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Summary:

With Week 17 of the NFL season approaching, the playoff picture is coming into focus, though many division titles remain up for grabs. Of the 14 playoff spots, 11 have been clinched, leaving intense battles in the AFC North, West, and South, as well as the NFC North, West, and South. The AFC East race is still mathematically alive, but it would require a Patriots collapse. The NFC East is already decided. Key games this week will determine which teams control their own destiny and which will need help to secure a playoff berth. Several teams are dealing with backup quarterbacks due to injuries.

News Article:

NFL Playoff Races Heat Up: Week 17 Promises Drama as Division Titles Hang in the Balance

With just two weeks left in the regular season, the NFL playoff picture is becoming clearer, but the drama is far from over. While 11 of the 14 playoff spots have been secured, seven of the eight division titles are still up for grabs, setting the stage for a thrilling Week 17.

The AFC North race is tight. The Pittsburgh Steelers (9-8) currently lead the way, but the Baltimore Ravens (7-8) remain in the hunt. However, the Ravens will likely have to rely on backup quarterback Tyler Huntley as Lamar Jackson is doubtful with a back injury.

In the AFC West, the Denver Broncos (13-3) control their destiny, but the Los Angeles Chargers (11-4), led by QB Justin Herbert, are close behind and looking to win out.

The AFC South is a three-team scramble. The Houston Texans (10-5) will have a shot to clinch their division. The Jacksonville Jaguars (11-4) control their own destiny. The Indianapolis Colts (8-7) are in a precarious position and need a win, as well as a Texans loss, to keep their playoff hopes alive.

The AFC East is all but wrapped up as the New England Patriots (12-3) would need to collapse and the Bills (11-4) will need to get past the Eagles.

Over in the NFC, the NFC North saw the Packers clinch a playoff berth, and are still alive in the division.

The NFC West is arguably the most competitive division in the league, with the Seattle Seahawks (12-3) and San Francisco 49ers (11-4) set to face off in Week 18 with major playoff implications. The Los Angeles Rams (11-4) are lurking and can swoop in if the teams above them stumble.

The NFC South pits the Carolina Panthers (8-7) against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-8). The winner will take home the division and an easier path to the playoffs.

The NFC East is the only division already decided, with the Philadelphia Eagles having clinched the title.

Week 17 promises a series of high-stakes matchups that will shape the playoff landscape and determine which teams will have a shot at Super Bowl contention.

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