Five Up Five Down: The 5 Best and 5 Worst NFL Teams Week Nine

5 Worst NFL teams Week nine

Five Up Five Down: The 5 Best and 5 Worst NFL Teams Week nine is where we rank the five best and five worst teams in the NFL. Anybody can list the best teams. It takes real skill to sort through the mess that is the bottom of the league.   Week nine is hours away from kicking off in Santa Clara. What did we learn from Week 8? The Rams can win the close games. Saints are better than we all think, Jameis Winston is not long for the NFL, and the Seahawks are better than we thought they would be. Does your team sadly qualify for worst teams for Week 9? Give us your take who should be on the list and who shouldn’t.

5 UP: The 5 Best NFL Teams Week Nine

1. LOS ANGELES RAMS (8-0) Last Week:  1st

The Rams proved that they even need luck once in awhile beating a very game, Green Bay Packers team at home. A Field Goal followed by a late fumble kept the perfect season alive. Jared Goff threw for 3 TD’s, and Todd Gurley ran for 114 yards and 81 yards. (800 yards 11 TD’s 4.7 Avg.) The Rams will need to tighten up the defense on the road against the New Orleans Saints (6-1). The Saints are the biggest threat and best opponent that LA has faced this year. The Saints are currently favored by one point, but the Rams lead the all-time series, 41-33.

2. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (7-1) Last Week: 2nd

Kansas City keeps rolling along, and Patrick Mahomes II keeps making big plays. Mahomes II threw for 4 TDs and 300 yards (2,526 Yards 26 TD’s 6 INT 115.3 Rating) in another big division win over the Denver Broncos. The defense is never going to be top 10 worthy, but they make key stops on 3rd down.  Kansas City should have more success this Sunday when they challenge the Cleveland Browns (2-5-1). The Chiefs are 8.5 favorites and hold a slight lead in the head to head matchups 12-11-2.

3. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (6-1) Last Week: 4th

Call it revenge but the Saints exorcized the Minnesota Vikings Miracle with a big 30-20 win on the road. The score could have been higher if a few players caught passes instead of bad drops. This team is rolling through its toughest stretch. I still have concerns with that defense, but like the Chiefs, that high octane offense covers a lot of pimples. No rest for Drew Brees and crew the next challenge will be the unbeaten Los Angeles Rams (8-0) at home. Sean Payton talks about this matchup and a chance for the Saints to claim the top spot in the NFC.

4. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (6-2) Last Week: 5th

Who’s the hottest team right now? Might be the Patriots. As the leaves fully turn and the winter weather rolls in the Patriots are getting closer to taking their spot as the best team in the NFL. With the Red Sox winning the World Series it’s now up to the Patriots to add to the City of Champions. Sony Michel will be back, and the defense only allowed 6 points last week. Tom Brady does what he does best, beating Buffalo. Now we get the showdown that we have all been waiting for, Aaron Rodgers vs. Tom Brady. It’s an opportunity for Tom to let everyone know, who is still the best QB in the NFL. Aaron already has said who he thinks the best Quarterback in the NFL is.  Patriots are 6 point favorites over Green Bay (3-3-1) at home. Packers lead the all-time series 6-5.

5. LOS ANGELES CHARGERS (5-2) Last Week: Unranked

The Chargers enjoyed a Bye Week after a dramatic win in London. They will have a huge test coming up this Sunday against Seattle. Philip Rivers is playing at a high level (2,008 Yards, 17 TDs 3 INT 117.8 RTG). Head Coach Anthony Lynn thinks better days are ahead, “We definitely have a lot of improvement and things we can focus on and get better at,” Lynn said. “Seven games, we’re not there yet. But I do feel like the guys are moving in the right direction.” That’s a very dangerous thought since this team has Super Bowl talent at every position.

Joey Bosa and Melvin Gordon, the team’s two best players might be back.  This is my team to watch as the 2nd half of the NFL season takes place. The LA Chargers will travel to the Emerald City to battle the red-hot Seahawks (4-3) and will be 1.5 point underdogs. Seattle leads the all-time series 26-24.

Closing in on the top 5 this week:

Washington Redskins (5-2), Carolina Panthers (5-2), Seattle Seahawks (4-3)

5 DOWN: The 5 Worst NFL Teams Week Nine

28. ARIZONA CARDINALS (2-6) Last Week: 32nd

The Cardinals got a reprieve and doubled up against the 49ers. They have two wins both against San Francisco who unfortunately can’t play every week. 2018 has so been a complete failure. One must feel for the future HOFer Larry Fitzgerald. You were hoping for a better year, but the Cardinals are falling apart at the seems. Do you miss Bruce Arians yet? Cardinals rank 32nd in offense, and the defense is not far behind in being woeful. Josh Rosen continues to learn (1,072 yards 10 TDs 12 INTS). as well as be more accurate. The Cardinals can’t lose this week they are on a Bye week so they might be safe from sinking in the rankings for now.

29. BUFFALO BILLS (2-6) Last Week:  28th

It was nice to see Thurman Thomas get his due at halftime during the Pats vs. Bills game on Monday Night. What was utterly unpleasing to the eyes was watching Derek Anderson trying to play QB with an Offensive Line that is the worst in football. First of all, Derek should be golfing somewhere enjoying retired time and now Bills fans you will get Nathan Peterman. Peterman! What does that guarantee? A chance to finish the season as the worst team in the NFL.

Enjoy the Buffalo wings and the commissioner in April saying, “With the first pick the NFL Draft, the Buffalo Bills select! Great move Buffalo getting rid of Tyrod Taylor. Buffalo will most likely lose to the Chicago Bears (4-3) at home this Sunday. Chicago will be 10 points road favorites and have won 7 of the 12 contests between these two teams.

30. OAKLAND RAIDERS (1-6) Last Week: 29th

The Raiders should be in full tank mode sorry Jon Gruden your commitment to excellence is in question. On a positive note, the team realized it needed to tear it down. Derek Carr played better on Sunday (244 yards 3 TD’s), but it was not enough to combat what is a horrible defense that yielded 461 yards in a brutal 42-28 loss to the Colts at home. Let’s face it Khalil Mack will not walk back through those doors but all picks acquired from getting him better be used on defense. Oakland will have a chance to win tonight as they battle the 49ers in Santa Clara. The Raiders are 2.5 underdogs, but they do lead the all-time series 7-6.

31. NEW YORK GIANTS (1-7) Last Week: 30th

They might not be ranked 32nd in our rankings yet, but they are #1 in dysfunction. It’s such a messed up situation I don’t know where to start. I thought with all the moves this team made in the offseason they were going to compete in the NFC East and be a playoff team. Lord was I wrong. Pat Shurmur looks lost, Eli looks like he should be in a retirement home, OBJ should be frustrated, and that Offensive Line with the high priced addition of Nate Soldier is a pile of dog crap. The Raiders at least realized it needed to tear it down, what the Giants did was sit pat.

The off-season for this franchise is going to be critical and the teams most important. When watching a Giants game other than Barkley, you wonder why a total rebuild has not already begun. The Giants are mercifully off this week.

32. SAN FRANCISCO 49ers (1-7) Last Week: 31st

As much as I wanted to put the Giants here and those in New York wanted me to do so, the 49ers on paper and in results are the worse team in Football. It wouldn’t have been the case, but when you lose so many players to injuries, it was bound to happen. They should tank and get the top pick in the draft. With Kyle Shanahan, John Lynch, and a healthy Jimmy G this organization will be on the verge of big things soon. 49ers get a chance to climb out of the 32nd ranking tonight by beating the Raiders at home. They will be hoping to move out of the label of being the worst team in the NFL for week nine.

Teams that are knocking on futilities door:

Indianapolis Colts (3-5), Cleveland Browns (2-5), N.Y. Jets (3-5)

Come back next Thursday for Five Up Five Down: The five best NFL Teams and the five worst NFL Teams for Week 10.

