Matthew Ross
Well now, that was a crazy week of NFL football. It caused our us to really re-examine our entire team power index, and everything we knew about the previous three weeks. With a quarter of the season now in the books, this week’s list now features a couple of .500 teams who are ranked higher than a couple of 3-1 teams. I know, pure insanity. But you know what? That’s what makes it fun.
NFL Week 5 Power Index 2017
1- (+1) Kansas City Chiefs – And then there was one. The Chiefs remain as the only undefeated team in the league. They are solid. There’s no question about it. But Washington did make them look ordinary in the first half of that MNF game, so let’s see how they respond moving forward.
2- (-1) Atlanta Falcons – There’s nothing inherently wrong with the Falcons after a close loss to the Bills. They lost Julio Jones during the game and it affected them offensively. We still like them a lot moving forward.
3- (+1) Green Bay Packers – Hey now, the Pack made the Bears look like the Bears, despite more running back injuries during the game. I don’t think they’ll relinquish the division lead all season.
4- (+1) Detroit Lions – Another rung climb for the Lions. They are winning games in a variety of ways, both home and away. Remember when I upgraded them on this list last week despite a loss? Yeah, I love when I’m proven right.
5- (+2) Buffalo Bills – Rarefied air here for the Bills. But they’ve earned it. Buffalo isn’t just running the ball, they’re keyed right now by a strong and aggressive D. Teams may eventually figure out how to score on them. But right now what they’re doing is impressive.
6- (+4) Pittsburgh Steelers – Now there’s the Steelers that we know. They ran the ball and they played hard-nosed defense. Steeltown is getting it rolling.
7- (+1) Denver Broncos – Yep, they’re good at home with a 3-0 record and a tremendous D. But can they put up points on the board after the upcoming bye week? We will see.
8- (NR) Carolina Panthers – Welcome to the list, Panthers. You took advantage of a bad Patriots D. But you know? I want to see you do this again to a quality opponent.
9- (-6) New England Patriots – Yes, the D looks awful. But you know, I’m thinking coach Belichick will right the ship at some point.
10 – Seattle Seahawks – They’re only 2-2, but that was a statement game on Sunday night. The talent and pedigree is there. Watch out for them.
Honorable Mentions: Los Angeles Rams (Is this all a mirage or can they sustain it?), Philadelphia Eagles (I know, they should be on this list, but who do you remove to add them?), Dallas Cowboys (Is the book out on Dak and Zeke?), Minnesota Vikings (Boy, Coach Zimmer better find some magic beans to cure Sam Bradford – and fast!), Oakland Raiders (Hmmm, are they done?).
Matthew Ross is a sports commentator and a radio host on TSN 690 Radio in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Follow him @MatthewWords.
