NFL Power Rankings: Week 7 Grades and Analysis

Wow, what a tremendous Week 7 in the NFL.

Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers totally smacked the then-undefeated Houston Texans on Sunday night.

Include Peyton Manning's miraculous second-half comeback win on the road against the San Diego Chargers, and the Denver Broncos are back to .500. Other games that wowed came from the Seattle Seahawks shocking Tom Brady and the New England Patriots, as well as the Atlanta Falcons remaining perfect, among others.

Simply put: Each week of the 2012 season simply continues to get more intense than the last. And with that, here are complete grades as we prepare for Week 7.

32. Kansas City Chiefs (1-5)

The Kansas City Chiefs lost a third consecutive game and have managed just 16 points the past two weeks.

In addition, K.C. has given up an average of 30.5 points per game and four times the Chiefs have allowed above that number.

Lacking any sort of passing attack, Jamaal Charles remains the offense's only chance to move the ball. Flip to Romeo Crennel's defense and Kansas City continues to disappoint.

After all, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers racked up 463 total yards and they aren't exactly the most explosive of offenses. We can only imagine what the second half of the season is going to be like.

Grade: F

31. Jacksonville Jaguars (1-4)

Had it not been for an 80-yard catch and run for a touchdown against the Colts, the Jacksonville Jaguars would be winless.

Blaine Gabbert's development appeared to have improved early in the season, however, that has since remained stagnant.

Jacksonville entered its bye on a two-game losing streak and a lot must get fixed.

For one, the offense has scored a total of 20 combined points between all three home games. So unless Gabbert displays improvement against the Raiders this week, it wouldn't be surprising if Chad Henne was given an opportunity thereafter.

Defensively, Jacksonville is straight up underachieving. After fielding a Top 10 defense against the run and pass in 2011, the Jaguars lack of a pass rush and run defense is killing their odds of winning. Since the offense lacks explosion, Jacksonville's defense must win the battle at the line of scrimmage.

Not doing so is keeping Maurice Jones-Drew off the field and giving the opponent a significant edge regarding time of possession.

Grade: F

30. Cleveland Browns (1-5)

Big first win of the 2012 season for the Cleveland Browns.

Yes, Cleveland is still 1-5 and there's literally no chance at the postseason.

That said, the Browns finally appear to have some offensive balance that is improving through each week. The receivers are becoming a bit more consistently reliable and Brandon Weeden has developed fairly quickly.

After all, the 29-year-old rookie ranks No. 10 with 1,519 passing yards through six weeks of play.

Dick Jauron's defense continues to play emphatically well also.

The Browns are consistently forcing turnovers, so it's no surprise they've been in multiple close games. We know Josh Cribbs will remain solid as a return specialist, therefore, if the offense limits turnovers and accumulates more first downs, Cleveland can build some nice momentum for 2013.

Grade: C-

29. Carolina Panthers (1-4)

The bye came right on cue for the Carolina Panthers.

Riding a three-game losing streak after a key win over the New Orleans Saints in Week 2, Carolina was slammed by the Giants in Week 3.

On the bright side, the Panthers nearly upset the Falcons in Atlanta but were upended by Seattle at home. Cam Newton has yet to get out of his sophomore funk, because he's thrown only four touchdowns to five picks.

Then again, Ron Rivera's defense isn't helping either.

The Cats allow 377 total yards per game and gave up 82 points during the losing streak. Individually on both sides of the line Carolina possesses impressive talent. Newton's receiving corps are reliable and Jon Beason is surrounded with much potential on defense.

Still, the Panthers have to actually stop opponents and limit turnovers offensively. Otherwise 2012 will finish in disappointing fashion.

Grade: D+

28. Oakland Raiders (1-4)

Coming off the bye the Oakland Raiders put on a valiant effort in Week 6.

On the road against the Atlanta Falcons is no easy task and Oakland displayed its potential.

The question, however: Can the Raiders play this consistently for the remainder of 2012?

If so, the Silver and Black will surely be in the AFC playoff mix in December. With only two teams in the entire conference sporting a winning record right now, a team like Oakland can't be ruled out.

Darren McFadden remains a sound threat on the ground and the fast receivers allow Carson Palmer to just toss one up and let them go get it. On the defense Oakland has certainly improved.

The Raiders are more aware against the pass, but one concern are only having four sacks to this point. Provided Oakland applies more quarterback pressure, this defense will really lockdown.

