The 2024 NFL Week 15 games delivered another exciting chapter in a season filled with drama and playoff tension. From shocking upsets to dominating performances, this week showcased just how unpredictable and thrilling the league can be. In this NFL Week 15 Recap, we’ll dive into every game already played, highlight key moments, and discuss how these results impact the playoff race. Check out NFL.com for official scores and highlights!
Los Angeles Rams vs. San Francisco 49ers (12-6)
The San Francisco 49ers edged the Los Angeles Rams in a low-scoring defensive battle, winning 12-6. The game was defined by strong defensive efforts and the 49ers’ ability to make key stops when it mattered most.
Key Highlights from the Game
- Christian McCaffrey rushed for 88 yards, providing a consistent offensive presence for San Francisco.
- The 49ers’ defense recorded four sacks, consistently pressuring Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford.
- San Francisco kicker Jake Moody went 4-for-4 on field goals, scoring all 12 of the team’s points.
The 49ers solidified their position as NFC contenders, with their defense looking playoff-ready. The Rams, on the other hand, are officially eliminated from postseason contention after this tough loss. For San Francisco, consistency on offense remains a concern as the playoffs approach.
Baltimore Ravens vs. New York Giants (35-14)
The Baltimore Ravens showcased their offensive firepower with a commanding 35-14 victory over the New York Giants. Lamar Jackson was unstoppable, leading the Ravens to an easy win.
Key Highlights from the Game
- Lamar Jackson threw for 280 yards and 3 touchdowns, adding 50 rushing yards.
- Zay Flowers caught 7 passes for 120 yards and a touchdown, continuing his breakout rookie campaign.
- The Ravens’ defense forced three turnovers, including a fumble recovery returned for a touchdown.
With this win, the Ravens maintain control of the AFC North and look like one of the top contenders in the AFC. The Giants’ playoff hopes, meanwhile, are all but gone. This game further highlighted the Ravens’ balanced approach and their ability to dominate on both sides of the ball.
New York Jets vs. Jacksonville Jaguars (32-25)
In a surprising upset, the New York Jets outlasted the Jacksonville Jaguars 32-25, keeping their slim playoff hopes alive. The game saw an impressive performance from the Jets’ offense, which has struggled for much of the season.
Key Highlights from the Game
- Zach Wilson threw for 285 yards and 2 touchdowns, one of his best performances of the year.
- Breece Hall rushed for 110 yards and a touchdown, dominating the ground game.
- The Jets’ defense intercepted Trevor Lawrence twice, including a late pick that sealed the win.
The Jaguars’ playoff hopes took a hit, but they remain in the AFC South race. For the Jets, this win is a glimmer of hope in what has been an otherwise disappointing season. While unlikely to make the playoffs, New York showed the potential for growth with their young core.
Washington Commanders vs. New Orleans Saints (20-19)
The Washington Commanders squeaked out a narrow 20-19 win over the New Orleans Saints in one of the most dramatic games of the week. A late field goal sealed the victory for Washington, capping a back-and-forth contest.
Key Highlights from the Game
- Sam Howell threw for 240 yards and a touchdown, continuing to impress as Washington’s quarterback.
- Terry McLaurin had 9 receptions for 95 yards and a touchdown, proving to be a reliable target.
- The Commanders’ defense stopped a two-point conversion attempt late in the fourth quarter to preserve the win.
Washington’s playoff chances remain slim but alive, while the Saints now face long odds to make the postseason. The Commanders showed grit and resilience in this game, but their inconsistency throughout the season may be too much to overcome.
Cincinnati Bengals vs. Tennessee Titans (37-27)
The Cincinnati Bengals continued their strong push for the playoffs with a 37-27 victory over the Tennessee Titans. Joe Burrow and the Bengals’ offense were firing on all cylinders, putting on a clinic against a struggling Titans defense.
Key Highlights from the Game
- Joe Burrow threw for 325 yards and 4 touchdowns, dominating through the air.
- Ja’Marr Chase caught 8 passes for 130 yards and 2 touchdowns.
- Derrick Henry rushed for 100 yards and 2 touchdowns but couldn’t carry the Titans on his own.
The Bengals look poised to secure a Wild Card spot, while the Titans’ playoff hopes are hanging by a thread. Cincinnati’s offense has found its stride at the perfect time, making them a dangerous team heading into the postseason.
Miami Dolphins vs. Houston Texans (12-20)
In one of the biggest surprises of Week 15, the Houston Texans defeated the Miami Dolphins 20-12. The Texans’ defense came up big, shutting down one of the most explosive offenses in the league.
Key Highlights from the Game
- C.J. Stroud threw for 250 yards and a touchdown, showing poise against a tough Miami defense.
- Dameon Pierce rushed for 85 yards and a touchdown, leading Houston’s ground attack.
- The Texans’ defense held Tyreek Hill to just 50 receiving yards and no touchdowns.
The Dolphins remain in playoff contention but missed a critical opportunity to solidify their position. Meanwhile, the Texans continue to play spoiler, showcasing a promising young core that bodes well for their future.
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Cleveland Browns (21-7)
The Kansas City Chiefs cruised to a 21-7 victory over the Cleveland Browns, relying on their defense and Patrick Mahomes’ steady play to secure the win.
Key Highlights from the Game
- Patrick Mahomes threw for 250 yards and 2 touchdowns, with no interceptions.
- Travis Kelce caught 6 passes for 80 yards and a touchdown.
