Scroll through the gallery above to see Wayne's latest power poll, and if you're on a desktop or laptop computer, click "show caption" to see his thoughts on each team.
Season long statistics at this time of year are meaningless. If a team has a good enough record to qualify for the playoffs, take a look at their “recent” statistical trend rather than their overall statistics to assess their viability for post-season success.
For example, the Arizona Cardinals in the NFC and the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC are streaking to the playoffs! Both teams have won nine in a row heading into the final week of the regular season.
Pittsburgh and Seattle had winning streaks snapped last weekend but both have played exceptionally well in the second half of the campaign.
Denver and Cincinnati competed in marvelous fashion Monday night in Denver with the Broncos winning in overtime-both despite backup QBs appear to be in post season form. They could meet again!
Minnesota is improving over the course of the last three weeks, Green Bay has been struggling since a 6-0 start, the Packers are 4-5 in their last nine games. They meet for the NFC North Division title Sunday night in Green Bay.
Carolina and New England can wrap up the home field throughout the playoffs if they win or tie this weekend or a the Cardinals in the NFC or the Bengals in the AFC lose.
As for who is viable at playoff time, the NFC is cut and dried, it would be a major upset if the Panthers and Cardinals do not meet in the NFC Title game.
The one caveat I would hold is Seattle—they have the pedigree and experience to win but will have to do it all on the road away from the noisy confines of CenturyLink Field. The AFC is much more wide open with New England, Denver, Cincinnati, Kansas City, and Pittsburgh all conference championship caliber.
