Which Fringe NFL Teams Will Make The 2023 Playoffs? Expert Predictions

David

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Post on Jun 04, 2025

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Which Fringe NFL Teams Will Make the 2023 Playoffs? Expert Predictions

The NFL season is underway, and while some teams are clear contenders, others are fighting tooth and nail for a playoff spot. This year, several "fringe" teams – those on the cusp of contention – have the potential to surprise and snatch a postseason berth. But who will actually make the cut? We've consulted experts and analyzed the current landscape to offer our predictions for the unlikely playoff participants of 2023.

The Contenders on the Brink:

Several teams are currently hovering around the .500 mark, making their playoff chances a thrilling toss-up. These include:

• The New York Jets: The Jets' success hinges heavily on quarterback Aaron Rodgers' performance and the team's ability to stay healthy. Their tough schedule presents a challenge, but a strong early season showing could propel them into playoff contention. A potential wild-card spot is within reach, but consistency is key.

• The Washington Commanders: The Commanders' fate rests on the shoulders of their young quarterback and the team's overall offensive production. If their running game establishes dominance and their defense steps up, a late-season surge isn't impossible. However, division rivals present stiff competition.

• The Green Bay Packers: While not entirely a "fringe" team, the Packers' playoff chances are far from guaranteed. Jordan Love's performance at quarterback will determine their success. A strong running game and a formidable defense are crucial for their post-season aspirations. Their schedule will test their resilience.

• The Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons' unexpectedly strong performance last season could propel them into a wildcard spot this year. Their offense is certainly capable, but their defensive capabilities need to improve to stay competitive.

Expert Opinions Vary:

While many sports analysts agree on the top contenders, predicting which fringe teams will make the playoffs is where opinions diverge. Some experts highlight the importance of strong coaching and team chemistry, while others emphasize the need for consistent offensive production. ESPN's analysts, for example, [link to relevant ESPN article], currently favor the Jets, while CBS Sports [link to relevant CBS Sports article] places more emphasis on the Commanders' potential.

Factors Determining Playoff Success:

Several key factors will determine which of these fringe teams ultimately secure a playoff berth:

• Quarterback Performance: The quarterback position remains paramount. Consistent performance, limited turnovers, and the ability to lead the offense under pressure are crucial.

• Offensive Consistency: Sustained offensive production is vital. A balanced attack that can adapt to different defensive schemes will give these teams an edge.

• Defensive Strength: A strong defense can make or break a season. The ability to limit opposing offenses and create turnovers is crucial in close games.

• Injury Prevention: Staying healthy throughout the season is critical. Key injuries can derail even the most promising teams.

Our Prediction:

Considering the current standings, team performance, and expert analysis, we predict that the New York Jets and the Atlanta Falcons are the most likely fringe teams to make the 2023 NFL Playoffs. However, the race is far from over, and any of the teams mentioned above could still make a strong push.

Stay Tuned:

The NFL season is a rollercoaster ride. The race for the playoffs will remain intense until the final whistle. Keep checking back for updates and further analysis as the season unfolds! What are your predictions? Share them in the comments below.