The Week 10 NFL schedule for the 2025 season brings some exciting matchups.
(American) football will be played in Germany between the Falcons and Colts. Back in the States, Drake Maye and Baker Mayfield will face off in what’s expected to be an intriguing QB duel, and Detroit will seek revenge against the Commanders after losing to them in the 2024 playoffs.
We have you covered with everything you need to know. Our NFL Nation reporters take you inside the locker room with the best thing they heard this week, and ESPN Research provides a key stat to know and a betting nugget for each contest. Plus, analytics writer Aaron Schatz makes a bold prediction for each matchup, and fantasy analyst Eric Moody shares fantasy football intel. We also have Football Power Index (FPI) game projections, and three analysts — Pamela Maldonado, Moody and Schatz — give us final score picks for every game.
Let’s get into the full Week 10 slate, which culminates with a “Monday Night Football” matchup between the Eagles and Packers on ESPN. (Game times are Sunday unless otherwise noted.)
Jump to a matchup:
ATL-IND | BAL-MIN | NE-TB
BUF-MIA | JAX-HOU | NYG-CHI
NO-CAR | CLE-NYJ | LAR-SF
DET-WSH | ARI-SEA | PIT-LAC
PHI-GB
Thursday: LV-DEN
Bye: CIN, DAL, TEN, KC
9:30 a.m. ET | NFL Network
ESPN BET: IND -6.5 (48.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Falcons: Atlanta’s defense has been mostly good this season, allowing the fourth-fewest yards per game in the league (282.5). But it has been vulnerable on the ground, ranked just 26th in expected points added per designed run (minus-0.03). On Sunday in Berlin, the Falcons have to contend with Jonathan Taylor, one of the NFL’s best running backs, whom coach Raheem Morris referred to as someone “you need to bring a lot of people to tackle.” — Marc Raimondi
What we’re hearing on the Colts: This game will give us the first peek at how the Colts will deploy new cornerback Sauce Gardner, who was acquired in a blockbuster trade Tuesday. Will coordinator Lou Anarumo get immediately aggressive and have Gardner shadow Drake London, the Falcons’ No. 1 receiver? That’s a strategy Anarumo used with Charvarius Ward at times this season, before the veteran was placed on injured reserve because of a concussion. If the Colts go this route, it frees up the rest of their secondary to handle the remaining matchups, including a notable one with tight end Kyle Pitts Sr. — Stephen Holder
Stat to know: Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. had a career-high three passing touchdowns in the team’s Week 9 loss; Penix has yet to have back-to-back games with multiple passing touchdowns in his career. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: The Colts will hold London under 50 receiving yards. The Colts have a wild split this season in which they rank first in DVOA (defense-adjusted value over average) against No. 1 receivers but 28th against No. 2s. They held Pittsburgh’s DK Metcalf to 6 yards last week! It’s schematic, not related to any specific cornerback, although it can’t hurt to have Gardner arriving this week. — Schatz
Fantasy nugget: The Colts’ offense will look to get back on track. Atlanta’s defense has allowed the sixth-fewest fantasy points per game to QBs, so expectations for the Indianapolis passing game should be modest. However, Taylor is positioned for a heavy workload behind a offensive line that ranks third in run block win rate (74.3%). The Falcons’ defense has also allowed the 10th-most rushing yards per game (124.4). See Week 10 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Colts are 5-0 outright and 4-1 against the spread (ATS) vs. teams with losing records this season. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Colts 35, Falcons 10
Moody’s pick: Colts 24, Falcons 21
Schatz’s pick: Colts 28, Falcons 22
FPI prediction: IND, 69.6% (by an average of 7.7 points)
Matchup must-reads: How RBs Taylor, Robinson transcend their stats … Gardner cleared to debut for Colts … Falcons’ LG Bergeron is ‘week-to-week’
1 p.m. ET | FOX
