0 of 32
Mitchell Leff/Getty photosif you are a large fan of upsets and surprises, Week 8 within the NFL was no longer your cup of tea.
With the Kansas city Chiefs sitting the week out, seven of the league's division leaders performed, and all seven gained. The Baltimore Ravens begun the week with a Thursday evening win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Philadelphia Eagles stayed undefeated with a beatdown of the move-state Pittsburgh Steelers. The Minnesota Vikings outlasted the Arizona Cardinals. So on etc.
good enough, it wasn't fully surprise-free. you'd be challenging-pressed to locate an authority who believed the Atlanta Falcons and Seattle Seahawks could be in first place eight weeks into the season, yet here we are. Or specialists who concept Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady and Matthew Stafford can be a mixed 9-14, yet here we are.
A pair of this 12 months's largest surprises also lower back to earth (at the least briefly). The new york Jets misplaced their 13th straight meeting with the brand new England Patriots, whereas the ny Giants fell in Seattle.
As has been the case per week this season here at Bleacher record, NFL Analysts Brent Sobleski, Maurice Moton and Gary Davenport have come collectively to rank all 32 teams from the backside to the precise.
The teams at the very right and the very backside haven't changed. but there was no scarcity of circulate in between.
32. Houston Texans (1-5-1)1 of 32
Carmen Mandato/Getty photographsfinal Week: 32
Week 8 result: lost vs. Tennessee 17-10
The Houston Texans have hit rock bottom—once more.
In a season stuffed with lows, the Texans found a brand new nadir Sunday towards the Titans. playing towards a Tennessee crew that attempted handiest 10 passes, the Texans had been gashed for a whopping 314 yards on the ground. It became a pitiful shielding effort that left avid gamers and coaches alike shaking their heads.
"or not it's unacceptable for us as a defense to surrender that many yards," linebacker Christian Kirksey told newshounds after the game.
"We knew who we were enjoying," head train Lovie Smith observed. "one of the most most suitable backs within the online game. That physical company of football, we weren't able to play that these days."
It wasn't just the protection that permit Houston down. The Texans offense managed only 161 yards in complete. Rookie operating back Dameon Pierce had no running lanes and averaged a pitiful 2.three yards per raise. 2d-yr quarterback Davis Mills had simply 152 passing yards and threw an interception.
All advised, it served as a stark reminder that the Texans are the most ability-poor group in the NFL. They badly need playmakers on either side of the ball, and wins will be few and much between for them this yr.
at the least they don't have to turn round and play the undefeated Philadelphia Eagles on a brief week.
Oh, wait. They do.
31. Detroit Lions (1-6)2 of 32
Cooper Neill/Getty photosremaining Week: 30
Week 8 result: misplaced vs. Miami 31-27
The Detroit Lions have became snatching defeat from the jaws of victory into an artwork kind.
They have been eventually able to get their offense returned heading in the right direction Sunday against the Miami Dolphins, The Lions scored touchdowns on their first three drives of the game and raced out to a 21-7 lead. They scored on all five of their first-half possessions.
and then Lions things happened.
The Detroit defense imploded, permitting 476 yards of offense and 34 features. The offense turtled, failing to rating a single 2nd-half point. And for the fifth straight game, the Lions came up short at the end.
while chatting with newshounds after the game, Lions head educate Dan Campbell persevered to insist that the Lions are becoming closer to respectability.
"My concept is as frustrating as it is, i know how shut we're as a result of we are nevertheless speaking about one play," Campbell observed. "And the complicated factor is to simply retain doing all of your job and staying within the thick of the storm, and the easy component is to move down below and get beneath the blanket, consume all the meals and some thing. Guys who're occurring the deck and simply continue to do their half as a result of they recognize the sun's coming, those are the guys we're looking for. So that's how I choose to suppose of this. The only technique to clear up every little thing is to move returned to work, it's just–it really is all i know."
Campbell's fact would be simpler to accept as true with if he did not hold making some edition of it every and a week, explaining after the newest loss that things don't seem to be that unhealthy.
they're. They actually, definitely are.
30. Carolina Panthers (2-6)3 of 32
Kevin C. Cox/Getty photographsremaining Week: 31
Week eight result: misplaced at Atlanta 37-34 (OT)
when you consider that firing head teach Matt Rhule, the Carolina Panthers have shown greater battle. but losing teams locate methods to lose, and Carolina did that Sunday in Atlanta.
The Panthers might have won the game in rules, however large receiver D.J. Moore drew a 15-yard penalty for taking off his helmet after scoring the game-tying landing on a Hail Mary. Kicker Eddy Piniero ignored the added-factor attempt, sending the game into time beyond regulation. In extra time, he missed a 32-yard container intention after a Marcus Mariota interception, too.
After the defeat, meantime head instruct Steve Wilks accepted blame for his team's inability to close Atlanta out.
"We didn't find a means to finish," Wilks noted. "We had too many alternatives to win this football online game, and we did not discover a way to get it finished. And that falls on me. we have acquired to make sure we're smart ample. anything to be taught from. celebration penalty, massive play like that, we have received to hold our poise. It become an excellent job with D.J. arising with the huge play in the end zone. extraordinary move with the aid of P.J. (Walker). but as a group we have received to make certain that we're smart and simply ready. Take it to the next stage, subsequent step."
On some degree, losing the game in overtime may also were the Panthers' superior-case influence. They put up an outstanding fight, however they did not additional jeopardize their probabilities of landing a true decide upon in the 2023 draft.
29. Pittsburgh Steelers (2-6)four of 32
Kyle Ross/Icon Sportswire by way of Getty picturesultimate Week: 29
Week eight influence: misplaced at Philadelphia 35-13
In his 16 years because the head teach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Mike Tomlin has under no circumstances had a losing listing.
not unless this 12 months, at the least.
Granted, the 2022 Steelers still don't seem to be assured to have a dropping checklist. however after getting blown out by way of the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, the Steelers' chances of peeling off seven wins in 9 games seem a bit of worse than the odds of profitable the Powerball and Mega hundreds of thousands—within the equal week.
