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2013 NFL Playoff picture: New England Patriots would earn 3rd seed if season ended today

The Patriots suffered a disappointing loss Sunday, however, the result didn't have a huge impact on the team's playoff position.

By Jared Smith
Jim Rogash

If the season ended today the New England Patriots would earn the No. 3 seed in the AFC and host the No. 6 Cincinnati Bengals in the Wild Card round, according to NFL.com's playoff picture update.

The Patriots (10-4) have already clinched the AFC East title and at least one postseason game at Gillette Stadium, but still have a shot at earn a first-round bye if things fall their way.

Currently, the Houston Texans (12-2) and Denver Broncos (11-3) are the AFC's No. 1 and 2 seeds, respectively.

But if the Patriots end up in a tie with the Broncos, New England would earn the No. 2 spot over them because of the head-to-head tiebreaker -- the Patriots defeated the Broncos, 31-21, in Week 5.

The second Wild Card game would feature the Indianapolis Colts (9-5) visiting the Baltimore Ravens (9-5).

Still in the hunt for an AFC playoff berth is the Pittsburgh Steelers (7-7) and the Miami Dolphins (6-8).