Each week of the NFL season, The Baltimore Sun will rank all 32 NFL groups. The rankings will keep in mind not simply weekly efficiency, accidents and roster depth, however how properly every staff measures up as Super Bowl contenders.
Here are the rankings heading into Week 7:
1. Kansas City Chiefs (5-1, No. 2 final week)
Last week: Win vs. Broncos, 19-8
Up subsequent: vs. Chargers
Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce stay the primary attraction, nevertheless it’s price noting how properly the protection is taking part in. After forcing three turnovers and holding the Broncos to 4.0 yards per play, Kansas City ranks ninth in defensive effectivity. Through six weeks, solely the 49ers have allowed fewer factors per recreation (14.7). Even when the offense doesn’t meet its excessive customary — reminiscent of going 1-for-5 within the purple zone Thursday — the protection is there to select up the slack.
2. San Francisco 49ers (5-1, No. 1)
Last week: Loss vs. Browns, 19-17
Up subsequent: at Vikings
If Jake Moody’s 41-yard area aim try within the ultimate seconds sails via the uprights, we’re most likely complimenting the 49ers for overcoming so many accidents and errors. One loss, even to a third-string quarterback, doesn’t portend a decline for such a proficient staff. However, accidents to operating again Christian McCaffrey (indirect) and huge receiver Deebo Samuel (shoulder) loom giant for an offense which may must put extra on quarterback Brock Purdy’s shoulders. How he responds shall be fascinating.
3. Miami Dolphins (5-1, No. 4)
Last week: Win vs. Panthers, 42-21
Up subsequent: at Eagles
After falling behind 14-0, the Dolphins scored 35 straight factors to bury any hope of an upset. The Tua Tagovailoa-to-Tyreek Hill connection stays unstoppable, and Raheem Mostert confirmed he’s greater than able to being the lead again with star rookie De’Von Achane sidelined for a number of weeks. The go rush can be beginning to take form, with Christian Wilkins and Bradley Chubb combining for 3 sacks Sunday.
4. Philadelphia Eagles (5-1, No. 3)
Last week: Loss vs. Jets, 20-14
Up subsequent: vs. Dolphins
Perhaps much more regarding than Jalen Hurts’ three interceptions Sunday have been the accidents suffered by proper sort out Lane Johnson (ankle), security Reed Blankenship (ribs) and cornerbacks Bradley Roby and Eli Ricks. Johnson is likely to be an important participant on the staff behind Hurts and huge receiver A.J. Brown, and the secondary was already banged up. It’s just one loss, however the Eagles now head into the hardest a part of their schedule with loads of query marks.
5. Detroit Lions (5-1, No. 6)
Last week: Win vs. Buccaneers, 20-6
Up subsequent: at Ravens
With 4 straight wins, the Lions are off to their greatest begin since 2011 and favorites to assert their first division title since 1993. Quarterback Jared Goff is taking part in at a Pro Bowl degree, and the emergence of 2022 first-round choose Jameson Williams to enrich Amon-Ra St. Brown and rookie tight finish Sam LaPorta offers the offense an especially excessive ceiling. This staff is not only a feel-good story, however a reputable Super Bowl contender.
6. Buffalo Bills (4-2, No. 5)
Last week: Win vs. Giants, 14-9
Up subsequent: at Patriots
It’s exhausting to know what to make of the Bills after they obtained shut out for 3 quarters and almost misplaced to one of many worst groups within the league. In wins over the Raiders, Commanders and Dolphins, they seemed like a juggernaut. In video games in opposition to the Jets, Jaguars and Giants, the offense seemed damaged. While quarterback Josh Allen’s shoulder damage is likely to be a part of the issue, the sluggish begins are trigger for concern.
7. Dallas Cowboys (4-2, No. 9)
Last week: Win vs. Chargers, 20-17
Up subsequent: Bye
While Dak Prescott’s efficiency will at all times be the most well-liked speaking level for this staff, it’s the protection that deserves prime billing. Unheralded gamers reminiscent of Markquese Bell, Damone Clark, Osa Odighizuwa and DaRon Bland have been extraordinarily necessary in serving to solidify one of many league’s greatest models alongside stars Micah Parsons, DeMarcus Lawrence and Stephon Gilmore. The protection has been the spine as Prescott and coach Mike McCarthy proceed to determine issues out on offense.
8. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-2, No. 7)
Last week: Win vs. Colts, 37-20
Up subsequent: at Saints
Quarterback Trevor Lawrence appeared to keep away from a critical knee damage late in Sunday’s win, however the Jaguars weren’t so fortunate elsewhere. Right guard Brandon Scherff (ankle) and cornerback Tyson Campbell (hamstring) have been damage, probably leaving Jacksonville short-handed heading right into a Thursday evening matchup. As encouraging as these three straight wins have been, the Jags have but to win on American soil this season in opposition to some other staff however the Colts.
9. Ravens (4-2, No. 10)
Last week: Win vs. Titans, 24-16
Up subsequent: vs. Lions
“That could have been a much more comfortable game for us,” coach John Harbaugh stated after the win over Tennessee in London, echoing the ideas of many who watched because the Ravens as soon as once more let one other overmatched staff grasp round too lengthy. That continues to be the story of the season, and now the Ravens’ as soon as agency grip on the AFC North is beginning to slip with each staff within the division .500 or higher. There are loads of causes for optimism (a suffocating protection, rookie huge receiver Zay Flowers’ emergence, the very best completion charge of Lamar Jackson’s profession) and maybe simply as many for concern (accidents, an absence of manufacturing from Odell Beckham Jr. and Rashod Bateman, mediocre particular groups). Sunday’s matchup in opposition to Detroit is a vital litmus take a look at for the Ravens’ Super Bowl hopes.
10. Cleveland Browns (3-2, No. 13)
Last week: Win vs. 49ers, 19-17
Up subsequent: at Colts
Could that be the win that galvanizes the Browns? Cleveland was removed from flawless in ending the 49ers’ 15-game regular-season successful streak, committing 13 penalties and turning the ball over twice on interceptions from observe squad quarterback P.J. Walker, however the protection bounced again to close down the league’s second-highest-scoring staff. When quarterback Deshaun Watson returns from his shoulder damage, the Browns have purpose to imagine they will contend for his or her first division title since 1989.
11. Cincinnati Bengals (3-3, No. 17)
Last week: Win vs. Seahawks, 17-13
Up subsequent: Bye
Outside of two opening landing drives, it was not an enormous day for Joe Burrow and the Bengals’ offense, which was held to 214 complete yards. Instead, it was the protection that paved the way in which to victory, sacking Geno Smith 4 occasions and choosing him off twice. “It’s better to win ugly than lose pretty,” Bengals coach Zac Taylor stated. Cincinnati must get probably the most out of its bye week to arrange for a brutal stretch in opposition to the 49ers, Bills, Texans and Ravens.
12. Seattle Seahawks (3-2, No. 8)
Last week: Loss vs. Bengals, 17-13
Up subsequent: vs. Cardinals
The Seahawks obtained the ball contained in the Bengals’ 10-yard line twice within the ultimate 4 minutes and got here away with zero factors. That’s the sort of day it was for Seattle, which dominated in first downs, yards and time of possession however totaled simply six factors on 10 possessions after a gap landing drive. There’s nonetheless so much to love about this staff after the return of left sort out Charles Cross and a career-best efficiency from first-round rookie receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
13. Los Angeles Rams (3-3, No. 18)
Last week: Win vs. Cardinals, 26-9
Up subsequent: vs. Steelers
The return of Cooper Kupp and the emergence of rookie Puka Nacua are little question probably the most thrilling components of the Rams’ season thus far, however the emergence of second-year operating again Kyren Williams just isn’t far behind. Williams’ 158 speeding yards Sunday have been probably the most by a Rams operating again since Cam Akers had 171 in opposition to New England in December 2020. The protection additionally pitched a shutout within the second half, together with a purple zone interception and a strip-sack.
14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-2, No. 12)
Last week: Loss vs. Lions, 20-6
Up subsequent: vs. Falcons
As stunning as they’re, the creamsicle throwback uniforms the Bucs wore Sunday appeared to deliver the worst out of Tampa Bay. Baker Mayfield accomplished simply 19 of 37 passes — together with 4 of 10 to Mike Evans — because the Bucs went 2-for-12 on third down and averaged 2.9 yards per carry. “If we play like that we’ll lose every time,” Mayfield stated.
