NFL Power Rankings Week 17: Examining Where ESPN Got It Wrong or Right

ESPN released their Week 17 NFL Power Rankings on Tuesday, so let's break down where they got it wrong or right. 

Top 10

1. Packers (14-1)

2. Saints (12-3)

3. 49ers (12-3)

4. Patriots (12-3)

5. Ravens (11-4)

6. Steelers (11-4)

7. Lions (10-5)

8. Falcons (9-6)

9. Texans (10-5)

10. Bengals (9-6)

Comments

The ESPN voters were particularly harsh on the Houston Texans, who are in the midst of a troubling late-season slide. The Texans need to rebound before they host a playoff game for the first time in franchise history.

The Bengals have won their way back into the top 10, but they need a win in their final game (against the Ravens) to clinch a playoff spot.

Can the Falcons get back on their feet after getting drubbed in New Orleans?

Rankings 11-20

11. Cowboys (8-7)

12. Giants (8-7)

13. Broncos (8-7)

14. Raiders (8-7)

15. Titans (8-7)

16. Jets (8-7)

17. Eagles (7-8)

18. Seahawks (7-8)

19. Chargers (7-8)

20. Cardinals (7-8)

Comments

I guess the ESPN voters have cast their vote on who they think wins the two remaining divisions. The Cowboys sit one spot above the Giants, and the Broncos and Raiders are right behind them. I think both the Giants and Raiders win their respective divisions this weekend.

The Seahawks should be ahead of the Eagles, a team to which ESPN has over-reacted all season.

Rankings 21-32

21. Panthers (6-9)

22. Bears (7-8)

23. Chiefs (6-9)

24. Dolphins (5-10)

25. Bills (6-9)

26. Redskins (5-10)

27. Jaguars (4-11)

28. Browns (4-11)

29. Buccaneers (4-11)

30. Vikings (3-12)

31. Colts (2-13)

32. Rams (2-13)

Comments

The Colts absolutely deserved to crawl out of the cellar after two wins in five days. Kudos to them for continuing to play.

The Bears have tumbled from the top 10 after 11 weeks to the bottom third. A five-game losing streak will do that to you.