NFL Postseason Race: Ranking The Underdogs With The Best Shot At A Playoff Spot In 2023

David

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Post on Jun 15, 2025

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NFL Postseason Race: Ranking the Underdogs with the Best Shot at a Playoff Spot in 2023

The NFL regular season is a rollercoaster, and as we approach the halfway mark, several teams are defying expectations. While some powerhouses are cruising towards the playoffs, a pack of unlikely contenders are nipping at their heels. This article ranks the underdogs with the most realistic shot at snatching a playoff berth in the thrilling 2023 season. Get ready for some unexpected twists and turns!

Methodology: Our ranking considers current standings, remaining schedules, recent performance, and overall team strength. We're focusing on teams currently outside the playoff picture but possessing a viable path to contention.

1. New York Jets: Despite a recent stumble, the Jets (currently 5-3) remain a strong contender. Their resurgence hinges on the performance of Aaron Rodgers. If he can regain his MVP form and the defense continues its strong play, the Jets possess a potent combination capable of challenging for the AFC East title or at least a Wild Card spot. Their remaining schedule presents a mix of challenging and winnable games. A strong finish is crucial for their playoff hopes.

2. Washington Commanders: The Commanders (currently 4-5) have shown flashes of brilliance this season. Their improved offensive line and the emergence of young talent provide a foundation for a potential playoff run. However, consistency remains key. Their schedule is fairly difficult, and winning crucial divisional games will be paramount. If their young QB Sam Howell continues to progress, they could be a dangerous Wild Card contender.

3. Green Bay Packers: The Packers (currently 4-6) find themselves in a precarious position. While their playoff hopes are slimmer than the Jets and Commanders, their strong defense and a potentially improving offense (depending on Jordan Love's development) can't be discounted. A favorable remaining schedule might be their lifeline. They'll need a significant winning streak to make a late-season surge.

4. Detroit Lions: The Lions (currently 6-3) are technically not an underdog in the traditional sense, being in playoff contention. However, few predicted their impressive start. Maintaining this level of play against stronger opponents will be a true test. While their odds of a playoff berth are high, their consistency needs to improve to avoid a late-season collapse and secure a higher seed.

5. Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons (currently 4-5) are a wild card, pun intended. Their potent running game and improved defense make them a tough opponent for any team. However, their quarterback situation remains a concern. A strong finish could propel them into a Wild Card race but requires a significant amount of unexpected wins.

Factors Affecting Underdog Playoff Chances:

• Injury Reports: A key injury to a star player can derail any team's playoff hopes. Staying healthy is paramount for these underdogs.
• Divisional Games: Winning divisional games is crucial for securing a playoff spot. These matchups often decide playoff seeding.
• Remaining Schedule Strength: The difficulty of remaining games will play a significant role in determining which underdogs rise to the occasion.

Conclusion:

While the path to the playoffs is steep for these underdogs, their performances this season demonstrate the unpredictability of the NFL. The remaining weeks will be crucial in deciding which of these teams can overcome the odds and secure a coveted postseason berth. Keep your eye on these teams – the 2023 NFL playoffs might have some surprising participants. Who do you think will make the final push? Let us know in the comments below!