NFL Power Rankings Week 13: Broncos nosedive, Commanders streaking

6. Minnesota Vikings

In Week 11, the Minnesota Vikings took one on the chin as they lost 40-3 to the Dallas Cowboys. It was their first loss since Week 2, which came at the hands of the Philadelphia Eagles and was also a blowout at 24-7.

Naturally, this led to plenty of criticism but the Vikings didn’t let that slow them down. They entered Week 12 as the late game on Thanksgiving and found a way to secure a comeback win over the New England Patriots.

Their run game was shut down but Kirk Cousins had 299 yards and three touchdowns and Justin Jefferson went for 139 yards on nine receptions. Most importantly, their defense made some key stops late to seal things. That’s been their one question this season.

5. Dallas Cowboys

Thursday brought us a triumphant return as the Dallas Cowboys were again in their throwback blues with the white helmet. One of the best looks in the game, this is how they’re supposed to dress on Turkey day.

While they looked sharp, the first 30 minutes of the game against the New York Giants were rather sloppy for the ‘Boys. They left points on the board due to penalties and turnovers. For Dak Prescott, it was the second time in three weeks that he had two picks in the first half as they were down 13-7.

In the final 30 minutes, things were vastly different. Dallas dominated in every facet of the game and before long, it was a 28-13 lead.

A missed field goal from Brett Maher and a garbage-time touchdown made it look closer than it was but the Cowboys were by far the superior team.

Now at 8-3, they’re well ahead of the 7-4 Giants thanks to the fact they swept them this season. They have three very winnable games in a row but then take on the Eagles in Week 16 which will be huge in determining the final NFC East standings.