In this episode of Football 301, Nate Tice and Matt Harmon are ringing in the New Year with their resolutions for NFL teams as the playoff race heats up. Matt's resolutions focus on teams in the playoffs, while Nate takes aim at franchises that are in need of some serious soul-searching.

First, the guys tackle the red-hot Minnesota Vikings, who are gearing up for a crucial Sunday night game. Matt admits to regretting his past doubts about Sam Darnold, while Nate discusses how Darnold’s recent performances are reshaping the team’s future. From there, they turn their attention to the New England Patriots, discussing the lack of supporting talent around rookie QB Drake Maye and the need for a drastic roster overhaul. They also dive into the Detroit Lions’ identity, where Coach Dan Campbell's aggressive philosophy is clearly paying off.

Next, they touch on the Chicago Bears, who have a lot of work to do, particularly in finding a long-term solution at center to help their young QB Caleb Williams. The conversation shifts to teams in need of renovation or a redefined sense of direction. The Los Angeles Rams need a refresh on offense with more speed and explosiveness, while the Indianapolis Colts seem stuck in the muck, lacking defensive leadership. On the flip side, Matt and Nate give props to the Houston Texans for their surprising playoff berth but caution that they may have overestimated their readiness for a deep run. Meanwhile, the Green Bay Packers might need to trim the fat in their offense, and the Las Vegas Raiders must decide whether to commit to a long-term plan or continue with their half-measure approach. The episode wraps up with a look at the San Francisco 49ers, who need to eat their vegetables.