Grade: C-

27. New Orleans Saints (1-4)

Don't look know but the New Orleans Saints aren't out of anything yet.

Drew Brees and the offense can score against any defense and that's why NOLA has not been blown out in 2012.

Sure the Saints are 1-4, though the upside for Steve Spagnuolo's defense is that it can only improve. Heading into Week 7, New Orleans allows an average of 456 total yards per game.

Also, not only are the Saints horrendous on defense but the team has given up nearly 31 points per game. Against the Chargers we saw the pass rush and turnover potential, so promise does reside in the Big Easy.

The offense will move the rock and score: that's a given. Provided the defense can minimize the damage to below 400 total yards and 28 points per game, New Orleans will be a tough outing down the stretch.

Grade: C-

26. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-3)

The good thing about the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is they haven't lost a game to an inferior opponent in 2012.

Although both wins are over Carolina and Kansas City, playing tough against the Giants, Cowboys and Redskins shows the Bucs can play with solid teams.

Considering how weak the NFC South is outside of Atlanta, Tampa Bay can certainly finish 5-1 or 4-2 in the division. With a suffocating defense against the run, the Bucs punch well on the ground with rookie running back Doug Martin.

Josh Freeman's impact has taken flight courtesy of a true No. 1 receiver in Vincent Jackson, and Greg Schiano presents a balanced attack. Now include how young Tampa is on defense, aside from Ronde Barber, and the somewhat favorable schedule pans out well in November and December.

Grade: C

25. Tennessee Titans (2-4)

Chris Johnson and the Tennessee Titans are an interesting bunch.

The four losses have come courtesy of no team with a losing record and two nail-biting wins at home prove this is a fighting team.

If we learned anything from the Thursday game versus Pittsburgh, it's that Matt Hasselbeck must remain under center. The savvy veteran possesses an immense amount of leadership and his presence instills much confidence for the passing game.

In turn, that helps Johnson see fewer defenders up front and takes pressure off the vulnerable defense. Tennessee still allows an average of 421.8 total yards per game, so the offense has to control the ball throughout.

With two winnable games coming up before the Bears in Week 9, don't count the Titans out just yet.

Grade: C

24. Indianapolis Colts (2-3)

The Indianapolis Colts just got pummeled on Sunday.

Losing, 35-9, to the Jets in New York, Indianapolis couldn't do anything offensively and it was exposed defensively.

It was a game that brought out the rookie in Andrew Luck while also displaying how vulnerable the Colts are up front. Whether it's offense or defense, Indy has been inconsistent at running and stopping the run.

Gang Green punished between the tackles and simply wore the Colts down, which ultimately kept Luck off the field and limited his opportunities. This is the formula to defeat Indianapolis.

For as impressive as the Colts are at throwing and defending the pass, winning is done in the trenches. Hosting the Browns in Week 7 we'll learn a lot about the Colts there, because Indy goes on the road three times between Weeks 8 and 11.

Grade: C

23. Buffalo Bills (3-3)

Courtesy of Jay Feely's doink on the game-winning 38-yard field goal attempt, the Buffalo Bills got a key overtime win thereafter against Arizona.

And with the other two wins coming against the Chiefs and Browns, Buffalo still has a lot more proving to do in 2012.

Fortunately, everyone in the AFC East is 3-3 and Buffalo has four division games remaining. Unfortunately, the Bills have scored just 50 points the past three games. Even with one of the NFL's best backfield tandems in Fred Jackson and C.J. Spiller, the passing game has not quite complemented.

There is gradual increase on the defensive side. Mario Williams enjoyed his best game last week and expect the rest of the defense to follow suit. Not to mention that is imperative, because after the Week 8 bye, Buffalo faces Houston and New England in consecutive road challenges.

Grade: C-

22. New York Jets (3-3)

There is no fancy way for the New York Jets to win.

Run the football and set up Mark Sanchez for play-action on offense. Defensively, stay aggressive with the blitz and get physical in coverage.

This, however, has not been consistent for Gang Green in 2012. Nonetheless, the home win against the Colts provides much needed confidence as Rex Ryan and Co. play at New England in Week 7.

That game will tell us if the Jets are about to take the next step. The Pats are extremely weak against the pass and Sanchez must have an effective game. New York has also been dominated by superior teams up front such as the Texans and 49ers, so building consistency off the Week 6 win is vital.

