Final NFL Playoff Seeding: Wild Card Weekend Predictions and Full Postseason Schedule

Final NFL Playoff Seeding: Wild Card Weekend Predictions and Full Postseason Schedule0 of 9

Bleacher Report

The 2024 NFL regular season is in the books. Now, 14 teams will look to hoist the Lombardi Trophy in New Orleans as Super Bowl LIX champions.

On Sunday, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Denver Broncos clinched playoff spots in the NFC and AFC, respectively. The Buccaneers won their fourth consecutive NFC South title.

In the marquee matchup of the week, the Detroit Lions claimed the NFC’s No. 1 seed, which knocked the 14-3 Minnesota Vikings down to the No. 5 seed.

The AFC bracket is top-heavy. Five of the seven NFC teams have at least 11 wins.

We’re set for an exhilarating month of postseason football.

Let’s take a look at each playoff team and the upcoming schedule. Our NFL experts, Gary Davenport, Brent Sobleski, Kris Knox and Maurice Moton, will break down the Wild Card Round matchups.

AFC Seedings1 of 9

Chiefs QB Patrick MahomesJoe Sargent/Getty Images

Here’s a look at the AFC seedings:

1. Kansas City Chiefs (15-2): Whenever you think the Chiefs are vulnerable, they find a way to flex their dominance. For most of the 2024 campaign, the Chiefs looked average, barely beating the Carolina Panthers and Las Vegas Raiders without scoring 20 points. However, Kansas City recently welcomed running back Isiah Pacheco and wideout Marquise Brown back from their injuries and finished the season on a six-game winning streak before resting numerous starters in a meaningless Week 18 loss. The Chiefs may be peaking at the right time as they go for a historic three-peat.

2. Buffalo Bills (13-4): Is this the year the Bills find a playoff breakthrough and come out of the AFC? They certainly can with Josh Allen having an MVP-caliber season, but one has to wonder about their shaky run defense that allows 4.7 yards per carry if they have to play the Baltimore Ravens in the divisional round. Remember, the Ravens left cleat marks on the Bills’ interior defense, rushing for 271 yards in a 35-10 Week 4 win. In high-scoring matchups, Allen may have to put on his Superman cape, as he’s done multiple times this season.

3. Baltimore Ravens (12-5): The Ravens’ post-bye-week surge propelled them to the No. 3 seed as the AFC North winner. They’re on a four-game winning streak, outscoring their opponents 135-43. Like Allen and the Bills, the Ravens should celebrate another strong season and division title, but they’ll be judged on what happens in the playoffs. After losing to the Chiefs in last year’s AFC Championship Game, the Ravens could get to the Super Bowl with Derrick Henry balancing their offense.

4. Houston Texans (10-7): The Texans finished with the same record this year as last year, but skeptics view this team differently than the upstart 2023 squad that rose from the bottom of the AFC South to become division champions. This year, the Texans were expected to be better than their middling offensive and defensive rankings. Moreover, C.J. Stroud’s passing numbers have dropped off after he won 2023 Offensive Rookie of the Year. Houston also lost wideouts Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell to season-ending injuries. The Texans averaged 16 points over the last four weeks. Houston needed its solid Week 18 performance to build momentum going into the postseason. Don’t count out the trio of Stroud, Joe Mixon and Nico Collins. They could light up a defense in the playoffs.

5. Los Angeles Chargers (11-6): Head coach Jim Harbaugh did it again, quickly elevating another team to prominence. The Chargers went from an underachieving squad under former head coach Brandon Staley to the fourth-best team in the AFC based on win-loss record. Before Sunday’s games, the Chargers fielded the No. 1 scoring defense, which is key because that stingy unit can give them a chance to pull off upsets in slugfest-type matchups. Los Angeles can generate just enough offense with rookie wideout Ladd McConkey and running back J.K. Dobbins to make noise in the playoffs.

6. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-7): Pittsburgh is arguably the least impressive AFC playoff team. Unlike the Texans, the Steelers didn’t gain momentum with a victory in Week 18, and they’re riding a four-game losing streak into the playoffs, averaging 14.3 points in that stretch. To make matters worse, the Steelers, usually stout defensively, have allowed 27.3 points per game in the same four-week span. Head coach Mike Tomlin and the veterans in Pittsburgh’s locker room must help that squad refocus, or the team could experience a fourth one-and-done playoff appearance in five years.

7. Denver Broncos (10-7): After two unsuccessful attempts to lock up a playoff spot, the Broncos clinched a berth with a win over the Chiefs on Sunday. Yes, Denver beat mostly Kansas City’s backups, but the club earned its slot with a 10-win season. The Broncos should be encouraged by what they have seen out of rookie quarterback Bo Nix, who’s thrown for 29 touchdowns and 12 interceptions and rushed for 430 yards along with four scores. With Nix’s dynamic playmaking ability and a top-five scoring defense, this team can be competitive in Buffalo.

