NFL contract incentives, milestones Week 18: Sam Darnold headlines list Nick Brinkerhoff, USA TODAYJanuary 3, 2026 at 5:03 AM 0 Some are motivated by money. Others are motivated by deadlines. Plenty just want to be great. When it comes to incentive bonuses in the NFL, those are one and the same. Even though the calendar flipped, countless teams are still paying the bills for 2025 and that statement balance is certain to grow before the end of Week 18.

- - NFL contract incentives, milestones Week 18: Sam Darnold headlines list

Nick Brinkerhoff, USA TODAYJanuary 3, 2026 at 5:03 AM

Some are motivated by money. Others are motivated by deadlines. Plenty just want to be great.

When it comes to incentive bonuses in the NFL, those are one and the same. Even though the calendar flipped, countless teams are still paying the bills for 2025 and that statement balance is certain to grow before the end of Week 18.

Player incentive bonuses always come into focus during the final week of the regular season, primarily because it's the last chance to take home some additional cash before the long offseason.

Most of the playoff spots are locked up heading into the regular season final this year, but that doesn't mean that there isn't plenty on the line.

Seattle Seahawks QB Sam Darnold isn't just playing for the NFC's No. 1 seed, but up to $2 million in bonuses in Week 18. Carolina Panthers' RB Rico Dowdle isn't just playing for the NFC South, but for the chance to earn more than his yearly salary in incentives. Washington Commanders' LB Von Miller is after both a $1 million bonus and bragging rights over a former teammate.

Incentives and milestones are on the line before the NFL playoffs kick off in a week's time. Here are some players across the league who can pad their stats and pockets in Week 18.

NFL PLAYOFFS: Who is in the NFL playoffs so far? Who's clinched, division winners, bracket update

makes a catch for a touchdown against the Green Bay Packers during the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. The play was originally ruled an incomplete pass, but the call was overturned. Despite TeSlaa's effort, the Packers won the game 27-13.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>Week 1: Detroit Lions wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa (18) makes a catch for a touchdown against the Green Bay Packers during the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. The play was originally ruled an incomplete pass, but the call was overturned. Despite TeSlaa's effort, the Packers won the game 27-13.

" data-src=https://ift.tt/9TurV80 class=caas-img data-headline="Best images of the 2025 NFL season" data-caption="

Week 1: Detroit Lions wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa (18) makes a catch for a touchdown against the Green Bay Packers during the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. The play was originally ruled an incomplete pass, but the call was overturned. Despite TeSlaa's effort, the Packers won the game 27-13.

">Week 1: Detroit Lions wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa (18) makes a catch for a touchdown against the Green Bay Packers during the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. The play was originally ruled an incomplete pass, but the call was overturned. Despite TeSlaa's effort, the Packers won the game 27-13.

" src=https://ift.tt/9TurV80 class=caas-img>

1 / 4Best images of the 2025 NFL season

NFL contract incentives 2025

Contract numbers courtesy of Spotrac.

Sam Darnold, Seahawks QB

The Seahawks enter Week 18 with the No. 1 seed in the NFC on the line against the San Francisco 49ers. If Darnold has a big game, it would not only be good for his team, but also his wallet.

Darnold can earn up to $2 million in incentives in Week 18 if he hits each of the following:

100 Passer Rating (99.2 currently): $500,000

28 TD Passes (Needs three in Week 18): $500,000

4,000 Passing Yards (Needs 150 passing yards): $500,000

67.5% Completion (67.2% currently): $500,000

Aaron Rodgers, Steelers QB

Rodgers doesn't have any performance-based incentives on the line in Week 18, but he does have some additional motivation to win. If the Steelers clinch a playoff spot, it would also result in a $500,000 bonus for Rodgers. Pittsburgh can get into the playoffs with a win over the Baltimore Ravens in Week 18.

Saquon Barkley, Eagles RB

Barkley and the Eagles haven't been able to replicate the same magic this season, but that doesn't mean the star running back can't pad his pockets in Week 18. He is just 87 scrimmage yards away from reaching 1,500 for the season. If he can hit that number, Barkley would walk away from the regular season with another $250,000.

Rico Dowdle, Panthers RB

Dowdle has enjoyed a career-year in Carolina and now he's in a good spot to enjoy a significant bonus too. The running back needs seven scrimmage yards to unlock a $1 million bonus and one touchdown to earn an additional $250,000.

He already took home $1.75 million in incentives for totaling six touchdowns and eclipsing 800, 950 and 1,100 scrimmage yards. If he hits those two remaining incentives in Week 18, Dowdle could end the regular season with $3 million in bonuses – not bad for a player that signed a one-year, $2.75 million deal in free agency.

Tony Pollard, Titans RB

The Titans have picked it up on offense in recent weeks and now Pollard can cash in. He needs 66 rushing yards to hit a $250,000 bonus for 1,100 rushing yards. He can add another $200,000 with two rushing touchdowns in Week 18.

Deebo Samuel, Commanders WR

Samuel is a do-it-all type of player, so it makes sense that his incentives reflect that. The Commanders receiver has both rushing and receiving incentives in his contract. Notably, those incentives are non-cumulative, meaning the bonuses do not stack like they would in other contracts.

Here's what is on the line for Samuel in Week 18:

800 receiving yards (Needs 93): $200,000

80 catches (Needs 10): $200,000

8 total touchdowns (Needs 2): $250,000

3 rushing touchdowns (Needs 2): $250,000

While the receiving yards, catches and traditional touchdown incentives are non-cumulative, Samuel would be able to take home $500,000 if he scored a pair of rushing touchdowns in Week 18. That would trigger the total touchdown incentive and rushing touchdown incentive in his contract.

Jauan Jennings, 49ers WR

Jennings has played at least 35 snaps on offense in 14 games this season. He already secured a $1.6 million bonus for achieving that mark in at least 10 games. If he does it in Week 18, that will trigger the bonus for 15 games and turn that $1.6 million bonus into $2.4 million.

Keenan Allen, Chargers WR

While the Chargers don't have a lot to play for in Week 18 with a playoff spot secured, Allen certainly does. He already triggered $2.25 million in bonuses this season and is within reach of another $1.25 million. The Chargers receiver needs six catches for $750,000, nine receiving yards for $250,000 and two touchdowns for $250,000.

Stefon Diggs, Patriots WR

Diggs already has $1 million in the bank for incentive bonuses this season. He can double that in Week 18 by earning $500,000 with eight more catches and $500,000 with 30 receiving yards. That would bring him to 90 catches and 1,000 yards for 2025.

Marquise Brown, Chiefs WR

It has been a tough year for the Chiefs, but Brown can at least walk away from it with some extra money in Week 18. He needs one more touchdown for $250,000 and can also secure a $125,000 bonus with 102 receiving yards to finish the season.

Khalil Shakir, Bills WR

The Bills are locked into a wild-card spot, so they don't have a lot to play for in Week 18. This will be, barring some playoff craziness, the final game at Highmark Stadium. Shakir can make it a memorable for for himself with one touchdown for $150,000 and eight catches for $150,000.

