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No league sells parity as effectively as the NFL: it's their core marketing message. But through ten games in this campaign, this isn’t a league that is equally balanced separating contenders, pretenders, and middle-of-the-pack clubs. Instead, it's a scenario where most of the league appear to be fine.

NFC Clarity

Looking at the NFC side, for the most part, there is some clarity. The Rams along with the Seahawks (both standing at seven wins, two losses) look like the most well-rounded squads in the NFL, and delivered decisive victories during Sunday's action. The 6-2 Eagles despite their struggles still have a deeply skilled squad in the league, comparable to the Packers franchise (5-2-1 record). Even the Lions (6-3 standing), with their fluctuating form along both lines of scrimmage and have been dealing with internal staff conflicts, have shown they're capable of dominating quality opponents. For each of these squads, one can readily put together a Super Bowl path.

AFC Confusion

In the AFC however, the playoff picture remains completely chaotic. The four teams leading their divisions after ten games: the Colts, Patriots, Broncos (each with 8-2 records) and the Steelers (five wins, four losses). Consider that carefully. Kansas City isn't there. Buffalo is missing. Neither Ravens nor Bengals. Historically strong franchises, backed by elite NFL signal-callers, have either glaring roster weaknesses or have been hit by injuries.

Parity Mechanics

In some ways, this is exactly what the league wants. However, witnessing the current division frontrunners in the AFC continues to seem unusual. Components of every squad suggest title potential, but not in their entirety. Were you questioned to lock in your conference championship predictions at this moment, would you confidently pick any of these four teams?

Franchise Analysis

Indianapolis Colts

Beginning with the Colts, their quarterback hasn't yet achieved pumpkin status. However, recent performances have raised concerns. He’s back to turning over the ball and failing against blitzes. He was sacked seven times against the Falcons in the weekend game, and experienced a five-minute stretch where he delivered an intercepted pass and coughed up the ball thrice. This comes after he gave away possessions five separate times versus Pittsburgh.

The Colts attack performed well initially as Jones prevented game-changing errors. Taylor along with the blockers mean the Colts are good enough to survive occasional setbacks, as demonstrated overseas. Yet Jones going back to his old blunder-prone days would end championship hopes.

New England Analysis

The Patriots seem relatively comparable. A year ago, they were considered jokes. Currently, they represent the league’s happiest surprise and the strongest squad in the NFL following seven consecutive victories. If not for losing due to fumbles a contest they should have won facing Pittsburgh, they'd possess at 9–1 with the best record. Previously, they appeared aged and sluggish. Today they appear young, fast and unafraid. Nevertheless, one cannot overlook the weakness of New England's opponents. They have faced the most manageable schedule throughout football, yet vulnerabilities remain. Their quarterback has taken sacks on 35 occasions – ranking second league-wide – and some of the shots he endured during the game proved brutal. As the season progresses, that punishment compounds.

Denver Broncos

The Broncos are also 8-2, and it still feels as if they’re holding their breath. Their quarterback has performed unevenly, and the offensive unit laboring, as the defense handles the majority of the work. Without serviceable quarterback play, the Broncos won't frighten playoff opponents. The Chargers are also hovering within their division holding a 7-2 record, however, health issues affecting their protection unit will present challenges for extended playoff success.

Steelers Examination

And then there’s Pittsburgh, surprisingly atop the AFC North despite being thumped a decisive loss to Los Angeles in the evening game. Their scoring margin remains negative, their defense too often disappears, with their quarterback's restrictions at this stage of his career continue to show up. They maintain a 5-4 record while surviving, but Baltimore, with their QB returning to health and the schedule softening, are riding a three-game streak. This development isn't entirely shocking that the Ravens have pulled to within one game of Pittsburgh, though the speed of this shift represents criticism toward the Steelers' uneven performances. The fact Baltimore began the season 1-5 yet still appear they should win the division speaks volumes regarding the entire AFC.

Established Contenders

The Ravens' form part among three elite teams – together with Bills and Chiefs – fueled by former MVP signal-callers, who could still create the greatest concern in opposing teams should they reach postseason. They represent undesirable playoff matchups, but the Chiefs and Bills persistently undermine themselves.

Bills Struggles

A week ago, the Bills were riding high post Chiefs triumph. During Sunday's action they experienced one of the most disappointing losses this year. They didn’t just lose to the Dolphins; they suffered humiliation, dropping a 30-13 road game. The Dolphins secured their first triumph against Buffalo in several seasons.

For those searching for an example representing the day, look no further: Josh Allen turning {a quarterback sneak|a short-yardage play|a sneak attempt