NFL Week 18 playoff scenarios set the stage for a dramatic finish to the 2025 NFL regular season. 

Following key Saturday results, Sunday's slate will definitively decide three division titles, the AFC's top seed, and the first overall draft pick, making every game critical.

NFC South Hangs on Falcons vs. Saints Outcome

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers improved to 8-9 with a win over Carolina, but their playoff fate is not their own. 

The entire NFL Week 18 playoff scenarios for the NFC South rest on the result between Atlanta and New Orleans. As detailed by the NFL's official tiebreaking procedures, the outcomes are clear:

·         Buccaneers win the division if: The Saints win or the game ends in a tie.

·         Panthers win the division if: The Falcons win, creating an 8-9 three-way tie that Carolina wins based on applied conference record tiebreakers.

AFC Battles: South Title and No. 1 Seed

The AFC features two major, straightforward clashes with major implications.

·         AFC South: The Jacksonville Jaguars control their destiny. They clinch the division with a win or tie against Tennessee, or if Houston loses or ties. The Houston Texans must win and need a Jaguars loss to claim the title.

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·         AFC No. 1 Seed: The Denver Broncos secure the top seed and a playoff bye with a win over the Chargers. The New England Patriots need a win over Miami and a Broncos loss or tie, as outlined in the NFL's playoff clinching scenarios. 

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NFC Race for the No. 2 Seed and Home-Field

With San Francisco locked into the No. 1 seed, the battle is for the second seed. The Chicago Bears control their destiny. A win over Detroit seals it. They can also clinch with a loss if Philadelphia loses to Washington.
The Philadelphia Eagles can only grab the No. 2 seed with a win and a Bears loss.

Draft Order: Raiders Control Top Pick

Beyond the playoffs, the future is at stake. The Las Vegas Raiders control their destiny for the No. 1 overall draft pick. A loss to Kansas City clinches it. Their positioning remains favourable for a top selection even with a win, depending on other results.

Rest vs. Rust: Strategic Starter Decisions

Team motivations will directly impact these games. While contenders like Denver and Chicago are all-in, other teams are prioritizing health and wellness. 

The Green Bay Packers are resting QB Jordan Love, and theLos Angeles Chargers are sitting Justin Herbert, decisions that could tilt the playoff landscape.

Every game on the NFL's final Sunday carries immense weight, promising a day of unforgettable tension and drama for fans.

Source of information

For live updates, official clinching scenarios, and the final playoff bracket, follow the NFL's Official Playoff Picture and *ESPN's NFL Playoff Machine