Could A Backup QB Lead An NFL Team To The Playoffs In 2024? Our Ranking.

David

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Post on May 12, 2025

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Could a Backup QB Lead an NFL Team to the Playoffs in 2024? Our Ranking

The NFL is a league of unpredictable twists and turns. One minute, a star quarterback is leading their team to victory; the next, they're sidelined with an injury, leaving the fate of the franchise in the hands of their backup. The question burning in the minds of fans and analysts alike heading into the 2024 season: could a backup quarterback realistically lead an NFL team to the playoffs? We've ranked the teams and backup QBs most likely to defy the odds.

The Unlikely Heroes: Assessing Backup QB Potential

The success of a backup quarterback hinges on several factors: the quality of the supporting cast (offensive line, running game, receiving corps), the strength of the team's overall defense, and the backup QB's own skill and experience. While a starting-caliber quarterback is undoubtedly ideal, a capable backup with a strong team around them can certainly make a playoff push.

This isn't just a hypothetical scenario. We've seen teams unexpectedly succeed with backup quarterbacks in the past. Think of the 2010 New York Giants, who won the Super Bowl with Eli Manning injured for a significant portion of the playoffs, only to come back strong. While extreme, it certainly illustrates the point.

Our Ranking of Teams with the Best Chance:

We've analyzed various factors – roster strength, coaching capabilities, and the backup quarterback's skillset – to create this ranking of teams with the highest probability of making the playoffs with their backup QB in 2024:

1. The Kansas City Chiefs: While Patrick Mahomes' health is paramount, the Chiefs' robust offensive weaponry and strong coaching staff give them a significant advantage. Their backup, [insert backup QB's name], possesses enough experience to potentially steer the ship if needed.

2. The Buffalo Bills: The Bills boast a high-powered offense and a formidable defense. Their backup quarterback, [insert backup QB's name], is a known commodity with starting experience, making them a strong contender for a playoff spot even with a starting QB injury.

3. The Philadelphia Eagles: Similar to the Chiefs and Bills, the Eagles' overall team strength allows for a higher margin of error. Their backup, [insert backup QB's name], is [describe their strengths and weaknesses]. While not as high-profile as other backups, the strength of the Eagles' roster provides support.

The Long Shots:

Several other teams possess capable backups, but their overall roster strength or coaching inexperience make a playoff run less probable. These teams include:

• Dallas Cowboys: [Explain briefly why they are a long shot]
• San Francisco 49ers: [Explain briefly why they are a long shot]
• Cincinnati Bengals: [Explain briefly why they are a long shot]

Factors Beyond the Quarterback:

It's crucial to remember that a successful playoff run with a backup quarterback isn't solely dependent on the backup's talent. The team's overall performance, the strength of the coaching staff, and a bit of luck all play significant roles.

Conclusion: A Playoff Run is Possible, But Unlikely

While a backup quarterback leading their team to the playoffs in 2024 isn't out of the realm of possibility, it remains a challenging feat. The teams ranked higher in our list possess the best combination of roster strength and backup quarterback talent to make such a remarkable run. The 2024 season promises to be full of exciting surprises, and this scenario, while improbable, is certainly one to watch unfold.

Call to Action: What do you think? Which team's backup QB has the best chance of leading their team to the playoffs? Share your predictions in the comments below!