The complicated playoff situations have simplified into clear conditions.

As NFL Week 18 approaches, fans previously had to juggle many different outcomes to understand how their teams could secure a spot in the playoffs or risk elimination. With most playoff positions locked in and only a few outcomes available during the final week, the remaining teams vying for the last playoff spots, division titles, and seeding now know exactly what they need to do for the best possible result.

For those looking for clarity, here’s a breakdown of the playoff clinching scenarios for the NFL as we head into Sunday of Week 18:

NFL Week 18 Playoff Scenarios

Cincinnati Bengals

• Can secure a playoff spot by:
  • Broncos losing + Dolphins losing or tying

Denver Broncos

• Can secure a playoff spot by:
  • Winning or tying

Miami Dolphins

• Can secure a playoff spot by:
  • Winning + Broncos losing

Detroit Lions

• Can win the NFC North and the NFC’s No. 1 seed by:
  • Winning or tying

Minnesota Vikings

• Can win the NFC North and the NFC’s No. 1 seed by:
  • Winning

Atlanta Falcons

• Can win the NFC South by:
  • Winning + Buccaneers losing

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

• Can win the NFC South by:
  • Winning or tying
  • Falcons losing or tying