Tag: chiefs

Post-Week 8 Power Rankings

Another chalky, straight-forward week of football doesn’t cause too many changes in this week’s rankings, though a clear line of delineation is being formed after the first dozen.

Cover photo taken from San Francisco Chronicle.

1 – Chiefs (5-3)

Monday night didn’t prove anything we didn’t already know about the Chiefs.

They are an absolute buzzsaw at full strength that can beat you in any which way on either side of the ball. It might not have been the toughest opponent, but it was as dominant of a second half as you’ll see after a lackluster opening 30 minutes. And that means something in this league.

Again, I don’t care about records. You and I both know KC is the class of the NFL.

2 – Colts (7-1)

Speaking of buzzsaws, the Colts keep on being the Colts, and it’s quite the sight to see. To be balanced is one thing; to be profoundly dominant on each side of the ball is another. Indianapolis is flirting with rarified air if they can keep up this level of play in the second half of the season.

By the way, Jonathan Taylor should 100% be in the MVP race. If he breaks the single-season touchdown record, he should get it. Life’s too short to give the MVP to another quarterback.

3 – Lions (5-2)

Bye week blues. Try not to go too crazy on JJ McCarthy in his first game back in the lineup.

4 – Rams (5-2)

Bye week blues x2. Might as well have another one with the Tyler Shough-led Saints on tap.

5 – Seahawks (5-2)

Bye week blues x3. See you on Sunday night. Tell JSN to go easy on us.

6 – Packers (5-1-1) 1

This is the best I’ve felt about the Packers in over a month, and it mainly has to do with Jordan Love. I know he’s been playing at an elite level all year, but games like Sunday night’s show just how good he can be, even if it was against a pitiful defense.

I still have some mixed feelings about Green Bay, and I still want to see more out of that defense — maybe I just have high standards. But that was a hell of a win.

7 – Buccaneers (6-2) 1

This team needs to get healthy. That was as sleepy of a win as you’ll see in the NFL, and this offense has been unwatchable for two weeks now.

This bye week couldn’t be coming at a better time.

8 – Bills (5-2)

Happy Super Bowl week, Buffalo! Usually you win this one in the regular season.

We’ll cross that bridge when we get there. In the case of Sunday’s game, I didn’t really leave feeling any different about this Bills team. The passing offense is still an eye sore, but James Cook and Josh Allen are still awesome. And the defense looked solid, albeit against Andy Dalton.

I honestly feel like the Bills have just been lollygagging and waiting to get to the Chiefs game. So I’m expecting to see their best effort on Sunday. Anything short of that will be a failure, and a cause for concern.

9 – Patriots (6-2) 1

Another week of the Patriots thrashing a cupcake behind Drake Maye’s excellence. Keep getting used to it folks, because it’s only going to continue!

The sophomore QB is remarkably impressive and firmly in the MVP race for a good reason. I wanted to see how he’d play against an elite defense, and he delivered in a massive way. He’s just that dude. And this Pats team is more than capable of winning this division.

10 – Eagles (6-2) 1

The Eagles keep on winning games with something impressive to hang their hat on, and I leave every week feeling more perplexed by them.

AJ Brown is out and the defense expects you to run, but you still run wild. But when AJ is out there, you can’t run the ball. And sometimes he goes nuclear, but other times he’s invisible. And the defense is mostly bad, but sometimes plays well.

I just don’t get it. And I don’t think I ever will. But it doesn’t matter, because the Eagles can sleepwalk to another division title. I hate football.

11 – Broncos (6-2) 1

Are the Broncos finally turning into the team that we thought they could be? Or have they just played the Jets, Giants and Cowboys in their last three games? I don’t know. Consistency has been a problem in Denver, so I’d like to see more of it before I jump to any conclusions.

But, Bo Nix has eight touchdowns in his last five quarters and this offense is really humming now that RJ Harvey has found a groove. The defense might need to step it up a bit — especially with Pat Surtain trending towards a stint on the IR — but if the offense plays like this, it shouldn’t be a problem.

12 – Chargers (5-3) 2

Speaking of inconsistent teams finding a groove, the Chargers feel back in form now that their reinforcements are back. Justin Herbert looks comfortable and mobile, the offensive line is holding up well now that Joe Alt is in there and the defense looked much better than they did in previous weeks.

I don’t know how much I trust the Chargers to remain at this level of play, but the upcoming schedule is hilariously soft — seriously, Google it — so they’ve got some time to keep it going.

13 – 49ers (5-3) 4

Hmmmmmmmmm. Maybe I was right a few weeks ago when I said the success in spite of the injuries was becoming unsustainable. Because that was San Francisco’s worst performance of the season by a comfortable margin.

I still largely have faith in this roster and this coaching staff, and the schedule is still pretty manageable. But I just wonder what this is going to look like down the stretch.

14 – Steelers (4-3) 1

Yeah, you just can’t win with this defense.

The lack of playmakers on offense can’t be masked by a Steelers-esque defensive unit because it doesn’t exist. They are just dreadful on that side of the ball. And it’s going to cost them the easiest division title they ever would have had while Lamar Jackson is in the AFC North.

Oh well! No sympathy from me.

15 – Vikings (3-4)

I really have no semblance of a clue what’s happening in Minnesota. The QB situation is just so strange; Carson Wentz being trotted out there for possession after possession felt like malpractice and I never believed that JJ McCarthy wasn’t healthy enough to play. Now, the Vikings have reaped what they’ve sown.

Unless JJ McCarthy looks like a real quarterback now that he’s back, this season is lost. And it might not even matter, because this defense has lost the plot. It’s damn near over in Minnesota.

16 – Bears (4-3)

So I guess the Bears aren’t very good. Who woulda thunk.

That defense that I said was the strong suit? Yeah, they gave up 30 to Tyler Huntley. Generational top selection Caleb Williams? He has shown little to no progression in a year-and-a-half in the pros. Wunderkind Ben Johnson’s new-look offense? It sucks.

The Bears are just the definition of mid right now. And that’s okay. I just thought we’d see more by now. And I don’t know that we will.

17 – Panthers (4-4)

Not going to take much stock in a blowout loss to the Bills with Andy Dalton playing quarterback. Let’s get Bryce Young healthy and back out there.

18 – Jaguars (4-3) 4

The Jaguars might be getting the biggest boost that a team on a bye has ever gotten. That’s how stinky some of the teams that dropped below them are.

19 – Texans (3-4) 4

Are… we back?

I know better than to get my hopes up, but Sunday’s win was inspiring. CJ Stroud looked like himself again, the defense absolutely feasted and it felt like I was watching the Houston Texans again. Maybe, just maybe they’ve found something.

And if they have, they need to run with it, because the playoffs aren’t entirely out of reach.

20 – Ravens (2-5) 5

Hey, keep doing that when Lamar Jackson is back in the lineup.

Listen, there’s a reason why the Ravens are the favorites to win the AFC North at 2-5. They are still the best team in that division, and they still have the best quarterback in that division. If the defense — which is getting healthy again — does its part, and the rest of the offense chips in, they’ll do it. Because this schedule is a joke.

21 – Cowboys (3-4-1) 2

Yeah, the Cowboys are just an unserious football team. The offense is fun and all when they’re playing a below average defense, but their own defense is not good enough to succeed when playing anybody.

At least the coaching staff victory lapped their “analytics” plays against a Washington team that had Chris Moore and Robbie Chosen — who is no longer on the damn roster — at wideout!

22 – Commanders (3-5) 2

Like I said with the team at No. 1, Monday night didn’t show me anything I didn’t already know about my football team. They just kinda suck. There isn’t anything they do well on either side of the ball, and without their Superman quarterback on the field, they do nothing of note. And when they can’t take advantage of their most inspired start to a game this season, they don’t deserve to win at all.

So, let’s focus on getting No. 5 back out there and try to salvage some wins going into the bye. Who knows what he can do on the other side of it.

23 – Falcons (3-4) 5

I guess it’s over? Even though everything was all good just 10 days ago?

I suppose the major takeaway from Sunday’s embarrassment is that those screaming for Kirk Cousins have been silenced. We’re good off that. We don’t need to see him play ever again, and his contract with Atlanta will go down in the history books as an all-time fleece. But when Penix gets back, it’s not going to look much better.

24 – Bengals (3-5) 3

If I still awarded a weekly Team of Shame, the Bengals would’ve ran away with it this week. Because good lord, that’s how you throw away a season right there.

When Zac Taylor is fired around New Year’s, this loss can be pointed at as the straw that broke the camel’s back regardless of how the second half of the season plays out.

25 – Giants (2-6) 1

Seeing Cam Skattebo go down like that just sucks. It sucks for the Giants, it sucks for the NFL and it sucks for the kid. Prayers up for a speedy recovery and a major comeback.

Losing him clearly had an effect on the Giants on Sunday, and I feel like those effects will continue as the season goes on. This new culture is built around him, Jaxson Dart and Malik Nabers. Now, it’s just the rookie QB. And he can’t do it alone.

26 – Cardinals (2-5)

Kyler Murray gets what feels like his last dance coming out of this bye week. Time to see what he and the rest of this Cardinals team are made of.

27 – Dolphins (2-6) 2

Performances like Sunday’s are what Miami is capable of any given week. The problem is that they will never be consistent enough to do it in succession.

Still, it had to feel good for a team that’s been through the ringer this season. We’ll see if that consistency can come from anywhere.

28 – Browns (2-6) 1

He won’t fare much better, but it’s only a time before we see Shedeur Sanders, right?

Oh, and Myles Garrett is a dawg, but he has no one to blame but himself. You signed the dotted line, dude.

29 – Saints (1-7) 1

The days of Spencer Rattler maybe being good are gone.

The days of Tyler Shough being ass are here.

30 – Raiders (2-5)

A week without Raiders football. What a relief.

31 – Jets (1-7) 1

Gotta feel good for Aaron Glenn and Justin Fields. Particularly the quarterback, who got chastised by his owner and fans of all 32 NFL teams, then led his team back and laid his cards on the table with how tough things have been for him.

We’re always rooting for you, Justin.

32 – Titans (1-7) 1

Just not worth talking about in any capacity.

Week 8 Picks

It’s the week of byes intra-conference matchups as the NFL’s shortest slate to date features a number of high-profile NFC vs. AFC clashes in primetime and otherwise.

Cover photo taken from NBC Bay Area.

Last Week: 11-4

Season Total: 71-36-1

Vikings 23-20 Chargers

Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET, Prime Video

Both defenses haven’t been at their best. Both quarterbacks haven’t been at their best. Both head coaches are trustworthy, but — let’s be honest — haven’t been at their best. What the heck is going to happen?

Honestly, I don’t know. But underdogs have been trusty in primetime, and I think if Carson Wentz can protect the ball — big ask, I know — I like the Vikings offense to move the ball on this LA defense. If Brian Flores can bounce back, I think that’ll be enough for Minnesota to escape with a win.

Falcons 27-19 Dolphins

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS

I have no idea who will start or end this game at quarterback for the Falcons, but I also know that it won’t matter. Either one of Michael Penix Jr. or Kirk Cousins should and will win this game for Atlanta.

And I have no idea who will be let in the building on Monday morning in Miami.

Bengals 22-13 Jets

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS

News flash Aaron Glenn: we all know Tyrod Taylor is starting. And we all know how that’ll end.

Flacco-Chase buddy ball for the win.

Patriots 20-17 Browns

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, FOX

The only reason this feels like a trap game for the Patriots is because this is by far the best defense they’ll have played so far this season. You can argue it’s the only competent one, but I won’t stoop that low. Point being, this is a test for Drake Maye and that offense to prove that they can do it against anyone.

They won’t need to do too much assuming that the Browns offense is its usual self. If New England’s defense can stop Quinshon Judkins, they’ll be fine.

Eagles 24-20 Giants

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, FOX

I know we’re just 2.5 weeks removed from the Giants beating the Eagles, but I don’t know if New York can do it again, especially being on the road this time.

AJ Brown and Saquon Barkley being banged up gives me pause, but they should be fine, and this Eagles offense just put together a masterclass that gives them positive momentum rolling into this one. I know Jaxson Dart will be able to move the ball against Philly’s defense because I’ve already seen it once. But I just don’t know if they can complete the sweep.

