National Football League

NFL Power Rankings Week 10: Raiders Move up

Updated Mar. 4, 2020 8:33 p.m. ET

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Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

The NFL Power Rankings for week 10 has the New England Patriots leading the way for the third straight week. The Patriots remain the top team in the NFL and it is going to be hard to knock them off.

In the NFL Power Rankings the Cowboys sit in the second spot. The Cowboys rookies continue to wreak havoc on opponents. The Atlanta Falcons started the NFL week by dominating The Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Falcons continue to impress with their dominant offense.

Kansas City continues to win after their bye week. While this week, their division opponent the Oakland Raiders finally defeat a winning team. Denver came out sluggish falling to third in the AFC West.

The Vikings continue to spiral downward after their hot start. With the Vikings loosing again, the NFC North has opened up. The NFC East is reclaiming their position as a dominate division with everyone above .500.

Baltimore upended their divisional rival claiming the top spot in their division. They are proving to have the best defense in the AFC North. The Miami Dolphins win their third straight getting to .500 and out of last in the AFC East.

Defense prevailed for the Colts as they were able to stifle the Green Bay offense for a victory. Finally, the Panthers are starting to right their season by going 3-0 versus the NFC West.

Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

1. New England Patriots – 7-1

After a week off the Patriots are still holding on to the top spot in the Power Rankings. Since Tom Brady’s return the Patriots have proven they are the best team in the NFL. It is hard to see anyone knocking them off.

If this team continues to play the way they have, they are looking at a trip to the Super Bowl. They have run away with the lead in the NFC East. The Bills are the loan team that defeated the Patriots. But that was without Brady.

Deflategate has put a chip on Brady’s shoulder and he is out to prove something to the NFL. Brady is playing at the top of his game and it is going to take a lot to stop that. If Brady continues to play his best, he is looking at claiming the MVP this season.

This week, they come up against the Seattle Seahawks. The Seahawks have struggled on offense and will have trouble against the Patriots defense. The secondary of the Seahawks lets up big plays. Brady will take full advantage of that with Rob Gronkowski and Julian Edelman. The Patriots should remain on top after this week.

Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

2. Dallas Cowboys – 7-1 

The Cowboys continue to dominate their opponents defeating the Cleveland Browns 35-10. Dallas has control over the NFC East leading by two games. Their lone loss is to the New York Giants, who are hot on their trails in the division.

Everyone is waiting for the rookies to mess up but they continue to impress week in and week out. This week, Dak Prescott went 21-of-27 for 247 yards and three touchdowns. Ezekiel Elliott rushed 18 times for 92 yards and two touchdowns.

Prescott now has the most passing yards and most passing touchdowns by a rookie in Cowboys history. This is the Cowboys’ best start since 2007. Tony Romo has been practicing and it is still unknown if he will reclaim his starting position. At this point, they should leave in Prescott unless he starts playing terrible.

This week, they face the 4-4 Pittsburgh Steelers. The record means nothing because the Steelers are always a good team. We will see how the rookies react to a Steelers defense that is usually good. This is going to be a tough game for both teams. We will see what the Cowboys are made of this week.

Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

3. Atlanta Falcons -6-3

The Falcons kicked off Week 9 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday night. Atlanta scored double-digit points in all four quarters of this game. This team is averaging 33 points per game. With this victory, they pull ahead in their division by two games.

Matt Ryan is currently leading the NFL with 2,980 passing yards, 23 touchdowns and four interceptions. Ryan is in the running for the MVP at this point in the season. If he continues to play the way he has, he will be in strong consideration for the award.

Ryan went 25-of-34 for 344 yards and four touchdowns in the win. His favorite target, Julio Jones, grabbed eight receptions for 111 yards and a touchdown. At halftime, the game was close but in the second half, the Falcons pulled away. Ryan put together two scoring drives of 86 and 82 yards to take control of the game.

The Falcons defense was too much for the Buccaneers to handle. The defense sacked the quarterback three times and recovered two fumbles. They were also able to hold the Buccaneers scoreless in the third quarter.

This week, the Falcons will come up against a tough defensive team in the Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles have lost four straight but will be a tough opponent for the Falcons. The Falcons will need to get Devonta Freeman going in this game to take the pressure off of Ryan.

