As the NFL regular season draws to a close, Week 18 will bring some final opportunities for teams to secure playoff spots, improve their standings, or play spoiler. While much of the playoff picture is set, there are still plenty of chances for surprises and standout performances. Here are USA TODAY Sports’ bold predictions for Week 18:
Mike Evans Breaks Record and Scores Touchdown
Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans is set to make history in the final game of the season. With 85 yards needed to secure his 11th consecutive 1,000-yard receiving season, Evans is on the brink of tying Jerry Rice’s record from 1986-1996. Despite missing three games earlier this season due to a hamstring injury, Evans is poised to hit the milestone. With New Orleans Saints cornerback Marshon Lattimore traded to Washington, Evans won’t face his long-time rival, giving him a better chance for a big performance. Bold prediction: Evans will achieve the milestone with a key touchdown that helps Tampa Bay clinch the NFC South title.
Drake Maye Shines Against Buffalo and Hurts New England’s Draft Position
A loss to the Buffalo Bills would leave the New England Patriots with a seven-game losing streak to end the season, while also securing them the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. However, rookie quarterback Drake Maye will aim to make a strong impression in the season finale. Although it’s a long shot for Maye to have a career-high performance, he could end the season with solid stats—289 passing yards, 2 touchdowns, 77 rushing yards, and another rushing touchdown—ultimately costing the Patriots a chance at the top draft spot, but giving them hope for the future with Maye.
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Jahmyr Gibbs Leads Lions to NFC North Title
Detroit Lions’ second-year running back Jahmyr Gibbs will have the game of his career as the Lions fight for the NFC North title. With the top playoff seed on the line, Gibbs will rack up 190 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns in a high-scoring clash with the Minnesota Vikings. Gibbs’ speed and versatility will be key as he both runs and catches passes out of the backfield, continuing his standout season.
Steelers Stumble to Fourth Straight Loss as Wilson’s Struggles Continue
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson faces mounting pressure after a series of mistakes in recent games. Despite head coach Mike Tomlin’s insistence on focusing on taking care of the football, Wilson has been prone to costly turnovers. The Cincinnati Bengals’ defense, which has been on a tear recently with 10 takeaways in the past three weeks, could capitalize on Wilson’s mistakes. While Wilson had a big game earlier in the season against Cincinnati, it’s expected that the Bengals’ defense will tighten up and the Steelers will falter, leading to their fourth straight loss.
Week 18 promises plenty of drama, as teams fight for playoff spots or simply try to end the season on a high note. Whether it’s a star receiver making history or a rookie quarterback trying to finish strong, there are bound to be plenty of memorable moments as the season wraps up.
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