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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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BALTIMORE, MD – DECEMBER 23: Tight End Jack Doyle #84 of the Indianapolis Colts is tackled after a catch by inside linebacker C.J. Mosley #57 of the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth quarter at M&T Bank Stadium on December 23, 2017 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
BALTIMORE, MD – DECEMBER 23: Tight End Jack Doyle #84 of the Indianapolis Colts is tackled after a catch by inside linebacker C.J. Mosley #57 of the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth quarter at M&T Bank Stadium on December 23, 2017 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /

W, 23-16 vs. Colts. Previous: . Baltimore Ravens. 12. team. 26.

It wasn’t overly impressive, but give some credit to the Ravens for keeping their playoff hold alive by knocking off the Colts on Saturday.

Baltimore is still clinging to the No. 5 seed in the AFC, and it’s going to take a lot of things to happen for quarterback Joe Flacco and Co. to see their spot give way.

Flacco was solid, albeit against a poor Indianapolis defense, going 29-of-38 for 237 yards and two touchdowns. And it was nice to see the veteran, wide receiver Mike Wallace, make some key grabs in the contest.

But Baltimore is going to continue its playoff push based solely off its defense. This unit managed to hold the Colts to just 17 first downs, which was critical.

If that defense can maintain poise, the Ravens could upset a team or two if they manage to get in.

No change in NFL power rankings this week, though.