The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seattle Seahawks </a>secured a major win on Thursday against the Los Angeles Rams. After losing their Week 11 matchup, 21-19, they stayed in the race to win the NFC West title, and their Week 16 win put them closer to that goal.&nbsp;



Despite trailing the Rams 30-14 early in the fourth quarter, the Seahawks forced overtime with a 16-point final period. They won 38-37 after a 2-point conversion to improve to 12-3 and become the sole leaders of the division ahead of the final two games of the season.&nbsp;



Sam Darnold proved that he can rise to the occasion and lead his team to the promised land, going 22 of 34 for 270 yards and two touchdowns with two interceptions. Despite Matthew Stafford (29 of 49 for 457 yards and three touchdowns) and Puka Nacua’s (12 receptions for 225 yards and two touchdowns) big nights, the Seahawks made a statement in Lumen Field.&nbsp;



<h2>Ernest Jones IV calls out Rams players after TNF win</h2>



Seahawks linebacker Ernest Jones IV sent a strong message to the Rams players after the game. The Seahawks’ captain went in on his former team for laughing at Seattle before the duel was over.&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_20251221_BUS_549146_sam-darnold-5_c32c8488.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Sam Darnold QB" class="wp-image-504186" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Sam Darnold #14 of the Seattle Seahawks.</figcaption></figure>



“They went to laughing in our face, and they thought this s— was over with,” Jones explained. “…They thought it was over with. But around here we play until the last snap, last whistle.”&nbsp;



Jones doubled down during his press availability, telling reporters that the defense felt disrespected by the Rams’ antics.



“It’s disrespectful as a defense,” Jones added. “Disrespectful to the game. There’s too much time left on the clock for you to be thinking it’s over. I won’t put any names on it, but they know, and we won.”&nbsp;



The Seahawks are in full control of their destiny, but their next two games will be challenging (at Panthers in Week 17 and at 49ers in Week 19), too.&nbsp;

Seahawks defensive star doesn’t hold back against Rams players after TNF win

Seahawks defensive star doesn't hold back against Rams players after TNF win - Bolavip US

miniaturas

The<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tennessee-titans" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Tennessee Titans</a> are already planning the 2026 NFL season after an underwhelming 2025 campaign in which just a few things went their way. They found their quarterback, Cam Ward, but the season’s development showed they still have a lot of work to do to put the former Miami star in a position to consistently contend.&nbsp;



Brian Callahan was fired seven games into the season, confirming that the Titans are years away from putting together a competitive team. That could change this offseason if they make the right moves. They need to find the right person to lead the project, develop Ward, and assemble a solid team around him.&nbsp;



Ward has shown his maturity this year, and he isn’t done taking on more responsibilities ahead of his second season in the league.



<h2>Cam Ward wants to meet every Titans HC candidate&nbsp;</h2>



As part of his continued evolution, Ward revealed he wants to be involved in the coach-hiring process. The 2025 No. 1 pick said on Wednesday that he hopes to meet whoever the team brings into the building as a head coach prospect.&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_20251221_BUS_549143_cam-ward-1_bb7cd61e.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Cam Ward" class="wp-image-451239" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Cam Ward #1 of the Tennessee Titans</figcaption></figure>



“I want to meet all of them,” Ward said of the next candidates, via ESPN. “Every coach who gets the opportunity to come here, I want to have conversations throughout the process with them. I’m going to be here for that whole time.”



The Titans have won only two games this season, while dealing with multiple serious injuries on both ends of the ball. They showed glimpses of competitiveness, but it’s clear they will need more than that to challenge in the tough AFC.&nbsp;

Cam Ward has 1 request for Titans in HC search

Cam Ward has 1 request for Titans in HC search - Bolavip US

The<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> New England Patriots</a> are one of the biggest surprises in the 2025 NFL season. After winning only four games in 2024, they sit at the top of the AFC East standings with an 11-3 record and in full control of their destiny.&nbsp;