Five Up Five Down: The 5 Best and 5 Worst NFL Teams Week Eight

5 Worst NFL Teams Week Eight

Five Up Five Down

Five Up Five Down: The 5 Best and 5 Worst NFL Teams Week Eight is where we rank the five best and five worst teams in the NFL. Anybody can list the best teams. It takes real skill to sort through the mess that is the bottom of the league.   Week Eight is hours away from kicking off in Houston. What did we learn from Week 7? Kicking woes impact even the best in the game in 2018, The Chiefs can play defense, Drew Brees is so underappreciated, Adam Thielen is historically good, Jags QB position is a mess, and rookie quarterbacks will be rookie quarterbacks.

5 UP:  The 5 Best NFL Teams Week Eight

1. LOS ANGELES RAMS (7-0) Last Week:  1st

The Rams finished up a three-game road trip undefeated with a comfortable victory over the 49ers. Los Angeles is pacing the NFL with the most yards per game. Only the Chiefs and Saints average more points per 60 minutes. Todd Gurley is the centerpiece of the offense (686 yards 11 TD’s 4.8 Avg.) as he ran for two more touchdowns versus the 49ers. Jared Goff rebounded from two subpar weeks with a very efficient 75 % completion afternoon with 2 TD’s against San Francisco and no turnovers. Jared now has put up (2,130 Yards 14 TD’s 5 INT 112.7 Ratings) and gets a chance to battle Aaron Rodgers and a Packers secondary that is a pure mess.

The defense had a statement game creating four turnovers and shutting down a 49ers team that looked very well last week in Green Bay. Rams cashed in with 24 points on four turnovers which made Wade Phillips very happy. The Rams will welcome the Packers at home and are 9.5 point favorites against the (3-2-1) Packers. How close is the all-time series between the two teams? In 94 previous meetings, they are dead even 46-46-2 with the last meeting coming in 2015. The Packers have won five in a row in this match-up. Let’s hope the Rams are finished with those hideous uniforms, which were the worst in the league last Sunday.

2. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (6-1) Last Week: 2nd

After a heartbreaking loss to New England, the Chiefs came home and put on a beatdown of epic proportions on the Cincinnati Bengals. Patrick Mahomes II is putting on a show that we have never seen before. He has started eight games in the NFL, has a QB rating of 109.4 and has thrown 22 TDs compared to 6 ints. On Sunday night, he lit up a Bengals defense that looked lost trying to defend him throwing for 358 yards and 4 TD’s while running for another 45 yards. He is making the QB position look easy, and this reminds me of Dan Marino’s rookie year as far as putting up video game numbers. Another positive for the number one scoring offense in the league is Kareem Hunt (15 carries 86 Yards 5.7 AVG and a hurdle that will be a highlight forever) had another fantastic week totaling 141 yards from scrimmage and 3 touchdowns.

The Chiefs defense was embarrassed versus the Patriots, and they took it out on the Cincinnati Bengals. They held the Bengals to 10 points and stuffed Joe Mixon all night long. Kansas City also dared Andy Dalton to beat them, and the Bengals quarterback threw for a meager 148 yards with an interception. The only thing that drives Chiefs Defensive Coordinator, Bob Sutton, crazy is the stupid penalties. The Chiefs defense is the most penalized team in football, and within 5 minutes they were called for 12 men on the field twice. Chiefs this week, are 10 point favorites against the Denver Broncos (3-4) at home against a team they just beat in week four (27-23). Broncos lead the all-time series 62-55, but the Chiefs have won the last six against there AFC West rivals.

3. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (5-1) Last Week: 4th

Thanks to a missed kick and the fact Drew Brees is a defies father time, the Saints got a huge win over the Baltimore Ravens on the road. Drew Brees is now one of only 4 quarterbacks to throw 500 touchdown passes in the NFL. The Saints high powered offense is led by Drew Brees, but Alvin Kamera (363 Yards rushing and 362 yards receiving with seven total TD’s) and Michael Thomas (588 4 TD’S) are two lethal weapons that defenses are having a hard time stopping. Sean Payton has done a masterful job of spreading the wealth around in his play calling and confusing defenses with unique looks.

New Orleans defense played better in Baltimore this past week but still rank 28th overall in the NFL. They will need to shore things up playing a Minnesota Vikings offense that has found a running game recently and are on a three-game winning streak. Minnesota is a 1-point favorite over the Saints and has a 22-11 series lead over the Saints. Last season the Vikings beat the Saints twice, including this one which is known as the Minnesota Miracle.

4. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (5-2) Last Week: 5th

The Patriots are back but are still giving up way too many points. Thanks to a goal-line tackle on a hail mary attempt, they escaped Chicago with a 38-31 win. Tom Brady was solid again (277 yards 3 TD’s) and is gaining trust with new addition Josh Gordon (4 catches for 100 yards). A concern in the Windy City was the knee injury that rookie RB Sony Michel suffered. The good news is it’s not season-ending. What’s impressive is RB James White comes into a game and defenses still for whatever reason don’t guard him or can’t guard him.  The Patriots offensive line has done an excellent job recently protecting Brady and creating running room for the backs.

A Bill Belichick defense that is ranked 28th in the NFL would have everyone panicking if they didn’t understand the history of the Patriots. If this team is not in the Top 10 come December then maybe those in the Foxboro offices should be concerned. No coach is better at improving a defense when deep into the winter months. The best way to cure a defense is a trip to Buffalo to battle the (2-5) Buffalo Bills. Tom Brady has already called out the Bills Mafia, and New England is 14 point favorites against Buffalo. The Patriots have dominated the series vs. AFC East rivals (72-43-1) and have won 5 out of the last six contests

5. LOS ANGELES CHARGERS (5-2) Last Week: Unranked

The Chargers enjoyed tea and crumpets in England and hanging onto a dramatic 20-19 victory over the Tennessee Titans who decided to go for the game-winning two-point conversion. Philip Rivers was solid again, and he is having a tremendous start to a season (17 TD’s 2,008 Yards 17 TD’s and 3 INT’s 117.8 Ratings). The QB needed to be good because Melvin Gordon was out nursing his hamstring. The Chargers have quietly one of the best wide receiving cores in the NFL and when this offense is entirely healthy, watch out! This offense is the real deal and a Rams vs. Chargers Super Bowl a very realistic possibility.

The defense is about to get a lot better. It’s not like they have been bad and unlike teams above them, the Chargers have a solid defense. Joey Bosa, arguably the team’s best player will be back after the Bye Week. Bosa will add more to a pass rush that has missed him since his injury. San Diego has still managed to sack the quarterback 18 times, but with Bosa back they will be more lethal. A rookie in the NFL not getting enough love? Chargers S Derwin James is an absolute stud! Chargers will enjoy a bye week and when they get back for week #9 will travel to Seattle to battle the Seahawks.

Closing in the top 5 this week: Minnesota Vikings (4-2-1), Washington Redskins (4-2), Carolina Panthers (4-2)

5 DOWN: The 5 Worst NFL Teams Week Eight

28. BUFFALO BILLS (2-5) Last Week:  Unranked

This team is a disaster!  Buffalo is lucky that the Cardinals and Raiders have been more inept, but each of those teams will be better by the end of the year. The Buffalo Bills are starting Derek Anderson.  WTF is going on? Anderson hasn’t started a game since 2016, and it looked that way vs. the Colts throwing three interceptions. This team went from the playoffs to rebuild in eight months.  I would like to give the benefit of the doubt to Coach McDermott, but he needs to go and NOW! First, it’s one thing to know that Nathan Peterman stinks but then to put him back in and then tell the fans that Derek Anderson will be the guy? Inexcusable!  I realize Josh Allen got hurt, but he should never have been put behind one of the worst offensive lines in the NFL.

Someone is making abysmal decisions and why did they ever trade Tyrod Taylor? It seems like whenever Buffalo is about to take a step in the right direction they shoot themselves in the foot. The defense has battled its ass off, but this team needs to take a chapter out of the Raiders page, trade anyone of value for picks. The Bills are looking at a double-digit loss to the Patriots coming up this weekend in upstate New York. Tom Brady is 28-4 against the Bills. When’s the Draft?

