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NFL What to Look For – Week 17

NFL Editor
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NFL What to Look For – Week 17

NEW YORK – Below are the players that can set historic marks or reach career milestones in Week 17 of the 2025 NFL season, including:

  • DE Myles Garrett
  • QB Matthew Stafford
  • QB Sam Darnold
  • QB Bo Nix
  • QB Justin Herbert
  • QB Jared Goff
  • QB Drake Maye
  • RB Bijan Robinson
  • RB Jonathan Taylor
  • RB Christian McCaffrey
  • RB Jahmyr Gibbs
  • RB Derrick Henry
  • WR Puka Nacua
  • WR Ja’Marr Chase
  • WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba
  • WR Amon-Ra St. Brown
  • WR Justin Jefferson
  • TE Trey McBride  

MYLES GARRETT

Cleveland defensive end Myles Garrett leads the league with 22 sacks and ranks first in the NFL with 124.5 sacks since entering the league in 2017, the second-most by a player in his first nine seasons since 1982.  

Garrett, who plays on Sunday against Pittsburgh (1 p.m. ET, CBS), can surpass Michael Strahan (22.5 sacks in 2001 with the New York Giants) and T.J. Watt (22.5 in 2021 with Pittsburgh) for the most sacks in a season since 1982, when the individual sack became an official statistic. 

The players with the most sacks in a season since 1982:

PLAYERTEAMSEASONSACKS
Michael StrahanN.Y. Giants200122.5
T.J. WattPittsburgh202122.5
Jared Allen HOFMinnesota201122
Myles GarrettCleveland202522*
Mark GastineauN.Y. Jets198422
Justin HoustonKansas City201422
*entering Week 17

MATTHEW STAFFORD

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford leads the NFL with 40 touchdown passes and ranks first with a 112.1 passer rating this season.

With three touchdown passes and a passer rating of 110-or-higher on Monday Night Football (8:15 p.m. ET, ESPN),  Stafford can become the fourth quarterback in NFL history with at least three touchdown passes and a passer rating of 110-or-higher in four primetime games (start time 7 p.m. ET or later) in a single season, joining Aaron Rodgers (five games in 2020), Drew Brees (four in 2011) and Tony Romo (four in 2014).

Additionally, with three touchdown passes in Week 17, Stafford, who is 37 years old, can tie Tom Brady (43 touchdown passes in 2021 with Tampa Bay) for the second-most touchdown passes in a single season by a quarterback age 37-or-older in NFL history. Only Pro Football Hall of Famer Peyton Manning (55 touchdown passes in 2013 with Denver) has more.

The players age 37-or-older with the most touchdown passes in a season in NFL history:

PLAYERTEAMSEASONTD PASSES
Peyton Manning HOFDenver201355^
Tom BradyTampa Bay202143
Tom BradyTampa Bay202040
Matthew StaffordL.A. Rams202540*
*turns 38 years old in February, 2026; ^NFL record

SAM DARNOLD

Seattle quarterback Sam Darnold helped the Seahawks clinch their first playoff berth since 2022 and has led Seattle to 12 wins this season, the most since 2020.

With a win on Sunday at Carolina (1 p.m. ET, CBS), Darnold – who had 14 wins with Minnesota in 2024 – can become the fifth quarterback all-time to record at least 13 wins in consecutive seasons and the first to do so with different teams, joining Aaron Rodgers (three consecutive seasons from 2019-21 with Green Bay), Tom Brady (two in 2010-11 and 2003-04 with New England) as well as Pro Football Hall of Famers Brett Favre (two in 1996-97 with Green Bay) and Peyton Manning (two in 2012-13 with Denver).

BO NIX

Denver quarterback Bo Nix ranks sixth in the NFL with 3,608 passing yards and tied for eighth with 24 touchdown passes. Since entering the league last season, Nix ranks sixth with 7,383 passing yards and tied for seventh with 53 touchdown passes. 

With a win on Thursday Night Football at Kansas City (8:15 p.m. ET, Prime Video), Nix – who has 22 wins since entering the NFL last season – can surpass Andrew Luck (22 wins), Dak Prescott (22) and Ben Roethlisberger (22) for the second-most wins by a quarterback in his first two seasons in NFL history, trailing only Russell Wilson (24).

With a touchdown pass in Week 17, Nix can become the third player in NFL history with at least 3,500 passing yards and 25 touchdown passes in each of his first two career seasons, joining Justin Herbert and Pro Football Hall of Famer Peyton Manning.

Nix, who has 53 career touchdown passes, can surpass Derek Carr (53 touchdown passes) for the third-most touchdown passes by a player in their first two seasons in NFL history. Only Justin Herbert (69 touchdown passes) and Pro Football Hall of Famer Dan Marino (68) have more.

The players with the most touchdown passes in their first two seasons in NFL history:

PLAYERTEAMTD PASSES
Justin HerbertL.A. Chargers69
Dan Marino HOFMiami68
Derek CarrOakland Raiders53
Bo NixDenver53*
*in second season

 JUSTIN HERBERT

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert ranks fourth in the NFL with 24,584 passing yards since entering the league in 2020.

With 302 passing yards on Saturday against Houston (4:30 p.m. ET, NFLN), Herbert can surpass Pro Football Hall of Famer Peyton Manning (24,885 passing yards) for the most passing yards by a player in his first six seasons in NFL history.

Herbert has 31 career games with at least 300 passing yards and can tie Pro Football Hall of Famer Dan Marino (32 games) for the second-most such games by a player in his first six seasons in NFL history. Only Patrick Mahomes (41 games) has more.

JARED GOFF

Detroit quarterback Jared Goff leads the NFL with 39,094 passing yards in 149 career games since entering the league in 2016.

With at least 204 passing yards on Thursday at Minnesota (4:30 p.m. ET, Netflix), Goff can surpass Drew Brees (39,297 passing yards) for the fourth-most passing yards by a player in their first 150 career games in NFL history. Only Matthew Stafford (41,322 passing yards), Matt Ryan (39,858) and Kirk Cousins (39,471) have more.

The players with the most passing yards in their first 150 career games in NFL history:

PLAYERTEAM(S)PASS YARDS
Matthew StaffordDetroit41,322
Matt RyanAtlanta39,858
Kirk CousinsWashington, Minnesota39,471
Drew BreesSan Diego Chargers, New Orleans39,297
Dan Marino HOFMiami39,285
Peyton Manning HOFIndianapolis39,164
Jared GoffL.A. Rams, Detroit39,094*
*in 149 career games

DRAKE MAYE

New England quarterback Drake Maye ranks third in the NFL with a 108.5 passer rating and is tied for fifth with 25 touchdown passes this season.

With at least two touchdown passes and a passer rating of 100-or-higher on Sunday at the New York Jets (1 p.m. ET, FOX), Maye, who is 23 years old, can become the third player under the age of 24 with two-or-more touchdown passes and a passer rating of 100-or-higher in 10 games in a single season all-time, joining Patrick Mahomes (13 games in 2018 with Kansas City) and Matthew Stafford (10 in 2011 with Detroit).

Maye has 11 games with a passer rating of 100-or-higher and in Week 17, can surpass Dak Prescott (11 games in 2016 with Dallas) for the second-most such games by a player under the age of 24 in a single season all-time, trailing only Patrick Mahomes (13 in 2018 with Kansas City).

BIJAN ROBINSON

Atlanta running back Bijan Robinson ranks first in the NFL with 2,026 scrimmage yards this season and first with 5,376 scrimmage yards since entering the league in 2023.

With at least 68 scrimmage yards against the Los Angeles Rams on Monday Night Football (8:15 p.m. ET, ESPN), Robinson, who is 23 years old, can surpass Christian McCaffrey (5,443 scrimmage yards with Carolina) for the most scrimmage yards by a player under the age of 24 in NFL history.

The players under the age of 24 with the most scrimmage yards in NFL history:

PLAYERTEAMSCRIMMAGE YARDS
Christian McCaffreyCarolina5,443
Barry Sanders HOFDetroit5,391
Bijan RobinsonAtlanta5,376*
*turns 24 on Jan. 30, 2026

JONATHAN TAYLOR

Indianapolis running back Jonathan Taylor leads the NFL with 17 rushing touchdowns and since entering the league in 2020, ranks second with 8,944 scrimmage yards and 75 scrimmage touchdowns (68 rushing, seven receiving).  

