NFL Predictions: Under-the-Radar Contenders That Will Keep Surging

At this point of the season, if you're mathematically alive, you're a contender. All of these teams are very much alive. They're all long shots at this point, but that's better than what was expected of them.

They will all keep the momentum going this week, keeping the teams that they are chasing in must-win mode.

Arizona Cardinals

The abysmal start that the Cardinals fell victim to did this team in in terms of really contending for a playoff spot. But through 13 games, they are a mathematical factor. That's largely because their pass rush has been incredibly strong. The Cardinals now have won five of their last six games.

The Browns offense is horrible. Seneca Wallace will be starting for the Browns on Sunday, and that's not going to make things any better. The Cardinals will attack the Browns all game, forcing quick passes from Wallace. 

They will ultimately fall short of the playoffs, but the Cardinals' hot streak is not going to stop this week.

Seattle Seahawks

Seattle's in a similar boat. Their early season struggles were just too great to put them in real Wild Card contention. But like the Cardinals, they are very much mathematically alive. 

The Bears are playing terrible football with Jay Cutler and Matt Forte out. It's not going to get any better in Chicago for the rest of the year. On top of all of that, Seattle's defense is also playing inspired football. Although the game is in Chicago, this sets up beautifully for a Seahawks win. 

Tennessee Titans

Never in my life did I think the Titans would be in playoff contention this late in the year, but they are. They are also on the right end of a bye week, or they might as well be. 

Chris Johnson will run all over the Colts inept rushing defense. The Titans defense is far from stellar, but they won't have any problem shutting down the Indianapolis offense, which is a hopeless unit without Peyton Manning. 

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