Seattle Seahawks Clinch Playoff Berth After Cowboys' Win in Week 16

The Seattle Seahawks didn't even have to play a single snap in Week 16 in order to qualify for the NFL playoffs.

As NFL Network's Andrew Siciliano pointed out, the Dallas Cowboys' victory over the Indianapolis Colts means the Seahawks are assured of at least a wild-card berth:

The reigning Super Bowl champions began a bit slowly out of the gates in 2014, losing in the second week to the San Diego Chargers and then falling in back-to-back weeks to the Cowboys and the St. Louis Rams. Some wondered if the talk about a dynasty in Seattle was way too premature after the Seahawks' 3-3 start.

Then, they reeled off victories in seven of their next eight games, putting the pressure squarely on the Arizona Cardinals. Rich Eisen of the NFL Network highlighted how quickly Seattle's fortunes changed:

The Seahawks still have a lot to play for in the final weeks. Two more wins and they can clinch not only the NFC West but also home-field advantage.

It's quite the turnaround from October. Seattle is perhaps the hottest team in the league right now and will be a daunting opponent for whomever it plays in the playoffs.