Overview
- Vic Fangio’s unit just held Buffalo to a season-low 12 points with a first-half shutout, while the offense managed 17 yards over its final five drives and Jalen Hurts went 0-for-7 after halftime.
- The defense has surged late in the year, allowing 10.0 points per game over the last three contests according to recent splits.
- Overall metrics show mixed strengths, ranking 13th in yards allowed with a top-10 pass defense and a run defense down to 21st after a 281-yard rushing barrage by Chicago earlier this season.
- Fangio and players say the group has steadily improved and mirrors last year’s midseason growth, crediting adaptation and player development.
- Playoff projections stress matchups, with the 49ers, Rams or Seahawks viewed as the toughest opening opponents, the Bears flagged as a stylistic concern, and the Packers considered a more favorable draw if seeding aligns.