Nov 6, 2016; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Nick Foles (4) is sacked by Jacksonville Jaguars defensive tackle Sen

4. Kansas City Chiefs – 6-2

The Kansas City Chiefs entered Week without their starting quarterback. Alex Smith sat out this week after suffering a concussion in week eight. Nick Foles stepped in to carry the Chiefs to a 19-14 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars.

The Chiefs were without five of their offensive starters. The defense sacked Blake Bortles twice, grabbed an interception and recovered three fumbles. They also stopped the Jags on a fourth down with under two minutes left in the game to seal their victory.

Foles struggled, going  20-of-33 for 187 yards and one touchdown. But he did just enough to keep the Chiefs ahead in the game. Travis Kelce grabbed five receptions for 58 yards before being ejected in the fourth quarter for two unsportsmanlike penalties.

They were without a good portion of their offense this week and will need to get some back in order to keep winning. The Chiefs have won every game since their bye-week. They are currently in second in the AFC West, but have beaten the number one team once this season.

This was the Chiefs 10 straight home win. Up next is the defending NFC Champion Carolina Panthers. The Chiefs will need Smith back under center calling the offense. They will also need to produce a run game so Smith isn’t attacked by the Panther defense.

Mandatory Credit: Neville E. Guard-USA TODAY Sports

5. Oakland Raiders – 7-2

The Raiders finally beat a team with a winning record and they did it at home too. Oakland was able to defeat the defending Super Bowl Champion Denver Broncos claiming the top spot in the AFC West. They continue their best start in 15 years with their third straight win.

Oakland defeated Denver 30-20, in their first home Sunday night game in over a decade. The Raiders overpowered Denver exposing their one weakness on defense, the run game. Latavius Murray won this game for the Raiders, rushing 20 times for 114 yards and three touchdowns.

Derek Carr was held to 184 passing yards and no touchdowns in the victory. This team is still being plagued with penalties and need to clean that up if they hope to continue to be successful. They had eight penalties after starting off the game without any.

In the first quarter, both teams struggled. The Raiders were denied touchdowns twice in the red-zone and had to settle for field goals. Meanwhile, their defense kept the Broncos without a first down. Khalil Mack tormented the Broncos all game with two sacks, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery.

The Raiders haven’t made the playoffs in 13 straight seasons. Two years ago, they started 0-10. They have turned this program around. This week they have a bye and have tough schedule the rest of the way. In order to keep playing at this level they need to find a way to stop the penalties.

Mandatory Credit: Neville E. Guard-USA TODAY Sports

6. Denver Broncos -6-3

The Broncos started off Sunday Night’s game sluggish. Trevor Siemian and company couldn’t get a first down in the first quarter. Once he was comfortable and able to get the offense moving it was to little to late.

Oakland upended the Broncos 30-20. Denver has one of the best defenses in the NFL but the Raiders exposed their one weakness on Sunday Night. The Broncos may have one of the best pass defenses in the league, but this year, they struggle stopping the run. They gave up 218 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns in the loss.

The defense held the Raiders to only 184 passing yards but only got two sacks and no turnovers. Siemian ended up going 18-of-37 for 283 yards, two touchdowns and an interception. If the Broncos didn’t get off to a rough start, this would have been a different game.

Now the Broncos are sitting in third place in the AFC West, behind the Raiders and the Chiefs. It is not time to panic because the Broncos can easily regain the lead in the division. They have one of the best defenses in the NFL and are only one game behind the leader.

Up next is the high-powered offense of the New Orleans Saints. This should be a victory for the Broncos since they have the best pass defense in the NFL.

Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports

7. Seattle Seahawks -5-2-1

The Seahawks came into this week with Russell Wilson not throwing a touchdown in his last three games. That changed Monday Night against the Buffalos Bills. In a back and forth game that came down to the wire, the Seahawks were victorious pulling out a 31-25 win.

Wilson went 20-of-26 for 282 yards and two touchdowns. Those two touchdowns went to Jimmy Graham. Graham had a huge game against the bills grabbing eight receptions for 103 yards and two touchdowns. After hurting his knee last season, Graham hasn’t looked the same but Monday night, he looked like he was back.

