With just one week left in the regular season, there is still plenty to be decided in the NFL. The upcoming matchups are critical as they will determine division champions, playoff seeding, and even the top pick in the upcoming draft.
The highlight of the week will be the NFC North showdown between the Lions and Vikings. This game will not only decide the division champion but also the conference’s top seed and the lone first-round bye. The Vikings, led by quarterback Sam Darnold, have defied the odds this season and are now one win away from securing the No. 1 seed in the NFC.
Another player to watch in the final week is Eagles running back Saquon Barkley, who recently surpassed 2,000 rushing yards for the season. Barkley has the opportunity to break a longstanding record and solidify his place among the NFL’s elite running backs.
In the AFC, the playoff picture is mostly set, with only one spot still up for grabs. The Denver Broncos control their destiny and will secure a playoff spot with a win in Week 18. The Chiefs, Bills, Ravens, Steelers, and Chargers have already clinched playoff berths, setting up exciting matchups in the wild-card round.
The NFC playoff race is more complicated, with several key games determining division champions and playoff seeding. The NFC South title is still up for grabs, with the Bucs and Falcons battling for the division crown. The Rams have clinched the NFC West, while the Washington Commanders have secured a playoff spot for the first time in two years.
The Giants’ surprising win over the Colts has shaken up the draft order, with the Patriots now in position to secure the No. 1 pick. This could have implications for top prospects like Shedeur Sanders, who may have to reconsider his draft expectations based on the latest developments.
Overall, the final week of the NFL regular season promises to be full of excitement and drama as teams jockey for playoff positioning and players look to make their mark before the postseason begins.
