Of all the things we thought might shake up the NFL playoff picture, a victory by the previously winless Jets wasn't high on the list. But that's exactly what happened Sunday, and it's enough to check in right away with this update of the league's playoff race.
The Jets' 23-20 win over the Rams shook up the NFC West. When the dust settled, the Seahawks were atop the division and in position to clinch it as early as next weekend.
Here are the full postseason outlook and clinching scenarios that lie ahead, along with analysis from ESPN's Football Power Index (FPI), including the ramifications of the Steelers' upset loss Monday night in Cincinnati.
Note: X denotes a team that has clinched a playoff berth, Y shows a team that has clinched its division and Z indicates a team that has secured a first-round bye.
AFC
1. Kansas City Chiefs (13-1) -- Y
FPI chances to make playoffs: Clinched
FPI chances to win division: Clinched
The Chiefs won a physical game in New Orleans, adding to their case as the top team in football. But Buffalo's win on Saturday at Denver meant the Chiefs wouldn't be able to clinch home-field advantage in the AFC this weekend regardless of how their own game went. However, FPI considers it just a matter of time, and it could happen in Week 16 if they defeat the Falcons and the Steelers lose (in either Week 15 or 16). The Chiefs are holding a 96% chance to finish the season atop the conference.
Remaining schedule: vs. Falcons, vs. Chargers
