NFL Power Rankings: Week 15

Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) runs after breaking tackle by New York Giants middle linebacker Uani

NFL Power Rankings: Several teams lock up playoff spots, wildcard races tighten up in both Conferences.

This week’s NFL power rankings continue from last week’s where things are broken down into separate groups of contenders and pretenders. We now have six teams that have secured their spots in the playoffs while there are now 14 teams that have been eliminated from postseason play.

Things are starting to shift from “who” is making the playoffs to “where” each team will end up seeded. The Broncos haven’t clinched a playoff spot yet and their division is still technically open because of the Chiefs’ second half surge. The Bengals haven’t clinched the AFC North either with Pittsburgh two games back with two to play. In the NFC, the Vikings can still win the NFC North despite Green Bay being one game up with two to play.

There are still six teams on the outside looking in, with a mathematical chance to get in. The Jets just need the Steelers or Chiefs to lose, while the Falcons need a lot more help. The Colts and Jaguars are still alive in their division race but may be eliminated next week, just like the Giants and Eagles in the NFC.

This week’s biggest riser is Seattle, who moved up three spots from 9 to 6. The Seahawks clinched a playoff spot with a win over the Browns, their fifth straight victory and the seventh in their last eight games.

By losing to the Texans, the Colts hd our biggest drop this week, falling from 12 to 16. Their playoff chances may have very well vanished.

That about does it for the big movers and shakers in this week’s NFL power rankings, so without further ado:

Next: The Sure Things