NFL Playoff Picture: Final Weekend Showdowns and Key Battles

The NFL final regular-season weekend promises excitement, with top seeds, division titles and playoff spots still up for grabs. The NFC’s marquee clash sees the Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings (both 14-2) vying for the conference’s top spot in Game 272. The winner earns a first-round bye and home-field advantage while the loser drops to the fifth seed. This historic matchup between two 14-win teams caps an action-packed season.

In the AFC, a thrilling three-way battle for the final wildcard spot unfolds. The Denver Broncos control their fate and secure a playoff berth with a win over the Kansas City Chiefs, who will rest key players like Patrick Mahomes. Should the Broncos stumble, the Miami Dolphins can take their place with a win against the New York Jets. If both lose, the Cincinnati Bengals led by Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase could sneak in with a win over the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Lamar Jackson has an opportunity to bolster his MVP case and lead the Baltimore Ravens to an AFC North title. A win against the Steelers guarantees Baltimore the division and a home playoff game while the Steelers need a Ravens loss and a win to swap places. Elsewhere, Saquon Barkley aiming to break Eric Dickerson’s rushing record will likely rest as the Philadelphia Eagles prioritize their Super Bowl ambitions.

The Chiefs will also rest Mahomes and other stars, potentially affecting their sharpness in the playoffs. The playoff structure features 14 teams, with top seeds earning first-round byes. Divisional winners host wildcard teams in the first round, leading to the Conference Championships and Super Bowl. As the standings take shape, all eyes are on the Lions, Vikings and Broncos to determine their playoff fates.