29. OAKLAND RAIDERS (1-5) Last Week: 32nd

Good News! They didn’t lose this past week, but the bad news is they didn’t play. Well, Jon Gruden said his team is not tanking. That’s great.  Gruden grinders getting up at 4 am to put together a dated offensive system. I like Coach a lot.   He is a stand-up guy, but this team is brutal and close to being one of the worst in the NFL. If this team is not tanking, they are putting up star players for sale.  Carr, Conley, and Cooper who was moved to Dallas for a first round pick are all available. For Oakland, it was a good move getting a first round pick for Amari Cooper, but Derek Carr looks like a lost soul. Is he fixable? Well, that is what Jon Gruden is supposed to do.

As far as the defense, they are minus 66 point differential – 3rd worst in the league. It’s ugly, and the lack of depth is the fault of the entire organization. Hey, Khalil Mack says hi from Chicago. The good news for the Raiders is that they have the (2-5) Indianapolis Colts in town. It will be a chance for the Silver and Black to get a win. Oakland leads the all-time series (9-7) but are 3 point underdogs at home.

30. NEW YORK GIANTS (1-6) Last Week: 29th

The Giants offense should not be this bad. Any team that allows the Atlanta Falcons to look like a good defensive squad has to be horrible. Pat Shurmur who was really good designing a terrific gameplan in Minnesota as an offensive coordinator seems to be making all the wrong calls in New York. He got upset with Eli in Atlanta for not getting OBJ the ball.   It would help if Coach had an offensive line that would play better.  Rookie Will Hernandez is struggling and Eli Manning might be slow, but he has barely any time to make medium to deep throws.  With these names: Barkley, Beckham, Engram, Shepard and Soldier things should be better than this.  How bad has the offense been? They have trailed for over 280 minutes this season – the worst in the NFL.

The defense is trying to battle but because the offense cannot sustain drives, they are on the field way too much. They contained Atlanta for 3 quarters then got tired when the Giants could not get anything going offensively. Way too many 3rd down conversions are being given up the New York who should consider making moves for draft picks. The Giants will be at home this Sunday as the first place Washington Redskins (4-2) come to MetLife Stadium in an NFC East rivalry game.  Giants have lost 19 of there last 24 games. Giants lead the all-time series (100-68-4)

31. SAN FRANCISCO 49ers (1-6) Last Week: 30th

After a tough loss to the Green Bay Packers, the 49ers came home to challenge the undefeated Los Angles Rams and got blown out. C.J. Beathard had Aaron Donalds named tattoed to his chest as the All-Pro DT sacked him four times.  Four turnovers (2 INT and 2 Fumbles) had Head Coach Kyle Shanahan upset after the game. The only player who performed well on Sunday was Tight End Greg Kittle (5 catches 98 yards TD).

The defense actually showed well versus the high powered Rams offense. What killed them were the 4 turnovers that the offense gave the Rams. They held Goff to 202 yards and Gurley to 63 yards on the ground.  The 49ers have been undermanned with a lot of injuries but this should now be a tank job. The 49ers travel to Arizona to battle the equally inept (1-6) Cardinals in an NFC West battle. 49ers lead the all-time series (29-25).

32. ARIZONA CARDINALS (1-6) Last Week: 31st

What momentum the Cardinals gathered from a decent showing in Minnesota they lost entirely in one of the ugliest performances ever seen on an NFL field. Arizona got battered, bruised, and manhandled in Denver 45-10 and it wasn’t that close. Josh Rosen threw two pick-sixes which capped a miserable evening from a rookie quarterback who was under pressure all night (21-39 194 Yards 1 TD and 3 INT’S).  David Johnson’s poor season continued with just 39 yards vs. Denver. He has (335 Yards 5 TDS at a 3.2 AVG) not been given much help with an offensive line that gets beaten and pushed back on a regular basis.   It didn’t take long after the game for the team to hand offensive coordinator Mike McCoy his walking papers.  The question is how much time will rookie head coach Steve Wilks get?

As if things can’t get worse in the desert, Cardinals All-Pro CB Patrick Peterson has asked to be traded. The team has said they have no interest in moving Patrick, but if offers do come in, it will start with a first and 4th round pick in any discussions.  The Cardinals will be home to face the (1-6) 49ers. They beat San Francisco 3 weeks ago (28-18) so a chance to get a win and move out of the 32nd spot in our rankings.

Teams that are knocking on futilities door:

Indianapolis Colts (2-5), Cleveland Browns (2-4), N.Y. Jets (3-4)

Come back next Thursday for Five Up Five Down: The five best NFL Teams and the five worst NFL Teams for Week 9.

Five Up Five Down: The 5 Best and 5 Worst NFL Teams Week Seven

NFL Teams Week Seven

Five Up Five Down

Five Up Five Down: The 5 Best and 5 Worst NFL Teams Week Seven is where we rank the five best and five worst teams in the NFL. Anybody can list the best teams. It takes real skill to sort through the mess that is the bottom of the league.   Week seven is hours away from kicking off in the Mile High City. What did we learn from Week 6? Tom Brady has nimble feet, Aaron Rodgers is the comeback kid, Todd Gurley is the best running back on the planet, and the Ravens have just sacked Marcus Mariota yet again.

5 UP:  The 5 Best NFL Teams Week Seven

1. LOS ANGELES RAMS (6-0) Last Week:  2nd

The Rams are proving to be the best team in the NFL for many reasons. One of those reasons is they find ways to win games that they don’t play in very well. One guy who was dominant was Todd Gurley, who was again the best running back on planet setting career highs (208 yards 2 TD’s 7.4 Avg.) as he ran up and all over the Denver Broncos. He covered up for Jared Goff who was sacked five times and only completed 50% of his passes and threw an ugly interception. It marks the 2nd straight week of bad play from Jared after his fantastic performance against the Vikings. Goff has still put up impressive numbers on the year (1,928 Yards 12 TD’s 5 INT 110.9 Ratings) but with Gurley running this well, his numbers might decrease anyways. The Rams WR core has been beaten up recently with Copper Kupp out this week which has not helped Jared either.

The defense has played big in moments when they’ve had to. Consistency has been an issue all year long, and Wade Phillips is working on it. The Rams will finish up a long three-game road trip in San Francisco. They are 10.5 point favorites against the (1-5) 49ers who have played better than their record would indicate. The two rivals have met 137 times with the 49ers winning 69 of those contests.

2. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (5-1) Last Week: 1st

If you could ever build a case that you’ve won after losing, the Chiefs proved that this week. Patrick Mahomes II legacy is still growing when he nearly outdueled the GOAT. He threw for 352 yards and 4 TD’s (1,865 yards 18 TD’s 4 INT’s 112.2 Rating) this kid is beyond exceptional!  Another positive for the Chiefs in the 43-40 loss was the running game appeared in the form of Kareem Hunt (10 carries 80 Yards 8 AVG). If the Chiefs can balance the attack and eat up more time on the clock, they will win more close games. They gave Tom Brady too much time to beat them on Sunday night.

A high-powered offense again picked apart the Kansas City Chiefs defense. I realize the Chiefs are usually tough on 3rd down conversions (allowed over 50% to the Pats on Sunday night) but when you give up nearly 500 yards that will end up being a losing formula. The challenges keep coming for KC who will welcome a good Cincinnati Bengals (4-2) team to town. Chiefs are 6 point favorites, but Cincy leads the all-time series 15-13. Though they moved one spot down our list of Five Up, the Chiefs proved even in a loss they are a team who will contend for the top spot thanks to the most exciting player in the NFL.

3. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (4-1) Last Week: 4th

The Saints enjoyed the Bye Week and gained a spot in our 5 Up category thanks to a Bengals loss in Pittsburgh. This week, Drew Brees and company will have to deal with a red-hot defense that just racked up 11 sacks last week. New Orleans’ schedule is brutal coming up with three of the next four crucial games on the road against (@Ravens, @Vikings, Rams, @Bengals). We will learn a lot about the Saints Super Bowl chances in the next month. Drew Brees, when its all said and done, would like to be #1 on the top 10 quarterbacks list. Ravens have dominated the series five games to one and are two-point favorites at home.

4. CINCINNATI BENGALS (4-2) Last Week: 3rd

So the Bengals lost to the Steelers last week, what else is new? They played very well but lost on a late Antonio Brown touchdown. I am merciful; they only dropped one spot in our rankings. The defense let down the Bengals against Pittsburgh. Three Steelers had over 100 yards by run and pass, which is not a good sign for Marvin Lewis team. The Bengals have a lot of young talent and Tyler Boyd is starting to become a household name.

The offense was not without blame as well. Andy Dalton was very inconsistent and wound up with just 229 yards through the air. Joe Mixon was, in my opinion, not used enough (11 carries for 64 Yards). If the Bengals don’t want to slide out of the top five, they will need to establish the run and make Joe Mixon part of a ball attack against Kansas City this weekend.

5. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (4-2) Last Week: Unranked

Well, it was just a matter of time before the Patriots were going to climb into the rankings. It was not an easy decision because the Chargers and Ravens are not far behind the Patriots. They have some serious questions on the defensive side of the ball. If there is any coach who can get all the questions answered and the mess cleaned up, it’s Bill Belichick. Check back in November and that defense will probably be corrected as it is every year.

When you have Tom Brady as your QB, it covers up a lot of weaknesses. He has some old weapons back in Edelman and some new ones to play with in Josh Gordon. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but it looks like Brady is getting even better. What’s in that TB 12? What is also very appealing for the Patriots is the fact rookie running back Sony Michel is looking like a stud. The Patriots will travel to the Windy City to challenge the Chicago Bears (3-2). An aspect to watch is how the Pats will block Khalil Mack. New England is two-point favorites for week seven and leads the all-time series between the two teams, 9-4. The Biggest game between these two, of course, was Super Bowl 20 when the Bears trounced New England 46-10.

Closing in the top 5 this week:

Baltimore Ravens (4-2), LA Chargers (4-2), Miami Dolphins (4-2)

5 DOWN: The 5 Worst NFL Teams Week Six

28. INDIANAPOLIS COLTS (1-5) Last Week: Unranked

The start of the 2018-2019 season has not been kind to the Colts. It looks like Andrew Luck is still trying to find his consistency, but he has very little to work with offensively. Indy is 30th running the ball which puts a tremendous amount of pressure on the shoulders of the franchise Quarterback (1,792 yards, 16 TD’s 8 INTS 88,8 Rating). Luck has been under duress as well, already being sacked 19 times so far this year.

The Colts defense has not offered any big stops when the team needs it most. They give up a lot of yards on the ground and provide no pass rush to create sacks (10 as a team) and turnovers. The perfect get well card is coming to town as the equally inept Buffalo Bills (2-4) enter Lucas Oil Field. The Colts are favored by seven and a half points, but the Bills lead the series 37-31-1.

29. N.Y. GIANTS (1-5) Last Week: 29th

The Giants are a complete disaster right now as week seven begins. After playing better in Carolina, they came home in a must-win versus the Eagles and everyone other than Saqoun Barkley played horribly.  The offensive line did an excellent job run blocking, but the Eagles pushed them aside and terrorized Eli Manning all night. The Odel Beckham Jr. soap opera is another example of blaming the teams best player when he is not the issue. Eli Manning, as great as he has been in his career, looks like a washed-up gunslinger who is out of bullets. The Giants got a great player in Barkley but the decision to give Manning one more year seems like a disaster.

The defense has been equally inept. Eli Apple seems to be fighting everyone, and the tackling has been poor. Pat Shurmur has a lot of work on his hands, and one must wonder if he doesn’t hear the clock tick on his job. He deserves patience but the New York fan base has none. If the team continues to have terrible performances like against the Eagles last Thursday night, Pat might be a coordinator somewhere else soon. The Giants will be in Atlanta on Monday night. There is a chance to put up big numbers against a struggling Falcons defense. The Falcons (2-4) are four and a half favorites against the G-men at home, and the series is even at 12 games apiece.

30. ARIZONA CARDINALS (1-5) Last Week: 30th

The Cards are improving in some areas, but surprisingly it was the defense that let them down in Minneapolis. Somehow the Cards let the inept running game of the Vikings get 195 yards on the ground. They did create another turnover for a score. However, giving up 27 points on the road with a rookie quarterback is a recipe for a loss. David Johnson continues to be average but one bright spot is the play of Christian Kirk who was noticeable getting open against a stingy Vikings defense (6 catches for 77 yards).

The Cardinals will be in Denver tonight to face the (2-4) Broncos. This might be the worst matchup for the Cardinals historically who have lost eight of the ten matchups with one ending in a tie. This will be another learning curve for Josh Rosen (626 Yards 55.6 % 2 TD’S) who hasn’t played that bad after relieving Sam Bradford of the starting duties.

31. SAN FRANCISCO 49ers (1-5) Last Week: 32nd

Did the 49ers lose in heartbreak fashion on Monday night? Yes, they did. Like many teams, the failure to stop Aaron Rodgers late in a game lead to a loss at Lambeau Field. The team played hard, and a lot of positives come out of this loss, which is why they moved up the rankings. No team in the NFL has been hit with so many injuries. Head Coach Kyle Shanahan deserves credit because his team comes to compete every week.

C.J. Beathard to his credit has played well (892 yards 6 TD’s 5 INTs 87.3 Rating) since coming in for injured Jimmy Garoppolo. How long will this last, nobody knows? The issue with the 49ers is the defense. It’s frustrating because they get pressure and sacks but the secondary has been awful. Yes, this does include a past his prime Richard Sherman. Next up for the 49ers  for week seven, is the best team in football, the Los Angeles Rams (6-0). When it pours downhill, you are 1-5, the Rams are next of course.

32. OAKLAND RAIDERS (1-5) Last Week: 31st

Well, Jon Gruden said his team is not tanking. That’s great.  Gruden grinders getting up at 4 am to put together a dated offensive system. I like Coach a lot.   He is a stand-up guy, but this team is brutal and the worst in the NFL. His offensive gameplan is old, and the team is somehow worse than it was last year. Getting embarrassed across the pond in London 27-3 to a beleaguered Seahawks team is disgusting. I’ve said this all along, Derek Carr looks like a lost soul. Is he fixable? Well, that is what Jon Gruden is supposed to do. He looks like he has regressed from last year. If you listen to talk radio, the marriage of Gruden and the fans are in a state of divorce proceedings.

As far as the defense, they are minus 66 point differential – the worst in the league. It’s ugly, and the lack of depth is the fault of the entire organization. Hey, Khalil Mack says hi from Chicago. The good news for the Raiders is that they cannot lose this weekend. Oakland is enjoying a Bye week. When they get back on October 28th, the equally inept Colts will be in town. It will be a chance for the Silver and Black to get a win.

Teams that are knocking on futilities door:

Buffalo Bills (2-4), Denver Broncos (2-4), Atlanta Falcons (2-4)

Come back next Thursday for Five Up Five Down: The five best NFL Teams and the five worst NFL Teams for Week 8.

Five Up Five Down: The 5 Best and 5 Worst NFL Teams Week Six

5 Worst NFL Teams Week Six

Five Up Five Down: The 5 Best and 5 Worst NFL Teams Week Six is where we rank the five best and five worst teams in the NFL. Anybody can rank the best teams. It takes real skill to sort through the mess that is the bottom of the league.

Is it week six already? What did we learn from Week 5? The Titans aren’t as good as their record said they were. The Rams were a bit lucky. Don’t ever fully trust a kicker, even if he’s been great for a decade. Patrick Mahomes II is human. The roughing the passer rule is as confusing as ever, ask Eagles’ fans this week.

