MY NEW NFL POWER RANKINGS FOR WEEK 13

CHARGERS STRIKE, BENGALS IMPLODE

It was the final installment of off weeks in the NFL. And there was a little shuffling when it came to both the top and the bottom of the power rankings.

32: SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS 2-9

Last Week: L, 27-9 at TB
Last Rank: 29th

Recap: The Niners returned from their off-week and made the long trip to the Sunshine State to take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. But Sunday got off the rough start for the franchise as linebacker Reuben Foster was released after another off-the-field incident. As for the game, San Francisco trailed by seven at the half (13-6) and would manage only a field goal in the final 30 minutes. Meanwhile, Robert Saleh’s unit allowed 412 total yards to Jameis Winston and company. The team generated only one sack all afternoon and once again failed to force a turnover. All told, Shanahan’s squad has totaled only five takeaways in 11 games this year.

Next Week: Shanahan’s team heads back cross country and makes its way to the Pacific Northwest to face a franchise that has caused the Niners nightmares as of late. Including a tough 23-17 in the 2013 NFC title game, the 49ers have dropped nine consecutive games to the rival Seahawks – including five straight at Seattle.

Playoff hopes: It’s a fourth consecutive losing season for a Niners’ franchise that has had its share of bad luck with injuries this season. The setback to the Buccaneers dropped San Francisco to 1-7 within the conference. Simply put, this team has had too much to overcome this year and the club currently doesn’t have the talent.

31: ARIZONA CARDINALS 2-9

Last week: L, 45-10 at LAC
Last rank: 32nd

Recap: The Cardinals faced their third consecutive AFC West opponent when they ventured to Los Angeles to clash with the Chargers. Steve Wilks’ squad took a surprising 10-0 first quarter lead but this contest went south in a hurry as the club surrendered four unanswered touchdowns before halftime. Wilks’ defense gave up 220 total yards in the first 30 minutes of the game and things would continue to go badly for Big Red. By afternoon’s end, the Cards were outgained by the Bolts, 414-149, in total yards. Wilks’ team dropped to 0-4 vs. the AFC West this season and were outscored a combined 139-55 in those four setbacks.

Next Week: The Cardinals head to Lambeau Field for the first time since 2012 as they face the Packers for the first time since beating the team twice in 2015 – including a memorable 26-20 overtime win in the NFC Divisional Playoffs that year at Arizona. As for that last appearance at Green Bay, the Cards came up short by a 31-17 score.

Playoff hopes: This is a team headed nowhere fast as the team has won just two games this season – both vs. the San Francisco 49ers. The Cardinals appear to have a quarterback to develop in Rosen. But he needs a lot more help and the offensive line remains a major concern. It’s been a long year and that’s an understatement.

30: OAKLAND RAIDERS 2-9

Last week: L, 34-17 at BAL
Last rank: 31st

Recap: The Silver and Black were back on the road for the second straight week as they took on a Baltimore Ravens’ team very much in the playoff chase. Oakland took the opening possession of the game and marched 81 yards on 12 plays and scored on a one-yard TD run by Doug Martin. But Jon Gruden’s club wound up trailing at halftime, 13-10. And after that impressive first march, the Raiders gained only 168 yards the remainder of the afternoon. Meanwhile, the Oakland defense gave up 242 yards rushing 416 total yards to a limited Baltimore attack. And quarterback Derek Carr (16-of-34) was under duress once again.

Next Week: It’s the first of two meetings in the final five weeks of the season between the Raiders and the 9-2 Kansas City Chiefs. A year ago, the Silver and Black managed a split with their longtime divisional rival for the first time since 2014. But the Raiders own a disappointing 2-8 record in this series dating back to ‘13.

Playoff hopes: With a chance to build on last week’s victory at Arizona, the Raiders came up woefully short in all aspects of their game. The team had key breakdowns on offense as well as on special teams. In some ways, its sums up what had been a very disjointed season for this edition of the Silver and Black.

29: NEW YORK JETS 3-8

Last week: L, 27-13 vs NE
Last rank: 30th

Recap: Todd Bowles’ club was back after some time off and hosted the AFC East-leading New England Patriots. For the second consecutive game, Josh McCown would be behind center for the Green and White. When last we saw the team, it was on its way to a 41-10 home loss to the Bills in which the team gained one yard in the first quarter. Against the rival Pats, the Jets took a 7-0 first-quarter lead thanks to a Jermaine Kearse TD reception via McCown. But the club would manage only two field goals the remainder of the game. Meanwhile, the New York defense had no answers for a New England offense that rolled up 498 total yards – including 215 on the ground.

Next Week: The original Titans head south to Nashville as the Jets invade Tennessee for the first time since 2014. The real question for Bowles’ team is whether rookie Sam Darnold will be back behind center for the Green and White. As for these teams’ last meeting, New York came away with a 30-8 home win in ‘15.

Playoff hopes: Make it five straight losses for a team for Bowles’ club, who have been outscored a combined 142-56 in those setbacks. The Jets are winless within the AFC East this season (0-4) and are a disappointing 2-6 in the conference. A promising 3-3 start has turned into a disastrous campaign.

