Updated NFC Playoff Picture After Week 17: Eagles hit rock bottom vs. Cardinals

Week after week, we have said some of the same things constantly. We praised the Philadelphia Eagles when we saw resiliency. We offered thoughtful and honest commentary while avoiding the temptation to simply wave the pom poms because they were winning. We saw many of the same things many of you did.

Sure, there were chinks in the armor. We acknowledged that. This was a flawed football team, one that wasn't as good as its previous version, the 2022-2023 Birds. They represented the National Football Conference in Super Bowl LVIII. Something, however, has looked off with this team, and it has been that way all summer, fall, and winter.

We weren't overly critical because they were winning, but here's the thing. It has become increasingly difficult to remain positive. One game remains, but thoughts of a 'one-and-done' playoff run have risen. The postseason looms, and there is worry.

NFC playoff picture, Week 18: Hope is dying. The Eagles are currently a Wild Card team.

Unless the Dallas Cowboys lose their Week 18 regular-season finale to the Washington Commanders, they are going to win the NFC East. Philly has no shot if the don't.

The Birds visit the New York Giants in Week 18. The postseason looms. Here's what the NFC's picture looks like after 16 games and 17 weeks of action.

The Division Leaders

San Francisco 49ers - 12-4
Dallas Cowboys - 11-5
Detroit Lions - 11-5
Tampa Bay Buccaneers - 8-8

The Wild Card teams

Philadelphia Eagles - 11-5, 2nd in NFC East
Los Angeles Rams - 9-7, 2nd in NFC West
Green Bay Packers - 8-8, 2nd in NFC North

In the hunt:

Seattle Seahawks - 8-8, 3rd in NFC West
New Orleans Saints - 8-8, 2nd in NFC South
Minnesota Vikings - 7-9, 3rd in NFC North
Atlanta Falcons - 7-9, 3rd in NFC South

If the playoffs were to begin today, the Eagles would visit the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the Wild Card Round. One game remains in the regular season. There is no more margin for error.

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