Bills 27-20 Panthers

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, FOX

Even if Andy Dalton starts for Carolina, they’re going to give Buffalo a challenge. This is an elite rushing team against a Bills D that has struggled against the run. And that passing game has found its groove, even if it was with Bryce Young and not the Red Rifle.

In any case, the Bills can’t lose this game. They haven’t won in a month, they had a bye week to get ready, and they need to lock in ASAP. I know this is a potential look-ahead spot with the Chiefs on deck next week, but they should have this one.

Ravens 26-23 Bears

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS

Lamar Jackson should be back in this game, and that should be enough for Baltimore to win. But he’ll need to be Superman on a bad hammy, and that scares me a little.

This Bears team is no slouch as long as Caleb Williams isn’t turning the ball over. He is in no way the reason why they’re winning, but he can be the reason they lose. If he stays under control and gets a good game out of his running backs, Chicago’s playmaking defense might be able to do enough to put them over the top.

But I simply can’t pick Caleb over Lamar regardless of these polar opposite defensive units.

49ers 21-17 Texans

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, FOX

I can’t faithfully pick Houston to beat anyone with the state of their offensive line. It’s genuinely unfathomable to be as bad as they are up front. The young Niners defense is going to make life hell for CJ Stroud, and I will be in shambles watching it.

Maybe the Texans defense can make some plays to keep them around like they did on Monday night. But can the offense do anything with that? My guess is no.

Buccaneers 26-19 Saints

Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET, FOX

The Bucs might be beat up and coming off a short week, but they’ve still got the bodies to beat a very bad Saints team, though anything goes in this rivalry.

It’d be a hell of a win for New Orleans, who isn’t playing awful ball, but ain’t great either. Expect a big Baker bounce back.

Broncos 27-24 Cowboys

Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET, CBS

I originally thought this was an unstoppable force meeting an immovable object, but the Broncos defense showed a concerning number of cracks last week. I’ll choose to believe that was a bad game, but it’s not getting easier against Dallas’ world-beating offense.

The fact of the matter is I still don’t trust the Cowboys defense. They’re not playing practice squad WRs this week like they were against Washington — they’re going to need to revert to their zone scheme, which Bo Nix should be able to dice up. And Denver should be able to run the ball, which has been a weakness for them in recent weeks. That should be enough to get the job done at home.

Colts 31-13 Titans

Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET, CBS

Next!

Steelers 23-20 Packers

Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET, NBC

I’ll be honest with you guys. I have zero read on this game whatsoever.

I don’t like either defense — Pittsburgh’s is straight up bad while Green Bay’s doesn’t make enough splash plays for how talented they are. Both quarterbacks are playing well, but I know either of them can make a mistake at any given moment.

Honestly, I’m just riding with the Steelers because I believe in the Aaron Rodgers revenge game. We saw how he performed against the Jets, and while that team is significantly worse than the Packers, I think he’ll get up for this one because he’s a psycho with a point to prove. In any case, it’s going to be absolute cinema.

Chiefs 45-10 Commanders

Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET, ESPN

Let’s get this one over with.

Reinforcements might be coming on offense, and changes might happen on defense. But it won’t matter. We’re onto Seattle.

Post-Week 7 Power Rankings

After a week where 14-of-15 favorites won their games, there’s not too much shakeup in this week’s rankings. But, a familiar face at the top spot and more shuffling in the middle highlight the changes.

Cover photo taken from Imagn Images.

1 – Chiefs (4-3) 7

Forget records. We all know Kansas City is the best team in the league.

Patrick Mahomes is playing at an incandescent level. Rashee Rice being back completes the offense. The defense is finding its groove. They’re back to looking like they’re simply bored out there, practicing for the playoffs as they plan for another trip to the Super Bowl.

Monday night isn’t going to be fun for me.

2 – Colts (6-1)

Best record in the NFL? Check. Quarterback playing at an MVP level? Check. Elite offensive line and running game? Double check.

The Colts have found a damn near foolproof winning formula that’s going to carry them to an easy division title. I think it remains to be seen how truly formidable they’ll be in the playoffs, especially as the defense continues to find itself, but this offense is playing at a level that’ll be hard to beat when the time comes. Shane Steichen is cooking with grease.

3 – Lions (5-2)

Arguably the most inspired performance of the young season belongs to the Lions defense on Monday night. Starting players I’ve never remotely heard of before, they played lights out against an elite — albeit shorthanded — offense and made MVP candidate Baker Mayfield look like his Browns self.

If that type of performance can be replicated, the Lions become frightening. Because the passing offense did nothing. It was old school, smash-mouth football: pounding run game and hounding defense. Good luck beating this iteration of Dan Campbell hoops.

4 – Rams (5-2)

No Puka Nacua and a weird travel plan to London? No problem. Ho-hum sleepwalking five-touchdown game from Matthew Stafford and the defense’s best performance of the season gets the job done.

We know what the Rams are by this point. Stafford is a dog, Nacua and Davante Adams are probably the best WR duo in football and the secondary is playing incredible hoops. If you want to argue that this is the best team in the NFC, I’ll allow it.

5 – Seahawks (5-2)

The great teams stay cooking. Sensing a trend?

The Seahawks are still the Seahawks. Jaxon Smith-Njigba is just a delight to watch and the best receiver in football right now. This defense is fast, athletic and suffocating. Sam Darnold should take better care of the ball, but it didn’t matter on Monday night. For a team that lacks relative “star power,” this is a real Super Bowl contender.

6 – Buccaneers (5-2) 5

Oof.

I can’t blame Tampa too much; the injuries have finally caught up to them and are now getting worse with Mike Evans out for the season. But Baker Mayfield playing like the worst version of himself and the run defense getting gashed are two things that are complete aberrations.

I’ll choose to believe that this was a bad game, not a bad sign. But I’m on alert now with the Bucs.

7 – Packers (4-1-1)

The most annoying, confusing and straight up “who cares?” good team in the league right now.

I feel like the only thing I can say with confidence about the Packers is that Josh Jacobs is a stud. That’s about it. Jordan Love is playing fine and protecting the ball, but the passing attack is just boring. The defense is still solid, but not exactly game-wrecking like they were earlier in the year. I feel like Green Bay was lucky to get out of Arizona with a win, because it seemed like they were largely outplayed.

They’re just boring. But still fine. And that’s good enough… for now.

8 – Bills (4-2) 2

Let’s see some life out of the bye week, particularly on defense. You should be able to do that against Andy Dalton, right?

9 – 49ers (5-2) 3

Kyle Shanahan continues to prove me wrong.

The 49ers keep on winning despite the injuries, tough schedule, apparent roster shortcomings and so on and so forth. They’re just a damn good team with elite coaching. Robert Saleh is getting blood from a stone with these young pieces on the defensive side (I do recognize that Michael Penix Jr. kind of stinks, but still) and it’s pretty cool to see. Mac Jones is doing his thing in keeping this ship afloat. Oh, and Christian McCaffrey is still Christian McCaffrey.

How long can they keep this going? I guess there’s no end in sight.

10 – Patriots (5-2) 1

Like so many other teams this week, the Patriots just kept on doing their thing. That was Drake Maye shredding a horrible team and the defense making some splash plays to notch another easy win as they continue to bank Ws and prepare for the postseason.

The 2025 Patriots are the 2024 Commanders. It’s that simple.

11 – Eagles (5-2) 5

The Eagles are the NFL’s greatest enigma.

They don’t want to air it out. But when they do, it’s explosive like it was on Sunday in Minnesota or a few weeks ago against the Rams. But sometimes that doesn’t happen, like last week against the Giants. And one week the defense is great. But the next week it sucks. But they can still make splash plays. But this, and that, and there, and this. What the hell is this team?!

If this is what the Birds are going to be on offense, then they can make another run despite their defensive shortcomings. But they’re far too inconsistent and simply weird to fully trust them.

12 – Broncos (5-2) 3

That was bats—t insane. And I have no idea what to make of it.

I love this defense, but they got shredded by Jaxson Dart. I don’t like the quarterback, but he made every play necessary to win. The run game stunk again, but then found a groove when they were down by a bunch. Nothing makes sense!

But, like many other teams that I don’t have a grasp on, the Broncos have done well to bank wins early in the year to get to a comfortable position where they should make the playoffs again. And that’s good enough.

13 – Steelers (4-2) 3

The NFL’s most obvious paper tiger just crumpled. Shocker!

I do have to admit: Unc still got it. Aaron Rodgers can still sling that pill against bad teams. That part is obvious. But man, this defense is hard to watch. They do the same thing over and over again and it gets beat and beat and beat. And that’s going to hold them back in the playoffs, assuming they get there.

14 – Chargers (4-3) 3

The Chargers somehow get moved up this week because the middle of the league is so… bad?

I guess Justin Herbert was slinging that thing, but he also threw a pair of picks. The run game is just invisible. The defense stinks. It just feels like it’s falling apart, doesn’t it?

LA has the talent and coaching to be a playoff team. But these problems feel close to insurmountable right now.

15 – Vikings (3-3) 3

Minnesota gets a bump this week for the same reason the Chargers did. It has nothing to do with their play on the field, although Sunday wasn’t all bad.

If the Vikings could finish drives with seven points instead of three, maybe they could’ve pulled out the upset win over the Eagles. But they looked completely inept in the redzone and refused to put the ball in the endzone. That’s a problem, especially when Carson Wentz has his moments and turns the ball over.

I honestly might be more concerned with the defense anyways, since it got shredded by Jalen Hurts. But this is a sound team. They’ll bounce back regardless of who’s playing quarterback (side note: is JJ McCarthy ever coming back? Or is he a figment of our imagination?).

16 – Bears (4-2) 4

Ben Johnson is doing a tremendous job of hiding Caleb Williams in plain sight. A playmaking defense and resurgent run game also helps with that.

The Bears are doing what they need to do: stacking wins against bad teams to stay afloat in the playoff race. The cupcakes are few and far between from here on out, so we’ll see how long they can keep up the winning ways.

17 – Panthers (4-3) 4

Fair enough, Carolina. Winning in the NFL is hard. Ripping off a few in a row to get above .500 for this franchise is something to hang your hat on. You’ve gotta feel good for them.

Losing Bryce Young for a week or two hurts, but Andy Dalton is a capable backup. And it might not matter with how elite this rushing offense has been. The defense has been a nice surprise, too, highlighted by Jaycee Horn having magnets in his gloves. The Panthers are squarely on frisky watch.

18 – Falcons (3-3) 7

Michael Penix Jr. is developing a penchant for following up some of the best games of his career with some of the worst. Because Sunday night was extremely hard to watch, to the point where putting Kirk Cousins in at any point in the weeks to come shouldn’t be out of the question.

That’s honestly the story for the Falcons right now. The defense is fine, as is the run game. Penix has to be the guy that guides them, and right now, they’re lost at sea with him any time they face a defense worth a damn. I understand it’s still early for him, but the dude is 25 and now dealing with even more injuries. The clock is ticking fast.

19 – Cowboys (3-3-1) 3

Defense is overrated when your offense is this explosive. Fairs.

The sheer talent between Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, George Pickens, Javonte Williams and Jake Ferguson is biblically greedy. The only question remains: is it good enough to carry Dallas to the playoffs in a brutal NFC? I think we’re about to find out.

20 – Commanders (3-4) 7

I’m planning on releasing a column covering the current, dismal state of this team at some point this week, so be on the lookout for that.

In the meantime, we can just call the Commanders what they are: a bad football team. Can’t tackle, can’t cover, can’t force turnovers, can’t catch, can’t convert third downs, can’t run the ball, can’t get open, can’t stay on the field, can’t get off the field. It’s over.

21 – Bengals (3-4) 7

Joe Flacco buddy ball might be enough to keep this ship afloat. Turns out force feeding Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins is a winning formula. Who knew?

22 – Jaguars (4-3) 8

It might be over.

Trevor Lawrence is becoming unwatchable. The run game is getting worse by the week. The defense isn’t as good as we thought they were when they’re not forcing turnovers. It just feels like it’s falling apart at the seams in Jacksonville.