After the loss, rookie quarterback Kenny Pickett stated that unforced error and penalties are killing the group.
"We gotta comprehend what we're doing," Pickett spoke of. "not going in the appropriate spot, no longer having procedural penalties, personnel out and in of the huddle, all issues we are able to control. there isn't any talent concerns. ... any one in right here may go do this, so long as they know what they're doing. We gotta get right there. It begins with me. I gotta be extra on my stuff getting these guys appropriate. and that i'll take possession of it."
it be real that the Steelers aren't doing themselves any favors. They dedicated 9 penalties and became the ball over twice against the Eagles. but the harsh fact is that the Steelers simply don't seem to be very good. The errors simply expand that.
"After having fun with many years of consistency, Steelers fanatics at the moment are experiencing how the other side lives," Sobleski mentioned. "The league's most stable firm is a shell of itself, in particular on offense with an overwhelmed rookie quarterback, a subpar offensive line and enormously inconsistent ability-position gamers. After starting all of 4 games, Pickett is already publicly calling out his teammates for now not placing in ample work all the way through the follow week. issues can best get more advantageous from here, right?"
28. Jacksonville Jaguars (2-6)5 of 32
AAron Ontiveroz/MediaNews group/The Denver post by the use of Getty photosremaining Week: 25
Week 8 effect: misplaced vs. Denver 21-17 (London)
earlier this season, the Jacksonville Jaguars seemed to be turning a corner. returned in Week three, they went into la and throttled the Chargers 38-10.
The Jaguars have not won again seeing that then.
plenty just like the crew as an entire, Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence has regressed badly after an outstanding delivery. Lawrence turned into mostly awful towards the stout Denver defense, finishing 18 of 31 passes for just 133 yards, one landing and two expensive interceptions.
The second of these picks ended Jacksonville's comeback bid. After the game, the 2nd-12 months signal-caller admitted to reporters that he simply hasn't been first rate satisfactory.
"Being the quarterback and having a chance to head win the game and also you do not get it done, this is basically disappointing and irritating,'' Lawrence stated. ''I've got to look within the replicate. I've received to play superior.''
In fairness to Lawrence, it's infrequently all his fault that the Jaguars are struggling. backyard of 2d-yr tailback Travis Etienne, there is never a facet of the video game the place Jacksonville is playing neatly with any consistency.
subsequent week, the Jaguars face a Las Vegas Raiders group that has also floundered this year. That figures to be their most beneficial possibility to select up yet another win earlier than their Week 11 bye, as they're headed to Arrowhead Stadium to face the Kansas metropolis Chiefs in Week 10.
27. Las Vegas Raiders (2-5)6 of 32
Sean Gardner/Getty imagesclosing Week: 21
Week eight influence: misplaced at New Orleans 24-0
If there changed into any hope that the Las Vegas Raiders had became a corner with their 38-20 win over the Houston Texans in Week 7, those hopes had been dashed Sunday in New Orleans.
The Raiders didn't just lose. They had been completely dominated in every aspect of the game on the way to being shut out for the primary time in view that 2014.
The Raiders had only 183 yards of offense in complete and failed to pass midfield unless late within the fourth quarter. It became a pathetic performance that left embattled first-12 months head instruct Josh McDaniels providing an apology to lovers after the online game.
"undoubtedly, that wasn't good enough in any manner, form or form," McDaniels stated. "We're superior than that. I make an apology to Raider Nation for that performance. I personal that. That's my accountability. … It starts with me. We're gonna work tough and we're gonna repair it."
Moton is never so sure it may also be mounted.
"What's left to claim after a shutout loss to a group that gave up the 2d-most aspects earlier than Week eight? At 2-5, the Raiders are some of the league's largest disappointments," he stated. "The protection had its issues with running lower back Alvin Kamara, who scored three touchdowns, whereas the offense averaged a paltry three.three yards per play. regardless of offseason extensions for Derek Carr, Darren Waller, Hunter Renfrow, Davante Adams and Maxx Crosby and eye towards a return to the playoffs, the Raiders appear to be they might conclude with a appropriate-five draft opt for."
26. Chicago Bears (three-5)7 of 32
Cooper Neill/Getty imagesultimate Week: 24
Week 8 outcomes: misplaced at Dallas forty nine-29
One play within the second half of Sunday's loss to the Dallas Cowboys almost sums up the 2022 Chicago Bears.
After Dallas aspect-rusher Micah Parsons pounced on a David Bernard Law Montgomery fumble within the third quarter, Bears quarterback Justin Fields hopped over him. There become just one problem: no person had touched Parsons. He obtained up, rumbled into the conclusion zone, and similar to that, the online game turned into basically settled.
Fields admitted afterward that he made a mistake, however he talked about the group has to shake off this latest setback.
"you are all the time gonna have united statesand downs in the game," Fields mentioned. "you've just got to retain combating."
After searching extremely good defensively remaining week against the new England Patriots, the Bears had been scorched by Dallas for 442 yards and forty nine points. however on the vibrant aspect, Fields played enormously well once more, other than being a awful tackler. He accomplished 17 of 23 passes for 151 yards and a pair of scores whereas including another 60 yards and a rating on the floor.
"The Bears didn't string together consecutive wins after a short turnaround from their Monday evening soccer win over the Patriots, however they're enjoyable to observe once more," Moton spoke of. "Offensive coordinator Luke Getsy has tapped into Fields' skill as a runner, which has helped get the offense going."
"The Bears have scored sixty two elements over the ultimate two weeks," he persisted. "lamentably, Chicago's porous run defense allowed 200 yards and three ratings to the Cowboys in Week eight. If the Bears patch up their interior protection, they could string collectively signature wins in the core of the season."
That defense isn't likely to get superior after the Bears traded star linebacker Roquan Smith to the Baltimore Ravens on Monday. It turned into a tell-tale sign that Chicago is all however packing it in for 2022.
25. Cleveland Browns (3-5)eight of 32
Nick Cammett/Getty imagesclosing Week: 27
Week eight outcome: received vs. Cincinnati 32-13
Will the true Cleveland Browns please stand up?
