How Patriots Can Clinch Top Seed In AFC

The New England Patriots have already secured a playoff spot and a home game in the postseason. However, they could claim the top seed in the AFC by the end of Week 18.

There are essentially only two games that matter for the Patriots to clinch the No. 1 seed in the AFC. First, the Patriots have to win their game against the Miami Dolphins. Second, the Denver Broncos need to lose to the Los Angeles Chargers.

Both games kick off at 4:25 p.m. ET. However, the Chargers are not starting Justin Herbert and potentially other key players who need the rest. The Chargers are locking into a wild-card spot, so they do not see a reason to put their starters at risk. Meanwhile, the Broncos will likely play their starters, knowing that they can lock up home-field advantage through the AFC playoffs with a win.

The Patriots cannot drop past the No. 3 seed this week. If the Patriots and Broncos both win, the Patriots will be the No. 2 seed. However, if the Patriots lose and the Jacksonville Jaguars beat the Tennessee Titans, the Patriots will be the No. 3 seed.

Assuming the Patriots win and the Chargers lose, which is the most likely outcome, the Patriots could play the Chargers in the first round of the playoffs.

Currently, the Chargers, Houston Texans and Buffalo Bills are all 11-5. The Bills and Texans play the New York Jets and Indianapolis Colts, respectively. The Texans and Bills are favored to win. Meanwhile, the Chargers are underdogs against the Broncos.

Should the favorites in relevant games win, the Patriots would host the Chargers to start their playoff run. If the Patriots win that game, they would face the lowest remaining seed after the first round.

Regardless, New England will be focused on winning in Week 18. All they can control is how they play against the Miami Dolphins.