The 2024 NFL season is at its halfway point, and things are only heating up! We’ve already seen plenty of jaw-dropping plays, comeback stories, and records in the making, but if you think the best is behind us, buckle up.
The Chiefs are chasing an undefeated season, Derrick Henry’s on track to make history, and the MVP race is tighter than ever. Plus, there are rumors swirling about Bill Belichick’s next move, and the NFC playoff picture is wide open.
Let’s break down the biggest storylines that’ll have everyone glued to their screens in the second half of the season!
5. The Battle for NFC Supremacy
In the AFC, Kansas City seems to be the clear leader, but the NFC picture is much more uncertain, which should make for a thrilling final half of the season. Currently, the Detroit Lions are sitting at the top with a 7-1 record, thanks to their explosive offense and strong defense, boosted by the acquisition of pass rusher Za’Darius Smith before the trade deadline.
Other contenders include the Commanders, who added star defensive back Marshon Lattimore, and the Vikings, Packers, Eagles, and Falcons, all of whom are hunting for a top playoff seed. Meanwhile, the NFC West is an absolute free-for-all, with the Cardinals finding a groove after a shaky start, the Rams battling through injuries, and the 49ers and Seahawks still fighting to stay in the race.
If the Lions keep up their current pace, they could secure the No. 1 seed in the NFC, but with so much talent in the conference and several teams still within striking distance, fans can expect a chaotic, unpredictable playoff race.
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4. Bill Belichick Rumors Heat Up
Bill Belichick’s coaching future is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing off-field storylines. Despite his ongoing media ventures, reports suggest he’s looking for a return to the sideline in 2025, setting the stage for serious speculation on where he might land next.
A few teams are already popping up as potential destinations. The Dallas Cowboys, who have had a rocky season under Mike McCarthy, could make a bold move for Belichick if they fail to meet expectations. The Las Vegas Raiders, led by part-owner and former Belichick quarterback Tom Brady, also present an interesting possibility, especially considering Belichick’s historical ties to the NFL and his admiration for the Raiders’ storied past. As the season progresses, expect the rumor mill around Belichick’s future to only get hotter.
3. MVP Race: Josh Allen vs. Lamar Jackson
The MVP race is shaping up to be one of the most competitive we’ve seen in recent years. Henry, despite his jaw-dropping performances, may still face an uphill battle due to a preference for quarterbacks in MVP voting. That leaves the spotlight on Bills quarterback Josh Allen and Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson as the two clear frontrunners.
Allen has been surgical for the Bills, throwing 17 touchdowns against just two interceptions, leading them to a strong 7-2 start. Jackson, on the other hand, has been just as impressive, posting 24 touchdowns and only two interceptions after an electrifying four-touchdown performance against the Bengals. With both quarterbacks showcasing incredible efficiency and leadership, the MVP battle could come down to who delivers more in the season’s final stretch.
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2. Derrick Henry’s Quest for 2,000 Yards
Derrick Henry is a man on a mission, and he’s making his case as one of the NFL’s all-time greats with every carry. In the first half, Henry surpassed major career milestones, including 100 career touchdowns and 10,000 rushing yards. He’s also currently leading the league in rushing with 1,120 yards and 12 touchdowns.
Henry has set his sights on the elusive 2,000-yard mark for the second time in his career, a feat that only a handful of running backs have ever achieved once. To reach that goal, he’ll need to average 125.7 rushing yards per game for the rest of the season. But even if he falls short of that number, Henry is on track to secure his third rushing title, further cementing his spot in the Hall of Fame.
1. Chiefs’ Pursuit of Perfection and History
The Kansas City Chiefs are not just winning; they’re making a run at NFL history. With a perfect start to their season, Andy Reid’s squad is looking to be the first team to go undefeated since the 1972 Miami Dolphins—and that’s not all. The Chiefs are also aiming to be the first team in the Super Bowl era to three-peat as champions.
While their road to perfection still has some major tests, especially as they prepare for matchups with teams like the Bills in Buffalo, Kansas City’s pursuit of a flawless season is bound to generate headlines. If they manage to stay unbeaten, you can bet the Chiefs will join the exclusive conversation held by the ’72 Dolphins and the 2007 Patriots.
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