Wednesday, December 30, 2020

Las Vegas Raiders Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Las Vegas Raiders rank in terms of average, best and worst:

  • Average ranking: 18.4 (16th)
  • Best ranking: 16th (CBS Sports)
  • Worst ranking: 21st (USA Today)

Below you will find a Week 17 roundup for the Raiders in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 18

Nelson Agholor, WR: He was a free agent last offseason and had to settle for a one-year, $1.05 million contract. But Agholor has bounced back with a career year, totaling 839 yards and eight touchdowns while averaging 17.9 yards per reception. He'll be 28 in May and could cash in with a nice contract this offseason.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 16

That loss to the Dolphins was excruciating. The strategy at the end of the game backfired, wasting an improved defensive showing.

USA Today -- Rank: 21

Since that 6-3 start, they've surrendered 34.3 points per week. What happens defensively in Vegas shouldn't stay in Vegas.

ESPN -- Rank: 18

New Year's resolution: To not be 6-4 after 10 games

Yeah, we know the Raiders need a closer on defense after epic choke jobs against the Chargers and Dolphins, as well as a defensive coordinator who can make chicken salad, if you know what we mean. They could also get better on offense in the red zone instead of settling for 18 field goals from 20 to 29 yards. But being 6-4 has been the Raiders' death knell the past two seasons. In 2019, they lost five of their last six and, with a loss at Denver, will have accomplished the same ignominious goal this season. -- Paul Gutierrez

NFL.com -- Rank: 19

For the second time in as many weeks, the Raiders ripped defeat from the jaws of victory in front of a national prime-time audience. The latest stumble could be traced back to conservative play-calling, a missed PAT and a hideous defensive breakdown in the final seconds of a 26-25 loss to Ryan Fitzpatrick and the Dolphins at Allegiant Stadium. The Raiders -- who were officially eliminated from postseason contention with the loss -- are one cover-zero Hail Mary miracle against the Jets away from entering Week 17 on a six-game losing streak. Yep, it's another December implosion for the Silver and Black, and Jon Gruden is deserving of the scrutiny heading his way this offseason. Of course, that 10-year contract means he has little to worry about, other than bad press.

Previous update: Las Vegas Raiders Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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Saturday, December 26, 2020

Houston Texans Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Houston Texans rank in terms of average, best and worst:

  • Average ranking: 26.2 (T-27th)
  • Best ranking: 21st (CBS Sports)
  • Worst ranking: 30th (ESPN)

Below you will find a Week 16 roundup for the Texans in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 23

Wish: That they don't waste Watson, who ranks 10th in QBR. Against the Colts, he had big completions (defined as 20 yards or more) to Chad Hansen, Jordan Akins and Kahale Warring. It's unclear who will be coaching the Texans next year, and it's unclear who will be making the personnel decisions. But Watson will be just 26 in September. He has completed 69.9 percent of his passes and averaged 8.8 YPA this season. He should just now be entering his prime. Texans, please don't screw this up. We are begging you.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 21

The defense gets worse by the week. They can't stop anybody. Deshaun Watson can't do it by himself.

USA Today -- Rank: 29

QB Deshaun Watson's 27 TD passes are a career high, and he's 32 yards from setting a new personal best through the air -- all without WR DeAndre Hopkins.

ESPN -- Rank: 30

Most underrated star: ILB Zach Cunningham

There isn't a long list to pick from because most of the success the Texans have had is due to how QB Deshaun Watson has played. But one player who has shown up on the stat sheet regardless of how poorly the defense is playing is Cunningham. The Texans' 2017 second-round pick, who signed a contract extension before the season, leads the NFL in tackles. "Zach has had a good season," interim head coach Romeo Crennel said Monday. "He is a very active defensive player for us. He runs and hits. He fills gaps, and he is productive from that aspect." -- Sarah Barshop

NFL.com -- Rank: 28

Two weeks ago, after a low snap fired at his shins led to the crushing turnover in a last-minute loss to the Colts, Deshaun Watson spent the next several minutes alone on the Texans bench with a towel draped over his head -- total dejection for one of the game's great competitors. On Sunday, after another crushing goal-line turnover buried the Texans once more against the Colts, Watson walked off the field with an almost bemused look on his face. You could picture what the Pro Bowl quarterback was thinking in that moment: This year has been profoundly, irrevocably, undeniably f-----. To hell with 2020. Amen, brother.

