Nate's Power Ratings: Dec. 10

Was it just two weeks ago that many power ratings around the Web were putting the Giants and Jets in the top two slots? Now the Jets have lost back-to-back games, and the Titans team the Jets pounded has moved ahead of the Giants in most ratings. Even though they just lost at home to the Eagles, who recently tied the Bengals, who are 1-11-1.

Perhaps it's good to remind myself how quick things can change in the NFL. As the Redskins have slid from 6-2 to 7-6, I need something to believe in. I need to give up the smack talk songs. Portis and Zorn need to hug it out. Zorn needs to consider redrawing all blocking schemes, and oh yeah, sign about four offensive linemen. The 'skins still need a new punter (not Plackemeier) to replace the just-fine Derrick Frost, who was cut in preseason. The kicker should have been cut. Washington's second-round draft pick receivers need to make more plays.

Yet, despite all this doom and gloom, they could still make the playoffs. Last year, they rallied from 5-7 to get in; in 2005, they rallied from 5-6 to make it. Now, their remaining schedule has them at Cincinnati, vs. Philadelphia and at San Francisco, all winnable games.

But I don't think they will win out. Speaking of that, I'm predicting you'll need 11 wins to get in to the NFC playoffs, but you never know.

After reviewing the schedules, here's what I'm projecting for playoff seeding:
NFC
1. N.Y. Giants (12-4)
2. Carolina (12-4)
3. Arizona (10-6)
4. Minnesota (9-7)
5. Tampa Bay (11-5)
6. Atlanta (11-5)
AFC
1. Tennessee (14-2)
2. Pittsburgh (12-4)
3. New England (11-5)
4. Denver (9-7)
5. N.Y. Jets (10-6)
6. Indianapolis (10-6)

Sorry, Ravens fans, projected losses to Pittsburgh and Dallas put you via tiebreaker, as they lose for having worse strength of victory than Jets and head-to-head loss to Colts.

Now, onto the power ratings. Not much change from last week.
Team (W-L, last week)
1. N.Y. Giants (11-2, 1). Dropped passes lead to concerns. Can you answer this question?
2. Tennessee (12-1, 2). Will face a Houston team with backs against the wall this weekend.
3. Pittsburgh (10-3, 3). Talk about finding a way to win, will they carry the mo' next week.
4. Carolina (10-3, 4). Remember when Steve Smith fight was supposed to derail this team?
5. Tampa Bay (9-4, 5). Still in great playoff position.
6. Dallas (8-5, 6). Sure, Jerry. It's Barber's fault.
7. Indianapolis (9-4, 7). Finally, a blowout win. Now they get Detroit.
8. Baltimore (9-4, 8). Getting the stretchers ready for this weekend.
9. Arizona (8-5, 12). Can't believe they didn't have the decency to let the Niners keep it close.
10. New England (8-5, 15). Beat the Seahawks on a day other teams wouldn't have.
11. Philadelphia (7-5-1, 16). Remember when their season was over?
12. Miami (8-5, 17). Unheralded defense needs to keep it up to get 'Phins in postseason.
13. Denver (8-5, 9). Finally, Raiders and Chiefs off their schedule.
14. Atlanta (8-5, 10). How will young team respond to pressure-filled stretch run?
15. Minnesota (8-5, 11). That Lions game was way too close. Again.
16. N.Y. Jets (8-5, 14). This ship is sinking fast, but should get in if they beat Buffalo, Miami.
17. Houston (6-7, 20). Great run, but started too far in the hole.
18. Green Bay (5-8, 19). Let too many games get away, in deep hole now (said this last week too).
19. Chicago (7-6, 21). Offense showed some spark last week.
20. New Orleans (7-6, 18). Tough to know where they'll go this offseason.
21. San Francisco (5-8, 22). Things are turning around fast. Is Shaun Hill MVP?
22. Washington (7-6, 13). See above.
23. Buffalo (6-7, 23). Shaun King. Patrick Ramsey. J.P. Losman. The next Tulane NFL QB?
24. San Diego (5-8, 24). Almost sure Cutler fumble in Week 2 will cost them division.
25. Seattle (2-11, 26). The best damned 2-11 team in history.
26. Jacksonville (4-9, 25). Is Garrard really better than Leftwhich was?
27. Cleveland (4-9, 27). I'm flashing back to watching Dorsey at Miami nearly losing to Rutgers.
28. Oakland (3-10, 28). Does anyone have JaMarcus Russell's cell phone number?
29. Kansas City (2-11, 29). May actually beat Bengals, move back in draft.
30. St. Louis (2-11, 30). Remember when they beat Dallas and Washington?
31. Cincinnati (1-11-1, 31). Why bother?
32. Detroit (0-13, 12). Every team wins once, right? Update this week: Not anymore.

NFL Power Ratings: Dec. 4

By Nate Sandstrom

I got sick sitting at the Giants-'Skins game last Sunday. Probably as much because I sat in the rain for three hours as Washington's actual play, but neither one was good.

In case you're keeping track the following teams have been mathematically eliminated form playoff contention: Seatle, St. Louis, Detroit, Cleveland, Kansas City and Cincinnati. Oakland is eliminated with a loss at San Diego tonight.

On with the ratings:

1. N.Y. Giants (11-1). Should be an upset alert vs. Philly this week.
2. Tennessee (11-1). Does anyone remember Vince Young?
3. Pittsburgh (9-3). Sick defense. Harrison is even iller.
4. Carolina (9-3). Nothing like drafting a RB to get your RB going.
5. Tampa Bay (9-3). What a weird thing for Gruden to cry about.
6. Dallas (8-4). Working out of mid-season swoon.
7. Indianapolis (8-4). Tied record for most straight wins by six or less, but they keep winning.
8. Baltimore (8-4). Can't ever remember them scoring like this.
9. Denver (7-5). Get no respect but are 3-0 against NFL's best division.
10. Atlanta (8-4). Exceeding even Mark's preseason pick.
11. Minnesota (7-5). Good thing the Williams took their case to a Minneapolis judge.
12. Arizona (7-5). Can clinch West this week, a loss will start more meltdown talk.
13. Washington (7-5). Peaked in September; finished 4-0 two of the last three years.
14. N.Y. Jets (8-4). Sure, New York has the best two teams.
15. New England (7-5). It's OK to run once when you have first and goal at the nine, coach.
16. Philadelphia (6-5-1). I expect them to close hot.
17. Miami (7-5). Playoffs unlikely, but a big step forward this year.
18. New Orleans (6-6). Is there a less predictable team in the league? Oh yeah, Denver.
19. Green Bay (5-7). Letting too many games get away, in deep hole now.
20. Houston (5-7). Still alive; Slaton mounting late ROY bid.
21. Chicago (6-6). Blown out last two vs. division.
22. San Francisco (4-8). Can still technically win the West.
23. Buffalo (6-6). 4-0 seems like a long time ago.
24. San Diego (4-8). At least I saw Shawm Merriman this week (Coat drive at Terps game).
25. Jacksonville (4-8). I had Jags reaching divisionals in my preseason picks.
26. Seattle (2-10). The best damned 2-10 team in this league.
27. Cleveland (4-8). I was annoyed by offseason hype around Browns; now, I feel bad for them.
28. Oakland (3-9). Hey Tennessee Vols, get used to seeing 3-9 with Kiffin.
29. Kansas City (2-10). Worst to first next year?
30. St. Louis (2-10). Need more than Steven Jackson.
31. Cincinnati (1-10-1). Bring in Jordan Palmer! Yeah! Oh God, No!!!! Damn it.
32. Detroit (0-12). Every team wins once, right?

