It is the big one this Christmas, welcome the NFL rookie time is over as the big football games hit hard during Christmas 2024 and Smith is one form.
When is he not? ESPN’s animated, energized Stephen A. Smith spoke his A-List this Christmas holiday season saying:
“Yeah, yeah, yeah! What’s up, America? Your boys are in the house, Santa hats on—it’s the Christmas spirit! But let me tell you, I’m not putting on that damn necklace, okay? Nor am I putting on that sweater. I don’t need to.
Week 16 is over in the National Football League season, and we’re here to talk about the top five teams in the NFL through Week 16. Keep in mind, the list is fluid—it’s always fluid. Let’s get started right now. Before we put the list up, here’s the breakdown:
Number 5: The Philadelphia Eagles
I know they lost. Yes, they lost, but last time I checked, Jalen Hurts got concussed. If DeVonta Smith catches that pass, they win that game. It was a close one. Jaden Daniels played out of his mind, but still, the Eagles had won 10 straight games before that. You don’t drop out of the top five after winning 10 straight, even if your quarterback goes down. They’re not number four, but they stay in the top five.
Number 4: The Minnesota Vikings
Look at what the Vikings are doing. Sam Darnold has stepped up, Brian Flores is working wonders with that defense, and Kevin O’Connell is a legitimate Coach of the Year candidate. I still have my doubts about Sam Darnold in the postseason, but during the regular season, you can’t deny their performance. They’re at number four—not higher, but they’re solid.
Number 3: The Detroit Lions
Seventeen injuries. Yes, 17. Even with that, they handled their business last Sunday. Sure, it was against the Chicago Bears, but credit where it’s due. Dan Campbell is a fantastic coach, and Jared Goff is leading an offense with weapons like Jameson Williams, Sam LaPorta, and others. Their defense has issues, but offensively, they’re a powerhouse. They’re number three, but not number two.
Number 2: The Buffalo Bills
Josh Allen is playing at an MVP level. Even down 14-0 against the Patriots, they came back and reminded everyone that there are levels to this. This isn’t the Tom Brady-Bill Belichick era anymore. The Bills managed to do this without Gabe Davis, Stefon Diggs, or some of their key weapons. Keon Coleman, Amari Cooper, and their backfield stepped up big time. Sean McDermott deserves Coach of the Year consideration too. They’re top two but not number one.
Number 1: The Kansas City Chiefs
What else can you say? They’re 14-1. Patrick Mahomes continues to defy the odds. He’s playing at a level that’s just unmatched right now. The Chiefs are doing their thing, and no one can argue that they aren’t the best team in the league.
So there it is—Chiefs, Bills, Lions, Vikings, and Eagles—the top five teams in the NFL through Week 16. Shannon, you better mind your manners and watch what you say, because Santa Claus is in the house.
Oh, and for those asking about the Ravens—no, they don’t deserve to be ahead of these teams right now. They’re number six at best. They’re inconsistent and lose to teams they shouldn’t. As for my grade? B+. Flip one of the middle three teams, and maybe you’d get an A. But for now, that’s where I stand.
Merry Christmas, everyone!”
There you have it.
A lot to look forward to in the NFL.
Roll on.
