Maurice Jones-Drew: The Philadelphia Eagles were eliminated from the playoff contest last week after falling for the Cowboys, but they took the opportunity to play spoiler on Sunday night against Washington. The defense of the football team, which ranks fourth in allowed yards and fifth in allowed points, becomes a sieve against Jalen Hurts. Philly’s new QB1 illuminates the Ron Rivera unit at 380 yards and five touchdowns in total.
Nate Burleson: The Dallas Cowboys need help from the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday night, but they will take care of business against the New York Giants for a chance to win the division title. Andy Dalton, who has had at least two passing TDs in each of the Cowboys’ last three games (all wins), continues his hot streak with 350 passing yards and three touchdowns against a Giants defense that is fourth in the zone red.
Joe Thomas: The Browns defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers, sending Cleveland into the playoffs for the first time since 2002. It is the defense that is proving to be a big win. With Ben Roethlisberger resting on Sunday, the Browns hold Steelers reserve Mason Rudolph just 150 yards in passing to help end the post-season drought.
Brian Baldinger: The 4-11 Houston Texans defeated the 10-5 Tennessee Titans, leaving the door open for the Indianapolis Colts to conquer AFC South. Houston’s victory will be driven by its two biggest stars: Deshaun Watson and JJ Watt. Watson had an incredible season, despite the team record, while Sunday’s competition may well be Watt’s final game in Houston. Furthermore, I am assuming that the fiery speech he gave earlier in the week will make his companions eager to go. Oh, and one more thing: the defense of the Titans’ Swiss cheese should allow Watson to end his 2020 campaign on a high.
Marc Ross: Not Jared Goff. Not Cooper Kupp. No problem for the Los Angeles Rams. John Wolford shines on his NFL debut, posting 250 yards of passes and a pair of touchdowns to help Rams beat Arizona and secure a playoff spot. Wolford receives a great deal of help from his defense as he limits an injured Kyler Murray. The Cardinals’ attack will be reduced to less than 20 points only for the third time this season.