Post-Week 10 Power Ratings

My explanationless power rankings are on the sidebar and below.

1. Tennessee
2. N.Y. Giants
3. Pittsburgh
4. Carolina
5. New England
6. Baltimore
7. Washington
8. N.Y. Jets
9. Tampa Bay
10. Atlanta
11. Arizona
12. Philadelphia
13. Miami
14. Buffalo
15. Chicago
16. Green Bay
17. Dallas
18. New Orleans
19. Indianapolis
20. Jacksonville
21. Denver
22. San Diego
23. Minnesota
24. Cleveland
25. Seattle
26. Houston
27. San Francisco
28. St. Louis
29. Oakland
30. Kansas City
31. Cincinnati
32. Detroit

Elsewhere, here are ESPN's, Fox Sport's, Sportsline's.

Off to Wells for me. Buy one bottle of wine get one 1/2 off if you're interested.

--Nate

Power Ratings: Halloween

By Nate Sandstrom

My Internet connection has sucked all week. So here you go, my ratings. I'm tired and don't really have anything else to say right now. Maybe tomorrow night; I'm plan-less and costume-less for Halloween. I hope I have candy left over.

1. Tennessee (7-0, 1). Still undefeated so still #1.
2. N.Y. Giants (6-1, 2). How seriously will they take Cowboys this week?
3. Washington (6-2, 3). 'Skins most-hyped regular season game in years on MNF.
4. Pittsburgh (5-2, 7). Who knew you need a backup long snapper?
5. Carolina (6-2, 6). Need to another road win to really impress me.
6. Buffalo (5-2, 4). Don't want to lose more division games.
7. Tampa Bay (5-3, 5). Didn't convert early chances against Big D.
8. Arizona (4-3, 8). How long until typical Cards meltdown?
9. Dallas (5-3, 15). Got a win they badly needed.
10. New England (5-2, 10). Back in first, based on tie-breaker.
11. Chicago (4-3, 11). Looking for a break-out week from Devin Hester.
12. Philadelphia (4-3, 12). Best last-place team in NFL.
13. New Orleans (4-4, 13). Got a win against a team with an even worse D.
14. Green Bay (4-3, 17). Starting to put slide behind them.
15. San Diego (3-5, 9). Norv, firing your D coordinator will not save you.
16. Baltimore (4-3, 18). In playoffs if season was over today.
17. Atlanta (4-3, 16). A polite hand for over-acheivement thus far.
18. Denver (4-3, 19). Everyone else is picking on the defense, why should I?
19. Miami (3-4, 22 ). Who can figure this team out?
20. Cleveland (3-4, 23 ). Turning slow start around.
21. Jacksonville (3-4, 14). Last year was their chance.
22. New York Jets (4-3, 20). Nearly lost to Raiders and Chiefs back-to-back.
23. Minnesota (3-4, 21). Time to rally is now or never.
24. Indianapolis (3-4, 25). Living on reputation.
25. St. Louis (2-5, 27). Win over Cards gets them back in playoff hunt.
26. Houston (3-4, 24). Would be in second if they hadn't tanked Colts game.
27. Oakland (2-5, 28). Uhhhh ...... Running back platoon exciting for fantasy teams.
28. Seattle (2-5, 30). Could this be the season saved by Seneca?
29. San Francisco (2-6, 29). A wise man once told me, "Keep your pants on, dog!"
30. Kansas City (1-6, 29). Losing with integrity?
31. Detroit (0-7, 32). At least they're covering the spread.
32. Cincinnati (0-8, 31). If they just go 7-1 they'll make my prediction.

NFL Power Ratings: October 24

By Nate Sandstrom
According to my preseason picks, the Chargers were to meet the Saints in the Super Bowl; however, with these two teams combining for eight losses it looks like a team playing a regular season game in London may never go to a Super Bowl. This week's power ratings spot some other trends.

1. Tennessee (6-0, ranked 1 last week). Collins is 2-0 vs. teams he played in 2000 playoffs.
2. N.Y. Giants (5-1, 2). 0-1 ATS in week following home game against West Coast team.
3. Washington (5-2, 3). 0-1 SU this year against winless teams with 4+ losses.
4. Buffalo (5-1, 6). 0-1 SU when first-round draft picks quarterback majority of team's snaps.
5. Tampa Bay (5-2, 4). Face former MVP QB Brad Johnson, who is 3-1 SU against teams he previously played for.
6. Carolina (5-2, 10). 4-0 SU and 3-0-1 ATS at home this year. Tough to win homefield for playoffs when you are 1-2 on the road.
7. Pittsburgh (5-1, 9). 5-1 SU in the season that occurs after a Pittsburgh resident is jailed for impersonating players in football/towel-crazy town.
8. Arizona (4-2, 5). Cards are 1-8 ATS the last nine in Week 8. Objection, relevance? Overruled.
9. San Diego (3-4, 7). 3-3-1 ATS this year. Man, does Norv make good teams mediocre.
10. New England (4-2, 18). Were 6-0 ATS at this point last year.
11. Chicago (4-3, 14). Undefeated ATS this season when giving up 40+ points.
12. Philadelphia (3-3, 12). 3-0 ATS this season when Akers drinks from the Fountain of Youth before the game.
13. New Orleans (3-4 , 11). Now 11-12 SU since being considered Super Bowl contenders.
14. Jacksonville (3-3, 17). 1-0 ATS since Matt Jones sentenced to drug court, not prison.
15. Dallas (4-3, 8). Lost last two SU, see 2000 Redskins; Brad Johnson was on that team too.
16. Atlanta (4-2, 13). 3-0 ATS on turf this year. Why don't they play Philly at the Vet?
17. Green Bay (4-3, ). 1-0 ATS in games when Favre tries to coach opponents.
18. Baltimore (3-3, 21). Ravens are 3-0 ATS when Flacco does not throw a pick. Raiders DBs have seven picks thus far; so does Flacco.
19. Denver (4-3, 19). 1-0 ATS when ref Ed Hochuli forgets where he is and what is going on while calling games.
20. N.Y. Jets (3-3, 16). 2-7 last nine ATS vs. teams with losing records. Now play KC, which has nearly the losingest record.
21. Minnesota (3-4, 26). Undefeated ATS under Coach Childress when game counts for nothing.
22. Miami (2-4, 20). 2-0 SU against teams in 2007 AFC title game. 0-4 SU against teams not in that game. Have just one game left vs. teams in that game.
23. Cleveland (2-4, 22). 4-2 ATS this year, which clearly makes the money worth it.
24. Houston (2-4, 24). 1-0 when you use the teaser in games in which Sage Rosenfels starts.
25. Indianapolis (3-3, 15). Should be 1-5.
26. San Francisco (2-5 , 25). Teams who've changed coaches during this season are 3-1 ATS under new direction.
27. St. Louis (2-4, 30). 2-0 ATS under Haslett; also 2-0 ATS against Dallas ans Washington when they give the ball to St. Louis D three or more times a game.
28. Oakland (1-5, 27). Nice kick in OT last week, but Raiders are still 0-1 ATS when attempting FG over 70 yards.
29. Kansas City (1-5, 28). 0-5 SU when not playing Denver run defense.
30. Seattle (1-5, 29). 1-0 ATS when Seneca Wallace starts.
31. Cincinnati (0-7, 31). Does it really matter?
32. Detroit (0-6, 32). Won last 2 ATS, proof the curse of Bobby Layne has ended.

