B/R Experts Week 13 NFL Power Rankings: Where Does Every Team Stand?

We're 12 weeks into the 2024 NFL regular season, and it's a special week in the NFL—Thanksgiving week. By the time we hit next weekend, four games will already have been played—games that are rather the 2024 season in a nutshell.

For the first time in a long time, Thanksgiving's biggest game involves the soaring Detroit Lions. The Green Bay Packers will try to hold pace with the Lions on Thanksgiving night against the resurgent Miami Dolphins. And on Black Friday, a Kansas City Chiefs team that has made close wins an art form will attempt to maintain the top seed in the AFC.

Those Chiefs got a win over the lowly Panthers in Week 12—albeit just barely. The Lions kept rolling and have their best record in decades. The AFC South-leading Houston Texans were stunned at home by the Tennessee Titans. And the Philadelphia Eagles sent a message in Los Angeles that while the Lions may have the NFC's best record, they aren't necessarily the best team in the conference.

After a Lambeau Field beatdown, the Packers are rolling, while the San Francisco 49ers are reeling. The Denver Broncos may well be a legitimate playoff team. And the Las Vegas Raiders—well, the Raiders just need a hug.

Another wild week around the NFL has shaken the league's pecking order. But as is the case every week, Bleacher Report NFL analysts Gary Davenport, Kristopher Knox, Maurice Moton and Brent Sobleski are here to make sense of it all—by ranking the NFL's team from No. 32 to No. 1.

Last Week: 32

Week 12 Result: Bye Week

By just about any objective measure, the 2024 season has been a disaster for the Jacksonville Jaguars. A team with aspirations of competing for an AFC South title has been arguably the worst squad in the league.

Quarterback Trevor Lawrence has missed time with a shoulder injury, but head coach Doug Pederson told reporters there's a chance the former first overall pick will be out there in Week 13.

"I mean we'll see. We'll see how he does during the week of this bye and see where he's at," Pederson said. "I'm not going to commit right now obviously. We still have a ways away, but we'll see. We'll see how he does this week, and we have time, so we'll figure that out."

As to the embattled head coach himself, Pederson told reporters that last week's debacle against the Detroit Lions was not indicative of who the 2024 Jaguars are.

"That's not who we are. That's not who we stand for," he said. There's enough pride in that locker room, enough pride on the coaching staff, whether we win the game or not. How we perform, it's not who we are. It's not who we are. It's not how I coach. It's not how we prepare during the week. It's not how the players practice and what they put their bodies through. I don't think many people understand what these guys go through during the course of a week. These guys play—and this is across the league. This is not just us. This is everybody who puts on a uniform on game days."

Analyst's Take

The thing is coach, it really has been who the 2024 Jaguars are. The offense couldn't move the ball consistently even when Lawrence was out there. The defense is the only one in the league that has surrendered an average of over 400 yards per game. The Jaguars are most likely going to blow this team up in the offseason, and it's hard to imagine a scenario where Pederson is the coach of this team in 2025. -- Davenport

Last Week: 30

Week 12 Result: Lost vs. Tampa Bay 30-7

Maybe Daniel Jones wasn't the problem in New York.

Tommy DeVito's first start for the Giants was a disaster. DeVito failed to clear 200 passing yards in a lopsided loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. It wasn't just DeVito, though—the reality was that no one for the Giants played especially well.

"They did everything better than we did today," head coach Brian Daboll told reporters. "It wasn't good, wasn't good. From a variety of missed tackles, converting in the red zone, turning the ball back over in the red zone. Got a good week of practice, did a lot of work, and obviously, it didn't show. No excuses. They played well, and we didn't play well. You get down 23-0 [and it] changes the complexion of the game some. Had a good drive coming out of the half, turned the football over. Just not good enough, and that all starts with me."

Rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers was even less diplomatic.

"First, second quarter, I don't get the ball," Nabers ranted. "Start getting targets at the end. I mean, can't do nothing. Start getting the ball when it's 30-0. What do you want me to do?"

Analyst's Take

Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers knows the Giants have a problem beyond the quarterback position, but he doesn't know what it is other than a team that's played "soft." The Giants can help themselves by starting quarterback Drew Lock over Tommy DeVito. This team needs someone to inject some energy into its play. -- Moton

Last Week: 27

Week 12 Result: Lost vs. Denver 29-19

Things have gone from bad to worse for the Las Vegas Raiders.

It's not bad enough that the Raiders suffered yet another loss Sunday at home against the rival Broncos. Las Vegas also lost its starting quarterback...again. Gardner Minshew fractured his collarbone in the second half and will miss the rest of the season.

Head coach Antonio Pierce told reporters the team hopes Aidan O'Connell will be ready to play when the Raiders face the Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium on Friday.

"We're going to need somebody, right?" Pierce said. "We're running out of quarterbacks, too, now, so we'll see what happens (Monday). But obviously, it looks like (O'Connell is) getting better. He threw a little bit in practice this week. Obviously, we've got a short week—play on Friday, travel on Thursday—so we have to make that decision very quickly."

If not, Desmond Ridder, who took over for Minshew on Sunday, said he'll be ready to go.

"I've been here almost a month and how I feel comfortable with the offense, I'm ready to go," said Ridder. "So, whatever that situation may be, it's not up to me—it's up to the higher power. But I'm ready for any situation there may be."

Frankly, after seven straight losses, at this point it probably doesn't matter.

Analyst's Take

Gardner Minshew will miss the remainder of the season with a broken collarbone, so the Raiders must turn to Desmond Ridder or Aidan O'Connell for the remainder of the season.

The Athletic's Vic Tafur and Tashan Reed believe O'Connell will reclaim the starting position after returning from injured reserve. In Week 7, O'Connell fractured his thumb, but he likely would've been starting at this point of the campaign if not for his injury. Before Minshew broke his collarbone, the Raiders benched him three times. Yet regardless of who starts under center for the Raiders, they're headed toward a four-win season at best. -- Moton

Last Week: 28

Week 12 Result: Lost at Miami 34-15

Things just keep getting uglier and uglier for the New England Patriots.

