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Ranking NFL’s 0-2 teams by chances to actually make the playoffs

After two weeks of NFL action, only eight teams are still without a win. But with the league’s expansion to a 17-game schedule, as well as the expanded playoff format, an 0-2 start is no longer the deathblow for a team’s playoff chances. Last year alone the Houston Texans, the Chicago Bears, and the Carolina […]

Ranking NFL’s 0-2 teams by chances to actually make the playoffs

8. Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons' struggles began with a 20-13 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 1, with Cooper Rush's pick-six sealing the fate. Their loss to the Carolina Panthers was even more lopsided, 34-3. While Michael Penix Jr.'s return may help, the Falcons are still far from playoff contention. However, with three prime-time games coming up, they remain on the list.

7. Miami Dolphins: The Dolphins have lost both of their first two games, 35-13 to the San Francisco 49ers and 35-13 to the Las Vegas Raiders. Offensively and defensively, the Dolphins rank among the worst in the league. Their next three games against tough opponents could make a turnaround difficult, but the Dolphins' home games might give them a chance.

6. Washington Commanders: Jayden Daniels suffered another dislocated elbow, and the team will rely on backup Marcus Mariota. The Commanders face a difficult stretch of games against Seattle, Indianapolis, the Giants, San Francisco, Philadelphia, and the Rams. While Daniels' absence could be a problem, a win or two may be enough to overcome a 2-6 start.

5. Tennessee Titans: The Titans were on the verge of beating the Eagles in Week 2, but Jalen Hurts engineered a game-winning drive. Quarterback Cam Ward showed improvement against the Eagles, but the Titans still look far from playoff contention. However, games against the Giants and Cleveland give them some hope.

4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Baker Mayfield's slow start is compounded by a poor defensive showing, allowing 33 points to Joe Burrow and 23 points to Deshaun Watson in their last two games. Upcoming tough matchups against the Packers, Vikings, and Cowboys could test the Buccaneers' resolve. Their NFC South division standing gives them a slight advantage, but the defense needs significant improvement.

3. Los Angeles Chargers: The Chargers' poor start, including a loss to a .200 team, has them on shaky ground. With a brutal schedule of opponents like the Bills, Seahawks, Broncos, Chiefs, Rams, Texans, and Ravens, a turnaround seems unlikely. Despite having talented players, the Chargers' current form makes a playoff push seem improbable.

2. Indianapolis Colts: The Colts suffered a 41-point loss to the Ravens in Week 1, but managed a tie against the Chiefs in overtime in Week 2. Their struggles continued, with Indianapolis giving up 41 points in their Week 3 game. With a tough slate of upcoming opponents, it is difficult to see a turnaround in sight for the Colts.

Written by urgent.news from SB Nation's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

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