The 2023/24 NFL season brimmed with captivating storylines, breakout stars, struggling favourites, and unexpected contenders. Clearly, the season unfolded in ways few could have predicted. From Aaron Rodgers tearing his Achilles in his fourth play with the Jets, to the AFC East title hanging in the balance until the last minute, this season has been a rollercoaster of surprises.
Baltimore Ravens
Guided by the frontrunner for the MVP title, Lamar Jackson, the Ravens are heading into the playoffs boasting the best record in the league (13-4). Jackson stands out as the quarterback with the most rushing yards (821), significantly outpacing his counterparts, while also showcasing his prowess in stellar passing performances with a 102.7 passer rating for the season (4th highest amongst QBs).
Supporting the 27-year-old quarterback is a formidable defence that allowed the fewest points-per-game this season (16.5) and led the league in total sacks (60)
The defensive linemen, Michael Pierce and Justin Madubuike have played pivotal roles in Mike Macdonald’s defence, often going unnoticed. With many teams grappling with injuries or weaknesses in their offensive line, the duo pose a significant challenge. At 31, the massive 355-pound Pierce has experienced a resurgence in his second stint with the Ravens. On the other hand, the 26-year-old Madubuike has emerged as one of the NFL’s most disruptive interior linemen.
Despite their impressive regular season exploits, which included comfortable wins against fellow contenders such as the 49ers, the Dolphins and the Lions, question marks still remain as to whether the Ravens can go all the way. Lamar has a sketchy postseason record (1-3) and his performances in the critical games leave a lot to be desired. Baltimore haven’t progressed beyond the Divisional Round since 2013, however, this squad looks as balanced (and as deadly as ever) despite the absence of star Tight End Mark Andrews, and are likely to be Super Bowl favourites.
San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers are arguably the Super Bowl favourites ‘on paper’ given the level of sheer talent they possess in their roster. Quarterback Brock Purdy, former 7th round pick, has consistently delivered solid performances throughout the season, finishing with a best QB passer rating (113), throwing for 4,280 yards (5th most in the league) and throwing 31 touchdowns (3rd best in the league). Moreover, he was, for a significant stretch of the season, the MVP favourite, until his form nosedived in that dreadful loss to the Ravens. The team’s strength is further bolstered by having the league’s best running back (and fellow MVP contender) in Christian McCaffrey, alongside offensive stars like Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk, and George Kittle.
Also, the 49ers’ defence, spearheaded by Nick Bosa and recently acquired Chase Young, should not be underestimated. They’ve allowed the second-fewest opponent touchdowns per game (1.82) and have the 4th highest number of interceptions this season (22). Despite a narrow loss against the Rams in Week 18, the 49ers won 7 of their last 10 regular season games and remain a formidable opponent and would present a significant challenge to any team they face in the postseason. Between their roster and their coaching staff, led by the genius Kyle Shanahan, it’s arguably their Super Bowl to lose.
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys consistently carry the playoff expectations, and this year, they possess the star power (and have showcased the performances) to justify those expectations.
Their proficiency in the passing game, adeptness at pressuring the quarterback and generating turnovers on defence, along with the deployment of top-tier players, as witnessed in previous seasons, could once again be pivotal for securing victory in the NFL playoffs. Dak Prescott has enjoyed an MVP- calibre year, leading the league in passing touchdowns (36), 3rd-most passing yards (4,516) and has anchored an impressive Cowboys offense, which led the NFL in total points per game this season (29.9). Wide Receiver CeeDee Lamb is also entering his prime form at the right time. Lamb has 11 touchdowns in the last 9 games (most in the NFL in that span) and his role in Mike McCarthy’s offense will be increasingly significant given that the Cowboys have struggled with their running game all season. Statistically, the Cowboys have also been solid on the defensive end, allowing the 5th fewest points per game this season (18.5).
The Cowboys are primed for a successful postseason as they get to host the Wild Card and Divisional Round, a massive advantage for the NFL’s best home team (unbeaten this season). Additionally, their roster is steadily getting back to full health with the return of CB Stephen Gilmore and veteran DT Jonathan Hankins for Sunday’s game.
Cleveland Browns
The Cleveland Browns faced numerous setbacks early in the season when their starting quarterback, Deshaun Watson, and primary running back, Nick Chubb, suffered long-term injuries. However, the team’s supporting cast rose to the occasion in their absence.
The Browns miraculously secured a playoff berth with a week to spare, in a stacked AFC North division, which saw all 4 teams finish above .500 (1st time since 1935).
Boasting the best defence in the league, the Browns have allowed the lowest average yards at 260.3 yards per game. The key to their playoff success lies in the consistency of this defence, but also of 38-year-old quarterback Joe Flacco, who has averaged over 300 passing yards since he signed a month ago. If the former Super Bowl MVP can maintain his form and continue connecting with the red-hot Wide Receiver Amari Cooper and Tight End David Njoku, the Browns have the potential for a significant postseason run.
Buffalo Bills
After being on the brink of playoff elimination, the Buffalo Bills have staged an impressive comeback with four consecutive victories over the Chiefs, Cowboys, Chargers, and Patriots to win the AFC East and secure the 2nd seed for the playoffs edging out Miami in a narrow Week 18 win. Among the 14 playoff contenders, the Bills stand out with a remarkable 5-1 record against other playoff teams.
While Sean McDermott has often displayed strength, quarterback Josh Allen’s occasional recklessness remains a potential weakness. In the crucial clincher against the Dolphins, he threw interceptions from the Miami 5 and 35 on consecutive possessions at the beginning of the game. Nevertheless, Allen’s dynamic threat with both his arm and running abilities is undeniable. He ranks in the top 5 amongst QBs this season in passing yards, total touchdowns and QB rating. If he get take more care of the football and also maximise his connection with Wide Receiver Stefon Diggs, in combination with RB James Cook improved performances of late, Buffalo would be a dangerous opponent against any side.
The Bills remarkable surge in the late season has seen them become the most in-form side in the league and thus has positioned themselves as favourites for a deep postseason run
