<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/derrick-henry">Derrick Henry</a> and Tyler Huntley both appeared to send pointed messages involving Shedeur Sanders and the Cleveland Browns after the Ravens’ win over the Packers, with ripple effects felt across the AFC North and inside the Baltimore Ravens’ playoff push. Henry’s message toward Cleveland was blunt and telling, saying, “Go win, you feel me?”



Huntley followed with an even more revealing comment, openly referencing Sanders by name. “I’m trying to get out of here so I can call <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/shedeur-sanders">Shedeur</a>. Make sure he can get it done,” Huntley said, leaving little doubt about who Baltimore is rooting for this weekend and why.



The context behind those comments is the tightening AFC North race. A <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cleveland-browns">Browns</a> win over Pittsburgh would crack the door open for Baltimore, shifting playoff chances and setting up a potential winner-take-all scenario in Week 18. The Ravens handled their own business, and now their postseason hopes rest on Cleveland delivering one more favor.



<h2>AFC North standings entering Week 17</h2>



Pittsburgh leads the division at 9–6, holding a slim edge after winning three straight, while Baltimore sits at 8–8 and clings to playoff life. Cincinnati and Cleveland have fallen out of contention, but the Browns still control a result that could flip the entire division race in one afternoon.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">FOURTH TOUCHDOWN FOR THE KING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Tune in on Peacock/WBAL <a href="https://t.co/2CS6V4QSJt">pic.twitter.com/2CS6V4QSJt</a>— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ravens/status/2005125320056119441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a></blockquote></div> 



Huntley’s performance only added weight to his words. He finished the game 16-of-20 for 107 yards, averaging 5.4 yards per attempt, with one touchdown and no interceptions, steady enough to keep Baltimore alive another week. The Ravens’ win wasn’t flashy, but it was essential to preserving hope.


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The path forward is narrow and unforgiving. Baltimore cannot reach the playoffs via a wild card and must win the AFC North to qualify as the conference’s No. 4 seed. That means a Browns upset of the Steelers in Week 17, followed by a Ravens win over Pittsburgh in Week 18, is the only scenario that keeps their season alive.

Derrick Henry and Tyler Huntley drop subtle messages aimed at Shedeur Sanders, Browns

Derrick Henry and Tyler Huntley drop subtle messages aimed at Shedeur Sanders, Browns - Bolavip US

miniaturas

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baltimore-ravens" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Baltimore Ravens</a> will face the Green Bay Packers without their starting quarterback. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lamar-jackson" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lamar Jackson</a> has been ruled out for Week 17, and Tyler Huntley will take his place—but why is Jackson not playing?



Throughout the week, rumors surfaced that the Ravens could be without Lamar Jackson for a crucial Week 17 game against the Packers. On Saturday, Baltimore confirmed those reports.



A few hours before kickoff, the Ravens announced that Lamar Jackson will not play against the Packers due to a back injury. Tyler Huntley is set to start against the NFC North team.



<h2>A crucial matchup with backup quarterbacks</h2>



Not only have the Ravens ruled out Lamar Jackson, but the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/why-is-malik-willis-and-not-jordan-love-playing-today-for-packers-vs-ravens-in-nfl-week-17" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Packers have also confirmed that Jordan Love will not play</a>. Both teams will rely on their backup quarterbacks in this important Week 17 matchup.



The Ravens need a win to stay alive in the playoff race. If they lose, there would be no path to the postseason, and the Pittsburgh Steelers would clinch the AFC North title without even playing their Week 17 game.



As for the Packers, they have already secured a Wild Card spot. However, they can still win the NFC North. To do so, Green Bay would need to win its final two games and have the Chicago Bears lose out.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/what-happens-if-packers-lose-against-ravens-today-in-2025-nfl-week-17"></div>

Why is Tyler Huntley and not Lamar Jackson playing today for Ravens vs Packers in NFL Week 17?

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What happens if Ravens lose today to Packers in Week 17 of 2025 NFL season?

