After the Pittsburgh Steelers failed to score more than 26 points in any game throughout their first 14 games of the 2023 season, they are now coming off back-to-back wins with two straight 30-point offensive outbursts. Without question, the biggest change in the past two weeks for the league’s 27th-ranked scoring offense has been the insertion of Mason Rudolph into the starting lineup.

Rudolph has been in the Steelers’ quarterback room for six years as a backup, playing behind Ben Roethlisberger, Kenny Pickett and Mitchell Trubisky. That coach Mike Tomlin has kept Rudolph around for this long as a backup says a lot about his character and qualities as a person, player and teammate.

After operating as the third-string quarterback in Pittsburgh for the past two seasons behind Pickett and Trubisky, Rudolph has been given the opportunity to start over the past two weeks. He has played at a very high level, completing 68.6 percent of his passes for two touchdowns, no interceptions and a league-best 11.1 YPA. He’s done so while leading his team to two convincing wins at home against the Cincinnati Bengals and last week against the “12th man” on the road in Seattle.

Now, after a season full of on the field adversity and the football community questioning Tomlin’s coaching, the Steelers sit at 9-7 with an opportunity to clinch a playoff berth in Week 18 if any of these three scenarios play out:

• PIT win + BUF loss
• PIT win + JAX loss or tie
• PIT win + HOU-IND tie

With one more week to play, Rudolph is not only helping Pittsburgh make a potential playoff push, he's also making a case that he should be competing for a starting quarterback job next season, while increasing his value around the NFL.

How Rudolph Has Changed Pittsburgh’s Offense

On tape, Rudolph has left no doubt that his performance has elevated the entire offense. This includes an improved running game led by Najee Harris, firmer pass protection by the offensive line and a more explosive passing attack led by WR George Pickens.

Typically, when an offensive play-caller is working with his third-string quarterback, he will use more universal passing concepts that quarterbacks with little playing time and practice reps are comfortable executing. Play-callers will try to keep things simple with an abundance of screen passes, concepts with easy check-downs and “Day 1” training camp installation plays. This has not entirely been the case with Rudolph.

In his sixth year with the organization and fifth year in the building with current interim offensive coordinator Eddie Faulkner, the 28-year-old signal-caller has shown a superior understanding of the offense. Pittsburgh has opened up the entire playbook, aggressively attacking defenses for 60 minutes horizontally and vertically, throwing the ball from sideline to sideline and up the field.

It jumps off the tape that Rudolph has earned the trust of Tomlin, the coaching staff and the players in the locker room. The entire organization unquestionably trusts him with the football in his hands.

The coaching staff’s confidence in Rudolph was illustrated perfectly in his first start this season, against Cincinnati. Up 21-0 and facing a potential two-minute drill to end the first half against the Bengals — with Pittsburgh backed up in its own territory — Tomlin could have run the clock out and been content to end the half with a three-score lead. Instead, the Steelers attacked aggressively once again and drove down the field to eventually kick a field goal that made it 24-0.

As stated earlier, Rudolph has also seemingly elevated the play of his supporting cast. Consider the following numbers regarding his offensive line play and the play of Pickens.

• OL Weeks 1-15 with Pickett and Trubisky: 187 pressures (14th-least), 31 sacks (9th-least)
• OL Weeks 16-17 with Rudolph: 21 pressures (7th-least), two sacks (3rd-least) 

• Pickens in 14 games with Pickett and Trubisky: 52 catches on 91 targets for 814 yards and three touchdowns; per game averages of 3.7 catches, 58.1 yards and 0.21 touchdowns
• Pickens in two games with Rudolph: 11 catches on 15 targets for 326 yards and two touchdowns; per game averages of 5.5 catches, 163 yards and one touchdown

While this data is from a small sample size, the Steelers’ offensive improvement with Rudolph under center has been measurable and undeniable.

What Shows When Scouting Rudolph

Rudolph is a big-bodied quarterback (nearly 6-foot-5 and 235 pounds) with a similar physical stature to Roethlisberger. Rudolph is not particularly fleet of foot and, having not seen him in person, does not appear to have truly elite NFL arm talent.

The best quarterbacks must win from the pocket to reach elite status in the NFL. Rudolph has shown that ability during the past two weeks due, in large part, to excellent pocket fundamentals that have led to accuracy to all areas of the field.

While in the pocket, Rudolph has shown a complete understanding of the passing game while working through full-field progressions and calmly finishing by checking the ball down when necessary.

Despite his lack of playing time over the years, he appears very poised and confident in the chaos of the pocket under pressure. In these instances, he stands in the pocket courageously and delivers accurately, completing passes in spite of needing to use multiple arm angles from an awkward base.

