NFL Week 17 Playoff Picture: AFC, NFC Bracket Scenarios Updated

Bassyonni

ago 2 hours

NFL Week 17 Playoff Picture: AFC, NFC Bracket Scenarios Updated

The NFL playoff picture is shaping up as teams approach the pivotal Week 17. The current standings reveal critical scenarios for the AFC and NFC, with teams battling for positioning and division titles.

AFC Standings and Playoff Scenarios

1. Denver Broncos (13-3; clinched AFC West)
2. New England Patriots (12-3; clinched playoff berth)
3. Jacksonville Jaguars (11-4; clinched playoff berth)
4. Pittsburgh Steelers (9-6)
5. Buffalo Bills (11-4; clinched playoff berth)
6. Houston Texans (11-4; clinched playoff berth)
7. Los Angeles Chargers (11-4; clinched playoff berth)

Key Matchups and Required Wins

The AFC is highly competitive, with Denver needing specific outcomes to secure the top seed. For the Broncos to claim the No. 1 seed, they’ll require losses from both the New England Patriots and Jacksonville Jaguars during Week 17.

New England is in a position to win the AFC East. A victory against their opponent, combined with a Buffalo Bills loss, would grant them the title. Meanwhile, Jacksonville must wait until Week 18 to secure the AFC South crown, contingent upon a Houston loss.

Critical Games for Pittsburgh, Baltimore, and Others

The Pittsburgh Steelers must secure a win in their upcoming game. A loss would place them in a high-stakes matchup against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 18, which they must win to stay playoff-bound.

For Baltimore, their recent performance against Green Bay, fueled by Derrick Henry’s four-touchdown night, keeps their playoff hopes alive. They depend on the Cleveland Browns defeating the Steelers in order to avoid elimination.

As the regular season closes with Week 17, the playoff picture becomes clearer, but several teams are still in contention. The outcomes of these key matchups will significantly impact the final standings in the AFC.

NFC Playoff Picture

While this article focuses on the AFC, it is worth noting that the NFC playoff scenarios are also critical. Teams are competing fiercely as they approach the postseason.

In summary, the NFL playoff picture is increasingly competitive as teams aim for the best possible position leading into the playoffs. The battles that unfold in Week 17 will be crucial for the AFC teams and their quest for playoff glory.