NFL Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's football editors.   This week, we're unc...

<p><em>NFL Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's football editors. </em></p><p><em>This week, we're uncovering a scary trend for each team that might leave fans trembling in fear on Halloween.</em></p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#ARI">ARI</a> | <a href="#ATL">ATL</a> | <a href="#BAL">BAL</a> | <a href="#BUF">BUF</a> | <a href="#CAR">CAR</a> | <a href="#CHI">CHI</a> | <a href="#CIN">CIN</a> | <a href="#CLE">CLE</a> | <a href="#DAL">DAL</a> | <a href="#DEN">DEN</a> | <a href="#DET">DET</a> | <a href="#GB">GB</a> | <a href="#HOU">HOU</a> | <a href="#IND">IND</a> | <a href="#JAX">JAX</a> | <a href="#KC">KC</a> | <a href="#LAC">LAC</a> | <a href="#LAR">LAR</a> | <a href="#LV">LV</a> | <a href="#MIA">MIA</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#NE">NE</a> | <a href="#NO">NO</a> | <a href="#NYG">NYG</a> | <a href="#NYJ">NYJ</a> | <a href="#PHI">PHI</a> | <a href="#PIT">PIT</a> | <a href="#SEA">SEA</a> | <a href="#SF">SF</a> | <a href="#TB">TB</a> | <a href="#TEN">TEN</a> | <a href="#WAS">WAS</a></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a id="KC" name="KC">1. Kansas City Chiefs (7-0)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 1</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752097/cropped_GettyImages-2181410981.jpg?ts=1730073609" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752097/w220xh124_GettyImages-2181410981.jpg?ts=1730073609 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752097/w320xh180_GettyImages-2181410981.jpg?ts=1730073609 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752097/w640xh360_GettyImages-2181410981.jpg?ts=1730073609 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752097/w768xh432_GettyImages-2181410981.jpg?ts=1730073609 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752097/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2181410981.jpg?ts=1730073609 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Christian Petersen / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Chiefs have seven wins in as many games, but history may not be on their side. The last remaining undefeated team hasn't won the Super Bowl since the 2006 Colts.</p><h3><a id="DET" name="DET">2. Detroit Lions (6-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 2</em></p><p>Detroit's defense could use more from Terrion Arnold. The 2024 first-round corner has allowed 354 yards in coverage and has been flagged for eight penalties, according to <a href="https://premium.pff.com/nfl/players/2024/REG/terrion-arnold/146603/defense">PFF</a>.</p><h3><a id="BAL" name="BAL">3. Baltimore Ravens (5-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 3</em></p><p>Baltimore has dropped four interceptions this season, tied for the most in the NFL, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/jamisonhensley/status/1850990980364997039">ESPN Stats &amp; Info</a>. The team's most recent drop would've sealed a Week 8 win, but Kyle Hamilton's mistake ultimately resulted in a Browns comeback.</p><h3><a id="BUF" name="BUF">4. Buffalo Bills (6-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 7</em></p><p>The Bills look great right now, but they haven't beaten a top AFC contender, having fallen short against the Ravens and Texans. Buffalo plays Kansas City in three weeks.</p><h3><a id="GB" name="GB">5. Green Bay Packers (6-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 5</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752222/cropped_GettyImages-2181392497.jpg?ts=1730139382" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752222/w220xh124_GettyImages-2181392497.jpg?ts=1730139382 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752222/w320xh180_GettyImages-2181392497.jpg?ts=1730139382 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752222/w640xh360_GettyImages-2181392497.jpg?ts=1730139382 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752222/w768xh432_GettyImages-2181392497.jpg?ts=1730139382 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752222/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2181392497.jpg?ts=1730139382 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Rich Storry / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Green Bay has been racking up takeaways on defense, but quarterback Jordan Love needs to protect the ball better. Love is tied for the league lead with nine interceptions despite only playing in six games.</p><h3><a id="MIN" name="MIN">6. Minnesota Vikings (5-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 4</em></p><p>Minnesota's defense got off to a hot start but has come back down to earth in back-to-back losses. The Vikings rank 31st in dropback success rate and EPA/play over the last two weeks.</p><h3><a id="HOU" name="HOU">7. Houston Texans (6-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 6</em></p><p>C.J. Stroud has been sacked 22 times in 2024, losing 173 yards as a result. Only Deshaun Watson has lost more yardage on sacks (191).</p><h3><a id="PHI" name="PHI">8. Philadelphia Eagles (5-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 9</em></p><p>The Eagles exploded on offense for 37 points against the Bengals, but they're still the NFL's only team that hasn't scored a point in the first quarter.</p><h3><a id="WAS" name="WAS">9. Washington Commanders (6-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 8</em></p><p>Washington's defense played well against Chicago, but the team will need to do a better job of slowing down opposing QBs if it wants to be a Super Bowl contender. Through eight weeks, the Commanders' defense ranks dead last in EPA/dropback.</p><h3><a id="PIT" name="PIT">10. Pittsburgh Steelers (6-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 10</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749336/cropped_GettyImages-2173446261.jpg?ts=1728582107" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749336/w220xh124_GettyImages-2173446261.jpg?ts=1728582107 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749336/w320xh180_GettyImages-2173446261.jpg?ts=1728582107 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749336/w640xh360_GettyImages-2173446261.jpg?ts=1728582107 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749336/w768xh432_GettyImages-2173446261.jpg?ts=1728582107 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749336/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2173446261.jpg?ts=1728582107 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Brandon Sloter / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Several wide receivers have come off the trade market recently, leaving Pittsburgh with fewer options in their search for a new weapon. Davante Adams joined the Jets, DeAndre Hopkins is now on the Chiefs, Cooper Kupp is expected to stay with the Rams, and Christian Kirk is out for the season with a collarbone injury.</p><h3><a id="ATL" name="ATL">11. Atlanta Falcons (5-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 12</em></p><p>Atlanta's defense hasn't ranked inside the top 20 in sacks since 2017, and it's trending in that direction again. The club sits last in sacks (six) and pressure rate (25.9%) through eight weeks.</p><h3><a id="SF" name="SF">12. San Francisco 49ers (4-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 13</em></p><p>The 49ers are 1-2 in divisional play and sit outside the playoff picture heading into Week 9. With a tight race in the NFC West, losses to the Rams and Cardinals early on could come back to haunt them.</p><h3><a id="SEA" name="SEA">13. Seattle Seahawks (4-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 11</em></p><p>Geno Smith leads the league in passing yards per contest, but the lack of a run game lowers the offense's ceiling. The club sits last in run-play rate and 24th in EPA/rush.</p><h3><a id="DEN" name="DEN">14. Denver Broncos (5-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 18</em></p><p>Rookie quarterback Bo Nix is coming off a strong Week 8 performance, but the Broncos still rank second in the NFL with 46 poor throws this year, according to <a href="https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2024/advanced.htm">Football Reference</a>.</p><h3><a id="ARI" name="ARI">15. Arizona Cardinals (4-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 19</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752311/cropped_GettyImages-2177520646.jpg?ts=1730164719" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752311/w220xh124_GettyImages-2177520646.jpg?ts=1730164719 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752311/w320xh180_GettyImages-2177520646.jpg?ts=1730164719 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752311/w640xh360_GettyImages-2177520646.jpg?ts=1730164719 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752311/w768xh432_GettyImages-2177520646.jpg?ts=1730164719 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752311/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2177520646.jpg?ts=1730164719 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Thearon W. Henderson / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>With a lack of talent in the secondary outside of Budda Baker, Arizona's pass defense has failed to slow down opposing offenses. The Cardinals rank 29th in yards per pass play and EPA/dropback.</p><h3><a id="LAR" name="LAR">16. Los Angeles Rams (3-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 23</em></p><p>With Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua back in action, the Rams can make a run at the NFC West crown. However, they need to play better away from SoFi Stadium, as they're 0-3 on the road and have been outscored by 43 points.</p><h3><a id="TB" name="TB">17. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 14</em></p><p>With Chris Godwin done for the season and Mike Evans out for the next few games, the Bucs need another receiver to step up. However, Sterling Shepard is their only other wideout with more than 110 receiving yards.</p><h3><a id="LAC" name="LAC">18. Los Angeles Chargers (4-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 20</em></p><p>The Chargers are above .500 in their first seven games with Jim Harbaugh, but they should also thank a favorable schedule for that. Los Angeles is only 1-3 against teams that are .500 or better.</p><h3><a id="CHI" name="CHI">19. Chicago Bears (4-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 16</em></p><p>Chicago's offensive line has done a poor job of protecting first overall pick Caleb Williams, as it's allowed the third-most sacks per game.</p><h3><a id="DAL" name="DAL">20. Dallas Cowboys (3-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 15</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745651/cropped_GettyImages-2168645612.jpg?ts=1726613418" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745651/w220xh124_GettyImages-2168645612.jpg?ts=1726613418 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745651/w320xh180_GettyImages-2168645612.jpg?ts=1726613418 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745651/w640xh360_GettyImages-2168645612.jpg?ts=1726613418 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745651/w768xh432_GettyImages-2168645612.jpg?ts=1726613418 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745651/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2168645612.jpg?ts=1726613418 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Sam Hodde / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Dallas' run offense and defense have been its Achilles heel in 2024. The club ranks 32nd in rushing yards per contest and 31st in rushing yards allowed per game.</p><h3><a id="CIN" name="CIN">21. Cincinnati Bengals (3-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 17</em></p><p>With its latest loss to Eagles, Cincinnati is 0-4 at Paycor Stadium. The 1-6 Titans are the only other AFC team yet to win a home game in 2024.</p><h3><a id="IND" name="IND">22. Indianapolis Colts (4-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 21</em></p><p>Among the 44 QBs who attempted at least 200 passes over the last two seasons, Anthony Richardson ranks dead last with a 50.2% completion rate, according to <a href="https://stathead.com/football/player-season-finder.cgi?request=1&amp;match=player_season_combined&amp;order_by=pass_cmp_pct&amp;year_min=2023&amp;year_max=2024&amp;positions%5B%5D=qb&amp;ccomp%5B1%5D=gt&amp;cstat%5B1%5D=pass_cmp_pct&amp;ccomp%5B2%5D=gt&amp;cval%5B2%5D=200&amp;cstat%5B2%5D=pass_att">Football Reference</a>.</p><h3><a id="NYG" name="NYG">23. New York Giants (2-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 24</em></p><p>The Giants' home crowd has had little to cheer for this season. In four games, New York is 0-4 at MetLife Stadium with zero touchdown passes and a minus-62 point differential.</p><h3><a id="NYJ" name="NYJ">24. New York Jets (2-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 22</em></p><p>The Jets are the second team this century to lose five straight games without being underdogs of at least three points in any of them, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/RichCimini/status/1850671778571673898">ESPN Research</a>.</p><h3><a id="MIA" name="MIA">25. Miami Dolphins (2-5)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744785/cropped_GettyImages-2171219364.jpg?ts=1726158634" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744785/w220xh124_GettyImages-2171219364.jpg?ts=1726158634 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744785/w320xh180_GettyImages-2171219364.jpg?ts=1726158634 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744785/w640xh360_GettyImages-2171219364.jpg?ts=1726158634 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744785/w768xh432_GettyImages-2171219364.jpg?ts=1726158634 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744785/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2171219364.jpg?ts=1726158634 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Carmen Mandato / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: 27</em></p><p>Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle had eight and three games, respectively, with at least 100 receiving yards in 2023. This year, however, the duo only topped that mark in Week 1.</p><h3><a id="JAX" name="JAX">26. Jacksonville Jaguars (2-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 26</em></p><p>In a Week 8 loss to the Packers, Trevor Lawrence lost his 22nd career fumble, the most in Jaguars history.</p><h3><a id="NE" name="NE">27. New England Patriots (2-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 28</em></p><p>New England's group of skill-position players has been a major disappointment. No Patriots player has more than one receiving TD so far, and Demario Douglas and Kayshon Boutte are the only wide receivers with 100-plus yards.</p><h3><a id="CLE" name="CLE">28. Cleveland Browns (2-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 32</em></p><p>Browns quarterbacks have been sacked 37 times in 2024, easily the worst mark in the NFL. The Patriots rank second with 27.</p><h3><a id="NO" name="NO">29. New Orleans Saints (2-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 25</em></p><p>New Orleans' offense has struggled during its six-game losing streak, but the defense has been the club's biggest issue. The Saints have allowed 6.1 yards per play, the league's worst mark.</p><h3><a id="LV" name="LV">30. Las Vegas Raiders (2-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 29</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748797/cropped_GettyImages-2176275592.jpg?ts=1728253046" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748797/w220xh124_GettyImages-2176275592.jpg?ts=1728253046 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748797/w320xh180_GettyImages-2176275592.jpg?ts=1728253046 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748797/w640xh360_GettyImages-2176275592.jpg?ts=1728253046 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748797/w768xh432_GettyImages-2176275592.jpg?ts=1728253046 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748797/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2176275592.jpg?ts=1728253046 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Cooper Neill / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Raiders lead the NFL in giveaways (17) and recently became only the 14th team to fall behind by double digits in each of their first eight games, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/JoshDubowAP/status/1850676348966392279">Josh Dubow of The Associated Press</a>.</p><h3><a id="TEN" name="TEN">31. Tennessee Titans (1-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 30</em></p><p>Tennessee has built an above-average defense, but forcing turnovers remains an issue. The Titans' three takeaways rank dead last in the NFL.</p><h3><a id="CAR" name="CAR">32. Carolina Panthers (1-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 31</em></p><p>Carolina has four 20-plus-point losses and is tied for the worst point differential (minus-147) through eight games since the 1970 merger.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28834104/related

NFL Power Rankings - Week 9: Every team's scariest trend

NFL Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's football editors.   Jump to: ARI | ATL |...