With a rushing touchdown on Sunday against Jacksonville (1 p.m. ET, FOX), Taylor – who had 18 rushing touchdowns in 2021 – can become the fourth player in NFL history with at least 18 rushing touchdowns in multiple career seasons, joining Pro Football Hall of Famers Emmitt Smith (three seasons) and LaDainian Tomlinson (two) as well as Priest Holmes (two).

Taylor can become the sixth player in NFL history with at least 9,000 scrimmage yards and 75 scrimmage touchdowns in his first six seasons, joining Shaun Alexander and Adrian Peterson as well as Pro Football Hall of Famers Jim Brown, Emmitt Smith and LaDainian Tomlinson.

CHRISTIAN MCCAFFREY

San Francisco running back Christian McCaffrey ranks second in the NFL with 1,888 scrimmage yards this season and since entering the NFL in 2017, leads all running backs with 36 touchdown receptions and 616 receptions.

With 112 scrimmage yards on Sunday Night Football against Chicago (8:20 p.m. ET, NBC), McCaffrey can become the sixth player since 1990 with at least 2,000 scrimmage yards in three career seasons, joining Pro Football Hall of Famers Marshall Faulk (four seasons), Edgerrin James (three) and LaDainian Tomlinson (three) as well as Tiki Barber (three) and Priest Holmes (three).

With a touchdown reception in Week 17, McCaffrey can surpass Pro Football Hall of Famer Marshall Faulk (36 touchdown receptions) for the most touchdown receptions by a running back since 1970.

McCaffrey can surpass Pro Football Hall of Famer LaDainian Tomlinson (624 receptions) for the third-most receptions by a running back in NFL history. Only Larry Centers (827 receptions) and Pro Football Hall of Famer Marshall Faulk (767) have more.

JAHMYR GIBBS

Detroit running back Jahmyr Gibbs ranks third in the NFL with 39 rushing touchdowns since entering the league in 2023.

With two rushing touchdowns on Thursday at Minnesota (4:30 p.m. ET, Netflix), Gibbs can tie Pro Football Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith (41 rushing touchdowns) for the fourth-most rushing touchdowns by a player in their first three seasons in NFL history. Only Pro Football Hall of Famers Earl Campbell (45 rushing touchdowns), Eric Dickerson (44) and Barry Sanders (43) have more.

The players with the most rushing touchdowns in their first three seasons in NFL history:

PLAYERTEAMRUSH TDs
Earl Campbell HOFHouston Oilers45
Eric Dickerson HOFL.A. Rams44
Barry Sanders HOFDetroit43
Emmitt Smith HOFDallas41
Jim Brown HOFCleveland40
Adrian PetersonMinnesota40
Jahmyr GibbsDetroit39*
*in third season

DERRICK HENRY

Baltimore running back Derrick Henry is tied for fourth with 12 rushing touchdowns this season and since entering the league in 2016, leads the league with 118 rushing touchdowns, the fifth-most in NFL history.

With two rushing touchdowns on Saturday night at Green Bay (8 p.m. ET, Peacock), Henry can tie Adrian Peterson (120 rushing touchdowns) for the fourth-most rushing touchdowns in NFL history, trailing only Pro Football Hall of Famers Emmitt Smith (164), LaDainian Tomlinson (145) and Marcus Allen (123).

With a rushing touchdown in Week 17, Henry can become the third player all-time with at least 13 rushing touchdowns in five career seasons, joining Pro Football Hall of Famer LaDainian Tomlinson (six seasons) and Shaun Alexander (five).

PUKA NACUA

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua leads the NFL with 114 receptions and ranks second with 1,592 receiving yards. Since entering the league in 2023, Nacua ranks fifth with 298 receptions in 42 career games.

With at least two receptions on Monday Night Football at Atlanta (8:15 p.m. ET, ESPN), Nacua can become the fifth player with at least 300 receptions in his first three career seasons, joining Justin Jefferson (324 receptions), Michael Thomas (321), Amon-Ra St. Brown (315) and Christian McCaffrey (303).

Nacua, with 298 receptions in 42 career games, can become the fastest player in NFL history to reach 300 career receptions, surpassing Odell Beckham Jr. (45 career games) and Michael Thomas (45). 

Nacua, who has had a league-high 573 receiving yards since Week 14 and at least 150 receiving yards in each game, can become the first player in NFL history with at least 150 receiving yards in four consecutive games and the sixth player all-time with at least 150 receiving yards in five games within a single season, joining Antonio Brown (2017 with Pittsburgh), Pro Football Hall of Famers Tim Brown (1997 with the Oakland Raiders) and Jerry Rice (1995 with San Francisco), Roy Green (1984 with the St. Louis Cardinals) and Tyreek Hill (2023 with Miami).

Additionally, with at least 127 receiving yards in Week 17, Nacua can become the fourth player in NFL history with at least 700 receiving yards in a four-game span, joining Josh Gordon (774 receiving yards and 716 in 2013), Pro Football Hall of Famer Calvin Johnson (746 and 706 in 2013), and Charley Henningan (721 in 1961).

JA’MARR CHASE

Cincinnati wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase ranks second in the NFL with 6,681 receiving yards since entering the league in 2021.

With at least 104 receiving yards on Sunday against Arizona (1 p.m. ET, FOX), Chase can surpass Pro Football Hall of Famer Randy Moss (6,743) and Torry Holt (6,784) for the second-most receiving yards by a player in his first five seasons in NFL history. Only Justin Jefferson (7,432 receiving yards) has more.

With at least 100 receiving yards in Week 17, Chase – who has 26 career games with at least 100 receiving yards – can tie Torry Holt (27 games) for the fourth-most such games in a player’s first five seasons in the Super Bowl era. Only Justin Jefferson (34 games), Pro Football Hall of Famer Randy Moss (30) and Julio Jones (28) have more.

JAXON SMITH-NJIGBA

Seattle wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba leads the NFL with 1,637 receiving yards this season.

With at least 63 receiving yards on Sunday at Carolina (1 p.m. ET, CBS), Smith-Njigba – who is 23 years old – can become the third player in NFL history under age 24 with at least 1,700 receiving yards in a single season, joining Justin Jefferson (1,809 receiving yards in 2022 with Minnesota), and Pro Football Hall of Famer Isaac Bruce (1,781 in 1995 with the St. Louis Rams).

AMON-RA ST.BROWN

Detroit wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown ranks fifth in the league with 98 receptions and 1,194 receiving yards. 

With two receptions at Minnesota on Saturday (4:30 p.m. ET, Netflix), St. Brown can become the fifth player in NFL history with at least 100 receptions in four consecutive seasons, joining Antonio Brown (six consecutive seasons from 2013-18), Davante Adams (four from 2020-23), Stefon Diggs (four from 2020-23) and Pro Football Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison (four from 1999-2002).

JUSTIN JEFFERSON

Minnesota wide receiver Justin Jefferson ranks first in the NFL with 8,349 receiving yards since entering the league in 2020.

Jefferson has 917 receiving yards in 2025 and on Thursday against Detroit (4:30 p.m. ET, Netflix), can join Mike Evans and Pro Football Hall of Famer Randy Moss as the only players in NFL history with at least 1,000 receiving yards in each of their first six seasons.

With at least 27 receiving yards in Week 17, Jefferson can surpass Pro Football Hall of Famer Randy Moss (8,375 receiving yards) for the most receiving yards by a player in their first six seasons in NFL history.

TREY MCBRIDE

Arizona tight end Trey McBride ranks third in the league with 109 receptions.

With at least one reception at Cincinnati on Sunday (1 p.m. ET, FOX), McBride can become the first tight end all-time with at least 110 receptions in multiple career seasons.

With eight receptions in Week 17, McBride can surpass Zach Ertz (116 receptions in 2018 with Philadelphia) for the most receptions by a tight end in a season in NFL history. 