Why is Tyler Huntley and not Lamar Jackson playing today for Ravens vs Packers in NFL Week 17? - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/green-bay-packers">Green Bay Packers</a> were favorites to win the NFC North and possibly the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> before the start of the season due to the trade with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dallas-cowboys">Dallas Cowboys</a> for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/micah-parsons">Micah Parsons</a> and an offense led by <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jordan-love">Jordan Love</a>.



However, due to multiple injuries, the story is completely different. The Packers have a 9-5-1 record, and after two consecutive losses, they face a very difficult path to winning the NFC North.



As if that weren’t enough, Parsons is out for the rest of the season and Love’s status is uncertain for the remainder of the schedule. With a wide-open NFC, a loss to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baltimore-ravens">Baltimore Ravens</a> in Week 17 could be crucial.



<h2>Is Jordan Love playing today for Packers vs Ravens?</h2>



No. Jordan Love is not playing today for the Packers against the Ravens because the quarterback didn’t clear the concussion protocol after suffering a head injury in the game against the Bears. Malik Willis will take his place.


 

 


<h2>What happens if Green Bay Packers lose today against Ravens in NFL Week 17?</h2>



If the Packers lose today against the Baltimore Ravens, they will no longer have a chance to win the NFC North. Green Bay would fall to a 9-6-1 record, making the Chicago Bears (11-4) unreachable at the top of the division.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/nfl-news-micah-parsons-reveals-contract-negotiation-details-with-jerry-jones-and-agent-david-mulugheta-after-trade-between-cowboys-and-packers"></div>


<h2>Are the Packers eliminated from playoffs with a loss to Ravens?</h2>



The Packers are not eliminated from the NFL playoffs with a loss to the Ravens, as they have already clinched a spot in the postseason. It all happened thanks to the Vikings defeating the Detroit Lions last Thursday.



<h2>Can the Packers still win the NFC North?</h2>



The Packers can still claim the NFC North if they win out and the Bears lose against the San Francisco 49ers and the Detroit Lions. In that scenario, Green Bay would finish with an 11-5-1 record and Chicago with an 11-6 record. The tie in the game with the Dallas Cowboys would be the difference.

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Are Green Bay Packers eliminated from NFL playoffs with a loss against Ravens today in Week 17? - Bolavip US

Are Packers eliminated from playoffs with loss vs Ravens?

Are Packers eliminated from NFL playoffs with a loss against Ravens today in Week 17?

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/detroit-lions" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Detroit Lions</a> had one of the best offenses in the NFL the last few years. However, as their offensive coordinator left, a new one was appointed by Dan Campbell this season and it just didn’t click the same.



According to Ian Rapoport of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> Network, there is a possibility and it “could make a lot of sense” for the team to bring a new offensive coordinator to take the role of John Morton. Morton failed to deliver on Ben Johnson’s level and the Lions suffered because of it.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dan-campbell" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dan Campbell</a> is a no non-sense coach and will do whatever it takes to win. After all, the Lions are too talented to not be able to have a top three offense in the NFL. The Lions went from first in scoring offense (33.2 ppg) in 2024 to fourth (28.9 ppg) in 2025.



<h2>The offense also suffered midseason changes</h2>



John Morton was given the playcalling duties at the start of the season but that role was taken away from him midseason due to offensive woes. Dan Campbell took the reigns from there. 



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Lions OC John Morton on losing his play-calling responsibilities: "I fully support it. I wanna do whatever it takes to win." <a href="https://t.co/QmM65V6UJE">pic.twitter.com/QmM65V6UJE</a>— 𝔗𝔥𝔢 𝔇𝔢𝔱𝔯𝔬𝔦𝔱 𝔗𝔦𝔪𝔢𝔰 📰 (@the_det_times) <a href="https://twitter.com/the_det_times/status/1989020822892093785?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



John Morton might have his days numbered as OC of the Lions. Among this season’s most baffling things is how running back David Montgomery slipped on his production and how little they’ve used rookie WR Isaac TeSlaa. The offense needs another creative playcaller for 2026.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/dan-campbell-sends-clear-message-to-the-lions-after-loss-to-the-vikings-i-dont-like-being-home-for-the-playoffs"></div>


<h2>Defense should be on the spot too</h2>



Aaron Glenn also departed, so Kelvin Sheppard stepped into the defensive coordinator role. The Lions are the 23rd-ranked scoring defense in the NFL allowing 24.8 points per game. 



