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NFL Playoff Race Heats Up: AFC Seeding Scramble
30 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Broncos secure top AFC seed with a win against the Chargers.
- Patriots claim top seed with a win and Broncos loss.
- Ravens or Steelers will win AFC North and earn No. 4 seed.
The race for the AFC's top playoff seed is intensely contested as the league heads into Week 18. Several scenarios could see different teams clinching the coveted No. 1 spot, adding significant drama to the final regular-season games. The Denver Broncos are in a strong position, needing only a win against the Los Angeles Chargers to secure home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.
Should the Broncos falter, the New England Patriots have a chance to claim the top seed. Their path involves defeating the Miami Dolphins and relying on a Denver loss. The Jacksonville Jaguars also remain in contention for the No. 1 seed, requiring a victory over the Tennessee Titans coupled with losses from both the Broncos and Patriots.
Beyond the top seed, the AFC North title and the No. 4 seed will be decided by the outcome of the matchup between the Baltimore Ravens and the Pittsburgh Steelers. The remaining Wild Card spots present a myriad of permutations, ensuring that Week 18 games are crucial for shaping the entire AFC playoff bracket.
