NFL playoff picture: How the Jacksonville Jaguars can clinch the AFC South title in Week 17

The Jacksonville Jaguars clinched a playoff berth this past week, but can clinch something more important in Week 17. They are in control of their fate in the AFC South and clinch the division title as soon as this week. They need a win and some help from their Houston division-mates.

The Jaguars face the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday and are 5.5-point favorites. Jacksonville will be without right guard Patrick Mekari due to a back injury, while center Robert Hainsey is questionable with a groin injury. The Colts will be without center Tanor Bortolini (concussion) and defensive tackle DeForest Buckner (back). Their list of questionable players includes cornerback Sauce Gardner (calf) and right guard Dalton Tucker (shoulder).

If the Jaguars clinch the AFC South, it would be their first playoff appearance and division title since 2022. That year, they beat the Chargers in the Wild Card round and then lost to the Chiefs in the Divisional Round. They have won their division four times prior to this sesason.

Jacksonville Jaguars division clinching scenarios

The Jaguars can clinch the AFC South with a win and a Texans loss or tie against the Chargers on Saturday. Houston is traveling to LA for the game and is a 1.5-point underdog.

AFC standings entering Week 17

AFC South

1. Jacksonville Jaguars: 11-4 (clinched playoff berth)
2. Houston Texans: 10-5
3. Indianapolis Colts: 8-7
4. Tennessee Titans: 3-12

Overall AFC

1. Denver Broncos: 13-3 (clinched playoff berth)
2. New England Patriots: 12-3 (clinched playoff berth)
3. Jacksonville Jaguars: 11-4 (clinched playoff berth)
4. Pittsburgh Steelers: 9-6
5. Los Angeles Chargers: 11-4 (clinched playoff berth)
6. Buffalo Bills: 11-4 (clinched playoff berth)
7. Houston Texans: 10-5
8. Indianapolis Colts: 8-7
9. Baltimore Ravens: 7-8