Packers and Pats stay on top, Eagles and Lions take a massive tumble

Week 3 Power Rankings

Disclaimer: These are NOT professional opinions and only my own opinions. Also, there are teams that beat teams that are ranked higher than them. This is only because, as of now, the higher ranked team is still a better overall team. (Ex: Redskins beat the Rams but the Rams are still ranked higher) If you disagree, feel free to leave a comment or contact me via Twitter @jcs436.

The NFL has quick turnarounds. The Jets are on top and the Colts are at the bottom after two wild weeks of football. Never thought that would happen, now did ya? Don’t worry, neither did I. Strange how the football world works that way sometimes. On a sidenote, I didn’t do rankings last week due to be being with college. So if the drops and rises of teams seem steep, it’s from their rise and fall from the past two weeks.

1.     Green Bay Packers 2-0 (same)

Think I felt the Packers fans fear a little bit when Wilson started running the ball well against them. Luckily the Packers D showed up and forced a couple turnovers to let A. Rod and the Packers O work their magic. They stay on top as the best overall team until proven otherwise.

2.     New England Patriots 2-0 (same)

What a game Tom Brady! 466 yards and 3 touchdowns were his stats against Buffalo and he is supposed to be in his decline phase as a QB. Methinks that Brady is pissed off from a horrendous offseason and wants to show he and his team are the top dogs in the NFL without heavy “scandalous” (yes I hate myself) criticism. That will still be hard to pull off, as the Patriot’s secondary is still pretty suspect. They have given up 53 points in the last two games. Not what Super Bowl defenses typically do.

3.     Arizona Cardinals 2-0 (+2)

If you want to criticize the Cardinals for the reason behind their success being that they beat two bad teams, you’re already too late. “Stop! You ain’t SHIT!” Head Coach Bruce Arians told them in their team meeting Monday morning. Now this is the formula for an elite football team. In the past, the elite football teams of the NFL have always done two things. 1. They criticize their wins and hate their losses. 2. They trash bad teams for the garbage they are and never give those bad teams a chance. Arizona is doing both right now and showing their success isn’t a fluke. Keep it going Arians. The current is in your favor.

4.     Denver Broncos 2-0 (+4)

The first 50 minutes of their game against the Chiefs showed the aging Manning everyone feared we would see. The last 10 minutes of the game showed the vintage Manning everyone knew was still there waiting to come out. What a heroic two-minute drill by Manning, surgically cutting through a defense that had been giving him trouble all game. The real hero (heroes) of the game, though, was the Denver Defense. I said before the season in my first 2015-2016 rankings for people to not be surprised when Denver is known more for their defense than offense. So far, that is looking like it may be the truth sooner than later.

5.     Cincinnati Bengals 2-0 (+8)

We have all seen this story before. Andy Dalton and the Bengal’s offense looks new and reborn while the defense is stopping opposing offenses efficiently. It happens every year yet somehow this team can never turn it on when it really matters (the playoffs, prime night games, or any important game). However, props to Andy Dalton for not letting the heavy criticism get to his head and playing what looks like the best football he has ever played before. Maybe this is the year he turns everything around? #tooearlytoknow

6.     Pittsburgh Steelers 1-1 (+1)

Why hello Pittsburg, welcome back to stardom and dominance. The Steelers slam dunked the 9ers 43-18 and it didn’t look like a mistake. The scary part? This was without Le’Veon Bell who just came off of suspension. Look out AFC, the real Pittsburgh Steelers are coming back. Well…kind of…sort of… their defense still needs work.

7.     Kansas City Chiefs 1-1 (+5)

I’m still laughing inside at those who said the Chiefs are better than the Broncos after Week 1 came by. It’s still realistic that the Chiefs win the division, but for those that discounted the Broncos when thinking the Chiefs would be AFC West winners, I have something to say to you. Peyton Manning is still better than Alex Smith. And as I said before, until proven otherwise, the Chiefs are only second best in the division.

8.     Buffalo Bills 1-1 (+9)

The score doesn’t even justify what the game really was. The Patriots offense blew the Bills D out of the water. However, the game (besides the loss) was entirely positive for the Bills. Tyrod Taylor showed grit when far behind and tried to make a comeback. Taylor is going to be keep his offense going in future games even when the game looks dreary just like this one did. Congratulations Rex Ry…er…Buffalo, you have finally found a quarterback.