With how vulnerable the defense has looked this year, it wouldn’t be shocking to see Dan Campbell looking for a new DC too. In the end, he wants to delegate and focus completely on how the game is played, instead of babysitting his coordinators every single game.

Lions HC Dan Campbell could make drastic decision ahead of 2026 NFL season

Lions HC Dan Campbell could make drastic decision ahead of 2026 NFL season - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/green-bay-packers">Green Bay Packers</a> have already secured at least one playoff spot. Following the Lions’ loss last week, they clinched a berth in the NFC. However, they must avoid a loss against the Baltimore Ravens if they want to maintain a strong grip on the NFC North.



If the Packers lose to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baltimore-ravens">Ravens</a>, their path to the NFC North title becomes far more complicated. That result would represent one of the two outcomes required for Green Bay to lose control of the division, as the Chicago Bears would then need only one win against the San Francisco 49ers to secure the division crown.



It would be a major setback for the Packers, who enter their Week 17 matchup against the Ravens with a 9-5-1 record and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/why-is-malik-willis-and-not-jordan-love-playing-today-for-packers-vs-ravens-in-nfl-week-17">without starting quarterback Jordan Love</a>. His absence makes it even more difficult to avoid a loss in a game where securing the division title would significantly improve their playoff positioning.



<h2>NFC North standings and current situation</h2>



At the moment, the Bears firmly control the NFC North with an 11-4 record. The Packers are safely in the playoffs but sit second in the division. To keep their division hopes alive, they must win their final two games of the regular season. In addition to facing the Ravens, they will need a victory against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 18.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">MOST ACCURATE QUARTERBACKS IN <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NFL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NFL</a> HISTORY… I’ll start: JORDAN LOVE<a href="https://t.co/0xm91rCkiu">pic.twitter.com/0xm91rCkiu</a>— MLFootball (@MLFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLFootball/status/2004990666271592473?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2025</a></blockquote></div> 



Green Bay not only needs to win its final two games, a challenging task without Love and while entering Week 17 on a losing streak, but also must hope the Chicago Bears lose their final two <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> regular season games. Only under that scenario would the Packers emerge as NFC North champions.



The NFC North race is essentially settled, as the other two teams, the Vikings and the Lions, have already been eliminated. While Detroit appeared to be a potential threat at one point during the season, they were effectively knocked out by the middle of the year.

What happens if Packers lose against Ravens today in 2025 NFL Week 17?

What happens if Packers lose against Ravens today in 2025 NFL Week 17? - Bolavip US

The Baltimore Ravens and Lamar Jackson have run out of margin for error in the race for the AFC North and the playoffs. With the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pittsburgh-steelers">Pittsburgh Steelers</a> on a strong run, John Harbaugh’s team is now up against the ropes.



Because of this, the blockbuster game between the Ravens and the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field has massive postseason implications. Even though Jordan Love will not play, Malik Willis has proven to be a reliable backup quarterback.



Given this scenario, the big question is what happens if the Ravens lose on the road against the Packers. Their <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> hopes are on the line, and if things don’t go well, Baltimore’s front office could consider a change in direction at quarterback or head coach for the future.



<h2>What happens if Ravens lose today against Packers?</h2>



If the Ravens lose today against the Green Bay Packers, they will be officially eliminated from the playoffs. They would no longer be able to catch the Pittsburgh Steelers in the AFC North, as they would be more than two games behind in the standings.


 

 


<h2>Are the Ravens eliminated from playoffs with a loss to Packers?</h2>



Yes. The Ravens would be eliminated from the playoffs with a loss to the Packers, as they would also be unable to catch teams like the Houston Texans or the Indianapolis Colts in the Wild Card race for the No. 7 seed. As already mentioned, the AFC North title would also be out of reach.