Hunter Henry, Patriots TE

Diggs isn't the only Patriots' pass-catcher with some extra money ripe for the taking in Week 18. Henry is just five catches away from heading to the postseason with another $250,000 in his bank account.

Von Miller, Commanders LB

The 36-year-old Miller is winding his 14th season on the field and 15th overall since entering the league. Could he also be winding down a career? Miller enters Week 18 with eight sacks on the season and would earn $1 million with one sack in the regular season finale.

It's worth noting that Miller is just one sack behind former teammate DeMarcus Ware, who finished his career with 138.5. Miller said during the offseason that it was important for him to pass Ware on the NFL's all-time sack list and he could retire if he had 140 career sacks. In other words, Miller has monetary and personal motivations on the line in Philadelphia.

NFL milestones Week 18 -

Bijan Robinson (vs. NO) needs 255 total yards to pass Chris Johnson for most scrimmage yards in an NFL season

Christian McCaffrey (vs. SEA) needs 110 receiving yards to become the first player in NFL history with multiple seasons with at least 1,000 rushing and 1,000 receiving yards

Jaxon Smith-Njigba (at SF) needs 256 yards to pass Calvin Johnson Jr. for most receiving yards in a single season

Myles Garrett (at CIN) needs one sack to set a new NFL single-season sack record

Broncos (vs. LAC) need eight sacks to tie 1984 Bears for most sacks by a team in a season

2026 NFL DRAFT ORDER: first-round picks after Week 17 results

NFL season QB milestones Week 18 -

Passing yards needed to hit 4,000:

Sam Darnold (at SF): 150

Bo Nix (vs. LAC): 210

Trevor Lawrence (vs. TEN): 248

Caleb Williams (vs. DET): 270

NFL season RB milestones Week 18 -

Yards needed to hit 1,000:

Chase Brown (vs. CLE): 53

Kenneth Walker III (at SF): 70

Josh Jacobs (at MIN): 71

Jaylen Warren (vs. BAL): 108

Ashton Jeanty (vs. KC): 112

TreVeyon Henderson (vs. MIA): 142

2026 NFL mock draft roundup: Raiders, Jets get new QBs in top 3

NFL season receivers milestones Week 18 -

Yards needed to hit 1,000:

Stefon Diggs (vs. MIA): 30

DeVonta Smith (vs. WSH): 44

Justin Jefferson (vs. GB): 53

Emeka Egbuka (vs. CAR): 70

Tetairoa McMillan (at TB): 71

Jaylen Waddle (at NE): 90

Michael Wilson (at LAR): 93

Christian McCaffrey (vs. SEA): 110

Alec Pierce (at HOU): 129

Kyle Pitts (vs. NO): 130

Drake London (vs. NO): 159

Receptions needed for 100:

Christian McCaffrey (vs. SEA): 4

George Pickens (at NYG): 8

Wan'Dale Robinson (vs. DAL): 8

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NFL player contract incentives: Sam Darnold among Week 18 list

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NFL contract incentives, milestones Week 18: Sam Darnold headlines list

NFL contract incentives, milestones Week 18: Sam Darnold headlines list Nick Brinkerhoff, USA TODAYJanuary 3, 2026 at 5:...

What is the NFL playoff format? How the NFL playoffs work for the 202526 postseason Tom Viera, USA TODAYJanuary 3, 2026 at 3:02 AM 0 It's time to get ready for the thrilling culmination of the NFL season. In just one week, the playoffs will begin, showcasing the best teams from both conferences as they strive for this year's Super Bowl glory. Since the 202021 season, the NFL has enhanced the postseason by expanding the field from 12 to 14 teams. The journey begins during wild card weekend, when 14 contenders take the field.

- - What is the NFL playoff format? How the NFL playoffs work for the 2025-26 postseason

Tom Viera, USA TODAYJanuary 3, 2026 at 3:02 AM

It's time to get ready for the thrilling culmination of the NFL season. In just one week, the playoffs will begin, showcasing the best teams from both conferences as they strive for this year's Super Bowl glory.

Since the 2020-21 season, the NFL has enhanced the postseason by expanding the field from 12 to 14 teams. The journey begins during wild card weekend, when 14 contenders take the field.

Here's everything you about the NFL playoff format for this season:

their new "Rivalries" uniform for the "Sunday Night Football" game, which the Patriots won, 23-20.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>Week 5: Buffalo Bills wide receiver Curtis Samuel makes a catch against the New England Patriots at Highmark Stadium. The Bills wore their new "Rivalries" uniform for the "Sunday Night Football" game, which the Patriots won, 23-20.

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Week 5: Buffalo Bills wide receiver Curtis Samuel makes a catch against the New England Patriots at Highmark Stadium. The Bills wore their new "Rivalries" uniform for the "Sunday Night Football" game, which the Patriots won, 23-20.

">Week 5: Buffalo Bills wide receiver Curtis Samuel makes a catch against the New England Patriots at Highmark Stadium. The Bills wore their new "Rivalries" uniform for the "Sunday Night Football" game, which the Patriots won, 23-20.

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Week 5: Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield awaits the snap against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. Both teams wore throwback uniforms in the Buccaneers' 38-35 win. The Buccaneers and Seahawks entered the NFL together as expansion teams in 1976.

" data-src=https://ift.tt/imE4tC9 class=caas-img data-headline="Can't-miss alternate and throwback uniforms of the 2025 NFL season" data-caption="

">Week 5: Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield awaits the snap against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. Both teams wore throwback uniforms in the Buccaneers' 38-35 win. The Buccaneers and Seahawks entered the NFL together as expansion teams in 1976.

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"Monday Night Football" game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Empower Field at Mile High. The Broncos wore their "Midnight Navy" uniforms for the 28-3 win.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>Week 4: Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix (10) hands the ball off to running back J.K. Dobbins during the "Monday Night Football" game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Empower Field at Mile High. The Broncos wore their "Midnight Navy" uniforms for the 28-3 win.

" data-src=https://ift.tt/x6usiNH class=caas-img data-headline="Can't-miss alternate and throwback uniforms of the 2025 NFL season" data-caption="

Week 4: Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix (10) hands the ball off to running back J.K. Dobbins during the "Monday Night Football" game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Empower Field at Mile High. The Broncos wore their "Midnight Navy" uniforms for the 28-3 win.

">Week 4: Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix (10) hands the ball off to running back J.K. Dobbins during the "Monday Night Football" game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Empower Field at Mile High. The Broncos wore their "Midnight Navy" uniforms for the 28-3 win.

" src=https://ift.tt/x6usiNH class=caas-img>a 27-21 win on "Monday Night Football" at Hard Rock Stadium. The Dolphins wore their new their Nike "Rivalries" uniforms – the team version dubbed "Dark Waters."

" style=padding-bottom:56%>Week 4: Miami Dolphins running back De'von Achane rushes the ball against the New York Jets during a 27-21 win on "Monday Night Football" at Hard Rock Stadium. The Dolphins wore their new their Nike "Rivalries" uniforms – the team version dubbed "Dark Waters."

