As we reach halftime in another thrilling NFL season, it’s the perfect moment to consider some pivotal questions.

Can the Chiefs finish the season undefeated?

The Kansas City Chiefs face a remarkable challenge as they aim for a historic three consecutive Super Bowl victories. They now also stand as the only unbeaten team in the league at midseason (8-0). It’s noteworthy that only two of their wins have come by more than one score.

Despite not dominating their opponents, they have found various strategies to secure victories. Nonetheless, finishing games has raised concerns, as the Chiefs’ defense has allowed late touchdowns in their last three games. This situation could be classified as a “rich-team problem,” especially with Patrick Mahomes leading the team; the real issue would arise if they couldn’t score under pressure. Looking ahead, their most significant test for an undefeated season may come in Week 11 against Buffalo. If they manage that, they’ll face other playoff contenders, including the Steelers on Christmas in Pittsburgh. Ultimately, the most crucial challenge to maintain their perfect record will begin in January with the playoffs.

Who besides Lamar Jackson deserves MVP talk?

Consider Jared Goff. The Detroit Lions (7-1) are on fire, and their quarterback is in an unprecedented groove. In his last six games, Goff has an extraordinary completion rate of 82.8% – the highest for any comparable stretch – leading one of the most dynamic offenses in the league. Additionally, Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels is gaining attention as a potential rookie MVP, which hasn’t happened since Jim Brown in 1958. However, his MVP candidacy faces challenges, especially after playing against Jackson in Week 6. Speaking of Jackson, he has thrown for 24 touchdowns this season, equaling his entire total from the previous year when he secured his second MVP title.

Is this truly a Year for Kickers?

Yes, at least until next year. Over nine weeks, kickers have made 101 attempts at field goals from 50 yards or more, achieving a 72.1% success rate out of 140 attempts. If this trend continues, the NFL’s record from last season for the most 50-yard field goals (158) is likely to be broken. Kicking accuracy from longer distances is improving. In short, kickers are getting better, still.

Can Aaron Rodgers and the Jets break through for a playoff run?

It’s unlikely, but not impossible. The Jets’ struggles have been one of the most captivating stories this season, and this time, it’s not due to a star quarterback’s season-ending injury. Throughout a five-game losing streak, it was clear that Rodgers has not yet regained his pre-injury performance. Nonetheless, the Jets (3-6) have reasons to remain hopeful for a second-half turnaround. They possess one of the strongest defenses in the league, led by the exceptional Quinnen Williams, and their schedule appears favorable. After facing Arizona (5-4) on Sunday, they won’t meet another team with a winning record until Week 17 when they face the Bills. Simply put, Rodgers can no longer offer excuses.

Which division title race is the most exciting?

Currently, only one game separates the four teams in the NFC West division race. However, this close competition lacks the excitement of a thrilling race. Instead, it presents a chance for the 49ers (4-4) to bounce back from their disappointing first half, while Arizona and the Rams (4-4) look to capitalize.

Furthermore, none of the teams in the NFC North has a losing record. Check back in a month to see how things have changed. The Bears are struggling, while the Lions (7-1) appear ready to take charge after impressive wins on the road against Minnesota and Green Bay. Even though the Commanders and Eagles are battling in the NFC East, the tightest race, in my opinion, is happening in the A-North, where Pittsburgh (6-2) and Baltimore (7-3) contest for supremacy. Mark your calendars for Week 11 in Pittsburgh and Week 16 on Saturday afternoon in Baltimore. Adding to the excitement is Cincinnati (4-6), which could be a spoiler after a narrow loss against both the Ravens and Chiefs by a total of five points and they have two upcoming games against the Steelers.

Who else, besides Mike McCarthy, is or should be under pressure?

Poor McCarthy. The Cowboys’ performance has faltered, particularly as he enters the final year of his contract. The phrase “All-in” could quickly turn into “All-out” for him. Following a disappointing offseason, injuries to key players like Micah Parsons, DeMarcus Lawrence, DeRon Bland, and now Dak Prescott have only compounded the challenges faced by McCarthy. He may not be alone in his struggles, as other coaches such as Doug Pederson (Jaguars), Matt Eberflus (Bears), and Brian Daboll (Giants) could also find themselves in the hot seat. Though Giants co-owner John Mara has claimed that Daboll and GM Joe Schoen are safe, convincing a frustrated fan base is a tall order, particularly as they witness QB Daniel Jones struggling while former Giant Saquon Barkley excels with their rivals in Philly.

