Only two games remain until the playoffs begin, and it’s do or die for two AFC West teams. The Broncos have already clinched the division, but the Chargers and Chiefs are both looking to reach the playoffs for the second year in a row, but will have to defeat some good teams to keep hopes alive.
Here’s a look at how the AFC West teams matchup in Week 16.
San Diego Chargers at San Francisco 49ers, Saturday 8:25p.m. EST
The Chargers no longer control their own destiny, but can still make the playoffs this season. The bolts will have to win out and go 10-6 while the Baltimore Ravens lose one of their final two games, or the Pittsburgh Steelers lose both of their final two games, or the Cincinnati Bengals lose their final two games. The most viable way for the Chargers to reach the postseason is to win out with one of these three scenarios.
Last week, the Chargers lost to the Denver Broncos 22-10 and fell to 8-6 on the year. They have now lost two in a row and will face a tough opponent in the Niners this weekend. The Chargers are in desperate need of a bounce back week after two tough games. At the beginning of the season, the Chargers seemed to be a shoo in for the playoffs, but have since struggled and seen their playoff hopes dwindle. In order for the Chargers to have a decent shot at playing in January, they need to win this game.
The Niners have been eliminated from playoff contention with their loss to the Seahawks last week, but will look to play spoiler at home Saturday night. Drama has surrounded this Niners team all season long, and the Chargers will look to take advantage of that.
Philip Rivers and the Chargers offense need to get a rhythm going early, and the defense should be able to hold off this Niners offense that has been struggling and suffering on the injury front.
Final Prediction
Chargers 20 Niners 14
Kansas City Chiefs at Pittsburgh Steelers, Sunday 1:05p.m. EST
KC now controls their playoff destiny. After last Sunday’s 31-13 win over the Oakland Raiders, the Chiefs just have to win their final two games and they are in the playoffs. Alex Smith and company absolutely dominated the Raiders in their Week 15 matchup, but will face a tough opponent in the Steelers.
When it comes to this matchup, playoff implications are on the line as both teams are looking to play in the postseason. The Steelers have won two in a row after their 27-20 victory over the Atlanta Falcons last week. They are 9-5 on the year and a half game out of first in the AFC North.
Before last week’s win, the Chiefs had lost three in a row and were in a must win situation; now they know exactly what they need to do to make the playoffs. They executed on offense and established the run against the Raiders. This week, they travel to Pittsburgh to take on good Steelers team with a powerful offense.
Final Prediction
Chiefs 24 Steelers 21
Buffalo Bills at Oakland Raiders, Sunday 4:25p.m. EST
This is a big game for the Bills, the Raiders, not so much. Like many AFC teams, the Bills are looking to make the playoffs, but will need some help doing so. The Raiders are 2-12 and coming off a loss in which they were dominated. The silver and black have had two big wins this season, both home games, and will look to play spoiler this weekend.
The Bills defense is powerful and gets after the quarterback. Last week, the Raiders offensive line crumbled against the Chiefs pass rush, and Derek Carr paid the price; it could be another long day for the rookie QB.
Buffalo’s offense isn’t too flashy, but the Raiders defense struggled greatly last week. To make matters worse, Sio Moore’s season is over as he was placed on the injured reserve.
The Bills will look to keep their playoff hopes alive, while the Raiders seek their third win of the season and an opportunity to ruin the Bills playoff aspirations.
Final Prediction
Bills 26 Raiders 20
Denver Broncos at Cincinnati Bengals, Monday 8:30p.m. EST
The Broncos clinched the West with their 22-10 victory over the Chargers last week. Peyton Manning was taken out of the game for a bit after not feeling well, but returned and was able to lead the Broncos to victory. While the Broncos have already secured their playoff spot, the Bengals are looking for one of their own.
Denver has won the division, but will attempt to be the number one seed in the AFC and get the bye in the playoffs.
The Broncos recently placed Montee Ball on the IR after a season filled with injury. Despite this loss in the run game, this Denver offense has been able to move downfield just fine with Manning paving the way.
This will be an interesting Monday night game as the Broncos look to continue their dominance and the Bengals seek a playoff spot.
Final Prediction
Broncos 31 Bengals 24