Top 8 after 8 games qualify directly for the round of 16, 9 - 24 play off for the remaining 8 places in the knock out round.I doubt I could go to the away game, so I'm hoping for the easiest tie (sorry, travelling blues).
As a side note, I was initially very sceptical about the new format for next year's Champions League group stage; however, now I'm quite excited about it. The last few games are tedious when nothing is on the line! Adding a playoff round before the Ro16 keeps the two legged ties condensed which adds to the occasion too IMO.
The losers of the playoffs and teams finishing 25 - 36 do a Raggie and drop out of Europe completely, no Europa safety net.