NFL power rankings, Week 12: Falcons soar, Texans tumble

9-2. Previous: . Oakland Raiders. 3. team. 28. Recap: From jumping out to a big lead to a near total collapse to some late-game heroics by quarterback Derek Carr and wide receiver Michael Crabtree. It all added up to a fifth consecutive win for the AFC West leaders. The talented field general wasn’t particularly sharp and did commit a pair of turnovers against the Panthers. But he also finished with 315 yards through the air (110 to Crabtree on 8 completions) and touchdown passes to tight end Clive Walford and wide receiver Seth Roberts. Jack Del Rio’s club did give up a disappointing 32 points but also controlled the clock for 33:27 against the defending NFC champions. <p>Next Week: It should be a fascinating matchup of big plays and big personalities next Sunday as the Raiders host the 6-5 Buffalo Bills. Rex Ryan’s offense will present Oakland defenders with a big challenge, in particular when it comes to running back LeSean McCoy and that very potent ground attack.</p> <p>Playoff hopes: For the first time since 2002, the Silver and Black will finish with a winning record. They not only remain in first place in the AFC West but are in position for a top seed within the conference. And the Raiders are finally learning how to win at home once again after a shaky start in 2016.</p>