Kansas City have returned to top spot in the SportsTips power rankings as a result of Pittsburgh’s first loss of the 2020 season. Week 13 of the NFL saw New York and Washington both register big upset wins to push forward in the NFC East, Cleveland put the AFC on notice, the Jets blow another chance at victory number one, as well as the Chiefs and Saints becoming the first to teams in the league to clinch a playoff berth.
Here’s where all 32 NFL teams stand ahead of Week 14 of the 2020 NFL season
1. Kansas City Chiefs (11-1)
Super Bowl Odds: +200
Previous Rank: 2
The Chiefs were double digit favourites coming into their Sunday Night Football matchup against the 4-7 Broncos, with expectations that the reigning champs would flex their muscles against a below .500 opponent. What eventuated was a gritty defensive performance that resulted in Kansas City winning 22-16, their fourth consecutive single score victory.
Despite only scoring one touchdown on offense, safety Tyrann Mathieu brought in two interceptions from errant Drew Lock passes to set up the victory for the Chiefs. Kansas City are now 11-1 for only the second time in team history and have officially clinched a playoff spot. With Pittsburgh no longer undefeated in season 2020, the Chiefs have reclaimed the number one spot in the SportsTips power rankings.
PLAYOFF BOUND.
The Kansas City @Chiefs and New Orleans @Saints became the first two teams to clinch a spot in the postseason on Sunday. pic.twitter.com/7bAckaGfhc
— NBC Sports (@NBCSports) December 7, 2020
2. Pittsburgh Steelers (11-1)
Super Bowl Odds: +800
Previous Rank: 1
And just like that, as a result of Washington’s 23-17 upset win on Monday Night Football, the Steelers are undefeated no more. Pittsburgh had the 26th ranked rushing offense going into this week, and only picked up 21 rushing yards on 14 carries against Washington.
With centre Maurkice Pouncey and running back James Conner both set to return after missing two consecutive games each, the Steelers will need to start improving on their running game during this last month of the regular season if they are any chance of having a deep playoff run. Pittsburgh are still the number one seed in the AFC having not lost a game against a division rival.
3. New Orleans Saints (10-2)
Super Bowl Odds: +525
Previous Rank: 3
As a result of their 21-16 victory over the Falcons, the Saints progressed to 3-0 with Taysom Hill as their starting quarterback and improved to 8-0 when playing games without Drew Brees over the past two seasons. Having now officially clinched a playoff berth, New Orleans continues to impress on both sides of the ball, only allowing 70 Atlanta rushing yards, while putting up 200+ receiving and rushing yards of their own.
4. Green Bay Packers (9-3)
Super Bowl Odds: +800
Previous Rank: 5
The Packers once again put up 30+ points at Lambeau Field defeating the Eagles 30-16. Aaron Rodgers threw for 295 yards and three touchdowns, becoming the fastest player ever to reach 400 career touchdown passes (193 games).
Davante Adams brought in two of those scores on his way to a 121 yard, two touchdown game, while Aaron Jones was also impressive rushing for 130 yards and a score, as Green Bay’s offense put together one of their best performances for the season. Albeit against the lowly Eagles. Given that Green Bay holds the head-to-head tiebreaker between them and New Orleans, the Packers are still in play for the top seed in the NFC, trailing by just one game.
5. Buffalo Bills (9-3)
Super Bowl Odds: +1700
Previous Rank: 7
As a result of their 34-24 victory against San Francisco, Buffalo have moved to 9-3 and have maintained a hold on first place in the AFC East. The victory was the Bills first on Monday Night Football since the turn of the century, with their last win on a Monday Night coming against the Dolphins in 1999.
Josh Allen was instrumental in the victory, throwing for 375 yards and four touchdowns, with Cole Beasley, Stefon Diggs, and Gabriel Davis combining for 290 receiving yards and two touchdowns. On defense, Micah Hyde and Tre’Davious White both recorded interceptions to round out a complete performance for the Bill who are now one step closer to winning the AFC East.
6. Los Angeles Rams (8-4)
Super Bowl Odds: +1200
Previous Rank: 10
The Rams reclaimed first place in the NFC West following a convincing 38-28 win over the Cardinals. Jarred Goff put last week’s embarrassing performance behind him, throwing for 351 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions, while also finding nine different receivers for 20 or more yards each. Los Angeles also picked up three rushing touchdowns and forced two Cardinals turnovers on their way to a seventh straight victory over Arizona. With the Patriots, Jets, Seahawks and Cardinals to come, the Rams can’t be ruled out as a threat to win the NFC.