23 – Texans (2-4) 4

You know what the Texans are? The Browns with better PR.

The defense is elite and ballhawking, getting after the quarterback and forcing turnovers at will. The offense is unwatchable with an offensive line that couldn’t pass for 300-pound traffic cones and a quarterback that suffers because of it. And because of that, this team is going nowhere fast. And it’s a crying shame for one of my favorite young squads in football.

24 – Giants (2-5) 1

What a weird team. And what an unfathomable way to lose a football game.

I won’t dog the Giants for finding a historic way to blow a massive late lead because everyone else has done that for me by now. And I won’t sit here and praise them for finding their guy at QB with some other solid young pieces, because everyone has done that too.

I’ll just sit here and say that this team is fun and all, but that’s about it.

25 – Ravens (1-5) 1

Let’s see what life — if any — this team has on the plus side of the bye now that Lamar Jackson is back.

I won’t get my hopes up, but beating the Bears would be a good first step.

26 – Cardinals (2-5) 1

I guess I feel bad for the Cardinals, but again, being competitive is only worth so much in this league. Maybe you should actually win a game or two for once.

Five straight losses by a combined 13 points might be a tough pill to swallow, but winning close games is a skill and losing them is indicative of a larger problem. The Cardinals will get no grace from me.

27 – Browns (2-5) 2

I honestly think if we were in 1970, the Browns would be dominant. Quinshon Judkins is a legit bell cow back and this defense simply has a penchant for making plays.

But, the quarterback ain’t good, and that’s what will matter against the real football teams on their schedule.

28 – Saints (1-6) 1

Both competitive-slash-frisky and bad. The quarterback is both passable and terrible. The talent is both there in pieces and nonexistent.

At the end of the day, you are what your record says you are. And the Saints suck. They’re just a fun version of sucking unlike teams like Miami, Vegas, the Jets, etc.

29 – Dolphins (1-6) 3

Not worth talking about until Mike McDaniel gets fired (I still don’t think it’s his fault, I don’t know) or Tua Tagovailoa gets benched.

This is the NFL’s equivalent of a dead man walking. It’s a dead team playing.

30 – Raiders (2-5)

The Raiders had less offensive plays than the Chiefs had points on Sunday.

Read that again. Then go look at the rest of the box score. Then wash your eyes out.

31 – Titans (1-6)

Maybe Cam Ward just sucks.

I don’t know. The kid’s got a ton of talent, and we need to see him in a competent offense before I make any crazy judgements. But I feel less encouraged by the week with his complete lack of care when it comes to ball security.

32 – Jets (0-7)

Not worth talking about until Aaron Glenn gets fired.

But at least Justin Fields is being benched! That’s step one, right?

Week 7 Picks

The young NFL season plunges forward with a handful of exciting primetime games, potential upsets and big time matchups across the board as we approach the midway point of the campaign.

Cover photo taken from NFL.com.

Last Week: 11-4

Season Total: 60-32-1

Bengals 20-17 Steelers

Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET, Prime Video

Why not?

Short week, divisional matchup means shenanigans are inbound.

Rams 23-16 Jaguars

Sunday, 9:30 a.m. ET, NFL Network

Oh look, we decided to send a good game overseas for once. The Brits should enjoy this one, though their “hometown” Jaguars will need to get their run game back in check to win it. And I don’t know if they can.

Even without Puka Nacua, this Rams offense will do enough, and LA’s defense will do the rest.

Bears 24-19 Saints

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, FOX

Do the Saints have what it takes to win this game? Sure. But can they put it together to do so? Seems unlikely.

Chicago isn’t playing at a super high level, but they’re playing well enough to beat bad teams. And that’ll play against New Orleans.

Browns 6-3 Dolphins

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS

Heavy rain and — checks notes — 50-60 mph wind gusts? Yeah, give me the under.

You want a prediction bolder than this abysmal score? Dillon Gabriel gets benched for Shedeur Sanders, who leads the Browns to victory. Have fun watching ESPN on Monday morning, cause I won’t.

Patriots 26-13 Titans

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS

Mike Vrabel probably has a few tricks up his sleeve for this well-timed revenge game. “See what happens when you let me go for no reason?”

Chiefs 28-10 Raiders

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS

Next.

Vikings 19-16 Eagles

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, FOX

Ah, yes. The Carson Wentz revenge game. A few years late, guys.

The fact of the matter is that this game doesn’t come down to Wentz, even against a bad Eagles secondary. It comes down to Minnesota’s defense. Already strong, coming off a bye, playing an anemic offense with no semblance of an identity… yeah, Brian Flores is going to have a field day.

Jets 23-20 Panthers

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, FOX

They’ve gotta get one eventually, man.

The Jets bottled up the Broncos’ run game last week, so we’ll see if Rico Dowdle and Chuba Hubbard go wild on the ground. But the Panthers’ defense isn’t very good, and while New York’s offense is horrible, maybe they can do just enough to win.

Maybe.

Broncos 20-12 Giants

Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET, CBS

Two great defenses against two bad offenses. Who wins? The better offense? I’d say no.

Give me the better defense in Denver, particularly against a rookie quarterback who we’ve seen get flustered when things start going wrong.

Colts 27-24 Chargers

Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET, CBS

I’ve been torn on this one, but I’ll stick with the team that’s been far more trustworthy on both sides of the ball.

Both teams have proven that they can pull out a close one, but the Colts have at least been more consistent. This one would go a long way to improve their public perception, since I’m apparently the only person who respects them.

Cowboys 34-31 Commanders

Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET, FOX

Sigh. I guess this is it.

Washington might be without Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel in this game with Noah Brown already on IR. You’re looking at a starting WR group of Luke McCaffrey, Jaylin Lane and Chris Moore for the Commanders. Jayden Daniels can make it work with anyone, especially against this Dallas defense, but come on.

The Cowboys are trending in the opposite direction on the injury front. CeeDee Lamb, Kevontae Turpin and Tyler Booker should be back in this game to boost an offense that’s already getting crazy contributions out of George Pickens and Jake Ferguson. And Dak Prescott — who is already playing at a ridiculously high level — is 11-2 against Washington in his career.

It feels like the Cowboys are catching this Commanders team at a good time. We are beat up as hell and our defense can’t stop a nosebleed. Dallas’ nonexistent defense will give up points and yards to Jayden and company — regardless of who’s out there — but I think Dak will do just a tad bit more. And I will be sent further into the abyss.

Cardinals 24-23 Packers

Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET, FOX

Again, why not? The Cardinals have been completely stifled by last-second loss after last-second loss. Regardless of who suits up at quarterback — I lowkey think Jacoby Brissett is the better option in any case — I feel like Arizona finds a way to win this one.

The Packers just haven’t been very impressive since… I don’t know, the season opener? I keep waiting for them to be the amazing team we saw in early September, and it’s just not happening. Maybe this is where it comes back to bite.

Falcons 26-20 49ers

Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET, NBC

As I said earlier in the week, San Francisco’s injury situation is becoming untenable.

The loss of Fred Warner will be heavily felt against this offense, and I think we’re in for another massive Bijan Robinson game. Plus, Atlanta’s emerging defense can certainly make some plays against a shorthanded but admittedly well-coached Niners offense.

Lions 30-27 Buccaneers

Monday, 7 p.m. ET, ESPN

First to 30 wins? Feels like the case with the state of both secondaries.

We know the Buccaneers will score because they can clearly do it with anyone playing with Baker Mayfield, especially against a beat up Lions defense. And we know Detroit can score because of their offensive firepower going up against a bad Tampa defensive backfield.

So, just give me the Lions considering they tend to not lose these home primetime games. In the regular season, at least. Though, Baker tends to cause them problems.

Seahawks 23-14 Texans

Monday, 10 p.m. ET, ESPN

I hate this matchup for the Texans. This offensive line is going to be in for a world of pain against a Seattle front that just racked up seven sacks against Jacksonville. Asking them to keep CJ Stroud upright is like pulling teeth at this point. We can only hope for the best.

Houston’s defense will keep them around for a while, but the Seahawks offense will do their thing eventually to pull away and win this one by a decent margin.

Post-Week 6 Power Rankings

Through six weeks, the NFL feels more wide open than it’s ever been. Here’s how I stack things up 1-32 amidst all the chaos and calamity across the national landscape.

Cover photo taken from AP Photo.

1 – Buccaneers (5-1) 1

No matter how many players get added to the injury report, Baker Mayfield continues to do Baker Mayfield things. He’s the MVP of the league right now, and it might not be close.

Oh, and this has been the tough part of their schedule, too. We’re looking at the clear-cut frontrunner for the 1-seed in the NFC.

2 – Colts (5-1)

I’ll be honest, I didn’t really want to keep the Colts this high, but I just don’t know what to do with them. But, they keep winning, and that offense keeps looking good doing it.

Let’s just keep things under control during pregame warmups moving forward, yeah?

3 – Lions (4-2) 2

It was strange seeing the Lions — usually the bullies, not the bullied — get handled the way they did in Kansas City.

But, for one, the Chiefs are pretty dang good and catching their stride. And secondly, we’re a pre-snap penalty and an uncharacteristic Amon-Ra St. Brown drop away from a potentially different story here. This team is still elite, and they’re going to be fine.

4 – Rams (4-2) 3

I feel like I learned nothing about the Rams on Sunday.

The defense is fine, sure, but they played one of the league’s most anemic offenses. The offense sputtered, but that’s to be expected when their most impactful position player leaves with an injury. I hope Puka Nacua is okay and heals fast, because this team needs him badly.

I think the trip to London to take on the Jags will reveal infinitely more than whatever the hell transpired in Baltimore.

5 – Seahawks (4-2) 4

A little high for Seattle? Maybe. But considering how wonky the landscape of the league is right now, I don’t mind putting them this high. Not when they’re clicking like they have been.

I hate playing the ifs-ands-buts-or-maybes game, but we’re two last-second scores away from the Seahawks being 6-0 with one of the league’s most balanced squads spearheaded by the OPOY frontrunner. Jaxon Smith-Njigba has been the best receiver in football, Sam Darnold is still wildly efficient and this defense had a nice bounce-back performance. They should parlay that into some more solid performances against a stingy part of their schedule.

6 – Bills (4-2) 2

I’m officially concerned.

Josh Allen does not look like himself right now. The team continues to ignore James Cook. The lack of true receiving threats is becoming obvious. And the defense is… just bad, I guess?

Is that what the Bills are when they’re playing competent football teams? I think that remains to be seen. They’ve earned the benefit of the doubt. But they better hope they get this thing back on track after the bye. I think that’s coming at a pretty good time for them.

7 – Packers (3-1-1) 2

Green Bay is another team that I feel like I learned nothing about this week. They’re just so… “meh” right now.

I suppose my two biggest takeaways are that Josh Jacobs has been awesome and this defense still feels off. I expect one of those to continue, but if the latter doesn’t change as the schedule ramps up, the Packers will inevitably drop some games.

8 – Chiefs (3-3) 5

The living embodiment of the “masculine urge to say ‘we’re so back’ after saying ‘it’s over'” meme.

But, the Chiefs do feel back. Patrick Mahomes is the odds-on favorite to win the MVP right now, and it’s easy to see why. Rashee Rice returns from his suspension this week. The defense played inspired after the disaster to end the Jaguars game.

Everything just feels like it’s clicking in Kansas City. The league should be terrified.

9 – Patriots (4-2) 5

Regardless of the level of competition, the Patriots deserve our respect. They’re playing pretty damn well on both sides of the ball, and Drake Maye has been one of the five or six best quarterbacks in football in 2025.

And, honestly, that’s going to continue to be the case in New England. This is the easiest schedule in football, so I feel like there’s only so much we’re going to be able to say about the Pats moving forward. I guess the only question is: how successful can they be?

10 – Steelers (4-1) 6

Like the Patriots, the Steelers are a team I’ve held off on going crazy over because I just feel so indifferent about them. But, being 4-1 and clearly finding a rhythm goes a long way. I gotta tip my cap to Mike Tomlin and Aaron Rodgers. This is your AFC North frontrunner.

