Falcons clinch NFC playoff spot
Published: December 21st, 2008 | Tags: 2008 playoff scenarios, Atlanta Falcons, NFC playoffs
The NFC playoff picture became somewhat clearer on Sunday, as the Falcons’ 24-17 win over the Vikings assured them of a playoff spot. While tonight’s game between the Giants and Panthers will determine who has home-field advantage throughout the playoffs, here’s how things currently break down.
With a loss by the Vikings, the Giants and Panthers have both clinched a first-round bye. The Panthers also clinched the NFC South division title due to the loss by Tampa Bay earlier.
The Vikings can still clinch the NFC North division title with a loss by the Bears on Monday night. If the Bears lose, they are eliminated from the playoffs. The Redskins are eliminated due to the win by the Falcons.
What it all means that the Vikings and Bears are still fighting for the NFC North, and those two teams plus theĀ Bucs, Eagles and Cowboys are also eligible for the final wild-card playoff spot. We’ll get to the Week 17 tie-breaking scenarios for you in a bit.