Written by Matt Clapp at Bloguin
1. New England Patriots (4-0; Last Week- No. 1)
The Patriots returned from their Bye Week to pummel the Cowboys 30-6 in Dallas. They have scored more points (149) than anyone else in the AFC, while playing one less game than all but three AFC teams.
The New England defense is also holding up plenty well enough to win given their offense, allowing just 23 points total over the last two games, and only 76 points on the season (19.0 points allowed per game).
2. Green Bay Packers (5-0; Last Week- No. 2)
Aaron Rodgers actually threw, not one, but two interceptions at Lambeau Field. Which means he likely won’t throw another interception there for like five more years.
3. Cincinnati Bengals (5-0; Last Week- No. 4)
Down 24-7 to the Seahawks at halftime, the Bengals rallied back for a 27-24 overtime victory over the defending NFC champs. That is a huge, huge win, and keeps Cincinnati undefeated.
4. Denver Broncos (5-0; Last Week- No. 3)
We talk about it every week- The 2015 Broncos are a team that will have to usually grind out victories, relying on their defense. They’re 5-0, but truthfully it’s in spite of their offense. Saying that in the last few years would’ve been crazy talk, but that’s where we’re at right now.
Peyton Manning has thrown six touchdowns, seven interceptions, and has just a 77.3 QB rating (30th in the NFL… that’s worse than Jameis Winston). They’re 30th in the NFL in total yardage, and their rushing “attack” is 31st in the NFL in yards per carry, with just a 3.3 average.
It’s a good thing their defense is No.1 in the NFL in yards allowed (just 278.0 yards per game), and that they lead the NFL in takeaways with 14.
5. Arizona Cardinals (4-1; Last Week- No. 5)
The Cardinals humiliated the Lions in Detroit. They lead the NFL in points per game (38.0) and point differential (+100). Carson Palmer is Pro Football Focus’ top-graded quarterbackthrough five weeks.
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