How good is the NFC?
Or put another way: How much better is the NFC than the AFC?
According to NFL Research, the NFC has a combined record 49-40-2 — the second-highest winning percentage through six weeks since 2002. Eleven of 16 teams in the NFC have a .500 record or better.
The AFC, meanwhile, has a combined record of 41-50 — the second-lowest winning percentage through six weeks since 2002. Seven of 16 teams in the AFC have a .500 record or better.
(We did our own math. It all adds up.)
OK, onto The Times’ Ten:
1. New England Patriots (6-0)
The key figures for the Patriots’ top-ranked defense: one touchdown allowed, 14 interceptions, zero competent quarterbacks faced.
2. New Orleans Saints (5-1)
Saints 4-0 since Drew Brees’ thumb injury, and their defense seems to get better each week.
3. San Francisco 49ers (5-0)
Is it too early to get excited for the Niners-Seahawks Monday night matchup in Santa Clara on Nov. 11?
4. Seattle Seahawks (5-1)
Advanced analytics site FootballOutsiders has Seahawks offense ranked No. 3 in the NFL (and defense No. 18).
5. Kansas City Chiefs (4-2)
Frank Clark has 12 tackles, one sack, one forced fumble and one interception in his first six games for KC.
6. Houston Texans (4-2)
Deshaun Watson (12 TD, 3 INT, 107.9 rating) emerging as Russell Wilson’s top challenger in the MVP race.
7. Green Bay Packers (5-1)
Thanks to some dubious officiating Monday night, the Packers are in first place in the rugged NFC North — but for how long?
8. Minnesota Vikings (4-2)
Stefon Diggs finally broke out Sunday against the Eagles, posting seven catches for 167 yards and three TDs.
9. Buffalo Bills (4-1)
Yes, Buffalo has a quality loss (16-10 to New England) … but still no quality wins. Did we mention the AFC is meh this season?
10. Baltimore Ravens (4-2)
Ravens rank No. 1 in the NFL in total offense (450.7), rushing offense (205) and No. 2 in scoring (30.7).
The opinions expressed in reader comments are those of the author only and do not reflect the opinions of The Seattle Times.