NFL Week 18 Features High-Stakes Matchups as Playoff Picture Takes Shape

Critical games this weekend include battles for playoff spots, division titles, and seeding, with key teams facing must-win scenarios.

The Denver Broncos must defeat the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday to secure their first playoff berth since 2015, though a loss could still allow them in with help from other teams.
The Chiefs, already locked into the AFC's No. 1 seed, are expected to rest key starters, creating an opportunity for the Broncos to capitalize.
The Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings, both 14-2, face off Sunday night for the NFC North title and the conference's top seed, with the loser dropping to the No. 5 seed despite their strong records.
Lions star Amon-Ra St. Brown has called for changes to the NFL playoff seeding format, suggesting that overall records, not division wins, should determine seeding.
Saturday's games include divisional matchups between the Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Ravens and the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cincinnati Bengals, both with potential playoff implications.