9.     Atlanta Falcons 2-0 (+15)

Head Coach Dan Quinn has got something special going on in Atlanta. The defense finally has a pass rush and doesn’t hold back their explosive offense anymore. At this rate, the Falcons could be the cook’s specialty in a rather lame NFC South Division. One last thing, Julio Jones, you are a beast! What a catch last Sunday.

10. Seattle Seahawks 0-2 (-6)

Don’t hit the panic button yet 12s! Kam Chancellor is coming back into the defensive lineup so that can hopefully kick start the defense back into gear. However, I’m still scratching my head as to why they traded for Jimmy Graham. If you are going to trade away one of your best offensive lineman for a playmaker, at least use that playmaker. Two targets for one catch and 11 yards? Not what I think GM Schneider had in mind when he made the trade. If you ask me, Seattle was still mourning their Super Bowl loss and was imagining the final play with someone like Jimmy Graham in the game. Little did they forget, they’re already terrible offensive line got worse when they traded away Max Unger. Don’t believe me? Watch Seattle’s run plays. It shows when Lynch is getting tackled as soon as the  ball is in his hands.

11. New York Jets 2-0 (+11)

Watch out Seattle, the new sheriff is in town. The Jets played championship level defense on Monday night and looked spectacular picking Andrew luck off a whopping four times. This defense means business and the offense is the business partner. And by business partner, I mean the one who gets things done but screw up every once in a while. For now, that’s not a bad thing.

12. San Diego Chargers 1-1 (+2)

Tough loss against Cincy last week. Rivers is developing a nice chemistry with Ladarious Green and Stevie Johnson these days. Wonder if it will develop into the Chargers becoming the surprise top offense in the NFL. They have the quarterback to make it happen. #onecandream

13. Dallas Cowboys 2-0 (-7)

Cowboys fall this far because no Bryant and no Romo = no bueno for the Cowboys offense. However, this Dallas D is sneaky could and could win a few games for the Cowboys. If the Boys can go 3-5 without Romo the next 8 weeks, they’ll be in good shape to make a late run for the playoffs. Don’t give up on America’s team yet.

14. Carolina Panthers 2-0 (+5)

After seeing that game against the Texans, it’s clear to see that Cam Newton is the reason the Panthers will win or lose games. If he plays well, they will more than likely win. If he sucks, so will the Panthers. Also, tough break for the Panthers losing Luke Kuechly for now. Panthers better hope they get him back as soon as possible from that concussion.

15. Minnesota Vikings 1-1 (+1)

Nice for Vikings fans to see a win at home after watching a brutal loss on national TV. This match also showed what the Vikings are going to be about this season. Having Adrain Peterson carry the offense by being the best running back in the NFL. Oh, Bridgewater and the Vikings defense will make plays too.

16. Indianapolis Colts 0-2 (-13)

The Colts are showing their true colors. Andrew Luck can no longer hide the problems Indy has always had; a mediocre defense and a terrible offensive line trying to protect their QB.

17. St. Louis Rams 1-1 (+3)

Welcome back to the real world St. Louis. After beating the Seahawks, people seemed to think the Rams were the real deal and contenders for the NFC West. There is a small flaw though; IT WAS ONE GAME. The Rams look like the Rams of old right now. Amazing defense + Bad offense = Mediocre team. Quite unfortunate.

18. Miami Dolphins 1-1 (-3)

So much for the hype around the Dolphins this offseason. It’s clear that the Dolphins are always destined for around a .500 season again for as long as Joe Philbin is head coach. The Dolphins are a bland team with so much talent. On paper, they look like a top 10 team. Unfortunately, Philbin just doesn’t know what to do with his talent. This team will have high highs and low lows the entire season from how it looks.`

19. Baltimore Ravens 0-2 (-9)

The Ravens miss Terrell Suggs. Oh I’m sorry I misspoke. They are crying for Terrell Suggs and couldn’t even pressure Derek Carr without him. Unless the rest of the defense can step it up, its going to be a long season for Baltimore. On a positive note, the offense looked fantastic last week. The next step for Baltimore? Don’t even worry about the injuries or critics. Sunday at home vs the Bengals is a must win.

