Week 12 of the NFL season kicked off with the Green Bay Packers defeating the Detroit Lions 29-22. The Dallas Cowboys followed suit with a dominant 45-10 victory over the Washington Commanders, led by four touchdown passes from Dak Prescott. In the Thanksgiving night game, the San Francisco 49ers ran away with a 31-13 win against the Seattle Seahawks, fueled by Christian McCaffrey’s two touchdowns. Our NFL Nation reporters provide their reactions to the games, addressing lingering questions and analyzing the rising and falling trends for each team.
San Francisco 49ers:
The 49ers continue to dominate their division, winning 10 straight division games, including four consecutive victories against the Seahawks. It’s only a matter of time before they clinch the NFC West division, with a realistic chance of doing so when they face the Seahawks again on December 10. The Niners’ pass rush has been impressive, recording 15 sacks in the past three games, including six in their recent win. However, their kickoff coverage needs improvement after allowing a 66-yard return and an average of 35 yards per return against the Seahawks.
Seattle Seahawks:
The Seahawks’ season may be in jeopardy, as they face a tough schedule ahead. With games against the Cowboys, Eagles, and a rematch against the 49ers, they could potentially have a losing record by the end of December. Their blowout loss to the 49ers raises doubts about their ability to pull off upset wins. Linebacker Jordyn Brooks provided a spark for the Seahawks with a tipped pass interception returned for a touchdown, but quarterback Geno Smith struggled, completing only 18 of 27 attempts for 180 yards and an interception.
Dallas Cowboys:
The Cowboys have bounced back after their loss to the Eagles and are ready for a crucial stretch in their season. With wins against the Giants, Panthers, and Commanders, they have set themselves up for success in their upcoming games against the Seahawks, Eagles, Dolphins, Bills, and Lions. Quarterback Dak Prescott is in top form, with 18 touchdown passes and just two interceptions in his last six games. Kicker Brandon Aubrey has been consistent, but he has missed a point-after attempt in the last two games.
Washington Commanders:
The Commanders’ new owner, Josh Harris, is open to making changes if coach Ron Rivera decides to do so. However, Rivera has been hesitant to make any adjustments, despite the defense’s struggles. Wide receiver Curtis Samuel stood out in their loss to the Cowboys, with nine catches for 100 yards. The defense, led by coordinator Jack Del Rio, allowed 431 yards and four touchdowns to Dak Prescott, highlighting their issues in the secondary and pass rush.
Green Bay Packers:
Although the Packers are still below .500, their chances of making the playoffs have improved after their win against the Lions. They have a favorable schedule ahead, with only two of their remaining six opponents having winning records. Safety Jonathan Owens had an impressive performance, recording 12 tackles and returning a fumble for a touchdown. However, rookie kicker Anders Carlson has missed an extra point in the last three games.
Detroit Lions:
The protection of quarterback Jared Goff was a concern in their game against the Packers, as he faced pressure on 45% of his dropbacks in the first half. The absence of offensive lineman Jonah Jackson and the placement of guard Halapoulivaati Vaitai on the injured reserve list have affected the performance of the offensive line. Wide receiver Jameson Williams showed promise with two catches for 51 yards, including a 38-yard reception. Goff struggled with turnovers, losing three fumbles after throwing three interceptions in the previous game.
In conclusion, Week 12 of the NFL season provided exciting matchups and raised questions about the playoff chances and performances of various teams. The 49ers, Cowboys, Packers, and Lions all had notable moments and areas of improvement or concern. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how these teams fare and if they can secure their spots in the playoffs.