4 Can’t Miss Matchups for the NFL's Week 16

Author:
Corby Yarbrough
Dec 17, 2014 11:26 AM EST

In this story:

Seahawks (11–3) at Cardinals (10–4)

All that's on the line for both teams is the NFC's top seed at best and the NFC West Division title at worst. Arizona secured its playoff berth in a touchdown-less win against St. Louis. It is the first postseason trip for the Cardinals since 2009, Kurt Warner's last season. And they could use Warner now as they will go into Sunday's game with third-string quarterback Ryan Lindley under center. The defending Super Bowl champion Seahawks won the first meeting 19-3, which kick started their current four-game winning streak. Arizona is 7-0 at home this season, while Seattle is 4-3 on the road.

Falcons (5–9) at Saints (6-8)

OK, this is likely one of the farthest games away from being "can't miss," but who can turn their head away when passing by the train wreck that is the NFC South? Both teams are currently drafting inside the top 12 while at the same time playing for a division title. Back in Week 1, when both teams had optimism for a great season, the Falcons won 37-34 in overtime behind a franchise-record 448 yards passing from Matt Ryan. Atlanta, 4-0 in the division, enters on a two-game losing skid. New Orleans is 3-4 at home.

Chiefs (8–6) at Steelers (9–5)

This is a Wild Card-securing game for Pittsburgh, which still has the AFC North title in its sights with two more wins. The Chiefs need the win to keep their postseason hopes alive, but a number of scenarios have them alive even if they lose out. The Steelers are 7-3 in conference play with a 5-3 home record while the Chiefs are 6-4 against AFC opponents and 3-4 on the road.

Ravens (9–5) at Texans (7–7)

Baltimore enters Week 16 as the third AFC North team holding down a spot in the "if the playoffs ended today" scenario. The Ravens currently have the final Wild Card spot, and will make the playoffs with two more wins; the division title is still within reach as well. Meanwhile, Houston is still in contention as the fourth team on the outside looking in, but will need two wins and some help.