Detroit Lions Prove They’re Legitimate Contenders
After a sloppy Week 1 loss, the Detroit Lions bounced back by crushing the Chicago Bears 52–21 in Week 2. Still, many wondered which version of the Lions would show up in a real test against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 3.
The answer? A statement game. Detroit racked up over 200 rushing yards and sacked Ravens QB Lamar Jackson seven times, silencing a tough Baltimore crowd. With Detroit QB Jared Goff leading an efficient passing attack, a two-headed ground game, and a dominant defense, the Lions proved they belong in the Super Bowl conversation.
Indianapolis Colts Off to Surprising 3–0 Start
The Indianapolis Colts sit at 3–0, but questions remain about their strength of schedule. Wins over the Miami Dolphins, Denver Broncos, and Tennessee Titans don’t fully validate their playoff credentials.
Still, Indy RB Jonathan Taylor continues to dominate on the ground, while quarterback Daniel Jones has surprised by flashing a dual-threat game reminiscent of Buffalo QB Josh Allen. If Indianapolis can knock off a top-tier opponent, it’ll shift from playoff hopeful to legitimate AFC contender.
Houston Texans Facing Early Season Crisis
The Houston Texans were expected to compete for the postseason again in 2025, but they’ve stumbled to an 0–3 start. Quarterback C.J. Stroud has been inconsistent, and the offense has produced just 38 total points through three weeks.
Scoring fewer than 13 points per game won’t cut it in the modern NFL. A Week 4 matchup with the struggling Tennessee Titans could provide a chance to rebound, but another loss might bury Houston’s playoff hopes before midseason.
Dallas Cowboys Defense Collapsing Without Micah Parsons
The Dallas Cowboys are learning just how much one player matters. Without injured star Micah Parsons, the defense has been shredded for 92 points across three games — nearly 31 per outing.
Dallas’ lone win came in a shootout where QB Dak Prescott and the offense carried the load against the New York Giants. Making matters worse, the defense has struggled to adjust since DC Dan Quinn left for the Washington Commanders. Unless Parsons returns soon, the Cowboys could slip out of the NFC playoff picture.
Baker Mayfield Sparks Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Hot Start
In the modern NFL, quarterback play defines everything. Fortunately for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, QB Baker Mayfield has rediscovered his form. After bouncing from Cleveland to Carolina and Los Angeles, Mayfield has matured into a true leader in Tampa.
He’s delivered back-to-back fourth-quarter comebacks, igniting the Bucs’ offense and inspiring belief in the locker room. Combined with a strong defense, Tampa Bay’s 3–0 start positions them as a dangerous NFC playoff contender.
Los Angeles Rams Emerging as NFC Dark Horse
Though just 2–1, the Los Angeles Rams look like a team on the rise. Their only loss came in a hard-fought battle with the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles.
Veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford remains sharp, and head coach Sean McVay continues to scheme at an elite level. With balance on offense and defense, the Rams should remain firmly in the NFC playoff hunt — and could make a deep postseason run.