There are weeks where the Browns seem like an honest group—a squad capable of beating inferior opponents but no longer hanging with proper contenders. There changed into final week's three-element loss to the Baltimore Ravens. A two-element setback against the los angeles Chargers in Week 5.
Then there's the error-prone mess of a group that received blown out by the new England Patriots in Week 6. That group looked like a tomato can. like the "Clowns" of historical.
Then there may be the crew that simply took the defending AFC champions in the back of the woodshed, thumping the rival Bengals on Monday night. There wasn't an aspect of the game the place Cleveland wasn't in complete handle. The Browns piled up 172 yards on the ground while enabling just 36. Cleveland outgained Cincinnati by using a margin of practically 2-to-1. Cleveland had a 15-plus-minute time of possession edge.
The Browns now head into the bye clean off their most awesome efficiency of the year. the important thing for the group all through the off week will be attempting to elevate that momentum over. as a result of when the Browns get again at it in Week 10, it gets precise—an AFC East road swing via Miami and Buffalo followed by a home date with Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
If Cleveland wants to taking part in for anything however satisfaction when Deshaun Watson makes his debut in Week 13, the Browns ought to determine a means to win two of those games.
24. Denver Broncos (three-5)9 of 32
remaining Week: 28
Week eight outcome: won at Jacksonville 21-17 (London)
The Denver Broncos at last found out a way to get their floundering offense going.
All they needed to do was fly four,683 miles to the east.
basically, Denver's offense didn't precisely gentle it up Sunday in London. Russell Wilson threw for 252 yards and a landing in his return to action after missing Week 7 with a hamstring harm. The Broncos averaged simply three.6 yards a stick with it the ground. but after entering Week eight as the lowest-scoring group in the complete NFL, 21 features need to have seemed like fairly the deluge of scoring.
After the win, defensive lineman Dre'Mont Jones credited the offense while talking to journalists.
"With the losing streak, it was decent to look [the offense] hang it down,'' Jones referred to. "They helped us out more this online game than we helped them out.''
Denver's defense has played as well as any unit within the league this season. but when the Broncos have any hope of turning their season around and becoming the contender some anticipated them to be in 2022, then the offense wants use this game as a springboard and continue to increase.
23. Indianapolis Colts (3-4-1)10 of 32
Jeffrey Brown/Icon Sportswire by the use of Getty imagesfinal Week: 16
Week 8 outcome: lost vs. Washington 17-sixteen
as a way to soar-start the offense, the Indianapolis Colts made a large change closing week. After under half a season, the Matt Ryan period in Indy is over—Ryan turned into benched in choose of baby Sam Ehlinger. And whereas Ehlinger's numbers were modest in his NFL debut and the Colts lost to the Washington Commanders on Sunday, head instruct Frank Reich told newshounds that the second-yr sign-caller from Texas confirmed some promise in his first video game.
"No disrespect to Matt as a result of i thought he had some decent moments," Reich stated. "however i believed Sam appeared first rate. He seemed in reality poised. He threw it smartly. i assumed he played well. i know we did not gain, like, a thousand yards or anything like that, however I felt nowadays we may discover a rhythm with what we've available. I felt nowadays that we can put whatever together and continue to get better."
As Sobleski wrote, though, the difficulty, as evidenced via the last ranking, is that quarterback became removed from the Colts' most effective issue.
"well, the switch from Ryan to Ehlinger failed to deliver the enhance Indianapolis hoped it could," he said. "To be reasonable, Ryan is dealing with an injured shoulder, while Ehlinger played especially smartly in his first career birth. The quarterback's performance all through Indianapolis' gut-wrenching 17-sixteen loss indicates the crew's issues run a long way deeper than who's behind center. Turnovers, a shoddy offensive line and an inability to get a hold of a big play when imperative have plagued the Colts all season."
22. Arizona Cardinals (3-5)11 of 32
David Berding/Getty imagesfinal Week: 18
Week 8 outcome: lost at Minnesota 34-26
there was whatever thing of a theme with the 2022 Arizona Cardinals. That theme has been close, however no cigar.
In each and every of Arizona's final three drives Sunday in Minnesota, the Cardinals crossed midfield—but could not get previous the Vikings' 35. Three of Arizona's losses this season had been through one possession (eight facets or much less). The Cardinals are striking with opponents—however just can not seal the deal.
extensive receiver DeAndre Hopkins has only been energetic for the previous two weeks, however he's optimistic that the season can be salvaged. The Cardinals simply should locate a method to win.
"We're right there. it be now not like we're getting blown out," Hopkins advised reporters. "here's some of the most fulfilling groups in the NFL, and we had an opportunity to win nowadays."
After three turnovers, simply 4 third-down conversions in eleven tries and 10 penalties, veteran facet-rusher J.J. Watt is satisfied the biggest impediment for the Cardinals is the Cardinals.
"We just beaten ourselves, just did too many things that we cannot do," Watt spoke of. "against a good football crew, they are going to beat you."
The decent information is that no group is running away with the NFC West. Arizona is just two back of the division-leading Seahawks. Seattle additionally occurs to be Arizona's subsequent opponent—the first of three straight NFC West tilts.
but when Arizona falters in that stretch, that may be it for this season.
21. eco-friendly Bay Packers (three-5)12 of 32
Joshua Bessex/Getty photosultimate Week: 19
Week 8 influence: misplaced at Buffalo 27-17
The green Bay Packers have been a pillar of success and stability in fresh years. The final time the Packers had misplaced more than four games in a season became in 2018.
After falling to expenses on Sunday nighttime in a online game that frankly wasn't as close because the last ranking, the Packers have now dropped 4 games in a row. The three-time defending NFC North champions are a whopping 3.5 video games off the tempo in the division.
As has been the case all through the skid, after the loss quarterback Aaron Rodgers preached patience whereas talking to reporters.
