As the NFL regular season winds down, the playoff picture is coming into sharper focus, with five teams positioned to clinch their spots in an action-packed week of football. The Broncos, Chargers, Falcons, Rams, and Commanders all have opportunities to secure their postseason berths through various win-loss scenarios across the league.
High Stakes for AFC Contenders
The AFC is particularly tense, with two playoff spots up for grabs. The Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Chargers are at the forefront, each controlling their own destiny. The Broncos face a crucial matchup against the Bengals in Cincinnati, a game that could solidify their playoff position. Similarly, the Chargers are set to battle it out in New England against the Patriots. A victory for the Chargers not only advances them but also capitalizes on any missteps by the Miami Dolphins and Indianapolis Colts, who face their own tough challenges this week.
Furthermore, the Kansas City Chiefs are in a position to clinch the top seed in the AFC. A win over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Christmas, or a Buffalo Bills loss to the New York Jets, would guarantee the Chiefs the advantage throughout the AFC playoffs, setting the stage for a potentially dominant postseason run.
NFC Scenarios: Division Titles and Playoff Seeding
Over in the NFC, the plot thickens with the Atlanta Falcons, Washington Commanders, and Los Angeles Rams all eyeing division crowns and playoff spots. The Falcons can secure the NFC South and a playoff spot with a win over the Washington Commanders, or if the Tampa Bay Buccaneers falter against the Carolina Panthers. This double chance places the Falcons in a promising position as they aim to return to playoff prominence.
The Commanders have their fate in their hands; a victory ensures their playoff participation. Interestingly, they could also advance if both they and the Buccaneers lose their games, a less conventional route to the postseason.
The Rams are looking to clinch the NFC West and a playoff spot in a pivotal game against the Arizona Cardinals. Their scenario involves either a win combined with a Seattle Seahawks loss or tie in their game against the Chicago Bears, or a win paired with multiple victories from a group of teams including the Minnesota Vikings, Buffalo Bills, San Francisco 49ers, Commanders, Cincinnati Bengals, and Cleveland Browns.
Eagles and Lions Eyeing Division Titles and Top Seeds
The Philadelphia Eagles and Detroit Lions are not to be overlooked. The Eagles can become NFC East champions with a win over the Dallas Cowboys or a Washington loss. Meanwhile, the Lions have a chance to top the NFC North and secure the conference’s number one seed. Their path involves a Vikings loss to the Green Bay Packers and a victory over the San Francisco 49ers.