NFL playoff preview: The time has come at last. The regular season has concluded, and attention shifts to the playoffs and the quest for Super Bowl LIX, set to unfold at the Caesars Super Dome in New Orleans on February 9.
The journey to the Big Easy kicks off with an exciting six-game slate on wild-card weekend. To prepare fans for the upcoming matchups, FOX Sports NFL Reporters Greg Auman and Eric D. Williams analyze the strengths, question marks, and X-factors for all 14 playoff teams.
NFC
No. 1 seed: Detroit Lions (15-2)
No. 2 seed: Philadelphia Eagles (14-3)
Biggest question mark: The Eagles have excelled in the run game, which has led to a significant reduction in passing attempts. Currently, they rank 29th in passing yards per game and have the second-highest sack rate in the league. Both A.J. Brown and Devonta Smith missed three games due to injuries, yet Jalen Hurts boasts the highest passer rating of his career. If teams can contain Saquon Barkley on the ground, the challenge lies in whether Hurts can effectively lead the offense through the air.
X-factor: The Eagles’ defense, under new coordinator Vic Fangio, has emerged as one of the most improved units in the league. They rank first in total yards, first in passing yards, and second in scoring defense, a stark contrast to their 31st ranking against the pass last season. Rookie corners Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean have made significant contributions, while linebacker Zack Baun has become a standout player, making the Pro Bowl with 150 tackles after a modest four-year stint with the Saints.
No. 3 seed: Tampa Bay Buccaneers (10-7)
Biggest strength: Under the guidance of first-year offensive coordinator Liam Coen, the Buccaneers have seen a remarkable transformation in their offense. Their run game has surged from 32nd last year to fourth this season, aided by an upgraded offensive line featuring rookie center Graham Barton. Rookie running back Bucky Irving has emerged as a 1,000-yard rusher and a dynamic playmaker, while Baker Mayfield has enjoyed a career year, throwing for 41 touchdowns and 4,500 yards—marking the best passing season in Tampa Bay history outside of Tom Brady.
Biggest question mark: The Buccaneers’ pass defense has faced challenges due to injuries, potentially sidelining corner Jamel Dean and both starting safeties, Antoine Winfield and Jordan Whitehead. While the team has shown improvement since their Week 11 bye, their recent success has come against less formidable opponents, with only the Chargers being a playoff contender in their last seven matchups. With merely seven interceptions this year, a franchise low, the pressure is on Todd Bowles’ defense to create turnovers.
X-factor: Defensive lineman Calijah Kancey, who missed the first five games due to a calf injury, has made a significant impact since returning. Over the last eight games, he has recorded 6.5 sacks, ranking him among the top sack leaders in the league. While Vita Vea heads to the Pro Bowl, Kancey has established himself as a key threat in the postseason.
No. 4 seed: Los Angeles Rams (10-7)
Biggest question mark: The health of receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua is a major concern. The Rams struggled early in the season with both players sidelined, but since Week 8, their performance has improved significantly, boasting an 8-3 record with wins over the Vikings and Bills. Keeping both players healthy is crucial, as their presence creates challenging matchups for opposing defenses.
No. 5 seed: Minnesota Vikings (14-3)
Biggest strength: The Vikings’ defense, led by Brian Flores, has been a force, finishing the season with an NFL-leading 24 interceptions and a tie for the league lead in takeaways with 33. Their ability to limit opponents to under 30 points has been a key factor in their success, with a perfect record of 14-0 in such games.
No. 6 seed: Washington Commanders (12-5)
Biggest strength: Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels has played a pivotal role in leading Washington to the playoffs. As a favorite for Rookie of the Year, his performance has helped the Commanders establish a top-five offense in both total and rushing yards. Historically, rookie quarterbacks have faced challenges in the playoffs, but Daniels aims to break that trend.
Biggest question mark: Despite significant improvements, Washington’s defense still struggles against the run, ranking 30th in yards per carry allowed. This could present challenges against teams like the Buccaneers and Eagles. Additionally, the Commanders’ red-zone defense is a concern, allowing touchdowns 60% of the time.
