NFL Power Rankings: 3 Teams Guaranteed for Surprising Rise in Rankings

The NFL adds parity to the growing list of great things to love about the league. Every single year, another group of teams takes a step forward as playoff contenders.

These are the 2011 NFL teams that will surprise you with top-shelf play this season.

There are no more games left to meander in the dregs of the league for these clubs. Every week, we will opine how great these three teams look and how surprising it all is.

There is, of course, the cream of the crop. The Eagles, Patriots and Packers will have my attention when they play. But I have always been a sucker for a success story.

I love to see a team or player "get it." That "aha"  moment will be in full force for 16 games with this group, and here are your surprises.

1. St. Louis Rams

The Rams have set out to combine a wild and versatile defense with a down-the-field approach on offense.

Even if this team blew all 16 games this year, they would be a fascinating watch. It is a good thing that key acquisitions on defense in Robert Quinn and Quintin Mikell will force the Rams to rise.

We can't forget Sam Bradford and his new toys on offense. 

2. Detroit Lions

The Lions have a fantastic young core of players. With Matt Stafford finally healthy, the Lions will be the biggest surprise of the season.

The only way this team fails to impress is another concussion-riddled season for the promising young Stafford.   

3. Dallas Cowboys

I am convinced that the biggest issues facing the Dallas Cowboys have been between the ears.

The new regime now has a full half season under its belt, and Rob Ryan's defensive maneuvers will serve to have the Cowboys on top once again.

2011 NFL Power Rankings
1.Green Bay Packers
2.New England Patriots
3.Philadelphia Eagles
4.New York Jets
5.Pittsburgh Steelers
6.Atlanta Falcons
7.New Orleans Saints
8.Indianapolis Colts
9.San Diego Chargers
10.Baltimore Ravens
11.Tampa Bay Buccaneers
12.Arizona Cardinals
13.Houston Texans
14.Kansas City Chiefs
15.St. Louis Rams
16.Dallas Cowboys
17.New York Giants
18.Chicago Bears
19.Seattle Seahawks
20.Detroit Lions
21.Denver Broncos
22.Oakland Raiders
23.Minnesota Vikings
24.Jacksonville Jaguars
25.Cleveland Browns
26.San Francisco 49ers
27.Tennessee Titans
28.Cincinnati Bengals
29.Carolina Panthers
30.Buffalo Bills
31.Miami Dolphins
32.Washington Redskins