The regular season came to a close with a colossal collapse disappointing effort by the Detroit Lions, but they managed to backdoor sneak into the playoffs as a wild card. Thanks a lot, Washington. The field has been set so we sorted the contenders from the pretenders and ranked them all. These rankings are not meant to be predictive as there are numerous external factors but are merely based on who the best teams are entering postseason play.
CONTENDERS
This is the cream of the crop and barring an upset (or devastating injury), two of these teams will be playing in Super Bowl LI.
COULD GET HOT
These teams have Super Bowl aspirations but it will take a special run of stellar play to make that reality. Think 2008 Giants or 2013 Ravens.
PRETENDERS
These teams have ZERO chance at hoisting the Lombardi in February. None. Don’t pretend. Don’t get your hopes up. It’s not happening. Enjoy your likely short postseason stay and remember, there’s always next year.
