It’s been an up and down week for a lot of teams, some gained hope and some lost hope. With us being at the midpoint of the season, I’ve decided to do something a little different and predict the floors and ceilings for every team. What’s the prediction for your team?
1.Eagles (0)
Philadelphia officially has the best record in the NFL. Although Jalen Hurts has looked rough so far this season, he quickly shut doubters up, throwing for 4 TDs in a 38-31 win over the Commanders. Even if they required a furious comeback to win, you’re currently looking at the best team in the league right now. Allowing 4 TDs from Sam Howell is a bit concerning though. Can Philly keep it up?
Ceiling: Superbowl Appearance
Floor: Wildcard loss
2. Ravens (0)
Even though the final score was 31-24, the win against the Cardinals looked a lot closer than it was, with Arizona scoring 17 of their points in garbage time. While Lamar’s performance today wasn’t amazing, he’s still on track for an MVP season, quite literally. His 1,767 yards and 9 TDs are nearly identical to his 2019 campaign that finished with an MVP award. With rumors stating that the Titan’s Derrick Henry move to Baltimore is nearly a lock, Lamar should get the help he needs. On that matter, Gus Edwards’ 3 TDs should certainly make it harder for Eric DeCosta to decide.
Ceiling: Superbowl Appearance
Floor: Wildcard loss
3. Dolphins (+2)
Miami looked better Sunday, but continue to beat up on inferior opponents. The only teams that Miami had played with a winning record (Buffalo and Philadelphia) were both losses. Are the Dolphins a good team? I believe so, but there are questions surrounding the team. Can Tua stay healthy? Can the Dolphins beat a quality opponent? Will Jalen Ramsey’s reappearance push the Dolphins into true title contention? Tune in next week to Tyreek Hill and Miami Ice for answers.
Ceiling: Super Bowl Appearance
Floor: Miss the Playoffs
4. Lions (+2)
Nice bounce back win for the Motor City. Even though it was against a bad Raiders team, the Lions showed that their still able to get wins for Dan Campbell. While Jared Goff didn’t look super flashy Monday Night, backup and Rookie Jahmyr Gibbs looked amazing! 152 yards and a TD in his first home game should make him a local celebrity. This Lions team is built to win, but will that translate to wins in the postseason? It’s been…uh..*checks notes*…31 years. Jesus.
Ceiling: Divisional Loss
Floor: Wildcard loss
5. Jaguars (+2)
Winning a slugfest against the Steelers in Pittsburgh is certainly one way to put your name on the map, and the Jags did just that. Although it was an ugly game, with a combined 5 turnovers between the 2 teams, Lawrence and crew willed their way to a dub. That being said, Duval is starting to impress me. While the beginning of the season looked to be another Rollercoaster season in Jacksonville, they’ve quickly cleaned up and look great amongst the chaos which is the rest of the AFC South.
Ceiling: AFC Championship loss
Floor: Wildcard loss
6. Chiefs (-3)
That was a total mess. Denver had not beaten Kansas City since 2015 and just ended the streak behind possibly the worst game of Patrick Mahomes’ career. 2 picks and no TDs isn’t a statline that should come from a reigning MVP. I’ve heard that supposedly Mahomes had the flu, which to me isn’t an excuse. If so, Mahomes should’ve stayed on the bench, but he cost his team a win. Not everyone is Michael Jordan. I can appreciate the effort, but sometimes it’s best to let someone else take the reins for a night. Oh well, the Chiefs fell down to earth and are currently tied with 3 other teams for the #1 seed.
Ceiling: Superbowl Appearance
Floor: Divisional Loss
7. Niners (-3)
What is going on in Santa Clara? Did someone change their underwear? After starting 5-0 with demolitions of teams like the Cowboys and Steelers, the Niners are suddenly limping with three straight losses. After being an MVP candidate a month ago, Brock Purdy suddenly looks average. Christian McCaffrey is suddenly an afterthought and Kittle can’t reach the endzone. Do I even need to mention the Defense’s total unraveling to a confusing Bengals team? San Fran has got to plug the holes in the ship quickly before it sinks.
