On Sunday, November 20, 2025, the NFL delivered one of its most unpredictable and historically significant weekends in recent memory — capped by the first-ever regular-season game in Madrid, Spain, where the Miami Dolphins edged the Washington Commanders 24-21 in overtime. But the real story wasn’t just the international debut. It was how the league’s playoff picture fractured, reforged, and suddenly looked very different than it did a week ago.
The Madrid Moment: NFL Goes Global
The Estadio Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid didn’t just host a football game — it hosted a milestone. Over 70,000 fans, a mix of Spanish soccer loyalists and American expats, watched as Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa led a 14-play, 78-yard drive in overtime, capped by a 3-yard touchdown pass to Jaylen Waddle. The win wasn’t just about momentum; it signaled the league’s serious commitment to international growth. The NFL has played in London since 2007, but this was the first time a regular-season game reached continental Europe’s heart. "It felt like a World Cup final," said Spanish fan Carlos Mendoza, holding a Dolphins flag beside a Real Madrid scarf. "The energy? It was electric. I didn’t know the rules, but I knew when they scored. That’s football."Josh Allen’s Triple Threat and the Bills’ Statement
While Miami made headlines abroad, Josh Allen was busy rewriting the playbook at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. The Buffalo Bills quarterback didn’t just throw for 342 yards — he ran for three touchdowns (1, 5, and 2 yards), becoming the first QB since 2019 to rush for three TDs in a single game. His performance wasn’t just flashy; it was strategic. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers loaded up to stop the pass, and Allen made them pay. "He’s not just a gunslinger anymore," said Bills offensive coordinator Brian Daboll. "He’s a complete weapon."Defensive Dominance: Eagles Lock Down Lions
In Philadelphia, the Philadelphia Eagles didn’t need a shootout to prove their title credentials. Facing a Detroit Lions offense that had scored 30+ points in four straight games, the Eagles’ defense — led by coordinator Vic Fangio — held them to 16 points and two field goals. Cornerback Darius Slay picked off Jared Goff twice, including a game-sealing interception in the final minute. "Our defense executed the game plan perfectly," Fangio said post-game. "We knew we had to contain Jahmyr Gibbs and disrupt Goff’s timing. The guys delivered when it mattered most." The win pushed Philadelphia to 7-2, keeping them atop ESPN’s Power Rankings — a spot they’ve held since Week 5. With Los Angeles Rams (7-2) and Indianapolis Colts (8-2) right behind, the NFC’s top three are now clearly separated from the rest. The Rams’ narrow 21-19 win over the Seattle Seahawks, sealed by kicker Joshua Karty’s 42-yarder with 28 seconds left, was a reminder: in December, every point counts.
Late-Game Drama Across the League
The Sunday slate wasn’t just about the big names. It was about resilience. In Charlotte, Carolina Panthers kicker Eddy Piñeiro drilled a 42-yard field goal as time expired to beat the Atlanta Falcons 23-20. In Chicago, Cairo Santos did the same — a 48-yarder to edge the Minnesota Vikings 24-22. And in Houston, Ka’imi Fairbairn’s 53-yarder with three seconds left gave the Houston Texans a 16-13 win over the Tennessee Titans. Three walk-off kicks. Three different cities. One message: the season isn’t over until the final whistle.Star Performers and Rising Ranks
While the Eagles, Rams, and Colts lead the pack, individual brilliance shone through. Jaxon Smith-Njigba of the Seattle Seahawks caught 12 passes for 133 yards — his 39.3% target share remains the highest in the league. Derrick Henry ran for 143 yards as the Baltimore Ravens crushed the Cleveland Browns 24-17. And Brock Purdy returned from injury to lead the San Francisco 49ers to a 34-27 win over the Arizona Cardinals, completing 25 of 33 passes for 287 yards. The 49ers, despite their 6-4 record, are quietly building momentum.
What’s Next? The December Gauntlet
With five weeks left, the schedule turns brutal. New England Patriots (6-4) face the Baltimore Ravens in Week 12 — a potential AFC playoff preview. The Denver Broncos host the Indianapolis Colts in a game that could decide the AFC West. Meanwhile, the Chicago Bears and Carolina Panthers — both 5-5 — are now in the wild-card conversation. The Washington Commanders, despite their loss in Madrid, still control their destiny in the NFC East.Why This Matters
This wasn’t just another week of football. It was a turning point. The NFL proved it can draw massive global interest. The Eagles showed they’re not just a good team — they’re a championship-caliber unit. And teams like the Texans, Panthers, and Bears proved that with grit, even 5-5 squads can become October surprises. The playoffs aren’t just being decided by record anymore — they’re being decided by momentum, clutch kicks, and players who rise when the lights are brightest.Frequently Asked Questions
How did the Dolphins’ win in Madrid impact the NFL’s global strategy?
The Dolphins’ 24-21 overtime win in Madrid marked the NFL’s first regular-season game in Spain, signaling a major expansion beyond London. With over 70,000 fans in attendance and record international TV ratings, the league is now eyeing Germany and Mexico as potential future markets. The success of this game, backed by the NFL’s $2.3 billion international media deal, suggests global games may soon become a biannual staple — not just a novelty.
Why are the Eagles considered the top Super Bowl contender despite not having the best record?
The Eagles (7-2) lead the Power Rankings because of their elite defense, which has allowed just 18.3 points per game — best in the NFL. They’ve beaten top teams like the Cowboys, 49ers, and Lions by an average of 12.5 points. Unlike teams that win by offense alone, Philadelphia controls tempo, forces turnovers, and excels in clutch situations. Their schedule softens in December, and with Jalen Hurts playing at an MVP level, they’re the only team with a legitimate shot at winning on the road in January.
What’s the significance of three walk-off field goals in one week?
It’s rare — the last time three walk-off field goals happened in a single week was Week 14 of the 2019 season. This year’s trio — from Piñeiro, Santos, and Fairbairn — highlights how crucial special teams have become. With defenses tightening and offenses stalling in the red zone, kickers are now game-changers. All three kickers have converted over 90% of their field goals this season, and their confidence under pressure is making them as valuable as starting quarterbacks in late-season scenarios.
How has Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s performance affected the Seahawks’ offensive strategy?
Smith-Njigba’s 39.3% target share — the highest in the league — has turned the Seahawks into a pass-heavy team even without a top-tier quarterback. Quarterback Geno Smith now relies on him as a safety valve, especially on third downs. His route-running and contested-catch ability have made him the focal point of Seattle’s offense, and defenses are now forced to double-team him, opening lanes for running back Kenneth Walker III. He’s not just a receiver — he’s the engine of their entire attack.
What does Josh Allen’s three-touchdown rushing game mean for the Bills’ future?
Allen’s three rushing TDs against Tampa Bay proved he’s no longer just a passer who scrambles — he’s a dual-threat weapon who can win games with his legs. This versatility makes the Bills nearly impossible to defend in the red zone. Analysts now compare him to Lamar Jackson and Michael Vick in terms of playmaking range. With a 7-3 record and the AFC East within reach, Buffalo’s offense has evolved into one of the most dangerous in NFL history — especially when they’re down by a touchdown in the fourth quarter.
Who are the biggest dark horse teams for the playoffs?
The Houston Texans (6-4) and Carolina Panthers (5-5) are the most dangerous. Both have won three straight, with young QBs (C.J. Stroud and Bryce Young) showing elite poise. The Texans’ defense is top-5 in sacks, and Carolina’s offensive line is finally healthy. Neither has a star name like Allen or Hurts, but they’ve shown they can beat playoff-caliber teams on the road. If they keep winning, they could be the first wild-card teams to reach the conference title game since 2017.