ESPN BET: BAL -4.5 (49.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Ravens: Tight end Mark Andrews, who scored two touchdowns in his last game, needs 18 yards to surpass Derrick Mason and become the franchise’s all-time leader in receiving yards. He could be primed for another big game against a Vikings defense that has struggled to contain tight ends the past two weeks in the Chargers’ Oronde Gadsden II (77 yards and a touchdown) and Lions’ Sam LaPorta (97 yards and a touchdown). “I’ve really never felt better,” Andrews said. “I’m running faster than I ever have. I’m moving better, and I feel great.” — Jamison Hensley
What we’re hearing on the Vikings: Ravens QB Lamar Jackson has a 24-3 career record against NFC teams, but the Vikings have an experienced counterbalance. Defensive coordinator Brian Flores coached against Jackson twice when he was the Dolphins coach. In the second matchup, during the 2021 season, Flores blitzed Jackson on 52.1% of his dropbacks and held the Ravens’ offense to 10 points. But that doesn’t mean he’ll choose the same path Sunday. In 2025, the Vikings’ worst defensive games have come with their highest blitz rates. — Kevin Seifert
Stat to know: The Ravens have allowed only one passing touchdown over their past three games (tied for the fewest in the NFL over that span). — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: The Vikings will blitz less than usual. Minnesota’s defense blitzes 39% of the time, second in the league behind Atlanta, but Jackson is second with an 85.4 QBR against blitzes since the start of last season. Flores can switch things up to avoid Jackson’s strength. — Schatz
Fantasy nugget: Vikings kicker Will Reichard has scored 11 or more fantasy points in two of his past three games. The Ravens’ defense has improved significantly over their past three games in total yards allowed and points allowed, but it has still given up the second-most field goal attempts this season. As a result, Baltimore has allowed the seventh-most fantasy points per game to kickers. See Week 10 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Jackson is 32-16-2 ATS in his career on the road (1-2 ATS this season). Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Ravens 27, Vikings 20
Moody’s pick: Ravens 31, Vikings 23
Schatz’s pick: Ravens 27, Vikings 20
FPI prediction: BAL, 62.5% (by an average of 4.8 points)
Matchup must-reads: How QB Jackson plans to succeed against Vikings’ pressure … QB McCarthy explains alter ego, viral glare
1 p.m. ET | CBS
ESPN BET: TB -2.5 (48.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Patriots: Receiver Kayshon Boutte‘s hamstring injury puts his status in doubt and could create a significant void as he has played more than any Patriots receiver this season (66.5%) while totaling 23 receptions for 431 yards and a team-high five touchdowns. Third-round draft pick Kyle Williams (two catches, 20 yards on the season) could see his role expand as a result, with coach Mike Vrabel saying, “Kyle’s been learning a lot of different positions; it’s a lot of different personnel groups and alignments. I think he settled down. I’m excited that he’ll probably get an opportunity here.” — Mike Reiss
What we’re hearing on the Buccaneers: CB Zyon McCollum admitted he told his brother, Raiders safety Tristin McCollum, last season of Patriots QB Drake Maye: “I didn’t think he was going to be as good.” But Tristin had been with the Eagles, and they had a joint practice against the Patriots. “He goes, ‘Nah, we played him. He’s special. He’s a sleeper dual-threat quarterback,” recalled Zyon, who eventually took a closer look at the film and reached a similar conclusion. “He’s really, really impressive. He throws the deep ball better than a lot of guys in this league, and he’s very composed and he can run, so he’ll be a great challenge for us.” — Jenna Laine
Stat to know: The Patriots have not allowed an opposing running back to reach 50 rushing yards; they are the only team to do so through the first nine games since 1950. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Bucs linebacker Yaya Diaby will have multiple sacks. Patriots left tackle Will Campbell is currently 56th among qualifying tackles with a pass block win rate of 83.8%, while taking sacks is Maye’s biggest weakness (34 in 2025). Only the Titans’ Cam Ward (38) has more. — Schatz
1:01
Why Will Compton is backing Drake Maye for NFL MVP
Will Compton explains why he believes Drake Maye will be named MVP and why his stats stack up with Aaron Rodgers’, Tom Brady’s and Peyton Manning’s.
