Football is the most heavily wagered sport in the United States, and for good reason: every game offers dozens of betting angles, each with its own strategy, risk profile, and payout potential. Whether you’re betting the NFL or college football, understanding the core markets — and how to exploit them — is essential. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to wager on football with precision.
Point Spread: The Foundation of Football Betting
The point spread is the most popular football wager. Sportsbooks assign a margin that the favorite must win by for the bet to cash. For example:
Chiefs –6.5
Broncos +6.5
If you bet the Chiefs, they must win by 7 or more. If you take the Broncos, they can win outright or lose by 6 or fewer.
Key details:
Half‑points (“hooks”) eliminate pushes.
Spreads move based on injuries, weather, and betting action.
Sharp bettors often wager early; public bettors push lines late.
Moneyline: Just Pick the Winner
The moneyline is straightforward: pick the team that wins the game. Favorites carry a minus price (e.g., –180), while underdogs carry a plus price (e.g., +150). Moneylines are ideal when:
You like an underdog to win outright.
You don’t trust a favorite to cover a large spread.
Weather or injuries create volatility.
Totals (Over/Under): Betting the Score, Not the Winner
Totals allow you to bet on the combined points scored by both teams. If the total is 47.5, the Over cashes at 48 or more, and the Under cashes at 47 or fewer.
Key factors:
Weather: wind matters more than rain.
Pace of play: fast‑tempo offenses push Overs.
Defensive injuries can swing totals dramatically.
Red‑zone efficiency is more predictive than yardage.
Props: Player and Team Markets With Edges
Player props have exploded in popularity because they’re often softer than spreads or totals. Examples include:
Quarterback passing yards
Running back rushing attempts
Receiver receptions
Anytime touchdown scorer
Team props include:
First team to score
Total team points
Race to 10/20/30 points
Props reward bettors who study matchups, snap counts, and coaching tendencies.
Parlays and Same‑Game Parlays
Parlays combine multiple bets into one ticket for a larger payout. Every leg must win. Same‑game parlays (SGPs) allow correlated bets within a single matchup, such as:
QB Over passing yards
WR Over receptions
Team total Over
These can produce big payouts but carry higher risk.
Live Betting: Real‑Time Opportunities
Live betting allows you to wager as the game unfolds. Lines adjust after every play. Smart bettors look for:
Overreactions to early scores
Injuries that shift game plans
Pace changes
Weather deterioration
Live markets reward discipline and quick decision‑making.
Final Thoughts
Football betting offers unmatched depth, but success requires understanding spreads, totals, props, and live markets. Study matchups, monitor line movement, and manage your bankroll. With preparation and strategy, football becomes one of the most rewarding sports to wager on
Horse racing offers one of the most dynamic betting environments in sports, blending data, intuition, and strategy. With dozens of wagering options and constantly shifting odds, the sport rewards bettors who understand both the fundamentals and the nuances. Whether you’re betting the Kentucky Derby or a weekday card at Santa Anita, here’s how to approach horse racing wagering with precision.
Start With the Basics: Win, Place, and Show
The simplest wagers in horse racing are Win, Place, and Show bets.
Win: Your horse must finish first.
Place: Your horse must finish first or second.
Show: Your horse must finish in the top three.
Because the risk decreases as you move from Win to Show, the payouts decrease as well. These bets are ideal for beginners or for situations where you have a strong opinion about a horse’s consistency but not necessarily its ability to win.
Exacta, Trifecta, and Superfecta: Precision for Bigger Payouts
Exotic wagers allow bettors to predict the exact finishing order of multiple horses.
Exacta: Pick the first two finishers in order.
Trifecta: Pick the first three finishers in order.
Superfecta: Pick the first four finishers in order.
These bets can produce massive payouts, especially in large fields. To reduce difficulty, bettors often use “boxing”, which allows the selected horses to finish in any order. For example, a $1 Trifecta Box with horses 3‑5‑7 costs $6 and covers all possible finishing combinations among those three horses.
Understanding Odds and the Tote Board
Horse racing uses pari‑mutuel wagering, meaning bettors wager against each other, not the house. Odds fluctuate until the race begins, based on how much money is bet on each horse. A horse listed at 5‑1 at five minutes to post may go off at 3‑1 if late money pours in.
Key terms:
Morning Line: The track oddsmaker’s projection, not a guarantee.
Final Odds: Determined at post time based on total money wagered.
Overlay: A horse whose final odds are higher than its perceived chance of winning.
Underlay: A horse whose odds are too low relative to its true chances.
Finding overlays is one of the most important skills in horse racing betting.
Multi‑Race Wagers: Strategic Opportunities
Multi‑race bets require picking winners across consecutive races:
Daily Double: Two races
Pick 3: Three races
Pick 4 / Pick 5 / Pick 6: Four to six races
These wagers offer large payouts but require broader handicapping. Bettors often use “singles” (one horse in a race) to reduce cost and “spreads” (multiple horses) in unpredictable legs.
Handicapping: The Core of Horse Racing Betting
To bet effectively, study:
Past performances (PPs)
Speed figures
Class levels
Trainer and jockey statistics
Track conditions
Running styles (front‑runner, stalker, closer)
Post positions
A horse dropping in class, switching to a top jockey, or returning to a preferred distance can offer strong value.
Final Thoughts
Horse racing rewards preparation, discipline, and value‑driven wagering. With a mix of simple bets, exotic wagers, and multi‑race opportunities, bettors can tailor strategies to their risk tolerance. Study the PPs, watch the tote board, and always manage your bankroll. The more you understand the horses, the conditions, and the wagering pools, the sharper your bets become.
Boxing is one of the oldest and most straightforward sports to wager on, but the simplicity of two fighters in a ring can be deceptive. Sharp bettors know that boxing markets reward preparation, timing, and a deep understanding of styles. Whether you’re betting a championship bout or a regional undercard, here’s how to approach boxing wagering with precision.
Start With the Moneyline: The Foundation of Boxing Betting
The most common wager in boxing is the moneyline, where you simply pick which fighter will win. Favorites are listed with a minus sign (e.g., –250), meaning you must risk $250 to win $100. Underdogs carry a plus sign (e.g., +200), meaning a $100 wager returns $200 in profit. Because draws are possible, some sportsbooks offer “three‑way moneylines” that include a draw as a separate betting option. Others offer “draw no bet” markets, which refund your stake if the fight ends even.
