The concerns around J.J. McCarthy’s development have been mounting, and Sunday’s performance against the Green Bay Packers only intensified them. The Vikings’ young quarterback struggled, completing 12 of 19 passes for just 87 yards, throwing no touchdowns but two interceptions, and being sacked five times for 35 yards lost in a 23-6 defeat. McCarthy seemed flustered under pressure, unable to read the field effectively or escape defenders. Meanwhile, in Seattle, Sam Darnold continues to impress after revitalizing his career in Minnesota last season.

Even with a skilled offensive mind like Kevin O’Connell calling plays, the Vikings couldn’t generate offense—Justin Jefferson was held to 48 yards, and the running game with Jordan Mason and Aaron Jones produced a combined 83 yards. The second half deteriorated further with three consecutive punts and two interceptions, leaving Minnesota unable to recover.

Winner – Ben Johnson, HC, Chicago Bears

The Chicago Bears are showing a new identity under first-year head coach Ben Johnson, aiming to shake off the struggles of past seasons. In a Week 12 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, Johnson’s team demonstrated resilience, outlasting the opposition 31-28. Quarterback Caleb Williams completed 19 of 35 passes for 239 yards and three touchdowns, improving his accuracy but also making a critical error when sacked by TJ Watt in the end zone, resulting in a defensive touchdown.

Johnson’s strategic adjustments, including stretching the field with disguised screens and reverse plays while using DJ Moore as a versatile outlet, paid dividends. The Bears’ defense also played a crucial role, with Montez Sweat recording two sacks—one setting up the game-winning score—and making key stops in the final minutes.

Winner – Philadelphia Eagles (Week 12 game vs. Dallas Cowboys)

The Eagles seemed to be cruising in Dallas, jumping to a 21-0 lead in the first half. However, offensive lapses allowed the Cowboys to stage a dramatic comeback, scoring 24 unanswered points and winning with Brandon Aubrey’s late 42-yard field goal. Philadelphia’s miscues included a fumble by Saquon Barkley and a poorly timed punt return fumble by Xavier Gipson, which gave Dallas multiple opportunities to score. Osa Odighizuwa’s sack on Jalen Hurts with under two minutes remaining forced a final drive that ultimately led to the decisive kick.

Winner – Steve Spagnuolo, DC, Kansas City Chiefs

Steve Spagnuolo continues to prove himself as one of the NFL’s best defensive minds. Against the Colts, Kansas City fell behind 14-3 but then limited Indianapolis to just six points over their next seven possessions. The Chiefs’ defense, anchored by Spagnuolo’s schemes, contained the league’s top rushing leader, Jonathan Taylor, to only 58 yards on 16 carries while restricting his touches in critical moments. Harrison Butker’s overtime field goal secured a 23-20 win, keeping the Chiefs above .500 at 6-5 and in contention in the AFC West.

Loser – Las Vegas Raiders Offensive Line

The Raiders’ offensive line remains a glaring weakness. Myles Garrett exposed them as he recorded three of Cleveland’s ten sacks, totaling 77 yards lost, in a 24-10 win over Las Vegas. Geno Smith has now been sacked 31 times in 11 games, with 20 coming in the past three contests. Rookie running back Ashton Jeanty struggled, gaining just 50 yards on 17 carries. The offensive line’s poor performance led to the firing of offensive coordinator Chip Kelly, as the Raiders’ offense ranks near the bottom in both total yards and scoring.