Injuries: Patriots | Buccaneers
Fantasy nugget: Maye remains firmly on the QB1 radar, even against a tough Bucs defense that has allowed just 16.6 fantasy points per game to QBs. However, Tampa Bay has also given up the fifth-most rushing yards per game to the position, which boosts Maye’s upside. It’s still difficult to trust any of the Patriots’ pass catchers in fantasy lineups, as Maye has spread targets evenly across the group. See Week 10 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Bucs QB Baker Mayfield is 20-31-1 ATS as a favorite in his career (10-8 ATS with Bucs). Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Patriots 30, Buccaneers 17
Moody’s pick: Patriots 30, Buccaneers 28
Schatz’s pick: Buccaneers 23, Patriots 21
FPI prediction: TB, 57.5% (by an average of 2.7 points)
Matchup must-reads: 7-2 Patriots can improve on turnovers, red zone defense
1 p.m. ET | CBS
ESPN BET: BUF -9.5 (49.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Bills: QB Josh Allen will look to continue his historic commanding performances against the Dolphins. In 15 games with Allen starting against Miami, the Bills have averaged 32.5 points per game, the fifth-highest team mark by a starting QB against a single opponent in the Super Bowl Era (since 1966). This is also a prime game for Allen to score another rushing touchdowns (has had two in each of the past two games) as Miami has allowed four rushing touchdowns to QBs, second most in the league. — Alaina Getzenberg
What we’re hearing on the Dolphins: QB Tua Tagovailoa took responsibility for his play this season — which he said falls well below the standard he has set in previous seasons — but he stopped short of saying he’s playing for his job when asked. Coach Mike McDaniel said earlier this week that the team is “certain” Tagovailoa is the best option against the Bills, but he left things relatively open-ended after this week: “We play the players that give us the best chance to win and when that changes or if that changes or if somebody else gives us a better shot, then we adjust there.” — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Stat to know: Tagovailoa’s 11 interceptions so far are tied for the most in the NFL with the Raiders’ Geno Smith. With another pick, Tagovailoa would be first Dolphins QB since Chad Henne in 2010 (12) with 12 or more interceptions in his first 10 games of a season. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: The Bills will keep running back De’von Achane from picking up long gains in the passing game. Buffalo is second in DVOA against running backs as receivers, and it kept Achane to just 29 yards on seven catches when these teams met in Week 3. — Schatz
Fantasy nugget: Bills tight end Dalton Kincaid has averaged 16.0 fantasy points in the four games this season in which he has seen at least six targets. Even though he splits snaps with two other TEs (Dawson Knox and Jackson Hawes), Kincaid leads the group in routes run, which is what matters most for fantasy production. He’s in an excellent spot against a defense that allows the fifth-most fantasy points per game to TEs. See Week 10 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Bills are 1-4 ATS in their past five games as favorites. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Bills 27, Dolphins 10
Moody’s pick: Bills 38, Dolphins 17
Schatz’s pick: Bills 27, Dolphins 16
FPI prediction: BUF, 69.6 (by an average of 7.5 points)
Matchup must-reads: Bills tried — and failed — to make a move at the deadline … Why Dolphins kept Waddle, Chubb at trade deadline
1 p.m. ET | CBS
ESPN BET: JAX -1.5 (37.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Jaguars: The Texans surprised the Jaguars in their first meeting by extensively using a defensive look that coach Liam Coen said Houston had used only situationally the past two seasons, and it stymied Jacksonville’s run game. Travis Etienne Jr. had just 5 yards on four carries in the first half until the Jaguars adjusted in the second. Jacksonville expects to see some of that again, plus a few other wrinkles from coach DeMeco Ryans. “It’s a damn good defense, and they don’t stay blocked long,” Coen said. “We have got to go finish at the second level, stay attached to blocks, run through contact, block our asses off on the perimeter. That’s how it’s going to have to be, man.” — Michael DiRocco