Previous update: Houston Texans Week 15 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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Jacksonville Jaguars Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Jacksonville Jaguars rank in terms of average, best and worst:

  • Average ranking: 32.0 (32nd)
  • Best ranking: 32nd (Multiple)
  • Worst ranking: 32nd (Multiple)

Below you will find a Week 16 roundup for the Jaguars in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 32

Wish: Trevor Lawrence. With the Jets' win in Week 15, the Jaguars are positioned to land Lawrence with the top pick. From Gardner Minshew to Jake Luton to Mike Glennon, this season has not been fun for Jags fans. Jacksonville has won six or fewer games in nine of 10 seasons. Landing Lawrence could be a franchise-changing addition.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 32

Don't do it. Don't win a game. Don't ruin the chance to land Trevor Lawrence. It's just not worth it.

USA Today -- Rank: 32

It's only about six hours from Clemson QB Trevor Lawrence's Cartersville, Ga., home to Jacksonville ... though slightly further to London. Get your passport ready, buddy.

ESPN -- Rank: 32

Most underrated star: P Logan Cooke

The Jaguars are 1-13, so I'm taking some liberty with "success" here, but Cooke has become one of the league's better punters. His 43.4-yard net punt average is sixth, and he has put 11 punts inside the 10-yard line. Essentially, he's making opposing offenses work a little harder to average 30.2 points per game against the Jaguars' defense. -- Mike DiRocco

NFL.com -- Rank: 32

The Jaguars won by losing on Sunday. The Ravens blasted Doug Marrone's team into orbit in a 40-14 loss, but when Jacksonville returned to Earth they learned that the Jets had shocked the Rams for their first win of the season. Both teams are now 1-13, with Jacksonville holding the all-important strength of schedule tiebreaker. Two more losses and the Jags will hold the first overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. Gardner Minshew did his usual thing against the Ravens, putting up pretty-looking stats in a blowout loss. In a weird twist of fate, many Jags fans will be rooting against their mustachioed folk hero this week against the Bears.

Previous update: Jacksonville Jaguars Week 15 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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New York Jets Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the New York Jets rank in terms of average, best and worst:

  • Average ranking: 31.0 (31st)
  • Best ranking: 31st (Multiple)
  • Worst ranking: 31st (Multiple)

Below you will find a Week 16 roundup for the Jets in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 31

Wish: The right coach/quarterback combination. We spend countless hours analyzing every aspect of every team, but the truth is getting a competent coach and quarterback offers a high floor. The Jets have been a circus under Adam Gase, and there's a feeling that they've never really given Sam Darnold a chance. This offseason, most likely, they'll trade Darnold and draft a top quarterback prospect. They'll also hire a new coach to work with GM Joe Douglas. Yes, the Jets beat the Rams and thus might have ruined their chances of landing Lawrence. But still, there's a roadmap to respectability here.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 31

They showed some fight in beating the Rams, but it's a victory that will sting if they don't pick first overall. But the players don't care about that.

USA Today -- Rank: 31

In the spirit of a team that also fails to lose in the clutch, they're not bad enough to be at the bottom of these rankings any longer.

ESPN -- Rank: 31

Most underrated star: S Marcus Maye

It's tough to hand out any sort of MVP on a 1-13 team, but Maye has played virtually every snap and has two interceptions, two forced fumbles and seven pass breakups. He's a natural free safety, but he played a few games at strong safety because the team needed him there. At 27, he's the elder statesman in the Kiddie Corps secondary. He isn't a dynamic player like former Jet Jamal Adams, but he's steady and smart. Maye will be a free agent after the season, and the Jets should re-sign him. -- Rich Cimini

NFL.com -- Rank: 31

Good on the Jets -- the players and the coaching staff -- for putting together their best effort of the season in a stunning upset win over the Rams in Los Angeles. These people wanted nothing to do with 0-16, and they've successfully avoided joining that ugly little club of two. As for Jets fans? Their panic is understandable, especially with a player as special as Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence possibly sitting atop the list of next year's crop of draft prospects. There's always been a cosmic cruelty to Jets fandom; being put in the position to root for your own team to go 0-16 is some next-level misery that no fan base deserves. The Jets sit behind the Jaguars in the draft pecking order, but this "race" to the bottom isn't over yet.

Previous update: New York Jets Week 15 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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Philadelphia Eagles Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Philadelphia Eagles rank in terms of average, best and worst:

  • Average ranking: 24.0 (24th)
  • Best ranking: 23rd (Multiple)
  • Worst ranking: 25th (Multiple)

Below you will find a Week 16 roundup for the Eagles in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 25

Wish: A trade partner for Carson Wentz. It feels like that's where this whole thing is headed. It'd be a mistake to overreact to a couple of games with Jalen Hurts, but there's no denying the offense has looked better. The Eagles could keep both players and hold an open quarterback competition, or they could try to move Wentz. The question of what to do could come down to compensation. As we've seen in the past with guys like Sam Bradford and Nick Foles, it will only take one team to fall in love. If the Eagles get a deal they like, they can move forward with Hurts and perhaps another quarterback option.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 25

They have to be excited about the way Jalen Hurts is playing. They might have their long-term answer, but it's a little early for that.

