Top 5 NFL Power Teams - Week 9 (SNN/SI)
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1. New England Patriots (8-0)
The New England Patriots maintains their lead in the AFC. The New Orleans Saints and San Francisco 49ers continue their tenure at the top of the NFC. The Patriots remain triumphant over every team since week 1 with a phenomenal defense. Bill Barnwell of ESPN says that no other team has allowed fewer than six points in a game at this point in the season since 1970. New England has earned the top spot in week 9 but will have to face the Baltimore Ravens on the road Sunday night.
2. New Orleans Saints (7-1)
The New Orleans Saints improved their record to 7-1 with a victory over the Arizona Cardinals. Drew Bree returned this week to pass for almost 400 yards, 2 touchdowns and 1 interception against the Arizona Cardinals. Michael Thomas continued to support the claim ‘you can’t guard Mike’, Defensive End Marcus Davenport continues to improve week after week and Latavius Murry has stepped up as a runner and receiver in the absence of Alvin Kamara as he nurtures an ankle injury. Sean Payton, Drew Brees and the New Orleans Saints enjoy a bye this week as they prepare to meet the Atlanta Falcons in the Mercedes Benz Superdome November 10th.
3. San Francisco 49ers (8-0)
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San Francisco continues to enjoy a vigorous and tough defense. They prepare to hit the road to Arizona to face the Cardinals’ rookie quarterback, Jimmy Garoppolo. He seemed to have perfected a strategy of escaping pressure and evading sacks. The team cruised through week 8 with the most complete performance to date. They pounced the Carolina Panthers as they dominated on offense and defense. December 8 will be a crucial crossroad for the Saints and the 49ers as they move closer to a potential first-round bye during the playoffs.
4. Green Bay Packers (7-1)
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The Green Bay Packers are number 4 this week. Their 7-1 record is historical for both the team and Matt LaFleur. The Packers’ offense seems to improve weekly without Davante Adam and it was noticeable as the Chiefs succumbed 31-24 on Sunday night. As the Packers proceed to the second half of the season, they are poised to face the 3-5 Chargers on Sunday.
5. Seattle Seahawks (6-2)
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Seattle Seahawks weigh in at number 5 this week with a close 27-20 victory over the Atlanta Falcons. Russell Wilson is having an MVP-caliber season --- BUT Seattle has a tough 2nd half schedule which could “shake things up” down the stretch. The Seahawks will square off on Sunday with the Tampa Bay. This game is a must when as they prepare to face undefeated San Francisco on Monday night week 10.
