Week 13 of the NFL season brought plenty of action and raised key questions for teams fighting to define their seasons. The Los Angeles Rams kept their playoff hopes alive with a crucial win, sparking optimism about their late-season push. Meanwhile, the Cincinnati Bengals’ defensive woes continued with another embarrassing performance, all but sealing their fate as postseason spectators. On the other hand, Sam Darnold’s strong play is turning heads, as the veteran quarterback might just be making a compelling case for a contract extension. As the playoff race heats up, Week 13 gave us plenty to unpack.
Are the Rams a lock for the Playoffs?
The Los Angeles Rams are not a team the Eagles or Lions would want to see in the first round. The trio of Stafford-Puka-Kupp has been phenomenal when healthy. Together, Nacua’s breakout ability and Kupp’s precision route-running create mismatches all over the field, making the Rams’ passing attack one of the most difficult to defend. If this trio continues to click, the Rams’ offense has the firepower to outscore opponents and make a legitimate push for the postseason.
Worst Defense in NFL History?
One of the most pathetic displays of defense week in and week out, played the way you'd expect, once again. The defense allows a score on almost every single possesion, AI've never seen anything like it. Allowing 44 points to a team that hasn't scored 40 points in over 4 years is flat-out embarrassing, the Bengals front office should be ashamed of themselves. The defense has been nothing short of disastrous, effectively sinking the team’s playoff hopes, now reduced to just 4.9%. Despite historic seasons from Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase, the Bengals’ defense has consistently failed to hold its own, ranking in the bottom five of nearly every statistical category. Opposing offenses have had little resistance, exposing glaring weaknesses week after week. Defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo’s inability to address these issues has become a focal point, with many calling for his dismissal this offseason. A complete overhaul of the defensive roster and coaching staff is necessary if the Bengals hope to avoid wasting the prime years of their offensive superstars.
Does Sam Darnold deserve a contract extension?
Sam Darnold has made a compelling case for a contract extension with his outstanding performance this season, leading the Vikings to a 10-2 record and firmly into playoff contention. With a passer rating of 108.1, 3,299 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and just 10 interceptions through 13 games, Darnold has been one of the league's most efficient quarterbacks. He ranks in the top 10 in passing yards and top 5 in passing touchdowns, silencing doubters and proving he can guide a talented roster to success. However, the Vikings face a tough decision: re-sign Darnold, who has rejuvenated his career, or entrust the future to rookie quarterback JJ McCarthy. It's a pivotal moment for the franchise, and Darnold’s case for stability is hard to ignore.
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