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The NFL playoffs are here, and we are ready to start the analysis of the second season. Right now at Bankroll Sports, we take a look at the matchups in the postseason and make our NFC predictions and our AFC predictions, as we make our NFL playoff picks and our Super Bowl picks.

AFC Matchups
There is a whole mess load of allure in the AFC side of the playoffs, particularly in this 3/6 battle between the New York Jets (29 to 1 at Oddsmaker) and the Indianapolis Colts (18 to 1 at Oddsmaker). These two teams met up twice last year, facing off once in a Week 16 game in which QB Peyton Manning and company laid down in, and once in the AFC Championship Game, a duel in which New York was in for the mass majority of the way before finally running out of gas at the death. Neither one of these teams have to feel like they have as good of a club as they did last year, but both know that they have a great chance to catch some fire and to make it to Arlington for the Super Bowl. The Jets are only narrow 2.5 point underdogs in this one though, a game which should be a great one to make NFL picks in.

The Baltimore Ravens (14 to 1 at Oddsmaker) are probably the scariest team playing in a Wild Card game in the AFC this weekend. They have the full compliment of defensive weapons to bank on, and they know how to get after the opposition full bore. The offense was improved this year quite a bit, just by the addition of WR Anquan Boldin as well. No one is really giving the Kansas City Chiefs (50 to 1 at Oddsmaker) much of a chance to do any damage in this one or in the run for the Lombardi Trophy, probably thanks in large part to the fact that the team put up a total dud in the finale against the Oakland Raiders in Week 17 to spoil their perfect season at home. Had they just given up early on and let the backups play almost the whole way, this would have felt a lot differently. Instead, KC knows that it has a lot of rebuilding and restructuring to do to make sure that it can get out of the first round of the playoffs. The oddsmakers are showing no faith though, as the Chiefs are three point underdogs.

The New England Patriots (2 to 1 at Oddsmaker) and the Pittsburgh Steelers (6 to 1 at Oddsmaker) are the two favorites to win the Super Bowl this year, and they are both on byes this week.

NFC Matchups
It’s pretty amazing to think that the New Orleans Saints (11 to 1 at Oddsmaker) have the second best odds to win Super Bowl XLV in the NFC in spite of the fact that they are probably going to have to win three road games just to get to Arlington. The current Lombardi Trophy holders are the first team to be favored by double digits in quite some time on the road in the postseason, as they have that distinction against the NFC West champs, the Seattle Seahawks (125 to 1 at Oddsmaker). There’s no doubt that Seattle has the worst chance to become Super Bowl champs this year, but we have definitely seen stranger things happen. However, it’s always a piece of NFL history when you can go 7-9 and still get into the second season, the feat that the Seahawks pulled off. Needless to say, this isn’t a game that you want to forget about when you’re placing your NFL picks in for the Wild Card weekend.

On the other side of the bracket, the Philadelphia Eagles (13 to 1 at Oddsmaker) and Green Bay Packers (14 to 1 at Oddsmaker) will duke it out in the City of Brotherly Love. These two teams met in the first week of the regular season in a game that really was one of the better NFL betting affairs of the year. The Pack did get the best of the Eagles in that one, winning thanks to a late defensive stand, but it is pretty clear that, had QB Michael Vick ended up playing that entire game, the story would have been significantly different. Vick is the X-Factor in these entire playoffs, and this is why this team is a real threat to capture the Lombardi Trophy. It would make for a great story, that’s for sure. Not only would Vick complete the circle of life as a man that went from the top of the mountain to the dregs of society in prison to the highest peak once again, but he would do in just one season as a starter, what QB Donovan McNabb could never do: Bring a championship to Philadelphia.

There’s still a long way to go to get there, though. The Chicago Bears (14 to 1 at Oddsmaker) and the top seed in the NFC side of the playoffs, the Atlanta Falcons (6 to 1 at Oddsmaker) are both still waiting in the wings following their byes in the first round of the playoffs.

Last week a lot of NFL team’s postseason chances came to an end primarily in the NFC. However, the AFC wildcard race is still completely up for grabs with a host of teams lingering at the 7-7 mark on the season. Among those teams are the defending Super Bowl Champions in the Pittsburgh Steelers who kept their chances alive with a Ben Roethlisberger game winning touchdown pass as time expired in a big victory against the Green Bay Packers. However, the odds may be stacked against the Steelers to find a position in the playoffs. Find out the Steelers chances to make the playoffs along with all the other teams in the NFL as we continue to breakdown the postseason playoff picture.

NFC East

Philadelphia Eagles (10-4) – Philadelphia clinched a playoff berth with their 27-13 win over the 49ers this weekend. However, the Eagles can still do more damage. They currently sit a top the NFC East and could clinch the division with another win combined with a Dallas loss. The Eagles could also lose to the Broncos this week and still win the division with a victory against Dallas in the finale. Also, the Eagles could still get a first round bye in the playoffs with another Vikings loss as long as they continue to win.

