MY NEW NFL POWER RANKINGS FOR WEEK 10

STEELERS ROLL, PATRIOTS ROLLED

The Saints maintained their momentum, the Colts’ resurgence continued and there was a shocker in Nashville. So were there big changes in the Power Rankings? Just when you thought things were starting to take shape throughout the league, Week 10 provided some surprises. Both Super Bowl teams from a year ago took it on the chin. While the New England Patriots were manhandled at Tennessee, the reigning NFL champion Eagles are becoming a very difficult team to figure out. Meanwhile, both the Pittsburgh Steelers and New Orleans Saints made major offensive statements on Thursday night and Sunday afternoon, respectively. So was there a lot of shuffling when it came to the power rankings? It’s a different looking top 10 this week.

32; OAKLAND RAIDERS 1-8

Last week: L, 20-6 vs LAC

Last Rank: 32nd

Recap: Jon Gruden’s club looked to snap its four-game losing streak against a Chargers’ team that has won its last five contests. Back in Week 5, the Raiders were pushed around by this same team, 26-10, in Los Angeles. This time around, it was another double-digit loss as this club failed to score a touchdown for the second straight outing and the third time in their last four contests. Quarterback Derek Carr took his lumps once again as he threw for 243 yards and was not picked odd but was sacked four times and lost a fumble. The Oakland defense played a very respectable game but the lack of offensive support resulted in the team’s fifth straight loss.

Next Week: The Raiders make their way to the desert for the first time since 2010 to face a struggling Arizona Cardinals’ team. The clubs last met in Oakland in ‘14 and the Silver and Black fell, 24-13. And the Raiders also lost in their last road tilt in this interconference series, 24-23, eight years ago.

Playoff Hopes: Right now, this is an organization that has more first-round draft choices in 2019 (3) than wins this season. It’s a franchise clearly looking towards the future while trying to at least stay competitive. But this looks like a team ready to miss the playoffs for the 15th time in 16 seasons dating back to 2003.

31: NEW YORK GIANTS 1-7

Last Week: MNF at SF

Last Rank: 31st

Recap: So is this edition of the New York Giants worse than the 2017 version? It may be too early to tell but the signs are pretty disturbing. Entering Week 10, head coach Pat Shurmur could take solace in the fact that rookie running back Saquon Barkley looks like a star. But a troubled offensive line was one reason that the club still ranked 31st in the NFL in rushing yards per game. And speaking of that number, quarterback Eli Manning has been sacked 31 times while serving up just as many TD passes as turnovers (8). And while this team has been fairly competitive, the shortcomings on both sides have left them unable to seal the deal nearly all season.

Next Week: Following the Monday night appearance at San Francisco, the team takes on the slumping Tampa Bay Buccaneers at MetLife Stadium. The teams last met a year ago (Week 4) and New York fell at Raymond James Stadium, 25-23. Including playoffs, the Giants own a 14-7 lifetime edge in the series dating back to 1977.

Playoff Hopes: A year ago, the Giants set a franchise record for losses in a season (13). Eight games into 2018; Big Blue has yet to win at home (0-4), inside the division the NFC East (0-3) or even in the conference (0-6). And the recent trades of Eli Apple and Damon Harrison mean this team may already have future plans.

30: NEW YORK JETS 3-7

Last week: L, 41-10 vs BUF

Last rank: 27th

Recap: Losers of three straight games, the mistake-prone Jets welcome the equally-inept Buffalo Bills to MetLife Stadium. And with rookie quarterback Sam Darnold in a walking boot, veteran Josh McCown got the first start of the season. It was a forgettable first quarter as Jets were outgained 186-1 in total yards and trailed 14-0 after 15 minutes of play. When it was all over on Sunday afternoon, New York’s defense allowed 41 points and 451 total yards to a Buffalo team that had managed a grand total of 96 points while averaging 248.3 total yards per game in its first nine contests in 2018. It was one of the worst overall performances by any team in the league this season.

Next Week: The struggling Jets get some time off and get back on the field in Week 12 when they host the rival New England Patriots. That game is followed by consecutive road trips to Nashville and Orchard Park, respectively. All told Bowles’ team plays three of its final five games away from home.

Playoff hopes: Make it four consecutive losses for a club that was once 3-3 and coming off impressive wins over the Broncos and Colts. This is an organization that has not been to the playoffs since 2010 and certainly doesn’t look like a team ready to make a late-season run. And is the seat getting hotter for Bowles and company?

29: SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS 2-7

Last week: MNF vs NYG

Last rank: 29th

Recap: A year ago, Kyle Shanahan got his first victory as an NFL head coach when his 49ers bested the visiting New York Giants, 31-21, in Week 10. Now the teams renew acquaintances and for the second straight game, the Niners are in the prime time spotlight. When last we saw this club, quarterback Nick Mullens and company were embarrassing the visiting Oakland Raiders on a Thursday night at Levin’s Stadium. One of the big positives for Shanahan’s club this season has been the improvement of a running attack that was ranked 21st in the NFL a year ago. Entering Week 10, only three teams in the league were averaging more yards per game on the ground.

