Ranking The Outside Shot NFL Teams: 2023 Playoff Predictions For The Long Shots

David

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Post on May 26, 2025

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Ranking the Outside Shot NFL Teams: 2023 Playoff Predictions for the Long Shots

The NFL season is in full swing, and while some teams are clear playoff contenders, others are fighting for every inch. This article dives deep into the "outside shot" teams – those with a legitimate, albeit slim, chance of making the playoffs in 2023. We'll rank them, analyze their strengths and weaknesses, and offer bold predictions for their postseason hopes. Buckle up, football fans, it's time for some underdog analysis!

Methodology: Our rankings consider current standings, remaining schedule strength, recent performance, and overall team health. It's important to remember that these are predictions, and the NFL is notorious for its unpredictability.

Tier 1: The "Realistic Long Shots"

These teams have a plausible path to the playoffs, but it requires a near-perfect finish and some help from other teams.

1. New York Jets: The Jets' offense, while inconsistent at times, possesses explosive potential with Aaron Rodgers at the helm. Their defense is a strength. However, their early-season struggles hurt them significantly. A strong finish, coupled with some divisional collapses, could push them into a Wild Card spot. Key to Playoffs: Winning the AFC East is unlikely, so dominating the remaining games and hoping for a weak AFC Wild Card race is crucial.

2. Green Bay Packers: Similar to the Jets, the Packers' playoff hopes hinge on a strong finish and some favorable outcomes elsewhere. Their defense is inconsistent, meaning Jordan Love needs to consistently deliver. Key to Playoffs: Dominating the NFC North is unlikely at this point, they need to focus on winning the remaining weak games and hoping for another team to falter.

3. Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons have surprised many with their competitiveness. Their running game is a strength, but their passing game needs consistency. A strong finish in the NFC South, which is surprisingly open, could secure them a playoff berth. Key to Playoffs: Winning the NFC South is very much in play, especially if they can continue their current winning streak.

Tier 2: The "Long Shot of Long Shots"

These teams face an uphill battle, needing a miracle run and a significant amount of luck to reach the postseason.

1. Washington Commanders: The Commanders are inconsistent on both sides of the ball. Their playoff chances rely on a monumental turnaround and significant collapses from other teams. Key to Playoffs: Winning out and hoping for chaos in the NFC East and Wild Card race is their only hope.

2. Cleveland Browns: A playoff push for Cleveland requires a flawless finish and several other teams stumbling. Their inconsistent offense and injuries are major hurdles. Key to Playoffs: A winning streak is needed, combined with a stunning collapse from several AFC teams.

Playoff Predictions (Bold & Unlikely):

• Jets: Wild Card berth – 40% chance.
• Packers: Wild Card berth – 30% chance.
• Falcons: NFC South champions – 25% chance.
• Commanders & Browns: Playoff chances – <10% chance each.

Conclusion: While the path is challenging, several teams still harbor faint playoff hopes. The remaining weeks will be crucial in determining which of these "long shots" can defy the odds and make a surprising postseason run. Keep your eyes peeled for unexpected upsets and dramatic finishes! What are your predictions for these outside shot teams? Let us know in the comments below!