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Are Ravens eliminated from NFL playoffs with loss today against Packers?

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Are Baltimore Ravens eliminated from NFL playoffs if they lose today against Packers in Week 17? - Bolavip US

Are Ravens eliminated from playoffs with loss to Packers?

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baltimore-ravens">Baltimore Ravens</a> face the Green Bay Packers in Week 17 of the NFL regular season, a matchup that arrives at a decisive point of the year and carries massive implications for Baltimore’s postseason hopes. With little margin for error remaining, the Ravens enter this game knowing their season hangs in the balance.



Baltimore rebounded from a disastrous 1–5 start by ripping off five straight wins, briefly pulling level with the Pittsburgh Steelers atop the AFC North at 6–5 and appearing poised to take control of the division race. That surge reestablished belief around the team and reshaped expectations midway through the season.



Momentum stalled quickly. The Ravens suffered back-to-back home losses to the Cincinnati Bengals, 32–14 in Week 13 on Thanksgiving Day, and then to the Steelers, 27–22 in Week 14 at M&amp;T Bank Stadium. Those defeats erased much of the cushion they had built during their winning streak.



Baltimore responded with a dominant 24–0 road shutout of the Bengals in Week 15, but the inconsistency returned in Week 16. The Ravens squandered an 11-point fourth-quarter lead against the New England Patriots and fell 28–24. Now sitting at 7–8, Baltimore has dropped three of its last four games, yet remains mathematically alive in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> playoff race.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="550763" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251227_BUS_552365_jordan-love-7_6dff9a80.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Jordan Love Green Bay Packers" class="wp-image-550763"></figure><figcaption>Jordan Love #10 of the Green Bay Packers.</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<h2>What happens if the Ravens lose vs the Packers?</h2>



If the Ravens lose, their season effectively comes to an end after a roller coaster campaign defined by sharp swings. A year that featured a 1–5 start and a five-game winning streak would conclude in disappointment, an outcome that would feel unacceptable given the effort it took just to stay in contention.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/ravens-hc-john-harbaugh-addresses-rumors-of-strained-relationship-with-lamar-jackson"></div>

 

 


<h2>The Packers arrive with a psychological edge</h2>



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/green-bay-packers">Packers</a> enter their second straight Saturday game looking to recover from a late collapse against the Chicago Bears that extended their losing streak to two games. Still, Green Bay has already clinched a playoff spot after the Detroit Lions lost to the Minnesota Vikings on Christmas, and the Packers retain a slim chance to win the NFC North if they finish strong.



<h2>Both teams carry significant concerns</h2>



Baltimore did not expect to be in this position after going a combined 25–9 and winning the AFC North over the previous two seasons. If the Ravens win and the Steelers lose, their January 4 meeting in Pittsburgh would decide the division. Tyler Huntley is expected to start at quarterback after Lamar Jackson was injured in the second quarter of last week’s loss to New England.



Green Bay will also be shorthanded. The Packers <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/why-is-malik-willis-and-not-jordan-love-playing-today-for-packers-vs-ravens-in-nfl-week-17">have ruled out quarterback Jordan Love</a> after he suffered a concussion against Chicago, while backup Malik Willis remains questionable with a shoulder injury. Even with a playoff spot secured, Green Bay still has plenty to play for, setting the stage for a tense and high-stakes Week 17 showdown.

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What happens if Ravens lose today to Packers in Week 17 of 2025 NFL season? - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/san-francisco-49ers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">San Francisco 49ers</a> have already clinched a spot in the playoffs, and now they have given <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/brock-purdy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brock Purdy</a> great news, as the club may recover a player who was expected to miss the entire season for the most important part of the year.



Injuries have hit the 49ers hard. In recent years, the club has struggled to maintain a healthy roster, but that hasn’t prevented the Niners from remaining competitive.



Earlier this year, star linebacker Fred Warner suffered a fractured and dislocated ankle. The injury was expected to sideline him for the entire season, but the club has now provided a key update ahead of the playoffs.



