AFC NORTH MIDSEASON REVISITED

PITTSBURGH STEELERS

The Pittsburgh Steelers finished the first half of the season with a 5-2-1 record. Here’s a look at how they have fared and what’s ahead:

First-half rewind: This season has stayed true to the Steelers' identity, mixing brilliant moments with curious lapses. A three-game winning streak quelled concerns after a 1-2-1 start. The offensive line was tremendous in October, helping James Conner post three straight 100-yard rushing games while Ben Roethlisberger took one sack. The defense was among the league's worst through the first four weeks, keeping the Steelers from an above-average grade, but things have settled down with more defined roles on third downs. Five different players have at least 2.5 sacks, led by T.J. Watt with seven. And JuJu Smith-Schuster has become an upper-tier receiver on pace for nearly 1,400 yards. 

Grade: A

What has to happen for the Steelers to make the playoffs? Have Baltimore fall into mediocrity and beat Cincinnati in Week 17. A wild-card berth for the AFC North is no layup after strong starts by the Patriots, Chiefs, Chargers and Texans, so the Steelers need more separation from the Ravens and Bengals. The Steelers have lost a combined six straight games at Oakland and Denver, two places they travel over the final six weeks. They need at least one win on that swing.

Here's how I see the rest of the Pittsburgh Steelers season playing out.

DATE	OPP.	W-L
Nov. 8	vs. Panthers	W
Nov. 18	at Jaguars	W
Nov. 25	at Broncos	L
Dec. 2	vs. Chargers	L
Dec. 9	at Raiders	W
Dec. 16	vs. Patriots	W
Dec. 23	at Saints	L
Dec. 30	vs. Bengals	W

Final season record 10-5-1

MVP: Roethlisberger. This race isn't so clear-cut because several playmakers -- from Brown to Smith-Schuster to Conner -- have put up big numbers but haven't carried the team to victories, either. The offensive line has been collectively good. Watt and Joe Haden are among the defensive standouts, but the unit was too shaky as a whole early in the season. That leaves Roethlisberger, who has had issues keeping the ball (seven interceptions, five fumbles) but is sixth in the league in passing entering Week 9 (2,290 yards) and is flirting with 700 passing attempts on the season.

Hurdle to overcome: The Steelers stood pat at the trade deadline, leaving uncertainty at cornerback opposite Haden. Third-year corner Artie Burns has struggled mightily, leaving veteran Coty Sensabaugh and Cam Sutton to fill out the rotation at that spot. Is this a championship-level defense with the secondary intact? The Steelers hope a versatile third-down package with safety Morgan Burnett, linebacker L.J. Fort and others can offset the lack of high-level corners.

BALTIMORE RAVENS

The Baltimore Ravens finished the first half of the season with a 4-5 record. Here’s a look at how they have fared and what’s ahead:

First-half rewind: The Ravens looked like one of the top teams in the AFC, jumping out to a 3-1 start. But Baltimore did its usual fade in October, watching each phase suffer a breakdown. Justin Tucker missed his first extra point in a loss to New Orleans. The NFL's top-ranked defense looked vulnerable in a loss at Carolina. Joe Flacco and the offense struggled to get into the end zone in a loss to Pittsburgh. This three-game losing streak has shrunk the Ravens' margin for error in the second half of the season. 

Grade: C

What has to happen for the Ravens to make the playoffs? The Ravens need to get healthy (especially along the offensive line), break out of their offensive funk and create more turnovers on defense to end a three-game losing streak at the bye and turn their season AROUND. Baltimore is currently 1.5 games back of the Cincinnati Bengals for the sixth and final playoff spot in the AFC. If the Ravens can reach the postseason, they would end a three-year playoff drought. If they don’t, the 11-year run for Coach John Harbaugh and Flacco likely will come to an end. The pressure has never been greater for the best quarterback-coach tandem in franchise history.

Revised game-by-game predictions

Here's how Baltimore Ravens reporter Jamison Hensley sees the season playing out.

DATE	OPP.	W-L
Nov. 18	vs. Bengals	L
Nov. 25	vs. Raiders	W
Dec. 2	at Falcons	L
Dec. 9	at Chiefs	L
Dec. 16	vs. Bucs	W
Dec. 22	at LAC	L
Dec. 30	vs. Browns	W

Final Season Record 7-9

MVP: Flacco. The former Super Bowl Most Valuable Player remains the biggest barometer of success for the Ravens. In four wins, Flacco has seven touchdowns and one interception (101.0 rating). In five losses, he has thrown five touchdowns and five interceptions (76.1 rating). It sets up for a strong finish for Flacco. All eight remaining opponents rank in the bottom half of the NFL in pass defense, including five of the bottom six (Cleveland, Kansas City, Atlanta, Tampa Bay and Cincinnati).