NFL Power Ratings Oct. 16: A day late, a dollar short

By Nate Sandstrom
After the NFC East went 1-3 over the weekend everything I thought I knew about the order of the NFL is gone. Talking to a few people at the bar last night, it seems like no one can easily identify who they think the top five teams in the league are.

Here's my crack, they it may be the least confident I've ever been in these rankings.

(W-L, previous rank)
1. Tennessee (5-0, 4 ). By virtue of being last unbeaten.
2. N.Y. Giants (4-1, 1). Is old Eli back or was it just a bad day?
3. Washington (4-2, 2). They won Rams game in every way but the score.
4. Tampa Bay (4-2, 9). Two drives from 6-0.
5. Arizona (4-2, 18). Two wins against my top 10.
6. Buffalo (4-1, 8). Bye week was well-timed.
7. San Diego (3-3, 10). Finally beat the Pats.
8. Dallas (4-2, 3). Could the team of destiny finish last in the NFC East?
9. Pittsburgh (4-1, 6). Practically clinched AFC North already.
10. Carolina (4-2, 5). Hey, one loss in six years at Tampa ain't that bad.
11. New Orleans (3-3, 19). Just wait 'til Brees gets Colston and Shockey back.
12. Philadelphia (3-3, 12). Whose career is ending faster, David Akers or Matt Stover?
13. Atlanta (4-2, 24). Can't believe I'm doing this, but they've earned this spot.
14. Chicago (3-3, 7). Hester starting to produce on offense.
15. Indianapolis (3-2, 22). Nice win vs. Ravens, but I don't take that much from it.
16. N.Y. Jets (3-2, 17). Definitely in the playoff hunt.
17. Jacksonville (3-3, 13). Up and down unless they keep it on the ground.
18. New England (3-2, 16). Belichick is a gen.... oh, never mind.
19. Denver (4-2, 11). Fast start ending quickly.
20. Miami (2-3, 15). All this Wildcat talk. They did lose to the Texans.
21. Baltimore (2-3, 14). Four of next five on the road. Need to win two of them.
22. Cleveland (2-3 29). Thought preseason was eight games, not four.
23. Green Bay (3-3, 20). Peaked in Week 2.
24. Houston (1-4, 28). Now they got the first one out of the way will they keep it going?
25. San Francisco (2-4, 23). O'Sullivan was throwing the ball like punts in fourth against Iggs.
26. Minnesota (3-3, 21). Strangely, are likely to be in first if they somehow win at Chicago.
27. Oakland (1-4, 26). Who cares?
28. Kansas City (1-4, 27). Ditto.
29. Seattle (1-4, 25). Watch out for the Seneca Wallace/Charlie Frye platoon.
30. St. Louis (1-4, 32). Enjoy that win Rams, it may be their last this year.
31. Cincinnati (0-6, 30 ). Why does anyone still cover what Chad Johnson says?
32. Detroit (0-5, 31). Look Kitna, Greise got hurt and Garcia's playing so maybe you have hope.

Nate's NFL Power Rankings — Oct. 8

1. N.Y. Giants (4-0, 1). More running backs than 1990s Nebraska teams.

2. Washington (4-1, 3). Oh no, what will they do with a rookie coach? Idiots, Zorn rocks.

3. Dallas (4-1, 4). Don't worry about off the field stuff, but why are they only -5 at Arizona.

4. Tennessee (5-0, 2). Special thanks to officials for that personal foul on Suggs.

5. Carolina (4-1, 6). Rushing attack is taking shape; I know it was KC but its still a shutout.

6. Pittsburgh (4-1, 14). Winning despite injuries. Not sure how long it can last.

7. Chicago (3-2, 13). Hester attack is back on track.

8. Buffalo (4-1, 5). Good time for their bye week.

9. Tampa Bay (3-2, 8). Way better than Mark thinks.

10. San Diego (2-3, 7). Don't think they will finish 10-2 this season.

11. Denver (3-2, 10). I know they beat Tampa, but not by enough at home.

12. Philadelphia (2-3, 11). Different team without Westbrook.

13. Jacksonville (2-3, 15). Moved up because so many others moved down.

14. Baltimore (2-2, 16). Six points from being a Top 8 team.

15. Miami (2-2, 20). I called them most improved team at the beginning of the year.

16. New England (3-1, 18). Stock up slightly, San Diego presents yardstick game on Sunday.

17. N.Y. Jets (2-2, 19). Probably a yo-yo type year for Jets.

18. Arizona (3-2, 22). Warner probably a better fantasy starter than real starter.

19. New Orleans (2-3, 9). Should be able to outscore opponents when Colston, Shockey return.

20. Green Bay (2-3, 12). This is why you shouldn't have traded Favre.

21. Minnesota (2-3, 21). I still don't count on Childress being around next year.

22. Indianapolis (2-2, 17). Two years away from being a last place team.

23. San Francisco (2-3, 23). Who cares?

24. Atlanta (3-2, 25). May have already accrued half the season's wins.

25. Seattle (1-3, 24). It's a time zone thing. Right.

26. Oakland (1-3, 26). JaMarcus Russell is a great player. Get over it!

27. Kansas City (1-4, 27). Another QB change. Whose coaching this team, Steve Spurrier?

28. Houston (0-4, 28). My Sage campaign may be over.

29. Cleveland (1-3, 29). Do those pundits still consider the Browns offseason winners?

30. Cincinnati (0-5, 30). At least the games are getting closer.

31. Detroit (0-4, 31). Yearning for the naked coaches.

32. St. Louis (0-4, 32). This new coach will fix everything.

Nate's NFL Power Ratings Oct. 1

By Nate Sandstrom

Remember how much I praised the Big 12 the other day? I'm equally impressed by the NFC East, even though they finally lost a game outside the division on Sunday night. Thus, all but the Eagles are in my top four.

