NFL Power Rankings: Playoff picture takes shape before Week 12

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - NOVEMBER 22: Running back Derrick Henry #22 of the Tennessee Titans and wide receiver Kalif Raymond #14 celebrate after Henry scored the game winning touchdown in overtime against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on November 22, 2020 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - NOVEMBER 22: Running back Derrick Henry #22 of the Tennessee Titans and wide receiver Kalif Raymond #14 celebrate after Henry scored the game winning touchdown in overtime against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on November 22, 2020 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
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Nov 22, 2020; Houston, Texas, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Cam Newton (1) calls a play at the line of scrimmage during the fourth quarter against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 22, 2020; Houston, Texas, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Cam Newton (1) calls a play at the line of scrimmage during the fourth quarter against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

20. New England Patriots (+0)

The Patriots aren’t a talented team and a lot of that is because half of their team opted out before the season started even though that feels like years ago. Still, they have to be considered as one of the better average teams in the NFL because they have the ability to play up to anyone in the NFL.

In terms of coaching, there are few better than the Patriots (obviously) and they will be in any game they play from here on out.

19. San Francisco 49ers (-1)

Through no fault of their own, the 49ers dropped a spot in this week’s power rankings. There are some major problems with this organization going forward, specifically what to do at quarterback.

However, the offense is incredibly well-coached and when they get George Kittle back they are going to be hard to defend again. Are they in the playoff hunt? No, they are probably right outside of that group but they are a team that can make you pay for overlooking them.

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