What happened: The Denver Broncos are 5-2 and hold the No. 5 seed, per Pro Football Focus, which noted the record came despite a difficult early schedule. Denver won its latest game 30-16 at the Arizona Cardinals on Oct. 25, its third straight victory.

Why it matters: A winning record through seven games after a demanding opening stretch gives Denver a cushion in the playoff race. The Broncos are also being linked to a trade for Colts running back Jonathan Taylor ahead of the Nov. 10 deadline.

What to watch: Denver's push toward the deadline will show whether it adds a veteran piece to a roster that has held up through the hardest part of its slate.