The 2024 NFL regular season has officially concluded, and the playoff bracket is set. The Chiefs, Eagles, Rams, Bills, and Texans all had their playoff spots locked up heading into Week 18 allowing them to rest their starters ahead of the playoffs. Meanwhile, the Lions took control of the NFC with a statement win over the Vikings, the Buccaneers prevailed in the NFC South, the Ravens claimed the North, and the Broncos took the final wild-card spot. Below is the schedule for Wild Card Weekend.
Saturday Games
Los Angeles Chargers vs Houston Texans (+3) at 4:30 ET
Pittsburgh Steelers vs Baltimore Ravens (-10) at 8:00 ET
Sunday Games
Denver Broncos vs Buffalo Bills (-8.5) at 1:00 ET
Green Bay Packers vs Philadelphia Eagles (-4.5) at 4:30 ET
Washington Commanders vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-3) at 8:15 ET
Monday Game
Minnesota Vikings vs Los Angeles Rams (+1.5) at 8:15 ET
With a packed slate of games and an exciting postseason ahead, we are continuing our power rankings by ranking the remaining teams left in the playoffs. The power rankings take into account each team’s season success, how they are playing as of late, and their track record in the postseason. Below are the official Blitz Sports Media power rankings ahead of the postseason.
1. Kansas City Chiefs 15-2
The Chiefs are back-to-back Super Bowl champions and only lost one game this season with Patrick Mahomes at quarterback which was on the road against Buffalo. Their season was defined by close calls and winning ugly that overshadowed a lot of the success they had in 2024. The defense has allowed under 20 points per game in back-to-back seasons and will likely be getting CB Jaylen Watson back at some point this postseason. Since the return of Marquise Brown and moving Joe Thuney to LT, this offense has returned to peak form with 58 points combined against two of the top ten defenses in the NFL. Add in the playoff experience of this group and they are poised for another Super Bowl run.
2. Detroit Lions 15-2
The Detroit Lions enter the playoffs as the No. 2 seed following a statement win over the Minnesota Vikings. Their defense led the charge, bolstered by the return of Alex Anzalone, helping to stymie a team with a history of explosive offensive performances. Offensively, the Lions boast one of the most dynamic units in the NFL. With rookie standout Jahmyr Gibbs at running back, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Jameson Williams at wide receiver, plus Sam LaPorta at tight end, they are built to overwhelm opponents. Guided by the brilliance of offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, the Lions are primed for big postseason performances. While few NFC teams can match up with them, the Philadelphia Eagles could pose a significant challenge.
3. Buffalo Bills 13-4
The Buffalo Bills enter the postseason as one of the AFC favorites. Led by MVP frontrunner Josh Allen and a solid offensive line, the Bills have the tools to go the distance. However, their defense has been inconsistent in recent weeks. Encouragingly, the unit showed signs of improvement in the last two games of the regular season. For the Bills to dethrone the Ravens and Chiefs, their defense must elevate its play. If Allen maintains his stellar form, the Bills are well-positioned to contend for the Super Bowl.
4. Baltimore Ravens 12-5
The Baltimore Ravens are among the NFL’s most talented teams and have been surging in recent weeks. Their defense, ranked third in EPA against the pass in the season’s second half, has been dominant, thanks in part to moving Kyle Hamilton to free safety. If this defensive unit maintains its form, the Ravens will be formidable contenders. Offensively, Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry are enjoying outstanding seasons, showcasing why both are future Hall of Famers. The availability of Zay Flowers will be a critical factor in determining how far this team can advance in the playoffs.
5. Philadelphia Eagles 14-3
The Philadelphia Eagles enter the playoffs ranked fifth, boasting one of the most talented rosters in the NFL. The return of Jalen Hurts at quarterback will provide a significant boost, while Saquon Barkley will shoulder a heavy workload offensively. With elite wideouts A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith and a dominant offensive line, the Eagles have the firepower to compete with anyone. Defensively, they feature one of the league’s best front sevens, complemented by standout rookie cornerbacks Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. The biggest question mark is head coach Nick Sirianni, whose job security could be in jeopardy with an early exit.