From a fundamentals perspective, I could not be more impressed with Rudolph’s footwork in the pocket. There have been corrections on tape to be made, including an occasionally elongated step that causes his base to widen unnecessarily, but that is nitpicking considering how tight and in rhythm his feet have been on a play-to-play basis.

For the most part, Rudolph shows quick feet in the pocket and flexibility in his ankles to open up his knee and hips, allowing him to square his body to the target for better accuracy before the throw. The work he’s put in in the classroom and on the field over his six seasons in the NFL has paid off.

Incredible throw. Even better catch. Amazing. pic.twitter.com/CjUC5IxQo2

— Andrew Fillipponi (@ThePoniExpress) December 31, 2023

One of the keys to Rudolph’s recent success has been high-end accuracy. On shorter passes, he has shown the ability to change ball speeds and throw a catchable ball on multiple occasions. On throws up field, he puts good air under the ball and gives his wide receivers the opportunity to run through the ball and make plays while maximizing run after catch.

As I have stated in all my columns, the most important job of a quarterback is to protect the football and limit turnovers. Rudolph has checked that box. He has not been reckless with the ball and is making smart decisions while operating with a very calm demeanor.

With his ability to keep the offense on schedule, create big plays from the pocket with his arm and limit turnovers, Rudolph has gained the trust of his coaches and teammates and given the Steelers hope that anything is possible heading into Week 18.

Playoff Push and Beyond

Throughout my coaching career, I have always said there are no two quarterbacks in the NFL with parallel journeys. Kurt Warner went from packing groceries to becoming NFL MVP. Brock Purdy started fast as Mr. Irrelevant in San Francisco and, in his second season, is an MVP candidate.

Steve Young didn't start until he was 30 and became a Hall of Famer. And Rich Gannon became the league MVP at 35 after a 13-year NFL journey. Rudolph is on his own unique journey and might be blossoming into a starter before our eyes.

With one more game to play in the regular season, Rudolph’s interview for the Steelers’ starting quarterback job will continue in Week 18 against the Baltimore Ravens. After this season, he will be a free agent, and if he finishes as strong as he has started, he will be valued on the free agent market.

This week is another opportunity to prove that he deserves consideration for a starting role in 2023 — with Pittsburgh or elsewhere.

One of the top free agents heading into the 2024 offseason is CB Jaylon Johnson.

After he was floated in some trade rumors around the trade deadline, all signs point to Johnson playing in a new city in 2024. Today, we will look at some of the top landing spots that could enter the bidding war for one of the top young cornerbacks in the NFL.

4 Top Landing Spots

Houston Texans

One of the most intriguing landing spots for Johnson is in DeMeco Ryans' defensive system in Houston.

The Houston Texans are in a win-and-you're-in scenario in Week 18. Remember it's C.J. Stroud and Ryans' first year as quarterback and head coach. Despite exceeding all expectations in Year 1, Year 2 should be even more exciting for the Texans.

Adding a player of Johnson's caliber to the defense could do wonders for Ryans’s unit, which ranks 21st in dropback EPA and 19th in success rate so far this season. Even though Derek Stingley Jr. has had a breakout season, starting CB Steven Nelson will be a free agent this offseason, making the cornerback position a position a need.

Along with the cornerback being a need, the Texans rank third in projected salary cap space in 2024. They'll have more than $74 million in available space heading into the offseason. With Johnson being one of the best young corners in the NFL, we know the 24-year-old could be in for a market-setting deal.

Detroit Lions

Another 2023 playoff team that could be in the mix for Johnson's services in free agency is the Detroit Lions. The Lions are set to have more than $61 million dollars in cap space this offseason and need to make some drastic improvements in their cornerback room.

Detroit's pass defense has been one of the worst in the league during the past few seasons. After Week 1, the team's defense ranks 24th in dropback EPA and 27th in dropback success rate. Adding Johnson's coverage skills and ball production to Aaron Glenn’s defense could make the already dangerous Lions more of a threat heading into 2024.

You don’t have to go far back to find an example of Detroit needing help at cornerback. The Lions' 20-19 loss to Dallas in Week 17 came, in part, because they had no one who could cover CeeDee Lamb.

Johnson could step in and be an instant upgrade for one of the NFC contenders that is just a few pieces away from being legit Super Bowl contenders.

Las Vegas Raiders

Unlike the two teams listed above, the Las Vegas Raiders will not be playing in the playoffs this season. So they are turning their attention to free agency and the 2024 NFL Draft earlier than expected.