15. Washington Commanders (3-3, No. 22)
Last week: Win vs. Falcons, 24-16
Up subsequent: at Giants
When getting a first-year beginning quarterback again on observe, it helps to have a great protection. The Commanders recorded three interceptions within the second half and obtained a 61-yard punt return from Jamison Crowder to place Sam Howell in place to throw three quick landing passes. Howell continues to be a piece in progress — particularly in the case of avoiding what’s now a league-leading 34 sacks — however Washington has a stable sufficient roster to stay within the postseason race.
16. Los Angeles Chargers (2-3, No. 11)
Last week: Loss vs. Cowboys, 20-17
Up subsequent: at Chiefs
Whether it’s Justin Herbert’s fractured finger, security Derwin James’ pointless roughness penalties or continued struggles operating the ball, nothing ever appears to go proper for this staff. Injuries are definitely a part of the issue, however changing coordinator Joe Lombardi with Kellen Moore has not been sufficient to raise this offense to an elite degree. The return of operating again Austin Ekeler ought to assist, although.
17. Pittsburgh Steelers (3-2, No. 16)
Last week: Bye
Up subsequent: at Rams
18. Houston Texans (3-3, No. 21)
Last week: Win vs. Saints, 20-13
Up subsequent: Bye
While Houston definitely obtained fortunate Sunday — the Saints missed two area aim makes an attempt and fumbled an interception — the protection stood tall when it mattered most. With New Orleans driving to tie the sport within the fourth quarter, the Texans pressured a turnover on downs and an interception to seal the victory, their third in 4 video games to match their complete from final season.
19. New York Jets (3-3, No. 24)
Last week: Win vs. Eagles, 20-14
Up subsequent: Bye
Credit coach Robert Saleh and the Jets’ protection for maintaining this season alive. Despite lacking beginning cornerbacks Sauce Gardner and D.J. Reed on Sunday, New York pressured 4 turnovers, together with security Tony Adams’ interception with 1:50 to play that arrange Breece Hall’s game-winning landing. They’ve managed to go .500 in opposition to a tricky schedule with Zach Wilson at quarterback, which speaks to how properly this protection is taking part in.
20. New Orleans Saints (3-3, No. 14)
Last week: Loss vs. Texans, 20-13
Up subsequent: vs. Jaguars
Only 4 groups — the Steelers, Jets, Giants and Titans — have been worse at turning journeys to the purple zone into touchdowns this season than the Saints (36.8%). That contains an 0-for-3 displaying Sunday, made worse by a missed 29-yard area aim try by Blake Grupe within the fourth quarter. Derek Carr related on some large performs to Rashid Shaheed and Chris Olave as New Orleans completed with 430 complete yards, however which means little when it solely results in 13 factors.
21. Atlanta Falcons (3-3, No. 15)
Last week: Loss vs. Commanders, 24-16
Up subsequent: at Buccaneers
Coach Arthur Smith’s face stated all of it. Desmond Ridder’s interception ultimately zone within the fourth quarter was inexcusable, and calls to bench the second-year quarterback will solely develop louder after he completed with three turnovers in a recreation for the second time in three weeks. At least huge receiver Drake London and tight finish Kyle Pitts are lastly getting extra concerned.
22. Indianapolis Colts (3-3, No. 19)
Last week: Loss vs. Jaguars, 37-20
Up subsequent: vs. Browns
With rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson possible out for the season, it’s exhausting to think about the Colts remaining within the AFC South race for for much longer. Gardner Minshew is a succesful backup in aid, however he has not carried out almost as properly when requested to start out. The focus now must be on maintaining operating again Jonathan Taylor wholesome, growing younger gamers and maybe seeing which veterans groups is likely to be serious about earlier than the Oct. 31 commerce deadline.