Right now the win over Miami in Week 3 appears as Gang Green's most impressive performance, because it was on the road against a divisional opponent.

Grade: C

21. San Diego Chargers (3-3)

What happened to the San Diego Chargers on Monday night sums them up in a nutshell.

Much like the first half of a season can be quite different from the second half, Week 6 at home against Denver was just that.

After leading, 24-0, through one half the Bolts quickly crumbled and the Broncos were up before we knew it. Turnovers are the most concerning at the moment, because Ryan Mathews and the ground game are proving to be the most reliable.

San Diego's defense also needs to step up in terms of the pass rush. With only 10 sacks through six games, zero of Peyton Manning, the Chargers can't solely rely on forcing turnovers. And despite the bye week coming at a convenient time, the schedule ahead is tougher than given credit.

Grade: D

20. Detroit Lions (2-3)

Flipping the fourth quarter switch paid off for the Detroit Lions.

Down 10 points with less than four minutes to play, the Lions made one striking comeback to defeat the Eagles in overtime.

Riding a three-game losing streak entering Week 6 and coming off a bye, Detroit looked as if its season was over. Then Michael Vick continued to happen and the Lions recorded two interceptions. Even more impressive was Detroit's front seven.

Ndamukong Suh and Co. held LeSean McCoy to 22 yards on 14 carries and that proved to be the ultimate decider. Detroit recorded more sacks and nearly doubled Philadelphia's rushing total. By comparison to their first four games, Week 6 was a different Lions team.

Week 7 in Chicago on Monday night will, however, be more telling.

Grade: C-

19. Pittsburgh Steelers (2-3)

It seems like everyone year the Pittsburgh Steelers are far too banged up to compete.

One difference this season, though, is the defense's age and the offensive line's overall durability.

Ben Roethlisberger has been sacked only 10 times and he's thrown just two picks. But he's also under much duress throughout the course of a game and it's affecting Pittsburgh's offensive balance.

Big Ben remains one of the NFL's best quarterbacks, although wins can't happen without a reliable line. The Steelers can't develop any potential big plays, because of the consistent pressure which also minimizes the ground game.

Pittsburgh is averaging less than 75 rushing yards per game right now, while the defense gives up 95 on the ground. This is not typical of the Steelers along the line of scrimmage and the next three games (at Bengals, Redskins, at Giants) will continue to expose that uncharacteristic weakness.

Grade: C-

18. Cincinnati Bengals (3-3)

Upon winning three straight games the Cincinnati Bengals have lost two in a row.

Sitting at 3-3, the Bengals have three consecutive home games with a bye sandwiched between.

And even though that appears favorable, Cincy hosts Pittsburgh, Denver and the New York Giants during that span. So the games are by no means a cakewalk.

What we learned against Cleveland is that Andy Dalton can be interception-prone. With already nine picks on the year, Dalton has been sacked 17 times and the Bengals offensive line also fails to create consistent running lanes.

A little surprising, though, is Marvin Lewis' defense. Last season the Bengals field a Top 10 defense against the run and pass. Now, Cincy lacks against the run and is not as well-versed against the pass.

The pass rush remains elite, but a defense needs more than just quarterback pressure to slow teams down: Especially when the secondary can't force turnovers from the pass rush.

Grade: C-

17. Miami Dolphins (3-3)

The Miami Dolphins have been one sneaky team through six weeks.

After starting 1-3 and the lone victory coming over Oakland, Miami has ran off two straight and enters its bye week at .500.

Plus, two of the Dolphins' losses came in overtime against the Jets and Cardinals. So this young team could just as well be 5-1 right now. Ryan Tannehill has lived up to the hype thus far, because when he's in a rhythm it's hard for opponents to get him flustered.

The flip side of that coin is when Tannehill gets pressured. That was most notably revealed against the Texans and Cardinals, so provided the offensive line creates a stronger pocket this offense will become more consistently explosive.

Reggie Bush has continued his surge as an every down back and the defense is impressive against the run. Having allowed just 40 total points between the three wins, Miami's defense possess elite potential if the coverage continues to gradually improve.

Grade: B-

16. Washington Redskins (3-3)

Mike Shanahan and the Washington Redskins are being carried by Robert Griffin III.

If it were not for his dual-threat ability the Redskins are not .500 through six games. Washington may be opportunistic defensively, but it ranks dead last against the pass and the pass rush hasn't been too reliable.

