NFL Midseason 2023: Ranking the Good, Bad & Ugly for All 32 Teams
The 2023 NFL season has hit its midway point, delivering surprises, breakout stars, and shocking letdowns. From the Eagles’ dominance to the Giants’ collapse, we analyze every team’s highs and lows. Here’s the good, the bad, and the ugly through Week 9.
The Good: Teams Thriving at Midseason
1. Philadelphia Eagles (7-1)
Why they’re here: Jalen Hurts is an MVP frontrunner, and their defense ranks top-5 in points allowed. With clutch wins over contenders, Philly looks like the NFC’s best.
2. Kansas City Chiefs (7-2)
Why they’re here: Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce remain unstoppable, while the defense has quietly become elite (3rd in scoring).
3. Baltimore Ravens (7-2)
Why they’re here: Lamar Jackson is flourishing in Todd Monken’s offense, and the defense allows the fewest points per game (13.8).
4. Detroit Lions (6-2)
Why they’re here: Jared Goff is thriving, the O-line dominates, and Dan Campbell’s physical team controls the NFC North.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars (6-2)
Why they’re here: Trevor Lawrence’s growth and a five-game win streak have the Jags leading the AFC South.
The Bad: Disappointing Playoff Hopefuls
1. Cincinnati Bengals (5-3)
Biggest issue: Joe Burrow’s calf injury derailed their start. Even with a rebound, inconsistency lingers.
2. Buffalo Bills (5-4)
Biggest issue: Josh Allen’s turnovers (10 INTs) and defensive injuries have them scrambling in the AFC.
3. Dallas Cowboys (5-3)
Biggest issue: Inconsistent offense and losses to contenders (Eagles, 49ers) raise playoff doubts.
4. Miami Dolphins (6-3)
Biggest issue: Can’t beat winning teams (0-3 vs. .500+ opponents). Tua’s big-game struggles persist.
5. San Francisco 49ers (5-3)
Biggest issue: Injuries (Deebo Samuel, Trent Williams) and Brock Purdy’s slump sparked a 3-game skid.
The Ugly: Teams in Full Meltdown Mode
1. New York Giants (2-7)
Rock bottom: Daniel Jones’ torn ACL and a league-worst offense (11.2 PPG) spell disaster.
2. New England Patriots (2-7)
Rock bottom: Bill Belichick’s worst start ever. Mac Jones may lose his job after 10 INTs in 9 games.
3. Chicago Bears (2-7)
Rock bottom: Justin Fields’ injury and a 27th-ranked defense extend their misery.
4. Arizona Cardinals (1-8)
Rock bottom: Kyler Murray’s return offers hope, but this roster needs a full rebuild.
5. Carolina Panthers (1-7)
Rock bottom: Bryce Young’s struggles and no 2024 1st-round pick make this a long-term disaster.
NFL Midseason Takeaways
The playoff picture is taking shape, but surprises loom. Can the Bengals or Bills rebound? Will the Lions or Jaguars sustain their success? Meanwhile, the Giants, Patriots, and Panthers are already eyeing the draft.
Which team has shocked you most? Let us know in the comments!
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