Could A Backup QB Lead A Team To The 2024 NFL Playoffs? A Ranking Of The Contenders

David

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Post on May 28, 2025

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Could a Backup QB Lead a Team to the 2024 NFL Playoffs? A Ranking of the Contenders

The NFL is a league of unpredictable twists and turns. One wrong hit, a nagging injury, and suddenly, a team's season rests on the shoulders of its backup quarterback. This year, several teams boast backup QBs with the potential to not just fill in, but to potentially lead their squads to the 2024 NFL Playoffs. But which teams have the best chance? Let's rank the contenders.

The Contenders: A Tiered Approach

To accurately assess the likelihood of a backup QB leading a team to postseason glory, we need to consider several factors: the backup's experience and talent, the strength of the surrounding roster, and the team's overall standing within their division. We'll break down the contenders into tiers based on these criteria.

Tier 1: Strong Contenders

• The San Francisco 49ers: Brock Purdy's surprising success last season catapults the Niners to the top of this list. While his injury recovery is a key factor, the 49ers' elite roster boasts a dominant run game and a suffocating defense. If Purdy returns healthy, they're a legitimate playoff threat, even if he's still considered a "backup" due to Trey Lance's presence on the roster. Their success hinges on his health and readiness.

• The Cincinnati Bengals: With Joe Burrow's injury history and the ever-present risk in a physically demanding league, the Bengals' backup situation merits attention. While not possessing a star-studded backup like Purdy, the Bengals have a strong supporting cast and offensive line, making them capable of success even with a less-heralded QB under center. Their system's success depends heavily on its ability to protect the quarterback.

Tier 2: Possible Dark Horses

• The Dallas Cowboys: The Cowboys' backup situation is a bit of an enigma. While Cooper Rush showed competence in filling in for Dak Prescott in the past, the team's reliance on Prescott's leadership and playmaking ability is significant. Their playoff chances with a backup QB are significantly lower than those in Tier 1, but not entirely out of the question given the strength of their defense and running game. Success would likely require a strong defensive performance.

• The Philadelphia Eagles: Jalen Hurts' health is paramount for the Eagles. Should injury strike, their backup situation is less inspiring than others on this list. However, their offensive firepower and strong overall team might just be enough to keep them afloat for a playoff run, though the odds are against them.

Tier 3: Long Shots

Several other teams have capable backup QBs, but their overall team strength and divisional competition make a playoff berth with a backup quarterback extremely unlikely. Teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills fall into this category – their playoff hopes rest almost entirely on their star quarterbacks.

The Importance of the Supporting Cast

It's crucial to remember that even the most talented backup QB needs a strong supporting cast to succeed. A dominant offensive line, a potent running game, and a stifling defense can significantly increase the chances of playoff contention, even with a less-experienced signal-caller.

Conclusion: Unlikely, but Not Impossible

While it's unlikely a backup QB will lead their team to a Super Bowl victory in 2024, the possibility of a backup QB leading a team to the playoffs is certainly within the realm of possibility. The 49ers stand out as the most likely candidates, but other teams, with the right combination of talent and circumstance, could surprise us all. This season's NFL playoffs could be defined by the unexpected. Stay tuned!

Keywords: NFL, Backup Quarterback, Playoffs, 2024 NFL Season, NFL Predictions, San Francisco 49ers, Cincinnati Bengals, Dallas Cowboys, Philadelphia Eagles, Brock Purdy, Joe Burrow, Cooper Rush, Jalen Hurts, NFL Injuries.