Next Week: The Niners have some time off before their final six games of the season. When the team returns to the field in Week 12, it travels cross country to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Then it is back west for the first of their two meetings with the Seattle Seahawks, the first in the Pacific Northwest (Week 13).

Playoff hopes: It’s midseason vacation time for Shanahan and company and it’s safe to say it’s been a very disappointing year, due mainly to the injuries to Garoppolo and McKinnon. It will be interesting to see if these Niners can play spoiler. But it’s looking like a fifth straight season without the playoffs for the Niners.

28: ARIZONA CARDINALS 2-7

Last week: L, 26-14 at KC

Last rank: 28th

Recap: After a week off, the Cardinals returned to the Show Me State (where the franchise made its home from 1960-87) to face the red-hot Kansas City Chiefs. Rookie quarterback Josh Rosen took his lumps as he was sacked five times, fumbled once (not lost) and was picked off twice. Arizona’s ground game got 98 yards and a score from running back David Johnson, who accounted for 183 total yards from scrimmage and the team’s two touchdowns on the afternoon. Steve Wilks’ defense did hold the Chiefs to a respectable 330 total yards – 90 in the second half. And Chandler Jones had two of the five sacks of Patrick Mahomes.

Next Week: It’s a home date with the Oakland Raiders as the Cards play the second of three straight games vs. AFC West competition. The teams meet for just the third time in nine years dating back to 2010. Arizona has won the last two encounters, including a 24-13 win at Oakland in ‘14 in the club’s last clash.

Playoff hopes: The Cardinals are now 2-0 vs. the San Francisco 49ers and 0-7 when facing the rest of the league this season. There are some strides being made on defense but the club lacks firepower on the other side of the ball. Wilks’ club has dug itself quite the hole and this remains a team very much in rebuilding mode.

27: DETROIT LIONS 3-6

Last week: L, 34-22 at CHI

Last rank: 25th

Recap: The unpredictable Men from Motown made their way to the Windy City as the Lions and Bears prepared to meet twice in a three-game span. Detroit owned a 9-1 record in the last 10 meetings entering Sunday’s contest but found themselves in a 26-7 hole at intermission. One week after being sacked 10 times at Minnesota, Matthew Stafford was dropped on six occasions by Chicago’s pass rush. And the Lions’ ground attack remains AWOL after looking like a much-improved aspect of the team. Meanwhile, Matt Patricia’s defensive unit had zero answers for Bears’ quarterback Mitch Trubisky, who threw for 355 yards and three scores.

Next Week: Patricia’s team prepares for two games in five days as the Lions host the 6-3 Carolina Panthers before their Thanksgiving Day rematch with the Bears. A year ago at Ford Field, the Lions fell to Cam Newton and company, 27-24, in Week 4. Next Sunday will mark only the ninth meeting between these two franchises.

Playoff hopes: The Lions have dropped three straight games and are suddenly looking more like the team that began the season with losses to the Jets and 49ers. Detroit’s offense has turned one-dimensional once again the line can’t protect Stafford. The club is quickly slipping out of the playoff picture.

26: TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS 3-6

Last week: L, 16-3 vs WAS

Last rank: 24th

Recap: For the fourth time this season, Buccaneers’ veteran signal-caller Ryan Fitzpatrick totaled at least 400 yards through the air. He connected on 29 of his 41 attempts for 406 yards. But he also threw a pair of interceptions and lost a fumble as Dirk Koetter’s team finished the afternoon with more turnovers (4) than points. For the first time in nine games this season, the Bucs did not allow at least 21 points in a game. Still, it all went for naught as the club simply made too many mistakes against a Washington team that has done a good job of protecting the football all season. Koetter’s squad has now committed 25 turnovers in nine games this season.

Next Week: The Bucs make their way north to MetLife Stadium to take a New York Giants’ team that is having another miserable season. A year ago at Tampa (Week 4), Koetter and company came away with a 25-23 victory over Big Blue. It’s the third meeting in four seasons between the clubs.

Playoff hopes: Did this team really kick off the season by beating the New Orleans Saints at the Superdome and knocking off the defending Super Bowl champions at Tampa? It’s been all downhill for the club ever since, with the exception off an overtime win over the Browns. This is a franchise that hasn’t been to the playoffs since 2007.

25: BUFFALO BILLS 3-7

Last week: W, 41-10 at NYJ

Last rank: 30th

Recap: For numerous reasons, the Bills had gone through three different starting quarterbacks this season and it added up to two wins and a total of 96 points in the team’s first nine games. On Sunday against the New York Jets, Sean McDermott turned to journeyman Matt Barkley and more significantly, veteran running back LeSean McCoy and a Buffalo ground game that abused Todd Bowles’ squad for 212 yards. McCoy ran for 113 yards and a pair of scores on 26 carries. Barkley threw for 232 yards and two touchdowns as McDermott’s club did not turn over the football. The Bills scored 41 points and rolled up 451 total yards in the rout.

