NFL Power Rankings Week 9: Where does every NFC team stand?

NFC Power Rankings: Teams that are close

#8 - Minnesota Vikings (3-4)

Last week: #7

Next week: vs. Baltimore Ravens

The Minnesota Vikings were a team that was surging in the Power Rankings but will take a step back after losing to the Dallas Cowboys in Sunday Night Football. It was a missed opportunity to take down one of the top teams in the NFC Power Rankings.

After the top five teams in the NFC playoff picture, the final two spots are wide open right now. The Vikings figure to be one of the teams battling for a playoff appearance in the 2021 NFL season.

#7 - Carolina Panthers (4-4)

Last week: #10

Next week: vs. New England Patriots

The Carolina Panthers climbed back up the Power Rankings after a much-needed victory over the Atlanta Falcons. They stopped a long losing streak after opening the season with a winning streak.

The Panthers will look to gain momentum and start a new winning streak in Week 9. Quarterback Sam Darnold will face a familiar foe, the New England Patriots, from his time with the New York Jets.

#6 - New Orleans Saints (5-2)

Last week: #6

Next week: vs. Atlanta Falcons

The New Orleans Saints scored a huge upset victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. They have now won three consecutive games as they continue to cause trouble for Tom Brady's Buccaneers.

The Saints have been establishing their identity in recent weeks but have suffered a devastating loss heading into Week 9. Quarterback Jameis Winston will require season-ending surgery after being injured. Head coach Sean Payton will have to come up with a new gameplan once again.

#5 - Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-2)

Last week: #3

Next week: BYE

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers fell out of the top three in the NFC Power Rankings for the first time this season after losing a divisional clash against the New Orleans Saints. The will regroup in Week 9 with a bye.

The Buccaneers are still one of the favorites to win the NFC and get back to the Super Bowl. Tom Brady is still one of the leading candidates for NFL MVP and his Buccaneers are one of the most well-rounded teams in the Power Rankings.