"I think probably the most crucial factor is to take a beat. After a frustration like this, the ultimate factor you want is to respond in emotion," Rodgers referred to. "So take a beat. Let it sit down. there is now not a lot to assert after the video game it is truly going to spark the group, I do not think."
As Sobleski wrote, the factor is nothing is altering. eco-friendly Bay's offense has struggled lots of the season, and Sunday become no exception.
"Head educate Matt LaFleur has no confidence in his offense presently," he talked about. "The Packers spent the majority of Sunday's contest attempting to run the ball regardless of being down dissimilar ratings. through 50 minutes of play, Aaron Rodgers tried best 16 passes for 74 yards. the majority of his 203 yards came in desperation mode. but the bills are reliable tremendous Bowl contenders. The Packers don't seem to be, according to how their offense is at the moment built. Additions at large receiver and better fitness alongside the offensive line should be essential to develop into anything else more than a under-ordinary group."
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (three-5)13 of 32
Kevin Sabitus/Getty photosclosing Week: 17
Week eight influence: lost vs. Baltimore 27-22
At this element, saying that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are in crisis doesn't start to explain it.
Tampa's loss to the Ravens in Week 8 frankly wasn't as shut as the final ranking. After beginning the season 2-0, Tampa has dropped 5 of six. Tom Brady simply suffered a 3rd consecutive loss for the primary time in two a long time.
After the game, Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles failed to sugarcoat the group's situation.
"it's nevertheless darkish," Bowles stated. "except you win ballgames consistently and play four quarters continuously, it be going to be darkish. That doesn't mean we can't get out of it. We just have a lot of work to do, as coaches and as players. we've got received to score aspects within the red zone and we now have bought to play 4 quarters on protection. I suppose in the 2d half we overlooked a bunch of tackles and bought wore down. they had just a few runs that obtained out. just a scarcity of communication and lack of a number of things we talk about. And unless we find answers to that and play continuously and instruct it at all times, it is the place we are. We're three-5; we own that."
The difficulty is that there is no convenient fix for what ails the Buccaneers. The offensive line has been lousy. Tampa cannot run the ball. right flow-rusher Shaquil Barrett tore his Achilles towards the Ravens and is executed for the season. And while Brady hasn't been terrible, his degree of play hasn't been what it changed into even closing year.
So yeah, the Buccaneers are in problem—and then some.
19. New Orleans Saints (three-5)14 of 32
Sean Gardner/Getty picturesfinal Week: 26
Week 8 result: gained vs. Las Vegas 24-0
A funny thing came about on a way to mediocrity.
The Andy Dalton-led New Orleans offense has gotten first rate.
The 24 facets the Saints put up Sunday towards the Raiders turned into truly their lowest-scoring online game in view that Week three. After running lower back Alvin Kamara publicly pointed out the Saints were going to "whoop" the Raiders, they went out and did simply that—in no small part on account of Kamara's three-touchdown afternoon.
Kamara become the famous person Sunday, however he changed into quick to credit his teammates while talking to reporters after the win.
"I persist with what I noted," Kamara said. "We become going to head accessible and beat their [butt], and we did that. We got here in wanting to sort of simply impose our will. i used to be speakme about getting again to taking part in our vogue of soccer. most likely, it looks like it's me, however's a team thing. So, it be clean to variety of get that."
The shutout win was without problems the Saints' most fulfilling efficiency of the season. And for Davenport, it raised an interesting chance.
"If these Saints can get any variety of consistent effort from the defense," he observed, "then they could smartly be the optimal team in a nasty NFC South. the new Orleans offense is easily probably the most explosive within the division, with Andy Dalton providing a spark that changed into lacking beneath Jameis Winston. Week 9 will convey a chance for the Saints to demonstrate they're more than mediocre. They host Lamar Jackson and the 5-three Ravens."
18. Washington Commanders (4-four)15 of 32
Justin Casterline/Getty imagesremaining Week: 23
Week eight outcomes: received at Indianapolis 17-sixteen
The Washington Commanders are a .500 football team.
Granted, it really is not a Herculean success. but after starting the season 1-four and looking very a great deal the part of a tomato can, the Commanders have peeled off three straight wins. Two of these victories have come on the highway, together with Sunday's remaining-minute comeback win over the Colts. Washington admittedly isn't piling up vogue features. but it is stacking wins, leading quarterback Taylor Heinicke to credit the team's toughness whereas talking to journalists.
"I consider or not it's the intangible issues that keep this crew collectively. loads of the wins are not relatively," Heinicke said. "however it's a win, having said that. the fellows have loads of coronary heart. They maintain combating. ... it truly is just our group, man. We're only a bunch of fellows out there working complicated and making an attempt to play our greatest ball. i like this crew. it be my favorite crew i have been on, my favourite locker room i've been with. I can not say enough good issues in regards to the guys in there."
"forget Carson Wentz," Davenport stated. "This Commanders group just appears to respond with Heinicke below center—and ugly wins count number the identical as pretty ones. nonetheless, while Heinicke is a enjoyable story and Washington's top-rated bet as a stopgap at quarterback, it be tough to peer these Commanders surviving a gauntlet that includes the Vikings, Eagles and Giants over the subsequent five weeks."
17. Atlanta Falcons (4-4)sixteen of 32
David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire by means of Getty pictureslast Week: 22
Week eight effect: gained vs. Carolina 37-34 (OT)
Sunday's wildest game took place in Atlanta, where the Carolina Panthers and Falcons battled for first location in the NFC South.
You examine that correct. in reality, after outlasting the Panthers in a wild, again-and-forth affair that went to beyond regular time, the Falcons are the best team within the division with as many wins as losses.
You know, similar to each person anticipated.
Falcons quarterback Marcus Mariota went from hero to zero to hero once again in the video game. There changed into respectable—three landing passes. There changed into unhealthy—two interceptions, including one in time beyond regulation that may still have can charge Atlanta the video game. And there was redemption—a 30-yard run in extra time that install the game-profitable kick. while chatting with newshounds after the game, Falcons head train Arthur Smith applauded his quarterback's resiliency.
"he's a resilient guy," Smith mentioned. "it's why we believe in Marcus. there may be not many guys who could make that play."