Despite missing the playoffs, the Raiders have closed the season on a high note with interim head coach Antonio Pierce. Pierce injected the team with a lot of juice down the stretch, especially on the defense.

Despite limited talent on the backend, the Las Vegas' defense played some good football to close out its season and give the team some good vibes heading into the offseason. Adding Johnson to the mix with Maxx Crosby, Tyree Wilson and the potential hiring of Pierce as the full-time coach would have things looking up in Las Vegas after a down season.

Johnson’s style of play would fit in perfectly with how the Raiders played defense down the stretch. Also, Las Vegas is projected to have the ninth-most cap space in 2024 with more than $52 million dollars available.

While a decent chunk of that could go to a quarterback, the Raiders will have enough money to make some splash signings on defense, with the hopes of returning to the playoffs next season.

Chicago Bears

I couldn’t finish this article without mentioning how much Johnson means to the Chicago Bears' defense. Despite ugly results early in the season, the Bears' defensive turnaround after acquiring Montez Sweat at the trade deadline should give all the team's fans hope heading into next season.

With plenty of questions to answer on offense, Chicago's defense is set up in a nice spot. Not making a valiant effort to bring back Johnson would be a big mistake from GM Ryan Poles.

With signs pointing to coach Matt Eberflus returning in 2024, the Bears getting their best defender back to continue to run Eberflus’ system at the level it’s been at since the trade deadline would give them a good shot at competing in the NFC North with Justin Fields or Caleb Williams/Drake Maye at quarterback.

Believe it or not, NFL Draft season is just around the corner. The regular season wraps up this weekend, meaning 18 teams will start getting ready for the offseason on Monday. And with the Senior Bowl and the East-West Shrine Game happening later this month, it’s time to start digging into some draft prospects.

You probably know the top names in the 2024 class. Caleb Williams (USC), Drake Maye (North Carolina) and Marvin Harrison Jr. (Ohio State) are household names who should all be picked in the top five selections.

But who are the players to watch in the mid-rounds in the next few months? Here are six hidden gems from the 2024 class you need to know.

Hidden Gem Prospects

Braelon Allen, RB, Wisconsin

It’s hard to call a Wisconsin running back who rushed for nearly 3,500 yards and 35 touchdowns in three seasons a hidden gem, but that's the case with Braelon Allen.

On most early draft boards, Allen isn’t even ranked inside the top five running backs for the 2024 class. And the early consensus is that we won't have a running back picked in the top 40. However, Allen has all the makings of a multiyear starter and a value on draft day.

Allen is a unique prospect in so many ways. The first is regarding his age. Allen doesn't turn 20 years old until January 20 — and played his entire college career before then. He's the youngest player in the 2024 class, which means a ton at the running back position.

Most teams hesitate to pay running backs once they reach age 27 and start to wear down. That wouldn't be the case for Allen, who will be just 23 at the end of his rookie contract. 

Another reason why Allen is such an interesting prospect is his size. He is expected to measure in at 6-foot-2, 245 pounds at the NFL Combine. Since 2014, only three running backs who have weighed 240 or more pounds have been selected. Here are those running backs:

• Derrick Henry, 247
• A.J. Dillon, 247
• Leonard Fournette, 240 

Fournette ran the fastest 40-yard dash time of those three backs at 4.51. The expectation around the league is that Allen will run a sub-4.50 40-yard dash, which would be incredible for a player of his size. 

Allen isn’t the quickest or shiftiest runner, but his size and speed combo is unmatched. In the right system, he could be a 1,000-yard back right away. His physical playing style, combined with his long speed, make him one of the most exciting running backs in this class.

Where he gets drafted is anyone's guess, but there is no doubt that talent-wise, he is at least on the A.J. Dillon tier. And it's not hard to envision him having similar success in the NFL at a much cheaper price.

Malachi Corley, WR, Western Kentucky

The 2024 wide receiver class is absolutely loaded. Harrison Jr. is among the best wide receiver prospects to enter the NFL in the last decade. We could also see four other receivers selected inside the top 20, making this one of the strongest wide receiver groups in several years.

But one mid-round receiver to watch is Western Kentucky’s Malachi Corley. In the last two seasons, you’d be hard-pressed to find a receiver more productive than Corley. During those 26 games, Corley totaled 2,377 yards and 22 touchdowns from scrimmage. 

During the 2022 season, Corley led Conference USA in receptions (101), receiving yards (1,295) and touchdowns (11). He finished second in the conference in yards from scrimmage — he was one of the most explosive offensive players in the country. 

