One third of the way through the NFL season we should have some clarity about where teams stand. Here's my stab at sorting things out.
The tank
These are the miserable sad sacks who have nothing to play for, other than getting their young guys some reps. Their eyes are already on the draft.
- Saints
- Titans
- Jets
Young and fun
These teams have promising developing players. There are no expectations for this season so their fans can enjoy whatever happens.
- Giants
- Falcons
- Bears
- Panthers
- Patriots
Seasons from Hell
These teams have some talent and could have been competitive, but something or other went horribly wrong and their fans just have to suffer.
- Ravens
- Bengals
- Raiders
- Cardinals
- Dolphins
- Browns
Rough starts
These teams seem to be getting back on track after rocky beginnings.
- Chiefs
- Texans
- Commies
Hot starts
No one expected much from these teams but that hasn't stopped them from racking up w's.
- Colts
- Jags
- Steelers
Fringe contenders
These teams seem to be pretty good but maybe not quite legit contenders.
- Seahawks
- 49ers
- Vikings
- Broncos
Legit contenders
These are the teams that look the most like plausible Super Bowl winners
- Eagles
- Bills
- Chargers
- Bucs
- Rams
- Lions
- Packers
For entertainment purposes only
Fittingly, there was only one team that didn't fit any of these categories.
- Cowboys