Playoff Teams Finalized by Sunday
The NFL playoff teams have nearly been finalized, with 11 of the 14 spots secured. The remaining berths could be claimed by the end of Sunday. Key teams are in position, especially in the NFC and AFC.
NFC Playoff Teams
Six teams have already clinched their playoff spots in the NFC. These teams are:
- Seattle Seahawks
- Chicago Bears
- Philadelphia Eagles
- San Francisco 49ers
- Los Angeles Rams
- Green Bay Packers
The seventh NFC spot remains open, with two contenders: the Carolina Panthers and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Panthers can secure the berth if they win while the Buccaneers lose on Sunday.
AFC Playoff Teams
In the AFC, five teams have secured their playoff positions:
- Denver Broncos
- New England Patriots
- Jacksonville Jaguars
- Los Angeles Chargers
- Buffalo Bills
The final two spots are contested between three teams. The Pittsburgh Steelers or Baltimore Ravens will claim one berth, while either the Houston Texans or Indianapolis Colts will take the other. The Steelers will advance with a win or if the Ravens lose. The Texans will clinch their spot with a victory or a Colts loss.
Impact of Playoff Berth Clinching
Completing the playoff picture wouldn’t render Week 18 devoid of significance. Although many teams may lack incentive to compete, playoff seeding remains up for grabs. This final week of the regular season could seem less thrilling, but it is crucial for determining matchups ahead of the playoffs.
Fans will be looking forward to the outcomes on Sunday, which will solidify the playoff landscape as teams aim to position themselves optimally ahead of the postseason.
