NFL Playoff Outlook: Ranking The Closest Contenders For A 2023 Postseason Berth

David

3 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

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NFL Playoff Outlook: Ranking the Closest Contenders for a 2023 Postseason Berth

The NFL season is heating up, and the race for the playoffs is tighter than ever. While some teams have already secured their spots, a handful of contenders are locked in a nail-biting battle for the remaining postseason berths. This article ranks the closest contenders, analyzing their strengths, weaknesses, and remaining schedules to predict who's most likely to make the 2023 NFL Playoffs.

The Top Tier: Within Striking Distance

Several teams currently sit just outside the playoff picture, but possess the talent and remaining schedule to make a serious push. Here's a breakdown, ranked in order of projected likelihood of making the postseason:

1. [Team Name 1 (e.g., New York Jets)]: The Jets boast a strong defense and a dynamic offense led by [Player Name]. Their remaining schedule is [Describe schedule difficulty - e.g., relatively manageable]. However, consistency has been an issue. If they can string together a few more wins, particularly against divisional rivals, they're strong contenders. Key to success: Reducing turnovers and maintaining offensive consistency.

2. [Team Name 2 (e.g., Green Bay Packers)]: Despite a shaky start, the Packers possess a potent offense led by [Player Name]. Their defense needs improvement, but their remaining games are [Describe schedule difficulty - e.g., a mix of challenging and winnable matchups]. A strong finish, coupled with some help from other teams, could secure their playoff spot. Key to success: Improved defensive performance and Aaron Rodgers' continued brilliance.

3. [Team Name 3 (e.g., Detroit Lions)]: The Lions are a high-octane offensive team, boasting a dynamic offense led by [Player Name]. Their defense is a work in progress, but their exciting style of play and improved roster make them a dangerous wildcard. Their remaining schedule is [Describe schedule difficulty - e.g., challenging but with opportunities for key wins]. Key to success: Consistent defensive improvements and staying healthy on offense.

The Long Shot Contenders: An Uphill Battle

Several other teams remain mathematically in contention, but face a much steeper climb to the playoffs. These include:

• [Team Name 4 (e.g., Atlanta Falcons)]: Possessing a strong running game, the Falcons need significant help from other teams and must win nearly all their remaining games.
• [Team Name 5 (e.g., Washington Commanders)]: Inconsistent play and a challenging remaining schedule make their playoff hopes slim.

Factors Affecting the Playoff Race:

The final weeks of the NFL season are always unpredictable. Several factors will significantly impact the playoff race:

• Divisional matchups: Wins and losses within divisions often determine playoff seeding.
• Injuries: Key injuries to star players can derail a team's playoff hopes.
• Opponent's performance: Teams need not only to win but also require other teams to lose.

Conclusion:

The race for the NFL playoffs in 2023 is far from over. While [Team Name 1] currently holds the edge, the contenders listed above all have a realistic chance of securing a postseason berth. The final weeks of the regular season promise to be thrilling, filled with high-stakes games and dramatic outcomes. Keep your eyes peeled—this playoff race is far from decided!

Call to Action: Which team do you think will make the biggest surprise run to the playoffs? Share your predictions in the comments below!