" data-src=https://ift.tt/ZgaM5E0 class=caas-img data-headline="Can't-miss alternate and throwback uniforms of the 2025 NFL season" data-caption="

Week 4: Miami Dolphins running back De'von Achane rushes the ball against the New York Jets during a 27-21 win on "Monday Night Football" at Hard Rock Stadium. The Dolphins wore their new their Nike "Rivalries" uniforms – the team version dubbed "Dark Waters."

">Week 4: Miami Dolphins running back De'von Achane rushes the ball against the New York Jets during a 27-21 win on "Monday Night Football" at Hard Rock Stadium. The Dolphins wore their new their Nike "Rivalries" uniforms – the team version dubbed "Dark Waters."

" src=https://ift.tt/ZgaM5E0 class=caas-img>the first NFL team to wear the new Nike "Rivalries" uniform in a game. The Seahawks won the game, 23-20.

" style=padding-bottom:56%>Week 4: The Arizona Cardinals defense tackles Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Tory Horton (15) during the first quarter of a "Thursday Night Football" game at State Farm Stadium. The Cardinals became the first NFL team to wear the new Nike "Rivalries" uniform in a game. The Seahawks won the game, 23-20.

" data-src=https://ift.tt/1tQNxup class=caas-img data-headline="Can't-miss alternate and throwback uniforms of the 2025 NFL season" data-caption="

Week 4: The Arizona Cardinals defense tackles Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Tory Horton (15) during the first quarter of a "Thursday Night Football" game at State Farm Stadium. The Cardinals became the first NFL team to wear the new Nike "Rivalries" uniform in a game. The Seahawks won the game, 23-20.

">Week 4: The Arizona Cardinals defense tackles Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Tory Horton (15) during the first quarter of a "Thursday Night Football" game at State Farm Stadium. The Cardinals became the first NFL team to wear the new Nike "Rivalries" uniform in a game. The Seahawks won the game, 23-20.

" src=https://ift.tt/1tQNxup class=caas-img>

Week 3: New Orleans Saints running back Kendre Miller (5) stiff arms Seattle Seahawks linebacker Tyrice Knight (48) during the second quarter at Lumen Field. The Saints wore their all-white uniform and helmet combo for the first time in the 44-13 loss.

" data-src=https://ift.tt/JfDH073 class=caas-img data-headline="Can't-miss alternate and throwback uniforms of the 2025 NFL season" data-caption="

">Week 3: New Orleans Saints running back Kendre Miller (5) stiff arms Seattle Seahawks linebacker Tyrice Knight (48) during the second quarter at Lumen Field. The Saints wore their all-white uniform and helmet combo for the first time in the 44-13 loss.

" src=https://ift.tt/JfDH073 class=caas-img>Week 3: San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey carries the ball against the Arizona Cardinals during the first half at Levi's Stadium. The 49ers wore throwback jerseys - an homage to the team's 1950s look, as well as its 1994 Super Bowl-winning season - in the 16-15 win against the Cardinals.

" data-src=https://ift.tt/y3DHsAh class=caas-img data-headline="Can't-miss alternate and throwback uniforms of the 2025 NFL season" data-caption="

Week 3: San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey carries the ball against the Arizona Cardinals during the first half at Levi's Stadium. The 49ers wore throwback jerseys - an homage to the team's 1950s look, as well as its 1994 Super Bowl-winning season - in the 16-15 win against the Cardinals.

">Week 3: San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey carries the ball against the Arizona Cardinals during the first half at Levi's Stadium. The 49ers wore throwback jerseys - an homage to the team's 1950s look, as well as its 1994 Super Bowl-winning season - in the 16-15 win against the Cardinals.

" src=https://ift.tt/y3DHsAh class=caas-img>

Week 2: Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) runs the ball against the Atlanta Falcons at U.S. Bank Stadium. Sporting "The Vikings Classic" throwback uniform inspired by the team's look during the 1960s and '70s, Minnesota was defeated, 22-6.

" data-src=https://ift.tt/fowZQ3j class=caas-img data-headline="Can't-miss alternate and throwback uniforms of the 2025 NFL season" data-caption="

">Week 2: Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) runs the ball against the Atlanta Falcons at U.S. Bank Stadium. Sporting "The Vikings Classic" throwback uniform inspired by the team's look during the 1960s and '70s, Minnesota was defeated, 22-6.

" src=https://ift.tt/fowZQ3j class=caas-img>

1 / 25Can't-miss alternate and throwback uniforms of the 2025 NFL seasonWeek 6: Washington Commanders wide receiver Chris Moore (19) celebrates with teammates after scoring a touchdown during the "Monday Night Football" game against the Chicago Bears at Northwest Stadium. The Commanders wore their all-black alternate uniforms for the game.NFL playoff format

The NFL playoff format is a single-elimination tournament of seven teams in the AFC and NFC, including:

Four division winners (South, North, East, and West)

Three wild card teams (best remaining teams by record)

The division winner with the best record receives the No. 1 seed in their conference, plays their playoff games at home, and gets a bye in the first round (wild card) of the playoffs.

The playoffs have four rounds: the wild card round, the divisional round, the conference championship games and the Super Bowl. There is an extra week between the conference championship games and the Super Bowl.

Wild card round

No. 1 seed has a bye

No. 2 seed hosts No. 7 seed

No. 3 seed hosts No. 6 seed

No. 4 seed hosts No. 5 seed

Divisional round

The No. 1 seed hosts the lowest remaining seed.

The second-highest remaining seed hosts the second-lowest remaining seed.

Conference championship game

Divisional round winners (higher seed hosts)

Super Bowl

Conference championship winners play at a neutral site.

This year's Super Bowl will be played at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, CA.

When do the NFL playoffs start?

The NFL playoffs kick off on Saturday, Jan. 10, at 4:30 p.m. ET for the first game of the wild-card round.

Here's how the full schedule breaks down for the 2025-26 NFL playoffs.

Wild card round: Jan. 10-12, 2026

Divisional round: Jan. 17-18, 2026

Conference championship: Jan. 25, 2026

Super Bowl: Feb. 8, 2026

NFL playoff picture

*=team has clinched a playoff berth.

