Week 17 is here, which means that we have gotten some separation in the NFL playoff picture. However, there are two divisions that are still up for grabs — the AFC South and the NFC East — and the top seed in the NFC is still in play, as New Orleans could snatch it if they win and the Green Bay Packers somehow lose to Chicago. With a logjam of ten-win teams in the AFC, we know that a ten-win team will not make the playoffs, while a six-win team could win the NFC East, if the Giants beat Dallas and Washington loses to Philadelphia.
As we look ahead to the playoffs, take our thoughts on these teams in mind as you consider your NFL betting.
NFL News: Updated Super Bowl Contenders & Pretenders after Week 16
Contender: Green Bay Packers
The Packers delivered a convincing, 40-14 win over the Tennessee Titans in prime time last Sunday. This was different from other Packer matchups against winning teams, including their overtime loss at Indianapolis. The Packers know how to play in the snow, and it was obvious that the Titans, particularly on defense, were uncomfortable moving around on their larger studs, at least until the Packers had put up 19 points on their first three possessions. Having home field in January makes a huge difference for the Packers, giving them an easier road to the title game. If they beat Chicago on Sunday and take the top seed, it’s hard to see any of the other contenders going to Lambeau on a cold day and taking the win. The Saints? Dome team. The Buccaneers? Yes, Tom Brady is used to the snow, and so is Gronk, but most of the rest of the team is not.
Pretender: Pittsburgh Steelers
It was terrific to see Ben Roethlisberger turn back the clock in the second half against Indianapolis and bring his team back from 17 points down to clinch the AFC North title. Another part of the story was that Steeler defense, as the front seven found ways to bring pressure on Philip Rivers in the third and fourth quarters, and the Colts’ offense could not respond. Screen passes, draw plays, and check downs all went for nought, and Philip Rivers even threw one of his trademark interceptions. However, the Steelers don’t have the offense to hang with the other AFC contenders all the way to a Super Bowl.
Contender: New Orleans Saints
When Alvin Kamara is the focus of the New Orleans offense, the team becomes very difficult to beat. Ask Minnesota, who saw Kamara tie Ernie Nevers’ 91-year-old record on Christmas Day with six rushing touchdowns. Having a dominant running game allows Drew Brees more flexibility in the passing game. The Saints’ defense is still tough against the run, which means that teams are going to have to beat the Saints through the air. It’s a possibility, but the Saints have already taken their bad loss of the season, in Philadelphia, and they look primed for a push at least to the NFC Championship.
Pretender: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Yes, Tampa Bay steamrolled Detroit, and they also embarrassed Green Bay earlier this season. However, what has emerged is a trend of playing about half a game, or maybe three quarters, against top competition. This is why they got swept by New Orleans this year, for example. The lack of a convincing running game keeps the Buccaneers from greater consistency on offense, and when you have too many three-and-outs in this league, you fall too far behind. The Bucs are a good team, and they will beat the NFC East champ in the wild card round, but that will be it.
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