Fringe NFL Teams: Who's Making The 2023 Playoffs?

David

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Post on May 29, 2025

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Fringe NFL Teams: Who's Making the 2023 Playoffs?

The NFL season is a rollercoaster, and as we approach the halfway point, several teams find themselves teetering on the edge of playoff contention. This year's "fringe" contenders are a fascinating mix of surprising upstarts and established franchises fighting to overcome early setbacks. Who will ultimately snatch a postseason berth? Let's dive into the contenders and their odds.

The Contenders: A Closer Look

Several teams are currently battling for the limited playoff spots, and their chances depend heavily on upcoming matchups and the performance of their division rivals. Here’s a breakdown of some key contenders:

1. The Green Bay Packers: Aaron Rodgers' departure has left a question mark over Green Bay. Their early-season struggles were unexpected, but a late-season surge is still possible. Their success hinges on the continued development of Jordan Love and a strong performance from their revamped defense. Key to Playoffs: Winning the NFC North remains a long shot, but wildcard contention is definitely achievable with consistent victories.

2. The New York Jets: The Jets' season hinges heavily on Aaron Rodgers' performance and the overall health of the team. Their potent running game and a solid defense provide a strong foundation. Key to Playoffs: Consistency is key. Avoiding injuries and maintaining a strong offensive rhythm will be crucial for securing a wildcard spot.

3. The Atlanta Falcons: A surprising contender in the NFC South, the Falcons boast a strong running game and a capable defense. Their division is surprisingly weak, making them a strong wildcard candidate. Key to Playoffs: Winning the NFC South is a very real possibility, and that automatically secures a playoff berth. Consistency against tougher opponents is key.

4. The Detroit Lions: The Lions have shown flashes of brilliance, but consistency has been an issue. Their high-powered offense needs to maintain its pace, and their defense needs to improve. Key to Playoffs: Winning the NFC North is a tough task, but their explosive offense makes a wildcard berth a realistic goal.

The Long Shots: Don't Count Them Out Just Yet

While the teams above have a clearer path, a few other teams could make a late push. These long shots include teams like the Washington Commanders, the New Orleans Saints, and potentially even the Pittsburgh Steelers, depending on how the AFC North shakes out. Their playoff hopes will require a combination of strong finishes and some unexpected losses from their competitors.

Factors Determining Playoff Success

Several factors beyond individual team performance will influence the final playoff picture:

• Divisional Races: The strength of each team's division significantly impacts their playoff odds. A weak division provides a better chance of securing a division title.
• Injury Reports: Injuries, especially to key players, can derail even the most promising seasons.
• Head-to-Head Matchups: Games against direct competitors often hold significant weight in tie-breaker scenarios.
• Strength of Schedule: Playing a weaker schedule can boost a team's win total, but ultimately, it's performance against strong opponents that truly measures a team's playoff caliber.

Conclusion: A Tight Race to the Finish

The race for the NFL playoffs is far from over. The teams mentioned above will need to bring their A-game every week to secure a coveted spot. Keep an eye on these fringe contenders; their performance will undoubtedly shape the narrative of the 2023-2024 NFL season. Who do you think will make the playoffs? Share your predictions in the comments below!