5 NFL teams primed to clinch the NFC in 2023 season ft. Cowboys

Modified Jul 06, 2023 10:37 GMT

The San Francisco 49ers look to be the only NFC team that can challenge the potential hegemony of the East's Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles

#4. Detroit Lions

For the first time since the days of Barry Sanders, the Detroit Lions are favorites to win the NFC North

The Detroit Lions last made the playoffs in 2016-17. They last won the NFC North in 1993-94. Both droughts could dramatically end this year, and then some.

Notwithstanding the gambling scandal involving some players, the Lions have a stacked roster led by arguably the division's new best quarterback Jared Goff, who has looked reborn since joining in 2021 via trade from the Los Angeles Rams.

Looking to predict NFL playoff Scenarios? Try our NFL Playoff Predictor for real-time simulations and stay ahead of the game!

Newcomers David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs could form a fearsome running back tandem, while wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown looks to continue his newfound Pro Bowl form in tandem with Marvin Jones. They will have Pro Bowl offensive linemen Penei Sewell and Frank Ragnow to thank for the offensive opportunities.

The defense has also taken a step forward, with defensive end Aidan Hutchinson and linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez looking to build on their All-Rookie performances. CJ Gardner-Johnson and Emmanuel Moseley, whose former teams were in the NFC Championship Game, will bolster a secondary that already has Will Harris and Tracy Walker.

About the author

Andre Castillo is an NFL journalist at Sportskeeda who holds a Bachelor’s degree in English and Master’s degree in Journalism. He has over seven years of working experience and has also covered MMA with FanSided, wrestling with The Sportster, and automobiles with Hot Cars.

Andre follows the New York Jets and the Washington Commanders, mostly because he likes their colors. His favorite position is tight end, and players like Mark Andrews and Travis Kelce have always drawn Andre's attention when watching a game. Bill Belichick is his favorite coach, and his all-time favorite Super Bowl is the XLII edition, when the underdog New York Giants upset the then-undefeated New England Patriots.

If he can change one moment in NFL history, it will be from the NFC Championship Game in January 2019. In that game, a highly controversial no-call cost the Saints what would have been Drew Brees' second Super Bowl visit, where he would have faced Tom Brady and the Patriots.

Andre is always on the lookout for fresh perspectives in a story and ensures complete factual accuracy by double-checking all information before using it in his articles. He has an innate understanding of how to present information in an efficient and compelling way.

Outside the writing realm, Andre is a professional licensed teacher. His hobbies include watching UFC, MotoGP, playing the piano, and travelling.

Know More

Philadelphia Eagles Fans! Check out the latest Eagles Schedule and dive into the Philadelphia Eagles Depth Chart for NFL Season 2024-25.

Edited by Andre Castillo