The 2016 NFL season is winding down as there is just one week until the playoffs start. Week 17 has a lot of playoff scenarios that are fun to look at. Let’s take a look at how the playoffs could shake out.
AFC:
The AFC is pretty much figured out so let’s make it short and sweet. New England can clinch the first overall seed with a win over Miami. They will have a first-round bye regardless and can only fall to the 2nd seed with a loss and an Oakland win. Speaking of Oakland they still have to win to clinch an AFC West title. A loss could open the door for KC to get the 2 seed if they defeat San Diego. That would mean Oakland could fall all the way to the 5th seed. The Chiefs and Dolphins currently sit at the 5th and 6th seeds respectively but can swap positions with a Chiefs loss and Dolphins win. The Steelers and Texans are locked in at the 3rd and fourth seeds regardless of their outcomes in the final week.
NFC:
As you can see above the NFC becomes much more complicated. Here’s a quick rundown of possible outcomes.
- Washington makes the playoffs with win over the Giants.
- Packers and Lions winner week 17 clinches NFC North.
- IF Washington losses Packers-Lions loser gets last wild card spot.
There are a bunch of seeding outcomes based on the results as well but the real storyline rests between two games. Giants vs. Redskins and Packers vs. Lions. If that wasn’t crazy enough there is actually a way Tampa Bay could make the playoffs. It’s unlikely but it’s fun to mention! Take a look.
Tampa Bay makes the playoffs IF:
— Buccaneers beat Panthers in Week 17 AND
— Colts beat Jaguars in Week 17 AND
— Cowboys beat Eagles in Week 17 AND
— Lions beat Packers in Week 17 AND
— Titans beat Texans in Week 17 AND
— 49ers beat Seahawks in Week 17 AND
— Redskins and Giants TIE in Week 17
