13. Minnesota Vikings (10)
After a four week run of mostly close losses, the Vikings avoided being the first team ever to start 5-0 and then drop five in a row. Their defense and special teams stepped up to the challenge in a big way, scoring two touchdowns in the winning effort. The offensive woes continue however, and will make it difficult for this team to make any sort of deep run without increased offensive production.
14. Arizona Cardinals (9)
Five weeks ago, the Cardinals losing a road game to the Vikings would have seemed like a given. However, after four straight Viking losses, this game just proved to be another head scratching loss for the Cardinals. What seems more and more apparent each week is that Carson Palmer is on the decline—not throwing with nearly the velocity that he was even a season ago. His goal line pick six was an absolutely despicable play but has summed up much of his play this season. It was enough to send his head coach to the hospital with chest pains—we can only pray the Bruce Arians is going to be okay.
15. Detroit Lions (17)
Yes, the Lions are still hold the division lead up North. The Lions are a dangerous team on the offensive side of the ball, but are the poster-child for inconsistent play. They should have handled the Jaguars with ease in front of their home crowd. Had they not blown games against the Titans and Bears—games that they should have won—the Lions would be sitting at 8-2. However the inexcusable losses will be the ones that prevent this team from playing up to their true potential. The Lions would easily benefit from a new head coach this offseason to maximize the talent they have.
16. Houston Texans (12)
Houston has to be one of the worst 6-4 teams in the history of the league, statistically speaking. They now sport a -34 scoring margin on the season. They squeak out close wins against bad teams, and get handled by good teams. However, Monday Night, the officials took at least seven points off the board for the Texans with horrific calls. This team perhaps should be the worst 7-3 team of all time, but they are forced to settle on 6-4. The Colts are now right on their tail, with a lot of momentum on their side. Houston may have caught a break as the Colts will be without Andrew Luck for their bout with the Steelers on Thanksgiving Night due to a concussion.