20. Oakland Raiders 1-1 (+7)

Now THERE is the potential analysts have been seeing in the Raiders. A beautiful (yes beautiful and it hurts to say that) final drive steered by Derek Carr won the game for Oakland. Now all they have to do is keep up the momentum for future games. Next stop? Cleveland.

21. Jacksonville Jaguars 1-1 (+7)

A nice turnaround from Week 1’s disaster of a start for the Jaguars. The defense is finally starting to click and Blake Bortles is having a nice start to his sophomore year. As long as the improvement can be kept up, a positive record isn't out of the question for this young Jaguars team.

22. Washington Redskins 1-1 (+7)

How in the world does a “bad offense” beat an amazing defense? Simple. You have one of the better offensive lines in the game create holes for a talented backfield and that’s all the Skins had to do to create their winning formula. Also the defense is looking stout right now. Time will tell if they can keep this formula up though.

23. San Francisco 49ers 1-1 (+2)

Will the real San Francisco 49ers please stand up. This team goes from locking down the best running back in the game to not being able to hold down the oldest running back in the game. Doesn’t make sense to me. I wonder what Jim Tomsula is thinking right now. What are you thinking 9ers fans?

24. Cleveland Browns 1-1 (+6)

I have scratched my head so much over the decision to bench Manziel and put McCown back in, that my head is currently bleeding. Neither has shown the capability to take the Browns to a winning season but at least Manziel can still develop and become that QB who can take the Browns to a winning season. If I were Mike Pettine, I would go with the gamble and start Manziel again. Sooner or later you have to find out if he can be your franchise QB or if he is worth a roster spot.

25. Detroit Lions 0-2 (-14)

Forget what I said about knowing by Thanksgiving. It’s already Week 2 and VERY clear that the Lions miss Suh’s presence. That being said, the defense is completely at fault. When your supposedly “explosive” offense doesn’t use your explosive players correctly (Johnson, Abdullah, Tate), can you really expect to win games? I would so no, you can’t.

26. Tennessee Titans 1-1 (+6)

For all of the critics saying Mariota would flop in the NFL, he isn’t looking too shabby at all and even refused to give up in a sure-fire loss. Yeah he didn’t light up the Browns like everyone thought but it’s a positive sight to see a rookie not giving up on a lost game.

27. Philadelphia Eagles 0-2 (-18)

I don’t think I have ever witnessed the Eagles play so bad before. Starting to wonder whether Kelly’s coaching is the problem, or that the players don’t synergize well together. However, you can’t judge a team off two games. More needs to be seen and since the division is so week right now, 0-2 isn’t the worst fate they could suffer. However, 0-3 or 0-4 would be a different story.

28. New York Giants 0-2 (-7)

Something is up when you blow away two 10 point leads, especially when one is at home. You would think a Coughlin-Manning led team would have sealed away both games early in the fourth quarter. This Giants team has talent but if the poor-decision making keeps on happening, not much is going to be expected from this team. As of right now, I’m not even expecting much yet either.

29. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 1-1 (+2)

How the Bucs defense outplayed Drew Brees’ offense is anyone’s guess. I’m still trying to figure out myself.  I don’t see this as a turnaround for the franchise since it was only the Saints, but, hey, it’s a step forward and you take what you can get in the NFL.

30. Houston Texans 0-2 (-12)

Bottom line, until Hoyer or Mallet starts showing they can play QB, this offense (let alone the team) won’t be going anywhere. Which really sucks because the defense tends to play well. *in the distance you can hear Arian Foster roaring back from injury to save the Houston offense*

31. New Orleans 0-2 (-8)

I won’t ever doubt a team led by Sean Payton and Drew Brees but this team is off to a brutal start this season. What makes the situation worse is that Brees is hurt and might be out for a couple games.  The defense needs to step up its game or there won’t be any hope for this team because right now anywhere between 5-11 to 7-9 is what this team is staring at.

