Here’s why it’s easy to love the NFL. Of the 16 games this weekend, only two are between teams that have been eliminated from playoff contention — Minnesota at Washington and Tampa Bay at Carolina. Which of the other 14 games have the highest stakes? Giants at Jets » This is not an elimination game for the Jets (8-6), but with a loss they could lose control of their destiny in pursuit of the final AFC wild-card berth. The Giants (7-7) will be eliminated this week if they lose and the Cowboys win.
Chargers at Lions » With a win, Detroit (9-5) would clinch its first postseason berth since 1999. This is an elimination game for disappointing San Diego (7-7), which must win out to stay in contention in the AFC West or for a wild-card berth.
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Eagles at Cowboys » Philadelphia (6-8) can win the NFC East by beating the Cowboys and Redskins and if the Jets beat the Giants in Week 16 and the Giants beat the Cowboys in Week 17. The Cowboys can clinch this week with a win and a Giants loss.
– Kevin Dunleavy
