PFF has unveiled its Team of the Week, highlighting standout performances from players across the NFL in Week 12. The selections are based primarily on PFF grades, with a focus on players who excelled over a significant number of snaps, emphasizing their endurance and consistency. The offense features Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud, with key players like Saquon Barkley and Travis Kelce rounding out the skill positions. On defense, the Philadelphia Eagles' Jalen Carter earns the Defensive Player of the Week accolade.

Landon Dickerson, recognized as the Offensive Player of the Week, delivered a stellar performance on the Eagles’ offensive line, allowing only one pressure in 32 pass-blocking attempts while achieving a remarkable 91.7 PFF run-blocking grade. Meanwhile, Jalen Carter dominated the line of scrimmage with seven total pressures, including two sacks, contributing significantly to the Eagles' defensive efforts.

Mike McCarthy’s exit from the Dallas Cowboys positions him as a prime candidate for multiple head coaching roles, notably the Chicago Bears, where he could develop the promising quarterback Caleb Williams. His departure also opens up questions about the Cowboys' future, particularly who will replace the veteran coach who had success with Dak Prescott but faced challenges recently.

Dallas may pursue candidates like Detroit Lions' Ben Johnson or consider familiar names like Mike Tomlin or Kellen Moore. Meanwhile, teams like the Giants and Bears are weighing their options, with the Bears potentially seeing McCarthy as a mentor for Williams. The impact of these shifts will undoubtedly affect franchises across the league.

The Washington Commanders have emerged as one of the most compelling narratives in the NFL this season, clinching their first playoff berth since 2020 and achieving an impressive 11-win season for the first time since 1991. Their latest triumph came against the Atlanta Falcons, where they secured a thrilling 30-24 victory in overtime on Sunday Night Football. While the offense shone brightly, the defense faced challenges against the Falcons, led by quarterback Michael Penix Jr.

Despite limiting Atlanta to a mere 20% conversion rate on third downs, the Commanders' defense struggled to apply pressure, managing only two sacks on Penix and allowing over 100 rushing yards along with a total of more than 330 yards. A highlight for the defense was Quan Martin's interception early in the game, showcasing their ability to create turnovers. However, the absence of cornerback Marshon Lattimore due to injury was felt, and even with Jonathan Allen's return, the defensive line couldn't generate the necessary pressure.

With a playoff spot secured, the Commanders will now set their sights on their upcoming matchup against the Dallas Cowboys. In evaluating the performance of the Commanders' defensive players during their overtime victory, the highest grades went to linebacker Bobby Wagner and defensive tackle Jonathan Allen, while cornerback Michael Davis received the lowest grade, indicating areas that need improvement as they prepare for the postseason.

The Atlanta Falcons are poised for a crucial matchup against the Washington Commanders, with both teams having significant stakes in the game. The Falcons, currently holding an 8-7 record, recently made waves by benching veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins in favor of rookie Michael Penix Jr. This decision paid off as Penix Jr. led the team to victory over the New York Giants, marking their second consecutive win. Despite these victories coming against lower-ranked teams, the Falcons are now at the top of the NFC South, but their position is precarious with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers closely behind.

On the other side, the Commanders, led by standout quarterback Jayden Daniels, are looking to capitalize on their momentum. Daniels delivered an impressive performance against the Philadelphia Eagles, throwing five touchdown passes and overcoming a 13-point deficit. A win against the Falcons would mark the most successful season for the Commanders since 1991. The pressure is mounting on both teams, particularly on Penix Jr. and the Falcons, as any slip-ups in their final games could jeopardize their playoff aspirations.

As the game approaches, analysts are weighing in on potential betting strategies. NBC Sports analyst Brad Thomas suggests that bettors consider Daniels to throw over 1.5 touchdown passes, citing his recent form and the Falcons' struggling pass defense. The Falcons have managed to cover the spread in all their matchups against NFC East teams this season, while the Commanders have found success against NFC South opponents. With injuries impacting both rosters, the outcome of this game remains uncertain, making it a must-watch for fans and bettors alike.

This weekend, the Atlanta Falcons will visit the Washington Commanders, with both teams eyeing crucial playoff positions as they head into Week 17. The spotlight will be on quarterbacks Michael Penix Jr. of the Falcons and Jayden Daniels of the Commanders, each at different stages in their careers. Penix is looking to build on a promising debut, while Daniels is making waves as a rookie, being a frontrunner for the NFL's Offensive Rookie of the Year award for 2024.

With the stakes high, the Commanders will need to disrupt the Falcons' game plan, which heavily relies on their running game led by running backs Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier. The Falcons have demonstrated a strong ground attack, averaging 4.2 yards per carry and leading the league with 132 rushing attempts in December. Stopping this rushing attack is essential for the Commanders if they hope to force Atlanta into becoming a one-dimensional team.

One potential game-changer for the Commanders is the return of defensive tackle Jonathan Allen, who has been sidelined since Week 6 due to a torn pec muscle. His presence could significantly bolster the run defense, enabling Washington to force more challenging third-down situations for the Falcons. The Commanders' strategy will focus on putting the ball in Penix's hands and forcing him into uncomfortable passing situations, which could be pivotal in their quest for a playoff berth.

As both teams prepare for what could be a decisive matchup, the outcome will hinge on which team can impose its will on the other, particularly in the battle of the trenches and the effectiveness of their respective quarterbacks.