Dallas Cowboys (9-5) – The Cowboys stunned the football world with a big victory over the previously unbeaten Saints last weekend. The milestone victory ended at ever going talk of the December slump and kept the Cowboys in the wildcard position for the playoffs. Dallas is currently in a race with the Giants for the final wildcard spot. The Giants would win the tie breaker due to the head to head sweep, but the Giants trial by one game currently. Dallas also has the same record as Green Bay meaning they could also guarantee a spot in the playoffs with one more victory if the Packers lost their remaining two. However, all those scenarios are given if the Cowboys lose another game but they still control their destiny if they continue to win. Also, if the Cowboys get by Washington this weekend they will have the chance to take down the division against the Eagles in week 17.

New York Giants (8-6) – The Giants just crushed Washington this past Monday 45-12 in an all around impressive effort. The Giants would currently be out of the playoffs if the season ended today, but they are also the only team still alive outside of the 6 teams that are currently in the playoffs. The Giants could close the door with another Dallas loss if they were to win out. Also, if the Packers lose their last two games the Giants could earn a spot with two more victories. If the Giants just split the last two games, they would need Dallas to lose both games.

Washington Redskins (4-10) – Out

NFC North

Minnesota Vikings (11-3) – Clinched Division

The Vikings loss to the Panthers opened the door for the Eagles to have a chance at taking their first round bye. Minnesota would lose the tie breaker for 2nd best record in the NFL with another loss (given the Eagles win) due to their conference record.

Green Bay Packers (9-5) – The Packers last second loss to the Steelers this week was a setback in regards to the postseason. However, the Packers still have a good chance to lock in a spot with just one more victory due to their head to head victory over Dallas and two game advantage over the Giants. However, if they lost their remaining two games they would need Dallas or New York to at least lose one game.

Chicago Bears (5-9) – Out

Detroit Lions (2-12) – Out

NFC South

New Orleans Saints (13-1) – Clinched Division and first round bye.  New Orleans pursuit of a perfect season ended last week to the Cowboys. However, they are still poised for a deep playoff run and another victory would wrap up home field advantage throughout the playoffs.

Atlanta Falcons (7-7) – Out

Carolina Panthers (6-8) – Out

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-12) – Out

NFC West

Arizona Cardinals (9-5) – Clinched Division

San Francisco 49ers (6-8) – Out

Seattle Seahawks (5-9) – Out

St. Louis Rams (1-13) – Out

AFC East

New England Patriots (9-5) – The Patriots definitely have not been the dominating New England team we are accustomed to this time a year. However, last week’s 17-10 victory over Buffalo puts the Patriots just one victory away from clinching the division. The Patriots could also clinch the division guaranteeing a postseason berth with another Miami loss.

Miami Dolphins (7-7) – The Dolphins are just one of six teams currently sitting at 7-7. The Dolphins could still advance if a few scenarios play out. One of course would be if the Patriots lost their last two and the Dolphins win out to steal the division title. For Miami to capture a wildcard spot, they would need either Denver and/or Baltimore to lose their final two games while winning their last two games.

New York Jets (7-7) – The Jets are also at the 7-7 mark on the season after a 10-7 loss to the Falcons last week. The Jets can not win the division so their only option is to somehow win a wildcard position. The Jets absolutely have to win their remaining two games and hope for the following: Jacksonville loses to New England and Miami loses to Houston, plus either of the following: have Baltimore lose at Pittsburgh or Denver lose at Philadelphia.

Buffalo Bills (5-9) – Out

AFC North

Cincinnati Bengals (9-4) – The Bengals dropped their 2nd straight game last week in an emotional 27-24 loss to the Chargers keeping the door open in the division race. Cincinnati still needs one more victory to clinch the AFC North or a Baltimore loss.

Baltimore Ravens (8-6) – The Ravens blew out Chicago last week 31-7 to strengthen their playoff chances. Baltimore is also still alive in the division, but would need the Bengals to lose their remaining two games to reach that goal. The Ravens could clinch a playoff berth with a win this week with the following scenarios playing out: Jacksonville loss along with Jets or Broncos loss. Ravens could also earn a spot with losses by Jets, Broncos, and Dolphins this week as well.

Pittsburgh Steelers (7-7) – The Steelers kept their postseason chances alive last week with a clutch victory against the Packers. Pittsburgh still has an uphill battle to climb given their 4-6 conference record. There are tons of scenarios that could play out. One interesting scenarios would be if the Steelers win out they would need Houston, Jacksonville, Denver, and New York to lose at least one game. (All of those teams are underdogs for week 16) Of course there are many other scenarios given all the teams fighting for wildcard spot, but one thing is certain that is the Steelers must win.

Cleveland Browns (3-11) – Out

AFC South

Indianapolis Colts (13-0) – Clinched Division and home field advantage throughout.

Jacksonville Jaguars (7-7) – The Jaguars played really well against the Colts last week nearly ending their undefeated season. However, the loss put them right in the middle of a pack of 7-7 teams. Still, the Jaguars chances are pretty good or at least better than other teams with the same record. The Jaguars control their own destiny with another Denver or Baltimore loss.

