NFL Power Rankings: Super Bowl Favorites Heading into the Summer

Sorry, Peyton Manning, but the Denver Broncos aren't among the top Super Bowl favorites heading into the summer months and my apologies, Michael Vick because the Philadelphia Eagles aren't either. 

NFL Power Rankings have little to do with expectations and everything to do with accomplishments. 

These five teams have proved their strength.

Check it out. 

5. San Francisco 49ers

The NFL's top-ranked rushing defense in 2011 should once again wreak havoc on opposing offenses this coming season as Jim Harbaugh leads the Niners into the second season of their rebirth. The question remains, though: How far can quarterback Alex Smith and the offense take San Francisco come playoff time?

4. Baltimore Ravens

The Baltimore Ravens have made the postseason ever year since John Harbaugh took over as head coach in 2008 and will certainly be the favorite to win the AFC North again in 2012 after finding a steal in the second round of April's draft in linebacker Courtney Upshaw. With the maturation of Joe Flacco, the Ravens have their man under center. Now, all he has to do is have his receivers catch the ball.

3. New York Giants

The defending Super Bowl champion's toughest challenge in 2012 will be mustering the motivation to repeat as the NFL's best. After the Giants Super Bowl win in 2007, New York made it back to the postseason in 2008 only to be bounced in its first playoff game. During the Eli Manning era, the Giants have been unpredictable following success, and that's why they start at No. 3 in 2012. 

2. Green Bay Packers

The Super Bowl champions one season removed desperately needed to bolster their defense this offseason and did just that through the draft, using six of their picks on D. Aaron Rodgers and Green Bay boast 2011's third-best passing attack by yardage and only lost one game in the entire 2011 calendar year (vs. Kansas City Chiefs). 

1. New England Patriots

Tom Brady and the New England Patriots have all the motivation a team could need after coming up inches short in Super Bowl XLVI last February. On top of inspiration, the Patriots have the advantage of presenting one of the league's most nightmarish offenses and now, a fearsome, young defense. In addition to all of the offseason additions on the defensive side, the AFC features far less championship-caliber squads than the NFC. 

Follow Patrick Clarke on Twitter for more NFL Power Rankings.