The NFL is full of surprises as we head into Week 10, with several teams boasting impressive records despite a diverse season. Let’s take a look at the top contenders with two or fewer losses and assess their Super Bowl chances.
As we approach Week 10 of the 2024 NFL season, the playoff race is heating up, and only a select few teams have managed to maintain strong records. With 14 teams sporting winning records and 15 teams stuck with losing ones, it’s clear that elite football is a rare commodity this year. But among the field, a handful of teams have emerged as true contenders, proving themselves worthy of attention. Let’s break down the top seven teams with two or fewer losses approaching Week 10.
7. Pittsburgh Steelers (6-2)
The Pittsburgh Steelers are familiar faces in the playoff mix, but their 6-2 record feels more like a product of consistency rather than dominance. While their defense is solid, and they’re making it work with what they have, they still lack a true franchise quarterback. With teams like the Chiefs and Bills ahead of them, it’s hard to see Pittsburgh making a deep playoff run this year.
Still, their defensive prowess and knack for pulling out close victories should not be discounted. The Steelers might not have the star power to go all the way, but they could still make some noise in the postseason.
6. Minnesota Vikings (6-2)
The Minnesota Vikings have certainly proven that their early-season success wasn’t a fluke, despite suffering two consecutive losses after their 5-0 start. They’ve since righted the ship and continue to battle in the competitive NFC North. Quarterback Sam Darnold, playing better than many expected, has been one of the season’s surprise performers.
While their long-term future may lie with rookie QB JJ McCarthy, if Darnold keeps playing this well, the Vikings could become a true contender in the NFC, pushing for a deep playoff run. However, their consistency over the remainder of the season will determine their place in the rankings.
5. Philadelphia Eagles (6-2)
After a bye week, the Philadelphia Eagles have bounced back in impressive fashion, regaining their form under quarterback Jalen Hurts. While his play was shaky earlier in the season, Hurts has shown signs of improving, helping lead the Eagles back into contention for the NFC East crown.
The Eagles’ road to the postseason won’t be easy, but with Hurts firing on all cylinders, this team looks poised to challenge for a deep playoff spot. The key question will be whether they can maintain their momentum as the competition heats up.
4. Washington Commanders (7-2)
What a story the Washington Commanders have become in 2024. With rookie QB Jayden Daniels at the helm, the Commanders have surprised many with their explosive offense and solid defense. At 7-2, they find themselves not just in the playoff hunt but possibly in the driver’s seat for the NFC East.
Though Daniels has a lower ceiling as a rookie, his performances so far have been more than impressive. The real test will be how far they can go in the playoffs with a rookie QB under center. However, this team’s potential to shock the NFL world remains very much alive.
3. Buffalo Bills (7-2)
The Buffalo Bills have been flying under the radar, but their 7-2 record says they are very much in the Super Bowl conversation. Quarterback Josh Allen has been playing his best football, showcasing incredible efficiency and minimizing turnovers—a significant improvement from previous seasons.
The Bills have come close to a Super Bowl berth in recent years, and with a revamped defense, they might just have the pieces they need to go all the way in 2024. Can they overcome their postseason demons and make a deep run this year?
2. Kansas City Chiefs (8-0)
The Kansas City Chiefs are the last unbeaten team standing, sitting comfortably at 8-0. While their offense hasn’t been as explosive as in previous years, their defense has stepped up significantly, making them a well-rounded, dangerous team. With the Chiefs’ pedigree, it’s hard to imagine them not making the Super Bowl at this point, and they could very well make history as the first team to win three consecutive titles.
Their defense, combined with the leadership of quarterback Patrick Mahomes, gives them an edge over many of the other teams in the NFL. The question will be whether their offense can find its rhythm as the season progresses.
1. Detroit Lions (7-1)
At the top of the NFL Power Rankings is the Detroit Lions, a team that has been nothing short of spectacular this season. With a well-balanced offense led by MVP candidate Jared Goff and a defense that continues to outperform expectations, the Lions are a complete team in every sense of the word.
Under head coach Dan Campbell, the Lions have made consistent strides each season, and 2024 could finally be the year they break through and make a serious Super Bowl run. They have few weaknesses and are the clear front-runners in the NFC. With a dominant 7-1 record, Detroit is poised to make a deep playoff push—and potentially win their first-ever Super Bowl.
As we approach Week 10, the landscape of the NFL is beginning to take shape. While the Kansas City Chiefs and Detroit Lions stand out as the top two teams, others like the Buffalo Bills and Washington Commanders are making waves and could prove to be serious challengers come playoff time. The race is heating up, and every week will bring new surprises as the NFL continues to evolve into one of the most unpredictable seasons in recent memory.