<p><em>NFL Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's football editors. </em></p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#ARI">ARI</a> | <a href="#ATL">ATL</a> | <a href="#BAL">BAL</a> | <a href="#BUF">BUF</a> | <a href="#CAR">CAR</a> | <a href="#CHI">CHI</a> | <a href="#CIN">CIN</a> | <a href="#CLE">CLE</a> | <a href="#DAL">DAL</a> | <a href="#DEN">DEN</a> | <a href="#DET">DET</a> | <a href="#GB">GB</a> | <a href="#HOU">HOU</a> | <a href="#IND">IND</a> | <a href="#JAX">JAX</a> | <a href="#KC">KC</a> | <a href="#LAC">LAC</a> | <a href="#LAR">LAR</a> | <a href="#LV">LV</a> | <a href="#MIA">MIA</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#NE">NE</a> | <a href="#NO">NO</a> | <a href="#NYG">NYG</a> | <a href="#NYJ">NYJ</a> | <a href="#PHI">PHI</a> | <a href="#PIT">PIT</a> | <a href="#SEA">SEA</a> | <a href="#SF">SF</a> | <a href="#TB">TB</a> | <a href="#TEN">TEN</a> | <a href="#WAS">WAS</a></p><h3><a id="KC" name="KC">1. Kansas City Chiefs (6-0)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 1</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750858/cropped_GettyImages-2179843464.jpg?ts=1729465485" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750858/w220xh124_GettyImages-2179843464.jpg?ts=1729465485 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750858/w320xh180_GettyImages-2179843464.jpg?ts=1729465485 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750858/w640xh360_GettyImages-2179843464.jpg?ts=1729465485 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750858/w768xh432_GettyImages-2179843464.jpg?ts=1729465485 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750858/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2179843464.jpg?ts=1729465485 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ezra Shaw / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>All they do is win, and the Chiefs are now 6-0 for the first time in the Patrick Mahomes era. The superstar QB hasn't been great this year (he leads the NFL with eight interceptions), but Mahomes seems to always find a way to win while being supported by a top-five defense.</p><h3><a id="DET" name="DET">2. Detroit Lions (5-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 3</em></p><p>Jared Goff has emerged as a legitimate MVP candidate with 1,086 yards, nine touchdowns, and one interception on 83.5% passing during the team's four-game win streak.</p><h3><a id="BAL" name="BAL">3. Baltimore Ravens (5-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 4</em></p><p>With Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry firing on all cylinders, the Ravens have looked virtually unstoppable lately. Despite facing a tough schedule, Baltimore has won five in a row while scoring at least 30 points in four straight games.</p><h3><a id="MIN" name="MIN">4. Minnesota Vikings (5-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 2</em></p><p>Minnesota is the only team in the NFL that ranks in the top six of both scoring offense and defense despite losing its first game Sunday.</p><h3><a id="GB" name="GB">5. Green Bay Packers (5-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 6</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750802/cropped_GettyImages-2179794224.jpg?ts=1729454380" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750802/w220xh124_GettyImages-2179794224.jpg?ts=1729454380 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750802/w320xh180_GettyImages-2179794224.jpg?ts=1729454380 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750802/w640xh360_GettyImages-2179794224.jpg?ts=1729454380 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750802/w768xh432_GettyImages-2179794224.jpg?ts=1729454380 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750802/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2179794224.jpg?ts=1729454380 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Patrick McDermott / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Packers fans may have to get used to a roller-coaster offense. Jordan Love has thrown at least one interception in every appearance this season, but the offense also ranks fifth in yardage and seventh in scoring.</p><h3><a id="HOU" name="HOU">6. Houston Texans (5-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 5</em></p><p>No reason to panic after a last-second loss to the Packers. Houston almost beat a playoff team on the road on a day in which C.J. Stroud had one of the worst performances of his NFL career. Expect the star quarterback to bounce back and the Texans to be just fine.</p><h3><a id="BUF" name="BUF">7. Buffalo Bills (5-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 8</em></p><p>Buffalo has three more wins than the next closest team in the division through seven weeks. Barring a collapse, the Bills should be AFC East champions for the fifth straight season.</p><h3><a id="WAS" name="WAS">8. Washington Commanders (5-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 10</em></p><p>The Commanders blew out the Panthers despite Jayden Daniels leaving the game in the first quarter with a rib injury. Daniels' ailment reportedly isn't long term, though. If he continues to play at a high level, the Commanders - whose offense ranks first in EPA/play - will be a threat in the NFC.</p><h3><a id="PHI" name="PHI">9. Philadelphia Eagles (4-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 12</em></p><p>The Eagles' defense has come alive over the last two games, recording more sacks (13) than points allowed (12). However, these stats came against mediocre offenses, and Philadelphia will face better quarterbacks in the coming weeks, starting in Week 9 against Joe Burrow and the Bengals.</p><h3><a id="PIT" name="PIT">10. Pittsburgh Steelers (5-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 14</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750879/cropped_GettyImages-2179858676.jpg?ts=1729470199" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750879/w220xh124_GettyImages-2179858676.jpg?ts=1729470199 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750879/w320xh180_GettyImages-2179858676.jpg?ts=1729470199 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750879/w640xh360_GettyImages-2179858676.jpg?ts=1729470199 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750879/w768xh432_GettyImages-2179858676.jpg?ts=1729470199 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750879/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2179858676.jpg?ts=1729470199 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Joe Sargent / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Russell Wilson looked good in his Steelers debut and helped the team set season highs with 37 points and 409 total yards. An above-average offense is what's been missing for Pittsburgh and its solid defense to make a deeper playoff run in recent years.</p><h3><a id="SEA" name="SEA">11. Seattle Seahawks (4-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 17</em></p><p>Seattle snapped a three-game skid in style, beating Atlanta 34-14. It was an encouraging performance by a Seahawks team that welcomed key defenders back from injury against the Falcons.</p><h3><a id="ATL" name="ATL">12. Atlanta Falcons (4-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 7</em></p><p>Atlanta was dominated by Seattle on both sides of the ball, but the club's biggest issue remains the lack of pass rush. Raheem Morris' outfit has collected only six sacks all season. At least the Falcons beat three NFC South rivals prior to losing to the Seahawks, so they remain in a good position in the division.</p><h3><a id="SF" name="SF">13. San Francisco 49ers (3-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 9</em></p><p>The 49ers haven't been consistent in 2024, and their injury woes just got worse: Receiver Brandon Aiyuk will miss the remainder of the season with a knee ailment. San Francisco needs running back Christian McCaffrey - out until at least early November - back as soon as possible.</p><h3><a id="TB" name="TB">14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 11</em></p><p>Tampa Bay has major wide receiver questions following its Monday Night Football loss to Baltimore. Mike Evans left the game after aggravating his hamstring injury, and Chris Godwin could miss the remainder of the season after sustaining a serious ankle injury.</p><h3><a id="DAL" name="DAL">15. Dallas Cowboys (3-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 13</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746475/cropped_GettyImages-2172660733.jpg?ts=1727052179" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746475/w220xh124_GettyImages-2172660733.jpg?ts=1727052179 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746475/w320xh180_GettyImages-2172660733.jpg?ts=1727052179 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746475/w640xh360_GettyImages-2172660733.jpg?ts=1727052179 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746475/w768xh432_GettyImages-2172660733.jpg?ts=1727052179 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746475/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2172660733.jpg?ts=1727052179 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Sam Hodde / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Dallas ranks dead last in rushing yards per game through seven weeks. Unless the Cowboys figure out how to establish a ground game, they could be in trouble the rest of the way.</p><h3><a id="CHI" name="CHI">16. Chicago Bears (4-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 15</em></p><p>Coming off a bye, the Bears should feel good about their season so far. Chicago has scored at least 24 points in its last three games, including back-to-back contests with 35 or more. It has also allowed fewer than 20 points in all of those appearances.</p><h3><a id="CIN" name="CIN">17. Cincinnati Bengals (3-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 16</em></p><p>It wasn't pretty, but Cincy beat Cleveland to sit one game below .500. After disappointing performances to start the season, the Bengals' defense has allowed 21 points combined to the Giants and Browns. But we'll have a better idea of whether coordinator Lou Anarumo <em>actually</em> fixed this unit in Week 8 against the Eagles.</p><h3><a id="DEN" name="DEN">18. Denver Broncos (4-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 21</em></p><p>Denver still has limitations in the passing game, but it rushed for 225 yards against New Orleans to claim its fourth win in the last five games. The Broncos and their top-three defense aren't AFC contenders (at least not yet), but they're trending in the right direction.</p><h3><a id="ARI" name="ARI">19. Arizona Cardinals (3-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 25</em></p><p>The Cardinals still have a few things to fix in the passing game, but Kyler Murray and James Conner have done a tremendous job with their legs to help Arizona win two of its last three contests.</p><h3><a id="LAC" name="LAC">20. Los Angeles Chargers (3-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 18</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749778/cropped_GettyImages-2178256172.jpg?ts=1728850772" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749778/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178256172.jpg?ts=1728850772 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749778/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178256172.jpg?ts=1728850772 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749778/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178256172.jpg?ts=1728850772 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749778/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178256172.jpg?ts=1728850772 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749778/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178256172.jpg?ts=1728850772 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Dustin Bradford / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Justin Herbert's receiving corps is clearly an issue, but many other things went wrong for L.A. on Monday. Herbert was hit seven times (three sacks), the running game averaged only 2.7 yards per carry, and the Chargers didn't score a single touchdown to lose for the third time in their last four tilts.</p><h3><a id="IND" name="IND">21. Indianapolis Colts (4-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 22</em></p><p>The Colts did just enough to beat an unrecognizable Dolphins team that's been missing Tua Tagovailoa. Indy is above .500 for the first time this year, but Anthony Richardson - who's completing only 48.5% of his passes - hasn't done much to prove doubters wrong in Year 2.</p><h3><a id="NYJ" name="NYJ">22. New York Jets (2-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 19</em></p><p>From bad throws to missed tackles to penalties to drops, the Jets keep making costly mistakes. Even their strong defense got exposed Sunday versus the Steelers. New York's season isn't over, but it's becoming harder and harder to believe Aaron Rodgers can make a run with this team.</p><h3><a id="LAR" name="LAR">23. Los Angeles Rams (2-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 23</em></p><p>The Rams' defensive unit looked good against the Raiders, and Cooper Kupp's imminent return from injury should help Matthew Stafford find his best form. The veteran QB has yet to post a multi-touchdown game in 2024.</p><h3><a id="NYG" name="NYG">24. New York Giants (2-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 24</em></p><p>The Giants have been outscored by 62 points with a 0-4 record at home this season. It looks like the Daniel Jones era is almost over in New York.</p><h3><a id="NO" name="NO">25. New Orleans Saints (2-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 20</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747626/cropped_GettyImages-2173237383.jpg?ts=1727653469" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747626/w220xh124_GettyImages-2173237383.jpg?ts=1727653469 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747626/w320xh180_GettyImages-2173237383.jpg?ts=1727653469 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747626/w640xh360_GettyImages-2173237383.jpg?ts=1727653469 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747626/w768xh432_GettyImages-2173237383.jpg?ts=1727653469 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747626/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2173237383.jpg?ts=1727653469 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Derick E. Hingle / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Remember when the Saints had the NFL's hottest offense and scored 91 points in their first two games? It feels like ages ago. They've since had terrible injury luck and lost five in a row while scoring 86 points combined in that span.</p><h3><a id="JAX" name="JAX">26. Jacksonville Jaguars (2-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 30</em></p><p>The win over the Patriots in London could ease some pressure off coach Doug Pederson for now, but the Jaguars have a tough schedule coming up. They face Green Bay, Philadelphia, Minnesota, and Detroit before a Week 12 bye.</p><h3><a id="MIA" name="MIA">27. Miami Dolphins (2-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 26</em></p><p>Miami ranks dead last in points per game after six contests. The fan base hopes Tagovailoa's return - which can happen as early as next week - will inject life into the team for a late-season playoff push.</p><h3><a id="NE" name="NE">28. New England Patriots (1-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 27</em></p><p>Drake Maye has looked solid in two starts and provides hope for the future. However, New England has lost six straight games and allowed 30-plus points in back-to-back contests.</p><h3><a id="LV" name="LV">29. Las Vegas Raiders (2-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 28</em></p><p>The quarterback position is costing the Raiders games. Most recently, Gardner Minshew threw three interceptions and lost one fumble after coming in versus the Rams. Minshew - who had lost the QB1 job earlier this season - is expected to start again after Aidan O'Connell sustained a thumb injury.</p><h3><a id="TEN" name="TEN">30. Tennessee Titans (1-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 29</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743984/cropped_GettyImages-1850145323.jpg?ts=1725649832" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743984/w220xh124_GettyImages-1850145323.jpg?ts=1725649832 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743984/w320xh180_GettyImages-1850145323.jpg?ts=1725649832 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743984/w640xh360_GettyImages-1850145323.jpg?ts=1725649832 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743984/w768xh432_GettyImages-1850145323.jpg?ts=1725649832 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743984/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1850145323.jpg?ts=1725649832 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Megan Briggs / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Tennessee led Buffalo at halftime in Week 7 but wasn't able to hold on and allowed 27 unanswered second-half points. At 1-5, the Titans are off to their worst start since 2015. </p><h3><a id="CAR" name="CAR">31. Carolina Panthers (1-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 31</em></p><p>The Panthers might turn to Bryce Young again, and that tells you exactly how their season is going. With Andy Dalton under center, Carolina suffered a 40-7 loss to a Washington team that didn't have Daniels at QB for most of the game due to injury.</p><h3><a id="CLE" name="CLE">32. Cleveland Browns (1-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 32</em></p><p>Deshaun Watson sustained a season-ending Achilles injury, but can the offense be any worse with a new QB? The Browns suffered their fifth straight loss Sunday, but at least their fans saw running back Nick Chubb score a touchdown in his return following a devastating knee injury in September 2023.</p>

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NFL Power Rankings - Week 8: Lions make statement, 49ers fall again

NBA Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's basketball editors.  To kick things off,...

<p><em>NBA Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's basketball editors.</em></p><p>To kick things off, we're looking at how things shape up as the 2024-25 regular season begins. Title odds courtesy of <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/">theScore Bet</a>.</p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#ATL">ATL</a> | <a href="#BKN">BKN</a> | <a href="#BOS">BOS</a> | <a href="#CHA">CHA</a> | <a href="#CHI">CHI</a> | <a href="#CLE">CLE</a> | <a href="#DAL">DAL</a> | <a href="#DEN">DEN</a> | <a href="#DET">DET</a> | <a href="#GSW">GSW</a> | <a href="#HOU">HOU</a> | <a href="#IND">IND</a> | <a href="#LAC">LAC</a> | <a href="#LAL">LAL</a> | <a href="#MEM">MEM</a> | <a href="#MIA">MIA</a> | <a href="#MIL">MIL</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#NOP">NOP</a> | <a href="#NYK">NYK</a> | <a href="#OKC">OKC</a> | <a href="#ORL">ORL</a> | <a href="#PHI">PHI</a> | <a href="#PHX">PHX</a> | <a href="#POR">POR</a> | <a href="#SAC">SAC</a> | <a href="#SAS">SAS</a> | <a href="#TOR">TOR</a> | <a href="#UTA">UTA</a> | <a href="#WAS">WAS</a></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a id="BOS" name="BOS">1. Boston Celtics</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750153/cropped_GettyImages-2176217970.jpg?ts=1729089793" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750153/w220xh124_GettyImages-2176217970.jpg?ts=1729089793 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750153/w320xh180_GettyImages-2176217970.jpg?ts=1729089793 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750153/w640xh360_GettyImages-2176217970.jpg?ts=1729089793 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750153/w768xh432_GettyImages-2176217970.jpg?ts=1729089793 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750153/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2176217970.jpg?ts=1729089793 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Brian Babineau / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Title odds: </em>+300</p><p>Aside from a one-point loss to the Raptors to end preseason, the defending champs resemble last year's 64-win machine. Joe Mazzulla's squad should be on a tier of its own in the East again.</p><h3><a id="OKC" name="OKC">2. Oklahoma City Thunder</a></h3><p><em>Title odds: </em>+675</p><p>Oklahoma City is ready to compete for championships after landing Alex Caruso and Isaiah Hartenstein over the summer. While Hartenstein will miss time with a fractured hand, the Thunder are primed for a dominant season. </p><h3><a id="NYK" name="NYK">3. New York Knicks</a></h3><p><em>Title odds: </em>+750</p><p>Capitalizing on their best campaign in over a decade, the Knicks pushed in all their chips to acquire Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns in hopes of capturing their first title since 1973.</p><h3><a id="DEN" name="DEN">4. Denver Nuggets</a></h3><p><em>Title odds: </em>+825</p><p>Denver's title defense ended in the second round against the T-Wolves. The Nuggets remain a threat with Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray leading the way, but they'll certainly feel the loss of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope.</p><h3><a id="PHI" name="PHI">5. Philadelphia 76ers</a></h3><p><em>Title odds: </em>+825</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749997/cropped_GettyImages-2175371549.jpg?ts=1729598874" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749997/w220xh124_GettyImages-2175371549.jpg?ts=1729598874 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749997/w320xh180_GettyImages-2175371549.jpg?ts=1729598874 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749997/w640xh360_GettyImages-2175371549.jpg?ts=1729598874 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749997/w768xh432_GettyImages-2175371549.jpg?ts=1729598874 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749997/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2175371549.jpg?ts=1729598874 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jesse D. Garrabrant / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Sixers revamped the roster around Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, adding a variety of veterans, including Paul George. Philadelphia will need its star trio healthy to vie for a title.</p><h3><a id="DAL" name="DAL">6. Dallas Mavericks</a></h3><p><em>Title odds: </em>+1000</p><p>Klay Thompson's best days are in the past, but the former All-Star's knack for economizing movements without the ball should pair well with Luka Doncic's eye for finding open teammates on the perimeter with absurd passes.</p><h3><a id="PHX" name="PHX">7. Phoenix Suns</a></h3><p><em>Title odds: </em>+2000</p><p>Phoenix addressed its lack of a natural point guard with the free-agent signings of Tyus Jones and Monte Morris. The two vets should alleviate some of Devin Booker's and Bradley Beal's playmaking duties.</p><h3><a id="MIN" name="MIN">8. Minnesota Timberwolves</a></h3><p><em>Title odds: </em>+1000</p><p>The T-Wolves have been accused - sometimes unfairly so - of being soft, so they added two dogs from NYC in Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo. Minnesota will have title aspirations if Anthony Edwards can be in the MVP discussion.</p><h3><a id="IND" name="IND">9. Indiana Pacers</a></h3><p><em>Title odds: </em>+5000</p><p>The Pacers are flying under the radar despite last season's conference finals run. The return of a healthy Bennedict Mathurin and Andrew Nembhard's emergence could further propel a team on the ascendancy.</p><h3><a id="MIL" name="MIL">10. Milwaukee Bucks</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751079/cropped_GettyImages-2178435292.jpg?ts=1729599008" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751079/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178435292.jpg?ts=1729599008 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751079/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178435292.jpg?ts=1729599008 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751079/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178435292.jpg?ts=1729599008 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751079/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178435292.jpg?ts=1729599008 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751079/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178435292.jpg?ts=1729599008 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Gary Dineen / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Title odds: </em>+1300</p><p>Back-to-back first-round exits, Khris Middleton's two summer ankle surgeries, and a threadbare bench have lowered expectations for a Bucks side that could still make a run thanks to Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard.</p><h3><a id="MEM" name="MEM">11. Memphis Grizzlies</a></h3><p><em>Title odds: </em>+4000</p><p>The Grizzlies should catapult up the standings after Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, Brandon Clarke, Marcus Smart, and Jaren Jackson Jr. all missed double-digit contests last season. Get in on the Zach Edey hype while you can.</p><h3><a id="CLE" name="CLE">12. Cleveland Cavaliers</a></h3><p><em>Title odds: </em>+4000</p><p>The Cavaliers had one goal this summer: tie down their important pieces long term, beginning with Donovan Mitchell. However, without other moves, it's essentially the same team that Boston outmatched in the playoffs.</p><h3><a id="ORL" name="ORL">13. Orlando Magic</a></h3><p><em>Title odds: </em>+5000</p><p>The third-best defense added Caldwell-Pope in the offseason. Get ready to deal with a perimeter defense of Jalen Suggs, Franz Wagner, and Anthony Black. Can Wagner join Paolo Banchero as a premier offensive player?</p><h3><a id="NOP" name="NOP">14. New Orleans Pelicans</a></h3><p><em>Title odds: </em>+5000</p><p>Supplementing a burgeoning core with any above-average point guard would've sufficed, but the Pelicans did one better by swinging for Dejounte Murray. That should help avoid a fourth straight play-in tournament berth.</p><h3><a id="MIA" name="MIA">15. Miami Heat</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751080/cropped_GettyImages-2178799291.jpg?ts=1729599112" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751080/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178799291.jpg?ts=1729599112 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751080/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178799291.jpg?ts=1729599112 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751080/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178799291.jpg?ts=1729599112 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751080/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178799291.jpg?ts=1729599112 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751080/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178799291.jpg?ts=1729599112 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Megan Briggs / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Title odds: </em>+4000</p><p>Heat culture is being put to the test with a roster that, once again, isn't dripping with talent. Will Jimmy Butler be re-invigorated as he searches for a max contract?</p><h3><a id="GSW" name="GSW">16. Golden State Warriors</a></h3><p><em>Title odds: </em>+4000</p><p>Buddy Hield should be able to fill veteran sharpshooter Klay Thompson's absence from beyond the arc. Expect Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, and Trayce Jackson-Davis to all take a leap this season.</p><h3><a id="LAL" name="LAL">17. Los Angeles Lakers</a></h3><p><em>Title odds: </em>+3000</p><p>JJ Redick will be under enormous pressure to deliver in Year 1 with the Lakers. However, with virtually the same roster returning, it's hard to imagine a drastic improvement from last season.</p><h3><a id="SAC" name="SAC">18. Sacramento Kings</a></h3><p><em>Title odds: </em>+5000</p><p>Sacramento made a splash over the summer, acquiring former All-Star DeMar DeRozan to aid in scoring. A career 29.6% three-point shooter, his fit with De'Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis will be watched closely.</p><h3><a id="LAC" name="LAC">19. Los Angeles Clippers</a></h3><p><em>Title odds: </em>+10000</p><p>Kawhi Leonard was held out of the Olympics, and he reportedly underwent a knee procedure in the offseason. The Clippers will only go as far as Leonard takes them. His indefinite absence doesn't bode well.</p><h3><a id="SAS" name="SAS">20. San Antonio Spurs</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750379/cropped_GettyImages-2177933649.jpg?ts=1729257043" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750379/w220xh124_GettyImages-2177933649.jpg?ts=1729257043 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750379/w320xh180_GettyImages-2177933649.jpg?ts=1729257043 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750379/w640xh360_GettyImages-2177933649.jpg?ts=1729257043 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750379/w768xh432_GettyImages-2177933649.jpg?ts=1729257043 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750379/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2177933649.jpg?ts=1729257043 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Issac Baldizon / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Title odds: </em>+10000</p><p>The Spurs should be more competitive with Harrison Barnes and Chris Paul on the roster. Paul solves one of the team's biggest issues: a dearth of talent at point guard. San Antonio also has Victor Wembanyama, who's pretty good.</p><h3><a id="HOU" name="HOU">21. Houston Rockets</a></h3><p><em>Title odds: </em>+15000</p><p>After a sensational Summer League, No. 3 pick Reed Sheppard was out of sorts in the preseason, scoring double digits just once on 18.2% 3-point shooting. If the Rockets have legit postseason aspirations, that won't cut it.</p><h3><a id="CHI" name="CHI">22. Chicago Bulls</a></h3><p><em>Title odds: </em>+50000</p><p>How fast will Coby White and Josh Giddey form a partnership? Can the Bulls build up Zach LaVine's trade value early this season? The rebuild in Chicago is officially underway. Finally.</p><h3><a id="ATL" name="ATL">23. Atlanta Hawks</a></h3><p><em>Title odds: </em>+20000</p><p>Top overall pick Zaccharie Risacher looked convincing in a tiny two-game preseason sample size, but the Hawks need him to rapidly develop chemistry with Trae Young if they want to improve on last year's 36-46 finish.</p><h3><a id="TOR" name="TOR">24. Toronto Raptors</a></h3><p><em>Title odds: </em>+50000</p><p>The Raps went on a 15-game losing streak after Scottie Barnes broke his hand last campaign. With Cooper Flagg, among others, at the top of the next draft, don't be shocked if Toronto hits the tank button.</p><h3><a id="CHA" name="CHA">25. Charlotte Hornets</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751082/cropped_GettyImages-2176275514.jpg?ts=1729599298" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751082/w220xh124_GettyImages-2176275514.jpg?ts=1729599298 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751082/w320xh180_GettyImages-2176275514.jpg?ts=1729599298 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751082/w640xh360_GettyImages-2176275514.jpg?ts=1729599298 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751082/w768xh432_GettyImages-2176275514.jpg?ts=1729599298 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751082/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2176275514.jpg?ts=1729599298 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Brock Williams-Smith / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Title odds: </em>+100000</p><p>Charlotte will likely miss the playoffs for the ninth straight season. But hiring Charles Lee as head coach and Year 2 of Brandon Miller are breaths of fresh air for Hornets fans.</p><h3><a id="POR" name="POR">26. Portland Trail Blazers</a></h3><p><em>Title odds: </em>+100000</p><p>Nobody seems to expect a bounty of wins in Portland this campaign. That might bode perfectly fine for a young Blazers squad oozing with potential with a mishmash roster that could navigate plenty of turnover in 2024-25.</p><h3><a id="UTA" name="UTA">27. Utah Jazz</a></h3><p><em>Title odds: </em>+100000</p><p>Jazz head coach Will Hardy has been lauded for his player development during his two seasons at the helm. Expect Hardy to continue prioritizing the long term over wins in another rebuilding campaign.</p><h3><a id="DET" name="DET">28. Detroit Pistons</a></h3><p><em>Title odds: </em>+100000</p><p>J.B. Bickerstaff will hope that a healthy Cade Cunningham and the additions of veteran trio Tobias Harris, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Malik Beasley are enough to avoid replicating last season's franchise-record 68 losses.</p><h3><a id="BKN" name="BKN">29. Brooklyn Nets</a></h3><p><em>Title odds: </em>+100000</p><p>Brooklyn is committed to tanking after acquiring its first-round pick in the summer, which will help land the Nets a big-time prospect. For now, new coach Jordi Fernandez can focus on roster development.</p><h3><a id="WAS" name="WAS">30. Washington Wizards</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751083/cropped_GettyImages-2161872425.jpg?ts=1729599428" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751083/w220xh124_GettyImages-2161872425.jpg?ts=1729599428 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751083/w320xh180_GettyImages-2161872425.jpg?ts=1729599428 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751083/w640xh360_GettyImages-2161872425.jpg?ts=1729599428 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751083/w768xh432_GettyImages-2161872425.jpg?ts=1729599428 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751083/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2161872425.jpg?ts=1729599428 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Dylan Goodman / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Title odds: </em>+100000</p><p>Washington added three first-round picks - Alex Sarr, Bub Carrington, and Kyshawn George - to a roster lacking talent. Getting them playing time early in the season will be paramount for the future.</p>

