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After a week of unanimous love from NFL analysts, the Broncos experienced their first loss. Luckily for the Broncos, they tend to play a lot better when people start doubting them. Let’s all put this loss behind us and look ahead to Thursday night.
Here are this week’s power rankings.
ESPN: (4) last week 1
We wish Gary Kubiak the best in his recovery after being hospitalized with a "complex migraine condition." Though he'll be watching Thursday night's game from home, he should rest easy: The Broncos have won eight of their past nine against the Chargers.
Top 5: 1. Vikings 2. Patriots 3. Steelers 4. Broncos 5. Seahawks
NFL.com: (5) last week 1
Certainly not a team in disarray, but a drop is warranted for the Broncos. Gary Kubiak's health is of prime concern -- so much of this football team's consistency comes from the steady hand of its head coach. The home loss to the Falcons was dispiriting, as Atlanta's running backs controlled the day. Most disturbing to the fans, though, must have been the play of the offensive line, which was absolutely brutal against a middling Falcons pass rush.
Top 5: 1. Vikings 2. Patriots 3. Seahawks 4. Falcons 5. Broncos
SB Nation: (4) last week 1
Out of the top spot are the Denver Broncos after picking up their first loss of the year. Losing to a good team like the Falcons with a backup, rookie quarterback isn’t cause for a huge tumble, but Atlanta did expose some flaws that will be under the microscope for a while.
Top 5: 1. Vikings 2. Patriots 3. Falcons 4. Broncos 5. Seahawks
CBS Sports: (5) last week 1
Who knew they would miss Trevor Siemian so much? Paxton Lynch wasn't as good as some expected. Now they have to play a game without Gary Kubiak.
Top 5: 1. Vikings 2. Patriots 3. Packers 4. Falcons 5. Broncos
FOX Sports: (5) last week 1
Denver suffered its first loss of the season, but the Broncos get a bit of a pass for two reasons: It was the Falcons, and Paxton Lynch played quarterback. Trevor Siemian is obviously the better of the two, and it’s not often Denver will face a high-powered offense like Atlanta’s.
Top 5: 1. Vikings 2. Steelers 3. Packers 4. Patriots 5. Broncos
MMQB Fine Fifteen: (5) last week 1
Paxton Lynch needs more time to develop, but the Broncos knew that when they drafted him. Now they’re hoping Trevor Siemian’s injured shoulder will be ready in time for a Thursday night division game in San Diego.
Top 5: 1. Vikings 2. Patriots 3. Steelers 4. Falcons 5. Broncos
Which teams are in your top 5 this week?