Playoff outlook: Packers still alive, but need lots of help

Michael Cohen
Packers News
Green Bay Packers wide receiver Jordy Nelson (87) and Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) talk in the end zone before the start of the first quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium.

Here is how the NFC playoff race stands, with the Green Bay Packers still barely alive for the second wild-card berth. Green Bay will be eliminated if Atlanta wins Monday night at Tampa Bay:

1. Eagles (10-2)

2. Vikings (11-3)

3. Saints (10-4)

4. Rams (10-4)

5. Panthers (10-4)

6. Falcons (8-5)

7. Lions (8-6)

8. Seahawks (8-6)

9. Cowboys  (8-6)

10. Packers (7-7)

In order for the Packers to make the playoffs, the following scenarios must occur:

» Packers must win their remaining games (Minnesota, at Detroit).

» Falcons must lose their final three games (at Tampa Bay, at New Orleans, Carolina).

» Seahawks must lose one of their remaining games (at Dallas, Arizona).

» Cowboys must lose one of their remaining games (Seattle, at Philadelphia).

If the Packers and Lions both finish 9-7, the Packers hold an edge based on the NFL's tiebreaking procedures.