It obviously doesn’t take much to stifle the Browns offense, but this defense has vastly improved since the opening weeks of the season, and so has the rushing offense. I feel like that’s what has made the difference for this squad. As long as they keep stacking wins against their easier opponents, they’re going to win this division.

11 – Falcons (3-2) 9

I said last week that I was fascinated to see what version of the Falcons we got on MNF. And boy, did we get their best. That is how dangerous this Atlanta team can be.

Michael Penix Jr. was accurate, efficient and on time. Drake London was unguardable. And Bijan Robinson is simply the deadliest weapon in the NFL right now. Not to mention, this defense responded to a so-so outing against Washington with a wildly dominant performance against Josh Allen of all people.

This is a playoff team if they can keep this level of play up. I worry about their ability to do that, but I’m rooting for them. Because this is a damn fun group.

12 – 49ers (4-2) 6

We’re reaching a point where these injuries are going to make winning unsustainable in the long-term. They can win games like they have every now and then, but I have serious doubts about this being a playoff team with no Fred Warner or Nick Bosa on defense.

I want to believe that Kyle Shanahan can keep up the magic act and get this team in a competitive spot down the stretch. But I just don’t see that happening with the current state of the roster.

13 – Commanders (3-3) 3

I don’t know man. I just don’t know. That was about as unfathomable and as big of a gut-punch of a loss that I’ve seen. I feel like I could write a dissertation about it, but I won’t. Because I don’t want to. I want to flush it out of my memory forever. But there are a couple things that need mentioning.

First and most obvious is that you can’t have a laundry list of screw-ups and expect to win an NFL game. The fact that they were in a position to win despite two first-quarter turnovers, a missed field goal, a number of penalties, no real run game and a defense that couldn’t stop a stationary vehicle is a testament to Jayden Daniels. After his uncharacteristic redzone interception, he was close to flawless. Until he wasn’t. And that fumble on what would’ve essentially been the game-clinching play is by far the biggest mistake of his young career.

But the defense didn’t have to make it easy for the Bears to then win the game. This unit is a disgrace. They haven’t forced a turnover in four of the six games and couldn’t even force a three-and-out on Monday night. Against an offense that had some serious struggles coming into the game, albeit off a bye. The holes that D’Andre Swift was running through could clear up DC’s traffic in an instant. And the zones in the secondary continue to be Charmin soft.

My main takeaway from MNF is that this team in its current state isn’t good enough to win when Jayden isn’t Superman. He’s human. He’s going to make mistakes. And the team around him isn’t good enough to overcome them when they happen.

14 – Jaguars (4-2) 6

Wait, this offense sucks again. What the heck happened?

I have no idea why this team can no longer run the ball, but it’s clear that unless the defense steps up to flip the game, Trevor Lawrence can’t do it on his own. He has been solid this year, but they need that balance to be successful. And it doesn’t help when the defense doesn’t get a takeaway.

Maybe Seattle was a bad matchup. Maybe this was just a bad game. Jacksonville should hope it doesn’t become a trend.

15 – Broncos (4-2) 4

Good lord this team is a dreadful watch. If this defense wasn’t so good, I don’t know what Denver would look like.

When the Broncos can’t establish a run game like they couldn’t on Sunday morning, we see just how limited — and sometimes straight up bad — Bo Nix is. And that’s a problem. I don’t know that I can classify this as a sophomore slump because I wasn’t particularly impressed with Nix last year. But he has not been able to elevate this team in any way shape or form. They just have to pray the defense dominates and the offense keeps up. That doesn’t feel like a winning formula. But at least the AFC is weak enough for it to work.

16 – Eagles (4-2) 4

Looks like I’ve been vindicated on my Eagles ranking from last week. Because it sure as hell feels like it’s all coming apart in Philadelphia.

I know we go through this song and dance every year, but like 2023, this one feels like it’s not as easy a fix as “locking in” like it was last season. Kevin Patullo’s offensive scheme is a disaster, Jalen Hurts isn’t good enough to overcome the lack of a run game, the wide receivers are in shambles and this secondary straight up stinks. Those unsustainable September winning ways have turned into abysmal October performances. And the schedule ain’t getting easier.

The Giants were supposed to be the get-right game. It might’ve been the exposé instead.

17 – Chargers (4-2) 2

I give a ton of credit to the Chargers for finding a way to win on Sunday in Miami. Those types of heroics from Justin Herbert are exactly what this team needed as they continue to deal with injuries galore.

But I still have pretty mixed feelings about this team. I don’t like how this defense is playing and the run game is a huge problem. But, Herbert can put on the cape if necessary. And, against the bad teams on the schedule, that’s enough.

18 – Vikings (3-2) 1

So, is JJ McCarthy coming back this week or not? Either way, I need a Brian Flores masterclass against a struggling Eagles offense. Do me a solid, Minnesota.

19 – Texans (2-3)

Like Atlanta last week, I’m fascinated to see what version of the Texans we get on Monday night. I hope it’s one that I enjoy watching — and one with an offense that looks like it did the last two times we saw them rather than the three previous times.

20 – Bears (3-2) 1

Good for y’all. You ran the ball and stopped the run way better than I expected. And you took advantage of our mistakes.

The narrative very well could’ve been different if not for a cataclysmic mistake by Jayden Daniels. But it’s not. And I have to live with that now.

21 – Panthers (3-3) 3

Are the Panthers frisky? Or just sneaky good? I genuinely have no clue.

But, Bryce Young is finding a groove. Rico Dowdle has turned into Ladanian Tomlinson for some reason. And Tetairoa McMillan is finally catching touchdowns. The defense is still bad, but they were shockingly excellent against Dallas’ great rushing attack.

Maybe, just maybe, the Panthers are turning a corner. But I won’t count those chickens before they hatch.

22 – Cowboys (2-3-1) 4

This defense, man. They are a historically hilarious handicap. I feel like I’m watching the 2020 Cowboys all over again.

There’s not much that can be said about Dallas that isn’t painfully obvious. Dak Prescott is amazing, George Pickens is perfect for this offense, Jake Ferguson has arguably been the best tight end in football and none of it matters because the defense is the worst in the league by lightyears. I don’t care that Javonte Williams was neutralized; that’s a game you can’t lose to stay afloat in the playoff race. But, here we are.

23 – Giants (2-4) 5

Jaxson Dart and Cam Skattebo are changing the culture in New York. They also might be saving the jobs of Brian Daboll and Joe Schoen. Good for them.

Maybe the Giants can sustain winning with this level of play on both sides of the ball. But, we’re also just a week or so removed from the Saints game. So I won’t jump to any conclusions just yet. But, Thursday night was awesome, and that’s all that matters for now.

24 – Ravens (1-5) 2

Good news: the defense didn’t give up a million points and Lamar Jackson should be back on the other side of the bye.

Bad news: the defense still sucks, you scored three whole points, Derrick Henry couldn’t get in on the goal line and you’re 3.5 games behind the Steelers. Woof.

25 – Cardinals (2-4) 2

Credit to the shorthanded Cards for hanging in with the Colts. Jacoby Brissett was airing that thing out all day long, and it damn near led to an upset win. It’s just not enough.

I really don’t think the Cardinals are this bad. Unlucky, sure. But four losses in a row are hard to overcome. I still think they can turn it around, but it’s going to need to be drastic and fast.

26 – Dolphins (1-5) 1

Nothing on the field is worth talking about in Miami. So I’ll take this time to ask Tua Tagovailoa what the hell he’s talking about.

If this team has leadership issues, that starts with you bro. You’re the damn quarterback! And you just threw three picks! Take some accountability and stop throwing your teammates under the bus. This is the reason why no one in that locker room likes you.

27 – Saints (1-5)

Another week where we say, “wow, Spencer Rattler is actually solid” and it doesn’t matter because the rest of the team ain’t very good.

This Saints team will continue to be competitive, but will also continue to lose. They’re just not a good squad.

28 – Bengals (2-4) 2

Joe Flacco being inserted at quarterback had exactly the effect we expected it to: Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins saw the ball a ton, and it doesn’t really mean anything. The rest of this team is in such squalor that I don’t know how they beat anyone with a pulse.

29 – Browns (1-5) 3

Speaking of not having a pulse, I feel like it’s only a matter of time before we see Sheduer Sanders — no pun intended.

Dillon Gabriel is fine and all, but there’s nothing there. Might as well give Mr. Perfect Timing a shot.

30 – Raiders (2-4) 1

Oh look, a win! Cherish that one, Raiders. There aren’t any more Titans left on the schedule.

31 – Titans (1-5) 2

Thank you for firing Brian Callahan. What comes next? Who knows. But I still think the Titans have the right GM and QB, despite Cam Ward’s abysmal game on Sunday.

32 – Jets (0-6)

You should take some notes from Tennessee. Nip this Aaron Glenn experiment in the bud, move on from Justin Fields and see what your new GM can cook up during this upcoming offseason. Because it is over over in New York.

Week 6 Picks

An emotional primetime rematch, high-flying offensive shootouts and potentially sneaky showdowns highlight another packed weekend in the blossoming NFL season.

Cover photo taken from The Sporting News.

Last Week: 9-5

Season Total: 49-28-1

Eagles 20-17 Giants

Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET, Prime Video

I’m probably putting too much faith in the old adage of divisional games being close and whatnot, but I feel like New York’s defense can make this close, at least for a little bit.

But, I don’t have any faith in the Giants offense led by Jaxson Dart against a pretty solid Eagles defense. It doesn’t really matter what Philly’s offense looks like because they won’t have to do too much — a theme that’s becoming pretty repetitive.

Broncos 22-16 Jets

Sunday, 9:30 a.m. ET, NFL Network

Ah, yes. Another terrible team overseas. Sorry, Brits.

The Jets have to come out with some life in this game. They’ve been off to such horrible starts against the Bucs, Dolphins and Cowboys that have dug them in holes that they can only statpad out of. Maybe, just maybe, this is a game where they can have some life.

But, I won’t put my faith in that. This game screams a strong Broncos first half with a futile New York comeback attempt late in the game. At least Justin Fields will keep getting those fantasy points in!

Steelers 20-12 Browns

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS

No, thank you.

Browns might be a trendy upset pick here, but Mike Tomlin his extremely successful off byes and against rookie quarterbacks. Don’t overthink this one.

Chargers 24-21 Dolphins

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS

Anyone remember the good old days where these fanbases would argue over who got the better quarterback in the 2020 draft? Yeah, me neither.

This is a spot where the Chargers need to get right. Miami couldn’t have popped up at a better time for them, because I don’t think the Dolphins have the bodies on defense to disrupt that makeshift offensive line like the Giants and Commanders did. This has to be where Justin Herbert looks like himself again, especially with no Omarion Hampton in the lineup.

I still think the Dolphins can keep up on offense, but we all know they’re not going to be able to get it done in the end.

Patriots 23-17 Saints

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS

Feels like a classic spot where the Patriots could come back down after Sunday night’s emotional upset in Buffalo. But is New Orleans really the team to do that against? Probably not.

I do like the Saints to stick around in this game, largely because Spencer Rattler is playing some solid ball and the defense has a knack for turnovers right now. But I don’t know if they can take down a team that’s above their caliber.

Rams 38-17 Ravens

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, FOX

Next.

Colts 29-17 Cardinals

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, FOX

Kyler Murray likely won’t be suiting up for the Cardinals on Sunday. That’s good news for Marvin Harrison Jr., but probably bad news for the team at large.

Combine that with how incandescent the Colts have been, and this one probably shouldn’t be close.

Seahawks 23-20 Jaguars

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, FOX

Talk about a banger that wasn’t remotely viewed as one six weeks ago. Dare I say this is the best non-primetime game of the week!

I was pretty torn on this one. Both defenses are awesome, both offenses are playing well. Seattle is taking a pretty long road trip and Jacksonville has been an electric environment. But the Jags themselves just went to San Francisco and won. It can really go either way.

In the end, I lean Seattle because I simply trust Sam Darnold more than I do Trevor Lawrence. He’s playing at an incredibly high level and has been better at avoiding mistakes, despite that late interception against Tampa last week. If it comes down to whichever QB makes the big throw to win it at the death, I’ll take him.