The Patriots had another miserable performance in Sunday's loss to the Miami Dolphins. The Pats had just 268 yards of offense, turned the ball over twice, converted just 3-of-14 third downs and fell behind 31-0 before finally getting on the scoreboard.

Rookie quarterback Drake Maye tried to put a positive spin on a miserable effort while addressing the media.

"I always say I hate losing more than I like to win," Maye said. "We got our butts whipped today, and it's only up from here. We've got a bright future and the right players in there for the Patriots."

Head coach Jerod Mayo, on the other hand, had a curious response when asked about the mistakes, turnovers and penalties that plague the Patriots on a weekly basis.

"Once those guys cross the white lines, there's nothing I can do for them," Mayo said. "There's nothing any coach can do for them. It's my job to continue to prepare not only them, but our coaches as well."

Apparently, it's just Mayo's job to "prepare" the Patriots from Monday through Saturday. But once the game starts, his work is done.

The loss ensures New England a third straight losing season for the first time in three decades. So, Mayo's work may well be done for good before long.

Analyst's Take

Drake Maye has shown glimpses of what he can become as a franchise quarterback, but he's not Clark Kent. Maye cannot transform into a football Superman to save the Patriots' lackluster offense with the flick of his wrist. Maye is exciting to watch because he can create something out of nothing, but at some point, he needs a reliable partner in the backfield or within the pass-catching group to help the offense generate points. -- Moton

Last Week: 31

Week 12 Result: Won vs. Pittsburgh 24-19

The 2024 season has been a nightmare for the Cleveland Browns. But for at least a moment at least on Thursday night, the Browns woke up, shocking their most hated rivals in a driving snowstorm in Cleveland.

There were multiple heroes in the Week 12 upset, whether it was Myles Garrett's three sacks or Nick Chubb's two scores on the ground. But it was the play of Jameis Winston under center that truly propelled Cleveland to victory.

Winston threw a terrible interception against the Steelers, and turnovers have dogged the 30-year-old throughout his career. But as Jason Lloyd wrote for the Athletic, over the last month it can't be denied that Winston has provided a spark to an offense that had been truly awful.

"In four starts since replacing Deshaun Watson at quarterback, Winston has guided the Browns to a pair of victories—over heavyweight division rivals Baltimore and Pittsburgh, no less," he said. "He already leads the team in passing yards and touchdowns, and his charismatic nature has provided some memorable sermons and lighthearted social media clips in what has otherwise been a dreary season and a miserable trudge to the finish line."

Analyst's Take

It can be argued that Cleveland winning games at this point in the season costs the Browns more than it helps them—too many victories could knock the team out of the running for an elite quarterback prospect. With that said, Winston has earned the right to start the rest of the season—and if the money's right, he makes sense as Cleveland's starter to open the 2025 season, as well. -- Davenport

Last Week: 29

Week 12 Result: Won at Houston 32-27

There hasn't been much in the way of good news for the Tennessee Titans in 2024. But Sunday in Houston, the team played easily its best game of the year in stunning the AFC South-leading Texans.

Will Levis outplayed C.J. Stroud, throwing for 278 yards and two scores with a passer rating over 120. Running back Tony Pollard eclipsed 100 rushing yards with a touchdown. And Tennessee's defense put the clamps on the Texans, allowing just 40 yards on the ground and less than 2.5 yards per carry.

While addressing reporters after the game, Titans head coach Brian Callahan expressed pride in how his team fought despite its record.

"The coolest thing about this game was just the way our team fought," Callahan said. "It was a back-and-forth game. Our guys did a good job of not flinching and keeping the blinders on. We've been in games like this before, and we haven't been able to make a play, but this week, we made a play."

It has still been a disappointing season in Nashville. But for one week at least, it's smiles all around.

Analyst's Take

When a team operates with a new head coach and developing quarterback, the bar is simple: Does the group get better as the season progresses? In the case of the Titans, it seems they are, especially with Sunday's surprising victory over the Houston Texans. Aside from an inexplicable pick-six, Will Levis consistently found his targets while working behind a somewhat improving offensive front that battled throughout the afternoon. As a result, the lowly Titans beat the rival Texans and went 2-2 in the month of November. -- Sobleski

Last Week: 26

Week 12 Result: Lost vs. Kansas City 30-27

With the exception of the final score, Sunday's meeting with the Kansas City Chiefs went about as well as the Carolina Panthers could have hoped. And frankly, an argument can be made that losses are more valuable to Carolina than wins right now.

The question is becoming whether the Panthers want to use their high draft pick in 2025 on a quarterback. Because in addition to giving the two-time defending champions all they could handle, quarterback Bryce Young played reasonably well for a third straight game.

While talking to the media after the game, Panthers head coach Dave Canales lauded his young quarterback.

"Bryce is certainly making the most of his opportunities," Canales said. "And he is making a statement to all of us. Showing us he can make plays in critical areas. He did a great job extending today."

Young, for his part, said he's just taking things one game at a time.

"For me, I just want to focus on what I can control," Young said. "Regardless, I always have the same mindset and preparation, wanting to be better throughout the week. I am definitely grateful for confidence."

Analyst's Take

Carolina's winning streak ended at two games, but this team should feel very good about where it is. Players are continuing to fight hard, which is a positive reflection on head coach Dave Canales. Bryce Young, meanwhile, is starting to play like the game-changer he was at Alabama.

The season, overall, has been a disappointment. However, it's easy to forget just how bad this team was in 2023, and it's easy to overlook how much more hope they have now. -- Knox

Last Week: 24

Week 12 Result: Bye Week

Things were supposed to be different for the New York Jets in 2024.

With Aaron Rodgers healthy, the Jets were supposed to shake off years of futility under center and be a factor in the AFC East. Instead, after 11 games, the Jets are actually a game worse than last year.