Despite losing 35-31 to the Buffalo Bills in Week 15, the Patriots remain a strong candidate in the AFC. They will take on a new challenge Sunday night, when they clash against the Baltimore Ravens at M&amp;T Bank Stadium. After that, they will play two weaker opponents, the New York Jets and Miami Dolphins, respectively, which should give them the edge to win the division.&nbsp;



The Patriots are on a roll this season, which includes a 10-game winning streak. After parting ways with Jerod Mayo and signing Mike Vrabel, they turned their situation around and are in the race for the No. 1 seed in the conference.&nbsp;



<h2>Patriots have several candidates to win major awards this season</h2>



Sunday Night Football on NBC’s X account highlighted how impressive the 2025 season has been for the six-time Super Bowl champions on Thursday. 



<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_20251221_BUS_549149_Mike-Vrabel-3_f1f88cd7.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Mike Vrabel New England Patriots HC" class="wp-image-377712" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Mike Vrabel of the New England Patriots </figcaption></figure>



Second-year quarterback Drake Maye is the second-favorite (+425) to win the MVP award this season, while TreVeyon Henderson (+185) is the favorite to win the Offensive Rookie of the Year. Vrabel, who spent one year as a consultant with the Cleveland Browns, is the favorite (+120) to win the Coach of the Year award.&nbsp;



These odds sum up how well the Patriots have fared this season. It’s hard to imagine these three not winning these awards if the team ends up winning the AFC East and getting the No. 1 seed.&nbsp;

Odds highlight how impressive the Patriots have been in 2025

Odds highlight how impressive the Patriots have been in 2025 - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carolina Panthers</a> (7-7) are set to take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-7) for the first time this season. Both teams are in a fierce race to win the NFC South title, but they have missed several opportunities to take the lead.&nbsp;



Sunday’s duel could be the turning point in this race, as the Panthers’ chances to advance to the playoffs would drop to 5% with a loss, while the Buccaneers’ chances would go up to 95% with a win. Carolina has shown a better face in 2025, with Bryce Young showing glimpses of brilliance.&nbsp;



However, the third-year quarterback has lacked consistency, struggling to rise up in the big moments and letting his team down more than once. They will face Baker Mayfield, who spent the first part of the 2022 season.&nbsp;



<h2>Panthers OT sends clear message to Baker Mayfield</h2>



The former No. 1 pick still keeps good relationships from his time with Carolina, but some aren’t too happy to see him shine with the Buccaneers. Offensive tackle Taylor Moton said positive things about Mayfield ahead of Sunday’s game, but clarified that watching him on the Buccaneers doesn’t sit too well with 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_20251221_BUS_549152_baker-mayfield-1_8e485109.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Baker Mayfield Buccaneers QB" class="wp-image-534321"></figure><figcaption>Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.</figcaption></figure>



“He’s a great dude,” Moton said, via Joe Person of The Athletic. “Obviously, this is a different kind of week for me with him. It’s bittersweet because I love him and I’m so happy to see he’s having success. I just hate it’s for a divisional rival.”



Mayfield played seven games in Carolina, going 119 of 206 for 1,313 yards and six touchdowns. He’s elevated his level since that season, becoming one of the most entertaining quarterbacks in the NFL.&nbsp;

Panthers OT shares feelings on facing former teammate Baker Mayfield

Panthers OT shares feelings on facing former teammate Baker Mayfield - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carolina Panthers</a> have summed up perfectly the state of the NFC South this season. They have been inconsistent all season long, securing big wins against the Dallas Cowboys (30-27 in Week 6), the Green Bay Packers (16-13 in Week 9), and the Los Angeles Rams (31-28 in Week 13) one day, but failing to move past the 4-10 New Orleans Saints not once but twice.&nbsp;



They lost to the Saints 21-17 on Sunday, falling to 7-7 and failing to drift away from another inconsistent team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-7). These two squads will clash on Sunday for the first time this season. 



With three games remaining, the Week 16 duel will be extremely important for these teams, but the Panthers face a terrible destiny if they don’t beat Baker Mayfield and Co.



