Two weeks of the NFL are now complete, and we have a better idea of which teams are legitimate playoff threats. It's still too early to declare any team the Super Bowl favorite, but that doesn't mean we can't start projecting which teams will make the playoffs. This list should change a bit each week early in the season. While it will look similar to my power rankings, it won't be the exact same. This accounts for team's schedules as well as their divisions. So, here is my projection for the NFL Playoffs after two weeks.
AFC:
The Patriots look like the best team in the NFL. Their division appears challenging with the Bills, Jets and Dolphins all looking like possible contenders, but the Patriots shouldn't have any issues winning the AFC East.
The AFC North is tough, but the Bengals have looked great so far. As long as bad Andy Dalton doesn't show up for an extended period of time, the Bengals will be set for another playoff run.
The Colts are 0-2, but it's not like the Titans, Texans or Jaguars are better teams right now. The Colts should win the division and get a No. 3 or No. 4 seed.
Denver's defense is worth of a No. 1 seed, but the offense looks like a non-playoff contender's. Still, the Broncos should make the playoffs, even if they don't win the AFC West.
The Steelers have a real shot to win the division. If they don't, they should end up with the top wild card spot.
The six seed in the AFC is going to be hotly contested. The Chiefs, Bills, Dolphins, Jets, Chargers and Ravens could all make a push. The Chiefs get the nod for now. They could win the AFC West this season.
NFC:
Despite their injury issues, the Packers look the best team in the NFC.
The Cardinals picked up where they left off last season before Carson Palmer was injured. As long as he stays healthy, Arizona will be one of the best teams in the NFC.
The NFC South is quickly shaping up to be a two-team division between the Falcons and the Panthers. The Falcons have Julio Jones and actual weapons for Matt Ryan and that's what gives them the edge.
Were it not for Tony Romo's injury, the Cowboys would be a no-brainer. Instead, the NFC East could come down to wire again. However, the Cowboys should be able to weather the storm until Romo and Dez Bryant return.
The Seahawks may be 0-2, but they'll still be a playoff team. The NFC West will be decided by the two games between Arizona and Seattle. I wouldn't be surprised if the NFC's No. 5 seed had a better ranking than both the No. 3 and 4 seeds.
This is the pick I'm least confident in. Don't be surprised if it changes often this season. For now, allow me to continue my love affair with Teddy Bridgewater.
Disagree with what I have and want to call me an idiot? Or agree with me and want to publicly sing my praises? Hit me up on Twitter.
Back to the NFL Newsfeed