Week 17 NFL Picks: Which Teams Will Earn Playoff Berths?

Sixteen weeks of NFL action were enough to settle nine playoff spots, but there's still a final week to determine the last three teams that will crack the 2011 NFL playoffs.

Let's run down which teams will be clinching their spot Sunday: 

Oakland Raiders

Remember back when Carson Palmer was finally heating up after landing in Oakland and the Raiders were in control of the division?

Well, it's now time for the Raiders to make good on that promising start and win the AFC West in Week 17.

Two things need to happen: First, the Raiders must beat the San Diego Chargers. That's no small task, but one the Raiders can pull off, especially if Palmer plays well.

Secondly, the Kansas City Chiefs must beat the Denver Broncos. I think we'll see Tim Tebow get exposed again versus a pretty good overall defense. If he doesn't play well, Denver loses. 

New York Giants

The NFC East is practically a coin-flip at this point, especially with how inconsistent both teams have been down the stretch.

Do either the Giants or Cowboys really want to win this division?

Their Week 17 matchup might come down to the Giants' pass-rush, and I think we'll see a heavy dose of Jason Pierre-Paul and Justin Tuck in the Cowboys' backfield. At home and getting healthy, the Giants roll into the playoffs.

Cincinnati Bengals

There are a number of teams vying for the AFC's No. 6 seed, but the Bengals currently sit on the spot and need just a win in Week 17 to clinch it.

Easier said than done, especially when the Baltimore Ravens are coming to Cincinnati on Sunday.

I still think Andy Dalton gets it done, as the Bengals are playing well enough right now to come into that game with a little bit of confidence. Steelers fans will rejoice if their team wins the AFC North by virtue of a Bengals win.