Saturday night, as the Packers bused to their team hotel, the stakes for Sunday's contest against the New York Jets became official.
As New York Giants kicker Matt Bryant made a 39-yard field goal to defeat the Philadelphia Eagles 10-7 in overtime, the Packers gained control of their own destiny.
A Packers victory or tie Sunday would not only clinch a first-round bye, but would also secure home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.
Should the Packers lose to the Jets, home-field advantage would shift back to the Eagles, and Green Bay would need a Tampa Bay loss or tie against the Chicago Bears to earn the first-round bye.
For the Jets, their entire playoff hopes hang on Sunday's game, however they'll need some extra help from around the league (scenarios below).
Kickoff for the Packers-Jets game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., is set for 3:15 CST.
Playoff Picture -
Green Bay Packers -- Clinched NFC North title. Can clinch home-field advantage:
1) Win or tie
Green Bay clinches first-round bye:
1) Win or tie
2) Tampa Bay loss or tie
New York Jets -- Can clinch AFC East division:
1) Win AND Miami loss
N.Y. Jets clinch playoff spot:
1) Win AND Cleveland loss or tie AND Denver win
2) Win AND Cleveland loss or tie
3) Tie AND New England loss or tie AND Cleveland loss AND Denver loss or tie AND San Diego loss or tie
