13. Washington Redskins (14)
It’s still early, but the Redskins are currently sitting in the final wildcard spot in the NFC. They had a nice bye week to enjoy after their trip to London, and now look to come out in the second half firing. Kirk Cousins is playing for a long-term deal, and Redskins are getting it done in the best division in football. Buckle up—should be an exciting second half in the NFC East.
14. Green Bay Packers (11)
One of the most troubling things about the Packers 4-4 start is the lack of a home field advantage. Once upon a time it was nearly impossible to go into Lambeau and come out with a victory again Aaron Rodgers and the Packers. Now? Not so much.
15. Carolina Panthers (19)
Just Keep Pounding. After a 1-5 start, the Panthers seemed to have weathered the storm in their young secondary. With a renewed commitment to feeding Jonathan Stewart, the Panthers look poised to recapture some of that magic from the 2015 season. The biggest concern for the Panthers at this point is the week-to-week beating that their MVP quarterback is taking. Perhaps Newton will draw a roughing the passer penalty next week when he gets speared in the head. But for now, the officials seem content to swallow their whistles and watch one of the true superstars in the league absorb unnecessary hits repeatedly.
16. Houston Texans (15)
The Texans have now had their bye and have yet to win a road game. They have a good opportunity to do that Sunday as they play the Jaguars. They better figure out how to get some road wins quick, because they only have 3 remaining games at home.