5 UP:  The 5 Best 5 Worst NFL Teams Week Six

1. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (5-0) Last Week: 2nd

We found out that Patrick Mahomes II is human after he threw two interceptions. He still threw for over 300 yards and ran for a TD against arguably the best defense in the world. The Chiefs dominated the Jaguars 30-14, and due to a superior performance are the number one team in 5 Up. Patrick Mahomes II (1,513 Yards, 14 Touchdowns, 2 INT 112.7 QBR) is the most exciting player to watch in the NFL.

The Chiefs defense which has struggled a lot this year (ranked 32nd coming into the Jags game) played well vs. Jacksonville. They created turnovers including four interceptions. The challenges keep coming for KC. They travel to Foxboro to battle Tom Brady and the (3-2) Patriots on Sunday Night. Mahomes vs. Brady match-up is by far the best story heading into week six. Chiefs lead the all-time series 18-14-3 but are three and a half point underdogs against New England.

2. LOS ANGELES RAMS (5-0) Last Week: 1st

The Rams were lucky to win in Seattle, and the defense is now a significant concern. The Seahawks were running up, down, and all around the Rams defense. It’s quite apparent that if Donald and Suh are not getting the pressure, the Rams defense is quite average at best, hence why they are number 2 this week. Wade Phillips is very capable of fixing the defense. He knows that to win the Super Bowl, his defense must play better. Todd Gurley saved the Rams’ bacon with three touchdowns to negate Goff’s two interceptions.
The Rams will continue to be the Traveling Wilburys in the midst of a three-game road trip. Next, they head to Denver to take on the (2-3) Broncos. Rams are a touchdown favorite and have an 8-5 series lead against Denver. I get why you Rams fans may not like LA being knocked off the top spot, but it might only last a week so calm down!

3. CINCINNATI BENGALS (4-1) Last Week: Unranked

You don’t want to believe in the Bungles but you must! Does anything make you think of Halloween more than those helmets? We know when the playoffs come around they will turn into David Price and lose, but for now, they are playing some excellent football. They spotted Miami a 17-point lead and then crushed them by scoring the next 27 straight points.  The Bengals got Joe Mixon back, and he had a big game along with A.J. Green who was a dominant force once again (6 catches for 112 yards).

The defense made it happen, scoring twice and making life very uncomfortable for Ryan Tannehill. The Bengals will welcome the (2-2-1) Pittsburgh Steelers to town in an AFC North showdown. Unfortunately for the Bengals, the Steelers have a .632 winning percentage in the series (60-35) including a six-game winning streak vs. Cincy.

4.NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (4-1) Last Week: 5th

Congrats to Drew Brees in becoming the all-time passing leader.  New Orleans put on an offensive show against the Redskins. Mark Ingram II enjoyed a big return which now makes the Saints backfield lethal.  The Saints will enjoy the Bye Week and get ready for a tough road game against the (3-2) Baltimore Ravens. New Orleans schedule is brutal coming up with three of the next four crucial games are on the road against (@Ravens, @Vikings, Rams, @Bengals). We will learn a lot about the Saints Super Bowl chances in the next month. Drew Brees when its all said and done would like to be on the top 10 quarterbacks list. Can the Saints remain in the five best NFL teams when they get back from enjoying a week off?

5. CHICAGO BEARS (3-1) Last Week: 4th

Bears enjoyed the Bye Week but moved down our 5 Up and 5 Down weekly rankings. Is this 3-1 record a fluke or is this sustainable?  Mitch Trubisky had a career day throwing for six touchdowns and the Bears receiving core (Robinson, White (amazing at blocking), Gabriel, and Miller) is improving right before our eyes. The Bears need to improve their run blocking and running back play. Neither Howard or Cohen have been consistent. A good running game is a needed for a young QB that is still developing and needs to improve. I like how Matt Nagy’s team plays very aggressive offensively, similar to Sean McVay.

The biggest monster of the midway is Khalil Mack. He is the first player since Robert Mathis (2005) to record a sack and force a fumble in four straight games. It’s incredible to watch the rest of the defense pick up its energy level and try to emulate the play of the defensive MVP of the league right now. The Bears will travel to South Beach to take on the (3-2) Dolphins. Miami leads the series (8-4) with the most famous win being in 1985 when the Dolphins broke up the Bears perfect season.

Closing in the top 5 this week:

Carolina Panthers (3-1), Baltimore Ravens (3-2), LA Chargers (3-2), New England Patriots (3-2), Miami Dolphins (3-2)

5 DOWN:   The 5 Best 5 Worst NFL Teams Week Six

28. ATLANTA FALCONS (1-4) Last Week: Unranked

We have had some surprises this year, but nothing is as shocking as the Atlanta Falcons 1-4 record. Many people believed they could be the first team to play for the Super Bowl at their home stadium. The Falcons are skidding out of control! You could blame injuries for Atlanta’s struggles, but it’s the defense that is letting this team down. They have allowed an NFL worst 163 points (32.6 points per game). Offensively, they are getting minimal production from the running game (89.2 yards a game 26th in NFL). Matt Ryan is Matt Ryan (1,601 Yards 11 TD’s 2 INTS 110.9 QBR). He is a stat stuffer but often falters in late game situations. This team can turn around the season about, but the offense can’t be expected to score 34 points every week.

It should be a shootout this Sunday at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium against the (2-2-1) Tampa Bay Buccaneers. If you have fantasy players on these teams, you are thrilled. Atlanta is 3 and a half points favorites in this NFC South showdown. They lead the all-time series (25-24). If Atlanta loses this weekend, the vultures will be circling the carcass of the Falcons.

29. N.Y. GIANTS (1-4) Last Week: Unranked

The Giants had a win against the Panthers in Carolina in their grasp until a 63 yard Graham Gano field goal plunged them into the five down category. New York is a talented team that made solid offseason moves, but it’s not paying off right now. Pat Shurmur’s team has major locker room disruptions going on. Odell Beckham Jr. and other players have been critical of Eli Manning and the offense. In a strange twist of fate, maybe OBJ’s interview will pull the team together.

The offense with Barkley, Beckham Jr., Manning, and Shepard should put up more points, but if the defense doesn’t stop anyone, they will continue to lose. Getting their defense to play up to their talent level will be the biggest challenge moving forward for Big Blue. The Giants will host the Eagles (2-3), who are having all kinds of problems on the offensive line on a short week. The Giants lead the all-time series 86-84-2, but Philly has won the last three games and will be 3 point favorites on the road.

30. ARIZONA CARDINALS (1-4) Last Week: 32nd

Well, finally a win! It was on the road as well. Josh Rosen has given the Cardinals a boost at the quarterback position. He didn’t play great against the 49ers (40% completion ratio), but he didn’t turn the ball over. Running back David Johnson finally made fantasy owners happy with two TD’s against the Niners, but he ran for just 55 yards. He will have to be more productive against Minnesota this Sunday if Arizona wants to pull off the upset. Their defense played strong again, but they were aided by facing C.J. Beatherd and not Jimmy G. Congrats Cards fans, you are no longer in the dreaded #32 spot. The team you beat last week now occupies that spot.

The Cardinals travel to Minnesota to face the (2-2-1) Vikings who are 10.5 point favorites. Hey, Buffalo went up to Minny with a rookie quarterback and blew out Minnesota so who knows. The Vikings lead the series between the two clubs winning 16 – 11.

31. OAKLAND RAIDERS (1-4) Last Week: 30th

The Raiders are working their way to being the worst team in the NFL. Lousy defense and turnovers in the red zone are a recipe to failure and the bottom of the Five Up Five Down rankings. Carr, Cooper, Lynch, and Gruden are named brands and should have the Silver and Black in a much better position. In addition to poor play offensively, the defense is playing terrible as well. Derek Carr continues to throw the worst interceptions in the NFL which should alarm the Raiders front office. Jon Gruden is a quarterback guy, so the ugly play out of #4 is puzzling.