Winning Method: A More Detailed Approach
If you want more value, look at method‑of‑victory markets. These allow you to bet on how the fight ends:
KO/TKO/DQ (any stoppage)
Decision (unanimous, split, or majority)
Draw
Books also offer “fighter + method” combos, such as “Fighter A by KO/TKO” or “Fighter B by Decision.” These wagers require more accuracy but often deliver significantly better odds.
Round Betting: Precision for Higher Payouts
Round betting is where experienced boxing bettors find edges. You can wager on:
Exact round (e.g., Fighter A wins in Round 7)
Round groups (Rounds 1–3, 4–6, 7–9, etc.)
Over/Under total rounds (e.g., Over 8.5 rounds)
The half‑round system is important: 8.5 rounds means the fight must pass 1:30 of Round 9 to cash the over. Understanding fighter tendencies — fast starters, late‑round finishers, cardio issues — is essential here.
Prop Markets: Niche Angles With Real Value
Boxing props vary by sportsbook but often include:
Will the fight go the distance
Knockdowns (yes/no)
Total knockdowns
Point deductions
Winning group of rounds
Fight to end in first minute of a round
These props reward bettors who study referee tendencies, fighter discipline, and stylistic matchups.
Study Styles, Not Just Records
Records can be misleading. A 20–0 fighter with soft opposition may be less prepared than a 12–2 fighter who has faced elite competition. Focus on:
Stance matchups (orthodox vs. southpaw)
Punch volume
Defense and footwork
Chin durability
Body‑shot vulnerability
Corner quality and cutmen
Styles make fights — and they make betting opportunities.
Timing Your Bet Matters
Lines move based on public action, weigh‑ins, and insider information. Early in the week, sharps influence the market. Closer to fight night, casual bettors push favorites. If you like the underdog, early is often better. If you like the favorite, waiting can sometimes yield a cheaper price.
Final Thoughts
Boxing betting rewards research, discipline, and understanding the nuances of the sport. With moneylines, method‑of‑victory wagers, round betting, and prop markets, bettors have multiple ways to find value. Study the fighters, track line movement, and always manage your bankroll. The sweet science isn’t just in the ring — it’s in the wagering strategy behind every smart bet.
* The surging Sabres secured an overtime victory versus the Senators and joined a rare list of teams with a seven-game winning streak headed into the holiday break.
* Connor McDavid moved six points ahead of Nathan MacKinnon in the Art Ross Trophy race and enters the hiatus with the League scoring lead for the fifth time in his career.
* The NHL Morning Skate will also take a break for the holidays and returns on the morning of Sunday, Dec. 28 (following the return of games on Saturday, Dec. 27).
Yule Log Burns Brightly FOR SURGING SABRES HEADED INTO holiday break Bowen Byram (2-1—3) opened the scoring and buried his first career overtime goal as Buffalo recorded a seven-game winning streak for the first time since a franchise record-tying 10-0-0 run from Nov. 8-27, 2018. Byram registered the second three-point game of his career and first since Nov. 3, 2021 (2-1—3), which was less than eight months before he won the Stanley Cup with Colorado.
* The Sabres (18-14-4, 40 points) sit two points back of the reigning-champion Panthers (20-14-2, 42 points), who occupy the Eastern Conference’s final Wild Card spot. Buffalo improved to 4-0-0 since naming Jarmo Kekäläinen its general manager on Dec. 15.
McDAVID’S FIVE-ASSIST NIGHT, DRAISAITL’S HAT TRICK ELEVATE EDMONTON TO WIN
Connor McDavid (0-5—5) assisted on all five Edmonton goals, including three of Leon Draisaitl’s, and achieved several notable feats as he built a six-point lead in the Art Ross Trophy race. McDavid (23-44—67 in 38 GP) became the first player with 67 or more points entering the holiday break since 1995-96, when Penguins teammates Mario Lemieux (76) and Jaromir Jagr (68) achieved the feat.
* The Oilers captain climbed into a tie with Bobby Orr (13) for the seventh-most four-assist games in NHL history before moving into a tie for 12th for the League’s all-time five-point games list. Tuesday marked McDavid’s second career five-assist performance, which matched Draisaitl and Paul Coffey for the second most in Oilers history behind Wayne Gretzky (12).
* McDavid boosted his totals this December to 12-19—31 (12 GP), a month that has seen him post four different games with four-plus points – a feat he also achieved in December 2022. The last player to have five such performances in a single calendar month was Lemieux in March 1993.
RANGERS, PANTHERS PICK UP HIGH-SCORING VICTORIES BEFORE WINTER CLASSIC The Rangers and Panthers skated to high-scoring wins in their fourth-last games before meeting outdoors in the 2026 Discover NHL Winter Classic on Jan. 2:
* Despite entering the final frame down 3-2, Artemi Panarin (1-1—2) helped the Rangers score five third-period goals to earn their largest margin of victory in a third-period comeback win since Feb. 22, 1972. Panarin factored on his 99th game-winning goal with New York, which tied Chris Kreider for the sixth most in franchise history, trailing Rod Gilbert (138), Brian Leetch (124), Jean Ratelle (116) and Mark Messier (100).
* After entering the second intermission with a 2-0 deficit, five different Panthers players scored as Florida completed a multi-goal third-period comeback against Carolina for the second time in five days – it marked the club’s third such victory this season, which is the most among all teams. The Panthers scored five in the third period for the fifth time in franchise history and first since Jan. 31, 2013.
Stocking stuffers
More highlights from the League’s last games before its three-day holiday break, with many more in Tuesday’s edition of Live Updates:
* Samuel Girard scored Colorado’s lone goal to help the League-leading Avalanche tie the second-fewest games to 60 points in a season (also 36 GP; BOS in 2022-23, SJS in 2008-09 & PHI in 1979-80), behind the 1929-30 Bruins (35 GP). Colorado (27-2-7) tied the second-most wins before the holiday break, trailing only the 2018-19 Lightning (28).
* William Nylander (2-2—4) notched the third of his four points on Max Domi’s end-to-end go-ahead goal as the Maple Leafs quelled a comeback attempt by the Penguins, which featured Sidney Crosby collecting his 1,080th career assist to overtake Adam Oates (1,079) for eighth place on the NHL’s all-time list.
