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Results update: The Saints have been eliminated from playoff contention after the Packers beat the Vikings.
As we head into Week 17, the NFL playoff picture is becoming more set by the week, but there are still a few teams on the bubble hoping for a miracle — or, at least for a lot of things to fall into place. At 6-9, the Saints need to win out to have a shot at a playoff berth. They could still win the NFC South or a wild card berth, but they’ll need to win out and have a few more pieces to complete the puzzle.
If you are a Saints fan, you’ll have a few games you’ll be paying attention to as they look to improve their chances of a playoff berth.
Bucs vs. Panthers
Results update: The Buccaneers defeated the Panthers, 30-24. That clinched them the NFC South title. The Saints still have a road to a wild card berth, but they can no longer win the division.
If the Buccaneers lose out and the Saints win out, New Orleans will get a playoff berth as the NFC South title holders. Tampa is a 3.5-point home favorite against the Panthers this week at DraftKings Sportsbook.
Commanders vs. Browns
Results update: The Browns beat the Commanders, 24-10. New Orleans would have been eliminated with a Commanders win coupled with the Bucs win.
If Washington loses out and several other teams ahead of the Saints lose, New Orleans has a shot at making the playoffs as a wild card. The Commanders are a 2.5-point home favorite against the Browns at DraftKings Sportsbook.
Lions vs. Bears
Results update: The Lions defeated the Bears, 41-10. If the Packers beat the Vikings this afternoon, the Saints will be eliminated from playoff contention.
If Chicago beats Detroit in Week 17 and the Commanders lose, this sets up a Week 18 scenario that could send the Saints to the playoffs. However, if Detroit wins and the Vikings win, there could still be a chance for New Orleans. The Lions are a six-point home favorite against the Bears at DraftKings Sportsbook.
Packers vs. Vikings
Results update: The Packers beat the Vikings, which eliminates the Saints from playoff contention.
If Green Bay loses to Minnesota in Week 17 and the Commanders lose, the Saints will be set up for a Week 18 scenario in which they’ll need several other games to fall into place to keep their playoff hopes alive. The Packers are a three-point home favorite at DraftKings Sportsbook.