More interesting to readers might be how I stack three NFC South teams in the next five (that may make it hard for Atlanta to win seven games, Mark).

At the bottom of the poll, the Detroit Lions sit at #30 with a status of awfuler. But relax silver and blue fans there may be bright days ahead. And I'm not talking about Matt Millen being sacked, it's that the Curse of Bobby Layne expires in four days. Sorry Cubs fans, that's the only curse ending this year.



1. New York Giants (3-0), OK, OK, I guess I have to admit the Giants are good.
2. Tennessee (4-0). What if Kerry Collins played the Giants in the Super Bowl?
3. Washington (3-1). Thought the first game was still preseason.
4. Dallas (3-1). Man, the NFC East is good.
5. Buffalo (4-0). I guess Mark was right about them after all. Go Lee Evans!
6. Carolina (3-1). How did they lose to Minnesota?
7. San Diego (2-2). Really should be 3-1.
8. Tampa Bay (3-1). Not sure how they're winning, but they are.
9. New Orleans (2-2). NFC South looking as strong as ever.
10. Denver (3-1). Not far from 1-3, but still got wins.
11. Philadelphia (2-2). Pretty early, but really need win over Skins this weekend.
12. Green Bay (2-2). Falling fast.
13. Chicago (2-2). Much better with Hester in lineup.
14. Pittsburgh (3-1). Injuries mounting.
15. Jacksonville (2-2). Not sure what to make of Jags, but I'm guessing 9-7.
16. Baltimore (2-1). Hype of the week: Beltway Superbowl!
17. Indianapolis (1-2). Old. Satisfied. Out of the playoffs.
18. New England (2-1). Seriously, lost by 25 to Miami? At home?
19. New York Jets (2-2). Fav-tastic Sunday.
20. Miami (1-2). Another team I don't know what to make of.
21. Minnesota (1-3). Can Vikings get Mike Tice back?
22. Arizona (2-2). Still highest-rated team in NFC West.
23. San Francisco (2-2). What's an Alex Smith?
24. Seattle (1-2). Can we get Steve Largent back?
25. Atlanta (2-2). Have already peaked for the year.
26. Kansas City (1-3). Why wouldn't you always play Huard?
27. Oakland (1-3). I actually think they might get better.
28. Houston (0-3). I still like Sage over Schaub.
29. Cleveland (1-3). Still awful.
30. Detroit (0-3). Awfuler. Still, things have been worse.
31. Cincinnati (0-4). Awfulest.
32. St. Louis (0-4). Awfulestest. Would be better if they and Oakland were both still in LA.

Nate's NFL Power Ratings-Week 2

By Nate Sandstrom

This week's power ratings are complete with Chargers fan bias.

1. Dallas (2-0,1). Win against Eagles on Monday reaffirms dominance.
2. Philadelphia (1-1, 4). DeSean Jackson is still good.
3. Green Bay (2-0, 2). Maybe Rodgers is better than Favre. Brian Brohm, too.
4. San Diego (0-2, 3). Robbed!
5. New England (2-0, 6). I still don't believe in Cassel.
6. Pittsburgh (2-0, 5). Unimpressive against Browns.
7. N.Y. Giants (2-0, 8). I guess they actually are good.
8. Arizona (2-0, 12). Just pay Boldin,
9. Buffalo (2-0, 14). Remember 2003? This time, first two weeks may not be fluke.
10. Indianapolis (1-1, 11). Hey, they won the Super Bowl with no run defense.
11. Denver (2-0, 15). I H8 CUTLER!
12. New Orleans (1-1, 7). Brees can't throw that many bad passes again, can he?
13. Carolina (2-0, 9). Undefeated without Steve Smith? Brilliant move Fox.
14. Washington (1-1, 16). Comeback against Saints shows signs of life.
15. Minnesota (0-2, 13). 2nd half meltdown frustrates, but I'm not giving up on them.
16. Chicago (1-1, 10). Hester's hurt. Uh-oh.
17. Jacksonville (0-2, 18). May be one of those disappointing years.
18. Tampa Bay (1-1, 20). Why does Gruden hate all his QBs?
19. San Francisco (1-1, 29). Somehow the second-best team in NFC West.
20. N.Y. Jets (1-1, 17). Over-spended! Over-spended!
21. Baltimore (1-0, 24). Would've gone to Super Bowl if it wasn't for that hurricane. Just ask Mark.
22. Houston (0-1, 21). Ask the 2005 Saints how dealing with a hurricane works out?
23. Tennessee (2-0, 19). You will all know Chris Johnson soon.
24. Cleveland (0-2, 25). Greenberg actually refered to them as a Super Bowl contender this spring. That's one example of why I favor Fox Sports in the morning. (1370 in B-more).
25. Seattle (0-2, 22). Memo to Jim Mora Jr.: Ask Dad how to talk about losses after the game. It will make things more fun. For me.
26. Miami (0-2, 23). What if they actually lost more games this year?
27. Atlanta (1-1, 26). At least they got Detroit and KC in the first three weeks.
28. Oakland (1-1, 32). Kiffin is still a goner.
29. Detroit (0-2, 27). Awful. See Faceoff below.
30. Kansas City (0-2, 28). Football fan in two years: "Who's Larry Johnson?"
31. Cincinnati (0-2, 30). How were they ever good, even briefly?
32. St. Louis (0-2, 31). They're a 10-point underdog at Seattle!

Nate's Week 1 NFL Power Ratings

I know these are supposed to be out on Wednesday, but since Mark did his Tuesday it all balances out, right? And Mark, I like the Bills too, but #4?

Sorry for no face-off this week, we had some technical difficulties. Without further delay, where I stack them after a mostly boring Week 1:

Team (W-L, previous rank)

