The Green Bay Packers are one win away from securing a playoff spot, with a 99% likelihood of reaching the postseason according to the New York Times playoff simulator. However, they still have some uncertainties to address before clinching their spot.
To clinch a playoff spot, the Packers need either an Atlanta loss or a Seattle/Los Angeles loss in Week 16. If Green Bay wins their next game against the Saints, all doubts will be removed, and they’ll secure a spot.
A win by Minnesota on Monday night, however, would eliminate the Packers from winning the NFC North and make it difficult for them to catch up with Tampa Bay, which is currently leading the division. The Vikings’ victory would also give Detroit a two-game lead over Green Bay in the standings, making it challenging for the Packers to surpass them.
The Packers’ next game against the Saints will be crucial in determining their playoff fate. If they win, they’ll secure a spot. If Atlanta or Seattle/Los Angeles lose their respective games, it could set up a favorable scenario for the Packers.
Ultimately, the Packers are just one game ahead of Washington in the standings, and facing either Detroit or Philadelphia in the wild-card round would be more favorable than facing a team like Minnesota. The Commanders hold the tiebreaker edge over Green Bay, so the Packers need to stay ahead of them to secure their spot.
Source: https://eu.jsonline.com/story/sports/nfl/packers/2024/12/16/packers-playoff-picture-could-change-tonight-latest-playoffs-outlook/77021549007