Who are the frontrunners for Coach of the Year?

Dan Campbell, the head coach of the Lions, who faced heavy scrutiny early in his tenure for his unconventional remarks about “biting kneecaps,” cannot be overlooked. His leadership has clearly played a role in their impressive record of 7-1.

With a shot at securing the top seed in the NFC playoffs, the competition is heating up.

In light of last season’s disheartening end, which saw a disappointing finish in the NFC title game against San Francisco, many questioned how the team would bounce back. Coach Campbell had previously cautioned his players that it might have been their only chance at the Super Bowl. Even though he didn’t fully believe this, he stressed that a little more determination could get them back into championship contention. While they haven’t achieved that level just yet, it’s clear that the Lions are regaining their confidence.

Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell and Washington’s Dan Quinn deserve recognition for their impressive turnarounds. However, let’s not overlook Mike Tomlin and Andy Reid. Established coaches often get sidelined in these discussions, but Tomlin, with 17 years of maintaining a positive winning record, made strategic moves to enhance his offense, pairing Russell Wilson with coordinator Arthur Smith. Similarly, Reid has managed to keep the Chiefs performing well despite facing numerous injuries among his offensive players, resulting in less-than-stellar stats for Patrick Mahomes (11 TDs, 9 INTs).

What NFL trend is on the rise?

It’s all about closely contested games. After nine weeks, 75 NFL games concluded with a margin of seven points or less. This accounts for over half of the games played (54% of 138), marking the highest number in the league’s history at this point. The record for such close finishes in a season (141 games) set in 2022 is at risk of being broken. Additionally, the metrics for games settled by only six or fewer points, and eight or fewer points (one-possession games) are also climbing towards new records.

The fierce competition and thrilling endings highlight the NFL’s allure—or at least emphasize the necessity of tuning in during crucial moments. As seasoned agent and NFL commentator Leigh Steinberg noted: “I don’t ever recall so many games being determined in the final moments, where the team in possession has the potential to clinch victory. This is the very scenario the NFL has always aspired to. We’re witnessing parity unfold on a weekly basis. It’s reminiscent of how people used to say you could ignore NBA games until the last couple of minutes—now it’s becoming that way in football.”

Who is leading the race for NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year?

Jared Verse, the edge rusher selected by the Rams at 19th overall from Florida State, is the top contender. While his 3½ sacks may not dazzle, he has participated in a whopping 75% of defensive plays, effectively applying pressure with 22 QB pressures and 13 QB hits.

Rams GM Les Snead is often known for trading away first-round picks, but with Aaron Donald’s retirement last season, it was wise to allocate a premium pick on a key player for the defense. As a result, Verse stands as L.A.’s first first-round selection since 2016 amidst a draft where the initial 14 choices were all offensive players. The Rams have certainly defied expectations here. Meanwhile, the favorite for the Offensive Rookie of the Year title is clear—Daniels, who has recorded 9 passing TDs and 4 rushing TDs, has energized the Commanders’ offense with his dynamic abilities and a remarkable Hail Mary throw.

Which Harbaugh is in a better position?

The verdict is still pending. Jim Harbaugh has returned to the NFL, coaching the Chargers (5-3), and his defense has excelled under coordinator Jesse Minter in his first year. L.A. leads the league in fewest points allowed per game (12.6) and is the first team since the 2019 Patriots to restrict opponents to 20 points or less across the first eight games. The Chargers haven’t allowed a 300-yard passer, 100-yard rusher, or 100-yard receiver yet this season.

On the other hand, John Harbaugh could greatly benefit from the defensive performance his brother’s team is showcasing to better support his offensive firepower. The Ravens (7-3) lead the NFL with a total of 318 points scored, averaging 31.8 points per game, just shy of the Lions’ 32.35. However, Baltimore’s passing defense ranks at the bottom of the league, quite unlike the formidable defenses traditionally associated with the franchise.

Both brothers have challenges to tackle. A highly anticipated clash awaits in the season’s second half, as the Chargers will host the Ravens in Week 12 for Monday Night Football in yet another “Harbaugh Bowl,” possibly foreshadowing a playoff showdown. Remember, in 2013, they became the first brothers to coach against each other in a Super Bowl (XLVII), with Jim’s 49ers ultimately losing to John’s Ravens in New Orleans.