4. Carolina Panthers (8-7), NFC South leaders: Their defeat of the Bucs on Sunday moved them into first place. They can win the division next week with a win and Tampa Bay loss. A Week 18 defeat of the Buccaneers would also do the job regardless of circumstances. Remaining schedule: vs. Seahawks, at Buccaneers

Five of the seven playoff spots in the NFC and AFC, respectively, have been claimed as the postseason picture in the NFL becomes clearer.

Take a look at the updated NFL playoff picture with the standings in both the AFC and NFC after all the Week 16 games.

The Broncos face the Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas. We break down what the game means for the NFL playoff picture in Week 17.

More than half of the NFL's 14 playoff spots were clinched in Week 16. Four spots in the NFC were clinched by the Seahawks, Eagles, Bears and 49ers. Over in the AFC, the Patriots clinched on Sunday night. Then, with the Colts' loss on Monday night, the Jaguars, Chargers and Bills all clinched a spot.

Christmas brings playoff gifts for multiple teams as Week 17 gets ready begin. Here are USA TODAY Sports' playoff predictions.

The Seahawks’ chances at the one seed are greatly impacted by the outcome of the 49ers game on Monday Night Football.