USA Today -- Rank: 23

If rookie QB Jalen Hurts wills Philadelphia to an unlikely division crown, fans will co-sign Carson Wentz's desire to skip town.

ESPN -- Rank: 23

Most underrated star: DE Brandon Graham

He finally received a Pro Bowl bid for the first time in his standout 11-year career. With two games to play, Graham sits at seven sacks, 12 tackles for loss and 14 QB hits. More than just a hero of Super Bowl LII, Graham has been a constant energy source for the team over the past decade-plus -- a role that took on even more importance in a year with no fans in the stands. -- Tim McManus

NFL.com -- Rank: 24

The comeback bid fell short against the Cardinals, but the Eagles have to be feeling great about what they've seen from Jalen Hurts so far. The rookie ended his second career start 24-for-44 passing for 338 yards with 63 rushing yards and four total touchdowns in the 33-26 loss. That's monster production from any QB, let alone one who's supposed to be taking his first tentative steps into the world of professional football. As expected, Doug Pederson announced Monday that Hurts will remain the team's starter when the Eagles meet the Cowboys in a Week 16 elimination game for both teams. If Hurts continues to produce in the season's final weeks, it could very well seal Carson Wentz's departure from the team in the offseason. Change comes fast in the NFL.

+ Previous update: Philadelphia Eagles Week 15 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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Atlanta Falcons Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Atlanta Falcons rank in terms of average, best and worst:

  • Average ranking: 22.4 (21st)
  • Best ranking: 17th (The Athletic)
  • Worst ranking: 27th (Multiple)

Below you will find a Week 16 roundup for the Falcons in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 17

Wish: A fresh start. They've played hard for Raheem Morris and have looked good at times, like in the first half against Tampa Bay when Matt Ryan was spraying the ball all over the field, Calvin Ridley was coming down with catch after catch and the defense was getting to Tom Brady. But then the second half happened, reminding everyone who the Falcons actually are. They'll likely look to find a new head coach and GM who can produce a quick turnaround while Ryan still has something left.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 27

Does this team know how to blow leads or what? It's the same story seemingly every week - no matter who is the coach. They need a fresh start.

USA Today -- Rank: 18

With his 343rd career TD pass, QB Matt Ryan has (quietly?) cracked NFL's top-ten all-time list ... and is 24 away from overtaking Eli Manning for ninth place.

ESPN -- Rank: 27

Most underrated star: WR Russell Gage

With Julio Jones battling injuries throughout the season, Gage has become a key contributor to the offense, setting career highs in receptions (59), targets (94), yards (672) and touchdowns (three) with two games to go. At age 24 and with changes coming to the Falcons, he has become not only an underrated part of the Falcons' present but also a potential dynamic part of their future. -- Michael Rothstein

NFL.com -- Rank: 23

You know, Falcons, it brings us no joy to consistently reference the tragic events of Super Bowl LI ... but you have to work with us. If you want people to truly move on from that game, you need to stop doing things to remind them what happened that night in Houston. Let's use Sunday as an example: When you build a 17-0 halftime lead against the Bucs -- a Bucs team led by quarterback Tom Brady -- you're going to want to make sure the team led by Brady doesn't stage the second-largest rally in franchise history. Your defense can't allow four touchdown drives and a field goal in the final two quarters, and your offense cannot go into hibernation mode for the final 20 minutes of game time. The football gods help those who help themselves.

+ Previous update: Atlanta Falcons Week 15 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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New York Giants Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the New York Giants rank in terms of average, best and worst:

  • Average ranking: 22.4 (T-21st)
  • Best ranking: 19th (NFL.com)
  • Worst ranking: 24th (Multiple)

Below you will find a Week 16 roundup for the Giants in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 24

Wish: Some offensive creativity. This has little to do with Colt McCoy and their Week 15 loss to the Browns and more to do with what we've seen all season. Daniel Jones did not take a step forward, and the Giants under offensive coordinator Jason Garrett rank 30th in EPA per snap. The offensive talent is not great, but there's been no evidence that Garrett is capable of giving them an edge. Overall, Year 1 under Joe Judge has been positive, but Judge needs to determine this offseason how to get more from the offense in 2021.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 23

They are still alive in the NFC East, but they need to win this week at Baltimore and get help. That won't be easy.

USA Today -- Rank: 24

They're averaging 12.3 points in four games since their Week 11 bye ... bad even by NFC East standards.

