NFL 2023 Postseason Race: Ranking The Outside Contenders

David

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Post on May 30, 2025

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NFL 2023 Postseason Race: Ranking the Outside Contenders

The NFL regular season is a whirlwind, a relentless battle where even the most seasoned teams can stumble. But as we approach the halfway point, the playoff picture is far from clear. While some teams have cemented their positions as frontrunners, a pack of hungry "outside contenders" are vying for a postseason berth. This article ranks these dark horse teams, analyzing their strengths, weaknesses, and ultimate chances of making a playoff run in the 2023 season.

The Contenders: A Tiered Approach

To accurately assess these teams' postseason potential, we've broken them down into tiers based on current standing, remaining schedule, and overall team performance.

Tier 1: Realistically in the Hunt

• New York Jets: The Jets, fueled by Aaron Rodgers' arrival, have shown flashes of brilliance but have also struggled with consistency. Their defense is a strength, but their offensive line needs improvement. Their playoff hopes hinge on Rodgers' performance and a more consistent running game. A favorable remaining schedule offers a real shot at a wild card spot.

• Green Bay Packers: Despite a slow start, the Packers' potent offense, led by Jordan Love, is starting to click. Their defense, while not elite, is improving. The Packers' success depends heavily on Love's continued development and minimizing turnovers. Their playoff chances are dependent on winning the NFC North or securing a wild card spot.

• Detroit Lions: The Lions have been a surprise this season, showcasing an explosive offense. However, defensive inconsistencies are a major concern. If their defense can shore up, they could be a dangerous wildcard team. Their success rides on closing out games and improving their situational football.

Tier 2: Long Shots, But Not Out

• Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons' strong running game and surprisingly good defense give them a fighting chance. However, inconsistent quarterback play remains a major obstacle. Making the playoffs will require a significant improvement in their passing game and a favorable run of results.

• Washington Commanders: The Commanders have a potent defense but lack consistency on offense. Their playoff hopes rest on the shoulders of their quarterback and a significant improvement in offensive efficiency. A difficult remaining schedule makes their chances slim.

Factors Determining Postseason Success

Several key factors will determine which of these outside contenders make the playoffs:

• Health: Injuries can derail even the most promising seasons. Maintaining a healthy roster is crucial for a playoff push.
• Quarterback Play: Consistent and reliable quarterback play is paramount in the NFL. These contenders need their quarterbacks to step up and deliver in crucial moments.
• Offensive Line Play: A strong offensive line protects the quarterback and opens up running lanes. Improved offensive line play is vital for several of these teams.
• Remaining Schedule: The difficulty of a team's remaining schedule significantly impacts their chances of securing a playoff spot.

Conclusion: The Race is On

The NFL's postseason race is far from over. While some teams are clear frontrunners, the teams discussed above still have a shot at making the playoffs. Their chances depend on consistent performance, overcoming injuries, and capitalizing on a favorable remaining schedule. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining who emerges as a genuine playoff contender and who falls short. Keep your eyes on these teams – the battle for the postseason is far from decided!

Call to Action: Which of these "outside contenders" do you think has the best chance of making the playoffs? Let us know in the comments below!