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No league sells parity in the manner of the NFL: it's their core marketing message. However, after ten games during the current schedule, this is not a competition with perfect equilibrium between the good, the bad and the mediocre. Instead, it's a scenario where the majority of teams is simply adequate.

Clear Picture in NFC

Looking at the NFC side, to some degree, we see clearer definition. The Rams and Seahawks (both standing at seven wins, two losses) look like the most complete teams in football, and secured decisive victories in their weekend matchups. The 6-2 Eagles despite their struggles continue to possess among the most gifted lineups in the league, likewise with the Packers (5-2-1). Even the Lions (6-3 standing), with their fluctuating form along both lines of scrimmage and have been dealing with coaching drama, have proven they're capable of dominating good teams. Regarding these five teams, you can still easily envision a route to the final game.

Muddled AFC Picture

Over in the AFC, postseason landscape is a jumbled mess. The four teams leading their divisions through ten weeks: Indianapolis, New England, Denver (all at 8-2) and Steelers (five wins, four losses). Take another look. Not the Chiefs. No Bills inclusion. Not the Ravens or Bengals. Historically strong franchises, supported by elite NFL signal-callers, display either significant personnel gaps or have been hit by injuries.

League Equality Design

In some ways, this represents the NFL's perfect scenario. Yet observing this season's top AFC teams within the conference still feels strange. Aspects of each franchise suggest title potential, yet not completely. If you were asked to finalize your AFC title game selections at this moment, could you assuredly select any one of the four division leaders?

Franchise Analysis

Indianapolis Colts

First, examining Indianapolis, the signal-caller hasn't descended to pumpkin status. But the last two weeks have caused alarm. He's reverting to giving away possessions and struggling against pressure. He was sacked seven times against the Falcons in the weekend game, and had a five-minute stretch during which he tossed an intercepted pass and coughed up the ball thrice. This comes after he gave away possessions five times against the Steelers.

The Colts’ offense thrived early in the season since Jones evaded catastrophic mistakes. The running back and protection unit ensure Indianapolis remains able to withstand occasional setbacks, as demonstrated overseas. However, if Jones reverts to his previous error-filled form would end any playoff run.

New England Patriots

New England appears somewhat similar. A year ago, they were considered jokes. Today, they stand as the NFL's most pleasant shock and the hottest team across the league after seven straight wins. If not for fumbling away a manageable matchup facing Pittsburgh, they would currently hold a 9-1 record with the top standing. Last season, they were old and slow. Now they’re young, fast and unafraid. However, we must acknowledge the weakness of New England's opponents. They've encountered the easiest slate in the league, yet vulnerabilities remain. Drake Maye has been brought down 35 times – among the highest totals – including particular impacts he absorbed on Sunday appeared dangerous. As the season progresses, those beatings accumulate.

Broncos Situation

The Broncos are 8–2 as well, and the perception remains like they're nervously waiting. Their quarterback has been erratic, with the attack struggling, with the defense doing all the heavy lifting. Lacking competent QB performance, Denver cannot intimidate anyone in the postseason. The Chargers are also contending in the Western division at 7-2, however, health issues affecting their protection unit will make it tough for extended playoff success.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Then we have the Steelers, surprisingly atop the AFC North notwithstanding receiving a decisive loss to Los Angeles in the evening game. They have a negative point differential, their defense regularly vanishes, and the QB's current constraints during his career phase regularly manifest. They’re 5–4 and holding on, however, the Ravens, featuring a recovered Jackson with manageable games ahead, have won three consecutive. We shouldn't be completely astonished that the Ravens have pulled within a game of the Steelers, though the speed of this shift highlights deficiencies within Pittsburgh's fluctuating form. The fact Baltimore began losing five of six yet still appear they should win the division reveals much about the entire AFC.

Traditional Powers

The Ravens represent a segment within a trio of powerhouses – alongside the Bills and Chiefs – fueled by former MVP signal-callers, who could still create the greatest concern among competitors should they reach postseason. They represent undesirable playoff matchups, but the Chiefs and Bills persistently undermine themselves.

Buffalo Bills

Previously, the Bills were riding high following victory over Kansas City. During Sunday's action they experienced one of the most disappointing losses during the campaign. They didn’t just lose against Miami; they looked terrible, dropping a 30-13 road game. It was Miami’s first win over the Bills in over three years.

For those searching for a perfect summary of Sunday, look no further: Allen transforming {a quarterback sneak|a short-yardage play|a sneak attempt