Every week in the NFL season presents a plethora of new inquiries while also providing answers to some long-standing ones. Let's delve into what we discovered in Week 13 and what lies ahead in Week 14 and beyond.

Unraveling the NFL's Week 13 Mysteries

ANSWERED: The Closeness of NFL Games

There exists a notable bell curve in teams' records within the NFL. One team stands at 11-1, while three are at 2-10, and the remaining 28 are scattered across various win totals. However, the actual games themselves have become more closely contested than ever. Out of the 15 games played in Week 13, twelve were decided by seven or fewer points, a record for a single week. Additionally, three teams - Minnesota, Indianapolis, and Tampa Bay - achieved victories in the final minute of the fourth quarter or in overtime. This season, there have been 106 games with a winning margin of seven or fewer points and 92 won by six or fewer points, both setting new records through Week 13. Furthermore, 113 games were decided by eight or fewer points, ranking second only to the 2022 season. It's evident that the margins between success and failure in this league are incredibly thin.

Teams are no longer as distinct in terms of win-loss records; instead, the games are coming down to the wire. This showcases the league's parity and the unpredictability that makes each game exciting.

ASKED: The Eagles' Playoff Potential

After Philadelphia's dominant performance against a Ravens team considered a Super Bowl contender, questions arise about the Eagles' true capabilities. Saquon Barkley is leading the charge with another 100+-yard rushing game. Every aspect of the Eagles' attack is firing on all cylinders. Currently, Philadelphia stands at 10-2 with a seven-game winning streak. Upcoming on their schedule are the Panthers next week, followed by the Steelers, and then three divisional games to conclude the season. Thirteen wins aren't out of the question, and while it might not secure the NFC's No. 1 seed, it should be enough to claim a division title. In January, the Eagles will be a dangerous team to face with their strong ground game.

The Eagles have shown remarkable consistency and dominance, and their playoff prospects look very promising. They have the potential to make a deep run in the postseason.

ANSWERED: Sam Darnold's Resurgence

We've often been quick to expect the worst from Sam Darnold due to his past with the Jets. But it's time to recognize that he might not be the liability we once thought. Minnesota is 10-2, and only Detroit's exceptional run is preventing them from a home playoff game and a potential first-round bye. Against Arizona on Sunday, Darnold and the Vikings trailed 19-6 in the third quarter but managed to come back and win 23-22. He continues to rank among the league leaders in passing categories and is no longer seen as a stopgap solution. Like some past Minnesota quarterbacks, he'll need to prove himself in the postseason, but the fact that he has the opportunity is a remarkable comeback in the 21st century NFL.

Darnold's ability to turn things around shows his growth and potential. He's become a key player for the Vikings and a symbol of second chances in the NFL.

ASKED: The Lions' Super Bowl Hopes

We have different expectations for NFL teams. For some, just making it through a season is a success. But for the Detroit Lions, who were once known for their losing ways, they have now graduated from the "just lucky" category and are firmly in the "Super Bowl or nothing" camp. At 11-1 and dominating their opponents, the Lions have shed their previous chump identity. They are in a perfect position, charming as they find ways to win. They even got a Chicago Bears coach fired during the season, a first for the franchise. This year, we can root for their success, but a playoff run that doesn't reach the Super Bowl would be a disappointment.

The Lions have transformed into a force to be reckoned with, and their journey to the Super Bowl is one to watch.

ASKED: Anthony Richardson's Impact in Indianapolis

As big gamblers, we support coaches who take risks. Indianapolis' Shane Steichen did just that on Sunday by giving the ball to Anthony Richardson with just 12 seconds remaining to cut the road deficit against New England to 1 and then going for the two-point conversion to ice the game. This shows Steichen's faith in his young quarterback. Since Richardson was reinstalled as the starting quarterback, the Colts are 2-1 with a loss to Detroit. There's a long road to the playoffs, but if Richardson can get the necessary reps, this season could be a step forward. A few weeks ago, it didn't seem likely, but now there's hope.

Richardson's potential is on full display, and his performance gives Colts fans something to look forward to in the future.