Sun Jan 04 21:10:00 UTC 2026: NFL Week 18: Playoff Picture Nears Completion, Dramatic Finishes and Draft Order Determined

The final day of the NFL regular season is underway, featuring high-stakes matchups and playoff implications.

  • Texans Secure Playoff Spot: The Houston Texans capped off a remarkable season with a 38-30 victory over the Colts, securing their place in the AFC playoffs. Ka’imi Fairbairn’s late field goal and a defensive touchdown sealed the win, marking their ninth consecutive victory.
  • Panthers Clinch NFC South: The Carolina Panthers are headed to the playoffs as NFC South champions despite losing their last two games, thanks to the Atlanta Falcons’ 19-17 win over the New Orleans Saints. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are eliminated from playoff contention.
  • Raiders Land Top Draft Pick: The Las Vegas Raiders have secured the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft after the New York Giants defeated the Dallas Cowboys.
  • Giants Finish Strong: Speaking of the Giants, they finished the season on a high note with back-to-back wins, including a 34-17 victory over the Cowboys.
  • Browns Edge Bengals: The Cleveland Browns defeated the Cincinnati Bengals 20-18, ending their season on a winning note.
  • Upcoming Games: Seven games are set to kick off at 4:25 p.m. ET, with the No. 1 seed in the AFC to be decided. Tonight’s “Sunday Night Football” matchup between the Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers will determine the AFC North title.
  • Eagles’ Smith Chasing Milestone: The Philadelphia Eagles will play WR DeVonta Smith, who’s trying to get 44 more yards so he can surpass 1,000 receiving yards for the season.
  • Rams Play Starters: The Los Angeles Rams are playing their starters to regain momentum heading into the playoffs.

Stay tuned for updates and analysis throughout the day as the NFL playoff picture comes into focus.

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