NFC Power Dynamics Shift as Rams Seize Top Seed Following Eagles’ Week 12 Meltdown

Week 12 of the 2025 NFL season delivered a series of dramatic upsets and pivotal divisional battles, culminating in a significant realignment at the top of the NFC playoff picture. The Los Angeles Rams ascended to the conference’s No. 1 seed after a dominant performance, while the Philadelphia Eagles’ unexpected collapse against the Dallas Cowboys opened the door for the shift.

The week commenced on Thursday night with the Houston Texans stifling the Buffalo Bills’ potent offense. Houston’s defense forced three critical turnovers, enabling backup quarterback Davis Mills to steer the Texans to victory. This defensive masterclass set an early tone for a weekend marked by resilient performances and surprising outcomes.

Sunday’s early window saw Green Bay Packers edge rusher Micah Parsons record two sacks in a decisive win over the Minnesota Vikings, pushing his season total to an impressive 10 sacks, the second-longest streak to begin a career since 1982. In another NFC North clash, the Detroit Lions engineered a double-digit comeback, defeating the New York Giants in overtime thanks to kicker Jake Bates’ 59-yard game-tying field goal and Jahmyr Gibbs’ 69-yard rushing touchdown in the extra period. Elsewhere, the Kansas City Chiefs clawed back from an 11-point deficit to overcome the red-hot Indianapolis Colts in overtime, their first one-score victory of the season. The Baltimore Ravens moved above .500 for the first time this season by defeating the New York Jets, while the Pittsburgh Steelers, playing with backup quarterback Mason Rudolph after Aaron Rodgers’ left wrist fracture, fell to the Chicago Bears.

The afternoon slate brought more intrigue. Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders secured a win over the Las Vegas Raiders in his first NFL start, a feat not accomplished by a Browns quarterback since Eric Zeier in 1995. Browns edge rusher Myles Garrett also had a record-setting day, tallying three sacks to reach 18 for the season, a new franchise high and putting him in pursuit of the NFL’s single-season record. The Atlanta Falcons, led by Kirk Cousins despite missing key receivers, bounced back with a win against the New Orleans Saints. The Jacksonville Jaguars emerged victorious in overtime against the Arizona Cardinals, tightening their grip on the AFC South race. However, the most impactful result of the afternoon was the Dallas Cowboys’ remarkable comeback, scoring 24 unanswered points to defeat the Philadelphia Eagles.

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This Eagles’ loss had immediate repercussions, creating an opportunity for the Los Angeles Rams. The Rams capitalized decisively, jumping to an early lead against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and cruising to a victory that propelled them into the top spot in the NFC standings. For the Buccaneers, the defeat was compounded by a shoulder injury to quarterback Baker Mayfield, who did not return in the second half.

ESPN’s NFL Nation reporters provided deeper insights into each contest, addressing crucial questions and detailing the most significant takeaways for every team.

Los Angeles Rams 34, Tampa Bay Buccaneers 7

The Rams’ dominant win, coupled with the Eagles’ unexpected loss, propelled Los Angeles (9-2) to the No. 1 seed in the NFC. Quarterback Matthew Stafford continued his MVP-caliber season, completing 25 of 35 passes for 273 yards and three touchdowns. Stafford’s impressive streak of 27 consecutive passing touchdowns without an interception marks the longest such run since play-by-play data began in 1978. ESPN Analytics favors the Rams in all six of their remaining games, though the head-to-head tiebreaker with Philadelphia (due to a Week 3 loss) underscores the importance of maintaining their lead. The Rams will travel to face the Panthers next Sunday.

For the Buccaneers, their losing streak extended to three games, with a 31-7 halftime deficit against the Rams marking their largest since 2022. Quarterback Baker Mayfield exited the game in the second half with a shoulder injury after struggling to connect on 9 of 19 passes for 44 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. Backup Teddy Bridgewater’s performance was similarly subdued (8 of 15 for 62 yards). The loss leaves Tampa Bay tied with the Carolina Panthers (6-5) for first in the NFC South, with their divisional standing potentially dropping to second after Monday Night Football. The Buccaneers hope for an easier path with upcoming games against the Cardinals and Saints, but Mayfield’s health remains a primary concern. Their next game is at home against the Cardinals.