Next Week: McDermott’s club has the week off, as does the entire AFC East. When the Bills return to action in Week 12, they will play host the defending AFC South champion Jacksonville Jaguars in a playoff rematch from a year ago. Buffalo fell on the road in the wild card round, 10-3.

Playoff hopes: The Bills now find themselves with the same win-loss record as the Jets. And credit the club for playing hard while putting an end to an ugly four-game losing streak. The team plays four of its final six games vs. AFC East rivals and might still have a say when it comes to the AFC postseason picture.

24: CLEVELAND BROWNS 3-6-1

Last week: W, 28-16 vs ATL

Last rank: 26th

Recap: Interim head coach Gregg Williams was at the helm for the second straight Sunday as the Browns welcomed the resurgent Atlanta Falcons to Cleveland for the first time since 2010. And the club responded in a big way by snapping a four-game losing streak in impressive fashion. Rookie Nick Chubb rushed for 177 yards on 20 carries, more than half of that coming on a 92-yard scoring run. Fellow rookie Baker Mayfield hit on 17-of-20 throws for 216 yards and three scores and was knocked sacked in the game. Meanwhile, the Browns cooled off Matt Ryan and company, forcing two turnovers and adding to their league-leading total with 25 takeaways.

Next Week: There’s no football for the Browns as the team takes some time off. When the club returns to action in Week 12, they will head to the Queen City to face the Bengals for the first of two meetings this season. Cleveland has dropped seven consecutive meetings in this rivalry dating back to the team’s second clash in 2014.

Playoff hopes: The Browns played their most impressive game of the season from start to finish and controlled the line of scrimmage during the contest. And the win came against a Falcons’ team that was playing solid football as of late. Could Williams’ team make life uncomfortable for some clubs looking to make a playoff push?

23: DENVER BRONCOS 3-6

Last week: OFF

Last rank: 23rd

Recap: It’s been a rough stretch for head coach Vance Joseph and a Broncos’ organization that has been under a lot of scrutiny as of late. A season ago, the team got off to a 3-1 start only to lose 10 of its final 12 contests. This year, Denver opened with narrow wins over the Seahawks and Raiders but have now dropped six of their last seven games. Quarterback Case Keenum has had his problems avoiding mistakes all season and has had only one game this year in which he did not throw an interception. And Denver’s once-proud defensive unit continues to have its issues, especially when it comes to stopping the run.

Next Week: The struggling Broncos return to action in Week 11 and head to Los Angeles to face the surging Chargers, winner of their last six games. These longtime division rivals have split their season series each of the past two years, with the home club prevailing in each of those four contests.

Playoff hopes: The Broncos have the unenviable task of trying to leapfrog both the Kansas City Chiefs and Chargers in the AFC West. And Joseph’s club has already been swept by the reigning division champions. This certainly doesn’t look like a team headed to the playoffs or unfortunately, a club even capable of making a run.

22: JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS 3-6

Last week: L, 29-26 at IND

Last rank: 20th

Recap: Doug Marrone’s team brought a four-game losing streak into an AFC South showdown with the Colts at Indianapolis. And despite a game effort which saw the reigning division champions roll up 415 total yards in the game, one costly turnover by wide receiver Rashad Greene late in the fourth quarter prevented the Jaguars from possibly sending the game into overtime or even grabbing a victory. Blake Bortles threw for 320 yards and two scores and running back Leonard Fournette returned to the lineup and totaled 109 yards from scrimmage and a pair of touchdowns. Marrone’s team lost its fifth straight after opening the season 3-1.

Next Week: The team plays a game at Jacksonville for the first time since October 21 (Week 7) as they host this playoff rematch with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Last season, Marrone’s club defeated the Steelers twice at Heinz Field, first during the regular season in Week 5 (35-7) and later in the AFC Divisional Playoffs (45-42).

Playoff hopes: Along with currently residing last in the AFC South with a 3-6 record, the Jaguars own a 0-3 record within the division – including home losses to the Texans and Titans. And it’s the Jacksonville defense that must start looking itself in the mirror as the club has already matched its loss total from 2017.

21: INDIANAPOLIS COLTS 4-5

Last week: W, 29-26 vs JAC

Last rank: 22nd

Recap: Off a week ago, the revitalized Colts returned to action at home against a Jacksonville Jaguars’ team that was also off a week ago. And Frank Reich’s club got off to a sensational start as quarterback Andrew Luck found tight end Eric Erbon for a 53-yard score just 3:34 into the game. It would be a big afternoon for the one-time first-round draft choice of the Detroit Lions. He caught three passes for 69 yards and a total of two touchdowns, plus reached the end zone via the ground. For the fourth consecutive game, Luck was not sacked. And the Colts got a timely takeaway late in the game to make it three straight wins.

Next Week: For the second consecutive Sunday, Reich’s squad is at home and facing a divisional foe that a year ago took two games from them. Last season in Week 6, the Tennessee Titans prevailed, 36-22, on a Monday night at Nashville. Six weeks later (Week 12), the Colts fell at Lucas Oil Stadium, 20-16.

