Which Bubble Teams Will Make The 2023 NFL Playoffs? A Realistic Assessment

David

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Post on May 21, 2025

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Which Bubble Teams Will Make the 2023 NFL Playoffs? A Realistic Assessment

The NFL season is a rollercoaster, and as we approach the halfway point, several teams find themselves teetering on the edge of the playoff bubble. This year's race is particularly tight, with several squads vying for the final wild-card spots in both the AFC and NFC. So, which bubble teams have the mettle to make the 2023 NFL Playoffs? Let's dive into a realistic assessment.

AFC Contenders on the Bubble:

The AFC is notoriously competitive, and several teams are fighting tooth and nail for a postseason berth. Here are a few key contenders:

• The New England Patriots: Bill Belichick's team always seems to find a way to compete, and despite inconsistencies, their strong defense keeps them in games. Their success hinges on the continued development of their young quarterback and improved offensive consistency. Their remaining schedule will be crucial to determine their playoff fate. Can Mac Jones lead them to a late-season surge? That's the million-dollar question.

• The Pittsburgh Steelers: The Steelers, led by Kenny Pickett, are another team clinging to playoff hopes. Their running game needs to improve, and their defense, while solid, can't afford many lapses against tougher opponents. They'll need to win consistently down the stretch to avoid missing the playoffs. Can they leverage their strong defense to steal enough games?

• The Los Angeles Chargers: Justin Herbert's Chargers have the offensive firepower to make a deep playoff run, but consistency has been their Achilles heel. Their defense needs to step up and prevent big plays. Their playoff chances heavily depend on their ability to maintain health and stay focused week-to-week. Can they overcome injuries and win the close games?

NFC Bubble Teams to Watch:

The NFC is equally as unpredictable, with several teams battling for position. Here are some key contenders:

• The Green Bay Packers: Aaron Rodgers’ final season with Green Bay might end with a playoff berth, depending on how the team fares in a competitive NFC North. Their improved running game and defense will need to carry the load for a somewhat inconsistent passing attack. Will Rodgers and the Packers be able to make a last-ditch playoff push?

• The Seattle Seahawks: The Seahawks surprised many with their strong start, but consistency remains a concern. Geno Smith’s performance will dictate their success, and a strong running game will be pivotal. Their playoff aspirations hinge on their ability to secure wins against divisional rivals. Can they maintain their early season momentum and hold off challengers?

• The Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons have shown flashes of brilliance, but their playoff chances are slim. Their success depends on a potent running game led by Bijan Robinson and the continued growth of Desmond Ridder. Their defense will need to greatly improve to become a truly competitive playoff contender. Can they pull off the surprise of the year?

Factors Determining Playoff Success:

Several factors will determine which bubble teams ultimately make the playoffs:

• Health: Injuries to key players can derail even the most promising seasons.
• Consistency: Teams need to avoid inconsistency and string together wins.
• Divisional matchups: Winning games against divisional rivals is crucial for playoff seeding.
• Strength of schedule: A tough remaining schedule can make it difficult for bubble teams to reach the postseason.

Conclusion:

Predicting the NFL Playoffs is notoriously difficult. While these teams are on the bubble, their chances of making the playoffs depend on numerous factors. Stay tuned for thrilling weeks ahead as these teams battle it out for a coveted playoff spot! What do you think? Which bubble team has the best chance of making the playoffs? Let us know in the comments below!