Sport

2024 NFL Playoff Picture: Chiefs and Lions Set for Byes as Race Intensifies for Remaining Spots

2024-12-12

Author: Ken Lee

As we approach Week 15 of the NFL season, excitement builds as only four playoff spots have been secured, leaving a dramatic contest for the remaining ten. The Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills have already clinched their positions in the AFC, while the Detroit Lions and Philadelphia Eagles are headed to the postseason from the NFC.

In this pivotal week, we could witness four additional teams solidifying their playoff chances. The Minnesota Vikings, Green Bay Packers, Houston Texans, and Pittsburgh Steelers are in contention. The Steelers and Vikings merely need to secure victories to book their playoff tickets, whereas the Texans and Packers will require some assistance along with a win.

Curious about which teams are likely to make an appearance in the playoffs? We’ve consulted the analytics of noted statistician Stephen Oh from SportsLine. By running simulations on the remaining games of the season, we can deliver some informed projections about the playoff picture.

AFC Playoff Projections

Alongside the Chiefs and Bills, here’s a breakdown of the playoff chances for other AFC contenders and their probabilities of entering the postseason:

- **Colts:** 16% - **Dolphins:** 11.4% - **Bengals:** 2.2% - **Titans:** Eliminated - **Browns:** Eliminated - **Jets:** Eliminated - **Jaguars:** Eliminated - **Patriots:** Eliminated - **Raiders:** Eliminated

NFC Playoff Projections

In the NFC, we can expect intense competition from the following teams, along with their chances of reaching the playoffs:

- **Falcons:** 30.8% - **Rams:** 26.6% - **49ers:** 4.2% - **Cardinals:** 3.7% - **Saints:** 1.0% - **Cowboys:** 0.3% - **Panthers:** 0.0% - **Bears:** 0.0% - **Giants:** Eliminated

Wild Card Round Projections

As for the potential matchups during the Wild Card round, here’s how it currently shapes up:

**AFC:** - (7) Broncos at (2) Bills - (6) Chargers at (3) Steelers - (5) Ravens at (4) Texans - **Bye:** Chiefs

**NFC:** - (7) Commanders at (2) Eagles - (6) Packers at (3) Seahawks - (5) Vikings at (4) Buccaneers

What to Watch For

Heading into Week 15, all eyes will be on the upcoming matchups as teams battle for precarious positions. With the stakes so high, each game could change the course of the playoff landscape, making every play and every point crucial.

Are you ready for the thrilling conclusion of the NFL regular season? Keep your eyes on these teams, as they vie for glory and a shot at the Super Bowl!