AFC playoff picture -

No. 1 seed: Denver Broncos (13-3, AFC West winners)*

No. 2 seed: New England Patriots (13-3, AFC East winners)*

No. 3 seed: Jacksonville Jaguars (12-4, AFC South leaders)*

No. 4 seed: Pittsburgh Steelers (9-7, AFC North leaders)

No. 5 seed: Houston Texans (11-5, wild card No. 1)*

No. 6 seed: Los Angeles Chargers (11-5, wild card No. 2)*

No. 7 seed: Buffalo Bills (11-5, wild card No. 3)*

In the hunt: Baltimore Ravens (8-8)

NFC playoff picture -

No. 1 seed: Seattle Seahawks (13-3, NFC West leaders)*

No. 2 seed: Chicago Bears (11-5, NFC North winners)*

No. 3 seed: Philadelphia Eagles (11-5, NFC East winners)*

No. 4 seed: Carolina Panthers (8-8, NFC South leaders)

No. 5 seed: San Francisco 49ers (12-4, wild card No. 1)*

No. 6 seed: Los Angeles Rams (11-5, wild card No. 2)*

No. 7 seed: Green Bay Packers (9-6-1, wild card No. 3)*

In the hunt: Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-9)

NFL playoff bracket

These are the current wild-card matchups, given the state of the playoff picture. This is subject to multiple changes pending the results in Week 18:

AFC wild card

No. 2 New England Patriots vs. No. 7-seed Buffalo Bills

No. 3 Jacksonville Jaguars vs. No. 6 Los Angeles Chargers

No. 4 Pittsburgh Steelers vs. No. 5 Houston Texans

NFC wild card

No. 2 Chicago Bears vs. No. 7 Green Bay Packers

No. 3 Philadelphia Eagles vs. No. 6 Los Angeles Rams

No. 4 Carolina Panthers vs. No. 5 San Francisco 49ers

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NFL playoff format, explained: Schedule, bracket for NFL playoffs

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Published: January 03, 2026 at 01:27PM on Source: MARIO MAG

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January 03, 2026

What is the NFL playoff format? How the NFL playoffs work for the 2025-26 postseason

What is the NFL playoff format? How the NFL playoffs work for the 202526 postseason Tom Viera, USA TODAYJanuary 3, 2026 a...

Seahawks playoff picture: Scenarios, chances for Seattle to win NFC West Ayrton Ostly, USA TODAYJanuary 3, 2026 at 3:03 AM 0 It's been weeks since the Seattle Seahawks officially broke their playoff drought. Coach Mike Macdonald will be in the postseason for the first time with one of the best teams in the NFL this season. The Seahawks have won 10 of their last 11 games to push hard into the playoffs behind the No. 2 scoring offense and No. 2 scoring defense. Seattle will be back in the playoffs for the first time since the 2020 NFL season.

- - Seahawks playoff picture: Scenarios, chances for Seattle to win NFC West

Ayrton Ostly, USA TODAYJanuary 3, 2026 at 3:03 AM

It's been weeks since the Seattle Seahawks officially broke their playoff drought. Coach Mike Macdonald will be in the postseason for the first time with one of the best teams in the NFL this season.

The Seahawks have won 10 of their last 11 games to push hard into the playoffs behind the No. 2 scoring offense and No. 2 scoring defense. Seattle will be back in the playoffs for the first time since the 2020 NFL season.

But whether the Seahawks will be playing at home or on the road to open the playoffs is still undecided. It's now down to one final game in Week 18 to decide their postseason fate.

As is the case across the league, the Seahawks wrap up the regular season with a game against a divisional foe, the San Francisco 49ers. Seattle controls their own destiny and will either be the No. 1 seed in the conference or the top wild-card seed.

Here's a breakdown of the Seahawks' playoff picture, how they could win the NFC West and the current NFC postseason picture:

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1 / 4Best images of the 2025 NFL season

Seahawks playoff chances

Seattle clinched a playoff berth in Week 16 thanks to their win over the Los Angeles Rams on "Thursday Night Football."

Seahawks playoff scenarios

Seattle will either win the NFC West for the first time since 2020 or be the top wild-card seed in the NFC. Here's how the Seahawks could win their division in 2025:

Seahawks win in Week 18 vs. San Francisco 49ers

Seattle travels on the road to face San Francisco in a contest for the division crown and the No. 1 seed. With a win, the Seahawks secure the top seed and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.

A loss to the 49ers would drop the Seahawks to the No. 5 seed regardless of the other results in Week 18. San Francisco has an advantage in the first two tiebreakers: head-to-head and division records. The 49ers winning in Week 18 would draw them even on overall win-loss record and they'd get the top seed thanks to those tiebreakers.

NFC West standings

The Seahawks lead the NFC West standings entering the season finale. Here's a full look at the division:

Seattle Seahawks (13-3, 3-2 NFC West)

San Francisco 49ers (12-4, 4-1)

Los Angeles Rams (11-5, 3-2)

Arizona Cardinals (3-13, 0-5)

The Seahawks' win over the Carolina Panthers in Week 17 keeps them a game ahead of the 49ers in the win column. Seattle's win over Los Angeles in a thrilling Week 16 game – followed by the Rams' loss to the Falcons in Week 17 – makes it a two-team race for the division crown.

Seahawks remaining schedule

Below is a look at the Seahawks' final opponent:

Week 18: at San Francisco 49ers (12-4)

49ers remaining schedule

Below is a look at the 49ers' final opponent:

Week 18: vs. Seattle Seahawks (13-3)

Who will Seahawks play in playoffs? -

If the Seahawks defeat the 49ers Week 18: Seattle earns the No. 1 seed and a bye.

If the 49ers defeat the Seahawks Week 18: San Francisco earns the No. 1 seed and a bye. Seattle earns the No. 5 seed and will go on the road to play the NFC South champion, either Carolina or Tampa Bay.

NFL playoff picture

Here's how the AFC and NFC stack up for Week 18 (teams with an asterisk have clinched a playoff berth):

AFC -

Denver Broncos (13-3, AFC West winners)*

New England Patriots (13-3, AFC East winners)*

Jacksonville Jaguars (12-4, AFC South leaders)*

Pittsburgh Steelers (9-7, AFC North leaders)

Houston Texans (11-5, wild card No. 1)*

Los Angeles Chargers (11-5, wild card No. 2)*

Buffalo Bills (11-5, wild card No. 3)*

In the hunt: Baltimore Ravens (8-8)

NFC -

Seattle Seahawks (13-3, NFC West leaders)*

Chicago Bears (11-5, NFC North winners)*

Philadelphia Eagles (11-5, NFC East winners)*

Carolina Panthers (8-8, NFC South leaders)

San Francisco 49ers (12-4, wild card No. 1)*

Los Angeles Rams (11-5, wild card No. 2)*

Green Bay Packers (9-6-1, wild card No. 3)*

In the hunt: Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-9)

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Seahawks playoff picture: Who will Seattle play in playoffs?

Original Article on Source

Source: "AOL Sports"

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Published: January 03, 2026 at 01:27PM on Source: MARIO MAG

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January 03, 2026

Seahawks playoff picture: Scenarios, chances for Seattle to win NFC West

Seahawks playoff picture: Scenarios, chances for Seattle to win NFC West Ayrton Ostly, USA TODAYJanuary 3, 2026 at 3:03 A...

49ers playoff picture: Scenarios, chances for San Francisco to win NFC West Tom Viera, USA TODAYJanuary 3, 2026 at 3:03 AM 0 The San Francisco 49ers clinched a spot in the NFL playoffs in midDecember, but what seed they will be determined in Week 18. The 49ers control their own destiny and have a chance to win the NFC West and the No. 1 seed in the NFC in Week 18. San Francisco will battle the Seattle Seahawks for the No. 1 seed on Saturday night in Week 18 at Levi's Stadium, with the winner getting the firstround bye in the postseason. The 49ers will enter the playoffs as either the No.

