2020 NFL midseason report cards: Bills, Chiefs, Steelers earn top marks

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - NOVEMBER 01: Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs speaks with Clyde Edwards-Helaire #25 on the sidelines during their NFL game against the New York Jets at Arrowhead Stadium on November 01, 2020 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) /

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CLEVELAND, OHIO – NOVEMBER 01: Defensive end Myles Garrett #95 of the Cleveland Browns runs around tight end Darren Waller #83 of the Las Vegas Raiders during the second quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium on November 01, 2020 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /

Carolina Panthers: C+

It’s been somewhat of a rollercoaster ride for first-time NFL head coach Matt Rhule. The Panthers dropped their first two games, reeled off three straight wins and now are in the midst of a four-game losing streak. Quarterback Teddy Bridgewater has been solid and the offense didn’t miss too much when running back Christian McCaffrey was unavailable. But the lack of a reliable pass rush – nine sacks in as many games – has hurt this time too often.

Chicago Bears: C

A 5-1 start has been followed by three straight losses as the offense remains a shaky proposition. The Bears’ defense has played better this year than a season ago but can still be had at times. Matt Nagy’s club will play five of its final seven games vs. divisional rivals, including a pair with Green Bay and Minnesota. It starts this week with three straight tilts vs. NFC North foes. Will the team utilize both Nick Foles and Mitch Trubisky down the stretch?

Cincinnati Bengals: C+

This is an improving football team led by 2020 first overall pick Joe Burrow. He’s taken his lumps but seems to be improving weekly despite a shaky offensive line that still has some work to do. The Cincinnati defense remains porous and the team opted to deal veteran defensive end Carlos Dunlap to Seattle. Only three teams in the league are allowing more rushing yards per game. And rookie wide receiver Tee Higgins has been a great addition.

Cleveland Browns: B-

Under 1st time head coach Kevin Stefanski, the Browns find themselves right in the midst of the AFC playoff race. But they will have to fare better against the top teams in the AFC North if they are to push for a division title. The club has a pair of lopsided losses to the Ravens and Steelers on its resume. Quarterback Baker Mayfield has had his moments but the team’s best player has been defensive end Myles Garrett, via nine sacks and four forced fumbles.

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