NFL Postseason Projections: Which Fringe Teams Have The Inside Track In 2023?

David

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Post on May 17, 2025

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NFL Postseason Projections 2023: The Fringe Contenders Fighting for a Playoff Spot

The NFL regular season is a marathon, not a sprint, but the finish line is rapidly approaching. While some teams have solidified their playoff positions, a thrilling battle rages on for the remaining spots. This year, several "fringe" teams – those on the cusp of contention – possess compelling narratives and legitimate chances to make a postseason push. Who are the dark horses with the inside track to a January run? Let's dive into the NFL playoff projections and analyze the most promising contenders.

The Contenders: Analyzing the Fringe Teams

Several teams find themselves in the precarious position of needing a strong finish to secure a playoff berth. Their chances depend on a combination of their own performance and the results of their competitors. Here's a closer look at some of the key players in this postseason race:

1. The New York Jets: The Jets' season hinges heavily on the health and performance of quarterback Aaron Rodgers. With a potent running game and a solid defense, a healthy Rodgers could propel them into the wildcard conversation. Their remaining schedule presents a mix of challenging and winnable games. Consistency is key for the Jets to secure a playoff berth. Their success will depend on avoiding critical errors and capitalizing on opportunities.

2. The Green Bay Packers: Despite a rocky start, the Packers have shown flashes of their potential. The emergence of young talent on offense and a stout defense give them a fighting chance. Their success will depend on Jordan Love's continued development and the team's ability to consistently win close games. The Packers' remaining schedule is crucial; every game is a must-win scenario.

3. The Detroit Lions: The Lions have electrified the league with their high-octane offense. Jared Goff has played exceptionally well, and their young receiving corps is dynamic. However, their defensive inconsistencies could be their downfall. Improving their defensive performance is crucial for a playoff run. They need to win a significant portion of their remaining games to have a shot at the postseason.

4. The Pittsburgh Steelers: The Steelers are a team built on a strong running game and a resilient defense. Kenny Pickett's development will be key to their postseason chances. If Pickett can continue to improve and minimize turnovers, the Steelers could sneak into the playoffs. Their remaining schedule offers a blend of tough opponents and potential wins.

5. The Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons, under first-year head coach Arthur Smith, have surprised many. Their solid running game and opportunistic defense give them a chance to compete. However, consistency is essential. They need to continue performing at a high level to challenge the teams ahead of them in the NFC South. Their final games will be critical in determining their playoff fate.

Factors Affecting Playoff Projections:

Beyond individual team performance, several factors will influence the final playoff picture:

• Divisional Races: The outcome of divisional games will significantly impact the wild card race. Close divisional battles could decide who secures a playoff berth.
• Injury Reports: Injuries can dramatically alter a team's fortunes. Key injuries on any of these fringe teams could derail their postseason hopes.
• Strength of Schedule: The remaining opponents for each team will determine their final win-loss records. A challenging schedule could hinder even the most talented teams.

Conclusion: The NFL playoff race is far from over. These fringe teams possess the talent and potential to make a significant run. Their success will depend on consistent performance, minimizing mistakes, and capitalizing on every opportunity. Stay tuned as the final weeks of the regular season unfold – it’s going to be a wild ride!

Call to Action: What team do you think has the best chance of making the playoffs? Share your predictions in the comments below!