Tennessee Titans (7-7) – The Titans kept their slim postseason chances alive with a 27-24 victory over Miami last Sunday. Tennessee must win their final two games of the season and get a lot of help. The Titans need both Denver and Baltimore to lose their final two games. Also, Tennessee would nearly need to finish ahead of all the current teams at 7-7 given they have the worse conference record of every team except Houston.

Houston Texans (7-7) – The Texans are also still alive for just one more week, but they need more help than anyone. Houston needs Denver and Baltimore to lose out. The Texans will also need the Jets to possibly lose out along with losses from both Pittsburgh and Jacksonville. All of those scenarios have to play out and the Texans must win their final two just to be eligible of a few of the tie breaker scenarios.

AFC West

San Diego Chargers (11-3) – Clinched Division

The Chargers may just be the hottest team in the AFC even with the Colts still undefeated. San Diego’s winning streak in December is now 17 straight games and they have also posted 9 straight wins currently. The Chargers are already in the postseason, but need just one more victory to capture a first round bye and home field advantage in their first playoff game.

Denver Broncos (8-6) – Denver’s postseason chances took a big hit with an unexpected loss to Oakland last week. The Broncos still currently own the final wildcard position and control their own destiny. However, they would lose tie breakers to Baltimore, Jacksonville, and Pittsburgh in the wildcard race meaning another loss would really devastate their chances. If the Broncos had to take a loss, they can not afford to lose to the Chiefs in the finale considering that would really damage their conference record. A win over Kansas City would increase their chances at 9-7, but there are too many scenarios that could play out if that happens. The main thing for Denver is to approach each game as a “must win.”

Oakland Raiders (5-9) – Out

Kansas City Chiefs (3-11) – Out

The postseason picture continues to unravel as there are just 3 weeks left in the season. Shockingly we still have two undefeated teams in the Indianapolis Colts and New Orleans Saints. Both of those teams have clinched division titles and first round byes in the playoffs. However, there are many other teams that do not have that type of comforting feel about the postseason destiny. We break down the NFL playoff picture again heading into week 15.

NFC East:

Philadelphia Eagles (9-4) – The Eagles offense was just unstoppable in their big win over the Giants and they now sit alone atop the NFC East. With the Cowboys struggling, the Eagles appear to be big favorites to win the division. Philadelphia really only needs one more win against Dallas to clinch the division, but the way the offense is playing they have the possibility of running the table.

Dallas Cowboys (8-5) – The December woes continue and with meetings with both New Orleans and Philadelphia still on the schedule, things do not look good. The Dallas offense seems to be moving the ball, but just not putting it in the endzone. With the Giants on their trail and having beaten them head to head, the Cowboys will most likely have to win at least two of the last three.

New York Giants (7-6) – Despite the constant big plays by the Eagles, the Giants showed a lot of character and had a strong offensive showing on Sunday night. However, the week 14 loss to Philly really set their playoff chances back and took destiny out of their hands. The good news for Giants fans is that their next two games are very winnable before the season finale against Vikings; who may end up resting Brett Favre and Adrian Peterson in the last week. Giants fans should be rooting for New Orleans to seal up that one-seed.  At least one of the two wildcard teams will come out of the East.  But, the Giants are going to need some external help from the opponents of the Cowboys and Packers.

Washington Redskins (4-9) – Out

NFC North

Minnesota Vikings (11-2) – Clinched Division. The Vikes are just two back from New Orleans for the one-seed and home field advantage throughout the playoffs.  However, New Orleans would win the tiebreaker over Minnesota in the result of a tie for the one spot.

Green Bay Packers (9-4) – The Packers got a lot of ground support from running back Ryan Grant in their 21-14 win over the Bears this weekend. The win marks the 5th straight by the Packers as they are the leading team in the running for a wild card position. Green Bay also gets the struggled Pittsburgh Steelers followed by the Seahawks next on the schedule which should help pad their cushion for a playoff seat.  They still have a shot at winning the division, but it’s looking more and more like they are going to have that first wildcard spot.  The Pack are looking like one of the hotter teams in the NFC down the stretch.

Chicago Bears (5-8) – Out

Detroit Lions (2-10) – Out

NFC South:

New Orleans Saints (12-0) – New Orleans clinched the division and first round bye with their squeaker over the banged up and fading Atlanta Falcons.  The Saints can secure home field advantage throughout the playoffs with a win and a Minnesota loss.

Atlanta Falcons (6-7) – QB Chris Redman had an excellent showing in place of Matt Ryan throwing for over 300 yards in a near upset win over the Saints. The Falcons really needed the victory, but fell short 26-23. The Falcons absolutely have to win out to have a chance at the postseason now. However while most will write them off, every game remaining is very winnable.