1. Dallas (1-0, 3). How do guys like Barber and Felix Jones keep falling to them?
2. Green Bay (1-0, 14). Monday was a statement win, and the margin could have been more.
3. San Diego (0-1, 2). They started 1-3 last year, so no worries here.
4. Philadelphia (1-0, 9). Loving that last place schedule.
5. Pittsburgh (1-0, 13). Was ready for them to fall off, but perhaps I was premature.
6. New England (1-0, 1). Until they lose, I can’t drop them below here. Until they lose.
7. New Orleans (1-0, 6). Defense came up big in the clutch for once.
8. N.Y. Giants (1-0, 15). Almost as many touted RBs as a college team.
9. Carolina (1-0, 12). Delhomme delivers another clutch win.
10. Chicago (1-0, 24). Head on 670 this week? Brandon Lloyd - Comeback Player of Year.
11. Indianapolis (0-1, 4). Team usually starts fast but lost first game. Not a good sign.
12. Arizona (1-0, 21). Seattle’s performance elevates Cards as favorites in the West.
13. Minnesota (0-1, 8). Played sloppy and still had a chance to win the end.
14. Buffalo (1-0). Mark thinks Marshawn Lynch may be better than A-Pete. Not far off.
15. Denver (1-0, 16). Was it just Oakland or have the Broncos improved.
16. Washington (0-1, 10). If they could just figure out the nine-point play.
17. N.Y. Jets (1-0, 25). I laughed a month ago when someone told me the Jets could win 10.
18. Jacksonville (0-1, 5). Note to Del Rio: Run the ball. Again. And again. Just do it.
19. Tennessee (1-0, 19). May have reached the peak of their season.
20. Tampa Bay (0-1, 18). Gave a valiant effort and could improve; 1st place sked is tough.
21. Houston (0-1, 7). Put in Sage.
22. Seattle (0-1, 11). Seneca Wallace can play receiver. And QB. Go Cyclone alums!
23. Miami (0-1, 28). Chad nearly brought 'Phins back, then reminded Jets why they have Favre.
24. Baltimore (1-0, 30). The race for second in the NFC North is on!
25. Cleveland (0-1,23). Will they trade "Charlie Frye" Derek Anderson by trading him to Seattle?
26. Atlanta (1-0, 31). Matt Ryan has media darling written all over him; Turner
27. Detroit (1-0, 20). Forget the Kitna problems, Mark. What about a defense?
28. Kansas City (0-1, 32). Gave Pats a game, but couldn't convert from the 5. Makes them #28.
29. San Francisco (0-1, 27). Who will try Mike Martz next?
30. Cincinnati (0-1, 22). Yo, receivers! Spend more time catching, less time whining.
31. St. Louis (0-1, 26). They may finish behind both Mike Martz and Kurt Warner.
32. Oakland (0-1, 29). Anyone else ready to write off JaMarcus Russell?

Week 14 power ratings

NFL Power Ratings — Week 14

1. New England (12-0) — Everyone needs a little luck.
2. Indianapolis (10-2) — Pretty much wrapped up division.
3. Dallas (11-1) — I guess I have to stop saying they are over-rated.
4. Pittsburgh (9-3) — Don't make guarantees you can't keep.
5. Green Bay (10-2) — Glad there isn't a BCS in NFL, or Dallas game might have really mattered.
6. San Diego (7-5) — This weekend is homecoming for Philip Rivers, think he'll be welcome?
7. Seattle (8-4) — Wildly inconsistent teams wins a big one.
8. Jacksonville (8-4) — Colts don't want to face this team a third time.
9. Minnesota (6-6) — Playing some of the best ball in the league the last three weeks.
10. Cleveland (7-5) — After A-Pete, Joe Thomas is ROY.
11. Tampa Bay (8-4) — If you give them the opportunity, they'll take it.
12. Tennessee (7-5) — Off the slide, but Chargers next.
13. Buffalo (6-6) — No-name defense doing the job.
14. N.Y. Giants (8-4) — Meltdown is spelled G-I-A-N-T-S.
15. Arizona (6-6) — A few bounces from being 9-3, but were swept by Niners.
16. Houston (5-7) — I guess they can lose with Andre Johnson
17. New Orleans (5-7) — Tampa loss was costly.
18. Philadelphia (5-7) — Please trade McNabb. I'm sure Feely is the answer. Ha!
19. Washington (5-7) — 5-11 more likely than 9-7.
20. Chicago (5-7) — Remember when Bears fans criticized management for drafting Devin Hester. I do.
21. Denver (5-7) — I should have seen this coming.
22. St. Louis (3-9) — Now if only they had their best five linemen back.
23. Detroit (6-6) — Tough to get to 10 wins now.
24. Oakland (4-8) — Defense is improving.
25. Carolina (5-7) — Talk about a team that needs a QB.
26. Cincinnati (4-8) — Biggest disappointment in NFL.
27. N.Y. Jets (3-9) — Could win their way out of a higher draft pick.
28. Baltimore (4-8) — How do they build off a game like they had? Complain about the refs.
29. Kansas City (4-8) — This ship is sinking fast.
30. Atlanta (3-9) — They still may win more games than I predicted
31. San Francisco (3-9) — Thankful for the Cardinals.
32. Miami (0-12) — If they didn't beat the Jets at home, who will they beat. Maybe Ravens.

--Nate Sandstrom

NFL Power Ratings-Nov. 15, 2007

1. New England (9-0). At least they finally didn't cover.
2. Indianapolis (7-2). Loss to San Diego knocked them out of AFC two seed.
3. Pittsburgh (7-2). Steelers fans don't take well to talk of trap game.
4. Dallas (8-1). Should move to 9-1 against 'Skins. Let the hype continue.
5. Green Bay (8-1). -9.5 vs. Carolina. Lock it down.
6. San Diego (5-4). Even when they win, they lose.
7. Jacksonville (6-3). Can they avoid a melt down this year?
8. Tennessee (6-3). Vince Young's passer rating is 62.2.
9. Cleveland (5-4). I had this team in the league's bottom three to start the year.
10. Seattle (5-4). Perhaps the league's most inconsistent team.
11. Buffalo (5-4). Lee Evans has been hot, can he win for Bills w/o Marshawn Lynch?
12. N.Y. Giants (6-3). Gutcheck game against Detroit.
13. Tampa Bay (5-4). Not losing NFC South.
14. Detroit (6-3). Gutcheck game against Giants.
15. Arizona (4-5). Still control destiny in the West.
16. Philadelphia (4-5). Westbrook is a one-man show.
17. Washington (5-4). Gibbs-speak explained.
18. Carolina (4-5). How has this team won four games?
19. New Orleans (4-5). Expect a shootout aginst Houston on Sunday.
20. Denver (4-5). Finally, a win that wasn't close.
21. Chicago (4-5). Rex is back. Is that good or bad?
22. Houston (4-5). Andre Johnson is back and they are immediately more dangerous.
23. Kansas City (4-5). Wow, there are a lot of 4-5 teams.
24. Cincinnati (3-6). Wish they could play the Ravens a lot more.
25. Baltimore (4-5). 1-8 ATS.
26. Oakland (2-7). Daunte loves playing his old teams.
27. Minnesota (3-6). No Adrian Peterson? Uh-oh.
28. Atlanta (3-6). Things are getting quietly better.
29. St. Louis (1-8). Backup O-line getting used to each other.
30. N.Y. Jets (1-8). Maybe Curtis Martin will put on a uniform.
31. San Francisco (2-7). No comment.
32. Miami (0-9). A team after Jim Mora's heart: "I just hope we win a game!"

--Nate Sandstrom

Nate's NFL Power Rankings: Post-Week 8

The Colts-Pats game is reminiscent of a #1 vs. #2 regular season college football match-up. I've strategically avoided ESPN much of this week, so I am not so sick of the hype that I don't want to watch the game.

I'm starting to notice I'm not moving teams that much. I guess the biggest question is whether I would move the Steelers ahead of the loser of Colts-Pats, and the answer is not likely.

