NFL Week 18 Recap: Bills, Buccaneers, Texans Win Division Titles

Josh Allen overcame three turnovers to lead Buffalo past Miami for AFC East crown. Plus: Jordan Love leads Green Bay past Chicago and into NFC playoffs; Tampa Bay wins third consecutive NFC South title; Jaguars' epic collapse gives Houston the AFC South crown.

Author:
Matt Verderame
Updated:
Jan 8, 2024
Original:
Jan 6, 2024

In this story:

Washington Commanders

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The AFC and NFC playoff fields are set.

With the Jacksonville Jaguars losing Sunday to the Tennessee Titans, the Pittsburgh Steelers clinched a playoff spot, and the Houston Texans won the AFC South.

The Buffalo Bills continued their winning ways, sneaking out of Miami with a 21–14 win over the Dolphins on Sunday night to earn another AFC East crown.

Houston will play the fifth–seeded Cleveland Browns at NRG Stadium come wild-card weekend, the first matchup to be set.

In the NFC, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers won ugly in Charlotte, earning their third consecutive NFC South championship.

In the late window, the Green Bay Packers took care of their win-and-in scenario at Lambeau Field against the Chicago Bears, earning the No. 7 seed. Additionally, the Dallas Cowboys crushed the Washington Commanders to earn both the NFC East title and the second seed.

Sunday

Bills 21, Dolphins 14

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen used his legs and his arms to lead Buffalo past Miami for the AFC East title in Week 18. — Allen threw for 359 yards and two touchdowns, overcoming two interceptions and a fumble.
Sam Navarro/USA TODAY Sports

What it means for Bills: Buffalo (11–6) looked finished when it lost to the Eagles six weeks ago. Now, the Bills are winners of the AFC East once again and the AFC’s second seed, poised to host the offensively challenged Steelers. While the Ravens are deservedly the favorites in the AFC, Buffalo has the goods to beat anybody. The biggest question is its biggest wild card: Allen. On Sunday night, he threw for 359 yards, but he also had three turnovers.
What it means for Dolphins: Miami (11–6) suddenly finds itself in a very tough spot. The Dolphins lost the AFC East after leading the division throughout the entire season, and now have to go to Kansas City where the weather forecast calls for zero degrees Saturday night. Add in all the injuries to Miami, and this could be an enormous challenge against the defending Super Bowl champs, even if the Chiefs aren’t the juggernaut of years past.

Packers 17, Bears 9

Packers quarterback Jordan Love completed 27 of 32 passes for 316 yards and two touchdowns to lead Green Bay past Chicago and into the NFC playoffs. — Love has thrown for 32 touchdowns in his first season as the starter replacing Aaron Rodgers.
Jeff Hanisch/USA TODAY Sports

What it means for Bears: Now begins the intrigue. For Chicago (7–10) the season ended shy of the playoffs but hope is palpable after such a huge improvement over a three-win campaign in 2022. Now, the attention turns to whether the Bears move off coach Matt Eberflus and/or quarterback Justin Fields, knowing they have the No. 1 pick via Carolina. Will the Bears reset after making strides, or does general manager Ryan Poles stick with the status quo and add around it?
What it means for Packers: Green Bay (9–8) is going to the playoffs after starting 3–6, largely because Jordan Love has come of age. Love was fantastic in his first year as a starter, throwing for 32 touchdowns. Despite playing with a host of first- and second-year weapons, Green Bay has averaged 25.5 points per game over its last eight games, earning it a wild card berth and a date with the Cowboys in Dallas.

Cowboys 38, Commanders 10

What it means for Cowboys: It’s been an odd year for the Cowboys (12–5), but it ends with an NFC East title. The best news for Dallas is getting to host at least two playoff games (provided it advances) at AT&T Stadium, where they haven’t lost this year. The Cowboys are flawed in certain aspects, but they’ve been a beast to deal with in their building.
What it means for Commanders: With the loss, Washington (4–13) holds the second pick in the draft. That means a shot at either Caleb Williams or Drake Maye, which could turn around a franchise that hasn’t truly been a factor since winning the Super Bowl more than 30 years ago. Of course, the draft takes second billing until Washington hires Ron Rivera’s replacement, with that change imminent.