<h2>Panthers will be nearly out of the NFL playoff with a Week 16 loss&nbsp;</h2>



Pro Football Focus (PFF) shared on Friday that the Panthers will have 50% playoff probabilities with a win against the Buccaneers. 



<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_20251221_BUS_549127_Bryce-Young-looks-on_9704fe7c.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Bryce Young looks on" class="wp-image-515607" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Bryce Young #9 of the Carolina Panthers enters the field.</figcaption></figure>



While that number isn’t that high, the situation will drastically change if they lose. Carolina would have 5% chances of advancing to the postseason with a loss.&nbsp;



The Buccaneers face a more positive scenario. If they win, their chances go up to 95%. If they lose, they will have the same chances as the Panthers (50%). Carolina will face a tough opponent in Week 17, the Seattle Seahawks (12-3), before closing out the season with the second matchup against the Buccaneers.&nbsp;

Panthers face grim destiny if they fall against Buccaneers

Panthers face grim destiny if they fall against Buccaneers - Bolavip US

To say that this has been a bad season for the Arizona Cardinals would be a massive understatement. Even so, head coach Jonathan Gannon might be given another chance.



That doesn’t seem to be the case with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kyler-murray">Kyler Murray</a>, though. The former No. 1 pick was benched because of an alleged injury, and their decision to shut him down for the season raised questions about his future with the team.



With that in mind, ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler reported that he and Mac Jones could be the next ‘reclamation projects’ for quarterback-needy teams in the upcoming season. 



<h2>Kyler Murray can be a ‘reclamation project’</h2>



“The quarterback trade market is worth watching, particularly with supply failing to meet the demand once again. (Mac) Jones might be the next reclamation project QB to take off in a second act,” Fowler wrote. 



<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_20251217_BUS_547245_Kyler-Murray-quarterback-for-the-Arizona-Cardinals_6d19cfc8.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Kyler Murray, quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals." class="wp-image-472696" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Kyler Murray, quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals.</figcaption></figure>



“This leads to a conversation on Kyler Murray, whom the Cardinals are subtly — or quite obviously — trying to stash to preserve his health for a potential trade this offseason. His nearly $37 million in guarantees on the 2026 books complicates the market for his services, but Murray is 28 and isn’t far removed from fringe top-10-QB status,“ he added.



Of course, whether any team will be willing to meet his steep salary demands and also give up what the Cardinals may want to get for him remains to be seen, but we’ve seen crazier things happen.

Kyler Murray still has some trade value, says insider

Kyler Murray still has some trade value, says insider - Bolavip US

Sean McVay and the Los Angeles Rams seem to have the formula to make <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sam-darnold">Sam Darnold</a> uncomfortable. They got the best of them last season, and they picked him off four times this year.



The former New York Jets draft pick has a long history of underperforming when it matters the most, which is why some people still have legitimate doubts about him this season. 



However, even though the Rams seem to have his number, he still believes he’s going to be much better on Thursday night when they meet for the second time this season.



<h2>Sam Darnold shut down concerns about the Rams</h2>



“It’s just another opponent,” Darnold said, via the team’s website. “Obviously, it’s a divisional game and I would just leave it at that.”



<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_20251217_BUS_547239_sam-darnold-4_031acdd7.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Sam Darnold #14 of the Seattle Seahawks." class="wp-image-504099" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Sam Darnold #14 of the Seattle Seahawks.</figcaption></figure>



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks">Seahawks</a>‘ offense couldn’t get much going in the win over the Indianapolis Colts. They had to turn to kicker Jason Myers more often than not, and they almost lost in Philip Rivers’ heroic return from retirement.



The Rams are a legitimate Super Bowl contender and will be an even tougher opponent. Unless Darnold can shake his woes, this could get pretty ugly for Mike Macdonald’s team.

Sam Darnold gets real on struggles vs. Rams

Sam Darnold gets real on struggles vs. Rams - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks">Seattle Seahawks</a> continue to march strong in their pursuit of a playoff berth. Even though there are some legitimate doubts about Sam Darnold’s ability to lead the team forward, they’ve been a strong contender this year.



