NFL Playoffs Set With Surprising Twists and Newcomers
The NFL playoff landscape has taken shape with a mix of surprising teams clinching berths and some favorites resting top players in the final regular-season week.
Casey Parker
- 2024-01-08
- Updated 10:16 AM ET
(NewsNibs) - Following the expansion to a 12-team playoff format in 1990, there have always been at least four teams each year that made the playoffs. This season, the Browns, Lions, Packers, Texans, Rams, and Steelers have all made the cut as newcomers. Remarkably, both the Browns and Texans improved from last-place finishes the previous year to playoff contention this season. The Texans, under the leadership of first-year head coach DeMeco Ryans and quarterback C.J. Stroud, completed an impressive turnaround, winning their division.
Coaching Changes and Season's Endings
Despite a winning record under the 17-game schedule, not all teams managed to secure a playoff spot, emphasizing the competitive nature of the league. Coaches Ron Rivera and Arthur Smith were ousted from their positions, while the balance of the league saw seven teams finish with a 9-8 record, yet only two advancing to the postseason. The Baltimore Ravens opted to bench MVP favorite Lamar Jackson in their last game, having secured the AFC's No. 1 seed. Jackson's backup, Tyler Huntley, managed 146 yards with a touchdown in their 17-10 loss to the Steelers. The loss was compounded by fumbles from Gus Edwards and Melvin Gordon and a total of just seven points scored until a last-minute field goal attempt.
Historical Wins and Playoff Preparations
In contrast, the Dallas Cowboys solidified their strong season with a dominating 38-10 win over the Commanders, with quarterback Dak Prescott tossing four touchdown passes. This marks the third consecutive year the Cowboys finished with a 12-5 record under head coach Mike McCarthy. Shifts in the AFC have seen the Buffalo Bills rise to the No. 2 seed after extending their win streak to five games, featuring Josh Allen's dynamic performance and Deonte Hardy's electrifying 96-yard punt return touchdown. Meanwhile, the Detroit Lions, not resting on their laurels, secured a win that not only sends them to the playoffs but also affords them the opportunity to host their first playoff game since 1993.
