NFL 2022: 3 Dark horse Super Bowl contenders

2. Washington Commanders

For some reason, the Washington Commanders thought going after Carson Wentz was a good idea, despite having a front-row seat in the NFC East as he wore out his welcome with the Philadelphia Eagles two seasons after signing a massive extension. Wentz then joined the Indianapolis Colts, where an apology was issued by the coach to the owner for vouching for him.

That came after they unloaded him on Washington, where he was 2-4 as the starter. His second win was in his final start as they defeated the Chicago Bears but that was in a 12-7 snoozefest which included just 99 yards for the former No. 2 overall pick.

Washington finally turned to Taylor Heinicke over the next six games and he’s gone 5-1 with a win over the best team in the NFL — they knocked off Philly in Week 10, the only franchise to hand the 10-1 Eagles a loss. The second-best record in the NFC belongs to the Vikings at 9-2, and that’s the one team to beat Heinicke, securing a 20-17 win in Week 9.

Much like the Patriots, the Commanders find themselves in a strong division as their 7-5 record has them in last place, one-half game behind the Giants. They’re unlikely to catch the Eagles or even Dallas, but they don’t have to. In fact, the NFC overall hasn’t been too impressive and the Commanders are No. 7 in the conference right now, a half-game ahead of Seattle for the final playoff spot.

Should they be able to sneak into the tournament, they can be a lot of fun — and can be a tough out. Heinicke brings an electric style of play and has no fear. Players with that combination can often catch fire, and that might be all it takes for them to make a run.