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-5)
Super Bowl Odds: +1500
Previous Rank: 8
Tampa Bay enjoyed a much needed bye in Week 13, looking to rest up and work out the issues that have plagued their offense in recent weeks.
8. Cleveland Browns (9-3)
Super Bowl Odds: +3000
Previous Rank: 11
Given how ‘easy’ their schedule has been this season, the lack of a signature win in 2020 has made it hard to believe in the Browns as a legitimate contender in the AFC. As a result of their 38-7 opening half against the in form Tennessee Titans, Cleveland have sealed their first winning season since 2003 and validated themselves as a genuine playoff team in the AFC.
Baker Mayfield threw for 334 yards and four touchdowns becoming the first Browns quarterback to throw four first half TD’s since 1951. The Browns defense did allow the Titans to score 28 second half, however Cleveland held onto a 41-35 victory. Now 9-3, the Browns have now reached 9+ wins for just the third time since re-entering the league in 1999.
9. Seattle Seahawks (8-4)
Super Bowl Odds: +1400
Previous Rank: 4
In the aftermath of their upset 17-12 loss to the New York Giants, Seattle have slipped from the number two seed in the NFC to the number five seed, relinquishing top spot in the NFC West to the Rams.
Despite only allowing 100 Giants passing yards on defense, it was Seattle’s offense that once again let them down, with Russell Wilson being sacked on five occasions and Seattle turning the ball over twice. Given their favourable schedule, the Seahawks are still a good chance of reclaiming the NFC West, with their Week 16 matchup against the Rams likely to be the deciding game.
10. Tennessee Titans (8-4)
Super Bowl Odds: +2800
Previous Rank: 6
Tennessee’s 41-35 loss to the Browns showed just how vulnerable the Titans are when Derrick Henry has an off day. Henry recorded just 60 yards from his 15 carries while also committing one of the Titans three turnovers with a fumble.
Ryan Tannehill (389 yards, three TD’s and one interception) and Corey Davis (11 catches, 182 yards and one TD) did everything they could to will the Titans home, however a 28-3 second half couldn’t undo the damage (38 first half points) that Tennessee’s defense allowed in the first half. Still holding top spot in the AFC South, the Titans should bounce back with matches against the Jaguars and Lions in the next two weeks.
11. Miami Dolphins (8-4)
Super Bowl Odds: +6000
Previous Rank: 12
Miami have now had their best start to a season since 2003 following their 19-7 victory over Cincinnati. Tua Tagovailoa returned as the starting quarterback, throwing for 296 yards and a touchdown, while the Dolphins defense held the ‘Burrow-less’ Bengals scoreless after the first quarter. Miami will face off against Kansas City in Week 14, and will be looking to keep their aspirations of winning the AFC East alive.
12. Indianapolis Colts (8-4)
Super Bowl Odds: +3000
Previous Rank: 9
With Johnathon Taylor finding form as a dual threat option, the Colts have established a more balanced offense at the right time of the season. However, it took a late fumble recovery on defense to secure Indianapolis the 26-20 win over Houston and keep them in contention to win the AFC South.
Taylor rushed for 91 yards from 13 carries, while also bringing in 44 receiving yards and a touchdown against the Texans. The Colts have a pivotal Week 14 matchup against the Raiders, the team right below them in the AFC wild card race.
13. Las Vegas Raiders (7-5)
Super Bowl Odds: +6600
Previous Rank: 15
Las Vegas were saved from an embarrassing loss to New York thanks to a shocking play call from former Jets defensive coordinator Gregg Williams, that allowed Derek Carr to find Henry Ruggs for the game winning touchdown.
The 31-28 victory was pivotal for the Raiders, who have maintained their lead over the Ravens and Patriots in the AFC wild card chase. The result of their Week 14 matchup against the Colts will have massive repercussions on the race to secure a playoff berth.
14. Baltimore Ravens (7-5)
Super Bowl Odds: +2800
Previous Rank: 14
After three straight single score losses, the Baltimore Ravens are back on the winners list and back in the hunt for a Wild Card spot in the AFC. In his return from his bout with COVID-19, Lamar Jackson ran for 94 of the team’s staggering 294 rushing yards, while also being involved in three of the team’s four touchdowns (one rushing and two passing). The Ravens will face the Browns, Jaguars, Giants and Bengals in the final four weeks, with the hope of securing a Wild Card spot in the AFC.
15. Minnesota Vikings (6-6)
Super Bowl Odds: +6600
Previous Rank: 16
It wasn’t pretty but the Vikings managed to steal a 27-24 overtime victory over the one-win Jaguars. Once again Cousins, Cook, Thielen and Justin Jefferson all put up big numbers, which proved to be just enough this week to outweigh their continuing issues on defense. It was an important victory for Minnesota, who are now tied with the Cardinals for the third and final wild card spot in the NFC.
