Players, Coaches Facing the Most Pressure Heading into Final Week of NFL Season

The following coaches and players have the most pressure on them heading in Week 17 of the NFL season:

COACHES

Tom Coughlin, Giants

Who knows what will happen in New York if Coughlin falls at home to the Cowboys on Sunday? The Giants would again be knocked out of the playoffs after a good start, and at the hands of a division rival, no less. Could he survive a big loss like that? The Giants need to win Sunday. 

Jason Garrett, Cowboys

There isn't as much pressure on Garrett, a first-year coach, but he's still the head man in Dallas. That alone is a lot of pressure, especially with such an important game coming up. He'd start next season on the hot seat if the Cowboys lose on Sunday.

Norv Turner, Chargers

Is this Turner's last stand? The Chargers rebounded to get back into the playoff chase, but a 28-point loss in Detroit killed their chances. Now, it's about saving face. Would a convincing win that knocks a division rival out of the playoffs be enough for Norv to stick around? He's definitely walking on thin ice.

Raheem Morris, Buccaneers

The Buccaneers have been down right embarrassing in some games this season, and there have been talks about replacing Morris after the season. His fate may already be sealed either way, but a win over the Falcons on Sunday could help his case. Another blowout loss should mean the end of his tenure. 

PLAYERS

Tim Tebow, Broncos

Can you imagine the scrutiny he'll face if the Broncos fall out of the playoffs? He got all the credit for the wins, and he'd take all the blame for a collapse. And don't forget about an offseason filled with should-he or shouldn't-he be the Broncos franchise quarterback. Winning at home against the Chiefs clinches a playoff spot.  

Tony Romo, Cowboys

Everyone has talked about Sunday being a career-defining moment for Romo. I think I agree. A win in New York would propel the Cowboys into the playoffs and cool any talk about Romo not being "clutch." There's no better stage than Week 17 for Romo to put the past behind him.

Carson Palmer, Raiders

Remember that the Raiders sent a bunch of high picks to the Bengals for Palmer after Jason Campbell went out. Oakland is just 4-5 since Palmer arrived, and it now needs a win and some help to get into the playoffs. Palmer needs to play well in the season finale to give the Raiders a chance at making the playoffs.