NFL 2023 Postseason: Which Underdogs Have The Best Chance Of Making The Playoffs?

David

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Post on Jun 05, 2025

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NFL 2023 Postseason: Which Underdogs Have the Best Chance of Making the Playoffs?

The NFL regular season is a marathon, not a sprint, but the finish line is rapidly approaching. While some teams have cemented their playoff positions, the race for the postseason is far from over. Several underdog teams are clawing their way up the standings, fueled by surprising performances and a burning desire to prove the doubters wrong. But which of these potential playoff contenders have the best shot at making a Cinderella run? Let's dive into the analysis.

Identifying the Underdog Contenders

Defining an "underdog" in the NFL is subjective. It’s not solely about win-loss record; it incorporates preseason expectations, team injuries, and overall perceived strength compared to division rivals and conference contenders. Based on these factors, several teams stand out as potential playoff dark horses in the 2023 season:

• The New York Jets: While not technically "underdogs" in the traditional sense, the Jets’ playoff hopes hinge heavily on Aaron Rodgers' performance and the team's ability to consistently perform in crucial games. Their strong defense gives them a fighting chance, but consistency remains their biggest challenge. A late-season surge, however, could propel them into the wildcard hunt.

• The Washington Commanders: The Commanders have shown flashes of brilliance but also frustrating inconsistency. Their success heavily relies on their rushing attack and the continued development of young quarterback Sam Howell. Improving their pass defense will be crucial for any deep playoff run. But a strong finish could land them a wildcard spot.

• The Green Bay Packers: After a surprising start, Green Bay has faced inconsistencies, largely due to injuries and offensive struggles. However, their strong defense and the potential for Jordan Love to find his rhythm could make them a dangerous wildcard contender. A late push is entirely possible.

• The Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons boast a surprisingly strong run game and a developing young quarterback in Desmond Ridder. Their defense needs improvement, but their ability to control the clock and keep games close gives them a shot at a wildcard berth if they can string together some wins.

• The Detroit Lions: While the Lions began the season with high expectations, some considered them "underdogs" to win the NFC North. Their high-powered offense is undeniably a threat, but consistency on defense is a crucial factor in their playoff aspirations.

Factors Favoring Underdog Success

Several factors can contribute to an underdog's successful playoff push:

• Strong Run Game: A powerful rushing attack can control the clock, wear down opponents, and limit the opposing offense's possessions. This is particularly crucial for teams with less-experienced quarterbacks.

• Exceptional Defense: A stingy defense can keep games close, giving the offense more opportunities and limiting opponent scoring. Many underdog teams rely on a defensive strength to carry them through close matches.

• Improved Quarterback Play: A quarterback's consistency and ability to make crucial throws in high-pressure situations are critical. Underdog teams often benefit from improvement in their starting quarterback's performance throughout the season.

• Favorable Schedule: The final few games of the season are crucial. A softer schedule in the final stretch can significantly boost an underdog team's playoff chances.

Predicting the Playoffs: A Challenging Task

Predicting the NFL playoffs is notoriously difficult. Injuries, unexpected upsets, and team performance fluctuations make accurate predictions a significant challenge. While the teams listed above possess the potential for a playoff run, their ultimate success hinges on their performance in the remaining games.

Stay tuned for the final stretch of the NFL regular season! The battle for the playoffs is far from over. What are your predictions? Share your thoughts in the comments below.