NFC Playoff Picture: Rams Still No. 1, Bears Surge, Could Seeding Flip?

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By: Michael Brown

NFC playoff picture is shifting fast as the Rams remain No. 1 in the conference. The Bears are surging and threatening seeding ahead of crucial late-November games. This preview breaks down scenarios, injuries, and schedule swings to watch now.

🔥 Quick Facts

  • Rams hold the top spot in the NFC as of November 26, 2025
  • Bears have climbed multiple places in the standings this month
  • NFL.com and ESPN highlight seeding volatility ahead of key divisional games
  • Seeding scenarios will hinge on divisional records and late-season matchups

NFC playoff picture: Why the Rams still sit atop

The NFC playoff picture favors the Rams thanks to consistent play and depth. Los Angeles shows stability on offense and defense as rivals manage injuries.

Coaches value the Rams roster balance and veteran leadership. Special teams and turnover margin often decide NFC races late in the season.

Expect the Rams to prioritize divisional road games and protect seeding with conservative game plans. Watch their upcoming schedule for key matchups.

Bears surge: what changed and who to watch

The Bears surge reflects improved defensive play and timely offensive drives. Chicago’s adjustments on third down have flipped close games in their favor.

Key areas to monitor are red-zone efficiency and quarterback protection. If the Bears sustain this form, seeding math will become more complex.

Injury reports and midweek adjustments will shape whether the Bears can keep pressuring the top seed. Depth at skill positions matters most now.

What to watch this week

Focus on divisional matchups, turnover differential, and upcoming schedules. Those elements often decide final seeding in the NFC.

Rank Team W-L
1 Los Angeles Rams TBA
2 San Francisco 49ers TBA
3 Dallas Cowboys TBA
4 Chicago Bears TBA

Records are listed as TBA where up-to-the-minute figures are not included. Check official standings for live win-loss totals before betting or bracket moves.

Also watch strength of remaining schedule and upcoming divisional clashes. Those games provide outsized influence on final seeding.

Tiebreakers, scenarios and the schedule impact

Tiebreakers will likely decide close positions if teams finish even. The usual order includes head-to-head, division record, then conference record.

Teams must win key divisional games to simplify seeding. Injuries and late-season form can swing tiebreaker outcomes quickly.

Pay attention to upcoming cross-conference matchups and bye weeks. Those calendar details affect rest, preparation, and seeding odds.

Can the Bears overtake the Rams by season’s end?

The scenario is clear: sustained wins plus favorable tiebreakers could put the Bears within reach of the top seed. Chicago needs to control divisional matchups.

For the Rams, avoiding back-to-back losses and managing injuries is crucial. If Los Angeles stumbles, the NFC playoff picture tightens dramatically.

Ultimately, watch late-November and December schedules closely. Those weeks often determine playoff seeding and home-field advantages.

According to NFL.com, analysts note that divisional records and health will decide the race.

Sources

  • NFL.com – Official league standings and analysis
  • ESPN – Game reports and injury updates
  • The Athletic – Team depth and matchup breakdowns

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