NFL Game Week 17: TV-Schedule and Key Matchup Analysis

NFL Game Week 17: TV-Schedule and Key Matchup Analysis

As the NFL season hurtles towards its thrilling conclusion, Week 17 brings with it matchups that are more than just regular season games – they are battles laden with playoff implications and team legacies.

This article provides an in-depth analysis of these pivotal matchups, highlighting the strengths, weaknesses, and key factors that could determine the outcomes of these must-watch games. Buckle up, NFL fans – Week 17 is poised to deliver some of the most memorable moments of the season!

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Full Schedule for Week 17:

Thursday, December 28

  • New York Jets @ Cleveland Browns at 8:15 PM ET on Amazon Prime.

Saturday, December 30

  • Detroit Lions @ Dallas Cowboys at 8:15 PM ET on ABC and ESPN.

Sunday, December 31

  • New Orleans Saints @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers at 1:00 PM ET on FOX.
  • Miami Dolphins @ Baltimore Ravens at 1:00 PM ET on CBS and Paramount+.
  • San Francisco 49ers @ Washington Commanders at 1:00 PM ET on FOX.
  • New England Patriots @ Buffalo Bills at 1:00 PM ET on CBS and Paramount+.
  • Atlanta Falcons @ Chicago Bears at 1:00 PM ET on CBS and Paramount+.
  • Tennessee Titans @ Houston Texans at 1:00 PM ET on FOX.
  • Las Vegas Raiders @ Indianapolis Colts at 1:00 PM ET on CBS and Paramount+.
  • Carolina Panthers @ Jacksonville Jaguars at 1:00 PM ET on CBS and Paramount+.
  • Los Angeles Rams @ New York Giants at 1:00 PM ET on FOX.
  • Arizona Cardinals @ Philadelphia Eagles at 1:00 PM ET on FOX.
  • Pittsburgh Steelers @ Seattle Seahawks at 4:05 PM ET on FOX.
  • Los Angeles Chargers @ Denver Broncos at 4:25 PM ET on CBS and Paramount+.
  • Cincinnati Bengals @ Kansas City Chiefs at 4:25 PM ET on CBS and Paramount+.
  • Green Bay Packers @ Minnesota Vikings at 8:20 PM ET on NBC and Peacock.

In-Depth Analysis: Key Matchups in Game Week 17

Detroit Lions @ Dallas Cowboys

  • Date and Time: December 30, 8:15 PM ET
  • Venue: AT&T Stadium
  • TV Info: ABC and ESPN
  • Analysis: The Lions have a potent offense, evident from their 5,911 total offensive yards, with a notable balance between rushing (2,116 yards) and passing (3,984 yards). They have converted 88 of 202 third down attempts, showcasing efficiency in crucial situations​​. The Cowboys also display a strong offense with 5,493 total yards, slightly less than the Lions. They excel in rushing with 1,728 yards and have a sturdy defense, indicated by 37 sacks. Their third down conversion rate is almost on par with the Lions at 98 of 206 attempts​​.
  • Key Factor: This game may come down to the Cowboys' ability to control the Lions' aggressive offense.

Los Angeles Chargers @ Denver Broncos

  • Date and Time: December 31, 4:25 PM ET
  • Venue: Empower Field at Mile High
  • TV Info: CBS and Paramount+
  • Analysis: The Chargers have amassed 5,589 total offensive yards, with a significant portion coming from their passing game (4,202 yards). They have a higher number of touchdowns (45) compared to the Broncos, suggesting a more potent offense​​. The Broncos boast a strong offensive output with 5,643 total yards, excelling in rushing with 2,116 yards. Their defense has been more effective in sacking the quarterback, with a total of 45 sacks this season​​.
  • Key Factor: The Broncos' defense against the Chargers' passing game will be crucial in this matchup.

Green Bay Packers @ Minnesota Vikings

  • Date and Time: December 31, 8:20 PM ET
  • Venue: U.S. Bank Stadium
  • TV Info: NBC and Peacock
  • Analysis: The Packers have shown a balanced attack with 5,293 total offensive yards. Their strength lies in their rushing game, with 2,039 yards. They have been more effective on third downs, converting 86 of 203 attempts​​.The Vikings have a total of 5,253 offensive yards with a slightly weaker rushing game at 1,431 yards. Their passing game, however, has been robust with 3,675 yards. They have managed to convert 86 of 209 third down attempts​​.
  • Key Factor: The Packers' rushing offense against the Vikings' passing defense could be the decisive element in this game.

Author: Dan Anderson