NFL Playoffs Teams to Watch, Dark Horses, and Early Upset Risks
The NFL postseason begins this Saturday, and our writers share their thoughts on the teams and players to watch, the dark horses to keep an eye on, and the high-seeded teams that may be at risk of early elimination.
Team That Will Be Most Missed in the Playoffs
Cincinnati Bengals
While Cincinnati’s season ended with disappointment, the Bengals’ roster was brimming with talent, including MVP-caliber quarterback Joe Burrow, receiving triple crown winner Ja’Marr Chase, and defensive powerhouse Trey Hendrickson. A five-game win streak to end the season was not enough to overcome their rough start. Despite a season of promise, inconsistent play and a tough schedule ultimately kept them out of the postseason, making them one of the biggest absentees this year.
Seattle Seahawks
Though they fell short, the Seahawks finished strong, winning six out of their last eight games. Despite Geno Smith’s emergence as one of the NFL’s most improved quarterbacks, the Seahawks won’t get a chance to chase a playoff run. Coach Mike Macdonald will now face tough decisions regarding the future of the franchise.
High-Seeded Teams at Risk of Going Out Early
Kansas City Chiefs
Even with the leadership of Andy Reid, Patrick Mahomes, and Steve Spagnuolo, the Chiefs have had a tough time maintaining consistency this season. While they managed to win games, their passing game remains shaky, and their offensive line has been a point of concern. The Chiefs’ performance in the postseason will be closely scrutinized, as the margin for error grows smaller with every playoff game. With a lack of standout weapons and potential issues on the line, the Chiefs may be vulnerable.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The third-seeded Buccaneers have one of the best offensive units, but their defense has been exposed, particularly against mobile quarterbacks like Washington’s Jayden Daniels. In addition, their road to the playoffs isn’t smooth, as they may face difficult matchups with teams like the Ravens in the divisional round.
Kansas City Chiefs (Again)
The defending Super Bowl champions are still a formidable force, but their inconsistent performance this season raises concerns. Despite a solid record, their struggles were evident in a blowout loss to the Broncos in the season finale. If one of their star players, like Mahomes, were to go down, they could be in trouble in the postseason.
With playoff excitement building, the NFL postseason promises to be a thrilling ride filled with surprises. Teams like the Chiefs and Buccaneers will need to rise to the occasion, while others may surprise fans by making deep playoff runs.
