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The first NFL teams could clinch playoff berths in Week 15.The New England Patriots, Denver Broncos, and Los Angeles Rams can all secure postseason spots.
The NFL playoff picture might actually see its first pieces fall into place in Week 15.
Through early December, the league found more clarity from the bottom tier of teams – with nine already eliminated from postseason contention – than at the top. That could change starting Dec. 14, however, as three teams – the New England Patriots, Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Rams – could become the first to seal playoff berths. While the latter two can’t yet wrap up their respective divisions, the Patriots could end the Buffalo Bills‘ five-year reign atop the AFC East if they’re able to defeat Josh Allen and Co. at home.
Here’s what’s on the table for all three teams and how they could get there:
Denver Broncos playoff clinching scenarios in Week 15
Broncos clinch a playoff berth with:
Broncos winBroncos tie and Chargers lossBroncos tie and Jaguars lossBroncos tie and Texans loss or tieBroncos tie and Colts loss or tieTexans loss or tie and Colts loss or tie, as long as both games don’t end in a tieNew England Patriots playoff clinching scenarios in Week 15
Patriots clinch AFC east with:
Patriots clinch playoff berth with:
Patriots winPatriots tie and Chargers lossPatriots tie and Texans loss or tiePatriots tie and Colts loss or tiePatriots tie and Jaguars lossTexans loss or tie and Colts loss or tie, as long as both games don’t end in a tieLos Angeles Rams playoff clinching scenarios Week 15
Rams clinch playoff berth with: