Predicting the Maxwell Playoff Picture After Week 3

Evaluating Team Performance and Projecting Postseason Contenders

After three weeks of the NFL season, the Maxwell playoff picture is starting to take shape. Several teams have emerged as contenders, while others have struggled to find their footing. Here's a look at some of the key storylines and projections for the remaining weeks of the regular season:

1. The AFC East is up for grabs

The AFC East is one of the most competitive divisions in the NFL this season, with three teams currently holding a 2-1 record. The Buffalo Bills are the favorites, but the New York Jets and Miami Dolphins have both shown they can compete. The Patriots are struggling at 1-2, but they have a favorable schedule down the stretch and could still make a run.

2. The Cincinnati Bengals are the class of the AFC North

The Bengals are 3-0 and look like the team to beat in the AFC North. Joe Burrow is playing at an MVP level, and the defense has been one of the best in the league. The Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Ravens are both 2-1, but they have some tough games remaining on their schedules.

3. The Kansas City Chiefs are still the team to beat in the AFC

The Chiefs are 2-1, but they have looked vulnerable at times. Patrick Mahomes is still the best quarterback in the league, but he needs more help from his supporting cast. The Chiefs have a tough schedule remaining, but they should be considered the favorites to win the AFC.

4. The NFC East is a mess

The NFC East is the worst division in the NFL this season, with no teams currently holding a winning record. The Philadelphia Eagles are 2-1, but they have looked unimpressive. The Dallas Cowboys are 1-2, and the New York Giants and Washington Commanders are both 1-3.

5. The Green Bay Packers are struggling

The Packers are 1-2 and look like a shell of the team that won 13 games last season. Aaron Rodgers is still playing at a high level, but the defense has been abysmal. The Packers have a tough schedule remaining, and it's hard to see them making the playoffs at this point.

6. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are still in the hunt

The Buccaneers are 2-1, but they have looked vulnerable at times. Tom Brady is still playing at a high level, but the defense has been inconsistent. The Buccaneers have a tough schedule remaining, but they should be considered a contender in the NFC.

7. The Los Angeles Rams are the team to beat in the NFC

The Rams are 3-0 and look like the most complete team in the NFL. Matthew Stafford is playing at an MVP level, and the defense is one of the best in the league. The Rams have a favorable schedule remaining, and they should be considered the favorites to win the NFC.

8. The Arizona Cardinals are a dark horse contender

The Cardinals are 3-0 and look like a legitimate contender in the NFC. Kyler Murray is playing at an MVP level, and the defense has been one of the best in the league. The Cardinals have a tough schedule remaining, but they should be considered a dark horse contender in the NFC.

9. The San Francisco 49ers are a team on the rise

The 49ers are 2-1 and look like a team that could make some noise in the NFC. Trey Lance is playing at a high level, and the defense has been one of the best in the league. The 49ers have a tough schedule remaining, but they should be considered a contender in the NFC.

10. The Dallas Cowboys are a team to watch

The Cowboys are 1-2, but they have looked impressive at times. Dak Prescott is playing at an MVP level, and the defense has been one of the best in the league. The Cowboys have a tough schedule remaining, but they should be considered a contender in the NFC.