* Dylan Larkin tied the game with 4:03 remaining in the third period and then scored the overtime winner to reach the 20-goal mark. Detroit has two 20-goal scorers (Larkin & Alex DeBrincat) at the holiday break for the first time since 1988-89 (Steve Yzerman & Paul MacLean) and won its 10th game this season after scoring the winner in the third period or overtime, which is the most among all teams. The contest also featured John Gibson extend his win streak to eight games and become the first Red Wings goaltender since Chris Osgood in 2007-08 (also 8 GP) to post a run of that length.
* Lane Hutson (0-3—3) and Noah Dobson (0-3—3) became the third defensemen duo in Canadiens history to each record at least three assists in the same game, joining Andrei Markov and P.K. Subban (Oct. 23, 2015) as well as Guy Lapointe and J.C. Tremblay (Feb. 12, 1972 & Jan. 6, 1971). Hutson’s first helper of the night was also the 90th of his career – he became second-fastest player in Canadiens history to record 90 assists with the club (121 GP), behind only Buddy O’Connor (114 GP).
* Adam Pelech potted the go-ahead goal with 1:15 remaining in regulation – the second latest by a defenseman in franchise history behind Ryan Pulock (59:19 on Feb. 11, 2020) – as the Islanders (20-13-4, 44 points) remained one point back of the second-place Flyers (19-10-7, 45 points) in the Metropolitan Division. Trevor Zegras (0-1—1) helped Philadelphia clip Chicago and became the first player with a nine-game point streak in his first season with the Flyers since John LeClair (12 GP from March 2-25, 1995).
* Steven Stamkos (1-1—2) ended his 1,200th NHL game with his 17th career overtime goal and moved into a tie for the seventh most in League history. Stamkos also became the third player in franchise history with the winning goal in three consecutive games, following Mike Fisher (3 GP from Jan. 23-31, 2012) and Steve Sullivan (3 GP from Jan. 5-9, 2007).
* ICYMI: The Predators’ president and chief operating officer, Michelle Kennedy, was highlighted in the most-recent Women in Hockey feature.
NHL RETURNS FROM BREAK WITH RIVALRY-HEAVY NHL SATURDAY SHOWDOWN
The NHL schedule is now on a three-day holiday break before returning for the NHL Saturday Showdown on Dec. 27, a 13-game slate that includes 11 divisional matchups, five provincial/state rivalry games, a clash between the top two teams in the Eastern Conference (DET-CAR) and a showdown between a pair of Western Conference contenders (COL-VGK).
* Excluding the 2020-21 season when all 868 games were intradivisional, this will mark just the sixth day in League history to feature 11 or more intradivisional contests: Dec. 27, 2023 (12 of 14 GP), Oct. 11, 2025 (11 of 16 GP), Jan. 18, 2025 (11 of 15 GP), April 13, 2023 (11 of 15 GP) and Nov. 3, 2007 (all 11 GP).
A closer look at the state/provincial matchups set for Saturday and a reminder to click here for a more in-depth guide on how to watch and stream with NHL partners around the globe:
Battle of New York: Rangers at Islanders (6 ET on MSGSN, MSG 2)
Saturday will mark the 299th all-time regular-season meeting between the Rangers and Islanders. While the Rangers (142-127-29, 313 points) hold a slight edge overall (NYI: 137-133-28, 302 points), the Islanders (77-57-14, 168 points) have the advantage when playing at home. In the previous meeting between the clubs this season (Nov. 8), the Islanders blanked the Rangers at Madison Square Garden backed by a 33-save shutout from Ilya Sorokin and a two-goal outing from leading scorer Bo Horvat.
Battle of Ontario: Senators at Maple Leafs (7 ET on Sportsnet, TVA Sports)
The “Battle of Ontario” resumes for the first time since the 2025 First Round which saw three of the six games require overtime before Toronto closed out the series on the road. It also marks the final matchup between captains Auston Matthews and Brady Tkachuk before they suit up with Team USA at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. When going head-to-head in the regular season, Matthews (17-17—34 in 26 GP) and the Maple Leafs (15-9-2) hold the advantage over Tkachuk (7-11—18 in 26 GP) and the Senators (11-11-4). However, Ottawa has won each of its last five games against Toronto dating to Dec. 27, 2023.
Battle of the Sunshine State: Lightning at Panthers (7 ET on The Spot, SCRIPPS)
The Panthers and Lightning have combined to appear in each of the last six Stanley Cup Final series (since 2019-20), with each winning the Cup twice, and will continue to put their stamp on signature NHL events in the new year with each franchise hosting the first-ever NHL outdoor games in the State of Florida. The two-time defending Stanley Cup champion Panthers will host the Rangers in the 2026 Discover NHL Winter Classic on Friday, Jan. 2 at loanDepot park in Miami followed by the Lightning welcoming the Bruins for the 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa on Feb. 1.
Freeway Faceoff: Ducks at Kings (9 ET on FDSNW, KTTV, Victory+)
Los Angeles is set to host Anaheim for the 169th edition of the “Freeway Faceoff.” The Kings have bested the Ducks in each of the past five season series, though Anaheim owns the lone victory between the two clubs this season (5-4 SO W on Nov. 28). The Ducks (2007) were the first California team to win the Stanley Cup, while the Kings (2012 & 2014) are the only club from the state to win it multiple times. The Ducks and Kings both currently hold a playoff spot – the last time both teams qualified for the same postseason was in 2018.
Battle of Alberta: Oilers at Flames (10 ET on Sportsnet, TVA Sports)
The Oilers and Flames will participate in the latest chapter of the “Battle of Alberta” just four days after the most recent. Saturday marks the 26th instance of Edmonton and Calgary facing one another in consecutive games and first since Oct. 12-14, 2016. Overall, the Oilers are 16-7-2 in the second game of back-to-back matchups between the rivals and have won each of the past five under that scenario.
HOCKEY NIGHT IN CANADA ALSO HAS CELEBRINI IN HOMETOWN
Hockey Night in Canada’s four-game NHL Saturday Showdown slate will include the aforementioned “Battle of Ontario” and “Battle of Alberta” games as well as Quinn Hughes and the Wild visiting Mark Scheifele and the Jets. The Hockey Night in Canada broadcast will close with Macklin Celebrini (North Vancouver, B.C.) returning home to face his hometown Canucks while ranking tied for third in the NHL scoring race behind a pair of players he hopes to join on Team Canada for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 in Connor McDavid and Nathan MacKinnon.