Biggest surprise: Running game. The Ravens plummeted from No. 11 last season to No. 27 in the NFL. It’s been a combination of factors, from inconsistent blocking to a lack of burst from the running backs. Alex Collins is averaging less than 4 yards per carry, and Buck Allen is less than 3 yards per attempt. Baltimore is the only team without a running back who has recorded a run longer than 20 yards. Without a running attack, the Ravens have had to lean heavily on Flacco.

Hurdle to overcome: Winning on the road. Since winning the Super Bowl, the Ravens are among the NFL’s worst road teams. Baltimore is 16-29 (.356) away from M&T Bank Stadium the past 5.5 seasons. The Ravens are likely going to need to win once or twice in their final three road games. They have to travel to play the Atlanta Falcons, Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers, all of whom are a combined 10-3 (.769) at home this season. Since 2015, the Ravens have won once on the road in December (at the Browns last season).

CINCINNATI BENGALS

The Cincinnati Bengals finished the first half of the season with a 5-3 record. Here’s a look at how they have fared and what’s ahead:

First-half rewind: The Bengals' grade for the first half of the season is based on two factors. Their record is certainly better at this point than it has been the past two seasons, and the offense has made a marked improvement from 2017. They've also closed out some tough games they might not have closed out before. However, it certainly teeters between the above average/average grade when their defense comes into consideration. The defense gave up a last-minute touchdown to the Steelers and has given up at least 480 yards in each of the past three games. That's a big problem. 

Grade: B

Biggest factor in making a deep playoff run: Injuries and defense. If the Bengals can get some players healthy and improve their defense significantly, they should be able to get to the playoffs. But as always with this team, the question is, what can they do once they get there? Marvin Lewis' 0-7 playoff record looms large, and the defense is going to have to make a remarkable turnaround to get to the playoffs and knock another team out.

Here's how Cincinnati Bengals reporter Katherine Terrell sees the season playing out.

DATE	OPP.	W-L
Nov. 11	vs. Saints	L
Nov. 18	at Ravens	W
Nov. 25	vs. Browns	W
Dec. 2	vs. Broncos	W
Dec. 9	at Chargers	L
Dec. 16	vs. Raiders	W
Dec. 23	at Browns	W
Dec. 30	at Steelers	L

Final Season Record 10-6

MVP: As always, A.J. Green remains one of the most important players on the team. If the team has to make a last-minute drive to win the game, Green has always been the go-to guy, and that's why it's so concerning he could miss at least two games with a toe injury that occurred before the bye. The offense is already depleted enough, and none of the receivers have stepped up outside of Green and Boyd. The offense could struggle in a major way without him.

Biggest surprise: Tyler Boyd. The third-year wide receiver has taken a big step forward and has continued the upward trend he began in the final game of the 2017 season. Surprisingly, he leads the team with 59 catches and trails only Green with 620 yards and five receiving touchdowns. Outside of Green, Boyd has been the biggest contributor to the offense and has had a fantastic year.

Hurdle to overcome: The linebackers need to play better, and that starts with Vontaze Burfict. Burfict hasn't done much this year after starting the season on suspension and getting injured right before the bye. Burfict needs to live up to the contract extension they gave him last year. The Bengals need to get Nick Vigil healthy, and the unit overall needs to take a step up if they're going to be able to stop the run, which has been one of its issues this year.

CLEVELAND BROWNS

The Cleveland Browns finished the first half of the season with a 2-6-1 record. Here’s a look at how they have fared and what’s ahead:

First-half rewind: Perhaps expectations were too high for a team coming off a winless season, but when the Browns got to .500 after an overtime victory over Baltimore, excitement was on a rampage. Three games later, the Browns were 2-5-1 and had an interim head coach and new offensive coordinator. This is a new level of dysfunction for a team that regularly sets standards for dysfunction. Rebuilding is tough. The Browns proved it. Again. 

Grade: D

What is the Browns’ biggest hole to fill? For the fifth time since 2010, the Browns need a head coach. The most important move they make will be to find a coach who can last, who can win, and who can develop a young quarterback in Baker Mayfield. Team Upheaval starts over again. The NFL trend is toward offensive coaches, and the trend is to young coaches who are up to date on what elements of the college game can be transferred to the NFL. Think the next Sean McVay. This is general manager John Dorsey’s chance to put his stamp on the team for years to come.