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NBA Power Rankings: Celtics enter season ready to repeat

With the 2024-25 NBA season tipping off Oct. 22, theScore's Joseph Casciaro, Michael Chandler, Do...

<p><em>With the 2024-25 NBA season tipping off Oct. 22, theScore's Joseph Casciaro, Michael Chandler, Donald Higney, Chicco Nacion, Jonathan Soveta, Thomas Tittley, and Joe Wolfond boldly predict which teams will be left standing and who'll be in line for individual hardware after the campaign.</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="EASTERN CONFERENCE FINALS" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-klZG7" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/klZG7/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="503" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>The reigning champs are our favorite - and that of bookmakers - to escape the Eastern Conference ahead of a pair of reloaded sides. Is it possible we're sleeping on last year's East finalists, the Indiana Pacers, or maybe even the Cleveland Cavaliers? Perhaps.</p><p>Sure, Kristaps Porzingis enters the 2024-25 campaign bothered by a pesky foot injury that required surgery, but the Celtics went 21-4 without the Latvian big a season ago. Pair that with the fact that Payton Pritchard has been a man possessed in the preseason, and Boston looks like a good bet in the East.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WESTERN CONFERENCE FINALS" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-3HFrn" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/3HFrn/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="503" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>In anticipation of another MVP-caliber campaign from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, leaps from Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren, and the benefit of improved depth by way of Alex Caruso and Isaiah Hartenstein, the Oklahoma City Thunder are a popular pick to reach the franchise's first NBA Finals since 2011-12.</p><p>Mark Daigneault and Co. also boast a slew of lock-up defenders, led by Luguentz Dort, and a surplus of length on the wing in reserve roles from the likes of organizational development standouts Aaron Wiggins, Isaiah Joe, and Cason Wallace. It's as complete and balanced a team as there is this season.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="NBA FINALS" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-5W8VS" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/5W8VS/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="503" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>The Celtics and Thunder expectantly lead the way, with the New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, and Denver Nuggets bringing up the rear. Not sure the world - or the city of New York, for that matter - could survive the Knicks winning it all. If there are basketball gods, please make this happen.</p><p>The Knicks haven't reached the East finals since 1999-2000 and haven't played in the Finals since 1998-99, and while it's unclear if the additions of Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges will be enough to get them over the hump, we need this. Basketball needs this. The world needs this.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="15 SEEDS" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-DIIFL" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/DIIFL/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="426" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Duke's Cooper Flagg leads a talented group of collegiate stars eyeing an NBA move. Unlike last season's draft, which was short on franchise-changing stars, the 2025 version should encourage the league's basement dwellers to fold like cheap lawn chairs on a summer's day in pursuit of the tank.</p><p>The Brooklyn Nets and Portland Trail Blazers figure to be in the mix for Flagg and Co. ahead of what should be a tumultuous campaign for these two teams. It's little wonder why this desperate duo featured prominently in the bottom half of our <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3058711" href="https://thescore.com/news/3058711">Watchability Rankings</a>.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="ROOKIE OF THE YEAR" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-zJz01" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/zJz01/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="426" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Reigning back-to-back NCAA Player of the Year Zach Edey and Houston Rockets newcomer Reed Sheppard are obvious favorites to win Rookie of the Year since a) they're both really good and b) they're both expected to play major roles on their respective teams from Day 1.</p><p>And then there's Matas Buzelis, who after slipping to his hometown Chicago Bulls with the 11th pick, said "Thank you to everyone that doubted me, because I wouldn't be here without y'all." It's clear the young fella has <em>got that dawg in him</em>, and the Bulls have absolutely nothing to lose in playing him a lot.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="COACH OF THE YEAR" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-qoFLo" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/qoFLo/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="426" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>A year after finishing fourth in Coach of the Year voting despite leading the Celtics to the top record in the Association, Joe Mazzulla is a popular pick to win the award for the NBA's best bench boss. Mazzulla and Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka lead our poll with two votes apiece.</p><p>Udoka, who also guided the Celtics to the NBA Finals in his lone season in Beantown, enters his second campaign with a Rockets squad expected to build on a 13-2 March last season and the emergence of Jalen Green, Alperen Sengun, Jabari Smith, Cam Whitmore, and rookie stud Sheppard.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-yo8lM" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/yo8lM/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="426" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>After years of stockpiling draft capital like a doomsday prepper with a bounty of non-perishable food items, Thunder vice president and general manager Sam Presti is the consensus pick to unseat Celtics coach-turned-suit Brad Stevens for the league's top executive award.</p><p>Presti is the NBA's longest-tenured general manager, having joined the franchise in 2007 before its move from Seattle to OKC. His latest coup came in the 2022 draft, landing future All-Stars Holmgren and Williams with the No. 2 and No. 12 picks, respectively.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Most Improved Player" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-k6knz" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/k6knz/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="426" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>It's a bit scary to think that Victor Wembanyama is still improving, hence why he got one vote for Most Improved Player among theScore's hoops scribes. Also, if your name is Jalen, there's a decent chance of nabbing the award for the player who's made the biggest leap in 2024-25.</p><p>Ben Simmons' name jumps off the page, doesn't it? The former No. 1 pick has become a punchline, but after many seasons besieged by back issues, he enters the campaign in the final year of a $40.3-million deal, meaning he's playing for his next contract. Stranger things have happened.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Defensive Player of the Year" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-HCSTU" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/HCSTU/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="426" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>It's little surprise that Wembanyama, the reigning Rookie of the Year and runner-up for Defensive Player of the Year honors to countryman Rudy Gobert, dominated this vote. Wembanyama was also the first rookie and the youngest player in history to earn an NBA All-Defensive first-team nod.</p><p>Not only does Wembanyama boast absurd height (7-foot-4) and wingspan (8-foot), but his elite timing made him a disruptor on the defensive end with 3.6 blocks and 1.2 steals per game, much of which he accomplished as a teenager. The sky's the limit for the NBA's next superstar on both ends of the court.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Sixth Man of the Year" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-j94FY" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/j94FY/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="426" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Sacramento Kings guard Malik Monk is a solid selection to win Sixth Man of the Year after narrowly finishing second to Minnesota Timberwolves cult hero Naz Reid by a small margin a year ago. Monk surprised many when he re-signed in Sacramento on a four-year, $78-million deal, including teammate Domantas Sabonis.</p><p>Reid could become one of six players to capture the distinction on multiple occasions, though it's not immediately clear what Minnesota head coach Chris Finch's starting five will be. Could Reid start over Julius Randle? That could open the door for teammate Donte DiVincenzo to win some hardware.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Most Valuable Player" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-x0Htp" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/x0Htp/4/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="426" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>It looks like players born abroad will continue a six-year spell of dominance over the NBA's most desired individual prize, with Canadian guard Gilgeous-Alexander and Slovenia's Luka Doncic leading the charge to unseat reigning holder and three-time winner Nikola Jokic.</p><p>Jokic dominated last year's vote, earning 79 of 99 first-place votes, with Gilgeous-Alexander (15) and Doncic (four) completing the podium. The only other player to receive a first-place vote, Greece's Giannis Antetokounmpo (one), won MVP in 2018-19 and 2019-20.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28742381/related

Predicting the next NBA champion and major award winners

This is the first in-season edition of theScore's NHL Power Rankings for the 2024-25 campaign. Ch...

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NHL Power Rankings: Early overreactions for each team

With the start of the 2024-25 campaign days away, here are eight intriguing storylines to follow ...

