17. MINNESOTA VIKINGS:
16. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS: The Bucs are sitting with a 7-9 record, and one win away from winning the NFC South. If they prevail, they will achieve a very rare accomplishment…winning a division with a sub-500 season.
15. CAROLINA PANTHERS: The Panthers completed the 2024-25 season on a very high note and carried that into this year. They are 8-8, and on the cusp of a playoff berth with a victory in Tampa Bay. Here are the key players who can lead them to a win.
14. PITTSBURGH STEELERS: This is a classic Steeler season: ups and downs, with unexpected wins and exasperating losses. Last week’s loss against the Browns is Exhibit A. They have secured another .500 season for Mike Tomlin, but need a win against the Ravens to reach the postseason.
13. GREEN BAY PACKERS: The Packers have clinched a playoff spot and are settled into the No.7 seed. Jordan Love is in concussion protocol, and while playing in Week 18 is unnecessary, playing the following week in the payoffs is paramount.