Here's how I see the rest of the Cleveland Browns season playing out.

DATE	OPP.	W-L
Nov. 11	vs. Falcons	L
Nov. 25	at Bengals	L
Dec. 2	at Texans	L
Dec. 9	vs. Panthers	L
Dec. 15	at Broncos	L
Dec. 23	vs. Bengals	L
Dec. 30	at Ravens	L

Final Season Record 2-13-1

MVP: If this isn’t Mayfield, there’s a problem. This season is totally about developing the draft’s first overall pick, to the point that the moves with Hue Jackson and Todd Haley were made with Mayfield’s growth in mind. Jimmy Haslam blamed “internal discord” for the need to get rid of the head coach and offensive coordinator, and that discord was getting in the way of Mayfield’s growth. A quarterback caught between opposing factions cannot stand. If Mayfield can get his legs back under him and emerge with a positive second half, the Browns and the QB alike will benefit.

Biggest surprise: The sudden fall from favor of Haley. He arrived with a résumé and credentials after six successful seasons with the Steelers. He had managed the egos and abilities of Ben Roethlisberger, Antonio Brown and Le'Veon Bell. He quickly became the star of "Hard Knocks." But Haley and Jackson did not see eye to eye, and Haslam got rid of both.

Hurdle to overcome: Keeping the prevailing negativity that seems to seep into the Browns' psyche from taking over after Jackson and Haley were sent packing. The Browns have an interim coach in Gregg Williams and, in Freddie Kitchens, an offensive coordinator hired by the front office and not by the interim coach. The team is on a slide, the final seven-game schedule is brutal, and injuries have chipped away at depth. Mayfield needs to come out of this season feeling good about himself and the team. He does not need to be dragged down by negativity that has infected past Browns teams.

NFC NORTH MIDSEASON REVISTED

CHICAGO BEARS

The Chicago Bears finished the first half of the season with a 5-3 record. Here’s a look at how they have fared and what’s ahead:

First-half rewind: Coming off four straight last-place finishes, the Bears were not a trendy pick to contend in the NFC North. But Chicago surprised by winning three of four to open the season. Plus, in losses to Green Bay, New England and Miami, the Bears were competitive. New coach Matt Nagy has been a breath of fresh air. The Bears were ultra-stale in the forgettable John Fox era, but under Nagy, Chicago’s offense has been reborn. It has also helped that Bears general manager Ryan Pace managed to acquire all-world pass-rusher Khalil Mack from the Raiders prior to Week 1. The Bears just wrapped up their most enjoyable first half of the season since Lovie Smith’s final year in 2012. 

Grade:  A.

What’s the biggest factor in the Bears making a deep playoff run? Mack has to be healthy. The defense struggled for a couple weeks after Mack suffered a right ankle injury on Oct. 14 in Miami. On offense, the Bears need consistency out of quarterback Mitchell Trubisky. The 24-year old had some really good moments in the first half -- most notably his six-touchdown performance versus the Bucs in Week 4 -- but he struggled at times with accuracy and decision-making. Trubisky is a tremendous athlete. He has all the tools to be successful, but he has to put it all together.

Here's how I see the rest of the Chicago Bears season playing out.

DATE	OPP.	W-L
Nov. 11	vs. Lions	W
Nov. 18	vs. Vikings	L
Nov. 22	at Lions	L
Dec. 2	at Giants	W
Dec. 9	vs. Rams	L
Dec. 16	vs. Packers	W
Dec. 23	at 49ers	W
Dec. 30	at Vikings	L

FINAL SEASON RECORD 9-7

MVP: Mack. He dominated the first four games, winning NFC Defensive Player of the Month in September with five sacks, four forced fumbles and a pick-six. The Bears wisely rested Mack’s ankle in Week 8 against the New York Jets and the following week against the Bills. As long as Mack’s ankle is close to 100 percent for the final eight games, the Bears have a chance to finish with a winning record.

Biggest surprise: Rookie Bilal Nichols. The fifth-round defensive tackle out of Delaware has opened eyes in recent weeks. Nichols not only earned a role in Chicago’s defensive line rotation, but he has also become a playmaker. It’s still early, but right now, Nichols looks like a late-round steal.

Hurdle to overcome: The schedule. The Bears play five of their final eight games against their division rivals. Chicago has a stretch of three straight NFC North games (Detroit, Minnesota and Detroit) from Nov. 11-22. The Bears also have a tough home game versus the Los Angeles Rams on Dec. 9.