Cowboys 30-27 Panthers

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, FOX

I’m probably overestimating the Panthers’ ability to hang around in this game, but I honestly think this game looks like a closer version of Dallas’ win over the Jets last week. The Cowboys will get off to a hot start then give up some points late, especially because the Panthers get off to very slow starts before ratcheting up in the second half like they did against Miami and Arizona.

In any case, I’d appreciate a Carolina victory here, but I’m in no way expecting one. Not with the way Dak Prescott is playing, and certainly not with how the Cowboys are running the ball. Maybe we’re in for a Rico Dowdle revenge game, who knows.

Raiders 22-19 Titans

Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET, FOX

Do I have to? Fine.

I guess I’ll take the Raiders at home. Tennessee’s comeback last week masks the fact that they’re still a disaster, no matter how good Cam Ward looks on tape (which is pretty damn good, by the way). Don’t get me wrong, Vegas isn’t much better, but maybe Ashton Jeanty goes off and Geno Smith stops throwing the ball to the wrong team.

Either way, I don’t really care. And I don’t think you do, either.

Buccaneers 26-23 49ers

Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET, CBS

Here’s a battle of teams that overcome numerous injuries to find their way to 4-1 and atop their divisions. What gives when they meet head to head?

It’s probably going to be Mac Jones under center again for the 49ers, which is by no means a bad thing. We’ve seen numerous times this season how effective he is; honestly, he’s been better for them than Brock Purdy has. Despite the players they’ll be without on both sides of the ball, San Francisco can’t be easily dismissed by anyone.

But, I’ll still take Tampa Bay at home. That offense is playing at a ridiculous level with Baker Mayfield at the helm, and they keep on finding ways to win. I think their secondary will need to step up and make a play or two down the stretch, allowing Baker and co. to do the rest.

Packers 34-14 Bengals

Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET, CBS

Next, again!

Chiefs 27-24 Lions

Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET, NBC

What a brilliant Sunday nighter this is going to be. Points, points, points!

The Lions are clearly a better team than the Chiefs are right now. I don’t think anyone is disputing that. But, this is still Kansas City, and this is still Patrick Mahomes. I think you’re going to see a lot of folks pick KC here because they simply need it more — their backs are against the wall, they desperately need to stay afloat at .500 and they don’t lose games like this at home.

But, the Lions don’t care about any of that. Hell, the last time they went to Kansas City, they pulled off the upset to show the league that they were no joke (with the great help of one Kadarius Toney). And we all know that their offense can run over anyone in the league. If that emerging defense can make a play or two like Jacksonville did last week, it should be enough for Detroit to win.

I just think Mahomes and co. play a solid, clean game and get the job done in the end, even without Rashee Rice, and maybe without Xavier Worthy again.

Bills 24-20 Falcons

Monday, 7:15 p.m. ET, ESPN

I think the Bills are in a great spot to bounce back from Sunday night’s stinker regardless of what Atlanta team we see on Monday night. But that’s the problem — the Falcons have been so Jekyll and Hyde this season that I feel like I can’t pick them to beat anyone above their proverbial pay-grade.

Maybe Bijan Robinson comes out and runs all over Buffalo like Derrick Henry did in Week 1. Maybe Michael Penix Jr. looks like his Week 4 self and not his Week 3 self. Maybe the defense looks like their Week 2 self and not their Week 4 self. Are you confused yet? That’s just the Falcons for you.

So, I’ll take the consistent team that I can trust — the one that’s due to make things right after last week.

Commanders 31-17 Bears

Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET, ABC

No Hail Mary will be necessary for this one. We are going to roll.

I could write a dissertation about this matchup, this baby rivalry, these quarterbacks, that head coach and particularly that Bears fanbase. And that wouldn’t even include what happened on October 27, 2024.

Instead, I’ll keep it to Monday night. A battle between the NFL’s top rushing offense and its 31st-ranked rushing defense. A battle between the best QB in the 2024 draft class — one who’s back to his usual elite self — and the third-best QB from that class on his best day. A battle between two defenses that are finding their groove in different ways. It’s going to be a blast.

In the end, the Bears are not going to be able to contain this rushing attack. Jayden Daniels won’t have to be Superman because Bill and Deebo and the rest of the offense will have their way. And to be clear, I think Caleb Williams could have a solid game against this secondary that has its shortcomings. But I think our defensive line will get after him and stifle their nonexistent rushing attack. And he can’t win this game on his own.

I’ll be there — just as I was there for that fateful moment last October — and I cannot freaking wait.

Post-Week 5 Power Rankings

The wackiest week in a wild NFL season has produced the weirdest set of rankings I’ve ever concocted.

Cover photo taken from The Washington Post.

1 – Lions (4-1) 2

In a league with no clear cut No. 1 team, the Lions stand out as the most consistent, in-form squad. Their four-game win streak is the longest in football, and they have straight up kicked ass ever since being handled by Green Bay in Week 1.

The bright spot has honestly been their defense, considering we know what to expect from the other side of the ball. But, when you’ve played Jake Browning and Joe Flacco in your last two games, that might be a little skewed.

Still, Detroit was the only team I was comfortable putting on top this week.

2 – Colts (4-1) 7

Why not? The Colts have been on a ridiculous tear since the season started, with their only loss coming in largely self-inflicted fashion. The offense is a machine and the defense wreaks havoc. Everything is working hand in hand in Indianapolis, and it’s resulting in wildly efficient and electric football.

Now that we can throw precedent out the window and judge teams simply based on what they’ve been through a month, I feel comfortable saying the Colts have been the best team in the AFC through five weeks.

3 – Buccaneers (4-1) 5

I was hesitant to put the Bucs this high considering all four of their wins have been by three points or less, which isn’t exactly sustainable. But, at least they won the damn games. That goes quite a long way!

I said in the preseason that Tampa was a sneaky 1-seed candidate because of how their schedule shaped up, especially down the stretch. Well, they’re 4-1 and about to wrap up the “hard part” of said schedule, all with injuries galore on offense and a Swiss cheese secondary.

Until that bites them, they’re going to keep winning because Baker Mayfield is a psychopath and Emeka Egbuka is already a superstar. This team is appointment television every week.

4 – Bills (4-1) 3

No team in the NFL goes undefeated. A loss was always going to show up for Buffalo, and I’m not surprised that it was to a divisional opponent with an up-and-coming quarterback and terrific coach.

I’m more surprised that the Bills were lifeless for about 50 minutes on Sunday night. That’s not what we’ve come to expect from this team. Maybe they were complacent because they’ve been sleepwalking to victories over the likes of the Jets and Saints. Maybe they simply underestimated their division rivals. Regardless, I didn’t like what I saw. They were outplayed and outcoached, they couldn’t establish any semblance of a run game and Josh Allen got his lunch money taken by Drake Maye.

But, the Bills aren’t the type of team to stay complacent for long. They’ll bounce back in a big way against the fluff they continue to be gifted in this schedule.

5 – Packers (2-1-1)

The Packers are one of several teams that I had no idea what to do with here. Didn’t help that they didn’t play this week. They should dispose of the Bengals easily this week, but I can’t imagine we’ll learn much about Green Bay until they go to Arizona in two weeks time.

6 – 49ers (4-1) 9

Putting the Niners this high seems a little… kneejerk to say the least. But damn, this is the coaching operation of the year. And that’s worth a hell of a lot in this league.

Kyle Shanahan is coaching his tail off, getting this team to continue grinding out close wins over quality opponents despite their Costco receipt of injuries. He’s getting Mac Jones to play lights out, for crying out loud. Christian McCaffrey has been the ultimate weapon that we know he can be, freaking Kendrick Bourne is turning into Justin Jefferson for some reason and that young defense is really starting to come into its own — Alfred Collins had an eye-popping performance on Thursday night.

Just imagine what it’ll look like when this team is as healthy as they can be.

7 – Rams (3-2) 3

The Rams only have themselves to blame for not being 5-0. Horrendous kicking operations, less-than-ideal fourth down decision-making and untimely turnovers have doomed them in their two losses.

But we all know this team is of an incredibly high quality. Matthew Stafford is playing at an MVP level, Puka Nacua is your OPOY through a month and that defense is all over the place. They just need to clean up the little things, because they’re snowballing into much, much bigger things. That can’t keep happening.

8 – Jaguars (4-1) 5

Hell yeah. This Jags team is absolutely electric. Monday night’s thrilling victory over the Chiefs was the epitome of that.

The story has to start with that defense, which continues to drop jaws. The takeaway total has reached 14, highlighted by Devin Lloyd — who would be the DPOY if the season ended today — taking a goal-line interception the distance for the game-flipping score. They make key plays in every key moment, which allows the offense to do the rest. And while I still don’t think that side of the ball is anything crazy, there’s no denying how good they’ve been in the clutch.

That win on Monday is the type of victory that can catalyze a strong regular season run. With plenty out there for the Jaguars to accomplish, who’s to say that they won’t?

9 – Seahawks (3-2) 1

I don’t know what the hell happened to this defense on Sunday, but it made for some excellent theater. Seeing Sam Darnold and Jaxon Smith-Njigba go band for band with Baker Mayfield and Emeka Egbuka was the most electrifying offensive football we’ve seen in 2025.

I do lean towards that defensive debacle being an aberration and not something that could become a trend. And while many could knock Darnold for his pair of interceptions, I’m not the type of guy to hate on a QB for throwing a pick on a tipped ball, or trying to make a play with the game on the line. He has still been wildly efficient behind a so-so offensive line with a so-so run game. If you’re looking for Darnold slander, it won’t come from me.

10 – Commanders (3-2) 2

I told you so. Turns out I was right all along about the impact that Jayden Daniels being in the lineup has. You guys should trust me on this stuff.

I will admit that this team looked completely lifeless for 20-or-so minutes on Sunday before Quan Martin’s forced fumble on Quentin Johnston completely turned the tide. Jayden, Jacory Croskey-Merritt and the Washington offense completely dominated from there on out while the defense tightened up and made every play they needed to. Yes, the Commanders were aided on penalties here and there, but they weren’t bad calls or anything like that. They took advantage of the Chargers’ mistakes.

I thought Daniels played a terrific second half, Bill clearly had the best game of his young career — and should be the clear every-down back from here on out — Deebo Samuel continued to be the best playmaker on the roster. And it all culminated in the closest feeling to 2024 that we’ve had in ’25. I like that feeling.

However! I still hate so much of the coverage schematics. That was the type of the game where the defensive line takes over, which is awesome to see. Javon Kinlaw and Daron Payne are playing out of their minds right now, and I loved to see the little sprinkling of Jordan Magee, who was a shot out of a cannon on several plays. But the countless third down conversions with wide open spots in the zone drove me nuts. Please, for the love of anything and everything that’s holy, clean that up.

11 – Broncos (3-2)

Thank you. Just… thank you. If I could move you into the top-10 on the principle of beating the Eagles alone, I would.

But honestly, I still have my qualms with the Broncos, particularly on offense. I just don’t understand why they still have Bo Nix playing with training wheels on, even with how solid the run game has been. They don’t want to throw over the middle — in fact, it feels like all they want to do is hit the sidelines with jump balls to Courtland Sutton or quick passes to the flat. And that works, but it won’t work consistently. In a strange way, I just feel like Sean Payton either doesn’t trust Nix right now, or they’re not on the same page.

But, if the offense can keep doing enough to match their defense’s ability to keep them in games, Denver can keep on winning. I just feel like Nix’s current level of play puts a low ceiling on how good they can be.

12 – Eagles (4-1) 10

Forget the 2024 Chiefs. These Eagles feel more like the 2020 Steelers.

No offensive identity. The players don’t like each other. The style of winning isn’t sustainable. The record doesn’t mean much when you throw on the tape.

Again, it has been a month. We can throw away precedent now. I don’t care that they won the Super Bowl eight months ago. This feels like a shell of the team that whooped the Chiefs in New Orleans. That dominant rushing team can no longer run the ball with Saquon freaking Barkley. AJ Brown continues to be alarmingly invisible. The once-lockdown secondary isn’t exactly fearsome. And teams can actually run on that front. At least the defense has been serviceable. The offense can’t say remotely the same.

