NFL Power Rankings for Week 16

[Halldan1]

NFL Power Rankings for Week 16: Lamar Jackson-less Ravens continue slide

How could the final three weeks of the NFL regular season be any better than what just happened?

nypost.com

12. New York Giants 8-5-1 (16)​

In throwback Giants-Washington fashion, defense set the tone. Kayvon Thibodeaux’s sack-fumble-touchdown trifecta changed the lead, and three fourth-quarter red-zone stands (three total points allowed) finished off a 20-12 victory. A resurgent Saquon Barkley totaled 120 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown to put the Giants on the cusp of their first playoff berth since 2016.

17. New York Jets 7-7 (17)​

What a gut punch. After playing nearly flawless all game, the defense allowed a 51-yard touchdown on a fourth-and-1 with less than two minutes remaining in a 20-17 loss to the Lions. Greg Zuerlein missed a 58-yard field goal as time expired. Zach Wilson threw for 317 yards and two touchdowns but had a costly interception in his return.

 

[Halldan1]

Updated NFL Power Rankings: 1-32 poll, plus pleasant surprises for every team

There's a shake-up in the top 10 after a wild weekend, and NFL Nation names 31 players and one coach who have surprised.

www.espn.com

11. New York Giants (8-5-1)​

Week 15 ranking: 16

Pleasant surprise: WR Darius Slayton

It's not an exaggeration to say that Slayton was seventh on the depth chart this summer. He was struggling to catch the ball and his confidence was shot. The fact that he's their clear-cut No. 1 receiver now with 631 yards receiving (more than 200 yards clear of his teammates) is a testament to his perseverance. Slayton's success has been monumental in helping this offense stay afloat. -- Jordan Raanan

17. New York Jets (7-7)​

Week 15 ranking: 12

Pleasant surprise: RB Zonovan "Bam" Knight

The undrafted rookie from North Carolina State had a poor game on Sunday, but he has emerged as their lead back over the past few weeks. He got into the lineup because of injuries to Breece Hall and Michael Carter and has rushed for 253 yards, 4.3 per carry and one touchdown. Knight is faster than his 40 time (4.58), showing the ability to accelerate upfield in the Jets' outside-zone scheme. The Jets should be all set at running back next season with Hall, Knight and Carter. -- Rich Cimini