Analysis
10/10/23
17 min read
NFL Week 6 Power Rankings: Lions Continue Upward Trend
Every Tuesday, we’ll provide updated power rankings. The rankings will be driven by who the teams are at the moment. Those stances will be centered on every team’s talent, reliability and current level of success.
Betting markets will also influence our stances, as will each team’s path to contention within its conference. We’ll also be aware of each team’s looming schedule difficulty.
NFL Week 5 Power Rankings
1. San Francisco 49ers (5-0)
Previous Rank: No. 1
Last Game: 49ers 42, Cowboys 10
The San Francisco 49ers have sat on top of our power rankings since they blew out the Steelers on opening day. On Sunday night we saw yet another ceiling game out of San Francisco, as it dismantled the Cowboys. The 49ers have been to the NFC Championship in three of the past four years.
Kyle Shanahan is one of the best coaches in football, and they have the best defense in the league. QB Brock Purdy is an MVP contender, and RB Christian McCaffrey is the current Offensive Player of the Year favorite. San Francisco has it all.
Next: at CLE, at MIN (MNF), vs. CIN, BYE
2. Philadelphia Eagles (5-0)
Previous Rank: No. 3
Last Game: Eagles 23, Rams 14
Much like San Francisco, the undefeated Philadelphia Eagles have a loaded roster that can win games in multiple ways. Jalen Hurts is an MVP contender who is supported by one of the best skill groups in football.
Premium offensive and defensive lines have been the foundation of Eagles football for a long time. Even though Philadelphia is 5-0, it still hasn’t had a true ceiling game. In other words, the Eagles haven’t peaked yet.
Next: at NYJ, vs. MIA, at WASH, vs. DAL
3. Kansas City Chiefs (4-1)
Previous Rank: No. 4
Last Game: Chiefs 27, Vikings 20
It’s true the Kansas City Chiefs haven't been all that impressive through the first five games of the season. The Chiefs’ defense has outplayed their offense so far. That said, Patrick Mahomes is the league’s best quarterback, and the Chiefs are the defending champs. Kansas City finds ways to win, as all long-term champions do consistently.
Next: vs. DEN (TNF), vs. LAC, at DEN, vs. MIA (Europe)
4. Buffalo Bills (3-2)
Previous Rank: No. 2
Last Game: Jaguars 25, Bills 20
Jacksonville had the unprecedented advantage of playing in London two weeks in a row while the Buffalo Bills made the overseas trip last week. That’s why we’re going to throw out last week’s loss to the Jaguars.
We discussed that unique situation more on our Monday Recap Podcast. Before that, Buffalo blew out three NFL teams in a row, including the dangerous Dolphins. QB Josh Allen is an MVP contender, as always, and his Bills continue to be among the league’s best.
Next: vs. NYG (SNF), at NE, vs. TB (TNF), at CIN (SNF)
5. Miami Dolphins (4-1)
Previous Rank: No. 5
Last Game: Dolphins 31, Giants 16
We know the Miami Dolphins have a historically dangerous offense filled with elite speedsters. It’s hard to give a team this talented much credit for beating the Giants at home. Miami is in the same situation this week when it plays host to Carolina, the only team that might be worse than New York.
The Dolphins' next real test comes in Week 7 when they head to Philadelphia. We’ll find out then if Miami has become a more complete football team since its decisive loss to Buffalo.
Next: vs. CAR, at PHI (SNF), vs. NE, vs. KC (Europe)
6. Detroit Lions (4-1)
Previous Rank: No. 7
Last Game: Lions 42, Panthers 24
You can’t give the Detroit Lions too much credit for decisively beating the Panthers at home. That said, the Lions won big last week while a number of their difference-makers were sidelined. Detroit has become a consistent, complete football team that is a true NFC contender. The Lions get two tough road matchups over the next two weeks.
Next: at TB, at BAL, vs. LV (MNF), Bye
7. Dallas Cowboys (3-2)
Previous Rank: No. 6
Last Game: 49ers 42, Cowboys 10
The Dallas Cowboys possess one of the league’s most talented rosters, which is why they already have three blowout wins on their resume. Their two losses, however, have been ugly. There is no shame in losing to the 49ers, but getting demolished by 32 points is a problem.
The Cowboys’ defense can be forgiven, but Dak Prescott’s offense continues to underwhelm. If Dallas is going to be more than a good regular-season team that loses in the Divisional Round, Prescott needs to improve.