- - 49ers playoff picture: Scenarios, chances for San Francisco to win NFC West

Tom Viera, USA TODAYJanuary 3, 2026 at 3:03 AM

The San Francisco 49ers clinched a spot in the NFL playoffs in mid-December, but what seed they will be determined in Week 18.

The 49ers control their own destiny and have a chance to win the NFC West and the No. 1 seed in the NFC in Week 18. San Francisco will battle the Seattle Seahawks for the No. 1 seed on Saturday night in Week 18 at Levi's Stadium, with the winner getting the first-round bye in the postseason.

The 49ers will enter the playoffs as either the No. 1, No. 5 or No. 6 seed, pending the results in Week 18.

Here's a breakdown of the 49ers' playoff picture and how they could win the NFC West for the third time in four seasons.

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1 / 4Best images of the 2025 NFL season

49ers playoff chances

The 49ers clinched a playoff berth back in Week 16 after the Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Detroit Lions.

49ers playoff scenarios

The 49ers will either win the NFC West and No. 1 seed or earn a wild-card berth. Here's a look at what it will take for San Francisco to win its division in 2025:

49ers win in Week 18 vs. Seattle Seahawks

San Francisco will face Seattle at home in Week 18 with the winner earning the NFC West title and the NFC's No. 1 overall seed. With a win, the 49ers will be the NFC's No. 1 seed and have a bye in the wild card.

A loss in Week 18 would mean they are either the No. 5 or No. 6 seed in the NFC playoff picture, pending the Rams' result against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday. If the 49ers lose and the Rams win against the Cardinals, they would each have a 12-5 record.

In that scenario, the tiebreaker goes first to head-to-head record, which is 1-1. Then, it goes to the division record, where both teams would be 4-2. Then, because they are divisional opponents, it goes to common opponent record. The Rams are 6-2 in those games, while the 49ers are 5-3. So, the Rams would get the No. 5 seed, and San Francisco would fall to No. 6.

NFC West standings

The 49ers are currently in second place in the NFC West standings. Below is a look at the pecking order within the division:

Seattle Seahawks (13-3)

San Francisco 49ers (12-4)

Los Angeles Rams (11-5)

Arizona Cardinals (3-13)

The Seahawks won their Week 17 game against the Carolina Panthers. As a result, Seattle remains a game ahead of the 49ers even after San Francisco's "Sunday Night Football" win over the Bears in Week 17.

The Rams are now in third place and a full game behind the 49ers after Los Angeles lost to the Atlanta Falcons on "Monday Night Football" in Week 17.

The 49ers hold tiebreaker advantages over the Seahawks and Rams. San Francisco beat Seattle head-to-head in Week 1 and will play the Seahawks again in Week 18 with the NFC West title on the line.

49ers remaining schedule

Below is a look at the 49ers' final opponent:

Week 18: vs. Seattle Seahawks (13-3)

Seahawks remaining schedule

Below is a look at the Seahawks' final opponent:

Week 18: at San Francisco 49ers (12-4)

Rams remaining schedule

Here's a look at Los Angeles' remaining schedule:

Week 18: vs. Arizona Cardinals (3-13)

Who will 49ers play in playoffs? -

If 49ers defeat Seahawks Week 18: San Francisco earns No. 1 seed and a bye.

If Seahawks defeat 49ers, and Rams win: The Seahawks earn the No. 1 seed, the Rams are No. 5 seed and 49ers are No. 6 seed. San Francisco would play the No. 3 seed on the road, either the Chicago Bears or the Philadelphia Eagles.

If Seahawks defeat 49ers and Rams lose: The Seahawks earn the No. 1 seed. The 49ers are No. 5 seed. San Francisco would play the No. 4 seed on the road, which would be either the Buccaneers or the Panthers.

NFL playoff picture

Here's how the AFC and NFC stack up for Week 18 (subject to change pending Week 18 results):

AFC -

Denver Broncos (13-3, AFC West winners)*

New England Patriots (13-3, AFC East winners)*

Jacksonville Jaguars (12-4, AFC South leaders)*

Pittsburgh Steelers (9-7, AFC North leaders)

Houston Texans (11-5, wild card No. 1)*

Los Angeles Chargers (11-5, wild card No. 2)*

Buffalo Bills (11-5, wild card No. 3)*

In the hunt: Baltimore Ravens (8-8)

NFC -

Seattle Seahawks (13-3, NFC West leaders)*

Chicago Bears (11-5, NFC North winners)*

Philadelphia Eagles (11-5, NFC East winners)*

Carolina Panthers (8-8, NFC South leaders)

San Francisco 49ers (12-4, wild card No. 1)*

Los Angeles Rams (11-5, wild card No. 2)*

Green Bay Packers (9-6-1, wild card No. 3)*

In the hunt: Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-9)

An asterisk (*) denotes teams that have clinched a playoff spot. Teams that have clinched division titles are noted accordingly.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 49ers playoff picture: Who will San Francisco play in playoffs?

Original Article on Source

Source: "AOL Sports"

Source: Sports

Published: January 03, 2026 at 01:27PM on Source: MARIO MAG

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January 03, 2026

49ers playoff picture: Scenarios, chances for San Francisco to win NFC West

49ers playoff picture: Scenarios, chances for San Francisco to win NFC West Tom Viera, USA TODAYJanuary 3, 2026 at 3:03 A...

New Photo - Jacob Elordi, Michael B. Jordan, Amy Madigan, Cynthia Erivo, and more — every 2026 Oscars episode...

Jacob Elordi, Michael B. Jordan, Amy Madigan, Cynthia Erivo, and more — every 2026 Oscars episode of The Awardist podcast Plus, interviews with Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt, jesse Plemons and Yorgos Lanthimos, Rose Byrne, &34;KPop Demon Hunters&34; stars Arden Cho and May Hong, and more — and awards season analysis. By Gerrad Hall :maxbytes(150000):stripicc()/Gerrad413fcf02541834f43bb26c0de8fe66f66.jpg) Gerrad Hall is an editorial director at , overseeing movie, awards, and music coverage.

Jacob Elordi, Michael B. Jordan, Amy Madigan, Cynthia Erivo, and more — every 2026 Oscars episode of The Awardist podcast

Plus, interviews with Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt, jesse Plemons and Yorgos Lanthimos, Rose Byrne, "KPop Demon Hunters" stars Arden Cho and May Hong, and more — and awards season analysis.

By Gerrad Hall

Gerrad

Gerrad Hall is an editorial director at **, overseeing movie, awards, and music coverage. He is also host of *The Awardist* podcast, and has cohosted EW's live Oscars, Emmys, SAG, and Grammys red carpet shows. He has appeared on *Good Morning America*, *The Talk*, *Access Hollywood*, *Extra!*, and other talk shows, delivering the latest news on pop culture and entertainment.

