The New Orleans Saints have moved up the NFC playoff picture. There’s a strange chance the NFC South could have a wild card team. No one thought there was a chance of that a month ago. We’ll see how the cards play out to see if that becomes a reality.
Right now, the Buccaneers lead the division and are the only divisional team in the playoffs. The Saints are in a better spot than they were last week in the division and the conference. Where exactly do they fall?
1
San Francisco 49ers (11-3)
The 49ers are the NFC’s best team and sit at the top of conference. Not to look too far ahead, the 49ers have the ability to clinch a bye before the final week. They’re unlikely to rest their players as they attempt to get Brock Purdy the MVP.
2
Dallas Cowboys (10-4)
The Cowboys were demolished against the Bills on Sunday. That game and their earlier losses to the 49ers and Cardinals showcased their struggles against the run. The Eagles’ loss, however, keeps Dallas in first place of the NFC East.
3
Detroit Lions (10-4)
The Detroit Lions dominated the Denver Broncos on Saturday and look better than they have in a month. After their win on Monday, they were able to sit back and watch the Cowboys and Eagles lose on Sunday and Monday. Now, all three of them sit at 10-4.
4
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-7)
The Buccaneers looked really good against the Green Bay Packers. Right now, they should be considered the favorites in the NFC South. They win the tie breaker over the Saints because a head to head victory earlier in the season.
5
Philadelphia Eagles (10-4)
Philadelphia has four losses on the season, three of them have come in the last three weeks. All three of these losses have come versus potential NFC playoff teams. They keep the fifth seed, but it’s a far way from their first round bye they had a month ago.
6
Minnesota Vikings (7-7)
The Vikings don’t seem to be prepped to hold on to this 6th seed for long. They’ve lost three of their last four games and have two more games against the Lions remaining.
7
Los Angeles Rams (7-7)
The Rams and Saints showdown with major playoff implications. Right now, the Rams have the final playoff seed due to conference win percentage. That goes out the window after these two teams play on Thursday night.
8
Seattle Seahawks (7-7)
Drew Lock led an amazing game winning drive on Monday Night Football. This win shook up the NFC playoff picture and put the Seahawks as the first team outside of the playoffs
9
New Orleans Saints (7-7)
The Saints are coming off possibly their best performance of the season. They’re moving into a pivotal three game streak, starting with the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday Night. The divisional title is the goal, but the wild card is still on the table.