Carolina Panthers (5-8) – Even at 5-8 somehow through a bizarre scenario of miraculous events the Panthers are still mathematically in the picture. The only thing that have to do now is win out and do it against the possibly 3 of the best teams in the NFC. It is likely that the Vikings could put them out of their misery next week.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-12) – Out

NFC West:

Arizona Cardinals (8-5) – The Cardinals looked like a solid playoff contender just two short weeks ago.  However, they looked like the complete opposite against the 49ers on Monday night. Arizona still needs another win and a 49ers loss before they will clinch the division.  If they continue to play like they did on Monday Night, the Cardinals may find themselves back in an underdog role in the playoffs; or even worse yet, missing the postseason all together.

San Francisco 49ers (6-7) – San Francisco did exactly what they had to this week against the Cardinals as the kept them selves in the playoff hunt with a 24-9 victory. The 49ers defense played extremely well forcing Kurt Warner to a couple of picks. The Niners are two games behind the Arizona Cardinals in the NFC West with just three games left to play.  They own the tiebreaker over the Cardinals having beaten them twice this year.  Their only realistic shot at the playoffs would be to catch the Cardinals for the division.  They would need a lot of chips to fall into place in order to get in as a wildcard this year.

Seattle Seahawks (5-8) – The Seahawks are another team that is somehow mathematically in the equation, but rather have no chance at actually making those events happen. Seattle was destroyed by Houston 34-7 last week and they have some major issues to resolve over the off season.

St. Louis Rams (1-12) – Out

AFC East:

New England Patriots (8-5) – The Patriots got off to a sluggish start last week against the Panthers and showed a lot of trouble stopping the run throughout the game. With Miami knocking on the door, the Patriots can not afford any more less than impressive performances. The good news is the schedule looks very manageable as it reads Buffalo, Jacksonville, and ends with Houston. It is most likely to assume two wins would get the Patriots into the playoffs as that would make Miami have to run the table. However, 3 straight wins would guarantee them the division.

Miami Dolphins (7-6) – Do not look now but the Dolphins are getting it done having won 4 of their last 5 as they held on to hold off the Jaguars 14-10 this past Sunday. The very interesting factor to this scenario is that a loss by the Patriots and a win by the Dolphins would actually put Miami ahead in the tie breaker scenario given their conference record. Miami also has a winnable remaining schedule where they will likely be favorites in each of their final 3 games. A couple of scenarios could play out depending on the Jets and Patriots outcomes over the next 3 weeks, but the Dolphins appear to need at least 2 wins in most probable cases.

New York Jets (7-6) – The Jets are right in the middle of the interesting AFC East battle that looks very similar to the 2008 regular season. New York beat up on Tampa Bay last week 26-3, but they have the most difficult schedule out of the division teams remaining. Atlanta next week will be interesting, but the last two games with the Colts and Bengals is frightening for their hopes at the postseason. The Jets would lose both tie breakers against Miami due to their head to head sweep and the Patriots due to a worse record in the division. Therefore, the division may be a long shot but a couple more wins could still find a wildcard spot if everything falls into place.

Buffalo Bills (5-8) – Out

AFC North:

Cincinnati Bengals (9-4) – Cincinnati could have really strengthened their chances to clinch the division last week, but appeared rather out-matched by the Vikings as they lost 30-10. Also, if they do not regroup quickly they could drop two straight considering they take on the red hot Chargers this weekend. The Bengals hold the tie breaker over Baltimore so just one more victory will clinch the AFC North.

Baltimore Ravens (7-6) – The Ravens exploded against the Lions last week to win by 45 points as Ray Rice had a huge performance racking up 166 yards on the ground. Baltimore is right in the thick of the wild card position battle and if they can continue to play well their schedule will allow a few more wins. However, they still may need the Jaguars to misfire to increase their postseason chances. The Ravens could also win out and hope the Bengals lose out to win the division. However, the most likely chance for the playoffs maybe through the wildcard position and it appears that they will have to at least be 9-7 to have that opportunity.

Pittsburgh Steelers (6-7) – Let’s just forget the playoffs talk. The Steelers were beating by the Browns of all teams who had just one victory previously. Pittsburgh now has the NFL’s longest losing streak at 5 straight losses. The defending Super Bowl Champions could at least find a way to go out with some dignity. Pittsburgh must win out to better position them selves for a possible wildcard position given they already out of the division race.

Cleveland Browns (2-11) – Out

AFC South:

Indianapolis Colts (13-0) – Clinched Division and home field advantage throughout playoffs.  The Colts appear to have nothing to play for now that the home field advantage is wrapped up. However, this team is still undefeated and the chance to end the season that way is very rare. In fact, only 4 teams have accomplished that feat in NFL history so do not expect the Colts to back off.

Jacksonville Jaguars (7-6) – The Jaguars lost a close battle with the Dolphins this week, but they would still be in the playoffs if the season ended today. However, with the Ravens playing well there is hardly any room for mistakes. The problem is how do you avoid any mistakes when you have the Patriots and Colts next on the schedule? The Jaguars would win any tie breaker scenario considering they have the best conference record of teams battling for a wildcard position. However, it depends on which team they would be up against considering they lost to Miami and beat the Jets which are two teams fighting for wild card positions if the season ended today. Jacksonville will likely need to get at least two more wins and need some bad luck from Miami and possibly Baltimore.

