NFL basics: What does in the hunt mean in football?

The NFL is entering Week 18 and twelve teams have already clinched their playoff seats. One spot each in both the conferences remains vacant and seven teams are on the hunt to make it to the playoffs.

Many could be wondering what 'in the hunt' means in the NFL. Usually, there are certain teams that qualify for the playoffs and certain teams that get eliminated way before the regular season ends. Some teams are also hunting for the right combinations so they can make it to the few spots left for the postseason. Such teams usually fall under the tag 'in the hunt'.

Teams hunting for a playoff spot have a decent win/lose record, but have slight chances of making it to the postseason. Such teams have good players, but either they struggle throughout the season due to injuries or they just aren't ready to take a big leap.

Overall, these teams have the caliber to perform in the playoffs, and are usually placed second or third in their divisions. Their chances of entering the playoffs do not depend solely on their winnings, but they can benefit from other teams' losses, too.

Currently, 13 teams have been eliminated, and 12 teams have clinched a playoff spot after week 16. Seven NFL teams remain in the hunt for a playoff berth.

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Which AFC and NFC teams are in the hunt for the NFL playoffs?

In the AFC, there are four teams that can clinch an NFL playoff berth if luck falls in their favor. They are:

#1 New England Patriots (AFC East)

The Patriots have a clear picture and can clinch the AFC’s third Wild Card spot in Week 18 if they win against the Buffalo Bills.

#2 Miami Dolphins (AFC East)

The Dolphins from the same division can clinch the AFC’s third Wild Card spot in Week 18 if they win their next game and the Patriots lose against the Bills.

#3 Pittsburgh Steelers (AFC North)

The Steelers also have a chance for the AFC's third wild-card spot in Week 18. Their playoff berth can be confirmed if they win their next game against the Browns and the Patriots and Dolphins both lose their next game.

#4 Tennessee Titans (AFC South)

The Jacksonville Jaguars are leading the AFC South. However, if the Titans defeat the Jaguars in their next game, then they will be the AFC South winners. If that happens, the Jaguars will still be able to make it to the playoffs if the Patriots, Steelers, and Dolphins also lose.

In the NFC, three teams can clinch an NFL playoff berth if luck falls in their favor. They are:

#1 Seattle Seahawks (NFC West)

The Seahawks have a fair chance of making it to the NFC’s third Wild Card spot in Week 18 if they win against the Los Angeles Rams and the Packers lose their game.