2024 NFL Playoffs: Top Six “Questionable” Units on Playoff Teams That Could Hold Their Teams Back from Deep Playoff Runs
With the 2024 NFL regular season now wrapped up, 14 teams remain in contention for the Super Bowl. But only one will emerge unscathed, while the other 13 will most likely fall victim to their flaws. FOX Sports has identified the most “questionable” units (offense, defense, special teams) of all the playoff teams, which could hold their respective teams back from a deep playoff run.
Houston Texans offense, the reason most expect Houston to be one-and-done in the playoffs, struggled significantly during the regular season. The team’s passing game struggled without top two receivers Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell, out for the season with torn ACLs.
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ offense has declined in the past month of the season, and it’s difficult to see it suddenly improving in the playoffs. The Steelers lacked a true outside threat aside from receiver George Pickens and have struggled in efficiency on the ground.
Injuries decimated the Detroit Lions’ defense, hurtling their title hopes. They had to rely heavily on the blitz to generate pressure, and their pass defense suffered as a result, ranking 30th in the NFL.
Washington Commanders coach Dan Quinn and staff couldn’t inspire an elite-level defense during the regular season. The team allowed 162.3 rushing yards per game over the final three weeks and finished below average in most defensive metrics.
Buffalo Bills’ special teams units had their weaknesses exposed during the season. The Bills allowed the second-most yards on kickoff returns per game, had the fourth-fewest fumble return TDs, and ranked 28th in overall special teams efficiency.
The Minnesota Vikings, along with the Bills, were subpar on special teams as well. The team allowed an NFL-worst four kickoff returns of 60 or more yards this season.
FOX Sports expert, Ben Arthur, notes that identifying these flaws may not ensure that these units get corrected overnight but could guide attention towards making potential adjustments as playoff teams vie for the championship title.