Week 12 Highlights: Divisional Showdowns and Trolls
Week 12 of the 2023 NFL season featured divisional matchups filled with trolls. The Pittsburgh Steelers had a standout performance, setting a season-high in total yards in their win against the Cincinnati Bengals. The Atlanta Falcons took first place in the NFC South after defeating the New Orleans Saints. The Jacksonville Jaguars narrowly beat the Houston Texans to maintain control of the AFC South. Let’s take a closer look at the best trolls of Week 12.
Steelers vs. Bengals: Offensive Explosion and Double Troll Celebration
In the game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cincinnati Bengals, the Steelers had an impressive offensive showing. They gained over 400 yards of offense, breaking a streak of 58 games without reaching that mark. Kenny Pickett threw for a season-high 278 yards, Najee Harris ran for 99 yards and a touchdown, and Pat Freiermuth had nine catches for 120 yards. On the other side, the Bengals struggled without Joe Burrow, only managing 222 total yards and setting season lows in rushes and rushing yards. The Steelers celebrated their win with a double troll aimed at their division rivals, including a crushed can of Skyline Chili, a Cincinnati restaurant chain.
Falcons Soar Over Saints: Bijan Robinson’s Historic Performance
The Atlanta Falcons secured a crucial win over the New Orleans Saints, scoring 10 points in the fourth quarter to secure the victory. Bijan Robinson had a standout performance, becoming the first rookie in Falcons history to have 100 scrimmage yards and a touchdown in consecutive games. The Falcons added a twist to the Saints’ famous “Who Dat” chant by quoting lyrics from Atlanta-based rapper Jeezy.
Jaguars vs. Texans: Nail-Biting Finish and “Dodgeball” Troll
The Jacksonville Jaguars and the Houston Texans had a close battle that came down to the wire. The Texans had a chance to tie the game with a field goal, but it hit the crossbar, giving the Jaguars sole possession of first place in the AFC South. Trevor Lawrence had a season-high 364 passing yards and contributed both a passing and rushing touchdown. The Jaguars used a clip from the movie “Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story” to troll the Texans.
Chiefs’ Comeback in Vegas: Mahomes Shines and Gambling Reference
The Kansas City Chiefs had a comeback victory against the Las Vegas Raiders, outscoring them 31-3 after being down 14-0. Patrick Mahomes threw for 298 yards and two touchdowns, and Rashee Rice had a career-high 107 receiving yards and one touchdown. The Chiefs referenced Las Vegas’ gambling roots in their post-game troll.
Packers Feast on Lions: Turnovers and Halftime Show Reference
The Green Bay Packers handed the Detroit Lions their seventh straight loss on Thanksgiving. The Packers capitalized on three Lions turnovers, including a scoop and score off a fumble by Jared Goff. Jordan Love had a strong performance with 268 passing yards and three touchdowns. The Packers trolled the Lions with a reference to rapper Jack Harlow’s hit song “What’s Poppin” during the halftime show.
49ers’ Redemption: Defensive Dominance and Thanksgiving Message
The San Francisco 49ers bounced back from a three-game losing streak with three consecutive wins, including a dominant road game against the Seattle Seahawks. The 49ers’ defense had a season-high six sacks and held the Seahawks to just 220 yards of offense. They also forced more turnovers than the Seahawks had offensive touchdowns. Christian McCaffrey and Brock Purdy had standout performances for the 49ers. The team sent a simple Thanksgiving message to the Seahawks, emphasizing that it was a bad day to be a bird.
Overall, Week 12 of the NFL season showcased some impressive performances and creative trolls from the winning teams.