It’s been a weird year, but no matter how things play out, the next two weekends are going to be crazy
As the 2023 NFL regular season approaches its final two weeks, a remarkable 24 teams are still in contention for playoff berths, marking the highest number of eligible teams at this stage since 2004, according to NFL Senior Vice President Michael Signora. Among these contenders are the Cincinnati Bengals, reflecting the unpredictable and competitive nature of this season’s playoff race.
In the AFC, only the Ravens (12-3) and Dolphins (11-3) have secured playoff spots, leaving the rest of the field open for contention. The Chiefs and Jaguars lead their respective divisions, with the Browns, Bills, and Colts occupying the Wild Card spots. Notably, the Texans, Bengals, Steelers, Raiders, and Broncos are positioned between eighth and twelfth, keeping their playoff hopes alive.
In contrast, the NFC has witnessed more clarity in its playoff landscape, with the 49ers, Eagles, Lions, and Cowboys already securing postseason berths. While the Buccaneers lead the NFC South, they have yet to solidify their position. The Rams and Seahawks currently hold the Wild Card spots, with the Cowboys securing the other.
24 teams are still in contention for a trip to the Super Bowl, which ties for the most with two weeks remaining in 20 years, since a record 26 in 2004.
— Michael Signora (@NFLfootballinfo) December 26, 2023
However, five teams in the NFC, namely the Vikings, Packers, Saints, Falcons, and Bears, remain in contention, adding an element of suspense to the playoff picture.
Eight teams have been officially eliminated from playoff contention, including the Jets, Titans, Chargers, Patriots, Giants, Commanders, Cardinals, and Panthers.
According to the NFL’s playoff picture website, the Bengals currently hold a 25% chance of making the playoffs. This probability drops to 8% in the event of a loss to the Chiefs but increases to 58% with a victory in the upcoming crucial matchup. As the regular season culminates, the league is set for an intense and unpredictable finish, with numerous teams vying for coveted playoff spots.
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