And now, per Dianna Russini of the Athletic, it's looking increasingly likely that the Aaron Rodgers era in New York is going to look a lot like the Brett Favre era did—quick and ugly.

"I'm told Johnson has lost confidence in Rodgers' ability to lead the team to their first playoff berth in 14 years, a drought that stands as the longest in the major North American professional sports leagues," Russini said. "There are some on the team who believe everyone is simply tiptoeing around the fact that Rodgers isn't the same player anymore. I'm told no decisions have been made yet, but it appears increasingly likely that the four-time MVP, who is banged up, could be placed on injured reserve or possibly benched over the next few weeks, signaling the end of his disastrous time with the Jets. Some around the league say they won't be surprised if Rodgers is cut in-season."

Analyst's Take

All the blame for the Jets' latest faceplant of a year can't be placed on Rodgers, but there's also no denying that Rodgers has looked his age most of the season. At this point, we should all know what will be happening next—after Rodgers is let go by the Jets, Rodgers will sign with the Minnesota Vikings in the offseason and lead the team to the NFC title game in 2025—just to twist the knife. -- Davenport

Last Week: 25

Week 12 Result: Won at Washington 34-26

How 'bout them Cowboys?

It may have been a weird game that included everything from a missed extra point that would have tied things at the end to a pair of kickoff returns for touchdowns, but the Cowboys are finally off the skid after downing the reeling Commanders in Washington.

The win stopped a five-game skid for the Cowboys, and embattled head coach Mike McCarthy told reporters that hopefully it will give the team some momentum headed into their Thanksgiving Day tilt with the New York Giants.

"Oh, we needed it. It's been frustrating, no doubt," McCarthy said. "I think everybody in our circle has been very accountable for it. But I think you're getting a look at who we are. Just tremendous fight. They fought from the time that ball was kicked off at the beginning all the way down to the end. That's what this team is about. Hopefully, we can continue to get healthy. And we got to win this next one. That was a division game. That was a big win for us. We got another one right around the corner here. Nice to get some wins, get some momentum."

Analyst's Take

The Cowboys snapped a five-game losing streak, but they almost blew a late fourth-quarter lead last week. Commanders kicker Austin Seibert's missed extra-point attempt may have saved Dallas from a mindboggling loss. The Cowboys should celebrate last week's win, but this club still has much to correct going into its Thanksgiving game with the Giants. -- Moton

Last Week: 23

Week 12 Result: Bye Week

There hasn't been a bigger roller-coaster of a team in 2024 than the New Orleans Saints. The Saints opened the season with a pair of dominant wins. Then New Orleans plummeted through a seven-game skid that got head coach Dennis Allen fired. However, since Allen was let go, the Saints have peeled off two straight wins to at least hang around the fringes of the NFC South.

Per Dianna Russini of the Athletic, the way the team has played since coming out of the bye has garnered Dennis Rizzi some real consideration to have the "interim" tag to be removed from his name.

"After the organization parted ways with Dennis Allen," she said, "Rizzi was a natural choice for the interim role, especially considering he was a finalist for the head coaching job two years ago. While Sean Payton's positive influence remains within the organization, Rizzi has introduced his own approach, which has been well-received by players. He has focused on building strong relationships with team leaders and veterans, reorganizing the locker room to enhance player cohesion, and adjusting practice schedules to reduce injuries. He believes in a high volume of reps with less intensity during practices that players, including Derek Carr, have appreciated. He's also allowing players an extra hour of sleep, a simple yet effective adjustment. An assistant coach shared: 'Everything has a purpose with Rizzi.'"

Analyst's Take

After their disastrous seven-game skid, the postseason isn't likely in New Orleans. But that doesn't mean the team has nothing to play for next week at home against the Rams. Rizzi is coaching for his future with the team. Quarterback Derek Carr may well be playing for his future as the team's quarterback, and he won't be the only guy playing for a job next season. The Saints aren't making the postseason. But they have the talent to be a thorn in the sides of some teams down the stretch. -- Davenport

Last Week: 22

Week 12 Result: Lost vs. Minnesota 30-27 (OT)

At 4-7, the postseason hopes for the Chicago Bears are just about toast. Sunday's loss to Minnesota in overtime was the team's fifth straight setback since a 4-2 start.

But in some ways, Sunday's game was almost encouraging.

The Bears may not be winning, but the play of rookie quarterback Caleb Williams has improved—he torched the Vikings for 340 yards and two scores with a passer rating over 100.

Williams told reporters after the loss that while the team didn't get the result they wanted, the offense has improved.

"I think we've gotten better over these past couple games," Williams said. "I think today was a testament to that, being decisive, receivers and everybody, and things like that."

Minnesota head coach Kevin O' Connell was impressed by what he saw from Williams.

"I think the world of him," O'Connell said. "He just continues to get better and better. You can see it when he starts creating off schedule, and that change of direction and athleticism. We had him dead to rights a couple times and he gets out and makes huge plays."

Analyst's Take

Despite coming up short Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings, encouraging signs can still be found for the Bears, particularly the play of rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. Williams finally appears to be getting comfortable and adjusting to the speed of the game. Over the last two contests, he really thrived when defenses attacked.

The result? The playmaking quarterback everyone saw in college is finally fully emerging at the professional level. Williams is evading pressure and making outstanding throws that a select few can. Yes, the Bears have lost five in a row, but the whole point of this season was to ensure the organization finally had its franchise quarterback in place. It appears they do. -- Sobleski

Last Week: 21

Week 12 Result: Lost vs. Detroit 24-6

The Indianapolis Colts are stuck in the in-between.

The Colts aren't a bad team...but they aren't an especially good one, either. The Indy defense had little answer for the juggernaut that is the Lions offense. The Colts offense struggled Sunday—the team was 0-for-2 in the red zone, and after throwing the ball well in Week 11, young quarterback Anthony Richardson came back to earth, completing just 11 of 28 passes.

