Week 16 is here, and as we get closer to the end of the season, the games become more and more important. For teams that have been mathematically eliminated, perhaps it’s time for the backups and younger players to get some playing time. For everyone else, a single play could make or break their position in the playoffs. Here’s what to look for in this week’s matchups.
Can the Steelers end their losing streak and clinch the division?
I’m giving up on the Steelers’ inconsistent running game. If they want to beat the Colts, Big Ben will have to step up. That means no loose throws, no interceptions, no mistakes. If Ben can get the ball moving and not make too many mistakes, they might have a shot at the game. The defense will need to do their part as well. The offense is a pretty slow starter, so if TJ and Co. can keep the Indianapolis offense at bay for the first quarter or so, Ben might be able to keep up. A win here for the Steelers would clinch the division for them, and assuming Kansas City wins this week, the Steelers should be able to take a rest game next week.
Can Sam Darnold and the Jets win two in a row?
With the second pick secured now, the Jets can finally move on to trying to win a few games. For Darnold, a few good performances at the end could potentially convince the Jets to give him another chance and take Penei Sewell over Justin Fields with the second pick. It is also well known that Adam Gase could be fired very soon, and I don’t see a situation where the Jets win only one game, and Gase stays as head coach. Thus, there is still a lot to play for despite being in the midst of a very painful rebuild.
Can Kansas City clinch the number 1 seed?
With the new playoff expansion, the always coveted number one seed has become even more valuable as it is the only seed that gets a bye week before their first playoff game. It is difficult to see Kansas City losing two in a row now, but like the Steelers, I think they will benefit from having nothing to play for next week. The last thing they need is a star player getting injured right before the playoffs. Against an Atlanta team that has only won 4 games all season, I think the three-headed monster of Mahomes, Kelce, and Hill will be more than enough to get the win.
That’s it for this article. Don’t forget to check back to see my analysis of these games next week. If you have any thoughts on these players, let me know in the comments section.
