Which Underdogs Will Make The 2023 NFL Playoffs? A Look At The Fringe Contenders

David

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Post on May 16, 2025

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Which Underdogs Will Make the 2023 NFL Playoffs? A Look at the Fringe Contenders

The NFL season is heating up, and while some teams have solidified their playoff positions, the race for the remaining spots is a thrilling battleground. This year, several underdogs are nipping at the heels of the established powerhouses, making the playoff picture more unpredictable than ever. Who are these dark horse contenders poised to make a surprise run? Let's delve into the fringe contenders most likely to snag a wildcard berth in the 2023 NFL Playoffs.

The NFC's Wild Card Race: A Tight Squeeze

The NFC is a brutal landscape this year, with several teams vying for those coveted wild card spots. A few teams stand out as potential underdogs with a real shot:

• The Green Bay Packers: Aaron Rodgers' departure has undoubtedly changed the Packers' trajectory, but Jordan Love's development is a fascinating storyline. If Love can consistently elevate his game and the defense steps up, Green Bay could find themselves in the playoff hunt late in the season. Their schedule is crucial – a favorable run of games is essential for their playoff hopes. Their success hinges on their offensive line’s ability to protect Love and their run game's effectiveness.

• The Detroit Lions: The Lions are a popular pick for a breakout season. Their high-powered offense, led by Jared Goff, is capable of putting up points in bunches. However, their defensive consistency remains a question mark. If their defense can improve significantly, the Lions could easily make a playoff push and challenge for the NFC North title. They need to improve their red zone efficiency to solidify their place among the contenders.

• The Seattle Seahawks: Geno Smith's surprising success last season solidified the Seahawks as a team to watch. While maintaining that level of performance will be a challenge, Seattle’s strong defense and a potent running game give them a solid foundation. Their playoff chances depend heavily on staying healthy and winning the close games that often decide the fate of wildcard contenders. Their division, the NFC West, is extremely competitive, adding another layer of complexity to their playoff aspirations.

The AFC's Contenders: A Different Breed of Underdog

The AFC boasts some incredibly tough teams, but a few underdogs possess the potential to shake things up:

• The New England Patriots: While not necessarily a complete underdog, the Patriots are facing a challenging season. Bill Belichick's coaching prowess is never to be underestimated, and a strong late-season surge is not out of the question. Their success depends on their young quarterback, Mac Jones, stepping up and leading the team effectively. A consistent running game will also be critical to their playoff ambitions.

• The Jacksonville Jaguars: The Jaguars made a surprising playoff appearance last season, and despite some early struggles, their potential is undeniable. Trevor Lawrence's continued development is key. If their defense improves and they remain consistent, Jacksonville could make another late-season push.

Factors Affecting the Underdogs' Chances

Several key factors will determine if these teams make the playoffs:

• Injury reports: The NFL is a physical game, and injuries can derail even the best teams.
• Divisional matchups: Winning divisional games is crucial for playoff seeding and often makes the difference between a playoff berth and missing out.
• Consistency: Sustained performance throughout the season is essential. A few strong games won't guarantee a playoff spot.

Conclusion: The 2023 NFL Playoffs – A Story Yet to Be Written

The race for the NFL Playoffs in 2023 is incredibly tight and full of suspense. These underdogs have the talent and potential to make a significant impact. While nothing is guaranteed in the NFL, their chances are real, making this season's playoff race one of the most exciting in recent memory. Keep your eyes peeled – the unexpected might just happen. What do you think? Which underdog will surprise everyone and make the playoffs? Share your predictions in the comments below!