"The Falcons aren't a risk to teams like the Eagles, Cowboys and 49ers in the NFC," Davenport said. "Sunday's game in spite of the fact that, they won't have the offense to win shootouts, and their defense is adequate but now not plenty greater than that. but credit the place it be due—Atlanta is enjoying more desirable soccer than some other group in the division, and Smith has quietly finished a superb job of maximizing his ability. The Falcons may additionally no longer be an excellent Bowl contender, but they don't seem to be an easy out, both."
"Smith may still be a number one candidate for NFL teach of the 12 months," Sobleski agreed. "Atlanta's roster previous to the beginning of the average season appeared like probably the most league's worst. greater than a couple of holes can still be poked into the crew's personnel. even so, the Falcons are well-coached, play a tricky brand of soccer and have simply enough skill at key spots to continue to be competitive on a weekly groundwork."
sixteen. la Rams (3-4)17 of 32
remaining Week: 15
Week 8 result: misplaced vs. San Francisco 31-14
it's unhealthy adequate that the la Rams bought rolled at domestic by means of the San Francisco 49ers in Week eight. Even worse that the defending super Bowl champions are three-4 and 1.5 video games returned in the NFC West.
but Sunday's loss changed into nearly a disaster.
With about a minute left in a game that changed into already decided, famous person broad receiver Cooper Kupp needed to be helped off the box after struggling an obvious ankle injury. It seems that Kupp avoided severe injury, however head coach Sean McVay admitted to newshounds after the online game that Kupp on no account may still had been within the video game to begin with.
"That's why you wanted to are attempting to be sensible getting out of the video game. and i'm kicking myself for now not running the soccer once more," McVay said. "however I'm hopeful that he's ok."
"Kupp's injury could be the scorching subject of conversation," Davenport spoke of, "but what we may still be speaking about is the Rams' one-dimensional offense. The offensive line is awful. it's killing the Rams run game—handiest the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are worse on the floor this 12 months. And with out a run online game to preserve opposing defenses even a bit bit honest, teams are pinning their ears back and pummeling Matthew Stafford. there isn't any handy repair for what ails these Rams—and at this point it's way more doubtless they miss the postseason altogether than get again to the super Bowl."
15. New England Patriots (4-four)18 of 32
final Week: 20
Week 8 effect: won at ny Jets 22-17
After getting drilled at domestic by the Chicago Bears closing week, the brand new England Patriots badly needed to get issues back on track.
thankfully for the team, nothing gets the Patriots again on course somewhat like dealing with the manhattan Jets. New England defeated its AFC East rivals for the thirteenth straight time Sunday.
After the video game, veteran safety Devin McCourty told newshounds that it felt respectable to place final week's debacle towards the Bears within the rearview.
"We mandatory it," McCourty mentioned. "it's tough—you go out there at home and you get booed and you don't really display up in any part of the online game. It was gruesome for us. Chicago whupped us. We had to quickly-forward."
It wasn't an specially masterful efficiency—Mac Jones failed to clear 200 passing yards, and New England's ground online game averaged just three.7 yards per carry. but regardless of being outgained by using just about a hundred yards, the Patriots made plays when they needed to and forced three turnovers.
The Patriots have a pair of winnable video games up next in opposition t the Colts and Jets—it's feasible New England will hit Week 12 at 6-4. Then comes two games on the way to outline no matter if the Pats have any possibility of making a 2d straight trip to the postseason—at Minnesota and residential towards the East-leading expenses.
14. la Chargers (4-3)19 of 32
Jevone Moore/Icon Sportswire by the use of Getty photographsfinal Week: 14
Week 8 result: Bye Week
NFL groups like to head into the bye week with some positive momentum. It turned into just the opposite for the los angeles Chargers, as remaining week's lopsided loss to the Seattle Seahawks changed into arguably the Bolts' ugliest video game of the 12 months. Linebacker Drue Tranquill instructed newshounds after the setback that it left a bad taste within the team's mouth to hit the bye with a whimper as a substitute of a bang.
"each time you're a competitor and you lose that manner, it leaves a in poor health feeling for your belly," Tranquill referred to. "And in case you know you didn't play your most efficient and you got to wait two greater weeks to go out and play, guys are only going to be biting at the bit to get lower back obtainable."
however, while the loss stung, the Chargers obligatory the break day—because accidents have blasted them on both sides of the ball.
No. 1 cornerback J.C. Jackson is out for the season after rupturing his patellar tendon ultimate week. So is left handle Rashawn Slater. proper broad receiver Keenan Allen has barely played considering the fact that Week 1 with a hamstring harm. No. 2 wideout Mike Williams is out a month with a high ankle sprain. Quarterback Justin Herbert has been nursing sore ribs for weeks.
it be just been one setback after one other for a team that entered 2022 with tremendous Bowl aspirations.
And it's reasonable to ask yourself which setback will be one setback too many.
13. ny Jets (5-three)20 of 32
final Week: 10
Week eight outcomes: lost vs. New England 22-17
well, so tons for new york's dwell within the desirable 10 of those power rankings.
Over the Jets' 4-game winning streak, they did many issues neatly. They ran the ball. They played protection. and they prevented blunders.
With rookie phenom Breece corridor lost for the season to a torn ACL, new york's floor game evaporated in opposition t the Patriots—the crew managed simply 51 speeding yards on 15 incorporates. The defense gave approach at important moments. And Jets quarterback Zach Wilson threw three returned-breaking interceptions.
"right through the Jets' 4-game profitable streak, we tried to supply phrases of caution with concerns about quarterback Zach Wilson's video game-managing performances, and also you noticed precisely why Sunday," Moton wrote. "Wilson threw for 355 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions in a 22-17 loss to the Patriots. while Wilson's passing yard complete appears decent within the container rating, he had some head-scratching throws.