16. New England Patriots (6-6)
Super Bowl Odds: +10000
Previous Rank: 17
In their best performance of the season, New England shut out Justin Herbert and the Chargers offense to register an impressive 45-0 victory. Even with a depleted secondary in 2020, the Pats defense is suddenly starting to play like the Bill Belichick teams of old, allowing zero points, forcing two turnovers and only giving up 258 total yards.
On offense the Pats are starting to look more dangerous, having developed a solid running game with Cam Newton and their running backs. In what was a complete performance for the Patriots, wide receiver Gunner Olszewski was the star of the game with 145 punt return yards and a touchdown on special teams, in addition to a 38-yard receiving touchdown. Unfortunately for New England, the Dolphins, Colts, Raiders and Ravens all recorded Week 13 victories, resulting in the Patriots trailing a wild card spot by two games entering Week 14.
17. Arizona Cardinals (6-6)
Super Bowl Odds: +6000
Previous Rank: 13
As a result of their 38-28 loss to the Rams, the Cardinals have now lost three straight games and are currently in a tie with the Vikings for the third and final wild card spot in the NFC. Arizona’s defense is looking weaker and weaker every game and Kyler Murray is looking noticeably fatigued in the second half of his sophomore season.
The Cardinals were only in possession for 21 minutes against the Rams, as Los Angeles put up 463 total yards in their 39 minutes with the ball. Arizona will try to snap their three game losing streak in Week 14 against the NFC East leading Giants.
18. New York Giants (5-7)
Super Bowl Odds: +7000
Previous Rank: 23
The Giants beat the Seahawks 17-12 in Seattle in what was the biggest upset of Week 13. Without Daniel Jones at quarterback, New York’s backup Colt McCoy and their running game did what was required on offense.
While the Giants defense set up the victory, forcing two turnovers and sacking Russell Wilson on five occasions. New York became the first team to go into Seattle and beat the Seahawks in 2020 while also claiming their fifth win in seven games to lead the NFC East.
19. Washington Football Team (5-7)
Super Bowl Odds: +10000
Previous Rank: 24
Despite trailing 14-3 at halftime, Washington outscored the Steelers 20-3 in the second half to end Pittsburgh’s undefeated season with a 23-17 upset win. With Terry McLaurin drawing the attention of Pittsburgh’s defense, Alex Smith (296 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions) found Logan Thomas, J.D McKissic and Cam Sims, for a combined 24 receptions, 260 yards and a touchdown.
While on defense Washington held the Steelers to just 1 of 3 conversions in the red zone as well line-backer Jon Bostic bringing in the game winning interceptions late in the fourth quarter. Washington are now second in the NFC East sharing a 5-7 record with the division leading Giants.
WASHINGTON JUST KNOCKED OFF THE LAST UNDEFEATED TEAM 💪 @youngchase907 @WashingtonNFL pic.twitter.com/w3kdcn5lLs
— The Checkdown (@thecheckdown) December 8, 2020
20. San Francisco 49’ers (5-7)
Super Bowl Odds: +10000
Previous Rank: 18
The 49’ers playoff hopes are all but quashed as a result of their 34-24 loss to the Bills on Monday Night Football. Backup quarterback Nick Mullens (316 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions) continues to show lots of fight and talent as a starter. However, given the quality of the players on San Francisco’s injury list, the 49’ers should be focusing on ensuring that their roster will be in full health for the start of the 2021 season.
21. Atlanta Falcons (4-8)
Super Bowl Odds: +50000
Previous Rank: 19
Atlanta gave the division leading Saints a tough test on Sunday but were ultimately outplayed going down 21-16. The Falcons certainly didn’t play badly against the number one seed in the NFC, however the Saints offense was on the field for longer, maintaining possession for almost 37 minutes and limiting the Falcons opportunities to score. Atlanta will face the 3-9 Chargers in Week 14, fresh of a 45 point loss to the Patriots.
22. Houston Texans (4-8)
Super Bowl Odds: +50000
Previous Rank: 20
Looking to claim a fourth win in five weeks, Houston had the chance to tie the game or take the lead late in the fourth quarter of their matchup against the Colts. That was until an errant snap was fumbled in the red zone by Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson which Indianapolis recovered. Watson is doing his best to keep Houston competitive, even with receiver Will Fuller out due to suspension. However, the Texans defensive limitations have cost them too many times.
