NFL 2023 Playoff Picture: Which Fringe Teams Have The Momentum?

David

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Post on Jun 18, 2025

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NFL 2023 Playoff Picture: Which Fringe Teams Have the Momentum?

The NFL season is reaching its climax, and the playoff picture is far from clear. While some teams have secured their spots, a fierce battle rages for the remaining berths. Several "fringe" teams – those teetering on the edge of contention – are making late-season pushes, fueled by impressive performances and a little bit of luck. But who truly has the momentum heading into the final weeks? Let's dive into the contenders and analyze their chances.

The Contenders: A Closer Look

Several teams are vying for those coveted playoff spots, and their paths to victory couldn't be more different. Analyzing their recent performances and upcoming schedules is key to predicting their playoff chances.

1. The New York Giants: After a surprisingly strong start, the Giants have stumbled recently. Their playoff hopes hinge on winning their remaining games and receiving some help from other teams. Their tough schedule, however, presents a significant challenge. Key questions remain: can their running game consistently perform under pressure, and can their defense, which has shown flashes of brilliance, maintain its intensity? Their success boils down to consistent execution and avoiding costly turnovers.

2. The Washington Commanders: The Commanders are another team with a roller-coaster season. Their offense, while inconsistent, possesses explosive potential. A strong running game paired with a developing passing attack could be the key to unlocking their playoff potential. Their defense needs to improve tackling and limit big plays to secure wins consistently. The remaining schedule is challenging, demanding peak performance in every game.

3. The Green Bay Packers: Despite their early season struggles, the Packers remain a dangerous team. Aaron Rodgers' experience is invaluable, and their improved running game gives them balance. The strength of their remaining schedule will determine whether they can mount a successful playoff push. A key factor in their success is the consistency of their offensive line and Rodgers' ability to avoid costly interceptions.

4. The Detroit Lions: The Lions have shown impressive offensive firepower, consistently scoring points. However, their defense needs significant improvement to become true playoff contenders. The remaining schedule offers a mix of challenges and opportunities. They need to win consistently and rely on timely defensive stops to secure a playoff spot.

Factors Determining Playoff Success:

Several key factors will ultimately decide which fringe teams make the playoffs:

• Offensive Consistency: Scoring points consistently is crucial in the NFL. Teams with reliable offenses have a much higher chance of winning close games.
• Defensive Improvements: While offense often grabs the headlines, a strong defense is essential for playoff contention. Teams need to stop the run, limit big plays, and create turnovers.
• Injury Reports: Injuries can significantly impact a team's performance. Staying healthy is paramount, particularly for key players on both sides of the ball.
• Remaining Schedule: The difficulty of the remaining games is a major factor. Teams facing tougher opponents have a steeper hill to climb.

Conclusion:

The NFL playoff race remains incredibly tight. While several teams have a shot, consistent performances and crucial wins in the final weeks are essential. The upcoming weeks will be critical in determining which fringe teams can seize the momentum and secure a place in the postseason. Keep an eye on these teams – their battles will define the final weeks of the regular season. Stay tuned for updates and further analysis as the season progresses!