The NFL regular season culminates with Week 18, leaving fans eager to know which game will grace Sunday Night Football. With playoff implications and potential seeding scenarios on the line, NBC faces a challenging decision. Let’s break down the possibilities and predict which matchup will be featured on “Nfl On Tv Today” for Sunday Night Football.
Potential Week 18 Sunday Night Football Matchups
Several games could be compelling for the coveted Sunday night slot. Here’s a look at the leading contenders and why they might—or might not—be selected:
1. Buffalo Bills vs. New England Patriots
This AFC East rivalry carries significant weight. The Patriots need a win to secure a playoff berth, while the Bills could be vying for the #1 seed. However, this matchup hinges on the outcome of Monday Night Football’s Bills vs. Bengals game. If the Bills win, and the Chiefs lose to the Raiders on Saturday, Buffalo would clinch the top seed, potentially resting starters against New England. Similarly, a Jaguars victory over the Titans, coupled with losses by the Dolphins and Steelers, could secure the Patriots the #7 seed, leading them to rest players as well. NBC likely wants to avoid a game with diminished stakes.
2. Baltimore Ravens vs. Cincinnati Bengals
This AFC North showdown could determine the division champion. The winner hosts a playoff game, while the loser hits the road. However, a potential problem arises: these teams could face each other the following week in the Wild Card round. If the game becomes lopsided, coaches might pull starters to avoid injuries before their next encounter, potentially making for a less exciting Sunday night spectacle.
3. Detroit Lions vs. Green Bay Packers
This NFC North matchup holds intrigue, especially with the Packers’ playoff hopes hanging in the balance. Green Bay boasts a large national following, drawn in by quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Even if the Lions are eliminated before kickoff (pending the Seahawks-Rams game), they’ve demonstrated a resilient spirit this season. This game offers a compelling narrative: a desperate Packers team fighting for a playoff spot against a feisty Lions squad playing for pride.
The Likely Choice: Lions vs. Packers for Sunday Night Football
While other scenarios exist, the Lions vs. Packers game appears the most likely candidate for Sunday Night Football. The Packers’ playoff implications, combined with the national interest in Aaron Rodgers, provide a strong draw. The Lions’ competitive spirit and potential for an upset add further intrigue. This matchup offers guaranteed drama, regardless of other Week 18 outcomes. So, if you’re wondering “What NFL game is on TV today?” on Sunday night, tune in for what promises to be an exciting conclusion to the regular season.
Disappointment with Titans/Jaguars Saturday Scheduling
While not directly related to Sunday Night Football, the decision to schedule the Titans/Jaguars game on Saturday night raises concerns. The winner gains an extra day of rest and preparation for the playoffs, an unfair advantage. This scheduling choice rewards underperforming teams, highlighting a frustrating aspect of the NFL’s prioritization of television scheduling over competitive balance. A Cowboys or Steelers game would have been a more fitting Saturday nightcap.
