NFL power rankings, Week 14: Steelers rise, Falcons fall

What a turnaround for a franchise that posted a combined 5-27 record the past two seasons. Led by an ever-improving quarterback Marcus Mariota and the league’s second-leading rusher in DeMarco Murray, the Titans have already totaled 308 points in 12 games – nine more than they managed all of last season. In his last eight games, the second-year signal-caller has thrown for 21 scores compared to only three interceptions. Mariota has thrown for at least two scores in each of those outings. And don’t sell the Tennessee defense short or be fooled by the fact that the team has allowed 296 points this season. Dick LeBeau’s unit has allowed only 27 offensive touchdowns in a dozen outings this year. <p>Next Week: For the first time since 2011, the Denver Broncos will pay a visit to Nashville. The last time these two original AFL franchises met was three years ago in the Mile High City when Peyton Manning was leading his club to a 51-28 win. The Broncos bring a 4-2 road record into this tilt.</p> <p>Playoff hopes: Here’s a team that’s tied for the AFC South lead with the Houston Texans and seeking a playoff berth for the first time since 2008. The division title could possibly come down to these teams’ meeting in Tennessee in Week 17 (although the Colts may have a say on the matter). The Titans’ 1-3 divisional record doesn’t help their cause.</p>. 6-6. Previous: . Tennessee Titans. 16. team. 35