Of course, it has been a team effort. Mike Macdonald’s team is well-rounded and boasts a balanced offense, a hard-hitting defense, and a special teams unit most teams would kill for.



That’s why it’s not much of a surprise to hear that placekicker Jason Myers got a major award. Per Myles Simmons of ProFootballTalk, he was just named the NFC Special Teams Player of the Week.



<h2>Jason Myers gets NFC award</h2>



“The Seahawks’ kicker has been named NFC special teams player of the week after sending all six of his field goal attempts through the uprights, including a game-winning 56-yarder with under a minute left in the contest,” Simmons wrote. “Myers’ other five field goals were from 47, 52, 46, 32, and 30 yards.”



<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_20251217_BUS_547231_Mike-Macdonald_e1f66f10.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Mike Macdonald of the Seahawks." class="wp-image-247639" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Mike Macdonald of the Seahawks.</figcaption></figure>



Notably, this is the third time that Myers has earned these honors, and the second time he’s done it with the Seahawks. He won it in 2018 with the New York Jets, in 2023 in Seattle, and now again.



The Seahawks are still marching strong in the race to win the division, and if Sam Darnold continues to regress and struggle like he’s done lately, Myers will be crucial to their aspirations.

Seahawks star gets major NFC honor

Seahawks star gets major NFC honor - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/atlanta-falcons">Atlanta Falcons</a>‘ season might be over already. Nevertheless, the NFC South side still has three more games left in the regular season to play spoiler and show some pride. 



Head coach Raheem Morris might be coaching for his job in the final stretch of the season. That’s why he’d certainly love to have as many healthy players as possible.



With that in mind, he should be thrilled after submitting the Falcons’ latest injury report. For the first time in weeks, star WR Drake London is expected to take the field.



<h2>Drake London will return to practice </h2>



“WR Drake London (knee) is expected to practice on Wednesday, per head coach Raheem Morris. London has not played since Week 11. DL Zach Harrison will miss the rest of the season, per Morris. LB Troy Andersen will miss the rest of the season, per Morris. LB Bralen Trice will miss the rest of the season, per Morris,” read the report. 



<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_20251217_BUS_547222_drake-london_8ad33c68.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Drake London #5 of the Atlanta Falcons" class="wp-image-527401"></figure><figcaption>Drake London #5 of the Atlanta Falcons</figcaption></figure>



Of course, one might argue that it doesn’t make much sense to put their best pass catcher in harm’s way. They won’t make the playoffs, so they might as well shut him down for the year.



Even so, players have incentives to play for, and while the Falcons don’t have anything else to play for this season, the game is always better when the best players are on the field.

Falcons get massive Drake London injury news

Falcons get massive Drake London injury news - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/atlanta-falcons">Atlanta Falcons</a> have been one of the most disappointing teams in the league this season. On top of not making the playoffs again, Michael Penix Jr. suffered a season-ending injury.



That has forced them to turn back to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kirk-cousins">Kirk Cousins</a>, whom they refused to trade in the offseason. The results have been a mixed bag, but the veteran can still sling the pigskin.



With that in mind, head coach Raheem Morris isn’t going to make any rash decisions about cutting ties with him. If anything, he might welcome him back with open arms. 



<h2>Kirk Cousins might return next season</h2>



“Everything is on the table,” Morris said, per Josh Kendall of The Athletic. “We will all sit down at the end of the season and have those discussions and talk about those things. That will certainly be a part of it. We planned on the amount of years we put in his contract and hopefully potentially more. We will see where that goes but that is definitely up for discussion.”



<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_20251217_BUS_547214_kirk-cousins-falcons_7cb5c756.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Kirk Cousins is trying to leave Atlanta" class="wp-image-415040" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Kirk Cousins #18 of the Atlanta Falcons warms up prior to facing the Jacksonville Jaguars at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on August 23, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. </figcaption></figure>



Of course, that might also potentially depend on whether Michael Penix Jr. is back to full strength, and maybe even if Raheem Morris and his coaching staff are still there.