Corley followed that up with another incredible season in 2023 and has since declared for the NFL Draft. He also accepted his invitation to the Senior Bowl, where he should have a chance to shine.

But as good as the raw counting stats are for Corley, that’s not why he’s on this list. Corley makes it because of just how good he is after the catch.

Malachi Corley had 648 yards after the catch during the 2023 season, which ranked 5th overall. pic.twitter.com/MAQXz62CD4

— Nick Penticoff (@NickPenticoff) December 27, 2023

During the 2022 season, Corley led the nation in YAC (975) and averaged a whopping 9.7 YAC/reception. That was No. 1 in the nation among receivers with at least 80 targets. In 2023, that number dipped slightly (8.6), which was still good for fourth in the country.

One of the skills that translates best to the NFL is winning after the catch. With so many teams searching for the next Deebo Samuel, Corley should find his way into Day 2. Much like Samuel, Corley plays a physical brand of football and is nearly impossible to bring down in the open field. He has a chance to be one of the biggest risers in the next two months.

Graham Barton, OL, Duke

There wasn’t an interior offensive lineman selected in Round 1 last season. NFL teams believe you can find solid guards and centers on Day 2 and Day 3. That could be the case in 2024 because the interior offensive line class is weak as a whole.

However, Graham Barton is someone to watch during the draft process. Barton played 2,178 snaps at left tackle for Duke, but he also has some experience at center. During the 2020 season, Barton started at center and fared exceptionally well. He doesn't have great length, so the expectation is he will move inside.

>>READ: 2024 Senior Bowl Invites

Barton accepted his Senior Bowl invite and has a chance to really improve his draft stock in the next three months. If Matthew Bergeron (Atlanta Falcons) and Steve Avila (Los Angeles Rams) can be picked inside the top 50, Barton has a chance to do that, too. 

Dallin Holker, TE, Colorado State

Brock Bowers is the clear-cut No. 1 tight end in the class, and there's a significant drop-off after him. Last year, six tight ends were selected in the first two rounds. But there is a good chance only Bowers goes in the top 64. 

One tight end worth monitoring in the middle rounds is Dallin Holker from Colorado State. After transferring from BYU, Holker had an excellent senior season, posting 767 yards and six touchdowns in 12 games.

He accepted his invitation to the East-West Shrine Game and has a chance to raise his stock with a good week. He makes this list because of his YAC prowess.

Colorado State scores again! What a catch! #colorado pic.twitter.com/O0Amme2LI6

— Tanner Phifer (@TannerPhiferNFL) September 17, 2023

Holker isn’t overly big (listed at 6-foot-3, 235 pounds), but his speed (4.64 40-yard dash) and movement skills make him an intriguing player.

He compares well to another former Colorado State tight end, Trey McBride, who is having a breakout season. Holker isn’t quite as dynamic as a receiver. Still, he is one of the more under-the-radar tight ends in this class. 

Payton Wilson, LB, North Carolina State

Much like the running back position, the linebacker position is devalued in the NFL Draft. There was only one off-the-ball linebacker selected in the first two rounds last year (Jack Campbell). And there is an excellent chance no linebacker will be picked in the top 50 this year. 

But one of the most intriguing linebackers in this class is Payton Wilson from North Carolina State. Wilson has the type of game that translates to the NFL. He’s a do-it-all linebacker who never has to come off the field. Wilson is a tackling machine, totaling 220 tackles in his last 23 games.

Tackles are great, but splash plays are where Wilson excels. Since 2022, Wilson has recorded 30 tackles for a loss and 10.5 sacks. But he isn’t just a downhill thumper, either. Wilson recorded seven interceptions and is excellent in coverage.

There isn’t a lot to dislike about Wilson. He can cover. He makes a bunch of tackles. And he is a pretty effective blitzer. Wilson might not test as a 99th-percentile athlete, but there are no questions about his sideline-to-sideline speed.

Despite the NFL devaluing linebackers, there aren't a lot of quality players at that position in the league. Wilson should be a plug-and-play starter for a team on Day 2.

Injuries will be a factor here because his medical history is extensive. However, Wilson might be the best linebacker in this class on the field. Expect him to fall somewhere between picks 70-120 but to be an immediate impact player.

Jonah Monheim, OL, USC

Jonah Monheim is the only name on this list who hasn't declared for the draft. Underclassmen have until Jan. 15 to decide. As of now, Monheim is one of this class's most underrated offensive linemen. 

The key to success for mid-round offensive linemen is versatility. How many different positions can you play well? That determines who is active on game days and who will get on the field when injuries occur. Luckily for Monheim, he has plenty of experience across the offensive line. 