Giants 27, Eagles 10

What it means for Eagles: This has been an utter disaster down the stretch. Philadelphia (11–6) started 10–1 but fell apart with the defense underachieving to the point where coordinator Sean Desai was demoted, giving way to Matt Patricia. To the surprise of nobody, Patricia hasn’t gotten things right. The Eagles are going to the playoffs as a fifth seed, heading to Tampa Bay, but they have the feel of a team on borrowed time.
What it means for Giants: New York (6–11) went through hell this year, starting three different quarterbacks. But after starting 2–8, the Giants finished 4–3. Going into the offseason, general manager Joe Schoen is armed with a top-10 pick which could become Daniel Jones’s eventual replacement. Also, what happens with Saquon Barkley, who for the second consecutive year is ticketed for free agency? Plenty of drama in the Big Apple ahead.

Rams 21, 49ers 20

What it means for Rams: With the win, Los Angeles (10–7) finishes the regular season on a four-game winning streak, and seven of its last eight. The Rams are peaking at the right time, riding a nasty offensive quartet which includes Matthew Stafford, Cooper Kupp, Puka Nacua and Kyren Williams. As the NFC’s sixth seed, Stafford will go back to Detroit for a homecoming to face the Lions, who are hosting their first postseason game since 1993.
What it means for 49ers: San Francisco (12–5) just had to get through this one. The 49ers had already clinched home-field advantage throughout the NFC playoffs last week. San Francisco now gets another week to rest before beginning their potential run to the Super Bowl.

Seahawks 21, Cardinals 20

What it means for Seahawks: For Seattle (9–8), a promising season ended in Arizona. The Seahawks started 6–3 before losing four straight. Ultimately, Seattle couldn’t recover to make the postseason. Going into the winter, general manager John Schneider must consider the future of Geno Smith, who has one year remaining on his deal. Then there’s the question of retaining free agents, with Jordyn Brooks, Leonard Williams, Bobby Wagner, Darrell Taylor and others scheduled to hit the open market.
What it means for Cardinals: It’s an odd sentence to type about a last-place team, but Arizona (4–13) should feel hopeful. The Cardinals were universally projected to hold the No. 1 pick in April, and instead were competitive throughout, including a Week 17 win over the Eagles. With Kyler Murray likely the quarterback in 2024, general manager Monti Ossenfort can build around him, starting with a decision on whether to pay receiver Hollywood Brown, who is slated for free agency.

Chiefs 13, Chargers 12

What it means for Chiefs: Kansas City (11–6) was locked into the third seed entering Sunday, so this game was of no consequence. With the regular season over, Kansas City now prepares for the playoffs, something it has done an incredible 10 times in 11 years under coach Andy Reid. The Chiefs will open the playoffs at Arrowhead Stadium facing either the Dolphins or Steelers, depending on Sunday night’s result.
What it means for Chargers: Los Angeles (5–12) might be the most active team this offseason in terms of moves to make. For starters, the Chargers must find a new coach to replace Brandon Staley along with a general manager. Then, the latter needs to decide whether to move on from Joey Bosa, Khalil Mack, Keenan Allen and/or Mike Williams, all of whom have cap hits of more than $30 million. Finally, with Austin Ekeler hitting free agency, who takes over in the backfield? There’s no shortage of questions for the Chargers.

Raiders 27, Broncos 14

What it means for Broncos: Denver (8–9) has a fascinating offseason ahead. The Broncos are almost assuredly releasing Russell Wilson and will need to find his replacement, all while trying to build a team despite $85 million in dead money come next season. Furthermore, Denver has a few notable starters hitting free agency, including center Lloyd Cushenberry and linebacker Josey Jewell.
What it means for Raiders: Las Vegas (8–9) will be looking for a new head coach for the third time since 2018. Once that selection has been made, do the Raiders look to the draft for Jimmy Garoppolo’s long-term replacement, and if so, does the youth movement mean taking calls on Davante Adams? The Raiders, once more, need a reset.