Ceiling: Superbowl Appearance
Floor: Wildcard loss
8. Cowboys (+1)
Dak Prescott looked like a man possessed today, throwing 4 TDs in a 43-20 win over the Rams. It seemed like the Cowboys could score anyway they wanted; Through the air, a pick six, and even a safety to add insult to injury. Cowboys fans may be thinking “OK, they did great! Why not jump them into the top 5? Josh, are you just an idiot?” Well, to answer, I am an idiot, but I know football. While the Cowboys Defense has been great, they also depend on Dak to be great to win. If Dak struggles, the team struggles. I like Dak, but the team rides his coat tails. He can’t be expected to play like this every week, and that worries me about Dallas.
Ceiling: Divisional Loss
Floor: Miss the playoffs
9. Bills (-1)
Jesus, Bills Mafia must be stocking up on Bayer heart medication at this point. Although they beat Tampa on Thursday Night Football 24-18, these wins have been close. All their wins have come by an average of 20 points, but they’re recent wins have been by an average of 5.5 points. Allen threw yet another interception, continuing his average of one a game. This team was a popular Super Bowl pick, but has had trouble beating the likes of the Giants and Buccaneers, who are a combined 5-10. Yeesh.
Ceiling: Divisional Loss
Floor: Miss the playoffs
10. Jets (0)
After starting 1-3, King Cougar and the Jets have rattled off three wins in a row. They haven’t been pretty, like this week’s 13-10 win against the Giants in the Battle of New York, but wins are wins. I won’t fully come out and say that the Jets are a dangerous team, but they are streaking. It’s still uncertain when Aaron Rodgers will return, but Zach Wilson has the team in good position for a decent run at the postseason if he does return this season. The Jets are a hard team to predict.
Ceiling: Wildcard appearance
Floor: Miss the Playoffs
11. Seahawks (0)
Seattle survives a close game against the Browns, winning 24-20 on a last minute TD to Rookie Jaxon Smith-Njigba. While it wasn’t pretty, Seattle suddenly leads the NFC West after another San Francisco loss certainly opens things up for Seattle to make a run for the division, but can the Hawks keep it up with a pissed off Niners team on their heels? Also, please bring back those throwbacks full time! I may be the only one who thinks so, but the old “Free Willy” Seahawks uniforms are so much better than what they’re currently wearing. I know Seattle is known for rainy days and gloomy weather, but the current unis are way too dark for my taste.
Ceiling: Divisional Loss
Floor: Miss the Playoffs
12. Chargers (+1)
Wow, Los Angeles is playing to form? Somebody pinch me! Only reason I have the Chargers this high is due to the talent the team has. On paper, this is one of the most complete squads in the AFC, but can’t prove it on the field. Justin Herbert looked great, finishing 31-40 for 298 yards and 3 TDs. The Defense finally stepped up, although against Tyler Bagent and the Bears, but it’s progress. I think too much damage has been done to seriously consider the Chargers a contender, but teams have proved me wrong before. I seriously hope they do, I’m tired of the underperforming. Also, I’m not retiring “Chargering” just yet.
Ceiling: Wildcard loss
Floor: Miss the Playoffs
13. Steelers (-1)
While a loss to the upstart Jaguars isn’t something to be concerned with, the Offense still is awful. Kenny Pickett left the game early with a Rib injury, along with Minkah Fitzpatrick with a Hamstring injury, so Mitch “Kissing Titties” Trubisky took over and looked…meh. A TD and 2 picks isn’t gonna inspire fear into any opponents. Let’s be honest here, as long as TJ Watt is healthy, the Steelers have a chance, but how long can TJ carry the team on his back?