Playoff hopes: There’s a very long way to go but there’s seemingly always a team that overcomes a really bad start to make a strong postseason run. The Colts certainly fit the part these days as the team is firing on all cylinders on offense these days. If the team can get back to the .500 mark next week, it could be an interesting stretch run.

20: MIAMI DOLPHINS 5-5

Last week: L, 31-12 at GB

Last rank: 19th

Recap: For the second consecutive game, the Dolphins’ offense unit failed the reach the end zone. And while Dam Gase’s club managed to get away with that against the New York Jets, it simply wasn’t the case at Lambeau Field against the desperate Packers. Miami managed just 294 yards of total offense and settled for four field goals. Ageless Frank Gore rushed for 90 yards and was a bright spot in the lopsided loss. On the other hand, quarterback Brock Osweiler was sacked six times and committed a pair of turnovers. Meanwhile, the ‘Fins defense allowed a whopping 195 yards on the ground – 145 by Packers’ running back Aaron Jones.

Next Week: The Dolphins have been one of the NFL’s most unpredictable team. But the one certainty when it comes to this week as this idle club won’t win or lose (or tie). When Gase’s club returns to the field in Week 12, it’s a trip north to Indianapolis to face the rejuvenated Colts.

Playoff hopes: Miami is one victory away from matching its win total of a year ago. But that doesn’t mean this is a club capable of bigger and better things down the stretch. But the Dolphins are just two games behind the New England Patriots in the AFC East and stranger things have certainly happened.

19: BALTIMORE RAVENS 4-5

Last week: OFF

Last rank: 17th

Recap: After an impressive 3-1 start which included a 26-14 prime time victory over the Steelers at Pittsburgh; it has been all downhill for John Harbaugh’s club. There’s been a formula for winning this season for the Ravens and it’s pretty simple: Hold an opposing team to under 300 total yards and the club is 4-0. That’s not been the case in the club’s five setbacks and this club has now dropped three straight games, including home losses to the Saints and Steelers. And now there’s news that 11-year quarterback Joe Flacco is dealing with a hip injury. Could we see rookie Lamar Jackson behind center when Baltimore returns to action?

Next Week: It’s the second meeting of the year between the Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals as the latter is in position to sweep this series for the third time in five years. Back in Week 2 on a Thursday night at Paul Brown Stadium, Marvin Lewis’ club came away with a 34-23 win.

Playoff hopes: Remember when the Ravens were a postseason staple the first five seasons under Harbaugh? Since 2013, the club has made the playoffs once and owns a 44-45 regular-season record since. And the team’s 1-3 record within the division could come back to haunt them in a big way down the stretch.

18: DALLAS COWBOYS 4-5

Last week: W, 27-20 at PHI

Last rank: 18th

Recap: Embattled head coach Jason Garrett took his club into the City of Brotherly Love looking for the team’s first road win of 2018. And it was worth noting that the Cowboys were 5-1 in their last six trip to Philadelphia entering Sunday evening. Six days after being embarrassed at home by the Titans, Dallas took a 13-3 lead at halftime over the defending Super Bowl champions. Garrett’s team would hold on to knock off the Birds and third-year running back Ezekiel Elliott enjoyed a huge outing. He carried 19 times for 151 yards and one score and also caught six passes for 36 yards and a touchdown as the Dallas’ offense amassed 410 total yards in the victory.

Next Week: It’s another road game for the Cowboys as they head to Atlanta for the second consecutive year. A season ago (Week 10), a shorthanded Dallas’ offensive front gave up eight sacks in a disturbing 27-7 loss. All told, Garrett’s club has dropped three straight in this series dating back to 2012.

Playoff hopes: There is a very interesting stretch ahead for this club. The trip to Atlanta is followed by a rematch with the Redskins on Thanksgiving Day. Dallas owns a 2-1 record within the division despite its sub-.500 overall record. Washington is still within shouting distance and if the Cowboys can build on this latest win, look out.

17: ATLANTA FALCONS 4-5

Last week: L, 28-16 at CLE

Last rank: 14th

Recap: Winners of three straight games, the resurgent Falcons headed north to face a Browns’ club that had dropped four consecutive contests after a 2-2-1 start. But Dan Quinn’s club found itself on the short end of a 28-10 third-quarter deficit as the Atlanta defense was ripped apart by rookie Nick Chubb and the Cleveland ground attack. The Browns rolled up 211 yards on 29 attempts and the Falcons’ pass rush failed to sack rookie quarterback Baker Mayfield. Matt Ryan did throw for 330 yards and two scores but also committed one of the team’s two turnovers. It was a disappointing outing for a team that had appeared to be catching fire.

Next Week: Quinn’s team host the Dallas Cowboys for the second straight season looking to extend their three-game winning streak in this series dating back to 2012. A year ago in Week 10 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta’s defense sacked Cowboys’ quarterback Dak Prescott eight times in a 27-7 victory.