Monheim started his career (2021) as a right tackle and performed well. In 2022, he played more than 700 snaps at right tackle before kicking inside to guard to finish the season. But in 2023, Monheim made the full-time switch to left tackle and performed exceptionally well.

Playing both tackle spots and right guard makes him one of this class's most intriguing mid-round offensive linemen.

Monheim needs to work on his ability to drive defenders off the line of scrimmage in the run game. But he will be drafted relatively high due to his pass-blocking skills. Monheim got plenty of pass-set opportunities in Lincoln Riley's pass-first offense. He has good feet, and his ability to mirror some of the top edge rushers in the country was a joy to watch. 

Here is a clip of him (LT) against Washington EDGE Bralen Trice, one of the top pass rushers in the Pac-12 this season. Look at how well he can flip his hips and stay with his defender:

pic.twitter.com/SHGS08guJR

— Tuke Dobin (@NotDukeTobin) December 19, 2023

With the NFL desperately needing more quality offensive tackles, Monheim should see his value rise the closer we get to draft day. But right now, he is one of the biggest sleepers in the entire draft with his pass-blocking prowess and position flexibility.

Rich Gannon, Mike Martz and Chuck Pagano look at Sunday night’s critical matchup in Miami and explain why the combination of an opportune Buffalo Bills defense and the Josh Allen–James Cook duo on offense could doom the Miami Dolphins.

The start of the NFL awards season always kicks off with the Pro Bowl. It's as much of a popularity contest as it is anything else, but it does give a good snapshot of which players helped define a season. 

There are always snubs, though. The NFL has too many good players to reward them all. That's just the way it goes. And more often than not, it's players on bad teams or players whose numbers undersell their actual play on the field who miss out on the accolades. 

While it's impossible to talk about every player who might have been snubbed — such as the handful of awesome AFC linebackers who didn't make the cut — there are a few who deserve some special attention. 

2024 Pro Bowl Snubs

Brandon Aiyuk, WR, San Francisco 49ers

Leaving Brandon Aiyuk off the Pro Bowl team is objectively wrong, and voters should feel bad about it. 

From an efficiency perspective, Aiyuk was utterly dominant in 2023. He not only leads the league in yards per reception at 18.3, but he's second only to Tyreek Hill in yards per route run at 3.06. Hill and Aiyuk are the only two players over three yards per route run on the season. 

What's fascinating is the way Aiyuk arrived there. His 14.18 air yards per target rank ninth in the league among qualifying players, per TruMedia. That's right above Mike Evans. Typically, a higher air yards per target would mean a lower yards after catch figure. It's just harder to make the transition to being a ball carrier and find extra yards on downfield throws than it is, say, a slant or shallow crosser. 

Aiyuk breaks the mold. His 4.9 YAC per reception only ranks 29th in the league, but relative to where he's catching his passes, that's an outrageous number. Aiyuk is consistently succeeding on difficult downfield routes while also adding extra value to those throws.

It's not hard to understand why when you watch him, either. He only continues to grow as a player. Aiyuk is as explosive a route runner as anyone in the league, and the way he attacks the ball in the air now is night and day from where he was when he came into the league. Couple that with his instant burst as a ball carrier and devastating long speed, and the result is the best big-play threat in the league outside of Miami. 

Josh Allen, QB, Buffalo Bills

It's easy to look at the Buffalo Bills' turbulent season and wave off the idea of their quarterback being a Pro Bowler. They fired their offensive coordinator midseason and are still waiting to secure a playoff berth in the final week of the season. Compared with the three AFC quarterbacks who did get selected — Patrick Mahomes, Lamar Jackson, Tua Tagovailoa — Josh Allen's season could look lackluster. 

The Bills' weird season isn't Allen's fault, though. He has been as productive as any quarterback in the league. 

Allen's 51.6 percent success rate is second only behind Brock Purdy, per TruMedia. Allen's 0.11 EPA per dropback ranks fifth in the league. By all accounts, he's been efficient and explosive. He also leads the league with 42 combined touchdowns, if you're inclined to lean on the raw counting stats. 

But it's not really a numbers case with Allen. Yes, his numbers are good and deserving of a Pro Bowl nod, but it's more than that. Just watch him play. 

Allen, for all his warts, is very clearly the engine of Buffalo's offense. The passing offense — outfitted with a mediocre offensive line and 1.5 useful pass-catchers — works explicitly because Allen wills it to work.

