NFL power rankings, Week 15: Packers rise, Broncos fall

13. team. 45. Denver’s run defense is becoming a major liability. The team entered Week 14 ranked 28th in the league in rushing defense. In the first half at Nashville, they allowed a whopping 138 yards on the ground to the Titans. When it was all said and done, the Titans totaled 42 attempts for 180 yards and 13 points proved to be enough to hold off Gary Kubiak’s squad. Quarterback Trevor Siemian hit on 35-of-51 passes for 334 yards and a score. Wide receivers Demaryius Thomas (10-126) and Emmanuel Sanders (11-100-1 TD) both caught at least 10 passes and hauled in 100-plus yards of throws. But the Denver ground attack managed an embarrassing 18 yards on nine carries. <p>Next Week: The Denver Broncos play host to their longtime nemesis from Foxborough as they take on the New England Patriots. Kubiak’s club knocked off Tom Brady and company twice last season, both in Denver. That includes a 20-18 victory in the AFC Championship Game as the Broncos were on their way to Super Bowl 50.</p> <p>Playoff hopes: The Broncos have won five consecutive AFC West titles. But it looks like that streak is likely going to come to an end unless both the Chiefs and Raiders completely collapse. Then again, the defending champs now have to worry if they will finish with a good-enough record to even reach the playoffs.</p>. 8-5. Previous: . Denver Broncos