Despite another rough day throwing the ball, teammate DeForest Buckner still believes that Richardson has a bright future.

"As a player, to go where you have never been and become the player that you want to be, you have to be willing to do things that you've never done and make certain sacrifices you've never made," Buckner told reporters. "At the end of the day, there's a price that needs to be paid. I feel like within this process the past two weeks, he's been able to really see that and that's what gives us so much confidence in him. Knowing that he's rooting in the process and he's developing as a pro."

Still after losing four of five, it's fair to question how long the Colts can wait before they have to consider a Plan B under center.

Because Richardson just hasn't been good as a passer in the NFL.

Analyst's Take

Anthony Richardson needs help. The sophomore quarterback needs to play better, of course. But multiple instances occurred during Sunday's contest against the Detroit Lions where others around the sophomore signal-caller let him down—Andrew Ogletree's drop of what would have been a walk-in touchdown being the most obvious example. Richardson may never become an efficient operator. But it's highly difficult to become anything when plays aren't being made by others or are called back because of penalties. -- Sobleski

Last Week: 19

Week 12 Result: Bye Week

It has been a miserable season for Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow.

Mind you, not from a statistical standpoint—Burrow is playing as well as any quarterback in the league. But the Bengals have played seven one-score games in 2024...and lost six.

Per Oliver Connolly of The Guardian, a team this bad having a quarterback this good is enough to give someone a migraine.

"Losing six close games with a quarterback playing this well is almost impressive," he said. "Burrow's numbers this season are bonkers. He has thrown for 3,028 yards, 27 touchdowns and has only four interceptions so far. He's on pace for the best rushing season of his career, scrambling around to make something happen. He tops the league in QBR and is third in the RBSDM composite, which measures the value of a play and how much the quarterback can be deemed responsible for the value. In a normal year, Burrow would top ballots for the league's most prestigious hardware. Instead, he's left scrapping for the final playoff spot in a lousy AFC wild-card race (NFL.com gives the Bengals a 12% chance of making the postseason). Most likely, the Bengals will be on the outside looking in by the time the postseason rolls around."

Analyst's Take

That the Bengals have just four wins with Burrow playing at such a high level is a shame, and assuming the Bengals do miss the playoffs Cincinnati faces some major questions in the offseason. Wide receiver Tee Higgins and edge-rusher Trey Hendrickson are both free agents after the 2024 season, and frankly, the future of head coach Zac Taylor in the Queen City may be uncertain. -- Davenport

Last Week: 13

Week 12 Result: Lost at Green Bay 38-10

The San Francisco 49ers are in deep trouble.

Injuries have ravaged the Niners all season long. And the team may have reached a breaking point. Without quarterback Brock Purdy and left tackle Trent Williams, the San Francisco offense struggled to get anything going. The defense played its worst game in recent memory on Sunday, and the 49ers got blasted to fall into last place in the NFC West.

After the blowout, head coach Kyle Shanahan didn't sugarcoat his team's performance while talking to reporters.

"I thought we got out of our gaps a number of times," Shanahan said. "I thought we had way too many missed tackles. Just them being able to control that clock the first half was one of the worst ones I've been a part of as far as a half. (Then) To have those three turnovers, and all three led to touchdowns with 21 points. You top that with the penalties and stuff, that's how you get embarrassed like that."

Analyst's Take

The 49ers are cooked, and not just because of injuries. There's a serious lack of physicality on both sides of the ball, and San Francisco's defense has taken significant steps in the wrong direction under first-year coordinator Nick Sorensen.

It should surprise no one if Kyle Shanahan fires his defensive coordinator for the second straight offseason.

There was a time when the 49ers could be considered the bullies of the NFC. There is no longer any semblance of an intimidation factor with this team. -- Knox

Last Week: 15

Week 12 Result: Lost vs. Philadelphia 37-20

Sunday night's tilt with the soaring Eagles was the chance for the Los Angeles Rams to make a statement—to show they can hang with the NFC's best.

Instead, the Rams looked like a .500 also-ran, allowing Saquon Barkley to surpass 250 rushing yards and getting absolutely dominated in the trenches on both sides of the ball.

Quarterback Matthew Stafford was under constant duress Sunday night, and he told reporters that the Rams just weren't good enough up front.

"They rushed four the majority of the night, that's kind of what they do," Stafford said. "Didn't do anything that we didn't expect, just executed a little bit better than we did, stayed ahead of the chains a little better than we did... Just didn't do enough in the second half to keep it close."

The Rams are just one game off the pace in the NFC West. But with games coming up against Buffalo and at San Francisco, this week's tilt with an up-and-down Saints team has the makings of a must-win matchup.

Analyst's Take

The Rams still have an outside chance of stealing the NFC West. Even if they do, I can't see them getting past the wild-card round. This team is a fun mix of veterans like Matthew Stafford and young, budding stars like Jared Verse and Braden Fiske. However, it isn't a complete team, and that has shown against quality opponents like the Eagles.

Los Angeles has holes in its defensive back seven that can't be fixed in-season. It has an offensive line that can't adequately protect Stafford for a full four quarters. Those are issues that will hurt the Rams in the postseason and could prevent them from even getting there. -- Knox

Last Week: 20

Week 12 Result: Won vs. New England 34-15

This is the Dolphins team many expected before the season.

Sunday in Miami, we saw a glimpse of the buzzsaw offense that dropped 70 points on the Broncos last year. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa threw for 317 yards and four touchdowns. Wide receiver Jaylen Waddle had his best game of the season, catching eight passes for 144 yards and a score. On a day the run game struggled, Miami outgained the Patriots by over 100 yards.

Miami head coach Mike McDaniel talked up his quarterback while speaking to reporters after the game.

"He's found a way to improve the way he plays the position throughout the game," McDaniel said. "The most monumental thing that you have to overcome as a quarterback is playing the position regardless of the ebbs and flows, so not changing how you play based upon positive or negative results and letting every play stand on its own."