The tight ends with the most receptions in a season in NFL history:

PLAYERTEAMSEASONRECEPTIONS
Zach ErtzPhiladelphia2018116
Evan EngramJacksonville2023114
Brock BowersLas Vegas2024112
Trey McBrideArizona2024111
Travis KelceKansas City2022110
Jason WittenDallas2012110
Trey McBrideArizona2025109*
*entering Week 17

Brock Purdy, Cooper DeJean & Cairo Santos Named Week 16 NFC Players of the Week

NFL Editor
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Brock Purdy, Cooper DeJean & Cairo Santos Named Week 16 NFC Players of the Week

NEW YORK – San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy, Philadelphia Eagles defensive back Cooper DeJean and Chicago Bears kicker Cairo Santos are the NFC Offensive, Defensive and Special Teams Players of the Week for games played in Week 16 (December 18, 20-22).

OFFENSE: QB BROCK PURDY, SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS

  • Purdy completed 25 of 34 pass attempts (73.5 percent) for 295 yards and a career-high five touchdown passes with a 126.8 passer rating in San Francisco’s 48-27 win at Indianapolis. Purdy became the first 49ers quarterback with five touchdown passes in a regular-season game since Pro Football Hall of Famer Joe Montana on Oct. 14, 1990. Purdy led the NFL in touchdown passes in Week 16 and led the NFC in passer rating and completion percentage.
  • This is Purdy’s second-career Player of the Week award. He joins Pro Football Hall of Famers Steve Young (11-time winner) and Joe Montana (eight) as well as Jeff Garcia (two) as the only 49ers quarterbacks to win multiple Player of the Week awards.
  • Purdy is the only former Iowa State player to earn multiple Offensive Player of the Week awards.

DEFENSE: DB COOPER DEJEAN, PHILADELPHIA EAGLES

  • DeJean recorded four tackles, a career-high four passes defensed and an interception in Philadelphia’s 29-18 win at Washington. He is one-of-two players in the NFL – and the only player in the NFC – to record at least four tackles, four passes defensed and an interception in a game this season, joining Joey Porter Jr. (Week 9).
  • This is DeJean’s first-career Defensive Player of the Week award and he becomes the third Eagles player to earn Player of the Week honors this season, joining Jordan Davis (Weeks 3 and 11) and Quinyon Mitchell (Week 4).
  • DeJean is the fourth former Iowa defensive back to win Player of the Week honors, joining Merton Hanks (four-time winner), Desmond King (two-time winner) and Bob Sanders (Week 2, 2007).

SPECIAL TEAMS: K CAIRO SANTOS, CHICAGO BEARS

  • Santos converted all three of his field goal attempts in a driving wind – from 46, 51 and 43 yards – and his lone point after attempt, as well as helped the Bears’ special teams recover an onside kick with 1:59 remaining in regulation in Chicago’s 22-16 overtime win against Green Bay. He was the only NFC kicker to score at least 10 points and make 100 percent of his kicks, including one from 50-yards-or-longer.
  • This is Santos’ third Special Teams Player of the Week award. He becomes the fifth Bears player to earn Player of the Week honors this season, joining Caleb Williams (Week 3), Josh Blackwell (Week 4), Colston Loveland (Week 9) and D’Marco Jackson (Week 15). Santos joins Paul Edinger, Robbie Gould and Jeff Jaeger as the only Bears kickers to earn three Special Teams Player of the Week honors.
    • 2020: Week 6
    • 2022: Week 7
    • 2025: Week 16
  • Santos surpasses kicker Eddie Murray (two-time winner) for the most Player of the Week awards by a former Tulane player.

Joe Burrow, Derek Stingley & Logan Cooke Named Week 16 AFC Players of the Week

NFL Editor
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Joe Burrow, Derek Stingley & Logan Cooke Named Week 16 AFC Players of the Week

NEW YORK – Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow, Houston Texans cornerback Derek Stingley and Jacksonville Jaguars punter Logan Cooke are the AFC Offensive, Defensive and Special Teams Players of the Week for games played in Week 16 (December 18, 20-22).

OFFENSE: QB JOE BURROW, CINCINNATI BENGALS

  • Burrow completed 25 of 32 pass attempts (78.1 percent) for 309 yards and four touchdowns with no interceptions for a 146.5 passer rating in Cincinnati’s 45-21 victory at Miami. He had the highest passer rating in the NFL and the most touchdown passes in the AFC in Week 16. Burrow became the third player in NFL history with at least 150 touchdown passes (152) and the fifth player ever with at least 20,000 passing yards (20,269) in his first 75 career games.
  • This is the eighth career Player of the Week award for Burrow and his first this season, joining Boomer Esiason (nine-time winner) as the only Bengals players with eight-or-more Player of the Week awards.
    • 2021: Weeks 4, 16
    • 2022: Weeks 7, 13, 16
    • 2023: Weeks 8
    • 2024: Week 17
    • 2025: Week 16
  • Burrow has the fourth-most Player of the Week awards by a quarterback since entering the NFL in 2020. Only Josh Allen (16-time winner), Lamar Jackson (nine) and Patrick Mahomes (nine) have more.

DEFENSE: CB DEREK STINGLEY, HOUSTON TEXANS

  • Stingley recorded two tackles, a forced fumble and returned an interception 31 yards for a touchdown in Houston’s 23-21 win over Las Vegas. He was the only player in the NFL with a forced fumble and interception in Week 16.
  • This is Stingley’s third-career Defensive Player of the Week award and he becomes the third Texans player to earn Player of the Week honors this season, joining C.J. Stroud (Week 5) and Danielle Hunter (Week 10). Stingley has the second-most Defensive Player of the Week awards by a Texans player, trailing only J.J. Watt (seven-time winner).
    • 2023: Week 13
    • 2024: Week 15
    • 2025: Week 16
  • Stingley ties Patrick Peterson (three) for the most Defensive Player of the Week awards earned by a former LSU cornerback.

SPECIAL TEAMS: P LOGAN COOKE, JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS

  • Cooke had six punts – including four inside the 20 with two inside the 10 and one inside the five – with a league-long of 63 and an average of 52 yards in the Jaguars 34-20 win at Denver.
  • This is Cooke’s first Player of the Week award and the first by a Jaguars punter since Chris Hanson (Week 11, 2002).
  • Cooke joins Boobie Dixon (Week 12, 2014) as the only former Mississippi State players to win a Special Teams Player of the Week award. 

JLab Birmingham Bowl Preview: Georgia Southern Eagles (6-6) vs. Appalachian State Mountaineers (5-7)

NCAAFB Editor
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JLab Birmingham Bowl Preview: Georgia Southern Eagles (6-6) vs. Appalachian State Mountaineers (5-7)

The 2025 JLab Birmingham Bowl features a Sun Belt Conference rematch between the Georgia Southern Eagles (6-6) and the Appalachian State Mountaineers (5-7), pitting two familiar foes in a rare intra-conference postseason clash. Georgia Southern earned the bid after a gritty regular-season finish, including a 25-23 victory over App State on November 6, while the Mountaineers seek redemption to end a disappointing year on a high note. Below is a detailed preview of the matchup.

Venue Location

Protective Stadium, Birmingham, Alabama. This outdoor multi-purpose venue, home to UAB football, seats approximately 47,100 and features a turf surface, hosting the Birmingham Bowl since 2021.

Kickoff is set for 2:00 p.m. ET (1:00 p.m. CT). The game will be broadcast on ESPN.

Note: While the query references December 25, all official sources confirm December 29 as the date.

Weather Forecast

As an outdoor game, expect mild winter conditions in Birmingham. Forecasts for December 29, 2025, predict daytime highs around 55-60°F with lows in the 30s, partly cloudy skies, and a 20-30% chance of scattered showers. Winds around 5-10 mph could affect kicking and passing if precipitation develops, but overall, conditions favor a balanced game—warm clothes recommended for fans.

Injury Report

Both teams have navigated injuries throughout the season, with depth tested in this bowl matchup.