<p><em>With the start of the 2024-25 campaign days away, here are eight intriguing storylines to follow throughout the basketball calendar.</em></p><h3>Bronny's role with Lakers</h3><p>Of course it'll be memorable when LeBron and Bronny James officially take the floor together for the first time, but what are the Lakers' long-term plans for the 2024 draft's 55th overall pick? After giving him a heavily guaranteed four-year deal - a rarity for fresh second-rounders in the NBA - Los Angeles seems content to use a roster spot on the 20-year-old. But for how long? This is still a squad under intense pressure to win now with a rookie head coach in JJ Redick. Any trade that brings in more bodies than the Lakers send out, or their annual post-deadline tradition of scavenging the buyout market, could create tension in L.A.</p><p>In the likeliest scenario, Bronny will flesh out his game with the G League's South Bay Lakers until the organization considers him ready (although that won't alleviate a potential roster crunch). In the meantime, the franchise has fellow 2024 draftee Dalton Knecht, who looks more than ready to make the jump after three years in college and an impressive preseason.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>An ideal outcome for Bronny and the Lakers would mirror what the Toronto Raptors did with Pascal Siakam and Fred VanVleet. The pair spent much of their 2016-17 rookie campaigns with the Raptors' G League (then D-League) affiliate, not just honing their craft but also helping that team win the 2017 minor-league title. Both players cite that developmental period as pertinent to their eventual emergence as All-Stars.</p><h3>Has the Bucks' window closed?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/627339/cropped_GettyImages-1880769207.jpg?ts=1714749124" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/627339/w220xh124_GettyImages-1880769207.jpg?ts=1714749124 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/627339/w320xh180_GettyImages-1880769207.jpg?ts=1714749124 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/627339/w640xh360_GettyImages-1880769207.jpg?ts=1714749124 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/627339/w768xh432_GettyImages-1880769207.jpg?ts=1714749124 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/627339/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1880769207.jpg?ts=1714749124 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Nathaniel S. Butler / NBA / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>After winning a championship in 2021, it seemed like the Bucks were primed to keep challenging for titles. Their core of Giannis Antetokounmpo, Khris Middleton, and Jrue Holiday fit nicely with the offensive system of coach Mike Budenholzer. Heading into the 2024-25 season, the team's future looks much bleaker due to Doc Rivers' questionable leadership, Middleton's iffy health, and the lack of a two-man game between Antetokounmpo and his current point guard, Damian Lillard.</p><p>Year 2 for this group could produce different results, but Milwaukee's championship outlook is dimming rapidly. The biggest reason is that the Bucks' core is aging, and they don't have prospects who can step into supplemental roles. While the Greek Freak is still in his prime at 29 years old, his three best teammates - Lillard, Middleton, and Brook Lopez - are each over the age of 33 and project to be declining. Middleton has been limited to 88 games across the last two seasons due to various lower-body injuries, and he underwent offseason surgery on both ankles. There's reasonable doubt as to whether Lopez can remain the Bucks' defensive presence in the paint at 36 years old. Lillard showed signs of regression in his first season in Milwaukee, but there's still hope that he can adapt and support Antetokounmpo as a second option.</p><p>On top of those short- and long-term worries, Rivers did little to re-establish himself as a quality coach, seemingly cruising in the regular season before the team's loss to the upstart Indiana Pacers in the playoffs. With a full-blown training camp and new additions in Gary Trent Jr., Delon Wright, and Taurean Prince, the Bucks do have an opportunity to improve this campaign. However, it's hard to wave away the concerns about the key members of Antetokounmpo's supporting cast.</p><h3>CP3's impact on Spurs, Wemby</h3><p>It's no coincidence that teams get better when they add Chris Paul. The Los Angeles Clippers went from afterthoughts to perennial challengers with Paul guiding a young Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan. The Oklahoma City Thunder made the postseason during Paul's lone season with the club, and his mentorship helped Shai Gilgeous-Alexander develop into an MVP-caliber player and set the stage for the Thunder's rise to contender status. Paul also helped lead a dramatic turnaround in the desert as the Phoenix Suns reached their first Finals in 28 years during his first season with the franchise.</p><p>The San Antonio Spurs are hoping Paul can make a similar impact on Victor Wembanyama and the rest of their young nucleus. Gregg Popovich's squad was the youngest team in the NBA last season and certainly could've benefited from the presence of a veteran or two as it stumbled to a second straight 22-win campaign.</p><p>But the Spurs didn't sign Paul in free agency just to add experience to their locker room. The future Hall of Famer also brings stability to the point guard position after the team thrust Jeremy Sochan into the starting role to begin the 2023-24 campaign. At age 39, Paul still has plenty of playmaking juice - he averaged 6.8 assists and finished 11th in assist percentage (33.4%) last season despite coming off the bench. Paul's pick-and-roll mastery could give Wembanyama's growing offensive arsenal yet another dimension.</p><h3>Flagg leads deep 2025 draft class</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749088/cropped_GettyImages-2176250100.jpg?ts=1728421703" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749088/w220xh124_GettyImages-2176250100.jpg?ts=1728421703 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749088/w320xh180_GettyImages-2176250100.jpg?ts=1728421703 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749088/w640xh360_GettyImages-2176250100.jpg?ts=1728421703 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749088/w768xh432_GettyImages-2176250100.jpg?ts=1728421703 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749088/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2176250100.jpg?ts=1728421703 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Lance King / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>A generational prospect like Wembanyama doesn't seem to await the league's bottom-feeders, though the 2025 draft class is shaping up to be much stronger than the 2024 group. Line up those tanks.</p><p>The early favorite to go No. 1 overall is Duke freshman Cooper Flagg. The Blue Devils forward is an explosive athlete with the ability to influence the game on both ends. He's a versatile defender, a great passer for his size, and has shown an improved 3-point stroke. Flagg turned heads this summer with an impressive showing for the USA Select Team in a pre-Olympic scrimmage against the national squad.</p><p>The other two candidates to go first overall both hail from Rutgers. Ace Bailey is an energetic 6-foot-10 wing with two-way upside. He can create his own shot, boasts the length to guard multiple positions, and has experience running the point. His teammate Dylan Harper is a 6-foot-6 floor general who can score at all three levels. Harper's got an NBA-ready frame, he makes good reads when operating in the pick-and-roll, and he's an excellent rebounder for his position.</p><h3>Are Grizzlies title contenders with Ja back?</h3><p>This is an extremely talented Memphis roster that's only one season removed from having the league's third-best defensive rating, winning 51 games, and finishing second in the Western Conference. It's hard to succeed in this league when your MVP candidate only plays in nine contests due to injury and suspension. The task becomes even harder if your other four projected starters also miss double-digit games.</p><p>But the squad is back, and the Grizzlies are (mostly) healthy. Maybe getting Santi Aldama, GG Jackson, and Vince Williams Jr. on-ball reps will bear fruit come playoff time (although the latter two have already gone down with injuries). One thing is for sure: This team has to play fast. Even when Morant was healthy, the Grizzlies struggled to create offense in the half court. During Morant's nine games, their pace spiked, and their offensive rating rose along with it. Memphis has been the third-fastest team in the preseason, trailing only the Golden State Warriors and Cleveland Cavaliers.</p><p>This team will win more games than it did last year, but can it contend for a title? That depends on how Morant and rookie center Zach Edey coexist on offense and how Jaren Jackson Jr. impacts the game next to the 7-foot-4 giant on defense. Asking a first-year big to become prime Steven Adams is a tall order, but Edey could be a game-changer.</p><h3>Warriors embark on post-Klay era</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/623013/cropped_GettyImages-1838675482.jpg?ts=1712089559" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/623013/w220xh124_GettyImages-1838675482.jpg?ts=1712089559 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/623013/w320xh180_GettyImages-1838675482.jpg?ts=1712089559 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/623013/w640xh360_GettyImages-1838675482.jpg?ts=1712089559 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/623013/w768xh432_GettyImages-1838675482.jpg?ts=1712089559 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/623013/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1838675482.jpg?ts=1712089559 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Thearon W. Henderson / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>Longtime Golden State Warriors wing Klay Thompson's departure to the Dallas Mavericks closed a chapter. One of the most iconic players in the team's history, it's unlikely the Warriors win four championships without Thompson as Steph Curry's backcourt partner. However, his absence gives the franchise an opportunity to step into a new era.</p><p>The Warriors rebuffed the Utah Jazz's efforts to acquire Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, and Moses Moody for Lauri Markkanen, making a bet that the trio can be consistent contributors this season. Over nearly 30 games in 2023-24, Kuminga averaged 19.1 points as a starter. Now Steve Kerr needs to find consistent minutes for the 22-year-old as the team's most intriguing prospect. Podziemski and Moody are two of the players in contention to receive some of Thompson's minutes, along with offseason additions Buddy Hield and De'Anthony Melton and veteran defensive specialist Gary Payton II.</p><p>Golden State has a multitude of options to surround Curry, Draymond Green, and Andrew Wiggins, but Kerr and the rest of the coaching staff will have their hands full building a rotation that can remain competitive. If they can't do it, the Warriors will need to make some tough decisions in order to give the league's greatest shooter one more shot at a title.</p><h3>Sinking Clippers anchored to Kawhi's health</h3><p>Things are not looking good in Inglewood, California. Owner Steve Ballmer intended to open his new multibillion dollar Intuit Dome with a star-studded team, hoping to attract casual L.A. fans to his new state-of-the-art facility.</p><p>Unfortunately for Ballmer and the Clippers, things haven't gone according to plan. Paul George felt shortchanged by the organization's contract offer and signed with the Philadelphia 76ers over the summer. Los Angeles is attempting to replace George's production with a bevy of role players, inking Nic Batum, Kris Dunn, and Derrick Jones Jr. to free-agent deals.</p><p>Meanwhile, star forward Kawhi Leonard sat out the entire preseason as he continues to deal with a recurring knee problem. The 33-year-old was pulled from the U.S. Olympic camp this summer and reportedly underwent a knee procedure later in the offseason to help solve the problem. Now he's out indefinitely to start the 2024-25 campaign.</p><p>And the Clippers can't even tank: The Oklahoma City Thunder have the right to swap their own first-round 2025 pick for<strong> </strong>L.A.'s, which OKC obtained in the disastrous George-SGA deal. In fact, due to L.A.'s constant search for star power, the Clippers don't control their own first-round draft pick until 2030. Their fans should get ready for healthy doses of 35-year-old James Harden and Norman Powell isolations.</p><h3>Are the Rockets set for liftoff?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/601170/cropped_GettyImages-1779064168.jpg?ts=1699844330" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/601170/w220xh124_GettyImages-1779064168.jpg?ts=1699844330 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/601170/w320xh180_GettyImages-1779064168.jpg?ts=1699844330 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/601170/w640xh360_GettyImages-1779064168.jpg?ts=1699844330 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/601170/w768xh432_GettyImages-1779064168.jpg?ts=1699844330 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/601170/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1779064168.jpg?ts=1699844330 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Logan Riely / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>After winning 11 straight games in March, the Houston Rockets looked primed to return to the postseason for the first time since 2021. However, they couldn't maintain that momentum, dropping six of their last nine contests and failing to reach the play-in tournament. Despite that disappointment, the Rockets should feel good as they enter the campaign with another opportunity to end the playoff drought.</p><p>Houston's big offseason addition was drafting Kentucky sharpshooter Reed Sheppard third overall. The guard flashed his 3-point presence and playmaking abilities in training camp and preseason, potentially giving Houston another formidable ball-handler alongside Fred VanVleet, Jalen Green, and last year's lottery pick, Amen Thompson.</p><p>Any of the Rockets' young players could take a leap, but 22-year-old center Alperen Sengun can raise the team's ceiling the most. He was in contention for an All-Star nod last season and averaged a career-best 21.1 points, 9.3 rebounds, and five assists. If he continues to serve as the hub of Houston's offense, that'll benefit the rest of the roster, potentially aiding the growth of all the high-level prospects that need playing time under coach Ime Udoka. Given another year of familiarity with Udoka's defensive philosophy, Houston's deep squad has a good chance to get back into the postseason.</p>

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8 major storylines for the 2024-25 NBA season

Six weeks of the 2024 NFL season are in the books, and several stars have already started to make...

<p>Six weeks of the 2024 NFL season are in the books, and several stars have already started to make their case for prestigious honors.</p><p>Here's a look at the five best candidates for the main awards.</p><h2>Coach of the Year</h2><p><strong>5. Raheem Morris, Falcons</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750094/cropped_GettyImages-2177579361.jpg?ts=1729033034" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750094/w220xh124_GettyImages-2177579361.jpg?ts=1729033034 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750094/w320xh180_GettyImages-2177579361.jpg?ts=1729033034 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750094/w640xh360_GettyImages-2177579361.jpg?ts=1729033034 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750094/w768xh432_GettyImages-2177579361.jpg?ts=1729033034 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750094/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2177579361.jpg?ts=1729033034 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Atlanta hadn't figured out its offensive game plan with Kirk Cousins at QB in Week 1, but the team has looked significantly better since that season-opening loss. Morris deserves credit for putting together a squad that is currently above average on both sides of the ball. At 4-2, the Falcons currently lead the NFC South.</p><p><strong>4. Dan Campbell, Lions</strong></p><p>Campbell probably feels like he should have taken home Coach of the Year honors last season when he led the Lions to a 12-5 mark and division title. If voters didn't notice his leadership in 2023, Campbell is making sure they can't disregard him again. The Lions are off to a 4-1 start behind a league-best 30.2 points per game and a defense that ranks eighth in points allowed. Detroit's next game is against the undefeated Vikings. A win would send Campbell soaring up the COTY leaderboards.</p><p><strong>3. Demeco Ryans, Texans</strong></p><p>The Texans came into this season with lofty expectations after a surprise playoff run in 2023 and the offseason additions of Stefon Diggs and Joe Mixon, among others. Many young, promising teams crash into this wall of expectations, but not Ryan's Texans. Despite Mixon being sidelined for three games and star receiver Nico Collins also on the shelf, Houston has kept rolling. A 5-1 record with C.J. Stroud reinforcing his status as one of the NFL's best quarterbacks and Will Anderson growing into a premier pass-rusher leaves Ryans a hot choice for Coach of the Year.</p><p><strong>2. Dan Quinn, Commanders</strong></p><p>Dan Quinn's offseason hiring wasn't met with much excitement. A recycled, defensive coach leading a Washington team with a raw rookie quarterback seemed like a troubled bet. But, Quinn hasn't just proved his doubters wrong, he's laughed in their faces. The Commanders are off to an incredible 4-2<strong> </strong>start with Jayden Daniels not only in Rookie of the Year conversations, but in MVP discussions as well.</p><p><strong>1. Kevin O'Connell, Vikings</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750095/cropped_GettyImages-2176465266.jpg?ts=1729033088" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750095/w220xh124_GettyImages-2176465266.jpg?ts=1729033088 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750095/w320xh180_GettyImages-2176465266.jpg?ts=1729033088 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750095/w640xh360_GettyImages-2176465266.jpg?ts=1729033088 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750095/w768xh432_GettyImages-2176465266.jpg?ts=1729033088 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750095/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2176465266.jpg?ts=1729033088 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">DeFodi Images / DeFodi Images / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Who would have thought the Vikings would be one of two undefeated teams through six weeks. O'Connell has Sam Darnold playing lights-out football with 11 touchdowns against four interceptions,<strong> </strong>and for the second time in his three seasons, O'Connell has the Vikings' offense in the top eight<strong> </strong>in scoring. Let's also not forget that he's doing this in a division that hosts four clubs with at least four wins.</p><h2>Defensive Rookie of the Year</h2><p><strong>5. Chop Robinson, Dolphins</strong></p><p>It might seem odd to include a player who has yet to record a single sack. However, Robinson's eight pressures are third most among rookie edge rushers, while his 16.7% win rate is second best in that group, according to PFF. It wouldn't be surprising if Robinson finds himself firmly in the conversation for Defensive Rookie of the Year honors late in the year.</p><p><strong>4. Braden Fiske, Rams</strong></p><p>Fiske isn't receiving a lot of buzz for the award - mostly because his rookie teammate has soaked up all the attention - but he deserves to be in the discussion. The Florida State product is second in pressures and quarterback hurries among rookies, per PFF. If he keeps performing at this rate, voters may have to split the award in half for him and fellow Rams rookie Jared Verse.</p><p><strong>3. Quinyon Mitchell, Eagles</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750096/cropped_GettyImages-2173030163.jpg?ts=1729033158" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750096/w220xh124_GettyImages-2173030163.jpg?ts=1729033158 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750096/w320xh180_GettyImages-2173030163.jpg?ts=1729033158 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750096/w640xh360_GettyImages-2173030163.jpg?ts=1729033158 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750096/w768xh432_GettyImages-2173030163.jpg?ts=1729033158 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750096/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2173030163.jpg?ts=1729033158 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Cooper Neill / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Mitchell is a Day 1 starter in the Eagles' secondary, and he's doing more than just holding his own. The first-rounder has recorded six passes defended so far. He's been quite reliable, allowing only 55.6% of targets his way to be caught, per PFF.</p><p><strong>2. Laiatu Latu, Colts</strong></p><p>Latu saw a limited number of snaps through the first three games while serving as a member of Indy's pass-rush rotation. But the Colts needed their first-round edge rusher to step up after multiple injuries in recent weeks - and he hasn't disappointed. The former UCLA star has generated the second-most pressures among rookies in 2024 and already forced two fumbles, including a crucial fourth-quarter strip sack on Caleb Williams as Indianapolis beat the Chicago Bears in Week 3.</p><p><strong>1. Jared Verse, Rams</strong></p><p>Verse is the best rookie defender so far this season, and it's not particularly close. The 19th overall pick isn't stealing headlines yet - he's recorded just one sack - but he's amassed five tackles for loss, forced one fumble, and created 20 pressures, the most among first-year players, according to PFF. The 23-year-old is showing signs he can be a defensive cornerstone as the Rams transition into the post-Aaron Donald era.</p><h2>Offensive Rookie of the Year</h2><p><strong>5. Brian Thomas, Jaguars</strong></p><p>Thomas has been one of the few bright spots in a dreadful Jaguars season so far. The LSU product not only leads all rookies in receiving yards with 424, but his yardage is also top 10 among all NFL receivers. A big-play threat, Thomas' 17 yards per reception is sixth most across all qualified wideouts.</p><p><strong>4. Brock Bowers, Raiders</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750097/cropped_GettyImages-2178313260.jpg?ts=1729033232" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750097/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178313260.jpg?ts=1729033232 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750097/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178313260.jpg?ts=1729033232 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750097/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178313260.jpg?ts=1729033232 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750097/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178313260.jpg?ts=1729033232 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750097/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178313260.jpg?ts=1729033232 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ethan Miller / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Forget rookies, Bowers has been one of the best tight ends in the entire league. The Georgia product leads the position with 37 receptions and 384 yards. He's only scored one touchdown but is tied for most catches of 20-plus yards among TEs with five. In addition to standout pass-catching ability, the No. 13 pick has been a top-10 tight end in run-blocking this season, according to PFF.</p><p><strong>3. Malik Nabers, Giants</strong></p><p>There are two reasons why Nabers isn't first in this ranking, and both are out of his control: a historic rookie performance by the guy a couple spots ahead and a concussion forcing Nabers to miss two games. Before the injury, he entered Week 5 as the NFL leader in receptions (34), while his 386 receiving yards were second most.</p><p><strong>2. Caleb Williams, Bears</strong></p><p>Williams has looked good following two slow games to start his rookie season. The No. 1 pick is coming off his best NFL performance, as he completed 79% of his passes while throwing for four touchdowns against the Jaguars in London. His improvement has been key for the Bears, who head into their bye week with a 4-2 record and three straight wins. Williams ranks sixth in the league with five big-time throws since Week 4, according to PFF.</p><p><strong>1. Jayden Daniels, Commanders</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750098/cropped_GettyImages-2178264600.jpg?ts=1729033268" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750098/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178264600.jpg?ts=1729033268 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750098/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178264600.jpg?ts=1729033268 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750098/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178264600.jpg?ts=1729033268 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750098/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178264600.jpg?ts=1729033268 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750098/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178264600.jpg?ts=1729033268 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Patrick Smith / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It's been a historic start for the second overall pick. Daniels became the first player ever to register over 1,000 passing yards and 250 rushing yards across five games to begin a career. His 75.3 completion percentage also leads all quarterbacks this season. Daniels isn't adjusting to the NFL, he's imposing his will. At this point, there's a sizeable gap between him and the rest.</p><h2>Defensive Player of the Year</h2><p><strong>5. Maxx Crosby, Raiders</strong></p><p>New year, same story for Crosby, who's the best player on the underachieving Raiders. Despite missing one game due to injury, the three-time Pro Bowler leads the NFL with nine tackles for loss. He's now registered 54 TFL in his last 39 appearances dating back to 2022, easily the most in the league. Crosby has also racked up 5.5 sacks and two pass breakups in 2024.</p><p><strong>4. Xavier McKinney, Packers</strong></p><p>McKinney has looked good in green and yellow. He'd look even better with the Defensive Player of the Year award in his hands. At his current pace, it may be hard to deny him the accolade. McKinney has been the worst enemy of many quarterbacks this season with his league-leading five interceptions.<strong> </strong>The<strong> </strong>Packers safety has been incredibly consistent, grabbing one pick in five of his six games played.</p><p><strong>3. Dexter Lawrence, Giants</strong></p><p>The biggest obstacle standing in between Lawrence and the DPOY award might be his own team. The Giants' poor 2-4 record might detract voters from giving Lawrence his due, but the defensive tackle has been a stud. His seven sacks are tied for second most in the league, while his 11 quarterback hits are tied for third. His play against the run has been equally impressive, as Lawrence's run defense grade is second highest among all qualified interior defenders, per PFF.</p><p><strong>2. Will Anderson, Texans</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750099/cropped_GettyImages-2175950275.jpg?ts=1729033330" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750099/w220xh124_GettyImages-2175950275.jpg?ts=1729033330 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750099/w320xh180_GettyImages-2175950275.jpg?ts=1729033330 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750099/w640xh360_GettyImages-2175950275.jpg?ts=1729033330 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750099/w768xh432_GettyImages-2175950275.jpg?ts=1729033330 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750099/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2175950275.jpg?ts=1729033330 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Cooper Neill / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>From Defensive Rookie of the Year to Defensive Player of the Year? Don't rule it out. The 2023 third overall pick has been terrorizing backfields this season, and that goes for both opposing quarterbacks and running backs. Anderson has notched 5.5 sacks, and his nine tackles for a loss are tied for the most in the NFL. It seems like the Texans pass-rusher is unblockable, which could also hold true as he pursues the top defensive honor.</p><p><strong>1. T.J. Watt, Steelers</strong></p><p>This is familiar territory for Watt, who has become the DPOY favorite following Aidan Hutchinson's gruesome leg injury. Watt doesn't lead the league in any category, but he's been a jack of all trades in 2024 with 4.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, and eight tackles for a loss. No other player in the NFL owns a stat line like that.</p><h2>MVP</h2><p><strong>5. C.J. Stroud, Texans</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750106/cropped_GettyImages-2178237110.jpg?ts=1729034724" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750106/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178237110.jpg?ts=1729034724 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750106/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178237110.jpg?ts=1729034724 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750106/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178237110.jpg?ts=1729034724 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750106/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178237110.jpg?ts=1729034724 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750106/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178237110.jpg?ts=1729034724 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Maddie Malhotra / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Stroud is proving his rookie season was no fluke. The second-year quarterback plays with a veteran's composure, as he's upped his completion percentage from 63.9% to 68.3% while compiling 1,577 yards and 10 touchdowns to four interceptions through six starts. Were it not for an unusually poor showing against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 3, Stroud's record would be flawless. He has propelled the Texans to five victories in six contests and led a game-winning drive in two of those games.</p><p><strong>4. Jayden Daniels, Commanders</strong></p><p>The early front-runner for Offensive Rookie of the Year is also an MVP candidate. With elite accuracy and standout rushing ability, the athletic playmaker leads all QBs in EPA/play and is Washington's best player. At 4-2, the Commanders have already matched their win total from 2023. If Daniels can maintain his momentum and the Commanders continue to overachieve, he'll be a favorite for the award in the season's second half.</p><p><strong>3. Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs</strong></p><p>Mahomes isn't lighting up the stat sheet like he normally does. But, he's leading the AFC's lone undefeated team. That counts for a lot when it comes to MVP voting. To boost his case, the three-time Super Bowl champion is doing it with a pass-catching group consisting of Travis Kelce, rookie Xavier Worthy, and JuJu Smith-Schuster. If anything, Mahomes' 5-0 start proves he is truly inevitable.</p><p><strong>2. Lamar Jackson, Ravens</strong></p><p>The reigning NFL MVP won't surrender the trophy without a fight. Jackson is averaging a career-high 254.8 passing yards per game with a 67% completion rate, 10 passing touchdowns, and only two interceptions. His 403 rushing yards through six games is already nearly half of the 821 he posted in 2023. Last year, Jackson looked as complete a player as we've seen, but he appears to have gone a step further in 2024. He also seems to be only be gaining momentum with four straight wins and back-to-back 300-yard passing games entering Week 7.</p><p><strong>1. Josh Allen, Bills</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750102/cropped_GettyImages-2178551343.jpg?ts=1729033424" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750102/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178551343.jpg?ts=1729033424 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750102/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178551343.jpg?ts=1729033424 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750102/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178551343.jpg?ts=1729033424 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750102/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178551343.jpg?ts=1729033424 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750102/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178551343.jpg?ts=1729033424 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Luke Hales / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Many thought the Bills' Super Bowl window may have closed as the team entered the season with a flawed roster and major questions at wide receiver. Six weeks in and Buffalo has posted a 4-2 record and looks like a playoff team. That's largely thanks to Allen, who's passed for 10 touchdowns and has yet to be intercepted. Granted, the blowout loss to Jackson and the Ravens could be an issue for Allen's campaign, but the 28-year-old continues to make plays with his legs and also ranks second among QBs in EPA/play (behind Daniels). Allen has ranked in the top five for MVP three times in his career, including two top-three finishes. Is this the year he finally claims football's most prestigious individual award?</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28676095/related

