Author: Nate Davis, USA TODAY

What seemed like a straightforward final Sunday to the NFL regular season turned out to be anything but, as the playoff chase was thrown for a loop.

The Raiders kicked a last-minute field goal to wrap up a win that sealed a berth for themselves as well as the Steelers, who were nearly eliminated.

Bengals’ defeat of Chiefs among outcomes altering penultimate power poll.

All but a handful of playoff berths have been accounted for entering the final week of the regular season, and seeding is starting to take shape.

Bengals, Colts among teams on the rise as both improve postseason prospects with major Week 16 victories. However first 4 clubs remain unchanged.

With three weeks to go in the NFL regular season, the games become increasingly important – especially when divisional rivals face off.