2021 NFL Power Rankings Week 11: Packers take top spot, Cowboys rebound

It was a 3-0 game for much of the day but then the Green Bay Packers put the Seattle Seahawks away as they scored two touchdowns in the final quarter to move to 8-2 on the season. What was most impressive is the fact that they completely shut out the Seahawks, spoiling Russell Wilson’s return to the field.

So far in 2021, that’s been what’s stood out for the Packers — their defense. Dillon Graff of Lombardi Avenue dove into the way they have been playing under Joe Barry and he’s been more than impressed with how they have limited big plays, which in turn limits scoring.

"“This season, Green Bay has allowed just 22 passing plays of 20 yards or more, which ranks seventh best in the NFL. This can be attributed to the fact Green Bay often plays two-high safeties, forcing teams to nickel and dime their way down the field. Of course, this is an easier feat to accomplish when you are getting strong safety play from Adrian Amos and Darnell Savage. Most importantly, the Packers are keeping points off the board. Joe Barry’s defense has allowed less than 23 points in seven of the team’s nine games, including six straight, which is the longest such streak in the NFL this season.” — Graff, Lombardi Ave"

Couple this defense with Aaron Rodgers quarterbacking them and you have the No. 1 team in the NFL.

They have beaten good teams to build an impressive resume and if they get home-field advantage in the postseason, they’ll be very tough to beat.