2023 NFL Playoffs: Predicting Which Bubble Teams Will Make The Postseason Cut

David

3 min read

Post on May 08, 2025

4.6

Share

2023 NFL Playoffs: Predicting Which Bubble Teams Will Make the Postseason Cut

The NFL regular season is a grueling marathon, but the finish line is in sight. For several teams, however, the final weeks will feel more like a sprint – a desperate dash for a coveted playoff spot. This year's crop of "bubble teams" is particularly intriguing, with several squads possessing both the talent and the potential to snatch a postseason berth. But who will ultimately make the cut? Let's dive into the predictions.

The Contenders: A Closer Look at the Bubble Teams

Several teams currently sit precariously on the edge of the playoff picture, their fate hanging in the balance. These teams face a crucial final stretch, requiring flawless execution and a little bit of luck. Here are some of the key contenders:

• The New York Jets: A strong start, punctuated by a dominant defense, has given way to inconsistency. Their success hinges on the health of Zach Wilson and the ability of their offense to consistently deliver. A late-season surge is entirely within their capabilities, but a playoff spot requires them to win out or nearly win out.

• The Green Bay Packers: Aaron Rodgers' struggles and a lackluster offense have made this season a rollercoaster. Their chances rest heavily on Rodgers finding his form and the defense stepping up to shut down opposing offenses. A difficult remaining schedule makes their playoff chances slim but not impossible.

• The Detroit Lions: A surprising and exciting team, the Lions have captivated fans with their high-octane offense. Their playoff hopes remain alive, though they are likely to need significant help from other teams. They'll need to prove their consistency down the stretch and secure crucial wins against strong opponents.

• The Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons' impressive run is a testament to their determination and the leadership of their coaching staff. While they face a challenging road ahead, their chances of sneaking into the playoffs depend heavily on them maintaining their momentum and capitalizing on weaker opponents.

Factors Determining Playoff Berths: Beyond Wins and Losses

While wins are obviously paramount, other factors will play a crucial role in determining which bubble teams make the cut:

• Head-to-Head Results: Direct matchups between competing teams will be significant tiebreakers. Wins against divisional rivals and other playoff contenders will carry extra weight.

• Strength of Schedule: The NFL's complex playoff system considers the strength of the opponents a team has faced. A bubble team with a tough schedule might be favored over a team with a comparatively easier path, even with a similar win-loss record.

• Divisional Standings: Winning the division secures a playoff berth, regardless of overall record. This makes divisional matchups crucial for these bubble teams.

• Injury Report: The impact of key injuries cannot be understated. A significant injury to a star player can derail a team's playoff aspirations.

Predictions and Outlook: Who's Making it?

Predicting the NFL playoffs is always a risky endeavor, but considering their current form, schedule, and potential for improvement, here's a cautiously optimistic prediction:

• Most Likely: The New York Jets and Detroit Lions, though both face a tough road.

• Long Shot but Possible: The Green Bay Packers and Atlanta Falcons will need near-perfect runs to snatch a wild-card spot.

Conclusion: A Nail-Biting Finish

The final weeks of the NFL regular season promise thrilling games and heart-stopping finishes. The battle for the playoff spots will be intense, with the bubble teams needing to perform at their absolute best. Stay tuned for an electrifying conclusion to the 2023 NFL season! What are your predictions? Let us know in the comments below!