What we’re hearing on the Texans: Texans QB C.J. Stroud will not play because of a concussion he suffered in Week 9. Backup Davis Mills will get the nod. Mills has a record of 5-19-1 when he was a Texan starter in 2021-2022. Coach DeMeco Ryans said Mills getting a full week of practice should only help himself instead of jumping into the fire midgame like last week. “It is a benefit for him, being able to get the reps throughout practice, get walk-through [reps], getting every single rep that he can get,” Ryans said. “He’s done a good job with that.” — DJ Bien-Aime
Stat to know: The Jaguars are one of three teams with a negative points differential but a winning record (Panthers and Bears). — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Texans TE Dalton Schultz will record his first receiving touchdown of the season. Jacksonville is 25th in DVOA against tight ends and allows an opponent-adjusted 78 yards per game to the position, 31st in the league. Plus, backup QBs tend to love their tight end security blankets. — Schatz
Fantasy nugget: Quarterbacks have averaged the fewest fantasy points per game against Houston (11.5), and receivers have averaged the second fewest (26.0). Houston is one of the rare defenses that fantasy managers can comfortably hold for the entire season. On the other side of the matchup, managers looking for a TE streamer should consider Schultz, as the Jaguars allow the second-most fantasy points per game to the position. See Week 10 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Jaguars have covered each of the past four meetings (4-1 ATS vs. Ryans). Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Texans 20, Jaguars 10
Moody’s pick: Texans 21, Jaguars 20
Schatz’s pick: Jaguars 23, Texans 20
FPI prediction: JAX, 55% (by an average of 1.6 points)
Matchup must-reads: Jaguars GM touts Meyers’ ‘superpower’ to not drop passes … Texans rule out Stroud, will start Mills vs. Jaguars … What the Meyers trade means for Jaguars
1 p.m. ET | FOX
ESPN BET: CHI -4.5 (46.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Giants: The Giants haven’t been able to stop the run this season — really, for the past four seasons. They’re allowing an NFL-worst 5.5 yards per carry and have allowed over 30 points in three straight games. It’s not going to get any easier against the Bears’ second-ranked rushing offense. Where are the answers for the defense? “We’re working, putting our head down, and hopefully we can get some better results here going forward,” coordinator Shane Bowen said. It might take more than that this week to stop Chicago from running the ball. — Jordan Raanan
What we’re hearing on the Bears: Special teams issues piled up in Week 9: Chicago’s opening kickoff was returned for a touchdown by the Bengals’ Charlie Jones; Cairo Santos missed a field goal and had another blocked; and the execution on a late onside kick allowed the Bengals to score two touchdowns in 49 seconds. Coach Ben Johnson said Chicago’s special teams units were “too passive at times,” while coordinator Richard Hightower vowed to make sure the litany of blunders doesn’t happen again. “We’re going to work night and day to get it all cleaned up,” Hightower said. “I can promise you that I will bust my ass and they will, too, all right, to get it cleaned up.” — Courtney Cronin
Stat to know: Bears tight end Colston Loveland had career highs in receiving yards (118) and touchdowns (two) last week. He is looking to become the third rookie in franchise history with 100 or more receiving yards in consecutive games (Harlon Hill: twice in 1954 and Willie Gault in 1983). — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Consistent runs of 5-10 yards will keep Chicago moving the sticks. The Bears are first in the league in second-level yards per carry (defined as the yards that come between 5 and 10 yards past the line of scrimmage). The Giants’ defense is last in second-level yards per play. — Schatz
2:00
Why Field Yates sees Jaxson Dart as a top fantasy QB in Week 10
Field Yates explains why Jaxson Dart has one the highest fantasy quarterback outlooks in Week 10 against the Bears.