<h2>GM John Lynch believes Fred Warner could be ready for the playoffs</h2>



There is no doubt that the 49ers have had bad luck when it comes to injuries. Several players on both sides of the ball have dealt with health issues, but the club has managed to overcome those setbacks.



On October 12, the 49ers were dealt a major blow when Fred Warner suffered a serious ankle injury that was expected to end his season. However, the organization never completely ruled out a potential return.



General manager John Lynch has now shared a positive update on Brock Purdy’s teammate. Lynch revealed that Warner’s recovery has gone better than expected and believes the linebacker could rejoin the team for the playoffs.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/49ers-hc-kyle-shanahan-provides-an-update-on-brock-purdys-key-weapon-ahead-of-week-17-game-vs-bears"></div>


“It would be well ahead of the original timeline we were given, but Fred has the ability to move the doctors because they’re going to put objective measurements out there where, ‘Hey, if you can reach these, you can get there,’” Lynch said, via NBCSportsBayArea.com. “And Fred has continually done that. I think it’s made a lot of people kind of re-examine. ‘OK, would this be possible?’ And I think that’s a great thing. So I’m watching him. I’ve consistently said it: I won’t put anything past him.”



<h2>The 49ers can still clinch the No. 1 seed in the NFC</h2>



San Francisco has been one of the more surprising teams this season. Despite dealing with multiple injuries to key players, the 49ers hold an impressive 11–4 record and still have the opportunity to clinch the No. 1 seed in the NFC.



To do so, the 49ers would need to win out, defeating the Chicago Bears and the Seattle Seahawks—their two direct rivals in the race for the top spot in the conference.

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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/aaron-rodgers">Aaron Rodgers</a> and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pittsburgh-steelers">Pittsburgh Steelers</a> visit the Cleveland Browns looking to win the AFC North. The veteran quarterback was very clear about the highly anticipated matchup with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/shedeur-sanders">Shedeur Sanders</a> and the young prospect’s career.



“I’ve followed Shedeur’s career. I mean, any football fan that watched him go from Jackson to Boulder, and that being kind of a former Pac-12 school, obviously was pulling for him. There’s a tough draft slide. Obviously, much longer wait than mine was, but it seems like he’s been patient and worked on his craft. He’s been playing pretty good the last few weeks.”



The Steelers are fighting to clinch a spot in the playoffs to keep their <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> hopes alive, while the Browns are eliminated and are in the race to secure the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft along with the Giants and the Raiders.



<h2>How can Steelers clinch the playoffs?</h2>



The Steelers can clinch a playoff spot if the Baltimore Ravens lose to the Green Bay Packers or if Pittsburgh defeats Cleveland. Either of those results would secure them a berth in the postseason.


 

 


<h2>How can the Pittsburgh Steelers win the AFC North?</h2>



The Steelers can win the AFC North if they defeat the Cleveland Browns in Week 17. They could also clinch the division title a day earlier if the Packers beat the Ravens at Lambeau Field.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/do-the-steelers-clinch-a-spot-in-the-playoffs-if-ravens-lose-today-against-packers-in-nfl-week-17"></div>


If the Steelers lose to Cleveland and the Ravens beat the Packers, the AFC North title would be decided in Week 18 when Baltimore visits Pittsburgh. The winner would be crowned division champion, and the loser would go home.

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Aaron Rodgers sends clear message to Shedeur Sanders amid Steelers vs Browns rivalry in NFL Week 17 game - Bolavip US

Aaron Rodgers sends clear message to Shedeur Sanders

Aaron Rodgers sends clear message to Shedeur Sanders amid Steelers vs Browns rivalry

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cleveland-browns" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cleveland Browns</a> will face the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 17 with Shedeur Sanders set to be the starter once again. However, the club has now made an intriguing roster move involving its quarterbacks that could impact the rookie’s game.



With the 2025 NFL season coming to an end, the Browns do not have anything to fight for in the upcoming games. They have already been eliminated, but these final matchups will serve as a test to determine which players deserve a spot on the 53-man roster in 2026.



