Last week, there was barely a 1PM et game worth watching. This time there are no fewer than four massively important early games. Here’s a quick look at what each game means in terms of playoff positioning -- and which team needs the win more.
Eagles @ Giants: Winner is in control of the NFC East and has the inside track to the No. 2 seed. The game is even bigger to the Giants than the Eagles. If Philly wins, it’s hard to imagine them not winning the division considering their schedule and the tiebreak they’ll own.
With a matchup against the Packers next week, the Giants would still have a lot of work left to win the division. (Even with a win.) A loss could potentially start a slide right out of the playoffs.
Jaguars @ Colts: The Jaguars win the AFC South if they can pull off a win on the road. The Colts will be in control of the division with a win, but they will be tested next week in Oakland. A Colts win would also keep Indianapolis (and the Jaguars) alive for a possible wild card spot if the Jets or Ravens slide. Clearly a bigger game for the Colts.
Saints @ Ravens: This game oddly may not mean much to the Saints, but it gives them a chance to beat a good team after five straight weeks of sub-.500 matchups. I say it may not mean much because the Falcons could win the NFC South win wins in Seattle and against Carolina in Week 17. Still, the Saints would love to clinch a playoff spot sooner than later with a trip to Atlanta next week.
The Ravens trail the Steelers by one game and need a win to keep pace in the AFC North. Their defense also wants to show it can stop a great passing attack.
Chiefs @ Rams: The Chiefs have no margin for error. The Chargers finish with the Bengals and Broncos, so one slip up by the Chiefs could allow the Chargers to finally pass them in the division. The Rams close with two division games, but a win against a quality team could be the difference in sending them to the playoffs or not. Finishing in a tie with the Seahawks or 49ers wouldn’t be enough because they wouldn’t have the tiebreaks. This is the biggest battle of Missouri in a long, long time.
