Title: NFL Week 9 Overreactions: Ravens Dominance and Eagles’ Impressive Streak
Sports Seriously’s Mackenzie Salmon takes a closer look at some of the wildest games during NFL Week 9. Additionally, let’s delve into the latest NFL power rankings as we enter Week 10 of the 2023 season.
1. Baltimore Ravens (Previous rank: 2)
The Ravens have emerged as the top-ranked team in the league, with their exceptional defense allowing an average of just 13.8 points per game. Their remarkable point differential of +115 sets them apart from the competition. In their past two home games, Baltimore outscored two NFC divisional leaders, Detroit and Seattle, by an impressive combined score of 75-9.
2. Philadelphia Eagles (Previous rank: 1)
The Eagles are the only team with an 8-1 record in the league, replicating their strong start from the previous season. However, quarterback Jalen Hurts’s injury has been a cause for concern. The upcoming bye week couldn’t have come at a better time for Philadelphia, as they gear up to face tough opponents like Kansas City, Buffalo, San Francisco, Dallas, and Seattle.
3. Kansas City Chiefs (Previous rank: 3)
The reigning AFC champions, the Chiefs, currently hold the top seed in the conference. With a strong defense that is surrendering only 15.9 points per game, Kansas City heads into their bye week before an anticipated Super Bowl rematch against the Eagles in Week 11.
4. San Francisco 49ers (Previous rank: 5)
The 49ers had an impressive off-week, making key acquisitions like DE Chase Young and giving important rest to injured players such as LT Trent Williams and WR Deebo Samuel. With these reinforcements, they find themselves back in a tie for the lead in the NFC West after Seattle’s blowout loss.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars (Previous rank: 4)
Coming off their bye week, the Jaguars have been strong on the road. They have the opportunity to make a statement by defeating the 49ers in their upcoming game.
As we move further down the rankings, the Cincinnati Bengals (6), Detroit Lions (7), and Dallas Cowboys (8) all have favorable schedules ahead, presenting opportunities for them to climb higher in the rankings. Meanwhile, the Buffalo Bills (9) seek to regain their form and find alternative options to rely on beyond quarterback Josh Allen and wide receiver Stefon Diggs.
Moving towards the bottom of the rankings, the Arizona Cardinals (32) face uncertainty as they welcome back quarterback Kyler Murray amidst challenges. The New York Giants (31) must revisit their plans and evaluate their QB1 situation heading into the future.
It’s important to recognize that these rankings and overreactions can shift quickly as the NFL season progresses. There are still many games left to be played, and unexpected outcomes are bound to occur.
Stay tuned as the action continues to unfold in the NFL’s thrilling 2023 season.
[Follow USA TODAY Sports’ Nate Davis on X, formerly Twitter @ByNateDavis.]