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December 30, 2025 7:49 p.m. ET

Sizing up One Battle After Another, Hamnet, and other early 2026 Oscar frontrunners — and can KPop Demon Hunters get a Best Picture nomination?

A new season of *The Awardist* kicks off with host Gerrad Hall, EW Sr. Writer Joey Nolfi, and Sr. Editor Joyce Eng breaking down all of the early action on the road to the 2026 Oscars. We're talking about early frontrunners — including Paul Thomas Anderson's *One Battle After Another*, led by Leonardo DiCaprio, to Chloé Zhao's *Hamnet* starring the one-to-beat Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal — the movies that gained the most out of the fall festival circuit, the big contenders still to come, and who might be a dark horse, including *KPop Demon Hunters*.**

The Lost Bus star America Ferrera, Timothée Chalamet's big boost for Marty Supreme

Timothée Chalamet's *Marty Supreme* has a surprise world premiere this week at the New York Film Festival — is the reaction what he needed to boost his lead in the Best Actor race? *Awardist* host Gerrad Hall, EW Sr. Writer Joey Nolfi, and Sr. Editor Joyce Eng break down early chatter about his performance and what it'll mean for his chances. Plus, thoughts on *One Battle After Another* star Chase Infiniti leaping into the Best Actress category, and we dive into the Golden Globes' short list for Best Podcast, which includes some controversial political voices. And Gerrad chats with *The Lost Bus* star America Ferrera about the harrowing true story, about the bus driver and teacher who were trapped with 22 students during California's devastating 2018 Camp Fire.**

KPop Demon Hunters stars Arden Cho & May Hong, and remembering Diane Keaton

After becoming the biggest pop culture phenomenon of the year, breaking records on Netflix, and taking the Billboard charts by storm with the soundtrack, including the No. 1 hit "Golden," *KPop Demon Hunters* stars Arden Cho ('Rumi') and May Hong ('Mira') are looking back on their very first auditions for the movie, how they related to their demon-hunting/KPop girl-group characters, the movie's enormous success, what they hope to see from a sequel, and more. Plus, *Awardist* host Gerrad Hall and EW. Sr. Editor Joyce Eng chat about the shift in categories for *One Battle After Another* star Chase Infiniti, and we're celebrating the legacy of Hollywood legend Diane Keaton.**

Weapons star Amy Madigan on bringing Aunt Gladys to life, Miley Cyrus gets in the Oscar race

Could Amy Madigan go back to the Oscars 40 years after her first nomination, this time for playing the mysterious and kooky Aunt Gladys in the horror mystery *Weapons*? It's very possible! The actress joins *Awardist* host Gerrad Hall to look back on her experience in Zach Cregger's latest thriller and her career. Plus, Gerrad and EW Sr. Editor Joyce Eng chat about the Best Song race, including new contender Miley Cyrus, who has co-written and will perform the end credits song for *Avatar: Fire and Ash*.**

First Wicked: For Good reactions, If I Had Legs I'd Kick You star Rose Byrne

Rose Byrne plays a mother on the verge of a breakdown in *If I Had Legs I'd Kick You* — she breaks down her performance in the psychological dramedy, which is already picking up a lot of honors this awards season. Plus, *Awardist* host Gerrad Hall and EW senior editor Joyce Eng break down the Gotham Awards nominations, where *One Battle After Another* leads all nominees with six; we also analyze that movie's switch to the comedy/musical category at the Golden Globes and what it means for movies including *Wicked: For Good*. And Gerrad shares his reaction to that movie and whether stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande can go the distance at the Oscars.**

Frankenstein star Jacob Elordi, sizing up the Supporting Actor race

He's unrecognizable in *Frankenstein*, covered in prosthetics to play the Creature, but Jacob Elordi steals the show with his heartbreaking performance. He joins *Awardist* host Gerrad Hall to discuss what he considers his most personal work yet, teases *Euphoria* season 3, and looks back on the *Kissing Booth* movies and *Saltburn*. Plus, Gerrad shares a portion of his Q&A with *Frankenstein* star Oscar Isaac at the SCAD Savannah Film Festival. Elsewhere, Gerrad, EW Sr. Writer Joey Nolfi, and Sr. Editor Joyce Eng analyze the Supporting Actor category.**

Die My Love stars Jennifer Lawrence & Robert Pattinson, why Sydney Sweeney's Christy flopped

After starring in their own huge franchises — *The Hunger Games* and *Twilight* — Jennifer Lawrence and Robert Pattinson now join forces to play a couple in the drama *Die My Love*. The two chat with *Awardist* host Gerrad Hall about the movie's love story and dark elements, and look back on those early blockbusters. Plus, Gerrad, EW Sr. Writer Joey Nolfi, and Sr. Editor Joyce Eng break down the poor box office performance of Sydney Sweeney's *Christy*, and discuss Tom Cruise's career and potential future Oscar chances ahead of receiving an honorary Oscar at the Governors Awards.**

The Smashing Machine stars Dwayne Johnson & Emily Blunt, inside the Governors Awards

Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt do a deep dive with *Awardist* host Gerrad Hall on their new drama, *The Smashing Machine*, from his transformation into UFC pioneer Mark Kerr and his concerns about still being seen as the Rock to his character realizing he needed to go to rehab for his drug addiction and the personal place Johnson went for that scene, and Blunt's character Dawn trying to escape torment and their toxic relationship. The lively conversation also includes a look back at their first movie together, *Jungle Cruise*, Johnson revealing who he wanted to play in *The Devil Wears Prada 2*, and more. Plus, Gerrad, EW Sr. Writer Joey Nolfi, and Sr. Editor Joyce Eng discuss the new name for the SAG Awards, the Actor Awards, and Gerrad debriefs on the Governors Awards.**

Bugonia star Jesse Plemons and director Yorgos Lanthimos, Wicked: For Good dominates box office

*Bugonia* star Jesse Plemons does a deep dive on his conspiracy-theorist character and going toe-to-toe with Emma Stone, and director Yorgos Lanthimos explains what made this movie more complicated than his other recent projects. Plus, *Awardist* host Gerrad Hall and EW Sr. Editor Joyce Eng break down the huge opening weekend for *Wicked: For Good* and discuss the career of Eddie Murphy, who will be AFI's latest Life Achievement Award winner.**

Sinners star Michael B. Jordan and director Ryan Coogler, first reaction to Avatar: Fire and Ash

It was the first Oscar hopeful to debut in 2025 — *Sinners* is still a favorite and a strong contender for Best Picture, Director, and Actor nominations. Ryan Coogler and star Michael B. Jordan join *Awardist* host Gerrad Hall to chat about their fifth movie together, how Jordan playing twins complicated their process, what Coogler discovered about the movie by filming the end-credits scene on day one, and more. Plus, Gerrad and EW Sr. Editor Joyce Eng break down all of the latest awards action, from the Gothams and National Board of Review winners to the Spirit Award nominations. Plus, they reveal their thoughts on *Avatar: Fire and Ash*, and Miley Cyrus shares insight into how she wrote her original song for the movie.**

