NFL Power Rankings: Philadelphia Eagles and 3 Disappointing Teams That Must Win

Eric BowmanOct 13, 2011

Every year, teams enter the regular season with hopes and aspirations of a great season. However, those teams can often come crashing down after just a few weeks.

Such is the case with a number of teams this year.

While fans may be shouting, "blame the lockout," it doesn't change the fact that some teams have failed to live up to the hype.

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Here are three disappointing teams in need of a Week 6 victory to rise up the power rankings.

Philadelphia Eagles

They made a ton of offseason moves and were labeled the "dream team." However, the Eagles are 1-4, and they'll try to avoid their fifth straight loss on Sunday against their division rival in the Washington Redskins.

The Eagles have been the biggest disappointment in the NFL this season. Even so, a win on Sunday will put them back on track.

Their confidence is slowly deteriorating. What's more, with the Redskins playing at home and fresh off a bye, it's not going to be an easy victory.

Last time the Eagles came into town, the Redskins were embarrassed. If it happens again, expect it to be the start of a big roll for Philadelphia.

However, should the Eagles lose on Sunday, expect some changes to occur.

Minnesota Vikings

The NFC North was pegged as the toughest division in the NFL to start the season. However, after the Vikings flopped, you could argue that the title now belongs to the NFC South.

The Vikings added Donovan McNabb before the season. Many thought, with all the talent around him, the Vikings were going to be sleepers this season.

However, that hasn't been the case as the Vikings have lost their first four games.

Credit Minnesota for making a statement win in Week 5, but the Vikings have a chance to really rise in the rankings if they can knock off their division foe in the Chicago Bears on Sunday.

Minnesota has the talent to turn things around. However, if they fall to 1-5, they will need to re-think a few things.

I think they'll bring it in prime time on Sunday night, and they'll give the Bears a tough challenge.

Atlanta Falcons

After the Falcons traded up for Julio Jones, many expected to see an explosive offense from Atlanta. However, that is yet to really happen.

Instead, the Falcons almost look confused as to who they really are this season, which isn't a good sign.

Struggling on the road and dropping leads is not the best way for the defending NFC South champions to start the season. They host the Carolina Panthers on Sunday, and it is a must-win game for Atlanta.

Sunday is no longer an easy win for the Falcons, since Cam Newton can make plays and put points on the board.

The Falcons secondary is subpar at best, and they must step up and make big plays or else it's going to be a long day in Atlanta.

Matt Ryan is very good in the Georgia Dome. However, if his defense doesn't help him, he's toast.

The Falcons will continue to drop in the rankings if they fall to Carolina on Sunday.

Eric Bowman’s 2011 NFL Power Rankings

1. Green Bay Packers

2. New Orleans Saints

3. New England Patriots

4. Detroit Lions

5. Baltimore Ravens

6. Pittsburgh Steelers

7. San Diego Chargers