NFL Power Rankings: Week 1
Number 17: Minnesota Vikings
Matt Cassel has won the starting job in Minnesota and looks very comfortable with the offense.Having the best running back in the game and a good defense will keep them competitive. Allowing Bridgewater to become more adept to the NFL is the smart move.
Number 18: Miami Dolphins
The success of the Miami Dolphins this season will be determined by two things: the offensive line and Ryan Tannehill. Right now, the offense has not looked as advertised. Other than the first drive of the first preseason game, the starting offense failed to score a touchdown. Defensively, they are a very tough unit. They are some question marks in the middle of the defense, but play makers such as Brent Grimes, Olivier Vernon and Cameron Wake will help make up for it.
Number 19: Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs offense has been abysmal this preseason. They’re going to need to change that come week one if they want to compete in the division.
Number 20: Atlanta Falcons
Just two seasons ago the Atlanta Falcons were one game away from the playoffs. Last year, the Falcons were just two games away from having the first pick. Funny how things can go downhill that quick. They have the offense to compete, but problems on the defensive side of the ball might be the downfall of this team.
Number 21: Dallas Cowboys
It is without question that the Cowboys offense will be able to keep them competitive throughout the season. Despite all the negative talk about Tony Romo, people lose sight of the fact that he threw for 3,800 yards, thirty-one touchdowns and just ten interceptions last season. Plenty of talent surrounds Romo, and with a good offensive line, those numbers should not drop. The only problem is, the offense is going to have to score at will, as the defensive situation has only gotten worse.
Number 22: Detroit Lions
The Lions have improved their offense line and added other weapons for Matthew Stafford. That means one thing, the pressure is on to succeed. Defensively, they’re not great, which could handcuff this team down the stretch against quarterbacks such as Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady and Jay Cutler (twice). They must rely on their front seven, particularly Suh and Fairley.
Number 23: New York Jets
Geno Smith was very efficient this preseason. They’re some question marks in the secondary, but they have a very plausible front seven. If Smith has a decent season, the Jets have a great chance at sneaking into the playoffs.
Number 24: New York Giants
A 5-0 preseason doesn’t necessarily mean the New York Giants will be an elite team during the regular season. This is a team that is going into the season with no real expectations. Eli Manning performed poorly throughout the preseason and the defense looked shaky at times. Expect another lost season for the men in blue.