For his part, Tagovailoa was more concerned with Thursday's trip to face the 8-3 Green Bay Packers.

"We're still below the .500 threshold, and it's a long way to where we want to get to," Tagovailoa said. "We'll enjoy this win, but this next one is going to be big for us."

Analyst's Take

Don't overlook Miami's defense in its midseason run. The Dolphins haven't surrendered 20 points in a game since Week 9. Miami faces a tougher test against the Packers on Thanksgiving, but its top-10 run and pass defense should be up for the challenge at Lambeau Field on Thursday night. We'll also find out if the Dolphins can hang with a playoff contender in below-freezing temperatures. -- Moton

Last Week: 17

Week 12 Result: Bye Week

The good news for the Atlanta Falcons is that the team entered its bye week in first place in the NFC South. The bad news is that the Falcons have also lost two straight, including a blowout defeat in Denver in Week 11.

Those losses can be attributed at least in part to the struggles of veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins. As Nick Shook wrote for NFL.com, Cousins' lack of mobility after tearing his Achilles tendon last year is becoming an issue.

"His immobility is becoming a bit of a glaring issue," he said. "Cousins still launched a few accurate throws downfield that were broken up by Denver's secondary, but he also threw a truly awful interception in the middle of the third quarter, piling onto what had already been an avalanche of negative outcomes for the Falcons on a generally no good, very bad offensive day. The Falcons need more balance and must stay on schedule to get back on track. It would be wise to figure it out quickly, especially with the Buccaneers lurking in the NFC South race."

Analyst's Take

Cousins was actually benched in that loss to the Broncos, but there has been nothing to indicate that was more than a temporary move in a game that was completely out of hand. But the Falcons have just about squandered their margin for error in the NFC South. Cousins needs to up his level of play when the Falcons host the Los Angeles Chargers next week, and it would be nice if the Falcons' invisible pass rush could get a little pressure on Justin Herbert -- Davenport

Last Week: 18

Week 12 Result: Won at New York Giants 30-7

Coming out of the bye week, the Buccaneers needed a win as badly as any team in the NFL—with a wideout corps savaged by injuries, the Bucs had dropped five of six. The playoffs were getting farther and farther away with every defeat.

However, star wide receiver Mike Evans was back for Sunday's blowout win over the New York Giants. He wasn't the biggest reason that Tampa rolled, but it didn't hurt matters, either.

Tampa dominated every facet of the game. Baker Mayfield threw for nearly 300 yards, drawing praise from head coach Todd Bowles in the postgame press conference.

"He did a heck of a job," Bowles said. "Baker just plays ball. He loves playing ball. He had some great scrambles. He bought some time. He made some runs. He played a heck of a ball game."

Tampa gained 156 yards on the ground and averaged almost five yards per carry. The Buccaneers defense held New York under 250 yards. It was a dominant effort all around—one that gives the team momentum heading into games with the Panthers and Raiders that could get the Bucs back above .500.

Analyst's Take

The Buccaneers are one of the league's most balanced clubs, entering Week 12 with a top-10 passing and rushing offense. In Tampa Bay's win over the Giants, Baker Mayfield threw for 294 yards, and all three of its active running backs, Bucky Irving, Rachaad White and Sean Tucker, scored a touchdown. The Buccaneers' tailbacks accumulated 127 scrimmage yards. Despite its 5-6 record, Tampa Bay is a dangerous post-Thanksgiving team that can get hot down the stretch. -- Moton

Last Week: 12

Week 12 Result: Lost at Seattle 16-6

Over the past several weeks, the Arizona Cardinals have been the NFC West's hottest team—winners of four straight. Coming out of the bye, the Redbirds had an opportunity to take a firm grasp on the division lead.

Um...so much for that.

The Arizona offense imploded against the Seattle Seahawks. The team ran for less than 50 yards. The Cardinals converted just 3 of 12 third-downs, and quarterback Kyler Murray threw a pick-six that accounted for one of Seattle's two touchdowns.

Murray didn't mince words while addressing the media after the defeat.

"Obviously, it's a hostile environment," Murray said. "We just didn't execute, did not execute at a high enough level to win that game."

The loss isn't a killer—every team in the NFC West is either 6-5 or 5-6. But with a trip to Minnesota up next followed by a rematch with the Seahawks, Arizona needs to get the offense back on track in a hurry.

Analyst's Take

Just when I think Jonathan Gannon and Drew Petzing have Arizona headed in the right direction, we have games like Sunday's. The defense is improving but can't play consistently well. The offense looks great when things are clicking...and a lot like the bad Kliff Kingsbury years when they're not.

At some point, in a tough game, the Cardinals must forge a better game plan than poking Kyler Murray with the football and telling him to do something. -- Knox

Last Week: 16

Week 12 Result: Won vs. Arizona 16-6

Good luck figuring out the NFC West. All four teams in the division have been up and down this year. First place and last place are separated by a single game. And right now, the Seattle Seahawks are on top of the division.

It was the Seattle defense that keyed Sunday's win, holding the Cardinals out of the end zone and allowing less than 300 yards of offense. Defensive lineman Leonard Williams led the way with six tackles and 2.5 sacks. He told reporters that after their recent struggles, the team is treating every contest like an elimination game.

"We knew where we were in the division rankings, so ever since (the leaders) had that conversation, we've been treating it like playoffs," Williams said. "Since then, I just feel like our team is coming closer together. We're playing with great energy."

However, wide receiver DK Metcalf chastised his offensive teammates for not performing similarly on their side of the ball.

"We should have run away with that game early, but we put ourselves in bad positions to where we couldn't finish drives," Metcalf said. "The defense plays like that, week in and week out, we have no choice but to put points on the board and run away with every game."

Analyst's Take

Mike MacDonald continues to look like a solid coaching hire for the Seahawks. While Seattle's defense is far from perfect, it is aggressive and carries an energy that has been missing in recent seasons. It has also performed much better since the Week 10 bye. The offense still has weapons, and Seattle is beginning to look like a very balanced squad.

