#5 San Francisco 49ers –

The 49ers came into last Sunday’s game against the Seattle Seahawks in a must-win situation as they were a game behind their division rivals in the standings. If the 49ers were to lose the game they would most likely find themselves out of the wild card race. However, football is a strange game, and, with the game on the line, the 49ers kicked a last minute field goal to take the lead and the game. If they continue to play this type of inspired football, the 49ers could make a big impact in the playoffs.

#4 New England Patriots –

The Patriots came into their Sunday matchup in Week 14 with lowly Cleveland after barely finding a way to win against a bad Texans team the week before.  So what did they do; did they learn from the previous week?   They decided to go the same route and barely found a way to win.  In fact, if it was not for a lucky bounce and some help from the officials, the Pats would have lost to the Browns.  More importantly, though, they lost tight end Rob Gronkowski for the rest of the season to a knee injury, which may cost the Pats a real shot at a Super Bowl.

#3 New Orleans Saints –

The Saints needed a big win after losing badly the previous week to the Seahawks.  Well, they definitely achieved that goal as they pounded the Panthers in the Superdome to take control of the NFC South.  The win over Carolina was not only a must-win for them; it was a true test versus a strong defense.  It looks like it will be New Orleans right alongside Seattle and San Francisco in the NFC.

#2 Denver Broncos –

The Broncos came into Week 14 after a big win against the Kansas City Chiefs, which locked up the division and beat the Titans with ease. Then, in Week 15 – on Thursday night – San Diego surprised the Broncos in a 27-20 win.  Despite the loss, the Broncos, with Peyton Manning playing at such a high level, are still the clear favorites to make it to the Super Bowl in the AFC.

#1 Seattle Seahawks –

The Seahawks came into Week 14 with a chance to knock out their division rival, take a real hold on the NFC West, and break their 0-8 record at Candlestick Park.  However, the Niners would not have it, and the Seahawks simply got outplayed.  The Seahawks are still undefeated at home and, for now, have home field advantage in the playoffs. If the Seahawks and the 49ers meet again in the playoffs it will be at Seattle, which means Seahawks win and San Francisco heads home.