NFC Power 6

AFC yesterday....NFC today....

1. New Orleans Saints | 6-0

Was there any doubt that this would be the top team? Best offense in the NFL and the best ball hawking defense (league leading 13 picks) in the league. The defense gives up points but that is only because the offense scores so much the opposition has to throw the ball all the time. I wasn't sure what this team was until this past weekend. Sure they had embarrassed the Jets and Giants but we still don't know much about those teams. The Dolphins (at home) I thought presented a unique challenge. And while the Saints failed early they passed with an A by the end. Next challenge is this Monday against the Falcons.

2. Minnesota Vikings | 6-1

All of a sudden the media is in love with Brett Favre again. You would think he is the only reason this team has won a game this year. Let me remind everyone that this same team went 10-6 and won the division last season WITHOUT #4. This team is barely hanging on to this #2 spot in my eyes. A bunch of really close games (albeit against good teams) shows that despite their 6-1 record they aren't as great as everyone thinks. Not a difficult schedule the rest of the way though so the sky is the limit.

3. Arizona Cardinals | 4-2

This surprises me as much as you. I didn't think the Cardinals were going to be any good this year and the beginning of the season looked like I was right. But they are better than most people are giving them credit for. And not just on offense...they are the #7 scoring defense in the league! Their one HUGE weakness is still the running game but Beanie Wells is more of a threat then they have had in a few years so defenses are still staying honest. Nicely setup schedule the rest of the way.

4. New York Giants | 5-2

What is this team? A couple weeks ago they were 5-0 but most of those wins came against weak teams. Now they have played 2 good teams and they are 5-2. Eli Manning is having a career year with average receivers but the running game is inconsistent. And defensively they are just average and with injuries. Not sure how far Eli can take this team once the weather gets bad. He struggles at home when the winds start swirling. Absolutely brutal schedule the rest of the way (@ Phil, SD, Atl, @ Den, Dal, Phil, @ Wash, Car, @ Minn). Ouch!

5. Green Bay Packers | 4-2

I wasn't expecting to put them on this list either but here they are. The offense is good but not great and the defense is about the same. They are shutting teams down but the schedule definitely plays a role in that (wins over Detroit, Cleveland, and St Louis). Its not a terrible schedule but it isn't easy either. Not a Super Bowl contender at this point...that's for sure.

6. Philadelphia Eagle | 4-2

After losing to Oakland can this team really be considered a top 6 team? I am not sure what to do here but comparing them to the other teams that are close I think they match up. When they actually show up to play they are good. McNabb is still a good quarterback and the defense is as good as any at putting pressure on the other team and turning the ball over. The running game is non existent which will keep them from making an impact late but for now they are in the running.

Just Missed

Dallas Cowboys...offense was great in their past 2 games but the defense is still suspect. Need to do more.

Atlanta Falcons...I almost put them in here but decided against it since their defense is struggling and is now injured. Will know more on Tuesday of next week.