Next: at LAC (MNF), BYE, vs. LAR, at PHI
8. Baltimore Ravens (3-2)
Previous Rank: No. 8
Last Game: Steelers 17, Ravens 10
The Baltimore Ravens have been a consistent, reliable team for a long time, but they haven’t been overly impressive this season. Baltimore pass catchers dropped a number of passes that collectively swung the outcome of last week’s contest.
That’s one reason behind their loss to the Steelers, but ultimately the Ravens scored 10 points in Pittsburgh. Losing to a rival on the road isn’t the end of the world, but it’s certainly not a positive, either.
Next: vs. TEN (Europe), vs. DET, at ARZ, vs. SEA
9. Seattle Seahawks (3-1)
Previous Rank: No. 9
Last Game: Idle
After a decisive opening day loss to the Rams, the Seattle Seahawks entered their Week 5 bye on a hot streak. We saw last season their offense has top-10 potential, but their defense is starting to trend in that direction as well. If Seattle wasn’t on its bye last week, it could have risen to as high as the seventh spot.
Next: at CIN, vs. ARZ, vs. CLE, at BAL
10. Jacksonville Jaguars (3-2)
Previous Rank: No. 13
Last Game: Jaguars 25, Bills 20
The Jacksonville Jaguars had a unique advantage in essentially hosting the Bills in London. Jacksonville took advantage of that edge, as its offense exceeded expectations on the ground and in the air.
QB Trevor Lawrence has a good enough supporting cast to make the Jaguars a fringe contender in the AFC. If their defense continues to play like they have in their two London games, this team can beat anyone.
Next: vs. IND, at NO (TNF), at PITT, BYE
11. Los Angeles Chargers (2-2)
Previous Rank: No. 10
Last Game: Idle
The Los Angeles Chargers are coming off a bye, which means they could get back a number of injured difference-makers this week. QB Justin Herbert alone makes this team at least a fringe contender capable of beating anyone.
Brandon Staley’s defense has underachieved since he took over as head coach in 2021. Similar to the Jaguars, if the Chargers are going to take the next step, that likely comes from their defense.
Next: vs. DAL (MNF), at KC, vs. CHI (SNF), at NYJ (MNF)
12. Cleveland Browns (2-2)
Previous Rank: No. 11
Last Game: Idle
The Cleveland Browns’ defense gives them a real shot to upset the 49ers this week. QB Deshaun Watson’s offense continues to be the X-factor for the Browns now and long term. So far, Cleveland’s offense has been closer to a disappointment than a difference-making unit.
Next: vs. SF, at IND, at SEA, vs. ARZ
13. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-1)
Previous Rank: No. 12
Last Game: Idle
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers' defense has been a rock-solid group that has driven their hot start. The Buccaneers’ running game has been nearly non-existent.
Baker Mayfield has played reasonably well, but he’s thrown for more than 175 passing yards in two of four games. Consider the Buccaneers a volatile team that’s heading into their most difficult schedule stretch of the season.
Next: vs. DET, vs. ATL, at BUF (TNF), at HOU
14. New Orleans Saints (3-2)
Previous Rank: No. 18
Last Game: Saints 34, Patriots 0
After a disappointing loss against the Buccaneers, the New Orleans Saints came back and rocked the Patriots last week. Derek Carr continues to tough out a throwing arm injury that is limiting the offense's ceiling.
The Saints’ defense has been excellent and the primary reason they are 3-2. If and when Carr returns to full strength, New Orleans is at least close to being a complete team.
Next: at HOU, vs. JAX, at IND, vs. CHI
15. Cincinnati Bengals (2-3)
Previous Rank: No. 23
Last Game: Bengals 34, Cardinals 20
The Cincinnati Bengals’ offense showed some signs of life in Arizona. For the first time this season, Joe Burrow looked like the premium quarterback he’s been throughout his young career. As long as Burrow’s calf injury is behind him, Cincinnati’s offense is as dangerous as anyone’s.
Its defense, on the other hand, has taken a step back since losing safety Jessie Bates to free agency. The Bengals have a brutal schedule stretch in the next several weeks, making this week’s matchup with Seattle close to a must-win event.
Next: vs. SEA, BYE, at SF, vs. BUF
16. Los Angeles Rams (2-3)
Previous Rank: No. 14
Last Game: Eagles 23, Rams 14
The Los Angeles Rams were simply outmatched from a talent perspective against the Eagles. Now that WR Cooper Kupp is back, Matthew Stafford’s passing attack is a genuinely dangerous unit. If the Rams are going to be a factor this year, Stafford will have to continue carrying this team.