We think of Allen as this reckless gunslinger, but his success rate and ability to slowly work the ball down the field speaks to how much he's grown as a rhythmic, systematic passer this season. And, of course, all the highlight throws we are used to seeing from him are still as present as ever. 

I understand Tagovailoa's efficiency numbers are slightly better than Allen's, but when you consider the burden each quarterback carries, what Allen has done is more impressive and deserving of a nod. 

Bernhard Raimann, OT, Indianapolis Colts

Bernhard Raimann is probably my most "hipster" pick on this list, but the second-year player deserves his flowers for the growth he's shown since last season. 

Raimann was an abject disaster when thrown into the lineup in 2022. Granted, the entire Indianapolis Colts offensive line was a train wreck, but Raimann didn't exactly shine as a rare bright spot. 

A third-round pick in 2022, he looked overwhelmed and unprepared for the NFL at first. He was constantly late working to the edge, didn't know how to combat counter moves and rarely showed the anchor necessary to survive in the NFL. Raimann did improve toward the end of his rookie season but not so much that you were certain he was a starting tackle for years to come. 

Fast forward to 2023, and Raimann looks awesome. 

In one offseason, he has improved so much with regard to his technique and confidence. He's quicker to the edge and tougher to beat with counter moves. He handles twists and games effectively. Once a puppy who didn't know what he didn't know, now you see Raimann mirroring and attacking pass-rushers with a grace and confidence you see from veterans. 

Raimann still surrenders some tough plays with a shaky anchor at times, and he's not exactly a road-grader in the run game. But he's always in front of the dude across from him and does his job more often than not. 

Maybe this is a year early, but I'm fine giving Raimann a shoutout considering one of the AFC offensive tackles who did make the Pro Bowl only started nine games this season (Terron Armstead). 

Ed Oliver, DT, Buffalo Bills

Ed Oliver has a case to make first-team All-Pro. The fact he didn't even make the Pro Bowl roster in the AFC is baffling. 

Precious few interior defensive linemen have been as disruptive as Oliver this season. 

As a pass rusher, he has been a force. Oliver's 14.8 percent pressure rate ranks sixth among interior defensive linemen with at least 500 snaps this season. Likewise, his 9.5 sacks are tied for third-most among interior defenders, alongside Chris Jones. The speed and tenacity with which Oliver plays is a huge problem for opposing offensive lines play in and play out. 

Those same traits show up in run defense, an area Oliver has greatly improved in since entering the league. Oliver's 14 tackles for loss are second-most among all defensive tackles, sitting only behind the GOAT, Aaron Donald. Oliver's ability to tear through offensive lines immediately, while sometimes volatile, is a unique weapon and has been a core reason for Buffalo's defense slowly figuring itself out over the back half of the season. 

Oliver is a cornerstone for the Bills' defense. He came into the league as a solid player back in 2019 and has only improved every year since then, finally blossoming into a star. It's a shame Oliver missed out on the accolades he so clearly deserves this season. 

Brian Branch, DB, Detroit Lions

Call Brian Branch a nickel corner. Call him a safety. Just call him a defensive back. I don't really care what position he gets in as; Branch should be on the Pro Bowl roster. 

Branch stepped into the Detroit Lions' lineup and immediately looked like their best defensive back. That's a low bar, sure, but Branch plays with all the awareness and savvy of a 10-year veteran. He's got the classic Nick Saban-stud-defensive-back shine — a blend of silky smooth athletic ability and an understanding of what opposing offenses are trying to do that is far beyond his years. 

To that point, Branch is incredibly versatile. He's been the Lions' starting nickel cornerback, and he's been a safety. They can line him up in man coverage in the slot just as easily as they can ask him to play a half-field zone on the back end. Branch can trace the quarterback's eyes in coverage on one play and fit the run with the force of a linebacker on the next snap. 

He has some of the counting stats you want, as well.

Branch has 12 passes defended and three interceptions this season. If you recall, Branch's first career interception was a pick-six against Patrick Mahomes in the season opener.

Branch even has racked up seven tackles for loss, tied for fourth in the league among defensive backs and only trailing Mike Hilton, Kyle Hamilton and Kenny Moore, perhaps the league's three most unhinged nickel defenders. 

Even as a rookie, Branch was one of the league's best and most versatile defensive backs. It's easy to understand why a Lions defender would be passed over in favor of others considering the unit's poor results, but Branch has been one of the few bright spots. 

Dr. Jess Flynn and Jade McCarthy go through some of the biggest injuries ahead of the AFC South clash between the Houston Texans and Indianapolis Colts, including Laremy Tunsil.

Dr. Flynn doesn't foresee Trevor Lawrence being out with the division on the line in NFL Week 18.