NFL award rankings: Early leaders in race for MVP, top rookie, more

NFL Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's football editors.   This week, we'll be ...

<p><em>NFL Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's football editors. </em></p><p><em>This week, we'll be picking the most improved player on every team so far.</em></p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#ARI">ARI</a> | <a href="#ATL">ATL</a> | <a href="#BAL">BAL</a> | <a href="#BUF">BUF</a> | <a href="#CAR">CAR</a> | <a href="#CHI">CHI</a> | <a href="#CIN">CIN</a> | <a href="#CLE">CLE</a> | <a href="#DAL">DAL</a> | <a href="#DEN">DEN</a> | <a href="#DET">DET</a> | <a href="#GB">GB</a> | <a href="#HOU">HOU</a> | <a href="#IND">IND</a> | <a href="#JAX">JAX</a> | <a href="#KC">KC</a> | <a href="#LAC">LAC</a> | <a href="#LAR">LAR</a> | <a href="#LV">LV</a> | <a href="#MIA">MIA</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#NE">NE</a> | <a href="#NO">NO</a> | <a href="#NYG">NYG</a> | <a href="#NYJ">NYJ</a> | <a href="#PHI">PHI</a> | <a href="#PIT">PIT</a> | <a href="#SEA">SEA</a> | <a href="#SF">SF</a> | <a href="#TB">TB</a> | <a href="#TEN">TEN</a> | <a href="#WAS">WAS</a></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a id="KC" name="KC">1. Kansas City Chiefs (5-0)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 1</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749966/cropped_GettyImages-2178013198.jpg?ts=1728963562" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749966/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178013198.jpg?ts=1728963562 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749966/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178013198.jpg?ts=1728963562 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749966/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178013198.jpg?ts=1728963562 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749966/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178013198.jpg?ts=1728963562 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749966/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178013198.jpg?ts=1728963562 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">David Eulitt / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Tershawn Wharton</strong> is emerging as an impact pass-rusher for Kansas City. The longtime backup has posted a career-high 11.5% pressure rate early in his fifth season.</p><h3><a id="MIN" name="MIN">2. Minnesota Vikings (5-0)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 2</em></p><p><strong>Pat Jones II</strong> had five total sacks in his first 42 games. He's already tallied five this season to go along with six tackles for loss, seven quarterback hits, and a forced fumble.</p><h3><a id="DET" name="DET">3. Detroit Lions (4-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 3</em></p><p>It was only a matter of time until <strong>Jameson Williams</strong> turned into a weapon for offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. The speedster leads the Lions with 365 receiving yards after posting 354 a year ago.</p><h3><a id="BAL" name="BAL">4. Baltimore Ravens (4-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 4</em></p><p><strong>Isaiah Likely </strong>has made Mark Andrews an afterthought through six games. Likely is on pace to record a new career high in receptions per game and receiving yards per contest. His run blocking has also received praise, courtesy of <a href="https://www.pff.com/nfl/teams/baltimore-ravens/3/roster">PFF</a>.</p><h3><a id="HOU" name="HOU">5. Houston Texans (5-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 5</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749967/cropped_GettyImages-2175950275.jpg?ts=1728963649" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749967/w220xh124_GettyImages-2175950275.jpg?ts=1728963649 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749967/w320xh180_GettyImages-2175950275.jpg?ts=1728963649 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749967/w640xh360_GettyImages-2175950275.jpg?ts=1728963649 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749967/w768xh432_GettyImages-2175950275.jpg?ts=1728963649 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749967/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2175950275.jpg?ts=1728963649 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Cooper Neill / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Will Anderson</strong> took home Defensive Rookie of the Year honors, but he's taken his game to another level in his second season. Anderson is already up to 5.5 sacks through six contests, while his nine tackles for loss lead the NFL.</p><h3><a id="GB" name="GB">6. Green Bay Packers (4-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 6</em></p><p>Green Bay has a bevy of viable receiving options, but <strong>Jayden Reed</strong> has separated himself from the pack. The 2023 second-rounder ranks seventh in the NFL with 442 receiving yards and has added 110 yards on the ground.</p><h3><a id="ATL" name="ATL">7. Atlanta Falcons (4-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 7</em></p><p><strong>Drake London</strong> is primed to far outpace his stats from last season. The 2022 first-round pick and quarterback Kirk Cousins have been a scary tandem for opposing defenses.</p><h3><a id="BUF" name="BUF">8. Buffalo Bills (4-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 9</em></p><p><strong>Dorian Williams</strong> is becoming a key contributor for the Bills' defense early in his second season. His emergence at linebacker alongside 2023 breakout star Terrel Bernard has allowed Buffalo's defense to stay afloat despite the injury absence of Matt Milano.</p><h3><a id="SF" name="SF">9. San Francisco 49ers (3-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 10</em></p><p><strong>Jordan Mason</strong> has done a terrific job filling in for the injured Christian McCaffrey. He sits second in the NFL in rushing yards (609) while averaging 5.3 per carry.</p><h3><a id="WAS" name="WAS">10. Washington Commanders (4-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 8</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749968/cropped_GettyImages-2173332275.jpg?ts=1728963716" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749968/w220xh124_GettyImages-2173332275.jpg?ts=1728963716 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749968/w320xh180_GettyImages-2173332275.jpg?ts=1728963716 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749968/w640xh360_GettyImages-2173332275.jpg?ts=1728963716 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749968/w768xh432_GettyImages-2173332275.jpg?ts=1728963716 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749968/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2173332275.jpg?ts=1728963716 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Brian Robinson</strong> already has the same number of rushing touchdowns (five) in 2024 as he did last season. The 25-year-old has been critical for Washington's offense and rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels.</p><h3><a id="TB" name="TB">11. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 11</em></p><p><strong>Chris Godwin</strong> is playing the best football of his career. Godwin is third in the NFL in receiving yards (511) while leading the team in targets (53) and receptions (43).</p><h3><a id="PHI" name="PHI">12. Philadelphia Eagles (3-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 13</em></p><p><strong>Reed Blankenship</strong> has only surrendered nine receptions for 114 yards in coverage while allowing a 56.7 passer rating. He has a team-high two interceptions and has been the most consistent player in the Eagles' secondary.</p><h3><a id="DAL" name="DAL">13. Dallas Cowboys (3-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 12</em></p><p><strong>Jalen Tolbert</strong> has become the Cowboys' No. 2 option in the passing game after CeeDee Lamb. He's already eclipsed his reception and yardage totals from last season.</p><h3><a id="PIT" name="PIT">14. Pittsburgh Steelers (4-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 17</em></p><p><strong>Dan Moore Jr. </strong>looked like he could be the odd tackle out entering 2024. Instead, he's been a valuable blind-side protector and the Steelers' best offensive tackle with Broderick Jones struggling on the right side and rookie Troy Fautanu injured.</p><h3><a id="CHI" name="CHI">15. Chicago Bears (4-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 19</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749969/cropped_GettyImages-2177495768.jpg?ts=1728963756" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749969/w220xh124_GettyImages-2177495768.jpg?ts=1728963756 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749969/w320xh180_GettyImages-2177495768.jpg?ts=1728963756 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749969/w640xh360_GettyImages-2177495768.jpg?ts=1728963756 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749969/w768xh432_GettyImages-2177495768.jpg?ts=1728963756 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749969/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2177495768.jpg?ts=1728963756 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Reaves / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Gervon Dexter</strong> has been a difference-maker for the Bears, tallying a team-high four sacks and three tackles for loss. He had just 2.5 and zero, respectively, as a rookie.</p><h3><a id="CIN" name="CIN">16. Cincinnati Bengals (2-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 16</em></p><p><strong>Chase Brown</strong> was rarely used in 2023, but he's played his part beautifully in a backfield rotation alongside Zack Moss this season. The Canadian leads the team in rushing (283 yards) despite having fewer carries than Moss. He also holds an impressive 60.8% success rate on his rushing attempts.</p><h3><a id="SEA" name="SEA">17. Seattle Seahawks (3-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 14</em></p><p><strong>Derick Hall</strong> leads the team in sacks (5) while racking up 15 pressures. The 2023 second-rounder has shown he can get after the quarterback after not recording a sack in his rookie season.</p><h3><a id="LAC" name="LAC">18. Los Angeles Chargers (3-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 20</em></p><p><strong>Quentin Johnston</strong>'s disappointing rookie campaign had many throwing around the bust label. A fresh start with a new coaching staff has done wonders, though, as he's already topped last year's scoring total with three touchdowns.</p><h3><a id="NYJ" name="NYJ">19. New York Jets (2-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 18</em></p><p><strong>Allen Lazard</strong> looked like a disaster free-agent signing last year. As it turns out, all he needed was to be reunited with Aaron Rodgers. The veteran wideout has been a reliable target for his longtime quarterback, hauling in a team-high five touchdowns.</p><h3><a id="NO" name="NO">20. New Orleans Saints (2-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 15</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749970/cropped_GettyImages-2177816284.jpg?ts=1728963818" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749970/w220xh124_GettyImages-2177816284.jpg?ts=1728963818 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749970/w320xh180_GettyImages-2177816284.jpg?ts=1728963818 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749970/w640xh360_GettyImages-2177816284.jpg?ts=1728963818 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749970/w768xh432_GettyImages-2177816284.jpg?ts=1728963818 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749970/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2177816284.jpg?ts=1728963818 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Cooper Neill / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Rashid Shaheed</strong> has become New Orleans' go-to receiver. He's leading the team in targets (41), receiving yards (349), and receiving touchdowns (3).</p><h3><a id="DEN" name="DEN">21. Denver Broncos (3-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 21</em></p><p><strong>Riley Moss</strong> couldn't get on the field as a rookie. One year later, he's established himself as a legitimate starting cornerback opposite Patrick Surtain Jr. This is an extremely exciting tandem.</p><h3><a id="IND" name="IND">22. Indianapolis Colts (3-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 25</em></p><p>How is it possible a six-time Pro Bowler like <strong>Quenton Nelson </strong>can improve? The talented guard is PFF's second-highest-rated guard, which would be the first time he'd crack the top three since 2020.</p><h3><a id="LAR" name="LAR">23. Los Angeles Rams (1-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 23</em></p><p><strong>Quentin Lake</strong> has played in 100% of Los Angeles' defensive snaps through five games. He leads the team in tackles after only getting four starts at safety in 2023.</p><h3><a id="NYG" name="NYG">24. New York Giants (2-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 24</em></p><p><strong>Wan'Dale Robinson</strong> is second in the NFL in targets through six weeks. He's on pace for career highs in yards and receptions and has been Daniel Jones' go-to receiver outside of rookie Malik Nabers.</p><h3><a id="ARI" name="ARI">25. Arizona Cardinals (2-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 22</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749971/cropped_GettyImages-2171728504.jpg?ts=1728963932" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749971/w220xh124_GettyImages-2171728504.jpg?ts=1728963932 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749971/w320xh180_GettyImages-2171728504.jpg?ts=1728963932 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749971/w640xh360_GettyImages-2171728504.jpg?ts=1728963932 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749971/w768xh432_GettyImages-2171728504.jpg?ts=1728963932 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749971/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2171728504.jpg?ts=1728963932 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ric Tapia / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Paris Johnson</strong> has been much better in his sophomore season than in his rookie campaign. He has PFF's highest pass-blocking grade among Cardinals offensive lineman and looks like their left tackle of the future.</p><h3><a id="MIA" name="MIA">26. Miami Dolphins (2-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 26</em></p><p><strong>Emmanuel Ogbah</strong>, 30, has 12 pressures and two sacks through five games after being released and re-signed by the Dolphins this offseason. His 18 tackles are only two shy of his total from last campaign. </p><h3><a id="NE" name="NE">27. New England Patriots (1-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 31</em></p><p><strong>Keion White</strong> already has four sacks and one forced fumble through six weeks after a quiet rookie season. The 2023 second-round pick looks like a critical building block in New England's rebuild.</p><h3><a id="LV" name="LV">28. Las Vegas Raiders (2-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 28</em></p><p>Jakorian Bennett has been a bright spot for the Raiders' defense. The 2023 fourth-round pick earned a starting job out of camp this year and hasn't looked back. He's allowed a passer rating of just 59.1, according to PFF.</p><h3><a id="TEN" name="TEN">29. Tennessee Titans (1-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 30</em></p><p><strong>Harold Landry</strong> had himself a fine 2023 campaign with 10.5 sacks, but he's on pace to set a new career best by quite some margin. Landry is already up to four sacks through five games.</p><h3><a id="JAX" name="JAX">30. Jacksonville Jaguars (1-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 29</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749972/cropped_GettyImages-2177346060.jpg?ts=1728963961" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749972/w220xh124_GettyImages-2177346060.jpg?ts=1728963961 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749972/w320xh180_GettyImages-2177346060.jpg?ts=1728963961 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749972/w640xh360_GettyImages-2177346060.jpg?ts=1728963961 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749972/w768xh432_GettyImages-2177346060.jpg?ts=1728963961 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749972/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2177346060.jpg?ts=1728963961 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mike Carlson / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>There isn't a lot to be happy about in Jacksonville, but <strong>Tank Bigsby</strong>'s emergence has been spectacular. The second-year pro is averaging a league-high 7.2 yards per carry as he continues to come into his own as home-run threat.</p><h3><a id="CAR" name="CAR">31. Carolina Panthers (1-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 27</em></p><p><strong>Chuba Hubbard</strong> has been extremely efficient this season. The 25-year-old is averaging 5.6 yards per carry, ranking third among all running backs with at least 50 attempts this year.</p><h3><a id="CLE" name="CLE">32. Cleveland Browns (1-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 32</em></p><p><strong>Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah</strong> has always been talented, but he's playing at a top-five level in 2024. The Browns linebacker has already accumulated seven tackles for loss, two sacks, one forced fumble, and one interception.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28667742/related

NFL Power Rankings - Week 7: Every team's most improved player

With two weeks to go until the 2024-25 NBA season kicks off, rosters are more or less set after a...

