I love a week of football that forces me to emotionally recalibrate mid-show — and that’s exactly what NFL Week 16 did. One minute I’m convinced this season is dull and joyless, the next I’m screaming about friendship football and texting apologies to teams I doubted. Growth.
Let’s start with the Dads. Caleb Williams is officially that guy in Chicago. Six fourth-quarter comebacks later and Bears fans are wearing jerseys again like it’s safe. Add the Jaguars punching the Broncos directly in the mouth and suddenly the league has vibes again. And yes, Puka Nacua went absolutely feral with over 225 receiving yards. That’s not a stat line — that’s a cry for help from opposing secondaries. James Cook? Leading the league in rushing, cashing tickets, and quietly dragging the Bills to wins like a grown adult.
Then come the Duds, which this week felt less funny and more existential. Injuries everywhere. Turf remains undefeated. The Bengals refuse to evolve. And the Jets… honestly, I don’t even know what sport they’re playing at this point. Garrett Wilson leading the team in yards despite not playing since October is performance art.
We wrapped with Week 17 betting lines, where fading emotional letdown spots became a lifestyle. 49ers vs Bears, Texans moneyline, Panthers catching points, Packers bounce-back — all filtered through one very scientific metric: who actually wants to be here.
Moral of the story? Talent matters. Coaching matters. But friendship? Friendship might be the sharpest edge we’ve got.
