As the NFL season enters its final stretch, the race for the No. 1 pick in the upcoming draft is generating more buzz than the playoff race. A record number of teams have already secured playoff berths, highlighting the stark contrast between the league's contenders and struggling teams.
With seven playoff spots clinched, this season marks the earliest point in NFL history that such a high percentage of postseason berths have been filled with three weeks remaining. The AFC playoff picture could be nearly set after this week's games, while the NFC may see five of its seven spots locked up by the end of Week 16.
On the flip side, the battle for the No. 1 pick is intense, with a record seven teams having three wins or fewer. The New York Giants and Las Vegas Raiders are currently leading the pack with 2-12 records, with other teams closely behind.
In a recent high-scoring showdown between the Detroit Lions and Buffalo Bills, Lions quarterback Jared Goff made history by becoming the first player to throw for over 400 yards and five touchdowns without an interception in a losing effort. The Bills, meanwhile, experienced a roller-coaster ride of their own, winning a game after allowing 42 points just a week after losing a game in which they scored the same number of points.
Week 15 also marked the final week of the regular season featuring teams coming off byes, with mixed results for the rested teams. Despite the bye week advantage diminishing over the years due to practice restrictions, teams coming off byes this season have had a nearly even record.
In a turnover-filled game between the Tennessee Titans and Cincinnati Bengals, both teams struggled with ball security, combining for 10 turnovers and numerous penalties. The game marked the first 10-giveaway contest in the NFL since 2007, showcasing the sloppy play on the field.
Chicago Bears' rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, the top overall pick, has faced challenges in his debut season, losing eight consecutive starts despite setting a rookie record for most consecutive passes without an interception. The Bears' playoff hopes were dashed in Week 15, leaving Williams in a tough position as he aims to turn the team's fortunes around.
As the NFL season heads towards its climax, the battles for playoff spots and the No. 1 pick promise to keep fans on the edge of their seats in the coming weeks.
