NFL Week 12 panic meter: Why Eagles, Ravens, NFC QB are hearing alarm bells

The Ravens (6-5) aren't the same offense when Jackson isn't a threat to take off and make explosive plays rushing. Baltimore has won five straight and is back in control of the AFC North, but its ceiling in the playoffs won't be the same if Jackson can't play how he wants. 

Minnesota Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy

Panic meter rating: 9/10

Patience is the word from the Vikings (4-7) regarding McCarthy, who missed his entire rookie season in 2024 because of a leg injury. But he has six starts now, and he has not played like a starting-caliber QB. 

Through 12 weeks, McCarthy ranks last of 41 qualified quarterbacks in EPA per play (-0.294), completion percentage (54.1 percent) and completion percentage over expectation (-8.7 percent). 

In a 23-6 loss to Green Bay in Week 12, the second-year QB went 12-for-19 for 87 yards and two interceptions. He has 10 interceptions and six touchdown passes and isn't giving the Vikings a chance to compete. With Sam Darnold (8-3 as a starter, 19 TD passes) lighting it up in Seattle, Minnesota must be having severe regrets about its offseason decision to let him hit free agency. 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Panic meter rating: 6/10

The Buccaneers (6-5)  looked to be cruising to an NFC South title a few weeks ago, but that's no longer the case. In a 34-7 loss to the Los Angeles Rams in Week 12, Bucs quarterback Baker Mayfield suffered a shoulder injury that forced him out for the second half. In his absence, Teddy Bridgewater went 8-for-15 for 62 yards and no points.  

Mayfield underwent an MRI on his shoulder on Monday. If it's a long-term injury, the Bucs could blow the NFC South to the Panthers, who are 6-5 and could take the division lead with a win on Monday night.