Playoff hopes: The Falcons have dipped back below .500 after the surprising loss to the Browns. The Atlanta defense failed to make any plays and the offense was bottled up for the most part. The NFC has a lot of teams that are struggling to keep their heads above water and Quinn’s squad is certainly among them.

16: SEATTLE SEAHAWKS 4-5

Last week: L, 36-31 at LAR 

Last rank: 16th

Recap: The Seahawks made their way to Los Angeles to face a Rams’ team that knocked them off earlier this season (Week 5) at Seattle, 33-31. And it was a slight case of déjà vu as Pete Carroll’s club had another big afternoon on the ground. And for the second time this year, the ‘Hawks did score exactly 31 points against the defending NFC West champions. But Carroll’s defense had no answers for the Rams’ attack and eventually couldn’t keep pace. Rookie running back Rashaad Penny carried just 12 times but ran for 108 yards and one score. Russell Wilson overcame four sacks, threw for three touchdowns and rushed for 92 yards. But it just wasn’t enough.

Next Week: It’s a short week but a Thursday night home date with the Green Bay Packers as Carroll’s club hosts this series for the first time since 2014, when the then-defending Super Bowl champs knocked off Mike McCarthy’s team twice. But it’s the Pack that has won the last three meetings dating back to 2015 – all at Lambeau Field.

Playoff hopes: The bad news is that the Seahawks dropped their second straight game and once again sport a losing record. But there’s a lot of parity in terms of win-loss records within the conference. This Thursday night home tilt with the Packers could wind up being the most important game of the season to date for the ‘Hawks.

15: TENNESSEE TITANS 5-4

Last week: W, 34-10 vs NE

Last rank: 21st

Recap: So what happened to the team that scored a total of two touchdowns in a three-game span? Six days after finding the end zone four times on a Monday night at Arlington, the Titans pushed the defending AFC champion Patriots around on Sunday afternoon at Nashville. The 1-2 punch of Derrick Henry and Dion Lewis combined for 115 of the team’s 150 rushing yards, with the former running for a pair of scores. Marcus Mariota threw for 228 yards and two touchdowns, with wide receiver Corey Davis totaling seven grabs for 125 yards and one of those TDs. And the Tennessee defense limited the Pats to 40 yards rushing and sacked Tom Brady three times.

Next Week: The Titans are on the road for the second time in three weeks and head to Indianapolis to face a Colts’ team that they managed to sweep a year ago for the first time since 2002. In fact, Tennessee’s 36-22 Monday night victory a year ago in Week 6 snapped an 11-game losing streak to the Colts.

Playoff hopes: It’s amazing what two impressive wins in a seven-day span can do for a club. And after struggling to reach the end zone for three straight games, the Tennessee offense is starting to get its act together. With a 2-0 record vs. AFC South team this season, the club is very much in the chase for its first division title since 2008.

14: CINCINNATI BENGALS 5-4

Last week: L, 51-14 vs NO

Last rank: 13th

Recap: The Bengals had dropped two of their previous three games after a 4-1 start and entered Sunday’s clash with the blistering New Orleans Saints sporting the NFL’s 32nd-ranked defense in terms of total yards allowed per game. And unfortunately for Marvin Lewis, his unit lived up to those numbers on Sunday as Drew Brees and company moved the football at will. Cincinnati surrendered a whopping 509 total yards and allowed the Saints to convert on seven of their 12 third-down attempts. Andy Dalton was sacked four times and picked off twice as Cincinnati – minus wide receiver A.J. Green – managed a mere 284 yards of total offense.

Next Week: Lewis’ team is in position to sweep their annual two-game set with the Baltimore Ravens for the third time in five seasons. Back in week 2 on a Thursday night at Cincinnati, the Bengals came away with an impressive 34-23 win. Lewis’ club is now 9-3 in its last 12 meetings in this series.

Playoff hopes: The Bengals are still one game above .500 but appear to be headed in the wrong direction, especially when it comes to the defensive side of the ball. The team is still very capable of showing up in the playoffs but Teryl Austin’s unit needs to get its act together or the slump will certainly continue.

13: green bay packers 4-4-1

Last week: W, 31-12 vs MIA

Last rank: 15th

Recap: Thanks to a big performance from Aaron…Jones, Mike McCarthy’s team was able to snap a brief two-game losing streak, get back even (4-4-1) and stay within range of the Chicago Bears and Minnesota Vikings in the NFC North. Jones carried 15 times for 145 yards and two touchdowns, while quarterback Aaron Rodgers threw for 199 yards and found wide receiver Davante Adams for a pair of scores. Green Bay’s pass rush came up with six sacks of Dolphins’ quarterback Brock Osweiler and forced the experienced signal-caller into a pair of turnovers. The Pack finished with a hefty 195 yards on the ground.

Next Week: The Packers make their first trip to the Pacific Northwest since 2014 as they square off with the Seahawks for the fifth consecutive season. A year ago in Week 1 at Lambeau Field, Green Bay came up with a 17-9 victory over Pete Carroll’s club. The Pack has prevailed in the last three encounters dating back to ‘15.

