The NFL early season has begun to take shape, with week five cementing the early dominators as well as those who have already started to falter. 

While the Dallas Cowboys managed to beat out the Pittsburgh Steelers with only twenty seconds remaining on the clock, it’s clear neither franchise is quite ready to rise above their previous stagnation. The Cowboys are inconsistent and foul-happy, while Pittsburgh still hasn’t managed to solidify their offense two years after the retirement of Ben Roethlisberger. Both teams currently hold a record of three wins to two losses.

The Baltimore Ravens forced the Cincinnati Bengals into overtime, where they eventually scored a game-winning field goal. This adds up to yet another loss for the already-struggling Bengals, who currently hold a record of 1-4. The Ravens’ need to force this game into overtime does raise some eyebrows, but it’s too soon to know whether or not this will be a consistent problem. 

A loss to the Arizona Cardinals by the 49er’s is much more concerning. This is, of course, not to discount the impressive showing of growth as a team the Cardinals displayed, with three second-half turnovers. But the 49er’s seem unable to recreate the same success that led them to last Feburary’s Superbowl, with their record sitting at 2-3. 

The Houston Texans won against the Buffalo Bills 23-20, setting the Texans at the top of the AFC South. While the Bills were not particularly expected to win this game, the poor showing on Josh Allen’s part may be a sign of things to come. 

In quite the upturn, the Minnesota Vikings have only furthered their undefeated streak, taking their fifth win against the New York Jets. This comes after a 7-10 record last season that forced them to miss the playoffs. If they can maintain their current energy, they may be able to not only make it back to the playoffs, but rectify their late season loss in 2022’s playoffs.

The Packers won against the Los Angeles Rams. This only deepens the Rams 1-4 record, while the Packers have maintained a steady season start. Without a serious turn around, it’s already unlikely the Rams will make the playoffs.

The Cleveland Browns lost against the Washington Commanders, putting them in much the same position as the Rams with a similar 1-4 record. Many have begun to question whether or not Deshaun Watson will remain with the Brown much longer.

While the Chicago Bears have not yet escaped their tarnished reputation, a 3-2 record and young upstart Caleb Williams seems to show promise for the long suffering franchise. They won their game against the Panthers 36-10, with the Panthers fourth loss having them joining the ranks of those who will most likely not see the playoffs this year.

The New York Giants took the win over the Seattle Seahawks, who took their second consecutive loss this week. The combination of strong play by Daniel Jones and poor defense on Seattle’s behalf has put into question the turnout of both team’s season long-term. 

Despite inconsistency from Bo Nix, the Denver Broncos won in their game against the Raiders. However, both seasons are still up in the air. The Jaguars managed to take their first win of the season over the Colts, indicating that there is another poor season ahead of both teams. The Patriots look to be in much the same position, as while the Dolphins do not have a particularly bright season ahead of them, they have once again managed to beat the Patriots. The Kansas City Chiefs on the other hand, have proved their reputation as some of the leagues’ best after seemingly guaranteed win against the New Orleans Saints.