It's tough to get a handle on the playoff picture after the Titans and Giants both rose from slumps and beat hot teams last week, and when the Colts and Chargers -- who appeared to be on the verge of collapse early in the season -- are arguably the AFC's most dangerous first-round playoff opponents.
With three playoff spots up for grabs in the AFC and two in the NFC it should be an interesting weekend.
On to this week's rankings...
1. Indianapolis (11-4): I see the Colts winning their playoff opener, upsetting the Titans and returning to Pittsburgh for the AFC title game. (Last week: 2)
2. N.Y. Giants (12-3): Just like last season, the Giants are turning it on for the playoffs. (Last week: 5)
3. Tennessee (13-2): Big win over the Steelers, but I'm not convinced they are good enough to win the AFC. (Last week : 4)
4. Pittsburgh (11-4): They were due for a letdown after so many close games. (Last week: 1)
5. Carolina (11-4): Forget their Super Bowl hopes if they have to go through the Meadowlands. (Last week: 3)
6. Baltimore (10-5): A big, big win in Dallas puts them right on the cusp of a playoff spot. (Last week: 7)
7. Miami (10-5): Whether or not they make the postseason Tony Sparano should be coach of the year. (Last week: 8)
8. Atlanta (10-5): Falcons should beat the Rams, which would give them 11 wins. Amazing. (Last week: 10)
9. New England (10-5): Matt Cassell has played his way into a nice contract this season. (Last week: NR)
10. San Diego (7-8): Next to Indy, this is the AFC's most impressive team going into Week 17. (Last week: NR)
Dropped out: Dallas (9), Minnesota (10).
-- John Dudley