Trying to identify potential upsets in the NFL is tough every week.
Week 12 of the 2024 NFL season may be tougher than most.
Thanks to a few games between evenly matched teams and some theoretically possible big losses, our writers are here SB Nation I had a hard time picking out some potential upsets this week.
But alas, we move on. Here are four possible upsets for Week 12 of the 2024 NFL season.
New York Giants (+6) vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers — Mark Schofield
Can you hear me?
That's the sound of Tommy “Catlets” DeVito returning to the starting lineup for Opening Day. new york giants.
A year ago, DeVito replaced the injured Daniel Jones in the starting lineup and not only ignited the Giants' offense, but also drew attention from around the league. Now, with Jones struggling and perhaps $23 million in injury guarantees straining the team, the Giants are turning to DeVito again.
Could he provide improved play out of the pocket from New York? perhaps. Will he be able to bring new light to the Giants this season? absolutely. Is it sustainable? Probably not.
But it might be enough for at least a week.
Chicago Bears (+3.5) vs. Minnesota Vikings — JP Acosta
After the firing of offensive coordinator Shane Waldron, Bears rookie QB Caleb Williams and Chicago's offense looked much more fluid and played with more energy than they did last week. Despite posing a huge challenge against a Vikings defense that prides itself on giving rookie QBs hell, Williams is an out-of-field player who could bring explosiveness against this team. I think we lean more toward structure play.
On the other hand, I think this Bears defense can force Sam Darnold into some mistakes. Since losing to Detroit in Week 7, Minnesota has regressed from a strong start to the season, ranking 20th in offensive EPA per play and 14th in completion percentage. With their ferocious front four, I think the Bears can scramble Darnold a little bit.
The offense may still be a work in progress, but I believe Williams' ability to provide positive volatility and lead to an upset in the Windy City.
Carolina Panthers (+11) vs. Kansas City Chiefs — James Deiter
Trust me, I know this sounds like the dumbest pick in the world, but +11 points at home is a frankly stupid spread. Kansas City only won one game by more than 11 points, and that was in Week 5 against Kansas City. new orleans saints.
This season has been marred by the Chiefs playing below the level of their opponents, but on the other side of the ball the Panthers have been playing much better football lately. Add in the fact that Adam Thielen is back from injury and a talented young receiving corps, and second-round rookie running back Jonathan Brooks is set to make his debut with the Panthers, and the game could become even closer. There are enough. Everyone has expectations.
I'm not saying Carolina will win this match, but I think it might be pretty close. This has all the hallmarks of a trap game for the Chiefs, who will no doubt be looking ahead to their Week 14 matchup. charger.
