The Ringer NFL Show

Super Bowl Tiers: Which Teams Are Actual Contenders After Week 6?

17 snips
Oct 13, 2025
This week, a breakdown of NFL teams reveals their Super Bowl potential after Week 6. Eight teams are deemed non-contenders, while others cling to playoff hopes but lack a Super Bowl ceiling. Some ‘drunk fan bases’ are evaluated for their optimism, as lurking teams show potential to rise. The contenders are analyzed, highlighting the Chiefs and Bills as favorites, along with strong performances from the Lions and Packers. A focus on the Buccaneers showcases Baker Mayfield's resurgence, demonstrating the shifting landscape of title contenders.
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INSIGHT

Five-Tier Framework For Super Bowl Chances

  • Sheil defines five Super Bowl tiers to classify teams' realistic chances after Week 6.
  • The tiers range from 'It's not happening' to 'Contenders' to structure evaluation consistently.
INSIGHT

Eight Teams Written Off As Unlikely

  • Sheil lists eight teams he deems unrealistic Super Bowl threats after Week 6.
  • He argues the Dolphins, Jets, Bengals, Browns, Titans, Raiders, Saints, and Cardinals are simply too flawed.
ANECDOTE

Panthers' Run Game Sparks Respect

  • The Panthers' upset of the Cowboys highlights a surprising run game and stout run defense.
  • Sheil notes Carolina may be undervalued by traditional 'boomer stats' and worth watching for a playoff surprise.
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