Hierarchy of Super Bowl contenders emerges as NFL schedule reaches midway point, and Patriots make list

Week 9 is sorting contenders fast, and the NFL’s middle of the schedule has separated the serious Super Bowl cases from the rest. The Jaguars (6-2) moved to the top tier after a 33-10 Thursday win over the Ravens, joining a run that has seen them win 13 of their last 15. The Bills (6-1) remain a contender around Josh Allen despite a defense that ranks 23rd in points allowed. Chicago (6-2) is surging with double-digit wins and an added interior boost via trade for DT Jeffery Simmons. Other strong cases include the 49ers (6-1), Bengals (5-2) and Broncos (6-2), while the Patriots (5-3) are still in the mix with Drake Maye playing well.