Whatever the case, Cousins has made it loud and clear that he’s not done playing, and if Philip Rivers can play at 44, he should certainly still have a little more left in the tank.

Raheem Morris makes big comment about Kirk Cousins’ future

Raheem Morris makes big comment about Kirk Cousins' future - Bolavip US

Once again, the<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/arizona-cardinals" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Arizona Cardinals</a> have been one of the worst teams in the National Football League this season. That has been their status since they appointed Jonathan Gannon.



However, the head coach doesn’t want to hear anything about his hot seat rumors. He knows he hasn’t done a good job, yet he continues to shut down those questions.



That was the case again after his team’s latest debacle against the Houston Texans. When asked about that, he opened up about how much he believes in himself and his team. 



<h2>Jonathan Gannon shuts down job security questions</h2>



“There’s no pitch. I’m concentrating on Atlanta,” Gannon said, per Donnie Druin of Arizona Cardinals On SI. “Your pitch is I believe in myself and I believe in our team. We are at a dip right now, and we’re going through some adversity, but I do believe in us, and we’ll get out of the dip.”



<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_20251216_BUS_546301_Jonathan-Gannon-1_949666a9.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>



The Cardinals have only struggled since Gannon took the reins of the team three years ago, and now that they can’t blame Kyler Murray, there’s simply no way to justify keeping this regime in place.



This team doesn’t seem to have a clear direction. The Cardinals may not even have a quarterback next season, and it’s hard to feel encouraged about what the future holds.

Jonathan Gannon gets real on his job security

Jonathan Gannon gets real on his job security - Bolavip US

The<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-orleans-saints"> New Orleans Saints</a> haven’t won many games this season, and, judging by their schedule, chances are that they’re not going to win another one after taking down the Carolina Panthers.



Nevertheless, this season hasn’t been a complete waste in the Big Easy. If anything, Kellen Moore has gotten a chance to evaluate his rookie quarterback: Tyler Shough.



The rookie out of Louisville has been better than one might assume because of the team’s record. Moreover, he even broke one of Drew Brees‘ marks in the win over Carolina.



<h2>Tyler Shough sets Saints rookie record</h2>



“With 110 passing yards today through three quarters, Tyler Shough now has 1,322 passing yards in 2025, setting a new Saints single-season passing record by a rookie QB,” the Saints announced.



<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_20251216_BUS_546298_tyler-shough_819cadd6.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Tyler Shough #6 of the New Orleans Saints" class="wp-image-518100" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Tyler Shough #6 of the New Orleans Saints</figcaption></figure>



Shough has been far from perfect, but he’s been better than the average rookie. Unfortunately for him, the market and his team’s record don’t do much to help his case.



Even so, it wouldn’t be far-fetched to think that he should be the leading candidate to run away with Offensive Rookie of the Year honors, and the Saints may have found their guy.

Tyler Shough made NFL history in win over Panthers

Tyler Shough made NFL history in win over Panthers - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carolina Panthers</a> couldn’t take care of business when it mattered the most. Dave Canales’ team had a huge opportunity to stay strong in the divisional race, and they dropped it.



The New Orleans Saints got the best of the Panthers with a game-winning field goal. They were in control of their own destiny after the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ collapse.



That’s why ESPN insider David Newton had some big words to say about Bryce Young. Essentially, he blamed the former No. 1 pick for the team’s shortcomings on Sunday. 



<h2>ESPN insider says Bryce Young didn’t do enough</h2>



“Bryce Young needed to step up in his biggest December game in the NFL, and he didn’t do quite enough.” Newton wrote. “In the end, the quarterback, who went 15-for-24 for 163 yards and 1 touchdown, didn’t do enough.”



<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_20251216_BUS_546294_bryce-young-2_5eacec81.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>



Granted, on the surface, Young’s numbers are far from impressive, and this was a game the Panthers just couldn’t afford to lose. Nevertheless, this was a subpar team effort overall.



