1. Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons set themselves up with the inside track to home-field advantage with a big win over the talented Packers.
2. New York Jets
The Jets finally won in dominating fashion. Now a visit to New England looms as the biggest test to date and Gang Green’s ‘game of the year’.
3. New Orleans Saints
The Saints stayed with the pace car in the NFC South. Four straight wins should become six straight before road trips to Baltimore and Atlanta.
4. New England Patriots
The running game will need to provide some balance as the Pats try to find some space in the Jets secondary on Monday night. If they can’t move the ball on the ground, the Pats focus will need to shift to a wild card berth.
5. Green Bay Packers
There’s no shame in losing to Atlanta on the road. The Packers should bounce back quickly with the 49ers and Lions on the schedule for the next two weeks.
6. Pittsburgh Steelers
The Bills have become a difficult week on the schedule. That said, the Steelers need a much better performance to win in Baltimore this week with the division lead on the line.
7. Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens have lost their last two games against the league’s elite (Patriots, Falcons). They get another opportunity this week at home against Pittsburgh.
8. Chicago Bears
The Bears made a statement Sunday in beating Philly. They are in control of the division after winning four straight.
9. Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles couldn’t play perfect football forever. They should handle the Texans at home this week before critical road games in Dallas and New York.
10. San Diego
This isn’t the typical 6-5 team; although the 2-5 start has become typical for the Chargers. They are rolling now with Rivers on a record pace, a solid running game, and an underrated defense.