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No major competition promotes competitive balance as effectively as the NFL: it defines their identity. But through 10 weeks in this campaign, this isn’t a league that is equally balanced among elite teams, poor performers, and average squads. Rather, we see a situation where most of the league appear to be sufficient.

Clear Picture in NFC

Within the National Football Conference, at least, we see clearer definition. The Rams and Seahawks (each holding 7-2 records) look like the most well-rounded squads in football, and delivered blowout wins on Sunday. The 6-2 Eagles notwithstanding their difficulties continue to possess one of the most talented rosters in the league, comparable to the Packers (5-2-1 record). The Lions also (6-3 standing), despite their uneven performances in trench play while managing tension on their coaching staff, have shown they're capable of dominating strong franchises. For each of these squads, it's straightforward to envision a Super Bowl path.

AFC Confusion

Turning to the American Football Conference, championship race remains completely chaotic. The four teams leading their divisions at this stage: Indianapolis, New England, Denver (each with 8-2 records) and the Steelers (5-4). Read that again. No Chiefs presence. No Bills inclusion. Not the Ravens or Bengals. Historically strong franchises, supported by the league’s best quarterbacks, have either obvious team deficiencies or have suffered medical setbacks.

Competitive Balance System

In some ways, it’s the league’s ideal. However, witnessing this year’s four division leaders in the American Football Conference continues to seem unusual. Components of every squad suggest title potential, but not in their entirety. If someone requested to finalize your conference championship predictions right now, could you assuredly choose any among the current division frontrunners?

Franchise Analysis

Indianapolis Colts

Starting in Indianapolis, their quarterback hasn’t quite reached pumpkin status. But the last two weeks have been worrying. He's reverting to giving away possessions and faltering under duress. He was sacked seven times versus Atlanta during Sunday's contest, and endured a five-minute stretch in which he threw a pick and coughed up the ball thrice. This follows he committed turnovers on five occasions against the Steelers.

Indianapolis' offensive unit excelled during early games as Jones prevented the disaster plays. The running back and protection unit mean the Colts are capable of overcoming occasional setbacks, as they did in Berlin. Yet Jones going back to his historically mistake-heavy play would finish championship hopes.

New England Analysis

The Patriots feel fairly alike. Last season, they were a punchline. Today, they stand as the league’s happiest surprise and the most successful franchise in the NFL post seven wins in a row. Had it not been for committing turnover errors a contest they should have won facing Pittsburgh, they would currently hold a 9-1 record as the league's best. Previously, they seemed veteran and plodding. Currently they're inexperienced, speedy and bold. However, we must acknowledge the weakness of New England's opponents. They have faced the most manageable schedule across the NFL, yet vulnerabilities remain. Their quarterback has been brought down thirty-five times – ranking second league-wide – including particular impacts he endured during the game appeared dangerous. With continued play, those hits add up.

Broncos Situation

Denver stands at 8–2 as well, yet it seems as if they’re holding their breath. The Denver signal-caller has shown inconsistency, and the offense plodding, while the defensive unit provides most of the responsibility. Absent adequate signal-calling, the Broncos aren’t scaring any playoff team. The Chargers are also contending in the AFC West holding a 7-2 record, however, health issues affecting their protection unit will make it tough for extended playoff success.

Steelers Examination

Then we have the Steelers, inexplicably frontrunning the Northern division despite being thumped a decisive loss to Los Angeles in the evening game. They've been outscored overall, their defense too often disappears, with their quarterback's restrictions during his career phase regularly manifest. At 5-4, they're barely clinging, however, the Ravens, featuring a recovered Jackson and the schedule softening, have won three consecutive. This development isn't entirely shocking that Baltimore has closed to within one game of Pittsburgh, but how rapidly this occurred highlights deficiencies within Pittsburgh’s inconsistencies. Considering the Ravens opened losing five of six and still look like they should win the division speaks volumes regarding the complete conference.

Traditional Powers

The Ravens' form part within a trio of powerhouses – alongside the Bills and Chiefs – driven by elite quarterback play, who would still strike the most fear in opposing teams if they qualified. They're the teams everyone hopes to avoid, yet Kansas City and Buffalo cannot get out of their own way.

Buffalo Bills

A week ago, the Bills felt confident following victory over Kansas City. On Sunday they suffered among the season's worst defeats during the campaign. They didn't simply fail against Miami; they suffered humiliation, losing 30-13 as visitors. This represented Miami's initial victory against Buffalo in over three years.

If you’re looking for a microcosm of the day, look no further: the quarterback converting {a quarterback sneak|a short-yardage play|a sneak attempt