One Battle After Another stars Chase Infiniti & Regina Hall, Golden Globes snubs and surprises

Golden Globes voters have spoken — and now, so are we, breaking down the top film nominations, and especially the biggest snubs and surprises, from *Wicked: For Good* to Jacob Elordi. Plus, *One Battle After Another* star Chase Infiniti joins *Awardist* host Gerrad Hall to discuss her long audition process and having to shave Leonardo DiCaprio to help win the role, that scene with Sean Penn, and more, and then Gerrad chats with her costar Regina Hall about her incredible career and role in Paul Thomas Anderson's latest movie. **

Wicked: For Good star Cynthia Erivo, Oscar shortlists, remembering Rob Reiner

Golden Globe nominee Cynthia Erivo joins *Awardist* host Gerrad Hall to chat about her *Wicked: For Good *journey, whether she was really prepared for everything required of her physically for the role, filming the number "For Good" last-minute with Ariana Grande, the 'sex cardigan,' and more. Plus, Gerrad and EW Sr. Editor Joyce Eng analyze some of the Oscar shortlists, and we remember filmmaker and actor Rob Reiner, who died tragically over the weekend.**

Marty Supreme star Gwyneth Paltrow, thoughts on Oscars moving to YouTube

Gwyneth Paltrow hasn't made a movie in seven years, but she's back on the big screen in *Marty Supreme* — she tells *Awardist* host Gerrad Hall about how "petrified" she was, about building her character's backstory, what she loved about working with Timothée Chalamet, and more. Plus, we look back on her Oscar win for *Shakespeare in Love* and why it took her 25 years to come to terms with it, as well as *Glee*, and what she thinks Pepper Potts has been up to. And Gerrad and EW Sr. Editor Joyce Eng share their thoughts on the Academy's decision to move the Oscars from broadcast TV to YouTube starting in 2029, as well as Harrison Ford being announced as SAG-AFTRA's next Life Achievement Honoree.**

- Awards Shows & Events

- The Awardist Podcast Episodes

Original Article on Source

Source: "EW The"

Source: The

Published: January 03, 2026 at 12:38PM on Source: MARIO MAG

#ShowBiz#Sports#Celebrities#Lifestyle

byMario Satorik

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January 03, 2026

Jacob Elordi, Michael B. Jordan, Amy Madigan, Cynthia Erivo, and more — every 2026 Oscars episode...

Jacob Elordi, Michael B. Jordan, Amy Madigan, Cynthia Erivo, and more — every 2026 Oscars episode of The Awardist podca...

New Photo - Jack Black breaks into Nickelback's 'How You Remind Me' during Anaconda press interview

&34;I'm so glad, that's such a relief,&34; Black said after spontaneously serenading Paul Rudd with the tune. Jack Black breaks into Nickelback's 'How You Remind Me' during Anaconda press interview &34;I'm so glad, that's such a relief,&34; Black said after spontaneously serenading Paul Rudd with the tune. By Wesley Stenzel :maxbytes(150000):stripicc()/WesleyStenzelauthorphoto32b61793a2784639af623f2ae091477e.jpg) Wesley Stenzel is a news writer at . He began writing for EW in 2022. EW's editorial guidelines December 30, 2025 8:30 p.m.

"I'm so glad, that's such a relief," Black said after spontaneously serenading Paul Rudd with the tune.

Jack Black breaks into Nickelback's 'How You Remind Me' during Anaconda press interview

"I'm so glad, that's such a relief," Black said after spontaneously serenading Paul Rudd with the tune.

By Wesley Stenzel

Wesley Stenzel

Wesley Stenzel is a news writer at **. He began writing for EW in 2022.

EW's editorial guidelines

December 30, 2025 8:30 p.m. ET

Jack Black in Los Angeles on April 26, 2025; Chad Kroeger in New York City on Nov. 17, 2022

Jack Black in Los Angeles on April 26; Nickelback's Chad Kroeger in New York City in 2022. Credit:

Jerod Harris/Getty; Santiago Felipe/Getty

Jack Black went back to Nickelback while promoting *Anaconda*.

While discussing his new comedy with Paul Rudd during an interview with IMDb, the *School of Rock* star asked, "What was Nickelback's biggest hit?"

After the interviewer and Rudd had moved onto the next question, Black stared into space for several seconds before belting: "This is how you remind me of what I really am."

Jack Black in London on Dec. 19, 2025

Jack Black at an 'Anaconda' photocall in London on Dec. 19.

Jeff Spicer/Getty

Black went on to sing several more bars of the band's 2001 single "How You Remind Me," substituting numerous forgotten lines with gibberish and scatting. The *Kung Fu Panda* star held the final line of the chorus for longer than Nickelback vocalist Chad Kroeger did in the recording, prompting Rudd to exclaim, "He held that s---!"

Black was extremely satisfied that he was able to enter his mind palace and access the forgotten memory of the Nickelback track. "I went into a coma," he told Rudd of his pause before singing. "You were talking by yourself, looking to me for help. I was like, 'I can't. I'm trying to remember Nickelback.' I'm so glad, that's such a relief."

The *Minecraft Movie* star acknowledged that he totally derailed the flow of the interview.

Nickelback on March 17, 2023

Nickelback on 'Good Morning America' in 2023.

Paula Lobo/ABC via Getty

"He had moved on to the next question. But I went back to Nickelback!" he said.

"He'd moved onto the next *press junket*," Rudd joked.

Black also jokingly played up his lyrical recall skills.

"Amazingly, I got every lyric right," he said.

"How You Remind Me" was Nickelback's biggest hit. The single reached the No. 1 spot on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart, and Billboard later revealed that it was the No. 45 song of all time in the history of the Hot 100.

Jack Black and Paul Rudd fan Drew Barrymore after she experiences hot flash mid-interview

Drew Barrymore, Jack Black, and Paul Rudd on The Drew Barrymore Show

Jack Black has priceless reaction to Elle Fanning calling him the 'hottest man' she's ever seen

Elle Fanning and Jack Black

Black previously teased a standout scene from *Anaconda* in a behind-the-scenes clip provided exclusively to **.

"The boar on my back — I know it sounds ridiculous, but I'm telling you, it's magic," the actor said of a scene where a boar carcass is strapped to his back as bait for the titular reptile. "You know how they have the running of the bulls? This is like that, but it's the running of the snake."

***Get your daily dose of entertainment news, celebrity updates, and what to watch with our EW Dispatch newsletter.***

Rudd also emphasized that that particular scene was a highlight of the production.

"It's always fun when you read a script, and there's some scene that is funny, or I'm really excited about doing, and then you do it, and it's not how you imagined it — it's better," the *Ant-Man* star said. "I'm watching him going, *Oh my God, I can't take my eyes off this*. *This is so funny*."

*Anaconda* is now playing in theaters.

- Celebrities & Creators

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Original Article on Source

Source: "EW Actors"

Source: Actors

Published: January 03, 2026 at 12:38PM on Source: MARIO MAG

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byMario Satorik

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January 03, 2026

Jack Black breaks into Nickelback’s 'How You Remind Me' during Anaconda press interview

&34;I'm so glad, that's such a relief,&34; Black said after spontaneously serenading Paul Rudd with the tune....