Next: vs. ARZ, vs. PITT, at DAL, at GB
17. Pittsburgh Steelers (3-2)
Previous Rank: No. 21
Last Game: Steelers 17, Ravens 10
The Pittsburgh Steelers are an ugly 3-2. Pittsburgh’s defense has carried this team to each of its three wins. The Steelers' offense really was only a factor in their win over the Raiders.
The offense is filled with players still on their rookie deals, so there is a realistic path to improvement. However, for Pittsburgh to be any kind of a factor this year, its offense needs to take a few steps forward.
Next: BYE, at LAR, vs. JAX, vs. TEN (SNF)
18. Atlanta Falcons (3-2)
Previous Rank: No. 24
Last Game: Falcons 21, Texans 19
The Atlanta Falcons escaped with another home win against the Texans last week. Desmond Ridder played his best game to date, throwing for more than 300 yards for the first time in his career.
Atlanta has a talented roster on both sides of the ball, but it will only go as far as Ridder can take them. Ridder’s performance last week is at least a step in the right direction.
Next: vs. WASH, at TB, at TEN, vs. MIN
19. Indianapolis Colts (3-2)
Previous Rank: No. 20
Last Game: Colts 23, Titans 16
The Indianapolis Colts have been among the league’s most pleasant surprises this year. It looks like Indianapolis found a winner in coach Shane Steichen. The same could be said about QB Anthony Richardson.
Unfortunately, he’s already missed one game and been unable to finish two more. Richardson is expected to miss multiple games with an AC Joint sprain, which is why the Colts aren’t a little higher on this list.
Next: at JAX, vs. CLE, vs. NO, at CAR
20. Houston Texans (2-3)
Previous Rank: No. 16
Last Game: Falcons 21, Texans 19
The Houston Texans are a young, rebuilding team that’s been inconsistent yet impressive. C.J. Stroud has been historically efficient through his first five NFL games. He’s helped Houston accumulate decisive victories against the Jaguars and Steelers.
The Texans have also dropped close games to the Colts and Falcons while losing handily on opening day in Baltimore. There are several reasons to be optimistic about Houston’s future, but they remain a volatile team today.
Next: vs. NO, BYE, at CAR, vs. TB
21. Tennessee Titans (2-3)
Previous Rank: No. 17
Last Game: Colts 23, Titans 16
So far this season the Tennessee Titans beat contenders at home but lost to volatile teams on the road. We believe in coach Mike Vrabel and Tennessee’s front four, but the Titans' secondary and offensive line are below-average units.
In order for this team to stay in the league’s middle-of-the-pack, they need more from Ryan Tannehill’s passing attack. On the bright side, WR DeAndre Hopkins had his first spike game of the season last week.
Next: vs. BAL (Europe), BYE, vs. ATL, at PITT (TNF)
22. New York Jets (2-3)
Previous Rank: No. 27
Last Game: Jets 31, Broncos 21
The New York Jets have so much promise because of their highly capable defense and their dynamic second-year skill players. This team would be 4-1 with Aaron Rodgers.
Unfortunately, Rodgers is out, and Zach Wilson is in. Wilson has talent, but he’s among the most inconsistent quarterbacks in the sport. There’s been little reason to expect any meaningful change in Wilson’s game.
Next: vs. PHI, BYE, at NYG, vs. LAC (MNF)
23. Las Vegas Raiders (2-3)
Previous Rank: No. 28
Last Game: Raiders 17, Packers 13
The Las Vegas Raiders have a top-heavy roster with stars like WR Davante Adams, RB Josh Jacobs and especially DE Maxx Crosby. Jimmy Garoppolo is an average, at best, quarterback who limits the team's upside. The Raiders have escaped with wins against the Broncos and Packers. However, they’ll face three of the least consistent teams in the league over the next four weeks. If Vegas is going to make a move in the loaded AFC, now is the time.
Next: vs. NE, at CHI, at DET (MNF), vs. NYG
24. Green Bay Packers (2-3)
Previous Rank: No. 15
Last Game: Raiders 17, Packers 13
The Green Bay Packers have a very limited offense that is still dealing with a number of impactful injuries. Drops, turnovers and missed opportunities defined the Packers’ effort in Las Vegas on Monday night. Green Bay’s defense continues to play well, which should give Packers fans some optimism heading into their bye week.
