NFL power rankings, Week 15: Chiefs roll, Browns escape
CINCINNATI, OHIO – DECEMBER 12: George Kittle #85 of the San Francisco 49ers is tackled by Ricardo Allen #37 of the Cincinnati Bengals during the second half of the game at Paul Brown Stadium on December 12, 2021 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
Winners of four consecutive games, the Washington Football Team embarked on a season-ending five-game stretch vs. their divisional rivals. But they had their issues with pass protection.
Taylor Heinicke hit on only 11-of-25 throws for 122 yards, was sacked four times and had two of the club’s four turnovers. Washington rallied from a 24-0 halftime deficit to narrow the gap to seven points. But Ron Rivera’s club could not complete the comeback.
. 7-6. Previous: . San Francisco 49ers. 14. team. 42
The 49ers made their way to the Queen City for the second time in three years. Kyle Shanahan’s squad got big games from defensive end Nick Bosa (2 sacks) and tight end George Kittle. The latter was targeted 15 times and caught 13 passes for 151 yards and a touchdown.
Jimmy Garoppolo overcame five sacks and threw for 296 yards and two scores. The second TD toss, 12 yards to Brandon Aiyuk, came in OT after Cincinnati took a 23-20 lead.
13. . 8-5. Previous: . Los Angeles Chargers. 13. team
Off last week’s important win at Cincinnati, the Chargers returned home and took on the unpredictable Giants. The Bolts owned a 24-7 lead at intermission and basically doubled New York in total yards after 30 minutes (289-145).
Brandon Staley’s club would extend their advantage to 37-7 before allowing a few late touchdowns. Defensive end Joey Bosa finished with only one sack but put the heat on Giants’ quarterback Mike Glennon throughout the day.