1. New England (8-0,1). What 'skins D? Another week, another blowout.
2. Indianapolis (7-0,2). Can they afford to start slow against the Pats?
3. Pittsburgh (5-2,3). Total lip service. They are not playing '06 Ravens.
4. Dallas (6-1,4). Pats-Colts give Dallas-Philly least coverage in years. T.O.?
5. Green Bay (6-1,5). Seem like team of destiny.
6. San Diego (4-3,6). Outscored opponents 104-27 in last three.
7. N.Y. Giants (6-2,7). Players council? What is this, Survivor?
8. Tennessee (5-2,8). Margin doesn't matter much in NFL.
9. Seattle (4-3,10). Seeking to shake up run game.
10. Jacksonville (5-2,15). Won battle for best in Fla.
11. Tampa Bay (4-4,9). Turnovers killed them against Jags.
12. Carolina (4-3,12). Indy blows out a lot of teams. They may be back to Carr.
13. Washington (4-3,13). New England blows out a lot of teams.
14. Baltimore (4-3,14). Still looking for first division win (0-2).
15. Detroit (5-2,16). Is Kitna the new Nostradamus?
16. Denver (3-4,11). Falling out of playoff picture.
17. Cleveland (4-3,19). Win against Seattle and they move up big.
18. Arizona (3-4,17). Trying to snap two-game skid.
19. Buffalo (3-4,18). Lee Evans gets in the end zone!
20. Kansas City (4-3,21). Who thought they'd start November in first?
21. Chicago (3-5,22). They've got to get better right.
22. Cincinnati (2-5,23). Is there honor in being NFL's best 2-5 team?
23. Philadelphia (3-4,27). Wins in next two (Dallas/Washington) can get them back.
24. New Orleans (3-4,26). Can move into first place tie this week.
25. Oakland (2-4,25). Another blown half time lead.
26. Minnesota (2-5,24). Now the Brooks Bollinger show.
27. Houston (3-5,20). I don't think David Carr was the problem.
28. San Francisco (2-5,28). Again, has a team that started 2-0 finished 2-14?
29. N.Y. Jets (1-7,29). Man-genius spent too much time on Sopranos.
30. Atlanta (1-6,30). Found way not to lose bye week.
31. Miami (0-8,31). Have mastered losing games by three points.
32. St. Louis (0-8,32). At least Steven Jackson is back. Oooooh. Yikes.

Nate's NFL Power Ratings-Week 8

The top six hold, but last week's seven and eight, Jacksonville and Baltimore, respectively, plummet.

The Colts are getting a lot of love for whipping Jacksonville, but I put much of it on Quinn Gray, who was not ready for NFL speed. Also, what was that 4th and 1 play that Del Rio ran just before the end of the first half? I can't stand when teams get fancy instead of just running inside.

Anyway, here's my role call this week:

1. New England (7-0,1). I've been betting this team every week and am now retired.
2. Indianapolis (6-0,2). Now travel on a short week in a look-ahead game.
3. Pittsburgh (4-2,3). I'm impressed they got back in the Denver game.
4. Dallas (6-1,4). Turnovers will burn Romo eventually. Now a bye.
5. Green Bay (5-1,5). Will week off get Favre back on track?
6. San Diego (3-3,6). Can beat Houston anywhere.
7. N.Y. Giants (5-2,12). London trip could be perfect excuse for 2007 collapse.
8. Tennessee (4-2,13). Please tell them football games last four quarters.
9. Tampa Bay (4-3,9). Hope they don't have to play on turf (0-3) in playoffs.
10. Seattle (4-3,11). Find the Rams cure what ails ya.
11. Denver (3-3,15). Need to remind city they have a football team.
12. Carolina (4-2,10). Winless at home this year, now Colts come to town.
13. Washington (4-2,14). This thread teaches history. It will not repeat.
14. Baltimore (4-3,8). Ray Lewis is crying and the losing begins. Hello again, 2005.
15. Jacksonville (4-2,7). Run the ball Del Rio. Especially with Quinn in.
16. Detroit (4-2,22). Consistent they're not.
17. Arizona (3-4,17). The Fugitive's favorite team. (Get it, one-armed man).
18. Buffalo (2-4,18). Finally win a close one.
19. Cleveland (3-3,20). Need to stay focused, not look past Rams.
20. Houston (3-4,16). I've been calling for Sage since 2003, in Washington, Miami...
21. Kansas City (4-3,22). Now,they're a playoff team. Will it last? Pun intended.
22. Chicago (3-4,19). A Bears QB wins a game!
23. Cincinnati (2-4,25). They were still down 13 to the Jets.
24. Minnesota (2-4,18). Tavaris presents a quandry.
25. Oakland (2-4,28). How do you lose 17 straight division games?
26. New Orleans (2-4,23). It's a winning streak, regardless.
27. Philadelphia (2-4,24). Speaking of 2005 last place finishes.
28. San Francisco (2-4,26). Has a team that started 2-0 finished 2-14?
29. N.Y. Jets (1-6,29). Please win so Greenberg will stop debating Brady-Manning.
30. Atlanta (1-6,30). Leftwhich era shortest era ever.
31. Miami (0-7,31). Think Saban saw this coming?
32. St. Louis (0-7,32). At least Steven Jackson is back.

--NS

Nate's NFL Power Rankings - Pre-Week 7

Yeah, these are late. Extra links to make up for it.

1. New England (6-0,1). Trying to invent time machine to take on '72 Dolphins.
2. Indianapolis (5-0,2). Will run defense stop the Jags this year?
3. Pittsburgh. (4-1,3). Used off-week to pay parking tickets.
4. Dallas (5-1,4). If they're the best in NFC, why have a Super Bowl?
5. Green Bay (5-1,5). If Taylor had better hands, Favre would've thrown 5 Ints.
6. San Diego (3-3,9). Norv Turner is awesome all of a sudden.
7. Jacksonville (4-1,10). If they can beat Colts, I will forgive week one loss.
8. Baltimore (4-2,8). Bad wins against bad teams keep them stagnant.
9. Tampa Bay (4-2,11). Does Michael Bennett still run 4.13? (Scroll down).
10. Carolina (4-2,18). Can't anyone win with Steve Smith? Oh, except David Carr.
11. Seattle (3-3,7). Rams could help get offense back on right track.
12. N.Y. Giants (4-2,16). They were 6-2 last year.
13. Tennessee (3-2,6). Should just change name to Vince Youngs.
14. Washington (3-2,15). Need lots of doctors on hand this week.
15. Denver. (2-3,17). Javon Walker adds injury to insulting offense.
16. Houston (3-3,21). Put in Sage! 123 rating.
17. Arizona (3-3,13). How long will they hold first?
18. Minnesota (2-3,29). Adrian Peterson is definitely awesome.
19. Chicago (2-4,12). Bears need to clone Hester.
20. Cleveland (3-3,24). Where did this offense come from?
21. Kansas City (3-3,22). Didn't Priest see what happened to Trent Green?
22. Detroit (3-2,20). Bucs haven't won on Turf this year.
23. New Orleans (1-4,27). Some say Seattle was no fluke.
24. Philadelphia (2-3,19). Still only beat Jets by 7.
25. Cincinnati (1-4,14). Hey, they beat the Ravens.
26. San Francisco (2-3,25). Anyone still think this is a sleeper team?
27. Buffalo (1-4,26). Eh, who doesn't want to move to Canada, eh? These guys.
28. Oakland (2-3,23). I don't know what to think of this team.
29. N.Y. Jets (1-4,28). At least they beat Miami.
30. Atlanta (1-5,30) Think Petrino wants to draft Brian Brohm? I do.
31. Miami (0-6,31). Think the Pats forgot this game?
32. St. Louis (0-6,32). Need to get Dolphins on schedule.

