The Ringer NFL Show Identifying AFC Contenders: With the Chiefs Down, Who’s Positioned to Pounce?
Dec 9, 2025
Sheil Kapadia sits down with Mike Sando, a Senior NFL writer at The Athletic, known for his sharp analysis of teams and players. They dive into the AFC landscape in light of the Chiefs' struggles, evaluating New England's strong coaching and defense as a frontrunner. The Buffalo Bills' dynamic offense led by Josh Allen and their defensive challenges also come under scrutiny. Mike highlights the Texans' elite defense and the Jaguars' mixed potential with Trevor Lawrence at the helm, all while assessing who might make a playoff splash.
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Patriots Are Becoming, Not Peaking
- The New England Patriots look like a rising team rather than a peaked one this season.
- Mike Sando cites Drake Maye's play, coaching fit, and situational wins as evidence they could improve further.
Drake Maye's Rapid Bargain In Perception
- Drake Maye has moved from a speculative prospect to an upper-tier NFL quarterback this season.
- Mike Sando compares Maye's early trajectory favorably to Tom Brady's pre-playoff stretch in 2001.
Balance Beats Top-Heavy Teams This Year
- New England ranks around eighth in both offensive and defensive EPA per play, suggesting balance rather than dominance.
- That middling-but-balanced profile can still succeed in a wide-open AFC without elite competitors.