With just one week left in the NFL regular season, the playoff picture is becoming clearer, with two teams securing the top spots in their conferences.
Baltimore Ravens Dominate, Securing AFC’s No. 1 Seed
The Baltimore Ravens showed their strength with a 56-19 win over the Miami Dolphins. Quarterback Lamar Jackson played a key role by throwing five touchdown passes and earning a perfect passer rating.
This dominant victory not only gave the Ravens the No. 1 seed in the AFC but also boosted Jackson’s chances of winning his second NFL MVP award. The Ravens can now rest their starters in the final week and wait for their opponent in the divisional round on January 20-21.
49ers Claim Top Spot in the NFC
In the NFC, the San Francisco 49ers secured the No. 1 seed with a 27-10 win over the Washington Football Team. The 49ers’ path to the top spot was made even clearer by the Arizona Cardinals’ comeback victory against the Philadelphia Eagles.
With a 12-4 season record, the 49ers will enjoy a week off before heading into the divisional round, aiming for a Super Bowl title.
Dallas Cowboys Benefit From Weekend Outcomes
The Dallas Cowboys had a successful weekend, starting with a narrow 20-19 win over the Detroit Lions. Controversial officiating calls went in favor of the Cowboys, helping them stay in control of the NFC East. The Cardinals’ win over the Eagles also helped the Cowboys’ chances, positioning them to secure the division and the No. 2 seed with a victory against the Washington Commanders in Week 18.
Remaining Playoff Scenarios and Contenders
As the season winds down, several playoff spots and seeding battles remain undecided. The Miami Dolphins, with an 11-5 record, now need to beat the Buffalo Bills in Week 18 to win the AFC East title.
The defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs (10-6) secured their eighth consecutive AFC West title by defeating the Cincinnati Bengals. In the AFC South, the Jacksonville Jaguars, Indianapolis Colts, and Houston Texans, all sitting at 9-7, will compete for the division title and a playoff spot in the final week.
In the NFC South, the New Orleans Saints, Atlanta Falcons, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers are all in the race, with the Buccaneers still in contention to win the division if they defeat the Carolina Panthers in Week 18.
The playoff picture also includes wild-card spots, with the Los Angeles Rams (9-7) and Green Bay Packers (8-8) fighting for their places. The Packers, holding the final wild-card spot, will need a win against the Chicago Bears in Week 18 to keep their playoff hopes alive.
