NFL Power Rankings: Top 10 teams in the league heading into Week 6

NFL Power Rankings, NFL Picks, Philadelphia Eagles, Jalen Hurts - Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
NFL Power Rankings, NFL Picks, Philadelphia Eagles, Jalen Hurts - Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
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NFL Power Rankings
NFL Power Rankings; TAMPA, FLORIDA – OCTOBER 10: Tom Brady #12 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers looks on under center against the Miami Dolphins during the second quarter at Raymond James Stadium on October 10, 2021 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) /

Dallas Cowboys. 6. team. 123. . 4-1.

NFL Power Rankings No. 6 Dallas Cowboys (4-1)

What are they? Raw Talent

Jerry Jones mentioned an upcoming quarterback battle between Cooper Rush and Dak Prescott, and it might happen. A thumb injury sidelined Dallas’ starter – providing Rush an opportunity to start his early audition tape. Success against the Bengals attracted fans of America’s team. Consecutive wins against the Giants, Commanders, and Rams have made the Cowboys a believer, just in time for Prescott to take the reins – so we think.

Micah Parsons is the anchor that keeps Dallas stern during their quarterback dilemma. His six sacks are tied first with Matthew Judon and Nick Bosa for most in the league. Commotion in the backfield helps the secondary limit big plays downfield. Dallas allows 193.8 passing yards a game – ranking seventh in the league. Competition in the NFC East will require the Cowboys to compete every week for playoff contention – making Dallas a team to watch in the nearby future.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers. 5. team. 48. . 3-2.

NFL Power Ranking No.5 Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-2)

What are they? Led by a Hall of Famer

Injuries and suspensions cost the Buccaneers weeks to build chemistry in the early weeks of the season. Chirs Godwin suffered a torn ACL in week 15 last season and has worked diligently to rejoin Tom Brady in the offensive huddle. A knee injury has kept veteran Julio Jones from joining the action as well – leaving Brady to rely on other options to put points on the board. Leonard Fournette and Russell Gage make waiting for starters easier. Gage leads the Bucs receivers in targets – a result of Brady doing his best with his resources.

Defensively, Tampa Bay is a tough opponent. Their 309 yards per game average ranks sixth-best among other defenses. Practices against TB12 help the secondary prepare for opposing quarterbacks and receiving corps. In five weeks, the Bucs allowed 1,545 yards – ranking 6th compared to other franchises. Creating turnovers is becoming part of Tampa Bay’s identity. Their nine total takeaways are tied third best in the league with the Jets and Jaguars.