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NBA offseason grades: Western Conference

With two weeks to go until the 2024-25 NBA season kicks off, rosters are more or less set for the...

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28605438/related

NBA offseason grades: Eastern Conference

Heading into the 2024-25 regular season, theScore's Kyle Cushman, Mike Dickson, Kayla Douglas, Jo...

<p><em>Heading into the 2024-25 regular season, theScore's Kyle Cushman, Mike Dickson, Kayla Douglas, Josh Gold-Smith, John Matisz, Sean O'Leary, and Josh Wegman make their picks for the division champions, major award winners, and Stanley Cup Final.</em></p><h2>Atlantic Division</h2><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Atlantic winner" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-nO9j4" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/nO9j4/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="292" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Another year, another season with the Toronto Maple Leafs favored to win the division. Despite all the talk about the Leafs being a regular-season team, Toronto has never won the Atlantic. New head coach Craig Berube will look to push his group to the top seed to earn the easiest path in the postseason.</p><p>The defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers will have something to say about that, and never rule out the always competitive Boston Bruins.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h2>Metropolitan Division</h2><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Metro winner" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-FxTJW" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/FxTJW/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="391" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>The New Jersey Devils and New York Rangers are popular picks in the Metro, and it'd be must-see television if the longtime rivals duke it out in the standings all year long. New York is in Cup-or-bust mode, while New Jersey is looking to shake off a lost year with new faces in goal and behind the bench. Whether the Devils' moves pay off remains to be seen, but a good chunk of our editors believe in Tom Fitzgerald's vision.</p><p>The Hurricanes are the outlier here, and while they lost plenty of talent over the summer, Carolina has a strong defensive corps, top-notch coach, and good nucleus of talent up front. Don't sleep on the Canes.</p><h2>Central Division</h2><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Central winner" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-hSHVo" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/hSHVo/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="391" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>It's not quite unanimous, but we're overwhelmingly expecting the Dallas Stars to repeat as Central Division champs. The Stars finished three points clear of the Winnipeg Jets and six ahead of the Colorado Avalanche en route to their second straight Western Conference Final appearance last season. Colorado has more superstars and certainly could challenge for the division's crown, but the Stars are still deeper from top to bottom.</p><h2>Pacific Division</h2><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pacific division" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-MCeSm" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/MCeSm/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="391" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>It's a clean sweep for the Edmonton Oilers, which should come as no surprise considering they're bringing back the majority of the roster that came within one game of winning the Stanley Cup a year ago. The Pacific Division projects to be one of the NHL's weakest, too, with the several teams in rebuilding mode. The Vancouver Canucks and Vegas Golden Knights are Edmonton's biggest threats.</p><h2>'Rocket' Richard Trophy</h2><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Rocket winner" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-vhu8Z" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/vhu8Z/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="264" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Auston Matthews is a near unanimous choice after a jaw-dropping 69-goal 2023-24 season. Only three other players eclipsed 50, and Matthews cleared second by 12. With three 'Rocket' Richards in the past four years, the award has become Matthews' to lose.</p><p>David Pastrnak finished 22 goals behind Matthews last season but is only one year removed from scoring 61. If Matthews is to face a challenge for the award, it likely comes from the Bruins sniper.</p><h2>Art Ross Trophy</h2><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Art Ross winner" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-xXbyx" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/xXbyx/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="264" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>We're all in agreement that Connor McDavid will finish the regular season with the most points for the fourth time in the last five years and sixth time in 10. The Oilers dynamo will tie Gordie Howe and Mario Lemieux for the second-most Art Ross Trophies if he does it, and he'd get to within four of tying Wayne Gretzky for the most ever.</p><h2>Selke Trophy</h2><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Selke winner" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-V9UHp" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/V9UHp/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="264" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Aleksander Barkov is the favorite to win the top defensive forward honor after shutting down Nikita Kucherov, Artemi Panarin, Pastrnak, and McDavid on his way to a championship this past spring. Rightfully so, as he ran away with the award last season - the second time he's earned the honor - and is up against a field that will have to distinctively exceed expectations to knock the Panthers captain off his perch.</p><h2>Calder Trophy</h2><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Calder winner" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-lRYyE" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/lRYyE/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="264" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>The Calder race projects to be one of the most fascinating, with Macklin Celebrini, Matvei Michkov, and Logan Stankoven all getting two votes apiece. While Celebrini and Michkov have more upside, Stankoven is a safe choice with 43 NHL games (regular season and playoffs) already under his belt. But don't sleep on Lane Hutson, who shined is his brief two-game debut a year ago and could work his way onto the top power-play unit.</p><h2>Vezina Trophy</h2><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Vezina winner" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Wggl6" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Wggl6/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="264" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Igor Shesterkin is the only goalie to receive multiple votes, and it's no wonder after he carried the Rangers to the Eastern Conference Final. Not only is Shesterkin's talent undeniable, he's on a mission to become the league's highest-paid goalie with free agency looming next summer. With added motivation for New York's top dog, this race might not be close.</p><h2>Norris Trophy</h2><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Norris winner" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-utK9o" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/utK9o/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="264" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>As the consensus best defenseman in the world, Cale Makar enters the season as the clear front-runner, so it's not a shock that he was the choice for multiple editors. Rasmus Dahlin getting multiple votes is somewhat surprising, though he certainly has the talent to win the Norris one day. Captaining the Sabres while they end their NHL-long 13-year playoff drought would make for a great story, too, and voters certainly like a good narrative.</p><h2>Hart Trophy</h2><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Hart winner" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-PWzFX" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/PWzFX/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="264" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>McDavid finished third in MVP voting last season, but he's won the Hart three times and the vast majority of our editors envision him doing it again in June. The Oilers captain is always a serious candidate and should be the front-runner again, barring unforeseen individual and/or team woes. Jack Hughes provides immense value to the Devils when healthy, and he could definitely be in the running - especially with an improved supporting cast.</p><h2>Stanley Cup Final</h2><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Stanley Cup winner" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-ldKUK" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ldKUK/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="391" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Four editors pick the Oilers to get over the hump and follow the Panthers' script of winning the Stanley Cup after losing in the final.</p><p>Two editors have the Devils going all the way to the Stanley Cup Final under new head coach Sheldon Keefe after missing out on the playoffs last season.</p><p>The Golden Knights, Stars, and Avalanche each make a single appearance, with Vegas and Dallas picked to claim a second Cup in their respective franchise histories.</p><p>Meanwhile, the defending champs get no love, with nobody picking the Panthers to go to a third straight Cup Final. Instead, the New York Rangers are the favorite out of the East but don't get a single pick to win the whole thing.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28599601/related

Predicting 2024-25 award winners, Stanley Cup champion

<p><em>NFL Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's football editors. </em></p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#ARI">ARI</a> | <a href="#ATL">ATL</a> | <a href="#BAL">BAL</a> | <a href="#BUF">BUF</a> | <a href="#CAR">CAR</a> | <a href="#CHI">CHI</a> | <a href="#CIN">CIN</a> | <a href="#CLE">CLE</a> | <a href="#DAL">DAL</a> | <a href="#DEN">DEN</a> | <a href="#DET">DET</a> | <a href="#GB">GB</a> | <a href="#HOU">HOU</a> | <a href="#IND">IND</a> | <a href="#JAX">JAX</a> | <a href="#KC">KC</a> | <a href="#LAC">LAC</a> | <a href="#LAR">LAR</a> | <a href="#LV">LV</a> | <a href="#MIA">MIA</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#NE">NE</a> | <a href="#NO">NO</a> | <a href="#NYG">NYG</a> | <a href="#NYJ">NYJ</a> | <a href="#PHI">PHI</a> | <a href="#PIT">PIT</a> | <a href="#SEA">SEA</a> | <a href="#SF">SF</a> | <a href="#TB">TB</a> | <a href="#TEN">TEN</a> | <a href="#WAS">WAS</a></p><h3><a id="KC" name="KC">1. Kansas City Chiefs (5-0)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 1</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748988/cropped_GettyImages-2177342858.jpg?ts=1728357145" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748988/w220xh124_GettyImages-2177342858.jpg?ts=1728357145 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748988/w320xh180_GettyImages-2177342858.jpg?ts=1728357145 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748988/w640xh360_GettyImages-2177342858.jpg?ts=1728357145 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748988/w768xh432_GettyImages-2177342858.jpg?ts=1728357145 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748988/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2177342858.jpg?ts=1728357145 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jamie Squire / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>There may be nothing that can stop Patrick Mahomes after the Chiefs kept rolling despite significant injury losses to their skill position groups. Help has come from the unlikeliest places, with Kareem Hunt and JuJu Smith-Schuster turning back the clock and looking like their peak versions.</p><h3><a id="MIN" name="MIN">2. Minnesota Vikings (5-0)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 3</em></p><p>The lone NFC club with a spotless record is the 5-0 Vikings. Minnesota's defense stepped up in the clutch to keep their perfect record intact. Sam Darnold and Aaron Jones are among the stars who should benefit with the team idle this week.</p><h3><a id="DET" name="DET">3. Detroit Lions (3-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 2</em></p><p>The Lions will attempt to pick up where they left off after a bye week. Following a perfect game nearly two weeks ago, Jared Goff will lead a Detroit offense that is posting 397 yards per game (third in the NFL) through four outings. Aidan Hutchinson is on pace to eclipse his career-best sack total, entering the weekend with 6.5.</p><h3><a id="BAL" name="BAL">4. Baltimore Ravens (3-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 4</em></p><p>Remember when the Ravens were 0-2? We don't. Winners of three in a row, Lamar Jackson, Derrick Henry and Co. are starting to fire on all cylinders.</p><h3><a id="HOU" name="HOU">5. Houston Texans (4-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 6</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748735/cropped_GettyImages-2177119999.jpg?ts=1728238295" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748735/w220xh124_GettyImages-2177119999.jpg?ts=1728238295 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748735/w320xh180_GettyImages-2177119999.jpg?ts=1728238295 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748735/w640xh360_GettyImages-2177119999.jpg?ts=1728238295 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748735/w768xh432_GettyImages-2177119999.jpg?ts=1728238295 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748735/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2177119999.jpg?ts=1728238295 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Alex Slitz / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Revenge is a dish best served cold, and Stefon Diggs did his part in handing his former team, the Bills, a crushing loss on Sunday. Diggs' 82 receiving yards were the most of any player in the Week 5 meeting and were instrumental in moving the Texans to 4-1.</p><h3><a id="GB" name="GB">6. Green Bay Packers (3-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 8</em></p><p>While injuries to key starters threaten to derail a promising campaign, Green Bay is maintaining its composure. Tucker Kraft is emerging as a promising weapon in the passing game, and Xavier McKinney is making his case to be an All-Pro after extending his interception streak to five games.</p><h3><a id="ATL" name="ATL">7. Atlanta Falcons (3-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 9</em></p><p>Kirk Cousins' heroic performance against the Buccaneers, in which he threw for a franchise-record 509 passing yards, cemented his icon status. Meanwhile, other new additions, such as Justin Simmons and Matt Judon, are helping Atlanta live up to the preseason hype as it tries to win the NFC South.</p><h3><a id="WAS" name="WAS">8. Washington Commanders (4-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 11</em></p><p>Jayden Daniels continues to spur a revamped Commanders unit. Washington is second in the league with 31 points per contest and is averaging 178.4 rushing yards per game during its four-game win streak.</p><h3><a id="BUF" name="BUF">9. Buffalo Bills (3-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 5</em></p><p>For a second straight week, it appeared the Bills were on course for a blowout loss. They made it close in Sunday's game against Houston, but Buffalo still fell short and desperately needs more receiving talent.</p><h3><a id="SF" name="SF">10. San Francisco 49ers (2-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 7</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748994/cropped_GettyImages-2177305522.jpg?ts=1728359278" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748994/w220xh124_GettyImages-2177305522.jpg?ts=1728359278 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748994/w320xh180_GettyImages-2177305522.jpg?ts=1728359278 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748994/w640xh360_GettyImages-2177305522.jpg?ts=1728359278 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748994/w768xh432_GettyImages-2177305522.jpg?ts=1728359278 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748994/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2177305522.jpg?ts=1728359278 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Owens / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Niners are struggling to close out games. Losing the kicker doesn't help San Francisco's cause, but neither do the eight turnovers committed by the offense.</p><h3><a id="TB" name="TB">11. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 10</em></p><p>The Bucs are coming off a disappointing loss to a NFC South rival following a high-scoring and entertaining affair. Todd Bowles needs to figure how to cure his ailing defense after it surrendered over 350 total yards in each of the club's two losses.</p><h3><a id="DAL" name="DAL">12. Dallas Cowboys (3-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 12</em></p><p>The Cowboys' running game remains a work in progress, but there was a glimmer of hope from Rico Dowdle in their win against the Steelers. The big concern is the growing list of injured pass-rushers with Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence still on the mend.</p><h3><a id="PHI" name="PHI">13. Philadelphia Eagles (2-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 14</em></p><p>There's optimism that some extra rest will benefit key starters, such as AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith. A fully healthy unit should help Jalen Hurts and the passing game.</p><h3><a id="SEA" name="SEA">14. Seattle Seahawks (3-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 13</em></p><p>Following a pair of disastrous outings against the Lions and Giants, it's fair to wonder if the Seahawks are putting too much on Geno Smith's plate. Seattle's run defense is on the ropes after allowing 5.7 yards per carry to the Giants at home.</p><h3><a id="NO" name="NO">15. New Orleans Saints (2-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 15</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748995/cropped_GettyImages-2177336322.jpg?ts=1728359374" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748995/w220xh124_GettyImages-2177336322.jpg?ts=1728359374 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748995/w320xh180_GettyImages-2177336322.jpg?ts=1728359374 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748995/w640xh360_GettyImages-2177336322.jpg?ts=1728359374 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748995/w768xh432_GettyImages-2177336322.jpg?ts=1728359374 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748995/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2177336322.jpg?ts=1728359374 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jamie Squire / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Saints were once the talk of the league after rattling off 91 combined points in their first two outings. Since then, their offensive production has dipped amid a rash of injuries along the offensive line, and they're again scrambling to plug holes.</p><h3><a id="CIN" name="CIN">16. Cincinnati Bengals (1-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 18</em></p><p>Joe Burrow had one of the best performances you'll ever see in a losing effort, carving up the Ravens with five touchdowns and nearly 400 yards. Cincinnati scored over 30 points in its last three games but has only one win to show for it. If the Bengals can settle down on defense, they seem poised for a run.</p><h3><a id="PIT" name="PIT">17. Pittsburgh Steelers (3-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 16</em></p><p>The Steelers' defense surrendered a heartbreaking touchdown in the final minute and a season-high 445 yards to the Cowboys. It feels as if this Pittsburgh squad is once again following an unsustainable plan after two losses in a row.</p><h3><a id="NYJ" name="NYJ">18. New York Jets (2-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 17</em></p><p>There won't be much relaxing at the Jets' offensive meetings after a three-interception game from Aaron Rodgers. Nathaniel Hackett's unit is averaging under 20 points per game (18.6) and players are struggling to get on the same page.</p><h3><a id="CHI" name="CHI">19. Chicago Bears (3-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 21</em></p><p>After a rough introduction, Caleb Williams appears to be turning the corner in his rookie season. With D'Andre Swift and DJ Moore being more involved, the Bears fly to London having perhaps finally figured out their identity.</p><h3><a id="LAC" name="LAC">20. Los Angeles Chargers (2-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 20</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748996/cropped_GettyImages-2173762702.jpg?ts=1728359530" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748996/w220xh124_GettyImages-2173762702.jpg?ts=1728359530 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748996/w320xh180_GettyImages-2173762702.jpg?ts=1728359530 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748996/w640xh360_GettyImages-2173762702.jpg?ts=1728359530 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748996/w768xh432_GettyImages-2173762702.jpg?ts=1728359530 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748996/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2173762702.jpg?ts=1728359530 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Justin K. Aller / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It was a perfect time for a bye week for the ailing Justin Herbert. His next test will be a Broncos defense that is second in the NFL in points allowed.</p><h3><a id="DEN" name="DEN">21. Denver Broncos (3-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 23</em></p><p>Over the last four weeks, the Broncos gave up 13, seven, nine, and 18 points. With a stingy defense carrying the team, Denver will be in good shape if rookie passer Bo Nix can build off his magnificent performance against the Raiders.</p><h3><a id="ARI" name="ARI">22. Arizona Cardinals (2-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 24</em></p><p>Kyler Murray reminded the league that he's as explosive as ever by recording two touchdowns, including a 50-yard run. The Cardinals capitalized on three turnovers and are 2-0 against NFC West competition.</p><h3><a id="LAR" name="LAR">23. Los Angeles Rams (1-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 22</em></p><p>A lack of depth has finally caught up to the Rams. Injuries to Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp are problems that not even Matthew Stafford and Sean McVay can overcome.</p><h3><a id="NYG" name="NYG">24. New York Giants (2-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 26</em></p><p>The Giants pulled out a gutsy road win without the services of Malik Nabers and Devin Singletary. New York won in all three phases, as the defensive front owned the line of scrimmage and scored on a blocked field goal to ice the game.</p><h3><a id="IND" name="IND">25. Indianapolis Colts (2-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 19</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748998/cropped_GettyImages-2177127761.jpg?ts=1728359626" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748998/w220xh124_GettyImages-2177127761.jpg?ts=1728359626 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748998/w320xh180_GettyImages-2177127761.jpg?ts=1728359626 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748998/w640xh360_GettyImages-2177127761.jpg?ts=1728359626 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748998/w768xh432_GettyImages-2177127761.jpg?ts=1728359626 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748998/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2177127761.jpg?ts=1728359626 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mike Carlson / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Joe Flacco has been elite in place of Anthony Richardson and boasts five touchdowns to zero interceptions. It's too bad his defense let him down by allowing 497 yards and 37 points to the Jaguars in Week 5.</p><h3><a id="MIA" name="MIA">26. Miami Dolphins (2-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 25</em></p><p>For the first time this season, Miami won a game without Tua Tagovailoa. Granted, it was in a matchup against the Patriots. But the Dolphins will take it.</p><h3><a id="CAR" name="CAR">27. Carolina Panthers (1-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 27</em></p><p>So much for the Panthers riding the momentum of Andy Dalton as their starting quarterback. It doesn't matter who Carolina puts under center these days, as the offense continues to languish and defensive starters join an expanding injured reserve list.</p><h3><a id="LV" name="LV">28. Las Vegas Raiders (2-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 28</em></p><p>If the Raiders do trade Davante Adams, they'll at least be in good hands with Brock Bowers. The rookie continued his blazing start, and his 313 receiving yards lead all tight ends.</p><h3><a id="JAX" name="JAX">29. Jacksonville Jaguars (1-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 32</em></p><p>The Jaguars shouldn't feel too good about beating the Joe Flacco-led Colts, but Doug Pederson cooled the temperature on his seat by getting his first victory of the year.</p><h3><a id="TEN" name="TEN">30. Tennessee Titans (1-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 30</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748999/cropped_GettyImages-2173773435.jpg?ts=1728359846" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748999/w220xh124_GettyImages-2173773435.jpg?ts=1728359846 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748999/w320xh180_GettyImages-2173773435.jpg?ts=1728359846 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748999/w640xh360_GettyImages-2173773435.jpg?ts=1728359846 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748999/w768xh432_GettyImages-2173773435.jpg?ts=1728359846 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748999/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2173773435.jpg?ts=1728359846 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Johnnie Izquierdo / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Titans are going to need to come out of their bye swinging. Matchups with the Bills and Lions follow their Week 6 contest versus the Colts.</p><h3><a id="NE" name="NE">31. New England Patriots (1-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 31</em></p><p>There's not much to celebrate in New England. However, Rhamondre Stevenson had a great response to his brief benching, averaging 7.4 yards per carry on 12 attempts. Meanwhile, Drake Maye's ascension to becoming the starter gets closer with each passing week.</p><h3><a id="CLE" name="CLE">32. Cleveland Browns (1-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 29</em></p><p>Deshaun Watson is worse than bad. He's unplayable. The Browns hit rock bottom with a loss to the Commanders, and there doesn't appear to be a way back up unless Watson is benched.</p>