  • Georgia Southern Eagles: Tight end River Helms is sidelined with an undisclosed injury. Running back OJ Arnold is out (undisclosed). Wide receiver Josh Dallas is questionable (undisclosed). Wide receiver Dalen Cobb is out for the season (undisclosed). Running back Terrance Gibbs is questionable (undisclosed). Defensive lineman J. Whitehead is questionable (undisclosed). These absences could strain the offense, particularly in the passing game.
  • Appalachian State Mountaineers: Offensive guard T. Ramsey is questionable with an undisclosed injury. Wide receiver Roberts has suffered a torn ACL and will miss the bowl. These issues could limit App State’s offensive line protection and receiving options.

Key Player Matchups

This rematch could hinge on Georgia Southern’s passing attack versus App State’s secondary, with injuries adding intrigue to these battles.

  • GS QB JC French IV vs. APP S Camryn Bracha: French threw for over 2,500 yards this season; Bracha, App’s interception leader, must contain him to force turnovers.
  • APP QB Joey Aguilar vs. GS LB Marquis Buchanan: Aguilar’s dual-threat ability tests Buchanan, GS’s top tackler, in containing scrambles and short passes.
  • GS RB Jalen White vs. APP DL Santana Hopper: White’s ground game (800+ yards) challenges Hopper’s run-stopping prowess.
  • APP WR Kaedin Robinson vs. GS CB Marc Stampley II: Robinson’s route-running could exploit Stampley in coverage mismatches.

Other notables: GS WR Derwin Burgess Jr. vs. APP secondary for big plays.

Recent Team Forms

  • Georgia Southern Eagles (6-6, 4-4 Sun Belt): Started 2-3 with losses to Boise State and Ole Miss but rebounded in conference play, winning 4 of 8, including a 25-23 thriller over App State and a 31-28 win over James Madison. Averaged 28 points in victories but struggled defensively in losses (allowing 40+).
  • b (5-7, 2-6 Sun Belt): Opened 3-2 with wins over East Tennessee State and Liberty but faltered in conference, losing 6 of 8, including to Georgia Southern and a 58-10 blowout at James Madison. Recent form: Lost 3 of last 4, with defense allowing 35+ in losses.

Conference vs Conference

Sun Belt vs. Sun Belt. As an intra-conference matchup, there’s no cross-conference edge, but the Sun Belt in 2025 featured strong offenses (conference averaged 28.5 PPG) with defenses ranking mid-pack nationally. James Madison won the title, highlighting the East Division’s competitiveness, where both teams resided.

Series History

Appalachian State leads the all-time series 21-18-1 in a rivalry dating back to 1932. The teams have met annually since 1993, with App State holding a 5-5 record in the last 10 games. Georgia Southern won the most recent matchup 25-23 on November 6, 2025. Games average close scores, with the largest margin a 47-point App State win in 1998.

Betting Trends

  • Georgia Southern: 6-5-1 ATS overall; 4-2 ATS as favorites; 7-5 O/U, trending over in rematches.
  • Appalachian State: 5-7 ATS; 3-4 ATS as underdogs; 6-6 O/U, favoring unders on turf.
  • Game-Specific: Public on App State +7.5, sharps on Georgia Southern; overs hit in 4 of last 6 series games; Sun Belt favorites 5-3 ATS in bowls.

Historical Betting Results

The Birmingham Bowl (since 2006) has seen favorites go 9-5-3 ATS, with unders hitting in 12 of 17 games. Largest margin: +35 (USF 46-11 over South Carolina, 2016). Recent: 2024 Vanderbilt covered -3 vs. Georgia Tech (over 55.5); 2023 Duke covered -7 vs. Troy (under 44.5). Sun Belt teams are 2-3 ATS in this bowl.

Game Odds

Georgia Southern Eagles                              – 7

Appalachian State Mountaineers             48.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Sunday, December 28, 2025

NFL Game Preview: Los Angeles Rams (11-4) vs. Atlanta Falcons (6-9)

NFL Editor
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NFL Game Preview: Los Angeles Rams (11-4) vs. Atlanta Falcons (6-9)

The Los Angeles Rams will face the Atlanta Falcons in a Week 17 NFC matchup of the 2025 NFL season. Kickoff is set for 8:15 PM ET.

Broadcast: ESPN: Joe Buck, Troy Aikman, Lisa Salters (field reporter), Laura Rutledge (field reporter)

Westwood One: Kevin Harlan, Kurt Warner

The venue is Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, where the Falcons will host the Rams.

This contest features a playoff-contending Rams team against a Falcons squad looking to play spoiler in their final home game, with potential implications for NFC seeding.

Injury Report

Both teams are managing injuries as the season nears its end, with the Rams particularly hit at key positions. Here’s the latest based on recent updates:

Los Angeles Rams:

WR Davante Adams (undisclosed): Likely out for Week 17; did not practice and is the biggest question mark.

G Kevin Dotson (ankle): Doubtful; sustained a sprain and his status is in doubt.

DT Braden Fiske (undisclosed): Questionable; limited in practice.

The Rams’ offense could struggle without Adams’ production (assuming he’s sidelined), putting more pressure on other receivers like Cooper Kupp. The offensive line’s stability is also at risk with Dotson potentially out.

Atlanta Falcons:

WR Drake London (knee): Limited in practice but returned; expected to play.

TE Kyle Pitts (knee): Limited; working through the injury but likely available.

CB A.J. Terrell (hamstring): Did not practice; questionable after sitting out earlier sessions.

CB Mike Hughes (ankle): Questionable.

DE Zach Harrison (Achilles): Limited; status uncertain.

CB Antonio Hamilton (quad): DNP; out.

CB Kevin King (concussion): DNP; out.

WR Malik Heath (personal): Questionable.

LB Bralen Trice (knee): On IR; out.

The Falcons’ secondary is thinned out, which could be exploited by the Rams’ passing game, but London’s availability boosts their offense.

Key Player Matchups

This game pits the Rams’ high-powered offense against a Falcons defense dealing with injuries. Here are the pivotal battles:

Rams QB Matthew Stafford vs. Falcons Secondary: Stafford’s precision passing will test Atlanta’s banged-up corners, especially if Terrell is limited. Without Adams, expect more targets to Kupp.

Falcons QB (assuming Michael Penix Jr. or veteran) vs. Rams Pass Rush: The Rams’ front (potentially without Fiske) ranks high in sacks, pressuring Atlanta’s protection.

Rams RB Kyren Williams vs. Falcons Run Defense: Williams’ ground game could control the clock against a Falcons unit allowing 4.3 yards per carry.

Falcons WR Drake London vs. Rams CB (e.g., Tre’Davious White): London’s size in the red zone meets the Rams’ coverage, which has been solid.

Falcons TE Kyle Pitts vs. Rams LBs: Pitts’ athleticism could create mismatches if he’s fully healthy.

These matchups favor the Rams, especially if Atlanta’s defense can’t generate pressure.

The Rams lead in points scored (30.5 PPG) and are stout defensively (19.9 PPG allowed), while the Falcons struggle offensively (20.1 PPG).

Recent Team Forms

Los Angeles Rams (Last 5 Games):

Week 16: W 28-21 vs. Seahawks (strong comeback)

Week 15: L 24-31 @ 49ers

Week 14: W 35-17 vs. Cardinals

Week 13: W 27-20 @ Saints

Week 12: W 31-14 vs. Eagles Form: 4-1, with explosive offense leading the way. They’ve covered the spread in 4 of their last 6 and gone OVER in 3 of 5.

Atlanta Falcons (Last 5 Games):

Week 16: W 26-19 vs. Cardinals

Week 15: L 21-28 @ Commanders

Week 14: L 17-24 vs. Panthers

Week 13: L 20-27 @ Buccaneers

Week 12: W 24-21 vs. Giants Form: 2-3, showing inconsistency but with recent home wins. They’ve gone UNDER in 4 of their last 6 games.

Series History

The Los Angeles Rams hold a commanding all-time edge over the Atlanta Falcons, with a record of 49-30-2 in 81 meetings (including 2 playoffs).  

The Rams have won 8 of the last 10 encounters, including a 31-27 victory in 2022.

Atlanta’s last win came in 2019 (37-10). The Rams are 25-15 on the road against the Falcons, often dominating in high-scoring affairs averaging 42 points in recent games.

Betting Trends

Rams: 10-5 ATS this season; 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games. They’ve won 8 straight after a loss and gone OVER in 3 of 5 road games.  

