By Vince Miller
CLEVELAND – Week 1 of the 2015 NFL season is in the books.
And some teams cannot wait to file this one far away from plain sight.
For the other teams, solidifying a Top-5 spot in the official NEOSI Power Rankings was the theme of a dominating Sunday afternoon, or in the Patriots case – opening night of the NFL regular season. Here is a look at our rankings based on all the action from Week 1.
NEO Sports Insiders NFL Power Rankings
- NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
Tom Brady beat the case, then harshly handed the Steelers their first loss. The reigning Super Bowl XLIX MVP did not waste much time getting into rhythm, zeroing in on Rob Gronkowski for three TD’s. Cleveland fans – remember Dion Lewis? The Steeler defense surely will. Lewis gashed the defense with 4.6 yards per carry, finishing the night with 69 yards on 15 carries.
- GREEN BAY PACKERS
The four-time AFC North division champions re-established their dominance in Soldier Field. Aaron Rodgers proved himself fantasy worthy ending the game with three passing TD’s. Look for this team to stay in the Top 5 all season long.
- KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
Yes, your eyes do not deceive you; we have Kansas City listed in the Top 3. If you’re fantasy draftees didn’t show any love to Alex Smith, (22-33/243 yards/3 TD’s) then you were not alone – he was only owned in 11% of ESPN FF leagues so look for that to change after his performance. After forcing a Brian Hoyer fumble, the Chiefs offense scored bringing the score to 27-6 in the second quarter.
- SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
In a game that ended by a field goal in overtime, Seattle showed some strength in the running game with Marshawn Lynch and Russell Wilson combining to gain over 100 yards on the ground. Seattle is the only NFC team to crack the Top 10 with a loss in Week 1. Keep an eye out for the only AFC team with a loss in the Top 10. Hint: AFC South.
- ARIZONA CARDINALS
Don’t look now, but Carson Palmer is going to have a long, productive season. *Knocks on wood* However, Andre Ellington exiting the game with a knee injury is a huge blow to the offense. The Cardinals don’t need CJ2K to return to 2009 form, but if the back cannot produce look for Arizona to struggle mid-season.
Marcus Davis
September 15, 2015 at 2:28 pm
Wow these are some great picks! Kee up the good work Mr. Miller!