DRAFT Week 11 of the NFL season was dramatic, raising questions about how the balance of power is shifting in the AFC, where the playoff hopes for the Jets and Cowboys continue to fade, and whether a league-wide issue is emerging – kicking consistency. Here are the key takeaways.
AFC-the Chiefs lead, and the Ravens keep rising-assisted by a bye, Kansas City is more or less the flagbearer through the AFC-and the best-case scenario: followed by a ruthless victory against the Bengals, Lamar Jackson orchestrates an offense that seems dynamic and well-disciplined with one of the league’s best defenses. Questions abound about the Buffalo Bills and the Cincinnati Bengals, who face the latter’s injury-wracked roster and lack of consistency. Is the changing of the guard at hand though?
Are the Jets and Cowboys Done?
The New York Jets took on another embarrassing loss yet again to the Bills, as their offensive attack struggled behind a pedestrian performance from backup quarterbacks, with a rough-looking schedule ahead and Aaron Rodgers still seated on injured reserve. The hopes of making the playoffs seem slim.
Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys are limping along but are beginning to crack. A close win over the last-place Panthers does little to instill confidence in a roster that is only clicking when playing lousy teams and is being crushed when going up against playoff-level opponents. Both teams will be fighting an uphill battle into December.
Kicking Trouble Throughout the NFL
Week 11 also highlighted a glaring issue: kickers are struggling to find consistency. Missed field goals and extra points affected the outcomes of multiple games, frustrating fans and coaches alike. From veterans like Justin Tucker to younger players, even typically reliable specialists are faltering. As playoff races tighten, these misses could become the difference between victory and defeat.
Looking Ahead
As Week 12 gets closer, things just keep getting hotter for everyone involved. The Ravens and Chiefs are on the hunting end, and at the other end of this scale are the Jets and Cowboys who desperately battle for survival. This is the point where playoff hopes now rest strictly on their consistency in all aspects, defense, and special teams for each team seeking a spot in January football.
For now, Week 11 stands as a weekly reminder that in the NFL, nothing’s given. Every missed kick, blown lead, or surprising upset might shape the final narrative of this season.
