Way-too-early 2021 NFL Power Rankings: Rams, Packers, Chiefs chasing Buccaneers
By Randy Gurzi
For the first time in a long time, the New England Patriots were not atop the AFC East. Instead, it was the Buffalo Bills who were in control with a record of 13-3. Of course, Patriots fans will likely say they won it since Tom Brady left for the NFC but the fact is, this Buffalo team has been trending in the right direction for a couple of seasons now and they finally broke through.
Josh Allen took some major steps forward as the starting quarterback and adding Stefon Diggs was huge for him and his progression. Allen even had people calling for him to be the NFL MVP after improving in every statistical category that matters.
His passing completion percentage went from 58.8 to 69.2 and his yardage went from 3,089 to 4,544. As for his touchdowns, he went from 20 as a second-year player to 37 this past season. He’s also remained a weapon with his legs, running for 421 yards and eight touchdowns in addition to what he did as a passer.
As good as Allen is, head coach Sean McDermott continued to get the defense to play at a high level, which is a huge reason for their success. This 13-win campaign was only the start for the Bills and they remain one of the best teams in the NFL heading into the offseason.