Week 17 NFL Predictions: Who makes the playoffs?

Dec 21, 2014; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers running back Jonathan Stewart (28) celebrates with quarterback Cam Newton (1) after scoring a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Browns at Bank of America Stadium. The Panthers won 17-13. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

Cleveland Browns @ Baltimore Ravens: 

The Ravens know they need to win and they need the Chiefs to beat the Chargers in order for them to get the six seed. They are quite fortunate that Brian Hoyer is missing this game, so they get to face Connor Shaw in his NFL debut. If they play like they did last week, then they still might lose this game, because that was truly terrible. I think they will play better and get the win.

Winner: Baltimore Ravens 

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Houston Texans:

The Texans have a very slim chance of making the Playoffs, but they definitely do believe in that chance, and will take care of buisness against the Jaguars. I personally hope that the Chargers and the Ravens lose, so that we get to see J.J. Watt in the playoffs, because J.J. Watt by himself is more entertaining than the Ravens and the Chargers. Jacksonville is coming of a win against Tennessee, but Houston is a lot better than the Titans, and the Texans will get the victory.

Winner: Houston Texans

Carolina Panthers @ Atlanta Falcons: 

The playoffs started early for these two teams. Three weeks ago nobody would have thought that the Panthers would even have a chance to make the playoffs, but they have won three straight and now are in a good place to make the playoffs. For the Falcons, Julio Jones looks like he will be healthy and could have a major impact against the Panthers. The Falcons have won every single division game this season, and they only need one more, but Cam Newton is playing a lot better than he has this entire season. I think the Panthers are playing better defense than they were earlier in the season, and Steven Jackson missing this game will hurt the Falcons. I think Cam Newton will have another good game and the Panthers will go on to win this game and the division.

Winner: Carolina Panthers 

Next: Will the Lions finally win at Lambeau?