2016 NFC Playoff picture: Week 17
By Adam Stocker
Eight teams are alive for the playoffs in the NFC. Week 17 will see two teams eliminated and playoff seeding determined
Entering Week 17 only the Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants know their playoff seed. Dallas has clinched home field advantage throughout the NFC playoffs, while the Giants are locked into the fifth seed. Six other teams will be playing in Week 17 for their position in the NFC playoffs.
Dallas has already clinched the number one seed. The Atlanta Falcons can clinch the number two seed if they beat New Orleans on Sunday. If Atlanta loses, Seattle can become the second seed with a win over San Francisco. If Seattle loses, and the Detroit Lions win, the Lions and Falcons will both finish with a 10-6 record.
The NFC North will be decided between Green Bay and Detroit on Sunday Night Football. The winner will likely clinch the fourth seed and a home playoff game against the Giants (assuming Seattle beats the 49ers). However, the loser can still make the playoffs at 9-7, if both Washington and Tampa Bay lose.
Seattle clinched the pathetic NFC West weeks ago. If Atlanta wins, Seattle will be the third seed and likely face Washington or the NFC North loser.
The Washington Redskins are essentially in a win and you are in situation. The Redskins tie could help them get into the playoffs. The Redskins also benefit from getting to play a Giants team that have nothing to play for and will likely be resting starters. If the Redskins win, they will likely travel to Seattle in the playoffs. The only way the Redskins do not make the playoffs with a win is if the Packers and Lions tie.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers need to beat the Carolina Panthers to have any chances of making the playoffs but the Bucs also need the Redskins to lose. Then the Bucs need to get a lot of help to win a potential tie breaker with either Green Bay or Detroit.