DETRIOT LIONS

The Detroit Lions finished the first half of the season with a 3-5 record. Here’s a look at how they have fared and what’s ahead:

First-half rewind, with grade: It couldn’t have started worse, and then it couldn’t have gotten much better. And just when things seemed to be leveling off, the franchise traded Golden Tate to Philadelphia for a third-round pick, coach Matt Patricia and defensive tackle A'Shawn Robinson got into tiffs with reporters and the Lions were soundly beaten by Seattle and Minnesota. Then they fired special teams coach Joe Marciano on Monday because Patricia wasn't happy with the overall production and performance of the unit. Detroit rebounded from the season-opening calamity that was the blowout loss to the Jets to beat the Patriots and Packers, arguably the Lions’ two toughest opponents to date. A run game led by Kerryon Johnson has been a surprise, as has the play of the (mostly) healthy offensive line -- at least prior to the 10-sack, 17-hit outing against the Vikings. Detroit’s defense has struggled, particularly against the run, and the special teams have been worse than expected. Overall, though, things are going a little bit worse than anticipated. 

Grade:  D

What needs the most improvement? The roster has some holes, particularly at linebacker and the outside cornerback spot opposite Darius Slay now that Nevin Lawson has moved into the slot when necessary -- and Lawson had one of the better games of his career Sunday against Minnesota shadowing Adam Thielen. The defensive line could use some playmakers and the offensive line, with T.J. Lang's continued injury history, is likely going to need a new piece sooner or later. But more than that, it's the coaching. Patricia's team has been handled pretty easily in four of the five losses and he admitted inconsistency has been an issue. The offense, be it through play calls or its play, has struggled to move the ball the past two weeks and the defense still has the same issues against the run. There are a lot of problems and this team is one that appears to be trending downward. Fast.

Here's how I see the rest of the Detroit Lions season playing out.

DATE	OPP.	W-L
Nov. 11	at Bears	L
Nov. 18	vs. Panthers	W
Nov. 22	vs. Bears	W
Dec. 2	vs. Rams	L
Dec. 9	at Cardinals	W
Dec. 16	at Bills	W
Dec. 23	vs. Vikings	W
Dec. 30	at Packers	L

FINAL SEASON RECORD 8-8

MVP: General manager Bob Quinn devoted so many resources to the Lions’ run game and offensive line the past two offseasons, and that has finally come to fruition. Much of that is due to Johnson, who might be Detroit’s best back in 20 years. When he’s in the game and given the ball a reasonable amount of times, Detroit’s offense moves better than it has in years. It eats up clock, sells Matthew Stafford’s play-action even better and keeps defenses from focusing too much on the Lions’ receivers. All of that runs through Johnson, who is on pace for a 1,000-yard season. He also has been the benchmark for success. Through the first seven weeks, when Johnson had 12 or more carries and rushed for 70 or more yards, Detroit won. When he didn’t, the Lions lost. But he has been a revelation that has changed the Lions' offense -- and if that continues, Detroit has a chance to be relevant in the second half of the season.

Biggest surprise: The offensive line (at least prior to the Vikings game, which for now we'll call an aberration but will be worth watching). Detroit’s defense was always going to be a work in progress. But the offensive line really struggled to open holes for backs and protect Stafford the past two seasons. This year? The Lions have a run game ranked in the top half of the league (104.3 yards per game, 4.48 yards per attempt) and have protected Stafford well enough for him to have time to find open receivers and not be beat up every week. That’s huge for any success the Lions will have the rest of the way.

Hurdle to overcome: Being unable to stop the run. The addition of Harrison should help -- it showed in his debut against Seattle -- but the Lions are still allowing 142.5 yards per game rushing and 5.14 yards per attempt. Both numbers are in the bottom five of the league. As much as Harrison can help in the middle, outside runs are where Detroit has been poor all season long and that’s more on the linebackers and edge-setters to make sure backs can’t get to the outside. If Detroit can't figure it out, it's tough to expect the Lions to win more than six games.

GREEN BAY PACKERS

The Green Bay Packers finished the first half of the season with a 3-4-1 record. Here’s a look at how they have fared and what's ahead:

First-half rewind: Everything was set up for the Packers to go into their toughest stretch -- four road games in five weeks starting in Week 8 at the Rams -- with a near flawless record. They had three of their first four at home and seemingly winnable road games at Washington and Detroit. It had all the makings of a 5-1 or even 6-0 start heading into their Week 7 bye. But on the way to that fast start, Aaron Rodgers banged up his knee and expressed his unhappiness with the offense, all while the defense took longer than expected to adapt to new coordinator Mike Pettine’s scheme. Had they been able to hold on and knock off the Rams instead of losing in the final minutes or upset Tom Brady and the Patriots this past week, the perspective at this point might be much different. 

