The playoff picture comes into direct focus post-Thanksgiving. With about a month left in the season, teams either push for the postseason or fold under pressure.
It's not always the best team that hoists the Vince Lombardi Trophy in February but the squad that rides a hot streak into the playoffs. Late November and early December football bring out the best among competitors.
Looking at the current standings, a number of clubs have a pathway to the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta for Super Bowl LIII. Eight squads have at least seven wins. On the flip side, don't count out a handful of teams creeping into the playoff picture after a slow start.