Entertainment
Thanksgiving often leaves people feeling lethargic, but for 22 NFL teams in Week 13 of the 2024 season, it's time to shake off the rust. The traditional Thanksgiving games set the tone, with the Detroit Lions, Dallas Cowboys, and Green Bay Packers emerging victorious. Then, the Kansas City Chiefs clinched a playoff spot. Now, let's dive into three of Sunday's standout matchups.
Uncover the Thrills of NFL Sunday's Top Games
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Cincinnati Bengals – 1:00 p.m. ET
Both the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cincinnati Bengals have had strange seasons. One sits atop the AFC North, while the other struggles outside the playoff positions. Quarterback Joe Burrow has had an excellent season, throwing 27 touchdowns and just four interceptions. However, the Bengals have struggled to convert these performances into victories, with close defeats defining their campaign. Despite their standing and low playoff chances (15% according to NFL.com), the Steelers respect the challenge, with head coach Mike Tomlin calling Burrow "MVP-caliber." The Steelers' defense, once again one of the best in the league, will need to step up. A win against the Bengals could be pivotal for the Steelers in their race for a division-winners spot.Conversely, the Steelers have had a season to remember. Quarterback play from Justin Fields and now Russell Wilson has provided just enough at key moments. After a disappointing loss to the Cleveland Browns in heavy snow, they'll be looking to bounce back.Philadelphia Eagles vs. Baltimore Ravens – 4:25 p.m. ET
Saquon Barkley vs. Derrick Henry – two running backs with new teams and MVP-contending seasons. Barkley's big touchdown runs and evasive skills make him a weekly highlight, while Henry's powerful running wears down defenders. The pair lead the league in rushing, with Barkley at 1,392 yards and Henry at 1,325.Eagles QB Jalen Hurts has cleaned up his game, with just two turnovers in the last seven weeks compared to 18 total touchdowns. Baltimore quarterback Lamar Jackson is the favorite to retain his MVP award. On defense, the Ravens have one of the worst passing defenses but the second-best run defense, while the Eagles have allowed the second-fewest passing yards and the sixth-fewest rushing yards. Ravens head coach John Harbaugh is excited about the tough matchup, emphasizing the challenges their run defense will face. With the Ravens at 8-4 and second in the AFC North and the Eagles at 9-2 and top of the NFC East, this game will impact playoff seedings.San Francisco 49ers vs. Buffalo Bills – 8:20 p.m. ET
In previous years, this would be a high-powered showdown of Super Bowl hopefuls. The 49ers are typically playoff regulars but are having a down season. Injuries and failing at key moments have hampered their progress, with quarterback Brock Purdy missing last week's game with a shoulder injury. Even if he returns, the 49ers could be missing two more vital players – left tackle Trent Williams and defensive end Nick Bosa.The Bills, on the other hand, come off their bye full of optimism after handing the Chiefs their first defeat of the season. Quarterback Josh Allen is playing his best all season, with the improvement of rookie Keon Coleman and third-year receiver Khalil Shakir adding to their weapons. Ahead of their game against the 49ers, Allen stressed that the "job's not finished" for Buffalo. A defeat on Sunday could eliminate the 49ers from playoff contention, while the Bills would keep up their pressure on the Chiefs for the No. 1 spot in the AFC conference.Full Week 13 Sunday schedule:Away vs. homeLos Angeles Chargers vs. Atlanta Falcons – 1:00 p.m. ETPittsburgh Steelers vs. Cincinnati Bengals – 1:00 p.m. ETHouston Texans vs. Jacksonville Jaguars – 1:00 p.m. ETArizona Cardinals vs. Minnesota Vikings – 1:00 p.m. ETIndianapolis Colts vs. New England Patriots – 1:00 p.m. ETSeattle Seahawks vs. New York Jets – 1:00 p.m. ETTennessee Titans vs. Washington Commanders – 1:00 p.m. ETTampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers – 4:05 p.m. ETLos Angeles Rams vs. New Orleans Saints – 4:05 p.m. ETPhiladelphia Eagles vs. Baltimore Ravens – 4:25 p.m. ETSan Francisco 49ers vs. Buffalo Bills – 8:20 p.m. ET