Every sports season brings new stories of unexpected triumphs, and there’s nothing quite like rooting for an underdog team that defies the odds. These teams may not always be at the top of the rankings, but their resilience, determination, and potential to shock the world make them a thrilling watch. In this post, we’ll highlight the top 10 underdog sports teams to keep an eye on this year. Whether they’re experiencing a rise from the ashes, rebuilding for future glory, or just poised to surprise, these teams are ready to make a mark.
1. Detroit Lions (NFL)
The Detroit Lions have long been considered one of the NFL’s most underperforming teams, but this year could be different. With a young, hungry roster and an inspiring head coach in Dan Campbell, the Lions are building momentum. Quarterback Jared Goff is continuing to develop, and their defense, once considered a weak point, is showing improvement. With a talented group of emerging stars and a newfound grit, the Lions have the potential to make waves in the NFC North.
Why Watch: The Lions’ rebuilding phase has them on the rise, and with a mix of youth and veteran leadership, they’re looking to challenge for playoff contention this season.
2. Chicago Cubs (MLB)
The Chicago Cubs may not be the favorites in the competitive National League, but they’ve made notable strides in recent years and are poised for a strong 2025 campaign. With a mix of veterans and fresh talent, they are a team that could surprise many. The Cubs have a core group of players with championship experience, and their ability to compete in close games is key to making a push for the postseason.
Why Watch: After a rebuilding phase, the Cubs have found their identity, and with a few tweaks, they could sneak into the postseason and become a Cinderella story.
3. Charlotte Hornets (NBA)
The Charlotte Hornets have spent years as an afterthought in the Eastern Conference, but there’s hope for the future. With superstar LaMelo Ball leading the charge, the Hornets are gaining traction as one of the most exciting young teams in the NBA. Their offense is high-paced, and their defense is steadily improving. If they can stay healthy and develop their younger players, this team could make a big leap into the playoff picture.
Why Watch: LaMelo Ball’s growth and the team’s exciting young core make the Hornets one of the most fun, unpredictable teams in the NBA this year.
4. Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA)
The Timberwolves have struggled to live up to expectations in recent years, but this could be the year that they break through. With the dynamic duo of Karl-Anthony Towns and Anthony Edwards, and the addition of star defender Rudy Gobert, the Timberwolves now have the pieces to contend in the West. They’ve got a mix of talent that could turn heads, especially if they can stay healthy and find consistent chemistry.
Why Watch: With key acquisitions and the emergence of their stars, the Timberwolves could be a sleeper team that surprises the top contenders in the Western Conference.
5. Vancouver Canucks (NHL)
The Vancouver Canucks are far from the top of the NHL standings, but their trajectory is pointing upwards. With a solid mix of young talent and veteran leadership, the Canucks have the potential to make some noise in the Pacific Division. Their top players, such as Elias Pettersson and Quinn Hughes, are among the brightest stars in the league. If their goaltending holds up, the Canucks could surprise with a deep playoff run.
Why Watch: The Canucks’ young talent is exciting, and with the right pieces in place, they’re on the verge of breaking through into the playoff picture in a competitive division.
6. Miami Dolphins (NFL)
The Miami Dolphins have flown under the radar for years, but after making significant improvements on both sides of the ball, they’re ready to make a playoff push. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has shown flashes of brilliance, and with a revamped offense, including standout receiver Tyreek Hill, the Dolphins have the weapons to compete with anyone. Their defense is strong, and they’ve become a more well-rounded team in 2025.
Why Watch: The Dolphins have been building a competitive team over the past few seasons, and if Tua can take the next step, this team could make a deep playoff run and surprise the AFC.
7. West Virginia Mountaineers (NCAA Football)
In college football, West Virginia has often been seen as a fringe contender, but this year, they are poised to make a real impact. With a solid defense, a rising star at quarterback, and a solid recruiting class, West Virginia could be one of the most dangerous teams in the Big 12. They’ve got the potential to pull off some big upsets and challenge for a top bowl game.
Why Watch: West Virginia has a young, dynamic team with plenty of upside, and they’re primed to make some noise in a competitive conference.
8. Arizona Coyotes (NHL)
The Arizona Coyotes have long been considered a rebuilding team, but this season could be different. With the emergence of young stars like Clayton Keller and a solid group of prospects, the Coyotes are building something special. Their ability to upset higher-ranked teams and stay competitive in the Western Conference makes them a team to watch closely.
Why Watch: The Coyotes may not be at the top yet, but their mix of youthful energy and resilience makes them an exciting team to watch, especially in the second half of the season.
9. New York Knicks (NBA)
The New York Knicks have become a more stable and competitive team in recent seasons, and after a strong 2024-2025 campaign, they’re looking to take the next step. With rising star Julius Randle and the continued development of young talent, the Knicks are aiming for a deeper playoff run. Their defense is one of the best in the league, and if their offense clicks, the Knicks could be a surprise contender in the East.
Why Watch: The Knicks are a hard-nosed team that’s built for the playoffs, and if their young players continue to progress, they could give the Eastern Conference heavyweights a run for their money.
10. Cleveland Indians (MLB)
The Cleveland Indians (now the Cleveland Guardians) have consistently been under the radar but have quietly built a strong team with a focus on pitching and defense. With young stars like Jose Ramirez and a pitching staff that can shut down any opponent, the Guardians are poised for a breakout year. They’re not expected to dominate, but they have the right pieces to surprise the league and challenge for a wild-card spot.
Why Watch: With strong pitching and key offensive players, the Guardians could make an unexpected run at a postseason berth, making them a team to keep an eye on.