Nate's NFL Power Ratings-October 11

Sorry these are a day late, poker went late night Wednesday.
(Record, last week)

1. New England (5-0,1). A bookie's nightmare. A favorite that always covers.
2. Indianapolis (5-0,2). Never so little coverage around an undefeated Colts team.
3. Pittsburgh (4-1,3). Righted ship in Seattle drubbing with half the team out.
4. Dallas (5-0,4). As Franz Ferdinand says: You're so lucky.
5. Green Bay (4-1,5). Turnovers returned to Pack at bad time.
6. Tennessee (3-1,7). Sorry Sal, Jeff Fisher is not overrated.
7. Seattle (3-2,6). Pittsburgh made them look bad.
8. Baltimore (3-2,8). Still looking for last year's magic.
9. San Diego (2-3,26). May have found last year's magic.
10. Jacksonville (3-1,19). The more they run, th more they win.
11. Tampa Bay. (3-2,10). Injuries are piling up.
12. Chicago (2-3,22). Defense got inspired in Green Bay.
13. Arizona (3-2,9). St. Louis came way to close.
14. Cincinnati (1-3,11). Chiefs present chance to get back on track.
15. Washington (3-1,14). Where was that defense last year?
16. N.Y. Giants (3-2,17). I'm staying skeptical.
17. Denver (2-3,12). What Chargers did to them was ruthless.
18. Carolina (3-2,20). At least they're wining.
19. Philadelphia (1-3,13). Other teams in division may have caught them.
20. Detroit (3-2,15). NFC East road trips are over.
21. Houston (3-2,18). This team is fading fast.
22. Kansas City (2-3,25). The defense isn't that bad.
23. Oakland (2-2, 23). Time in first won't last long.
24. Cleveland (2-3,16). Disappointing defense.
25. San Francisco (2-3,21). Dilfer almost stole a win.
26. Buffalo (1-4,28). Keep finding ways to lose.
27. New Orleans (0-4,24). See above.
28. N.Y. Jets (1-4,29). This was a playoff team.
29. Minnesota (1-3,27). Only win is Atlanta.
30. Atlanta (1-4,30). Showing improvement.
31. Miami (0-5,31). How many wins does Cleo predict?
32. St. Louis (0-5,32). Will Gus lead this bus?

Nate's NFL Power Rankings Week 5

Mark — You're a day early!

Anyway, I'm finding myself doing the rankings from the bottom up, because I see so many holes in so many teams. I like the Bucs, but I balked a bit at putting them in the Top 10, especially without Williams.

It's shaping up to be a boring year with the Pats and Colts clearly the top two again. My worst to first post last week showed NFL parity, but look at my top six and tell me where the parity is. This league is turning into baseball.

(Record, Last week)
1. New England (4-0, 1): Think the ’72 Dolphins will bother showing up on Miami’s sideline this year?
2. Indianapolis (4-0, 2): Shredded Denver, Bucs next?
3. Pittsburgh (3-1, 3): I called that loss and I am not concerned.
4. Dallas (4-0, 5): This pains me.
5. Green Bay (4-0, 6): Favre is even winning in domes now.
6. Seattle (3-1, 8): Will be checking the officials working in Pittsburgh.
7. Tennessee (2-1, 13): Moves up by default.
8. Baltimore (2-2, 4): I called that loss and I am concerned.
9. Arizona (2-2, 21): Who is that grocery boy?
10. Tampa Bay (3-1, 15): Lost their Caddy.
11. Cincinnati (1-3, 13): Held the Pats to their lowest total — 34.
12. Denver (2-2, 14): Losses to Colts happen.
13. Philadelphia (1-3, 9): Digging a deep hole.
14. Washington (2-1, 18): Win over Lions should pump hype machine.
15. Detroit (3-1, 19): Should pretend every quarter is the fourth.
16. Cleveland (2-2, 23): Dangerous at the landfill.
17. N.Y. Giants (2-2, 24): How long will I doubt this team?
18. Houston (2-2, 10): They’re new non-Andre Johnson ranking.
19. Jacksonville (2-1, 16) Think Del Rio forgot how to run in the off week?
20. Carolina (2-2, 17): At least they’re in the NFC South.
21. San Francisco (2-2, 22): Medi-ocre! Clap, Clap, Clap-Clap-Clap!
22. Chicago (1-3, 11): Told you Mark.
23. Oakland (2-2, 29): Anyone want a #1 pick?
24. New Orleans (0-3, 25): Anyone want a #2 pick?
25. Kansas City (2-2, 26): Must put them above teams they beat, I guess.
26. San Diego (1-3, 7): When LT cries, I cry. So does the woman answering the phone.
27. Minnesota (1-3, 27): Pack you bags, Coach Childress.
28. Buffalo (1-3, 30): By virtue of beating Jets.
29. N.Y. Jets (1-3, 20): They were a playoff team?
30. Atlanta (1-3, 32): Well, they got a win.
31. Miami (0-4, 28): Blown out at home by Raiders. Do I need to say more?
32. St. Louis (0-4, 31): Who wants to spend the top pick on a lineman?

--Nate Sandstrom

NFL Power Rankings Week 4

Okay, I’m drinking the Packer Kool-Aid and putting them #6. I thought they would start 0-4, and still finish 8-8 so they are in great position.

I can’t remember the last time I thought the NFC had five of the league’s 11 best teams. Maybe 1998?

Jacksonville and the Giants make this week’s biggest gains, while Bills continue free fall, down 11 spots.