Falcons: 6-9 ATS; 2-4 ATS at home. UNDER has hit in 4 of their last 6, but they’re 3-2 ATS as underdogs.  

Head-to-Head Trends: Rams 6-4 ATS in last 10; games average 42 points (OVER lean in recent matchups).

RAMS NOTES:

• QB MATTHEW STAFFORD passed for a season-high 457 yards & had 3 TDs in Week 16. Has 4,179 passing yards & 40 TDs this season & is the 3rd player all-time (Tom Brady & Aaron Rodgers) with 40+ TD passes in 3 career seasons & 7th player in NFL history with 4,000+ passing yards in 10 career seasons. Ranks 1st in NFL with 40 TD passes & 4,179 passing yards this season. Aims for 4th in row on primetime this season with 3+ TDs. Passed for 272 yards & 3 TDs in last meeting. • RB KYREN WILLIAMS led team with 70 rush yards in Week 16. Aims for 5th in row with 70+ rush yards. Has rush TD in 3 of his past 4. • RB BLAKE CORUM had rush TD in Week 16 & aims for 5th in row with rush TD. • WR PUKA NACUA led team with career-high 225 yards & had 2 TDs in Week 16, his 7th-career game with 160+ rec. yards, most in the NFL since 2023. Aims for 4th in row with 150+ rec. yards. • TE COLBY PARKINSON has TD catch in 2 of his past 3. • LB NATE LANDMAN had five tackles & sack in Week 16. Aims for 4th in row on primetime this season with TFL. Has 5+ tackles in 11 of his past 12. Had 191 tackles, 2 sacks, 7 TFL, 6 FF & INT in 3 seasons (2022-24) with Atl. • LB OMAR SPEIGHTS led team with 7 tackles in Week 16 & has 5+ tackles in 3 of his past 4 games. • DE KOBIE TURNER had 1.5 sacks, 2 PD & 1st-career INT in Week 16. Aims for 4th in row with sack & 3rd in row on primetime this season with 0.5+ sacks. • CB COBIE DURANT had FR in Week 16. Had 1st career sack & INT in last meeting. • CB EMMANUEL FORBES had PD in Week 16 & aims for 4th in row with PD. Ranks tied-5th with 16 PD this season. • CB JOSH WALLACE had 1st career INT in Week 16. Has PD in 2 of his past 3. • S KAM CURL had 5 tackles & 1st FF this season in Week 16. Aims for 4th in row on primetime with 5+ tackles. Had 11 tackles in last game vs. Atl (10/15/23 w/ Was.).

FALCONS NOTES:

• QB KIRK COUSINS passed for 197 yards & 2 TDs in Week 16. Has TD pass in 4 of his past 5 games. Ranks 5th with 296 TD passes & 6th with 44,394 pass yards since 2012. • RB BIJAN ROBINSON had 168 scrimmage yards (92 receiving, 76 rushing) & TD catch in Week 16, his 2nd consecutive game with 75+ rec. yards & 75+ rush yards, 1 of 5 players since 2000 to do so. Has 5,367 career scrimmage yards, 3rd-most scrimmage yards by player under age of 24 in NFL history. Has TD in 3 of his past 4. Aims for 7th in row with 90+ scrimmage yards. • RB TYLER ALLGEIER led team with 79 rush yards in Week 16. Has rush TD in 4 of his past 5 games at home. • WR DRAKE LONDON has 100+ rec. yards in 3 of his past 4 games. • TE KYLE PITTS had 57 rec. yards & TD catch in Week 16. Aims for 3rd in row with TD reception. Has 80+ rec. yards in 3 of his past 4. Ranks 4th among TEs since 2021 with 3,505 rec. yards. • EDGE JAMES PEARCE (rookie) had half sack & 2 PD in Week 16. Has 0.5+ sack in 7 consecutive games, 2nd-longest active streak (Myles Garrett – 9 games). Ranks tied-1st among rookies with 8.5 sacks this season. • EDGE JALON WALKER ranks 2nd among rookies with 5.5 sacks this season. • EDGE ARNOLD EBIKETIE had 2nd sack of season in Week 16. • LB DIVINE DEABLO led team with 6 tackles & had 2 PD in Week 16. Aims for 5th in row at home with 5+ tackles. • CB DEE ALFORD has TFL in 3 of his past 4 games. • CB C.J. HENDERSON had 1st INT this season in Week 16. • CB A.J. TERRELL aims for 5th in row with PD & 3rd in row at home with 6+ tackles. Had 9 tackles & PD in last meeting. • S JESSIE BATES had PD last week. Has 6+ tackles in 2 of his past 3 at home. • S XAVIER WATTS aims for 3rd in row with 5+ tackles

Game Odds

Los Angeles Rams            – 7.5

Atlanta Falcons                 49.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Sunday, December 28, 2025

Kinder’s Texas Bowl Preview: LSU Tigers (7-5) vs. Houston Cougars (9-3)

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Kinder’s Texas Bowl Preview: LSU Tigers (7-5) vs. Houston Cougars (9-3)

The 2025 Texas Bowl features the LSU Tigers (SEC) against the Houston Cougars (Big 12) in an intriguing postseason matchup at NRG Stadium. LSU enters with a 7-5 record after an up-and-down SEC season, while Houston brings a 9-3 mark following a strong Big 12 campaign under coach Willie Fritz. This game revives a rare series where LSU holds a 2-1 edge, but Houston aims to leverage home-field advantage in their backyard. Below is a comprehensive breakdown.

Venue Location

NRG Stadium, Houston, Texas. This domed NFL venue, home to the Houston Texans, seats over 72,000 and ensures a controlled environment, minimizing weather impacts.

Kickoff is set for 8:15 p.m. CT (9:15 p.m. ET). The game will be televised on ESPN.

Note: While the query specifies December 25, all official sources confirm December 27 as the date.

Weather Forecast

As a domed game at NRG Stadium, weather will not affect play. For reference, Houston’s forecast for December 27, 2025, calls for highs around 70°F with a chance of scattered showers, but the enclosed roof eliminates any impact.

Injury Report

Both teams are dealing with significant absences, with LSU hit harder by opt-outs and injuries, potentially forcing backups into key roles.

  • LSU Tigers: Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier is out (undisclosed injury). Cornerback Mansoor Delane is out (undisclosed). Linebacker Whit Weeks is out (undisclosed). Linebacker Harold Perkins Jr. has opted out. Defensive end Jack Pyburn has opted out. Wide receiver Aaron Anderson has opted out. Center Braelin Moore and wide receiver Nic Anderson are back from earlier issues, but safety AJ Haulcy is uncertain (undisclosed). Backup quarterback Michael Van Buren Jr. or Rickie Collins is expected to start.
  • Houston Cougars: Wide receiver S. Johnson is out for the season (undisclosed). Running back Rayshon Luke is questionable (undisclosed). Wide receivers Josiah Freeman and Jahlil McClain are expected to play after clearing reports. No major opt-outs reported, but monitor for any late changes in the backfield.

Key Player Matchups

LSU’s depleted roster shifts focus to backups against Houston’s balanced attack, with matchups in the secondary and trenches likely decisive.

  • LSU QB Michael Van Buren Jr. (or Rickie Collins) vs. HOU S Camryn Bracha: With Nussmeier out, the backup QB faces Bracha, Houston’s interception leader—could lead to turnovers if pressured.
  • HOU QB Donovan Smith vs. LSU LB Davhon Keys: Smith’s dual-threat ability (over 2,500 passing yards) tests Keys, stepping up in a thinned linebacker corps without Weeks and Perkins.
  • LSU RB Kaleb Jackson vs. HOU DL Korey Foreman: Jackson must establish the run; Foreman anchors Houston’s line to contain him and force passing situations.
  • HOU WR Zechariah Campbell vs. LSU CB Ashton Stamps: Campbell’s speed could exploit Stamps in coverage, especially without Delane.

Other notables: LSU TE Trey’Dez Green vs. HOU secondary for mismatches; HOU RB Re’Shaun Sanford II vs. LSU DL if active.

