From CBS Sports · · 2m
3-0 NFL Teams: Super Bowl Contenders or Pretenders?
Which 3-0 NFL teams could win Super Bowl or struggle to stay undefeated?
In brief
Which 3-0 NFL teams could win Super Bowl or struggle to stay undefeated? The Bills, Chiefs, Vikings, and 49ers are potential Super Bowl contenders with strong starts, while the Raiders face tough challenges to maintain their 3-0 record. Originally reported by CBS Sports.
Undefeated Teams Withering
Eight teams avoided first losses after two weeks, but only five remain after Week 3 as the Seahawks, Bengals, and Eagles suffered setbacks.
Bills: Strong Start
The Bills beat a desperate Chargers team despite five turnovers, with Josh Allen and Greg Rousseau as early MVP and Defensive Player of the Year candidates.
Bills' Defense Concerns
The Bills' defense has yet to play exceptionally well against top-tier offenses, with a key test against the Rams in Week 5.
Raiders: Stigma and Challenges
The Raiders face a tough schedule with the Chiefs, Patriots, Bills, and Rams, needing to improve their rushing attack and red zone defense.
Raiders' Historical Similarity
The Raiders' start under coach Klint Kubiak mirrors Bill Cowher's 1992 Steelers, both starting 3-0 without allowing fourth-quarter points.
Chiefs: Bright Outlook
The Chiefs beat a struggling Dolphins team with Patrick Mahomes completing 83.3% of passes, improving their chances as a Super Bowl contender.
Chiefs' Key Questions
The Chiefs lack depth at receiver and Kenneth Walker III's health is critical for their success this season.
Vikings: Quarterback Struggles
The Vikings' offense ranks 32nd in passing and 31st in third-down efficiency, with Kyler Murray struggling to complete passes.
Vikings' Defense Strength
The Vikings' defense is second in points allowed, fourth in rushing yards allowed, and first in third-down and red-zone efficiency.
49ers: Strong Performance
The 49ers lead the league in points scored and have Brock Purdy with nine touchdowns and a league-high 133.1 quarterback rating.
49ers' Injury Concerns
The 49ers have forced only two turnovers and faced opponents with a combined 2-7 record, raising questions about their consistency.
In short
The Bills, Chiefs, Vikings, and 49ers are potential Super Bowl contenders with strong starts, while the Raiders face tough challenges to maintain their 3-0 record.
