NFL Power Rankings: 3 Teams That Will Continue to Plummet

The Detroit Lions proved in 2010 that there's still something to play for late in the season, even if you're well out of contention for a playoff spot.

They went on to win their last four games, which set up a bounce-back campaign this season.

Well, that was the right way to do things.

Three teams this season are headed down a downward spiral that will only see them sucked into a black hole by season's end.

Fans of these teams will wish they were in a black hole when all is said and done.

3. Arizona Cardinals (3-7)

Backup John Skelton was on a bit of a roll replacing injured starting quarterback Kevin Kolb, winning two straight games.

Then came the San Francisco 49ers, his true test, and he fell flat on his face. Many times.

Skelton ended up going 6-of-19 and throwing three interceptions in the 23-7 loss, and the Cardinals found out the hard way that they really have no chance with him (or Kolb for that matter) under center.

Luckily for them, they get to face the 49ers again (insert sarcasm here).

2. Minnesota Vikings (2-8)

If you want to be blunt, the Vikings have a grand total of two difference-makers on their team: defensive end Jared Allen and running back Adrian Peterson.

What do you get when you lose Peterson to a high ankle sprain and are already 2-8 on the season?

A really bad football team.

There's hope for rookie quarterback Christian Ponder yet, but he clearly needs some more time to get adjusted to the NFL.

That time will be next season.

1. Kansas City Chiefs (4-6)

I would feel bad for the Chiefs losing starting quarterback Matt Cassel to injury if I respected them.

But I don't respect them, and I don't feel bad for them, either.

Before Cassel's injury in Week 10, the Chiefs were 4-4 and coming off a 31-3 thrashing at the hands of the Miami Dolphins.

I know the Chiefs lost star running back Jamaal Charles early, but the fact of the matter is this team has disappointed from the very start.

It's not the talent (the Chiefs were a 10-win team last season). It must be the coaching, effort level and dedication.

You can't really respect that.

They've now lost three straight games and were walloped by the New England Patriots on Monday night, 34-3.