New Photo - George Clooney gives hilarious update on Ocean's 14: 'We're too old to do what we used to do'

&34;But we're still smart enough to know how to get away with something,&34; Clooney says of the franchise's main crew. George Clooney gives hilarious update on Ocean's 14: 'We're too old to do what we used to do' &34;But we're still smart enough to know how to get away with something,&34; Clooney says of the franchise's main crew. By Sydney Bucksbaum :maxbytes(150000):stripicc()/headshotb5dc24df8d5d43d1a16c9ce0e0383119.jpg) Sydney Bucksbaum Sydney Bucksbaum is a staff writer at . She has been working at EW since 2019 and is a published author.

"But we're still smart enough to know how to get away with something," Clooney says of the franchise's main crew.

George Clooney gives hilarious update on Ocean's 14: 'We're too old to do what we used to do'

"But we're still smart enough to know how to get away with something," Clooney says of the franchise's main crew.

By Sydney Bucksbaum

Sydney Bucksbaum author photo

Sydney Bucksbaum

Sydney Bucksbaum is a staff writer at **. She has been working at EW since 2019 and is a published author. Her work has previously appeared in *TV Guide Magazine*, E! News/E! Online, *The Hollywood Reporter*, Mashable, Bustle, IGN, DCComics.com, Inverse, *The Daily Northwestern*, and more.

EW's editorial guidelines

December 30, 2025 8:50 p.m. ET

George Clooney attends 'BFI Presents: George Clooney in conversation' at BFI Southbank on November 21, 2025 in London, England.

George Clooney in London on Nov. 21. Credit:

Joe Maher/Getty

Age is nothing but a number for George Clooney and the rest of the original *Ocean's Eleven* crew.

On Tuesday, the 64-year-old actor gave a hilarious update on the long-awaited sequel film *Ocean's 14,* the fourth in the franchise that reunites him with Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Don Cheadle, and more.

Since it's been so long since the first heist movie came out in 2001, Clooney revealed the upcoming film will definitely lean into that passage of time for the main characters.

Don Cheadle, Shaobo Qin, George Clooney, and Casey Affleck in Ocean's Eleven

Don Cheadle, Shaobo Qin, George Clooney, and Casey Affleck in 'Ocean's Eleven'.

Bob Marshak/Warner Bros.

"There was something about the idea that we're too old to do what we used to do, but we're still smart enough to know how to get away with something, that just appeals to me," Clooney told *Variety* in a cover story published online Tuesday.

The sequel, which hails from franchise creator and director Steven Soderbergh, features the *Jay Kelly* star once again as criminal mastermind Danny Ocean, along with Pitt as his best friend and right-hand man Rusty, Damon's younger pickpocket Linus, Cheadle's demolitions expert Basher, as well as Julia Roberts as Danny's love interest Tess.

Andy Garcia also reprises his role as slick businessman and casino owner Terry Benedict, though details are top-secret on whether he'll be friend or foe to the rest of the crew.

George Clooney says CBS and ABC should have told Trump 'go f--- yourself' instead of settling lawsuits

George Clooney attends the UK premiere of "The Boys In The Boat" at Curzon Cinema Mayfair on December 03, 2023 in London, England; Donald Trump talks to reporters from the Resolute Desk after signing an executive order to appoint the deputy administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration in the Oval Office at the White House on January 30, 2025 in Washington, DC

Andy Garcia reveals he will star in 'Ocean's 14'

Andy Garca and George Clooney indoors

"They've lost a step," Clooney said of the original crime crew in the upcoming sequel. "And they need to find a way to work around their limitations."

Clooney told the outlet that instead of reviving the franchise for nostalgia, he was inspired by Martin Brest's 1979 comedy movie *Going in Style* about a group of aging criminals. Audiences can expect to see more of an older but wiser crew in this *Ocean's* movie as a result.

He added that they are currently scouting locations for the film and hope to start shooting in October 2026.

***Get your daily dose of entertainment news, celebrity updates, and what to watch with our EW Dispatch newsletter.***

The *Ocean's* movies — *Ocean's Eleven, Ocean's Twelve* (2004), and *Ocean's Thirteen* (2007) — were based on the original film from the '60s, featuring members of Frank Sinatra's Rat Pack. There was also an all-female 2018 spinoff *Ocean's 8, *starring Sandra Bullock as Danny's sister Debbie, along with Cate Blanchett, Rihanna, Helena Bonham Carter, Sarah Paulson, Awkwafina, Mindy Kaling, and Anne Hathaway.

In addition to *Ocean's 14*, a prequel movie is currently in development centered on Danny's parents, starring Margot Robbie as his mother. Bradley Cooper is reportedly in talks to join the *Barbie* star in the movie.**

Original Article on Source

Source: "EW Movies"

Source: Movies

Published: January 03, 2026 at 12:38PM on Source: MARIO MAG

#ShowBiz#Sports#Celebrities#Lifestyle

byMario Satorik

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January 03, 2026

George Clooney gives hilarious update on Ocean's 14: 'We're too old to do what we used to do'

&34;But we're still smart enough to know how to get away with something,&34; Clooney says of the franchise's ...

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January 03, 2026

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Jacob Elordi, Michael B. Jordan, Amy Madigan, Cynthia Erivo, and more — every 2026 Oscars episode of The Awardist podcast

Sizing up One Battle After Another, Hamnet, and other early 2026 Oscar frontrunners — and can KPop Demon Hunters get a Best Picture nomination?

*The Lost Bus *star America Ferrera, Timothée Chalamet's big boost for Marty Supreme

KPop Demon Hunters stars Arden Cho & May Hong, and remembering Diane Keaton

Weapons star Amy Madigan on bringing Aunt Gladys to life, Miley Cyrus gets in the Oscar race

First Wicked: For Good reactions, If I Had Legs I'd Kick You star Rose Byrne

Frankenstein star Jacob Elordi, sizing up the Supporting Actor race

*Die My Love *stars Jennifer Lawrence & Robert Pattinson, why Sydney Sweeney's Christy flopped

The Smashing Machine stars Dwayne Johnson & Emily Blunt, inside the Governors Awards

Bugonia star Jesse Plemons and director Yorgos Lanthimos, Wicked: For Good dominates box office

Sinners star Michael B. Jordan and director Ryan Coogler, first reaction to Avatar: Fire and Ash

One Battle After Another stars Chase Infiniti & Regina Hall, Golden Globes snubs and surprises

Wicked: For Good star Cynthia Erivo, Oscar shortlists, remembering Rob Reiner

Marty Supreme star Gwyneth Paltrow, thoughts on Oscars moving to YouTube

byMario Satorik

in

January 03, 2026

Jack Black breaks into Nickelback's 'How You Remind Me' during Anaconda press interview

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January 03, 2026

George Clooney gives hilarious update on Ocean's 14: 'We're too old to do what we used to do'

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