Dr. Jess Flynn and Jade McCarthy go through some of the biggest injuries ahead of the final game of the 2023 season, including what to expect from a banged-up Tua Tagovailoa.

Greg Cosell and Andy Benoit dive into the Buffalo Bills-Miami Dolphins Week 18 matchup and explain what Buffalo needs from Josh Allen to steal the division. Plus, the guys discuss whether Kyler Murray and Justin Fields should be in their teams' long-term plans.

Each week, Sports Info Solutions (SIS) will generate a matchup comparison for the week’s NFL games based on its proprietary Total Points stat. 

Total Points takes nearly everything that happens on the field and scales it in a way that allows you to compare players, units and teams. It will allow you to pinpoint mismatches, perhaps those you weren’t even aware existed.

To learn more about Total Points, read our piece from last season. 

Here’s our look at Week 18.

Total Points Per Play ranks are based on 2023 performance to date. Fourth Down Decision Ranks are based on the head coach’s history over the last two seasons. See a brief description of the ranking methodology in this piece.

WEEK 18 MATCHUPS

Steelers vs. Ravens

Fourth-down decisions: Steelers 28th, Ravens 30th

The Pittsburgh Steelers need to attack the Baltimore Ravens’ run defense if they want to sneak into the playoffs. The Ravens are strong across the board in our metrics, with the exception of their run defense.

While the Ravens have locked up the AFC's No. 1 seed, they will look to keep the Steelers out of the playoffs with their dominant, balanced offense and their ability to bring pressure as well as cover on defense.

Texans vs. Colts

Fourth-down decisions: Texans 7th, Colts 31st

The Indianapolis Colts will look to exploit the last-ranked Houston Texans’ coverage unit in this win-and-in game. Gardner Minshew has provided a spark and launched the Colts into the league's top half in Passing Total Points.

On the other side, the Texans must protect C.J. Stroud against a tough Colts pass rush. The Texans’ blocking ranking is concerning in this matchup, but the Colts struggle to stop the run or cover on the back end, so a well-balanced, quick-passing attack could succeed.

Buccaneers vs. Panthers

Fourth-down decisions: Buccaneers 27th, Panthers 11th

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ quest for a division title will face a minor final test against an inept Carolina Panthers team.

The Panthers struggle across the board on offense and, with the exception of a middle-of-the-road run defense, struggle on defense. 

Bryce Young will end his rookie season against a tough Buccaneers secondary, and will likely receive little help in the run game as Tampa Bay is even tougher against the run.

Browns vs. Bengals

Fourth-down decisions: Browns 12th, Bengals 14th

The Cleveland Browns locked up the No. 5 seed. They should their top-ranked run defense to finish strong against the Cincinnati Bengals.

While pride may be the only thing on the line, the Bengals must get the ball out quickly to avoid a ferocious Browns pass rush and exploit a mediocre coverage unit.

Vikings vs. Lions

Fourth-down decisions: Vikings 18th, Lions 6th

The Minnesota Vikings’ slim playoff hopes will be tested against a Detroit Lions team that ranks in the top half of the league in every ranking.

The Lions’ balanced offense can attack and pick apart the Vikings' defense any way it sees fit, as it has an advantage on every front.

If the Detroit defense can contain Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, the Vikings might not have enough firepower to overwhelm the Lions’ defense.

Jets vs. Patriots

Fourth-down decisions: Jets 20th, Patriots 26th

The New England Patriots offense finds a tough final match-up against a balanced, albeit wasted, New York Jets defense. The Jets will have to air it out a bit to exploit a struggling pass defense.

Both offenses are at risk of ranking last in the league in multiple offensive categories after this game. So don’t expect more than a few candles, let alone fireworks.

Falcons vs. Saints

Fourth-down decisions: Falcons 16th, Saints 21st

The top two coverage units in the league square off, but the New Orleans Saints hold a significant edge in the passing ranking.

Derek Carr will need to be sharp against a tough Atlanta Falcons coverage unit. However, the Falcons struggle to generate pressure. If the Saints can protect Carr, he could find holes in the defense.

The Falcons' ability to take away the run is a bit of a waste against New Orleans’ limited ground attack. Still, the Falcons' rushing attack could be the difference needed to win. The Saints’ run defense is vulnerable, and the Falcons will want to keep this a low-scoring game to minimize the Saints' passing advantage.

Jaguars vs. Titans

Fourth-down decisions: Jaguars 23rd, Titans 5th

The path to an upset starts with the run game. The Tennessee Titans have a stout run defense, while the Jacksonville Jaguars have a below-average run game with near-the-bottom blocking numbers. 