Dallas Cowboys 24, Philadelphia Eagles 21

The Cowboys orchestrated a historic comeback, overcoming an early 21-0 deficit to secure a crucial victory. This marked the largest comeback in franchise history. Despite a season split with the Eagles, the win at 5-5-1 provides significant momentum for Dallas heading into a Thanksgiving showdown against the Chiefs. Quarterback Dak Prescott delivered clutch throws in the final minute, including 19- and 24-yard completions to tight end Jake Ferguson and wide receiver George Pickens, respectively. However, wide receiver CeeDee Lamb’s struggles continued, as he recorded three drops, bringing his season total to a career-high eight. The Cowboys will host the Chiefs on Thanksgiving.

The Eagles’ performance was a tale of two halves, starting with three consecutive touchdown drives to take a 21-0 lead before their offense went silent. Turnovers proved costly, including a Saquon Barkley fumble in Dallas territory and a punt return giveaway by Xavier Gipson. These errors, coupled with numerous penalties, contributed to a stinging and avoidable loss. While Philadelphia still holds command of the NFC East, this defeat could severely impact their quest for the No. 1 seed in the NFC. Quarterback Jalen Hurts, under scrutiny after recent reports of internal frustration, threw for three first-half touchdowns but struggled as the offense sputtered. The Eagles face a short week before hosting the Bears.

Jacksonville Jaguars 27, Arizona Cardinals 24 (OT)

The Jaguars’ sloppy overtime victory pushed their record to 7-4, solidifying their position as legitimate AFC South contenders. The win, combined with the Colts’ loss to Kansas City, cut Jacksonville’s division lead to one game. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence bounced back from an interception to lead a six-play, 65-yard drive culminating in an 11-yard touchdown pass to Parker Washington. Lawrence stated, "Never apologize for [winning the way we won], and people can watch the tape and make their own judgements and I’ll watch it and do the same. Had some tough plays out there. Those guys make good plays as well." The Jaguars will face the 1-10 Titans next week, setting up a critical Week 14 showdown with the Colts.

The Cardinals dropped their third straight game and eighth of their last nine, struggling to maintain a lead that extended into the second quarter. Arizona faces a challenging schedule in the coming weeks, with trips to face the Buccaneers and Rams, suggesting their next win might not come until Week 15 or 16. Wide receiver Michael Wilson continued his impressive run as WR1, hauling in 10 catches for 118 yards, following a 185-yard, 15-catch performance the previous week. His emergence provides a significant target for quarterback Jacoby Brissett, especially with Marvin Harrison Jr. recovering from appendicitis. The Cardinals will visit the Buccaneers next Sunday.

Atlanta Falcons 24, New Orleans Saints 10

Despite improving to 4-7, the Falcons’ playoff chances remain minuscule at 2%, according to ESPN’s Football Power Index. Quarterback Kirk Cousins performed effectively, completing 16 of 23 passes for 199 yards and two touchdowns, despite the absence of top wide receiver Drake London and drops from tight end Kyle Pitts Sr. Rookie edge rushers Jalon Walker (1.0 sack) and James Pearce Jr. (1.5 sacks) continued their strong development, a key area of focus for the team. The Falcons will travel to face the Jets next.

The Saints displayed offensive ineptitude, particularly in the red zone, managing only three points from two trips to Atlanta’s 1-yard line. Questionable play-calling, including a failed fourth-and-1 pass from Taysom Hill and a snap over Hill’s head, plagued their efforts. Kicker Blake Grupe missed two field goals, drawing boos from the home crowd and raising questions about his future, especially with Charlie Smyth on the practice squad. The Saints’ struggles were compounded by their inability to convert scoring opportunities. The Saints will visit the Dolphins next Sunday.

Cleveland Browns 24, Las Vegas Raiders 10

Rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders showcased marked improvement in his first NFL start for the Browns. Despite an early interception, Sanders demonstrated his deep-ball accuracy, highlighted by a 52-yard connection to rookie wide receiver Isaiah Bond. His ability to evade rushers and extend plays was evident. Coach Kevin Stefanski had indicated Dillon Gabriel would start once cleared from concussion protocol, but Sanders’ explosive flashes present a compelling case for him to retain the starting role. Edge rusher Myles Garrett had a career day with three sacks, setting a new Browns franchise record with 18 sacks for the season and moving closer to the NFL’s single-season record of 22.5. The Browns will host the 49ers next Sunday.

The Raiders’ season continued its downward spiral, dropping to 2-9. Quarterback Geno Smith faced immense pressure, sacked 10 times and pressured on 18 occasions, playing behind a struggling offensive line. While his stat line of 30-for-44, 285 yards, and a touchdown wasn’t poor, the offense lacked rhythm. The team’s inability to capitalize on key opportunities, such as a missed 48-yard field goal and settling for a field goal after a Charles Snowden interception, proved costly. Significant offseason changes, potentially starting at quarterback, loom for Las Vegas. The Raiders will visit the Chargers next Sunday.

