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NFL Power Rankings 2012: Sleeper Teams That Will Surprise This Season

Tim KeeneyAug 20, 2012

Things change in the NFL.

If, at the end of the 2012 season, the NFL standings looked similar to what they looked like in 2011, that would be more surprising than the Indianapolis Colts winning 12 games.

Sorry, Colts fans. Cheap shot.

That makes sleepers a popular preseason topic, so let's take a look at mine. 

Note: A full look at my power rankings can be found at the bottom of the page. 

There are still plenty of question marks surrounding the passing game, but when you have a top-10 defense, an improving offensive line and a running back you can lean on, you are going to find a way to win games.

This Seattle defense is easily my favorite in the NFL. The secondary is huge, everyone flies to ball like, um, a hawk and, as it's showing this preseason, it is going to create a lot of turnovers. 

Should the 'Hawks also get some consistency from Matt Flynn (or Russell Wilson) and the offense, watch out. This could be the 2012 version of the 49ers. 

I've got two words for you: Cam Newton.

Alright, I'm going to need more words. 

With the influx of exciting rookie quarterbacks, the transition of Peyton Manning and of course, Tim Tebow, Tim Tebow and Tim Tebow, Newton is going relatively under the radar for someone who had such a record-breaking season as a rookie.

Considering how ridiculously talented Newton is and how many weapons he has in that offense, going under the radar is a little scary. 

Any step forward for the Panthers would be a huge one. They went 6-10 last year, but that included a lot of close losses and a 4-2 record in their last six. Even without a huge overhaul on defense, this is a sneaky playoff team. 

Buffalo Bills (No. 22)

People forget the Bills started off 5-2 last season with a win over the mighty New England Patriots. People forget Ryan Fitzpatrick and Fred Jackson were absolutely tearing up the league.

Don't worry, though, because they'll remember once Buffalo starts the season in a similar fashion. 

With a healthy offense and a defense that has added Mario Williams and Stephen Gilmore, the Bills won't be outside the top 15 for long. 

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