"When the Jets don't have a snug lead and need Wilson to drag them out of a deficit," he persevered, "they must pass their fingers when he throws downfield. The 2nd-yr sign-caller has loads of room for boom, but in the meantime, groups will are attempting to get off to a quick beginning towards Gang green and force him into catch-up mode."
things don't get any more straightforward from right here. sparkling off his shakiest efficiency of the season, Wilson and the Jets need to try to slow down the buzzsaw it is Josh Allen and the expenses.
12. Cincinnati Bengals (4-4)21 of 32
Jason Miller/Getty photosfinal Week: 8
Week eight outcomes: lost at Cleveland 32-13
The Cincinnati Bengals have issues. multiple problems.
In Cincinnati's protection, to date they have had somewhat improved success defending their conference championship this season than the la Rams. but that's no longer saying an awful lot, and in getting drilled in Cleveland in the newest installment of the "fight of Ohio," the Bengals seemed less just like the defending AFC champs and extra like the "Bungles" of historic.
lengthy story short, there wasn't a lot of the online game film that the Bengals might not want to burn after Monday's debacle. Offensively, the Bengals were fully out of sync without megastar wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase—the Bengals managed just 229 total yards and failed to crack 40 yards on the floor.
When it got here to the Browns, the entire Bengals did turned into get cracked on the ground, Cincinnati had no reply for the NFL's main rusher, with Nick Chubb and the Cleveland floor online game topping a hundred and seventy yards and chewing up over 36 minutes of clock.
"Performances like Monday's make it next to unattainable to say with a straight face that these Bengals are a danger to the Chiefs and expenses within the AFC," Davenport pointed out. "there's simply too tons that isn't working. The re-vamped offensive line is never markedly improved than closing year's mess. The Bengals were having crisis pushing the ball down the box even earlier than Chase obtained damage. And Burrow's play Monday smacked of a man making an attempt to raise his crew—and making error subsequently. it may possibly no longer be panic time just yet, but the situation level in Cincinnati simply ratcheted up a notch or three."
eleven. Miami Dolphins (5-three)22 of 32
remaining Week: eleven
Week 8 result: gained at Detroit 31-27
One issue is for bound. The Miami Dolphins are a a good deal distinctive team with Tua Tagovailoa under core. After roaring again to beat the Lions on Sunday, the Dolphins are a perfect 5-0 when Tagovailoa starts and finishes a online game. without him, the Dolphins are winless this 12 months.
Tagovailoa was extraordinary towards Detroit, passing for 382 yards and three scores without an interception. large receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle both had big video games, combining for 20 catches for 294 yards and two touchdowns.
Per Conor Orr of activities Illustrated, Tagovailoa's explosion in opposition t the Lions became basically one of the crucial most fulfilling video games a Dolphins quarterback has ever had.
"On Sunday, Tagovailoa may additionally have had the top of the line statistical online game for a quarterback in franchise historical past. he is the best Dolphins QB ever to have thrown for 350-plus yards, three or greater landing passes and no interceptions whereas conserving a completion percentage of eighty% or more suitable. nobody is saying he's greater than Dan Marino, we're just asserting Marino has not ever had this ideal of a 60-minute stretch in his 17-season career."
The Dolphins aren't without their considerations—Miami's protection allowed virtually four hundred yards of offense and 27 points. however so long as Tagovailoa is standing on his head like this, the Dolphins should be taken severely as a player within the AFC.
10. Seattle Seahawks (5-three)23 of 32
Lindsey Wasson/Getty photosremaining Week: 12
Week eight influence: won vs. ny Giants 27-13
This turned into presupposed to be a rebuilding 12 months in Seattle.
After buying and selling quarterback Russell Wilson in the offseason, the Seahawks were purported to be beginning over. With a veteran stopgap below middle in Geno Smith, the 2022 season become a wash. The Seahawks would earn a high draft pick subsequent 12 months, use it and the picks gained in the Wilson exchange to improve a apparently mistaken roster and confidently get back in the combine in 2023.
there may be a problem, although: a person forgot to tell the Seahawks that. And after taking care of a crimson-sizzling ny Giants group in Week 8, the Seahawks are 5-three and on their lonesome in first vicinity in the NFC West. And per Moton, or not it's excessive time we put some appreciate on the Seahawks' name.
"through now, the Seahawks should've earned your appreciate as one of the most league's properly 10 groups," he observed. "below center, Smith has turned his career around in a rebirth with the Seahawks. He's delivered the ball to wideouts DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett with terrific efficiency, finishing seventy two.7 p.c of his passes. Rookie operating again Ken Walker III has turn into an tricky part of the offense as neatly, scoring 5 touchdowns on the ground on the grounds that Week 5. On appropriate of all that offensive firepower, Seattle's protection has tightened up over the past three weeks, permitting an ordinary of 15 points per online game in that span. If the Seahawks' shielding unit continues to restrict opponents, they will have a playoff spot in January."
9. ny Giants (6-2)24 of 32
Andrew Bershaw/Icon Sportswire by way of Getty imagesultimate Week: 6
Week 8 outcomes: lost at Seattle 27-13
It turned into bound to occur at some point.
The manhattan Giants had been residing on the aspect. each one of the team's first seven video games become a one-score affair, which covered six victories. There had been one fourth-quarter comeback after one other.
but there could be no magic Sunday in Seattle. instead, there changed into just 225 yards of offense. big apple's best touchdown of the game came when a Tyler Lockett fumble became recovered internal the Seattle 5-yard line. The Giants had a pair of turnovers of their personal, including a late muffed punt that quashed any probability at a comeback.
despite the fact, despite being outplayed in just about every facet of the video game, safety Julian Love pointed out that the G-men are nonetheless 6-2, which is mild-years ahead of the place most anticipated them to be.
"if you believe of the 4 quarters of the season, the first quarter we're 3-1," Love mentioned. "Now the second quarter we're 3-1. actually the story is going to be concerning the 2nd half. I believe we've performed a pretty good job to date, playing smartly, profitable some shut games. but the story is terribly promising going ahead."
shielding lineman Leonard Williams agreed.
