As we head into Week 11 of the NFL season, the playoff picture in both the AFC and NFC is heating up. Key victories from the Buffalo Bills and Pittsburgh Steelers have reshaped the standings. Meanwhile, in the NFC, the race remains tight with several teams fighting for a playoff spot. Let’s break down the NFL playoff picture and the current standings across both conferences.
AFC Playoff Picture
Buffalo Bills Climb the AFC Standings
The Buffalo Bills delivered a crucial win over the Kansas City Chiefs, ending their undefeated run and moving to 9-2. With the victory, the Bills are now within a half-game of the AFC’s top seed. This win is vital for the Bills’ position in the AFC playoff picture, especially with their next game on a bye week. The Bills have a favorable schedule, with only one remaining opponent over .500.
Currently, Buffalo sits in second place in the AFC standings 2024 and looks set to push for the top seed in the AFC. Their playoff probability stands at 99%, reflecting their strong position heading into the final stretch.
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Pittsburgh Steelers Take Control of the AFC North
The Pittsburgh Steelers have gained a significant advantage in the AFC North standings after a hard-fought 18-16 win over the Baltimore Ravens. This victory gives the Steelers a 1.5-game lead in the division. Despite the win coming without a touchdown, Pittsburgh’s six field goals were enough to secure the victory. The Steelers standings are looking strong, with their playoff probability sitting at 93%.
The Ravens, now 7-4, remain in the playoff hunt but are facing increased pressure to keep pace with the Steelers. Baltimore will face tough competition from other teams in the AFC as they look to secure a wildcard spot.
Kansas City Chiefs Remain AFC Leaders
Although the Chiefs suffered their first loss of the season to Buffalo, they still hold the top spot in the AFC West standings with a 9-1 record. The Chiefs’ playoff probability remains at 99%, but they’ll need to bounce back quickly. The AFC West remains competitive, with the Los Angeles Chargers and Denver Broncos hot on Kansas City’s tail.
NFC Playoff Picture
Detroit Lions Dominate the NFC North
The Detroit Lions continue to impress in the NFC, moving to 9-1 after a dominant 52-6 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Lions are now firmly in control of the NFC standings, with a playoff probability of 99%. Their powerful offense and strong defensive play make them a top contender for the NFC’s top seed.
Philadelphia Eagles Hold Strong in the NFC East
The Philadelphia Eagles remain at the top of the NFC East with an 8-2 record, following a victory over the Washington Commanders. Their NFL standings position gives them a solid chance of securing a playoff spot. The Eagles’ next matchup is crucial as they prepare to face the Los Angeles Rams. Their playoff probability stands at 99%, making them one of the favourites to make a deep postseason run.
Arizona Cardinals Lead the NFC West
The Arizona Cardinals have held onto the top spot in the NFC West with a 6-4 record. Although they’ve faced some challenges, they remain in control of the division. With just one remaining opponent over .500, the Cardinals have a 62% chance of making the playoffs. Their next challenge comes after a bye week, where they’ll face the Seattle Seahawks.
Minnesota Vikings Surge in NFC North
The Minnesota Vikings are making a strong push in the NFC North, holding an 8-2 record and staying within one game of the Lions. The Vikings are looking solid in the NFL standings 2024 and have a 94% playoff probability. With tough opponents ahead, including a three-game homestand, they’re hoping to keep pace with Detroit.
Teams Fighting for a Spot
Several teams are still in the hunt for playoff positions in both conferences.
AFC: Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Chargers
The Denver Broncos, with a 6-5 record, have moved closer to a wildcard spot after a dominant win over the Atlanta Falcons. Their playoff probability now stands at 43%. The Broncos will face the Raiders, Browns, and Colts in their remaining games, which will be crucial for their postseason hopes.
The Los Angeles Chargers, at 7-3, are in a strong position in the AFC playoff picture. With a playoff probability of 94%, the Chargers will be looking to secure a higher seed, especially with tough matches ahead against teams with winning records.
NFC: Washington Commanders and Green Bay Packers
The Washington Commanders are still in contention for a wildcard spot, with a 7-4 record. Their playoff probability stands at 89%. They’ll need to keep pace with the Eagles in the NFC East while also fending off wildcard competition.
The Green Bay Packers, at 7-3, have a solid chance of making the playoffs. With a playoff probability of 79%, they’ll look to secure one of the remaining spots in the NFC.
Conclusion
As we head into the latter stages of the season, the NFL playoff picture is taking shape. The AFC standings have become particularly tight, with the Bills and Steelers making major moves in their respective divisions. In the NFC, the Lions and Eagles look set to challenge for the top spots, but other teams are still in the race. The coming weeks will be crucial as teams battle it out for playoff positions in both the AFC West standings and NFC standings.