2019 NFL power rankings, Week 11: Steelers jumping, Chiefs slumping

Recap: Sean McDermott’s physical squad made their way to Cleveland for a clash with the disappointing Browns. Quarterback Josh Allen wound up throwing for 266 yards without a score on an interception but he also ran six times for 28 yards and both of Buffalo’s touchdowns. But once again, the Bills’ defensive unit proved to be very vulnerable to the run as the Browns rolled up 147 yards rushing – 116 of that by Cleveland’s Nick Chubb. The pass rush was limited to only two sacks but one resulted in a safety that drew the teams even at 9-all in the third quarter. But McDermott’s defense also couldn’t slow down Baker Mayfield and company late in the fourth quarter.

Next Week: It’s the second encounter of the season between the Bills and Dolphins, with this contest taking place in South Florida. Back in Week 7 at Orchard Park, McDermott’s club came away with a hard-earned 31-21 victory. All told, Buffalo has prevailed in four of the last five meetings between these longtime AFC East rivals.

Playoff hopes: The Buffalo offense continues to have issues with consistency. And the recent issues on defense when it comes to stopping the run makes it a lot more difficult for McDermott’s team. The Bills made too many mistakes in the loss at Cleveland and that includes all three facets of the game. Can they bounce back this week?

Recap: The NFC East leaders were back on the prime time stage for the third consecutive game as the Cowboys hosted the talented Minnesota Vikings on Sunday evening. Jason Garrett’s club fell behind 14-0 after one quarter of play but managed to even things before trailing by three points at intermission. Eventually, Dallas would take the lead but couldn’t hold it. Quarterback Dak Prescott threw for 397 yards and three scores – his only interception of the game coming on a failed Hail Mary in the closing seconds. Both Amari Cooper and Randall Cobs topped the 100-yard receiving mark. But the Vikings’ defense did a great job stifling Cowboys’ running back Ezekiel Elliott.

Next Week: The Cowboys make their way to the Motor City for the first time since 2013 looking to continue their recent success in this setting. Including a 24-20 victory at home in the ’14 NFC Wild Card Playoffs, Dallas has won three straight meetings vs. the Lions (all at Arlington) – the latest a 26-24 triumph (Week 4) last season.

Playoff hopes: The Dallas’ offense put up huge numbers on Sunday evening but their defense disappointed once again as Minnesota’s running game proved to be a deciding factor. Since opening the season with three victories, the Cowboys have now dropped four of their last six games. Garrett’s team has become incredibly unpredictable.

Next: Nos. 8 and 7