Last night's game was important for the Patriots because it began a five-game stretch that will decide their playoff fate.

Hrudey was dispassionate when it came to the team's undignified playoff fate.

The Jets (8-5) still have their playoff fate in their hands if they win their final three games.

New York won a thriller, 103-101, controlling its playoff fate with a resilient victory that came down to the last second.

This time, they are playing well when it matters most, and their playoff fate is all but secured.

Esiason recalled two times in which the Bengals' playoff fate went down to the wire.

Montreal (42-33-6) is also fighting for its playoff fate, holding eighth place with one game remaining, at Toronto tomorrow.

The Giants, who play Dallas on Sunday, control their playoff fate.

Now the Buccaneers' playoff fate is out of their hands.

This time, their playoff fate is not in question.