Dec 12, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) runs onto the field for warmups before a match with the Baltimore Ravens at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
5 of 8
Dec 11, 2016; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Minnesota Vikings tight end Kyle Rudolph (82) celebrates scoring a touchdown with quarterback Sam Bradford (8) in the second half against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Field. The Vikings won 25-16. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports
17. Minnesota Vikings (18)
The Vikings win at Jacksonville has apparently made it worth it for Adrian Peterson to return this year. Peterson has returned to practice, and will be eligible to return in week 16.
Dec 11, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton (14) throws a pass during the first quarter against the Cleveland Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
18. Cincinnati Bengals (23)
This Bengals win streak would have been more helpful to them early in the year. The playoffs are simply out of reach at this point.
Dec 11, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers running back Jonathan Stewart (28) with the ball as San Diego Chargers cornerback Casey Hayward (26) and inside linebacker Korey Toomer (56) defend in the fourth quarter. The Panthers defeated the Chargers 28-16 at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
19. Carolina Panthers (25)
There is no doubt that the Panthers have under performed this season. This is still a talented bunch, and should have a bright future. Getting Cam Newton back to MVP level would certainly help their cause.
Dec 11, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer (3) drops back on the pocket against the Miami Dolphins during the first half at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
20. Arizona Cardinals (16)
Much like the Panthers, the 2015 runner-up in the NFC has under performed all year long as well. Unlike the Panthers, their quarterback is probably too old to get back to the level he was at a season ago.