I know I said that the Eagles will keep finding ways to win, but what happens if they can’t? Well, Sunday happens. And with a very tough schedule, that could continue to happen if this operation doesn’t tighten up. At least they get the Giants in two of their next three games.

It’s okay, Philadelphia. At least you have the Phillies! Oh wait.

13 – Chiefs (2-3) 7

I really did not want to bump the Chiefs this low, but I had nowhere else to put them. So, here you go. Just know that I don’t think you’re this low, Kansas City. It’s a matter of circumstance.

I’m just so perplexed at what this team is. When I watch them, I don’t get it. More than anything, I don’t understand why this defense is as underwhelming as it is. They have consistently given up major plays in the clutch to let down Patrick Mahomes and the offense. It feels like that side of the ball is starting to click, but it doesn’t matter because the D is failing them.

Let me be clear: I think the Chiefs are going to be fine despite a tough schedule, and I’d still easily pick them to win the AFC because they’re the Chiefs and Mahomes is still under center. But that doesn’t mean I can just put them in the top-5 or something. Because this isn’t a top-10 team in football right now, let alone a top-5 one.

14 – Patriots (3-2) 9

“Welcome to the f—ing show.” – Will Ferrell in The Campaign (2012).

The Patriots have arrived. I had my doubts about whether or not this would happen, but here we are. Drake Maye is here, folks. And he is really freaking good. His innate playmaking ability, his throwing prowess on the run and ever-improving decision-making has turned him into one of the league’s best-performing QBs thus far in 2025. The country got to see it in full, dazzling display on Sunday night.

Like I said with the Jaguars, that’s the type of win that can catalyze the run that determines the season. With the way Maye and Stefon Diggs are playing, with an improving defense, and with a TreVeyon Henderson that’s waiting to explode and with a Charmin-soft schedule, who knows what’s in the cards for the Patriots all of a sudden?

15 – Chargers (3-2) 8

You hear that? That’s the sound of the wheels falling off.

The offensive line situation has become untenable. The Chargers had to use two different right tackles and three separate right guards against the Commanders, and by the fourth quarter, they couldn’t keep the pocket clean if they had a full bottle of Windex.

Justin Herbert can only do so much — though, I’ve got to tell you, he’s not doing all that much anyways. There’s no semblance of a run game or a deep threat. It’s all dink and dunk, which is fine and dandy against the Raiders and all, but you can’t win every game like that. Now, Omarion Hampton is heading to IR, and the OL isn’t going to magically get healthier. This is a real make-or-break stretch coming up for LA.

16 – Steelers (3-1) 2

Bye weeks are fun when they mean I don’t have to watch the Steelers play football. Now I have to watch them play… Dillon Gabriel and the Browns? Great.

17 – Vikings (3-2) 2

Here’s what we know: this defense is still insane, and so is Justin Jefferson, and Kevin O’Connell is a remarkable coach. As long as those things remain true, the Vikings will continue to stay afloat.

Again, I’m interested to see what this operation looks like when JJ McCarthy returns, because I’m not so sure that they shouldn’t just stick with Carson Wentz as a steady hand to keep this thing upright. Only time will tell.

18 – Cowboys (2-2-1) 3

All it took to make this defense look good was playing the Jets. Seems legit.

In any case, this offense is still stupidly good. Javonte Williams has turned into Ladanian Tomlinson for whatever reason, Dak Prescott continues to play like an MVP, there are weapons everywhere and they are all making impacts. Ryan Flournoy is making plays for crying out loud.

I still think the Cowboys will have to win a shootout every week to stay out of the loss column when it comes to playing good teams. But shoot, maybe they can do it.

19 – Texans (2-3) 1

Hello, we’re back department? I’d like to file a claim.

I won’t get my hopes up because the Ravens are legitimately dreadful on both sides of the ball right now, but seeing CJ Stroud turn in a 2023-esque performance while the defense goes nuclear fills me with joy. That is the Texans team I feel like I’ve been waiting to see forever. If they can just keep consistently playing at or near that level, they can get right back in the thick of things.

Unfortunately, they’re going to stick around down here until I see that.

20 – Falcons (2-2) 4

I have no idea what this team is going to look like coming out of the bye, but I’m fascinated to find out. It’s a shame I’ll be missing that MNF matchup with the Bills due to being at the back-end of the ESPN/ABC doubleheader in Landover.

21 – Bears (2-2) 1

See you on Monday, my friends.

22 – Ravens (1-4) 8

It might legitimately be chalked in Baltimore. I don’t see how the Ravens turn this thing around in the immediate future, especially while Lamar Jackson is out.

This defense has now given up 41, 38, 37 and 41 points in their four losses this year. They cannot defend a scarecrow in an open field. The offense is lifeless without Lamar with absolutely zero rushing threat (any fellow Derrick Henry fantasy owners in shambles?). And the coaching doesn’t seem to be doing any favors.

The schedule will lighten up when Lamar is back, but will that matter if the Ravens are 1-5 or even 1-6? Because that’s a hell of a hole to dig out of.

23 – Cardinals (2-3) 6

You’re lucky I don’t put you at 32. That was one of the most embarrassing, inexplicable and laughable losses I’ve ever seen in nearly two decades of watching the NFL. And I don’t know that there’s any coming back from it.

Losing three games in a row on walkoff field goals with the latest being that absolute calamity can do irreparable damage to a locker room. We’re about to find out what this team is made of. My hopes aren’t very high.

24 – Panthers (2-3) 5

Oh look, another win! Shoutout Rico Dowdle.

This defense still stinks — though they’ve been better than anticipated — and I’m losing hope for Bryce Young by the quarter. But maybe, just maybe, the Panthers can find a little something on offense and keep it going into a favorable matchup against Dallas’ defense.

25 – Dolphins (1-4) 3

Ah, yes. The ol’ blown three-possession lead against the Panthers. Classic.

Miami has probably found something in Darren Waller. Jaylen Waddle and De’Von Achane are studs. But this offense still isn’t very good. And holy hell, that defense is abysmal. And that’s pretty much all there is to say about this team right now.

26 – Browns (1-4) 1

The nicest thing I can say about the Browns right now is that their defense is obviously great.

But offensively, it doesn’t feel like they’re trying to win. It feels like they play to not lose. I understand the limitations with that offensive line and an undersized and not-very-talented rookie quarterback, but come on guys. Let’s show some life.

27 – Saints (1-4) 4

You know what? Spencer Rattler has been good this season. I give the guy a ton of credit. The offense isn’t much to look at, but the sophomore quarterback has turned in some nice outings. None of the bad stuff happening in New Orleans is his fault.

The Saints defense is also playing at a solid level, and now we know what a turnover fest can look like for them. But, they’re not playing the Giants every week.

28 – Giants (1-4) 4

Jaxson Dart this, Cam Skattebo that. News flash: the Giants still suck! Who would’ve thought?!

Sunday’s game was necessary for Dart. He needs to make his rookie mistakes and learn that he’s not invincible. I’m just glad we can go back to pretending that New York is anything close to good or frisky. They’re bad.

29 – Titans (1-4) 3

No team in the NFL goes winless. Good for the Titans to get one, even if it took the looniest game I’ve ever watched to get it done.

I really think Cam Ward has it, man. He’s got the goods to make all the throws and the composure to be a franchise QB. Tennessee’s got one — they just have to surround him with the right pieces and infrastructure. I know you can see it too.

30 – Bengals (2-3) 4

The Jake Browning experiment ends… and the Joe Flacco experiment begins? A 40-year old QB behind that offensive line?

Good luck!

31 – Raiders (1-4) 6

It’s a pure, unmitigated disaster in the desert. Geno Smith has been one of the worst quarterbacks in football and Pete Carroll has no grip on anything in that locker room.

There is nothing remotely positive to say about the Raiders right now. It might be time to start over… again.

32 – Jets (0-5) 2

One is the loneliest number. The Jets sit alone as the NFL’s single winless squad.

When will that change? Not sure. When will Aaron Glenn look like a real head coach with any sort of grip on this organization? Also not sure.

New York might want to get comfy down here.

Week 5 Picks

The first football weekend in October promises to be another fun one in the NFL with a number of star-studded matchups and high-powered battles across the league.

Cover photo taken from NFL.

Last Week: 11-4-1

Season Total: 40-23-1

Rams 24-10 49ers

Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET, Prime Video

The 49ers are decimated by injuries and the Rams are humming. This is a simple calculus.

If San Francisco finds a way to win this game on the road without Brock Purdy, Brandon Aiyuk, Ricky Pearsall, Jauan Jennings and George Kittle, I’ll just throw my hands up and concede defeat.

Vikings 13-10 Browns

Sunday, 9:30 a.m. ET, NFL Network

First to 10 points wins.

With the way these two defenses are playing, the submarined total of 35.5 makes total sense. I guess I’ll take the “trusty” vet in Carson Wentz over the rookie making his first start in Dillon Gabriel. Plus, the Vikings have been overseas for two weeks now, which should be an advantage.

Either way, we owe the UK an apology for sending this game their way.

Colts 27-17 Raiders

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, FOX

Considering the trajectory of these two squads, this game shouldn’t be close. But, because I’m picking the Colts in survivor, it’ll find a way to be.

Regardless, I won’t predict that to be the case. The Raiders are a mess right now and this is a great spot for Indy to bounce back after last week’s tough loss on the west coast.

Saints 22-19 Giants

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS

The Saints aren’t going 0-17. They’ve got to find a win somewhere.

Before the season started, I said this would be one of only two wins for them, so I’ll stick to my guns.

Cowboys 27-24 Jets

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, FOX

For some reason that I can’t quite pinpoint, I really wanted to pick the Jets to win this game. Like the Saints, they’ve got to find a win somewhere, right? Why shouldn’t it come against the worst defense in the NFL?

Well, I just don’t trust New York’s offense right now. The Cowboys have essentially proven that they can win any shootout with the way their offense is playing, so at least I can trust them in that regard.

Eagles 20-16 Broncos

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS

As I’ve repeated, I’m going to continue to pick the Eagles until they lose, because they will always find a way to win.

Plus, Bo Nix doesn’t really move me, even against a susceptible Philly defense. Denver’s defense should keep them in this one, but I don’t know if the Broncos offense can make the plays necessary to put them over the top.

Panthers 26-21 Dolphins

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, FOX

Do I have to pick a winner here? Fine, I guess.

Give me the Panthers for no reason other than vibes. I can see Bryce Young putting together his bi-monthly solid game, and I can particularly see Tetairoa McMillan finally having his breakout game for Carolina. Don’t get me wrong, I also see the potentially more likely outcome of the Dolphins shredding Carolina’s dreadful defense, but I’ll choose the glass-half-full option with the home team.

Texans 24-16 Ravens

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS

So, the Ravens are screwed. Here’s a list of players that could miss this game for Baltimore: Lamar Jackson, Ronnie Stanley, Tyler Linderbaum, Kyle Hamilton, Nate Wiggins, Roquan Smith, Marlon Humphrey (this one might be a good thing) and Chidobe Awuzie. That’s insane. It’s never a good sign when your injury report mirrors a Costco receipt.

Hence, I’ll take the Texans, since there’s no way this shorthanded Baltimore squad can beat that defense without Lamar. And while Houston’s offense isn’t anything amazing, you and I can move the ball against the Ravens defense at full strength. Now that they’re missing all their best players, it’ll be brutal.

Cardinals 25-12 Titans

Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET, CBS

Every passing week with the Titans, we should be telling ourselves, “This should be Brian Callahan’s last game as head coach.”

We’ll see if that actually comes to fruition on Sunday.

Seahawks 24-20 Buccaneers

Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET, CBS

Ah, yes. The throwback uniform matchup of the century. The former Panthers outcast quarterback bowl. The “Ohio State is WRU” battle of the year. So on and so forth.

This game should be a banger, but I get the feeling that it won’t be. And that’s largely due to the injuries that Tampa Bay continues to deal with. Baker Mayfield has missed some practice time and Bucky Irving might miss his first game of the year all while the offensive line continues being a patchwork one and the WR corps remains on the mend.

Meanwhile, Seattle is on a completely upward trajectory. Considering their home field advantage, the way their defense is dominating games and how brilliant Sam Darnold and JSN have been, the Seahawks are an easy pick for me here.

