As we move into Week 17 of the 2024 NFL season, the playoff landscape is starting to take shape with teams vying for solid positions as the postseason approaches. USA TODAY Sports will continue to provide weekly updates on the playoff picture, analyzing key matchups and potential tiebreakers that could play a significant role in determining which teams advance.
In the NFC, the Detroit Lions currently lead the conference at 13-2, needing to win their final games to secure home-field advantage. They’re set to face the San Francisco 49ers, while their division rival, the Minnesota Vikings, also at 13-2, will play against the Green Bay Packers. The Eagles, who lead the NFC East with a 12-3 record, aim to clinch their division but will be without starting quarterback Jalen Hurts due to a concussion.
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Rams, leading the NFC West, hope to secure their division title in their upcoming clash with the Seattle Seahawks. The Falcons, with their rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr., are looking to solidify their lead in the NFC South.
In the AFC, the Kansas City Chiefs have already secured their position as division champions and home-field advantage. The Buffalo Bills are looking to maintain a strong second seeding, while the Baltimore Ravens aim to clinch the AFC North title with a win. The Steelers, despite a recent slump, still have a shot at the division, along with the Chargers, who have locked up a wild card spot.
Several teams are fighting for the final playoff spots, including the Denver Broncos, who are seeking to return to the postseason for the first time in nearly a decade. The Cincinnati Bengals, Indianapolis Colts, and Miami Dolphins are still in contention but will require help from other teams to secure their spots.
As the playoffs draw near, each game holds significant weight, offering excitement and anticipation for fans. The dynamic nature of the league means that outcomes can shift dramatically, giving fans hope for a thrilling conclusion to the regular season. With many teams still fighting for their postseason lives, the final weeks of the regular season promise to be action-packed, making for an exhilarating playoff run ahead.