With the NFL’s Week 17 upon fans and bettors alike, several key matchups are shaping the playoff landscape. Among the most scrutinized games, the performances could have lasting implications for teams vying for postseason positioning.
Cardinals’ Struggles and Future Outlook
The Arizona Cardinals face a challenging matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals, who are favored by 7 points. The Cardinals, once optimistic after starting the season 2-0, have since struggled significantly, losing 11 of their last 12 games. Quarterback Kyler Murray has been sidelined since Week 5 due to a foot injury, leaving the team scrambling for offensive consistency.
Coach Jonathan Gannon has received backing from owner Michael Bidwill, who acknowledges the difficulties posed by injuries and a rebuilding roster. Despite this, the team’s performance has raised questions about Gannon’s future, particularly given that he and general manager Monti Ossenfort have made only one draft pick for a quarterback—Clayton Tune in the fifth round of the 2023 draft.
Should Bidwill decide to retain Gannon, it would likely be attributed to financial considerations, as releasing him could incur significant costs. The Cardinals’ performance this season has drawn scrutiny, especially since they have a win-loss differential of -19, placing them in a precarious position compared to other recently fired coaches.
Key Matchups and Playoff Scenarios
In other notable games, the Seattle Seahawks visit the Carolina Panthers, with Seattle favored by 7 points. A loss for the Panthers would solidify the Seahawks’ grip on the NFC West and set the stage for an intriguing matchup between the Buccaneers and Panthers in Week 18.
The New Orleans Saints, favored by 1.5 points against the Tennessee Titans, have shown resilience with three consecutive wins. A Titans loss would benefit the Eagles, who are looking to secure better draft positioning.
The Pittsburgh Steelers, needing a win over the Cleveland Browns to maintain their AFC North hopes, enter as 3-point favorites. The outcome of this game could significantly impact the playoff landscape, especially with the Baltimore Ravens securing a win the previous day.
The New England Patriots are heavily favored at -13.5 against the New York Jets, who have struggled recently, losing their last three games by a combined score of 111-36. A victory for the Patriots would secure them the AFC East title if the Bills lose to the Eagles.
In a matchup that could determine the top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the New York Giants face the Las Vegas Raiders, who are favored by 1.5 points. Both teams are looking to position themselves for a brighter future, with the Giants potentially benefiting from a loss.
As the playoffs approach, the outcomes of these games will be crucial for teams looking to solidify their positions. The Eagles, currently in contention for the NFC playoff spots, will have their eyes on the results, particularly how other teams perform against the spread.
With Week 17 underway, fans can expect an exciting day of football that will influence not only individual matchups but also the broader playoff picture.