The quarterback room has been a major issue for Cleveland throughout the season. Now, the club faces another concern, as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/shedeur-sanders" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shedeur Sanders</a> is set to have a new backup for the AFC North showdown against the Steelers.



<h2>Browns may not have Dillon Gabriel as Shedeur Sanders’ backup in Week 17</h2>



A few weeks ago, after suffering a concussion, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dillon-gabriel" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dillon Gabriel</a> lost his starting quarterback job. Shedeur Sanders took over as QB1 and convinced head coach Kevin Stefanski to keep him in that role for the remainder of the regular season.



Following that decision, Gabriel was named the QB2 behind Sanders. However, the former Oregon standout continues to deal with health issues, prompting the Browns to prepare a new backup quarterback for Week 17.



Gabriel is currently dealing with a left shoulder injury and is listed as questionable for Week 17. Because of that, the Browns have elevated Bailey Zappe to the active roster, and he is expected to serve as Shedeur Sanders’ backup if Gabriel is unable to recover.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/steelers-sign-nfl-veteran-player-to-bolster-mike-tomlins-defense-ahead-of-week-17-game-vs-browns"></div>


While Sanders remains the QB1, the Browns have had to rely on Gabriel at times due to Sanders’ minor injuries earlier in the season. Now, Zappe is in line to step in if the team needs him.



<h2>The last tests for Shedeur Sanders</h2>



The Browns handed the reins of the offense to Shedeur Sanders in Week 12, when he led the team to a victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, marking an impressive start for the former Colorado Buffaloes standout.



Now, Sanders faces two crucial tests to prove his value to the franchise, as Cleveland will take on the Steelers and the Bengals in the final games of the regular season. The results of those matchups could play a major role in determining whether Sanders retains the QB1 role in 2026.

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Browns make intriguing roster move regarding Shedeur Sanders for Week 17 game vs Steelers - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cleveland-browns" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cleveland Browns</a> are already eliminated from the 2026 NFL Playoffs contention. In fact, the word on the street is that head coach Kevin Stefanski might be on the hot seat. However, a Shedeur Sanders teammate opened up about his feelings about the coach.



Joel Bitonio is one of the leaders of the team and an elite offensive lineman. However, he is retiring in two games. Still, he is a credible and respected voice inside the locker room.



“Where we’re at right now, we don’t want to be there,” Bitonio said to the Akron Beacon Journal. “But I think if we get the right pieces and we keep improving, I think that’s a guy [Stefanski] you can build around. Two-time coach of the year, he has respect of his peers. He’s even-keeled… We’re trying to win games. I think he has the respect of the locker room. I think it’s just a guy you keep around and you build around. And that would be my focus if I was in charge of that.“



<h2>Stefanski has had ups and downs on the Browns</h2>



Since getting the Browns job in 2020, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kevin-stefanski" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stefanski</a> has had two 11-win seasons where he won Coach of the Year both times. However, he’s had four losing seasons as well, including a 3-14 record last year, and having only three wins up to this point in 2025.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251227_BUS_552251_kevin-stefanski_add55047.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Head coach Kevin Stefanski of the Cleveland Browns" class="wp-image-425372" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Kevin Stefanski of the Cleveland Browns</figcaption></figure>



Hence, while there is hope that he will indeed turn the things around, there’s also a fear that his time might with the team in might have passed. Stefanski has been dealt a very bad hand with the Browns, and he’s made the most of it at times. Now, he’s been tasked with developing <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/shedeur-sanders" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shedeur Sanders</a>.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/mike-tomlin-suggests-if-aaron-rodgers-could-be-benched-for-steelers-vs-browns"></div>


<h2>The Browns are also in a highly-contested division</h2>



The AFC North is no joke. Battling with the Bengals, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pittsburgh-steelers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Steelers</a>, and Ravens twice a year is very difficult. The Browns are fourth on the division and that is how they’ll keep being regarded if things don’t change quickly.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="69502e35e2d53b59fb2f0708" data-title="Should the Browns fire Kevin Stefanski?" data-options="2"></div>

