AFC Third Quarter Breakdown

The Patriots are back to flexing their muscle

As the playoff season approaches it's starting to look like the usual suspects. New England, Pittsburgh, and Baltimore will be there like always. The New York Jets will join the party. We'll have to wait for the AFC West to shake out to see who emerges from that division.

New England Patriots- As evidenced by the 45-3 rout of the Jets, the Patriots are back in their rightful place in the AFC pecking order.

Pittsburgh Steelers- You have to be impressed with the win against Baltimore. They simply know how to win.

New York Jets- They need to stop all the talking and just play. Let's hope the Monday nighter, taught them a lesson.

Baltimore Ravens- The offense still has to catch up with the defense.

Kansas City Chiefs- Still holding tough in the AFC West. Will virtually lock up the division with a win over San Diego on Sunday.

Indianapolis Colts- The Colts are hanging tough, but the injuries are finally catching up to them. Missing the playoffs may actually help them.

Jacksonville Jaguars- This looks like when David Garrard first took over.

San Diego Chargers- The December magic has finally worn off. For all their gaudy stats they should be much better than 6-6. Being swept by the Raiders doesn't help them as far as staying in the hunt within the division.

Oakland Raiders- The Raiders are progressing nicely under Tom Cable. Only if the offense could be more consistent.

Miami Dolphins- Only if all their games were on the road.

Cleveland Browns- Despite the strides they've made recently, Eric Mangini may not be around to see the fruits of his labor.

Houston Texans- Gary Kubiak may not be the man to get them over the hump. The Texans just seem too soft.

Tennessee Titans- Will owner Bud Adams force out Jeff Fisher or just force him to play Vince Young.

Buffalo Bills- Lots of tough losses this year. Maybe they can "Luck" up into the top pick in the draft. Andrew Luck that is.

Cincinnati Bengals- Lots of talent. Lots of underacheivers. In my opinion this has to be the end of the Marvin Lewis era.

Denver Broncos- Another from the Bill Belichick tree that got the ax. Tim Tebow's sugar daddy is no longer around. When will coaches/GM's learn that they can't force others out (players) and expect to win big.