6. Minnesota Vikings 14-3
The Minnesota Vikings rank sixth in the playoff power rankings after a decisive loss to the Detroit Lions. Their struggles were largely due to Sam Darnold’s inconsistent performance, but they remain a dangerous postseason team. With a brilliant head coach, elite offensive weapons, and a strong pass rush, the Vikings have the pieces to contend. However, their path is daunting, likely requiring wins over the Rams, Lions, and either the Eagles or Buccaneers to reach the NFC Championship. Success hinges on Darnold’s ability to elevate his game.
7. Los Angeles Rams 10-7
The Los Angeles Rams enter the postseason riding a hot streak that earned them the NFC West title. Offensively, Matthew Stafford leads a dangerous group that includes Kyren Williams, Puka Nacua, and Cooper Kupp. Defensively, young stars like Kobie Turner and Jared Verse have steadily improved throughout the year. While offensive struggles late in the season are concerning, the Rams should benefit from rest and preparation. If their defense continues its strong play, the Rams could emerge as a dark horse for a deep playoff run.
8. Los Angeles Chargers 11-6
The Los Angeles Chargers rank eighth, fueled by their potential to make a championship run. Justin Herbert and standout rookie Ladd McConkey headline an offense capable of explosive plays. Defensively, they boast the NFL’s top-scoring unit, although aided by a favorable schedule. Riding a winning streak and at their healthiest all season, the Chargers face a banged-up Texans team in the Wild Card round. A victory would likely set up a divisional showdown against the Kansas City Chiefs, a game where they could pull off an upset.
9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 10-7
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers fought their way into the playoffs, led by the resurgent play of Baker Mayfield and Mike Evans. Rookie running back Bucky Irving has added a much-needed dimension to the offense. However, the secondary is a glaring weakness, with injuries and a lack of depth threatening their postseason prospects. The return of Antoine Winfield Jr. is critical if the Bucs hope to make a serious run.
10. Green Bay Packers 11-6
The Green Bay Packers limp into the postseason as the NFC’s No. 7 seed. Their struggles against top competition are evident, finishing 1-5 in divisional play and losing Christian Watson to a season-ending ACL injury. Quarterback Jordan Love has regressed in the season’s second half, and the secondary will be without Jaire Alexander. The Packers’ strengths lie in their elite run defense, potent ground game, and excellent coaching, giving them a puncher’s chance against any opponent.
11. Washington Commanders 12-5
The Washington Commanders made an improbable playoff run behind rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. Their offense can beat teams on the ground with Brian Robinson Jr. and Daniels’ legs or through the air with Terry McLaurin. Defensively, the return of Jonathan Allen has bolstered the unit. While the Commanders feel ahead of schedule, they’re likely to be a first-round exit.
12. Denver Broncos 10-7
The Denver Broncos also defied expectations to make the postseason, thanks to rookie quarterback Bo Nix exceeding expectations. Despite limited offensive talent, head coach Sean Payton ensures they’ll be well-prepared. Defensively, the Broncos are elite, led by Pat Surtain II, Nik Bonitto, and Zach Allen. While they’ll likely bow out against the Bills, they could make it an intriguing game.
13. Houston Texans 10-7
The Houston Texans stagger into the postseason at 10-7 after notable regression from C.J. Stroud, hampered by a porous offensive line and injuries to key receivers. Their defense has been the team’s saving grace and will be crucial in the Wild Card round against the Chargers. While they’ll likely fall short, they’re expected to put up a good fight
14. Pittsburgh Steelers 10-7
The Pittsburgh Steelers rank last in the playoff field, entering the postseason on a four-game losing streak. The offense has struggled mightily, even with George Pickens back, due to poor line play and a lack of dynamic playmakers. Although the defense remains above average, they face long odds in their Wild Card matchup against division rival Baltimore.