10. Los Angeles Chargers (9-6)
The Chargers’ 34-27 win against the Denver Broncos proved to be one of their grittier efforts of the season. L.A. erased an 11-point deficit in the second half against a quite formidable opponent and division rival. The Chargers will lock up a playoff spot this week if they beat the 3-12 Patriots.
9. Washington Commanders (10-5)
Jayden Daniels and the Commanders offense had a highly impressive performance against the top-ranked defense in the league, despite turning the ball over five times. Daniels threw for 5 touchdowns, including a game-winner to Jamison Crowder with 10 seconds left. Washington still has a chance at getting the 5th seed in the NFC which would give them a favorable playoff matchup against the NFC South champion.
8. Los Angeles Rams (9-6)
The NFC West title is the Rams’ to lose after Seattle dropped their second game in a row. As was the story last season, L.A. is getting hot at the right time. Their defense has been a bright spot as of late, allowing 14 or fewer points in three of their last four games.
7. Baltimore Ravens (10-5)
Week 16 saw Baltimore get their first home win against Pittsburgh in 5 years, in blowout fashion no less. However, unless their defense starts to become more consistent, they will likely remain hovering outside contender status.
6. Minnesota Vikings (13-2)
The Vikings are now the owners of the longest winning streak in the NFL after the Eagles 10-game winning streak was snapped by Washington. Sam Darnold continues to play like a franchise quarterback, increasing his passing touchdown total to 32 on the season—good enough for 5th in the league. Minnesota will be seriously tested in the final two weeks of the regular season with games against Green Bay and Detroit, the latter of which could be for the top-seed in the NFC.
5. Green Bay Packers (11-4)
Wm. Glasheen USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin
The Packers have not trailed in 7 of their 11 wins this season, more than any other team in the league. They rank within the top 10 in the NFL in scoring offense, total offense, scoring defense, total defense, yards per play, and yards per play allowed. Green Bay will be a nightmare Wild Card matchup to whomever they end up playing.
4. Philadelphia Eagles (12-3)
More concerning than the Eagles’ loss was the fact that Jalen Hurts left the game with a concussion and is now in concussion protocol. Their remaining schedule is, however, very favorable with home games against the Cowboys and Giants, likely giving Hurts time to rest up should he need it.
3. Detroit Lions (13-2)
Detroit’s injury problem did not matter in their 34-17 win over Chicago. Their Week 18 game against Minnesota, which will almost certainly impact the entire NFC playoff picture, should be a good indicator as to whether or not injuries have seriously impacted their Super Bowl chances.
2. Buffalo Bills (12-3)
Buffalo struggled to beat the 3-win Patriots, but seeing how they were coming off consecutive hard-fought games against the Rams and Bills, it’s hard to bring the same energy for this type of game. Once again, they will be heavily favored to win their final two games against the Jets and Patriots, again.
1. Kansas City Chiefs (14-1)
The Chiefs return to the top spot despite not having scored 31 or more points in any game this season. Kansas City is 8-0 at home, a fact that could prove to be bad news for the rest of the AFC since they are likely to have home-field advantage throughout the AFC playoffs. Getting Hollywood Brown back from injury provides yet another offensive weapon for Patrick Mahomes.
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