The Kansas City Chiefs still haven't lost and have control of the AFC with the second half of the season right around the corner. The rest of the AFC is a mess. The AFC East race is tighter than most expected at this point in the season, and that will have major implications on the rest of the conference.
NFL Playoff Picture 2013: Kansas City in control of AFC heading into Week 8
It’s never too early to look at the NFL playoff picture.
Jamie Squire
In the NFC, four teams have 4-3 records, which will make for a tight race for the final two wild card spots in the conference. The Cowboys are clinging to a small lead in the NFC East, and will have another big test on Sunday.
Here's a look at the entire NFL playoff picture and how it could change in Week 8.
AFC Playoff Picture
1. Kansas City Chiefs (AFC West leader) (7-0)
2. Cincinnati Bengals (AFC North leader) (5-2)
3. Indianpolis Colts (AFC South leader) (5-2)
4. New England Patriots (AFC East leader) (5-2)
5. Denver Broncos (Wild Card) (6-1)
6. San Diego Chargers (Wild Card) (4-3)
Just missed: New York Jets tied at 4-3
Key Week 8 games: The Dolphins have a chance to improve to 4-3 and close the gap on the Patriots with a win on Sunday. They have to travel to New England, though, so it's a big test. Meanwhile, the Jets will have play against the Bengals. If New York is for real, this is the time to prove it.
NFC Playoff Picture
1. Seattle Seahawks (NFC West leader) (6-1)
2. New Orleans Saints (NFC South leader) (5-1)
3. Green Bay Packers (NFC North leader) (4-2)
4. Dallas Cowboys (NFC East leader) (4-3)
5. San Francisco 49ers (Wild Card) (5-2)
6. Carolina Panthers (Wild Card) (4-3)
Just missed: Detroit Lions and Chicago Bears tied at 4-3
Key Week 8 games: With most of the NFC’s leaders playing against teams with a losing record. The Cowboys and the Lions is the game of the week, with both teams in the thick of a muddy playoff picture. One of those teams will get some breathing room with a win.
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