NFL Power Rankings, Week 7: Where do the Chiefs land after a weekend of upsets?
By Grant Tuttle
17. Atlanta Falcons (3-3)
Last Week: 14 (-3)
The Falcons have so much young talent but it has become abundantly clear that Desmond Ridder is not the guy and will not become the guy. The defense has some greatness to it and the playmakers are excellent. There are only two guys left to blame: Desmond Ridder and Arthur Smith. Unfortunately for Atlanta, this seems like it's something that is not getting resolved this year.
18. Tennessee Titans (2-4)
Last Week: 16 (-2)
The Titans fell short in a matchup overseas with the Ravens. Perhaps I am the only one who thinks Mike Vrabel is a tremendous coach, but I will continue to say it: The Titans are fighting in close matchups in games that are out of their weight class. This is certainly not going to be their year, but they are a team that is only a quarterback away.
20. Cincinnati Bengals (3-3)
Last week: 20 (-)
Cincinnati snuck out a win this week against the Seahawks, who only came up with one touchdown on the day. I would understand why one might view the Bengals as ascending. However, I am still not buying it. They have yet to show the explosiveness from a season ago. If they beat the 49ers this week, I promise to be more of a believer.
21. Los Angeles Chargers (2-3)
Last Week: 17 (-4)
How are the Chargers always loaded and always fall flat in the regular season? If they want any hope of being a contender, they should consider firing Brandon Staley as soon as possible. If not, it will continue to be a disappointment over and over again.
22. Pittsburgh Steelers (3-2)
Last Week: 21 (-1)
BYE WEEK
23. Las Vegas Raiders (3-3)
Last Week: 22 (-1)
Josh McDaniels got the best of his mentor, Bill Belichick, AGAIN! The Patriots are, at this point, one of the NFL's worst teams, but let's not rain on the Raiders' parade too much. Las Vegas has some nice pieces, but they aren't going to have a winning record because they don't have the coach who can put them in a position to succeed.
24. New York Jets (3-3)
Last Week: 24 (-)
The Jets might smell kind of funny, but they aren't dead yet. With a key victory against the Eagles that showcased defensive dominance, the Jets are a team that could be on the verge of a Wild Card run. Despite their injury problems, the Jets have been a difficult team to beat. You've got to admire their determination and grit.