Fantasy nugget: Giants QB Jaxson Dart is an exciting player to roster in fantasy leagues, thanks to his dual-threat ability. He has scored 19 or more fantasy points in five of his past six games, giving him both a strong floor and ceiling. The Bears’ defense has been a fantasy bonanza for opposing QBs, allowing the seventh-most fantasy points per game to the position. Dart, running back Tyrone Tracy Jr., receiver Wan’Dale Robinson and tight end Theo Johnson should all be in lineups this week. See Week 10 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Giants are 7-15 ATS on the road since 2023. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Bears 24, Giants 14
Moody’s pick: Giants 24, Bears 23
Schatz’s pick: Bears 24, Giants 20
FPI prediction: NYG, 50.3% (by an average of 0.3 points)
Matchup must-reads: QB Winston wants to stay, set to be Giants’ backup next season … QB Williams lauds ‘different vibe’ with Bears … Bears acquire Tryon-Shoyinka at NFL trade deadline
1 p.m. ET | FOX
ESPN BET: CAR -5.5 (39.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Saints: Receiver Devaughn Vele could have a bigger role following the trade of receiver Rashid Shaheed. Although the Saints traded for Vele in the preseason, he has not been a big part of the offense and has been targeted only 10 times with five catches. Vele is part of the effort to get some of the new and young players snaps, with rookie QB Tyler Shough expected to make his second start. — Katherine Terrell
What we’re hearing on the Panthers: “Every team is capable of ruining your day if you don’t take it seriously,” defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero said about playing the one-win Saints. New Orleans ranks among the league’s worst offenses in almost every category, but, as Evero reminds, the Saints still have some “formidable pieces” and his defense can’t take them lightly. — David Newton
Stat to know: Saints receiver Chris Olave‘s 87 targets are the second most in the NFL (behind Bengals receiver Ja’Marr Chase‘s 108), but his 6.4 yards per target ranks sixth worst among players with at least 50 targets. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: A lack of pressure will give Shough a chance to finally establish himself as the Saints’ starter. Carolina ranks 28th in pass rush win rate (31.4%) and 31st in pressure rate (23.6%). Shough is 30-of-44 passing without pressure but 2-of-12 when pressured. — Schatz
Fantasy nugget: Panthers RB Rico Dowdle has been excellent, even with Chuba Hubbard back in the mix. He has had four games with at least 18 touches, and he has averaged 26.2 fantasy points in those contests. He draws a favorable matchup against a defense that has allowed the ninth-most rushing yards per game (129.4). The Panthers’ offensive line also ranks 12th in run block win rate (71.9%), which further supports his outlook. See Week 10 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Panthers are 5-0 ATS against teams with losing records this season. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Panthers 26, Saints 14
Moody’s pick: Panthers 24, Saints 13
Schatz’s pick: Panthers 24, Saints 17
FPI prediction: CAR, 65.9% (by an average of 6.3 points)
Matchup must-reads: What does New Orleans have in rookie QB Shough, and the Saints midseason report … RB Dowdle seizes control of Panthers’ backfield … Saints deal WR Shaheed to Seahawks at NFL trade deadline
1 p.m. ET | CBS
ESPN BET: CLE -2.5 (38.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Browns: Coming out of the bye, the Browns are making a change at playcaller as coach Kevin Stefanski is relinquishing the duties to coordinator Tommy Rees. The playbook will remain the same, but Rees will have final say on which plays go into the game plan as he gets his opportunity to turn around the league’s third-lowest-scoring offense (15.8 points per game). “His mindset and the way he wants to call plays and stuff like that, we’re kind of excited to see what happens,” left guard Joel Bitonio said. — Daniel Oyefusi
What we’re hearing on the Jets: The Jets are coming off a bye, which usually means disaster. In their past nine games after a bye, they’re 1-8 with a minus-108 point differential. Can coach Aaron Glenn bust the trend? The locker room was rocked by the trades of cornerback Sauce Gardner and defensive tackle Quinnen Williams trades, so it’ll be interesting to see what kind of effort Glenn gets from his players. Offering the coaching perspective, defensive coordinator Steve Wilks said, “They’re not canceling the damn season.” — Rich Cimini
Stat to know: The Jets are the only team in the NFL that hasn’t recorded an interception this season. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: The Jets will beat the Browns in part by shutting down QB Dillon Gabriel over the middle of the field. Gabriel throws over the middle on 29% of his passes, the highest rate in the NFL. But New York ranks ninth in DVOA on passes over the middle (compared to 25th on passes to the left and 32nd on passes to the right). — Schatz
Fantasy nugget: Browns RB Quinshon Judkins draws a favorable matchup against a defense now without Williams. New York has allowed the seventh-most rushing yards per game to RBs, and with the Jets appearing to be in rebuild mode, Judkins and the Cleveland offensive line should be able to take advantage. Judkins has had four games with at least 15 touches, and he has averaged 19.5 fantasy points in those contests. See Week 10 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Browns are 0-4 ATS on the road this season, and they are 0-4 ATS in their past four games as underdogs. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Jets 26, Browns 14