I don't know if Seattle will win the volatile NFC West, but this is probably the one team from the division other teams won't want to see on the road in the wild-card round. -- Knox

Last Week: 9

Week 12 Result: Lost vs. Dallas 34-26

The Washington Commanders are in trouble.

It's not just that the Commanders have lost three straight after a 7-2 start. It's how they lost and who they lost against. The Dallas Cowboys were double-digit underdogs, but the Commanders allowed 332 yards of offense to a struggling Cowboys team, turned the ball over three times, allowed a pair of kickoff-return scores and missed a late extra point that would have tied the game.

As star wideout Terry McLaurin told reporters, the Commanders just flat-out didn't play well.

"We just didn't play our best," McLaurin said. "We didn't play complementary football. When you're playing division games it's going to come down to the four quarters. We knew that going into the game. We didn't underestimate them at all, but it's just unfortunate when you can't help each other on offense, helping out on the defense."

The Commanders now find themselves well off the pace in the NFC East. If there's a silver lining, it's that before Washington takes on the Eagles for the second time this season, the team gets a pair of winnable games sandwiched around a Week 14 bye.

Analyst's Take

Even in a loss, Jayden Daniels looked exceptional as the Commanders tried to make a comeback, but the team has hit a wall, losing three consecutive games. Between late September and late October, Washington's defense overachieved, and it regressed to the mean. Since Week 10, the Commanders have surrendered an average of 29.3 points per game. -- Moton

Last Week: 14

Week 12 Result: Won at Las Vegas 29-19

The Denver Broncos are starting to believe.

Sunday's victory over the Las Vegas Raiders wasn't as emphatic as their blowout of the Atlanta Falcons the week before. But Denver went on the road and defeated a divisional opponent to move to 7-5 on the season and remain in the AFC playoff hunt.

After the victory, head coach Sean Payton told reporters the mentality of his team is changing.

"A year ago, we don't win that game," Broncos coach Sean Payton said. "It wasn't our best, but it was good enough. We're on to the next one, so we have a lot to clean up, but it was good to handle these guys for a second time."

Wide receiver Courtland Sutton agreed.

"I think the tide is turning," Sutton said. "The Broncos are in a spot where we want to be back in the AFC West, and I think that's a really exciting spot to be in. Job's not finished."

Now Denver has a pair of winnable games sandwiched around the bye week before what could be a critical trip to Los Angeles to face the Chargers in Week 16.

Analyst's Take

Bo Nix is moving up the ladder of Offensive Rookie of the Year candidates. He's put together three consecutive quality performances, throwing for eight touchdowns without an interception in that stretch. Last Sunday, Nix only completed 59.5 percent of his passes, but he threw for 273 yards and made no critical mistakes that hurt his team. Nix isn't a dazzling downfield passer, and his quarterback runs aren't eye-catching like Jayden Daniels' rush attempts, but he's one of the NFL's top offensive rookies heading into Week 13. -- Moton

Last Week: 11

Week 12 Result: Lost vs. Tennessee 32-27

It just became a lot harder to trust the Houston Texans as a contender in the AFC.

Taking on a two-win Titans team at home, the Texans were outplayed on both sides of the ball. Houston quarterback C.J. Stroud continued to struggle, throwing two more picks. With six games to go, Stroud now has almost twice as many interceptions as all of last year.

The second-year quarterback admitted to reporters that he has to play better if the Texans are going to make noise in the postseason.

"It's no secret that I haven't been playing well... I've got to be harder on myself," he said. "I'm not going to hold my head down. I know I can be a great player, but I've got to make better plays."

Head coach DeMeco Ryans said that there was plenty of blame to go around.

"Just a disappointing loss for us," Ryans said. "We didn't do anything well enough to win this game. Out of all the positives that we did have, there were way too many negatives."

Analyst's Take

C.J. Stroud set an impossible standard during his rookie season that he's struggling to maintain as a sophomore. A year ago, the discussion already centered on whether Stroud was worthy of being considered a top-five quarterback. This season, he's simply trying to remain efficient, which he's struggled to achieve. Over the past four games, Stroud has committed six turnovers. Unsurprisingly, the Texans are 1-3 during that stretch. Houston still holds a two-game lead in the AFC South, but its status is more of an indictment of the division than anything the Texans have done as of late. -- Sobleski

Last Week: 10

Week 12 Result: Lost vs. Baltimore 30-23

Monday night's game between the Chargers and Ravens was supposed to be an opportunity for running back J.K. Dobbins to show his old team that he was fully recovered from the knee injuries that derailed his time with the Ravens. Maybe get a little payback. Ahead of the game, head coach Jim Harbaugh talked with the media about what an important part of the Chargers offense Dobbins has been this year.

"To watch him come back even stronger, quicker, faster than before the injury, what a testament to his will," Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh said. "It's just incredible. Just a testament to his physical athleticism, plus the grueling rehab he went through, plus the mindset that it takes to be able to do that. A lesser man wouldn't, put it that way. A lesser man would have not been able to do what J.K. (Dobbins) has been able to do."

That Dobbins was forced from Monday's loss with a knee injury in the second quarter and did not return may be an even bigger story than the final score. Without any sort of run game, the Chargers offense stagnated. The run is critical to what Harbaugh wants to do offensively. If Dobbins is out a prolonged amount of time, it would be a devastating blow to the Bolts chances of making noise in the postseason—or making the playoffs at all.

Analyst's Take

The Chargers came into Monday looking for only their second win of the season against a playoff-caliber team—Denver being the only team they've beaten that is currently over .500. They appeared up to the challenge until J.K. Dobbins exited the game with a knee injury. L.A. made things somewhat interesting late, but they lost convincingly to the Ravens.