Grade:  C

Here's how I see the rest of the Green Bay Packers season playing out.

DATE	OPP.	W-L
Nov. 11	vs. Dolphins	W
Nov. 15	at Seahawks	L
Nov. 25	at Vikings	L
Dec. 2	vs. Cardinals	W
Dec. 9	vs. Falcons	W
Dec. 16	at Bears	W
Dec. 23	at Jets	W
Dec. 30	vs. Lions	W

Final season 9-6-1

MVP: Even slowed somewhat by his ailing left knee, Rodgers has produced some magical moments -- the comeback against the Bears after the injury in Week 1 and the game-tying and winning drives against the 49ers among them. By themselves, his numbers (15 touchdowns and just one interception) are what’s expected of a two-time NFL MVP, yet the offense still remains somewhat of a question mark. Part of that could be due to his completion percentage (60.6, which is on pace for the lowest of his career). Rodgers may have to continue to carry the Packers if they’re to make a run at the playoffs. The good thing is he has one of the most productive receivers, Davante Adams, on his side.

Biggest surprise: That Aaron Jones has not had the ball in his hands more. Coach Mike McCarthy messed around with a running-back-by-committee approach even after Jones came off his two-game suspension to start the season. Yes, Jones has limitations in pass protection and McCarthy wanted to keep him fresh for the long haul, but you’d be hard-pressed to find anyone around the league who didn’t think Jones should have played more given how effective he has been. With Ty Montgomery traded away, Jones should get the bulk of the work supplemented by some Jamaal Williams on third downs.

Hurdle to overcome: The road woes. Losses at the Redskins, Lions, Rams and Patriots have forced the Packers to play catch up away from Lambeau Field. And they still have to go to Seattle on a short week plus division games at Minnesota and Chicago in addition to the Jets. They're 3-0-1 at home and they might have to run the table there just to stay above .500 this season. If they can't, look for another offseason of major organizational change after last year's coordinator and general manager purge.

MINNESOTA VIKINGS

The Minnesota Vikings finished the first half of the season with a 5-3-1 record. Here's a look at how they have fared and what's ahead:

First-half rewind: Quarterback Kirk Cousins and his skill players have been quick to point out that stats, no matter how good they look on paper, don't tell the whole story. Minnesota ranked in the top 10 in both total offense and defense during the first half of the season but experienced ups and downs along the way. It took the Vikings' defense the first four weeks to work out the areas where it struggled (allowing explosive gains, biting on misdirection plays, struggling to establish a pass rush) before reclaiming its identity. Offensively, the line has been a constant work in progress and hindered production on the ground until Latavius Murray broke through in Week 5 with the team's first rushing TD of the season. Those issues have forced the Vikings to rely on their passing attack, which is one of the best in the league. It's no coincidence that Cousins and Adam Thielen are on pace for record-setting seasons based on how aggressive the Vikings have been through the air, which is something expected to remain a constant throughout the second half. 

Grade:  B

What's the biggest factor in the Vikings making a deep playoff run? Minnesota’s defense needs to continue playing at this level where by remaining dominant on third down, pulling out big stops in the red zone and scoring off turnovers. The Vikings also need Cousins, who has performed well on the road and under pressure, especially in prime-time games at the Bears, home against the Packers and at New England. He has proven to be the upgrade Minnesota needed at quarterback in a handful of areas, but eliminating costly fumbles could be the measure between making a deep playoff run and an early exit. The Vikings also don't need to force the run game, though they're hoping Dalvin Cook (hamstring) will be able to add an element they've been missing with his explosive ability. Until then, Cousins continues to make the most of one of the best receiving duos in the NFL.

Here's how I see the rest of Minnesota Vikings season playing out.

DATE	OPP.	W-L
Nov. 18	at Bears	L
Nov. 25	vs. Packers	W
Dec. 2	at Patriots	L
Dec. 10	at Seahawks	L
Dec. 16	vs. Dolphins	W
Dec. 23	at Lions	W
Dec. 30	vs. Bears	W

Final season record 8-7-1

MVP: Thielen. The Pro Bowl receiver is setting team and league records every week and has been the most consistent part of the Vikings' attack with a record eight consecutive 100-yard receiving games to start the season. Leading the league in receiving and on pace to break the single-season record for receptions, Thielen is a major part of what Minnesota does offensively, and offensive coordinator John DeFilippo keeps finding new, creative ways to get the ball to him. Thielen's ability in the slot has dismantled defenses all season. When Thielen has the chance to show what he can do with his footwork and route running when facing man coverage, it's usually game over for his opponent.