The Seahawks were winning 28-17 before the Bills scored in the fourth to make it 28-25. The offense scored a field goal going up 31-25. The Bills tried to answer in the final seconds but the Seahawks defense held strong, sacking Tyrod Taylor on third down. They then stopped a fourth down attempt to win the game.

This win gives the Seahawks a commanding lead on the NFC West. Up next is the New England Patriots. This will be a challenge for the Seahawks. They have a few weaknesses that the Patriots will expose especially their secondary. Seattle will be playing from behind most of this game.

Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

8. Minnesota Vikings -5-3

Earlier this week, the Vikings offensive coordinator, Norv Turner resigned. He felt this was in the best interest of the team. It might be a good move for the Vikings since they are on a free fall from being the best team in the NFL.

The Vikings fell for the third straight week, the second straight week to a division foe. The Detroit Lions defeated the Vikings 22-16 in overtime. The Vikings took a 16-13 lead with 23 seconds left in the game. But Matthew Stafford drove the Lions down the field in 15 seconds to set up a game tying field goal.

In overtime, the Lions won the game with a touchdown. Sam Bradford went 31-of-40 for 273 yards and a touchdown. Most of the receptions went to Stefon Diggs with 13 for 80 yards. The Vikings running game struggled with the Ronnie Hillman being their highest rusher. Hillman carried the ball seven times for 30 yards.

The Vikings haven’t won a game since coming out of their bye. It looked like they would run away with the NFC North but now, anyone can win the division. This week, the Vikings will have the Washington Redskins. This will be another challenge for the Vikings.

Mandatory Credit: William Hauser-USA TODAY Sports

9. New York Giants -5-3

The Giants beat the Philadelphia Eagles for the first time since 2013. In a tight game, the Giants hung onto a 28-23 victory. They are now in second place in the NFC East. On the Eagles’ first position Landon Collins intercepted Carson Wentz, giving the Giants the ball back.

This set up an Eli Manning-to-Odell Beckham Jr. touchdown to take a 7-0 lead early in the first. The Eagles got the ball back but Wentz was picked off again setting up another Giants touchdown. In true Giants fashion, they allowed the Eagles to stay in the game until the end.

With about two minutes remaining in the game, the Giants offense tried to run out the clock. They found themselves in a third down when Manning threw and interception. The Giants defense stepped up and stopped the Eagles on a fourth down to seal the victory.

The defense stopped the Eagles three times on fourth down. They also got two sacks, two interceptions and one forced fumble against the Eagles. Manning went 22-of-36 for 257 yards, four touchdowns and one interception. O.B.J. grabbed four receptions for 46 yards, two touchdowns and no unsportsmanlike penalties.

This week, they play on Monday night against the Cincinnati Bengals. The defense will need to continue to dominate in order to win this game.

Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

10. Houston Texans -5-3

Coming off a bye week the Houston Texans still hold onto first place in the AFC South. They are a game and a half ahead of the Indianapolis Colts. The Texans have a solid hold on their lead in the division. They will need to continue to play well to stay in first with the Colts picking up steam.

This week, they face the division foe Jacksonville Jaguars. The Jaguars are struggling and only have two wins. The Texans should easily win this game. The defense will have to come ready for Blake Bortles and his arsenal of receivers.

The Jaguars are capable of putting up points. The Texans defense needs to get to Bortles and disrupt his rhythm. They also need to play the wide receivers tight and create turnovers. Hopefully, Brock Osweiler will come out of the bye more comfortable with his offense.

Once he is comfortable, this offense should be strong. Osweiler has a great cast surrounding him, he just need to utilize them more. The Texans should have no problem with the Jaguars. This game should take them one step closer to winning the AFC South.

Mandatory Credit: Steve Flynn-USA TODAY Sports

11. Washington Redskins -4-3-1

The Washington Redskins fell to third in the NFC East during their bye week. While they were off, the Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants broke away for a claim of first and second place. Going into the bye week, three teams were in a tie for second place.

In order to remain relevant in the NFC East, the Redskins have to keep winning. This week they will face the struggling Minnesota Vikings. Despite the Vikings loosing three straight, the Redskins know this will be a tough game.

