The NFL playoff picture is taking its final shape with only a handful of spots still up for grabs in both conferences.
Denver (9-7) holds the keys to the last AFC spot – a win over Kansas City (15-1) in Week 18 would seal the deal.
Meanwhile, Miami (8-8) remains in contention but needs a victory plus a Denver loss, and Cincinnati (8-8) faces an even steeper climb, requiring a win alongside losses from both teams.
Over in the NFC, while Philadelphia, Detroit, Minnesota, and Green Bay have punched their tickets, they’re still jostling for playoff positioning.
Washington (11-5) broke their playoff drought dating back to 2020, clinching the NFC West ahead of the Rams (10-6) through a strength of victory tiebreaker.
Amidst this playoff drama, Tom Brady, FOX Sports’ lead NFL analyst, has unveiled his latest 3 Stars of the Week – a weekly tradition where he highlights three standout performances that caught his attention during the regular season.
Congrats to @TomBrady‘s 3 stars of Week 17! ✨
First up, @Buccaneers QB @bakermayfield 🏴☠️ pic.twitter.com/JNeYDfxrm0
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) January 1, 2025
Leading Brady’s list is Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield, who put on a show for the ages.
Mayfield carved up the Panthers’ defense for 359 yards and five touchdowns, missing just five passes all game.
His stellar performance has Tampa Bay eyeing an NFC South title, which they can lock up with a victory against the Saints this Sunday.
Joe Burrow earned the second spot after lighting up the Denver defense in prime time.
The Bengals quarterback threw for more than 400 yards and found the end zone four times, keeping Cincinnati’s playoff dreams alive.
He’ll look to replicate this magic in a crucial matchup against Pittsburgh.
Rounding out Brady’s picks is Las Vegas Raiders’ rookie sensation Brock Bowers, who’s rewriting the record books for first-year tight ends.
Bowers has hauled in 108 catches this season, setting a rookie record, and surpassed NFL legend Mike Ditka’s mark for most receiving yards by a rookie tight end – cementing his place in what’s been a remarkable debut season.
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