http://espn.go.com/blog/boston/new-england-patriotsPats now have inside track to top seed
By virtue of San Diego's win over Denver on Thursday night, the New England Patriots now control their destiny for the top seed in the AFC, which would result in home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.
The loss pushes Denver to 11-3, a half game better than New England; however, because the Patriots own the head-to-head tiebreaker, if the Patriots win out, they would own the best record in the conference.
The Patriots have three games remaining, including two on the road. If they defeat Miami, Baltimore and Buffalo, they'll earn the top seed in the conference for the third time in four seasons.
Below is an updated look at the AFC playoff standings:
Division leaders
1. Denver: 11-3 (clinched playoff berth)
2. New England: 10-3
3. Cincinnati: 9-4
4. Indianapolis: 8-5 (clinched AFC South)
Wild-card leaders
5. Kansas City: 10-3
6. Baltimore: 7-6
In the mix
7. Miami: 7-6
8. San Diego: 7-7
9. New York Jets 6-7