"I'm still chuffed about where we are at," Williams pointed out. "I consider we don't have any motive to cling our heads down low now. That changed into an excellent group that we played. It wasn't in opposition t slouches or anything else like that. Guys were nicked up, banged up, and we're hoping to move for a stretch after the bye week and hope that guys are able to cope with their physique for a bit bit."
With two video games against one-win teams coming after the bye, the Giants might have an eight-2 listing 10 games into the season. but a gauntlet that includes Dallas, Minnesota and the unbeaten Eagles twice down the stretch will investigate just how far these Giants have in reality come.
8. San Francisco 49ers (four-four)25 of 32
Ronald Martinez/Getty photoslast Week: 13
Week 8 result: gained at l. a. Rams 31-14
The San Francisco 49ers sent a message to the leisure of the NFC on Sunday. The Niners can also best be four-4 presently, but this group is dangerous.
basically, with Christian McCaffrey in the fold, the San Francisco offense has the competencies to be terrifying.
"The 49ers beat a struggling Rams squad to sweep the season series, and they seem to have discovered their mojo with McCaffrey in the fold after he went via a full week of practice along with his new squad," Moton observed. "McCaffrey threw a touchdown move, hauled in a move for a rating and reached paydirt on the ground against the Rams. Head coach Kyle Shanahan will unencumber so many ranges of his playbook with him, which is a scary notion for the leisure of the league. At four-4, San Francisco looks primed to go on a roll through November."
intellect you, the 49ers rolled the Rams with no need star vast receiver Deebo Samuel, who missed the game with a hamstring injury. by the point the group receives returned from the bye week, the Niners should still have Samuel again, at which element they're going to have arguably the NFL's two most versatile offensive weapons lining up collectively.
or not it's a dream state of affairs for San Francisco—and a nightmare for opposing defenses.
7. Tennessee Titans (5-2)26 of 32
Carmen Mandato/Getty imagesultimate Week: 9
Week 8 effect: received at Houston 17-10
it's not regularly that a 2022 NFL group attempts simply 10 passes (together with just one in the second half), manages just forty passing yards as a group and wins.
Of route, most groups should not have Derrick Henry.
With Ryan Tannehill sidelined with the aid of an affliction and an ankle damage, the Titans were pressured to show to rookie Malik Willis beneath core. Tennessee went run-heavy and then some within the game, with Henry and Dontrell Hilliard combining for forty incorporates and 302 yards.
And it worked.
After Tennessee's fifth straight win, Henry became short to praise his offensive linemen for paving the style for his 219-yard, two-score effort.
"credit to these guys up entrance on blockading—O-line, receivers, tight ends, fullbacks," Henry spoke of. "they are sacrificing to be capable of block and have the equipment to have success, so I can make a play. I provide all the credit to them, so i will be able to go available and do my job. i am satisfied to get the win."
Head coach Mike Vrabel, in spite of this, became the focal point returned to his famous person working again.
"we have now come to expect that from him," Vrabel said. "He puts so a lot on himself. ... Derrick expects extra from himself than any individual on this soccer team or any coaching member would. i'm joyful we have him."
combined with the Colts' loss to Washington, the Titans have developed a 2.5-video game lead within the AFC South. however the team is going to want Tannehill lower back to make it six wins in a row Sunday nighttime.
Beating the Chiefs in Kansas city will take a few more forward passes.
6. Baltimore Ravens (5-three)27 of 32
Cliff Welch/Icon Sportswire via Getty picturesultimate Week: 7
Week 8 outcome: won at Tampa Bay 27-22
The Baltimore Ravens should be would becould very well be the highest quality team within the NFL that nobody is really speakme about.
The Ravens don't seem to be always elite in any one area. Baltimore is eleventh in the NFL in complete offense, twenty fourth in total defense and 20th in scoring protection. but whereas the Ravens might not be posting gaudy yardage totals, the crew is fifth in the league in scoring. The protection is making plays when it needs to. And the Ravens have peeled off three wins in four games, including two over groups that gained their division in 2021.
whereas chatting with newshounds after Thursday's win in Tampa, megastar quarterback Lamar Jackson allowed that the Ravens still have work to do in the event that they are going to hang with the likes of the Kansas city Chiefs and the Buffalo bills in the AFC.
however he talked about the Ravens are shut.
"I consider like we're very close,. We're right there, however there is nonetheless room for improvement … the little error we're still making available," Jackson observed. "We trade those and i suppose the sky is the limit."
Thursday's win came at a cost: Tight end Mark Andrews, running returned Gus Edwards and large receiver Rashod Bateman all exited the online game with accidents. however with just one other video game between now and Baltimore's bye, the Ravens may have an opportunity to get in shape soon ample.
The group also made a potentially huge impact addition on protection. Per ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Ravens acquired 2nd-team All-pro linebacker Roquan Smith from the Bears on Monday in trade for a pair of draft picks.
5. Dallas Cowboys (6-2)28 of 32
Richard Rodriguez/Getty imagesremaining Week: 5
Week 8 outcome: received vs. Chicago forty nine-29
The Dallas Cowboys entered Week 8 shorthanded on offense, as working again Ezekiel Elliott was shelved with a knee damage.
It did not rely even a bit.
The Cowboys did not miss a beat towards the Chicago Bears with Tony Pollard serving because the crew's lead operating back. somewhat the contrary, in reality; Pollard had a monster game towards the Bears, piling up 147 complete yards and three touchdowns on just 15 touches.
for many of the season, the Cowboys have leaned on the protection. however in Week 8, the offense eventually blew up, piling up 442 yards and scoring their most aspects of the season by means of a long way. Quarterback Dak Prescott told journalists the explosion gives the Cowboys some wonderful momentum heading into the bye week.
"it be a huge step," Prescott referred to, "especially going into the bye week. That self belief heading into the bye week that we will win any means that we deserve to."
"The Cowboys had been profitable this 12 months with protection," Davenport referred to. "however Sunday's effort in opposition t the Bears harkened back just a little to final year's good-ranked offense in facets and yards per video game. If Dallas can somehow mix closing season's offensive output with this season's dominant protection, the Cowboys could be able to take a 2d-half run at the Eagles in the NFC East."