Ceiling: Wildcard appearance
Floor: Top 10 pick
14. Buccaneers (+1)
Bucs were this close to upsetting the Bills in Buffalo, but got in their own way. While Baker played well, it just wasn’t enough. The last play of the game was definitely pass Interference, but it shouldn’t have come down to that. If Chase McLaughlin’s kick doesn’t get blocked earlier in the game, it’s suddenly a different ball game late in the 4th. Woulda, coulda, shoulda. Luckily, Tampa is still in the NFC South.
Ceiling: Divisional Title
Floor: Top 10 pick
15. Vikings (-1)
A great win for Minnesota in Lambeau, but at what cost. After Kirk Cousins tore his right Achilles, he’s believed to be lost for the season. It’s definitely a crushing blow to a team that’s already lost Justin Jefferson for some time and just managed to get to .500 for the first time this season. The big decision rests squarely on the Vikings front office’s shoulders: Start Jaren Hall or add a QB through free agency or a trade? The most viable options for Minnesota, at least in my opinion, is; Sign Carson Wentz, trade for Jacoby Brissett, trade for Kyler Murray, or sign a veteran like Matt Ryan or Joe Flacco. Depressing times in Minneapolis.
Update: Vikings got their QB! They acquired Dobbs and a future 7th for a future 6th rounder. Hopefully Dobbs can keep it rolling in Minnesota.
Ceiling: Miss the Playoffs
Floor: Top 10 pick
16. Browns (0)
A close loss for the Dawg Pound. After the late pick from Julian Love gave the Seahawks life and a late lead, the Offense got a last second attempt to take the lead back. What did PJ Walker and the Offense do? Incomplete, incomplete, sack, incomplete. Ouch. While I won’t give the Browns too much hate, considering half of their stars are injured, they didn’t do themselves any favors. They’re currently 4-3 and tied with the Steelers, holding a wildcard spot currently, but it isn’t enough in the loaded AFC. This team needs a QB. Bad.
Ceiling: Wildcard loss
Floor: Miss the Playoffs
17. Titans (+3)
Wow, Will Levis looks great! 4 TDs, three going to DeAndre Hopkins is a helluva way to start a career, but has Levis proved to the Titans front office that he is the answer? Will Ryan Tannehill start adding Hellman’s to his coffee? Right now, neither of this is known. What is known is the rumors surrounding Derrick Henry and a trade to Baltimore. Supposedly, both sides are very close, some predicting Henry wearing Purple and Black by the next game. Also, those Oilers throwback unis are so clean. As an admitted Ravens fan, those are the best uniforms in football. I actually own a full size Oilers helmet. Not sorry.
Ceiling: Miss the Playoffs
Floor: Top 10 pick
18. Falcons (-1)
Atlanta can’t decide if they want to be a true contender or not. They’re kinda just stuck in neutral, not deciding whether they want to stay in park and work on themselves, or shift into drive and take off. It also appears that Ridder’s time in Atlanta may be coming to an end, as he was benched for Heinicke. As it’s been said, Heinicke has that dawg in him, and it showed, as he closed the gap and made it a 5 point game late in the 4th quarter. A crunch time drop by Van Jefferson on 4th and 2 ended any chance the Falcons had of a comeback. Atlanta kept up, but fell. Keep your head up, Falcons fans.
Ceiling: Wildcard loss
Floor: Top 10 pick
19. Commanders (-1)
Even with a demoralizing loss to the Eagles after leading them 17-10 going into halftime, Washington fans still have hope. Howell looked amazing, going off for 347 yards, 4 TDs, and a pick against quite possibly the best team in the NFL. Allowing a 3 TD 4th Quarter is definitely rough, but to have the lead is promising. I don’t think Washington will be playing playoff ball, but they’re trending in the right direction.
