Anticipation for the NFL playoffs is building, and franchises are doing everything to earn seeding. Coaching staffs are preparing for a grueling end of the season – ensuring players are ready for anything coming their way. Standings in the divisions are close, creating more competition throughout the league. Six games are left on the schedule, which teams can make a surprising playoff appearance?
If the playoffs started this weekend, fans would still be in for an exciting treat. Jalen Hurts and Josh Allen’s hard work result in first-round bye weeks for their respective franchises. The Dolphins, Titans, Ravens, Bengals, and Jets clinched playoff berths in the AFC – exciting AFC East supporters. In the NFC, the Vikings, 49ers, Buccaneers, Cowboys, Giants, and Commanders fill in the playoff tree.
A fight for the Vince Lombardi Trophy would intrigue viewers. Fortunately, these franchises still have time to change the big picture.
NFL Sleeper #5: New England Patriots (6-5)
Earning a spot in the conference bracket will force Mac Jones to play his best football. Bill Belichick’s squad is one game out of playoff consideration. Losses to the Dolphins and Ravens are the only blemishes in their conference record (5-2). The results of an intense lineup of incoming games will make or break the season.
Five out of six games are against conference opponents – increasing the importance of sealing consecutive victories. New England must take on the Dolphins, Bengals, and Bills twice to have a chance to fight for the hardware. Wins against the Jets, Colts, and Browns will give the Patriots enough confidence to weather the storm. If Mac Jones can manage the offense and the defense performs well, we could see New England sneak in.
NFL Sleeper #4: Atlanta Falcons (5-7)
Standings in the NFC South are tight and any team could pull away with the title. Tom Brady and the Buccaneers (5-6) are first in the division, but their rival is not far behind. Arthur Smith and the Falcons are determined to send Brady home for the post-season. They are two games back in the division (1-3) with two left on the schedule. Securing a win against the Saints and Buccaneers is pivotal. Navigating through matchups in between their division showdowns will require focus, but the Falcons can persevere. The Steelers, Ravens, and Cardinals will be motivated to defeat the birds but they won’t go down without a fight.