2023 NFL Postseason: Which Fringe Contenders Have The Highest Probability Of Making It?

David

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Post on May 08, 2025

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2023 NFL Postseason: Dark Horse Contenders with a Shot at Glory

The NFL regular season is a marathon, not a sprint, but the finish line is rapidly approaching. While the usual suspects – the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, Philadelphia Eagles – dominate the headlines, several "fringe contenders" are lurking, poised to make a surprising postseason run. This year's NFL playoff picture is far from clear, offering a unique opportunity for underdog teams to seize the spotlight. But which teams have the best chance of making a deep playoff run? Let's dive into the analysis.

The Contenders: More Than Just Hopefuls

Several teams find themselves in a precarious position, needing a strong finish to secure a Wild Card spot or even a division title. These aren't just teams hoping for miracles; they possess the talent and momentum to realistically challenge the established powerhouses.

1. New York Jets: The Jets' season hinges on the health and performance of quarterback Aaron Rodgers. With a potent rushing attack and a solid defense, the Jets are a dangerous team when clicking. Their playoff chances depend heavily on winning their remaining games and hoping for some favorable results elsewhere. Their strong defense and running game give them a fighting chance in a potential upset. Keyword: New York Jets Playoffs

2. Miami Dolphins: Tua Tagovailoa's health remains a significant question mark, but when healthy, he's a dynamic playmaker. The Dolphins' explosive offense, led by Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, can score points in bunches. Their defensive performance will be crucial in their playoff push. Keyword: Miami Dolphins Playoffs

3. Los Angeles Chargers: Justin Herbert leads a high-powered offense, but the Chargers' defense needs to step up significantly. Their inconsistent play throughout the season makes them a wildcard. However, with Herbert's talent and a favorable schedule, they can absolutely make a late-season surge. Keyword: Los Angeles Chargers Playoffs

4. Dallas Cowboys: While not a complete "fringe contender," the Cowboys' playoff path is far from guaranteed. Their success relies on Dak Prescott's consistency and a strong performance from their defense. Their division is fiercely competitive, meaning they need to win out to secure a favourable seeding. Keyword: Dallas Cowboys Playoffs

Factors Determining Playoff Success

Several factors will determine which of these teams makes a deep postseason run:

• Health: Injuries, particularly to key players like quarterbacks, can derail any team's playoff hopes.
• Momentum: Winning games late in the season builds confidence and momentum heading into the playoffs.
• Coaching: Strong coaching can make the difference between a successful playoff run and an early exit.
• Matchups: The NFL playoffs are often decided by favorable matchups, and luck plays a significant role.

Predicting the Future: A Difficult Task

Predicting the NFL playoffs is notoriously difficult. While the teams listed above have a realistic chance of making a surprising run, anything can happen in the NFL. The remaining games of the regular season will be crucial in determining the final playoff picture. Stay tuned!

Call to Action: What are your predictions for the 2023 NFL playoffs? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Which of these fringe contenders do you believe has the highest probability of making a deep postseason run?

(Note: This article is current as of the writing date. The NFL playoff picture is constantly changing. Check the latest NFL standings for the most up-to-date information.)