ESPN -- Rank: 22

Most underrated star: LB Blake Martinez

Martinez's impact can't be measured by statistics, even though those are pretty good. He's tied for fourth in the NFL with 128 tackles to go with eight tackles for loss, five QB hits, an interception and two forced fumbles. Martinez is an extension of defensive coordinator Patrick Graham on the field. He gets the Giants lined up in the right defense and is the centerpiece of it all. It's no coincidence that the Giants' defense has gone from being ranked 25th to being 12th in the span of a year. Their middle linebacker, though not a star, has been integral to their success. -- Jordan Raanan

NFL.com -- Rank: 19

Joe Judge coached on Sunday night with an almost admirable level of desperation. Injuries took away his quarterback (Daniel Jones), while COVID-19 designations sidelined his top cover man (James Bradberry) and offensive coordinator (Jason Garrett). So Judge opted for fourth-down gambles in two first-half red-zone trips against the Browns, hoping to steal points and put New York in position for the upset. Sadly, these cowboy maneuvers only make a coach look good when they work. Both plays ended in failure (the first on a fake-field-goal throw by punter/holder Riley Dixon that went incomplete, the second with Wayne Gallman being stuffed at the Cleveland 5), and Big Blue never really threatened after that in a 20-6 loss. New York hasn't scored 20 points in a game in over a month. That's not going to cut it, even in the NFC East.

Previous update: New York Giants Week 15 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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New England Patriots Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the New England Patriots rank in terms of average, best and worst:

  • Average ranking: 19.2 (19th)
  • Best ranking: 17th (USA Today)
  • Worst ranking: 21st (Multiple)

Below you will find a Week 16 roundup for the Patriots in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 21

Wish: More help for whoever's playing quarterback. Cam Newton has not played well but just look at the supporting cast in New England. It's been a disaster. The Patriots' loss to the Dolphins guaranteed they'll miss out on the playoffs. Now they'll need to make a decision at quarterback this offseason. But whatever they decide, they need to do a better job of positioning the quarterback for success.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 18

It's over. No playoffs this year for this team. But did we really expect it?

USA Today -- Rank: 17

How'd season turn out? Two of New England's three Pro Bowlers (P Jake Bailey and captain Matthew Slater) are special teams aces.

ESPN -- Rank: 19

Most underrated star: P Jake Bailey/K Nick Folk

Is it possible to split the vote between a punter and a kicker? Bailey is making a serious charge for All-Pro honors, which is saying something, considering that he kicks in the Northeast. Entering this past week's games, he was fourth in average (48.8 yards per punt) and first in net (46.1), and in 40 attempts, he had just three touchbacks, with 23 punts downed inside the 20. As for Folk, he has drilled two 50-plus-yard field goals with no time on the clock in regulation and has made 25 straight field goals. -- Mike Reiss

NFL.com -- Rank: 21

For the first time since 2008 and the third time in the past 20 seasons, the NFL playoffs will not include the New England Patriots. That became official after another listless loss on Sunday. Cam Newton again struggled to make impact plays, while the defense faltered in the second half against a Miami offense that was missing several playmakers due to injury. The Pats also lost Stephon Gilmore, the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year, who exited the game with what was later diagnosed as a partially torn quad. As the Dolphins and Bills rise as contenders in the AFC East, Bill Belichick and the rest of the Patriots brain trust have an offseason filled with difficult decisions. Reload or rebuild?

Previous update: New England Patriots Week 15 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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Washington Football Team Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Washington Football Team rank in terms of average, best and worst:

  • Average ranking: 16.2 (16th)
  • Best ranking: 15th (Multiple)
  • Worst ranking: 19th (The Athletic)

Below you will find a Week 16 roundup for Washington in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 19

Wish: An upgrade at quarterback. There's no reason to think Dwayne Haskins can be the guy, and while Alex Smith has been a fantastic story, it would be a mistake for Washington to go into next season with him penciled in as the starter. The roster isn't great, but the defense ranks third in EPA per snap and is loaded with young talent up front. And Washington has some fun offensive skill-position players in Terry McLaurin and Antonio Gibson. My question: Why isn't Washington mentioned more often as a potential landing spot for guys like Matthew Stafford? It needs upgrades on the offensive line and more pass-catching help, but if Washington were able to get above-average quarterback play, it could be a really fun team in 2021.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 17

Even with the loss to the Seahawks, they are atop the NFC East. They should have Alex Smith back this week against Carolina.

USA Today -- Rank: 15

Former Virginia Tech QB Logan Thomas has developed into a bona fide NFL tight end this season, basically as good as any of his NFC peers in 2020.

