Well, we did it again, the SBN football contingency has been having a little debate, discussion, or whatever you want to call it, about the status of the playoffs, now just about four weeks away. I must admit to surprise at the civility.

Anyway, the reason we're posting these notes from SBN's own version of the square table - oh, if only we could get Burt Reynolds - is to bring the discussion to the people that really matter, the members of the SBN community. I'll kick it off by presenting an initial round of opinions from the SBN bloggers in the interest of getting a good discussion going. Also, we'll leave this post somewhat open-ended so that the discussion can continue; be sure to check back for updates.

So, with all the anticipation of a Vikings player cruise, let's jump right in!

If you look at the standings, one thing you'll notice is the relatively secure position of the division leaders across the AFC and the mighty NFC as well. Kirkendall from Cincy Jungle points out:

I didn't happen to see one opinion that differed from that, and barring collapse, things should shake out that way. But in case there was a collapse - perhaps from a key injury - who could it be? If Drew Brees got hurt, I'd have to think that the Saints would be sunk, and it might allow Atlanta, providing they ever got their, um, stuff, together. Cincinnati's hot right now, and Baltimore gets my pick for the most likely to falter down the stretch...granted it's a miniscule chance.

The Wild Card spots are where things get interesting. In the AFC, the Jets are getting votes for a Wild Card spot. Note, that's not a misprint, the Jets. I should note that nobody foresaw the Wild Card team doing much with the opportunity. Dave from the Falcoholic explains the fate of two AFC WCs:

River City Rage from SBN's Jaguars site, Big Cat Country, lets a little cynicism shine through, based on the Jags erratic results this season.

Jimmy from Music City Miracles, SBN's Titans site, has the Jets and the Donkeys (Broncos) as the AFC WCs. Rookie QB be damned!

Gonzo from the Daily Norsemen likes the Chiefs and the Jets.

In the NFC, the Wild Card doesn't draw quite as much consensus. Anyone out there still like the Rams for one of those spots? Yeah, it's a tough position to maintain.

The Eagles do seem to get the most votes though.

Here's how the Falcoholic see it:

Another SBNer has the Eagles and the Giants, yep, the Giants.

Redskins blogger Will from Hogs Heaven, portends an NFC Wild Card battle partly based on his own team's shortcomings...oh ye of little faith!

The Falcons get another vote from Cincy Jungle's editor, too.

In terms of the championship...let's save that until tomorrow. Jump in below.