The Raiders will welcome former division rivals Seattle Seahawks (2-3) in town. Oakland leads the all-time series 29-25 and is currently a 1 point favorite at home.

32. SAN FRANCISCO 49ers (1-4) Last Week: Unranked

The 49ers are a team ravaged by injury. They are number 32 more because of injuries than anything else. It would take over 300 words to add all the players who are out for this team. But Kyle Shanahan and company must find a way to tape it together because excuses don’t win games. When C.J. Beathard is your starting QB (career 2,000 Yards, 8 TD’s 10 INTs, 78 QBR), you are not expected to do much of anything. Paging Tony Romo, Mr. Romo or how about Mr. Kaepernick?

Next up for the 49ers is the (2-2-1) Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. The 49ers defense will have to figure out a way to stop Aaron Rodgers and that multi-faceted offense. Green Bay leads the all-time series (35-30-1) and are massive nine and a half point favorites over the injury-riddled Niners. I pray for you 49er fans. The football gods have been too cruel to a team that was expected to be much improved. Five Up Five Down: The 5 Best 5 Worst NFL Teams Week Six will have me rooting for the 49ers to get out of the five worst as the Bills did.

Teams that are Knocking on futilities door:

Buffalo Bills (2-3), Denver Broncos (2-3), Detroit Lions (2-3), N.Y. Jets (2-3), Indianapolis Colts (1-4).

Come back next Thursday for Five Up Five Down, The five best NFL Teams and the five worst NFL Teams for Week 7.

Five Up Five Down: The 5 Best and The 5 Worst NFL Teams Week Five

5 Worst NFL Teams Week Five

It sucks when your team is inching closer to being part of the 5 Worst NFL Teams as Week Five is closing in. Thanks, Minnesota, close to being part of the five worst teams are you kidding me? What happened to that vaunted Mike Zimmer defense? Better get it right in Philly, or I cant save you next week for being in the five down, the five worst NFL teams oh my! I need a drink.

Ah yes, it’s that time of the week for 5 Up 5 Down: The five best and five worst teams in the NFL.  We are Unafraid to piss you off by adding clubs who probably don’t belong in the Top 5. Sorry, Jacksonville at least your team doesn’t stink right now! Week 5 is here as the Colts and Patriots kick things off tonight.  As always, There are some movers and shakers in our rankings, but we also have the Bills and Cardinals who are staples at being part of the Worst 5 in the NFL. What did we learn in Week 4? The Titans have a head coach with brass balls, seeing Quarterbacks with 50 or 60 passes and 400 yards is becoming a typical thing, Earl Thomas has a unique way of saying goodbye, Patrick Mahomes II is a star, and the Rams are the ultimate show in the NFL.

5 UP: The Five Best NFL Teams 

1.  LOS ANGELES RAMS (4-0)  Last Week: 1st

No surprise here these Rams could overtake, “The Greatest Show on Turf” soon with the numbers they are putting up. I think the Rams just scored another touchdown against the Vikings while you were reading this.  My question was, could Jared Goff take the next step?  He has climbed over that step and is now atop the mountain.  In my mind, Jared joined the elite in the NFL as witnessed by these picture-perfect passes vs. a shell-shocked Vikings defense. Goff tossed a perfect game (158.3 Rating) and has amassed some fantastic numbers so far this year (72.4 % 1,406 Yards 11 Td’s just 2 INT’s with a stunning 127.3 OBR).   The Los Angeles Rams are the best team in football right now, but they are not as complete as I thought they were.

The defense has real issues at the LB position, and the secondary got torched by Kirk Cousins. The Rams are number one in our 5 Up due to the perfect record, high octane offense and an impressive plus 73 point differential. What is scary is they can be much better than this. A battle with division rivals, the Seattle Seahawks (2-2) on Sunday afternoon in the Emerald City is next. Las Vegas has the Rams at 7.5 favorites, and the all-time series stands at 23-17 for Seattle (they split both games last year). For the Rams, this kicks off three straight weeks on the road against some stiffer defenses (Seahawks, Broncos, and 49ers), but I fully expect them to win all of these game. Congrats Rams, two straight weeks atop our five up rankings.

2.  KANSAS CITY CHIEFS  (4-0) Last Week: 2nd

We wanted to see Patrick Mahomes II (1,200 Yards, 14 Touchdowns, 126.5 QBR, with zero INT’s) get tested and he did in Denver on Monday night. I’m going to call him “Kid Dynamite,” found a way to get his 2nd win in the Mile High City (won last year in his first start as a Pro). The Broncos had some pressure on Patrick who once again used his feet to buy time to make big plays. He showed us some rookie throws which were fortunately not intercepted, but when the team needed him in the 2nd half, he delivered. This kid has that Brett Favre quality with improvising ability like changing hands to make a key play. He is pure excitement at the highest level becoming my favorite QB to watch in the NFL.

The Chiefs defense which has struggled a lot this year (ranked 32nd coming into the match-up) made some big plays as well. That interception by Eric Murray was a thing of beauty. An aspect that the “D” has done well all year is making some key stops on third down. They prevented another Keenum miracle at the end of the game to keep the record perfect. K.C. will have its toughest test of the year so far as the Jacksonville Jaguars (3-1) come to town.  The Chiefs are 3 point favorites, but the Jags lead the all-time series six games to five.

3. TENNESSEE TITANS (3-1) Last Week: Unranked

I had to bump Jacksonville out of our Top 5 this week since they won ugly on Sunday (plus the Titans beat them).  A team that won me over for having the gutsiest coach in the NFL are the Tennessee Titans. What a dramatic call against the Eagles to go for the win and sidestep the tie.  A huge 4th down conversion with game-tying FG in reach. Thank you, Mike Vrabel we hate ties! That win vs. the defending Super Bowl Champs is one that builds team unity, confidence and a season of epic success. You don’t believe me watch this postgame speech by my new favorite Head Coach.  Oh, by the way, Marcus Mariota is growing into an amazing leader, and we might have also seen the birth as well of an elite wide receiver, in Corey Davis.

Tennesee is quickly becoming a team that many around the NFL don’t want to face. The Defense is playing great, and a dramatic gutsy overtime victory versus Philly is why the Titans hold the third position in our 5 Up rankings. The Titans will travel to Buffalo (1-3) to battle the Bills. Tennessee is 3 point favorites to get the road win, and they lead the all-time series 28-17. One can never forget the Music City Miracle between these two teams in 2000 one of the great endings of all-time.

4. CHICAGO BEARS (3-1) Last Week: Unranked

So I am mixing it up in my five up. This team deserves a chance to be here since they should be (4-0) right now. Mitch Trubisky had a career day throwing for six touchdowns and the Bears receiving core (Robinson, White (amazing at blocking), Gabriel, and Miller) is improving right before our eyes. Some things the Bears need to do better is run blocking and running the ball. Neither Howard or Cohen have been consistent and with a young QB that is still developing that needs to improve.  I like how Matt Nagy goes after it very aggressive, similar to Sean McVay.

The biggest monster of the midway is Khalil Mack. He is the first player since Robert Mathis (2005) to record a sack and force a fumble in four straight games. It’s incredible to watch the rest of the defense pick up its energy level and try to emulate the play of the defensive MVP of the league right now. Chicago Bears fans should be very excited with a young team on the rise, and they will get a week off to enjoy it and root against the NFC North rivals.

5. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (3-1) Last Week: Unranked

It’s all about the spectacular Alvin Kamara who created history on Sunday. He was a monster last week, and he can beat you in so many ways. The Saints offense keeps getting more creative. Sean Payton might be the best play-caller in the business. Drew Brees is on the verge of becoming the all-time leading passer in NFL history. We don’t talk enough about him, but we are watching one of the all-time greats continue to play at a very high level.

If the defense can get its act together (allowing 30 points a game), then this team could represent the NFC in Atlanta for Super Bowl 53. The Saints battle the Redskins on Monday Night at home and are currently 7 point favorites. Washington leads the all-time series 17-9, but the Saints beat the Skins last year in OT, 34-31.

