Fortunately, the Lilywhites are pushing for the top six, rather than fighting for their lives to finish outside the bottom three, as the excitement builds for the ‘business end’ of the season.
Ryan Lowe’s side are well in with a shout to secure their first play-off campaign in the second tier since 2009, when they were beaten 2-1 on aggregate by Sheffield United following Greg Halford’s finish at Bramall Lane.
North End, who were level on points with rivals Millwall prior to their defeat at The Den at the weekend, are now eighth in the table, just three points off the Lions in fifth, and a point adrift of Blackburn Rovers, who they have yet to play.
With only four clubs able to scrap it out for the opportunity to play at Wembley at the end of term, and only one able to prevail at the national stadium, popular bookmakers Sky Bet have released their odds for the side most likely to join Burnley, and the other top two finisher, in the Premier League.
Who will you be backing?
North End, who were level on points with rivals Millwall prior to their defeat at The Den at the weekend, are now eighth in the table, just three points off the Lions in fifth, and a point adrift of Blackburn Rovers, who they have yet to play.
5. West Bromwich Albion 12/1
Remaining fixtures: Blackpool (a), Sunderland (h), Sheffield United (a), Norwich City (h), Swansea City (a). Photo: David Rogers
6. Blackburn Rovers 14/1
Remaining fixtures: Coventry City (h), Preston North End (a), Burnley (h), Luton Town (h), Millwall (a). Photo: Naomi Baker
7. Coventry City 14/1
Remaining fixtures: Blackburn Rovers (a), Reading (h), Birmingham City (h), Middlesbrough (a). Photo: Richard Heathcote
8. Norwich City 16/1
Remaining fixtures: QPR (a), Swansea City (h), West Brom (a), Blackpool (h). Photo: Stephen Pond