New York Jets Playoff Scenarios: What Do Jets Need to Get In?

A few weeks ago, the New York Jets looked like a sure bet to make the NFL playoffs. Fast forward two weeks and Gang Green is 8-7 and coming off back-to-back losses to the Philadelphia Eagles and New York Giants.

Now, the Jets sit at 8-7 and need a ton of help to actually reach the playoffs.

First things first, the Jets need to beat the 5-10 Miami Dolphins today to have any hope of playing in the postseason. So, assuming they do get past the Dolphins, here are the two scenarios that would see them clinching a wild-card spot and getting into the postseason.

Scenario One

First, the Cincinnati Bengals (9-6) must lose to the Baltimore Ravens. Then the Tennessee Titans (8-7) would have to lose to or tie the Houston Texans. On top of that, the Oakland Raiders (8-7) would have to also lose to or tie the San Diego Chargers.

If that happened, the Jets would sneak in at 9-7, while the Bengals, Titans and Raiders would be sitting at home and the Denver Broncos would be the AFC West champions.

Scenario Two

This one is very similar to scenario one. The Bengals have to lose and the Titans have to either lose or tie their game today. But if the Broncos (8-7) lose to or tie the Kansas City Chiefs, they would then be out and the Jets would be in.

So, today, the Jets must first take care of business against the Dolphins, and then they have to get a whole lot of help. While it certainly isn't likely, the Jets do have a shot at reaching the postseason.