NFL Playoff Predictions: Projecting the Entire Wild Card Round

With one week left in the regular season, let's run down what the NFL Wild Card round might look like after the Week 17 games are played.

NFC 

Atlanta Falcons (9-6, projected 10-6) at New Orleans Saints (12-3, 13-3)

The Falcons talked about being disrespected by Drew Brees' chase for the passing yards record during the fourth quarter Monday night. Two weeks later, they should get a chance to redeem themselves. Deep down, however, I'm sure the Falcons are kicking themselves for putting the Lions into the driver's seat for the No. 5 seed.

No one wants to play in the Superdome.

Detroit Lions (10-5, 11-5) at New York Giants (8-7, 9-7)

Playing for the No. 5 seed is motivation enough for the Lions to go to Lambeau Field and beat a Packers team that has nothing to gain and everything to lose. The Giants are coming off a big win against the Jets that set them up to beat the Cowboys at home to make the playoffs. A loss in the final week could mean huge changes in New York.

AFC

Cincinnati Bengals (9-6, 10-6) at Houston Texans (10-5, 10-6)

I think the Bengals are finally ready to knock off an elite team in the AFC, and it's going to be the Ravens in Week 17. A win in that game clinches a playoff spot for Cincinnati as the AFC's No. 6 seed. The Texans have been locked into the No. 3 seed. 

Oakland Raiders (8-7, 9-7) at Baltimore Ravens (11-4, 11-5)

How can you trust the Denver Broncos? I think the scenario where they lose to the Kansas City Chiefs at home and the Raiders beat the San Diego Chargers is more than plausible. The Ravens' loss to the Bengals, plus a Steelers' win against the Browns, forces Baltimore into the No. 5 seed.