The NFL playoff picture underwent significant changes following a thrilling full slate of Week 15 games. Notable among the outcomes was the Kansas City Chiefs’ heartbreaking 16-13 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, which has effectively dashed the Chiefs’ playoff hopes. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes suffered an injury late in the contest, hampering Kansas City’s final push for a comeback and marking the first time the franchise will miss the playoffs since 2014, three years prior to Mahomes’ entrance into the league.
In the AFC, the Denver Broncos currently lead the standings with an impressive record of 11-2. They can secure a playoff berth with either a victory against the Green Bay Packers or by tying the game while hoping for a loss or tie from the Indianapolis Colts against the Seattle Seahawks. The Broncos have an overwhelming 99% chance of making the playoffs, according to NFL.com.
The New England Patriots follow closely behind, boasting an 11-3 record but facing pressure after a setback against the Buffalo Bills. Despite losing their chance to clinch the AFC East title with this defeat, they still have a 76% probability of securing the division according to The Athletic.
The Jacksonville Jaguars hold the third seed with a 10-4 record and a 56% chance to win the AFC South. The Pittsburgh Steelers, currently at 7-6, are leading the AFC North and have a 70% likelihood of clinching a playoff spot following their next game against the Miami Dolphins. The Chargers and Buffalo Bills, both at 10-4, are also strong contenders for playoff positions, with the Chargers showing a 90% chance and the Bills at near-lock status.
The Houston Texans, standing at 9-5, are expected to make the playoffs with a commendable 97% chance. Meanwhile, the Indianapolis Colts and Baltimore Ravens remain in the playoff hunt, though their odds are less favorable at 28% and 42%, respectively.
In the NFC, the Los Angeles Rams are in prime position with a 10-3 record and can clinch a playoff spot with a victory over the Detroit Lions. They hold a commanding lead in the division but face stiff competition from the Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers. The Green Bay Packers find themselves in a good position at 9-3-1, with nearly a 70% chance of winning the NFC North.
The Philadelphia Eagles are also in strong contention, boasting a 9-5 record with a 95% chance of making the playoffs after breaking a three-game losing streak. The Chicago Bears, with a 10-4 record, face a critical game against the Packers, which could affect their playoff standings.
As the season moves deeper into December, excitement builds for the playoff race, with numerous teams still fighting for their chances to secure a postseason berth. The upcoming games promise thrilling matchups that could shift the landscape before the playoffs begin, fueling fans’ hopes for their favorite teams. The NFL playoff picture remains dynamic, and the final weeks of the regular season are sure to deliver more drama and surprises.