NFC tiebreakers ahead of week 18: Which teams would make it to the NFL playoffs in case of a tie?

In the final week of the NFL regular season, the NFC playoff picture is still unfolding, with several teams vying for coveted playoff spots and seedings. Let’s break down the scenarios for each team in contention.

San Francisco 49ers

The San Francisco 49ers have secured the top seed and will have a bye during Wild Card Weekend. Both teams are resting their key players in an unimportant match against the Los Angeles Rams, making the outcome unpredictable. Nevertheless, currently on a hot streak, the Rams might surprise the 49ers in this game.

Dallas Cowboys

The Cowboys have a decisive goal: to win and clinch the number two seed. Even if they lose, they still can secure the spot, provided Philadelphia and Detroit lose. Dak Prescott’s remarkable performance in the division makes them the favorites against the commanders. It would be the third straight season with 12 victories if they win.

Detroit Lions

Currently holding the third seed, the Lions can move up to the second spot with a win against the Vikings if Philadelphia and Dallas both lose their games. In any case, the Lions will host a playoff game on Wild Card Weekend for the first time since 1994. The Vikings are a team with slim playoff hopes, so the Lions are expected to take care of business at home.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Buccaneers are aiming for the number four seed, and if they win against the Panthers, they will secure it. Even if they lose, there’s still a slim chance of winning the division, depending on the results of other games. Therefore, it’s expected that Tampa Bay will win at home and pave the way for a playoff confrontation.

Philadelphia Eagles

The Eagles are currently at the number five seed and need to win or tie against the Giants. They also need the Cowboys to lose to snatch the number two seed. The Eagles have a reputation for clinching playoff appearances and seem to have a good chance of winning on the road against the Giants. However, the Eagles don’t have control over their destiny in this scenario.

Wildcard Teams

Los Angeles Rams

Head coach Sean McVay has been leading the Los Angeles Rams toward the playoffs with impressive momentum, even though they are already locked into the number six seed. Despite this, the team remains focused and motivated, with McVay ensuring that his players are well-prepared and ready to take on any challenges that may come their way. Their strong performance in recent games has given them confidence, and they are eager to carry this momentum into the playoffs and make a strong showing. With McVay at the helm, the Rams are poised to be a formidable force in the postseason.

Green Bay Packers

The Green Bay Packers are in a situation where they need to win their next game to secure the seventh seed. However, even if they lose the game, it may not completely rule them out of the playoffs. The Packers’ fate also depends on how the Chicago Bears perform in their upcoming game. If the Bears win their game, it could affect the Packers’ chances of making it to the playoffs, as it could impact the overall standings. Therefore, the Packers must stay focused and determined to win their upcoming game to increase their chances of securing a playoff spot.

Teams Still in the Hunt

Seattle Seahawks

The Seahawks still need a win and a Packers loss to clinch a playoff spot.

New Orleans Saints

Similar to Atlanta, the Saints are waiting for Buccaneers’ loss.

Atlanta Falcons

They are eyeing the division title with a win and a Buccaneers loss.

Minnesota Vikings

Their slim playoff hopes hinge on various combinations, making their path challenging.