ESPN -- Rank: 15

Most underrated star: RT Morgan Moses

There are a few deserving players, but all of them have received attention, whether that's P Tress Way, TE Logan Thomas or RB J.D. McKissic. Even DT Jonathan Allen, who warrants more praise, is part of a decorated D-line group. But Moses is having arguably his best season coming off one of his worst. He rededicated himself to training in the offseason and reported to camp in excellent shape, and his play has benefited. On a line that has dealt with numerous injuries, Moses has been a rock. Because of multiple injuries to others, Moses also started two games at left tackle and played well as Washington won both. -- John Keim

NFL.com -- Rank: 15

Dwayne Haskins got the start in place of an injured Alex Smith on Sunday, and for the first half, it felt like more confirmation that Washington erred badly by selecting Haskins in the first round of last year's draft. But Haskins improved as the game progressed, leading the team on two second-half touchdown drives before taking Washington deep into Seahawks territory with a chance to win in the final minute. A trio of Seattle sacks on that last possession squashed hopes of a dramatic comeback, but Washington held its own against another quality opponent. If Ron Rivera's team can close out the NFC East, we're likely to see a similar game script play out in the postseason: Washington's defense throwing sand in the gears of a powerful offense while praying for enough production from the other side of the ball.

Previous update: Washington Football Team Week 15 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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Los Angeles Rams Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Los Angeles Rams rank in terms of average, best and worst:

  • Average ranking: 10.8 (12th)
  • Best ranking: 5th (The Athletic)
  • Worst ranking: 13th (Multiple)

Below you will find a Week 16 roundup for the Rams in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 5

Wish: A setup that allows Jared Goff to have success. The Rams lost as 17.5-point favorites to the Jets in Week 15 and their offensive line got pushed around all afternoon. We know by now that Goff is unlikely to put the offense on his shoulders and needs the right circumstances to succeed. If he doesn't get those circumstances, he's going to struggle. Goff now ranks 22nd in QBR and the Rams are 20th in EPA per play. They have a lot of pieces in place to contend for a Super Bowl. But they also have little margin for error on offense. If McVay and the offensive line don't do a better job of positioning Goff for success, the Rams could be looking at a quick playoff exit.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 13

What happened against the Jets? That's inexcusable. They have to regroup in a big way this week in a tough road game at Seattle.

USA Today -- Rank: 13

At least they won't see an AFC East team again unless they meet one in Super Bowl LV. Brutal loss to Jets left Los Angeles 1-3 in non-conference games.

ESPN -- Rank: 13

Most underrated star: S John Johnson III

On a top-ranked defense that includes star defensive tackle Aaron Donald and cornerback Jalen Ramsey, Johnson doesn't garner much attention. However, as the defensive signal-caller, the fourth-year pro has been critical to the unit's success. He has played 100% of the snaps, and he has a team-high 95 tackles and seven pass breakups. "When you have those safeties that have that high football capacity and great command over everything that's going on, it's not the norm," coach Sean McVay said of Johnson's signal-calling duties. "But John Johnson is kind of an outlier in terms of his versatility as a player." -- Lindsey Thiry

NFL.com -- Rank: 10

What? How? Huh? The Rams welcomed the 0-13 Jets into their shiny new building on Sunday and somehow found a way to get beat by the worst team in football. The Rams dug themselves a double-digit hole, then watched their comeback attempt get short-circuited by miscues and penalties in the biggest upset of the NFL season. "This loss will demoralize us only as much as we allow it to," Sean McVay said after the game. "It's gonna be embarrassing, sick to your stomach about it ... But very humbling." It's a hideous setback for an inconsistent team, but there is a clear path to recovery. Beat the Seahawks and Cardinals in the final two weeks, and the Rams are NFC West champions. Bury the ball and move on.

Previous update: Los Angeles Rams Week 15 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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Indianapolis Colts Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Indianapolis Colts rank in terms of average, best and worst:

  • Average ranking: 9.4 (10th)
  • Best ranking: 7th (CBS Sports)
  • Worst ranking: 11th (USA Today)

Below you will find a Week 16 roundup for the Colts in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 10

Wish: A fun playoff run. The Colts do a lot of things at a professional, competent level, but I don't know that they do anything well enough to be considered a real contender in the AFC. And that's OK. We often get wrapped up in championship or bust that we forget a lot of fandom is just about enjoying those three hours in front of the TV every week. If the Colts can offer that for a playoff game or two, this season should be considered a success.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 7

They have come alive on offense, but the defense is having some issues. They have to be better this week against the Steelers.

USA Today -- Rank: 11

No worse Pro Bowl snub this year than exclusion of DT DeForest Buckner, who anchors one of league's best defenses.

