AFC

Buffalo Bills (13-2)

The Bills' top-ranked scoring differential (+212) and Josh Allen’s 45 touchdowns make them the AFC’s clear leaders. Allen has elevated Buffalo’s passing game with Tyron Walford, whose 1,710 receiving yards and 22 touchdowns have been game-changing. Von Miller, with 12 sacks, has solidified their defense. Buffalo’s explosive offense paired with a disciplined, turnover-generating defense could make them the team to beat. Their bye week advantage will allow Allen and Miller to rest and strategize, priming them for another potential Super Bowl run.

New York Jets (11-4)

Though inconsistent, the Jets’ defending champions have kept playoff hopes alive thanks to Breece Hall’s 1,292 rushing yards and key contributions from Quinnen Williams with 12 sacks. They remain a well-rounded threat with a defense adept at limiting opponent scoring and a balanced offensive attack. If they can solidify their quarterback situation and continue their gritty defense, they’ll have a chance to reclaim their championship glory. Look for Garrett Wilson to become a key target in high-stakes moments.

Baltimore Ravens (10-4)

With Lamar Jackson’s dynamic ability and Derrick Henry’s hard-hitting rushing game, Baltimore has built a balanced offense that’s tough to defend. Jackson’s 3,383 passing yards paired with Henry’s ground attack make for a formidable one-two punch. Defensively, Odafe Oweh’s pass rush and Marlon Humphrey’s lockdown coverage create turnovers and pressure. The Ravens’ physical playstyle could wear down playoff opponents, especially with Jackson’s dual-threat mobility.

Tennessee Titans (10-4)

Quarterback Brock Purdy has stabilized Tennessee’s offense, complemented by Tony Pollard’s strong ground game. The Titans’ defense, which allows just 126 rushing yards per game, has proven resilient. Purdy’s efficient play, combined with the physicality of Tennessee’s defensive line, positions the Titans as serious contenders. The Titans will need to stay aggressive offensively, especially in third-down situations, to challenge the AFC’s top teams.

Jacksonville Jaguars (9-5)

Jacksonville’s offense, led by Trevor Lawrence and Travis Etienne’s 17 touchdowns, ranks among the most productive in the AFC. Lawrence’s accuracy and Etienne’s versatility give the Jaguars a dynamic offensive front, while their defense needs to be able to consistently apply pressure with only 33 sacks this season. With momentum and a resilient defense, Jacksonville could challenge higher seeds. Young defenders like Travon Walker might be wild cards in crucial playoff moments.

Cleveland Browns (8-6)

Behind a balanced offense and a stout defense, the Browns have played disciplined football. Quarterback Robert Tracy’s consistency and Nick Chubb’s hard-nosed rushing have made Cleveland’s offense versatile, while Myles Garrett’s pass rush (17 sacks) makes their defense a formidable opponent. With excellent field management, the Browns have excelled in close games. If their secondary can maintain consistency, they could be a difficult out in January.

Denver Broncos (7-8)

Despite a rough season, Denver remains in the hunt as the potential AFC West champion, led by emerging quarterback Bo Nix. With a steady defense led by Troy Andersen’s nine interceptions, the Broncos have a knack for clutch plays that win them tight games. A heavy reliance on defense has seen Denver capitalize on turnovers, and if they lean into Nix’s development, they may surprise teams with a dangerous run game come playoff time.

NFC

Washington Commanders (10-4)

The Commanders have emerged as the NFC’s most balanced team, with both sides of the ball showing cohesion. Jayden Daniels has been efficient in Washington's offense, backed by Brian Robinson’s relentless running. On defense, Myles Garrett leads the charge with 17 sacks. Their ability to sustain drives and contain high-powered offenses puts them in a prime position for a deep playoff run. With three wins in a row, they’re finding form at the perfect time.

Green Bay Packers (10-4)

Green Bay’s formidable defense, led by Edgerrin Cooper’s six interceptions, has been their strength. Jordan Love has been efficient with 24 touchdowns and only 11 interceptions, making few mistakes. The Packers’ strategy relies on strong field positioning and a bruising ground game. With excellent discipline, the Packers can outlast opponents, making them a tough matchup as they aim to capture the NFC’s top seed.

Minnesota Vikings (10-4)

Led by breakout quarterback J.J. McCarthy, the Vikings have been one of the NFC’s most prolific offenses, featuring Justin Jefferson’s 1,405 yards and 13 touchdowns. Minnesota’s defense, featuring Cameron Jordan’s 13 sacks, complements their offensive strength. McCarthy’s deep-throw ability and Jefferson’s big-play capability make the Vikings highly dangerous if they secure a top seed, making them favorites for a deep playoff run.

Dallas Cowboys (10-5)

Dallas’s defense, led by Micah Parsons’ 17 sacks, has been relentless, complementing a consistent offense with weapons like CeeDee Lamb. DeShaun Watson’s efficient play has kept turnovers low, and Dallas has leveraged that efficiency into a solid season. Although trailing the Commanders in the NFC East, Dallas’s potential for playoff upsets is high, particularly if their defense continues to create pressure. A rematch against Washington could be electric in the postseason.

Arizona Cardinals (10-4)

Arizona has clawed their way to a solid season thanks to Kyler Murray’s versatility and an efficient offense. Drake Jackson’s defensive impact (10 sacks) makes them tough to beat on both ends. Arizona’s strategy hinges on speed and versatility, with Murray’s dual-threat potential forcing opponents to account for both pass and run. With a top seed in the NFC West, the Cardinals could pose a unique challenge for playoff opponents who struggle against fast-paced attacks.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-5)

Led by Bryce Young’s breakout season, the Buccaneers have a fresh look offensively. Rachaad White has anchored Tampa’s ground game, balancing a young offense with experienced players like Chris Godwin. Their defense, though underperforming at times, has found timely turnovers, and they’ll need continued defensive consistency to make a playoff run. Young’s composure will be tested under playoff pressure, making the Bucs a team to watch.

Philadelphia Eagles (8-6)

Despite some inconsistency, the reigning NFC champions have positioned themselves for another playoff push. Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley provide a dynamic backfield duo that fuels Philly’s run-heavy offense. Their opportunistic defense, featuring Khalil Mack’s nine sacks, can apply pressure. A postseason run is within reach, though they’ll need to address offensive line issues to protect Hurts against stronger pass rushes.

Way-Too-Early Super Bowl Prediction

This postseason looks primed for a Buffalo Bills vs. Washington Commanders Super Bowl showdown. Buffalo’s high-powered offense, led by Allen and Walford, will be tough to stop. Their balanced game on both offense and defense gives them an edge. On the other side, the Commanders’ stout defense and effective offense, especially Jayden Daniels’ adaptability, could surprise AFC opponents. Ultimately, Buffalo’s depth and experience might carry them through for their first title, but Washington's under-the-radar star, Brian Robinson, might be the key to an unexpected win if the Commanders pull off the upset.