28: NEW YORK GIANTS 3-8

Last week: L, 25-22 at PHI
Last rank: 27th

Recap: Back in Week 6 on a Thursday night at MetLife Stadium, the Giants were pushed around by the Eagles, 34-13. It was time for the rematch at Philadelphia and Pat Shurmur’s team was looking to win its third game in a row. Thanks mainly to a pair of touchdowns (13-yard reception, 51-yard run) by rookie Saquon Barkley; Big Blue owned a 19-3 lead in the second quarter. But New York’s play-calling turned passive the rest of the afternoon and the Birds were not only able to catch up, they would eventually twice take the lead. It was a bitter loss for a club that appeared on its way to a third straight win and the chance of getting back into the NFC East race.

Next Week: Shurmur’s team play host to the much-improved Chicago Bears, who lead the NFC North and are riding a five-game winning streak. It’s a team that the Giants’ head coach should be very familiar with considering his time with the Minnesota Vikings. New York came away with a 22-16 home win in ’16 when the clubs lasts met.

Playoff hopes: New York dropped to 0-4 vs. their divisional neighbors and were once again swept by the Eagles. Combine that with a 2-7 record within the NFC and it’s hard to fathom this club making a realistic run at the playoffs. Despite Sunday’s heartbreaking loss, the team is actually playing better football as of late.

27: JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS 3-8

Last week: L, 24-21 at BUF
Last rank: 26th

Recap: The defending AFC South champion Jaguars made their way north to Orchard Park looking to end a six-game losing streak. A year ago in the AFC Wild Card Playoffs, Doug Marrone’s came away with an ugly 10-3 victory. By halftime, Jacksonville and Buffalo had evenly split 28 points. But the Jaguars wouldn’t score again there was only 80 seconds left in the game. Leonard Fournette ran for 95 yards and two scores and Marrone’s club finished with 226 yards on the ground. Meanwhile, quarterback Blake Bortles threw for one scored but was sacked three times and served up two interceptions. And there will be no winning season for this club.

Next Week: The Jaguars return home for an AFC South rematch with the Indianapolis Colts. Back in Week 10 at Lucas Oil Stadium, Marrone’s team fell short in a 29-26 loss. It’s worth noting that Jacksonville owns a disappointing 0-3 record within the division this year – including home losses to both the Titans and Texans.

Playoff hopes: Even if the Jaguars ran the table, the club would have to get a lot of help getting into the playoffs with an 8-8 record. It’s almost hard to believe that this team was one quarter away from its first-ever Super Bowl appearance a year ago. Marrone’s club has fallen after that promising 3-1 start.

26: DETROIT LIONS 4-7

Last week: L, 23-16 vs CHI
Last rank: 23rd

Recap: Matt Patricia’s Lions took on the first-place Chicago Bears for the second time in three games. Off a turnover, Detroit took an early 7-0 lead early in the second quarter via the first of two four-yard touchdown runs by LeGarrette Blount. The Bears would eventually own a 9-7 edge by halftime and when Lions’ kicker Matt Prater connected on a 20-yard field goal it was a 16-all contest with 7:44 to play. Less than two minutes later, Matthew Stafford was picked off by Bears’ safety Eddie Jackson, who returned the gift 40 yards for the deciding score. And the veteran signal-caller threw an end zone interception with a little over a minute to play to seal the verdict.

Next Week: The Lions play a third consecutive home game and once again clash with an NFC playoff contender as the 10-1 Los Angeles Rams invade the Motor City. The teams last met two years ago at Ford Field and the home club came away with a 31-28 victory. Detroit hosts this series for the fifth time since 2009.

Playoff hopes: Patricia’s inconsistent team has shown promise at times. But the Lions have now dropped four of the last five games after a somewhat-respectable 3-3 start. And the club is just 1-3 vs. its divisional rivals. The offense has been up and down all season and the defense has been a disappointment under the new head coach.

25: TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS 4-7

Last week: W, 27-9 vs SF
Last rank: 28th

Recap: Entrenched in a four-game losing streak, the Buccaneers welcomed the struggling San Francisco 49ers to Tampa. Quarterback Jameis Winston was back in the starting lineup after entering last week’s game in relief of Ryan Fitzpatrick in the club’s loss to the Giants. He would hit on 18-of-24 passes for 176 yards and one score as the team owned a 13-6 advantage at intermission. The four-year signal-caller would throw for 312 yards and two scores and the Bucs would not turn over the football. Meanwhile, the much-maligned Tampa defense sacked 49ers’ quarterback Nick Mullens four times and intercepted two of his passes.

Next Week: The Bucs are home for a second consecutive week and look to avenge an earlier 42-28 loss this seasons to the Carolina Panthers at Charlotte in Week 9. Tampa has not fared well in this series as of late, dropping three straight and nine of the last 11 meetings between the clubs dating back to 2013.

Playoff hopes: Dirk Koetter’s team has taken its lumps and is still mathematically alive for a postseason spot. But a 3-5 conference record as a 1-2 mark within the division puts them behind the eight ball when it comes to the other contenders. In any case, the Buccaneers are still very capable of making an impact on the playoff race.