ESPN -- Rank: 10

Most underrated star: DL Denico Autry

Justin Houston and DeForest Buckner are the rightful headliners on the Colts' defensive line. But Autry has made his impact there, too. He is tied with Houston and Buckner for the team high in sacks, with 7.5. What makes Autry's performance even more impressive is that he has recorded those sacks while missing two games because he was on the reserve/COVID-19 list. -- Mike Wells

NFL.com -- Rank: 9

For the second time in three weeks, the Colts needed a near-miracle fumble recovery in the final minute to close out the Texans. This is not the most effective way to build your case as a legit Super Bowl contender, but Indianapolis has nothing to apologize for. To quote the great, late Jim Valvano: survive and advance. The big stars on defense stepped up: Darius Leonard forced the game-deciding fumble, surging from behind to punch the ball away from Texans receiver Keke Coutee inside the 5-yard line. Then there's DeForest Buckner, the Jenga piece of this defense, who played through an ankle injury to record three sacks of Deshaun Watson. Jim Irsay should float GM Chris Ballard a hefty Christmas bonus for his brilliant Buckner trade in March.

Previous update: Indianapolis Colts Week 15 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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Pittsburgh Steelers Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Pittsburgh Steelers rank in terms of average, best and worst:

  • Average ranking: 8.0 (8th)
  • Best ranking: 6th (Multiple)
  • Worst ranking: 11th (NFL.com)

Below you will find a Week 16 roundup for the Steelers in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 8

Wish: To somehow stop the bleeding. After a third straight loss -- the most recent one on Monday night to Ryan Finley and the Bengals -- it's time to panic. The Steelers' offense has failed to score 20 points in four straight games. Against Cincinnati, it produced just two first downs and 30 yards on its first eight drives. Forget the No. 1 seed. The Steelers still need to clinch the AFC North. And they've got tough matchups against the Colts and Browns to finish out the season.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 6

Three consecutive losses has this team reeling right now. They aren't good enough on offense in any area.

USA Today -- Rank: 9

Failed to crack 20 points in four consecutive games for first time since QB Ben Roethlisberger's 2004 rookie season ... but Pittsburgh did reach AFC title game that year.

ESPN -- Rank: 6

Most underrated star: DB Cameron Sutton

The Steelers' defense has suffered an onslaught of injuries recently but has mostly upheld its high level of play, thanks to versatile replacements such as Sutton. Sutton is a do-everything defensive back, at times filling in for Steven Nelson, Joe Haden and Mike Hilton. In a season in which he has made four starts, Sutton has three forced fumbles, a fumble recovery and an interception, along with seven passes defensed. Playing in the last year of his contract, Sutton might not be in Pittsburgh much longer because he has played himself into a decent payday on the open market. -- Brooke Pryor

NFL.com -- Rank: 11

"We're not a good football group right now." Steelers coach Mike Tomlin didn't pull any punches after Monday night's ugly 27-17 loss to the Bengals, Pittsburgh's third consecutive defeat after 11 straight wins to open the season. The offense was in full meltdown mode early, finishing with more turnovers (three) than first downs (two) in a first half that ended with the Bengals holding a 17-0 lead. Ben Roethlisberger played a central role in the struggles, and after the game he was answering questions about his arm and the deep passes that wobbled through the Cincinnati night like ducks that waited too long to fly south for winter. The chance of a playoff bye is all but history. Now the Steelers need to worry about holding off the charging Ravens and Browns in the AFC North.

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Dallas Cowboys Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Dallas Cowboys rank in terms of average, best and worst:

  • Average ranking: 25.2 (26th)
  • Best ranking: 22nd (NFL.com)
  • Worst ranking: 28th (The Athletic)

Below you will find a Week 16 roundup for the Cowboys in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 28

Wish: A new defensive coordinator. It doesn't take much convincing to envision a season when Dak Prescott returns and the offense is good. But the defense is another story. Dallas ranks 26th in EPA per snap, and performances the last two weeks against Brandon Allen and Mullens shouldn't be enough to change anyone's opinion. Maybe Mike McCarthy sees something behind the scenes that restores his faith in Mike Nolan. But if that's not the case, McCarthy needs to finds a defensive coordinator who can give the Cowboys an edge next season.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 24

Don't look now, but they are still alive in the NFC East race. The offense has played so much better with Andy Dalton.

USA Today -- Rank: 26

Backup RB Tony Pollard provided nice spark (132 yards, 2 TDs) for team with still-flickering playoff aspirations.

ESPN -- Rank: 26

Most underrated star: TE Dalton Schultz

This is a difficult choice because of the Cowboys' lack of success, but Schultz has overdelivered. He entered the season with 13 receptions in his first two years, and when Blake Jarwin went down with a season-ending knee injury in Week 1, the Cowboys needed Schultz to come through. He has 53 receptions for 524 yards and four touchdowns. He has helped move the chains in an offense that has needed help. Jarwin will be the starter when he is healthy again in 2021, but Schultz has shown that he can be a solid contributor. -- Todd Archer

NFL.com -- Rank: 22

The Cowboys, almost impossibly, are not dead. A 41-33 win over the 49ers, paired with Washington's Week 15 loss to the Seahawks, keeps Dallas in contention for the NFC East title entering Week 16. Who would have guessed that after Mike McCarthy's team got its doors blown off by the Football Team on Thanksgiving? We saw a big performance from Tony Pollard against the Niners, who looked better in his starting debut than Ezekiel Elliott has all season. Would the Cowboys think about sticking with the hot hand for Sunday's must-win matchup against the Eagles? At the very least, Pollard deserves a role in the game plan if Elliott were to return from a lingering calf injury.

