Week 12 started with the great tradition of Thanksgiving football. We’ve already watched the Vikings pull out a close one in Detroit, the Chargers dismantle the Cowboys in Dallas and the Redskins slay the Giants. Here are some additional matchups worth watching post-turkey coma.
Buffalo at Kansas City, Sunday, November 26th at 1:00 PM on CBS.
The Bills and Chiefs had a strong start to their seasons, but have floundered in recent weeks. But, due to the general weakness of the AFC, both teams are still in the playoff hunt and should fight hard to get back on track this weekend. For the Bills, the big question-mark is QB Tyrod Taylor, who will be starting after getting benched last week. If he can get his groove back, his return could reignite the Buffalo offense. To stop them, the Chiefs will need to rediscover their defensive dominance from the first half of the season. With both teams fighting to save their seasons, this should be an exciting game.
Tampa Bay at Atlanta, Sunday, November 26th at 1:00 PM on FOX.
This NFC South showdown promises to be another great matchup. Atlanta has been back to their winning ways in recent weeks, and will look to prove it’s not a flook by taking down Tampa Bay. But, they may have to do it without Devonta Freeman, who is still sidelined with a concussion. Tampa Bay will be shorthanded as well, with Jameis Winston recovering from a shoulder injury. Look for Mike Evans and Julio Jones to have a big day as both teams lean on their aerial attacks. Ultimately, expect a closely fought match.
Saints at Rams, Sunday, November 26th at 4:25 PM on CBS.
New Orleans is hosting the LA Rams in what could be the game of the week. Both of these teams are looking ahead to the playoffs, and are in the hunt for the elusive first-round bye. This game is full of fascinating match ups: Marshon Lattimore vs. Jared Goff, the Saints RBs vs. the Redskins defensive linemen. With both teams sporting high-flying offenses, this has potential to be a shootout.
Green Bay at Pittsburgh, Sunday, November 26th at 8:30 PM on CBS.
Rounding out the week is a great AFC vs. NFC game. Pittsburgh is tied with the Patriots for the best record in the AFC and will be fighting to get one step closer to home field advantage. The Packers have struggled in recent weeks without Aaron Rodgers, but have begun to turn it around behind Brett Hundley. While Pittsburgh looks like the stronger team on paper, they’ve made a habit of playing down to the competition in recent seasons. Both teams will be challenged physically and mentally by this tough game.
Happy watching and happy Thanksgiving!