NFL Week 18 Power Rankings: Packers Inching Toward Playoffs
Week 17’s action was all about playoff positioning with plenty of drama. Several teams were eliminated from playoff contention, like the New York Jets and Washington Commanders. The New England Patriots, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Green Bay Packers kept their postseason hopes alive with huge wins.
As we enter the final super bowl bet of the regular season, take a look at our weekly NFL power rankings.
Let’s check the latest NFL picks, stats, injury reports, and NFL predictions. We’ve plenty of NFL expert picks for you to consider.
32. Houston Texans
Last Week: 32
After snapping a nine-game losing streak in Week 16, the Houston Texans were dominated by the Jacksonville Jaguars 31-3. The run game was nonexistent and quarterback Davis Mills was mediocre at best. Rookie safety Jalen Pitre continues to be a bright spot after recording 13 tackles and an interception. With a loss in Week 18, Houston will clinch the No. 1 pick for the 2023 NFL Draft.
- No Super Bowl odds
31. Chicago Bears
Last Week: 31
Outside of quarterback Justin Fields’ legs, the Chicago Bears have nothing right now. The 41-10 loss against the Detroit Lions was a failure in nearly every area. The offensive line was dominated, the passing game totaled 75 yards and the defense allowed more than 500 yards. Chicago will look to make a major overhaul in the offseason. If the Bears lose in Week 18 and the Texans win, they will clinch the No. 1 seed.
- No Super Bowl odds
30. Indianapolis Colts
Last Week: 29
This season has been a disaster for the Indianapolis Colts, but at least the defense has been good more times than not. That was far from the case in Week 17, as the defense had perhaps its worst performance in the 38-10 loss against the New York Giants. The run defense was horrible, allowing 217 rushing yards on 5.9 yards per carry. As usual, quarterback play was a struggle. Indy has a lot of work to do in the offseason.
- No Super Bowl odds
29. Arizona Cardinals
Last Week: 28
With quarterback Colt McCoy out in Week 17, the Arizona Cardinals started David Blough, instead of Trace McSorley. This was Arizona’s fourth different starting QB of the season. In the 20-19 loss against the Atlanta Falcons, defensive lineman J.J. Watt turned in a good performance ahead of his final game in Week 18. At 4-12, it’s only a matter of time before the Cardinals fire coach Kliff Kingsbury.
- No Super Bowl odds
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28. Denver Broncos
Last Week: 30
Russell Wilson and the Denver Broncos hung tough against the Kansas City Chiefs but fell short 27-24. The defense looked much better after the embarrassing 51-14 loss against the Los Angeles Rams in Week 16. Denver generated two takeaways and held the Chiefs to 2.9 yards per carry. Ultimately, the offense could not make enough plays in the clutch. Rumors will continue to swirl around the Broncos’ coaching search. Michigan’s Jim Harbaugh seems to be the hot name this week.
- No Super Bowl odds
27. Atlanta Falcons
Last Week: 27
The Atlanta Falcons snapped their four-game losing streak with a 20-19 win against the Arizona Cardinals. Rookie quarterback Desmond Ridder made progress as he led a game-winning drive, leading to Younghoe Koo’s 21-yard field goal. Overall, the Falcons made progress on the offensive line and in the run game this season. However, Atlanta has plenty of tough decisions to make in the offseason. Is Ridder the quarterback of the future, and how will the Falcons upgrade their defense?
- No Super Bowl odds
26. Los Angeles Rams
Last Week: 25
Following a 51-point outburst in Week 16, the Los Angeles Rams’ offense came back down to earth with less than 300 yards in the 31-10 loss against the Los Angeles Chargers. Quarterback Baker Mayfield had a poor showing, but running back Cam Akers continues to be a bright spot after totaling 123 yards. The Rams will look to spoil the Seattle Seahawks’ playoff hopes in Week 18.
- No Super Bowl odds
25. Las Vegas Raiders
Last Week: 26
Initially, coach Josh McDaniels’ decision to start Jarrett Stidham at quarterback was head-scratching. The offense was much improved against the San Francisco 49ers, who have the NFL’s best defense. Stidham got off to a terrific start but faded as the game went on. The defense allowed 454 yards and rarely generated pressure. Ultimately, totaling 500 yards in Stidham’s first start is a big positive for the Las Vegas Raiders.
- No Super Bowl odds
24. Cleveland Browns
Last Week: 24
Quarterback Deshaun Watson had perhaps his best game as a Cleveland Brown with a 122.5 passer rating, leading to the 24-10 win over the Washington Commanders. The defense dominated with three turnovers while allowing only 124 passing yards and 3.7 yards per carry. After spoiling Washington’s postseason hopes, the Browns hope to ruin the Pittsburgh Steelers’ playoff chances in the final week of the regular season.
- No Super Bowl odds
23. Carolina Panthers
Last Week: 20
In the 30-24 loss against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Carolina Panthers’ identity failed them. Carolina’s defense was shredded for 432 passing yards. The secondary struggled without cornerback Jaycee Horn. The run game also stumbled at 3.4 yards per carry. Quarterback Sam Darnold played well once again, but the Panthers will likely look for a new signal-caller in the draft.
