As we enter the second half of the NFL season, it’s time to shift focus to the teams that are proving they’re for real. These five squads have shown they can compete at a high level, and now it’s time to believe in them. Here’s my Top 5 NFL Teams You Should Start Believing In.

5. Los Angeles Rams

Once sitting at 1-4, the Rams have bounced back to 4-4. With Matthew Stafford playing solid football and rookies like Byron Young making an impact on defense, they’ve found a way to stay competitive. The defense, led by Aaron Donald, is improving, and Cooper Kupp continues to be a threat. Start believing in the Rams—they’re in the playoff mix.

4. Arizona Cardinals

At 5-3, the Cardinals are leading the NFC West. With Kyler Murray playing well, this team has shown they can win in a variety of ways, from blowouts to nail-biters. They’re balanced on both sides of the ball, and if Marvin Harrison Jr. starts to step up, they’ll be even more dangerous. Believe in the Cardinals—they’re for real.

3. Los Angeles Chargers

The Chargers are no longer plagued by the usual “Chargering” mistakes. At 5-3, they’re looking solid under Justin Herbert, with the offense clicking and the defense stepping up. They’ve won games without scoring 30 points, thanks to their improved defense. The Chargers are playoff-bound, so start believing in them.

2. Detroit Lions

The Lions are a complete team at 6-2. Jared Goff is playing at a high level, Amon-Ra St. Brown and David Montgomery are key playmakers, and the defense is improving every week. Dan Campbell has built a gritty, tough team, and they’re looking like NFC contenders. Believe in the Lions—they’re making noise.

1. San Francisco 49ers

Despite a rough three-game losing streak, the 49ers remain the team to beat in the NFC. With an elite defense and weapons like Christian McCaffrey and Brock Purdy, they’re still one of the most complete teams in the league. Once healthy, they’ll be a serious threat. Don’t sleep on the 49ers—they’re still Super Bowl contenders.

Honorable Mention: Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals, led by Joe Burrow, are heating up and could make a playoff run. If the offense stays in rhythm, they’re dangerous.

These five teams are all showing they have what it takes to make a deep playoff run. As the season progresses, keep an eye on them—they’re more than just a flash in the pan. Time to start believing.