Shedeur Sanders’ teammate gives a clear message regarding Kevin Stefanski’s future on the Browns

Shedeur Sanders' teammate gives a clear message regarding Kevin Stefanski's future on the Browns - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seattle Seahawks</a> are one of the best teams in the NFL in the 2025 season. The NFC West moved on from Geno Smith and signed Sam Darnold in free agency, kickstarting a new era in Mike Macdonald’s second season as head coach.&nbsp;



After a big 38-37 win over the Los Angeles Rams in Week 16, they boast a 12-3 record and the No. 1 seed in the NFC. They have a dynamic offense and a solid defense that make fans dream about a potential Super Bowl run. Darnold has found the perfect partner in third-year wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba.&nbsp;



“JSN” has elevated his game this season, recording 104 receptions for 1,637 yards and 10 touchdowns. He is one of the best wide receivers in the league, and his performances put him in a solid position to compete for major NFL awards.



<h2>Jaxon Smith-Njigba gets MVP buzz&nbsp;</h2>



Sports Illustrated has Smith-Njiba among its MVP candidates. It has Rams’ Matthew Stafford, Patriots’ Drake Maye, Bills’ Josh Allen, and Chargers’ Justin Herbert. He is the only wide receiver on the list, which sums up how impactful he has been this campaign.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251227_BUS_551690_jaxon-smith-njigba_6aaacfad.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Jaxon Smith-Njigba #11 of the Seattle Seahawks" class="wp-image-545254"></figure><figcaption>Jaxon Smith-Njigba #11 of the Seattle Seahawks</figcaption></figure>



“Smith-Njigba has been dominant all season and has played a pivotal role in the Seahawks being the No. 1 seed in the NFC with two regular-season games left,” SI writes. “He won’t win MVP, but he deserves consideration from voters for his impressive body of work. He has a league-high 1,637 receiving yards, along with 10 touchdowns and 104 catches, averaging 15.7 yards per reception.”



The Seahawks have a strong case to win the Super Bowl this season. They are en route to secure the No. 1 seed in the conference, which would bolster Smith-Njigba’s case to win the coveted award.&nbsp;

Jaxon Smith-Njigba gets MVP buzz amid remarkable season

Jaxon Smith-Njigba gets MVP buzz amid remarkable season - Bolavip US

Cincinnati Bengals icon Chad Johnson has been high on the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carolina Panthers</a> for a hot minute. The former player turned analyst had high expectations for the NFC South team before the start of the season, naming them the team with the most chances to surprise NFL fans.&nbsp;



“I say the Panthers,” Johnson told The U.S. Sun. “I’m only high on the Panthers because what they’re doing is special.”



He mentioned quarterback Bryce Young as one of the reasons, noting that the former No. 1 overall pick was benched and came back stronger in 2024.&nbsp;



“Bryce Young got benched,” Johnson said. “He got benched, but he came back. I don’t know what he ate, I don’t know what prayer he said. But he came back out this world… phenomenal.”



Sixteen weeks into the 2025 season, the Panthers have real chances to win the NFC South and dethrone the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. They sit at 8-7 with two games left, and Johnson remains high on the team.



<h2>Chad Johnson notes why the Panthers are building something special&nbsp;</h2>



During Monday’s edition of his joint “Nightcap” show with Shannon Sharpe, Johnson lauded the Panthers for pulling off wins while dealing with injuries and using an offense that could produce much more.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251227_BUS_551692_bryce-young-2_1b0e6e58.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Bryce Young" class="wp-image-519597" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Bryce Young #9 of the Carolina Panthers.</figcaption></figure>



“Offensively, goddamn; Bryce Young, they’re not even in their bag yet,” Johnson said. “They’re not even using everybody at their disposal like they should. And they’re still pulling off these wins, upsetting these teams that, most of the time, if you were a betting man, you’d bet the other team was going to beat them!”



