As we dive into Week 17 of the NFL season, the spotlight is on the Atlanta Falcons taking on the Washington Commanders in a crucial ‘Sunday Night Football’ showdown that could dramatically alter the NFC playoff landscape. Both teams are feeling the pressure, especially after witnessing wins from the Philadelphia Eagles and Tampa Bay Buccaneers earlier in the day, denying them a chance to gain ground.

Let’s unpack the implications for the NFC playoffs:

Atlanta Falcons:

A victory for the Falcons would not only keep them alive in the NFC South race but also solidify their position as they aim for the division title. Currently holding the tiebreaker over the Buccaneers, a win would elevate Atlanta to the No. 4 seed, giving them a 9-7 record. While they can't secure a playoff berth this week, triumphing against the Commanders tonight—and subsequently defeating the Panthers in Week 18—would crown them as NFC South champions.

On the flip side, a loss would set Atlanta back to an 8-8 record, dropping them to the No. 9 seed. Their playoff journey wouldn't be entirely over, but they would need to beat the Panthers next week and hope for the Buccaneers to fall against the Saints in order to keep hopes of participating in the postseason alive.

Washington Commanders:

For the Commanders, a win is paramount. If they secure a victory, they clinch a playoff berth and leapfrog the Green Bay Packers, moving into the No. 6 seed. However, the NFC East crown is already in the hands of the Philadelphia Eagles following their earlier success, so their focus now is solely on making the playoffs.

Conversely, if the Commanders lose, their position would remain precarious, keeping them at the No. 7 seed heading into the final week. They would still hold a game lead over the teams vying to take their spot. Their fate could come down to a must-win encounter against the Cowboys next week to assure their playoff entry.

Current NFC Standings Snapshot:

- **x = playoff berth, y = wild card, z = division title**

- x - Minnesota Vikings (14-2)