- No Super Bowl odds
22. New Orleans Saints
Last Week: 20
With their divisional title hopes in the balance, the New Orleans Saints turned in perhaps their best performance of the season with a 20-10 win against the Philadelphia Eagles. The defense continued its dominance with six sacks and nine QB hits against the NFL’s best offensive line. Plus, cornerback Marshon Lattimore reeled in a 12-yard pick-six in his return from injury. Unfortunately, the cards did not fall the way New Orleans needed. The Saints were eliminated from the playoffs but an elite defense is a great building block for next season.
- No Super Bowl odds
21. Washington Commanders
Last Week: 14
After the 24-10 loss to the Cleveland Browns and the Green Bay Packers’ win, the Washington Commanders were eliminated from the playoff race. The Commanders struggled down the stretch, going 0-3-1 over the last four games. Carson Wentz got his shot at starting quarterback once again and posted three interceptions with a 31.4 passer rating. Like many teams at the bottom, the Commanders have a major problem at quarterback.
- No Super Bowl odds
20. Tennessee Titans
Last Week: 18
Week 17 was essentially a rest week for the Tennessee Titans with many key contributors inactive. Quarterback Joshua Dobbs got his first start in the 27-13 loss to Dallas. He gave the Titans much more in the passing game compared to rookie Malik Willis. Tennessee’s fate will hinge on Dobbs, who will start in the regular-season finale against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
- +20000 Super Bowl odds
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Last Week: 22
Following several disappointing losses, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ playoff hopes came down to one game. Guess who stepped up in the biggest game of the season? Quarterback Tom Brady was sharp with 432 passing yards and a 127.3 passer rating in the 30-24 win against the Carolina Panthers. Wide receiver Mike Evans finally emerged with a monster day for 207 receiving yards and three touchdowns. This was the offense’s largest scoring total since Oct. 2. Could the Buccaneers win in the Wild Card round after clinching the NFC South?
- +2500 Super Bowl odds
18. Pittsburgh Steelers
Last Week: 21
The Pittsburgh Steelers kept their postseason hopes alive with a 16-13 win over the Baltimore Ravens. Most importantly, the Steelers have secured their quarterback of the future with rookie Kenny Pickett. This was the second consecutive game with Pickett leading a game-winning drive. This week’s game-winning drive was even more impressive as Pickett made a couple of picture-perfect throws. Even if Pittsburgh falls short of the playoffs, this season was a success with Pickett’s steady improvement.
- +25000 Super Bowl odds
17. New York Jets
Last Week: 13
The New York Jets were eliminated from playoff contention with the 23-6 loss to the Seahawks. Quarterback Mike White did not make a difference in his return from injury with two interceptions and a 47.4 passer rating. The Jets have a formidable defense but are a quarterback away from competing in the postseason. Rumors of New York acquiring Derek Carr have emerged. With +250 odds, the Jets are the favorite to land Carr.
- No Super Bowl odds
16. Miami Dolphins
Last Week: 11
The last month has been a nightmare for Miami Dolphins fans. They have now lost five consecutive games following the 23-21 loss against the New England Patriots. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa will likely miss another game, meaning Teddy Bridgewater or Skylar Thompson will start in his stead. To make the playoffs, the Dolphins must defeat the Jets in Week 18 while the Patriots lose.
- +6600 Super Bowl odds
15. New England Patriots
Last Week: 19
The New England Patriots’ defense fueled another win as the unit totaled two takeaways, including Kyle Dugger’s 39-yard pick-six. Rookie wide receiver Tyquan Thornton had a breakout performance with three catches for 60 yards. New England will be a dangerous squad if it consistently finds explosive plays in the passing games. With a win over the Buffalo Bills in Week 18, the Pats will clinch a playoff spot.
- +15000 Super Bowl odds
14. Seattle Seahawks
Last Week: 17
The run game finally emerged for the Seattle Seahawks in the 23-6 win over the New York Jets as running back Kenneth Walker III totaled 133 rushing yards. The Jets rank sixth at 4.1 allowed yards per carry and Seattle averaged over five yards per rush. In addition, the defense had one of its best performances, allowing only six points. This was the lowest allowed point total of the season. To make the playoffs, the Seahawks must win against the Los Angeles Rams in Week 18 while the Packers lose to Detroit.
- +20000 Super Bowl odds
13. Detroit Lions
Last Week: 15
As expected, the Detroit Lions secured a must-win against the Chicago Bears. In the 41-10 rout, running back D’Andre Swift’s play was perhaps the most encouraging performance. He seems to finally be healthy and showcased his explosive ability with two plays going for more than 20 yards. Quarterback Jared Goff was also sharp. Detroit regained its confidence ahead of Week 18’s primetime showdown against the Packers.
- +12500 Super Bowl odds
12. Minnesota Vikings
Last Week: 7
When the Minnesota Vikings lose, they lose ugly. The 41-17 loss to the Packers was another reality check. The defense, which has usually been the problem, was not the reason for this loss. The offense struggled mightily with four turnovers. Plus, Justin Jefferson was held to only 15 receiving yards. Every concern around Minnesota remains as we enter Week 18. Will the Vikings get past the Wild Card round?