Biggest surprise: The Vikings have a talented roster but haven't consistently performed like a team destined to win a title. They've won important road games but also lost head scratchers such as at home to Buffalo. They played the Rams and Saints -- two of the NFC's best -- close, but not close enough. One week the offense is firing on all cylinders while the defense stumbles, and the other week it's the opposite. Minnesota's brutally hard stretch continues in the second half, opening things up at Soldier Field, a place they haven't consistently performed well in years past.

Hurdle to overcome: Minnesota's offensive line has struggled to overcome injuries and its lack of depth, and that's probably going to remain a consistent theme. Cousins' ability to maneuver at times and get rid of the ball quickly has helped the Vikings rise above tough situations, but he also has struggled with pocket awareness and trying to save himself from incurring negative plays. Many will place the blame on Cousins in those instances, and some of that is a fair assessment, but overcoming issues with the offensive line is an ongoing process.

AFC EAST MIDSEASON REVISITED

BUFFALO BILLS

The Buffalo Bills finished the first half of the season with a 2-7 record. Here’s a look at how they have fared and what’s ahead:

First-half rewind: Coach Sean McDermott said last month he entered the season with realistic expectations for the season given where his team was "in the process," which was McDermott-speak for his team being in rebuilding mode. Quarterback was a glaring problem spot all offseason, which tempered expectations, yet there was a sense AJ McCarron could keep the position steady until first-round pick Josh Allen was ready. Instead, Peterman outperformed McCarron in the preseason, leading to McCarron being traded and Peterman starting the opener. Peterman flopped, Allen was forced into action before he was ready, and aside from a shocking, upset win over the Minnesota Vikings in Week 3, the Bills have generally been in a tailspin since. They enter Week 10 with less than a 0.1 percent chance to make the playoffs, according to ESPN Football Power Index.

Grade: D

Here's how I see the Buffalo Bills season playing out.

DATE	OPPONENT	W-L
Nov. 11	at Jets	L
Nov. 25	vs. Jaguars	L
Dec. 2	at Dolphins	L
Dec. 9	vs. Jets	W
Dec. 16	vs. Lions	W
Dec. 23	at Patriots	L
Dec. 30	vs. Dolphins	W

Final Season Record 5-11

What is your team’s biggest hole to fill? Despite the Bills scoring a franchise-low 87 points through their first eight games, they kept their offense intact through last month's trade deadline -- and even added free-agent wide receiver Terrelle Pryor. Chances are the group will not rebound in the season's second half, leading to an offseason in which all positions on offense -- including backup quarterback -- should be under consideration for upgrade. Wide receiver tops that list, as Kelvin Benjamin and Pryor will become unrestricted free agents. The Bills have in excess of $80 million in projected 2019 salary-cap space, so expect them to spend big on wide receivers, the offensive line and potentially at tight end.

MVP: LB Lorenzo Alexander. At 35, Alexander is the oldest player in the Bills' locker room and enters Week 10 tied for the team lead with 4.5 sacks. The other candidates for MVP, cornerback Tre'Davious White and defensive end Jerry Hughes, both would be deserving, but Alexander is an unquestioned leader who is playing his best football late in his career. His voice has helped prevent division among a team in which one side of the ball, the defense, is being consistently let down by the other side.

Biggest surprise: Buffalo was expected to lean on its running game, but entering Week 10, the Bills are 23rd in rushing yards per game (97.2) and 30th in yards per rush (3.7) this season. The problems cannot be pinned simply on Bills falling behind in games and becoming pass-heavy in second halves; they enter Week 10 ranked 31st in first-half rushing yards per game this season (37.2) and 32nd in first-half yards per rush (3.1). Some blame should fall on a deficient offensive line, but there should also be questions about the Bills’ pair of 30-year old runners, LeSean McCoy and Chris Ivory. Among 52 running backs with 50 carries through Week 9, McCoy ranks 51st in yards per carry and Ivory is tied for 43rd.

