NFL 2023 Playoff Picture: The Underdogs And Long Shots Most Likely To Qualify

David

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Post on Jun 11, 2025

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NFL 2023 Playoff Picture: The Underdogs and Long Shots with a Real Shot at Glory

The NFL regular season is a whirlwind, a brutal chess match where even the most dominant teams can stumble. As we approach the final stretch of the 2023 season, the playoff picture is far from clear, leaving plenty of room for unlikely contenders to make their mark. Forget the usual suspects – this year, some serious underdogs and long shots are sniffing postseason glory. Who are the teams with the grit and determination to defy the odds and snatch a coveted playoff berth? Let's dive into the most likely candidates.

The Unexpected Contenders: Analyzing the Long Shots

Several teams, initially dismissed as playoff hopefuls, are now clawing their way back into contention. Their success hinges on a combination of factors, including strong late-season performances, favorable remaining schedules, and, of course, a hefty dose of luck.

1. The New York Jets: Despite early season struggles and a roller-coaster ride with Aaron Rodgers at quarterback, the Jets remain a dangerous team. Their tough defense and improved running game give them a chance in any matchup. A strong finish to the season, coupled with some help from other teams, could easily see them sneaking into the wild card race. Their remaining schedule will be key to their success.

2. The Washington Commanders: The Commanders' playoff hopes hinge on consistency. While their offense can be explosive, they need to shore up their defensive vulnerabilities. A winning streak in the final weeks, combined with losses by other teams vying for the wild card spot, could catapult them into the playoffs. Their ability to control the clock and limit turnovers will be crucial.

3. The Green Bay Packers: Although not technically an underdog in the traditional sense, the Packers' early-season struggles left many questioning their playoff chances. However, with Aaron Rodgers at the helm, they possess the potential for a late-season surge. Their path to the playoffs is narrow, relying heavily on winning out and receiving help from other teams.

Factors Influencing the Underdog's Playoff Push:

Several crucial elements will determine whether these long shots can achieve their postseason ambitions:

• Divisional Battles: Winning their remaining divisional games is paramount for these teams. These victories not only secure wins but also strengthen their playoff positioning.
• Head-to-Head Matchups: Direct competition against other playoff contenders will heavily influence the final standings. Wins against direct rivals significantly boost their chances.
• Injury Reports: The health of key players, especially quarterbacks, will be a pivotal factor. Injuries can derail even the most promising campaigns.
• Strength of Schedule: Teams facing easier schedules have a better chance of racking up wins and improving their playoff odds.

Predicting the Unpredictable: The Wild Card Race

The NFL playoff race is notoriously unpredictable. The final weeks of the season will be a nail-biting affair, full of unexpected twists and turns. While predicting the future is impossible, it's clear that several teams currently considered long shots possess the capability to make a significant playoff push. Stay tuned; the race to the playoffs is far from over.

Call to Action: Keep checking back for updates on the NFL playoff race as the season progresses! What team do you think will be the biggest surprise in the playoffs? Share your predictions in the comments below!