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Week 16 Fantasy Football TE Start'em, Sit'em

The decision on which player to start, or sit, largely comes down to the options on your roster (and/or possibly the players available on your league's waiver wire).

As an example, Robert Tonyan is listed below as a "start" for Week 16. And I'd certainly be comfortable going into Week 16 with him as my starting tight end.

Then again, Tonyan may be a "sit" for your team.

In other words, if you own both Mark Andrews and Tonyan, you should start Andrews and, in turn, bench Tonyan.

For a more direct answer on whether we would start Player X over Player Y, check our Week 16 Fantasy Football Rankings. Instead of making those direct comparisons, the goal here is to highlight players that we like, or dislike, for the week.

{Note: This will be our final Start'em, Sit'em of 2020, but we will post Week 17 rankings.]

Week 16 Fantasy Football TE Start'em

Logan Thomas, Washington Football Team (vs. CAR)

Since Week 6, Thomas has finished as a top-10 fantasy tight end in six of nine weeks. Since that point in the season, Thomas has scored the third-most fantasy points behind only Travis Kelce and Darren Waller.

Thomas has been consistent and performed well all season. In fact, Thomas is one of two tight ends (T.J. Hockenson is the other) with at least four targets in 14 games this season.

Over the past three weeks, however, Thomas has had two of his best games of the season. Last week against the Seattle Seahawks, Thomas had 13 catches for 101 yards on 15 targets, all of which were season highs. Thomas had 9/98/1 on nine targets against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the stingiest defense to opposing tight ends this season, in Week 13.

In his past three games, Thomas has averaged 9.3/80.7/0.3 on 10.3 targets per game. That compares to an average line of 3.1/29.8/0.4 on 5.5 targets per game from Weeks 1 to 12.

Robert Tonyan, Green Bay Packers (vs. TEN)

Fantasy managers would like more targets for Tonyan, but he has made the most of his targets from Aaron Rodgers. The breakout tight end has scored in five consecutive games and finished as a top-10 fantasy tight end in each of those weeks.

During that five-week span, Tonyan has yet to exceed five targets, but he has caught 22-of-23 (95.7% catch rate) targets. Tonyan is tied for the NFL lead among tight ends in touchdowns (10) with Kelce.

The Tennessee Titans have allowed the 12th-most fantasy points to opposing tight ends this season. The Titans have allowed the fourth-highest catch rate (74.4%) to opposing tight ends.

SLEEPER - Austin Hooper, Cleveland Browns (at NYJ)

Despite being a massive disappointment in 2020, there is reason for optimism with Hooper in Week 16. Last week, Hooper had five-week highs against the New York Giants in targets (six), receptions (five) and yards (41) and scored a touchdown. Despite having a target share of 10.53% (or less) in three of his four previous games, Hooper's six targets equalled a target share of 28.57%, a season high for Hooper.

There is a concern that the Browns will take the air out of the ball in what should be a blowout against the New York Jets, who got their first win of the season last week. If the Jets are able to keep this one close, it bodes well for Baker Mayfield, Hooper and the passing attack's fantasy outlook.

Even if it's not close, the Jets have been the worst team in the league at stopping opposing tight ends. The Jets are bottom three in the league in terms of Y/R (12.22) and TD% (17.65%) to the position.

Week 16 Fantasy Football TE Sit'em

Jordan Reed, San Francisco 49ers (at ARI)

George Kittle (foot) may return in Week 16. As coach Kyle Shanahan says, "[i]f he's good, I plan on him playing."

Even with Kittle out of the lineup, Reed has been a TD-or-bust or option (like many tight ends, to be fair). Since he's scored in two of his past three games, he has finished as a top-12 performer in Weeks 13 and 15.

Over his past four games, however, Reed has exceeded two catches and 18 yards only once. The Arizona Cardinals have limited opposing tight ends to the sixth-fewest fantasy points this season.

Hayden Hurst, Atlanta Falcons (at KC)

The good news is that Hurst ended a seven-game scoring drought in Week 15 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Even so, Hurst turned his four catches into only 21 yards.

From Weeks 11 to 15, here are his weekly receiving lines: 0/0 (two targets), 4/48 (eight), 1/9 (four), 1/7 (three) and 4/21/1 (five), respectively. Hurst is the TE31 over that span with a total receiving line of 10/85/1.