Also, the Saints have been much better than their record shows, at least offensively, since Tyler Shough took the reins of the offense, and that’s just how divisional games usually go.

Insider blames Bryce Young after loss to Saints

Insider blames Bryce Young after loss to Saints - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">New England Patriots</a> couldn’t get the job done on Sunday. They depended on themselves to secure the AFC East division, and they were dominating the Buffalo Bills in the first half.



Then, Josh Allen put on the Superman cape to take care of business on his own hands. He had one of the best games of his career, rallying from behind to secure an epic comeback win.



Nevertheless, it seems like he may have had some help from the officials. At least, that’s how Patriots coach Mike Vrabel seemed to hint in an appearance on The Greg Hill Show.



<h2>Mike Vrabel calls out the referees</h2>



“It is a difficult job, they do have a difficult job,” Vrabel said. “The consistency… Sometimes I struggle with it. I’ll say this: the Bills lead the NFL in offensive holds, and I’ll leave it at that. And that would be hard for me to understand how the team that is coming into the game leading, and that’s how they play, didn’t have one yesterday. That’s hard for me to understand.”



<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_20251216_BUS_546290_Mike-Vrabel-looks-on_920874e9.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Head coach Mike Vrabel of the New England Patriots" class="wp-image-492094" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Mike Vrabel of the New England Patriots </figcaption></figure>



That makes sense to a degree. Even if the Bills got away with a couple of holds, the Patriots should’ve never put themselves in a position to be affected by the officials.



They were in control of the game and should’ve won without many issues, all things considered. Now, they’re still at the top, but they have yet to punch their ticket to the postseason.

Mike Vrabel blames the referees for loss to Bills

Mike Vrabel blames the referees for loss to Bills - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New England Patriots</a> were pretty close to making the playoffs and securing the division on Sunday. Then, Josh Allen happened. The Buffalo Bills superstar put his team on his shoulders, and it was a wrap.



It was an epic collapse by Mike Vrabel’s team, and one that raised questions about their status as a contender once again. That’s why they need to respond in the best way.



With that in mind, Ethan Hurwitz of Patriots on SI revealed the Patriots’ path to the playoffs. It won’t be easy, though, as they have to meet with the Baltimore Ravens. 



<h2>Even with a loss, the Patriots can still make the playoffs</h2>



“The most straightforward result on this list. Should the Patriots head down to Baltimore and beat the Ravens — who are coming off of a 24-0 win over the Cincinnati Bengals — they’ll officially be in the postseason for the first time since 2021,” Hurwitz wrote. 



<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_20251216_BUS_546287_Mike-Vrabel-looks-on_18895d57.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Head coach Mike Vrabel of the New England Patriots" class="wp-image-492094" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Mike Vrabel of the New England Patriots </figcaption></figure>



“The 2-12 Raiders have had an awful season, but should they knock off the Houston Texans, the Patriots will be officially in the postseason,” he added. “Just like the Texans, another AFC South team is gunning for a spot in the playoffs. It’s looking like the Jaguars are going to win the division, so it comes down to potentially either Houston or Indianapolis for the final spot. Regardless of who loses, New England will be in the postseason.”



At the end of the day, Mike Vrabel will focus on doing his job, and it’ll be up to the Patriots to ensure they get in, rather than relying on someone else to give them a hand.

What do the Patriots need to clinch a playoff spot in Week 16?

What do the Patriots need to clinch a playoff spot in Week 16? - Bolavip US

Ernesto Cova is a bilingual (English-Spanish) sports writer with over eight years of experience covering major leagues such as the NBA, NFL, MLB, College Basketball, and international soccer. He rejoined Bolavip US as a collaborator after initially contributing to the platform since its inception in 2020, where he also served as a sub-editor in 2023. Ernesto specializes in daily sports news, producing 100% original content that includes trade rumors, player and team rankings, and more. Before returning to Bolavip US, he contributed to Fadeaway World and The Cold Wire, with a primary focus on the NBA.

Ernesto Cova

experience

education

interests

latest articles by ernesto cova