The Los Angeles Chargers showed flashes of brilliance under Jim Harbaugh, but the question remains: are they true contenders or just pretenders? Meanwhile in Week 10, the Pittsburgh Steelers, quietly grinding out wins, having potentially positioned themselves as the AFC’s dark horse. Over in the NFC, the Philadelphia Eagles made another strong case for being the conference’s best team. And after snapping the Rams’ win streak, could this be the turning point for the Miami Dolphins to spark a late-season surge?
Can the Dolphins turn it around?
The Miami Dolphins may have found their spark after a statement win against the Rams on Monday Night. The defense set the tone early, applying relentless pressure and creating key stops that energized the team. They held Rams QB Matthew Stafford to zero TD's and an interception. The strong defensive showing allowed the offense to control the pace of the game, putting together several impressive drives. However, Miami struggled to finish those drives in the end zone, settling for field goals instead. Despite that, the Dolphins showed glimpses of their potential on both sides of the ball.
With a favorable remaining schedule that includes two games against the Jets, as well as matchups with the Patriots, Raiders, and Browns, the Phins have a real shot at making a late playoff push. If they can build on this momentum and convert red zone opportunities into touchdowns, they might just sneak into the postseason picture.
Are the Chargers contenders or pretenders?
Although the culture of the Chargers may have changed quickly under Jim Harbaugh, I don't see them as contenders this year. All of their wins have come against teams that are either .500 or below .500. All three losses were against winning teams. The Chargers do have the league's number one ranked scoring defense (13.1 PPG) which is respectable BUT, you simply must look at their schedule. Their defense will be put to the test Sunday Night against the Bengals explosive offense led by Joe Burrow and JaMarr Chase. Time to see what they are made of.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are the AFC's Dark Horse.
Everyone is talking about how the Chiefs and Ravens will be running the AFC this year, has anyone taken a peek at the Steelers? This is a team that looks like they are ready to make some noise this year. At 7-2, the Steelers lead the AFC North. Last week, Pittsburgh faced their toughest test of the season against a 7-2 Washington team. The offense has improved immensely with Russell Wilson under the helm, averaging 30 PPG.
This upcoming Sunday, the Steelers take on their rivals, the Baltimore Ravens at 1PM. Can they take full control of the AFC North?
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