Ceiling: Miss the Playoffs
Floor: Top 10 pick
20. Bengals (+2)
I give up trying to figure out Cincinnati. While currently being 4-3, they’re 4-0 against the NFC West. Yet, still winless elsewhere. What does this mean? Are they good again? Are they still bad? Who knows? I will say, Joe Burrow had a helluva return to form against the Niners ruthless defense, finishing 28-32 for 283 yards and 3 TDs. Is he fully back? Time can only tell right now, but I am glad to see Cincinnati competitive again.
Ceiling: Divisional Loss
Floor: Miss the Playoffs
21. Rams (0)
Man, that was ugly. The game was over for Los Angeles before the 1st quarter was over. While young and somewhat rebuilding, the Rams Defense was torched. Matt Stafford looked awful Sunday, and I truly believe this’ll be his last season in Hollywood. While the Rams are still technically in contention for a playoff spot, it’s looking more and more dire as the season moves on. Will Los Angeles be buyers or sellers come the trade deadline? I think they should embrace the rebuild, start young, and develop. I expect to see Matt Stafford, Cooper Kupp, or Tyler Higbee in another jersey by season’s end.
Ceiling: Miss the Playoffs
Floor: Top 10 pick
22. Packers (-3)
What happened to Green Bay? After starting the season 2-1, they’ve fallen apart to a 2-5 season and are in the NFC North cellar with Chicago. While Love hasn’t been playing god awful, a 11-8 TD:INT ratio while ranking 23rd in QBR isn’t great. It’s still a little early to say, but I think the Packers got themselves a bust. Love’s confidence has got to be buried somewhere with an old Rodger’s jersey and a fan’s stake in ownership. Green Bay still fancies themselves a competitive team, but the record screams otherwise. I think Green Bay’s going into a rebuild for the first time since the Clinton Administration.
Ceiling: Top 10 pick
Floor: Top 3 pick
23. Broncos (+2)
Pat yourselves on the back, Denver! Finally, the witch is dead. At least for now. Ending an 8 year old losing streak must feel good, but they’ve also found a winning formula: Running the ball. Letting Javonte Williams pound the ball while Russell Wilson handles the red zone is working for Denver. Wilson had 3 TDs in 12 passes, that’s a TD every 4 passes for anyone unwilling to do the math. If the Broncos can keep this offensive work going, we may have a dark horse playoff team here.
Ceiling: Miss the Playoffs
Floor: Top 10 pick
24. Colts (-1)
Indianapolis once looked promising earlier in the season with Anthony Richardson and Zach Moss, but suddenly the Colts look very different. Now that Gardner Minshew and Jonathan Taylor are running the show, the Colts have lost two straight and look almost sluggish. The Colts can put up points, but can’t close out games. With the Jags being 6-2, the Colts are a longshot to win the division and a wildcard isn’t likely. Sigh, maybe next year?
Ceiling: Miss the Playoffs
Floor: Top 10 pick
25. Saints (+1)
After a rough week against the Jaguars, Derek Carr looked much better this week against Indianapolis. Finishing with 310 yards and 2 TDs is one of his best performances since signing with Nawlins. Sitting at 4-4, the Saints find themselves tied with Atlanta for the NFC South crown. While playoffs, at least success in the playoffs, may still be a stretch for Nawlins, it’s great to see them at a competitive level.
Ceiling: Wildcard loss
Floor: Top 10 pick
26. Texans (-2)
The Texans were shocking the NFL world by starting the season at 3-3 and becoming a playoff dark horse, but shocked the NFL yet again, this time by losing to the previously winless Panthers. CJ Stroud tried his best to prove to everyone that he should’ve been the 1st overall pick, but lost. Stroud still is my current pick for Offensive Rookie of the Year, but Bryce Young got the best of him. While Houston is 3-4, they still control their own destinies.