23. Detroit Lions (5-7)
Super Bowl Odds: +40000
Previous Rank: 29
The Lions played a lot more inspired in their first match under interim head coach Darrell Bevell, but still had to outscore Chicago 21-7 in the second half to steal a 34-30 victory. Matthew Stafford was instrumental in the victory, throwing for 402 yards with three touchdowns and one interception. At 5-7, the Lions playoff chances are barely alive heading into their Week 14 match against Green Bay.
24. Chicago Bears (5-7)
Super Bowl Odds: +2500
Previous Rank: 21
Despite putting together their best offensive performance of the season, Chicago blew a 10-point halftime lead to go down 34-30 in their matchup against the Lions. The Bears were outscored 21-7 in the second half and were ultimately carved up by a 402 yard, three touchdown game from Matthew Stafford. Chicago have now lost six straight matches for the first time since 2002 ahead of their must win Week 14 matchup against the Texans.
25. Denver Broncos (4-8)
Super Bowl Odds: +50000
Previous Rank: 25
The Broncos fought admirably against the reigning champs on Sunday Night Football, holding Chiefs to just 22 points, before ultimately being defeated 22-16. Melvin Gordon was impressive for Denver contributing 131 of the Broncos 179 rushing yards. However, two untimely interceptions from Drew Lock gave the Broncos no chance of an upset win.
26. Carolina Panthers (4-8)
Super Bowl Odds: +50000
Previous Rank: 22
Carolina will return from their Week 14 bye with the hope of having a strong finish to the 2020 season, that they can then build on in 2021.
27. Philadelphia Eagles (3-8-1)
Super Bowl Odds: +15000
Previous Rank: 26
Philadelphia suffered a fourth straight defeat following their 30-16 loss to the Packers. As a result of their continuing struggles on offense, head coach Doug Pederson benched Carson Wentz for rookie quarterback Jalen Hurts in the fourth quarter. The Eagles now have the second worst record in the NFC heading into their Week 14 matchup against the conference’s top seed, the Saints.
28. Dallas Cowboys (3-9)
Super Bowl Odds: +25000
Previous Rank: 28
The Cowboys horror season has continued following a 34-17 loss to the Baltimore Ravens. Having allowed 156.4 rushing yards per game going into Week 13, Dallas allowed Lamar Jackson and the Ravens offense put up a whopping 294 rushing yards on Tuesday Night Football, ultimately putting the game out of reach for the Cowboys.
Dallas are now two games back in the NFC East with only four weeks of the 2020 NFL regular season to go. However, the Cowboys are somehow still a chance of stealing their division at the final hurdle, with divisional matchups against the Eagles (Week 16) and Giants (Week 17) in the final two weeks. Although I wouldn’t hold my breath.
29. Los Angeles Chargers (3-9)
Super Bowl Odds: N/A
Previous Rank: 27
The Chargers got a look at what life would have been like without Justin Herbert in their 45-0 loss to New England. Herbert had the worst performance of his rookie season, throwing for just 209 yards with zero touchdowns and two interceptions. Anthony Lynn will be looking to inspire the Chargers in their final four games of the season if he wants to keep his job in 2021.
30. Cincinnati Bengals (2-9-1)
Super Bowl Odds: N/A
Previous Rank: 30
After recording the first touchdown of the game, Cincinnati were held scoreless in the final three quarters of their Week 13 matchup against Miami, going down 19-7. Having already lost Joe Burrow for the remainder of the season, the Bengals should be focused on improving their position in the 2021 draft.
31. Jacksonville Jaguars (1-11)
Super Bowl Odds: N/A
Previous Rank: 31
Despite showing plenty of fight and forcing the Vikings to overtime, the Jaguars were ultimately defeated 27-24. The loss keeps Jacksonville firmly in the race for the number one pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, where the Jaguars will look to acquire a true young franchise quarterback that can lead this offense.
32. New York Jets (0-12)
Super Bowl Odds: N/A
Previous Rank: 32
With a 28-24 lead and only 13 seconds left on the clock, the Jets looked to have claimed their first win of the 2020 season. Enter Gregg Williams. The Jets defensive coordinator sent a seven man blitz at Derek Carr, allowing Raiders receiver Henry Ruggs to blow past his single coverage and catch the simplest of game winning touchdowns. Williams has since been fired. The 31-28 loss is actually great for New York, as it takes the franchise a step closer to securing Trevor Lawrence at the 2021 draft.
HENRY RUGGS GAME-WINNING TD 🚨
Jets stay winless
(via @Raiders)pic.twitter.com/WM6ljsArFO
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) December 6, 2020
*Odds correct at time of publication.
Are you interested in finding out more on the latest season of NFL? Then make sure you visit our NFL hub page, we’ve got all the details you need!
