Week 9 of the 2024 NFL season is almost in the books, and with just two months left, the playoff picture is starting to take shape. November and December will be crucial in determining which teams secure their postseason spots, but the groundwork laid in September and October has already set many franchises up for success. As we dive into the season’s second half, let’s take a closer look at the current playoff standings and how the teams are positioned for a shot at Super Bowl 59.
AFC playoff picture
1. Kansas City Chiefs 7-0 (first place, AFC West): The Chiefs are the last undefeated team in the league, and they are on a mission for a perfect season. With their eyes set on a third consecutive Super Bowl victory, they look formidable as they charge into the second half of the season.
2. Buffalo Bills 7-2 (first place, AFC East): The Bills are in prime position to claim their fifth consecutive division title. After a decisive win against the Dolphins, they now sit a half-game ahead of the Steelers, showcasing their dominance in the AFC East.
3. Pittsburgh Steelers 6-2 (first place, AFC North): The Steelers are riding high, leading the AFC North by a game over the Ravens. Their Week 9 bye proved beneficial, allowing them to maintain their edge as the Texans stumbled in their matchup.
4. Houston Texans 6-3 (first place, AFC South): Despite a rough loss to the Jets, the Texans remain in control of a weak division. They’ve already secured a sweep over the Colts, and their earlier victory against the Bills keeps them in the playoff conversation.
5. Baltimore Ravens 6-3 (second place, AFC North): The Ravens are in a tight race with the Steelers and must focus on their upcoming matchup in Week 11. They need to keep winning, starting with a solid performance against the Broncos in Week 9.
6. Los Angeles Chargers 5-3 (third place, AFC West): The Chargers are making a strong case for a playoff spot, thanks to improved play from quarterback Justin Herbert. Their recent victory over the Browns solidifies their position as a contender in a competitive AFC West.
7. Denver Broncos 5-4 (second place, AFC West): The Broncos have surprised many this season, thanks to a favorable schedule and impressive play from rookie QB Bo Nix. However, their recent loss to the Ravens has set them back, and they’ll need to bounce back quickly.
Who’s in the hunt?
- 8. Indianapolis Colts 4-5 (second place, AFC South)
- 9. Cincinnati Bengals 4-5 (third place, AFC North)
Among these two teams, the Bengals may have the edge for a late-season surge, thanks to the playmaking ability of quarterback Joe Burrow.
NFC playoff picture
Peter Casey-Imagn Images
1. Detroit Lions 7-1 (first place, NFC North): The Lions are proving to be a scoring juggernaut this season. With Jared Goff leading the charge and a potent running game, they’ve solidified their status as strong NFC title contenders after a gritty win against the Packers.
2. Washington Commanders 7-2 (first place, NFC East): Under the guidance of Jayden Daniels and coaching duo Dan Quinn and Kliff Kingsbury, the Commanders are rolling. Their recent victories, including a thrilling Hail Mary, have them poised for a playoff run, but they must fend off the Eagles for the division title.
3. Atlanta Falcons 6-3 (first place, NFC South): The Falcons are dominating their division, boasting a perfect 4-0 record against division rivals. With Kirk Cousins leading the offense, they’ve established a solid lead and are on track to clinch the division.
4. Arizona Cardinals 5-4 (first place, NFC West): The Cardinals are holding on to first place in a competitive NFC West, thanks to their earlier victories over the Rams and 49ers. A recent win against the Bears has kept their momentum going.
5. Minnesota Vikings 6-2 (second place, NFC North): The Vikings snapped their two-game losing streak with a crucial win against the Colts, keeping them in contention in both the division and wild-card races.
6. Philadelphia Eagles 6-2 (second place, NFC East): The Eagles are on a roll, winning four straight games. They are just a game behind the Commanders and are well-positioned for at least a wild-card spot.
7. Green Bay Packers 6-3 (third place, NFC North): After a tough loss to the Lions, the Packers have fallen behind in both the division and wild-card standings. They’ll need to regroup quickly to stay in the playoff conversation.
Who’s in the hunt?
- 8. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 4-4 (second place, NFC South)
- 9. Chicago Bears 4-4 (fourth place, NFC North)
- 10. San Francisco 49ers 4-4 (second place, NFC West)
- 11. Los Angeles Rams 4-4 (third place, NFC West)
- 12. Seattle Seahawks 4-5 (fourth place, NFC West)
- 13. Dallas Cowboys 3-5 (third place, NFC East)
The Bears’ playoff hopes took a hit in Week 9, while the Buccaneers are struggling with key injuries. The 49ers have the potential to bounce back after their bye week, but the Cowboys may already be too far behind.
Who’s left?
- 14. Carolina Panthers 2-7 (third place, NFC South)
- 15. New Orleans Saints 2-7 (fourth place, NFC South)
- 16. New York Giants 2-7 (fourth place, NFC East)
As we move deeper into the season, the stakes will only get higher. Every game counts, and teams will be battling not just for wins, but for their playoff lives. Who will rise to the occasion, and who will fall short? The excitement of the NFL is palpable, and we can’t wait to see how it all unfolds!
