Breaking down the four NFL teams that have managed to remain unbeaten so far this season:
Average score: Colts 27, Opponents 14
Big win: Colts 31, Titans 9 (Oct. 11)
Close call: Colts 14, Jaguars 12 (Sept. 13)
MVP: QB Peyton Manning (133-181 passing, 1,645 yards and 12 TDs)
The story so far: The Colts have remained undefeated by virtue of Manning’s laser rocket arm and the league’s second-best scoring defense. Indianapolis hasn’t had much of a run game to speak of, averaging 78.8 yards per game on the ground (good for 29th in the NFL). However, Manning has been top-notch, completing 73 percent of his passes and compiling a 114.1 passer rating.
Average score: Broncos 22, Opponents 11
Big win: Broncos 23, Raiders 3 (Sept. 27)
Close call: Broncos 17, Cowboys 10 (Oct. 4)
MVP: The Broncos’ defense (Allowing a league-best 11 points per game)
The story so far: This season was supposed to be a disaster for new head coach Josh McDaniels. Instead, it has turned into a real gem. McDaniels arrived in Denver in time to chase off franchise quarterback Jay Cutler, and after some early-season friction, it looked as though receiver Brandon Marshall was also on his way out. Things have settled down, though, and Denver’s defense has led the way.
Average score: Vikings 32, Opponents 20
Big win: Vikings 30, Packers 23 (Oct. 5)
Close call: Vikings 33, Ravens 31 (Oct. 18)
MVP: QB Brett Favre (124-178 passing, 1,347 yards and 12 TDs)
The story so far: Many believed that the circus surrounding Favre’s return to football would only cause distractions for the Vikings. It has been quite the contrary as Favre has been efficient and poised in leading the NFL’s second-best scoring offense. He has had major help from RB Adrian Peterson, who is well on pace for his third-straight season with at least 1,300 rushing yards.
Average score: Saints 38, Opponents 19
Big win: Saints 48, Gaints 27 (Oct. 18)
Close call: Saints 24, Jets 10 (Oct. 4)
MVP: QB Drew Brees (110-159 passing, 1,400 yards and 13 TDs)
The story so far: The Saints own the league’s best offense in both scoring (38.4 ppg) and yardage (440 ypg), led by Brees, who is coming off a 5,000-yard passing season. Brees has had a stellar season so far, throwing for at least 350 yards in at three games this year. The Saints’ defense has shined at times too, coming up big in the 24-10 victory over the Jets (New Orleans’ narrowest victory this season).
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