The Vikings have one of the best defenses in the NFL. The Redskins will have their work cut out from them in this game. Kirk Cousins and the Redskin offense led the Vikings in total yards per game, passing yards per game and rushing yards per game.

The NFC East has the potential of getting more than one team in the playoffs. Cousins will need to be able to get his passes down the field to his wide outs. The run game will also need to get going in order to keep the pressure off of Cousins.

Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports

12. Detroit Lions -5-4

The Lions have been coming on strong the past few weeks. This week, they staved off their division foe Minnesota Vikings. Rebounding from the loss to the Texans, the Lions rallied and defeated the Vikings 22-16 in overtime.

The Lions were trailing 16-13 with 23 seconds left in the game. Matthew Stafford got the ball with 15 seconds left and that was all he needed. Stafford completed a 27-yard pass and clocked the ball with seconds left. Then Matt Prater made a 58-yard, game-tying field goal as time expired.

In overtime, Stafford hit Golden Tate for a 28 yard touchdown to claim a victory. The Lions have found themselves in close situations in their previous four victories. This week was a really close call with only 15 seconds left and anything could have happened.

Stafford went 23-of-36 for 219 yards, two touchdowns and an interception. Golden Tate had 11 receptions for 79 yards and a touchdown. Stafford has a lot of weapons at his disposal. This offense is capable of carrying the Lions far.

The Lions keep getting lucky, finding themselves in tough situations and Stafford pulls them out. This win puts the Lions a half a game behind the Vikings for first place in the NFC North. They have a bye this week.

Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports

13. Buffalo Bills -4-5

The Buffalo Bills had a chance to pull out the victory over the Seahawks but they came up just short. With seconds left, Tyrod Taylor was sacked on third down and missed in the end zone on fourth. This resulted in a 31-25 loss to the Seahawks on Monday Night.

Despite that last series, Tyrod Taylor played a good game. He kept his team in it until the last second. Taylor went 27-of-38 for 289 yards, one touchdown and one interception. There was also a crazy series of events that took place to end the first half.

The Bills lined up to kick a field goal but Richard Sherman jumped offsides then ran into the kicker. The Refs only called offsides and because the trainer came out for the kicker, he had to sit out a down. The Bills spiked the ball with a second left but ended up missing the field goal.

That probably would’ve sent the game into overtime at the end. The Bills fall to 4-5 and are in third place in the AFC East. They have a bye this week but with the loss, they have a lot of work to do to get back in the mix. They’ve already been beaten by the two teams ahead of them once.

Mandatory Credit: William Hauser-USA TODAY Sports

14. Philadelphia Eagles -4-4

The Eagles went from leading the NFC East to last place after Week 9. After losing to the Giants 28-23, the Eagles fall to 0-3 in the division. This is the first time since 2008 that the Eagles have lost their first three division games.

The Eagles first two offensive possessions resulted in interceptions that led to points for the Giants. This put the Eagles in the hole 14-0 early in the first quarter. In the first half, the Eagles went for two fourth downs in and failed turning the ball over to the Giants. Carson Wentz struggled against the Giants defense in the first half.

In the second half, Wentz came to play, taking the Eagles 70 yards down the field, setting up a touchdown run to pull within four. Wentz kept the Eagles within striking distance in the second half. The Eagles struggled on third down, going 3-of-15.

With the score 28-23 with about two minutes left, the Eagles defense intercepted Manning, giving the ball back to Wentz. Wentz was handed the opportunity to win the game but failed for the third time on fourth down. This ended the game, giving the Eagles their second straight division loss.

The Eagles face off with the high-powered Atlanta Falcons offense next. The Eagles need a win to stay a live in the NFC East. This is going to be a hard game for both the offense and defense.

Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

15. Arizona Cardinals – 3-4-1

The Cardinals will come out of their bye week with a matchup with the 1-7 San Francisco 49ers. They are in second place in the NFC West behind the Seahawks. Arizona tied with the Seahawks which gives them an opportunity to claim first place.

The Cardinals made it to the NFC Championship game a year ago. They were expected to have the same type of year this season. The Cardinals have an advantage on both sides of the ball. The 49ers have lost seven straight games and it doesn’t look like that streak will stop this week.