Drafted as a back-end TE1 before the season, he's been too unreliable to trust in Week 16.

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Seattle Seahawks Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Seattle Seahawks rank in terms of average, best and worst:

  • Average ranking: 7.6 (T-6th)
  • Best ranking: 4th (CBS Sports)
  • Worst ranking: 11th (The Athletic)

Below you will find a Week 16 roundup for the Seahawks in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 11

Wish: To rediscover their offensive efficiency. The overall season numbers are strong, and history tells us we should look at larger samples instead of shorter stretches. Having said that, something still feels a bit off with the Seahawks' offense. Since Week 9 (a seven-game stretch), the Seahawks rank 17th in EPA per play and 16th in passing. They delivered an uneven performance against Washington with Russell Wilson throwing for 121 yards and averaging 4.5 YPA. The Seahawks had zero completions of 20-plus yards, and they needed a defensive stop to secure a 20-15 victory. The Seahawks jumped the Rams for first place in the NFC West and are 10-4, but it doesn't feel like they're peaking going into the final two weeks.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 4

They now control their fate in winning the division. Two more victories and it's theirs.

USA Today -- Rank: 8

Not sure what Russ has been cooking for the last seven weeks -- 11 TD passes, 11 turnovers -- but recipe has proven playoff-worthy all the same.

ESPN -- Rank: 8

Most underrated star: LT Duane Brown

The 35-year-old Brown is having a season worthy of his fifth Pro Bowl nod. He's tied for third among tackles in ESPN's pass block win rate, at 94.0%, and has not missed a game. Brown regularly gets days off as part of a scaled-down practice regimen that seems to be working. "It's amazing," offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer said. "I would say he's the heartbeat of the offensive line. He's one of the leaders. For a guy to miss as much practice time as he does, it's amazing that you play at that level." -- Brady Henderson

NFL.com -- Rank: 7

The defense continued its rise on Sunday, shutting out the Washington Football Team for most of the first half, then coming up with three sacks on Washington's final possession of the game to ensure a 20-15 win. It's pretty amazing to look at the game flow of this one compared to the incessant shootouts that marked the first half of Seattle's season. On Sunday, Russell Wilson didn't cross 100 yards through the air until early in the fourth quarter as the Seahawks leaned on a quick-strike approach to negate Washington's pass rush. The strategy made sense, given the opponent, but it's hard not to get nostalgic thinking about the excitement of the Let Russ Cook era. Is it already over?

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Friday, December 25, 2020

Cleveland Browns Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Cleveland Browns rank in terms of average, best and worst:

  • Average ranking: 9.4 (T-10th)
  • Best ranking: 6th (NFL.com)
  • Worst ranking: 12th (The Athletic)

Below you will find a Week 16 roundup for the Browns in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 12

Wish: For Baker Mayfield to stay hot. He was on fire in the Browns' win over the Giants, completing 27 of 32 passes for 297 yards and a pair of touchdowns. It feels like the Browns' offense has found another gear in the last few weeks, and Mayfield is all the way up to fifth in QBR. The Browns will be aiming for their 11th win Sunday against the Jets and currently occupy the top wild-card spot.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 10

Kevin Stefanski has done an outstanding job turning this team around. Baker Mayfield is playing well with the running game clicking.

USA Today -- Rank: 10

You knew they haven't reached playoffs since 2002. Did you know they last hosted a postseason game in 1994, when Bill Belichick was the coach? Cleveland on verge of putting a lot of ugly history in the rear view.

ESPN -- Rank: 9

Most underrated star: LG Joel Bitonio

The Browns boast one of the best offensive lines in the NFL. The anchor of that unit remains the ever-reliable Bitonio, who is on his way to a third consecutive Pro Bowl. Bitonio leads the NFL in pass block win rate among offensive guards and is in the top 10 for run block win rate as well. Unlike in recent seasons, he has more help up front, thanks to the offseason arrivals of tackles Jedrick Wills Jr. and Jack Conklin. As a result, Bitonio is proving that he can be the driving piece spearheading a dominant line. -- Jake Trotter

NFL.com -- Rank: 6

You have to give the Browns credit: When a winnable game has presented itself on their schedule this season, they take care of business. It happened again on Sunday night in a smooth 20-6 victory over an undermanned Giants team that moved the Browns one step closer to their first playoff appearance since 2002. Baker Mayfield continued a recent run of strong play with another efficient performance, throwing for nearly 300 yards with two touchdown passes and zero turnovers. Mayfield's rise has lifted the ceiling of this Browns team. They're no longer winning games with their QB along for the ride -- he's become the leader of the offense. This locked-in version of Mayfield, paired with a killer running game, makes Cleveland truly, well, dangerous.

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