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<p><em>The supersized Champions League continued this week, with all 36 teams back in action over 48 frenetic hours. Below, theScore's soccer editors reflect on Matchday 2 in Europe's premier club competition.</em></p><h3>Key takeaway from Matchday 2 📝</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748052/cropped_GettyImages-2176153733.jpg?ts=1727879342" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748052/w220xh124_GettyImages-2176153733.jpg?ts=1727879342 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748052/w320xh180_GettyImages-2176153733.jpg?ts=1727879342 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748052/w640xh360_GettyImages-2176153733.jpg?ts=1727879342 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748052/w768xh432_GettyImages-2176153733.jpg?ts=1727879342 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748052/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2176153733.jpg?ts=1727879342 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ryan Pierse - UEFA / UEFA / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Gordon Brunt</strong>: The hype about Nicolas Jover and Arsenal's set pieces is legit. It's how they tightened their grip in Tuesday's 2-0 win over PSG. Along with shifting the momentum, Bukayo Saka's goal off a relatively simple free-kick routine also spoiled PSG boss Luis Enrique's pregame plans to snuff out Arsenal's most effective path to the back of the net. Other coaches will suffer the same fate until they figure out how to stop the sport's most lethal set-piece specialists.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The dark art of five blokes having a jog in a straight line strikes again. UEFA must act to stop this football voodoo</p>— Barney Ronay (@barneyronay) <a href="https://twitter.com/barneyronay/status/1841201721042677803?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><strong>Anthony Lopopolo</strong>: Losing back-to-back games in the Champions League isn't as backbreaking as it used to be. Now that there are eight round-robin fixtures to play instead of six, the sense of jeopardy has diminished, and teams that start badly have enough time to recover. AC Milan are a perfect example. Despite losing their first two games against Liverpool and Bayer Leverkusen, the Rossoneri still have a viable path to qualification, with games to come against lesser sides Club Brugge, Girona, and Slovan Bratislava.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Gianluca Nesci</strong>: Real Madrid haven't clicked yet this season. Jude Bellingham's slow start to the campaign is a big reason. Finding the right balance between Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe, who couldn't turn the tide in Wednesday's loss to Lille, remains Carlo Ancelotti's primary task. But Bellingham, who's yet to score this season and appears to be lacking sharpness, can help tide things over by rediscovering his form in front of goal. His incredible scoring rate last year was always unsustainable. Still, even a slight uptick from the English midfielder will go a long way as Madrid continue to work through some early-season hiccups.</p><p><strong>Daniel Rouse</strong>: UEFA said more big-club clashes would boost competitiveness. However, the new format also sets up more meetings between less privileged sides and European giants, leading to Tuesday's series of beatdowns - Barcelona thumping Young Boys, Borussia Dortmund dumping Celtic, Inter Milan crushing Crvena Zvezda, and Manchester City brushing aside Slovan Bratislava - accentuating the ugly gap between the richest and the rest. Those matches can be difficult to watch.</p><h3>Player of the week 🌟</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748188/cropped_GettyImages-2175350003.jpg?ts=1727913126" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748188/w220xh124_GettyImages-2175350003.jpg?ts=1727913126 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748188/w320xh180_GettyImages-2175350003.jpg?ts=1727913126 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748188/w640xh360_GettyImages-2175350003.jpg?ts=1727913126 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748188/w768xh432_GettyImages-2175350003.jpg?ts=1727913126 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748188/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2175350003.jpg?ts=1727913126 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NurPhoto / NurPhoto / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Brunt</strong>: Ryan Gravenberch. The Dutch international's transformation into an elite midfielder has been one of the surprises of the season for Liverpool. After being labeled a flop last year, the 22-year-old has been crucial for Arne Slot's dominant side to begin the 2024-25 campaign. Gravenberch produced another masterclass Wednesday, completing over 90% of his passes – amazingly, even passing to himself at one point - and retained the ball with ease while wreaking havoc against Bologna with his penetrating runs into dangerous areas.</p><p><strong>Lopopolo</strong>: Victor Boniface. The 23-year-old finished calmly to give Leverkusen a 1-0 win over Milan in the latest chapter of his encouraging development. Boniface's menacing aura makes him a striker worth serious consideration, as he tries to find the quickest route to goal every time he touches the ball. His finishing leaves nothing to the imagination, and while he sometimes straddles offside, as he did against Milan, he gets into scoring positions enough times to overcome such lapses in concentration.</p><p><strong>Nesci</strong>: Dusan Vlahovic and Abdallah Sima both scored twice in huge wins for their teams, but<em> </em>Karim Adeyemi went one better. For a player criticized for lacking the cutting edge early in his young career, the German forward looked pretty damn clinical Tuesday against Celtic, scoring a first-half hat-trick with a trio of excellent finishes. His second goal, a vicious left-footed strike from a seemingly impossible angle, was reminiscent of a shot that would've come off the foot of Erling Haaland or any other top striker in the game.</p><p><strong>Rouse</strong>: Adeyemi's performance was the best, but Mehdi Taremi deserves a mention. The Iranian was relieved to score his first Inter goal from the penalty spot, but his two assists against Crvena Zvezda were mightily impressive. Taremi was fierce but fair when he looted Uros Spajic before setting up Marko Arnautovic. For his second assist, he anticipated a loose touch, picked himself up after being bundled over, and coolly slipped Lautaro Martinez through on goal.</p><h3>Team that impressed you most 😍</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748174/cropped_GettyImages-2175482119.jpg?ts=1727910035" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748174/w220xh124_GettyImages-2175482119.jpg?ts=1727910035 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748174/w320xh180_GettyImages-2175482119.jpg?ts=1727910035 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748174/w640xh360_GettyImages-2175482119.jpg?ts=1727910035 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748174/w768xh432_GettyImages-2175482119.jpg?ts=1727910035 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748174/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2175482119.jpg?ts=1727910035 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Neal Simpson/Allstar / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Brunt</strong>: Lille. It doesn't get much better these days than beating Champions League holders Real Madrid. Lille came out of nowhere to pull off the upset of the week, winning 1-0 to end Madrid's 36-game unbeaten streak in all competitions. Even after going in front, Lille bravely pressed for another goal. At the other end of the pitch, they did extremely well to limit space and opportunities during Madrid's many advances into the final third.</p><p><strong>Lopopolo</strong>: Benfica. The Portuguese side has two wins out of two after dismantling Atletico Madrid on Wednesday. The 4-0 defeat looked as bad as any under Diego Simeone, exposing an alarming lack of courage and spunk in a side that prides itself on its fighting spirit. Kerem Akturkoglu kicked off the rout with his fourth goal in five matches and is looking like a bargain after signing from Galatasaray for just €12 million.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">𝐁𝐞𝐧𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐚 𝟒-𝟎 𝐀𝐭𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐨 𝐌𝐚𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐝<br><br>Not a good night for Madrid teams in the Champions League.<br><br>Atletico conceded more goals tonight than in their previous eight games in all competitions combined (three).<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BENATL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BENATL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/LjBKkcbuiB">pic.twitter.com/LjBKkcbuiB</a></p>— Opta Analyst (@OptaAnalyst) <a href="https://twitter.com/OptaAnalyst/status/1841589829311877305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><strong>Nesci</strong>: Juventus. It would've been easy for the Italians to capitulate Wednesday in Leipzig. Juve lost defensive stalwart Gleison Bremer and attacker Nico Gonzalez to injury within the first 12 minutes, had goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio sent off before the hour mark, twice fell behind to Benjamin Sesko goals, and felt aggrieved by some refereeing decisions. But powered by two excellent finishes from Vlahovic, Francisco Conceicao's trickery, and some heroic defending, Juve, who pressed high even down a man, came away with a statement 3-2 win. Thiago Motta has transformed this team.</p><p><strong>Rouse</strong>: Aston Villa. Unless you're a Bayern Munich fan, it was impossible not to be moved by the color and noise at Villa Park. The 1-0 win - a repeat scoreline of Villa's famous 1982 European Cup final victory over the same opponents - perfectly marked the first Champions League match at the famous venue. Unai Emery can't rely on Jhon Duran scoring worldies off the bench or Emiliano Martinez's remarkable athleticism each game, but his side truly embraced playing on the big stage.</p><h3>Who should hit the panic button? 😬</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742095/cropped_GettyImages-2166240037.jpg?ts=1724330985" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742095/w220xh124_GettyImages-2166240037.jpg?ts=1724330985 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742095/w320xh180_GettyImages-2166240037.jpg?ts=1724330985 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742095/w640xh360_GettyImages-2166240037.jpg?ts=1724330985 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742095/w768xh432_GettyImages-2166240037.jpg?ts=1724330985 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742095/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2166240037.jpg?ts=1724330985 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Cathrin Mueller - PSG / PSG / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Brunt</strong>: Celtic. From being the underdog many thought could snatch a surprise spot in the knockout round to looking totally out of place after a mortifying defeat, Celtic are already in need of a morale-boosting performance. The club's European hopes crashed back to earth with a humbling 7-1 loss to Borussia Dortmund, exactly what Brendan Rodgers' side would've wanted to avoid after its encouraging win in Matchday 1.</p><p><strong>Lopopolo</strong>: Rafael Leao. Now 25, Leao has to decide what kind of player he wants to be: a luxury forward who turns up every once in a while or a world-class winger with match-winning credentials. Currently, he's somewhere in between. Leao often shoots wide, and his crossing misses the mark, but he's irresistible in one-on-one situations. Most disappointing of all is his European record. With just three Champions League goals in 22 career starts, Leao has allowed people to question his ability to perform.</p><p><strong>Nesci</strong>: Luis Enrique. Paris Saint-Germain would still be winless if not for a last-second howler by Girona 'keeper Paulo Gazzaniga on Matchday 1. The French side looked <em>totally</em> overmatched against Arsenal and only made an imprint after going behind 2-0. With just three points in tow, PSG still have to play Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City. PSV and Stuttgart won't be pushovers, either. For a club so desperate to win this competition, PSG are in real danger of an early exit.</p><p><strong>Rouse</strong>: Red Bull Salzburg. The 4-0 home defeat to Brest doesn't accurately reflect how the game played out: the first two goals were against the run of play, and Salzburg outshot the visitors. Still, after that lopsided scoreline and a deserved 3-0 loss at Sparta Prague, Pep Lijnders' side is already in trouble. Matches against Dinamo Zagreb, Feyenoord, Bayer Leverkusen, PSG, Real Madrid, and Atletico Madrid round out Salzburg's league phase fixtures.</p><h3>Where we stand 👀</h3><p><em>Here's the complete league phase table after Matchday 2 (We're still not used to this, either). Remember: The top eight teams advance directly to the last 16, and the sides that finish ninth to 24th head to the new knockout phase playoffs, two-legged ties that determine who joins the top eight seeds in the round of 16. The bottom 12 clubs are eliminated from the Champions League. </em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Position</th>
<th>Club</th>
<th>GD</th>
<th>Points</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>1</strong></td>
<td>Borussia Dortmund</td>
<td>9</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>2</strong></td>
<td>Brest</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>3</strong></td>
<td>Benfica</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>4</strong></td>
<td>Leverkusen</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>5</strong></td>
<td>Liverpool</td>
<td>4</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>6</strong></td>
<td>Aston Villa</td>
<td>4</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>7</strong></td>
<td>Juventus</td>
<td>3</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>8</strong></td>
<td>Man City</td>
<td>4</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>9</em></td>
<td>Inter</td>
<td>4</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>10</em></td>
<td>Sparta Prague</td>
<td>3</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>11</em></td>
<td>Atalanta</td>
<td>3</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>12</em></td>
<td>Sporting CP</td>
<td>2</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>13</em></td>
<td>Arsenal</td>
<td>2</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>14</em></td>
<td>Monaco</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>15</em></td>
<td>Bayern Munich</td>
<td>6</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>16</em></td>
<td>Barcelona</td>
<td>4</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>17</em></td>
<td>Real Madrid</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>18</em></td>
<td>Lille</td>
<td>-1</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>19</em></td>
<td>PSG</td>
<td>-1</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>20</em></td>
<td>Celtic</td>
<td>-2</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>21</em></td>
<td>Club Brugge</td>
<td>-2</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>22</em></td>
<td>Feyenoord</td>
<td>-3</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>23</em></td>
<td>Atletico</td>
<td>-3</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>24</em></td>
<td>PSV</td>
<td>-2</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>25</td>
<td>Stuttgart</td>
<td>-2</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>26</td>
<td>Bologna</td>
<td>-2</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>27</td>
<td>Shakhtar</td>
<td>-3</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>28</td>
<td>Dinamo Zagreb</td>
<td>-7</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>29</td>
<td>Leipzig</td>
<td>-2</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>30</td>
<td>Girona</td>
<td>-2</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>31</td>
<td>Sturm Graz</td>
<td>-2</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>32</td>
<td>AC Milan</td>
<td>-3</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>33</td>
<td>Crvena Zvezda</td>
<td>-5</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>34</td>
<td>Salzburg</td>
<td>-7</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>35</td>
<td>S. Bratislava</td>
<td>-8</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>36</td>
<td>Young Boys</td>
<td>-8</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28541307/related

Champions League, Matchday 2: Lille and Aston Villa surprise, Arsenal soar

NFL Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's football editors.   This week, we identi...

