NFL Power Rankings: Division rankings

NFL Power Rankings - Seattle Seahawks fullback Derrick Coleman (40, right) celebrates his 15-yard touchdown reception with tackle Russell Okung (76) during the fourth quarter against the Green Bay Packers at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports /

8 of 9

Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Devin Hester (17) celebrates their 37-34 overtime win over the New Orleans Saints at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /

2) NFC South

Like the AFC East, the “favorite” sits at the bottom in the NFC South, as the New Orleans Saints coughed up a big lead in dropping their opener to the Atlanta Falcons. Unlike the AFC East, however, the Saints aren’t considered to be a “one man show” in the South, and it is easy to forget that the Falcons were one play away from representing the NFC in the Super Bowl after the 2012 season. Atlanta’s offense is potent when healthy, and in the Georgia Dome, they are definitely a challenge for any visitor, as Drew Brees and the Saints found out on Sunday.

The other two teams in the South matched up as well, with the Carolina Panthers pulling out a surprising win. To be honest, I had very low thoughts concerning the Panthers in the preseason (and they can be found in my season preview), but Carolina overcame the absence of Cam Newton and the shear presence of Derek Anderson to grab a road win in the division. The Panthers are nasty on defense, limiting their downside, and with Tampa Bay visibly struggling on offense (read: Doug Martin), they were able to sneak away with a win.

The NFC South appears to be the most balanced division in all of football, and there is something to be said for that.

Home/Arizona Cardinals