Houston, Texas – The Houston Texans secured a wild-card berth and the Pittsburgh Steelers bolstered their playoff chances with wins over the weekend. However, both teams still have uncertain postseason scenarios ahead.
As the NFL heads into Sunday’s games, there are four playoff spots and four division titles that remain up for grabs. Let’s take a look at the playoff scenarios for each team that still has a shot at postseason glory.
In the AFC, the Steelers have clinched at least a wild-card berth with their victory over the Ravens. They can secure a playoff spot with a Bills loss or a Jaguars loss or tie. Speaking of the Bills, they will face the Miami Dolphins and have the opportunity to win the AFC East division title with a victory. If they tie or the Jaguars lose or tie, they can still make it to the playoffs. The Houston Texans, who triumphed over the Colts, have a chance to clinch the AFC South division title if the Jaguars lose or tie. Finally, the Jaguars will play the Titans and can secure the division title with a win.
Turning to the NFC, the Atlanta Falcons will take on the New Orleans Saints. If the Falcons win and the Buccaneers lose, Atlanta will claim the NFC South division title. The Dallas Cowboys can secure the NFC East division title with a win, or a tie and an Eagles tie, or an Eagles loss. The Green Bay Packers will face the Chicago Bears, and they can secure a playoff berth with a win, or a tie and losses by the Seahawks and the Saints, or a tie and a loss by the Seahawks and a Buccaneers loss. The Minnesota Vikings have a chance to make the playoffs with a win and losses by the Packers, Seahawks, and Buccaneers, or a win and losses by the Packers, Seahawks, and Saints. The New Orleans Saints, on the other hand, can win the NFC South division title with a victory and a Buccaneers loss or tie. They can also clinch a playoff spot with a win and losses or ties by the Seahawks and Packers. The Philadelphia Eagles need a win and a Cowboys loss or tie to win the NFC East division title. Finally, the Seattle Seahawks will take on the Arizona Cardinals and can secure a playoff spot with a win and a Packers loss or tie, or a tie and losses or ties by the Packers and the Buccaneers. The Buccaneers, playing against the Carolina Panthers, can win the NFC South division title with a victory or a tie and a Saints loss or tie. They can also clinch a playoff spot with a tie, a Seahawks loss, and a Packers loss or tie.
With several playoff spots and division titles still up for grabs, Sunday’s games promise to be filled with excitement and suspense. The outcome of these matchups will determine the teams that will continue their journey towards a Super Bowl victory.