The defense has a total of 21 sacks and nine interceptions so far this season. They will have to contain Colin Kaepernick and cause turnovers. The offense will be able to exploit the struggling 49er defense.

This game isn’t going to be close. The 49ers put up points against New Orleans but the Cardinals defense is a whole different level then the Saints defense. With a win, the Cardinals will inch closer to first place in the division.

Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

16. Green Bay Packers -4-4

The Indianapolis Colts returned the opening kick off for a touchdown, setting the tone for the entire game. The Packers found themselves down 7-0 right away. The Colts held on to their lead throughout the game winning 31-26.

This is the worst start for the Packers since 2009. The offense didn’t get going until the fourth quarter. By the time that happened, the Packers were down 31-13. Aaron Rodgers did his best to get the Packers back but that deficit proved to be too much.

The Packers have not lost by 10+ points at home since December 2006 and came close to changing that. Rodgers went 26-of-43 for 297 yards, three touchdowns and one interception. Jordy Nelson grabbed seven receptions for 94 yards and a touchdown.

The Packers play the Tennessee Titans next and that’s no longer an easy win after losing to the Colts. The defense has had problems in the last two games giving up at least 30 points in each one. The Titans are capable of putting up points, so the defense needs to step up to win this game.

17. Baltimore Ravens -4-4

The Ravens snapped a four-game losing streak against their division rival, the Pittsburgh Steelers. Baltimore scored in all four quarters, while holding the Steelers scoreless in the first three quarters.

The defense smothered the Steelers offense, that had Ben Roethlisberger back this week. The Ravens defense had two sacks, a blocked kick, a blocked punt, an interception and a touchdown. They held the Steelers to 35 rushing yards.

Joe Flacco went 18-of-30 for 241 yards, a touchdown and an interception. Flacco’s touchdown was a 95-yard pass to Mike Wallace. That was the only touchdown the offense could produce. Their 21-14 win put the Ravens in a tie for first with the Steelers.

The Ravens have a short week this week. They play on Thursday night against the winless Cleveland Browns. If the defense continues on from their play against the Steelers, the Browns don’t stand a chance. The offense needs better production but they have proven before that their defense can carry the team.

Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

18. Miami Dolphins -4-4

The Dolphins are on a three-game winning streak after defeating the Jets 27-23. This game was a battle with the lead going back and forth. The Dolphins scored a 96-yard kickoff return with 5:15 remaining in the game to gain the lead. They held the Jets off the rest of the game sealing their victory.

Jay Ajayi was held short of his third straight 200 yard game. Ajayi carried the ball 24 times for 111 yards and a touchdown. He has a total of 529 yards in three games. His emergence in the past three games is a big reason why the Dolphins are winning now.

Ryan Tannehill went 17-of-28 for 149 yards and a touchdown. The offense got some help from their special teams and defense in the victory. The defense had three sacks, two interceptions and two forced fumbles. This win ties the Dolphins for second in the NFC East.

The Dolphins play the San Diego Chargers next. This will be a battle between Ajayi and Melvin Gordon. Both runners have come on recently, posting big games. This game will come down to which team can stop the run.

Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

19. Pittsburgh Steelers -4-4

Ben Roethlisberger returned from injury in Week 9. That didn’t seem to make a difference since the Ravens led the entire game. The Ravens had a game plan in case Roethlisberger returned and it paid off.

The Steelers went down early and never recovered falling to the Ravens 21-14. This was their fourth straight loss to the Ravens. The Steelers are now in a tie for first with the Ravens. Which is huge since they were leading the division outright.

Roethlisberger went 23-of-45 for 264 yards, a touchdown, an interception and two fumbles. The whole team struggled against the Ravens defense. Le’Veon Bell was held to 32 yards rushing and there were only four other rushing yards all game.

This was the Steelers third straight loss. They were held scoreless in the first three quarters while giving up 13 points. This week doesn’t get any easier because they have to play the Dallas Cowboys.

Roethlisberger needs to be 100% in order to pull of this victory. That or they need to hope the rookies have a bad game. Either way, the Steelers will need to play their best in order pull off the upset.

