NFL Week 15 Power Rankings: Bengals on the Rise, Chargers on the Decline
In the latest NFL Week 15 Power Rankings, the biggest riser is the Cincinnati Bengals, who have climbed seven places since Week 14. On the other hand, the Los Angeles Chargers have experienced the biggest fall, dropping eight places in the rankings.
The rise of the Bengals can be attributed to backup quarterback Jake Browning, who stepped in for the injured Joe Burrow and delivered an impressive performance. Browning earned a league-leading 85.9 PFF passing grade in Week 14, leading the Bengals to a second consecutive win.
Meanwhile, the Chargers’ decline can be linked to the absence of starting quarterback Justin Herbert, who will miss the remainder of the season due to injury. Backup quarterback Easton Stick has struggled to fill the void, and it’s expected that the Chargers will focus on improving their roster for the 2024 NFL Draft.
Injuries have also played a significant role in shaping the rankings, with notable offensive and defensive players facing setbacks. The San Francisco 49ers, Dallas Cowboys, and Philadelphia Eagles maintain their positions in the top 3, while the Baltimore Ravens have moved up one place.
In terms of late-down decision-making, the New England Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers punted a combined 15 times in Week 14, leading to a decrease in win probability. The Chargers also struggled on third downs, failing to convert any of their plays.
Defensively, the Texans and Dolphins experienced contrasting performances. The Texans struggled to stop the Jets’ offense, while the Dolphins, known for their strong coverage, allowed 10 plays of 15 or more yards.
As teams navigate the final weeks of the season, the power rankings continue to fluctuate, and the race for playoff berths intensifies. With key players dealing with injuries and unexpected outcomes shaping the landscape, the NFL remains as unpredictable as ever.