NFL Power Rankings: Identifying the League's Quietest Contenders

Chris TrapassoDec 28, 2011

Don't count out the wild-card teams; they'll certainly capable of doing damage in the NFL playoffs.

Remember, the Green Bay Packers snuck into the postseason last year, were starting to get hot and rode momentum to a Super Bowl title.

Let's look at the quietest contenders as we enter the final week of the 2011 regular season.

Detroit Lions

1 of 4

The Lions are an extremely streaky team, and now, they're winners of three straight.

They've scored over 30 points over that span.

While Aaron Rodgers and Drew Brees are grabbing the headlines, Matthew Stafford has slipped into the shadows, but is having a prolific season of his own.

He's got the luxury of throwing to Calvin Johnson, the league's most difficult matchup, and has a decent defensive with premier pass-rushing ability.

Watch out for the men from the Motor City.

New York Giants

2 of 4

The NFC East title comes down to this Sunday as the Giants host the Cowboys in Met Life Stadium.

While they've been rather inconsistent during the 2011 campaign, they've got the talent on offense, the incredible pass rush and a Super Bowl-winning quarterback under center.

Plus, there is a ton of playoff experience on the roster, and remember, when New York won the Super Bowl, they did so from a wild-card spot.

With Ahmad Bradshaw back, the Giants are more balanced offensively and could make a deep run in January.

Cincinnati Bengals

3 of 4

With Tom Brady leading a streaking Patriots team, the Steelers and Ravens vying for the AFC North title and Tim Tebow, it's easy to overlook the Cincinnati Bengals.

I wouldn't.

Although they've missed cornerback Leon Hall, their defense is still extremely underrated with a great defensive line anchored by Geno Atkins and Domato Peko.

Don't forget about athletic freak Michael Johnson or Jonathan Fanene, either.

They're unheralded pass rushers.

The offense is moderately consistent, with Andy Dalton calling the shots and A.J. Green hauling nearly every deep ball.

Cedric Benson is the ideal, big playoff back that can keep defenses honest.