Which Fringe NFL Teams Have The Best Chance To Reach The 2023 Postseason?

David

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Post on Aug 08, 2025

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Which Fringe NFL Teams Have the Best Chance to Reach the 2023 Postseason?

The NFL season is in full swing, and while some teams have cemented their playoff positions, a fierce battle rages for the remaining spots. Several "fringe" teams – those hovering around .500 or just outside the playoff picture – possess a legitimate shot at a postseason berth. But which ones have the best chance of making a late-season push? Let's dive into the contenders and analyze their prospects.

The Contenders: A Closer Look

Several teams are vying for the limited playoff spots, and their chances depend on a multitude of factors: remaining schedule strength, current roster health, and, perhaps most importantly, the ability to execute under pressure.

1. The New York Jets: The Jets, fueled by the electrifying Aaron Rodgers, started the season with high expectations. While injuries and inconsistencies have plagued them, their potential remains undeniable. Their remaining schedule presents a mix of challenging and manageable games. Success hinges on Rodgers' performance and the ability of their young defense to consistently shut down opposing offenses. A strong finish is within reach, but consistency is key. Keyword: New York Jets playoff chances

2. The Green Bay Packers: Despite a slow start, the Packers have shown signs of life under Jordan Love. Their offensive line has improved, and their defense is playing with more aggression. The schedule presents some winnable games, giving them a real opportunity to climb the standings. However, their playoff hopes are directly tied to their ability to consistently move the ball and avoid costly turnovers. Keyword: Green Bay Packers playoff prediction

3. The Detroit Lions: The Lions are a team built on exciting offense and a rapidly improving defense. Their high-octane attack, led by Jared Goff, can put points on the board against anyone. However, consistency, particularly on the defensive side, will determine their playoff fate. A favorable remaining schedule gives them a fighting chance. Keyword: Detroit Lions playoff odds

4. The Washington Commanders: The Commanders have been a team of surprises this season, exhibiting flashes of brilliance while also suffering from inconsistency. Their playoff hopes depend heavily on their ability to establish a consistent running game and capitalize on opportunities in crucial moments. Their remaining schedule is challenging, making a playoff push a difficult but not impossible feat. Keyword: Washington Commanders playoff hopes

Factors Determining Playoff Success

Beyond team-specific factors, several broader elements will significantly impact the fringe teams' chances:

• Divisional matchups: Winning divisional games is crucial for playoff seeding. Head-to-head results often break ties.
• Injury reports: The NFL is a brutal game. Key injuries can derail a team's playoff aspirations quickly.
• Momentum: Building momentum late in the season is invaluable. A few consecutive wins can drastically shift the playoff picture.

Conclusion: A Tight Race to the Finish

The race for the NFL playoffs is far from over. While some teams are clear frontrunners, several fringe contenders have a realistic chance to snatch a postseason berth. The remaining weeks will be filled with high-stakes matchups, and the teams that can navigate the challenges and capitalize on opportunities will emerge victorious. Stay tuned for a thrilling conclusion to the 2023 NFL season!

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