NFL 2025-26 Week 18 Predictions and Preview

Get ready for Week 18, the final week of the 2025-26 NFL season. This final set of NFL games promises a great thrill to watch, given its concluding nature. As all the playoff contenders are determined, the pursuit of a wild-card entry is still dramatic. There are several narratives ahead of the game that prepare us for the upcoming game. For instance, the Baltimore Ravens are in a catastrophe to earn a playoff position. Star player Lamar Jackson’s return to the team further makes it more interesting. They either have to win the Steelers or have to say a long goodbye until next season. Additionally, the clash between the Panthers and the Buccaneers is so close even before the game. In particular, it is a fight-for-life situation for the Carolina Panthers. So, there is no lack of American Football entertainment this week. Get such sensational NFL updates every week.

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NFL Week 17 Recap and Power Rankings

The Bills and Eagles had a close contest, and the Eagles edged them out by a single point. For the first two quarters, the Philadelphia Eagles absolutely dominated the Buffalo Bills. The third quarter was empty without a point for both sides. But in the fourth quarter, the Philadelphia Eagles rushed so aggressively and defended well, scoring 12 points. However, they were still one point short, losing the game to the Philadelphia Eagles. On the other hand, the Buccaneers lost the chance to improve their ranking by losing to the Dolphins. The Rams lost to the Falcons by a field goal. Despite having a strong league record, the Rams struggled to close the gap and dominate the Atlanta Falcons. Above all, the Steelers had a crushing defeat at the hands of the Browns. They scored only a single touchdown, and that too without a conversion. Click here for more sports buzz. 

NFL Power Rankings – Top 5 Teams

1 – Seattle Seahawks

The Seattle Seahawks showed their dominance in their recent games. Their improvement after several trades has definitely put them at the top.

2 – New England Patriots

The New England Patriots are apparently having one of the best seasons in recent history. In particular, Drake Maye’s rushing game remains pivotal.

3 – Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jacksonville Jaguars were doubtful in the opening games, but quickly found momentum and secured a strong presence.

4 – Denver Broncos

The Denver Broncos have set the standard so high that only two other teams are even with them this season.

5 – San Francisco 49ers

The San Francisco 49ers have a strong playoff contention with their recently built-up momentum.  

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NFL Week 18 Predictions and Expert Picks

Houston Texans vs Indianapolis Colts

The Houston Texans are ready to face the Indianapolis Colts with an eight-game winning streak. This NFL game will kick off at 01:00 p.m. ET on January 4, 2026, at NRG Stadium.

Standings

The Houston Texans are in the 2nd place in the AFC South division.

The Indianapolis Colts are behind the Texans at the 3rd spot in the AFC South.

Prediction

The Houston Texans are among the title contenders, having earned a playoff position. On the other hand, the Indianapolis Colts have lost a substantial number of games recently. They also fell out of playoff contention, which makes it a win-win situation for the Houston Texans. The Texans’ solid defensive side is a strong factor in the upcoming game. Additionally, C.J. Stroud’s rushing game is also strong, creating a solid winning chance for the Texans. The Indianapolis Colts had a strong start to this season, with topping several stats in the league. But their form deteriorated as the games went by. Their away form is not so good, and they have never won once in their six games. Considering their strengths, they can score a handful of touchdowns, but they still lag behind the Texans. So, the Houston Texans will win this time.

Cincinnati Bengals vs Cleveland Browns

The Cincinnati Bengals and the Cleveland Browns are clashing in the upcoming NFL game at Paycor Stadium. This NFL game will start at 01:00 p.m. ET on January 04, 2026.

Standings

The Cincinnati Bengals are 3^rd in the AFC North division.

The Cleveland Browns are 4^th in the AFC North division.

Prediction

The Cincinnati Bengals are somewhat better than the Cleveland Browns. Initially, the Cincinnati Bengals were exceptionally good, but they began to perform poorly, leading to a massive decline. With six wins and ten losses, the Cincinnati Bengals stayed at the bottom of the table. But compared to the Cleveland Browns, the Cincinnati Bengals are far better. They have a better consistency across all games, which gives them an edge. Although they are poor at home games, their scoring ability will enable them to outscore the Cleveland Browns. The Cleveland Browns, on the other hand, have had a poor season in the league. But they have a slightly better defense, having allowed only 361 points, while the Bengals have allowed 472. However, the Bengals’ scoring efficiency and home venue give them an advantage in this NFL clash. Therefore, the Cincinnati Bengals will win in this NFL game.

Los Angeles Rams vs Arizona Cardinals

The Los Angeles Rams and the Arizona Cardinals will be playing at the SoFi Stadium on January 4, 2026. This American football event will begin at 04:25 p.m. ET.

Standings

The Los Angeles Rams are 3^rd in the NFC West.

The Arizona Cardinals are 4^th in the NFC West.

Prediction

The Los Angeles Rams have earned a wild-card participation and have a strong league record. Quarterback Matthew Stafford’s performance is impressive as an MVP contender. The Rams will gather more points in a shorter period and will try to avoid point deficits. However, they have suffered two losses in a row recently. Although this may show their stumbles ahead of the playoffs, they have a better home performance. They have won 6 out of 7 home games. Conversely, the Arizona Cardinals have one of the poorest records in the league. They have won only in 3 games in this league so far. Their overall record shows an away form that is beyond repair. Moreover, they are on an eight-game losing streak. Yet, their offense has earned 335 points throughout the league, which is a decent score. However, the Los Angeles Rams are the favorite to win in this NFL game.

New England Patriots vs Miami Dolphins

The Miami Dolphins are visiting the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium January 04, 2026. This NFL game will start at 04:25 p.m. ET.

Standings

The New England Patriots are the first-ranked team in the AFC East.

The Miami Dolphins rank in 3rd place in the AFC East.

Prediction

The New England Patriots are among the top teams that have earned a playoff qualification. Anyhow, this game is a win-win situation for the England Patriots. Regardless, they have a solid performance and team quality. Especially, their running game is their biggest strength with Drake Maye leading the stats. Moreover, their defense is one of the best in the league, as they have a positive points difference. In contrast, the Miami Dolphins are underwhelming with low winning rates. They are inferior to the Patriots, given their obvious below-average quality. Their defense is also struggling as it has allowed more points. In short, the New England Patriots have the winning probability in this NFL game.

Chicago Bears vs Detroit Lions

The Detroit Lions will face the Chicago Bears on the road at Soldier Field on January 04, 2026. The game kickstarts at 04:25 p.m. ET.

Standings

The Chicago Bears are 1^st in the NFC North division.

The Detroit Lions are in 4th place in the NFC North division.

Prediction

The Chicago Bears have won eleven games and bring a strong scoring efficiency. Their home form has been a significant strength, as they have won in 6 of their home games. Their previous match was a disaster, yet they remained consistent in scoring. Moreover, their rushing and passing games have shown impressive yardage. But the Detroit Lions are not as good as the Chicago Bears. Their overall record is average with 8-8-0. Above all, the Lions are in a losing streak, highlighting a strong winning probability for the Bears. So, the Chicago Bears will win over the Detroit Lions.