J.J. Watt’s Bold Prediction: The Detroit Lions Lead the Pack, But Watch Out for the Eagles

As the NFL season enters its 13th week, the league’s elite teams are beginning to solidify their positions for a potential Super Bowl showdown. With a mere two teams maintaining only a single loss through 12 weeks, the stage is set for a thrilling finish. However, according to former NFL star J.J. Watt, the best team in the league right now might surprise some fans – it’s not the defending champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, but rather the Detroit Lions.

The Lions Take the Lead

Watt, who is no stranger to the league’s top-tier talent, recently shared his thoughts on The Pat McAfee Show about the state of the NFL. When asked which team he thought was currently performing the best, his answer was clear: the Detroit Lions.

“I think the Lions are the best team in football right now,” Watt confidently stated. For a team that has spent much of the past few decades trying to find its footing in the NFL, this declaration might raise some eyebrows. But Watt’s analysis doesn’t just come from a place of nostalgia; it’s grounded in the team’s impressive performance this season. With a potent offense and solid defense, the Lions have looked like one of the most well-rounded squads in the league.

A Close Second: The Philadelphia Eagles

While Watt gave the Lions the top spot, he didn’t overlook the defending NFC champions, the Philadelphia Eagles. He acknowledged the impressive play of the Eagles, especially with star running back Saquon Barkley leading their offense. “I do think that this Eagles team is humming, though. Saquon Barkley is special,” Watt added.

The Eagles’ offense, which has been hitting its stride as of late, has made a strong case for being the best in the league. Barkley, a potential MVP candidate, has helped propel the Eagles to a near-perfect record. Despite the dominance of the Lions, Watt recognized that Philadelphia’s ability to stay hot throughout the season could carry them deep into the postseason.

The Chiefs Are Still in the Mix

Despite Watt’s preference for the Lions at the moment, the Kansas City Chiefs, the reigning Super Bowl champions, remain a major player in the race. At 10-1, they are a formidable force, and with Patrick Mahomes leading the charge, it’s hard to bet against them. However, as Watt points out, the Chiefs’ road to the playoffs won’t be easy. They’ll face stiff competition in the AFC from teams like the Buffalo Bills, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Baltimore Ravens, all of whom will be eager to challenge the Chiefs for the top spot.

A Tough Road Ahead for the Lions

For the Lions, their journey to the playoffs might not be a cakewalk either. While they have been dominant all season long, teams like the Philadelphia Eagles, Green Bay Packers, and Minnesota Vikings are gearing up for a potential playoff run that could challenge Detroit’s dominance.

Despite these potential hurdles, the Lions have shown remarkable consistency, and their early-season dominance is likely to carry them deep into the postseason, making them a tough opponent for any team.

The Race Is On

As the 2024 NFL season progresses, the conversation about the best team in the league will continue to evolve. J.J. Watt’s pick of the Detroit Lions as the current leader is certainly bold, but given their performance so far, it’s hard to argue with his assessment. While the Eagles, Chiefs, and others will surely have something to say about the final outcome, the Lions are proving they belong at the top of the league.

For now, it looks like Watt’s prediction is one many will be keeping an eye on as the season inches toward the playoffs and, ultimately, the Super Bowl. Will the Lions continue to dominate, or will the Chiefs and Eagles reassert their positions as the league’s top dogs? Only time will tell, but it’s shaping up to be an exciting finish to the season.