32. Chicago Bears 0-2 (-6)

Welp, suspicions have been confirmed. The defense sucks and now without Jay Cutler out so will the offense.  The Bears need miracle turnaround if they want to salvage their season. Especially in a division where you play Rodgers and Peterson twice.

Post Pre-Season Rankings

Post Pre-Season Rankings

Disclaimer: These are NOT professional opinions and are the author’s sole opinions of each team. While they aren’t professional, there has been some heavy thought, analysis, and research put into these rankings. Feel free to comment whether you agree or disagree. I’m always willing to listen to what others have to say.

IT’S HERE! The 2015-2016 NFL season is finally upon us and this year couldn’t be more exciting with tons of teams having revamped for the season and every single one thinking they have a chance at the Super Bowl. Well, I’m here to crush those hopes and dreams (not really) with these rankings... Essentially, theses rankings are just going to show the teams that are strongest heading into the season. That doesn’t mean the titans won’t fall or that the David’s won’t stand up to the Goliath’s but for now this is how each team looks.

Another disclaimer: These rankings will change throughout the season so don’t think they are set in stone because they aren’t.

1.     Green Bay Packers (same)

Yes, the Packers hold on to their throne at No. 1 even with the loss of Jordy Nelson. Why? Aaron Rodgers. Enough said. The only true loss the Packers have with Jordy Nelson gone is they won’t beat the 2013 Denver Broncos’ offensive records like everyone thought they would. That’s all the Packers have lost. The Packers are still the NFC juggernaut to beat along with Seattle and if all they lost was a chance at the record books and not a chance at the Super Bowl, then they are set for the oncoming season.

2.     New England Patriots (same)

Tom Brady is back! The Patriots keep their No. 2 spot because they are the reigning Super Bowl champs and the Brady-Bellichick duo can never be counted out of anything. The secondary still has many questions to be answered and Brady needs to figure out what he is going to do on offense with his WR group having a plethora of injuries. That won’t take Brady long though as he has a chip on his shoulder to show he can win without any “Gate” nonsense thrown in his face. Watch out everyone, a heated Brady is coming for you all.

3.     Indianapolis Colts (+2)

Andrew Luck is a wonder to watch. He is the conductor of his offense and can orchestrate them as he pleases. The sky is the limit for this Colt’s offense and Luck is ready to charge them forward into the season. On the flip side of the team is the defense. As long as the defense can keep the opposing offense from scoring more points than the high-octane Colts offense, then nobody will stand in this team’s way for a deep playoff run.

4.     Seattle Seahawks (same)

Some could argue this is a little low but when you look at how the starting offense has struggled in the pre-season, then it’s really not low at all. The offensive line is the weakest link of this team, which is dangerous for an offense that relies on a mobile quarterback and an all-time bruiser of a running back. The Legion of Boom is the Legion of Boom still but the loss of Dan Quinn (old DC) might hurt and nobody knows what’s going on with Chancellor’s holdout. The Seahawks remain a favorite in the NFC but there are questions as to whether they can remain No.1 or 2 team in the NFC. If you ask me, Sherman and Carroll won’t accept anything but No. 1.

5.     Arizona Cardinals (-2)

The Cardinals are better than last year already and they haven’t even played a single season game. So why are they better? They are healthy. Palmer is back and the Cards D has all of their key players back. The Cardinals offense is solid and Palmer has finally found is stride at the ripe age of 35. The only concern I have for this team is how the defense will fare without their beloved Todd Bowles (now HC of the Jets). Don’t get me wrong, this defense will fly like last year but I’m not convinced it will soar above and beyond like it did with Todd Bowles at the helm. #StillANoFlyZone?

6.     Dallas Cowboys (+2)

Who dem Boys? Frankly, these Boys are the best Boys we have seen in over 10 years. It seems like the reason they are overlooked is because too many people have hatred towards them or think Tony Romo is over-rated. In reality, Romo is a great QB (not elite) who could lead his team to a Super Bowl with the right pieces in place and this year, he has them. Dallas has a defense that can hold its own against any opponent and Murray isn’t as huge of a loss to the offense as people are thinking. As long as the RB committee that the Dallas offense has set up can keep pressure off of Romo, then this Dallas team can start surprising people again this year. Last year was no goof. That much I can tell you.

