We used the ESPN Football Power Index's most likely simulation to project Weeks 16, 17 and 18 -- and how the NFL playoff field could stack up.

The rise of once-lowly teams and the regression of established powers have combined to turn the playoff picture upside down.

Winning the possession battle goes a long way towards winning football games, especially in the playoffs. That's what the Bills are banking on.

The Bears have seen midseason breakouts from their top two draft picks — tight end Colston Loveland, limited to 116 yards and no touchdowns in the first six games, now has 382 yards and four scores in the last eight games. Wide receiver Luther Burden III has 328 receiving yards in the last six, although he'll miss Saturday's game.

This article was originally published on www.fansided.com as NFL standings ordered by defensive scoring rate: Jacksonville is very real.

It's a big three weeks for the guys who get paid for how well they play. These are the incentives still on the line.