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NFL: Top 5 Darkhorse Playoff Contenders

By Evan Massey

Oct 12, 2014; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Brian Hoyer (6) against the Pittsburgh Steelers at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Browns won 31-10. Mandatory Credit: Ron Schwane-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 12, 2014; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Brian Hoyer (6) against the Pittsburgh Steelers at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Browns won 31-10. Mandatory Credit: Ron Schwane-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 2, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) celebrates after the replay overturned the call on the field resulting in a touchdown against the San Diego Chargers at Sun Life Stadium. Miami defeated the Chargers 37-0. Mandatory Credit: Brad Barr-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 2, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) celebrates after the replay overturned the call on the field resulting in a touchdown against the San Diego Chargers at Sun Life Stadium. Miami defeated the Chargers 37-0. Mandatory Credit: Brad Barr-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Miami Dolphins

There are a couple of big surprises from the AFC East that are on this list, and the first of those two teams is the Miami Dolphins. They have had the talent to compete for the past couple of years, but they seem to have put everything together and are making a serious run at the playoffs. Miami is 5-3 on the season, and are going to have a chance to make a run at the end of the year.

Ryan Tannehill has stepped up this season in a big way, and the defense has come through for Miami as well. The defense currently ranks as the second best defense against the pass and 12th against the run. They’re fourth in rushing yards on the season, but are 18th in passing offense.

Needless to say, those numbers are impressive and they are without a doubt playoff contenders at this point in the season. They’re playing in a very difficult conference and division, but they are one of the teams that still has potential to grow into. It will be interesting to see how they handle the pressure of every week meaning something a bit more as they get into the thick of the playoff race.

Next: 2. Buffalo Bills

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