- The Chiefs’ defense recorded three sacks and forced a critical fumble.
Kansas City remains a top contender in the AFC, while the Browns’ slim playoff hopes took another hit. The Chiefs continue to prove why they’re perennial Super Bowl favorites, with their balanced roster and ability to win in any situation.
NFL Week 15 Recap: Dallas Cowboys vs. Carolina Panthers (30-14)
The Dallas Cowboys dominated the Carolina Panthers in a 30-14 victory, showcasing their offensive firepower and defensive dominance.
Key Highlights from the Game
- Dak Prescott threw for 275 yards and 3 touchdowns, with no turnovers.
- CeeDee Lamb caught 7 passes for 110 yards and a touchdown.
- Micah Parsons recorded 2 sacks and forced a fumble, wreaking havoc on Carolina’s offense.
The Cowboys remain in the hunt for a top seed in the NFC, while the Panthers’ rebuilding season continues. Dallas looks like a team capable of making a deep playoff run, especially if they maintain this level of play.
NFL Week 15 Recap: New England Patriots vs. Arizona Cardinals (17-30)
The Arizona Cardinals stunned the New England Patriots with a 30-17 victory, powered by a strong performance from their offense and a few key defensive plays.
Key Highlights from the Game
- Kyler Murray threw for 270 yards and 2 touchdowns, adding 50 rushing yards.
- James Conner rushed for 95 yards and a touchdown, keeping Arizona’s offense balanced.
- The Cardinals’ defense intercepted Mac Jones twice, including a pick-six.
While the Cardinals are out of playoff contention, this win was a bright spot in a tough season. The Patriots’ playoff hopes are fading quickly after another disappointing performance.
NFL Week 15 Recap: Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Los Angeles Chargers (40-17)
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers rolled over the Los Angeles Chargers in a dominant 40-17 victory. Baker Mayfield led the way for Tampa Bay’s high-powered offense.
Key Highlights from the Game
- Baker Mayfield threw for 310 yards and 4 touchdowns, one of his best games of the season.
- Chris Godwin recorded 9 receptions for 120 yards and 2 touchdowns.
- The Buccaneers’ defense forced three turnovers, including a fumble recovery returned for a touchdown.
Tampa Bay continues to look like a strong playoff contender, while the Chargers’ inconsistent season likely ends without a postseason berth.
NFL Week 15 Recap: Buffalo Bills vs. Detroit Lions (48-42)
In the most thrilling game of the week, the Buffalo Bills outlasted the Detroit Lions in a 48-42 shootout. Both offenses were unstoppable, but the Bills made just enough plays to come out on top.
Key Highlights from the Game
- Josh Allen threw for 400 yards and 5 touchdowns, carrying the Bills to victory.
- Stefon Diggs caught 10 passes for 180 yards and 2 touchdowns.
- Jared Goff threw for 350 yards and 4 touchdowns but couldn’t secure the win.
The Bills remain in the AFC playoff race, while the Lions’ loss shakes up the NFC standings. Both teams showed why they’re dangerous contenders, but defensive improvements will be critical moving forward.
NFL Week 15 Recap: Indianapolis Colts vs. Denver Broncos (13-31)
The Denver Broncos dominated the Indianapolis Colts 31-13, showcasing their improved offense and a smothering defensive effort.
Key Highlights from the Game
- Russell Wilson threw for 250 yards and 3 touchdowns, continuing his bounce-back season.
- Javonte Williams rushed for 100 yards and a touchdown.
- The Broncos’ defense intercepted Gardner Minshew twice, shutting down Indianapolis’ offense.
The Broncos’ playoff hopes are alive but still require help, while the Colts’ season is effectively over. Denver’s late-season surge is encouraging, but they’ll need to stay hot to secure a postseason berth.
NFL Week 15 Recap: Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Philadelphia Eagles (13-27)
The Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 27-13, using a balanced attack and strong defensive effort to secure the win.
Key Highlights from the Game
- Jalen Hurts threw for 220 yards and 2 touchdowns, adding 50 rushing yards.
- DeVonta Smith caught 8 passes for 105 yards and a touchdown.
- The Eagles’ defense sacked Kenny Pickett four times and forced a fumble.
The Eagles remain one of the top teams in the NFC, while the Steelers face an uphill battle to make the playoffs. Philadelphia continues to impress with their depth and ability to dominate in all phases of the game.
Green Bay Packers vs. Seattle Seahawks (30-13)
The Green Bay Packers delivered a convincing 30-13 victory over the Seattle Seahawks, keeping their slim playoff hopes alive. The Packers controlled the game on both sides of the ball, frustrating the Seahawks’ offense and capitalizing on their opportunities.
Key Highlights from the Game
- Jordan Love threw for 260 yards and 2 touchdowns, continuing his late-season improvement.
- AJ Dillon rushed for 85 yards and a touchdown, powering Green Bay’s ground game.
- The Packers’ defense intercepted Geno Smith twice and recorded three sacks.
The Packers still have an outside shot at the NFC playoffs, but they’ll need to win out and get help from other teams. The Seahawks’ playoff chances took a significant blow with this loss, leaving little room for error in the final weeks. Green Bay’s resurgence has been a bright spot late in the season, but consistency remains their biggest challenge.
That wraps up the NFL Week 15 Recap. Each game brought its own unique storylines and playoff implications, and with just a few weeks left, the stakes will only get higher!
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