24: BUFFALO BILLS 4-7

Last week: W, 24-21 vs JAC
Last rank: 25th

Recap: Sean McDermott’s club had a few weeks a 41-10 win over the New York Jets back in Week 10. Now the Bills returned to action with a chance to avenge last season’s 10-3 playoff loss to the Jaguars at Jacksonville. Rookie Josh Allen returned to the starting lineup and the club took a 7-0 first-quarter lead on a six-yard scoring run by wide receiver Isaiah McKenzie. Allen would then find wideout Robert Foster for a 75-yard score later in the first quarter as Buffalo opened up a 14-point lead. And even though the teams were tied at intermission, a much-maligned Bills’ offensive line paved the way for 167 yards rushing (99 by Allen) and didn’t allow a sack.

Next Week: The Bills close the season with four of their final five games against AFC East rivals. It begins with a visit to South Florida to face the Dolphins. It’s the first of two meetings between the clubs, the second coming in Week 17 at Orchard Park. A year ago, Buffalo swept this series for the second time in three seasons.

Playoff hopes: There’s still time for the team to make a run a playoff berth. While that may sound extremely hard to believe, consider how the Bills managed to get into the postseason a year ago. Nothing has come easy for this team in 2018, but McDermott’s squad has certainly shown major signs of life in their last two outings.

23: ATLANTA FALCONS 4-7

Last week: L, 31-17 at NO
Last rank: 20th

Recap: It was another disappointing outing for the Falcons, who dropped their third consecutive game after winning three straight contests. Dan Quinn’s defensive unit was overwhelmed at times by the Saints’ balanced attack. Meanwhile, quarterback Matt Ryan and the Atlanta offense shot itself in the foot on numerous occasions. The veteran signal-caller with sacked four times alone in the first half and six times by end of the evening. When it was all said and done, a Falcons’ team that turned over the ball just eight times in its first 10 outings coughed it up on four occasions (1 interception, 3 lost fumbles) on Thanksgiving in the Big Easy.

Next Week: Off a disappointing Thanksgiving night at the Superdome, the Falcons return home and face the Ravens. It is the first meeting between the teams since 2014 as Atlanta hosts the series for the first time in eight years. As for the clubs’ last encounter, the Falcons were rolled in Baltimore, 29-7, four years ago.

Playoff hopes: The Falcons followed a three-game losing streak with three consecutive victories. But that string of success has been offset by three straight setbacks and the team has been limited to fewer than 20 points in each of those defeats. And Quinn’s squad plays three of its final five games on the road. A tall order indeed.

22: CINCINNATI BENGALS 5-6

Last week: L, 35-20 vs CLE
Last rank: 14th

Recap: Losers of four of their last five games after a 4-1 start, Marvin Lewis’ Bengals hosted the Cleveland Browns as the teams met for the first time this season. Cincinnati would not have wide receiver A.J. Green once again but it was the defense that once again fell on their collective face masks. Lewis’ club was down 28-0 in the second quarter and in the first half alone the club gave up a whopping 296 total yards after 30 minutes of play. While the Bengals made the final score respectable, they also finished the afternoon with quarterback Andy Dalton out of action with a thumb injury. Cincinnati’s losing streak stands at three straight games.

Next Week: The Bengals are home for the second straight Sunday and host the rejuvenated Denver Broncos. Both teams now sport 5-6 record but it is the Men from Mile High that are playing better football these days. This will be the fifth consecutive season that these franchises will meet, with Cincinnati winning at Denver in ’17.

Playoff hopes: It has really come apart for Lewis’ team, especially on the defensive side of the football. A club that was once 4-1 and playing solid football has suddenly become non-competitive. The Bengals are 1-5 in their last six outings and over that stretch has allowed a whopping 217 points – an average of 36.5 per game.

21: CLEVELAND BROWNS 4-6-1

Last week: W, 35-20 at CIN
Last rank: 24th

Recap: The Browns had quite a few streaks on the line when they clashed with the rival Bengals at Cincinnati. The team had not only dropped seven straight games to their divisional neighbor but the club took a 25-game road skid into the contest – one short of tying the NFL record. Baker Mayfield hit on 19 of his 26 throws for 258 yards and four touchdowns. One of those scoring tosses went to fellow rookie Nick Chubb, who carried 28 times for 84 yards and a rushing TD as well. Cleveland would own a 28-0 second quarter lead on the way to a convincing 15-point win. And the team not only ended its road woes but won two straight games for the first time since 2014.

Next Week: It is a second straight road game for Williams’ club as his team heads to Houston for a second consecutive season. A year ago (Week 6), Cleveland was routed by the Texans, 33-17. The Browns have dropped four straight in this series dating back to ’08 and have lost four consecutive games at Houston dating back to ’05.

Playoff hopes: Don’t count on the Browns just yet when it comes to reaching the playoffs. Stranger things have happened in this league and Williams’ team needs to keep on winning and also get a lot of help. But this club is suddenly loaded with confidence and could prove to be a real handful the final five weeks of ’18.