Mandatory Credit: Steve Flynn-USA TODAY Sports

20. Cincinnati Bengals -3-4-1

The Bengals come out of their bye week with a Monday Night match up with the New York Giants. The Bengals have had some trouble against the NFC East this year. Now, they have to go up against a rejuvenated defense.

The Giants defense has stepped up recently. The Cincinnati offensive line needs to be ready for the pass rush. Andy Dalton needs to protect the ball and make accurate passes. They do have AjJ. Green as an advantage.

The Bengals are half a game behind the Ravens and Steelers. They still have a chance since the division can be won by any of the three teams. A loss wouldn’t ruin the Bengals chances but a win will keep them in the running for first place.

Cincinnati has struggled this season. In the past few games, they have found their offense. In London, they put up 27 points but so did the Redskins, resulting in a tie. Coming out of the bye they have to devise a plan of attack to counter the Giants defense.

November 6, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; New Orleans Saints running back Mark Ingram (22) runs past San Francisco 49ers strong safety Antoine Bethea (41) during the fourth quarter at Levi

21. New Orleans Saints -4-4

The Saints found themselves in an offensive battle with one of the worst teams in the NFL this past week. Good thing they are capable of putting up points because that is what has saved them this season. The Saints went up 31-20 at halftime before going up big in the second half.

This game might have been a little too close for comfort considering their opponent. The Saints defense has given up a lot of points this season resulting in a lot of shootouts. Drew Brees went 28-of-39 for 323 yards and three touchdowns.

Brees has kept the Saints alive in the NFC South. They are second in their division, just two games behind the Falcons. Winning four out of their last five games has kept the Saints in the hunt in their division. This week will be a challenge against the Denver Broncos.

The Broncos led the league in pass defense. The Saints win with their pass-first offense. If the Saints can’t score a lot of points, they will lose. The health of the Broncos’ secondary will factor into who wins this game.

Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

22. Carolina Panthers -3-5 

The Panthers won consecutive games for the first time this season. They are also 3-0 against the NFC West. Their defense is looking like it’s back to true form defeating the LA Rams 13-10. This was a game dominated by defense.

Cam Newton was able to throw a touchdown in the first quarter. He also led the team down the field for two field goals in the fourth quarter to claim the victory. Newton went 20-of-32 for 225 yards and a touchdown.

The offensive line allowed Newton to get sacked five times in this game. The defense held the Rams scoreless in the first three-quarters. They also sacked the QB four times, grabbed an interception and forced a fumble.

The defense held strong stopping the Rams from making a come back at the end of the game. The Rams over kicked an onside kick and the Panthers jumped on it to seal their victory. This win ties the Panthers for third place in the NFC South.

Up next is a meeting with the Kansas City Chiefs. The Chiefs will have Alex Smith back for this game. The Panther defense will need to continue to play well if they want to defeat the Chiefs. The offensive line will have their work cut out for them. Both teams are looking to stay alive in their divisions.

Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

23. San Diego Chargers -4-5

The defense won this game for the Chargers. They ran back two interceptions for touchdowns. The Chargers scored 17 points off of turnovers in their 43-35 victory over the Tennessee Titans. This was the most points the Chargers have scored since 2009.

Melvin Gordon gained 261 all-purpose yards to lead the offense in the win. He currently leads the NFL with 11 touchdowns. Gordon carried the ball 32 times for 196 yards and a touchdown and grabbed four catches for 65 yards.

One of the interceptions came with 4:51 remaining in the game. Brandon Flowers picked off Marcus Mariota and ran it back for the go ahead touchdown. This made it impossible for the Titans to come back. Philip Rivers went 24-of-33 for 275 yards and two touchdowns.

This victory places the Chargers three games out of first place in the tough AFC West. This week they play the Miami Dolphins. The Dolphins have won three-straight games. The Chargers are playing at home, which is good since they have won most of their games there.

Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

24. Indianapolis Colts -4-5 

Just when you think it is time to count out the Indianapolis Colts, they go and pull off an upset. They defeated the Green Bay Packers 31-26 on the road. The Colts controlled this game from the opening kickoff.