Ceiling: Miss the Playoffs
Floor: Top 3 pick
27. Giants (0)
Any Giants fan that watched the game Sunday has to feel sick to their stomach. Just when New York seemed to turn a corner, everything just fell apart. The Giants finished with 194 yards of offense and it was ALL RUSHING. That’s a literal statement. Tyrod Taylor and Darren Waller finished with 7 yards passing and 4 yards receiving, respectively. They were the GAME LEADERS. Giants finished with -9 passing yards, tied for 3rd least in NFL history with the Browns – Jaguars game in ’00. To make matters worse, Taylor was taken to the hospital with a Rib Cage injury and Waller was also removed with a Hamstring injury. Again, these were the GAME LEADERS. The G-men are already setting records for mediocrity, but will it continue?
Ceiling: Top 10 pick
Floor: Top 3 Pick
28. Bears (0)
This was a huge chance to show the NFL world that Tyler Bagent and the Bears should be taken seriously, but both failed. Bagent threw 2 picks in a 30-13 loss to the Chargers. I’ve seen that Bagent is quickly becoming a fan favorite in Chicago, and for good reason. First off, just look at the man:
Good stuff. The question is, is there a QB controversy in the Windy City? It seems Bears fans are starting to give up on Fields, which could spell doom for him. Only the next few weeks will tell.
Ceiling: Top 10 pick
Floor: 1st overall pick
29. Patriots (0)
As a Football fan since 2008, this is weird to say, but the Patriots Suck. After an upset of Buffalo, they forgot to get off the bus against Miami. A 31-17 loss looks bad, but it gets worse once you look at the stats. Mac Jones was average with a 19-29, 161 yard, 2 TDs, and a pick statline, but the rest of the team just wasn’t there. Rhamondre Stevenson was quiet with 39 yards on the ground. Remember thinking New England was taking a step up after signing former rivals Mike Gesicki and Juju Smith-Schuster? Well, the TikTok Twins (Patent Pending) have been quiet in Foxborough. Maybe next year, Patriots fans
Ceiling: Top 10 Pick
Floor: Top 3 Pick
30. Raiders (0)
Phew, Raiders should’ve just stayed on the bus. Josh Jacobs and Marcus Peters was the entire team it seemed Monday. The Garoppolo project is officially not working in Las Vegas. There’s talent on this team, but they need a QB to lead the team and there appears to be none on the roster. Should the Raiders hope to pick up another QB in Free Agency or look to draft Drake Maye with their first rounder? With Jimmy G’s outrageous contract, the latter seems more likely. Onto next season, Black Hole!
Ceiling: Top 10 pick
Floor: Top 3 pick
31. Panthers (+1)
In the battle of the Rookie QBs, I predicted the Texans to walk away with the game, but Houston (and myself) were shocked to see the Panthers pull off the last second win. Bryce Young looked great against his classmate, putting up 22-31 for 235 yards and a TD. While Carolina’s season is in the toilet, this’ll provide some hope for the upcoming season. So far, Bryce looks like a star in the making.
Ceiling: Top 10 pick
Floor: 1st overall pick
32. Cardinals (-1)
With a 31-24 loss to Baltimore, Arizona is in line to be the first team eliminated from postseason contention. Even though they’re playing for pride, the Cardinals showed me something. Joshua Dobbs didn’t look half bad, even though it was garbage time. Marquise Brown suddenly has hands, which came as a surprise to me. This Cardinals team seems hungry, not as hungry as say the 2022 Lions, but hungry nonetheless. If Kyler Murray can come back ready next season with Marvin Harrison Jr, Arizona will be cooking. Oh, also keep Dobbs as a backup, he’s earned it.
Update: After I wrote this, the Cardinals announced the benching of Joshua Dobbs for Rookie Clayton Tune. What a shame. All the luck to Tune in his first NFL game.
Update 2.0: After these Power Rankings were published, Joshua Dobbs was traded to Minnesota, along with a 7th rounder next year, for a 6th rounder next year. Best wishes to Dobbs and the Vikings!
Ceiling: Top 10 pick
Floor: 1st overall pick
For anyone that stuck until the end, I have organized my playoff picks if anyone’s interested.
So, what do you all think? Let us know your opinion in the comments!
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