2013 NFL playoff picture: Chiefs remains undefeated, Saints continue to build on NFC South lead

The Chiefs remain the class of the NFL but the Broncos remain tight on their heels.

Oct 28, 2013, 12:00 PM UTC

David Welker

The Chiefs' win streak is still alive after a win over the Browns in Week 8. The now 8-0 squad has the Broncos (7-1), Patriots (6-2) and Bengals (6-2) directly behind it in the quest for AFC dominance. While the Broncos have the second-best record in the AFC, they remain in a wild-card spot as a non-division leader. While being one game behind, it continues to draw intrigue for the eventual first meeting between the two top teams.

On the NFC side of things, the Saints continue to run away with the NFC South at 6-1. The Seahawks and 49ers are continuing their competition for the NFC West and it seems like no one wants to win the NFC East. The Lions and Packers also neck-to-neck for the NFC North with Chicago on a bye.

Here's a look at the entire NFL playoff picture and how it could change in Week 9.

AFC Playoff Picture

1. Kansas City Chiefs (AFC West leader) (8-0)

2. Cincinnati Bengals (AFC North leader) (6-2)

3. New England Patriots (AFC East leader) (6-2)

4. Indianapolis Colts (AFC South leader) (5-2)

5. Denver Broncos (Wild Card) (7-1)

6. San Diego Chargers (Wild Card) (4-3)

Just Missed: New York Jets (4-4)

Key Week 9 games: The AFC West is in charge of the division with three teams in playoff contention. The Broncos will be on bye but the Chargers and Chiefs can continue their success in Week 9. The Chargers will face the Redskins, while the Chiefs will take on the Bills. The Patriots will look to pull away in the AFC East with a win over the Steelers and the Bengals could help them out with a win over the Dolphins on Thursday Night Football.

NFC Playoff Picture

1. Seattle Seahawks (NFC West leader) (6-1)

2. New Orleans Saints (NFC South leader) (6-1)

3. Green Bay Packers (NFC North leader) (5-2)

4. Dallas Cowboys (NFC East leader) (4-4)

5. San Francisco 49ers (Wild Card) (6-2)

6. Detroit Lions (Wild Card) (5-3)

Just missed: Carolina Panthers (4-3) and Chicago Bears (4-3)

Key Week 9 games: The Packers and the Bears will face off on Monday Night Football in what could prime either to take the reins at the top of the NFC North. The 49ers will be on bye, so they will have to wait at least a week to catch up to the Seahawks, while the Cowboys will have to beat the Vikings to keep the Eagles away from the division lead.