The Buffalo Bills got great news about their chances of making the playoffs on Monday night after the Indianapolis Colts' loss.

4. Carolina Panthers (8-7), NFC South leaders: Their defeat of the Bucs on Sunday moved them into first place. They can win the division next week with a win and Tampa Bay loss. A Week 18 defeat of the Buccaneers would also do the job regardless of circumstances. Remaining schedule: vs. Seahawks, at Buccaneers

The Colts’ Monday night loss to the 49ers is the Bills’ gain. And the Jaguars’. And the Chargers’. All three teams have officially clinched playoff berths, as a result of the 49ers beating Indianapolis, 48-27.

1. San Francisco 49ers (11-4, ▲1 ): Brock Purdy is clicking at the right time. Game of the season coming up on Sunday night against the Bears. 2. Buffalo Bills (11-4, ▲2 ): Dominant win as expected over the Browns.

How did we get to the NFL Christmas Day slate and just two weeks remaining in the regular season already? This year has completely flown by as we go into Week 1

With the playoffs rapidly approaching, the Patriots have added another potential offensive weapon to their practice squad.