The NFC playoff teams are almost locked in, with only the NFC South champion yet to be crowned. But here's where it gets controversial: while the Lions' playoff hopes were dashed on Christmas Day in Minnesota, the story of their sudden fall from grace is a stunning contrast to their 15-2 record last season. The NFC's postseason qualifiers are the Seahawks, Bears, Eagles, Rams, 49ers, Packers, and the eventual winner of the NFC South. It's a battle between the Panthers and the Buccaneers, with the winner hosting a wild-card game as the No. 4 seed against the No. 5 seed. As for the rest of the seeding, it's all to be determined, leaving the final two weekends of the season with extra sizzle. The No. 1 seed could come down to the Week 18 game between the Seahawks and the 49ers. Three NFC teams that missed out last year - the Bears, Seahawks, and 49ers - are in the running for 2025. The number could increase to four if the Panthers dethrone the Bucs, who have dominated the NFC South since 2021. The Lions, Vikings, and Commanders, meanwhile, have bounced from the 2024 field. So, who will rise and who will fall in the NFC this season? It's anyone's guess, but with so much still to play for, the final stretch of the season is sure to be thrilling.
