2018 NFL power rankings, Week 13: Chargers strike, Bengals implode

It was the final installment of off weeks in the NFL. And there was a little shuffling when it came to both the top and the bottom of the power rankings.

Recap: The Niners returned from their off-week and made the long trip to the Sunshine State to take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. But Sunday got off the rough start for the franchise as linebacker Reuben Foster was released after another off-the-field incident. As for the game, San Francisco trailed by seven at the half (13-6) and would manage only a field goal in the final 30 minutes. Meanwhile, Robert Saleh’s unit allowed 412 total yards to Jameis Winston and company. The team generated only one sack all afternoon and once again failed to force a turnover. All told, Shanahan’s squad has totaled only five takeaways in 11 games this year.

Next Week: Shanahan’s team heads back cross country and makes its way to the Pacific Northwest to face a franchise that has caused the Niners nightmares as of late. Including a tough 23-17 in the 2013 NFC title game, the 49ers have dropped nine consecutive games to the rival Seahawks – including five straight at Seattle.

Playoff hopes: It’s a fourth consecutive losing season for a Niners’ franchise that has had its share of bad luck with injuries this season. The setback to the Buccaneers dropped San Francisco to 1-7 within the conference. Simply put, this team has had too much to overcome this year and the club currently doesn’t have the talent.

Next: No. 31