Clearly there are better teams in the division than others, demonstrated by prior form.
The form table,
Those mentioned are unfancied teams, accumulating those points despite 3 better teams in the division at that time who went on to be promoted.
Enough to finish 3/4th on average over the last 5 years.
Who have coincidentally got off to a good start this season.
Now add Boro who have an experienced manager that has won promotion previously, plus the 3 relegated teams who should all be in the mix by the end of the season.