Recent Team Forms

  • LSU Tigers (7-5, 3-5 SEC): Started strong with non-conference wins but struggled in SEC play, losing to top teams like Alabama and Texas A&M. Finished with a 3-5 conference mark, including a win over Arkansas but losses in close games. Recent form: Won 2 of last 4, averaging 28 points in victories but allowing 30+ in defeats.
  • Houston Cougars (9-3, 6-3 Big 12): Rebounded under Fritz with wins over Rice and Colorado, splitting Big 12 games but finishing 6-3 in conference. Strong home record (8-4 overall trend), emphasizing defense in victories. Recent form: Won 5 of last 7, holding opponents under 20 points in key wins.

Conference vs Conference

SEC vs. Big 12. The SEC holds a historical edge with a 68-48 all-time record against the Big 12, reflecting superior depth and recruiting. In recent years, the SEC is 10-8 vs. Big 12, with a .555 winning percentage.

Series History

LSU leads the all-time series 2-1. The Tigers won the most recent meetings: 35-34 in 1996 and another in 1999 (though details vary, LSU 2-1 overall). Houston’s lone win came in 1968 (20-7). Games have been close, averaging high scores.

Betting Trends

  • LSU: 4-8 ATS overall; strong as underdogs (50.2% confidence to cover). Unders in 4 of last 6 games.
  • Houston: 8-4 ATS; 3-3 ATS at home. Favors unders against SEC foes.
  • Game-Specific: Sharps on Houston -2.5; public on LSU +2.5. Unders hit in 6 of last 8 Texas Bowls; Big 12 favorites 5-2 ATS vs. SEC.

Historical Betting Results

The Texas Bowl (since 2006) has favorites at 10-8 ATS, with overs in 11 of 18 games. Largest margin: +31 (TCU 34-3 over Louisiana, 2024). Recent: 2024 TCU -8.5 covered (under); 2023 Fresno State failed to cover -3.5 (under). SEC teams like LSU are 2-1 ATS in recent iterations.

Game Odds

LSU Tigers                           41.5

Houston Cougars             – 2.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Thursday, December 25, 2025

Gator Bowl Preview: Virginia Cavaliers (10-3) vs. Missouri Tigers (8-4)

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Gator Bowl Preview: Virginia Cavaliers (10-3) vs. Missouri Tigers (8-4)

The 2025 TaxSlayer Gator Bowl pits the No. 20 Virginia Cavaliers (ACC) against the No. 25 Missouri Tigers (SEC) in a compelling matchup between two teams that exceeded preseason expectations. Virginia brings a 10-3 record after a heartbreaking overtime loss in the ACC Championship, while Missouri enters at 8-4 following a solid SEC campaign. This rare clash—only the second in series history—highlights Virginia’s offensive resurgence against Missouri’s defensive grit. Below is a full breakdown.

Venue Location

EverBank Stadium, Jacksonville, Florida. This outdoor NFL venue, home to the Jacksonville Jaguars, seats over 67,000 and features a Bermuda grass surface, hosting the Gator Bowl annually since 1996.

Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET (6:30 p.m. CT). The game will air on ESPN.

Note: While the query specifies December 25, all official sources confirm December 27.

Weather Forecast

Mild conditions are expected, with daytime highs around 77°F and evening temperatures dropping to 57°F. Partly cloudy skies with a low chance of precipitation (under 20%), light winds at 4 mph, and moderate humidity. Ideal for football, but any scattered showers could slick the grass surface.

Injury Report

Both teams are dealing with significant absences, impacting depth in the trenches and skill positions.

  • Virginia Cavaliers: Linebacker Kam Robinson is out for the season with a torn ACL. Quarterback Chandler Morris is recovering from an injury sustained against Wake Forest but is expected to play. Left tackle McKale Boley is questionable after an issue in the Virginia Tech game. Offensive guard T. Wyatt is questionable (undisclosed). Monitor the offensive line for any limitations.
  • Missouri Tigers: Middle linebacker Josiah Trotter and tight end Brett Norfleet are out for the bowl with undisclosed injuries. Offensive lineman Cayden Green is out (undisclosed). Quarterback Sam Horn is out for the season (ankle). Defensive lineman Z. Young is questionable (personal). Running back Ahmad Hardy and others are healthy, but the losses strain the front seven and passing game.

Key Player Matchups

This game could turn on Virginia’s high-octane offense challenging Missouri’s opportunistic defense, particularly with injuries forcing adjustments.

  • UVA QB Chandler Morris vs. MIZ S Marvin Burks Jr.: Morris leads with over 3,800 passing yards and 30+ TDs; Burks, Missouri’s secondary anchor, must limit his deep balls to receivers like Suderian Harrison.
  • MIZ QB Beau Pribula vs. UVA LB Rob Keys: Pribula’s dual-threat (over 2,000 passing, 500 rushing) tests Keys, Virginia’s tackling leader in a front seven thinned by Robinson’s absence.
  • UVA RB Anthony Colandrea (dual-threat QB/RB hybrid) vs. MIZ DL Khalil Jacobs: Colandrea’s versatility adds ground punch; Jacobs must contain scrambles to force passing situations.
  • MIZ WR Kevin Coleman Jr. vs. UVA CB J. Prevard: Coleman’s speed (top receiver) exploits Prevard in man coverage.

Other watch: UVA WR Andre Greene Jr. could create mismatches against MIZ CB Toriano Pride Jr.

Recent Team Forms

  • Virginia Cavaliers (10-3, 7-1 ACC): Started 2-1 with wins over William & Mary (55-16) and Stanford (48-20), then dominated ACC play with victories over FSU, UNC, and Wake Forest (27-7 over VT to end regular season). Lost ACC Championship in OT to Duke. Averaged 35+ points in wins, showing offensive balance but defensive vulnerabilities in losses.
  • Missouri Tigers (8-4, 5-3 SEC): Opened 4-0 with blowouts over Central Arkansas (61-6) and Kansas (42-31), but dropped games to Texas A&M and Alabama. Rebounded with wins over South Carolina (29-20) and UMass (45-3), emphasizing defense (under 20 points allowed in victories) despite offensive inconsistencies.

Conference vs Conference

ACC vs. SEC. The SEC edges the ACC in 2025 rankings (8 vs. 5 in AP Top 25) and head-to-head (e.g., Clemson 1-1 vs. SEC), reflecting superior depth and recruiting. ACC teams like Virginia emphasize speed, but SEC squads hold a 55-45 all-time edge in cross-conference play.

Series History

Missouri leads 1-0, with their lone meeting in 1973 (Missouri won 31-7 in Columbia). No other games exist, making this a fresh rivalry matchup.

Betting Trends

  • Virginia: 7-6 ATS overall; 6-1 ATS as underdogs; 8-5 O/U. Strong on the road (4-1 ATS) but unders in cold/rainy games.
  • Missouri: 7-5 ATS; 5-2 ATS as favorites; 6-6 O/U, trending under against ACC foes.
  • Game-Specific: Public leaning Virginia +4.5, sharps on Missouri; unders hit in 5 of Missouri’s last 7 neutrals; SEC favorites 6-3 ATS vs. ACC in bowls.

Historical Betting Results

The Gator Bowl (since 1946) has favorites at 35-30 ATS, with overs hitting in 38 of 65 games. Largest margin: +41 (Syracuse 52-10 over Clemson, 1996). Recent: 2024 Ole Miss covered -3.5 vs. Duke (over); 2023 Clemson failed to cover -4 vs. Kentucky (under). SEC teams are 12-8 ATS in this bowl since 2000.

Game Odds

Virginia Cavaliers             44.5

Missouri Tigers                 – 4

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Thursday, December 25, 2025

Isleta New Mexico Bowl Preview: North Texas Mean Green (11-2) vs. San Diego State Aztecs (9-3)

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Isleta New Mexico Bowl Preview: North Texas Mean Green (11-2) vs. San Diego State Aztecs (9-3)

The 2025 Isleta New Mexico Bowl features the No. 23 North Texas Mean Green (AAC) against the San Diego State Aztecs (Mountain West) in a matchup of two programs capping breakout seasons. North Texas enters at 11-2 after falling in the AAC Championship, while San Diego State sits at 9-3 following a strong conference finish. This game revives a lopsided series dominated by SDSU, with both teams aiming for double-digit wins. Below is a detailed preview.

