In a thrilling NFL Sunday, Sam Darnold led the Minnesota Vikings to a narrow 27-25 victory over the Green Bay Packers, marking their ninth consecutive win of the season. Darnold threw for a personal-best 377 yards and three touchdowns, setting a franchise record for the most touchdown passes in a debut season with 35. The Vikings, now 14-2, are poised for a crucial matchup against the Detroit Lions for the NFC North title in the final week of the regular season.
Jordan Love's late touchdown pass to Malik Heath provided a glimmer of hope for the Packers, who fell to 11-5 and struggled against top NFC teams this season. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Eagles secured the NFC East title with a dominant 41-7 win over the Dallas Cowboys, thanks in part to Saquon Barkley’s impressive 167 rushing yards and backup quarterback Kenny Pickett's contributions before being injured.
The Buffalo Bills clinched the AFC’s No. 2 seed after a 40-14 rout of the New York Jets, with Josh Allen throwing two touchdowns and running for another. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers kept their playoff hopes alive by defeating the Carolina Panthers 48-14, fueled by Baker Mayfield’s five touchdown passes. The Las Vegas Raiders also found success, overcoming the New Orleans Saints 25-10, highlighted by rookie Brock Bowers setting two records. The day concluded with the Washington Commanders defeating the Atlanta Falcons 30-24 in overtime, securing a playoff spot for the Commanders.
