We’re still shuffling, as we often do, in the first month of the season. Here’s the NFL Power Rankings for Week Three.
1. Pittsburgh Steelers – (2-0) We’re heading into Week Three and my AFC Super Bowl pick is still cruising, even with their third best offensive player, Le’Veon Bell, still up on blocks in the yard. Last week: 1
2. New England Patriots – (2-0) Not that they’ll get to stay up here with rookie Jacoby Brissett making his first NFL start on a short week in a Thursday night game against one of the most ferocious pass rushes in the league. But enjoy it while you can, Pats. Last week: 6
3. Denver Broncos – (2-0) The Broncos have turned Mile High Stadium into just an impossible place to play with their defense. They’re on the road this week, so it will be interesting to see how Trevor Siemien and the offense can respond. Last week: 7
4. Carolina Panthers – (1-1) Speaking of Mile High Stadium, the Panthers were so pumped to be at sea level this week they dropped a good 49 on the 49ers. I doubt they’ll be able to do the same against the Vikings Sunday. Last week: 5
5. New York Giants – (2-0) The Giants have raced up the NFL Power Rankings thanks to a surprisingly effective defense. Eli and the offense will show back up against the Redskins Sunday. Last week: 8
6. Arizona Cardinals – (1-1) For most of you it’s not time to exit the Cardinals’ bandwagon, but that moment is still coming. For now, I guess I’ll be at the bandwagon exit craft services table all by myself. I hope they have macaroons. Last week: 9
7. Green Bay Packers – (1-1) Mike McCarthy has solidified himself back at the helm of the Packers offensive playcalling and it shows. Yes, Mike. That was a burn. Last week: 2
8. Seattle Seahawks – (1-1) The Seahawks have scored one touchdown in eight quarters of football this season. Russell Wilson is banged up. The recipe is there for a stumble, but I’m still not taking the 49ers Sunday. Last week: 3
9. Cincinnati Bengals – (1-1) It just wasn’t going to happen last Sunday against the Steelers at Heinz Field. You’ll get another shot, Cincy. For now, just take your frustrations out on the Broncos. Last week: 4
10. Houston Texans – (2-0) This Thursday’s game against the Patriots will define who the Texans are. A good team puts its boot on New England’s throat here and crushes them. A non-contender finds a way to let this game be close, or even lose it. Last week: 11
11. Minnesota Vikings – (2-0) I talked a little about Sam Bradford and what has to feel like he just broke out of Attica Prison. Just stay healthy against the Panthers, Sam. Nobody expects a miracle. Last week: 12
12. Dallas Cowboys – (1-1) Dak Prescott continues to prove my Pre-Draft quarterback rankings right every week. After two tough games, this weekend’s visit by the Bears may feel like an early-season vacation for Dak. Like playing Troy or Louisiana Tech. Last week: 13
13. Kansas City Chiefs – (1-1) That was a solid comeback attempt on the road, Chiefs, even if you fell a little short. Be ready this week. You’ve got a red-hot (and I can’t believe I’m writing this) Ryan Fitzpatrick coming to town. Last week: 10
14. Baltimore Ravens – (2-0) That was a little too scary early against the Browns, Baltimore. Try not to spot a team 20 points next time and see if the victory doesn’t come a little easier. I mean, I’m not coach, but… Last week: 15
15. Philadelphia Eagles – (2-0) I’ve already mentioned my adopted son Dak Prescott, but Carson Wentz was my No. 2 ranked quarterback in my final rankings. He’s the guy I thought the Rams should draft after they made the trade (a trade I didn’t like, as Prescott would have been there for the taking in the third round). Somebody should really hire me to run a team. My contact info is at the bottom of the page. Last week: 18
Click here to go to Part Two.