"Tony Pollard simply may be the answer to the issue the Cowboys won't admit they have," Sobleski added. "After Sunday's extraordinary victory over the Bears, owner Jerry Jones pointed out that Elliott continues to be the starter and the team will 'go as Zeke goes.' The feedback came after Pollard supplied 147 yards from scrimmage and three rushing touchdowns. maybe Jones should be rather less cussed, be anxious about Elliott's contract within the offseason and demand the more explosive option becomes the group's lead back."
four. Minnesota Vikings (6-1)29 of 32
Nick Wosika/Icon Sportswire by means of Getty photographsclosing Week: four
Week 8 effect: gained vs. Arizona 34-26
The Minnesota Vikings are operating away with the NFC North.
not best did the Vikings win a again-and-forth affair with the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, however every different team in the division additionally misplaced. under halfway into the season, the Vikings have opened up a four-game lead on the Bears and Packers.
The Vikings used a balanced attack to down the Redbirds. Minnesota piled up 173 yards on the ground, averaging 6.0 a elevate. Kirk Cousins wasn't certainly prolific throughout the air, however he become effective with 232 yards on 24-of-36 passing. And Minnesota's protection compelled three turnovers and sacked Kyler Murray 4 times. besides the fact that children, despite 5 straight wins and the 2nd-optimum list in the NFC, the Vikings don't seem to be getting a lot of country wide run as a super Bowl contender—a undeniable fact that Minnesota area-rusher Za'Darius Smith has used as motivation.
"It feels respectable [to win]," Smith informed reporters after the game. "I just hate that americans nevertheless don't seem to be speakme about us, nonetheless it's ok. we will proceed to be the underdogs."
That lack of country wide admire is largely as a result of Minnesota's lone loss was a blowout towards the Eagles of their biggest test of 2022. however the Vikings will get an additional possibility to establish credibility soon sufficient. After touring to Washington in Week 9, they head to Buffalo to face the surging bills.
Win an announcement online game like that, and the Vikings will get the recognize they crave.
3. Kansas metropolis Chiefs (5-2)30 of 32
Thearon W. Henderson/Getty photographslast Week: three
Week eight effect: Bye Week
There haven't been many greater a success groups within the NFL over the last handful of years than the Kansas city Chiefs. The Chiefs have received one tremendous Bowl, performed in a different and received every of the final six AFC West titles.
There are a couple of explanations for that success, however the greatest is certainly quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Joe Montana knows a issue or two about enjoying the place, and he informed the associated Press that in his opinion, Mahomes is already an all-time skill.
"he's too crazy fun," Montana observed. "He does every little thing you tell every quarterback you can not do or do not do. He does all of it and does it well. You do not throw off your back foot, don't go this manner, do not throw sidearm, do not throw late down the core. he is one of the crucial talented guys that you'll see in that position."
The Chiefs had been busy over the bye week improving the weapons at Mahomes' disposal, sending a pair of picks to the manhattan Giants for 2021 first-rounder Kadarius Toney. it's a circulate that could make one of the league's most dangerous offenses that a whole lot greater formidable.
but what became genuine earlier than the Toney alternate is only as authentic after:
In 2022, the Chiefs will go precisely so far as Mahomes takes them.
2. Buffalo expenses (6-1)31 of 32
Timothy T Ludwig/Getty photosremaining Week: 2
Week eight result: won vs. eco-friendly Bay 27-17
given that the game itself was with ease not ever in question, probably the most exciting component about Sunday evening's lopsided affair in Buffalo may also neatly were the disagreement between Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander and expenses wideout Stefon Diggs. After hauling in six catches for 108 yards and a score within the victory, Diggs informed journalists that while Alexander begun the jawing, he and the bills comprehensive it.
"I don't give a f--ok who started it, I complete it. I obtained the win," Diggs mentioned. "I do not take care of ethical victories. I do not take care of one-on-one battles since it's not a one-on-one video game. ... it's a group effort, and i acquired a dub. I think like on the conclusion of the day there are no ethical victories."
Even on an evening when bills quarterback Josh Allen threw two interceptions and the bills failed to play their ultimate, this one turned into by no means in doubt. After punting on their first series, Buffalo scored on five straight possessions, while the defense stymied Aaron Rodgers and the Packers unless the video game became already all however determined.
The victory best solidified Buffalo's declare to the title of the AFC's top of the line crew, a claim it's going to have a chance to bolster that an awful lot extra over the next two weeks. The team faces the astonishing Jets at MetLife Stadium on Sunday, followed with the aid of a house date with the 6-1 Vikings.
1. Philadelphia Eagles (7-0)32 of 32
Kyle Ross/Icon Sportswire via Getty imageslast Week: 1
Week eight outcomes: won vs. Pittsburgh 35-13
The Philadelphia Eagles are rolling.
There was little or no the Eagles did not do neatly in routing the reeling Steelers in Week 8. Offensively, Philly averaged 5.6 yards per keep on the floor, and Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts threw for 285 yards and 4 ratings, Three of those rankings went to megastar extensive receiver A.J. Brown, who told journalists after the win that he loved making his quarterback seem to be decent.
"i know I can not let him down," Brown stated. "We're just having enjoyable and taking part in for one an additional. i am relatively certain he knows that I've acquired his again and that i comprehend he is bought mine, too. I consider this is precisely what here's."
Defensively, Philadelphia allowed simply 300 yards of offense, held the Steelers to just 156 passing yards, became Pittsburgh over twice and allowed only one third-down conversion in 12 attempts.
"The Eagles fully appeared the part of the NFL's most beneficial crew towards an overmatched Steelers group on Sunday," Davenport observed. "Philadelphia dominated every aspect of the online game and got here out of their bye week just as sizzling as they were getting in. The Eagles are running the ball well. Hurts is enjoying at an MVP level. The secondary may additionally well be the league's ideal. The Eagles are the most reliable group within the NFC via a fair margin, and in the event that they beat the hapless Texans subsequent week, Philly might be off to its premiere beginning in franchise background."
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