This is who the Chargers are in Year 1 under Jim Harbaugh. The future is bright, but Los Angeles is going to beat the teams it is supposed to and struggle against those we're likely to see in late January. And if Dobbins is forced to miss extended time, L.A. might not even make it to the postseason. -- Knox

Last Week: 8

Week 12 Result: Won vs. San Francisco 38-10

They have been overshadowed by the Detroit Lions in the AFC North. But over their last seven games, the Green Bay Packers are 6-1 after blowing out an undermanned San Francisco 49ers team Sunday. The only loss over that span? A 10-point loss to the aforementioned Lions.

The engine for Sunday's win was a 26-carry, 106-yard effort with three touchdowns from running back Josh Jacobs. After the monster performance, Jacobs told reporters that this is exactly why he joined the Packers—the opportunity to win football games.

"I came here because I'd seen them winning," said Jacobs. "And I haven't won a lot in my career, and that was a big thing for me when I'm making a decision. But not only that, man, being around these guys and seeing how hungry they are, seeing how much of pros they are on a day-to-day basis and how much it means to them, man, it makes me want to play harder, it makes me want to give everything I have."

Analyst's Take

Green Bay may have found its formula for fixing Jordan Love's interception problem, and it involves a heavy dose of Josh Jacobs.

To be fair, the Packers played a bad 49ers defense in Week 12 (that still feels weird to say), but a strong ground game and some opportunistic defense made short work of San Francisco. That's a formula that travels into December and January and one that gives Green Bay a chance to play in February. -- Knox

Last Week: 6

Week 12 Result: Won at Los Angeles Chargers 30-23

Monday night's meeting between the Los Angeles Chargers and Ravens is the latest edition of the "Harbaugh Bowl." Leading up to the game, John Harbaugh told reporters that once the contest started, any familial fondness that might exist between him and Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh goes out the window.

"'When that game starts, my brothers are going to be the guys on the sideline with me,'" John said. "That is the way it works. When you get on that sideline, you stake out your territory on a football game and you're with your family over there."

It showed on Monday night.

The first half was close, but in the second half the Baltimore offense simply imposed its will on the Chargers on both sides of the ball. Offensively, the Ravens topped 200 yards on the ground—the first time that has ever happened to a Jim Harbaugh-coached team in the NFL. Defensively, the Ravens consistently harassed Justin Herbert and didn't allow a second-half touchdown until the game was decided.

It was a big win for Baltimore after last week's loss to the rival Steelers—and a reminder that the Ravens are very much in the Super Bowl hunt in the AFC.

Analyst's Take

Baltimore got back to winning on Monday night and did so by dominating in the running game. For as explosive as Lamar Jackson and the passing game can be, leading with the run needs to be the Ravens' plan moving forward. Controlling the clock is the best way for Baltimore to allow its defense to rest, and Baltimore's secondary is still a liability—eschewing the punt multiple times on Monday night also helped with the task of extending drives.

If the Ravens can keep things rolling with Jackson, Derrick Henry and the ground game, they'll be a tough out in January. If they can't, poor pass defense could cause them to go home early. -- Knox

Last Week: 5

Week 12 Result: Lost at Cleveland 24-19

The Pittsburgh Steelers have decided to go with a bit of a two-headed approach at quarterback—at times during Thursday's loss to the lowly Browns, Justin Fields replaced Russell Wilson under center. After the game, Wilson told reporters that both signal-callers are more than willing to help the team in any way they can.

"We all try to make plays," said Wilson. "Obviously, we have trust in Justin in what he can do and is capable of. I always want to be in there. That's the competitor in me. But at the same time, we have great trust in Justin and the coaches. I don't know when it's going to happen. Whenever it does, all I want us to do is win. When Justin gets in there, I'm rooting for Justin to do great and make a big play. When I go back in, it's vice versa. We're always rooting for each other."

It's understandable that the Steelers are looking for a spark offensively—the team has struggled in the red zone this season. But it's also fair to wonder if this plan is giving that Steelers offense more momentum or stifling it.

Analyst's Take

Musical quarterbacks isn't the reason the Steelers were stunned in Cleveland—edge-rusher T.J. Watt and the Pittsburgh defense were uncharacteristically quiet against a Browns offense that has struggled big-time this season. Pittsburgh is still up a game on Baltimore in the loss column with a head-to-head win. But Pittsburgh's erratic offense could be a real issue against the AFC's best teams, and the Steelers have three straight games coming up in a few weeks against the Eagles, Ravens and Chiefs. -- Davenport

Last Week: 7

Week 12 Result: Won at Chicago 30-27 (OT)

The Sam Darnold reclamation tour moves on.

It wasn't the prettiest of wins—the Vikings squandered a late lead and allowed Chicago to force overtime with an onside kick recovery. But after a three-and-out on the first drive of overtime, Darnold took the Vikings right down the field for a game-winning Parker Romo field goal.

Darnold finished the game with 330 passing yards and two touchdowns, and after the victory head coach Kevin O'Connell told reporters he has every confidence that Darnold can lead the Vikings to victory—no matter the opponent.

"It was just the ability to overcome, and his trust in me and my trust in him," O'Connell said. "We were gonna do it via the pass on that drive for the most part, try to mix some runs in there if we could. But I think that when your best is required, I had no hesitation of trying to attack what I was seeing and trying to get our guys going to get down there and give Parker a chance. Football is a game where you've got to be able to respond. It's never gonna be perfect. This group is a special group, and it's a road win in the NFC North and I'm really proud of our team."

After a two-game skid, the Vikings have rattled off four wins in a row. And the team has a manageable schedule ahead of games against the Packers and Lions that could have huge stakes in the NFC North.

Analyst's Take

The Vikings have a franchise quarterback. No, it's not J.J. McCarthy, whom the organization sank a top-10 pick into this past April. The reclamation project known as Sam Darnold has turned into something special. Darnold has reclaimed his career after playing for three different teams over the past four seasons. He's comfortable and it shows, particularly in crunch time.