NFC Seedings2 of 9

Lions QB Jared GoffMike Mulholland/Getty Images

Here’s how the NFC teams slot in the playoff bracket:

1. Detroit Lions (15-2): The Lions have dealt with an extensive list of injuries to key players like Aidan Hutchinson, David Montgomery, Alim McNeill and Carlton Davis. However, the injury bug might not be enough to keep Detroit from appearing in its first-ever Super Bowl. Jahmyr Gibbs has taken over as a high-volume running back, Jared Goff leads one of the league’s most dynamic passing attacks, and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn keeps finding ways to coax production from his defense. Dan Campbell is arguably the most aggressive head coach in the NFL, and he’ll consistently keep opposing teams off-balance. With home-field advantage, a week to rest, and a chance to possibly get some players back, the Lions will be extremely difficult to knock out of the postseason.

2. Philadelphia Eagles (14-3): The Eagles locked in the No. 2 seed before Week 18. So, on Sunday, they had no reason to play their starters other than to help Saquon Barkley break Eric Dickerson’s rushing record. Philadelphia opted to rest its key players with the long haul in mind. If the Eagles lose in the Wild Card Round, the city of Philadelphia may run head coach Nick Sirianni out of town. While we cannot blame Sirianni for prioritizing rest over records, his temperament has been questioned multiple times this season. The Eagles field high-level offensive and defensive units, but the question is will Sirianni make the best decisions in crucial situations? Interestingly, Sirianni must prove trustworthy despite leading his team to the Super Bowl two years ago.

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (10-7): The Buccaneers are capable of winning a playoff game at home for the second straight season. Quarterback Baker Mayfield is playing extremely well, and offensive coordinator Liam Coen consistently finds ways to expose weaknesses in opposing defenses. With offensive playmakers like Mike Evans, Bucky Irving and emerging rookie receiver Jalen McMillan in tow, Tampa can match points with just about anyone. However, the Bucs may not be built to go the distance. Their defense has been problematic all season and nearly allowed the New Orleans Saints to play spoiler in the season finale.

4. Los Angeles Rams (10-7): The Rams secured the NFC West in Week 17, meaning they had little to play for against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday. Unsurprisingly, L.A. rested many of its starters, including quarterback Matthew Stafford, receiver Puka Nacua, receiver Cooper Kupp and running back Kyren Williams. With its offensive stars healthy, Los Angeles is poised to be a postseason factor. While the Rams’ defense hasn’t been particularly good, it does feature some exciting young playmakers. There are few coaches a team should trust more entering the playoffs than Sean McVay. A team that was 1-4 in early October now looks like a team that others won’t want to face in the playoffs.

5. Minnesota VIkings (14-3): Sunday’s loss to the Lions—only the Vikings’ third of the year—did raise some concerns. Minnesota’s secondary struggled, and Sam Darnold was under heavy pressure throughout the game. However, the loss did little to suggest that Minnesota will be an easy out in the playoffs. Darnold has been playing above-average football, the Vikings are loaded with skill players, and their defense can generate sacks and takeaways in bunches. This team didn’t get to 14 wins by accident, and it figures to be the most dangerous team in the entire playoff field.

6. Washington Commanders (12-5): The Commanders were one of the bigger surprise stories this season. Nearly a year after “earning” the No. 2 pick in the 2024 draft, Washington clinched its playoff berth in Week 17. The Commanders used the second overall pick on quarterback Jayden Daniels, who is probably the biggest reason why this team could steal a playoff game on the road. The LSU product has been a legitimate difference-maker and has consistently played like a seasoned vet. Washington’s run defense is suspect, but the Commanders have been solid against the pass and are well-coached on that side of the ball. Dan Quinn has led a team to the Super Bowl before, and he’ll have Washington well-prepared for the Wild Card Round.

7. Green Bay Packers (11-6): This isn’t how the Packers wanted to end the regular season. Sunday’s last-second loss to the rival Chicago Bears was ultimately meaningless because Washington’s win dropped Green Bay to the No. 7 seed regardless. However, Green Bay watched quarterback Jordan Love (elbow) and wide receiver Christian Watson (knee) exit with injuries. While Love’s injury doesn’t appear serious, Watson’s is another story. The Packers are also without star cornerback Jaire Alexander (injured reserve, PCL injury) and just lost their first game of the year to a team not bound for the postseason. Green Bay has an improved defense, an elite back in Josh Jacobs and can potentially make some noise if Love is healthy. However, Green Bay doesn’t feel quite as threatening right now as an 11-win team probably should.

Playoff Schedule3 of 9

Derrick HenryGreg Fiume/Getty Images

Here’s the full schedule for this year’s playoffs.

