5 Underdog NFL Teams With a Real Shot at the Playoffs

The Vikings' playoff chances include one requirement: Christian Ponder has to stay on the sidelines. The offense was very efficient in Teddy Bridgewater's one start. If he stays healthy, then the Vikings will be a dangerous team. Minnesota is also just one game behind first place in the NFC North.

The Cleveland Browns have been competitive in all four of their games this year, winning two of them. Brian Hoyer has been pretty good, and he has the offense performing above expectations. The surprising thing is that their defense hasn't been that good so far. If the defense comes around, the Browns will compete for a playoff spot.

Buffalo is currently tied for first in the AFC East with the New England Patriots. Their defense has been very good, and it should keep them in games all year long. The wildcard is, of course, the quarterback position. Kyle Orton passed the test in his first appearance. His level of play will be key for the Bills' playoff chances.

It's hard to imagine the Giants as underdogs, but after last season and the start to this season, that's the role they fit. New York has been very impressive since their 0-2 start. Eli Manning is back to playing at a high level and the defense has taken a step forward. It won't be easy in the NFC East -- a division that has exceeded expectations as a whole -- but the Giants will have a chance if they continue playing at this level.

The positives for the Texans are that they are 3-2 and still have four games left against the Titans and Jaguars. Also, they have J.J. Watt. Of course, there is a reason they are an underdog team, and that reason's name is Ryan Fitzpatrick. His play has been predictably erratic, but if the running game continues to be successful, they will win their share of games.