(Record, Last week)
1. New England (3-0, 1): Scoring 38 points is so routine.
2. Indianapolis (3-0, 2): What happened to those blowouts?
3. Pittsburgh (3-0, 3): Outscored opponents 97-26.
4. Baltimore (2-1, 5): QB Platoon? Does Billick think he’s Spurrier?
5. Dallas (3-0, 9): I’ll stop calling them overrated.
6. Green Bay (3-0, 11): Won seven straight.
7. San Diego (1-2, 4): With their schedule, I expected 1-2.
8. Seattle (2-1, 7): Sticking with them as NFC Champ.
9. Philadelphia (1-2, 12): Should wear blue and gold all the time.
10. Houston (2-1, 10): Need Andre Johnson back.
11. Chicago (1-2, 8): Can’t Devin Hester play QB?
12. Tennessee (2-1, 13): Jeff Fisher, all-time underrated coach.
13. Cincinnati (1-2, 14): Next on chopping block for Pats.
14. Denver (2-1, 6): Needs a run defense.
15. Tampa Bay (2-1, 15): First to worst to first?
16. Jacksonville (1-2, 23): What do you know? Del Rio runs the ball and wins.
17. Carolina (2-1, 20): Will David Carr rewrite his legacy?
18. Washington (2-1, 16): Sunday collapse was the Redskins I know.
19. Detroit (2-1, 17): Nice while it lasted.
20. N.Y. Jets 91-2, 18): Pats' biggest challenger in AFC East. Ha!
21. Arizona (1-2, 21): Leinart takes a step back.
22. San Francisco (2-1, 22): Steelers provide reality check to Niners.
23. Cleveland (1-2, 25): Billick needs Anderson back for even better platoon.
24. N.Y. Giants (1-2, 31): Showed spirit in comeback.
25. New Orleans (0-3, 26): Brees will straighten things out.
26. Kansas City (1-2, 27): Larry Johnson loves checkers.
27. Minnesota (1-2, 24): Hope Dome can stop Favre.
28. Miami (0-3, 29): Once great franchise is just sad.
29. Oakland (1-2, 30): Pseudo-cheating with time outs evens out in the end.
30. Buffalo (0-3, 19): Lee Evans has five catches.
31. St. Louis (0-3, 28): Must be depressing to be Rams fan.
32. Atlanta (0-3, 32): Missed good chance to win.

--Nate Sandstrom

NFL Power Rankings — Week 3

Two weeks in and the cream definitely appears to be rising to the top. But there's 14 weeks left and many chances for injuries, so we'll see what happens.

(Record, Last week)
1. New England (2-0, 1): On their way to 19-0. Why play the season?
2. Indianapolis (2-0, 3): Showed they can win close ones too.
3. Pittsburgh (2-0, 7): Looking for their weakness.
4. San Diego (1-1, 2): Were beaten by Pats from the first drive.
5. Baltimore (1-1, 5): Defense is still top notch.
6. Denver (2-0, 6): Rather be lucky than good.
7. Seattle (1-1, 8): Hard to move up a team that loses to Arizona. Need to work on handoffs.
8. Chicago (1-1, 9): Why would anybody kick to Devin Hester?
9. Dallas (2-0, 12): How long until Garrett becomes head coach?
10. Houston (2-0, 21): Will drop fast if Andre Johnson is gone too long.
11. Green Bay (2-0, 13): Is it 2007 or 1997?
12. Philadelphia (0-2, 11): Best winless team in football.
13. Tennessee (1-1, 23): Almost jumped to 2-0 division start.
14. Cincinnati (1-1,5): Paging the Bengals defense.
15. Tampa Bay (1-1, 19): Best in the NFC South.
16. Washington (2-0, 20): LBs making huge strides.
17. Detroit (2-0, 24): It’s like the Wayne Fontes winning era.
18. N.Y. Jets (0-2, 18): Nearly rallied for big win.
19. Buffalo (0-2, 10): I though the defenses was supposed to be the problem.
20. Carolina (1-1, 15): Texans provide reality check.
21. Arizona (1-1, 25): Seahawks pulled a Cardinals.
22. San Francisco (2-0, 26): Win this week and I’m a believer.
23. Jacksonville (1-1, 14): Coach, you have Jones-Drew and Taylor.
24. Minnesota (1-1, 22): Adrian Peterson is really good.
25. Cleveland (1-1, 31): Seven points. Fifty-one points. Same old consistent Browns.
26. New Orleans (0-2, 17): At least I didn’t pick them to be a Super Bowl team.
27. Kansas City (0-2, 29): Showed signs of life.
28. St. Louis (0-2, 16): Yuck. I thought this team was good.
29. Miami (0-2, 28): Trent Green will end the QB con…never mind.
30. Oakland (0-2, 30): Won, then lost.
31. N.Y. Giants (0-2, 27): Florida is nice this time of year coach.
32. Atlanta (0-2, 32): Please trade for Brunell.


--Nate Sandstrom

NFL Power Rankings: Post-Week 2

Mark appears to have been right about me overrating the Jags. The fallout from a week where I posted just an 8-6-2 against the spread.
(Record, Last week)
1. New England (1-0, 1): Randy Moss is trying. Uh-oh.
2. San Diego (1-0, 2): They didn't put up 30, but they did get the win.
3. Indianapolis (1-0, 6): Apparently, the Colts knew what they were doing when they let all those guys go.
4. Baltimore (0-1, 3): Fire Billick and I may move them up a spot. Seriously, anyone ever heard of running the ball inside the 10? Still, they turned the ball over six times on the road and only lost by 7. Personnel shifts this weekend?
5. Cincinnati (1-0, 7): A win is a win. I expect 10 more.
6. Denver (1-0, 5): See a win is a win. Watch for more good things from this much-maligned D.
7. Pittsburgh (1-0, 9): I would've been more impressed if they had played LSU on Sunday.
8. Seattle (1-0, 10): Shaun Alexander starts a new year the best way, a 100-yard day.
9. Chicago (0-1, 8): Defense will win a lot of games, especially in NFC.
10. Buffalo (0-1, 14): Lee Evans didn't do much, but they could've beat Denver.
11. Philadelphia (0-1, 13): Moved to address punt return problem.
12. Dallas (1-0, 16): Offense impressed. Defense? Ugh.
13. Green Bat (1-0, 18): Is Pack back? Few remember they were 8-8 last year.
14. Jacksonville (0-1, 4): 13 carries for Jones-Drew and Taylor. Del Rio should be cut.
15. Carolina (1-0, 21): Let the hype begin.
16. St. Louis (0-1, 11): I bought into that offense?
17. New Orleans (0-1, 12): Can use the long week.
18. N.Y. Jets (0-1, 15): And they have to play the Patriots again.
19. Tampa Bay (0-1, 17): Everyone loses at Seattle.
20. Washington (1-0, 21): Linebackers looked great.
21. Houston (1-0, 22): Schaub era begins with a win. Doubt it will end that way.
22. Minnesota (1-0, 25): It was the Falcons.
23. Tennessee (1-0, 29): Maybe they do have a defense.http://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif
24. Detroit (0-1, 27): Trailed Oakland for much of last weeks game.
25. Arizona (0-1, 19): The 49ers are who we thought they were!
26. San Francisco (1-0, 26): I'm not buying last minute home win against Cards.
27. N.Y. Giants (0-1, 30): The first team offense can score, now to see what backups can do.
28. Miami (0-1, 24): Despite ugly performance, almost won.
29. Kansas City (0-1, 23): Can LJ play QB?
30. Oakland (0-1, 28): Vaunted defense torched at end of last week.
31. Cleveland (0-1, 31): Are they worth talking about?
32. Atlanta (0-1, 32): Three-touchdown loss to Minnesota is not going to help you move up.

--Nate Sandstrom