NFL Week 17 Games Recap – Sunday, December 28, 2025

"Week 17 of the NFL season delivered thrilling finishes, standout performances, and crucial playoff implications across the league. From Ja'Marr Chase’s record-breaking catches with the Bengals to Trevor Lawrence leading the Jaguars toward the AFC South title, Sunday’s games kept fans on the edge of their seats. Here’s a complete recap of all seven matchups, key stats, injuries, and playoff implications as teams head into the final week of the regular season."

Key Points

Ja’Marr Chase made NFL history as Bengals dominated the Cardinals
Jaguars moved within one win of the AFC South title
Drake Maye threw five TDs as Patriots stayed in AFC East hunt
Saints rallied behind rookie QB Tyler Shough
Browns spoiled Steelers’ division clinch attempt
Seahawks closed in on NFC’s No. 1 seed
Dolphins upset Buccaneers, intensifying NFC South race

Bengals Dominate Cardinals Behind Ja’Marr Chase’s Historic Day

The Cincinnati Bengals delivered one of their most complete performances of the season, cruising past the Arizona Cardinals 37–14 at home. Joe Burrow threw for 305 yards, tying a franchise record with his 28th career 300-yard passing game, while Ja’Marr Chase caught two touchdown passes and etched his name into NFL history.

Chase finished with seven receptions for 60 yards and became the first player ever to record at least 80 catches, 1,000 receiving yards, and seven touchdowns in each of his first five NFL seasons. Cincinnati’s offense controlled the game early, scoring on its first two drives and holding the ball for more than 22 minutes in the first half.

Arizona struggled to keep pace despite a standout season milestone from tight end Trey McBride, who set a new NFL single-season reception record for tight ends with 119 catches. The Bengals’ improving defense limited the Cardinals to just 233 total yards, signaling late-season momentum for Cincinnati.

Jaguars One Win Away From AFC South Title After Beating Colts

The Jacksonville Jaguars moved to the brink of an AFC South championship with a 23–17 road win over the Indianapolis Colts. Trevor Lawrence showcased his versatility, rushing for two touchdowns and guiding Jacksonville to its seventh straight victory.

While Lawrence’s passing numbers were modest by recent standards, his leadership shined as the Jaguars overcame a tight contest late. Rookie kicker Cam Little delivered under pressure, hitting three field goals — including the game-winner — to seal the victory.

The loss officially eliminated Indianapolis from playoff contention after a dramatic midseason collapse. Jacksonville now controls its destiny heading into Week 18, needing just one more win to claim the division crown.

Drake Maye Leads Patriots to Statement Win Over Jets

New England sent a clear message to the rest of the AFC with a dominant 42–10 win over the New York Jets. Rookie quarterback Drake Maye was sensational, throwing a career-high five touchdown passes in just over two quarters of action.

The Patriots scored touchdowns on their first six drives and led 35–3 at halftime, allowing Maye to rest for much of the second half. His efficiency and command of the offense continued a breakout season that now places New England firmly in the AFC East title race.

Despite a late rushing touchdown from Breece Hall, the Jets were overwhelmed from the opening drive, suffering another lopsided home defeat in a difficult season.

Saints Rally Past Titans as Tyler Shough Shines

The New Orleans Saints stormed back from a 13-point deficit to defeat the Tennessee Titans 34–26, fueled by a brilliant second-half performance from rookie quarterback Tyler Shough.

Shough threw for a career-high 333 yards and two touchdowns, guiding the Saints to their fourth consecutive victory. New Orleans dominated after halftime, outscoring Tennessee 24–6 and controlling the tempo on both sides of the ball.

While Titans rookie Cam Ward flashed potential, Tennessee struggled to finish drives and protect the football late. The Saints’ resilience and Shough’s steady growth have given the franchise optimism heading into the final week of the season.

Browns Spoil Steelers’ Division Hopes in Defensive Battle

Cleveland played spoiler in a gritty 13–6 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, preventing Pittsburgh from clinching the AFC North. Rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders managed the game effectively, throwing for 186 yards and a touchdown as the Browns relied on strong defensive play.

Pittsburgh moved the ball but failed to convert red-zone opportunities, settling for field goals and coming up empty on a critical fourth-down attempt late in the game. The loss sets up a dramatic Week 18 showdown between the Steelers and Ravens for the division title.

For Cleveland, the victory snapped a long division losing streak and delivered a rare defensive statement against a longtime rival.

Seahawks Close in on NFC’s Top Seed With Win Over Panthers

The Seattle Seahawks took another step toward NFC supremacy by defeating the Carolina Panthers 27–10. Zach Charbonnet powered the offense with 110 rushing yards and two touchdowns, while Seattle’s defense capitalized on key turnovers in the second half.

After a scoreless offensive struggle early, the Seahawks surged after halftime, turning two Carolina mistakes into decisive touchdowns. Sam Darnold rebounded from an early interception to lead a steady, mistake-free attack.

Carolina’s playoff hopes took a hit, though the Panthers still have a path to the NFC South title heading into a crucial Week 18 matchup.

Dolphins Upset Buccaneers, Set Up NFC South Drama

Though eliminated from playoff contention, the Miami Dolphins played with pride and urgency, edging the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 20–17. Rookie quarterback Quinn Ewers threw two touchdown passes, including a 63-yard strike for his first career NFL score.

Tampa Bay’s struggles continued despite a late rally led by Baker Mayfield. Multiple turnovers proved costly, and the Buccaneers now face a must-win scenario in Week 18 to keep their division hopes alive.

Miami’s balanced offense and timely defensive plays sealed the win, underscoring a strong finish to a rebuilding season.

Sources

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