Moody’s pick: Browns 20, Jets 16
Schatz’s pick: Jets 21, Browns 17
FPI prediction: NYJ, 65% (by an average of 6.1 points)
Matchup must-reads: When will rookie QB Sanders play, and the Browns midseason report … Jets’ moves ahead of trade deadline lay groundwork for future … TE Njoku after trade deadline: ‘Not going nowhere’ … Williams demoted amid Jets’ defensive shakeup
4:05 p.m. ET | CBS
ESPN BET: SEA -6.5 (45.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Cardinals: With QB Kyler Murray (foot) on injured reserve, the Cardinals’ offense is Jacoby Brissett‘s for the next four weeks — and that’s a good thing for Arizona. It has averaged more than 300 total yards and 25 points in Brissett’s three starts thus far, which has resulted in a 1-2 record. He has been around long enough — 10 seasons, to be exact — to not let the uncertainty from week to week affect him. “It doesn’t really change much for me. The cliché answer is you prepare every week like you’re starting, but it’s honestly true,” Brissett said. “It won’t change much about my preparation and how I go about my business.” — Josh Weinfuss
What we’re hearing on the Seahawks: The Seahawks will see a much different Arizona offense than the one they held to 20 points and 253 total yards in Week 4. Arizona has since switched from Murray to Brissett. “They’re putting up points, they’re playing efficiently, they’re taking care of the ball, they’re doing a lot of really good things,” coach Mike Macdonald said. “They were doing that before, but how they got it done was a little different with Jacoby a little more under center. They’ve eliminated some of the quarterback-driven run game that Kyler brings. There’s some differences in how they’re operating, but I’d say it’s been effective.” — Brady Henderson
Stat to know: Cardinals tight end Trey McBride‘s 273 career receptions are the second most by a tight end in their first four seasons in NFL history, behind Jimmy Graham (301). — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: The Seahawks will have a significant lead at halftime. Seattle ranks first in offensive DVOA in the first quarter as well as the first half. Arizona is last in offensive DVOA in the first quarter and 25th in the first half. — Schatz
0:45
What does Kyler Murray on IR mean for Cardinals?
Adam Schefter reports on Jacoby Brissett being named the Cardinals’ starting quarterback with Kyler Murray placed on injured reserve.
Injuries: Cardinals | Seahawks
Fantasy nugget: Even though the Seahawks’ backfield with RBs Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet can be frustrating for fantasy managers, because both are actively involved, the duo is in a good spot this week. Seattle’s offensive line ranks ninth in run block win rate (72.7%), and the team ranks eighth in rushing attempts per game. Both Walker and Charbonnet should be considered flex options. See Week 10 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Seahawks are 5-1 ATS as favorites this season, including 4-0 ATS vs. teams with losing records. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Seahawks 29, Cardinals 27
Moody’s pick: Seahawks 30, Cardinals 17
Schatz’s pick: Seahawks 28, Cardinals 20
FPI prediction: SEA, 65.9% (by an average of 6.2 points)
Matchup must-reads: Cards put QB Murray on IR … Need for Rashid: How speedy Shaheed helps Seahawks’ offense … NFC West roundtable: Strengths, weaknesses for Cards, Seahawks … Shaheed doesn’t view himself as half-season addition
4:25 p.m. ET | FOX
ESPN BET: LAR -4.5 (49.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Rams: When these teams played in Week 5, San Francisco won on a field goal in overtime. According to ESPN Research, it was the eighth game, including the playoffs, between coaches Sean McVay and Kyle Shanahan decided by three or fewer points, which is tied for the third most for any NFL coaching matchup in NFL history. “We know that it’s going to take 60 minutes and then maybe even then some,” McVay said. — Sarah Barshop
What we’re hearing on the 49ers: At 3-0 in NFC West games, the 49ers have a big opportunity to cement potential tiebreaker situations over the next couple of weeks, starting Sunday. The Niners are well aware that Los Angeles enters this game upset after losing in Week 5, which is why running back Christian McCaffrey said his focus is on making sure everyone is locked in. “This one’s obviously big,” McCaffrey said. “The intensity and the urgency have to be there all week, and the preparation, so we can come out and execute at a high level on Sunday.” — Nick Wagoner
Stat to know: McCaffrey has 100 scrimmage yards in eight of nine games this season, two more than any other player in the NFL. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: The Rams’ defense will slow down QB Mac Jones‘ success in the middle of the field. Jones actually leads all QBs in passing value to the middle of the field based on my DYAR (defense-adjusted yards above replacement) metric, but the Rams rank seventh in defensive DVOA against passes up the middle. — Schatz
0:42
Calvin Johnson to McAfee: Matthew Stafford makes it look so easy
Calvin Johnson tells Pat McAfee how his former Lions teammate Matthew Stafford’s game has improved since joining the Rams.
