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No league sells parity like the NFL: it’s the entire brand. However, after ten games in this campaign, this is not a competition that is equally balanced separating contenders, pretenders, and middle-of-the-pack clubs. It’s one where most of the league are merely fine.

Clear Picture in NFC

Looking at the NFC side, at least, we see clearer definition. Los Angeles and Seattle (each holding 7-2 records) seem like the most complete teams in the NFL, and secured decisive victories in their weekend matchups. The 6-2 Eagles even with their challenges still have a deeply skilled squad in the league, likewise with the Packers (5-2-1 record). The Lions also (6-3), despite their uneven performances in trench play and navigating coaching drama, have demonstrated they can defeat quality opponents. For each of these squads, it's straightforward to put together a championship trajectory.

AFC Playoff Chaos

In the AFC however, championship race is thoroughly confusing. The current division frontrunners after ten games: the Colts, Patriots, Broncos (all standing at eight wins) along with Pittsburgh (5-4). Consider that carefully. No Chiefs presence. Not the Bills. Not the Ravens or Bengals. Historically strong franchises, supported by elite NFL signal-callers, have either obvious team deficiencies or have suffered medical setbacks.

League Equality Design

From certain perspectives, this is exactly what the league wants. Yet observing this season's top AFC teams within the conference continues to seem unusual. Aspects of each franchise pass the championship smell test, though not comprehensively. If you were asked to lock in your conference championship predictions today, could you assuredly select any one of these four teams?

Squad Examinations

Colts Situation

First, examining Indianapolis, the signal-caller hasn’t quite reached pumpkin status. However, recent performances have been worrying. He's reverting to giving away possessions and faltering under duress. He was sacked seven times versus Atlanta on Sunday, and had a five-minute stretch in which he threw an interception and coughed up the ball thrice. This is a week after he gave away possessions five times facing the Steelers.

Indianapolis' offensive unit excelled during early games as Jones prevented catastrophic mistakes. Taylor along with the blockers ensure Indianapolis remains able to withstand occasional setbacks, as they did in Berlin. But Jones returning to his previous error-filled form would terminate any playoff run.

Patriots Examination

The Patriots seem somewhat similar. A year ago, they were considered jokes. Now, they’re football's most unexpected success and the most successful franchise across the league following seven consecutive victories. Had it not been for losing due to fumbles a manageable matchup facing Pittsburgh, they would currently hold a 9-1 record with the top standing. In the prior year, they were old and slow. Currently they're inexperienced, speedy and bold. However, we must acknowledge the ease of the Patriots' matchups. They have faced the easiest slate across the NFL, and there have still been cracks. The signal-caller has been sacked thirty-five times – among the highest totals – and some of the shots he absorbed on Sunday appeared dangerous. As the season progresses, those hits add up.

Broncos Situation

The Broncos hold also 8-2, and it still feels as if they’re holding their breath. The Denver signal-caller has been erratic, with the attack struggling, with the defense doing all the heavy lifting. Absent adequate signal-calling, Denver cannot intimidate anyone in the postseason. The Chargers are also hovering in the AFC West holding a 7-2 record, however, health issues within their blocking corps will present challenges for extended playoff success.

Steelers Examination

Then we have the Steelers, surprisingly atop their division notwithstanding receiving a 25-10 defeat from the Chargers during prime time. They have a negative point differential, their defensive unit frequently falters, and the QB's current constraints given his veteran status regularly manifest. At 5-4, they're barely clinging, but Baltimore, featuring a recovered Jackson and facing easier opponents, have won three consecutive. It shouldn’t be too much of a surprise that the Ravens have pulled to within one game of Pittsburgh, but that it has arrived so quickly represents criticism toward the Steelers' uneven performances. That the Ravens started the season 1-5 and still look like they should win the division speaks volumes regarding the entire AFC.

Historical Favorites

The Ravens represent a segment within a trio of powerhouses – together with Bills and Chiefs – fueled by former MVP signal-callers, who would still strike the highest anxiety for opponents should they reach postseason. They’re the No One Wants To See ‘Em teams, but the Chiefs and Bills cannot get out of their own way.

Buffalo Bills

Previously, the Bills were riding high post Chiefs triumph. This weekend they encountered a particularly discouraging setback during the campaign. 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.

Should you seek a microcosm of the day, consider this: the quarterback converting {a quarterback sneak|a short-yardage play|a sneak attempt