WILD CARD ROUND

Saturday, January 11

AFC Wild Card Round—(5) Los Angeles Chargers at (4) Houston Texans: 4:30 p.m. ET (CBS)

AFC Wild Card Round—(6) Pittsburgh Steelers at (3) Baltimore Ravens: 8:00 p.m. ET (Prime Video)

Sunday, January 12

AFC Wild Card Round—(7) Denver Broncos at (2) Buffalo Bills: 1:00 p.m. ET (CBS)

NFC Wild Card Round—(7) Green Bay Packers at (2) Philadelphia Eagles: 4:30 p.m. ET (FOX)

NFC Wild Card Round—(6) Washington Commanders at (3) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 8:15 p.m. ET (NBC/Peacock)

Monday, January 13

NFC Wild Card Round—(5) Minnesota Vikings at (4) Los Angeles Rams: 8:00 p.m. ET (ESPN/ABC)

DIVISIONAL ROUND

Saturday, January 18

AFC Divisional Round— 4:30 p.m. ET (TV TBD)

NFC Divisional Round—8:15 p.m. ET (TV TBD)

Sunday, January 19

AFC Divisional Round—3:00 p.m. ET (TV TBD)

NFC Divisional Round—6:30 p.m. ET (TV TBD)

CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIPS

Sunday, January 26

NFC Championship— 3:00 p.m. ET (FOX)

AFC Championship—6:30 p.m. ET (CBS)

SUPER BOWL LIX

Sunday, February 9

AFC Champion vs. NFC Champion – Caesars Superdome, New Orleans: 6:30 p.m. ET (FOX)

(7) Denver Broncos at (2) Buffalo Bills4 of 9

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh AllenTimothy T Ludwig/Getty Images

When the Denver Broncos travel to Buffalo and face the Bills in the opening round of the playoffs, they’ll be fighting an uphill battle.

First, the Bills hold a clear advantage at quarterback. Josh Allen could very well be named the 2024 NFL MVP. He’s playing as well as he ever has, to the point where teammate Von Miller invoked the name of previous teammates.

“I don’t like to make comparisons; I played with Peyton Manning and Matthew Stafford. Those guys are special in their own right,” Miller said, per ESPN’s Alania Getzenberg. “But this year, Josh is just doing something totally different and he’s not forcing it, he’s not trying too hard, he’s not looking for it, it’s just him.”

Conversely, the Broncos will rely on rookie Bo Nix. To be fair, Nix has been exceptional this season with 33 total touchdowns. He’s a perfect fit for Sean Payton’s offense. But he’s still a first-year quarterback about to play on the biggest stage of his career. Whereas, Allen has already played in 11 postseason games and helped lead his team to an AFC Championship Game.

Second, the Bills have more experience as a team, as noted. They’re used to being in the playoffs. The Broncos, meanwhile, are making their first trip since the aforementioned Manning led them to a Super Bowl victory nine years ago.

The Broncos defense will get after Allen and Co. Pressure will be the primary way to disrupt whatever success the Bills experience. Allen is simply too good and playing too well this season to be derailed in the Wild Card Round.

Prediction: Bills 28, Broncos 20

—Written by Brent Sobleski

(6) Pittsburgh Steelers at (3) Baltimore Ravens5 of 9

Ravens RB Derrick HenryGreg Fiume/Getty Images

These division rivals will meet for the third time in two months after splitting the season series.

The Steelers have a history of performing well against Lamar Jackson in the regular season, but this is the first time they will face him in the playoffs.

Jackson typically plays at an MVP level during the regular season but struggles as a passer in January. In the playoffs, he’s thrown for six touchdowns and six interceptions while completing less than 59 percent of his passes in four out of six matchups.

Despite the Steelers’ recent struggles on both sides of the ball over the past month, their familiarity with Jackson should allow them to keep the score close on the road.

In the end, though, running back Derrick Henry will wear down Pittsburgh’s defense and show why he may be the missing piece to the Ravens’ Super Bowl puzzle. Remember, he ran for 162 yards and a touchdown against the Steelers in Week 16. Henry will run for 120-plus yards in another victory.

Prediction: Ravens 23, Steelers 19

—Written by Maurice Moton

(5) Los Angeles Chargers at (4) Houston Texans6 of 9

Justin HerbertCandice Ward/Getty Images

We don’t have a regular-season matchup to go off of here—the Wild Card Round will be the first meeting this season between the Chargers and Texans.

It’s also a matchup between two teams that are seemingly headed in opposite directions. Yes, the Texans won in Week 18 and are the AFC South champions, but Houston lost a pair of games to AFC playoff teams late in the season, while the Chargers hit the postseason on a three-game winning streak.

These are similarly-ranked teams that will try to do similar things. Whether it’s Houston’s Joe Mixon or J.K. Dobbins of the Bolts, both teams are going to try to establish the run to set up play-action. Both teams have edge-rushers capable of getting after C.J. Stroud and Justin Herbert.