Tennessee Titans (6-7) – Chris Johnson led the Titans in a dynamic win over the Rams last Sunday 47-7. Johnson racked up 117 yards on the ground as well as 69 yards receiving with numerous big plays throughout the games. Also, both Kerry Collins and Vince Young were effective behind center. The Titans are still starring at an unconquerable mountain for the postseason needing to win out like the Texans, but they could really build some momentum to end the season as they have the chance to score some respectable wins over the next 3 games.

Houston Texans (6-7) – The Texans destroyed the Seahawks as QB Matt Schaub threw for 365 yards in the routing. Despite little chance of the postseason, Houston will likely be a team that plays a huge role in shaping out the AFC playoff picture as they play some teams that are right in the thick of the mixture. Houston could still win out and have a shot at the postseason giving a few more helpful scenarios as well. With 4 different teams already at 7-6 and the Broncos at 8-5, the Texans would have to get to 9-7 to have a chance at breaking any tie breakers.

AFC West:

San Diego Chargers (10-3) – San Diego captured a big time victory over the Cowboys 20-17 this week and really put a strangle hold on the AFC West. In the most probable scenario, the Chargers will most likely win the division with just one more victory. However, the Chargers may be one of the more dangerous teams in the NFL at this point in the season and they are known for playing well in December. If San Diego can manage just 2 more victories, they will get a first round bye in the playoffs.

Denver Broncos (8-5) – The Broncos suffered a setback this week in a loss to maybe the best team in the NFL as they fell to the Colts 28-16. Denver is in position to grab the first available wild card position and they are playing at a level which they should be able to maintain that position. Also, 2 of the last 3 games are against Oakland and Kansas City which should guarantee the Broncos will be in the postseason. However, they still have to get the job done and win the games. If they can just manage 2 out of the next 3 they will be hard to chance at 10-6. However, if the Ravens get hot the Broncos would lose tie breaker scenarios with them due to the head to head factor. As for any other tie breakers teams involved with the Broncos, it would fall by their final conference records as to which team won the tie breaker. Of course if they win out, they guarantee a playoff position.

Oakland Raiders (4-9) – Out

Kansas City Chiefs (3-10) – Out

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The NFL Playoffs race continues as we head into the final month of football with just 4 weeks remaining in the season. Luckily, a lot of teams won that needed to last weekend as nearly nobody was completely eliminated. However, there are a ton of scenarios that will eliminate a few teams this week and we will probably have an even better idea of what to expect following week 14. Check out the recap of week 13 and what some of these teams need to do to keep their chances at the postseason alive.

NFC Conference

NFC East

Dallas Cowboys (8-4) – The Cowboys could have really locked down their playoff probabilities with a win over the Giants this weekend, but lost to New York for the 2^nd time this season. Dallas now has opened the door for not only Philadelphia, but put the Giants right back into the picture. The Cowboys still hold the head to head advantage over the Eagles for their victory over Philadelphia, but there is very little room for error here on out. Also, is a pretty tough 4 game stretch to close out the season with San Diego, New Orleans, Washington, and Philadelphia. Will this be the start of another December collapse?

Philadelphia Eagles (8-4) – The Eagles crushed the Falcons this week and even Michael Vick got involved in the action scoring his first touchdown of the season again his former team. The victory really solidified the Eagles chances of the playoffs. They still trail the Cowboys by a game and have a shot at the division, but if not they would really have to fall off to miss the postseason as they are in the leading position for a wild card berth.

New York Giants (7-5)

The New York Giants are right back into the thick of the playoff hunt. The Giants defense finally showed up after taking a few weeks off. Still, the Giants have to find a way to keep gaining ground on Dallas and Philadelphia. The Giants will get their chance this weekend when they get to try and revenge a 40-17 blowout from the Eagles earlier this year. If the Giants can claim that victory, their chances will look really good. If not, they will have to win the final 3 games to close out the year.

Washington Redskins (3-9)– Out

NFC North

Minnesota Vikings (10-2) – The Vikings took a step back this past week appearing much more vulnerable than they have in recent weeks. The Arizona defense held Brett Farve and company to just 315 yards and Minnesota is still seeking another win to clinch the division. Minnesota lines up against Cincinnati and this is a place to be careful because another loss would take a lot of steam out of the Vikings especially their diminishing chances of home field advantage throughout the playoffs.

Green Bay Packers (8-4) – The Green Bay Packers put their selves in great position with a win over Baltimore this weekend. Aaron Rodgers threw for 263 yards in a 27-14 victory moving the Packers to 8-4 which is the same record as the division leaders in both the NFC East and NFC West. The chances of them catching the Vikings are very slim considering the Packers would have to win out while the Vikings would have to lose out, but they are looking like the best team to wrap up a wild card spot.

Chicago Bears (5-7) – Chicago salvaged their 4 game losing streak with a win over the St. Louis Rams. However, even that 17-9 win was less impressive for Chicago as Cutler was just 8 of 17 for 143 yards. This team still has a ton of problems and not much hope. However even at 5-7 the Bears are not mathematically out, but they probably need to win out which is something that will be completely unexpected.

