NFL playoff scenario: Implications of Ravens-Packers for AFC and NFC standings in Week 17

Upcoming Showdown at Lambeau Field

This Saturday night, two teams will face off at the iconic Lambeau Field.

One of the teams has already secured a playoff spot and is now trying to maintain its slim chances of winning the district title.

The other team is fighting to avoid an early exit.

So, what’s on the line when the Green Bay Packers take on the Baltimore Ravens in Week 17?

Baltimore Ravens Playoff Situation

For the Ravens, Week 17 is crucial to prevent elimination.

Currently, the Ravens have a 7-8 record, sitting two games behind the Pittsburgh Steelers for the AFC North title. Having already been knocked out of the wild-card race, their only route to the playoffs involves winning their division.

However, if they lose or tie against the Packers on Saturday night, their season will come to an end.

Even if Baltimore does win—though that’s uncertain since Lamar Jackson is questionable with a hip injury—they could still be at risk of being eliminated the following day. If the Steelers either win or tie against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday afternoon, the Ravens will be out.

Green Bay Packers Playoff Outlook

The Packers clinched their playoff spot when the Detroit Lions fell to the Minnesota Vikings on Christmas Day.

Still, they’re aiming for a more significant goal.

Green Bay is in contention for the NFC North title. With a record of 9-5-1, they currently lead the division, while the Chicago Bears sit at 11-4. If the Packers win their last two games and the Bears lose theirs, Green Bay could still take the division.

Conversely, if the Packers lose to the Ravens, they’ll be out of the NFC North race, effectively handing the title to the Bears. A tie would also let Chicago secure the division with just a tie this weekend; they could clinch it all with a win in Week 17.

Chicago is set to play against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday night.

As for the Packers, a pressing concern is who will be taking snaps this Saturday night. Jordan Love has already been ruled out after suffering a concussion during the previous week’s game against the Bears. Malik Willis stepped in for him but is also dealing with his own shoulder injury.