2023 NFL Playoffs: Predicting The Fringe Teams That Will Make It

David

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Post on May 16, 2025

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2023 NFL Playoffs: Predicting the Fringe Teams That Will Make a Surprise Run

The NFL regular season is a rollercoaster, a brutal gauntlet that separates the contenders from the pretenders. But as we approach the final stretch, the playoff picture remains surprisingly murky. While some teams have secured their spots, several are battling fiercely for those coveted wildcard positions. This year, the "fringe" teams – those hovering just outside the playoff bubble – possess the potential for a dramatic upset and a deep playoff run. Let's dive into which teams could surprise us all and make a memorable 2023 NFL postseason appearance.

The Contenders on the Edge:

Several teams are currently on the cusp of playoff contention, possessing the talent and momentum to make a late-season push. Their success will depend on navigating crucial upcoming games and avoiding critical injuries.

1. The New York Jets: The Jets, spearheaded by Aaron Rodgers, have shown flashes of brilliance but have also suffered from inconsistency. Their success hinges on the continued development of their young receiving corps and a strong defensive performance. If Rodgers can rediscover his playoff magic and the defense holds strong, the Jets could be a dangerous wildcard team. Their remaining schedule presents a mix of tough and winnable games – crucial for securing that final playoff spot.

2. The Green Bay Packers: Don't count out the Packers just yet. While their season hasn't gone exactly as planned, Jordan Love's growth at quarterback is undeniable. A strong running game and a resilient defense could propel them into the playoff conversation. Their late-season schedule will be key, requiring strong performances to climb the standings.

3. The Miami Dolphins: The Dolphins boast a high-powered offense led by Tua Tagovailoa, but injuries have plagued their season. If Tagovailoa can stay healthy and the defense finds its rhythm, Miami’s potent offense could easily carry them into the postseason. Their success, however, relies heavily on their ability to overcome injuries and maintain consistency.

Factors Determining Playoff Success:

Beyond individual team performance, several factors will determine which fringe teams make the cut:

• Health: The NFL is a brutal sport. Injuries to key players can derail even the most promising seasons. Teams with depth and a robust injury management strategy will have a significant advantage.
• Momentum: Building positive momentum in the final weeks of the season is crucial. Winning games creates confidence and builds team cohesion, essential for playoff success.
• Schedule Strength: The remaining games on a team's schedule play a massive role. Facing easier opponents provides a chance to rack up wins and secure a playoff berth.

Predicting the Unexpected:

Predicting the NFL playoffs is notoriously difficult. However, based on current performance, team dynamics, and remaining schedules, the Jets and Dolphins appear to have the best chances of making a surprise playoff run. The Packers remain a wildcard, their potential dependent on Love's continued growth and the team’s overall consistency.

Conclusion:

The 2023 NFL playoffs promise to be thrilling, with several teams vying for those final wildcard spots. The battle for playoff positioning will be fierce, filled with high-stakes matchups and unexpected outcomes. While predicting the future is impossible, the Jets, Dolphins, and Packers all possess the potential to shock the league and make a deep playoff run. Stay tuned for an exciting finish to the regular season!

Call to Action: Who do you think will make the biggest surprise playoff run? Share your predictions in the comments below!