NFL Power Rankings, Week 15: 49ers win thriller over Saints, Chiefs stake claim

4. Green Bay Packers (5)

Sunday’s win over the Washington Redskins wasn’t the most impressive for the Green Bay Packers, but since the victory keeps them on top of the NFC North, this is all Aaron Rodgers and company really care about.

After getting by the New York Giants with ease the week before, the Packers appeared to be in a similar situation with the Washington Redskins coming to Lambeau Field, although watching Green Bay only defeat Washington 20-15 shows this was closer than expected.

While Rodgers struggled for the most part to get anything consistent going through the air after only finishing with 195 passing yards to go along with a touchdown, at least the Packers continue to see Aaron Jones make a case for being a top running back on the rise.

With Jones finishing with 192 yards from scrimmage to go along with a trip into the end zone, Green Bay could have a major advantage come playoff time if the running back continues to play on this high of a level.

Heading into Week 15, each of Green Bay’s final three games happen to be within the division, with a meeting against the Minnesota Vikings in less than two weeks being the most important of all.

Since the Packers currently hold a one-game lead over the Vikings at the moment, no one needs to explain the importance of this contest for both parties.