As we approach the thrilling conclusion of the 2024 NFL regular season, the race for playoff positioning intensifies. With the final week upon us, two pivotal matchups stand out: the NFC North title clash between the Minnesota Vikings and the Detroit Lions, alongside the NFC South title showdown between the Atlanta Falcons and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

A Season of Surprises

This season has been nothing short of remarkable, filled with unexpected developments that have kept fans on the edge of their seats. The Vikings, led by quarterback Sam Darnold, find themselves vying for a division title and the coveted home-field advantage in the playoffs. Conversely, the Lions have exceeded expectations despite dealing with numerous injuries throughout the year.

In the AFC, the race for the last playoff spot remains tight, with the Denver Broncos, Cincinnati Bengals, and Miami Dolphins still in contention. As the drama unfolds, fans are eagerly anticipating which team will claim the top spot in the Fox News Digital power rankings next week.

Current NFL Power Rankings

1. Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs have surged to the No. 1 seed in the AFC, with Patrick Mahomes regaining his form just in time for the playoffs. This season, the Chiefs demonstrated their resilience by performing well even with a less-than-stellar Mahomes. Now that he’s back to his usual self, the NFL should prepare for what could be a historic third consecutive Super Bowl appearance. The Buffalo Bills remain the biggest threat, but securing the top seed ensures Kansas City has home-field advantage in potential playoff matchups.

Last week: 3

2. Detroit Lions
In a game that had little significance, the Lions’ offense showcased its best performance of the season. Fans are hopeful that this momentum carries into the NFC North title game against the Vikings. Head coach Dan Campbell’s aggressive play-calling continues to impress, keeping fans optimistic about their chances.

Last week: 2

3. Buffalo Bills
The Bills have rebounded impressively, boasting a 10-1 record since their shaky start. Quarterback Josh Allen is a frontrunner for the NFL MVP award, but the real test lies in the postseason. This year may be Buffalo’s best opportunity to navigate through the AFC and secure a Super Bowl berth—anything less would be viewed as a disappointment.

Last week: 1

4. Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings’ recent victory over the Packers showcased their competitive spirit in the NFC North. Despite facing tough opponents, they continue to prove they belong in the conversation with the Lions. A win against Detroit this Sunday could solidify their status as serious contenders.

Last week: 4

5. Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles triumphed over the Cowboys even without their star quarterback, Jalen Hurts. Both Kenny Pickett and Tanner McKee stepped up admirably in Hurts’ absence. With the No. 2 seed in the NFC secured, the decision now lies with head coach Nick Sirianni—should he let Saquon Barkley chase Eric Dickerson’s single-season rushing record or rest him for the playoffs?

Last week: 5

6. Baltimore Ravens
Lamar Jackson is making a strong case for MVP as the Ravens gear up for the playoffs. Their focus now shifts to ensuring they enter the postseason in top shape.

Last week: 6

7. Green Bay Packers
The Packers are vying to break through in a competitive division. Last year’s near-NFC title game appearance has given them the experience and determination needed to take the next step in January.

Last week: 7

8. Washington Commanders
Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels is proving his worth, leading the Commanders to an overtime victory against the Falcons. With their playoff berth secured before the final week, general manager Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn deserve accolades for the team’s impressive turnaround.

Last week: 8

9. Los Angeles Chargers
After a lackluster season, Jim Harbaugh’s influence appears to be revitalizing the Chargers. Recent victories against the Broncos and Patriots have positioned them as potential playoff threats, but questions remain about their consistency.

Last week: 10

10. Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers still have work to do if they hope to make a playoff impact. Coach Mike Tomlin faces challenges in rallying the team for a postseason run.

Last week: 9

11. Los Angeles Rams
The Rams clinched the NFC West title with a victory over the Cardinals, thanks to favorable outcomes in other matchups. Their upcoming game against the Seahawks holds less significance with their playoff spot secured.

Last week: 12

12. New Orleans Saints
The Saints are in a win-or-go-home situation in their quest for the NFC South title, emphasizing the importance of their final game.

Last week: 14

13. Jacksonville Jaguars
After a dismal loss to the Ravens, the Jaguars need to rebound against the Titans in their final game before the wild-card round.

Last week: 11

14. Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals are in a precarious position and need assistance to secure a playoff spot. Joe Burrow’s stellar season is vital for their chances.

Last week: 17

15. Denver Broncos
The Broncos are fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive as they face the Chiefs in Week 18. Despite recent setbacks, they have the potential to erase any doubts with a strong performance.

Last week: 13

16. Seattle Seahawks
The Seahawks’ playoff aspirations were dashed with the Rams’ recent success. Their matchup next week against the Rams is now meaningless.

Last week: 15

17. Carolina Panthers
To stay in the playoff conversation, the Panthers must secure a win against the Buccaneers and rely on other teams’ results.

Last week: 16

18. Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins have surprisingly found themselves still in the playoff hunt, though they would likely be the lowest-ranked team if they qualify.

Last week: 18

19. San Francisco 49ers
This season has been a struggle for the 49ers, who have dealt with injuries and inconsistent play. Their upcoming game against the Lions will close out a challenging season.

Last week: 20

20. Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals were eliminated from playoff contention but had the chance to play spoiler against the Rams, showcasing their competitive spirit.

Last week: 21

21. Dallas Cowboys
Despite a strong finish to the season, the Cowboys fell short against the Eagles. The future of head coach Mike McCarthy remains uncertain as the team reflects on the season.

Last week: 19

22. Indianapolis Colts
The Colts faced a disappointing elimination at the hands of the struggling Giants, raising questions about the future of the coaching staff.

Last week: 22

23. Chicago Bears
The Bears showed glimpses of improvement, but their recent performance reflects a need for a serious evaluation this offseason.

Last week: 24

24. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Buccaneers may have been derailed by their recent loss to the Ravens, raising further questions about their readiness for the playoffs.

Last week: 23

25. Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders have seen a resurgence in recent weeks, but their future remains uncertain as they approach their final game against the Chargers.

Last week: 29

26. New York Jets
The Jets are eager for the season to conclude. With ongoing drama surrounding Aaron Rodgers, the offseason promises to be tumultuous.

Last week: 25

27. Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars are likely to be searching for a new head coach after a disappointing season, with their final game against the Titans looming.

Last week: 32

28. Tennessee Titans
The Titans face the possibility of a third consecutive losing season as they prepare to take on the Texans in their final game.

Last week: 28

29. New England Patriots
Thanks to a win by the Giants, the Patriots now hold the No. 1 pick in the NFL Draft. They will look to “earn” that spot with a loss to the Bills in Week 18.

Last week: 27

30. New York Giants
After a surprising win against the Colts, the Giants have complicated their draft position but showcased potential in rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers.

Last week: 32

31. Houston Texans
The Texans have had a challenging season, and with the final week approaching, they will look to build on their experiences for future success.

Last week: 30

32. Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons head into their final game with a chance to clinch the NFC South title, emphasizing the importance of their performance against the Buccaneers.

Last week: 31

The Fox News Digital Sports NFL power rankings are compiled by the Fox News Digital Sports staff, reflecting the latest developments as the season approaches its climax.