Detroit Lions (2-10) – Out

NFC South

New Orleans Saints (12-0) – The Saints officially clinched the NFC South this weekend and in dramatic fashion. The Redskins appeared to be in position to pull of the upset, but the Saints fired back to score 10 points in the 4^th quarter to tie the game at 30-30 and force overtime. Drew Brees helped the cause by throwing for 419 yards and got the Saints in position to kick a game winning field goal to stay undefeated. The Saints are now in the playoffs so the next thing to do is try and wrap up home field advantage.

Atlanta Falcons (6-6) – Atlanta was really just embarrassed by the Eagles this weekend as their defensive problems will likely be the reason they do not make the postseason. The Falcons really need win 3 of the last 4 to have a chance and to start that run will not be easy with the Saints next on the schedule. However, there is room for a strong ending with the last two games against Buffalo and Tampa Bay. Still, they must give their selves some type of chance and win a big game.

Carolina Panthers (5-7) – The Panthers offense did not break out of their slump this week with new quarterback Matt Moore, but they were still good enough to get things done on the ground. Running back Jonathan Stewart rushed for 120 yards. The Panthers are another team that may not be mathematically out, but still may have no chance. The reason is not only for the offensive struggles but the remaining schedule that reads Patriots, Vikings, Giants, and finishing with the Saints.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-11) – Out

NFC West

Arizona Cardinals (7-4) – The Cardinals looked very impressive this week against the Vikings and are showing signs of that breakout possibility similar to last year at season’s end. If their defense continues to play well, look out. As for the team in general, a win next week against the 49ers would clinch the NFC West.

San Francisco 49ers (5-7) – The 49ers all but killed their chances at the playoffs this past weekend with a loss to the Seahawks and are now in a must win situation against the Cardinals who appear to be playing well. However, if the 49ers get hot they could close strong with some winnable games left on the schedule but they still need more help than they will likely get.

Seattle Seahawks (5-7) – There is the slightest bit of hope for the Seahawks with a win over the 49ers, but another loss or Arizona win and they will be sitting at home during the postseason along with some other scenarios from potential wild card teams. The chances for all these scenarios to play out are about impossible, but they are not eliminated as of heading into week 14.

St. Louis Rams (1-11) – Out

AFC Conference

AFC East:

New England Patriots (7-4) – The Patriots had a comfortable cushion going into the week, but a late field goal by the Dolphins changed that in a hurry. The Patriots suffered a 22-21 loss bringing Miami and the New York within just 1 game in the AFC East. Fortunately for the Patriots, they have a softer schedule to close out the season meaning they should be able to bounce back. Most likely 3 wins would clinch the division, but they could get away with just 2 wins if other things were to happen.

Miami Dolphins (6-6) – Chad Henne threw for 325 yards and 2 touchdowns in the victory over the Patriots which got them back to the .500 mark on the season along with climbing right back into the playoff hunt. The trend the Dolphins have battled this season has been inconsistency. Looking at the schedule, you would expect the Dolphins to at least get to 8-8 by season’s end but that may be too much of assumption. Still, 8-8 will most likely not be good enough and the Dolphins may have to at least get to 9-7.

New York Jets (6-6) – The Jets were able to get by the Bills 19-13, but they still do not appear to be playing well. The offense has averaged just 19 points over the past 5 games. The Jets have some winnable games left on the schedule, but the way they have played of late does not warrant any type of attention.

Buffalo Bills (4-8) – Out

AFC North:

Cincinnati Bengals (9-3) – The Bengals helped pad their lead in the AFC North by taking down the Lions this week 23-13. Despite not posting any convincing big victories, Cincinnati keeps winning making 5 of their last 6 games. Closing out with Kansas City and the Jets gives them a great chance to win the division even if they can not get past the Vikings this week. However, when Cedric Benson is running the ball well they are extremely tough to beat.

Baltimore Ravens (6-6) – The Ravens have had every chance to give themselves a solid playoff position, but have failed miserable losing 6 of the last 9 games. The good news is the final 4 games can all be won and at least 3 of those will be expected outside of the meeting with Pittsburgh. However, 9-6 will still be pretty solid and give them every opportunity but the Ravens can not afford one mistake from here on out.

Pittsburgh Steelers (6-6) – This was suppose to be the week the defending Super Bowl Champions took down an inferior opponent to improve the playoff opportunities. Instead, the Steelers defense allowed Bruce Gradkowski to throw for 308 yards in a 27-24 loss devastating the chances of Pittsburgh making the postseason. Surely they can get past Cleveland this week, but then again that was the assumption last week as well.

Cleveland Browns (1-11) – Out

AFC South

Indianapolis Colts (12-0) – The Colts took down the streaking Titans 27-17 while Peyton Manning threw for another 270 yards to add to his wonderful season. The Colts are already in the playoffs and just trying to work on home field advantage. Manning is still on track to flirt with the 5,000 yard barrier and the Colts continue to look like the best team in the NFL with the help of the defense that is also playing well.

