Week One Power Rankings

I have been given the esteemed title of official Field Vision power ranker. I teared up a bit when Sasha called me to give the news, because I simply love making lists and being as harsh critic to the world’s best athletes and coaches.

For our first foray into the Field Vision Power Rankings will be based off Sasha Bouska’s 2024 Preseason Power Rankings. Without further ado, I will rank the NFL’s top ten teams:

10. Los Angeles Rams (Up from 13)

Despite the loss, the Rams impressed many and it was more than just Matthew Stafford’s arm. Many people will remember the Lions’ lone possession dominating the LA defense in the run game, but they pushed Detroit below their projected points total. Once Puka returns from injury, the offensive firepower should be enough to overcome the defensive ineptitude.

9. Philadelphia Eagles (Up from 12)

The Eagles and Packers made mistakes back and forth for all four quarters. Both quarterbacks seemed comfortable, but neither got into a flow. The amount of talent in both receiver corps flung points on the board with the Eagles coming out on top. Personally, I’m not terribly high on the Eagles because of Nick Sirianni, who looked confused for most of the game, but man, they’re talented.

8. Miami Dolphins (Down from 7)

The Dolphins showed how dangerous they are as a team in a matter of two plays. Right after Jevon Holland forced a Jags fumble in the red zone, Tyreek Hill broke free for an 80-yard touchdown to change the momentum of the game. Tua led the league in passing yards and leads this young year in yards as well, so expect more of the same from South Beach including fireworks.

7. Buffalo Bills (Up from 8)

Josh Allen has become an offense unto himself. The fantasy god he’s turned into in his career has placed him second to only one. He also has moments like he did early against the Cardinals with his constant turnover problems. The Bills did what they do: they won. McDermott has figured out the defense once again with Allen making huge plays on the other side. Once James Cook gets rolling, I do not believe the lack of weapons will be a problem for the Bills.

6. Baltimore Ravens (No change)

The Ravens losing notable defensive starters and important offensive linemen did not seem to hinder them against the Chiefs on opening night. Lamar Jackson made some critical mistakes, which has become the usual in his performances against the Chiefs. His miss of Zay Flowers in the red zone late and turnovers were clouded by his usual highlight plays. The Ravens have lost to the Chiefs in back-to-back games and have yet to make it a rivalry, but they will still be dominant across the league for the rest of the year.

5. Houston Texans (Down from 4)

The Texans looked to be in trouble with the highlight reel throw from Anthony Richardson, but his inaccuracy combined with CJ Stroud starting his sophomore year in a solid performance. Videos from the Texans sidelines emerged displaying Stefon Diggs complaining about a previous failed drive, but moments later, he caught his first Texan touchdown. Stroud and his supporting cast have taken a step forward in the AFC South with losses to the rest of the division in Week One.

4. Detroit Lions (Down from 3)

The Lions started the season last year with a closer victory over a recent Super Bowl champion, but that win felt stronger. The 2023 win over the Chiefs lords over the 2024 Rams win. Detroit should have dominated a defense that lost Aaron Donald and Ernest Jones IV more recently, but Jared Goff struggled to connect with Amon-Ra St. Brown. Then, they’re overtime drive happened. If that team can combine Ben Johnson’s creativity and Dan Campbell’s tough, ankle-eating mentality, then they should be just fine.

3. Dallas Cowboys (Up from 5)

Dak Prescott played a football game only hours after becoming the richest player in the history of the league. Maybe, it was the contrast with the horrendous performance from the other team’s quarterback, but Prescott looked like he deserved every dime. The ridiculousness of the NFC East may have a repeat winner for the first time in decades. Mike Zimmer, one of the last people in football from those 1990s Cowboys teams, had a masterplan for the Browns offense while the offense tore apart last year’s #1 defense. The Cowboys felt like real contenders. Yes, it is Week One.

2. San Francisco 49ers (No Change)

The reigning NFC champs opened their season on Monday and could have easily fallen victim to Aaron Rodgers during his homecoming. Brock Purdy played his usual efficient game, but a renewed vigor from the Fred Warner-led defense tortured Rodgers via the rush of the better Bosa and newcomer Leonard Floyd. The defensive performance was necessary in the absence of Christian McCaffrey, but the discovery of Jordan Mason is another gift for a team looking to get to the top. 

1. Kansas City Chiefs (No Change)

The year after they won the Super Bowl, the Chiefs seemed to have answered every remaining question. The defense is just as good as it was last year with a featured performance from Chris Jones, the aptly paid defensive tackle. Xavier Worthy is more than just the fastest football player in the history of the world, but an actual weapon. Even the defensive backfield with the loss of L’Jarius Sneed had their in-house replacements play above their belt. The back-to-back champions with the league’s best quarterback have only improved.

Biggest Movers: Cowboys up 2, two teams down 1

Fell from Rankings: Green Bay Packers (10), Cincinnati Bengals (9)

Entered Rankings: Los Angeles Rams, Philadelphia Eagles

As always, we look forward to the conversation, debate and your feedback. Hit us at @fieldvisionmi on X, @fieldvisionsports on Instagram, or on our website www.fieldvisionsports.com.