Five of the eight division champions posted 12 or more victories in 2003. This also marked just the second time since 1990 that the playoff field won't include a single entry with nine or fewer wins.

The NFL got its 32nd team last year with the addition of the Houston Texans. He also noted the addition of a sixth playoff team per conference allowed the NFL to go from two to four first-round games.

With the NFL playoff picture finally in focus, one thing is clear: Being the sixth-seeded team doesn’t mean you’re deep-sixed. Just ask the Denver Broncos and Dallas Cowboys. The sixth-seeded ...

NFL Playoff Picture L.A. Times Archives Dec. 28, 2003 12 AM PT Times Wire Services ...

The playoff picture is taking shape in the NFL as the regular season comes to a close this weekend. NPR's Liane Hansen speaks with Fox Sports analyst Tim Green about the various playoff implications.