Closing in or falling out of our top 5 this week: Honorable Mention

Miami Dolphins (3-1), Cincinnati Bengals (3-1), Jacksonville Jaguars (3-1), Baltimore Ravens (3-1), Philadelphia Eagles (2-2).

5 DOWN: The Five worst NFL teams 

28.  HOUSTON TEXANS (1-3)  Last Week: Unranked

The Houston Texans should send Indianapolis Colts Head Coach Frank Reich a thank you card. Thanks to a horrible decision to go for it in OT on their side of the field, the Texans were able to end a horrific 9 game losing streak.  DeShaun Watson played well (375 Yards 2 touchdowns) despite being sacked seven times and hurried on numerous occasions.  Like many offensive lines in the NFL (Vikings, Cardinals, Bills) the Houston Texans Big Boys up front stink right now! I realize that Patrick Mahomes II is the new fancy toy to drool over but watching DeShaun versus the Colts, you know he is going to be a Super Star.

The defense needs to get its act together. When you have Watt, Clowney, and Whitney things shouldn’t be this poor (every game they have allowed 20 or more points).  A Battle of Texas this Sunday Night as the Cowboys (2-2) come to town. Houston is favored by three and a half points, but the Cowboys lead the all-time series three games to one. I’m going to go on a limb to say; the Texans will not be part of the five worst NFL teams next week.

29.  N.Y. JETS (1-3)  Last Week: Unranked

Well after week one, New York Jet fans were thinking Super Bowl. Okay maybe that is a little much but a road win in Detroit by a ton of points this might be a 9 or 10 win season. Nope, rookie quarterback falls back down to Earth, but it’s not all his fault.  Sam Darnold has been okay, but the offense is so intricate without any stars that things need to be simplified quicky. The bigger issue might be developing on the other side of scrimmage.

The defense is holding a players-only meeting to talk about eliminating miscommunications.  The Jets are making way too many mistakes, and this is squarely on Todd Bowles shoulders. An ominous sign for a Head Coach who is already on the hot seat. New York will welcome the Denver Broncos to MetLife Stadium. The Jets will be two-point favorites, but Denver leads the all-time series 20-15-1.  How long will the J-E-T-S be part of the five worst NFL teams, this week will be a true indicator.

30. OAKLAND RAIDERS (1-3)  Last Week: 30th

The Raiders are fortunate to have won on Sunday against Baker Mayfield and the Cleveland Browns. They came within an inch of being 0-4. In a must win, the offense got it done. Derek Carr put up huge numbers (437 yards 4 TD’s 2 INTS), and Jared Cook is becoming an unstoppable weapon. The offense has been putting up big numbers, but the problem is on the other side of the ball.

While Khalil Mack is doing things we haven’t seen since 2005 in Chicago, The Raiders defense can’t stop the run, pass, or opposing teams from scoring. Only Tampa Bay has given up more points. One shining star has been the play of rookie Maurice Hurst who has shown on tape over and over.  Oakland’s defense needs only to be average for this sinking ship to float again. In four games though that defense looks like it will keep the Silver and Black in the five worst teams in the NFL. The Raiders will play what seems to be a home game in LA versus the Chargers (2-2). San Diego will be 6 point favorites, but the Raiders lead the series 63-52-1.

31. BUFFALO BILLS (1-3)  Last Week: 28th

After shocking the world with a huge upset the week before in Minnesota, the Bills true colors came out as they got embarrassed 22-0 to the Packers at Lambeau. Josh Allen, as our George Wrighster has pointed out on many occasions, was very inaccurate on Sunday. He looked like a deer in headlights thanks to an offensive line that allowed seven sacks.  LeSean McCoy returned and ran for a paltry 24 yards. The Buffalo Bills showed us all at Lambeau field why they might be picking first in the 2019 NFL Draft.  An awful football team who will use this year to gain experience. Hopefully, Josh Allen’s confidence won’t be destroyed.

The Bills will always be part of the 5 worst NFL teams here in 2018-2019. Arizona is somehow below them right now in our rankings, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see the Cards overtake Buffalo at some point this year. The Good news for the Bills is they are home this Sunday, but the bad news is it’s against the red-hot Tennessee Titans. Hey, at least the Buffalo Wings are really good, and the Sabres drop the puck this week.

32.  ARIZONA CARDINALS (0-4) Last Week: 32nd

The Cards look to be a staple in the 5 worst NFL teams.  Another week and another poor outing by the Cardinals offense. In four weeks of play, this team has put up an NFL worst 37 points. I am guessing soon the defense might take out some anger on that offense in practice. The Cardinals have shown some fight the last two weeks, but 0-4 is pathetic.  Josh Rosen did provide a glimmer of hope (180 Yards 1 TD’s no interceptions), but this offense is just brutal. Please set Larry Fitzgerald free.  He deserves a chance to finish his career with something better than this. What is going on with running back David Johnson?  Fantasy owners are going crazy!

The Cardinals travel to San Francisco to battle division foes the (1-3) 49ers. Niners are 4 point favorites at home and lead the all-time series 29-24, but the Cards have won the last six match-ups.

Teams that are Knocking on futilities door:

San Francisco 49ers (1-3),  N.Y. Giants (1-3), Detroit Lions (1-3), Minnesota Vikings (1-2-1), Pittsburgh Steelers (1-2-1)

Come back next Thursday for Five Up Five Down, The five best NFL Teams and the five worst NFL Teams for Week 6.

Five up Five Down: 5 Best and 5 Worst NFL Teams Week 4

5 Worst NFL Teams

Five up Five Down: 5 Best and 5 Worst NFL Teams Week.  There are some significant changes in the rankings. What did we learn in Week 3? The refs hate Clay Matthews and the new roughing the passer rule is a joke.  Many teams have not invested in an offensive line properly. Baker Mayfield might be the answer in Cleveland. We also learned that being heavy favorites doesn’t guarantee anything in the NFL, costing some of us some money in Vegas.  Just ask the Vikings, Jaguars, and Patriots fans about that.  Minnesota was a 16.5 point favorite on Sunday and lost by 21 points at home, a historic upset indeed.

5 UP: 5 Best NFL Teams

1.  LOS ANGELES RAMS (3-0)  Last Week: 2nd 

The Los Angeles Rams are the most complete team in the NFL. The Rams are number one in our 5 Up due to an NFL best, plus 66 point differential. They dominated the Chargers in winning the Battle of Los Angeles.  Todd Gurley broke out for 156 total yards including 105 on the ground, and Jared Goff continues to get better (80 % completion level vs. Chargers 354 yards and 3 TD’s), which is scary for opposing teams.  The Rams did suffer some devastating injuries losing both stud Cornerbacks Marcus Peters (might miss 1-2 weeks currently a game-time decision vs. Vikings)  and Aquib Talib (for 4-6 weeks).  If the team has a weakness right now, it’s stopping the run (giving up 5 yards a carry).  Next up: a battle with the Minnesota Vikings (1-1-1) on Thursday night, who come into L.A. with all kinds of red flags.  Some viewed this game as a possible NFC Championship preview.  The Rams want revenge for a 24-7 loss last year in Minnesota.   L.A. is currently 6.5 point favorites with an 80% probability win rate against the Vikings even though Minnesota leads the all-time series 27-16-2 with five straight wins against the Rams.

2.  KANSAS CITY CHIEFS  (3-0) Last Week: 4th

Patrick Mahomes II (896 Yards, 13 Touchdowns, 137.4 QBR, with zero INT’s) is just awesome!  If you have him on your fantasy team, you are winning a lot. After three weeks he is not only the best QB in the NFL, he is the league’s best player. Check out this TD pass by Mahomes against the 49ers, which is utterly ridiculous.  I still think after three weeks the Chiefs defense is soft (allowing 472 yards per game). How long can this last?  Lots of pressure on the 7th ranked offense to make-up for the 32nd ranked defense.  The Chiefs need more out of RB Kareem Hunt and his 3.2 yards average, but then again Andy Reid is not a running back guy (runningbacks under Reid are not in the top 20 in looks since 2013).  Chiefs are 4.5 point road favorites against AFC West Divison rivals the Denver Broncos (2-1) on Monday Night.  Kansas City leads the all-time series 61-54.