But as the season has progressed and injuries have hit the Texans’ receivers, the offense has struggled at times. The Chargers are all but certainly going to bracket Nico Collins and dare Houston to beat them with someone else. And the Chargers have not been an easy team to score on—they sport a top-10 pass defense and one of the stingiest scoring defenses in the game.

Los Angeles also has the better quarterback in Justin Herbert, and a late drive to set up a Cameron Dicker field goal is going to send the Chargers on the Divisional Round—and end what once appeared a very promising season for Stroud and the Texans.

Prediction: Chargers 26, Texans 24

—Written by Gary Davenport

(7) Green Bay Packers at (2) Philadelphia Eagles7 of 9

Eagles RB Saquon BarkleyMitchell Leff/Getty Images

The Eagles and Packers played the first NFL game in South America at Corinthians Arena in Brazil for their season opener. The Eagles edged the Packers 34-29 in a back-and-forth contest.

Since then, the Eagles haven’t changed much. Saquon Barkley is still the focal point of their offense, and Jalen Hurts picks his spots to target wideouts A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, who can gash defenses for big plays over the top.

Since their Week 10 bye, the Packers have operated a run-centric offense that features Josh Jacobs, who has scored a rushing touchdown in eight consecutive games, racking up 11 total in that span.

That said, Green Bay’s offense may not be at full strength for this contest.

On Sunday, quarterback Jordan Love (elbow) and wide receiver Christian Watson (knee) suffered injuries. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Love will play in the wild-card game, but Watson’s status is uncertain.

Furthermore, Green Bay’s defense may be more vulnerable in this matchup than the first one. The Packers lost a key defender in cornerback Jaire Alexander (knee) for the season. Safety Xavier McKinney could help provide sticky coverage, but he cannot be everywhere on the field simultaneously.

Barkley, Brown and Smith will do the heavy lifting in an Eagles victory.

Prediction: Eagles 27, Packers 24

—Written by Maurice Moton

(6) Washington Commanders at (3) Buccaneers8 of 9

Buccaneers QB Baker MayfieldKevin Sabitus/Getty Images

Back in Week 1, the Buccaneers rolled past the Commanders in a 37-20 contest in Tampa. Of course, that was the first game of Jayden Daniels’ NFL career, and Washington has become a much more formidable team since then.

The Commanders won four straight to finish the regular season and storm into the playoffs with a potent offense, an experienced coach in Dan Quinn and a ton of confidence. Expect the playoff rematch to be much different.

This has all the makings of an offensive track meet. Both teams feature a top-10 offense and a defense ranked in the back half of the league in points allowed. Daniels and Baker Mayfield are likely to trade scoring shots throughout the game, though this one might be settled on the ground.

Washington’s defense has been most vulnerable against the run—it entered Week 18 ranked 30th in yards per carry allowed. Buccaneers offensive coordinator Liam Coen helped forge one of the league’s most dynamic rushing attacks, led by Rachaad White and rookie Bucky Irving.

Tampa entered Week 18 ranked third in yards per carry and fourth in rushing yards a year after ranking last in almost every rushing category.

The Commanders can get it done on the ground too, and Daniels has shown that he can shine in the big moments. However, the Bucs are built to run their way into the Divisional Round.

Prediction: Buccaneers 34, Commanders 28

—Written by Kristopher Knox

(5) Minnesota Vikings at (4) Los Angeles Rams9 of 9

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp (left) and quarterback Matthew Stafford (right)Cooper Neill/Getty Images

While the Los Angeles Rams will host Monday’s contest against the Minnesota Vikings as the higher playoff seed, they’re technically the underdog.

Minnesota is only the No. 5 seed because it plays in the same division as the Detroit Lions, who are the NFC’s best team. However, the Vikings were in play for that same spot all the way up until the final game of the regular season.

Sam Darnold and Co. proved throughout the campaign that they are for real, with only two opponents beating them.

Other than the Lions, what other squad claimed victory over the Vikings? Oh, that’s right. Los Angeles beat the Vikings by the score of 30-20 in Week 8.

“I think we were close on some plays,” head coach Kevin O’Connell told reporters after that loss. “But when you’re playing against that quarterback, and those receivers getting healthy and getting out there and making some plays for them, I just think it comes down to (whether we) can get enough rush and coverage working together to maybe not give a quarterback like that a couple extra clicks.”

The Rams made sure to rest quarterback Matthew Stafford and the aforementioned receivers—Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua—in Week 18 just to make sure they’re fully healthy for the rematch. After seeing Detroit’s takedown of Minnesota, the Rams also know they need to be extremely aggressive on defense to rattle Sam Darnold and Co.

Much like the Lions, the Rams have what it takes to beat the Vikings for a second time.

Prediction: Rams 27, Vikings 23

—Written by Brent Sobleski