You had to pay close attention to see it. You had to know what to look for. But this week in the NFL was VERY telling and we may be about to see a shift in the landscape. So let's start with the Steelers lost again. Now on the surface this may look like nothing since it's not going to impact their playoff hopes at all. But with their upcoming schedule Bengals, Colts, Browns another loss or two could keep them from winning their division, putting them in an uphill climb for a slot at the superbowl.
Then there is the team most likely to challenge the Steelers in the next couple weeks, the Colts. The Colts are looking GREAT and this past week they looked strong again. Although I still don't have much confidence in Phillip Rivers, their schedule, Texans, Steelers, Jags, could possibly have them win out and make them THAT team you don't want to face. Remember the Titans last season? (pun intended) NOBODY wants to face the "hott" team going into the playoffs and the Colts may just end up being that team.
The Chiefs are still winning, but they are NOT dominating and that feels like a problem. Something to watch as they look towards the Saints, Falcons, and Chargers. None of which they should have a problem with, but if they keep leaving subpar teams in the game, then the Chiefs may be on a collision course with the "hott" team. AHEM.
The Bills beating the Steelers is a BIG DEAL. We can talk about who wasn't there for the Steelers and what problems they are having, but the Bills came to play and they capitalized on the opportunity. With the Broncos, Patriots, and Dolphins coming down the line, they could win out too, finish the season 13-3 and be feeling themselves as they waltz into the playoffs.
Oh I didn't forget the Titans. They have solidified their position in the top on the conference. It's a GREAT thing we're going to have an expanded playoff this season, because it will give us the chance to see ALL these teams in real action. And the Titans are not to be overlooked at all. The problem is the Titans have a two trap games (the Lions and Texans) and one REAL problem (the Packers) ahead of them. The Titans could realistically end up 9-7 or 10-6 and that is NOT where they want to see themselves. 9-7 in this conference has the potential to put you OUT of the playoffs. The Titans need to be careful.
But wait there's the BROWNS. That's right, we're talking about the Browns in December football. It's crazy, but we can't overlook what they have done. They have a HUGE test coming up tonight vs. the Ravens. With the Jets, Giants and Steelers to finish out their season, if they can get past the Ravens tonight, are we looking at a 13-3 or 12-4 Browns team? If so we have to see them as a REAL threat in the conference.
I say we retire the NFC for the rest of the year and let this AFC thing play itself out. This is where all the drama and intrigue is, and I'm here for it all! Enjoy the ride my friends, this road to the playoffs is about to get good!