Jacksonville Jaguars (7-5) – Jacksonville scored a huge win over Houston this past Sunday by a score of 23-18 which really helped their playoff picture. The Jaguars now put themselves in the wild card position, but really need a win against Miami this weekend for things to continue to look good. The Patriots and Colts will both follow and sad thing is they will need to win at least 1 or hope from some help from the rest of the teams in the postseason race.

Houston Texans (5-7) – In reality, last week’s loss to the Jaguars was probably the nail in the coffin for the Texans. Houston has now lost 4 straight games. However, meetings with Seattle and St. Louis could get them back in the right direction. Still, they would likely have to win out to have a shot.

Tennessee Titans (5-7) – It took the best team in the NFL to finally put a halt of the Titans who were red hot having won 5 straight prior to their loss to the Colts. Tennessee could win out and have a shot, but that will likely not be the scenario. The most interesting aspect of the Titans is running back Chris Johnson who recorded his 7^th straight 100 yard plus performance. Johnson is on track to become just the 2^nd person in the last decade to reach the 2,000 yard mark if he can stay hot.

AFC West:

San Diego Chargers (9-3) – The Chargers had a mid-season scrimmage with the struggling Browns last week as Phillip Rivers led the offense with 373 passing yards. The Chargers jumped on the Browns early, but nearly let them get to close as the Browns scored 16 in the 4^th quarter. The good news is the Chargers now appear to be locks for the playoffs and another win would almost guarantee them at least a wild card position. However, there are some tough games on the horizon as they finish with Dallas, Cincinnati, Tennessee, and Washington.

Denver Broncos (8-4) – Denver beat up on the Chiefs in a big way winning 44-13 to improve to the 8-4 mark on the season. The Broncos remain in position to capture a wild card spot and may only need two more wins to seal their postseason faith. A rematch against Kansas City in the finale would be an expected win and also Oakland in two weeks would be another. Overall their position looks good, but a win against the unbeaten Colts this weekend would really make a big statement.

Oakland Raiders (4-8) – Out
Kansas City Chiefs (3-9) – Out

As the NFL season winds down with just a few more weeks in the regular season, we bring to you a broader look at the playoff picture. There are a ton of teams whose destiny is still undecided and we will try to break down what each team needs to do to have a shot at the post season. Keep checking back here at Bankroll Sports, as this will be a weekly edition of the 2009 NFL Playoff Picture.

NFC Conference

NFC East:

Dallas Cowboys (8-3) – The Cowboys have taken advantage of the Eagles and Giants struggling giving their self a little breathing room in the division, but they still must finish strong which has been the problem over the past few years. Dallas gets New York this week with a tough remaining schedule. The division is still up for grabs, but a win against the Giants would about guarantee a wildcard spot in the worst of scenarios.

Philadelphia Eagles (7-4) – The Eagles have knocked off two straight close victories and are right in the midst of the division race. Luckily the Eagles have some teams on the schedule who have been experiencing struggles and there is plenty of room to finish strong. The only question is the Eagles have had troubles as well. In most scenarios they will need to win at least 3 of the last 5 to better their chances

New York Giants (6-5) – If the season ended today the Giants would be out of the playoffs after losing 5 of their last 6 games. To make matters worse, New York gets the top dogs in the division with Dallas and Philadelphia next on the schedule. The Giants have to get hot and anything less than winning 3 of the next 5 will have them watching the postseason at home.

Washington Redskins – Out

NFC North:

Minnesota Vikings (10-1) – The Vikings may be functioning as well as any team in the league right now. Brett Farve has found a star in WR Sidney Rice and with Peterson combining efforts on the ground this team is scary. The Vikings need just 1 more win to clinch the division which should be no problem

Green Bay Packers (7-4) – The Packers have won 3 games in a row and need to stay rolling. They would actually make the playoffs through a wild card spot as of right now, but they can not afford any slip-ups. The Packers offense will have to get the job done against some of the tough AFC defenses with meetings with Baltimore and Pittsburgh on the horizon.

Chicago Bears (4-7) – The Bears could win out and flirt with the idea of making the playoffs in a miraculous turn of events. However, they have too many issues to put together any big time run. With that being said, scratch Chicago from the postseason.

Detroit Lions (2-9) – Out

NFC South:

New Orleans Saints (11-0) – The Saints are already in the playoffs and who would have thought they would be this dominate? We expected to have a breakout season based on our preseason previews, but I do not think anyone would have expected them to be 11-0. After a blowout against the Patriots, is a Lombardi Trophy a legitimate opportunity?

Atlanta Falcons (6-5) – The Falcons chances of making the playoffs keep diminishing each week as they have lost 4 of the last 6. The Falcons get Philadelphia and New Orleans next, but a chance to end the year strong with some very winnable games. If they get 3 wins they would need help, but 4 would really do the trick.