Playoff hopes: McCarthy’s team is back at the .500 mark and has a pair of vital road games ahead in the next two weeks. And while the Packers are winless away from home this season (0-4), the team still has the opportunity to change things. If the Green Bay ground attack continues to improve, this could be an interesting stretch ahead.

12: PHILADELPHIA EAGLES 4-5

Last week: L, 27-20 vs DAL

Last rank: 9th

Recap: The defending Super Bowl champions appeared lifeless on Sunday night at home against the sub-.500 Dallas Cowboys. Doug Pederson’s team managed only 132 yards and a field goal in the first two quarters of the game. Things would get better after intermission when it came to moving the football and the Eagles finished the night with 421 total yards. But Philadelphia’s defense had answers for a Cowboys’ offense that was coming off a dismal home loss to the Titans. Jim Schwartz’s unit entered Week 10 with the NFL’s second-ranked rushing defense. But Dallas rolled up 171 yards on the ground on 28 carries.

Next Week: The Birds fly south to the Crescent City for the first time since 2012 and have the unenviable task of trying to knock off the red-hot New Orleans Saints – winners of eight straight games. The teams last met in ‘15 at Lincoln Financial Field and Philadelphia came away with an easy 39-17 win over Drew Brees and company.

Playoff hopes: The Eagles are now two full games behind the Washington Redskins in the NFC East. The good news for the defending champions is the fact that they still get two cracks at Jay Gruden’s club this season. But is this erratic squad capable of getting on a roll, something Pederson’s squad has yet to show this year?

11: HOUSTON TEXANS 6-3

Last week: OFF

Last rank: 12th

Recap: It’s been 20 years since a team overcame a 0-3 start and still managed to reach the playoffs. But so far, so good for Bill O’Brien’s club, who were rescued in Week 9 when Broncos’ kicker Brandon McManus pulled a game-winning field goal right. The Texans have won six straight games but still have some work to do if they are to win a fifth AFC South title since 2011. Quarterback Deshaun Watson is looking better these days after a so-so start and the running game is succeeding despite the continued question marks on the offensive line. Defensively, J.J. Watt is healthy and Houston is once again creating problems for opposing offenses.

Next Week: When the first-place Texans return to action in Week 11, they will head to Landover for the first time since 2010 to take on the unpredictable Washington Redskins. The teams will meet for only the fifth time dating back to the series’ inception in 2002.

Playoff hopes: The Texans have won six straight games but both the Tennessee Titans and now the Indianapolis Colts are playing better and right on Houston’s heels. That can be a good thing for O’Brien’s club, which is now finding ways to win. A little more offensive consistency would help, especially from the men up front.

10: WASHINGTON REDSKINS 6-3

Last week: W, 16-3 at TB

Last rank: 11th

Recap: Talk about really bending but not breaking? Greg Manusky’s defensive unit allowed a whopping 501 total yards to the Buccaneers. And Tampa quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick lit up Washington’s secondary for 406 yards. But Jay Gruden’s team surrendered only a field goal and bounced back strongly after last Sunday’s debacle against the Falcons. The Redskins played turnover-free football while the club totaled four takeaways, three of those at the expense of Fitzpatrick. And kudos to a makeshift offensive line that paved the way for a respectable 116 yards rushing on 25 carries, more than half of that by veteran Adrian Peterson.

Next Week: The Redskins play host to the AFC South-leading Houston Texans. It’s a team that has won six straight games, including three straight on the road. This marks just the fifth lifetime meeting between the franchises. It’s just the second interconference game for the ‘Skins this year, the other a 21-9 loss to the Colts in Week 2.

Playoff hopes: Once again, Gruden’s team managed to rebound smartly after a lopsided loss. The victory raised Washington’s record in the conference to 6-2, a far cry from a season ago when the Redskins owned a 5-7 mark vs. NFC teams. The team has now won four of its last five games after a shaky 2-2 start.

9: LOS ANGELES CHARGERS 7-2

Last week: W, 20-6 at OAK

Last rank: 10th

Recap: Anthony Lynn’s squad had an opportunity to sweep the rival Oakland Raiders for the second straight season and the Chargers embraced the moment, although it wasn’t easy. The team gained 335 total yards and running back Melvin Gordon accounted for 165 of that. He also caught one of Philip Rivers’ two touchdown passes. The veteran quarterback did throw an interception but was sacked just once. Meanwhile, the Bolts’ pass rush got to Oakland signal-caller Derek Carr four times and the Raiders’ offense to 317 total yards. It was the club’s sixth straight win and the Chargers’ third consecutive road victory.

Next Week: The Bolts return home for a date with the rival Denver Broncos. It’s the start of three home games in four weeks for Lynn’s team, which has split its two-game set with the Men from Mile High each of the past two seasons. A year ago, the Chargers blanked the Broncos in Los Angeles, 21-0, in Week 7.

Playoff hopes: Some of the wins haven’t been spectacular. But the Chargers are doing exactly what they need to do to stay within shouting distance of the first-place Chiefs. It’s the defense that has been the difference in recent weeks and that unit must continue to get better if they are to give Kansas City a real run for its money.