7.     Pittsburgh Steelers (-1)

I really don’t want to put the Steelers this low as they are a top 5 team, but due to so many suspensions hurting them early in the season, they aren’t a top 5 team heading into the season. Roethlisberger and the Steelers Offense have a great test in Week 1 against the Patriots to show whether or not they can handle playing without their star players. The Patriots are also a great test to see if a young Steelers defense can outplay a QB of Tom Brady’s level. This team will get better as the season goes on but this is where they are as of right now.

8.     Denver Broncos (-1)

Denver is still the best in their division for now but only the 4^th best in the AFC. The biggest issue here is still whether Manning can perform. He doesn’t have to perform like an MVP anymore but he does need to avoid being a liability to his team or the Broncos are in for a rough season. What’s juicy about this team though, is thinking of the potential the defense has with Wade Philips as the new Defensive coordinator. With the talent on the roster and his genius schemes, I won’t be surprised if the Broncos are known for their defense more than their offense by the end of the season.

9.     Philadelphia Eagles (+2)

If any team has as high of ceiling as the Seahawks or Packers, its the Eagles. So why are they so low? Their roster’s offensive core is built around Bradford, Murray, and Matthews; all of these players are injury prone which is no bueno. However, if they stay healthy all season, the sky is the limit for this speedy offense. Also, the defense has so much talent that it could contend for top 3 honors this year. For now the Eagles are looking like a boom or bust team. So far, they have a lot of boom and no bust.

10. Baltimore Ravens (same)

Pretty frustrating when your first round pick isn’t even ready to play for the season yet. When looking at Baltimore, the biggest questions are usually on offense and going into this season is no different. Leaning on the ground game in a 60-40 ratio for run-pass play calling is what this offense is designed to do. As long as OC Trestman can utilize Forsett like he used to utilize Matt Forte in Chicago, then this offense will soar like it did last year. After all, it did put up two 14-point leads against the Super Bowl Champs. This offense is more potent than people think as long as it follows the formula it’s designed to run by.

11. Detroit Lions (+2)

You hear that sound off in the distance? It’s Ameer Abullah pounding his way for another 30 yards in practice. Man, that kid can run and he is starting to look like the answer the Lions have been looking for at RB. If this holds to be true, the Lions will finally have a balanced offensive attack that already had a ton of firepower. I’m still wondering how much the Lions D is going to miss Suh. At least they got Ngata in the offseason.

12. Kansas City Chiefs (same)

I’m not buying all this speculation that the Chiefs are going to beat the Broncos for the AFC West Crown. It’s very possible but when I look at the two teams, I see two defenses that are equal in strength and two offenses that are almost equal. The tiebreaker for the offenses is that the Broncos have a better quarterback. Until Alex Smith, who is better than just being a game manager, proves that he can outduel Manning, Denver keeps their crown and Chiefs remain 2^nd best.

13. Cincinnati Bengals (-4)

Pretty big fall for the Bengals here. At some point, Andy Dalton has to show up in big games or this may be his last year. It may sound like a bad idea to get rid of a QB who has taken your team to 5 playoff appearances but when you cant win those playoff games due to poor quarterback play, something has to give. In this case, that something would be the removal of Dalton. I’ve said it once and I will say it again, the Bengals have a Super Bowl caliber roster......that is…..when Andy Dalton isn’t the quarterback.

14. San Diego Chargers (same)

Enough about this “Chargers moving to L.A.” talk. Nobody should care about that right now because what should be talked about is that Philip Rivers got an extension and is now ready to chase a Super Bowl in his last few years while he still can. He is ready to guide his offense into the post-season and he finally has a defense to support him for a playoff run. Don’t sleep on the Chargers like everyone else is right now or it might come back to nip you in the rear.

15. Miami Dolphins (+2)

Want to know what’s crazy? People thinking the Dolphins will beat the Patriots for the AFC East Crown. Want to know what’s not crazy? People speculating they will make the playoffs. The Dolphins defense is looking to become a surprise top 12 (maybe top 10?) defense and the gears are finally syncing together on offense. This team is well rounded and balanced which is all it needs to be to make the post-season. On a side note, here is a random bold prediction for you: Tannehill throws for over 4,300 yards this season. You’re welcome.

