The main takeaway: The 16th week of the NFL season has us hustling like Buffalo Bills quarterback (QB) Josh Allen as we navigate our eleventh-hour holiday shopping and the league’s intricate playoff scenario.
American Football Conference (AFC): With five out of the seven postseason slots secured by the Kansas City Chiefs, Bills, Pittsburgh Steelers, Houston Texans, and Baltimore Ravens, the seeding remains up for grabs, making the final two weeks crucial.
However, Kansas City holds the keys to their own fate, with a win on Christmas Day securing them the top seed and a coveted first-round bye.
National Football Conference (NFC): The NFC ups the ante with an even more convoluted playoff scenario. The Detroit Lions, Minnesota Vikings, and Philadelphia Eagles have clinched playoff berths, with a chance at the No. 1 seed up for grabs.
Also in the mix are the Green Bay Packers, who could secure a playoff spot with a victory in tonight’s game against the New Orleans Saints on Monday Night Football at 8:15 p.m. ET.
The postseason push will be overshadowed by injuries for several teams. Texans star wide receiver Tank Dell is sidelined with a significant knee injury following Houston’s Saturday loss to KC.
Adding to the injury list, Eagles QB Jalen Hurts’ availability for next week is uncertain after suffering a concussion in yesterday’s 36-33 loss to the Washington Commanders. Tough break.
