NFL Playoff Projections: Who's In and Who's Out in the Final Stretch

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With just three weeks left in the 2025 NFL regular season, excitement is palpable as teams jostle for playoff positioning. Two teams, the Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Rams, have already clinched their spots, but the remaining twelve spots remain anyone's game. Who's poised to succeed, and who might fall short of the postseason?

Using ESPN's Football Power Index, which simulates the season over 10,000 times, we take a deep dive into scenario No. 5,002 that lays out the most likely playoff teams and seedings. It's time to break down the predictions for the final weeks, the playoff race outcomes, and even a glimpse of who might take top honors in Super Bowl LX.

Week-by-Week Breakdown of Predictions

Projected Week 16 Scores

• LAR vs. SEA: Seahawks 27, Rams 25
• GB vs. CHI: Bears 31, Packers 10
• PHI vs. WSH: Commanders 26, Eagles 24
• ATL vs. ARI: Cardinals 29, Falcons 10
• NE vs. BAL: Ravens 19, Patriots 17
• TB vs. CAR: Buccaneers 20, Panthers 17
• BUF vs. CLE: Bills 35, Browns 6
• LAC vs. DAL: Chargers 20, Cowboys 17
• JAX vs. DEN: Broncos 23, Jaguars 21
• PIT vs. DET: Lions 47, Steelers 10

In an electrifying Thursday night game, the Seattle Seahawks edged out the Los Angeles Rams with a last-minute 55-yard field goal from Jason Myers. This high-stakes win injected new life into the playoffs as both teams continued to vie for the NFC West crown. Meanwhile, the Chicago Bears showcased their potential as contenders with a resounding victory over the Green Bay Packers.

Week 17 Predictions

• DEN vs. KC: Broncos 23, Chiefs 6
• MIN vs. DET: Vikings 26, Lions 7
• DAL vs. WSH: Commanders 35, Cowboys 32
• BAL vs. GB: Ravens 39, Packers 26
• HOU vs. LAC: Texans 33, Chargers 6
• PHI vs. BUF: Bills 35, Eagles 7

The Broncos claimed the top spot in the AFC with a dominant defensive performance, while the Seahawks dropped a crucial game to Panthers, placing their NFC lead on shaky ground.

Meanwhile, playoff positioning tightened as the Buffalo Bills continued their fight for the division title with a smooth win over the Eagles.

Final Week 18 Predictions

• NO vs. ATL: Falcons 16, Saints 14
• NYJ vs. BUF: Bills 45, Jets 24
• DET vs. CHI: Lions 34, Bears 17
• CLE vs. CIN: Browns 44, Bengals 24
• LAC vs. DEN: Broncos 24, Chargers 17

As the dust settles, the Los Angeles Rams stand positioned to take the No. 1 seed in the NFC, winning their critical match against the Cardinals. The playoff race has heated up to a fierce climax, with teams battling not just for wins but for their dreams of championship glory.

Final Thoughts on the Playoff Landscape

So, what does the playoff picture look like based on these simulations? Here are some of my predictions for wild-card matchups:

• Chargers at Patriots
• Jaguars at Texans
• Bills at Steelers
• Packers at Bears
• 49ers at Eagles
• Seahawks at Buccaneers

The path forward is lined with challenges and high stakes, and playoff performances can break or make teams. Who will clinch victory and who will fall short on the road to Super Bowl LX? Join me as we unravel all the storylines this season has to offer!