3. MIAMI DOLPHINS (3-0)  Last Week: Unranked

Indeed one of the best surprises this year has been the Miami Dolphins.  Some experts did think that Adam Gase was going to get this team headed in the right direction, but 3-0 no way! Well, the fins are a perfect 3-0 and leading the AFC East.   Let’s check it a bit.  They have beaten the Titans, Jets, and Raiders (teams with a combined 3-6 record), but they are doing the little things right and are having fun as witnessed by this TD vs. the Raiders.

The loss of DE William Hayes is going to hurt.  Hayes tore his ACL on this play trying to avoid getting a penalty for roughing the passer.  Ryan Tannehill is playing within the system, and it’s paying off (73% completion ratio, 7 TD’s only 2 INT’s with a 121.8 QBR).  Miami can make a believer out of all of us with a win in Foxboro on Sunday afternoon against the suddenly desperate (1-2) New England Patriots.  This game is at Gillette Stadium, where Tom Brady is 14-1 vs. Miami and the Dolphins and despite being unbeaten, will be heavy underdogs by getting 7 points.  Vegas wants a show me win as well, but hey, maybe Tom’s daughter, Vivian will be pulling for Miami!  The Patriots lead the all-time series 54-51.

4. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS (2-1) Last Week: 3rd 

Well, the Jaguars were ranked number one by many in the power ranking, but not mine.  I still think the Jaguars will be representing the AFC in the Super Bowl, but some red flags have developed.  The loss of LT Cam Robinson could be huge, and the lack of depth at the WR position is very concerning.  After a huge week against the Patriots, Blake Bortles came back to earth vs. the Titans (155 yards, zero TD’s).  The Franchise is fully invested in #5, who they feel is a “champion.”  Look, Jacksonville’s defense will continue to be strong, but the offense needs to pick up the pace. If they can put up 17 points, the defense will win most games by themselves.  The Jags only move down one spot in our Five Up, but they better take care of a rookie QB and the (1-2) N.Y. Jets on Sunday at home.  Vegas has the Jags as 7.5 point favorites but the Jets hold a 7-6 series lead, including last years dramatic 23-20 win in overtime.

5.) PHILADELPHIA EAGLES (2-1) Last Week: Unranked

Carson Wentz is back!  The future NFL MVP makes all the difference in the team’s chances at repeating.  The Eagles defense is still excellent and can cause nightmares for opposing teams offensive lines.  The running game has room for improvement, but RB Wendell Smallwood might become a new Philly favorite (17 carries 84 yards 1 TD 4.9 avg). What makes the Eagles so tough is that the offensive line has been so strong and underrated.  The offense is going to get a lot better, and that defense is just incredible!  Philly will be in Tennessee to battle the stingy Titans on Sunday as 3 point favorites.  The Eagles are 0-2 in Nashville but are 7-4 vs. Titans/Oilers all-time.

Closing in on the top 5:  Honorable Mention

Baltimore Ravens (2-1), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-1), Cincinnati Bengals (2-1)

5 DOWN: 5 worst NFL teams

28.  BUFFALO BILLS (1-2)  Last Week: 32nd

Oh my, how one week can change everything!  The Bills were the NFL’s worst team last week.  It looked hopeless.  I bought into an on-air host from a big network saying the Vikings were going to cover easily. Buffalo, not only beat the heavily favored Vikings (-16.5), they embarrassed them 27-6.  Josh Allen (196 yards, 1 TD, no interceptions, numerous big runs) showed some serious athletic prowess and bravery with this effort on Anthony Barr that sparked the Bills to a big win.

The Bills defensive line lead by Jerry Hughes terrorized the Vikings offensive line all day, creating three critical turnovers. The Bills will try to make it two for two over the NFC North as they battle the Green Bay Packers (1-1-1) at Lambeau.  Vegas isn’t buying the Bills colossal upset over the Vikings.  The Packers are 10-point favorites, but the Bills hold an impressive 8-4 advantage in the all-time match-up vs. Green Bay.

29.  SAN FRANCISCO 49ers (1-2) Last Week: Unranked 

This has been a disastrous stretch for the San Francisco 49ers.  Fans must be in a deep depression. They have played okay, but losing your starting RB before the season starts and now losing Jimmy Garoppolo to a torn ACL is a nightmare no team can recover from.  This ranking is more about the future of this season than it is reflective of how they have performed so far.  When your season is in the hands of C.J. Beathard or someone from off the streets (Tom Savage gulp!), it’s a recipe for failure.  They will travel down the coast to play the (1-2) Los Angeles Chargers.  Vegas sees this as a blowout and have made the Chargers 10.5 point favorites.  The series is tied at seven games apiece.  The Chargers have won 4 in a row, but the 49ers have the biggest win in the series with a 49-26 win in Super Bowl XXIX.

30. OAKLAND RAIDERS (0-3)  Last Week: 29th 

Defense is an issue, and I hate to say I told you so!  When you trade Khalil Mack away, this should not be surprising.  Mack has four sacks this year, while the Oakland Raiders have three total as a team.  Here is what is disheartening for Raider fans. The team has lead in all three games going into the 3rd quarter.  They have been outscored in the 2nd half, 64-17.  Derek Carr continues to throw bad interceptions, like this one against the Rams, and on Sunday you had this costly mistake.   The Raiders will be at home to face Baker Mayfield, and the (1-1-1) rejuvenated Cleveland Browns, who should be undefeated.  The Raiders are 2.5 point favorites against Cleveland and hold a 14-10 career record against them.  

31. HOUSTON TEXANS (0-3)  Last Week: Unranked

What is going on with The Houston Texans?  I thought this team would be ready for a significant turnaround.  Unfortunately for Houston fans, losing has been very prevalent with the team now holding an ominous streak of 9 straight loses dating back to last year.  Many are getting restless and tired of Head Coach Bill O’Brien (31-36) and his generic play calling.  Will he become the latest Patriots assistant to fail as a Head Coach?

The key to this team’s issues has been the play of the offensive line and defensive secondary.  DeShaun Watson, who is back after devastating injury, has been sacked ten times already and has run away from pressure on numerous occasions.  He is not at the level he played at last year (871 yards 5 TD’s  3 Int’s 89.9 QBR) but is getting closer.  A tough match-up against the Colts (1-2) in Indy is up next on Sunday.  The Texans will be 1.5 point underdogs and, unfortunately, historically are woeful vs. the Indianapolis Colts (7-25).  They lost both contests to Indy last year.

32.  ARIZONA CARDINALS (0-3) Last Week: 31st 

Awful!  At one point, the Cardinals were beating the Chicago Bears 14-0.  It appeared that the Cards were going to get out of the Five Down list.  Nope!  They scored no points in the 2nd half.  Sam Bradford continued to look awful (3 turnovers), which lead to the Josh Rosen era beginning.  With a talented roster, Arizona should be better than this.  I feel the Cardinals are making a huge mistake putting Rosen behind this weak offensive line (6 sacks numerous pressures).  Somehow, RB David Johnson, the Cardinals best player, is averaging just 3.4 yards and the team needs more from him in the running game.  The Cardinals rank dead last in every offensive category with a date against a very aggressive defense looming.  The Cardinals are an NFL worst, minus 54, which makes new Head Coach Steve Wilks cringe.  The Cards have another home game coming up against the Seattle Seahawks, and it will mark the 39th meeting between the two clubs. The Cardinals have a slight 19-18 lead in the series.  Seattle is favored by 3 points on Sunday afternoon.

Knocking on futilities door: 

N.Y. Jets (1-2), Seattle Seahawks (1-2), New England Patriots (1-2)

Come back next Wednesday for Five Up Five Down, The 5 best NFL Teams and the 5 worst NFL Teams Week 5.