NFL: Playoff Picture

With Week 12 now officially in the books, every team (Seattle/Green Bay was played after press-time) has played 11 of its 16 regular season games. Unlike some years, many of the division races have become surprisingly clear, particularly in the AFC. Knowing which teams still have 'something to play for' is important in handicapping December games. A closer look at the current playoff picture appears below.

AFC

East

The Dolphins, Jets and Bills all come off impressive victories. However, its extremely unlikely that any of them will be able to catch the Patriots. The Jets, who are two games back, have the best shot. They play three of their last five games on the road though and have already played both their games against the Patriots. Despite the three road games, the Jets aren't out of the Wildcard race as all five of their remaining games come against teams that are currently below .500.

North

After their convincing victory over the Steelers, the Ravens are in complete control in the North. The Steelers won't be returning to the playoffs while the Bengals desperately need a victory over Baltimore on Thursday if they want to keep their flickering hopes alive. Even if they do manage to knock off the Ravens, road games at Denver and Indianapolis make their Wildcard chances relatively slim.

South

The Colts will win the South. The Jaguars remain alive for a Wildcard spot but shot themselves in the foot with Sunday's loss at Buffalo. They play three of their remaining five games on the road and their two home games come against the Patriots and Colts.

West

Barring a complete collapse, the Chargers will win the West. San Diego does still have to face both the Chiefs and the Broncos but has the luxury of hosting both those games. Road games at Buffalo and Seattle may prove somewhat difficult. However, if they need a victory in the final week the Chargers should be able to get one, as they close out the season with a home date against Arizona. It’s highly conceivable that both AFC Wildcard teams could come from the West. With three home games remaining (KC has two) the Broncos appear to be in slightly better shape than the Chiefs. Of course, that will depend on how well rookie Jay Cutler fares as a starting quarterback.

Projected Playoff Seedings (subject to change)
1. Indianapolis
2. San Diego
3. Baltimore
4. New England
5. Denver
6. Kansas City

Runners-up: Jaguars, Jets, Bengals

NFC

East
The Giants are only one game behind the Cowboys and have already won at Dallas. However, they have been hit hard by injuries and have lost three straight games. Blowing a 21-0 lead vs. the Titans on Sunday was inexcusable. Still, if they can knock off the Cowboys again this Sunday things will become very interesting. Dallas is playing great football right now though and has a one-game lead. The Cowboys also have a slightly easier remaining schedule. Assuming they don't overtake the Cowboys and assuming they can turn things around, the Giants have a reasonable shot at a Wildcard spot.

North
The Bears will win the North. The Packers and Lions are long gone but the Vikings are still alive in the Wildcard race. They have the unenviable task of playing at Chicago next week but their other four remaining games are all winnable.

South

The Saints surprised a lot of people (myself included) with their win at Atlanta on Sunday. Coupled with Carolina's loss, the Saints have a one game lead in the division race and are in excellent shape for a playoff spot. The Saints have arguably an easier remaining schedule than the Panthers. They also have the advantage of hosting Carolina in the final week of the regular season. Regardless of whether its Carolina or New Orleans that wins the South, the second place team has a strong shot at a Wildcard spot. The Falcons aren't quite done yet but losing against the Saints really hurt their chances.

West

The Seahawks haven't exactly been dominant. However, they are getting healthy again and should be able to win this watered-down division. The Rams and 49ers are both still alive. The Rams have a slight edge as three of their five games come at home while the 49ers play three of five on the road. Both have losing records (5-6) though so unless either can overtake Seattle, a Wildcard spot is unlikely.

Projected Playoff Seedings (subject to change)
1. Chicago
2. Dallas
3. New Orleans
4. Seattle
5. Carolina
6. New York Giants

Runners-up: Vikings, Rams, Falcons, 49ers

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