How Packers Can Clinch Playoff Spot in Week 17

The Green Bay Packers fell to the Chicago Bears in Week 16. It was an improbable loss as they led 16-3 late in the fourth quarter, but Chicago rallied back to win in overtime.

The Packers will now shift their focus to Week 17, where they could clinch their playoff spot. Aaron Rodgers helped out his former team as he led the Pittsburgh Steelers to a win over the Detroit Lions on Sunday.

With the Lions' loss, the Packers now just need to win one of their last two games against the Baltimore Ravens and Minnesota Vikings or have the Lions lose one of their matchups against the Vikings or Bears.

The Lions-Vikings matchup on Christmas Day looms large, as Green Bay would clinch its playoff spot with a Minnesota win. That would be highly beneficial for the Packers, as they are severely banged up.

In Week 15 against the Denver Broncos, Green Bay lost star pass rusher Micah Parsons for the season with a torn ACL. They also lost right tackle Zach Tom and safety Evan Williams to injuries that kept them out for at least one game.

The injuries only piled up more in Week 16 against the Bears, as quarterback Jordan Love went down with a concussion and backup quarterback Malik Willis suffered a shoulder injury.

That could leave the Packers in a difficult situation on Saturday if both Love and Willis are unable to play. Green Bay would likely elevate practice squad quarterback Clayton Tune and start him in that scenario.

However, their opponent may be dealing with a similar situation. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson left their Week 16 game against the New England Patriots with a back injury and did not return.

Baltimore's loss to New England dwindled their playoff chances, but they aren't mathematically eliminated, making this a pivotal game for both teams.

The Packers will need to navigate the drama of injuries and win one of their final two games, as that is an easier path to clinching a playoff berth than relying on the Lions to lose one of their final two contests.