16. Minnesota Vikings (+2)

To be honest, as much as I love the Bridgewater and AP combination on offense, I’m not completely sold on the wide receiver group just yet. Wallace is the No. 1 receiver but he doesn’t act or play like one. I’m thinking he falls to No. 2 when Charles Johnson (heard of him?) starts to outplay him as the season progresses.  On the flip side of the coin, the Vikings D will be the biggest key factor for the Vikings to reach their potential. Mike Zimmer is defensive genius and he has had his system in place for a year now.

17. Buffalo Bills (+2)

Welcome to being an NFL starter, Tyrod Taylor. Yes, for those of you who read my last rankings, I admit that I was wrong. Matt Cassel isn’t the starter like I thought he would be and it’s actually for the better of this team that he isn’t the starter. Taylor outplayed every other QB during the pre-season and deserves the starting job. However, now he just needs to prove that he can be great in a regular season game too. If he does prove that he is the QB of the future for the Bills, then this team is dangerous. With Rex Ryan conducting a talented Bills Defense and a fine-tuned Taylor guiding the offense, this team will reach its potential and make the playoffs. That’s a lot of ifs and maybes though

18. Houston Texans (-4)

Another team with a steep fall in the rankings. The loss of Arian Foster hurts for a Texans offense that was already lacking playmakers. If the Texans are lucky, the Brian Hoyer we saw in the first half of last season will show up to carry a limp offense until Foster comes back from injury. As for the defense, I REALLY want to see Jadeveon Clowney combined with J.J. Watt. To the quarterbacks who face this Houston defense this year, good luck. You’ll need it.

19. Carolina Panthers (-3)

Losing Kelvin Benjamin is a huge blow to a Panther’s offense that was already thin when it came to wide receiver. The Panthers will be looking toward Newton and rookie WR David Funchess to carry the load on offense now. That’s not necessarily a bad thing but it’s not a good thing either. Look for the Panthers D to do most of the heavy lifting. The goal is to always win the division and when you play in a division as bad as the NFC South, all you need is a decent offense and a dominant defense to win. The Panthers have just that.

20. St Louis Rams (+4)

A nice boost for these Rams if you ask me. They get the nod here over the teams below simply because the Rams have a defense that will stand up against the best offenses in the NFL. The defensive line is a monster and will keep the Rams in games as long as the Rams offense can function. Speaking of the offense, Foles still looks inconsistent. For Rams fans, at least it’s better than watching your “franchise saving QB” fall to the ground with a season ending injury every year.

21. New York Giants (+1)

The Giants are a perfect example of how opposites don’t attract. The offense is fantastic but the defense is terrible and it doesn’t bode well for the Giants going into this season. It doesn’t help when your best defensive player blows up his hand with fireworks in the offseason and has to remove a finger either. It’s up to Manning, Beckham, and Cruz to keep this team in games for now.

22. New York Jets (-2)

The Jets are the exact opposite of the team they share their stadium with; their offense is mediocre but their defense is amazing. Todd Bowles masterful defensive schemes will keep the Jets competitive. One can only hope that Fitzpatrick will bring some FitzMagic with him to give a spark to the offense. When you have players like Eric Decker, Brandon Marshall, and Chris Ivory on your offense as well, something has to happen.

23. New Orleans Saints (same)

This is one of the most intriguing teams to look at this season. They have completely changed their identity on offense from being a passing attack to a running attack. So why would you do that when Drew Brees is your QB? The answer is simple. Brees always has thrived when the running game has been relevant and Sean Payton knows this. With Payton’s innovative offensive schemes and Brees finally having support again, the Saints can finally go back to being a winning team.

24. Atlanta Falcons (-3)

The trenches on both side of the ball are the deciding factor of whether this team is successful or not. The pass rush needs to get to the opposing quarterback and the offensive line needs to its quarterback. There is talent on both sides of the ball but talent doesn’t matter if it can’t be protected or utilized correctly, especially on defense. Hopefully, HC Dan Quinn can turn things around. If not, it’s going to be another miserable season for Falcons fans this year.