Then again, that's also in large part due to Brian Orakpo and Adam Carriker being gone for the year, per Marc Sessler of NFL.com. The question is whether opponents will catch up to RG3, because despite the Redskins ranking No. 20 in passing offense he leads pro football with a 70.2 completion percentage.

Count Washington having allowed nearly 29 points per game and at some point opposing offenses are going to keep Griffin off the field. Interestingly enough, the Redskins' three losses were all within one score.

And RG3's dominance of the Vikings on Sunday only validated his impact regardless of an opponent's game plan. Facing the Giants in New York this week, that game will be the deal-breaker of Washington in 2012.

Grade: B

15. Dallas Cowboys (2-3)

One thing of note about the Dallas Cowboys' schedule thus far: it's been quite rugged.

The Giants are looking like an elite team once again, Seattle presents arguably the NFL's top defense, Tampa Bay is better than advertised, Chicago is also among the elite and Baltimore remains an AFC title contender.

So before we get all concerned about Big D sitting at 2-3, there are winnable games left to get in the NFC playoff picture down the stretch. Plus, Tony Romo can still throw the ball quite effectively when his receivers are reliable.

This only takes pressure off the ground game, which does need to find some weekly consistency in 2012. DeMarcus Ware and the defense can take over games, but suffocating better against the run only helps opponents become one-dimensional. And that secondary has extreme turnover potential behind the pass rush.

Now it's simply a matter of actually getting into the win column.

Grade: C

14. St. Louis Rams (3-3)

The St. Louis Rams lost a tough game at Miami, that's it.

Still sitting at .500, the Rams have already surpassed their 2011 win total and much is attributed to Jeff Fisher's defense.

For one, St. Louis allows and average of just 311.5 total yards per game and the sack-mastering of Chris Long and Co. remains present. Add in a secondary led by Cortland Finnegan and St. Louie is set at shutting teams down.

What needs to improve is the offense, period. Sam Bradford has been sacked 18 times and that pressure has seeped into the passing game's potential. Fortunately, Bradford has limited turnovers and the Rams refuse to abandon the run.

Compared to "The Greatest Show on Turf", St. Louis' identity has pulled a 180-degree turn toward old-school smash mouth football. Lining up at against Green Bay, New England and San Francisco for their next three contests, the Rams have an opportunity to really make some noise before December.

Grade: B-

13. Philadelphia Eagles (3-3)

Turnovers, specifically those committed by Michael Vick, have been demoralizing to the Philadelphia Eagles.

And no matter how much talent one defense may possess, at some point bending turns into breaking because of the turnovers.

This is what happened against the Lions, because although Vick's second pick didn't lead to any points, it gave Detroit confidence. Another area where Philadelphia failed was at feeding LeSean McCoy. He only totaled 22 rushing yards in Week 6.

However, McCoy was only given 14 carries which led to Vick attempting 46 passes and nine rushes.

When a quarterback like him is so turnover-prone, McCoy not getting the attempts will cost an offense. Therefore, it's no surprise the Eagles have lost two straight and refusing to rely on the running game is going to ultimately cost Philly a postseason berth.

Grade: C+

12. Arizona Cardinals (4-2)

Pass protection and quarterback play continue to hurt the Arizona Cardinals.

Heading into Week 7 Cardinals' quarterbacks have been sacked 28 times and John Skelton's overtime interception is only a byproduct of not trusting the protection.

Obviously Jay Feely's choking kick of a measly 38 yards hurts as well. Mainly because everyone expects that kick to be automatic after nailing a 61-yarder to tie the game. Arizona is, however, still solid defensively.

Only one time this season has an opponent scored over 20 points on the Cardinals (Miami) and the remaining schedule doesn't present explosive offenses outside of Green Bay, Atlanta and Detroit. With four divisional games remaining, Arizona is still legitimately alive to potentially make the playoffs.

Most definitely does the pass protection need to improve, so it'll be interesting to see the Card's against San Francisco, Seattle, Minnesota (this week) and Chicago.

Grade: B-

11. Minnesota Vikings (4-2)

It's been a rather odd season thus far for the Minnesota Vikings.

Getting wins over San Francisco and Detroit were clutch, but losing to Indianapolis and Washington raises some concern.

The defense was dominant through the first five weeks by giving up only 79 total points. Allowing 38 to the Redskins on Sunday, those account for 32.4 percent of Minnesota's total points against this year.

