The Detroit Lions, once considered Super Bowl favorites after a strong season, were eliminated from playoff contention after a loss to the Minnesota Vikings, ending their hopes of a postseason run and marking a disappointing end to their successful 2023 season.
Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff dismisses recent losses and doubts about the team's Super Bowl potential, emphasizing their current record of nine wins. Goff argues that cherry-picked stats do not accurately reflect the team's performance and believes a bit of adversity can be beneficial. He emphasizes the importance of urgency and preparation for the upcoming game against the Denver Broncos. Meanwhile, discussions continue about the team's penalties, their division standing, and their painful playoff history.
The Baltimore Ravens, led by a healthy Lamar Jackson, are seen as legitimate Super Bowl contenders this year. Jackson's dual-threat style and unpredictability make him a dangerous quarterback, and he has a strong record in December games. Despite a tough remaining schedule, Jackson's clutch play and improved deep passing have elevated the Ravens' aspirations for a deep playoff run.
The Dallas Cowboys dominated the Washington Commanders with a 45-10 victory, as quarterback Dak Prescott threw four touchdown passes and completed passes to 10 different players. The Cowboys' defense forced three fourth-down stops in the second half, and DaRon Bland set an NFL record with his fifth pick-six of the season. With upcoming games against the Seattle Seahawks, Philadelphia Eagles, Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, and Detroit Lions, the Cowboys have a chance to prove themselves as a legitimate Super Bowl contender. On the other hand, the Commanders continue to struggle, losing eight of their last 10 games and remaining winless in the NFC East.
Aaron Rodgers expresses his joy and excitement about being a part of the New York Jets, describing it as waking up inside a dream. He reflects on the positive experiences he has had with the team and the new opportunities it has given him. Rodgers believes the Jets have a legitimate chance to win the Super Bowl and acknowledges the high expectations and attention surrounding the team. He expresses his renewed joy and happiness in his new surroundings, emphasizing that it has nothing to do with his previous team, the Green Bay Packers.
Lamar Jackson's new five-year contract extension with the Baltimore Ravens includes a $72.5 million signing bonus, making it the most ever in an NFL contract. The deal also includes a no-tag and no-trade clause. The projected salary cap hits for the Ravens range from $22 million in 2023 to $74.5 million in 2026 and 2027. The Ravens are now considered a top Super Bowl contender with a strong offense and defense. The team also received a B-minus draft grade from NFL.com. Keaton Mitchell, son of former Ravens player Anthony Mitchell, has signed with the team as an undrafted free agent.