Week 16 NFL 2025 Playoff Scenarios: Teams Eyeing Clinch
This week’s NFL schedules are filled with compelling playoff scenarios as teams strive for postseason positions. As we enter Week 16 of the 2025 season, various franchises are on the brink of clinching their playoff berths.
Denver Broncos’ Strong Position
The Denver Broncos, currently holding a record of 12-2, will face the Jacksonville Jaguars (10-4) on Sunday at 4:05 p.m. ET. Their playoff aspirations are high as they look to secure the AFC West division title and the top seed in the conference.
Clinch Scenarios for Denver
- Denver clinches the AFC West and a first-round bye with a win against Jacksonville, along with:
- A Los Angeles Chargers loss or tie
- A New England Patriots loss
- A Buffalo Bills loss or tie
- Alternatively, Denver can clinch the division title with a win and a Chargers loss or tie.
Buffalo Bills’ Path to the Playoffs
The Buffalo Bills, standing at 10-4, will go up against the Cleveland Browns (3-11) on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET. A victory will put the Bills closer to securing their playoff spot.
Buffalo’s Clinching Conditions
- Buffalo clinches a playoff berth with scenarios including:
- A win over Cleveland combined with an Indianapolis Colts loss or tie
- A win with a Houston Texans loss or tie
- A tie with the Colts and a loss by the Texans
New England Patriots in the Mix
The New England Patriots (11-3) will visit the Baltimore Ravens (7-7) on Sunday night at 8:20 p.m. ET. Their playoff situation remains favorable as they aim to secure a spot.
New England’s Opportunities
- New England can clinch a playoff berth with:
- A win or tie against Baltimore
- An Indianapolis Colts loss or tie
- A Houston Texans loss or tie
Jacksonville Jaguars’ Challenge
The Jacksonville Jaguars are also vying for a playoff position, highlighted by their upcoming game against Denver. With a record of 10-4, they have multiple possibilities to qualify for the playoffs.
Jacksonville’s Clinching Routes
- Jacksonville secures a playoff berth through several scenarios:
- A victory over Denver paired with an Indianapolis Colts loss or tie
- A win with a Houston Texans loss or tie
- A tie with the Colts and a loss from Houston
Los Angeles Chargers’ Stakes
Finally, the Los Angeles Chargers, who have a record of 10-4, will take on the Dallas Cowboys (6-7-1) at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday. They too are in a position to clinch their playoff berth.
Chargers’ Winning Requirements
- The Chargers can secure a playoff spot via:
- A win against Dallas along with an Indianapolis Colts loss or tie
- A win with a Houston Texans loss or tie
- A tie with the Colts and a Texans loss
The intensity leading up to the playoffs creates an exciting dynamic for the NFL teams in Week 16. As these franchises prepare for critical matchups, fans eagerly anticipate dramatic outcomes that may shape the playoff landscape.
