NFL: End of the regular season
The GIST: The NFL’s first 18-week season did not disappoint, with a handful of records broken and the final three playoff berths clinched during yesterday’s regular-season finale. Jim Mora, it’s your time to shine.
Who’s in: The Las Vegas Raiders beat the LA Chargers 35–32 in overtime during yesterday’s thrilling “win and you’re in” Sunday Night Football matchup, clinching the No. 5 seed in the AFC. No ties here.
- The Pittsburgh Steelers made the playoffs by the skin of their teeth — thanks to a walk-off field goal in overtime to beat their rival Baltimore Ravens and the Raiders’ victory, the Steelers are the AFC’s seventh seed. Clutch.
- Over in the NFC, San Francisco 49ers quarterback (QB) Jimmy Garoppolo led his squad to a 27–24 come-from-behind overtime win over the LA Rams, punching their playoff ticket.
Who’s out: Look away, Colts fans. The Indianapolis Colts entered Sunday with their playoff fate in their hands, but squandered their chance in a 26–11 loss to the lowly Jacksonville Jaguars. No, we’re not clowning around.
Making history: Aided by the extra week of play, some long-standing single-season records fell yesterday. Miami Dolphins wide receiver (WR) Jaylen Waddle notched the most rookie receptions (102), while Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker T.J. Watt (of Watt brothers fame) tied the sacks mark (22.5).
- And no records list would be complete without mentioning Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Tom Brady, who recorded the most completions (472) and became the oldest player to pass for 5,000 yards. Because of course.
- Looking ahead, there’s more history to be made when the playoffs begin with Wild Card action next weekend. Stay tuned for a full special edition preview then — you’re welcome in advance.