- +2800 Super Bowl odds
11. New York Giants
Last Week: 12
Following the 38-10 win over the Indianapolis Colts, the New York Giants clinched their first postseason appearance since 2016. Quarterback Daniel Jones shined with a 125.2 passer rating and consistently made plays with his legs (91 rushing yards). New York is hitting its stride at the perfect time. The Giants could rest their starters in the final week of the regular season.
- +6000 Super Bowl odds
10. Baltimore Ravens
Last Week: 9
Of course, the Baltimore Ravens are a completely different team without quarterback Lamar Jackson at the helm. The offense struggled once again with 240 yards in the 16-13 loss against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Running back J.K. Dobbins has been one of the only bright spots in recent weeks. He posted 93 rushing yards on Sunday night. Tight end Mark Andrews also totaled 100 receiving yards. Baltimore must defeat the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 18 to have a chance to win the AFC North.
- +2800 Super Bowl odds
9. Jacksonville Jaguars
Last Week: 10
In Week 5, the Jacksonville Jaguars hit rock bottom after losing to the Houston Texans. They got revenge in Week 17 with a 31-3 win over the Texans. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence had perhaps his worst game since October, but the run game and defense dominated. Running back Travis Etienne has reached at least 80 rushing yards in three straight games. Jacksonville’s playoff hopes will be decided on Saturday night against the Tennessee Titans.
- +4000 Super Bowl odds
8. Green Bay Packers
Last Week: 16
Before Week 17, the Green Bay Packers were not winning in impressive fashion but were surviving and advancing. The Packers made a statement on Sunday with a 41-17 win over the Minnesota Vikings. The defense is finally performing like one of the league’s best units. Vikings wideout Jefferson was held to one catch and Green Bay forced four turnovers. The offense has plenty of room for improvement but going 7 of 12 on third downs usually gets the job done. The Packers are one win away from a playoff berth.
- +3000 Super Bowl odds
7. Los Angeles Chargers
Last Week: 8
With the 31-10 win over the Los Angeles Rams, the Los Angeles Chargers have won four consecutive games and are the most dangerous Wild Card squad in the AFC. The Bolts’ defense had another solid outing, but it allowed 166 rushing yards. On offense, Los Angeles got the run going with 192 yards on 6.2 yards per carry. The Chargers have rounded into form at the perfect time.
- +2200 Super Bowl odds
6. Dallas Cowboys
Last Week: 6
Slow starts continue to be a problem for quarterback Dak Prescott. He totaled two interceptions in the first half against the Titans, but one was due to a drop from tight end Peyton Hendershot. Prescott must clean up turnovers as he is now tied for the most interceptions at 14. However, he’s playing much better in the second half, which was the case once again in the 27-13 win on Thursday. The Cowboys will likely collide with Tom Brady and the Buccaneers in the Wild Card round.
- +1000 Super Bowl odds
5. Philadelphia Eagles
Last Week: 1
Backup quarterback Gardner Minshew’s struggles were evident in the 20-10 loss to the New Orleans Saints. The Philadelphia Eagles’ inefficient offense was simply painful to watch. Philly rarely ran the ball and the passing game was like pulling teeth. The offensive line’s poor game is particularly concerning. Per usual, the defensive line dominated with seven sacks but coverage in the secondary was spotty once again. Fortunately, quarterback Jalen Hurts is expected to return in Week 18. Philadelphia needs a win to clinch the No. 1 seed.
- +500 Super Bowl odds
4. Kansas City Chiefs
Last Week: 4
The Kansas City Chiefs have won four consecutive games but are not trending in the right direction. Following a close 27-24 win in Week 17, the Chiefs have won two of their last three games by one score against two of the league’s worst teams – the Texans and Broncos. The defense is becoming a big problem, especially in the secondary. Plus, the run game has been inconsistent. Will quarterback Patrick Mahomes be able to carry the load in the postseason?
- +450 Super Bowl odds
3. San Francisco 49ers
Last Week: 5
The San Francisco 49ers’ defense has some concerns after allowing 500 yards against the Las Vegas Raiders. However, San Francisco’s offense is rolling, which led to the 37-34 win. Quarterback Brock Purdy had another solid game while running back Christian McCaffrey had more than 190 scrimmage yards. Plus, wide receiver Deebo Samuel is nearing his return from injury. The 49ers are tied with the Eagles as favorites to win the NFC with +200 odds.
- +550 Super Bowl odds
2. Cincinnati Bengals
Last Week: 3
Following the postponement of Week 17’s game, the Cincinnati Bengals moved up one spot.
- +750 Super Bowl odds
1. Buffalo Bills
Last Week: 2
The devastating incident involving Damar Hamlin puts things into perspective. This is football, it’s just a game. Our prayers and thoughts are with Hamlin, his family, and the Buffalo Bills organization.
- +375 Super Bowl odds
We’ve got plenty of Super Bowl betting for you to consider your odds to win the Super Bowl.
The odds and predictions in the article are based on the time of writing and publication. They may differ as to when the actual event takes place.
