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No professional sports organization markets parity like the NFL: it defines their identity. However, after ten games in this campaign, this is not a competition that is equally balanced between the good, the bad and the mediocre. Rather, we see a situation where most of the league appear to be adequate.

NFC Clarity

Looking at the NFC side, at least, we see clearer definition. The Rams along with the Seahawks (each holding 7-2 records) appear to be the most well-rounded squads in the NFL, and secured overwhelming triumphs on Sunday. The Eagles with six wins notwithstanding their difficulties maintain a deeply skilled squad in the league, comparable to Green Bay (5-2-1 record). The Lions also (six and three), despite their uneven performances along both lines of scrimmage and navigating tension on their coaching staff, have shown they can defeat good teams. For all five, one can readily construct a championship trajectory.

AFC Confusion

In the AFC however, championship race is a jumbled mess. Your four division leaders through ten weeks: the Colts, Patriots, Broncos (all at 8-2) and Steelers (5-4). Consider that carefully. Not the Chiefs. Buffalo is missing. Not the Ravens or Bengals. Historically strong franchises, supported by premier quarterback talent, have either obvious team deficiencies or have been hit by injuries.

Parity Mechanics

In some ways, this is exactly what the league wants. But watching this year’s four division leaders within the conference still feels strange. Aspects of each franchise suggest title potential, though not comprehensively. Were you questioned to commit to your conference championship predictions today, could you assuredly select any one of the current division frontrunners?

Squad Examinations

Colts Situation

Starting in Indianapolis, their quarterback hasn’t quite reached total collapse. However, recent performances have caused alarm. He has returned to giving away possessions and failing against blitzes. He suffered seven sacks versus Atlanta on Sunday, and endured a short sequence in which he threw an intercepted pass and fumbled three times. This comes after he committed turnovers on five occasions against the Steelers.

The Colts’ offense performed well initially since Jones evaded catastrophic mistakes. Taylor along with the blockers mean the Colts are good enough to survive some negative plays, like their German performance. But Jones returning to his previous error-filled form would end any playoff run.

Patriots Examination

The Patriots seem somewhat similar. Last season, they were considered jokes. Currently, they represent the NFL's most pleasant shock and the hottest team across the league after seven straight wins. Except for fumbling away a winnable game against Pittsburgh, they would currently hold a 9-1 record with the top standing. In the prior year, they seemed veteran and plodding. Currently they're inexperienced, speedy and bold. However, we must acknowledge the weakness of New England's opponents. They've encountered the least challenging lineup throughout football, and flaws have still emerged. Their quarterback has taken sacks 35 times – among the highest totals – including particular impacts he absorbed on Sunday were vicious. Over time, those beatings accumulate.

Denver Analysis

Denver stands at 8–2 as well, and it still feels as if they’re holding their breath. The Denver signal-caller has performed unevenly, and the offensive unit laboring, with the defense doing the majority of the work. Absent adequate signal-calling, Denver cannot intimidate anyone in the postseason. Los Angeles remains nearby within their division holding a 7-2 record, yet medical problems affecting their protection unit will create difficulties to achieve championship contention.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Then we have the Steelers, surprisingly atop their division notwithstanding receiving a decisive loss to Los Angeles on Sunday night. Their scoring margin remains negative, their defensive unit frequently falters, and Aaron Rodgers’ limitations given his veteran status persistently appear. They maintain a 5-4 record while surviving, yet Baltimore, with their QB returning to health and the schedule softening, are riding a three-game streak. We shouldn't be completely astonished that the Ravens have pulled to within one game of Pittsburgh, but how rapidly this occurred is an indictment of the Steelers' uneven performances. That the Ravens started with a 1-5 record and currently seem capable of division victory reveals much about the complete conference.

Historical Favorites

Baltimore constitutes part among three elite teams – alongside the Bills and Chiefs – powered by their MVP quarterbacks, who could still create the most fear for opponents if they made the playoffs. They're the teams everyone hopes to avoid, yet Kansas City and Buffalo continue to self-destruct.

Buffalo Analysis

Last week, the Bills were riding high following victory over Kansas City. This weekend they encountered a particularly discouraging setback of the season. They didn't simply fail against Miami; they suffered humiliation, dropping a 30-13 road game. This represented Miami's initial victory against Buffalo in several seasons.

If you’re looking for a microcosm of the day, look no further: Allen transforming {a quarterback sneak|a short-yardage play|a sneak attempt