AFC playoff picture: How Colts’ loss to Bucs impacts standings

A look at the AFC playoff picture.

The Indianapolis Colts (6-7) suffered their fifth loss in the last six games when they fell 38-35 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-7) on Sunday at Raymond James Stadium.

The Big Picture

Though the Colts entered this matchup with already-slim chances of making the playoffs, this loss likely buries any realistic chance of getting in. There are still ways it could happen, especially after the Texans lost to the Broncos.

But the Colts are now the No. 10 seed in the AFC playoff race and are two games behind the final wild-card spot with three games to go. It’s a tough road, especially with the New Orleans Saints on deck for the Colts in Week 15.

This Week’s Talking Point

With the Colts likely missing out on the postseason, there will be discussions about the offseason and where the organization must go from here. We will discuss the upcoming game with the Saints, but the focus of the offseason must become more prevalent with three games remaining.

The Colts have many decisions to make this offseason. Whether it is in regards to potential extensions, the future of the quarterback position and whether they need to actually spend in free agency. This offseason will be crucial to instilling the confidence back in the fan base.

We’ll Also Discuss

What the Colts need to do against the Saints to stay competitive in a game in which they are likely big underdogs. Though winning will hurt the draft stock, the Colts aren’t going to simply lay down. We will discuss the game plan for the Monday night matchup and where they go from there.

AFC playoff picture

1. Baltimore Ravens (11-2)
2. New England Patriots (10-3)
3. Kansas City Chiefs (9-4)
4. Houston Texans (8-5)
5. Buffalo Bills (9-4)
6. Pittsburgh Steelers (8-5)
In the hunt
7. Tennessee Titans (8-5)
8. Cleveland Browns (6-7)
9. Oakland Raiders (6-7)
10. Indianapolis Colts (6-7)