20: GREEN BAY PACKERS 4-6-1

Last week: L, 24-17 at MIN
Last rank: 13th

Recap: The Packers were still looking for their first road win of the season (0-5) when the team invaded the Twin Cities on Sunday night. Back in Week 2, Green Bay and Minnesota played to a 29-all tie at Lambeau Field. This time around, the teams were knotted at 14-all at intermission. But Mike McCarthy’s club was held to a field goal for the remainder of the evening and the team finished the game with only 254 yards of total offense. Quarterback Aaron Rodger threw for only 198 yards and while there was one score and no interceptions, he was sacked four times. Frankly, this was a club that didn’t seem to play with very much urgency against the Vikings.

Next Week: The Packers return to Lambeau Field and play host to the 2-9 Arizona Cardinals. It’s the teams’ first meeting since 2015, when Green Bay lost twice in the desert, the second meeting 26-20 overtime setback in the NFC Divisional Playoffs. The Pack last hosted this series way back in 2012.

Playoff hopes: Green Bay and San Francisco are now the only teams in the league that haven’t won a game on the road this season (both 0-6). McCarthy’s club is now two games under .500 and own a losing record both within the division (1-2-1) as well as the conference (2-5-1). The playoffs suddenly look like a longshot.

19: PHILADELPHIA EAGLES 5-6

Last week: W, 25-22 vs NYG
Last rank: 21st

Recap: Doug Pederson’s defending Super Bowl champions had already lost twice as many games as they did a year ago. But one of their four wins this season came back in Week 6 at the expense of the Giants (34-13). Now the Birds look to get back on track and sweep this series for the fourth time in five seasons. It certainly didn’t look good when the Eagles trailed by 16 points in the second quarter. But the team gathered itself and outscored the Giants a combined 22-3 the remainder of the game. Carson Wentz threw for 236 yards and one score, that going to tight end Zach Ertz. And Pederson’s team played turnover-free football.

Next Week: The Birds take the Monday night stage and host to the 6-5 Washington Redskins, who will have a little extra time to prepare since Jay Gruden’s club last suited up on Thanksgiving Day. In 2017, Pederson’s club came away with a pair of wins over this longtime NFC East rival for the first time in ‘13.

Playoff hopes: They are a lot better now as the Eagles completed the sweep of Big Blue and raised their divisional record to 2-1. The team still has a pair of meetings with the Washington Redskins and a rematch with the Dallas Cowboys ahead. Now if only this team can finally win two games in a row this season.

18: DENVER BRONCOS 5-6

Last week: W, 24-17 vs PIT
Last rank: 22nd

Recap: Off their surprise win at Los Angeles over the surging Chargers, the Broncos welcomed another hot team to the Mile High City as they looked to snap the six-game winning streak of the Pittsburgh Steelers. The clubs played to a 10-all tie after two quarters and Pittsburgh took a 17-10 lead early in the third quarter when Ben Roethlisberger found Juju Smith-Schuster for a 97-yard score. But an opportunistic Denver defense kept the Steelers from doing any more damage the remainder of the game. Vance Joseph’s club did give up 527 total yards but also forced four turnovers – the last an end zone interception by nose tackle Shelby Harris to preserve the win.

Next Week: For the fifth consecutive season, the Broncos and Cincinnati Bengals will renew acquaintances – this time in the Queen City. A year ago at Denver (Week 11), Joseph’s club was on the short end of a 20-17 score. All told, the Broncos own a convincing 21-10 lifetime advantage in this longtime series.

Playoff hopes: The Broncos were swept by the Chiefs this season but own a 2-2 record in the division and a 3-5 mark within the AFC. The latter is not necessarily good but it’s better than it was two weeks ago. Denver in the playoffs is certainly a longshot but the team seems to finally be settling in after some early growing pains.

17: MIAMI DOLPHINS 5-6

Last week: L, 27-24 at IND
Last rank: 19th

Recap: Adam Gase’s Dolphins had some extra time to prepare for their trip to Indianapolis as the club looked to cool off one of the league’s hotter teams. The key would be getting pressure on Indianapolis Colts’ quarterback Andrew Luck, who has not been sacked in five consecutive games entering the contest.  As for the Dolphins, quarterback Ryan Tannehill would return to the starting lineup and wind up throwing for 204 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Frank Gore returned to Indianapolis and ran for 67 yards. The ‘Fins even managed to sack Andrew Luck and pick him off twice. But Gase’s club couldn’t protect a 24-14 lead with 13:36 to play.

Next Week: It’s the first of two meetings with the Buffalo Bills the final five weeks of the season. A year ago, the Dolphins were swept in this setting for the second time in three seasons. Of course, Miami took two from the Bills in 2016. Dating back to 2013, the ‘Fins are a disappointing 3-7 in this AFC East rivalry.

Playoff hopes: From 3-0 to six losses in their last eight games, the Dolphins may be kicking themselves after the season if they do indeed fall short of the postseason after this most recent loss. This unpredictable team is still a respectable 4-4 within the conference and still has four games remaining vs. AFC competition.

