Denver now has a three-tier formula to make the playoffs for the sixth consecutive season. Of course, the dream ends if it doesn’t win at Kansas City on Sunday night.
Pittsburgh clinched the AFC North title with its win over Baltimore on Sunday, eliminating the Ravens from playoff contention. Five AFC teams have clinched a playoff spot: New England, Oakland, Houston, Pittsburgh and Kansas City. There is only one spot up for grabs and that’s between Miami (10-5) and the Broncos (8-6).
For the Broncos to make the playoffs these three things have to go their way…
1. Beat Kansas City on Sunday night, beat Oakland on Jan. 1
2. New England wins at Miami on Jan. 1
3. Kansas City wins at San Diego on Jan. 1
If all three happen, the Broncos would be the No. 6 seed traveling to face the No. 3 seed Pittsburgh Steelers.
Denver can only make the playoffs if it ends up tied with the Dolphins at 10-6 and the Chiefs finish 11-5. If the Dolphins, Chiefs and Broncos finish 10-6, the Broncos would be eliminated because of their inferior division record to the Chiefs.