Offensively, Adrian Peterson and Co. need to improve when near/inside the red zone. Three times against Washington kicker Blair Walsh attempted field goals of under 30 yards and a fourth from 37 yards.

For as explosive as Minnesota can be on special teams and suffocating defensively, the offense can't settle for three points. Exchange those those field goals for touchdowns in Washington and the Vikings win a fifth game.

Luckily, three of the next four are at home along with the bye week before a rough stretch to close out the season.

Grade: B

10. Denver Broncos (3-3)

Sitting 3-3 after a tough schedule is just fine for the Denver Broncos.

With the bye week coming at a perfect time, Denver has no choice but to fix the hot-potato turnover issue.

Fumbles and interceptions galore have plagued Denver in each of its three losses, and it did cost the Broncos during the first half on Monday. And had the defense not created some to counter-balance San Diego, Denver could very well be 2-4 right now.

Nevertheless, the Broncos play near flawless football in the fourth quarter and it's paid fortunate dividends. Provided the defense keeps getting quarterback pressure and faring well in coverage, the Broncos will stuff better against the run.

Limiting turnovers altogether can really propel this team into elite status, but that actually must occur first. Optimistically, the schedule does ease up by comparison to the first six games after the bye.

Grade: B

9. New England Patriots (3-3)

The weakest link of the New England Patriots is pass defense.

Tom Brady and the offense are well-balanced and have been putting up points consistently as usual.

But when a rookie quarterback like Russell Wilson of Seattle torches Bill Belichick for 293 passing yards, three touchdowns and only 11 incomplete passes to zero picks, therein lies the problem. New England is allowing 288.8 pass yards per game right now and the defense hasn't recorded an interception since Buffalo.

Include the schedule not appearing as easy as expected and the Patriots are in some trouble. Five divisional games remain, including both against Miami, and then the Texans, 49ers and Rams all of which are not guaranteed victories.

And if defending the pass fails to lock down better, New England will find itself fighting for the AFC East title in 2012. 

Grade: C+

8. Seattle Seahawks (4-2)

Even if we flip-flop the controversial Monday night game against Green Bay to a loss, the Seattle Seahawks are still a strong team.

Winning on the road in Carolina and at home versus New England was no joke. Plus, holding the Packers to a mere 12 points and getting eight sacks of Aaron Rodgers warrants applause for the defense.

Through each week Russell Wilson is proving why he earned the starting role. And the comeback win over the Pats is a prime example. He's also backed by a sound running game and reliable receiving targets to spread the field.

If there are any concerns with Seattle, it's divisional play. The Seahawks are 0-2 in the NFC West and travel to San Francisco on a short week. Winning in the division is good, however, winning on the road within the division is great.

Seattle is undoubtedly a good team right now and fields an elite defense. However, this short-week performance on Thursday against San Francisco will act as the lens of truth.

Grade: B+

7. Green Bay Packers (3-3)

The Green Bay Packers certainly got a convincing win over the Texans in Houston on Sunday night.

For as dominant as that performance was, though, we still have to remember the Packers barely ousted the Saints at home and lost to the Colts in Indianapolis. The Week 2 victory of Chicago at home was quite impressive, although the Bears have much improved since then as well.

Not to mention the Packers must still travel to the Windy City.

It's certainly reasonable to expect Green Bay to roll off a few wins, however. Week 6's performance was an all-encompassed slamming and the next three games are winnable. Clay Matthews and the defense finally stuffed the run and the knack for causing turnovers still exists.

As long as the pass rush continues to bring the pain, Aaron Rodgers and the offense will rack up impressive yards and points en route to hitting a winning streak.

Grade: B

6. Baltimore Ravens (5-1)

Prior to Week 6 the Baltimore Ravens were struggling defensively. Still, wins were accumulating and there was emphatic proof that Baltimore remained an AFC contender.

Now, not nearly as much.

According to ESPN.com:

"

Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis will miss the remainder of the season with an arm injury, an enormous blow to an already depleted defense that has uncharacteristically struggled this year.

Baltimore also lost cornerback Lardarius Webbfor the season after he tore the ACL in his left knee Sunday.

"

So, the home victory over Dallas came at a premium cost. With four divisional games, Houston, Denver, Washington and the New York Giants left as notable opponents the Ravens face a steeper climb. Now, more pressure is simply put on Joe Flacco and the offense to control the game tempo and score at will.