Hurdle to overcome: Injuries at quarterback. Allen was knocked out of the Bills' Week 6 loss to at Houston because of a right elbow injury he suffered when he was sandwiched between two Texans defenders. That forced Derek Anderson, signed less than two weeks earlier after being out of football, into the lineup. Anderson suffered a concussion after back-to-back New England Patriots sacks late in a Week 8 loss. The Bills were trying to avoid starting the an interception-prone Peterman, but the injuries left them with no other choice in Week 9 against the Chicago Bears. Health at the position, which has been put at risk because of the offensive line, is hampering development of other players and stunting the progress of McDermott's rebuild.

MIAMI DOLPHINS

The Miami Dolphins finished the first half of the season with a 5-4 record. Here’s a look at how they have fared and what’s ahead:

First-half rewind: The Dolphins were hopeful that a healthy year of Ryan Tannehill with Coach Adam Gase would yield results similar to 2016, when they went 10-6 and made the playoffs. It started well, with a 3-0 record behind a ballhawk defense and an efficient Tannehill. A blowout loss at New England, followed by a collapse in Cincinnati, took the wind out of their sails, and then Tannehill was injured in Week 5. Brock Osweiler stepped in, giving a hint of hope after an upset win over Chicago, but he has fallen back to earth in recent weeks. Both sides of the ball have been inconsistent, but the Dolphins' league-leading 15 interceptions are keeping them in the playoff mix. 

Grade: B

Here's How I See The Miami Dolphins Season Playing Out.

DATE	OPPONENT	W-L
Nov. 11	at Green Bay	L
Nov. 25	at Indianapolis	L
Dec. 2	vs. Buffalo	W
Dec. 9	vs. New England	L
Dec. 16	at Minnesota	L
Dec. 23	vs. Jacksonville	W
Dec. 30	at Buffalo	W

Final Season Record 8-8

What has to happen for the Dolphins to make the playoffs? First, they need to get Tannehill back after the bye. Second, they need to plug their suspect run defense, which gave up an average of 200 rushing yards in a three-game stretch before getting back on track against the Jets. They need to continue to find ways to be creative and feed their explosive playmakers, such as Kenyan Drake and Jakeem Grant. And finally, they need to stay healthy. As far as their upcoming schedule, they have to take advantage of their two December games against the Bills and steal a game or two on the road.

MVP: Xavien Howard has been the Dolphins' best player, locking down one side of the field for much of the season. He has three interceptions and is emerging as the Dolphins' closest thing to a star. Howard held his own -- winning the first-half battle, losing the second half -- against DeAndre Hopkins in his marquee matchup of the season. He's a building block for Miami's defense, and his playmaking ability will be on notice for every quarterback he faces in the second half of the season.

Biggest surprise: Drake's smaller-than-expected role in the offense. Frank Gore has been the lead rusher, and Drake's role has been as a receiver. In Sunday's win over the Jets, Gore had 20 carries to Drake's three. The expectation coming into the year was that Drake would get the chance to be the featured back and Gore would supplement him on short yardage and goal-line situations. But Gase loves Gore's ability to keep the offense on track, so Drake, arguably Miami's best playmaker, has yet to get anything close to a full-time role.

Hurdle to overcome: Miami has placed 11 players on injured reserve, nine on the season-ending IR, since the start of the regular season. Most of those players were set to play a huge role in Miami's season, such as receiver Albert Wilson, guard Josh Sitton and defensive end William Hayes. Gase has said repeatedly that his team can't afford any more season-ending injuries. Laremy Tunsil and Ja'Wuan James are banged up headed into Week 10, but they'll need to find a way to overcome those injuries because that can't be an excuse.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

The New England Patriots finished the first half of the season with a 7-2 record. Here’s a look at how they have fared, and what’s ahead.

First-half rewind: After a 1-2 start, the Patriots have won six in a row and are well positioned to make their annual charge at what they hope will be a deep run into January. It was almost like watching two different teams between the first three games and the past six. A big part of that was the return of receiver Julian Edelman from a four-game NFL suspension and integration of trade acquisition Josh Gordon into the offensive attack. The defense has been up and down, but is trending in the right direction after its best performance of the season against the Packers. 

Grade: A

What’s the biggest factor for the Patriots to make a deep playoff run? Keeping quarterback Tom Brady out of harm’s way. The Patriots have generally done a good job of that (No. 5 ranking in fewest sacks per pass play), with Brady also protecting himself at times by getting rid of the football. At 41, he remains one of the best in the game and is the one player who, if injured, would alter the team’s outlook in the most dramatic way.

MVP: James White, step right up. The ever-reliable running back is second in the AFC with 61 receptions, and when the Patriots faced a shortage of players at the position in Weeks 7-9, it was impressive to watch him morph from “passing back” to between-the-tackles grinder and still find success. He is one of the most underrated players in the NFL, shining in his first year as a Patriots captain.

