As the NFL season reaches half time, the landscape is beginning to take shape-a few undefeated teams left on the board, several that are still in the fight to reach the playoffs, while others have already begun looking down the road to next year. Here’s a little snapshot of the big three stories:
Kansas City Chiefs: The Unbeaten Protectors
The Kansas City Chiefs keep going unbeaten in their 8-0 streak, the only team that hasn’t been tainted with a loss. Despite this impressive resume, Patrick Mahomes is still building towards his prime season. With their win over Tampa Bay, the first time this season the Chiefs have scored 30 points, had three touchdown passes, and turned the ball over zero times, Patrick Mahomes has been playing for years to get in that kind of position. Off-season moves that have seen them bring back running back Kareem Hunt and acquire DeAndre Hopkins are making a stronger case for the Super Bowl. Coach Andy Reid is now the fourth-winningest coach in NFL history, and defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo has helped one of the league’s most formidable defenses.
Detroit Lions: Well-Rounded Team
Detroit Lions haven’t been unbeaten but are arguably the most well-rounded team in the NFL and are atop of the standings in points scored per game. Quarterback Jared Goff has been sensational, setting marks for passing percentage, and their offense is loaded with Amon-Ra St. Brown at wide receiver and a strong backfield featuring David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs. Defensively, the Lions rank in the top five, and even a key injury to pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson didn’t slow them down from making a strong move to acquire Za’Darius Smith. They stand in the right spot with their six-game winning streak and the best start the Lions have had since the team in 1956.
Baltimore Ravens: The Dynamic Duo of Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry
It takes the Baltimore Ravens not very long to morph into one of the greatest offenses the league has ever had thanks to the impact play from running back Derrick Henry. Already over 1,000 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns, Henry has opened up more holes for the passing lanes for Lamar Jackson, the quarterback going through one of the most phenomenal years of his young career: third in passing yards, second in touchdowns, with only two interceptions. A lot of things this season have given the Ravens the potential of limitless results when they close doors on their defense.
Washington Commanders: The Rookie Sensation
The surprise package of the season was the Washington Commanders with their young quarterback, Jayden Daniels. They are currently 7-2 with one of the league’s most explosive offenses, and Daniels’ work both in the air and on the ground has been fantastic. He has really helped Washington secure some dramatic victories, like the thrilling Hail Mary win over Chicago. With an improving defense, the Commanders are a legitimate playoff contender and can make waves come postseason time.
Dallas Cowboys: Disappointment So Far
The biggest disappointment of this season is the Dallas Cowboys coming off three straight 12-5 seasons, a 3-5 starting point, and now slipping further into irrelevance with even the job security of Mike McCarthy as head coach because of it. Even now, with the marquee names on their roster, as in Prescott, the team hasn’t been able to meet expectations, and now playoff hopes are slipping out of reach.
Other Contenders for the Playoffs
Atlanta Falcons: They are already leading the NFC South division and have all the required firepower. Having proven through close games, their prospects for making it to the play-offs look bright.
Pittsburgh Steelers:
The Steelers have been quite resilient, as they top the AFC North. Even if they do not win first place, they are surely one of the teams to look out for in the postseason.
Houston Texans:
On their way to winning the AFC South division, the Texans are playing good football with rookie quarterback CJ Stroud leading the charge.
Minnesota Vikings:
Not leading their division by any means, the Vikings will be a wildcard to look out for in the playoff run.
Arizona Cardinals:On a three-game win streak, the Cardinals are playing so well that it’s shocking, especially with Kyler Murray getting in sync with rookie receiver Marvin Harrison Jr.
Los Angeles Chargers:
With one of the stingiest defenses in the league and the brilliance of quarterback Justin Herbert, Los Angeles is going to be one of the toughest teams going into the playoffs.
The Kansas City Chiefs are still undefeated during the season, but others like the Detroit Lions and Baltimore Ravens are trying to make their case as being the best in the league. There are the rookies like Jayden Daniels who are going wild in the league, creating ruckus; while there are some other teams that have a lot on their plates if they can salvage their seasons. Well, the competition for play-off is quite stiff as few dark horses are emerging there who can easily threaten some of the leading teams at will.