Notable Injuries, News from Sunday’s Week 14 Games: Saints QB Derek Carr Suffers Left Hand Injury in Win
Week 14 of the NFL season was filled with exciting action and significant developments. Amidst the thrilling matchups, several key players sustained injuries, while others made headlines with their performances and milestones.
Quarterback Injuries
Derek Carr, New Orleans Saints
In a crucial victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr suffered a left hand injury. Carr left the game in the third quarter after taking a hard hit from Buccaneers linebacker Devin White. The injury was initially feared to be a broken hand, but subsequent X-rays revealed a sprain. Carr’s status for Week 15 is currently uncertain, and his absence would be a major blow to the Saints’ playoff hopes.
Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers
Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers was forced to miss the first half of their game against the Chicago Bears due to an oblique injury. Rodgers suffered the injury during pregame warmups and was replaced by backup Jordan Love. Love led the Packers to a touchdown on their opening drive, but Rodgers returned in the second half and threw for 225 yards and two touchdowns to secure a victory.
Other Notable Injuries
Deebo Samuel, San Francisco 49ers
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel aggravated a hamstring injury in their loss to the Miami Dolphins. Samuel had missed the previous two games with the same injury and was limited to just three catches on Sunday. His status for Week 15 is in doubt, which would be a significant loss for the 49ers’ offense.
Micah Parsons, Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons left their game against the Houston Texans with a knee injury in the third quarter. Parsons is one of the most impactful defensive players in the league, and his absence would be a major setback for the Cowboys’ defense.
Significant Performances
Cooper Kupp, Los Angeles Rams
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp continued his historic season with another standout performance. Kupp caught 13 passes for 123 yards and two touchdowns in a win over the Arizona Cardinals. He now leads the NFL in receptions (109), receiving yards (1,420), and touchdown receptions (13).
Jonathan Taylor, Indianapolis Colts
Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor rushed for 185 yards and four touchdowns in a dominating victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. Taylor’s performance marked his second four-touchdown game of the season, and he now ranks second in the NFL in rushing yards (1,383) and touchdowns (17).
Milestones and Records
Tom Brady, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady became the first player in NFL history to pass for 600 career touchdown passes. Brady achieved the milestone in the third quarter of their loss to the Saints, connecting with wide receiver Mike Evans for a 5-yard touchdown. Brady now has 603 career touchdown passes, surpassing the previous record of 590 held by Drew Brees.
Aaron Donald, Los Angeles Rams
Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald recorded his 100th career sack in their win over the Cardinals. Donald is one of the most dominant defensive players of all time, and his 100th sack is a testament to his incredible skill and impact on the game.
Upcoming Matchups
With Week 14 in the books, the NFL season is entering its final stretch. Several key matchups loom in Week 15, including:
- Kansas City Chiefs at Los Angeles Chargers
- New Orleans Saints at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Green Bay Packers at Baltimore Ravens
- Dallas Cowboys at New York Giants
These matchups will have significant implications for the playoff race and will undoubtedly provide more exciting moments and memorable performances.