* Celebrini will be close to his home just after the holidays. In four career games against the Canucks, Celebrini has recorded 1-4—5 boosted by a point in each of his appearances in Vancouver: April 14 (1-0—1 in 2-1 OTL) and Dec. 23, 2024 (0-2—2 in 4-3 L). Celebrini heads back to British Columbia in the summer where he skates with NHL players including Blackhawks forward Connor Bedard.
DALLAS COWBOYS at WASHINGTON COMMANDERS on Thursday night Dallas Cowboys T.J. Bass G Thumb Full Participation Full Participation — Tyler Booker G Ankle Limited Participation Limited Participation — Josh Butler CB Knee Limited Participation Limited Participation — Caelen Carson CB Hamstring Limited Participation Limited Participation — Kenny Clark DT Hand Full Participation — Malik Davis RB Toe Full Participation — Ryan Flournoy WR Knee Limited Participation Did Not Participate — Tyler Guyton T Ankle Did Not Participate Did Not Participate — Phil Mafah RB Shoulder Limited Participation Limited Participation — DeMarvion Overshown LB Concussion Did Not Participate Did Not Participate — Shavon Revel CB Knee Full Participation Full Participation — Nathan Thomas T Shoulder Full Participation Full Participation — Payton Turner DE Ribs Limited Participation Limited Participation — Kavontae Turpin WR Shoulder Limited Participation Limited Participation — Javonte Williams RB Neck Limited Participation Limited Participation — Quinnen Williams DT Neck Limited Participation Limited Participation — Donovan Wilson S Hip Limited Participation Limited Participation — Walkthrough on Monday, the practice report is an estimation. Washington Commanders Nick Bellore LB Concussion Did Not Participate Did Not Participate — Brandon Coleman G Shin Full Participation Full Participation — Jayden Daniels QB Left Elbow Limited Participation Limited Participation — George Fant T Knee Full Participation Full Participation — Eddie Goldman DT Concussion Did Not Participate — Javon Kinlaw DT Not injury related – esting player – Did Not Participate — Jaylin Lane WR Ankle Did Not Participate — Marcus Mariota QB Right Hand, Quadricep – Did Not Participate Did Not Participate — Daron Payne DT Back Did Not Participate Did Not Participate — Laremy Tunsil T Oblique Did Not Participate Did Not Participate — Bobby Wagner LB Knee Did Not Participate Full Participation — Colson Yankoff TE Ankle Full Participation Full Participation —
DENVER BRONCOS at KANSAS CITY CHIEFS on Thursday night Denver Broncos Nate Adkins TE Knee Did Not Participate Did Not Participate — Pat Bryant WR Concussion Did Not Participate Did Not Participate — Dre Greenlaw LB Hamstring Did Not Participate Did Not Participate — Riley Moss CB Ankle Full Participation Full Participation — Ben Powers G Biceps Full Participation Full Participation — Karene Reid LB Hamstring Full Participation Full Participation — Justin Strnad LB Foot Full Participation Full Participation — Luke Wattenberg C Shoulder Did Not Participate Did Not Participate — Team Did Not Practice on Monday, the practice report is an estimation. Walkthrough on Tuesday, the practice report is an estimation. Kansas City Chiefs Jake Briningstool TE Hamstring Full Participation Full Participation — Mike Edwards S Shoulder Full Participation Full Participation — Kristian Fulton CB Knee, Wrist Full Participation Full Participation — Noah Gray TE Shoulder Full Participation Full Participation — Nazeeh Johnson CB Shoulder Full Participation Full Participation — Trent McDuffie CB Knee Did Not Participate Did Not Participate — Jaylon Moore T Knee Limited Participation Full Participation — Derrick Nnadi DT Illness Limited Participation Limited Participation — Esa Pole T Knee Full Participation Full Participation — Nikko Remigio WR Knee Full Participation Did Not Participate — Rashee Rice WR Concussion Did Not Participate Did Not Participate — Trey Smith G Ankle Full Participation Full Participation — Tyquan Thornton WR Concussion Did Not Participate Did Not Participate — Jaylen Watson CB Groin Did Not Participate Did Not Participate —
DETROIT LIONS at MINNESOTA VIKINGS on Thursday night Detroit Lions Trystan Colon G Wrist Limited Participation Limited Participation — Marcus Davenport DE Shoulder Limited Participation Limited Participation — Taylor Decker T Shoulder Did Not Participate Limited Participation — Graham Glasgow C Knee Limited Participation Full Participation — Tom Kennedy WR Abdomen Limited Participation Limited Participation — Avonte Maddox CB Back, Illness Did Not Participate Did Not Participate — Christian Mahogany G Fibula Limited Participation Limited Participation — Giovanni Manu T Knee Limited Participation Limited Participation — Alim McNeill DT Abdomen Limited Participation Limited Participation — David Montgomery RB Illness Did Not Participate — Al-Quadin Muhammad – DE Knee Limited Participation Limited Participation — Amik Robertson CB Hand Limited Participation Limited Participation — Amon-Ra St. Brown WR Knee Did Not Participate Limited Participation — Walkthrough on Monday, the practice report is an estimation. Walkthrough on Tuesday, the practice report is an estimation. Maddox added Illness injury on Tuesday. Minnesota Vikings Gavin Bartholomew TE Back Full Participation Full Participation — Ty Chandler RB Knee Full Participation Full Participation — Javon Hargrave DT Thigh Limited Participation Limited Participation — T.J. Hockenson TE Shoulder Did Not Participate Did Not Participate — Aaron Jones RB Ankle Limited Participation Limited Participation — Ryan Kelly C Concussion Did Not Participate Did Not Participate — Austin Keys LB Ankle Full Participation Full Participation — Jordan Mason RB Ankle Did Not Participate Did Not Participate — J.J. McCarthy QB Right Hand Did Not Participate Did Not Participate — Brian O’Neill T Heel Did Not Participate Limited Participation — Eric Wilson LB Thumb Limited Participation Limited Participation — Team Did Not Practice on Monday, the practice report is an estimation. Walkthrough on Tuesday, the practice report is an estimation.
