This NFL season has been the usual mix of historically successful franchises doing well and newly resurgent teams pushing for a playoff berth or Lombardi Trophy for the first time in years. As of press time, the seemingly ageless Tom Brady has the 6-2 Patriots leading their division, while the Chiefs and Steelers, each 5-2, also appear to be strong contenders for an AFC title. In the NFC, Carson Wentz and the 7-1 Eagles, along with the 6-2 Vikings, have garnered much attention.

A team whose play has perhaps warranted more credit are the Los Angeles Rams. If you haven’t heard much about them, you might think they’re still the same ole’ sub .500 Rams that are destined to finish 7-9.

You may be surprised to learn that the Rams are actually 5-2 and lead their division. The Rams have a +74 point differential, the best in the NFL as of press time, are undefeated on the road and are currently riding a two-game win streak.

The Rams offense is ranked ninth in the league, and their defense is ranked 16th. While unspectacular, the team is clearly improving in the post -— Jeff Fisher era.  After seven games, quarterback Jared Goff has thrown for over 1,700 yards, possesses a 59.9 percent completion rate and has thrown nine touchdowns compared to four picks. Running back Todd Gurley has 920 yards from scrimmage and eight touchdowns so far this year.

Last week, NFL.com ranked the Rams number two in their power rankings, while ESPN ranked the team as the seventh best in the league.

Even if the Rams eventually lose their lead in the NFC West to the Seattle Seahawks, the Rams are still in prime position to snag an NFC wild card spot in the playoffs.

Though this team still seems unlikely to make a deep playoff run, it is worth noting that this 2017 squad are not your “same old Rams.”