Jaguars Leap Ahead of Bills in AFC Wild Card Race
The Jacksonville Jaguars achieved a significant victory this past weekend, advancing in their quest for a playoff spot. With their win, coupled with the Buffalo Bills’ defeat on Thursday, the Jaguars jumped from seventh to sixth in the AFC standings.
Jaguars’ Path Forward
The Houston Texans played a crucial role in Week 12 by defeating the Bills. This unexpected outcome gave the Jaguars a clearer path towards the AFC Wild Card race. Additionally, the Indianapolis Colts lost, tightening the competition for the divisional crown as the 2025 season progresses.
AFC Standings Update
Week 12 brought notable shifts in the AFC standings:
- 1. New England Patriots – 10-2
- 2. Denver Broncos – 9-2
- 3. Indianapolis Colts – 8-3
- 4. Baltimore Ravens – 6-5 (2-0 AFC North)
- 5. Los Angeles Chargers – 7-4 (6-2 AFC)
- 6. Jacksonville Jaguars – 7-4 (4-2 AFC)
- 7. Buffalo Bills – 7-4 (4-3 AFC)
- 8. Pittsburgh Steelers – 6-5 (5-2 AFC)
- 9. Houston Texans – 6-5 (5-2 AFC)
- 10. Kansas City Chiefs – 6-5 (3-4 AFC)
- 11. Miami Dolphins – 4-7
- 12. Cincinnati Bengals – 3-8 (win over Cleveland)
- 13. Cleveland Browns – 3-8 (loss to Cincinnati)
- 14. Las Vegas Raiders – 2-9
- 15. New York Jets – 2-9
- 16. Tennessee Titans – 1-10
The Titans have already been eliminated from contention, and their recent loss only solidified Jacksonville’s position. The Jaguars remain just one game behind the Colts for the division lead. There are still two matchups between these two teams on the calendar, which could be pivotal.
Competition Overview
The AFC race is heating up, especially for spots in the playoffs. The Chiefs, currently at 6-5, have been pushed further down the standings despite a victory against the Colts. Their record is affected by losses to above-mentioned teams like the Steelers and Texans.
As the season progresses, the competitiveness amongst the top teams will only intensify, making every upcoming game crucial for playoff aspirations.