BALTIMORE RAVENS at GREEN BAY PACKERS on Saturday night Baltimore Ravens Chidobe Awuzie CB Foot Limited Participation — Kyle Hamilton S Ankle Full Participation — Jay Higgins LB Knee Full Participation — Lamar Jackson QB Back Did Not Participate — Keaton Mitchell RB Calf Limited Participation — Andrew Vorhees G Foot Limited Participation — Walkthrough on Tuesday, the practice report is an estimation. Green Bay Packers Aaron Banks G Neck Limited Participation — Quinton Bohanna DT Illness Did Not Participate — Romeo Doubs WR Wrist Full Participation — Josh Jacobs RB Knee, Ankle Limited Participation — Jordan Love QB Left Shoulder, Concussion – Limited Participation — Bo Melton CB Illness Did Not Participate — Arron Mosby DE Ankle Limited Participation — Collin Oliver DE Hamstring Full Participation — Sean Rhyan G Knee Limited Participation — Jordon Riley DE Ankle Limited Participation — Zach Tom T Back, Knee Did Not Participate — Lukas Van Ness DE Foot Limited Participation — Christian Watson WR Shoulder Full Participation — Kristian Welch LB Ankle Did Not Participate — Josh Whyle TE Concussion Limited Participation — Dontayvion Wicks WR Ankle Full Participation — Evan Williams S Knee Limited Participation — John Williams G Back Limited Participation — Savion Williams WR Foot Full Participation — Malik Willis QB Right Shoulder Limited Participation — Walkthrough on Tuesday, the practice report is an estimation.
HOUSTON TEXANS at LOS ANGELES CHARGERS on Saturday night Houston Texans Azeez Al-Shaair LB Ankle, Knee Limited Participation — Denico Autry DE Knee Did Not Participate — Austin Brinkman LS Knee Full Participation — Trenton Brown T Ankle, Knee Did Not Participate — Ajani Carter CB Hamstring Limited Participation — Aireontae Ersery T Thumb Did Not Participate — Jake Hansen LB Chest Did Not Participate — Jamal Hill LB Wrist Full Participation — Dylan Horton DE Hip Did Not Participate — Kamari Lassiter CB Foot Did Not Participate — Woody Marks RB Ankle Full Participation — Sheldon Rankins DT Knee Did Not Participate — Dalton Schultz TE Knee Limited Participation — Derek Stingley CB Oblique Did Not Participate — Darrell Taylor DE Ankle Full Participation — Justin Watson WR Calf Full Participation — Los Angeles Chargers Keenan Allen WR Not injury related – resting player – Did Not Participate — Mekhi Becton G Knee Did Not Participate — Derius Davis WR Ankle Did Not Participate — Bud Dupree DE Back Limited Participation — Justin Herbert QB Left Hand Full Participation — Donte Jackson CB Hip Full Participation — Khalil Mack DE Not injury related – resting player – Did Not Participate — R.J. Mickens S Shoulder Did Not Participate — Trey Pipkins T Ankle Full Participation — Jamaree Salyer G Hamstring Did Not Participate — Benjamin St-Juste CB Shoulder Did Not Participate — Teair Tart DT Groin Did Not Participate — Kimani Vidal RB Neck Did Not Participate
NEW YORK – With two weeks remaining, 10 playoff spots have been clinched: five in the AFC (Buffalo, Denver, Jacksonville, the Los Angeles Chargers and NewEngland) and five in the NFC (Chicago, the Los Angeles Rams, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Seattle).
Philadelphia (NFC East) is the only team to secure a division title so far and since 2002, this marks the third season, along with 2010 and 2013, that one or fewer divisions have been clinched with two weeks remaining.
With Chicago, Jacksonville, New England, San Francisco and Seattle all reaching the postseason, at least four teams have qualified for the playoffs after failing to make the postseason the year before in 36 consecutive seasons (1990-2025).
With Chicago, New England and San Francisco all qualifying for the playoffs after finishing last in their division in 2024, at least one team has made the playoffs the season after finishing in last or tied for last place in 27 of the past 30 seasons (1996-2025).
This week, there are four matchups between teams currently in playoff position: on Saturday (4:30 p.m. ET, NFL Network), the Houston Texans (10-5) visit the Los Angeles Chargers (11-4); on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET (CBS), the Seattle Seahawks (12-3) visit the Carolina Panthers (8-7) and at 4:25 p.m. ET (FOX), the Buffalo Bills (11-4) host the Philadelphia Eagles (10-5); and on Sunday night (8:20 p.m. ET, NBC), the Chicago Bears (11-4) visit the San Francisco 49ers (11-4).
Here’s a look at each division race entering Week 17:
AFC East: The New England Patriots (12-3) have clinched their first playoff berth since 2021 and lead the Buffalo Bills (11-4) by one game in the AFC East. The Patriots finished last in the division in 2024 and in 19 of the past 22 seasons (2003-24), at least one team finished in first place in its division the season after finishing in last or tied for last place.
The Patriots visit the New York Jets (3-12) on Sunday(1 p.m. ET, FOX) and with a win and a Bills loss or tie, can clinch their first AFC East division title since 2019.
The Bills, who host Philadelphia (10-5) on Sunday (4:25 p.m. ET, FOX), are the only team that has qualified for the postseason in each of the past seven seasons (2019-25).
AFC North: The Pittsburgh Steelers (9-6) lead the Baltimore Ravens (7-8) by two games and look to secure their first division title since 2020. Pittsburgh visits Cleveland (3-12) on Sunday (1 p.m. ET, CBS) and with a win or tie, will clinch the division title for the eighth time and a playoff spot for the 13th time in 19 seasons under head coach Mike Tomlin.
The Steelers, with their Week 16 win at Detroit, secured their 22nd consecutive season with a .500-or-better record and surpassed the Dallas Cowboys (21 consecutive seasons from 1965-85) for the longest such streak in NFL history.
AFC South: The Jacksonville Jaguars (11-4) have won six consecutive games and lead the Houston Texans (10-5), who have won seven consecutive games, for first place in the AFC South. The Jaguars, along with the Patriots, have clinched playoff spots after selecting in the top five in the 2025 NFL Draft. In seven consecutive seasons (2019-25) and in 22 of the past 24 seasons (2002-25), a team that chose in the top five of the NFL Draft has qualified for the postseason.
