The Packers have played well lately and just torched the Vikings on their way back into the top 10. If they win this week against the Lions, they make the playoffs. Photo courtesy of Dan Powers/USA TODAY
Power rankings were not released this week at their normal time because of the situation with Damar Hamlin, as everything in football obviously took a backseat to that. Hamlin’s life was on the line after the scary situation that occurred Monday night, and his health and well-being was most important. Recently, doctors have noted he has been able to communicate through writing and is moving extremities, which are great signs. Let us continue to pray for him in his recovery.
1. Buffalo Bills (12-3) –
2. San Francisco 49ers (12-4) –
The defense was torn up by a backup quarterback and they were caught sleeping a bit, but they still came out with the win.
3. Cincinnati Bengals (11-4) –
4. Kansas City Chiefs (13-3) (↑1)
Won a game that was closer than it probably should have been, but it is the NFL. They are looking good on their way into the playoffs.
5. Philadelphia Eagles (13-3) (↓1)
Have not looked good on offense without Hurts, but he should be back this week.
6. Dallas Cowboys (12-4) –
Won easily over the Titans, but they probably could have scored more points. A win is a win though.
7. Los Angeles Chargers (10-6) (↑2)
Looked good in an easy win over the Rams and Joey Bosa returned to the lineup, which is great for their defense.
8. Jacksonville Jaguars (8-8) (↑2)
Dominating victory over the Texans are hot at the right team. Win and they’re in.
9. Green Bay Packers (8-8) (↑5)
Smoked the Vikings this week and just like the Jaguars, they are playing well at the right time. Win and they’re in.
10. Baltimore Ravens (10-6) (↓2)
The defense did not stop the run very well but only allowed 16 points. Once again, they did not get much help from their offense in the scoring department.
11. Minnesota Vikings (12-4) (↓4)
They’re vulnerability was shown once again. Despite their 12-4 record, they do not bode much confidence against other talented teams in the playoffs.
12. New England Patriots (8-8) –
Secured a victory and still have the ability to make the playoffs, but it has not looked great.
13. Detroit Lions (8-8) –
Won handily over the Bears and still have an opportunity to make the playoffs, barring a Seahawks loss and a win or tie of their own. Even if the Seahawks win their game, the Lions will still be playing hard and have a chance at beating the Packers.
14. New York Giants (9-6-1) (↑1)
Whooped the Colts in a dominating performance and could give some teams a hard time in the playoffs.
15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-8) (↑5)
They needed that. It has been a struggle for much of the season for the Bucs, but they looked good last week and clinched the division.
16. Miami Dolphins (8-8) (↓5)
They still have an opportunity to make the playoffs, but they will likely be starting Skylar Thompson at quarterback, so it will not be an easy task. With their current state at the quarterback position, they must drop in the rankings.
17. Seattle Seahawks (8-8) (↑1)
Won easily over the Jets and their playoff hopes are still alive, but they must win and hope the Packers lose.
18. New York Jets (7-10) (↓2)
Difficult to win when the offense puts up 6 points. What a drop off from the Jets.
19. Tennessee Titans (7-9) –
They have fallen off mightily this season but if they win, they will be in the playoffs.
20. Cleveland Browns (↑2)
Solid win over the Commanders.
21. Carolina Panthers (6-10) –
Lead heading into the 4th quarter but could not hold on for the victory.
22. Pittsburgh Steelers (↑1)
Played well enough to win on the final drive and must beat the team above, as well as some other scenarios, for them to make the playoffs.
23. Washington Commanders (7-8-1) (↓6)
Come on Wentz.
24. New Orleans Saints (7-9) (↑1)
Earned a solid victory over the Eagles.
25. Los Angeles Rams (5-11) (↓1)
It’s been a long season for the Rams.
26. Las Vegas Raiders –
Played well against a much better 49ers team, but were unable to pull off the upset.
27. Atlanta Falcons (6-10) –
Win.
28. Chicago Bears (3-13) –
Did not stand much of a chance against the Lions and they look to the offseason now.
29. Arizona Cardinals (4-12) –
Did anybody even watch that game?
30. Denver Broncos (4-12) (↑2)
Kept it close, but just not enough.
31. Houston Texans (2-13-1) (↓1)
After a few good showings and a win, they looked bad in week 17.
32. Indianapolis Colts (4-11-1) (↓1)
Nothing to add.