NFL Postseason Predictions: The Most Likely Fringe Teams To Make The 2023 Playoffs

David

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Post on Jun 07, 2025

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NFL Postseason Predictions: The Most Likely Fringe Teams to Make the 2023 Playoffs

The NFL regular season is a grueling marathon, but the real excitement lies in the postseason. While some teams are perennial contenders, others fight tooth and nail for a coveted playoff spot. This year, several teams find themselves on the fringe, poised to either make a dramatic push or fall short. Let's dive into the most likely candidates to snatch a playoff berth in the thrilling 2023 NFL season.

The Contenders on the Cusp:

Several teams are currently hovering around the playoff bubble, their fate hanging in the balance. Their success hinges on strong finishes, overcoming injuries, and a bit of luck. Here's a breakdown of the most promising fringe contenders:

1. The New York Jets: The Jets' success hinges heavily on Aaron Rodgers' performance. While Rodgers' age is a factor, his experience and leadership are undeniable assets. The key for the Jets will be consistency on both offense and defense. Their improved offensive line needs to protect Rodgers effectively, and the defense needs to maintain its strong performance. A strong finish against weaker opponents could be the difference between making the playoffs and watching from home. Keyword: Jets Playoffs 2023

2. The Green Bay Packers: After the Aaron Rodgers era, the Packers are rebuilding, but their young talent shows promise. Jordan Love's development will be crucial. If he can consistently perform and the defense steps up, the Packers could surprise many. A favorable schedule down the stretch could help them solidify their playoff aspirations. Keyword: Packers Playoffs 2023

3. The Detroit Lions: The Lions have become a fan favorite with their exciting offense and improved defense. Their success depends on their ability to maintain consistency and avoid crucial injuries. They'll need to perform well against divisional rivals and other playoff contenders. Their playoff chances are heavily dependent on winning their division or securing a Wild Card spot. Keyword: Lions Playoffs 2023

4. The Pittsburgh Steelers: The Steelers always seem to find a way to compete. Their strong running game and solid defense provide a solid foundation. However, their playoff chances heavily depend on Kenny Pickett's continued growth and consistency at quarterback. If he can elevate his game, the Steelers could make a serious run. Keyword: Steelers Playoffs 2023

Factors Determining Playoff Success:

Beyond individual team performance, several factors will significantly influence the playoff race:

• Injury Reports: The NFL is a brutal game. Injuries to key players can derail even the most promising seasons.
• Divisional Matchups: Winning divisional games is paramount for playoff positioning. Head-to-head results often play a crucial role in tiebreakers.
• Strength of Schedule: Playing against weaker opponents late in the season can provide crucial wins to boost playoff chances.

Conclusion:

Predicting the NFL playoffs is always a risky endeavor, but based on current standings and team performance, the Jets, Packers, Lions, and Steelers emerge as the most likely fringe teams to make the 2023 playoffs. Their success hinges on consistent performances, avoiding major injuries, and capitalizing on favorable matchups. The race will be tight, and fans can expect a dramatic finish to the regular season. Stay tuned for more updates as the season progresses!

Call to Action: What are your predictions for the 2023 NFL Playoffs? Share your thoughts in the comments below!