As the 2024 NFL season enters its final stretch with only six weeks remaining before the playoffs, teams are vying for critical positioning. The upcoming Thanksgiving Day games—Chicago Bears vs. Detroit Lions, New York Giants vs. Dallas Cowboys, and Miami Dolphins vs. Green Bay Packers—will serve as pivotal matchups as teams fight for their postseason hopes. Just hours before the games kicked off on Thanksgiving Day, NFL legend and current FOX analyst Tom Brady shared his top five teams in the league. These teams have impressed with their performances, and they will likely play crucial roles in the playoff chase down the stretch. Brady’s analysis is always closely followed, given his wealth of football knowledge and success in the NFL. As the league continues to unfold, these five teams will surely remain in the spotlight, shaping the road to the Super Bowl.
As the NFL season intensifies, the race for supremacy is heating up. In Week 12, several teams emerged with impressive victories, and the power rankings reflect their hard-earned successes.
5. Minnesota Vikings (9-2)
The Minnesota Vikings are back in the spotlight after a thrilling 30-27 overtime victory over the Chicago Bears. This marked their fourth consecutive win, a remarkable achievement in such a competitive division. Coach Kevin O’Connell has been praised for his leadership, guiding the Vikings to their strong record. Looking ahead, they face the dangerous Arizona Cardinals, led by Kyler Murray. This upcoming matchup could be a defining moment for the Vikings as they aim to extend their winning streak.
4. Philadelphia Eagles (9-2)
With a dominant 37-20 win over the Los Angeles Rams, the Philadelphia Eagles have now extended their winning streak to seven games. Saquon Barkley has been in spectacular form, setting numerous franchise records. However, it’s not just the offense that’s excelling—defensively, the Eagles have been nearly unstoppable. Under the guidance of defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, they lead the league in several key metrics. The Eagles will face their biggest challenge yet as they take on the Baltimore Ravens and Lamar Jackson in Week 13.
3. Buffalo Bills (9-2)
The Buffalo Bills have maintained their momentum with a six-game winning streak. Quarterback Josh Allen has orchestrated an offense that’s averaging nearly 30 points per game. After a much-needed bye week, the Bills are poised to continue their dominance at home, where they will face the San Francisco 49ers.
2. Kansas City Chiefs (10-1)
Despite a close 30-27 win against the Carolina Panthers, the Kansas City Chiefs have once again proven their resilience. “They continue to find ways to get the job done,” Brady said. Patrick Mahomes delivered a clutch performance, including a critical scramble late in the fourth quarter. With a near-perfect record, the Chiefs will host the Raiders in a rematch of last year’s home loss.
Also Read: NFL Thanksgiving Games: Teams, schedule, streaming options, TV channels and more
1. Detroit Lions (10-1)
“And holding the No. 1 spot once again is the Detroit Lions,” Brady said. “The Lions are 10-1 for the first time since 1934.” The Detroit Lions continue to dominate, securing a 24-6 win over the Indianapolis Colts in Week 12. This victory marks the Lions’ best start since 1934. Running backs Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery are consistently leading the charge, while the defense, led by Aaron Glenn, has gone 10 quarters without allowing a touchdown. As the Lions prepare to face the Chicago Bears, they look to extend their remarkable run.