Fantasy nugget: Rams QB Matthew Stafford has emerged as a viable fantasy starter in an offense that ranks seventh in total yards and sixth in points per game (26.1). He has scored 25 or more fantasy points in four of his past five games, and he’s in a strong spot this week with WRs Puka Nacua and Davante Adams active. The 49ers’ defense has allowed 17.7 fantasy points per game to opposing QBs, giving Stafford a high floor and clear upside. See Week 10 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Rams are 4-1 ATS against the 49ers since 2023, with the only loss coming earlier this season. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Rams 25, 49ers 24
Moody’s pick: Rams 30, 49ers 27
Schatz’s pick: Rams 27, 49ers 23
FPI prediction: LAR, 49.9 (by an average of 0 points)
Matchup must-reads: Rams add CB depth with McCreary — but otherwise hold strong … 49ers finding ways to win despite injury, identity woes … NFC West roundtable: Three-way race for 49ers, Rams
4:25 p.m. ET | FOX
ESPN BET: DET -8.5 (49.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Lions: After being stunned by the Commanders 45-31 at home in last season’s divisional round, Detroit will be out for revenge. But the Lions are still looking to find an offensive identity under first-year coordinator John Morton entering the rematch. “So far, the frustrating part is that we are explosive, but inefficient,” passing game coordinator David Shaw said. “We’re never out of a game. The guys that we have, we’re one play away from scoring a touchdown no matter where we stand for ball. That remains to be true.” — Eric Woodyard
What we’re hearing on the Commanders: Washington continues to tinker with its defense in hopes of salvaging the season. It “pared down” some of its calls two weeks ago, but the Commanders still allowed a combined 66 points the past two games. Now, defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. will call plays from the field rather than the coaches booth. He said it was his idea after some players prodded him to do so, wanting more energy on the sideline and better communication during games. Washington is tied for the most pass plays allowed of at least 20 yards. Now they must somehow stop the NFL’s second-highest-scoring offense — John Keim
Stat to know: The Commanders have three straight losses by 20-plus points, one loss shy of matching the longest such streak in franchise history. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Washington defensive tackle Daron Payne will get his first sack since Week 1. Lions rookie right guard Tate Ratledge has a pass block win rate of 84.7%, which currently ranks 64th out of 65 qualifying guards. — Schatz
Injuries: Lions | Commanders
Fantasy nugget: Lions QB Jared Goff and WRs Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams are in great spots against a defense that has allowed the third-most fantasy points per game to QBs. Seahawks’ Sam Darnold just put up 27.2 fantasy points, which suggests Goff should have both a safe floor and real upside. See Week 10 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Lions have covered the spread in 12 straight games following a loss. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Lions 34, Commanders 14
Moody’s pick: Lions 35, Commanders 20
Schatz’s pick: Lions 27, Commanders 17
FPI prediction: DET, 65.3% (by an average of 6 points)
Matchup must-reads: Playoff exit gives Lions ‘added motivation’ for Commanders rematch, Goff says … Commanders’ Luvu feels ‘target on my back’ after third hip-drop fine … Daniels injury FAQ: Dislocated elbow info, recovery time
8:20 p.m. ET | NBC
ESPN BET: LAC -2.5 (44.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Steelers: The Steelers’ defense simplified its approach against the Colts and forced five turnovers. It will have another tough test against a Justin Herbert-led offense that ranks sixth with 250.6 passing yards per game. The Steelers will get a boost by having a full week of work from Jalen Ramsey and Kyle Dugger at the safety spots. “The more subtle things, the intangible things I think are the things that are exciting for us because as [Ramsey] gains more experience back there, it’s reasonable to expect some of those talents to show up more frequently,” coach Mike Tomlin said. — Brooke Pryor
What we’re hearing on the Chargers: The Chargers have been derailed by injuries and are down to their fourth- and fifth-string running backs and backup left tackles. Los Angeles traded with the Saints for offensive lineman Trevor Penning with hopes that he can help keep this season afloat. “He’s tough,” coach Jim Harbaugh said. “He’s kind of like what we like and fits in great with the room.” — Kris Rhim
Stat to know: Herbert has 264 rushing yards on scrambles this season, third most in the NFL behind the Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes (283) and Patriots’ Drake Maye (269). — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: The Steelers will run on most first downs with their heavy personnel. Pittsburgh is 12th in DVOA when running the ball on first downs, but 27th when passing. Meanwhile, the Chargers are last in defensive DVOA against the run on first downs. — Schatz
0:48
Orlovsky: Joe Alt injury enormous loss for Chargers
Dan Orlovsky breaks down why offensive tackle Joe Alt’s injury could be a season-changing loss for the Chargers.
