NFL Playoff Mythbusters: Separating Fact from Fiction for All 14 Teams

As the NFL playoffs approach, fans and pundits alike are scouring the league for clues about which teams have what it takes to make a deep run. But with so much noise and misinformation out there, it can be tough to separate fact from fiction. That's why we're putting 14 common myths about the 14 playoff teams under the microscope, starting with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Is the Steelers' defense actually elite? The numbers suggest it is, with the Steelers allowing the fewest yards per game of any team in the league. But dig deeper, and there are some warning signs. The Steelers have been vulnerable to the run, and their pass rush has been inconsistent at times. Still, with T.J. Watt leading the charge, this is a unit that can dominate games when it's clicking.

Next up are the Detroit Lions, who have been a pleasant surprise this season behind the play of quarterback Jared Goff. But is Goff being held back by his supporting cast? The answer is complicated. On the one hand, Goff has a talented wide receiver corps and a solid running game to work with. On the other hand, the Lions' offensive line has struggled at times, and Goff has been forced to make plays outside of the pocket. Still, with a bit more consistency from his line, Goff could be even more effective.

Then there's the Philadelphia Eagles, who have been buoyed by the play of running back Saquon Barkley. But is Barkley really the difference for the Eagles? The numbers say yes, as the Eagles are 7-2 when Barkley rushes for 100 yards or more. But it's not just about the numbers - Barkley's presence in the backfield also opens up play-action opportunities for quarterback Jalen Hurts, and his pass-catching ability makes him a valuable asset in the screen game. Without Barkley, the Eagles might not be the same team.

Other myths that need busting include the idea that the Kansas City Chiefs are invincible (they're not), that the Buffalo Bills are poised for a deep run (they might be, but it's no sure thing), and that the San Francisco 49ers are doomed without quarterback Brock Purdy (they might actually be better off with him on the sidelines). We'll dive into all of these myths and more as we get ready for the playoffs.

So who are the real contenders, and who's just pretending? Let's take a closer look at all 14 playoff teams and separate fact from fiction. The playoffs are just around the corner, and it's time to get real about which teams have what it takes to make a run at the Super Bowl.