Downey's Dozen: Predicting The NFL Playoffs After 2 Weeks

Two weeks of the NFL are now complete, and we have a better idea of which teams are legitimate playoff threats. It's still too early to declare any team the Super Bowl favorite, but that doesn't mean we can't start projecting which teams will make the playoffs. This list should change a bit each week early in the season. While it will look similar to my power rankings, it won't be the exact same. This accounts for team's schedules as well as their divisions. So, here is my projection for the NFL Playoffs after two weeks.  

AFC: 

1. New England Patriots

The Patriots look like the best team in the NFL. Their division appears challenging with the Bills, Jets and Dolphins all looking like possible contenders, but the Patriots shouldn't have any issues winning the AFC East. 

2. Cincinnati Bengals 

The AFC North is tough, but the Bengals have looked great so far. As long as bad Andy Dalton doesn't show up for an extended period of time, the Bengals will be set for another playoff run. 

3. Indianapolis Colts 

The Colts are 0-2, but it's not like the Titans, Texans or Jaguars are better teams right now. The Colts should win the division and get a No. 3 or No. 4 seed. 

4. Denver Broncos 

Denver's defense is worth of a No. 1 seed, but the offense looks like a non-playoff contender's. Still, the Broncos should make the playoffs, even if they don't win the AFC West. 

5. Pittsburgh Steelers 

The Steelers have a real shot to win the division. If they don't, they should end up with the top wild card spot. 

6. Kansas City Chiefs

The six seed in the AFC is going to be hotly contested. The Chiefs, Bills, Dolphins, Jets, Chargers and Ravens could all make a push. The Chiefs get the nod for now. They could win the AFC West this season. 

NFC: 

1. Green Bay Packers

Despite their injury issues, the Packers look the best team in the NFC. 

2. Arizona Cardinals 

The Cardinals picked up where they left off last season before Carson Palmer was injured. As long as he stays healthy, Arizona will be one of the best teams in the NFC. 

3. Atlanta Falcons 

The NFC South is quickly shaping up to be a two-team division between the Falcons and the Panthers. The Falcons have Julio Jones and actual weapons for Matt Ryan and that's what gives them the edge. 

4. Dallas Cowboys 

Were it not for Tony Romo's injury, the Cowboys would be a no-brainer. Instead, the NFC East could come down to wire again. However, the Cowboys should be able to weather the storm until Romo and Dez Bryant return. 

5. Seattle Seahawks 

The Seahawks may be 0-2, but they'll still be a playoff team. The NFC West will be decided by the two games between Arizona and Seattle. I wouldn't be surprised if the NFC's No. 5 seed had a better ranking than both the No. 3 and 4 seeds. 

6. Minnesota Vikings

This is the pick I'm least confident in. Don't be surprised if it changes often this season. For now, allow me to continue my love affair with Teddy Bridgewater. 

Disagree with what I have and want to call me an idiot? Or agree with me and want to publicly sing my praises? Hit me up on Twitter.

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