8: CAROLINA PANTHERS 6-3

Last week: L, 52-21 at PIT

Last rank: 6th

Recap: The Panthers got off to a great start on Thursday night in the Steel City as second-year running back Christian McCaffrey accounted for 60 of the team’s 75-yards on the opening drive of the game and scored on 20-yard touchdown reception. But then in a flash, Ron Rivera’s team gave up a 75-yard touchdown pass and quarterback Cam Newton inexplicably served up an easy pick-six. When it was all said and done, Carolina gave up 457 total yards and couldn’t get Pittsburgh’s offense of the field for the vast majority of the afternoon. It was a humbling evening for a team that had won its previous three games.

Next Week: The Panthers have a little extra time to lick their wounds before heading to Detroit to face the unpredictable Lions. Carolina has prevailed in six of the previous eight meetings in a series that dates back to 1999. A year ago at Ford Field (Week 5), Rivera’s club came up with a 27-24 victory.

Playoff hopes: The road has not been kind to Rivera and company this season (1-3). And that’s something that has to change if this club is going to stay within shouting distance of the Saints. Carolina’s inconsistent defensive unit has some soul searching to do. But this is still a very talented team capable of going on a run.

7: NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS 7-3

Last week: L, 34-10 at TEN

Last rank: 4th

Recap: There would be plenty of storylines when it came to head coach Bill Belichick and the organization seeing some very familiar faces in head coach Mike Vrabel, running back Deon Lewis, cornerback Malcolm Butler and defensive coordinator Dean Pees, to name a few. But who would have expected the Titans to dominate this game from start to finish? Tennessee opened up a 17-3 first-quarter lead and although New England narrowed the gap to seven points by halftime, Vrabel’s club pitched a second-half shutout against his former coach. It was a head-scratching showing for the Pats, who have been outscored a combined 91-40 in their three losses this season.

Next Week: The reigning conference champions and defending AFC East titlists have a week off before returning to action in Week 12, when they will face the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium. The Patriots have taken 12 of the last 14 meetings between the clubs dating back to 2011.

Playoff hopes: As odd as it may sound, the Buffalo Bills were the only team in the division to win on Sunday. And that’s good news for the Pats, who maintain a two-game lead in the AFC East heading into the team’s off week. While the club still looks like a Super Bowl contenders, its three lopsided losses this season do raise concerns.

6: MINNESOTA VIKINGS 5-3-1

Last week: OFF

Last rank: 5th

Recap: After a slow start, the defending NFC North champions have regained their footing for the most part. A team that gave up the fewest total yards and points in the league a year ago struggled early on that side of the football. Combine that with an offensive line that has had its ups and downs all year and quarterback Kirk Cousins has drawn mixed reviews despite completing 71.3 percent of his passes. The talented signal-caller has thrown for 17 scores opposed to five interceptions but has lost six of his eight fumbles. Adam Thielen has totaled 100-plus receiving yards in all but one game this year. Can second-year running back Dalvin Cook stay healthy?

Next Week: Minnesota returns to action in Week 11 and heads to the Windy City for the first of two meetings this season with the Chicago Bears. It’s a series that has gone the Vikings way as of late as the Purple Gang has prevailed in six of the last seven meeting dating back to the clubs’ second encounters in 2014.

Playoff hopes: With the Bears winning on Sunday vs. the Lions, Zimmer’s team has quite the opportunity ahead of it next Sunday night at Soldier Field. The Vikings have not lost a game within the division this season (1-0-1) and a road victory over the Bears would be huge given the current standings in the NFC North.

5: CHICAGO BEARS 6-3

Last week: W, 34-22 vs DET

Last rank: 7th

Recap: Matt Nagy’s had won its last two games and sat atop the NFC North as the Detroit Lions invaded Soldier Field. But the Bears were also riding a 10-game losing streak to divisional foes. Chicago was also 1-9 in its last 10 meetings in this series but put an end to all of that unpleasantness on Sunday afternoon. But it was No. 10 that spearheaded a huge win the club as quarterback Mitch Trubisky threw for 355 yards and three scores and ran for another touchdown. The Chicago defense picked off Lions’ quarterback Matthew Stafford twice and sacked him six times while Vic Fangio’s unit limited Detroit to 76 yards rushing. But kicker Cody Parkey had a forgettable game.

Next Week: Nagy’s team is home for the second straight week and now the Bears will square off against the Minnesota Vikings in prime time as the game at Soldier Field was flexed to a Sunday night. It’s a series that has not gone Chicago’s way as of late as the club has dropped six of its last seven meetings vs. the Purple Gang.

Playoff hopes: The Bears finally put an end to that long losing streak within the division and are currently on a three-game roll. The team is growing on offense on a weekly basis and this is a club that has its share of weapons on both side of the ball. Next Sunday’s showdown with the Vikings shapes up as a very big moment for this squad.