Jordan Toddman ran back the opening kickoff 99-yards for a touchdown giving the Colts a 7-0 lead right away. The Packers never recovered from this touchdown. The Colts took a commanding 31-13 lead in the fourth quarter before Green Bay tried to come back.

Andrew Luck went 23-of-36 for 281 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions. Frank Gore rushed 19 times for 60 yards and two touchdowns. The offensive line did a good job protecting Luck this game. Luck is the most sacked quarterback in the NFL.

This win pulls the Colts within a game of first place in the AFC South. If the Colts can protect Luck more, allowing to make plays they can win this division. This week they have a bye. If they can come up with a way to protect Luck they can turn this bad start around.

Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports

25. New York Jets -3-6

The Jets had a chance to beat the Dolphins but a kickoff return for a touchdown sealed their fate. This was a hard-fought back and forth game. With the loss the Jets sit at the bottom of the AFC East. Ryan Fitzpatrick went 17-of 28 for 193 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions.

He had an MRI this week and if he is healthy he will be the week 10 starter. Matt Forte carried the ball 12 times for 92 yards and a touchdown. The Jets are struggling this year to pull out victories.

Fitzpatrick has a lot of turnovers this season. Meanwhile, the defense is having a hard time causing turnovers. If they can pull out some wins, they can stay in the mix of the AFC East. They are only a game behind second place.

This week, they play the LA Rams. With a tough defensive showing the Jets are capable of pulling out the win. It all depends on if Fitzpatrick can play on Sunday. The Rams have lost four in a row and have trouble protecting their quarterback.

Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports

26. Tampa Bay Buccaneers -3-5

The Buccaneers had a short week playing the Atlanta Falcons on Thursday night. The Young stars came to play for the Buccaneers but the Falcons were too much winning 43-28.

Winston went 23-of-37 for 261 yards and three touchdowns before finishing the game on the sideline. Winston hurt his knee trying to score on a two-point conversion. Mike Glennon stepped in to finish the game. Glennon went 10-of-11 for 75 yards and a touchdown.

Mike Evans grabbed 11 receptions for 150 yards and two touchdowns before being sidelined late in the game for a concussion. The offense played good against the Falcons. The defense just wasn’t able to get to the quarterback or cause turnovers.

The Buccaneers will need both Winston and Evans healthy if they want to stay in the mix of the NFC South. They are only two games behind the Falcons. This week they play the Chicago Bears. They shocked the Minnesota Vikings in their previous game.

Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

27. LA Rams -3-5

The Rams have now lost four-straight games. There doesn’t seem to be an answer on how to right the season. In the 13-10 loss to the Panthers the fans were chanting for a QB change. The Rams were held scoreless until Greg Zuerlein kicked a field goal with 8:01 left in the game.

With 34 seconds left in the game Case Keenum found Kenny Britt for a 10-yard touchdown pass. The Rams tried to onside kick it and get the ball back but the kick went to far, sealing their loss. Keenum went 27-of-46 for 296 yards, a touchdown and an interception.

Britt grabbed four catches for 49 yards and a touchdown. This team still hasn’t found a way to break Todd Gurley loose. Gurley carried the ball 12 times for 48 yards. The defense kept this team in the game sacking Cam Newton five times.

The Rams have been plagued by penalties this season, making it harder for the offense to produce. Against the Panthers they committed 10 penalties. The Rams are looking to stop their losing streak against the Jets.

Gurley won’t be able to get much accomplished in this game because the Jets have a good rush defense. If the Rams can keep the penalties down and throw the ball down the field, they will have a chance. The defense also needs to stop the Jets run game in order to win.

Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

28. Tennessee Titans -4-5

The Titans came up just short against the Chargers. They found themselves down 16-0 early but came backand a took a 21-19 lead. Then two turnovers proved costly late in the game and the Titans fell 43-35 to the Chargers.

Mariota is one of the most efficient quarterbacks in the red zone. For his career he has 26 touchdowns and no interceptions. Mariotta led the Titans to two quick scores to pull ahead of the Chargers in the third quarter.

Mariota went 27-of-43 for 313 yards, three touchdowns and an interception. He also ran in a touchdown from 14 yards out. DeMarco Murray rushed 14 times for 51 yards and a touchdown. The Titans still hold their fate in their hands.

