kelce still dominating, Patrick Mahomes has the offense clicking. Their third win in 11 days secured the AFC’s No. 1 seed, giving them home-field advantage and a first-round bye. With 24 days before their next meaningful game, the Chiefs can rest key players like Mahomes, Kelce, and Chris Jones ahead of another Super Bowl run.
Travis Kelce Makes History
Kelce cemented his legacy by breaking Tony Gonzalez’s franchise record for most career touchdown receptions. His 77th regular-season TD and 54th from Mahomes further solidify him as one of the NFL’s greatest tight ends.
Lamar Jackson’s MVP Push Gains Momentum
After dominant performances in back-to-back prime-time matchups, Lamar Jackson is making a strong case for his second MVP award. His stats over the past two games—375 passing yards, five touchdowns, and 109 rushing yards—have closed the gap in the race against Josh Allen.
Losers
Russell Wilson & Steelers’ Offensive Woes
Even with George Pickens back in the lineup, Wilson struggled, completing just 23 of 37 passes for 205 yards with one interception and five sacks. His rushing TD didn’t mask the offense’s ongoing issues, with Pittsburgh ranking 26th in offensive success rate.
Steelers’ Pass Rush Disappears
T.J. Watt and the Steelers’ defense failed to pressure Mahomes, recording zero sacks. Without their defensive dominance, Pittsburgh’s playoff hopes are shaky at best.
Texans’ Offense in Trouble
Missing Tank Dell, C.J. Stroud had a rough outing against Baltimore, going 17 of 31 for 185 yards and an interception while taking five sacks. With a tough first-round playoff matchup ahead, Houston’s offensive struggles raise serious concerns.
Bengals, Dolphins & Colts’ Playoff Hopes Take a Hit
With Kansas City locking up the No. 1 seed, they’re likely to rest starters in Week 18 against the Denver Broncos. If Denver wins, it could eliminate Cincinnati, Miami, and Indianapolis from playoff contention.
What’s Next?
The Chiefs face the Broncos in Week 18, while the Steelers host the Bengals in a must-win game for playoff seeding. Lamar Jackson and the Ravens will look to secure the AFC North title as they prepare for another deep postseason run.
Source : CBS Sports
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