4: PITTSBURGH STEELERS 6-2-1

Last week: W, 52-21 vs CAR

Last rank: 8th

Recap: After spotting the visiting Carolina Panthers a 7-0 first-quarter lead on Thursday night, quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster combined for a 75-yard touchdown on Pittsburgh’s first play from scrimmage. And things got even wilder on the next play the game from scrimmage as inside linebacker Vince Williams got a gift interception return for a touchdown thanks to T.J. Watt’s pressure of Cam Newton near the goal line. Roethlisberger hit on 22-of-25 throws for 328 yards and five scores, the Steelers rolled up an impressive 457 total yards and Mike Tomlin’s rejuvenated club played turnover-free football for the second straight week.

Next Week: Tomlin’s hot club looks to exact a little revenge next Sunday at Jacksonville when they take on the Jaguars in a game now slated for 1:00 pm ET. A year ago, the Steelers fell twice at home to Doug Marrone’s club, the most devastating a wild 45-42 setback in the AFC Divisional Playoffs.

Playoff hopes: The Steelers were able to extend their lead in the AFC North with the win on Thursday night and Cincinnati’s lopsided home loss to the Saints. This team has made a lot of strides after winning just one game the first four weeks of the season. And it’s been a total team effort by Tomlin’s talented club.

3: KANSAS CITY CHIEFS 9-1

Last week: W, 26-14 vs ARI

Last rank: 3rd

Recap: Since stumbling slightly on a Sunday night at Foxborough, the Chiefs had won three straight games (by a combined 112-54 score) and took an 8-1 record into their meeting with the Arizona Cardinals. And while the club came away with a fourth consecutive win, it was more a product of the Kansas City Chiefs’ defense making plays. While quarterback Patrick Mahomes did throw for 249 yards and two scores, he was also sacked five times while the Chiefs’ ground attack managed a modest 118 yards. Meanwhile, Chris Jones had two of the five sacks of Cardinals’ quarterback Josh Rosen, who was also picked off twice by Bob Sutton’s defensive unit.

Next Week: It’s another NFC West opponent for Reid’s club as the team follows their 12-point victory over the Cardinals with a trip to Mexico City to face the Los Angeles Rams on Monday night. It’s the first meeting between the franchises since 2014. And the Chiefs have prevailed in the club’s last six meetings dating back to ’97.

Playoff hopes: Compared to a season ago when the club slumped after a 5-0 start, the Chiefs have rebounded smartly from that prime time setback to the Patriots and their defense has been playing better as of late. Kansas City is on course to win a third straight AFC West title but those pesky Chargers are still hanging around.

2: LOS ANGELES RAMS 9-1

Last week: W, 36-31 vs SEA

Last rank: 2nd

Recap: The NFC West leaders were coming off their first loss of 2018 as they prepared for their second meeting of the season with the improving Seattle Seahawks. And just as was the case in the club’s first clash of the year, the Rams’ defense struggled to stop Pete Carroll’s club on the ground. After giving up 190 yard five weeks ago, Wade Phillips’ defender surrendered a whopping 273 on the ground. But Sean McVay’s club more than offset those numbers as Todd Gurley ran for 120 yards and one score and quarterback Jared Goff threw for 318 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Los Angeles’ defense did drop Russell Wilson four times, 2.5 of those sacks by Aaron Donald.

Next Week: It’s a game many have been waiting for, especially over the last few weeks when both the Rams and Kansas City Chiefs were each flirting with undefeated seasons. That’s no longer the case for either club, but now these explosive teams will meet on Monday night at Mexico City.

Playoff hopes: The Rams completed a season sweep of the Seahawks and now own a 4-0 record in the division and a five and half-game lead in the NFC West. They are the only team in the league running away from the rest of their group this season. But for all of those wins, Los Angeles’ defense is still a concern these days.

1: NEW ORLEANS SAINTS 8-1

Last week: W, 51-14 at CIN

Last rank: 1st

Recap: Would the NFC South front-runners suffer a bit of a letdown in the Queen City after handing the Los Angeles Rams their first loss of the season? Hardly. The Saints built a 35-7 halftime advantage over the stunned Cincinnati Bengals, outgaining their hosts in total yards by a 311-142 count. Drew Brees completed 18-of-20 passes for 214 yards and three touchdowns in 30 minutes of action. By afternoon’s end, New Orleans rolled up 509 total yards of offense, played turnover-free football and did not surrender a sack. It was quite the complete performance for a team that raised its road record to 5-0 this season.

Next Week: The Saints prepare for two home games in five days. First up is a visit from the defending Super Bowl champion Eagles. The teams square off for the first time since 2015, when the Birds pounded Payton’s team, 39-17, in the City of Brotherly Love. On Thanksgiving night, Payton’s club has a rematch with the Atlanta Falcons.

Playoff hopes: No team is playing better football these days and the Saints continue to find ways to frustrate opposing defenses. And Payton’s club was the only member of the NFC South to win in Week 10. And with a win next Sunday, New Orleans will complete a sweep of the other three 2017 division winners in the conference.