Venue Location

University Stadium (also known as Dreamstyle Stadium), Albuquerque, New Mexico. This outdoor venue, home to the New Mexico Lobos, seats approximately 39,224 and features a turf surface.

Kickoff is set for 5:45 p.m. ET (3:45 p.m. MT). The game will be broadcast on ESPN.

Note: While the query references December 25, all official sources confirm December 27.

Weather Forecast

Expect mild but potentially wet conditions in Albuquerque. Forecasts indicate daytime highs around 54°F with nighttime lows near 39°F, partly cloudy skies, and a 60% chance of precipitation (possible scattered showers). Winds around 5 mph, with low humidity—could affect footing on turf if rain develops.

Injury Report

Both teams face key absences, with SDSU’s quarterback situation particularly impacted.

  • North Texas Mean Green: Tight end Connor Vaughn is out with an undisclosed injury. Running backs Jayden Becks, Makenzie McGill II, and Caleb Hawkins are questionable (undisclosed). Defensive lineman W. Smith is questionable (undisclosed). Wide receiver Shaw and defensive lineman Vailea II are out for the season (undisclosed).
  • San Diego State Aztecs: Starting quarterback Jayden Denegal is out for the season (shoulder surgery), forcing backup Danny O’Neil into action. Running back Rayshon Luke is questionable (undisclosed). Offensive lineman Napier is out (knee surgery), and defensive end Letuli is uncertain (undisclosed). Defensive lineman Sonny Scott III is out (undisclosed).

Key Player Matchups

With Denegal out, SDSU’s offense shifts to O’Neil, testing NT’s defense, while NT’s high-powered attack (top-20 nationally) challenges SDSU’s secondary.

  • NT QB Chandler Morris vs. SDSU S Alonzo McCoy: Morris threw for over 3,500 yards and 30 TDs; McCoy, SDSU’s interception leader, must contain his deep throws.
  • SDSU QB Danny O’Neil vs. NT LB Shane Porter: O’Neil steps in as a freshman; Porter’s blitzing (team-high sacks) could disrupt his rhythm.
  • NT RB Shane Porter Jr. vs. SDSU DL Korey Foreman: Porter Jr.’s ground game powers NT; Foreman anchors SDSU’s line to stuff runs.
  • SDSU WR Jordan Napier vs. NT CB Jayden Hill: Napier’s speed tests Hill in coverage, especially if O’Neil airs it out.

Other notables: NT WR DT Sheffield could exploit mismatches against SDSU CB Chris Johnson.

Recent Team Forms

  • North Texas Mean Green (11-2, 7-1 AAC): Started 2-0 with wins over South Alabama and Stephen F. Austin, but hit a mid-season dip. Rebounded with a 7-1 conference mark, including blowouts over Tulsa (52-20) and Temple (45-3), before losing the AAC Championship to Tulane (35-28). Averaged 38 points in wins, emphasizing explosive offense.
  • San Diego State Aztecs (9-3, 6-2 MW): Opened 3-0 with victories over Texas A&M-Commerce and Oregon State, splitting MW play with losses to Boise State (28-24) and New Mexico (OT). Finished strong, winning 5 of last 7, holding opponents under 20 points in wins behind a top-50 defense.

Conference vs Conference

AAC vs. Mountain West. The MW holds a slight historical edge (35-32 all-time vs. MAC/AAC-like G5), with stronger recent non-conference showings (47.4% win rate vs. AAC’s 43.6% in crossovers). In 2025, MW teams like Boise State outperformed AAC counterparts in key metrics.

Series History

San Diego State leads 6-1 all-time, with wins in the last six meetings (dating back to 1969). NT’s lone victory was in 1968 (24-21). Most recent: SDSU 44-28 in 1971. Games average moderate scoring, with SDSU’s largest margin at +31.

Betting Trends

  • North Texas: 10-3 ATS overall; 8-2 ATS as favorites; 9-4 O/U, trending over in high-scoring games. 3-7 SU vs. MW historically but 8-2 ATS in last 10 bowls.
  • San Diego State: 9-3 ATS; 8-2 ATS as underdogs; 3-9 O/U, favoring unders in neutral sites. 8-2 SU in last 10 but 1-4 ATS vs. AAC foes.
  • Game-Specific: Public on NT -3.5, sharps on SDSU +3.5; overs hit in 4 of NT’s last 5; MW underdogs 4-2 ATS vs. AAC in bowls.

Historical Betting Results

The New Mexico Bowl (since 2006) has favorites at 10-8 ATS, with overs hitting in 11 of 18 games. Largest margin: +31 (TCU 34-3 over Louisiana, 2024). Recent: 2024 TCU -8.5 covered (under 60.5); 2023 Fresno State failed to cover -3.5 vs. NMSU (under 47.5). MW teams are 5-4 ATS in this bowl; AAC squads 2-1.

Game Odds

North Texas Mean Green             – 5.5

San Diego State Aztecs                  52.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Thursday, December 25, 2025

Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl Preview: Miami-Ohio Redhawks (7-6) vs. Fresno State Bulldogs (8-4)

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Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl Preview: Miami-Ohio Redhawks (7-6) vs. Fresno State Bulldogs (8-4)

The 2025 Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl matches the Miami (OH) RedHawks (MAC) against the Fresno State Bulldogs (Mountain West) in a postseason clash between two teams wrapping up solid campaigns. Miami (OH) enters at 7-6 after a resilient MAC run, while Fresno State boasts an 8-4 record with a strong home finish. This marks the first-ever meeting between the programs. Below is a comprehensive breakdown.

Venue Location

Arizona Stadium, Tucson, Arizona. This outdoor venue, home to the Arizona Wildcats, seats about 50,782 and features a grass surface, hosting the Arizona Bowl since 2015.

Kickoff is set for 4:30 p.m. ET (2:30 p.m. MT). The game will air on The CW Network.

Note: While the query specifies December 25, all official sources confirm December 27 as the date.

Weather Forecast

As an outdoor game, conditions should be mild for late December in the desert. Tucson’s forecast for December 27, 2025, shows daytime highs around 70°F with nighttime lows near 46°F, a 69% chance of precipitation (possible scattered showers), and light winds at 2 mph. UV index is low at 2—expect comfortable play but monitor for rain impacting footing on grass.

Injury Report

Both teams have managed injuries, with Fresno State hit harder in key positions, potentially affecting depth.

  • Miami (OH) RedHawks: Wide receiver Javon Tracy is out for the season with a knee injury. Quarterback Dequan Finn is out for the season (OFS, undisclosed). Wide receiver Antwon Thomas is questionable (undisclosed, est. return Dec 27). Linebacker Corban Hondru and others are healthy, but the QB loss shifts to Henry Hesson, who started multiple games.
  • Fresno State Bulldogs: Defensive lineman Sonny Scott III is out for the season (undisclosed). Running back Rayshon Luke is questionable (undisclosed). Wide receivers Josiah Freeman and Jahlil McClain are off the report and expected to play, but tight end depth remains thin from earlier issues.

Key Player Matchups

With Finn out, Miami (OH)’s offense relies on balance against Fresno’s stout defense (top-50 in points allowed), while Fresno’s passing attack tests Miami’s secondary.

  • MIA QB Henry Hesson vs. FSU S Camryn Bracha: Hesson threw for 596 yards and 4 TDs in relief duty, facing Bracha, Fresno’s interception leader—could force turnovers if pressured.
  • FSU QB Mikey Keene vs. MIA LB Corban Hondru: Keene’s efficiency (over 2,500 yards, 20 TDs) meets Hondru, Miami’s tackle leader, who must disrupt underneath routes.
  • MIA RB Keyon Mozee vs. FSU DL Tyler Batty: Mozee’s ground game (800+ yards) challenges Batty’s run-stopping ability to control the line.
  • FSU WR Mac Hippenhammer vs. MIA CB Keith Reynolds: Hippenhammer’s speed could exploit Reynolds in coverage mismatches.

Other watch: MIA WR Reggie Virgil vs. FSU secondary for big plays.

