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No major competition markets parity as effectively as the NFL: it's their core marketing message. But through ten games of this season, this is not a competition with perfect equilibrium between the good, the bad and the mediocre. Rather, we see a situation where the bulk of franchises are merely fine.

NFC Clarity

In the NFC, for the most part, there is some clarity. Los Angeles and Seattle (both standing at seven wins, two losses) appear to be the most well-rounded squads across the league, and delivered overwhelming triumphs on Sunday. Philadelphia at 6-2 notwithstanding their difficulties maintain one of the most talented rosters across the NFL, similar to Green Bay (five wins, two losses, one tie). Detroit as well (six and three), who have been inconsistent along both lines of scrimmage and navigating coaching drama, have demonstrated they're capable of dominating quality opponents. Regarding these five teams, it's straightforward to put together a route to the final game.

AFC Playoff Chaos

Over in the AFC, postseason landscape remains completely chaotic. The four teams leading their divisions after ten games: Indianapolis, New England, Denver (all standing at eight wins) and the Steelers (five wins, four losses). Take another look. No Chiefs presence. No Bills inclusion. Neither Ravens nor Bengals. Historically strong franchises, featuring premier quarterback talent, have either glaring roster weaknesses or have suffered medical setbacks.

League Equality Design

From certain perspectives, this represents the NFL's perfect scenario. However, witnessing this year’s four division leaders in the AFC still feels strange. Aspects of each franchise pass the championship smell test, yet not completely. If you were asked to lock in your AFC title game selections right now, would you comfortably select any one of the current division frontrunners?

Franchise Analysis

Indianapolis Colts

Beginning with the Colts, their quarterback hasn't yet achieved complete disaster level. But the last two weeks have raised concerns. He's reverting to turning over the ball and failing against blitzes. He suffered seven sacks facing Atlanta in the weekend game, and endured a short sequence during which he tossed an intercepted pass and coughed up the ball thrice. This follows he gave away possessions five times against the Steelers.

The Colts attack excelled during early games since Jones evaded catastrophic mistakes. The running back and protection unit ensure Indianapolis remains able to withstand periodic mistakes, as they did in Berlin. But Jones returning to his previous error-filled form would finish any playoff run.

New England Analysis

New England appears relatively comparable. A year ago, they were a punchline. Today, they stand as the NFL's most pleasant shock and the most successful franchise in football following seven consecutive victories. If not for committing turnover errors a winnable game versus the Steelers, they would currently hold at 9–1 with the top standing. Previously, they were old and slow. Currently they're young, fast and unafraid. However, we must acknowledge the weakness of New England's opponents. They've encountered the least challenging lineup across the NFL, and flaws have still emerged. Their quarterback has been sacked thirty-five times – among the highest totals – with several hits he suffered last weekend were vicious. Over time, those hits add up.

Denver Broncos

Denver stands at also 8-2, and the perception remains as if they’re holding their breath. Their quarterback has been erratic, with the attack struggling, while the defensive unit provides most of the responsibility. Absent adequate signal-calling, Denver cannot intimidate any playoff team. The Chargers are also hovering in the AFC West holding a 7-2 record, however, health issues along their offensive line will make it tough for extended playoff success.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Then we have the Steelers, inexplicably frontrunning the Northern division despite being thumped a decisive loss to Los Angeles during prime time. They've been outscored overall, their defense too often disappears, with their quarterback's restrictions at this stage of his career continue to show up. They maintain a 5-4 record while surviving, however, the Ravens, with Lamar Jackson healthy again and the schedule softening, are on a three-game win streak. It shouldn’t be too much of a surprise that the Ravens have narrowed to within one game of Pittsburgh, but how rapidly this occurred is an indictment of Pittsburgh's fluctuating form. Considering the Ravens opened with a 1-5 record yet still appear they should win the division is telling about the conference as a whole.

Traditional Powers

Baltimore constitutes part within a trio of powerhouses – joined by Buffalo and Kansas City – driven by elite quarterback play, that would continue to generate the greatest concern for opponents if they qualified. They’re the No One Wants To See ‘Em teams, yet Kansas City and Buffalo continue to self-destruct.

Buffalo Analysis

A week ago, Buffalo was celebrating 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, falling 30-13 on the road. It was Miami’s first win against Buffalo in over three years.

For those searching for a perfect summary of Sunday, here you go: the quarterback converting {a quarterback sneak|a short-yardage play|a sneak attempt