The Titans also run the ball extremely well, and the Jaguars struggle to stop the run. Controlling the clock will be key for the Titans, whose porous coverage unit could be exploited.

This game could come down to a couple of key plays, so it is important to note the Titans have a significant edge in fourth-down decision-making.

Bears vs. Packers

Fourth-down decisions: Bears 8th, Packers 2nd

The Green Bay Packers matchup favorably on paper against the Chicago Bears. They have top-10 passing and receiving metrics against a so-so coverage unit. They also have a considerable blocking vs. pass rush advantage on offense.

Week 18 division rival games are tricky, however. 

There is some opportunity for this game to be a shootout. The Bears’ run defense could force Jordan Love to become more one-dimensional, and a resurgent Justin Fields faces a Packers’ coverage unit that is far from impressive in its own right. 

While the Packers should put themselves in the playoffs, stranger things have happened (see Week 18 of last season).

Eagles vs. Giants

Fourth-down decisions: Eagles 1st, Giants 24th

The New York Giants’ rankings are an eye-sore, but the Philadelphia Eagles are also lower than anticipated in several metrics.

Each of the three Eagles’ defensive categories ranks in the league's bottom half, and their rushing rank is not as high as expected. Fortunately, the Giants' defense is a sieve, and their offense is ranks last in receiving and blocking.

It might not be enough to win the division, but the Eagles should get their groove back.

Cowboys vs. Commanders

Fourth-down decisions: Cowboys 9th, Commanders 19th

The Washington Commanders do not have a favorable matchup on either side of the ball. Their impressive rushing ranking will be challenged by an above-average Dallas Cowboys’ run defense.

With a division title on the line, the Cowboys will look to repeat their earlier matchup against the Commanders. That game included Dak Prescott’s top-ranked passing attack feasting on the Commanders’ coverage unit.

Seahawks vs. Cardinals

Fourth-down decisions: Seahawks 22nd, Cardinals 3rd

Both rushing attacks should find success, as this is a battle of the two lowest-ranked run defenses in the league.

The Seattle Seahawks have an outside chance at the playoffs and could exploit an Arizona Cardinals defense that struggles to stop the run or get after the quarterback.

Being eliminated from contention did not stop the Cardinals from winning last week, and they have an extremely favorable matchup, bringing the No. 1-ranked rushing attack against the next-to-last run defense.

Chiefs vs. Chargers

Fourth-down decisions: Chiefs 25th, Chargers N/A

The Kansas City Chiefs would have an advantage on both sides of the ball, but with minimal on the line for either team and Patrick Mahomes sitting, the Los Angeles Chargers’ defense gets a break.

The Chargers' defense struggled against the run and the pass, and their running game is a no-show. To top it off, the Chargers' offensive line will be tested greatly against an elite Chiefs pass-rushing unit.

Broncos vs. Raiders

Fourth-down decisions: Broncos 15th, Raiders 29th

The AFC West is not the division to watch this week.

Both teams can focus on next season as the Las Vegas Raiders try to get their lifeless running game going against a sub-par Denver Broncos run defense.

The Broncos could find some success in the passing game against a Raiders defense that struggles to lock down the back end.

Rams vs. 49ers

Fourth-down decisions: Rams 13th, 49ers 10th

With the NFC's No. 1 seed locked up, the San Francisco 49ers will give their elite offense a rest against a mediocre Los Angeles Rams defense.

The Rams do a decent job against the run but struggle to generate pressure or cover down the field. This is not ideal when going against the third-ranked blocking and top-ranked receiving units, even without the starting QB.

The Rams have an advantage running the ball against a below-average 49ers run defense, so the game can be shortened a bit that way.

Bills vs. Dolphins

Fourth-down decisions: Bills 4th, Dolphins 17th

Both teams have some elite units, so playing for the division title on Sunday night is perfect. This is easily the best game of the week.

The Miami Dolphins’ top-ranked blocking unit will be tested against a Buffalo Bills defense strong against the run and gets after the quarterback. The Dolphins’ offensive balance will be key to strategically choosing their battles against a good coverage unit.

The Bills line will also be tested against the top-ranked pass rushing unit in the league, albeit one now without Bradley Chubb after losing Jaelan Phillips earlier in the season. The Bills' run game should find some success against a solid but not exceptional Dolphins run defense.

The biggest key to this game could be the Bills receiving corps, who have struggled, matching up against a good Dolphins coverage unit. Both teams can have explosive plays, which could come down right to the end.

This article was written by Jeff Dean.