This past “Statement Sunday” in the NFL highlighted some surprising shifts.
The Eagles topped the Lions, the Bills outplayed the Buccaneers, the Rams secured a narrow win over the Seahawks, and the Broncos made a late rally against the Chiefs. It was quite the weekend for fans, no doubt.
So, what’s the takeaway from all this?
The Bears are now in sole possession of the NFC North’s top spot, while the Chiefs, who have dominated the AFC West for years, are sitting in third and at risk of missing out on the playoffs. Who would’ve predicted that?
Come on, raise your hand if you saw that happening.
Thought so.
Let’s dive into the Post’s Week 12 NFL Power Rankings.
1. Colts 8-2 (1)
Jonathan Taylor, having an MVP-like season, racked up 1,139 rushing yards and 17 total touchdowns during the bye week. The Colts have won five of their last six games, but they’re facing one of the toughest schedules ahead. DeForest Buckner hurt his neck and went to Panama for some unconventional treatment.
2. Eagles 8-2 (2)
Jalen Hurts contributed with a touchdown, Saquon Barkley had a team-high 90 scrimmage yards, and Jake Elliott added three field goals, leading to a 16-9 win over the Lions. The defense was on point, recording two sacks and defending ten passes, including a crucial fourth-down stop.
3. Rams 8-2 (3)
Kamren Kinchens intercepted two passes in the Rams’ 21-19 victory against the Seahawks. Matthew Stafford threw two touchdown passes, one marking Davante Adams’ 1,000th career catch, while Kyren Williams recorded a rushing touchdown along with 91 yards.
4. Patriots 9-2 (5)
With LaMondre Stephenson sidelined, Treveyon Henderson stepped up, scoring two rushing touchdowns in a 27-14 triumph over the Jets. This win extends the Patriots’ streak to eight games, their longest run since 2019, confirming their first winning season since 2021.
5. Broncos 9-2 (6)
Will Lutz nailed a 35-yard field goal as time expired, sealing a 22-19 victory against the Chiefs. The Broncos were aiming for their eighth win in a row, thanks to a crucial third-down sack by Jaquan McMillian and a 32-yard completion from Bo Nix to Troy Franklin for Lutz’s kick.
6. Seahawks 7-3 (4)
Jason Myers hit four field goals, including a long 57-yarder, but missed a 61-yarder attempt as time ran out, shutting down their chance at victory against the Rams. Sam Darnold struggled, tossing four interceptions during this dismal game, breaking their ten-game road winning streak.
7. Bills 7-3 (8)
Josh Allen’s six-touchdown performance led the Bills to a 44-32 win over the Buccaneers. This feat places him among a select few in NFL history with three rushing and three passing touchdowns in a single game. Despite an early interception, the Bills bounced back after losing three of their last five matchups.
8. Lions 6-4 (7)
The Lions faced their first defeat in two years against the Eagles, narrowly missing their opportunity to tie or win at the end due to a controversial defensive pass interference call.
9. Buccaneers 6-4 (9)
Sean Tucker took over as the main running back, scoring three touchdowns, but their defense faltered in the loss to the Bills. They held a 32-31 lead late in the game but failed to capitalize on their final two drives, resulting in a punt and a fumble by Baker Mayfield.
10. Packers 6-3-1 (11)
Jordan Love threw for two touchdowns despite a shoulder injury, while Malik Willis added another pass during Love’s examination. The Packers managed a 27-20 win against the Giants.
11. Bears 7-3 (14)
12. 49ers 7-4 (13)
13. Jaguars 6-4 (16)
14. Chargers 7-4 (10)
15. Chiefs 5-5 (12)
16. Ravens 5-5 (15)
17. Steelers 6-4 (17)
18. Texans 5-5 (18)
19. Panthers 6-5 (20)
20. Cowboys 4-5-1 (21)
21. Dolphins 4-7 (22)
22. Vikings 4-6 (19)
23. Falcons 3-7 (23)
24. Cardinals 3-7 (24)
25. Bengals 3-7 (25)
26. Commanders 3-8 (26)
27. Jets 2-8 (27)
John Metchie III caught his first touchdown pass after being traded, but it stood as a highlight in a disappointing game for Justin Fields, who ended up with a meager 116 yards passing against the Patriots. A bad snap resulting in a fumble and a turnover late in the game sealed their fate. Tyrod Taylor is set to take over as the starter.
28. Giants 2-9 (28)
Jameis Winston delivered three touchdown drives but faltered in crucial moments for the Packers. Defensive struggles led to a late winning touchdown drive in the fourth quarter.