<p><em>NFL Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's football editors. </em></p><p><em>This week, we identify every team's MVP through the season's first four weeks.</em></p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#ARI">ARI</a> | <a href="#ATL">ATL</a> | <a href="#BAL">BAL</a> | <a href="#BUF">BUF</a> | <a href="#CAR">CAR</a> | <a href="#CHI">CHI</a> | <a href="#CIN">CIN</a> | <a href="#CLE">CLE</a> | <a href="#DAL">DAL</a> | <a href="#DEN">DEN</a> | <a href="#DET">DET</a> | <a href="#GB">GB</a> | <a href="#HOU">HOU</a> | <a href="#IND">IND</a> | <a href="#JAX">JAX</a> | <a href="#KC">KC</a> | <a href="#LAC">LAC</a> | <a href="#LAR">LAR</a> | <a href="#LV">LV</a> | <a href="#MIA">MIA</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#NE">NE</a> | <a href="#NO">NO</a> | <a href="#NYG">NYG</a> | <a href="#NYJ">NYJ</a> | <a href="#PHI">PHI</a> | <a href="#PIT">PIT</a> | <a href="#SEA">SEA</a> | <a href="#SF">SF</a> | <a href="#TB">TB</a> | <a href="#TEN">TEN</a> | <a href="#WAS">WAS</a></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a id="KC" name="KC">1. Kansas City Chiefs (4-0)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 1</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747639/cropped_GettyImages-2175532887.jpg?ts=1727655225" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747639/w220xh124_GettyImages-2175532887.jpg?ts=1727655225 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747639/w320xh180_GettyImages-2175532887.jpg?ts=1727655225 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747639/w640xh360_GettyImages-2175532887.jpg?ts=1727655225 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747639/w768xh432_GettyImages-2175532887.jpg?ts=1727655225 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747639/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2175532887.jpg?ts=1727655225 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ronald Martinez / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>With six touchdown passes against five interceptions, <strong>Patrick Mahomes</strong> isn't playing his finest football. That said, the Super Bowl MVP always seems to find a way to win games in the fourth quarter. Mahomes has yet to be intercepted in the final frame this season, and his two game-winning drives lead the NFL.</p><h3><a id="DET" name="DET">2. Detroit Lions (3-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 3</em></p><p>Nobody in the league can consistently block <strong>Aidan Hutchinson</strong>. The Pro Bowl pass-rusher had at least one sack in each of the team's first three games - including 4.5 in Week 2 - and leads the NFL with 6.5.</p><h3><a id="MIN" name="MIN">3. Minnesota Vikings (4-0)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 4</em></p><p>No one could've predicted that <strong>Sam Darnold</strong> would make the Vikings look like one of the best teams in the NFC through four games. The 27-year-old is an early NFL MVP candidate with 932 passing yards and a league-high 11 touchdown passes.</p><h3><a id="BAL" name="BAL">4. Baltimore Ravens (2-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 9</em></p><p>It's hard for anyone to eclipse Lamar Jackson's contributions, but we're not in the business of doubting <strong>Derrick Henry</strong>. Baltimore's top free-agent signing recorded 199 yards on the ground in Week 4 to take the league lead in rushing yardage and propel the Ravens to a big win. </p><h3><a id="BUF" name="BUF">5. Buffalo Bills (3-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 2</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746630/cropped_GettyImages-2174052568.jpg?ts=1727144802" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746630/w220xh124_GettyImages-2174052568.jpg?ts=1727144802 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746630/w320xh180_GettyImages-2174052568.jpg?ts=1727144802 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746630/w640xh360_GettyImages-2174052568.jpg?ts=1727144802 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746630/w768xh432_GettyImages-2174052568.jpg?ts=1727144802 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746630/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2174052568.jpg?ts=1727144802 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Timothy T Ludwig / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Despite losing his top two receivers from 2023, <strong>Josh Allen</strong> is off to an awesome start with a career-high 69.3 completion percentage and 116.5 passer rating. He's also thrown seven touchdowns without tossing an interception.</p><h3><a id="HOU" name="HOU">6. Houston Texans (3-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 6</em></p><p><strong>Nico Collins</strong> has taken his game to another level this season. He's leading the NFL with 489 receiving yards - and no one else has even reached the 400-yard mark. It's no coincidence that Houston is 3-0 when the star wideout has posted at least 100 yards, but lost the only game in which he was limited to <em>only </em>86 yards.</p><h3><a id="SF" name="SF">7. San Francisco 49ers (2-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 7</em></p><p><strong>Fred Warner</strong> is putting together a Defensive Player of the Year resume through four contests. He has one sack, one tackle for loss, four pass breakups, three forced fumbles, two interceptions, and one touchdown so far.</p><h3><a id="GB" name="GB">8. Green Bay Packers (2-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 8</em></p><p><strong>Xavier McKinney</strong> is well on his way to earning the first Pro Bowl nod of his career. The 26-year-old has four interceptions and four pass deflections this year, tallying one of each in every outing.</p><h3><a id="ATL" name="ATL">9. Atlanta Falcons (2-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 15</em></p><p><strong>Jessie Bates III</strong> has three pass breakups and one interception through four contests. But his impact goes beyond stats: Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith <a href="https://x.com/MarkKaboly/status/1834261232456548449">told</a> reporters after Week 1 that they planned not to throw over the middle of the field to avoid Bates wrecking the game.</p><h3><a id="TB" name="TB">10. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 16</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747524/cropped_GettyImages-2174708414.jpg?ts=1727630833" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747524/w220xh124_GettyImages-2174708414.jpg?ts=1727630833 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747524/w320xh180_GettyImages-2174708414.jpg?ts=1727630833 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747524/w640xh360_GettyImages-2174708414.jpg?ts=1727630833 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747524/w768xh432_GettyImages-2174708414.jpg?ts=1727630833 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747524/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2174708414.jpg?ts=1727630833 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Kevin Sabitus / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Baker Mayfield</strong> looks terrific after signing a long-term extension this past offseason. He's led the Buccaneers to a 3-1 record while throwing for 984 yards with eight TDs.</p><h3><a id="SEA" name="SEA">11. Seattle Seahawks (3-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 12</em></p><p><strong>Geno Smith</strong> is leading the NFL in passing yards (1,182) and has elevated his play significantly this season. He's completed over 67% of his throws in every contest, and the Seahawks' offense looks dangerous through four outings.</p><h3><a id="WAS" name="WAS">12. Washington Commanders (3-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 19</em></p><p><strong>Jayden Daniels</strong> leads all signal-callers in EPA/play and success rate through four weeks. He's completed over 80% of his throws, and Washington has more scoring drives (23) than Daniels has incompletions (19). The rookie has made the Commanders must-watch TV and is one of the league's most exciting players.</p><h3><a id="DAL" name="DAL">13. Dallas Cowboys (2-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 14</em></p><p><strong>CeeDee Lamb</strong> leads the team in targets (32), receptions (20), and receiving yards (316) through four games. Dallas has relied heavily on the 25-year-old, as he's the team's only player with more than 165 total yards.</p><h3><a id="PHI" name="PHI">14. Philadelphia Eagles (2-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 5</em></p><p><strong>Saquon Barkley</strong> has eclipsed 100 total yards in each of Philadelphia's first four games. The Eagles' big free-agent addition has 520 yards and five touchdowns on 85 touches this year.</p><h3><a id="NO" name="NO">15. New Orleans Saints (2-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 10</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745286/cropped_GettyImages-2172194215.jpg?ts=1726430341" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745286/w220xh124_GettyImages-2172194215.jpg?ts=1726430341 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745286/w320xh180_GettyImages-2172194215.jpg?ts=1726430341 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745286/w640xh360_GettyImages-2172194215.jpg?ts=1726430341 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745286/w768xh432_GettyImages-2172194215.jpg?ts=1726430341 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745286/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2172194215.jpg?ts=1726430341 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Sam Hodde / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Alvin Kamara</strong> leads the league in scrimmage yards (536) through four weeks. The 29-year-old is playing arguably the best football of his career.</p><h3><a id="PIT" name="PIT">16. Pittsburgh Steelers (3-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 11</em></p><p>The Steelers have been a case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. The defense stood out in its first three games but fell apart Sunday. Instead, the Justin Fields-led offense put together its strongest effort. The one consistent piece on this team? Kicker <strong>Chris Boswell</strong>, who's made 11 of 12 field-goal attempts with his only miss coming from 62 yards.</p><h3><a id="NYJ" name="NYJ">17. New York Jets (2-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 13</em></p><p>The Jets still average under 20 points per game, so the team's MVP has to be someone on the defensive side of the ball. Through four weeks, no one has stepped up more than <strong>Will McDonald IV</strong>. The Jets desperately needed pass-rush help, and McDonald has answered the call with five sacks and eight quarterback hits so far.</p><h3><a id="CIN" name="CIN">18. Cincinnati Bengals (1-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 21</em></p><p>Don't let Cincy's record fool you: <strong>Joe Burrow</strong> remains one of the NFL's best QBs. He's completed 70.9% of his passes while tossing seven TDs to one interception. He keeps the Bengals' AFC hopes alive despite the team's subpar defensive unit.</p><h3><a id="IND" name="IND">19. Indianapolis Colts (2-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 22</em></p><p>With 349 yards and four TDs rushing, <strong>Jonathan Taylor</strong> was a top-five running back in the season's first month. Taylor's 426 scrimmage yards lead Indy by a significant margin (Alec Pierce ranks second with 234), and the tailback's 4.8 yards per carry represent his best average since his 2021 All-Pro campaign. The Colts better hope Taylor's ankle injury won't keep him out long term.</p><h3><a id="LAC" name="LAC">20. Los Angeles Chargers (2-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 18</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/632286/cropped_GettyImages-1926456286.jpg?ts=1718037823" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/632286/w220xh124_GettyImages-1926456286.jpg?ts=1718037823 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/632286/w320xh180_GettyImages-1926456286.jpg?ts=1718037823 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/632286/w640xh360_GettyImages-1926456286.jpg?ts=1718037823 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/632286/w768xh432_GettyImages-1926456286.jpg?ts=1718037823 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/632286/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1926456286.jpg?ts=1718037823 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ryan Kang / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Khalil Mack</strong> turned 33 this year, but he remains the Chargers' best defensive player. The veteran pass-rusher tops L.A. in tackles for loss (two), QB hits (four), and sacks (2.5) so far this year.</p><h3><a id="CHI" name="CHI">21. Chicago Bears (2-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 23</em></p><p><strong>Jaylon Johnson</strong> is tied for the team lead with three tackles for loss, leads Chicago with two interceptions and four pass breakups, and has allowed a 13.3 passer rating when targeted in coverage, per PFR.</p><h3><a id="LAR" name="LAR">22. Los Angeles Rams (1-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 17</em></p><p>In addition to scoring at least one TD in every game, <strong>Kyren Williams</strong> has 73 of the team's 95 carries this season, racking up 326 total yards and five touchdowns. With Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua injured, the 24-year-old has stepped up to be the offense's focal point.</p><h3><a id="DEN" name="DEN">23. Denver Broncos (2-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 25</em></p><p>Denver's defense is its biggest strength, and <strong>Patrick Surtain II</strong> remains one of the NFL's premier corners. Often in charge of covering the opposing team's top receiver, Surtain most recently limited Garrett Wilson to two catches and 24 yards to help the Broncos beat the Jets.</p><h3><a id="ARI" name="ARI">24. Arizona Cardinals (1-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 20</em></p><p><strong>Kyler Murray</strong> has nine touchdowns to only two turnovers so far. He's playing at a high level and proving why Arizona paid him to be the franchise quarterback.</p><h3><a id="MIA" name="MIA">25. Miami Dolphins (1-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 24</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747859/cropped_GettyImages-2175104365.jpg?ts=1727752344" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747859/w220xh124_GettyImages-2175104365.jpg?ts=1727752344 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747859/w320xh180_GettyImages-2175104365.jpg?ts=1727752344 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747859/w640xh360_GettyImages-2175104365.jpg?ts=1727752344 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747859/w768xh432_GettyImages-2175104365.jpg?ts=1727752344 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747859/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2175104365.jpg?ts=1727752344 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Kevin Sabitus / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>With Miami's top edge rushers yet to find their best form in 2024, <strong>Calais Campbell</strong> - who didn't join the team until June - has shown that age is just a number. The 38-year-old leads the Dolphins in tackles for<strong> </strong>loss (four), sacks (two), and even pass breakups (tied with two).</p><h3><a id="NYG" name="NYG">26. New York Giants (1-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 26</em></p><p><strong>Malik Nabers</strong> has been sensational to start his career. The sixth overall pick - who's racked up 386 receiving yards - leads the NFL in targets (52) and receptions (35).</p><h3><a id="CAR" name="CAR">27. Carolina Panthers (1-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 27</em></p><p><strong>Andy Dalton</strong> has injected life into this Panthers team after taking over for 2023 first overall pick Bryce Young. He has 539 yards with five touchdowns and one interception in two starts.</p><h3><a id="LV" name="LV">28. Las Vegas Raiders (2-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 29</em></p><p>Though <strong>Maxx Crosby</strong> missed Week 4 with an injury, he remains the Raiders' best player in 2024. The second-team All-Pro racked up 14 tackles (five for loss), five QB hits, and three sacks in his first three games of the 2024 campaign. </p><h3><a id="CLE" name="CLE">29. Cleveland Browns (1-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 28</em></p><p>Despite battling injuries to both feet, <strong>Myles Garrett</strong> has already recorded eight QB hits, four sacks, and two forced fumbles in four outings. But it's been a disappointing season for the Browns, and not even<strong> </strong>Garrett's contributions have been able to save them.</p><h3><a id="TEN" name="TEN">30. Tennessee Titans (1-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 32</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747849/cropped_GettyImages-2175138026.jpg?ts=1727749794" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747849/w220xh124_GettyImages-2175138026.jpg?ts=1727749794 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747849/w320xh180_GettyImages-2175138026.jpg?ts=1727749794 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747849/w640xh360_GettyImages-2175138026.jpg?ts=1727749794 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747849/w768xh432_GettyImages-2175138026.jpg?ts=1727749794 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747849/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2175138026.jpg?ts=1727749794 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Kevin Sabitus / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Harold Landry III</strong> is on pace to set a career high in sacks after posting four in as many games this campaign. He's looking a lot more like 2021 Landry, who piled up 12 sacks before missing 2022 with a torn ACL.</p><h3><a id="NE" name="NE">31. New England Patriots (1-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 30</em></p><p><strong>Keion White</strong> is well on his way to a second-year breakout with the Patriots. The 2023 second-round pick has already accumulated four sacks, four tackles for a loss, nine quarterback hits, and a forced fumble.</p><h3><a id="JAX" name="JAX">32. Jacksonville Jaguars (0-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 31</em></p><p>Rookie receiver <strong>Brian Thomas Jr.</strong> is the only player who's been able to make an impact in every game in what's been an underwhelming campaign in Jacksonville. The first-round wideout leads the Jaguars with 275 receiving yards and 16.2 yards per catch, placing him in the top 20 in the league in both categories.</p>

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NFL Power Rankings - Week 5: Every team's MVP after 1st month

Heading into the 2024 postseason, theScore's Michael Bradburn, Josh Goldberg, Bryan Mcwilliam, To...

<p><em>Heading into the 2024 postseason, theScore's Michael Bradburn, Josh Goldberg, Bryan Mcwilliam, Tom Ruminski, Travis Sawchik, Simon Sharkey-Gotlieb, Brandon Wile, and Ben Wrixon make their picks for each round.</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="AL wild-card round" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-H2gN9" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/H2gN9/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="396" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="NL wild-card round" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-BQQZs" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/BQQZs/3/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="413" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="American League Division Series" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-lCRUa" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/lCRUa/3/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="525" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
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BRONX, NY - AUGUST 24: A general view of the 2009 World Series trophy during the New York Yankees Old Timers Day on August 24, 2024 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York.

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