Losing to the Detroit Lions on Saturday certainly did not help the Denver Broncos’ playoff chances, but the results of other games in the AFC were even more damaging.
After the Cincinnati Bengals (8-6), Indianapolis Colts (8-6), Cleveland Browns (9-5), Houston Texans (8-6) and Buffalo Bills (8-6) all won this weekend, the Broncos (7-7) now have a 21.4% chance to make the NFL playoffs, according to ESPN’s NFL Football Power Index.
ESPN’s estimate agrees with the New York Times model that gives Denver a 21% chance to reach the postseason. The good news for the Broncos is that Denver has a 79% chance to make the playoffs if they win out, according to the NYT.
Winning out is the first step, but the Broncos would still need some help from other teams. Denver has to first focus on itself, starting with a Christmas Eve showdown with the New England Patriots in Week 16. Sunday’s game is a must-win contest if the Broncos want to keep their playoff hopes alive.
