"The Gift of NFL Christmas Day Games"

It's that time of year as we prepare for Christmas and celebrating with 
family and friends. Gifts under the tree wrapped in multi-color paper, 
stockings hanging from the chimney or wall. Children gather around and 
wait patiently to open what's theirs. For NFL fans, we've been given two 
games to watch and consume.

For the first time in NFL history, Netflix is streaming both games. If the 
network and your Wifi is strong enough to hold up for a slate of double 
football. Let's open up the two games we've been given.

Kansas City Chiefs @ Pittsburgh Steelers

If Christmas starts off with the defending champs Kansas City traveling 
to Pittsburgh for keeping distance between Buffalo for the number one 
seed, challenge accepted. In a highly anticipated matchup, Pittsburgh is 
reeling right now on a two game losing streak. Chiefs quarterback 
Patrick Mahomes playing with an heavily taped ankle is still lethal. With 
players getting healthy, it's an appetite for success. Elite defensive play 
by one of the league's best in Kansas City.
For Pittsburgh, it's a must win in trying to reclaim their playoff spot.
Losing first place in the AFC North, it's desperation time for this offense.
Quarterback Russell Wilson has been stuck in turnover hell and hasn't
been able to regroup. Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith has been
exposed in play calling.
Mishaps on offense and defense has looked half-hearted but the
season is teetering in creating bad habits. Cleaning up the turnovers will
help but it feels like Pittsburgh's pride has been broken.
Playing uninspired football and making mistakes will give Kansas City
the gift of staying the course. You can't leave a trail of crumbs and

expect to get by. With the defending champs gaining momentum and
winning close games, nothing would hurt more than losing three straight
games. It's a difference between the fifth and seventh seed come
playoff time. Very limited room for error on a very short week.

Baltimore Ravens @ Houston Texans

The second of this Christmas Day double-header concludes with
Baltimore traveling to Houston and playing a banged up Texans team.
Reigning MVP Lamar Jackson has played well enough to win MVP
again; as Baltimore looks to gain some ground in the AFC Playoff
picture. A much needed late season bye week and dominating the New
York Giants (horrible team) while regaining their midseason swagger.
Coming off a big AFC North divisional win versus Pittsburgh, the
Ravens can't lose sight of finishing this season. Taking first place in the
North, but looking to flock at the right time. Derrick Henry looks to run
wild against this Texans defense; while the passing attack will be the
make or break in this matchup. Defensively, Baltimore has been shaky
but playing solid the last few games.

For Houston, the season has been up and down for second year
quarterback CJ Stroud. Call it a sophomore slump as he's struggled the
last couple months without key players. Credit, it's been an uphill battle
each week, but there's still more to be desired. With a close loss to
Kansas City, Houston suffered the injury to Tank Dell. Injuries are piling
up across marquee players and the mantra of "next man up" can do so
much. They've already clinched the AFC South division but seeding
appears to be fourth at the present moment. Defensively, the pass rush
will be their bread and butter in stopping Lamar Jackson. With an
elusive player in Jackson, it'll have to be hats on hats in getting a
statement win for Houston. Like the Chiefs, you can't make too many
mistakes against Baltimore and expect to win. Every possession                                                                            matters while scoring points. Rest assured, if this becomes a shootout
midway through the third quarter, I won't be surprised. Both
quarterbacks can make home run throws and light up the scoreboard.

From all of us here at The Gryd Network, have a safe and Merry
Christmas. Enjoy the holidays with family and friends; be responsible as
well.

Stai tuned.