Fantasy nugget: Chargers TE Oronde Gadsden II has a strong opportunity to deliver a week-winning performance. He has seen at least five targets in four straight games and scored 11-plus fantasy points in each, with two games of 18-plus. Pittsburgh has allowed the third-most fantasy points per game to TEs, and its defense ranks third in pass rush win rate (48.1%). Meanwhile, the Chargers’ offensive line ranks 29th in pass block win rate (54.6%). That mismatch could lead Herbert to rely on Gadsden as a safety valve. See Week 10 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Tomlin is 63-36-3 ATS in his career as an underdog. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Chargers 27, Steelers 20
Moody’s pick: Chargers 29, Steelers 23
Schatz’s pick: Chargers 24, Steelers 23
FPI prediction: LAC, 62.7% (by an average of 4.9 points)
Matchup must-reads: What the Steelers’ inactivity at the trade deadline signals for their future … Chargers add OL Penning at trade deadline … Valdes-Scantling, Rodgers happy with reunion
8:15 p.m. ET on Monday | ESPN
ESPN BET: GB -2.5 (45.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Eagles: Coach Nick Sirianni described new edge rusher Jaelan Phillips as “disruptive” and said he plays the position exactly how they like against both the run and pass. The Eagles enter this matchup tied for 25th in sacks (16). Phillips can give that pass rush a boost along with the potential return of Nolan Smith Jr. (triceps) and Brandon Graham, who recently came out of retirement. — Tim McManus
What we’re hearing on the Packers: Coach Matt LaFleur wouldn’t revisit his opinion of the tush push this week after the Packers sponsored the failed rule change proposal attempting to ban the play this offseason, but he knows it’s coming. “The NFL made a decision, and we have to find a way to try to stop the play and it’s a tough play to stop,” LaFleur said. “The best way to stop it is to not to allow it to happen. … You can’t allow them in those short-yardage situations because you know exactly what they’re going to do, and they’ve been pretty successful at it, obviously.” — Rob Demovsky
Stat to know: The Eagles’ three turnovers this season are the fewest in the NFL and tied for their fewest through eight games all time. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Philadelphia will resist the urge to blitz Packers QB Jordan Love. He has an 89.5 QBR against the blitz this season, third in the NFL behind the Patriots’ Drake Maye and Ravens’ Lamar Jackson. The Eagles have blitzed on just 24% of pass plays this season, 20th in the NFL. — Schatz
Fantasy nugget: Eagles TE Dallas Goedert has only 39 targets, but he has still scored at least 10 fantasy points in six of seven games, including three games with 17 or more, thanks in part to his league-leading seven touchdowns as a TE. He has a favorable matchup this week against a defense that allows the seventh-most fantasy points per game to the position. See Week 10 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Packers are 1-5 ATS in their past six games. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Packers 23, Eagles 20
Moody’s pick: Eagles 33, Packers 27
Schatz’s pick: Packers 24, Eagles 21
FPI prediction: GB, 52.7% (by an average of 1 points)
Matchup must-reads: Eagles GM Roseman all-in at trade deadline … Are the Packers doomed after TE Kraft’s injury?
