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How do the AFC and NFC stack up in the race for the play-offs

NFL Playoff Picture

There are just two play-off spots remaining, both in the NFC where the Packers, Lions, Redskins and Buccaneers all still harbour hopes of qualifying.

The Detroit Lions lost to the Dallas Cowboys in the final game of week 16.

Having gone into the game knowing a win or tie would have secured their place they now head into their week 17 NFC North showdown with Green Bay knowing it could be all or nothing!

Christmas day in the NFL brought play-off spots for the New York Giants, Houston Texans, Kansas City Chiefs and the Miami Dolphins.

They join the New England Patriots, Oakland Raiders, Dallas Cowboys and Seattle Seahawks in booking their post-season places.

The Patriots hold a 13-2 record and, as well as securing the AFC East division title, also confirmed a first-round bye in the post-season, which could prove valuable. 

NFL Week 16 Highlights
NFL Week 16 Highlights

All the action from week 16, including the Browns' first win!

The Pittsburgh Steelers and Kansas City Chiefs occupy the third and fifth AFC seeds respectively, while the Miami Dolphins confirmed their place when Denver Broncos failed to beat the Chiefs on Christmas day. 

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The AFC South was also decided in week 16, as the Texans took advantage of the Colts and Titans losing to clinch the division with a 12-10 win over the Cincinnati Bengals.

In the NFC, the Cowboys have already confirmed home field advantage, while the Falcons assured themselves a place with a 33-16 victory over division rival Carolina Panthers.

Despite losing to the Philadelphia Eagles, New York also clinched after the Tampa Bay Buccaneers were defeated by the New Orleans saints. Washington can still make the play-offs, but need the Lions to lose on Monday night and win themselves on the final day. It is even more difficult for Tampa, though they remain mathematically in the mix.

NFL play-off picture as it stands
Image: NFL play-off picture as it stands

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