Here's how I see the rest of the New England Patriots season playing out.

DATE	OPPONENT	W-L
Nov. 11	at Titans	W
Nov. 25	at Jets	W
Dec. 2	Vikings	W
Dec. 9	at Dolphins	W
Dec. 16	at Steelers	L
Dec. 23	Bills	W
Dec. 30	Jets	W
Final Season Record 13-3

Biggest surprise: Jason McCourty's emergence as the No. 2 cornerback. When the likable, 10-year veteran was playing deep into the fourth preseason game, it sparked media-based questions as to whether he would even make the team. Then he played six snaps in the season opener, which came after the club reduced his salary to reflect his place as the No. 4 option on the depth chart. But when Eric Rowe was benched two series into Week 2, McCourty stepped in and he’s been the starter opposite Gilmore since.

Hurdle to overcome: Getting Rob Gronkowski back to being Rob Gronkowski. The All-Pro tight end has 29 receptions for 448 yards and one touchdown, which is well off his pace from past seasons. He has missed two games and has been listed on the injury report with two different ailments -- back and ankle. The Patriots have a solid arsenal of weapons without him, but when Gronkowski is on his game, he is one of the hardest players to defend and opens things up for others. So which Gronkowski will the Patriots get in the final seven games of the season?

NEW YORK JETS

The New York Jets reached the NFL's midpoint with a 3-6 record. Here’s a look at how they have fared and what’s ahead:

First-half rewind: So predictable. The Jets have been impressive at times, scoring at least 34 points in each of their three wins. Other times it has been ugly, as they failed to crack 17 points in any of their six losses. Such is life with a rookie quarterback. They signed up for this when they decided to start Sam Darnold, who is gaining valuable experience and will benefit in the long run. Darnold has special traits and a high ceiling, but he's still learning the nuances of the position. (He leads the league with 14 interceptions.) When he sputters, the rest of the offense isn't good enough to pick him up -- the sign of an incomplete team not ready to contend. 

Grade: C

Here's how I see the rest of the New York Jets season playing out.

DATE	OPPONENT	W-L
Nov. 11	vs. Bills	W
Nov. 25	vs. Patriots	L
Dec. 2	at Titans	W
Dec. 9	at Bills	W
Dec. 15	vs. Texans	L
Dec. 23	vs. Packers	L
Dec. 30	at Patriots	L

Final Season Record 6-10

What needs the most improvement? Let's start with the roster. The Jets are in Year 2 of a massive rebuild, expecting to make big moves in 2019. The plan was to get Darnold acclimated to the NFL and develop the young players this season and then add to the foundation next offseason. With close to $100 million in projected cap room, the Jets should be able to plug a few holes. The offense, hurt by spotty drafting in recent years, could use an extreme makeover. They need a couple of wide receivers, a breakaway running back and help on the line. The biggest need? No doubt, it's an edge rusher. General manager Mike Maccagnan hasn't been able to solve that riddle.

MVP: Not a lot of strong candidates here, but let's go with safety Jamal Adams, who has emerged as the defensive leader in his second season. He's the primary energy source, flying around like a Tasmanian tackling machine. He's a force as a "box" safety, with seven tackles for loss, two forced fumbles and a sack. When opposing coaches are asked about the Jets' defense, the first name they mention is Adams. With the season going south, he will be looked upon to carry the team through the adversity.

Biggest surprise: The pass rush doesn’t stink. Despite the absence of a quality edge rusher, the Jets have produced 21 sacks (18th in the NFL) so far, only seven shy of last season’s total. Outside linebacker Jordan Jenkins leads with 4.5 sacks, a career high. Brandon Copeland, a bargain-basement free agent, has surprised with three sacks. But do not believe for one second that the problem is solved. This is smoke-and-mirrors stuff more than anything.

Hurdle to overcome: They have no identity on offense. Oh, sure, they say they want to be a run-oriented, ball-control team, but there are too many weeks when they fail because of personnel deficiencies or a pass-happy game plan. Either way, it puts too much pressure on Darnold, who is 0-5 when he attempts more than 30 passes. This is a transition year on offense -- new coordinator, new quarterback, and new system -- so growing pains were inevitable. But 33 points in the past three games? That’s unacceptable. If Bowles and offensive coordinator Jeremy Bates don’t get Darnold fixed, they will be out of jobs, with an offensive-minded head coach coming in.