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6h ago

AFC Race Tightens: Colts Keep No. 1, Steelers Climb, Broncos Hold Edge Over Patriots

Tiebreakers, injuries, turnovers and late swings reshape a volatile conference race.

An emblem honoring the induction of Janice McNair, Houston Texans co-founder and senior chair, into the Texans Ring of Honor is painted on the field at NRG Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025.
Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images
Houston Texans offensive tackle Tytus Howard (71) talks to players before an NFL football game at NRG Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025.
Houston Texans fan Catrina Fina stands on the sidelines before an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos at NRG Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025.

Overview

  • The Colts, Broncos and Patriots are 7-2, with Indianapolis retaining the top seed and Denver narrowly ahead of New England on strength of victory.
  • Pittsburgh’s 27-24 win over Indianapolis moved the Steelers to 5-3 and extended their AFC North lead after earlier victories over top contenders.
  • Buffalo beat Kansas City 28-21, dropping the Chiefs to 5-4 and outside the AFC’s top seven as right tackle Jawaan Taylor exited with an ankle injury.
  • Houston fell to Denver 18-15 and quarterback C.J. Stroud entered the concussion protocol, complicating the Texans’ push at 3-5 with a heavy AFC slate ahead.
  • Lamar Jackson returned with four touchdown passes in a dominant Ravens win, while Chargers left tackle Joe Alt was carted off with an ankle injury as Los Angeles sits 6-3.