The Panthers will take on the Seattle Seahawks in Week 17, hoping to get a new win that would put them closer to the division title.&nbsp;

NFL legend showers Panthers with praise

NFL legend showers Panthers with praise - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/arizona-cardinals" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arizona Cardinals</a> haven’t had the best 2025 NFL season despite having a promising 2-0 start. The NFC West team holds a 3-12 record after 16 weeks, which makes them one of the worst teams in the league. They have been close to winning multiple games, but missed opportunities have brought them to this point.&nbsp;



Amid a seven-game losing streak, the Cardinals compete for a top draft pick instead of a playoff berth. They have found a new spark with Jacoby Brissett as their starting quarterback, but their defense hasn’t been the strongest unit.&nbsp;



Edge rusher Josh Sweat is one of the few bright spots the Cardinals have to show this season. However, he is the only player with double-digit sacks (11) out of the 2025 Pro Bowl Games.&nbsp;



<h2>Josh Sweat makes strong admission about Pro Bowl snub</h2>



Speaking on his absence in the upcoming Pro Bowl Games, Sweat said he was upset, noting that it wasn’t the first time they took it away from him.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251227_BUS_551689_Jonathan-Gannon-1_99e6c819.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Jonathan Gannon in 2024" class="wp-image-353403" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Jonathan Gannon of the Arizona Cardinals </figcaption></figure>



“I’m upset because there’s only two individual things that you can get, and it’s Pro Bowl and All-Pro,” Sweat said Wednesday, via Josh Weinfuss of ESPN. “And I got one taken away from me. I’m just flat out saying it was taken away from me — and it ain’t the first time.



“It’s like I don’t know what else I could have done at that point,” Sweat said. “I don’t know what else I could have done. Now previous years, maybe you could have said he didn’t have the popularity, maybe he didn’t get the fan vote. This year, I was second in fan voting [at outside linebacker] for [the] NFC. It’s like, what else did they want me to do? The popularity was there. You could say losing team. It didn’t matter; I had the popularity.”



Sweat is playing his first season with the Cardinals in 2025. He has tallied 27 tackles, 11 sacks, four forced fumbles, one fumble recovery for two yards, and one interception for 42 yards.&nbsp;

Cardinals star makes frustrated admission about NFL snub

Cardinals star makes frustrated admission about NFL snub - Bolavip US

Philip Rivers has made a solid impression in his return to the NFL after five years. The 44-year-old quarterback signed with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Indianapolis Colts</a> for the remainder of the season to replace Daniel Jones, who suffered a season-ending Achilles injury against the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 14.&nbsp;



Rivers has yet to win his first game in his return, but he has shown that he still has it. The Colts (8-7) are in danger of missing the playoffs after losing five consecutive games, and the veteran wants to see something different from his teammates.&nbsp;



The Colts will take on the Jaguars again this weekend, hoping to stay alive in the AFC South race and put pressure on this week’s opponents and the Houston Texans. However, they have work to do to achieve their goal.&nbsp;



<h2>Philip Rivers sends clear message to Colts teammates&nbsp;</h2>



Philip Rivers exhorted his team’s defense to play better on Tuesday. He notes that the offense knows how to do its job, but they need more from the defense.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251227_BUS_551688_Philip-Rivers-of-the-Indianapolis-Colts-2025_b4d174f1.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Philip Rivers of the Indianapolis Colts (2025)" class="wp-image-547806"></figure><figcaption>Philip Rivers of the Indianapolis Colts (2025)</figcaption></figure>



“We gotta hold them. Defensively, we should speak up,” Rivers said. “We’ve gotta hold them to one less than our offense can score, and offensively, we need to say that we have to score one point more than the defense gives up. And it’s not this whole ‘who should’ve done what’—I don’t sense that from the guys at all. It just hurts. Shoot, I’ve been here for 13 days and it hurts because I care about these guys in this team, coach, organization—everything these guys have been through since May, June. The time put in… it makes you feel it hurts.”



Rivers has gone 41 of 62 for 397 yards and three touchdowns with two interceptions in two games. The Colts will close out the season against the Houston Texans next week.&nbsp;

Philip Rivers makes clear demand to Colts’ defense amid playoff race

Philip Rivers makes clear demand to Colts' defense amid playoff race - Bolavip US

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