Week 12 NFL Power Rankings: Teams 32-17

Week 12 brought forth a plethora of significant plays, challenging injuries, and some unexpected upsets. Several teams maintained their momentum, while others experienced another setback. At this stage of the season, every team is fervently competing to secure a spot in the playoff race. Below is the status of all 32–17 teams following yet another tumultuous weekend.

32. Tennessee Titans (1–9) The Titans faced a narrow defeat, losing 16–13 against Houston in a tightly contested matchup. Rookie quarterback Cameron Ward demonstrated improvement with a late-game scoring drive, yet the defense was unable to secure the victory. Tennessee continues to engage in competitive play as its young offense remains in the process of learning how to conclude games successfully.

31. New York Giants (2–9) New York succumbed to the Packers with a final score of 27–20 after Jameis Winston took over as their third starting quarterback this season, replacing Jaxson Dart. Although Winston connected on several significant passes and Devin Singletary scored twice, a late interception ultimately sealed their fate. The Giants are still endeavoring to achieve a sense of stability amid ongoing challenges.

30. New Orleans Saints (2–8) The Saints recently made a switch to Tyler Shough at quarterback, yet the offense has continued to struggle. Drives frequently stalled, and dynamic plays became increasingly scarce, leading to yet another loss. With the season slipping away, New Orleans is desperately searching for any offensive spark that could revive their struggles.

29. Las Vegas Raiders (2–8) The Raiders suffered their fourth consecutive defeat in a 33–16 loss to Dallas. Geno Smith connected with Brock Bowers multiple times for significant gains, but the offense faltered in finishing drives, often settling for field goals until the later stages of the game. Ashton Jeanty faced considerable difficulty finding running room, and the defense had no effective counter for Dak Prescott's four-touchdown performance.

28. New York Jets (2–8) In a 27–14 loss to the Patriots, the Jets experienced disappointment despite an early touchdown from Justin Fields. Following another difficult outing, Fields was benched, and the team has opted to turn to Tyrod Taylor. While the defense continues to show resilience, the offense has struggled to maintain consistency throughout the season.

27. Cleveland Browns (2–8) Cleveland fell short against Baltimore, losing 23–16, despite the defense contributing a pick-six. An array of turnovers from the offense, including two interceptions, proved detrimental to their performance. The Browns utilized both Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders as they evaluate their younger players for potential future contributions.

26. Washington Commanders (3–8) Washington endured a narrow overtime defeat against the Dolphins, concluding the game at 16–13. Marcus Mariota played commendably, and the defense held its ground for most of the match; however, the loss of Jayden Daniels for the season looms large over the team’s morale.

25. Arizona Cardinals (3–7) The Cardinals experienced a heavy defeat, losing 41–22 to the 49ers. Jacoby Brissett managed to move the ball effectively with Trey McBride, Greg Dortch, and Michael Wilson, yet the defense struggled to contain Christian McCaffrey's exceptional performance. With Kyler Murray on injured reserve, Arizona is relying significantly on its younger talent to step up.

24. Atlanta Falcons (3–7) The Falcons faced a heartbreaking 30–27 overtime loss to Carolina and suffered a major setback with Michael Penix Jr.’s likely season-ending ACL injury. Atlanta established an early lead thanks to contributions from Drake London and Bijan Robinson but ultimately could not hold on in the final moments of the game.

23. Miami Dolphins (4–7) Miami triumphed over Washington with a 16–13 overtime victory, bolstered by De’Von Achane’s impressive performance and a crucial defensive interception. Tua Tagovailoa efficiently managed the game, and the Dolphins have now secured back-to-back victories.

22. Cincinnati Bengals (3–7) The Bengals were overwhelmed by Pittsburgh, suffering a 34–12 defeat. Joe Flacco managed to throw a touchdown early on, and Chase Brown rushed for 99 yards, yet turnovers, including a crucial pick-six, ultimately doomed their chances. The team is optimistic about Joe Burrow's upcoming return as he continues to recover from his turf toe injury.

21. Minnesota Vikings (4–6) Minnesota found itself on the losing end of a closely contested 19–17 game against Chicago. J.J. McCarthy threw two interceptions early but later rallied the team with a strong comeback effort that culminated in a touchdown pass to Jordan Addison. Unfortunately for the Vikings, a late field goal from the Bears sealed their defeat.

20. Dallas Cowboys (4–5–1) The Cowboys finally broke free from their slump, achieving a decisive 33–16 victory over the Raiders. Dak Prescott exhibited precision throughout the game, throwing four touchdowns to four different receivers, including impactful plays to CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens. Dallas appeared far more balanced following their bye week and demonstrated a complete team performance.

19. Houston Texans (5–5) Houston secured a 16–13 victory against Tennessee with Davis Mills stepping up in place of the concussed C.J. Stroud. Mills successfully connected with Nico Collins consistently, and the Texans clinched the win with a walk-off field goal, bringing their record back to .500.

18. Carolina Panthers (6–5) The Panthers delivered a stunning upset against Atlanta, prevailing 30–27 in overtime as Bryce Young achieved a career-high 448 passing yards. Both Tetairoa McMillan and Xavier Legette displayed dominance, and Carolina's offensive unit appeared explosive from the beginning to the end of the game.

17. Jacksonville Jaguars (6–4) Jacksonville delivered a commanding performance, defeating the Chargers 35–6 through a robust rushing attack led by Bhayshul Tuten and Travis Etienne Jr. Trevor Lawrence contributed with two touchdowns, while the defense effectively neutralized Justin Herbert, marking a definitive win for the Jaguars.

The events of Week 12 have indeed altered the landscape, and the stakes will only rise from here. With critical injuries, emerging talents, and pivotal matchups looming, these teams will continue to strive for improvement as the season approaches its conclusive phase.