There's a temptation to believe that surprise teams from the previous season are on a clear upward trajectory. But we know that isn't always true. Just ask the 2022-23 Giants or 2021-22 Raiders. Four of last year's playoff teams significantly outperformed preseason expectations and made the playoffs: the Commanders, Chargers, Broncos and Vikings. Is the arrow really pointing up for those teams? Dave Helman and Derrik Klassen break it down on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.

Rundown (timestamps are approximate)

6:07 Washington Commanders

21:19 Los Angeles Chargers

35:41 Denver Broncos

53:40 Minnesota Vikings

Hosts: Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen

With: Dave Helman

Executive Producer: Michael Beller

Producer: Michael Beller

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Theme song: Haunted

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