Just ten points separate Shrewsbury Town in 14th from current leaders Rotherham United, who themselves have just a six-point cushion to seventh. There have been a number of surprise packages punching well above their weight, with the big name, established sides not having it all their own way in the race for promotion. Here, Phil Smith picks the players who have caught his eye...
9. TARIQE FOSU (OXFORD UNITED)
Signed on a free from Charlton Athletic, he has benefited from working with a manager who knows him well, though the January additions of Marcus Browne and Nathan Holland adds competition for his place. Photo: Charlie Crowhurst
10. IVAN TONEY (PETERBOROUGH)
His reputation as the best striker in the league is surely not in question after another excellent start to the campaign. Has plenty of assists to go with his goals and underline the all-round quality he possesses. Posh have fought off all bids so far but may struggle to continue doing so. Photo: Nathan Stirk
11. ARMAND GNANDUILLET (BLACKPOOL)
He is certainly an enigmatic talent, who can frustrate as much as he delights. There can be no arguing with his goal return this season, however, and Blackpool owe their play-off hopes to his finishing and excellent combinations with winger Liam Feeney. Photo: Warren Little
12. MANAGER - GARETH AINSWORTH (WYCOMBE WANDERERS)
A recent dip in form does not detract even slightly from a stunning of results that lifted them to the top of the table, Ainsworth recruiting superbly after keeping his side up last season. Photo: Pete Norton