Commanders 30-27 Chargers

Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET, FOX

This one’s going to come back to bite me, but so be it. This is the difference that Jayden Daniels makes.

No, Terry McLaurin nor Noah Brown are playing in this game. No, our defense can’t stop a traffic cone. But No. 5 is the great eraser. And he’s back.

It’s not just that, though. The Chargers being without Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt with an already abysmal interior offensive line gives me confidence that our defensive line can get some movement up front, both limiting Omarion Hampton and making Justin Herbert uncomfortable. That will need to happen, because I have little to no faith in our secondary against Quentin Johnston and Ladd McConkey. And while I like LA’s defense, they haven’t faced a Daniels-like quarterback just yet.

This game is going to be played on ice skates. And I trust Jayden to get the job done in his homecoming to SoCal.

Lions 38-10 Bengals

Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET, FOX

This is going to be a bloodbath so vicious that it should be censored on television.

Bills 23-14 Patriots

Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET, NBC

This is quite the measuring stick game for the Patriots, and undoubtedly the biggest game of Drake Maye’s young career. With the eyes of the nation looking at New England, it’s a real chance to make a statement.

But, it’s not going to happen. The Bills don’t lose at home, and they don’t lose to the Patriots anymore. Plus, how can Buffalo falter in those icy white uniforms?

Chiefs 23-20 Jaguars

Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET, ESPN

Like the Patriots, this is a heck of a measuring stick game for the Jaguars. They’ve started hot, but they also haven’t really played anyone crazy quite yet. This will be a great test for them at home.

With the way Jacksonville’s defense is playing, it’s admittedly hard to pick against them. But the Chiefs feel like they’re back, and I think they have what it takes to beat that strong Jags D now that Xavier Worthy is back. But, if Liam Coen’s fiesty bunch finds a way to pull this out, don’t color me surprised.

Post-Week 4 Power Rankings

With a month of the NFL season in the books, the picture couldn’t be muddier. There are clear-cut teams at the top and bottom, but everything in between is one big beautiful mess.

Cover photo taken from Imagn Images.

1 – Bills (4-0)

Simply the NFL’s most well-oiled machine.

They can sleepwalk to any win against an inferior opponent. And while they’re going to get a test from the Patriots on Sunday, it’s hard to see the Bills dropping any game in the month of October. The offense is first in dropback and rush EPA for crying out loud!

2 – Eagles (4-0) 3

The Eagles have proven that they can win in any which way in just four short weeks, and it’s infuriating.

One week Jalen Hurts lights up the second half of a game, and the next, he doesn’t complete a pass in the third and fourth quarters. And the Eagles still win comfortably. And that’s going to continue to be the case until it’s not.

Just to put things in perspective: Philadelphia has the fourth-worst yardage margin in the league, being outgained by nearly 400 yards in 2025. And they’re 4-0 anyways.

3 – Lions (3-1) 1

The Lions are probably the hottest team in the league right now in the sense that there’s no one I want to play less.

They are absolutely humming on both sides of the ball; the offense is self-explanatory, but they’re getting healthy on defense with Alim McNeil on his way back while Aidan Hutchinson continues to play out of his mind. They should wax Cincy this week before a fascinating SNF showdown in Kansas City.

4 – Rams (3-1) 3

We’re transparently seeing the high-level Rams that we were promised in the offseason.

While Matt Stafford, Puka Nacua and Davante Adams have this offense playing at a blistering level, the defense is finally starting to come into its own as the young bucks up front get after it — plus, the secondary has been a pleasant surprise.

The NFC West is pretty solid, but it’s still really hard to give the top spot to anyone but LA as long as they get MVP production out of Stafford and OPOY — if not record-setting — production out of Nacua.

5 – Packers (2-1-1) 1

So, what’s going on exactly? The defense that looked like world beaters for three weeks just turned into a bunch of traffic cones. Is that an aberration or a sign of things to come? Packer fans better hope it’s the former.

At least the offense is fine, but there are two areas that I still have concerns about: Jordan Love’s decision-making and Matt LaFleur’s playcalling. I guess they go hand-in-hand, because LaFleur is being way too conservative on first and second down. Is that to keep the training wheels on Love and stop him from doing stupid things? Maybe. If so, it’s working, but it’s also limiting this offense against defenses worth a damn.

6 – Chiefs (2-2) 5

Rumors of the demise of the Chiefs were greatly exaggerated. Turns out when a team gets their best offensive players back, they return to form. Who would’ve thunk it?

I do recognize that the Ravens defense would give up 30 to your high school’s JV team, but the performance that Kansas City put forth on offense on Sunday is the kind that can galvanize them moving forward, particularly when Rashee Rice gets back in two weeks. The run game still might be a concern, but I don’t care as long as Patrick Mahomes is back there doing that.

7 – Chargers (3-1) 5

The offensive line is not just a concern, it’s a massive one — the kind that can eventually derail this season.

We rarely see teams overcome such incompetence up front, especially when you lose each elite tackle. Joe Alt will return at some point, but while he’s out, I have serious doubts that the Chargers can keep Justin Herbert protected enough to continue the MVP trajectory that we saw in the first few weeks, nor can we continue to see the emergence of Omarion Hampton, though the defense should keep them in most games.

8 – Buccaneers (3-1) 2

Sunday’s loss to Philly pretty much reaffirmed how I feel about the Bucs: they’re a very good team who needs to get healthy and avoid the odd mistake by their QB.

I really like Baker Mayfield, as we all do, but his propensity to make mistakes in an effort to be Superman — when he really doesn’t need to be — can come back and bite like they did on that endzone interception. On the flip side, he made play after play to try and come back in that game. You gotta take the good with the bad, I suppose. A more calculated Baker and a sharper defense will go a long way.

9 – Colts (3-1) 1

Like Tampa, Sunday really strengthened how I feel about the Colts. I think this offense is legit, and I think this defense is good enough to compete with the league’s best offenses.

Hell, if Adonai Mitchell doesn’t drop the ball out of the endzone on what would’ve been one of the best plays of the season or doesn’t commit a hold on an incredible Jonathan Taylor touchdown run, the Colts would be 4-0 and maybe in the top-5.

We may all be waiting for the other shoe to drop with Daniel Jones, who did throw two picks on Sunday. But maybe it just… won’t?

10 – Seahawks (3-1) 5

An elite defense, a wildly efficient quarterback, a hyper-productive wide receiver and a consistent rushing attack makes for a real contender. That’s what we’re looking at with Seattle.

Sam Darnold has been brilliant, Jaxon Smith-Njigba is an early contender for OPOY, and like I’ve been saying, that defense is blowing me away. Thursday night’s game was only close because of the end-of-game shenanigans, and the Seahawks still pulled it out due to their elite QB-WR duo. If they can continue this form, Seattle is going to be a force in the NFC.

11 – Broncos (2-2) 1

Nice to know you guys can dispatch of Jake Browning and the Bengals. Just had to make sure.

The Broncos have been about what I’ve expected: the defense is playing well, the rushing game has been extremely consistent and Bo Nix has been… fine. Monday night was probably his best game of the season, but for some reason, I still feel like we need to see some more juice out of him. Maybe that’s asking for too much.

12 – Commanders (2-2) 2

This defense is officially a problem. That’s not something I expected to say after Week 1, but we’ve now seen three consecutive lackluster performances out of that unit, particularly on the backend.

Sunday was the first time I saw the defensive line get pushed around, but I’m hoping that doesn’t become a trend. But the secondary getting torched? That’s the new norm. Marshon Lattimore is absolute BBQ chicken, Mike Sainristil is having a dreadful season — though he had a nice interception — and the losses of guys like Will Harris are very much felt.

The good news? The best defender on the team is Jayden Daniels. And he’s coming back this week. That will help the defense tremendously. For as good as Marcus Mariota has been in relief — and he’s been outstanding — he doesn’t make the difference that No. 5 does. With Daniels back, the Commanders should be able to string together drives for longer and give their defense more rest, all while putting more points on the board.

This offense clearly isn’t the problem, and Kliff Kingsbury is really earning his money this season. Daniels being back gives them the ability to win shootouts, which Washington will apparently have to do in bunches to succeed.

13 – Jaguars (3-1) 6

Two main things: this defense is playing at an incredible level, but it’s not sustainable. That being said, it doesn’t have to be! The offense has been meticulously crafted to run the ball at will and let Trevor Lawrence do the rest without being too reckless. That’s a winning formula.

How long will it continue? Who knows. This defense has the talent to continue playing at an elite level, even if they don’t force four turnovers a game. Devin Lloyd is playing at an All-Pro caliber, and the tandem of him and Foye Oluokun is the best LB duo in football right now. If the offense keeps doing its thing, this is a clear-cut playoff contender.

14 – Ravens (1-3) 5

It’s far too early to declare that it’s over. But man, we are dangerously approaching that territory.

Defense can’t stop a scarecrow in an open field? Check. Derrick Henry is being completely ignored in the offense? Check. And now, an injury to Lamar Jackson that could sideline him for close to a month? Boy, it might get late early in Baltimore.

This was apparently never a championship team with this defense. But losing Lamar could put them even further behind the 8-ball with the Texans and Rams coming up. I don’t doubt that a late push with Jackson can get them back in the thick of things, but the Ravens have dug themselves a hole that’s going to be very, very difficult to get out of.

15 – 49ers (3-1) 2

It has been a month and I still have no clue what the 49ers are. It doesn’t matter who starts at QB, who’s on the injury list or who’s out on the field. I just don’t know.

I guess we know that Christian McCaffrey is still a beast and that Ricky Pearsall has truly emerged as a WR1. But any given week, we don’t know who’s going to line up under center or what version of this young defense we’re going to get. This team just isn’t trustworthy right now, even with a great record.

16 – Falcons (2-2) 1

It was a predictable bounce-back, but an emphatic one. Good for Michael Penix Jr. and this offense to get back on track with that performance, which was by far the best of his career thus far.

Getting lost in the equation here is the defense putting up arguably their worst game of the young season, but they were sharp on third down and tightened up when they needed to. That’s worth a lot, even if they gave up 27 points.

If Atlanta can get the best out of both sides of the ball, they’ll look much closer to the team we saw in Week 1, for example, rather than Week 3.

17 – Cardinals (2-2) 1

I would like to believe that the Cardinals we saw in the fourth quarter on Thursday night could be the Cardinals we see more consistently. But I just don’t think that’s going to happen. I’d love to be proven wrong, though!

With all the injuries in the backfield, a lot of the responsibility will be on Kyler Murray and the passing game. If Marvin Harrison Jr. can carry some positive momentum into the future, it’ll make a world of difference.

18 – Steelers (3-1) 2

Yeah, I just don’t care. The Steelers are the most nothing team in the NFL to me right now; I’m not moved by a 3-1 record when they are so damn unwatchable.

Aaron Rodgers has been… fine, I guess? The defense is playing better in the last two weeks, but that could be more due to the incompetence of the offenses they’ve faced. But, most importantly, this team is now in the driver’s seat in the AFC North, which is just gross. I don’t want to watch this team in January, but we just might have to… again.

19 – Vikings (2-2) 5

This is a good team just about everywhere but quarterback. And we’re seeing firsthand how much that can hold a team back. Missing Sam Darnold yet, are we?

Minnesota’s defense is good enough to keep them in every game, but this level of QB play is going to stunt them all year long. We’ll see if JJ McCarthy can take a leap when he returns from injury. I won’t get my hopes up on that front.

20 – Texans (1-3)

NFL teams playing the Tennessee Titans is the equivalent of when SEC teams play Chattanooga and Mercer in September before conference play. It serves as nothing more than a tune-up. Sunday’s shutout win showed me nothing I didn’t already know about the Texans: their defense is great, and their offense is not, largely due to their offensive line.

That being said, the emergence of Woody Marks is extremely promising. If they can unlock their rookie RB, it will go a very long way to take some pressure off CJ Stroud and the passing game. But, there are no promises behind that OL.

21 – Cowboys (1-2-1) 1

Dak Prescott is legitimately playing at an MVP caliber right now. I’m not convinced there’s a better QB in football at the moment, and this is probably the highest level he’s played at in at least two years, if not his entire career.