25. San Francisco 49ers (+1)

No team went through a more unfortunate and dramatic offseason that the 49ers. With so many veterans retiring and Jim Harbaugh gone, this team is barely recognizable. However, not everything to be said about this team is negative. Don’t believe me? Go watch some highlights of Jarryd Hayne and Carlos Hyde. They look to be the playmakers on the team this year. If only some consistent QB play could come as well; that would be immensely helpful.

26. Chicago Bears (-1)

At this point, it feels like the new coaching staff and front office are just waiting for Cutler to leave so they can start over. Nobody seems to be giving him a chance anymore and, frankly, I’m not either. Yes, QBs can always have one good year but I think Cutler’s one good year was when the Bears had over 10 wins a couple seasons ago. Cutler holds this team back, Bears fans know it, I know, Packers fans know it, and so does the coaching staff. We’ll see if he can finally prove us all wrong. There is something to watch for on this Bears team and that’s to see if Alshon Jeffrey can emerge as a No. 1 WR after Marshall’s departing. Hey, at least it’s something positive to look for.

27. Oakland Raiders (+1)

It must feel good to be a Raiders fan…or somewhat good at the least. Watching Carr connect with rookie WR Amari Cooper will be lots of fun to watch this year and the duo should finally give a spark to what would otherwise be a dead offense. Right now, the Raiders aren’t going to blow peoples’ minds (unless a 7-9 season from the Raiders blows your mind then, hey, everyone has their own opinion) but watch as the tables start to turn in the coming years. This is a young roster with tons of potential and the Raiders are just starting to claw at that potential. Imagine how well these players will play when they have matured and have a few years under their belt. Be patient Raiders fans, your moment is coming sooner than later. But first, your team has to show that they can reach that potential. If they don’t, then you are starting back at square one…again.

28. Jacksonville Jaguars (+2)

It’s hard to be optimistic about a lower team that is finally piecing together a solid roster yet plays with the Colts in their division. The plus side to being in AFC South is the Jaguars aren’t the worst in the division but that’s not much to brag about. HC Gus Bradley needs to get this defense finally rolling or the Jaguars won’t be doing much. As for the offensive side of the ball, Blake Bortles, Allen Robinson, and T.J. Yeldon look very promising as playmakers this year. If only the Jaguars had solved their offensive line troubles. Godspeed Blake Bortles. Godspeed I wouldn’t want to be playing behind that line either.

29. Washington Redskins (-2)

I have no clue what’s going on inside Coach Jay Gruden’s head. It seems as if he wanted Kirk Cousins to win the job all along and then finally gave Cousins the starting job two weeks before they face the Dolphins. What’s scary about this situation, is that two weeks isn’t enough time with the starts for Cousins to make himself look like he deserved the job. The plus for Cousins though is that his teammates fully support him and are saying he is the leader they needed. That’s a step in the right direction, Washington. Now don’t trail off that path… or mention RG3. #stayawayfromthedrama

30. Cleveland Browns (same)

The Browns are this low because their starting QB isn’t better than the ones listed above and their back up QB Johnny Manziel is having elbow problems. It doesn’t help that the offense doesn’t have even a shred of playmaking ability. Browns DC Jim O’ Neill will have to work hard to create top-notch defense to make up for the heavily flawed offense. If not, the Browns will be the “easy win” on everyone’s schedule this season.

31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (+1)

It’s going to be a rocky season for this Bucs team but that’s to be expected when your starting quarterback is a rookie. From the looks of it, the offense will come and go as Jameis Winston does, that is, unless Doug Martin comes back exploding onto the scene. I don’t see that happening though with the offensive line being so damn horrible. I’m still wondering why the Bucs didn’t make the offensive line a priority this offseason. Guess we’ll find out.

32. Tennessee Titans (-1)

The Titans are last because their roster isn’t exactly eye opening. Yes, they have Marcus Mariota, but what else do they have? The defense is average on its best days and Mariota doesn’t have a running game to support him yet. With all of that in mind, the Titans are last right now. However, they do have the ability to change their fortunes and their ranking. They aren’t doomed. After all, it’s only the beginning of the season. Things always change!