Buccaneers 9, Panthers 0

Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield led Tampa Bay to its third consecutive NFC South division title after it's win over Carolina in Week 18. — Mayfield battled through injuries to lead the Buccaneers to the NFC South title Sunday.
Jim Dedmon/USA TODAY Sports

What it means for Buccaneers: By beating the Panthers, Tampa Bay (9–8) clinched its third consecutive NFC South title and will host the second-place team in the NFC East, either the Cowboys or Eagles. While the win is satisfying, there has to be concern around Baker Mayfield who hurt his ribs in Week 17 against the Saints. Mayfield struggled all day, throwing for just 137 yards on 32 attempts. The Buccaneers have to hope Mayfield heals up and finds his game, or the playoffs will be short-lived in Tampa.
What it means for Panthers: Carolina (2–15) can finally turn the proverbial page from this nightmare season. The Panthers were the worst team in football, fired coach Frank Reich 11 games into his tenure, and watched rookie quarterback Bryce Young throw a measly 11 touchdown passes in 16 starts. This offseason won’t be easy, with Carolina needing Reich’s long-term replacement while also being without its first-round pick, which is the first selection in a loaded draft.

Titans 28, Jaguars 20

What it means for Jaguars: What a brutal, painful, monumental collapse for the Jaguars (9–8). Jacksonville was 8–3 and fighting for the No. 1 seed in the AFC. Then, the Jags lost four straight. After a one-game reprieve with a win over the Panthers, Jacksonville went to Tennessee and wasn’t competitive defensively, while Trevor Lawrence struggled through a shoulder injury. After such a disaster, Jacksonville must decide whether to make any changes to the coaching staff, and if general manager Trent Baalke deserves to be retained.
What it means for Titans: Tennessee (6–11) started to reshape the team last offseason when first-year general manager Ran Carthon released a slew of veterans. Expect another aggressive offseason from Carthon, with the first domino being whether Mike Vrabel stays as head coach. Beyond the Vrabel decision, Carthon must decide whether Will Levis is the future under center, or if for a third consecutive year the Titans need to spend a premium pick on a quarterback.

Lions 30, Vikings 20

What it means for Vikings: Minnesota (7–10) fell short of a playoff berth, losing its past two games to the Packers and Lions. Going into the offseason, the Vikings must figure out whether to re-sign Kirk Cousins, who is slated for free agency. The same is true of Danielle Hunter, who finished the season with a team-best 16.5 sacks. Minnesota has the bones of a contender considering the talent on offense and improved defense under coordinator Brian Flores. But the departure of Cousins would signal a soft rebuild.
What it means for Lions: While Dan Campbell is an excellent coach, he helped cost the Lions a potential win (12–5) in Week 17 by being reckless and going for a two-point conversion from the 7-yard line. Then, eight days later, Campbell played his starters despite needing a miracle to become the No. 2 seed, and Sam LaPorta injured his knee before being carted off. That’s a crushing loss if LaPorta is out for the playoffs.

Saints 48, Falcons 17

What it means for Falcons: Atlanta (7–10) has to seriously consider moving on from coach Arthur Smith. In three seasons, Smith has compiled a 21–30 record while the offense remains without a competent attack despite using first-round picks on Kyle Pitts, Drake London and Bijan Robinson in consecutive years. The next step is clearly to find a quarterback, whether that’s a potential trade for Justin Fields, or using an early draft choice to find a long-term answer.
What it means for Saints: New Orleans (9–8) didn’t win the NFC South, but the Saints still have hope to get in as a wild card. For that to happen, New Orleans needs the Bears to beat the Packers, and the Cardinals to take down the Seahawks in Arizona. Should the Saints fall short of the postseason, does Dennis Allen get a third season? It’s a fair question should the Saints miss the playoffs in both his first two years.