The Jaguars visit Indianapolis (8-7) on Sunday (1 p.m. ET, FOX) and with a win and a Texans loss or tie, will secure their first division title since 2022.
Houston, looking to become the fifth team since 1990 to begin 0-3 and qualify for the postseason, visits the Los Angeles Chargers (11-4) on Saturday (4:30 p.m. ET, NFL Network) in a matchup between two AFC teams currently in Wild Card position. The Texans, who have won the AFC South in each of the past two seasons, can clinch a playoff berth with a win or tie or an Indianapolis loss or tie.
AFC West: The Denver Broncos (12-3) hold a one game lead over the Los Angeles Chargers (11-4) in the AFC West and currently hold the No. 1 seed in the AFC after clinching a playoff spot for the second-consecutive season. Denver visits Kansas City (6-9) on Thursday Night Football (8:15 p.m. ET, Prime Video) while the Chargers host Houston (10-5) on Saturday (4:30 p.m. ET, NFL Network). The Chargers are the only team with an undefeated record within their own division this season (5-0) and will visit the Broncos in Week 18.
The Broncos can win 13 games in a season for the first time since 2013 and the AFC West title for the first time since 2015.
The Chargers have qualified for the postseason in back-to-back years for the first time since four straight playoff appearances from 2006-09.
NFC East: The Philadelphia Eagles (10-5) clinched a division title in Week 16 and became the first team to repeat as NFC East champions in 20 seasons, since they won four consecutive division titles from 2001-04. The Eagles are currently the No. 3 seed in the NFC playoff standings, trailing Seattle (12-3) and Chicago (11-4).
NFC North: The Chicago Bears (11-4) clinched their first playoff berth since 2020 last week after overcoming a 10-point fourth quarter deficit to defeat Green Bay (9-5-1), 22-16, in overtime. The Bears are the first team in NFL history to win six games after trailing in the final two minutes of the fourth quarter.
The Bears visit San Francisco (11-4) on Sunday Night Football (8:20 p.m. ET, NBC) and with a win, will clinch the NFC North for the first time since 2018.
The Packers, who host Baltimore (7-8) on Saturday night (8 p.m. ET, Peacock), can qualify for the postseason for the fifth time in the past six seasons with a win or tie in Week 17.
NFC South: The Carolina Panthers (8-7) defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-8), 23-20, in Week 16 to take over the top spot in the NFC South and will meet again in Tampa in Week 18. The Panthers host Seattle (12-3) on Sunday (1 p.m. ET, CBS) while the Buccaneers visit Miami (6-9) in Week 17 (1 p.m. ET, FOX).
The Buccaneers have won four consecutive division titles since 2021 while the Panthers are seeking their first NFC South title since 2015 and first playoff berth since 2017.
NFC West: The Seattle Seahawks (12-3), Los Angeles Rams (11-4) and San Francisco 49ers (11-4) have each clinched a playoff berth. The Seahawks overcame a 16-point deficit to defeat the Rams, 38-37, in overtime last week to take over the division lead.
The Seahawks, who travel to Carolina (8-7) on Sunday (1 p.m. ET, CBS), reached the postseason for the first time since 2022 and can win the division for the first time since 2020.
The Rams, who visit Atlanta (6-9) on Monday Night Football (8:15 p.m. ET, ESPN) in Week 17, qualified for the playoffs for the seventh time in nine seasons under head coach Sean McVay and can win the NFC West for the second-straight season.
The 49ers, who host Chicago (11-4) on Sunday Night Football (8:20 p.m. ET, NBC), qualified for the postseason for the fourth time in the past five years and can win the NFC West for the third time in the past four seasons.
WAIVER SYSTEM TRANSACTIONS WAIVER REQUEST (NO RECALL) LOS ANGELES RAMS Smith, Christopher DB Georgia (2)* PS: EXC
CLAIMING DEADLINE: 4:00 p.m., N.Y. Time, Wednesday, 12/24/25 ASSIGNMENT VIA WAIVER SYSTEM MINNESOTA Rypien, Brett QB Boise State – From INDIANAPOLIS *Indicates player’s accrued seasons at end of 2024 season.
ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS ACTIVATION MINNESOTA Chandler, Ty RB North Carolina – From Reserve/Injured; Designated for Return
FREE AGENT SIGNINGS ARIZONA Karty, Joshua K Stanford – From Los Angeles Rams Practice Squad King, Kalen DB Penn State – From Carolina Practice Squad LAS VEGAS Mafi, Atonio G UCLA – From Las Vegas Practice Squad LOS ANGELES CHARGERS Patterson, Jaret RB Buffalo – From Los Angeles Chargers Practice Squad NEW ENGLAND Jaimes, Brenden G Nebraska – From New England Practice Squad SEATTLE Bell, D’Anthony DB West Florida – From Seattle Practice Squad
RESERVE LIST ADDITIONS ARIZONA Nolen, Walter DT Mississippi – Reserve/Injured Williams, Garrett DB Syracuse – Reserve/Injured CHICAGO Newman, Luke G Michigan State – Status Changed to Reserve/Injured; Designated for Return (Also see OTHER TRANSACTIONS/COMMENTS) CLEVELAND Judkins, Quinshon RB Ohio State – Reserve/Injured HOUSTON Carter, Ajani DB Houston – Status Changed to Reserve/Injured; Designated for Return (Also see OTHER TRANSACTIONS/COMMENTS) LAS VEGAS Meredith, Jordan C Western Kentucky – Reserve/Injured NEW ENGLAND Farmer, Joshua DT Florida State – Reserve/Injured Williams, Milton DT Louisiana Tech – Status Changed to Reserve/Injured; Designated for Return (Also see OTHER TRANSACTIONS/COMMENTS) PITTSBURGH Metcalf, DK WR Mississippi – Reserve/Suspended By Commissioner-Less than One Year (Also see NOTES)