Thus far, Baltimore's offense has been reliable. But the second half of 2012 will tell a new story.

Grade: A-

5. San Francisco 49ers (4-2)

The Giants have the San Francisco 49ers' number, period.

By no means was the 'Niners' Week 6 performance a display of any Super Bowl caliber team. Still, it's important to note that that is only one game.

And one game does not define a season. Certainly turning points occur from such, but San Francisco possesses too much talent to not get back on track. Lest we forget this is the same team who went into Green Bay and beat the Packers.

After destroying two inferior opponents in the Jets and Bills, the 49ers simply won big when expected. The loss to Minnesota was tough, although the Vikings remain a surprise at 4-2. San Francisco has nothing to worry about because the offense is balanced and the defense is still among the best.

Alex Smith is not a turnover-prone quarterback, so anticipate him responding well. Obviously the short week divisional game is now the pivotal check point of 2012. The Giants came in and dominated, but an opportunity to quickly respond will reveal the true 49ers of this fall.

Grade: B+

4. Houston Texans (5-1)

The Houston Texans just got a taste of what primetime pressure feels like.

That experience is now gained and with the loss, Houston can revert back to the drawing board.

It was an ugly showing at home versus Green Bay, although the Packers were on a mission and being 5-0 entering that contest only added to Houston's pressure. On some level, the Texans are similar to being the AFC's version of San Francisco.

They have a stellar defense, proven ground game that unexpectedly utilizes a run-oriented attack and reliable quarterback capable of making plays. As previously mentioned, it's only one game and Houston has a great opportunity against Baltimore this week.

Thereafter is a bye week and Chicago is arguably the standout opponent during the season's second half. Houston still presents a great pass rush and coverage players defensively, and the offense won't remain derailed.

If anything, the Texans continuing to fall would be surprising: Especially in a weak division and the AFC featuring 14 teams with non-winning records.

Grade: A-

3. Chicago Bears (4-1)

Aside from an abysmal offensive line performance versus the Packers in Week 2, the Chicago Bears have really impressed across the spectrum in 2012.

When provided time to survey a defense, Jay Cutler is capable of making every NFL throw and spreading the field consistently. Matt Forte and Michael Bush are arguably the league's best two-back tandem and Brandon Marshall is still a stout No. 1 receiver.

In short, this is the most talent Cutler has ever had around him. Now incorporate Lovie Smith's defense and Chicago isn't going away any time soon. With the ability to get quarterback pressure without constantly blitzing, it's not surprising to see Chicago force turnovers.

Add in the defense scoring, or at least changing the field position, and the Bears leap to Super Bowl potential. Having allowed only 27 points between the previous three games, Chicago can stop any explosive offense.

And at some point this season we have to expect Devin Hester breaking a few big returns.

Grade: A

2. New York Giants (4-2)

The New York Giants were the definition of championship caliber in Week 6.

There's no other way to describe their punishing Week 6 performance of the 49ers in San Francisco.

Losing Week 1 at home to Dallas is proving to be a fluke loss, because the Cowboys haven't lived up to the increased expectations since and New York has responded well. Eli Manning possesses pinpoint marksmanship and Ahmad Bradshaw steamrolling on the ground give Big Blue's offense more balance.

Despite the defense's woes early in the season, namely Tampa Bay and Cleveland, Justin Tuck and Co. show up big time when called upon. If there's any team that consistently gets the job done, albeit sometimes ugly, in pressure situations it's the Giants.

Playing host to the Redskins in Week 7, Washington swept New York with Rex Grossman last season. Well, with a better signal-caller in RG3 this year Big Blue has its hands full. Considering that the Giants are 0-2 in the NFC East, winning against Washington is imperative.

Grade: A

1. Atlanta Falcons (6-0)

The last perfect team standing, the Atlanta Falcons.

No matter how a team performs from week-to-week and no matter the opponent, winning is the business in pro football.

Atlanta has one of the best passing attacks with Matt Ryan and his array of dependable targets, and the defense presents playmakers at every level. Also, the longer a team remains perfect the tougher preparation comes.

Because that gives each opponent extra incentive to win, for the Falcons to keep winning despite an unreliable ground game and rush defense is impressive. Fortunately, the Dirty Birds are on a bye this week so buffing out the rough spots before Philadelphia will happen.

The schedule does get rather difficult, though, because after Philly are five divisional games, Arizona and the New York Giants.

Grade: A+

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