NFL Playoff Picture Projections: Updated Chances to Make the Postseason, Win Divisions
Alright, football fans! We’re officially past the halfway point in the 2025 NFL season (Week 7, to be exact), and things are starting to heat up. Everyone’s got their eyes on the prize: a spot in the playoffs and a shot at Super Bowl LX. So, let’s break down who’s looking good, who’s got some work to do, and what the odds are for your favorite team.
We’re using ESPN’s Football Power Index (FPI) to peek into the future. FPI crunches the numbers and spits out projections for the rest of the season, giving us a glimpse at the playoff picture for both the AFC and NFC. We’re talking updated odds for every team to make the playoffs, snag their division title, and even make a Super Bowl run.
So, buckle up and let’s dive in!
Last checked: October 21, 2025, at 11:15 AM ET
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AFC Playoff Projections: Who’s In, Who’s Out?
The AFC is shaping up to be a real battle this year. Here’s the lowdown:
- New England Patriots: Surprise! The Patriots have muscled their way to the top of the AFC East. Rookie QB Drake Maye is lighting it up, even breaking a completion percentage record previously held by Tom Brady himself. Talk about a statement!
- Buffalo Bills: They were on a bye this week, but don’t count them out. Josh Allen and the Bills are hungry, and they’ll be looking to bounce back strong against the Carolina Panthers. Allen hasn’t lost three straight since his rookie year, so expect a fight.
- Indianapolis Colts: Jonathan Taylor is playing out of his mind, racking up rushing touchdowns like it’s nobody’s business. Can they keep it up and hold onto that top spot in the AFC?
- New York Jets and Miami Dolphins: Yikes. Both teams are struggling to find their footing. The Jets are still winless, and the Dolphins haven’t quite lived up to the preseason hype. They’ve got a long road ahead if they want to sniff the playoffs.
The AFC Playoff Picture (as of now):
(See Infographic)
NFC Playoff Projections: Lions Roaring, Seahawks Soaring
Over in the NFC, things are just as wild:
- Detroit Lions: The Lions are making some serious noise! They took down the Buccaneers on Monday Night Football, claiming the top spot in the NFC playoff projections. Jahmyr Gibbs is a beast, and the defense is stepping up big time. Are the Lions for real this year?
- Seattle Seahawks: The Seahawks are looking good after their Monday night win over the Texans. Jaxon Smith-Njigba is becoming a star receiver, racking up yards and touchdowns. He’s quickly becoming a favorite target for Geno Smith.
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers: The Bucs took a tough loss against the Lions, but they’re still in the mix. Baker Mayfield needs to find some consistency if they want to make a deep playoff run.
- Houston Texans: The Texans are a young team with a lot of potential, but they’re still learning how to win. They’ve got some exciting players on offense, but the defense needs to tighten up.
The NFC Playoff Picture (as of now):
