Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (middle) and tight end Travis Kelce (right) open their Netflix Christmas GameDay cake after the Chiefs defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

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Who are the possible contenders to stop a Chiefs 3-peat?

Chiefs' 3-peat at risk: Top NFL contenders revealed

The Chiefs are the NFL’s dynasty, and they’re on track to secure a 3-peat. But the road to glory isn’t as smooth, according to Andrew Hawkins. Teams like the Ravens, Lions, Vikings, and Eagles are serious obstacles.

Hawkins weighed in, saying Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson are in their best shape yet, with Jackson being the standout. Hawkins believes Jackson’s performance could earn him a third MVP and cement him as a Hall of Famer: “If Lamar wins his third MVP in only four completed seasons, he is a first-ballot Hall of Famer.”

Let’s talk contenders.

Possible contenders to stop a Chiefs 3-peat

Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens have bulldozed through a brutal stretch, winning three games in 11 days, including a 31-2 demolition of the Texans. Lamar Jackson is busy rewriting history.

He just passed Michael Vick for the most career rushing yards by a quarterback. His passer rating is 121.6—on pace to touch Aaron Rodgers’ record of 122.5. MVP talks surrounding him is still alive, though Josh Allen holds the edge.

But it’s not just about the numbers. Baltimore’s offense looks surgical, and the defense is keeping things locked. If they beat Cleveland in Week 18, it’s another division title for them. If Jackson keeps playing like this, they might go even further.

Detroit Lions

Detroit is tired of being overlooked. They’re 13-2 and pushing for the NFC’s top seed. Last year’s NFC title loss to the 49ers still stings, but this year, they’re built differently.

Jahmyr Gibbs has been clutch, stepping up when David Montgomery went down. He’s been putting up consistent numbers all season. If Detroit wins its last two games, including a high-stakes matchup against the Vikings, they’ll secure home-field advantage.

Minnesota Vikings

Few expected the Vikings to shine this season. Losing Kirk Cousins and turning to Sam Darnold seemed like a recipe for mediocrity. Instead, the Vikings have shocked the league with a 13-2 record, proving doubters wrong at every turn.

Sam Darnold has emerged as one of the NFL’s most improved quarterbacks, and Brian Flores has revitalized their defense. Minnesota ranks third in points allowed per game (18.4), demonstrating a balanced team capable of taking on top contenders.

The Vikings and Packers have split every season series since 2020.

Will the Packers continue that trend this weekend after the Vikings won their Week 4 matchup 31-29? pic.twitter.com/9g9b6Qnd4r
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) December 26, 2024

Justin Jefferson continues to dominate as one of the best receivers in football, and the Vikings have notched wins over playoff teams like the Packers and Texans. While their schedule has been relatively easy, their mix of offensive firepower and defensive toughness could trouble any opponent, including Kansas City.

Philadelphia Eagles

The Eagles’ season has had its ups and downs, but their 12-3 record and stacked roster make them a legitimate contender. Despite some frustrating losses, they’ve beaten playoff-caliber teams like the Steelers, Ravens, Rams, and Commanders, often in convincing fashion.

Philadelphia’s offense is loaded, featuring Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley, A.J. Brown, and DeVonta Smith behind one of the best offensive lines in the league. On the defensive side, they’ve surrendered just 18.9 points per game, showcasing their ability to shut down elite offenses.

The Eagles may not be consistent week-to-week, but their talent ceiling is undeniable. If they face Kansas City in the Super Bowl again, they have the tools to turn the tables.