And when that’s not happening there is a Gathering of the Mediocrities. So we’re somewhere on the spectrum no matter the tilt.

To The Games!

Steelers/Browns:

There was talk that Pitt could win the division before they even took the field today but that involved Green Bay doing a favor for Rodgers and you knew that wasn’t going to happen. “The Garrett Sack Watch” sounds like a new jewelry accoutrement but it’s one of the few reasons to watch Cleveland’s defense. He only needs to put Aaron on the ground one time to eclipse Strahan’s taint(ed record).

Pats/Jets:

One way to rack up wins is to get them W’s on the road any time you can and that’s what New England has done, not losing a single one. Should they do what’s expected they’ll be only the second team to do it (Niners) three times. Will Glenn survive the offseason? I’d say yes but a defensive coach firing his DC is a weird look. But then again, it’s the Jets and things are always going sideways.

Saints/Titans:

New Orleans has won three in a row and their last loss was by one score. All kinds of credit go to rook qb Shough who has played his team out of a primo draft spot with which to pick his replacement. Well done, sensei!

Jags/Colts:

Jax being 11-5 is one thing that’s come out of nowhere but the offense catching fire is something else altogether. They’ve scored 25 points or more in six straight and in all but one of their wins.

Bucs/Fins:

Tampa had it all going their way but the precipitous dropoff in play that everyone predicted for Darnold happened on the other coast. Opposing qb Ewers showed just enough (being willing to throw downfield and to a second read!) to Daniel so he’s earned another start.

Seahawks/Panteros:

Do them Carolingians have one more whack-a-doodle upset in them? Sweet Charlemagne, I hope so! Seattle is a zesty 9-1 and somehow under the radar at the same time-call them Schrodinger’s Team. They could grab the division but losses by the Rams and Niners are needed as well.

Gimme what you got.