Carolina Panthers (4-7) – Coach John Fox is probably looking more forward to the off-season than anyone. The Panthers have major problems and it all starts behind center. Again this is a meltdown we predicted with Jake Delhomme and the Panthers will finish right where we predicted at 3rd in the NFC South.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-10) – Out

NFC West:

Arizona Cardinals (7-4) – The Cardinals appear to be in the captain’s seat again to take advantage of perhaps the weakest division in the NFL at 7-4. The Cardinals still have some winnable games and some tough match-ups left on the schedule. Another loss to San Francisco would really make the division race interesting at that battle will follow their meeting with the Vikings this week. If the Cardinals can not win the division, they may not make the playoffs.

San Francisco 49ers (5-6) – So how can the 49ers legitimately be in the playoff race at 5-6? Well the Cardinals play Minnesota this week and they get their chance at Arizona in two weeks. If they hand the Cardinals another loss they will hold the tie breaker heads up. Luckily for the 49ers, every game left on the schedule can be won. Winning 3 of the last 5 including Arizona could be all they need.

Seattle Seahawks – Out
St. Louis Rams – Out

AFC

AFC East:

New England Patriots (7-4) – The Patriots were embarrassed last week by the Saints, but fortunately it will take a lot more embarrassment for them to be knocked out of the AFC East ranks as they have a two game lead in the division. With a soft schedule ahead, the Patriots should be sizeable favorites in every game and have the possibility to run the table.

Miami Dolphins (5-6) – Just when it looked like the Dolphins were going to make a run they were blown out by Buffalo of all teams. The Dolphins now get the angry Patriots next and close out with Pittsburgh in the finale. The Dolphins do not have a lot of room for improvement and the odds are definitely stacked against them.

New York Jets (5-6) – The only thing official about the Jets is that they are headed in the wrong direction. After a promising start with Sanchez behind center, the offense is having trouble scoring. Plus the defense is not near as strong as they were playing earlier this season. No chance here.

Buffalo Bills (4-7) – Out

AFC North:

Cincinnati Bengals (8-3) – The emergence of the Bengals has the entire AFC North turned upside down. Both Baltimore and Pittsburgh will be fighting for wild card spots as long as they can win at least two more games. With meetings with the Lions, Jets, and Chiefs still remaining it appears that Cincinnati’s odds are good. However, how will they stack up in the post season?

Baltimore Ravens (6-5) – The Ravens kept their postseason hopes alive with their overtime win over the Steelers last week. The only problems is they may have to do it again as the next meeting in week 16 could determine the team that makes it in as a wildcard. The Ravens have some very winnable games upcoming which should make things a little less stressful. However, there is absolutely no room for mistakes.

Pittsburgh Steelers (6-5) – The Steelers will have every opportunity to bounce back with the likes of Cleveland and Oakland next up on the schedule. Pittsburgh could make it in at 9-7 with a win over Baltimore, but to be safe 10 wins would be ideal in this scenario.

Cleveland Browns – Out

AFC South

Indianapolis Colts (11-0) – The Colts have already clinched the AFC South and are just one of two remaining unbeaten teams in the NFL. The Colts wins have not been near as dominating as the Saints, but their defense will make the prime candidate for a deep run in the playoffs.

Jacksonville Jaguars (6-5) – The Jaguars meeting with the Texans this week is a must win game. Dropping back to 6-6 would make things extremely difficult with both the Colts and Patriots remaining on the schedule. Even if you count those two as losses, the Jaguars can still finish a solid 9-7 which puts them right in the thick of the hunt. However, they have had trouble beaten the teams they should beat.

Houston Texans (5-6) – Even at 5-6, the Texans still have a chance with the way the AFC picture is shaping out. Houston has lost 3 straight games by a combined 14 points including two losses to the undefeated Colts. They are actually not playing bad and they may be a pretty safe pick to make a run at the postseason. The schedule helps that opportunity, but the defense will be the deciding factor.

Tennessee Titans (5-6) – Talk about the “wow” factor. Ever since Vince Young took over behind center the Titans have roared with a new wave of conference going from 0-6 to 5-6 with 5 straight wins. The question is could they do the unthinkable and run the table? The Colts may say no this weekend, but if they could find a way to get the upset the rest of the table is very soft. Tennessee has every opportunity to finish with 9 wins if they can keep the momentum alive.

AFC West

San Diego Chargers (8-3) – The Chargers have come alive over the latter part of the season and have won 6 straight games. The running game is finally moving the ball at least a little and Phillip Rivers has done the rest. With the Broncos back pedaling, the Chargers look to be the team to beat in the division.

Denver Broncos (7-4) – The Broncos have now lost 4 of their last 5, but as it turns out they are still in the number 1 spot for the wild card position if things ended today. Kyle Orton has to get back the swagger from earlier in the year and get the offense back rolling. The Broncos chances look good even if they are not playing that well. Two matches with Kansas City and an additional battle with Oakland put 10 wins as the primary goal. However, the Broncos could finish even better.

Kansas City Chiefs (3-8) – Out
Oakland Raiders (3-8) – Out

Note: Teams that are portrayed as out may not be mathematically out, but just a overall prediction

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