16: BALTIMORE RAVENS 6-5

Last week: W, 34-17 vs OAK
Last rank: 18th

Recap: For the second straight Sunday, the Ravens would be at home and Lamar Jackson would be behind center. A week ago, the rookie quarterback totaled 26 carries for 119 yards in the team’s win over the Bengals. Against the Raiders, he toted the ball 11 times for 71 yards and scored once. This time around, he saw more action in the passing game and hit on 14-of-25 throw for 178 yards and one touchdown, with two picks. More importantly, it was another big game for unsung running back Gus Edwards, who racked up 118 of the club’s 242 yards on the ground. And the Baltimore special teams and defense found the end zone during the afternoon as well.

Next Week: The Ravens hit the road and head to Atlanta for the first time since 2010. This marks just the sixth lifetime meeting with the Falcons dating back to 1999. Will Joe Flacco be back in the lineup for Baltimore? Along with Matt Ryan, it would make for a reunion of the first-round quarterback class of 2008.

Playoff hopes: The team has come up with back-to-back wins and finds itself above the .500 mark once again. The Ravens play three of their final five games on the road, where the club is 2-3 this season. Baltimore’s running game is carrying the team right now and if the defense can continue to make plays, this team can get hot in a hurry.

15: TENNESSEE TITANS 6-5

Last week: L, 34-17 at TEN
Last rank: 17th

Recap: So what exactly to make of the Titans? The team opened the year with a strange loss at South Florida and rebounded with three consecutive wins. Then came a stretch in which the club scored only two touchdowns in three outings – all losses for Mike Vrabel’s club. Tennessee rebounded impressively with wins over the Cowboys (28-14) and Patriots (34-10). Which means last week’s 38-10 loss at Indianapolis was a real head scratcher. At times, the team looks like it might have the best defense in the league, although cornerback Malcolm Butler has had his issues. Combine that with a sporadic offense and it’s no surprise that this is a .500 squad.

Next Week: After the Monday night tilt at Houston, the Titans close the season with four home games in the final five weeks. First up is a meeting with the New York Jets, followed by a rematch with the Jacksonville Jaguars on a Thursday night – with both games at Nashville.

Playoff hopes: The team is very much in the AFC South title picture but the lack of consistency by these Titans is perplexing. A week after defeating the Patriots by 24 points, Vrabel’s club falls by 28. Still, the club owns a 2-1 divisional record and after Monday night’s tilt at Houston, the Titans play four of their final five games at home.

14: WASHINGTON REDSKINS 6-5

Last week: L, 31-23 at DAL
Last rank: 11th

Recap: With veteran signal-caller Alex Smith out for the season, Colt McCoy would be making his first NFL start since 2014 as the Redskins visited Dallas on Thanksgiving Day. Jay Gruden’s squad was in position as sweep this series for the first time since 2012. The Redskins got off to a tough start but by the third quarter, the team owned a 13-10 lead thanks to McCoy’s second touchdown pass of the game. But Dustin Hopkins missed the PAT and that seemed to take the wind out of Washington’s sails. The Cowboys responded with three straight touchdowns and despite a late rally of sorts, McCoy would finish with three interceptions.

Next Week: It’s the first meeting of the season between the Redskins and Philadelphia Eagles, with the defending Super Bowl champions hosting this contest on Monday night. A season ago, Washington was swept by the Birds for the first time since 2013. Prior to last year’s results, the ‘Skins had won five straight games in this series.

Playoff hopes: Despite two straight losses, the Redskins are still tied atop the NFC East and split with the Cowboys this season. The team will play three of its final five games vs. division foes (2 of those at home), including a pair with the Eagles. Gruden’s club has been a pleasant surprise this year and is still very much in contention.

13: DALLAS COWBOYS 6-5

Last week: W, 31-23 vs WAS
Last rank: 16th

Recap: The Cowboys were once again playing host on Thanksgiving Day; something the franchise had done every year dating back to 1978. They would welcome the Washington Redskins, who were playing without starting quarterback Alex Smith – out for the season with a broken leg. And the Dallas’ defense took advantage of his rustiness by harassing him into three interceptions. Running back Ezekiel Elliot came up big once again and quarterback Dak Prescott overcame four first-half sacks to throw for 289 yards and pair of long TD connections (40 and 90 yards) to wide receiver Amari Cooper. Make it three straight wins for Jason Garrett’s squad.

Next Week: The surging Cowboys welcome the 10-1 Saints to AT&T Stadium on Thursday evening in a battle of division leaders. Both teams are coming off Thanksgiving Day victories. It’s the first meeting between these clubs since 2015, when New Orleans came up with a 26-20 Sunday night overtime win at the Superdome.

Playoff hopes: Garrett’s team has three of its final five games in their own building and has two more divisional clashes with the Eagles (home) and with the Giants (road). The Cowboys boast a 3-1 divisional record, which is why they are technically the top team in the NFC East. Can the club build on its recent improvement?

