The New England Patriots did not play their best football against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 12, but at the end o f the day still emerged victoriously. As a result of their 26-20 win, they are now the first team in the NFL to 10 wins as well as the sole owner of the top spot in AFC.

While that second honor comes courtesy of the Denver Broncos having their bye, the Patriots continuing to win is starting to put pressure on their competition. Denver is now a half-game behind New England, which will be on its own bye in Week 14, as well as 1.5 games ahead of the Indianapolis Colts, who suffered an overtime defeat against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday.

In full, the AFC playoff picture now looks as follows:

AFC playoff picture after Week 12 • New England Patriots (10-2) • Denver Br

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