NFL Christmas Recap: Broncos Stifle Chiefs, Vikings Eliminate Lions

Broncos Defense Stuffs Stockings (and Chiefs Offense)

In the stunner of the holiday slate, the Denver Broncos (13-3) went into Arrowhead Stadium and emerged with a gritty 20-13 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. Coming off a shocking loss to the Jaguars just days prior, Denver's defense reminded everyone why they are Super Bowl contenders.

Patrick Mahomes was harassed all afternoon, throwing two interceptions and failing to find the end zone until late in the fourth quarter. The Broncos' pass rush, led by Nik Bonitto, sacked Mahomes four times. Offensively, Denver rookie QB Bo Nix managed the game efficiently, connecting on a crucial 4th-quarter touchdown to seal the win. This loss pushes Kansas City further down the AFC seeding, while Denver keeps its hopes alive for the top seed.

Vikings Sink Lions Playoff Hopes

The NFC North battle in Detroit turned into a nightmare for the home team. The Minnesota Vikings (11-5) dominated the Lions 23-10, officially eliminating Detroit from playoff contention.

Lions QB Jared Goff struggled mightily against Brian Flores' exotic blitz packages, turning the ball over three times. On the other side, J.J. McCarthy (dealing with a hand injury) didn't play, but backup Max Brosmer managed the game well enough, aided by a suffocating defensive performance. Harrison Smith's interception return for a touchdown in the second quarter was the turning point that silenced Ford Field.

Cowboys Outlast Commanders in NFC East Duel

In the early game, the Dallas Cowboys kept their slim division title hopes on life support with a 30-23 win over the Washington Commanders. Dak Prescott threw for 307 yards and 2 TDs, rebounding from a rough outing last week.

While the Eagles have already clinched the division thanks to their Saturday win, Dallas is positioning itself for a Wild Card spot. The Commanders, plagued by injuries to Marcus Mariota, fought valiantly with Josh Johnson under center but couldn't keep pace in the shootout.

Playoff Implications

• Broncos: Move to 13-3, putting pressure on the Patriots and Colts for the AFC #1 seed.
• Lions: Officially eliminated from the postseason.
• Cowboys: Strengthen hold on the #5 seed in the NFC.
• Chiefs: Drop to 10-6, likely locking them into a Wild Card road game.