As we move deeper into the NFL regular season, tiers of contenders continue to be established. There are several clear favourites at this point in the season, with teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and Detroit Lions separating themselves. While there are many strong contenders, there is also a large middle class of teams fighting for their shot at the playoffs.
Several teams are clawing for an opportunity at the postseason. Let’s take a look at some of the top fringe playoff teams and the odds that betting sites have given them to make it in.
Denver Broncos (+185)
The Denver Broncos were not pegged by most Ontario sports betting operators as a team that had a strong opportunity to make the playoffs. However, through 10 games of the season, they have been much better than anticipated. They currently occupy the final playoff spot in the AFC, though they are only one game up on the rest of the pack. Their defence has far exceeded expectations, and the offence has done enough to keep them in games. Their odds reflect cautious optimism they can continue.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (+225)
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are not in the best position right now, as they find themselves on the outside of the playoff picture. However, they are only two games back in their division race and have managed to keep games close against top competition. They have some heartbreaking losses that will continue to haunt them, but quarterback Baker Mayfield is playing the best football of his career. Their odds being this high reflects some belief from oddsmakers that they can manage to make their divisional race a closer one, as the Falcons are currently comfortably on top.
Indianapolis Colts (+225)
The Indianapolis Colts are not given the highest odds of making the playoffs, and it is likely for good reason. The team has benched starting quarterback Anthony Richardson for the elder Joe Flacco, and they are currently mired in a losing streak. This isn't the strongest roster, as there are numerous weak points. However, they have some playmakers, such as Jonathon Taylor and Michael Pittman, and a coaching staff that appears competent. With the Texans not pulling away in their divisional battle, the Colts have an outside chance of surprising the league with a playoff appearance.
Cincinnati Bengals (+130)
The Cincinnati Bengals were a team many pegged as likely to make the Super Bowl this year. Joe Burrow is playing at an MVP level, and Jamarr Chase looks like the best receiver in the league. However, the Bengals are 4-6 and coming off a devastating loss to the Ravens. Vegas giving the Bengals such strong odds of making the playoffs reflects two things: the talent level of the Bengals and the uncertainty of the AFC’s last Wild Card spot. The Broncos currently occupy that position, but they are only one game up on the Bengals, and oddsmakers trust the established Bengals over the field.
Los Angeles Rams (+230)
The Los Angeles Rams have been navigating a series of injuries this season, with Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua both missing a lot of time. They have struggled in their absence but now find themselves at .500 with their stars set to return to action. They are still in the mix for their division and not out of the Wild Card picture. Their odds are not the highest right now because the division race is crowded, and the NFC Wild Card is way more competitive than the AFC. But there's never a good reason to doubt Sean McVay and Matt Stafford.
San Francisco 49ers (-155)
The San Francisco 49ers played in the Super Bowl last year, and many pegged them as contenders to return this year. However, that has not been how the season has shaken out for the team. They’ve battled through injuries and adversity and currently sit outside of a playoff spot. However, they appear to be getting healthier and rounding into form. Superstar running back Christian McCaffrey has returned to the lineup, and quarterback Brock Purdy has been mostly lights out. With so much talent and a world-class coaching staff, Vegas says they are favourites to be back in the playoffs.
Miami Dolphins (+500)
This one is admittedly a long shot, but in a weak bottom half of the AFC, don't rule it out. The Dolphins played without quarterback Tua Tagovailoa for much of the season and looked atrocious. However, following his concussion, he is back on the field and looking good for the Dolphins. They have a long way to go to return to the playoff picture and basically need to be perfect from here on out. They are pretty much out of their division race already, but playoffs are not altogether an impossibility.