And yet, it doesn’t matter. This is a historically bad defense, particularly against the pass, and it negates any chance the Cowboys have of being a threat. And that’s honestly a damn shame.

22 – Bears (2-2) 1

Caleb Williams was not very good on Sunday, but he made some very nice plays, and those proved to be the difference in the game. Well, that and the game-winning field goal being blocked. Comme ci, comme ça.

In any case, this defense stinks. The offense is seemingly finding a groove, but it’s been against two horrendous defenses. So, I still don’t have a lot of faith in this squad moving forward. I’ll be at their first game on the other side of the bye, so I really, really hope this doesn’t come back to bite.

23 – Patriots (2-2)

Credit where credit is due: Drake Maye is playing at a very high level right now. But, the training wheels are clearly still on, and his best performances have come against some of the worst teams in the league.

Sunday Night Football in Buffalo is going to tell us all we need to know about this team. I’m actually really interested to see if they’re up to the task.

24 – Giants (1-3) 2

Jaxson Dart being inserted into the lineup brought exactly what I thought it would to the Giants: life. This team played and coached with a sense of juice that has been lacking in New York for a while. So, good for them.

Losing Malik Nabers for the season is brutal beyond description, though. I feel terrible for him. He is completely irreplaceable, and I hope he recovers swiftly. I don’t have a lot of faith in the Giants offense moving forward without him.

25 – Raiders (1-3)

Yeah, I’m ready to stick a fork in this experiment. Geno Smith is as erratic as ever, Pete Carroll has been a shell of the coach we once knew, and this defense is a joke.

Yes, they finally seem to have unlocked Ashton Jeanty despite his alleged lack of an “it-factor.” Cough, cough. But I don’t think that’s enough to save this trainwreck.

26 – Bengals (2-2) 2

Okay, this one is definitely over. Throw in the towel. Jake Browning is so far from the answer that he shouldn’t even be an option anymore. I don’t know what other choice the Bengals have, though. And that sucks.

Gotta feel bad for Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. At least they got those contracts in.

27 – Browns (1-3)

What will handing the keys over to Dillon Gabriel do to elevate this offense? My money’s on absolutely freakin’ nothing.

28 – Dolphins (1-3) 2

Finally, a win! All it took was… Tyreek Hill suffering a gruesome leg injury that could derail his entire career. I hate it.

Maybe the Fins have found something in post-retirement Darren Waller. Who knows. De’Von Achane, Jaylen Waddle and even Malik Washington comprise a solid set of weapons, too. But I still don’t expect much out of this squad.

29 – Panthers (1-3) 1

I think we’re approaching the tail end of the Bryce Young experiment. I don’t know that it’s anyone’s fault but his own, but I don’t think that Carolina can continue to trot him out in confidence for much longer. They should be squarely in the conversation to bring in a quarterback this offseason.

30 – Jets (0-4) 1

The Jets feel simultaneously better than their winless record and deserving of it. Their offense simply has a low ceiling with Justin Fields at the helm, and the defense clearly isn’t good enough to make up for it.

I know this was never going to be a season worth a damn in New York. I just hope it’s not a complete disaster. We’ll see what this Aaron Glenn experiment spits out.

31 – Saints (0-4) 1

Full marks for competitiveness. That’s about it. That first win will come eventually, I promise!

32 – Titans (0-4) 1

I can’t say the same about you. That first win feels like it’s on Mars right now.

But hey, don’t take my word for it. Take Cam Ward’s.

Week 4 Picks

Star-studded rivalries, revenge games, new uniform debuts and an international game make Week 4’s slate arguably the most fascinating one of the young NFL season. Here’s how I see it playing out.

Cover photo taken from NBC4.

Last Week: 8-8

Season Total: 29-19

Seahawks 23-20 Cardinals

Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET, Prime Video

The Cardinals might be the better-dressed team in this game, but the Seahawks are the better football team.

The way Seattle is humming on both sides of the ball gives me plenty of faith that they’ll get this done on the road. I just feel more comfortable with them than Arizona, whose identity-less offense might be in for a long night against a defense that’s punching above its weight and only getting healthier.

Vikings 16-13 Steelers

Sunday, 9:30 a.m. ET, NFL Network

Ah yes, I love waking up to Aaron Rodgers and Carson Wentz hoops in Dublin, Ireland. Nothing like it!

Simply put, in an international game where anything goes, I’ll take the team with the defense that I trust. That’s Minnesota; low bar against the Steelers unit, but Brian Flores is coaching his tail off right now, and Wentz will make it work on the other side of the ball. I don’t really like what Pittsburgh has on across the board.

Falcons 20-17 Commanders

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS

This is subject to change, but I’m writing this with the assumption that neither Jayden Daniels nor Terry McLaurin will play in this game for the Commanders. Even with the polar opposite performances these squads had a week ago, that’s a pretty big deal for Washington.

Marcus Mariota is obviously a tremendous backup, but playing without your top two WRs, your best blocking tight end and your starting right guard against a very talented defense is not a recipe for success. Yes, we have some guys on offense that can step up and make plays, and they’ll have to for us to pull this out. And yes, our defense is hooping. But this really feels like a spot where the Falcons get right after last week’s debacle in a lower-scoring affair.

Bills 31-13 Saints

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS

Next!

Lions 24-10 Browns

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, FOX

Let’s hope this week’s survivor pick (Detroit) winds up being less stressful than last week’s (Tampa Bay).

The Browns defense is awesome, but the Lions are on a crazy roll right now. No one should want to be in their way.

Patriots 26-20 Panthers

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, FOX

Realistically, the Patriots should win this game comfortably. They’ve been more consistent, they have better QB play and they should be getting Christian Gonzalez back on defense. But, New England hasn’t been able to stay out of its own way this season, which will always leave the door open for any team to beat them.

Luckily for the Pats, I don’t think the Panthers pose too much of a threat. Last week was more of an aberration than anything else, and the score doesn’t totally reflect the way things went for their offense. Maybe this will be the game Bryce Young looks legit. But I doubt it.

Chargers 23-13 Giants

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS

This is a suboptimal spot for Jaxson Dart to make his NFL debut under center for the Giants. Not only are the Chargers a damn good team, but New York might be without Malik Nabers after he got rocked on SNF.

I don’t think this is the time that Brian Daboll wanted to trot out his first-round QB, but they didn’t have a choice. Unfortunately, I don’t think Dart has what it takes to do this in his first game. The Chargers defense likely sees food right now.

Eagles 27-24 Buccaneers

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, FOX

The universe couldn’t have chosen a funnier time for these teams to face off. Each of them has gotten to 3-0 by the skin of their teeth and we have questions about both, but it sets up for a hell of a contest on Sunday.

More than anything, I’m expecting points in this game. These offenses are crazy good even with Tampa Bay dealing with injury upon injury on that side of the ball. I actually trust the Bucs defense more than the Eagles’ at this point, but we know what Philly’s is capable of at any given moment.

In any case, I’m going to continue to pick the Eagles until they lose because they’re simply going to keep on pulling these out for as long as they can. That’s the story of this team through the first three weeks, and while I can’t wait for it to end, I’m going to ride the coattails for as long as they’re there.

Texans 23-17 Titans

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS

Someone’s gotta win. Something’s gotta give.

If the Titans won this game, I wouldn’t be remotely surprised. The Texans offense is so dreadful that anyone can beat them simply by putting enough points on the board. But, that Houston defense is still legit, and I think that’s going to make things even more difficult on Cam Ward and this Tennessee offense. They’ll put up a fight, but I don’t know that they have what it takes to get it done in the end.

Rams 23-20 Colts

Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET, FOX

A month ago, I did not expect this game to be appointment television, but here are. Dare I say: it’s the best game of the late window! Because at least both of these teams are playing at a high level and not relying on their brands and reputations for respect.

More than anything, I’m interested to see if the Rams are capable of doing something that nobody has through three weeks: slow down Daniel Jones and the Colts offense. If we see the LA defense that showed up for two quarters and change in Philadelphia last week, then they should be able to contain Jones, Jonathan Taylor and company. If not, this could turn into a shootout very quickly, because the Rams secondary could be susceptible to a big play or two from this incandescent Indianapolis offense.

I think it’ll be a blend of both. Each offense will get their game off, each defense will make a play or two. It boils down to me simply trusting the Rams a little more in this situation. I feel like we’re all waiting for the Colts to return to Earth. Maybe that won’t happen at all, but this does feel like the spot where they get their first loss.

49ers 19-16 Jaguars

Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET, FOX

It’s so hard to get a read on this game with the state of the 49ers roster. Injuries everywhere have us doubting whether they could be without their starting QB and top three WRs. That’s just insane.

I do think Brock Purdy will return to action here, but I don’t know about Ricky Pearsall or Jauan Jennings. But still, I trust the Niners more at home, even against a Jags D that’s playing some good ball right now. I think Purdy and Christian McCaffrey will do just enough on offense, and the young San Francisco defense will continue to make some plays to eke out a win that looks eerily similar to the one last week.

And if the 49ers sit at 4-0 after everything they’ve had to deal with, it’ll be astounding.

Chiefs 24-20 Ravens

Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET, CBS

I just don’t know, man. What’s the read on this game?

The Ravens are the better team. But the Chiefs are the Chiefs. Though, Kansas City isn’t really their usual self right now. However, they’re getting Xavier Worthy back, which will drastically change their offensive outlook against a so-so Baltimore defense. And Derrick Henry has a fumbling issue. But surely that can’t continue. And Lamar Jackson is amazing, but the Ravens haven’t been able to win these games. But the Chiefs haven’t been able to run the ball. Although, Baltimore can’t really stop the run. But they can’t be 1-3, right? But the Chiefs can’t either, right?!

I’m literally being pulled in a million different directions. So, I’m just going with the gut feel and taking the Chiefs because I have no other ideas.

Bears 26-23 Raiders

Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET, CBS

This could feasibly be the highest-scoring game of Week 4 considering how neither of these pass defenses inspire a lot of confidence. If anything, it’ll be a passing extravaganza with both of these rushing offenses being complete non-factors through three weeks.

I’m begrudgingly leaning Chicago here because momentum is on their side. For what it’s worth, they’ve been a more consistent offense than Vegas, and Caleb Williams is coming off his best game as a pro. I think he and his buddy Rome Odunze can parlay that into another big game here against a Raiders team that’s a bit lost and confused at the moment.

Packers 31-14 Cowboys

Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET, NBC

The Micah Parsons revenge game storyline completely shrouds the fact that this game should not be remotely close. The Cowboys defense is a complete disaster, they just lost their best player on offense in CeeDee Lamb and the Packers are going to play pissed off after their loss last week.

Don’t get me wrong, Dak Prescott is playing good ball right now, and Dallas’ run game is really good. But will that offense be able to keep up with Green Bay, who could score every time they touch the ball, without Cedarian? I like George Pickens and Jalen Tolbert, but come on now. Not against that Packers defense.

Jets 22-19 Dolphins

Monday, 7:15 p.m. ET, ESPN

Someone’s gotta win. No one’s gonna watch.

I originally picked the Jets, but then I thought about it. And I just don’t know if the Dolphins are going to get the requisite QB play to get this one done. Tua played well against New England, but that’s sandwiched in between two really bad games. If the solid Tua shows up, Miami should win. If not… we know what happens. And I’m just banking on the latter since it unfortunately feels like the new norm for him. And if Mike McDaniel gets fired on Tuesday because of it, I’m going to feel awful.

Broncos 23-18 Bengals

Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET, ABC

I probably would have picked the Broncos to win this game even if Joe Burrow were playing for the Bengals. It has nothing to do with Bo Nix and everything to do with the state of both of these defenses.

Honestly, I think it’ll be the run games that make the difference in this one. I think Denver should be able to run it all over Cincy with JK Dobbins and RJ Harvey while Chase Brown continues to get completely smothered in the backfield on the other side. That’ll open things up enough for the Broncos offense to do what they’ve got to do. And while I don’t think Jake Browning will put up the disasterclass he did last week, I still don’t believe it’ll be pretty against another elite defense.