Week 7 is here, and with one-third of the NFL season in the books, the identity of this league is starting to take shape. Contenders are separating, pretenders are getting exposed, and a few storylines just refuse to die. From dynasties fighting off doubt to surprise contenders forcing their way into the spotlight, the season is heating up fast and every game from here on out carries weight.
Things That Are Certain
• The 3-3 Chiefs are still a top team in the NFL.
As much as some folks try to create a “dynasty collapse” narrative much like they did with the New England Patriots throughout the 2010s the Kansas City Chiefs aren’t going anywhere. People want to see a dynasty fall, but this one clearly isn’t ready to hand over the throne just yet.
• The Eagles have been here before.
Once again, the media is ready to bury Nick Sirianni and the Philadelphia Eagles, just like they did last year before the team went on to win last season’s Super Bowl. Despite back-to-back losses, the defending champs remain a top-10 team in football. That much is certain.
• The Steelers have already locked up the AFC North.
With Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow both sidelined and the Cleveland Browns in complete disarray, the 4-1 Steelers are cruising. They head to Cincinnati this weekend in what looks like another favorable matchup one that could push their record to 5-1. The AFC North is usually one of the toughest divisions in the league, but this season, it’s the weakest it’s been in years — and Pittsburgh is taking full advantage.
Game of the Week
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Detroit Lions — Monday Night Football, 7:00 PM
It’s a primetime showdown inside Ford Field as two of the NFC’s best collide. Tampa Bay continues to overperform week after week despite a growing list of injuries, while the Lions are eager to bounce back after a tough road loss in Kansas City. With the Eagles stumbling, in back to back losses the winner of this game could emerge as the new favorite in the NFC. Detroit has rediscovered its rhythm after a shaky start, and the Buccaneers continue to prove they belong in the contender conversation.
London Game
Los Angeles Rams vs. Jacksonville Jaguars — 6:30 AM (Wembley Stadium)
The Rams and Jaguars make the trip overseas for an early kickoff in London. Los Angeles may be without star wide receiver Puka Nacua, who remains questionable heading into the weekend. The Rams’ offense will need to adjust if he can’t go. Meanwhile, Jacksonville is looking to rebound after a disappointing loss to the Seahawks. The Jaguars won’t get much of a break here, facing one of the NFC’s top teams on a neutral field.
Key AFC Matchup
Indianapolis Colts (5-1) @ Los Angeles Chargers (4-2) — 4:05 PM
Both teams are coming off narrow escapes against inferior opponents, but this week’s matchup could be one of Sunday’s most compelling games. The Colts have quietly established themselves among the AFC’s elite, while the Chargers continue to grind out wins despite a growing list of injuries. With playoff implications already in play, expect a physical, hard-fought battle in Los Angeles.
Closing Thoughts
As the season hits its stride, Week 7 feels like a turning point. Teams like the Chiefs and Eagles are out to remind everyone why they’ve been the standard, while Jacksonville and Indy are looking to prove that their early-season success isn’t a fluke. Injuries are piling up, underdogs are punching above their weight, and the playoff picture is slowly beginning to take shape. Every week from here on out will separate the real contenders from the ones just along for the ride and Week 7 might be where that line finally gets drawn.