NFL Power Rankings, After Week 5 of the 2019 Season
Roughly a third of the way through the regular season, we are starting to see some teams' plans come to fruition. For three quarters, the Packers were the best team this weekend - they had everything going right.Buffalo continues to show that their defense is on par with the best, and the Saints continue to win without Drew Brees. The Raiders' second win in a row was also an eye-catcher.
The Patriots held an undefeated record of 5-0, with a strong defensive showing allowing the fewest points in the league through week 5. Quarterback Tom Brady led the offense as they aimed to retain their AFC dominance. The combined record of the Patriots' opponents this year, minus the Bills, is 1-17. With the Bills, it's 5-18. Here come the 2-3 Giants.
The cupcake schedule continues. But they show up each week and play the right way. The one tough game at least showed they can be tested.
Next: NY Giants
The Packers went 4-1 by week 5, showcasing a balanced team with standout defensive improvements. Aaron Rodgers continued to guide an offense that was productive in tight games. For how dominant they were for three quarters at Dallas, they deserve this spot. That was very impressive. The schedule gets tougher in the second half, and maybe Dallas is being exposed as a pretender. But for at least this week, the Pack is definitely back. Great game plan and execution.
Next: Detroit
With a 4-0 start, the 49ers showcased one of the top rushing offenses in the league and a tenacious defense. Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo returned from injury, effectively leading the team's offensive attack. Why won't the top ten files call up the 'Niners logo all of a sudden? I'll add it later. The Monday night win over the Browns keeps the 'Niners ahead of Seattle and LAR in the NFC West. They still have the four games against those two, and obviously, those will be pivotal.
Next: @ LA Rams
The Saints were 4-1 despite losing starting quarterback Drew Brees, with backup Teddy Bridgewater leading a consistent offense. New Orleans' defense also stepped up to keep games competitive. They beat Tampa Bay, and I think it's obvious the Bucs are better. The Saints will be a load when Brees returns and will continue to find ways to win. Bridgewater had a very good game.
Interesting fact: Mike Evans has two games in his career when he's been totally shut out, with no catches. Both have come against the Saints.
Next: @ Jacksonville
Kansas City stood at 4-1, led by reigning MVP Patrick Mahomes, who had another strong start to the season. However, defensive struggles began to emerge in close games. The Colts went into that hornet's nest and completely quieted the crowd, no small feat. Great game plan, and the Chiefs have work to do, especially in run defense. They won't go very far in January if they can't stop the run.
Next: Houston
The Bills posted a 4-1 record with a defense that ranked among the best in the league. Quarterback Josh Allen led an improving offense that faced some challenges but produced enough for wins. Some offensive coordinator will eventually find holes in this defense. That usually happens, but at the moment, Buffalo is a force. They are playing just well enough on offense to take advantage of the good field position supplied by their defense. It definitely hurt the Titans' chances that their kicker, Cairo Santos, missed all four of his field goal attempts, tying the most misses in an NFL game since the merger.
Next: Bye
At 4-1, the Seahawks relied on standout performances from quarterback Russell Wilson and an effective rushing game. Seattle's defense contributed to key wins despite some inconsistencies. Tough team to figure out, but they hang tough in games, then Wilson works his magic towards the end. They'll have to become a more well-rounded team to hang with the NFC's elite teams, but they have the players to pull it off.
Next: @ Cleveland
The Eagles held a 3-2 record, overcoming early injuries and leaning on Carson Wentz's passing ability. Defensive lapses led to tight games but the team remained competitive in the NFC East. It's true the star-crossed Jets are not a good enough team to gauge yourselves against, but the talented Eagles appear to have the ship righted. The games against the Cowboys now have added incentive for Philadelphia, given the Cowboys' recent struggles.
Next: @ Minnesota
The Rams were 3-2 after early successes but encountered difficulties with their offensive consistency. Defensive performances varied as they faced several challenging opponents. It truly was difficult to include this team after that choke job. But let's face it, they have the talent and coaching to easily stay relevant in the NFC West and the NFL as a whole.
Next: San Francisco
The Colts reached a 3-2 record with quarterback Jacoby Brissett leading a balanced offense in Andrew Luck's absence. Indianapolis relied on a steady run game and resilient defense. Great job, Colts. Great game plan to slow the Chiefs' juggernaut passing game. The 10th spot this week came down to the Colts, Raiders, Texans, Lions, Bears, Ravens, Cowboys, Panthers, and Vikings. The Colts had the most impressive win of this group, although the Raiders caught everyone's attention as well.
Next: Bye
The Newcomers
The Raiders posted a 3-2 record, with an offense that was able to capitalize on a mix of rushing and passing. Key defensive plays helped the team secure some narrow victories. We have a very small amount of time to continue to call them the Oakland Raiders, as they will soon move to Las Vegas. Just thought I'd take the opportunity to mention that. For many, it must seem like just another greedy sports team moving to a more prosperous environment, and while that is undeniable, it does make me a little sad for the fans in Oakland. They have already endured the team moving once to Los Angeles before returning to Oakland.
The Panthers stood at 3-2, finding momentum with backup quarterback Kyle Allen filling in for an injured Cam Newton. Their defense also stepped up, producing strong showings in key wins.
Dallas was 3-2, starting the season strong but struggling with consistency in later weeks. The offense, led by Dak Prescott, faced challenges against tougher defenses. I believe the recent struggles are directly tied to injuries on the O-line. Once they get healthy there, I believe they will become very good again.