Four teams have clinched a spot in the NFL playoffs: The Bears, Falcons, Patriots and Steelers. The rest of the playoff picture is yet to be determined with six playoff berths up for grabs as we enter Week 16. Here are the scenarios which would lead to more teams clinching this week.
In the AFC, the Kansas City Chiefs clinch the AFC West if they beat the Tennessee Titans and the San Diego Chargers either tie or lose to the Cincinnati Bengals. The Baltimore Ravens can clinch a playoff berth simply by beating the Cleveland Browns. If the lose, they’ll need help from several other teams to secure a playoff spot this week. Finally, the New York Jets clinch by beating the Chicago Bears, or if the Jacksonville Jaguars OR Indianapolis Colts lose.
In the NFC, the Atlanta Falcons clinch the NFC South and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs with a win. The Philadelphia Eagles clinch the NFC East if they beat the Minnesota Vikings. New Orleans earns a playoff berth if they beat the Falcons, OR if Tampa Bay loses. Finally, the Giants earn a berth by beating the Green Bay Packers.
So, essentially: The Chiefs, Ravens, Jets, Eagles, Saints and Giants could enter the 2010 playoff picture after Week 16.