4. Seattle Seahawks
Even in a game in which Sam Darnold threw four interceptions, the Seattle Seahawks still only lost by two points on the road. And they’ll be kicking themselves for not finding a way to get it done. The Seahawks couldn’t hit a long field goal at the end of the game, and fell just short of going on the road and beating the Rams.
The NFC West has been the best division in football this year aside from the Cardinals, and any combination of the Rams, Seahawks, and 49ers is going to be a great matchup this season.
It speaks volumes about the Seahawks that they were able to stay in a game in which they had four interceptions from the quarterback. And that poor ball security is a slight concern, but Darnold has earned himself the benefit of the doubt…for now.
3. New England Patriots
The New England Patriots have now won eight games in a row, and are looking like they might be the most dangerous team in the AFC playoff race. Not only are the Patriots winning games, but they are doing so in a variety of ways. Even though they’ve played more games than the Bills, they’ve given up fewer points. They have a legit MVP candidate in second-year QB Drake Maye. Rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson is breaking out at the perfect time. Stefon Diggs has been the perfect addition for the offense.
The Patriots are well-coached, which comes as no shocker because Mike Vrabel was the NFL coach of the year once upon a time with the Titans. If he had the Titans overachieving at one point, why would anyone assume this time with the Patriots would be any different?
Most people felt like the Patriots would be the NFL’s biggest breakout team this season, and they’re currently proving everyone right.