Next: BYE, at DEN, vs. MIN, vs. LAR
25. Minnesota Vikings (1-4)
Previous Rank: No. 22
Last Game: Chiefs 27, Vikings 20
The Minnesota Vikings were 11-0 in one-score games last season, and regression has hit them like a freight train. The primary reason for that is Minnesota has a high-end passing attack and little else it can beat teams with.
Now that WR Justin Jefferson has a hamstring issue, that strength will be greatly reduced if he misses time. In that scenario, the Vikings could realistically lose to anyone.
Next: at CHI, vs. SF (MNF), at GB, at ATL
26. Chicago Bears (1-4)
Previous Rank: No. 32
Last Game: Bears 40, Commanders 20
After looking completely lost through the first three games of the season, the Chicago Bears have scored 68 points in their last two games. The Bears’ offense followed a similar pattern last season when they suddenly came alive for a multi-game hot streak.
QB Justin Fields isn’t consistent, but he’s shown he can lead a high-performing offense many times now. Chicago’s defense cannot be relied upon at all. This week’s matchup with the Vikings is closer to a coin-flip game than many might think.
Next: vs. MIN, vs. LV, at LAC (SNF), at NO
27. Washington Commanders (2-3)
Previous Rank: No. 19
Last Game: Bears 40, Commanders 20
A power rankings price needs to be paid for teams that get blown out at home by the 2023 Bears. Sam Howell had his moments last Thursday, but most of his production came in a negative game script. The Washington Commanders’ defense was obviously horrendous in that showing, but their front four was an unexpected non-factor.
The Commanders have enough talent to be a playoff contender, but they’ve been extremely inconsistent. Further, narrow wins against the Cardinals and Broncos aren’t exactly encouraging.
Next: at ATL, at NYG, vs. PHI, at NE
28. Arizona Cardinals (1-4)
Previous Rank: No. 26
Last Game: Bengals 34, Cardinals 20
The Arizona Cardinals were a scrappy group that truly exceeded expectations through the first four games. They played their worst game of the season against the Bengals last week.
That’s not a problem on its own because Cincinnati has played in the past two AFC Championship games. The bigger issue is that the Cardinals are just halfway through a brutal schedule stretch.
Next: at LAR, at SEA, vs. BAL, at CLE
29. New England Patriots (1-4)
Previous Rank: No. 25
Last Game: Saints 34, Patriots 0
The New England Patriots have lost their past two games by a combined score of 72-3. That sounds made up, but it isn’t. What’s worse is that New England’s defense has been reduced by injuries, most notably to elite edge Matthew Judon.
On top of that, Mac Jones has been pulled in the last two games. Jones versus Bailey Zappe isn’t exactly Drew Bledsoe vs. Tom Brady, is it?
Next: at LV, vs. BUF, at MIA, vs. WASH
>> READ: Patriots Have Hit Rock Bottom
30. Denver Broncos (1-4)
Previous Rank: No. 29
Last Game: Jets 31, Broncos 21
The Denver Broncos are a bad football team, plain and simple. QB Russell Wilson is better than last season, but he’s still inconsistent. The fall of Denver’s defense is among the biggest surprises of the year.
The Broncos can’t stop anyone on the ground or in the air. It’s hard to see that improving with two games against the Chiefs in the next three weeks.
Next: at KC (TNF), vs. GB, vs. KC, BYE
31. New York Giants (1-4)
Previous Rank: No. 30
Last Game: Dolphins 31, Giants 16
When you ask the question “What do the Football Giants do well?” The answer is nothing. They can’t block, they can’t run, they can’t pass and they’ve given up at least 24 points in every game.
That could change in the second half of the season — when the schedule softens up — but there is no reason for optimism about the New York Giants heading into a primetime game in Buffalo.
Next: at BUF, vs. WASH, vs. NYJ, at LV
32. Carolina Panthers (0-5)
Previous Rank: No. 31
Last Game: Lions 42, Panthers 24
Bryce Young’s early career struggles are acceptable. He has a bottom-tier supporting cast, and he’s only faced one below-average defense this season. The Carolina Panthers’ defense, however, has underachieved through their first five games.
Now, they head to Miami to face the Dolphins’ collection of speed demons. The Panthers desperately need their Week 7 bye.
Next: at MIA, BYE, vs. HOU, vs. IND
Ryan is the associate director of fantasy and betting at The 33rd Team. Ryan has been covering NFL betting markets for five years. Follow Ryan @RyanReynoldsNFL on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.
