Last night the NFL season kicked off (albeit with a new kickoff format!) with the Hall of Fame Game. As we move closer to the season, fans and analysts alike are buzzing with predictions and expectations. However, not every prediction aligns with popular belief, and some teams may surprise us all. Based on my analysis, here are four bold predictions for this year's NFL playoffs.
4. Cleveland Browns Clinch a Playoff Spot
The Cleveland Browns have been a rollercoaster of talent and turmoil in recent years, but this season, I project them to secure a playoff berth. With an estimated 9.74 wins, the Browns are poised to claim the 7th seed in the AFC.
The Browns have a strong roster and good coaching, yet they are frequently overlooked in favor of the two powerhouses in the AFC North--the Ravens and the Bengals. I'm skeptical of Deshaun Watson, but he's entering his second full season with the Browns, and their offensive scheme should be a fit. If he can move from terrible to average it could be enough. The other factor here is if Myles Garrett can lead the defense to perform more effectively on the road this year. Ultimately, I see them squeaking into the playoffs.
3. Chicago Bears Make the Playoffs
After years of rebuilding, the Chicago Bears are finally ready to break through. I have them projected for 9.43 wins, placing them 7th in the NFC. The Bears have made significant strides in improving their roster, particularly on the offensive side of the ball.
Quarterback Caleb Williams comes in with high expectations as the number 1 pick in the draft, but he will only need to be average in his first season because of the talent around him. Offensive weapons like D.J. Moore, Keenan Allen, Cole Kmet, and Rome Odunze provide him with plenty of options to move the ball. The biggest factor for the Bears is their cupcake schedule. I have it 5th easiest in the league and the easiest in the NFC North by a sizable margin.
2. Detroit Lions Fall Short of the Playoffs
Detroit brings back a strong team that saw them fall just short of a Super Bowl appearance. While some people expect them to be in a similar position, my projections suggest otherwise. With 9.22 wins, the Lions are expected to finish 8th in the NFC, just missing the postseason cut. Despite a promising offseason and a talented roster, several factors could derail their playoff hopes.
While their offense showed flashes of brilliance last season, questions remain about their defensive capabilities. The loss of key defensive players and an unproven secondary could make it challenging for Detroit to consistently compete against high-caliber teams. This will be a good team, but ultimately they'll fall short of the playoffs.
1. Buffalo Bills Miss the Playoffs
Arguably the most shocking prediction on this list is the Buffalo Bills missing the playoffs. Projected at 9.35 wins, they rank 8th in the AFC, just outside the playoff picture. The Bills, led by star quarterback Josh Allen, have been perennial contenders in recent years, making this prediction particularly surprising.
Several factors contribute to this unexpected outcome. The Bills play in a highly competitive division, with the Miami Dolphins and New York Jets both improving their rosters significantly. Injuries and depth issues could also play a role, as the team has shown vulnerability when key players are sidelined. While the Bills have the talent to make a run, the combination of these factors may prove too much to overcome.