23. Las Vegas Raiders (2-4, No. 20)
Last week: Win vs. Patriots, 21-17
Up subsequent: at Bears
It’s solely been six video games, however the Raiders have acquired the total Jimmy Garoppolo expertise. Another damage, this time to his again, may hold the quarterback sidelined for the second time this season, leaving rookie Aidan O’Connell and veteran Brian Hoyer to battle for the beginning job. It’s exhausting to think about this staff making any kind of run with out their $72.75 million signal-caller — even with defensive finish Maxx Crosby constructing a case to be a first-time All-Pro.
24. Green Bay Packers (2-3, No. 23)
Last week: Bye
Up subsequent: at Broncos
25. Minnesota Vikings (2-4, No. 28)
Last week: Win vs. Bears, 19-13
Up subsequent: vs. 49ers
In losses, the Vikings are averaging 386.8 complete yards. In wins, they’re averaging 242.5. Go determine. According to ESPN, Minnesota’s 220 yards in opposition to Chicago marked its lowest yardage and factors totals in a win since 2021. Star huge receiver Justin Jefferson can’t come again quickly sufficient.
26. Tennessee Titans (2-4, No. 25)
Last week: Loss vs. Ravens, 24-16
Up subsequent: Bye
With Ryan Tannehill reportedly coping with a high-ankle sprain, possibly the Titans will lastly work out their long-term plan at quarterback. Second-year professional Malik Willis changed Tannehill on Sunday, however the Titans traded as much as choose Will Levis with the second choose within the second spherical of April’s draft. With the bye arising, this shall be an necessary analysis interval.
27. Arizona Cardinals (1-5, No. 26)
Last week: Loss vs. Rams, 26-9
Up subsequent: at Seahawks
The lack of James Conner to a knee damage looms giant for Arizona, which obtained simply 4.4 yards per carry from its operating backs and went 0-for-3 within the purple zone Sunday. Quarterback Joshua Dobbs has struggled mightily in Conner’s absence, posting a QBR of 9.6 and 16.6 (on a 0-100 scale) up to now two video games.
28. Chicago Bears (1-5, No. 27)
Last week: Loss vs. Vikings, 19-13
Up subsequent: vs. Raiders
A dislocated thumb on his throwing hand will possible hold quarterback Justin Fields out this week, including one other layer of disappointment to a season that has gone from unhealthy to worse at every doable flip. It’s exhausting to think about rookie Tyson Bagent, a former Division II quarterback for Shepherd University, getting this struggling passing recreation again on observe.
29. New York Giants (1-5, No. 30)
Last week: Loss vs. Bills, 14-9
Up subsequent: vs. Commanders
Coach Brian Daboll stated “there are no trophies for trying” after a detailed loss in opposition to one of many league’s greatest groups, however the Giants ought to really feel considerably inspired by their efficiency Sunday evening in almost pulling off the upset as a 15-point underdog. Whether the staff can construct on that efficiency when quarterback Daniel Jones and left sort out Andrew Thomas return stays to be seen.
30. New England Patriots (1-5, No. 29)
Last week: Loss vs. Raiders, 21-17
Up subsequent: vs. Bills
It is likely to be time for New England to hit the reset button at each coach and quarterback, lengthy a rock-solid partnership that fueled a dynasty. Bill Belichick will possible depart on his phrases, nevertheless it’s truthful to query whether or not he’s misplaced his edge contemplating the outcomes of the previous 4 years. Perhaps the Patriots can parlay this seemingly misplaced season right into a prime draft choose to make use of on a franchise quarterback.
31. Denver Broncos (1-5, No. 31)
Last week: Loss vs. Chiefs, 19-8
Up subsequent: vs. Packers
Just how large of a teardown will this be for coach Sean Payton? Outside linebackers Randy Gregory and Frank Clark are already out, and huge receiver Jerry Jeudy could possibly be subsequent — if the value is correct. Landing a top-five choose within the draft would create an fascinating choice between constructing round Wilson on the finish of his profession or probably drafting his successor.
32. Carolina Panthers (0-6, No. 32)
Last week: Loss vs. Dolphins, 42-21
Up subsequent: Bye
Quarterback Bryce Young has but to ship the standout moments befitting of a No. 1 total choice, however his turnover-free efficiency Sunday is an encouraging step. The Panthers clearly have work to do to construct a contender across the former Alabama star, beginning with including extra velocity at huge receiver.
()
Source: www.bostonherald.com