The historical context
When comparing postseason appearances, first establish the format used in each season. Historical changes in league structure and qualification can affect the path a team took. The NFL Record & Fact Book offers a chronology and records to help organise that research. A familiar playoff phrase should not conceal a change in the underlying competition.
A clearer way to read the evidence
Draw a simple bracket from verified results and identify entry points, opponents and rounds. Keep postseason games separate from regular-season totals unless the source explicitly combines them. Explain what your comparison measures: appearances, wins or progress through a format. A clear definition is more useful than treating all postseason experiences as interchangeable.
Keep in your notes
- Identify the season’s format.
- Keep the result categories separate.
- State the comparison’s measure.