2021 NFL Power Rankings Week 14: Cowboys back on track, Ravens slip up

Dec 2, 2021; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Dallas Cowboys cornerback Trevon Diggs (7) reacts to getting an interception against New Orleans Saints during the second half at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 2, 2021; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Dallas Cowboys cornerback Trevon Diggs (7) reacts to getting an interception against New Orleans Saints during the second half at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
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2021 NFL Power Rankings
NFL Power Rankings; Carolina Panthers defensive end Brian Burns (53) warms up prior to the game against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

A 3-0 start to the 2021 season feels like a dream now for the Carolina Panthers. They have a record of just 2-7 since that hot start and they now enter the bye week after suffering a 33-10 beatdown at the hands of the Miami Dolphins.

Not only were they thoroughly outplayed but they also had to bench Cam Newton as he was struggling in a major way. It was frustrating for them to see since he had played so well since returning to the team.

Perhaps the extra time will help him get back on track but even if he does, it feels as though this team is already playing for next year.

For the second week in a row, the New Orleans Saints were on Thursday Night Football, and for the second week in a row, they suffered a loss. This time it was at the hands of the Dallas Cowboys who won 27-17.

If there was any good to take from this one for New Orleans, it would be that they only lost by 10 despite not having their two offensive tackles as well as running back Alvin Kamara.

As for the negative, it would have to be the play of Taysom Hill. Getting his first start of the season at quarterback, Hill was largely ineffective and threw four picks — although it could have easily been six as he was heaving them up for the defense.

Now at 5-7, New Orleans has to be planning for what to do in 2022 because this season has gotten away from them.