NFL Week 18 Preview
Get ready for Week 18 of the NFL season with our game guide, including predictions and score picks for every matchup.
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Baltimore Ravens
The Steelers have historically done well against the Ravens in Baltimore, but this time they'll be facing a Ravens team without starting quarterback Lamar Jackson. Safety Minkah Fitzpatrick is predicted to get his first interception of the season in this game.
The Steelers have won 6 out of their last 7 matchups against the Ravens since 2020. The key for the game will be how many players the Ravens decide to rest with the No. 1 seed already clinched.
The Ravens have nothing to play for in this game, as they have already secured the No. 1 seed in the AFC. Meanwhile, the Steelers still have a chance to make the playoffs with a win and some help from other teams.
Houston Texans vs. Indianapolis Colts
In a Saturday night battle for a playoff berth, the Texans and Colts will go head-to-head. The Texans will be looking to avenge their loss to the Colts earlier in the season and secure a spot in the playoffs.
The key matchup to watch in this game will be between Colts edge rusher Trey Hendrickson and the Texans offensive line. Hendrickson is tied for the league lead in sacks and could have a big impact on the game.
Both teams have a lot at stake in this game, as the winner will make the playoffs and the loser will be eliminated. The Texans have a chance to clinch the AFC South with a win, while the Colts need a win to secure a wild-card spot.
Cleveland Browns vs. Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals are looking to avoid going winless in divisional play for the fourth time in franchise history. The game will also feature a familiar face in Browns quarterback Jeff Driskel, who will start in place of Joe Flacco and is the fifth quarterback to start a game this season for Cleveland.
The key to this game will be whether the Bengals can find a way to slow down Browns running back Nick Chubb. The Bengals have struggled against the run this season, and Chubb has been a dominant force for the Browns.
There's not much on the line for these teams, as the Browns have already clinched a playoff berth and the Bengals were eliminated in Week 17. However, both teams will be looking to finish the season strong and secure a divisional win.
Minnesota Vikings vs. Detroit Lions
The Vikings and Lions will meet for the second time in three weeks, with the Lions clinching the division title in their last meeting at Minnesota. The Lions have a chance to secure a 12-win season for just the second time in franchise history, while the Vikings are holding on to slim chances of reaching the playoffs.
The key matchup to watch in this game will be between Vikings linebacker Ivan Pace Jr. and the Lions rushing attack. Pace has been a standout player for the Vikings this season and will play a crucial role in stopping the Lions' ground game.
Both teams have something to play for in this game, as the Lions are looking to finish the season strong and secure a 12-win season, while the Vikings are hoping for a slim chance at making the playoffs.