They are tied for second place in the AFC South with the Colts. The Titans are only one game out of first place. If they keep finding ways to win they will have a shot. Any of the three teams can win the division.

This week they come against the Green Bay Packers. The defense will need to contain the Packers offense or this game can get out of hand. The Packers are capable of putting up points, which could mean trouble for the Titans. The Titans offense will need to put up points to stay in the game.

Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

29. Chicago Bears -2-6

Coming out their bye-week, the Bears face off with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. With Jay Cutler back for the offense, the Bears have looked better. They even shocked everyone by beating the Minnesota Vikings. The Bears three games out of first but they can’t be counted out yet.

The NFC North is struggling with only two teams above .500. This division looked like the Vikings were going to run away with it but they have lost three straight games. It is anybody’s guess as to who will the division.

The Bears might get an even easier outing against the Buccaneers if Jameis Winston and Mike Evans can’t play. The offense looked better against the Vikings and if they can continue like that play they stand a chance.

The defense needs to do a better job at getting the ball back to their offense. If they can force turnovers and three-and-outs, they can keep this game close. With only two wins the Bears are still alive. After a bye week they should have a plan of attack for getting the win.

Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

30. Jacksonville Jaguars -2-6

The Jaguars were able to keep the game tight against the Kansas City Chiefs. They had the opportunity to win the game but were stopped on a fourth down, ending the game. The Jaguars fell 19-14 to the Chiefs. The Jaguars committed four turnovers in the loss.

One of those turnovers was a fumble at the goal line in the fourth quarter that could’ve put the Jags ahead. They had plenty of opportunities to take the lead but were unable to do so. Blake Bortles went 22-of-41 for 252 yards, two touchdowns and an interception.

Chris Ivory rushed 18 times for 107 yards and a fumble. The Jaguars are capable of creating offense but just need to figure out how to stop the turnovers. This week, they face the Houston Texans. The Texans are leading their division.

In order to keep any hope alive the Jaguars need to get the win. The Texans have an advantage coming out of their bye week. The Jaguars need to get the ball to their wide receivers. If they don’t commit turnovers this could be a good game.

Mandatory Credit: Scott R. Galvin-USA TODAY Sports

31. Cleveland Browns -0-9

The Browns were just outmatched in their 35-10 loss to the Cowboys. They couldn’t get anything going on either side of the ball. This team just can’t seem to get it together. This week, they started Cody Kessler. Kessler went 19-of 27 for 203 yards and a touchdown.

Every week there is a different quarterback running the show. In the second half, the Browns produced only 28 yards of offense. This is the Browns 12th straight loss. They are the first team to allow at least 25 points in their first nine games since 1964.

They don’t get to dwell on this loss because they have a short week. On Thursday night, they play the Ravens. They just need to focus on getting their first win. In order to do that they need to decide who they want at quarterback and stick with him.

With all the changes at quarterback, this team can’t find an offensive rhythm. The plays change every week with each quarterback that comes in. On the plus-side, the Browns are capable of putting up points. Unfortunately, this week they come up against the tough Ravens defense.

Nov 6, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Quinton Patton (11) catches the ball against New Orleans Saints cornerback Ken Crawley (46) during the fourth quarter at Levi

32. San Francisco 49ers -1-7 

The 49ers have allowed a 100-yard rusher in seven straight games. This is the first time a team has done that since 1960. This week, they were able to put up 23 points but also gave up 43 points in their loss to the Saints.

The 49ers have one of the better rushing games in the NFL. The past few weeks that has gotten away from them with the injury to Carlos Hyde. In this game, Colin Kaepernick looked like he was back to his old self. Kaepernick went 24-of-39 for 398 yards, two touchdowns and an interception.

The defense continues to struggle since loosing Navarro Bowman for the season. They cannot get to opposing quarterbacks or create turnovers. The defense is unable to get the opposing team off the field keep their offense sidelined.

This week, they play the Arizona Cardinals, who have a good defense. If the 49ers defense can’t stop the Cardinals this game will get out of hand fast.

Week 10 will have some interesting match ups including the Patriots vs the Seahawks. It will be a fun week in the NFL. It all starts on Thursday.

Will the Browns kick off week 10 with their first win?

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