Kansas City Chiefs 23, Indianapolis Colts 20 (OT)

The Chiefs secured their first one-score victory of the season, rallying from an 11-point deficit. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes was instrumental in the comeback, particularly on critical downs in the fourth quarter. Running back Kareem Hunt contributed with 104 rushing yards. The defense, under coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, effectively blitzed Colts quarterback Daniel Jones, forcing four consecutive three-and-outs. Wide receiver Rashee Rice, limited to just 9 yards in the first half, exploded for 111 yards on four receptions in the second half, including a crucial fourth-down conversion that set up the game-tying field goal. Mahomes commented on the win, "This is exactly what we needed, to win against a really good team and the game is not going your way. You could’ve folded in that situation — and kind of the rest of the season — but guys responded. … It was a do-or-die type of thing. Guys made plays happen." The Chiefs will face the Cowboys on Thanksgiving.

The Colts’ offense experienced a significant collapse in the second half and overtime, producing only five combined first downs after thriving early. They converted just 2 of 8 third-down attempts. Head coach Shane Steichen’s decision to become extremely pass-heavy, underutilizing running back Jonathan Taylor (16 carries for 58 yards), was questioned. The quick throws and frequent incompletions placed undue pressure on the defense, which was forced to return to the field after four straight three-and-outs. This offensive stagnation allowed the Jaguars to close the gap in the AFC South. The Colts will host the Texans next Sunday.

Detroit Lions 34, New York Giants 27 (OT)

The Lions secured a narrow, concerning victory over the 2-9 Giants. Kicker Jake Bates nailed a 59-yard field goal at the end of regulation to tie the game, and running back Jahmyr Gibbs sealed the win with a spectacular 69-yard rushing touchdown on the opening drive of overtime. Gibbs finished with an exceptional three touchdowns, 219 rushing yards on 15 carries, and 45 receiving yards on 11 receptions. Despite the win, wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown recorded two drops, bringing his career-high season total to four, though he also achieved his 500th career reception and finished with nine catches for 149 yards and a touchdown. The Lions will host the Packers on Thursday.

The Giants suffered their fifth loss of the season after holding a double-digit lead, an NFL record for road games. Their inability to convert near the goal line, including failing on a fourth-and-1 from the 2-yard line, proved critical. Wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson had a career-high performance with nine catches for 156 yards and a touchdown, topping 100 yards in the first quarter alone. However, the team’s ongoing struggles to close out games, regardless of coaching, remain a significant problem. The Giants will visit the Patriots on Monday Night Football.

Seattle Seahawks 30, Tennessee Titans 24

The Seahawks’ wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba continued his record-breaking season, recording 167 yards and two touchdowns. He surpassed DK Metcalf’s single-season team record of 1,303 receiving yards in just 11 games, bringing his season total to 1,313 yards and putting him on pace for over 2,000 yards. Quarterback Sam Darnold, despite throwing four interceptions last week, was aggressive in his throws, completing 16 of 26 passes for 244 yards and two touchdowns. Coach Mike Macdonald praised Smith-Njigba, stating, "Happy for JSN. He’s doing an incredible job. He brings it every day and he’s a great teammate, which is awesome. So you’re really happy for him." The Seahawks will host the Vikings next Sunday.

Titans rookie quarterback Cam Ward showed notable progress despite the loss, demonstrating greater decisiveness in both throwing and running. He recorded his first NFL rushing touchdown and displayed flashes of his playmaking ability, including a 26-yard pass to Chig Okonkwo and a crucial 25-yard completion to Chimere Dike. Dike also tied a franchise record with a 90-yard punt return for a touchdown, his second of the season, making him the fifth player in franchise history with multiple punt return touchdowns in a season. The Titans will host the Jaguars next Sunday.

New England Patriots 26, Cincinnati Bengals 20

The Patriots’ victory, which made them the first NFL team to reach 10 wins, was marred by significant offensive line injuries. Left guard Jared Wilson (ankle) and left tackle Will Campbell (knee) were both carted off, decimating quarterback Drake Maye’s blindside protection. Four-year veterans Ben Brown and Vederian Lowe stepped in as replacements. Rookie TreVeyon Henderson continued as the Patriots’ primary running back, out-snapping Rhamondre Stevenson despite Stevenson’s return from a turf toe injury. Wide receiver Stefon Diggs acknowledged the team’s achievement, stating, "Back to the grind because we didn’t play our best football, but be happy about the 10 wins because that sh– is not easy to do." The Patriots will host the Giants on Monday Night Football.