Recent Team Forms

  • Miami (OH) RedHawks (7-6, 6-2 MAC): Started 1-3 with losses to Rutgers (45-17) and UNLV (41-38), but rebounded in conference play, winning 6 of 8 including Northern Illinois (24-17) and a MAC title game appearance. Averaged 26 points in wins but struggled defensively in losses (allowing 35+).
  • Fresno State Bulldogs (8-4, 5-3 MW): Opened 3-1 with wins over Sacramento State and New Mexico State, but split conference games with losses to UNLV (24-21) and Colorado State (28-21). Finished strong, winning 4 of last 6, emphasizing defense (holding foes under 20 in victories).

Conference vs Conference

MAC vs. Mountain West. The MW holds a slight historical edge with a 35-32 all-time record against MAC teams, reflecting stronger depth in recent cross-conference play. In bowl games, MW squads have won 60% of matchups since 2010.

Series History

This is the first-ever matchup between Miami (OH) and Fresno State. No prior games exist in their histories.

Betting Trends

  • Miami (OH): 6-7 ATS overall; 4-2 ATS as underdogs; 7-6 O/U. Strong as road dogs (3-1 ATS last 4).
  • Fresno State: 7-5 ATS; 4-2 ATS as favorites; 6-6 O/U, trending under in low-total games.
  • Game-Specific: Public on Miami +5.5, sharps on Fresno; unders hit in 5 of last 7 Arizona Bowls; MW favorites 4-2 ATS vs. MAC in bowls.

Historical Betting Results

The Arizona Bowl (since 2015) has favorites at 5-4 ATS, with unders hitting in 6 of 9 games. Largest margin: +28 (Boise State 38-10 over Central Michigan, 2021). MW teams are 3-2 ATS in this bowl, while MAC squads are 1-1. Recent: 2024 Miami (FL) covered as -3.5 vs. Iowa State (41-17).

vegasinsider.com +2

Game PredictionFresno State’s defensive edge and home-state familiarity should prevail in a low-scoring grind, but Miami (OH)’s resilience keeps it close. Keene exploits the secondary, while Bulldogs contain Mozee. Prediction: Fresno State 24, Miami (OH) 17 (Bulldogs cover -5.5; under 42.5 hits). Models favor Fresno by 5-7 points.

Game Odds

Miami-Ohio Redhawks                  41.5

Fresno State Bulldogs                    – 5.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Thursday, December 25, 2025

Stats Pop-Tarts Bowl Preview: Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (9-3) vs. BYU Cougars (11-2)

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Stats Pop-Tarts Bowl Preview: Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (9-3) vs. BYU Cougars (11-2)

The 2025 Pop-Tarts Bowl features the No. 22 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (ACC) against the No. 12 BYU Cougars (Big 12) in a high-stakes non-playoff matchup between two programs that exceeded expectations this season. Georgia Tech brings a 9-3 record, showcasing offensive firepower under quarterback Haynes King, while BYU enters at 11-2 after a strong Big 12 campaign led by a balanced attack. This game revives a series where BYU holds a 3-1 edge, promising an exciting clash of styles. Below is a detailed breakdown.

Venue Location

Camping World Stadium, Orlando, Florida. This outdoor venue, formerly known as the Citrus Bowl Stadium, seats over 60,000 and has hosted the bowl (under various names) since 1990.

Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m. ET (2:30 p.m. CT). The game will be broadcast on ABC and streamed on ESPN platforms.

Note: While the query references December 25, all official sources confirm December 27 as the date.

Weather Forecast

As an outdoor game, weather could favor passing attacks in mild conditions. Orlando’s forecast for December 27, 2025, indicates daytime highs around 75°F with lows near 59°F, partly cloudy skies, and a low chance (up to 3 rainy days in December averages) of precipitation. Winds around 6-7 mph with 55% humidity—comfortable for football, but monitor for any late-afternoon showers.

Injury Report

Both teams enter with key absences due to injuries and opt-outs, potentially shifting emphases to backups and depth.

  • Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets: Quarterback Haynes King is expected to play despite minor nagging issues throughout the season. Defensive back Rodney Shelley and offensive lineman Weston Franklin are questionable with undisclosed injuries from late-season games. Running back Jamal Haynes dealt with a shoulder issue but is probable. No major opt-outs reported, but monitor the secondary for any last-minute changes.
  • BYU Cougars: Running back LJ Martin, the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year, is out after shoulder surgery. Fellow running back Enoch Nawahine is also sidelined, thinning the backfield significantly. Linebacker Isaiah Glasker (undisclosed) and defensive end Logan Lutui are questionable. Quarterback Jake Retzlaff is probable despite minor ailments, but the RB losses force reliance on backups like Sione Moa.

Key Player Matchups

This game pits Georgia Tech’s explosive offense against BYU’s stingy defense, with matchups in the trenches and secondary likely deciding the outcome amid BYU’s RB injuries.

  • GT QB Haynes King vs. BYU S Tanner Wall: King’s dual-threat ability (over 2,500 passing yards, 800 rushing) tests Wall, BYU’s interception leader, in a secondary ranked top-20 nationally.
  • BYU QB Jake Retzlaff vs. GT LB Kyle Efford: Retzlaff’s efficiency (25 TDs, low INTs) faces Efford, GT’s tackle machine, who must contain scrambles without Martin in the backfield.
  • GT RB Jamal Haynes vs. BYU DL Tyler Batty: Haynes’ speed (1,000+ yards) challenges Batty’s pass-rush prowess to stuff runs and force third downs.
  • BYU WR Chase Roberts vs. GT CB Warren Burrell: Roberts’ big-play potential (top receiver) exploits Burrell in coverage mismatches.

Other notables: GT WR Malik Rutherford could torch BYU’s corners if King gets protection.

Recent Team Forms

  • Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (9-3, 6-3 ACC): GT started 5-0 with wins over Colorado (27-20) and Gardner-Webb (59-12), but hit mid-season bumps with losses to Notre Dame (31-24) and Miami (28-23). They finished strong, winning 4 of their last 5, including Syracuse (35-28) and NC State (31-17), averaging 35 points in victories behind King’s playmaking.
  • BYU Cougars (11-2, 8-1 Big 12): BYU dominated early with blowouts like Portland State (69-0) and Stanford (27-3), securing the Big 12 title share. Losses came to Kansas (17-13) and Arizona State (28-23), but they won 8 straight conference games, including Utah (22-21). Defense allowed under 20 points in wins.

Conference vs Conference

ACC vs. Big 12. The Big 12 dominated head-to-head in 2025 (6-1 record against ACC), highlighting depth and athleticism, while the ACC boasts higher-ceiling programs like Clemson and Miami. Historically, Big 12 holds a 47-41 edge all-time, with stronger recent non-conference showings.

Series History

BYU leads the all-time series 3-1 since 2002. The Cougars won the last three meetings: 41-17 (2012), 38-20 (2013), and an upcoming rematch. Georgia Tech’s lone win was 28-27 in 2003. Games average high scoring, with BYU’s largest margin at +24.

Betting Trends

  • Georgia Tech: 7-5 ATS overall; 5-1 ATS as underdogs; 8-4 O/U, trending over in high-total games. Strong in bowls (11-11 ATS all-time).
  • BYU: 8-5 ATS; 6-1 ATS as favorites of 3+; 7-6 O/U, favoring unders against ACC foes.
  • Game-Specific: Public on GT +4.5, sharps on BYU; overs hit in 4 of BYU’s last 5 neutrals; Big 12 favorites 5-2 ATS vs. ACC in bowls.

Historical Betting Results

The Pop-Tarts Bowl (formerly Cheez-It, Camping World, Russell Athletic) has seen favorites go 18-14 ATS since 1990, with overs hitting in 17 of 32 games. Largest margin: +42 (Illinois 63-21 over Virginia, 1999). Recent: 2024 Miami covered as -3.5 vs. Iowa State (win 41-17); 2023 Kansas State covered -2.5 vs. NC State (28-19). Underdogs are 8-18 ATS since 2000, but ACC teams hold a 5-3 ATS edge in the series.

Game Odds

Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets        56.5

BYU Cougars                                      – 4.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Thursday, December 25, 2025

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