NFL Week 11 Grades: Bills Dominate Chiefs, Steelers Surge Past Ravens!
2024-11-18
Author: Kai
Welcome to our comprehensive Week 11 recap of the NFL!
This weekend was packed with exhilarating matchups, highlighting the competitive spirit of the league as teams battle it out for playoff positioning.
Pittsburgh Steelers 18, Baltimore Ravens 16
Grade: B
The much-anticipated showdown took place in Pittsburgh, where the Steelers edged out the Ravens in a nail-biting finish. The Ravens’ Justin Tucker missed two crucial field goals, causing a stir in Baltimore, as they fell short on a two-point conversion attempt late in the game. The Steelers relied heavily on Chris Boswell, who impressively kicked six field goals, while the Ravens struggled to find their offensive rhythm, particularly with back-to-back fumbles and missed opportunities. Defensive plays were pivotal for the Steelers, including a spectacular interception by Payton Wilson that helped seal the game. With this performance, the Steelers showcase why they are contenders for the Super Bowl, boasting not just a solid kicker, but a defense that can make game-changing plays.
Buffalo Bills 30, Kansas City Chiefs 21
Grade: A
The Bills put an end to the Chiefs' undefeated streak in a stunning display on the road. Josh Allen shone brightly, throwing for over 317 yards and leading with important touchdowns. Buffalo capitalized on early mistakes by Patrick Mahomes, who threw an interception on his first pass. In an electrifying moment, Allen dashed for a crucial fourth-down touchdown that effectively closed the game. The Bills’ defense held Mahomes to just 98 yards in the second half, sealing their place firmly in the AFC playoff conversation.
Los Angeles Chargers 34, Cincinnati Bengals 27
Grade: B
The Chargers' resilience was tested as they managed to fend off a comeback from the Bengals. The game showcased a standout performance from Joe Burrow, who threw for 356 yards and three touchdowns, yet it was not enough to erase early deficits. Evan McPherson’s missed go-ahead field goals late in the fourth quarter proved costly for Cincinnati, as the Chargers’ Justin Herbert led the game-winning drive, culminating in a dramatic touchdown.
Green Bay Packers 20, Chicago Bears 19
Grade: B
In a classic NFC North rivalry, the Packers narrowly scraped past the Bears. Green Bay's defense showed vulnerabilities but came crucially alive in the final moments, highlighted by Karl Brooks blocking a potential game-winning field goal attempt. Despite a solid performance by Chicago’s Caleb Williams, who had an impressive passing and rushing day, the Bears' season struggles continued, with this loss marking their 11th straight defeat at the hands of the Packers.
Detroit Lions 52, Jacksonville Jaguars 6
Grade: A+
In a shocking turn of events, the Lions obliterated the Jaguars. With Jared Goff passing for 412 yards and four touchdowns, Detroit proved to be a force to be reckoned with. This victory confirms the Lions' status as serious playoff contenders, showcasing an offense that dominated while their defense stepped up to silence the opposing offensive chaos.
Minnesota Vikings 23, Tennessee Titans 13
Grade: B
Sam Darnold rebounded with a solid outing, throwing for two touchdowns against a Titans defense struggling to maintain composure. Minnesota’s defense made life difficult for Will Levis, sacking him multiple times and keeping their momentum high as they embark on a promising road trip.
Miami Dolphins 34, Las Vegas Raiders 19
Grade: B+
Led by Tua Tagovailoa, the Dolphins executed a definitive victory against the Raiders. Despite some struggles in the red zone, Miami's offense thrived, while Las Vegas faltered, failing to convert key opportunities that could have changed the game dynamics.
L.A. Rams 28, New England Patriots 22
Grade: B
Matthew Stafford showcased his elite quarterback skills, throwing four touchdowns and leading Rams to victory. Despite a spirited performance from rookie QB Drake Maye of the Patriots, who continues to show potential, New England finds itself in a tough position as their season slips further away.
New Orleans Saints 35, Cleveland Browns 14
Grade: D
The scene was chaotic for the Browns, who faltered across the board. Their offense was stifled, and costly missed field goals highlighted their struggles throughout. Meanwhile, Taysom Hill stepped up magnificently for the Saints, marking a crucial win that keeps their playoff hopes alive.
Indianapolis Colts 28, New York Jets 27
Grade: B
A late-game drive highlighted Anthony Richardson's return, leading the Colts to a narrow victory over the struggling Jets. Richardson’s dual-threat capability proved essential, while Jet's offense sputtered throughout, encapsulating their season-long inefficiencies.
Denver Broncos 38, Atlanta Falcons 6
Grade: A+
Bo Nix delivered a phenomenal performance, achieving a career-high against a floundering Falcons team. The Broncos’ offense soared, while the Falcons began to unravel, suggesting they may be on the verge of a significant mid-season collapse.
Seattle Seahawks 20, San Francisco 49ers 17
Grade: B
The Seahawks pulled off an impressive win, showcasing a stout defensive performance that limited the 49ers’ offensive output, especially after losing star player Nick Bosa to injury. Geno Smith’s game-winning touchdown showcased his clutch ability as Seattle remains a contender in the NFC West.
Philadelphia Eagles 26, Washington Commanders 18
Grade: C
Despite struggles from Jayden Daniels, the Eagles found ways to secure their victory through a dominant rushing performance. Washington's defensive vulnerabilities left them exposed, shedding light on the need for significant adjustments if they hope to remain competitive in the ever-tightening NFC East race.
Stay tuned as we dive into the coming weeks of the NFL season, where every game could reshape playoff positions and team futures!