NFL Christmas schedule takes big hit as teams fall out of playoff contention

The Miami Dolphins and Pittsburgh Steelers are set to face off in a crucial Monday Night Football matchup, with significant playoff implications for both teams as they vie for postseason contention in the AFC. This game marks the return of the Steelers' 'color rush' uniforms, adding an element of excitement to the primetime event.

The Washington Commanders have announced that quarterback Jayden Daniels will be sidelined for the remainder of the 2025 NFL season due to an elbow injury. This decision comes after Daniels re-injured his elbow during a recent game against the Minnesota Vikings, where he had just returned from a previous injury. The team is now down to the final three weeks of the regular season, making this news particularly impactful.

Matthew Stafford remains the favorite for the NFL MVP award as of December 2025, despite a notable surge from Josh Allen, who is gaining traction in the race. Stafford's consistent performance has kept him at the forefront of MVP discussions, reflecting his pivotal role in the Los Angeles Rams' success this season.

In NFL Week 15, analysts Nate Tice and Charles McDonald provided instant reactions, highlighting the Denver Broncos' significant victory that secured them the top seed in the AFC, while the Kansas City Chiefs faced challenges that raise questions about their playoff viability. The implications of these results are critical as teams jockey for postseason positioning.

The Los Angeles Rams secured their place in the NFL playoffs with a thrilling 41-34 victory over the Detroit Lions at SoFi Stadium, improving their season record to 11-3. This win was marked by a strong second-half performance, showcasing the Rams' resilience and determination to clinch a postseason berth.

The Dallas Cowboys are currently facing the Minnesota Vikings in a crucial Sunday Night Football matchup, with live scoring updates being tracked. This game is significant as the Cowboys are fighting for a playoff spot in the competitive NFC landscape, following a recent loss that has intensified their need for a victory.

Trevor Lawrence made history as he achieved a remarkable milestone in the NFL, showcasing his exceptional skills during a standout performance. This achievement highlights his growth as a quarterback and his significant role in the Jacksonville Jaguars' success this season.

The Detroit Lions' playoff chances took a significant hit following their Week 15 loss, which has raised concerns about their ability to secure a postseason berth in the 2025 NFL season. This defeat comes after a promising Week 14 victory against the Dallas Cowboys, where the Lions had improved their record to 8-5.