PRACTICE SQUAD TRANSACTIONS ADDITIONS ATLANTA Asante, Eugene LB Auburn BUFFALO Devonshire, M.J. DB Pittsburgh CAROLINA Reid, Mike DB South Dakota HOUSTON Echols, Power LB North Carolina Fotu, Leki DT Utah – Veteran Merriweather, Kaevon DB Iowa – Exception LAS VEGAS Harvey, Jahfari DE Southern Methodist LOS ANGELES CHARGERS Freeman, Royce RB Oregon – Veteran MIAMI Henderson, Jack DB Minnesota NEW ENGLAND Mitchell, Elijah RB Louisiana-Lafayette – Veteran Smith, Brandon WR Iowa SEATTLE Hall, Tyler DB Wyoming – Veteran TAMPA BAY Jackson, Nick LB Iowa
REVERSIONS FROM ACTIVE/INACTIVE LIST INDIANAPOLIS Owen, Coleman WR Ohio Sills, Josh G Oklahoma State SAN FRANCISCO Apple, Eli DB Ohio State Kendricks, Eric LB UCLA
PRACTICE SQUAD; INJURED DENVER Turner-Yell, Delarrin DB Oklahoma – Does Not Count on Practice Squad
CONTRACTS TERMINATED BY CLUB HOUSTON Arnette, Damon DB Ohio State Harris, Marcus DT Auburn Hill, Brandon DB Pittsburgh LOS ANGELES RAMS Johnson, Alex DB UCLA NEW ENGLAND Gutierrez, Sebastian T Minot State
CONTRACTS TERMINATED BY PLAYER CAROLINA King, Kalen DB Penn State (Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS) LAS VEGAS Mafi, Atonio G UCLA (Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS) LOS ANGELES CHARGERS Patterson, Jaret RB Buffalo (Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS) LOS ANGELES RAMS Karty, Joshua K Stanford (Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS) NEW ENGLAND Jaimes, Brenden G Nebraska (Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS) SEATTLE Bell, D’Anthony DB West Florida (Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS)
OTHER TRANSACTIONS/COMMENTS RETURNED TO PRACTICE CHICAGO Newman, Luke G Michigan State – Remains on Reserve/Injured; Designated for Return HOUSTON Carter, Ajani DB Houston – Remains on Reserve/Injured; Designated for Return NEW ENGLAND Williams, Milton DT Louisiana Tech – Remains on Reserve/Injured; Designated for Return
DE-ACTIVATIONS (All are 12/22) INDIANAPOLIS Carlies, Jaylon LB Missouri Gardner, Ahmad DB Cincinnati Giddens, D.J. RB Kansas State Gould, Anthony WR Oregon State Lowery, Reuben DB Chattanooga Mallory, Will TE Miami Raimann, Bernhard T Central Michigan SAN FRANCISCO Beal, Robert DE Georgia Givens, Kevin DT Penn State Green, Renardo DB Florida State Guerendo, Isaac RB Louisville Lucas, Chase DB Arizona State Pearsall, Ricky WR Florida Robinson, Curtis LB Stanford
TRYOUTS ARIZONA Burgess, Cole WR Cortland State Grimm, Luke WR Kansas Hudson, Kobe WR Central Florida Pratt, Michael QB Tulane ATLANTA Asante, Eugene LB Auburn BUFFALO Koo, Younghoe K Georgia Southern Stewart, Gavin K Georgia Southern Trujillo, Maddux K Temple LAS VEGAS Dowell, Colton WR Tennessee-Martin Elkin, Luke LS Iowa Evans, Joe DT Texas-San Antonio Ezukanma, Erik WR Texas Tech Fields, Tony LB West Virginia Henigan, Seth QB Memphis Miles, Joshua T Morgan State MIAMI Cook, Alex DB Washington Henderson, Jack DB Minnesota Johnson, Quindell DB Memphis NEW ENGLAND Johnson, Brandon WR Central Florida Smith, Brandon WR Iowa Wilkerson, Kristian WR Southeast Missouri PITTSBURGH Anderson, Ryder DT Indiana Cindric, Matthew C California Coburn, Keondre NT Texas Daniels, Braeden G Utah Ezirim, Josiah T Eastern Kentucky Hinton, Christopher DT Michigan Hufford, Jarrod C Iowa State Ivey, Jason T North Carolina A&T Laumea, Sataoa T Utah Ritzie, Jahvaree DE North Carolina Stewart, Corey T Purdue Thompson, Lorenzo T Rhode Island WASHINGTON Julien, Jake P Eastern Michigan
VISITS ARIZONA Woodside, Logan QB Toledo CAROLINA Reid, Mike DB South Dakota NEW ENGLAND Mitchell, Elijah RB Louisiana-Lafayette
Texans-Chargers Saturday at 4:30 p.m. ET Exclusively on NFL Network –
Also Available for Streaming Across Devices with NFL+
Rich Eisen, Kurt Warner, Jamie Erdahl and Megan Olivi on the Call
‘NFL GameDay Kickoff’ Airs at 2 p.m. ET
INGLEWOOD, Calif. – On Saturday, Dec. 27, quarterback C.J. Stroud and the Houston Texans travel to face quarterback Justin Herbert and the Los Angeles Chargers at 4:30 p.m. ET, exclusively on NFL Network.
Play-by-play announcer Rich Eisen, analyst Kurt Warner, and sideline reporters Jamie Erdahl and Megan Olivi are on the call, along with Mike Pereira as rules analyst.
Additionally, Texans-Chargers will be available on local broadcast stations in Houston (KHOU) and Los Angeles (KCBS). Fans can also stream the game across devices with NFL+, the league’s direct-to-consumer offering available through NFL digital properties (NFL.com and the NFL app), and on an authenticated basis through NFL Network distributors’ apps/sites and NFL digital platforms. For a full list of viewing options, fans can visit NFL.com/watch.
Coverage on Sunday begins at 2 p.m. ET on NFL Network with NFL GameDay Kickoff, hosted by Rhett Lewis, Michael Robinson and Maurice Jones-Drew. Additionally, Insider Tom Pelissero provides the latest news and information from around the league, while Eisen, Warner, Erdahl and Olivi join from SoFi Stadium.
Lewis, Robinson and Jones-Drew provide coverage during halftime of Texans-Chargers and postgame.
NFL programming is the most valuable content in all of sports and entertainment. NFL programs rank as 46 of the top 50 shows on television since the start of the 2025 season.
NEW YORK – Anaheim Ducks forward Ross Johnston has been fined $2,864.58, the maximum allowable under the Collective Bargaining Agreement, for roughing Seattle Kraken forward Tye Kartye during NHL Game No. 573 in Anaheim on Monday, Dec. 22, the National Hockey League’s Department of Player Safety announced today.
