NFL power rankings, Week 11: Steelers rise, Eagles fall

This should be fun. The well-rested Raiders head south of the border to host the Houston Texans on Monday night. The team is in the second leg of a four-game home stand. Quarterback Derek Carr looks to frustrate the highly-regarded Houston pass defense. He’s thrown for 17 scores and been picked off only three times. Oakland has scored 30 or more points in each of their last three games – all wins. And Khalil Mack is starting to get warmed up, totaling six sacks in his last four games. But Ken Norton Jr.’s defense better be ready for a heavy dose this week from Lamar Miller and Houston’s ground attack. <p>Next Week: The Silver and Black head back to Oakland following their Monday night tilt with the Texans in Mexico City. The Raiders play host to the defending NFC champion Carolina Panthers, who have won three of their last four games following a 1-5 start. Ron Rivera’s team comes off a 23-20 Thursday night victory over the visiting Saints.</p> <p>Playoff hopes: When you have won seven of your first nine games, you have put yourself in prime position to reach the playoffs. Oakland has done just that and must now stay focused on the task at hand – reaching the postseason for the first time since 2002. That won’t be difficult considering the pressure being applied by the Chiefs and Broncos in what has become a fascinating AFC West race.</p>. 7-2. Previous: . Oakland Raiders. 4. team. 28