The NFL Playoffs – An Overview
As the 2020 NFL regular season comes to a close, thoughts now turn to the playoffs. 12 teams from each conference will compete in a single-elimination tournament, with the winner of the Super Bowl set to be crowned champion of the NFL. Here is a quick run-down of the teams who are competing in the playoffs, and their chances of success.
AFC Playoff Teams
In the AFC, the #1 seed Kansas City Chiefs will look to defend the title they won last year. Despite losing their final game to the Los Angeles Chargers, the Chiefs remain the clear favorites to win the Super Bowl. Led by QB Pat Mahomes, the Chiefs boast one of the most explosive offenses in the NFL and have some of the best playmakers in all of football. In addition, their defense is solid, making them a formidable force to be reckoned with.
The #2 seed Buffalo Bills, who barely snuck into the playoffs despite struggling for much of the season, will face the Colts in the Wild Card Round. Led by QB Josh Allen and WR Stefon Diggs, the Bills have a potent offense that can put up points in a hurry, and the defense is more than up to the challenge.
The Tennessee Titans, the AFC’s #3 seed, have been resurgent since turning to Ryan Tannehill as their QB. Tannehill has been one of the most efficient QBs in the league this season, and the Titans’ offense, led by Derrick Henry, has been fired up. The defense, while not the strongest, is consistent and has made plays when needed.
The #4 seed Baltimore Ravens have had a somewhat disappointing season, but they are still a dangerous team to watch in the playoffs. Led by the ever-reliable QB Lamar Jackson, the Ravens’ offense has been lethal, and their defense has shown flashes of brilliance.
The Patriots, receiving the #5 seed, face the Titans in the Wild Card Round. Despite the departure of Tom Brady, the Pats’ offense remains dangerous, with QB Cam Newton and RB James White leading the charge. The defense is solid and has made several plays this season, so the Pats may surprise some people.
The #6 seed Cleveland Browns have also made a return to the playoffs after a few years of struggles. Led by QB Baker Mayfield and RB Nick Chubb, the Browns boasts one of the most dynamic backfields in the NFL and have plenty of playmakers on both sides of the ball.
NFC Playoff Teams
The #1 seed Green Bay Packers have been surging all season long, and they are the clear favorites to win the NFC. Led by QB Aaron Rodgers and WR Davante Adams, the Packer offense is one of the most explosive in the league, and the defense, while not the strongest, has been on the ball.
The #2 seed New Orleans Saints, despite having to face the Bucs in the Wild Card Round, remain a formidable team in the playoffs. Led by QB Drew Brees, the Saints’ offense is multifaceted and can beat teams on the ground or through the air, while the defense is bolstered by the resurgence of DE Cameron Jordan.
The #3 seed Seattle Seahawks have been consistently good all season, and are poised to make a deep run in the playoffs. Led by QB Russell Wilson, the Seahawks have one of the most efficient offenses in the NFL, and their defense has been stout.
The Washington Football Team, receiving the #4 seed, are looking to make a Cinderella-like run in the playoffs. Lead by QB Alex Smith and RB Antonio Gibson, the Football Team have a potent offense, and their defense has been quite sufficient.
The #5 seed Tampa Bay Buccaneers face the Saints in the Wild Card Round, and there is plenty of intrigue surrounding the game. Led by QB Tom Brady and WRs Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, the Bucs offense is every bit as explosive as the Saints’, and their defense is not to be taken lightly.
Finally, the #6 seed Los Angeles Rams face the Seahawks in the Wild Card Round. Led by QB Jared Goff and RB Cam Akers, the Rams boast a solid offense, and their defense is solid with shutdown corners.
Conclusion
With so many talented teams competing in the playoffs, the 2020 NFL playoffs should be an exciting tournament with plenty of surprises in store. While the Chiefs remain the clear favorites, it is by no means a given that they will emerge victorious, as any of the 12 teams can beat any other on the right day.