The incident occurred at 19:34 of the third period. Johnston was assessed a minor penalty for roughing and a 10-minute misconduct.
The money goes to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund.
The 2025 GameAbove Sports Bowl pits the Central Michigan Chippewas (MAC) against the Northwestern Wildcats (Big Ten) in a postseason matchup featuring two teams looking to end their seasons on a high note. Central Michigan enters with a 7-5 record, while Northwestern sits at 6-6. This game marks a rare clash between the programs, with Northwestern holding a historical edge. Below is a comprehensive breakdown, including all requested elements.
Venue Location
Ford Field, Detroit, Michigan. This domed stadium, home to the NFL’s Detroit Lions, ensures an indoor environment, shielding the game from external weather conditions.
Kickoff is set for
1:00 p.m. ET (12:00 p.m. CT). The game will be broadcast on ESPN.
Note: While the query specifies December 25, all official sources confirm December 26 as the date.
Weather Forecast
As an indoor game at Ford Field, weather will not impact play. For reference, Detroit’s forecast for December 25, 2025 (the day before), calls for a high of around 39°F with partly cloudy skies and no significant precipitation. On December 26, expect similar mild conditions with highs in the upper 30s to low 40s, but scattered drizzle or a wintry mix could develop later in the week—irrelevant inside the dome.
Injury Report
Both teams have dealt with key absences throughout the season, potentially affecting depth in this bowl game.
Central Michigan Chippewas: Linebacker Jacob Iannuzzi is out for the remainder of the 2025 season with an undisclosed injury. Running back Jakivion Calip, tight end Rory Callahan, quarterback Jadyn Glasser, and running back Jason Philpot-Dixon are also listed on injury reports, though their statuses for the game remain unclear—monitor for updates closer to kickoff. The Chippewas have shown resilience despite these issues, but any limitations at RB or QB could strain their offense.
Northwestern Wildcats: Defensive lineman George Karlaftis is out for the season with an undisclosed injury. Running back Cam Porter, a key offensive contributor, is sidelined for the year after suffering a season-ending ACL injury in Week 2. Running back Joseph Himon II is questionable with a lower-body injury, and his availability is uncertain. Running back Caleb Komolafe is expected to return, providing a boost to the ground game. Defensive lineman Anto Saka is out for personal reasons.
Key Player Matchups
This game could hinge on Northwestern’s defensive front against Central Michigan’s run-heavy offense, as well as how each team’s quarterback handles pressure.
CMU RB Marion Lukes (or Jakivion Calip, if healthy) vs. NW LB Mac Uihlein: Lukes has been a steady producer for CMU’s ground attack, but if Calip is limited, the burden increases. Uihlein leads Northwestern in tackles and will aim to stuff the run, forcing CMU into passing situations.
NW RB Caleb Komolafe vs. CMU LB Jordan Kwiatkowski: Komolafe has rushed for 886 yards and 10 touchdowns this season, stepping up after Porter’s injury. Kwiatkowski, CMU’s top tackler, must contain him to keep the game close.
CMU QB Joe Labas vs. NW Secondary (CB Fred Davis II): Labas has managed the Chippewas’ offense efficiently but faces a Big Ten secondary led by Davis. Turnovers could decide this low-scoring affair.
NW QB Ryan Boe vs. CMU DL Dakota Cochran: Boe, a freshman, has shown flashes but is inexperienced. Cochran’s pass rush could disrupt Northwestern’s rhythm.
Other notables: CMU WR Tyson Davis and NW WR A.J. Henning could exploit mismatches in the passing game.
Recent Team Forms
Central Michigan (7-5, 5-3 MAC): The Chippewas started 1-2 with a narrow win over San Jose State (16-14) followed by blowout losses to Pittsburgh (17-45) and Michigan (3-63). They rebounded with a 5-3 conference record, showing grit in close games but struggling against Power Four opponents. Recent form: Won 4 of their last 6, including a strong finish to secure bowl eligibility.
Northwestern (6-6, 4-5 Big Ten): The Wildcats had an up-and-down year in a tough conference, mixing wins against mid-tier teams with losses to top contenders. They went 4-1 in their last 5 games straight up per some metrics, but overall form shows inconsistency (1-4 SU in last 5 per others). They earned bowl eligibility with key Big Ten victories but lack explosive offense.
Conference vs. Conference (MAC vs. Big Ten).
Big Ten teams have historically dominated non-conference matchups against MAC squads, with superior depth and recruiting. In 2025 bowl games, Big Ten programs are favored in similar cross-conference tilts, emphasizing physicality over MAC speed.
Series History
The teams have met once, in 2010, with Northwestern winning 30-25 in Evanston. Central Michigan covered as a +6 underdog in that game, but Northwestern holds a 1-0 series lead. No other historical matchups exist.
Betting Trends
Central Michigan: 5-1 ATS in last 6 games; 6-3 SU in last 9; but 0-8 SU in last 8 as heavy underdogs. Strong as dogs in bowls historically.
Northwestern: 4-1 SU in last 5 games; 3-2 ATS in last 5; 1-2 in road/neutral games ATS. Favored in bowls but inconsistent covering double digits.
Game-Specific: Public leaning Northwestern, but sharp bettors trickling on CMU +10.5. Unders have hit in 7 of last 10 MAC vs. Big Ten bowls.
Historical Betting Results
With only one prior matchup (2010: Northwestern 30-25), betting history is limited. Northwestern won SU but failed to cover as -6 favorites (push or loss depending on line variation). Central Michigan has a 1-0 ATS record in the series. In broader context, Big Ten teams are 12-4 ATS vs. MAC in bowls over the last decade.
Game PredictionNorthwestern’s Big Ten experience and defensive depth give them the edge in a gritty, low-scoring game. Expect Komolafe to control the ground game, while CMU struggles against a superior front. Prediction: Northwestern 27, Central Michigan 14 (Wildcats cover -10.5; under 43.5 hits). This aligns with models favoring NW by 10+ points, though CMU’s resilience could keep it competitive early.
Game Odds
Central Michigan Chippewas 43.5
Northwestern Wildcats – 10.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Thursday, December 25, 2025