The Bengals’ playoff chances are now considered minuscule, prompting a focus on evaluating building blocks for the 2026 season. Quarterback Joe Flacco, who had a strong four-game stretch, has regressed, finishing with 183 passing yards, one touchdown, and one interception against the Patriots. Coach Zac Taylor expressed his frustration, "Losing is the worst. I mean, it’s the worst. We’re accountable for it. We make all the adjustments we have to make. And then you gotta turn the page and you gotta ready for the next week. That’s life in the NFL." Joe Burrow is expected to return for their next game. The Bengals will visit the Ravens on Thursday Night Football.

Chicago Bears 31, Pittsburgh Steelers 28

The Bears showcased "complementary football" in their win. After offensive turnovers, the defense stepped up, stopping a Steelers’ fourth-down attempt and forcing a Montez Sweat fumble recovery. Quarterback Caleb Williams responded with touchdown drives, connecting with tight end Colston Loveland and running back Kyle Monangai. Williams threw for 239 yards and three touchdowns against a struggling pass defense, though his completion percentage remained below 59% for the fourth consecutive game, and his intermediate-to-deep accuracy is still a work in progress. Safety Kevin Byard III praised Sweat’s performance, who finished with two sacks, a forced fumble, and a recovery. The Bears will visit the Eagles next Friday.

With Aaron Rodgers sidelined by a left wrist fracture, Mason Rudolph filled in for the Steelers, delivering a serviceable but ultimately insufficient performance (24 of 31 for 171 yards, one touchdown, one interception, and a lost fumble). The team was plagued by numerous penalties, special teams miscues, and a defense that allowed 345 yards. A critical special teams holding penalty on a punt cost the Steelers 30 yards of field position, directly leading to a Bears’ go-ahead score. Edge rusher T.J. Watt emphasized the team’s slim margin for error, stating, "It’s the National Football League. We have a lot of things that need to be fixed, fixed quickly." The Steelers will host the Bills next Sunday.

Baltimore Ravens 23, New York Jets 10

Lamar Jackson’s recent performances have raised concerns, as he has been held under 200 passing yards for three straight games and has gone two games without a touchdown pass. Injuries, including knee soreness and an ankle issue, have been cited as potential factors, though Jackson denies they have impacted his play. Despite Jackson’s struggles, the Ravens extended their winning streak to five games and moved above .500 for the first time this season. The defense continued its dramatic turnaround, holding its past six opponents under 20 points, the longest such streak in 15 years, highlighted by Marlon Humphrey’s forced fumble at the 2-yard line. The Ravens will host the Bengals on Thursday Night Football.

Newly appointed Jets quarterback Tyrod Taylor provided a spark, distributing the ball effectively for 222 yards and connecting with six different players, including newly acquired wide receiver John Metchie III, who scored the team’s only touchdown. Running back Breece Hall also became more involved in the passing game. However, one touchdown was insufficient, and the loss solidified the Jets’ 10th consecutive losing season. A questionable fourth-and-2 gamble by coach Aaron Glenn from his own 42-yard line in the third quarter backfired, leading to a short-field touchdown for the Ravens and shifting the game’s momentum. The Jets will host the Falcons next Sunday.

Green Bay Packers 23, Minnesota Vikings 6

Packers edge rusher Micah Parsons delivered an impressive performance with two sacks, reaching 10 sacks for the season and becoming the first Packers player with double-digit sacks since 2020. The Packers defense collectively recorded five sacks and 10 quarterback hits on Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy. Quarterback Jordan Love, managing a left (non-throwing) shoulder injury, completed 14 of 21 passes for 139 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions. Running back Emanuel Wilson stepped up in place of the injured Josh Jacobs, recording his first career 100-yard rushing game and two touchdowns. The Packers will visit the Lions on Thursday.

The Vikings face difficult questions regarding J.J. McCarthy’s future after his regression in recent starts. Despite a conservative game plan, McCarthy managed only 87 passing yards and threw two interceptions, never looking comfortable under heavy Packers pressure. The team’s already slim postseason chances are now minuscule at 4-7. A crucial special teams blunder in the third quarter saw rookie returner Myles Price muff a punt inside his own 5-yard line, leading directly to a Packers touchdown and a two-score lead. This crushing turnover underscored the team’s struggles to generate points. The Vikings will visit the Seahawks next Sunday.

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