NFL Playoffs: 5 dark horse teams who can still make it

Nov 29, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; New Orleans Saints tackle Zach Strief (64) and quarterback Drew Brees (9) lie on the ground after Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) makes a sack during the game at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

5 of 6

Nov 22, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (6) passes the ball during the second half against the Denver Broncos at Soldier Field. Denver won 17-15. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports /

The Chicago Bears Are Creeping Up

Rather quietly the Chicago Bears have crept up in the Wild Card race behind Coach John Fox and (surprise) Jay Cutler’s strong play.

If anyone would have told you prior to the season that Jay Cutler could get some most valuable player votes, would you believe them? Well, if the Bears can defeat conventional wisdom and finish 9-7 or 10-6, he will get a few place votes.

Jay Cutler’s talent is real. His arm strength is nearly unparalleled. The decision-making needed work, but with Fox’s tutelage and schemes drafted up by offensive coordinator Adam Gase, that has changed. Cutler is a new man.

What is also new is the Bears defense. Many of the players are the same, and they certainly do not fit the base 3-4 which is being used. How they have shut down opposing passing attacks is remarkable. The secondary coverage will keep them in most games. Their 52 pass deflections rank 10th overall.

The Bears front-seven have come to life, getting after quarterbacks a lot as of late. Eight of their sacks have come in the last three games.

What makes the Bears so dangerous is the fact that the Cutler and his top players consisting of Matt Forte, Alshon Jeffery and Martellus Bennett have not played one down together since Week 1. The Chicago Bears are a dark horse in the truest form.

Next: 1. Giants

Home/Cincinnati Bengals