No. 7 seed: Green Bay Packers (11-6)
X-factor: Safety Xavier McKinney’s ability to regain his early-season form is crucial for the Packers. With a strong start, he recorded an interception in each of the first five games, but his production has since declined. The Packers’ defense relies on takeaways, having forced 29 turnovers, and McKinney’s performance will significantly impact their success.
AFC
No. 1 seed: Kansas City Chiefs (15-2)
Biggest strength: For the Chiefs, quarterback Patrick Mahomes is the cornerstone of their success, complemented by head coach Andy Reid. The Chiefs have set an NFL record with 16 consecutive one-score game victories, showcasing Mahomes’ ability to perform under pressure, reflected in his impressive passer ratings in critical moments.
Biggest question mark: Despite their strong record, the Chiefs have not dominated games, leading the league with 11 comeback victories. The long layoff before their first postseason game raises concerns about potential rust, although their home-field advantage has been a significant factor in their success.
X-factor: While Mahomes is a standout player, defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo has crafted a formidable defense that has ranked among the best in the league, allowing only 19.2 points per game. To defeat the Chiefs, opposing offenses must find ways to consistently advance against this elite defensive unit.
No. 2 seed: Buffalo Bills (13-4)
Biggest strength: The Bills, led by MVP candidate Josh Allen, feature one of the most explosive offenses in the league. Allen’s impressive performance, highlighted by 42 total touchdowns, has propelled Buffalo into the postseason. The team’s offensive balance, with running back James Cook contributing significantly, has been a key factor in their success.
X-factor: Allen’s ability to avoid turnovers has been exceptional this season, contributing to the Bills’ league-best turnover margin. If they can maintain this discipline in the playoffs, their chances of reaching the Super Bowl will significantly improve.
No. 3 seed: Baltimore Ravens (12-5)
Biggest strength: Reigning MVP Lamar Jackson has had a standout season, aided by the addition of powerhouse running back Derrick Henry. This dynamic duo has propelled the Ravens to lead the league in rushing yards per game, showcasing their ability to control the game on the ground.
No. 4 seed: Houston Texans (10-7)
Biggest strength: The Texans’ defense, under the leadership of DeMeco Ryans, has proven to be one of the best in the league. Their ability to limit opponents’ yards and rushing touchdowns has positioned them as a formidable force heading into the playoffs.
X-factor: The Texans will rely heavily on running back Joe Mixon, especially if quarterback C.J. Stroud struggles in the air. Mixon’s performance will be critical for Houston’s success in the postseason.
No. 5 seed: Los Angeles Chargers (11-6)
Biggest strength: The Chargers’ defense has undergone a remarkable transformation, allowing the fewest points per game in the league. Their ability to stifle opponents early in games has set a strong precedent for their playoff aspirations.
Biggest question mark: Quarterback Justin Herbert’s quest for a postseason victory continues. With a playoff-experienced head coach now at the helm, the pressure is on Herbert to deliver against the Texans in their first-round matchup.
No. 6 seed: Pittsburgh Steelers (10-7)
Biggest strength: The Steelers’ defense remains a formidable unit, led by edge rusher T.J. Watt. Despite recent struggles, their ability to generate turnovers has kept them competitive heading into the playoffs.
Biggest question mark: The performance of quarterback Russell Wilson is under scrutiny. After a strong start, his recent struggles have raised concerns about his ability to lead the offense effectively.
No. 7 seed: Denver Broncos (10-7)
Biggest strength: The Broncos’ defense, orchestrated by Vance Joseph, has excelled in generating sacks and turnovers, making them a formidable opponent in the playoffs.
Biggest question mark: The Broncos face a challenging playoff debut after an extended drought. The team’s ability to perform under pressure in a hostile environment will be a key factor in their success.
Greg Auman is an NFL Reporter for FOX Sports. He previously spent a decade covering the Buccaneers for the Tampa Bay Times and The Athletic. You can follow him on Twitter at @gregauman.
