Green Bay's Journey on the Field
The Packers have been a team of contrasts this season. Coming into Week 15, they ranked dead last in neutral pass rate. Yet, their diverse and powerful run game, led by Josh Jacobs, was a focal point in their road win over the Seahawks. Jacobs ran the ball 26 times, while Jordan Love had 27 pass attempts and backup backs added four rush attempts. Jayden Reed also had three runs at an impressive 9 yards per attempt. However, the passing game showed signs of dynamism with downfield passes, which is crucial for the Packers to reach their full potential. Love threw deep at the second-highest rate this season at 22.2%, with a top-10 yards per completion rate among quarterbacks and a 57.1% success rate, one of the best games of his career. He threw the ball on average under 2.1 seconds, showing his ability to attack downfield. Seattle's defense, strong against the run but weak at outside corner, was exploited by Green Bay with vertical shots to Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs. The Packers' ability to balance their run and pass game, especially with Jordan Love pushing the ball vertically, makes them a difficult unit to stop.
The Bills' Offensive Versatility
Buffalo's Multi-Faceted Attack
The Bills have been a team that can beat you in multiple ways all season. In a win over the Lions, James Cook ripped off big plays with 133 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns. The depth backs were also crucial, with Ty Johnson being a focal point and Ray Davis scoring once. One week after Amari Cooper had an exceptional air yard performance, he didn't get many targets as the Bills went back to their heavier personnel group. No matter how they attack an opponent, the Bills have a path to efficiency. Their ability to win in different ways and have a dangerous multi-phase quarterback makes them a formidable team.
The Bucs' Statement Win
Tampa Bay's Resilience
The Buccaneers have faced many injuries but have remained a solid team. In a home win against the Chargers, Baker Mayfield played a clean game with just one sack. He picked on the Chargers' defense with vertical shots to Mike Evans and had a touchdown to Jalen McMillan. Liam Coen has designed an excellent passing game, and when Mayfield is hot, he runs it perfectly. Bucky Irving and Rachaad White have been key backs, with Irving's electric and efficient running and White's receiving skills. The Bucs' running game has been remade, and they are capable of stealing the NFC South from the Falcons.
The Eagles' Passing Game Potential
Aerial Attack at Its Best
The Eagles' passing game showed its potential in Week 15. Against a good Steelers defense, Jalen Hurts had plenty of time to pass with the offensive line providing support. Both wide receivers, A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, combined for 72% of the team targets and cleared 100 yards. Hurts was lethal against man coverage, completing 11 of 13 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns with a 71.4% success rate. The Eagles are talented at the pass-catcher spot, and when everything is firing, they can reach their ceiling. They will face tough division rivals in the playoffs, but their aerial attack gives them a good chance.
The Broncos' Playoff Hopes
Denver's Postseason Push
The Broncos had a critical Week 15 win over the Colts and now look like a near-lock for the postseason. Bo Nix and the offense had some mistakes but have exceeded expectations. Defensively, they have been a top-tier stop unit. They completely demolished the Colts' passing game and have shown they can handle volatile opponents. While the ceiling of this team is uncertain, they deserve to be in the playoff mix and have a bright future with a good quarterback and resources to build the roster.