Niner Noise
FanSided

NFL power rankings: Playoff picture taking shape heading into Week 17

By Peter Panacy

NEW ORLEANS, LA - DECEMBER 24: The Atlanta Falcons play the New Orleans Saints at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on December 24, 2017 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)
NEW ORLEANS, LA - DECEMBER 24: The Atlanta Falcons play the New Orleans Saints at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on December 24, 2017 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) /
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EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – DECEMBER 24: Antonio Gates #85 of the Los Angeles Chargers celebrates after scoring a first half touchdown reception against the New York Jets in an NFL game at MetLife Stadium on December 24, 2017 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Ed Mulholland/Getty Images)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – DECEMBER 24: Antonio Gates #85 of the Los Angeles Chargers celebrates after scoring a first half touchdown reception against the New York Jets in an NFL game at MetLife Stadium on December 24, 2017 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Ed Mulholland/Getty Images) /

13. . W, 14-7 at Jets. Previous: . Los Angeles Chargers. 13. team

The Chargers absolutely needed a win over the Jets in Week 16 to keep their scant playoff hopes alive, and that’s exactly what they did.

It wasn’t exactly pretty, and quarterback Philip Rivers wasn’t on top of his game. But tight end Antonio Gates was, and he had one of the two Los Angeles touchdowns the team needed to come away with the 14-7 victory.

L.A. also enjoyed three New York turnovers, which also played a vital role.

The Chargers may not be playing as hot as they were just a few short weeks ago. But at least they’re still in the hunt and have a remote chance to play into January.