NFL Week 13 Power Rankings: Best-Case Scenarios for All 32 Teams
The Week 13 NFL Power Rankings reflect the holiday spirit as we examine the best-case scenarios for all 32 teams this season. For some, like the Philadelphia Eagles, that means aiming for a Super Bowl win. Others might focus on securing a new quarterback, or perhaps just sticking with their current one. Amidst a chaotic league, it’s important to appreciate the excitement this season brings.
1. Detroit Lions (9-2)
Last week: 1 | Sunday: Beat Indianapolis Colts 24-6
Best-case scenario: Statues. The Lions last won a championship in 1957, before the Super Bowl era began. With the league’s top scoring offense (32.7 points per game) and a strong point differential (plus-177), Detroit is well-positioned to end its championship drought.
Up next: vs. Chicago Bears, Thursday, 12:30 p.m. ET
2. Philadelphia Eagles (9-2)
Last week: 4 | Sunday: Beat Los Angeles Rams 37-20
Best-case scenario: Super Bowl. The Eagles solidified their position as the second-best team in the NFC. Saquon Barkley rushed for a franchise-record 255 yards, leading the league in rushing with 1,392 yards this season. The Eagles remain undefeated with A.J. Brown on the field.
Up next: at Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET
3. Buffalo Bills (9-2)
Last week: 2 | Sunday: Bye
Best-case scenario: Super Bowl. The Bills boast the second-best point differential in the league (plus-106) and have Josh Allen, a leading MVP contender. Their primary goal should be to secure playoff home-field advantage.
Up next: vs. San Francisco 49ers, Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET
4. Kansas City Chiefs (10-1)
Last week: 3 | Sunday: Beat Carolina Panthers 30-27
Best-case scenario: History. The Chiefs are on course to become the first team in NFL history to win three consecutive Super Bowls. After a narrow victory over the Panthers, Kansas City continues a strong season with the potential for greatness.
Up next: vs. Las Vegas Raiders, Friday, 3 p.m. ET
5. Green Bay Packers (8-3)
Last week: 6 | Sunday: Beat San Francisco 49ers 38-10
Best-case scenario: Super Bowl. The Packers established themselves as legitimate NFC contenders with a decisive win over the reigning conference champions. If Jordan Love maintains efficiency and Josh Jacobs continues to perform, the Packers can challenge for the title.
Up next: vs. Miami Dolphins, Thursday, 8:20 p.m. ET
6. Minnesota Vikings (8-4)
Last week: 7 | Sunday: Beat Chicago Bears 30-27
Best-case scenario: NFC Championship Game. The Vikings pulled off a rare feat by having a 300-yard passer and two 100-yard receivers in the same game without Justin Jefferson, signaling strong offensive potential as they move forward.
Up next: vs. Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
7. Baltimore Ravens (8-4)
Last week: 8 | Monday: Beat Los Angeles Chargers 30-23
Best-case scenario: Super Bowl. The Ravens bounced back from a previous loss, showcasing their ability to score against the top defensive unit. Despite penalties and defensive struggles, they remain strong contenders for the Super Bowl.
Up next: vs. Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET
8. Pittsburgh Steelers (8-3)
Last week: 4 | Thursday: Lost to Cleveland Browns 24-19
Best-case scenario: AFC Championship Game. The Steelers need to end a playoff win drought and they have the talent to do so, but offensive limitations may present challenges while maintaining defensive strength.
Up next: at Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
9. Los Angeles Chargers (7-4)
Last week: 9 | Monday: Lost to Baltimore Ravens 30-23
Best-case scenario: AFC Championship Game. The Chargers lead the league in scoring defense, but recent high-scoring games indicate they must improve against elite offenses to be true contenders.
Up next: at Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
As the season progresses, each team hopes to realize their best-case scenario amid a competitive landscape.
Source and credits: www.nytimes.com
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