2022 NFL Power Rankings Week 18: Tom Brady clinches, Aaron Rodgers on the verge

TAMPA, FL - JANUARY 1: Tom Brady #12 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers spikes the ball after rushing for a touchdown during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game against the Carolina Panthers at Raymond James Stadium on January 1, 2023 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images)
TAMPA, FL - JANUARY 1: Tom Brady #12 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers spikes the ball after rushing for a touchdown during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game against the Carolina Panthers at Raymond James Stadium on January 1, 2023 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images) /
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2022 NFL Power Rankings
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JANUARY 01: Tashaun Gipson Sr. #31 of the San Francisco 49ers intercepts a pass against the Las Vegas Raiders during overtime at Allegiant Stadium on January 01, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images) /

4. team. 42. . . Previous: 6th. San Francisco 49ers

4. San Francisco 49ers

It was a bit surprising to see the San Francisco 49ers struggle with the Las Vegas Raiders, but turning to Jarrett Stidham seemed to ignite a spark in them. San Francisco ended up needing a 13-point fourth quarter to take a late lead but then allowed a touchdown from Josh Jacobs that sent it to overtime.

Once in the extra period, they reminded us all why they’re dangerous as the defense took over. A pick from Tashaun Gipson set them up for a game-winning field goal as they continue to bite at the heels of the Eagles.

54. . . Previous: 1st. Philadelphia Eagles. 3. team

3. Philadelphia Eagles

It seemed as though nothing could stop the Philadelphia Eagles who were 13-1 and ready to cruise to the No. 1 seed with just one more win. That hasn’t happened yet as Jalen Hurts was lost to an injury and now, they’ve lost two games in a row.

This weekend, it was a 20-10 loss to the New Orleans Saints at home as Gardner Minshew was unable to put up many points on the day.

At 13-3, they’re still atop the NFC but need a win over the Giants. If not, they could see the Dallas Cowboys, who beat them in Week 16, leapfrog them with a win over the Commanders. That means their final game has quickly become a very meaningful one.