Jets 17, Patriots 3

What it means for Jets: The long, national nightmare is over. The Jets (7–10) go into the winter with a few truths facing them. While Aaron Rodgers is slated to return for the offseason program, New York must improve both the offensive line and the skill-position talent alongside Garrett Wilson. Defensively, does Bryce Huff leave in free agency? What happens with safeties Jordan Whitehead and Chuck Clark, who are both slated to hit the market? Getting Rodgers back isn’t enough.
What it means for Patriots: Farewell, Bill? That’s the question on everybody’s mind as New England (4–13) wraps up its 24th season under Belichick. If so, consider the run he had in Foxborough. The Patriots won six Super Bowls, reached nine, took home a staggering 17 AFC East titles (including 11 straight) and went to eight consecutive AFC championship games between 2001–18. Without question, it’s the most decorated run in NFL history.

Bengals 31, Browns 14

What it means for Browns: Cleveland (11–6) knew going into the weekend that it was the AFC’s fifth seed. The only new information is the Browns will be visiting the Texans in the wild-card round, as Cleveland looks for its second playoff win in three years. Going into the postseason, it’s a dangerous team with Joe Flacco playing well and one of the league’s best defenses.
What it means for Bengals: With the win, the Bengals (9–8) finished one of the more disappointing seasons in team history. Going forward, the offseason will be filled with questions. Does Tee Higgins get the franchise tag? Does Cincinnati release Joe Mixon? Will Tyler Boyd leave in free agency? How does general manager Duke Tobin shore up one of the NFL’s worst defenses? The questions are there in full force.

SATURDAY

Texans 23, Colts 19

What it means for Texans: Houston (10–7) won 11 games combined over the previous three seasons. Then, with the arrival of C.J. Stroud and DeMeco Ryans, the Texans won 10 games and earned a playoff berth, with the possibility of an AFC South crown still in play. For Houston, this is the definition of being ahead of schedule. It’s also the moment a team goes from having potential to accomplishing something. No matter how their playoff experience goes, the Texans have had a phenomenal year, one which builds their foundation.
What it means for Colts: Indianapolis (9–8) will be crushed in the moment. The Colts had a home game against a division rival with a playoff spot on the line, and came up just short despite an incredible effort from Jonathan Taylor. Still, Indianapolis should be thrilled with the future. If Anthony Richardson can return from shoulder surgery and play well in 2024, the Colts have the quarterback to marry with an excellent coach in Shane Steichen. That’s a winning recipe.

Steelers 17, Ravens 10

Steelers coach Mike Tomlin has time on his hands until Sunday when he and Pittsburgh will find out if their going to the AFC playoffs. — Mike Tomlin and the Steelers will be cheering for the Titans and Dolphins on Sunday, hoping at least one of them wins to send Pittsburgh to the AFC playoffs for the first time in two years.
Tommy Gilligan/USA TODAY Sports

What it means for Steelers: Pittsburgh (10–7) gave itself a chance. The Steelers would have technically been alive for a playoff spot with a loss, but the path was almost impossible. Now, the Steelers and their fans can sit down Sunday and cheer for the Titans and Miami Dolphins, hoping at least one of them can win and send Pittsburgh to the playoffs for the first time in two years. Regardless of the outcome, coach Mike Tomlin deserves credit for guiding the Steelers to 10 wins despite needing to start three (underwhelming) quarterbacks.
What it means for Ravens: This game meant nothing for Baltimore (13–4), which clinched home-field advantage throughout the AFC playoffs last week. The Ravens sat most of their starters, giving them what amounts to a double-bye before welcoming in an opponent in the divisional round. For Lamar Jackson & Co., the real season starts now. In Jackson’s six seasons in Baltimore, the Ravens have won just a single playoff game. It’s time to either change the narrative or feed into it even further with another flop.