2022 NFL Power Rankings Week 8: Tampa Bay melts down, Browns implode
By Randy Gurzi
18. team. 42. . . Previous: 15th. San Francisco 49ers
18. San Francisco 49ers
Up until the fourth quarter, the San Francisco 49ers were holding their own against the Chiefs. It was 14-13 at the half and they pulled to within five when a George Kittle touchdown reception made it 28-23. Then, Kansas City scored 16-unanswered en route to a 44-23 blowout win.
The 49ers fell to 3-4 but still had some good moments to build on. Jimmy Garoppolo threw for 303 yards and they even forced a pick on Patrick Mahomes. They’re still in the mix in the NFC West with the Seahawks in first place at 4-3 and can gain some ground if they’re able to knock off the Rams next week for the second time this year.
. Previous: 14th. Tampa Bay Buccaneers. 17. team. 48.
17. Tampa Bay Bucs
One of the most unexpected things to happen so far in 2022 is the decline of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. They started out 2-0 but have since lost four of their past five games including a shocking defeat this past weekend.
Facing P.J. Walker as the starting quarterback for the Panthers, Tampa Bay lost 21-3. Tom Brady continues to struggle but he has had very little help. The ground game had just 2.9 yards per rush and Mike Evans dropped a wide-open touchdown.
Despite another loss, the Bucs are tied for first place in the south with the Falcons at 3-4. The division has been abysmal, which might be the only thing that keeps them alive this year.