NFL Power Rankings, Week 9: 49ers embarrass Panthers, Eagles shock Bills

1. New England Patriots (1)

Once again, the defense of the New England Patriots continues to prove to be one of the most dangerous groups in the NFL after finding the end zone yet again, with the latest coming on Sunday in a win over the Cleveland Browns.

Even though the argument can be made that Cleveland would have performed much better on offense with better weather, this shouldn’t take away from how impressive New England’s defense continues to be week after week.

Normally, Tom Brady and the offense tends to receive most of the credit surrounding the success of the Patriots, but the argument can be made that without the defense, there’s no way this team is still undefeated.

At 8-0, the next two games will be crucial for New England when it comes to keeping that undefeated streak alive with meetings against the Baltimore Ravens and Philadelphia Eagles (Week 11), both of which happen to be on the road.

Some critics have pointed out that New England’s schedule from the first two months was too easy, but at least these two road battles will be good chances for the defending champions to make statements.

But even if they lose one of these games, the Patriots will still be in great shape to finish on top of the AFC East with ease, especially after watching the Buffalo Bills come up short against the Eagles on Sunday.