12: SEATTLE SEAHAWKS 6-5

Last week: W, 30-27 at CAR
Last rank: 15th

Recap: Russell Wilson and the Seahawks made their way east to Charlotte for the first time since the team and the Panthers squared off in the 2015 NFC Divisional Playoffs. It was a back and forth tilt between these second-place teams in their respective divisions. It proved to be quite the afternoon for quarterback Russell Wilson, who threw for 339 yards and two scores. The vast majority of that went to wide receivers Tyler Lockett (5-107-1 TD) and David Moore (4-103-1 TD). Tied at 24-all, the former hauled in a 43-yard pass from Wilson with just over a minute to play, setting up Sebastian Janikowski’s 31-yard game-winning field goal on the final play of the game.

Next Week: Wilson and company return home and host the San Francisco 49ers. The Seahawks have defeated their NFC West rivals nine straight times, starting with the teams’ encounter in the 2013 NFC Championship Game at Seattle. And Carroll’s club has held the Niners to 18 points or less in eight of those contests.

Playoff hopes: In their last two games, the Seahawks came away with three-point wins over the visiting Packers and the host Panthers. And with the Rams seemingly on their way to the NFC West title, those aforementioned teams are ones that Carroll’s club will have to deal with in terms of the wild card chase.

11: INDIANAPOLIS COLTS 6-5

Last week: W, 27-24 vs MIA
Last rank: 12th

Recap: Frank Reich’s Colts had gotten themselves back into the AFC South race thanks to a four-game winning streak – this after the club opened 1-5 this season. They would welcome the Dolphins to Lucas Oil Stadium and had to rally for the three-point victory. Quarterback Andrew Luck was sacked for the first time in six games and it happened just once. However, the rejuvenated signal-caller was picked off twice and his team trailed Miami, 24-14, with less than a quarter to play. But Luck would finish with 343 yards through the air and three more scores. And Adam Vinatieri’s 32-yard boot on the final play of the game rescued Reich’s club.

Next Week: The Colts and Jacksonville Jaguars clash for the second time in four weeks. Thanks to a 29-26 victory at Indianapolis (Week 10), Indianapolis is in position to sweep the series for the first time since 2014. The Colts have dropped three straight road games in this series (including ‘16 at London) by a combined 111-53 score.

Playoff hopes: It’s going to be an interesting stretch run for this team, which just successfully completed a three-game home stand but will play three of its final five contests on the road (all against their AFC South rivals). Regardless, this has been quite the turnaround for a team that had its share of issues earlier in the year.

10: CAROLINA PANTHERS 6-5

Last week: L, 30-27 vs SEA
Last rank: 9th

Recap: Ron Rivera’s team was in the midst of a two-game skid when it played host to the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday. Including the postseason, the clubs met for the eighth time in seven seasons dating back to 2012. And the Panthers got a huge afternoon from second-year running back Christian McCaffrey. He carried 17 times for 125 yards and one touchdown and caught 11 passes for 112 yards and a score. Cam Newton connected on 25-of-30 throws for 256 yards and two scores but was also picked off once. But it was the Carolina defense that couldn’t stop Seahawks’ quarterback Russell Wilson down the stretch.

Next Week: The Panthers head to Tampa in position to sweep the Buccaneers for the fifth time in six seasons dating back to 2013. Back in Week 9 at Carolina, Rivera’s club owned a 35-7 second-quarter lead only to see Dirk Koetter’s team make it interesting in the Panthers’ 42-28 win. The Panthers are 4-1 at Tampa dating back to ’13.

Playoff hopes: Losers of three straight games, the Panthers have lost a pair of heartbreakers the last two Sundays. The club is still above .500 but this loss to the Seahawks (Carolina’s first at home in 2018) could come back to haunt Rivera and company. Still, the Panthers play four of their final five games vs. their NFC South rivals.

9: MINNESOTA VIKINGS 6-4-1

Last week: W, 24-17 vs GB
Last rank: 8th

Recap: It’s been a disappointing year to date for the Purple Gang, who have not dominated as many expected this season. In any case, the Vikings hosted Aaron Rodgers and the Packers looking to keep the Pack winless on the road this season. Quarterback Kirk Cousins enjoyed one of his better outings of the season, which was also the case when these clubs met back in Week 2 and played to a 29-29 tie at Lambeau Field. On Sunday night, he threw for 342 yards and three scores without an interception. Adam Thielen finished with 125 receiving yards, the ninth time he’s hit a c-note this year. Minnesota sacked Rodgers four times and limited the Pack to 254 total yards.

Next Week: The Viking head to Foxborough for the first time since 2010 to clash with the AFC East-leading New England Patriots. Minnesota has dropped four straight in this series dating back to ’02. Zimmer’s club is 1-1 in interconference games this season, with a lopsided home loss to the Bills followed by a road rout of the Jets.

Playoff hopes: The Purple Gang still trails the red-hot Bears in the NFC North. But the Vikings now own a 2-1-1 record within the division and own the tiebreaker over Green Bay. There’s still some work to do if Zimmer’s club plans on catching the Bears. But the opportunity is still very much there.

