The Philadelphia Eagles did not benefit from other NFC opponents losing on Sunday, but they did help themselves by defeating the Kansas City Chiefs on Monday night. The playoff simulator at the New York Times shows how their chances have improved:
Chances of making the postseason: >99% to >99%
NFC East championship chances: Increasing from 88% to 93%
Chances of securing the top seed: Increasing from 65% to 71%
After watching the Detroit Lions (who annoyingly pulled off an unlikely comeback), the Dallas Cowboys, and the San Francisco 49ers all win in Week 11, the Eagles are relieved to avoid losing ground. Philadelphia maintained their lead in the NFC playoff picture.
On the surface, beating the Chiefs may not appear to be a big deal in terms of tiebreakers because they are an AFC team. However, it may be more significant than expected because the Lions’ “record against common opponents” may come into play if Philadelphia and Detroit finish with identical conference records. And, after defeating the Chiefs in Week 1, the Lions had a chance to gain a lead over the Eagles… but the Birds are now 4-0 (rather than 3-1) against common opponents, while the Lions are 2-1.
The Eagles will still prefer to see their opponents stumble in order to gain even more breathing room.Coincidentally, all of their top threats are scheduled to play again in just a few days on Thanksgiving:
Cowboys (11-point home favorites) vs. Washington Commanders 49ers (6.5-point road favorites) at Seattle Seahawks Lions (7.5-point home favorites) vs. Green Bay Packers
As you can see, the odds are stacked against the Eagles receiving assistance. However, even one upset would be greatly appreciated.
With a win over the Buffalo Bills, the Eagles can help themselves once more. Prior to blowing out the New York Jets in Week 11, Sean McDermott’s team struggled. But they’re going to put up a good fight in Philly.
Here’s a complete look at the NFC playoff picture heading into Week 12.
PICTURE OF THE NFC PLAYOFFS
THE FINAL SEVEN DIVISION LEADERS
The Philadelphia Eagles (9-1) are ranked first.
The second-placed Detroit Lions (8-2)
The San Francisco 49ers (7-3) are third.
The New Orleans Saints (5-5) are ranked fourth.
CARDS OF LUCK
The Dallas Cowboys (7-3) are ranked fifth.
6th (6-4) Seattle Seahawks
The Minnesota Vikings (6-5) are ranked seventh.
IN THE SEARCH
(4-6) Green Bay Packers
The Los Angeles Rams (4-6) are in ninth place.
The Atlanta Falcons (4-6) are ranked tenth.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-6) are ranked eleventh.
4-7 Washington Commanders
GRAVEYARD
The New York Giants (3-8) are ranked 13th.
14th (Chicago Bears)
The Arizona Cardinals (2-9) are ranked 15th.
Carolina Panthers (1-4).
