NFL Standings 2018: Rams, Chiefs Have Best Records, Saints, Chargers, Steelers Competing For Byes

The Los Angeles Rams (9-1) and Kansas City Chiefs (9-1) are tied atop the 2018 NFL standings ahead of their Week 11 matchup. Their battle on “Monday Night Football” is the most anticipated game of the year, though there’s a strong case to be made that neither team is the best in football.

The New Orleans Saints (8-1) might very well hold that distinction. They have gone on an eight-game winning streak since losing in the season opener, and they only trail the Rams and Chiefs because they’ve already had their bye week. New Orleans is in the driver’s seat for the top seed in the NFC after beating L.A. 45-35 at the Superdome in Week 9.

Kansas City’s path to home-field advantage throughout the AFC playoffs became easier in Week 10 when the New England Patriots (7-3) were defeated by the Tennessee Titans (5-4). The Patriots handed the Chiefs their only loss of the season, but their head-to-head tiebreaker might not come into play now that they trail Kansas City by two games.

The Los Angeles Chargers (7-2) might ultimately be Kansas City’s biggest challenger for the No.1 seed. The Chargers have a chance to beat the Chiefs when they visit Arrowhead Stadium in Week 15. L.A. lost to Kansas City at home in Week 1, and their only other defeat came against the Rams.

The Pittsburgh Steelers (6-2-1) are also in the mix for a first-round playoff bye. They’ve won six straight games after picking up just one victory in the first four weeks. The Steelers will host the Chargers in a pivotal Week 13 matchup.

It’ll be surprising if the Saints and Rams don’t earn the two NFC byes, though it’s possible for the eventual NFC North winner to compete for a top seed. The Chicago Bears (6-3) and Minnesota Vikings (5-3-1) will meet on “Sunday Night Football” in an important Week 11 matchup. The Vikings lost to the Rams earlier this season. Chicago will host Los Angeles in Week 14.

The Washington Redskins (6-3) and Carolina Panthers (6-3) are the NFC’s other three-loss teams.