8: LOS ANGELES CHARGERS 8-3

Last week: W, 45-10 vs ARI
Last rank: 10th

Recap: Off last week’s stunning home loss to the rival Broncos, the Bolts were home for a second consecutive Sunday and welcomed the struggling Arizona Cardinals. Anthony Lynn’s squad spotted the visitors a 10-0 lead and then it was all Chargers after that. Quarterback Philip River began his afternoon by completing his first 25 passes, an NFL record to start a game as well as a mark for one contest. Los Angeles outgained the Cards in total yards, 414-149, and both running back Melvin Gordon and wide receiver Mike Williams scored a pair of touchdowns. And defensive end Joey Bosa finished the day with five tackles and two sacks.

Next Week: Lynn’s team gets to sleep in a bit next Sunday as the Bolts’ clash with the Steelers in Pittsburgh was flexed into Sunday night. It’s the Chargers’ first appearance at Heinz Field since 2012, a year in which they came away with a 34-24 victory – the franchise’s first-ever regular season win in the Steel City.

Playoff hopes: The last time we saw the Kansas City Chiefs, they were falling short to the Los Angeles Rams. Now that setback coupled with the Chargers’ win means Lynn’s club is within one game of first place in the AFC West. Of course, the Chiefs own a 3-0 record in the division while the Bolts stand 2-2 in the same department.

7: NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS 8-3

Last week: W, 27-13 at NYJ
Last rank: 7th

Recap: The last time we saw Bill Belichick’s team it was being manhandled in Nashville by the Titans. Now the Pats were back in action after an off week and looked to take out their frustrations on the New York Jets (also off in Week 11) at MetLife Stadium. New England spotted the home team a 7-0 lead before Tom Brady found tight end Rob Gronkowski for a 34-yard score. Tied 10-all at halftime, the Patriots took over after intermission and closed the deal by outscoring the Jets, 17-3, the remainder of the game. Rookie running back Sony Michel carried 21 times for 133 yards and one TD and Tom Brady threw for 283 yards and two scores without being sacked.

Next Week: The Patriots host the Minnesota Vikings for the first time since 2010, when Belichick’s club came away with a 28-18 victory. All told, these interconference foes clash for the first time since ’14. New England has owned this infrequent series as of late, prevailing in four consecutive meetings dating back to ’02.

Playoff hopes: Belichick’s team is now the only team in the AFC East that doesn’t possess a losing record. The Pats are three games clear of the Miami Dolphins and own a 3-0 record within the division. They seem well on their way to another consecutive AFC East crown and an NFL-record 10th straight postseason appearance.

6: HOUSTON TEXANS 7-3

Last week:  W, 34-17 at TEN
Last rank: 6th

Recap: It hasn’t always been pretty during the Texans’ current seven-game winning streak. In fact, the last two times Bill O’ Brien’s team took the field, it held on for a win when the opposing kicker missed a long field goal on the final play the game. Nevertheless, the club keeps finding ways to produce points and slow down the opposition just enough to squeeze out victories. Houston’s offensive line hasn’t made things easy for quarterback Deshaun Watson, sacked 33 times in 10 contests. But he’s still managed to find DeAndre Hopkins for eight of his 18 TD tosses. Meanwhile, a healthy J.J. Watt and an improved Kareem Jackson has spearheaded a rejuvenated defense.

Next Week: Monday night’s tilt with the Titans is the first of three consecutive home games for O’Brien’s squad. On Sunday, the club welcomes the Cleveland Browns, the Texans handled a year ago at Houston, 33-17, in Week 6. The following Sunday, it’s the second clash of the season with the rejuvenated Indianapolis Colts.

Playoff hopes: It is sometimes easy to forget that O’Brien led the Texans to three winning seasons in his first four years on the job, including two AFC South titles, and has his team is finding ways to get the job done after a rough start this fall. These Texans are from perfect team, but the club is proving to be opportunistic and resilient.

5: PITTSBURGH STEELERS 7-3-1

Last week: L, 24-17 at DEN
Last rank: 4th

Recap: The streaking Steelers arrived in the Mile High City looking to make it seven consecutive wins as they invaded the Mile High City for the first time since the 2015 postseason. Ben Roethlisberger would throw 56 passes and complete 41 of them for 62 yards and one score. But he also served up two critical interceptions, including a pick in the end zone in the closing moments. Make it a combined seven turnovers by this team in their last two outings. Meanwhile, a defense missing end Stephon Tuitt once again struggled to stop the run. Second-year wideout Juju Smith-Schuster caught 13 passes for 189 yards, including a 97-yard score in the third quarter.

Next Week: Tomlin’s club hosts the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday night. The Bolts make their first appearance at Pittsburgh in six years. When last these clubs met, it was on a Monday evening in 2015 at San Diego and Steelers’ running back LeVeon Bell reached the end zone on the final play of the game to give his team a 24-20 win.

Playoff hopes: The mistake-prone Steelers saw their six-game winning streak in frustrating fashion. Meanwhile, both the Baltimore Ravens and Cleveland Browns notched wins on Sunday. Tomlin’s club still owns a comfortable lead in the AFC North. But things also have a way of changing in dramatic fashion.