During Sunday's overtime victory over the Chicago Bears, Darnold completed 11-of-13 passes in the fourth quarter and overtime. He's now in line for a contract extension. McCarthy will just have to wait a while after his recovery from a knee injury before taking the reins. -- Sobleski

Last Week: 4

Week 12 Result: Won at Los Angeles Rams 37-20

The Philadelphia Eagles are rolling, and running back Saquon Barkley may wind up being the single most impactful personnel move of the 2024 offseason.

All Barkley did Sunday night against the Rams was pile up a franchise record 255 rushing yards, top 300 total yards and score twice while averaging almost 10 yards a carry.

That's not a typo.

Both of Barkley's touchdowns came on long runs, and after the win head coach Nick Sirianni applauded Barkley's ability to make a house call any time he carries the ball.

"Saquon has that ability to hit home runs, and so sometimes that's how it goes," Sirianni said. "You get some short gain, short gain, short gain—boom, home run. Saquon is that type of player, and our offensive line did a good job of handling the variations of the front."

Barkley told reporters that he's loving his first season with his new team.

"To be honest, I'm not surprised," said Barkley. "I didn't know I would have this much success, (but) I'm thankful to be here. I'm thankful for the fresh start. A big reason why I wanted to come here (is) I felt like this is a spot where I could rewrite my story and show everyone the type of player that I feel like I can be and was meant to be, and it's working out right now."

Analyst's Take

I still think the Lions are the best team in the NFC, but I won't be shocked if the Eagles end up claiming the No. 1 seed. Thanks to a rebuilt secondary that has jelled under Vic Fangio, this team has no real weaknesses. The offense might not be quite as dynamic as Detroit's, but Saquon Barkley is dynamic enough that it doesn't often matter. This does not look like the same squad that lost to the Falcons and Buccaneers early in the season.

Games against the Ravens and Steelers will provide challenges, but the rest of Philly's schedule is fairly favorable. A Lions-Eagles NFC title game might be inevitable. -- Knox

Last Week: 3

Week 12 Result: Bye Week

There's nothing better than hitting the bye week after a huge win. That's how things worked out for the Buffalo Bills, who knocked the Kansas City Chiefs from the ranks of the unbeaten.

Quarterback Josh Allen is a legitimate MVP candidate at this point in the season. But Bills legend Bruce Smith told TMZ Sports that individual accolades aren't as important as the ultimate goal—a trip to New Orleans in February for Super Bowl LIX.

"Josh has my [MVP] vote thus far," Smith said. "He needs to finish strong, but keep in mind, winning the MVP but not having an opportunity to play and win in a Super Bowl, I just look at that as, obviously a personal statistic is always great to have, but you want to have that opportunity to go to the Super Bowl and become the MVP in the Super Bowl, win the Super Bowl. All of those things that make history, and I think this gives us a great shot. What took place [against the Chiefs] showed a lot of character about this team."

Analyst's Take

Perhaps the most impressive part about Allen's play this year is that he hasn't really had a true go-to receiver—yes, Buffalo traded for Amari Cooper, but he's still acclimating to his new home. Allen has spread the ball around, running back James Cook is playing well and Buffalo's defense is steadily improving. The Bills haven't lost since all the way back in Week 5, but the team faces a challenging three-game stretch post-bye—home against San Francisco, at the Rams and then a trip to Ford Field for a potential Super Bowl preview. -- Davenport

Last Week: 2

Week 12 Result: Won at Carolina 30-27

Just about no one expected the Kansas City Chiefs to need a last-second field goal to squeak past the lowly Panthers in Carolina on Sunday—including the Panthers, probably.

But that's what happened Sunday. The Panthers surprisingly gave Kansas City all it could handle before some patented Patrick Mahomes heroics saved the day.

While addressing the media after the game, Mahomes said that while a 30-point win would have been great, making a habit of pulling out close games is a valuable learning experience.

"You always want to have some blowouts and be a little calmer in the fourth quarter, but I've always said it could be a good thing when you get to the playoffs later in the season knowing that you have been in those moments before, and knowing how to attack it play by play not making it too big of a moment," Mahomes said.

That would resonate a bit more if Sunday's scraper hadn't come against one of the worst teams in the league.

Analyst's Take

There still isn't a team I'd trust in a one-score game more than the Chiefs. Obviously, there isn't a quarterback anyone would trust more in the final two minutes of a one-score game than Patrick Mahomes.

However, the fact that Kansas City keeps having to find ways to win late is concerning. More concerning is the fact that the Chiefs defense—which has been the team's strength all year—has struggled in two straight weeks. There's plenty for this team to clean up between now and the postseason. -- Knox

Last Week: 1

Week 12 Result: Won at Indianapolis 24-6

The Detroit Lions are a juggernaut right now.

At 10-1, the Lions are off to the franchise's best start since before World War II. The Lions had no problem with the overmatched Colts, out-gaining Indianapolis by over 120 yards, racking up more than twice as many first downs and converting nine of 15 first downs.

The Lions also held the Colts out of the end zone, leading head coach Dan Campbell to tell reporters that he's happy with how well the Lions are playing in all phases of the game.

"This is, whatever it is, 10 quarters without allowing a touchdown and the three last games in the second half we're not allowing it," Campbell said. "We talk about it all the time—limiting points, play physical style, shut down the run—we were able to do that. If you can win on the road, you're normally a pretty damn good team. And we can win on the road."

The Lions are now at home for three straight, starting on Thanksgiving against the Chicago Bears. After that comes a game with the Packers that could offer the Lions a stranglehold on the NFC North and a potential Super Bowl preview against the Buffalo Bills.

Analyst's Take

The current version of the Lions is the best team in the franchise's history. It has existed since 1930. At 10-1, they are tied for the organization's best start ever, and it's pretty safe to say this group could easily dispatch the '34 version that held the same record. To understand just how long ago that really was, the previous 10-1 edition came during the franchise's first season in Detroit with Franklin Delano Roosevelt in his first term as President of the United States. The attack on Pearl Harbor was still seven years away from occurring.

Dan Campbell's Lions aren't just good; they're historically good. -- Sobleski