The NFC South wasn’t a respected division coming into the season, as everyone assumed the Atlanta Falcons would run away with the division crown. In the last few weeks, that’s what was happening, but Week 10 reminded everyone that the NFC South is an unpredictable division.
The bad teams won, and the good team lost; one of the good teams even lost to one of the bad teams. Of course, that means a shake up for the division’s power rankings.
NFC South power rankings after Week 10
4. Carolina Panthers (3-7)
Previous ranking: 3
The Carolina Panthers enjoyed one week not being at the bottom of the ranking, and it’s unfortunate because they actually won their second straight game. However, the New Orleans Saints edge them out because they had the better Week 10 win.
Still, Panthers fans should be excited about what they’re seeing. Second-year quarterback Bryce Young looks much more comfortable, and the team has now surpassed last season’s win total.
3. New Orleans Saints (3-7)
Previous ranking: 4
The losing streak is finally over. After seven straight losses, the New Orleans Saints got back in the win column in a big way, defeating the Atlanta Falcons 20-17. With a 3-7 record now, the Saints will try to build off this game and stack wins together, hoping to get back in the mix.
As the team gets healthier, New Orleans is definitely looking at a schedule it thinks it can make a run with.
2. Atlanta Falcons (6-4)
Previous ranking: 1
The Atlanta Falcons still have the best record in the division, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers also lost in Week 10. However, losing to a Saints team that has been abysmal, in their first game with an interim head coach, is indefensible. The Falcons had made a ton of progress in recent weeks, and were looking like a serious contender, however, they’re officially back on pretender watch after losing in New Orleans.
1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-6)
Previous ranking: 2
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have nothing to be happy about, because they suffered their fourth straight loss. However, losing to the San Francisco 49ers by three points is more respectable than Atlanta losing to this Saints team by three points.
Regardless, Tampa Bay has a lot to address. The team is 4-6, and has lost four tough games against credible opponents. The Bucs have to start winning these games, or their season will be over soon.