As the NFL season nears the quarter mark, projections for the playoff field are becoming clearer. Analytics expert Stephen Oh simulated the remainder of the season, revealing potential playoff contenders and a projected Super Bowl champion.

Projected AFC Playoff Field

• Chiefs (4-0) - AFC West champion
• Jaguars (3-1) - AFC South champion
• Bills (3-1) - AFC East champion
• Ravens (3-1) - AFC North champion
• Colts (2-2)
• Broncos (2-2)
• Patriots (2-2)

The Patriots narrowly secure the final wild-card spot over the Bengals, raising questions about Zac Taylor's future. Despite strong starts, the Raiders (3-1) and Browns (3-1) are projected to miss the playoffs due to tough schedules.

Projected NFC Playoff Field

• Seahawks (3-1) - NFC West champion
• Vikings (4-0) - NFC North champion
• Eagles (2-2) - NFC East champion
• Falcons (2-2) - NFC South champion
• 49ers (4-0)
• Rams (2-2)
• Bears (3-1)

The Falcons have surged into playoff contention, while the NFC West is notably competitive, with three teams expected to make the playoffs.

Key Playoff Matchups

In the wild card round:

• Jaguars defeat Patriots 27-20
• Bills win against Broncos 25-20
• Ravens edge Colts 30-27
• Vikings narrowly beat Bears 23-21
• Rams pull off a close win over Eagles 21-20
• 49ers take down Falcons 27-23

Conference Championships

In the AFC Championship, the Chiefs triumph over the Jaguars 23-21, while the Seahawks defeat the Vikings 24-17 in the NFC Championship.

Super Bowl LXI

Projected to take place at SoFi Stadium, the Seahawks are expected to overcome the Chiefs 22-21, potentially marking the start of a dynasty in the Pacific Northwest. This projection highlights the evolving dynamics of the NFL as teams navigate the season.