Through the season’s first half, the N.F.C. was top-heavy with contenders, as up to five teams jostled for home-field advantage in the playoffs. But with injuries mounting and weaknesses now revealed, divisional races could get weird.
The Panthers, who added quarterback Cam Newton and returned running back Christian McCaffery from injury, could pounce on the N.F.C. South while the Buccaneers and Saints play games without key starters. The 49ers, after a statement win Monday night, have a soft stretch in their schedule. With a win likely over the Jaguars this week, San Francisco could make up some ground on securing a wild-card spot out of the N.