4: CHICAGO BEARS 8-3

Last week: W, 23-16 at DET
Last rank: 5th

Recap: The Bears made their way to the Motor City on Thanksgiving looking to sweep the Lions for the first time since 2012. Less than two weeks earlier at Soldier Field, Matt Nagy’s team came away with a 34-22 triumph over Detroit. Chicago came into the game with an NFL-best 27 takeaways but without banged-up quarterback Mitch Trubisky. Enter veteran Chase Daniel, who held down the fort and threw for xxx yards and a pair of touchdowns. And for the second straight week, unsung safety Eddie Jackson stepped in front of a pass and took it back for a score. Make it five straight wins for a team that won only five games a season ago.

Next Week: It’s another road game for the NFC North leaders as they head to MetLife Stadium to face the New York Giants. The teams last squared off in 2016 at East Rutherford and the Bears fell, 22-16. All told, it’s just the fifth encounter between these fabled franchises in 12 seasons dating back to 2007.

Playoff hopes: The Bears are already assured of their first non-losing season since finishing 8-8 in 2013. Nagy has led the team to eight wins in 11 outings, this after the club combined for an 8-24 mark from 2016-17. The franchise hasn’t reached the postseason since 2010 but this squad is clicking at the moment.

3: KANSAS CITY CHIEFS 9-2

Last week: OFF
Last rank: 3rd

Recap: When last we saw Andy Reid’s team, they were on the short end of the third-highest scoring game in the league’s 99-year history. In any case, the Chiefs still own the top spot in the AFC West. Second-year quarterback Patrick Mahomes did turn over the ball five times in the 54-51 loss to the Rams. But he’s been nothing short of sensational this year, throwing for 3,628 yards and 37 scores with just 10 picks. Running back Kareem Hunt (14) and wide receiver Tyreek Hill (12) have combined for 26 total touchdowns. Despite a shaky defense, there’s something to be said for a team that’s lost only two games and scored a combined 91 points in those defeats.

Next Week: The well-rested Chiefs head to Oakland next Sunday for the first meeting of the season with the rival Silver and Black. Under Reid, Kansas City owns an 8-2 record in this intense series dating back to 2013. A year ago, the teams split their two-game set, with the home team prevailing in each instance.

Playoff hopes: Reid’s squad was one win away from matching last season’s total. But these explosive Chiefs appear to be an improving team rather than one that faded after a slow start a year ago. A little more improvement by the defense and this is a team very capable of finally doing some substantial damage once the playoffs arrive.

2: LOS ANGELES RAMS 10-1

Last week: OFF
Last rank: 2nd

Recap: Anyone who thought Sean McVay’s impressive debut as an NFL head coach last season was a fluke may have to reconsider. The Rams have been among the steadiest teams in the league this season, but it’s not a club without faults. Third-year quarterback Jared Goff has been steady and running back Todd Gurley led the NFL with 17 total touchdowns after 11 weeks of play. But all those newcomers on the defensive side of the ball haven’t totally jelled as a late and Wade Phillips’ unit misses veteran cornerback Aqib Talib. Meanwhile Aaron Donald has already racked up 14.5 sacks during the team’s 10-1 start.

Next Week: McVay’s well-rested squad makes its way to the Motor City for the first of two consecutive road games against NFC North teams. First up is a clash with the Lions. It’s the teams’ third meeting in four years dating back to 2015. Two seasons, the Rams fell short at Ford Field, 31-28, in the clubs’ most recent encounter.

Playoff hopes: The Rams will have to wait to wrap up the NFC West for the second consecutive season. A win next Sunday will give Los Angeles the division crown. McVay inherited a team that had not been to the playoffs since 2004 and finished 4-12 in ‘16. The Rams own an impressive 21-6 regular-season record under his command.

1: NEW ORLEANS SAINTS 10-1

Last week: W, 31-17 vs ATL
Last rank: 1st

Recap: The defending NFC South champions and current division leader were in position to sweep the rival Falcons for the seventh time in 13 seasons. It was another productive night for quarterback Drew Brees and the Saints’ balanced offense. The veteran signal-caller amassed only 171 yards through the air and did throw his second interception of the season. But he also connected with four different receivers for touchdowns. An opportunistic New Orleans’ defense harassed Falcons’ quarterback Matt Ryan all evening. Dennis Allen’s unit racked up six sacks and the team collected a total of four takeaways. It was the 10th consecutive victory for Sean Payton’s team.

Next Week: It’s a second straight Thursday night outing for the team as it makes its way to Arlington to face the Cowboys. And it’s the first road game in this series for the Saints since 2014, when they were humbled on a Sunday night, 38-17. But New Orleans came up with a 26-20 overtime in ‘15 at New Orleans in the teams’ last meeting.

Playoff hopes: The Saints appeared to getting their act together on the defensive side of the football. That’s bad news for the rest of the league as the team is now tied with the Rams for the best record in the NFL. And the club controls its own destiny when it comes to securing the top seed in the conference.