Brad Biggs' Week 15 NFL rankings
Last week's ranking in parentheses.
1. Ravens 11-2 (1)
The Ravens pushed their winning streak to nine games by holding off the Bills, 24-17, on Sunday. They've allowed more than 17 points only once in their last eight games, and that suffocating defense complements a Lamar Jackson-led offense that is difficult to prepare for. Jackson passed for only 145 yards against the Ravens but had three touchdowns and ran for 40 yards. Jackson has a quadriceps injury that is worth monitoring as the Ravens prepare to play the Jets on Thursday night.
2. 49ers 11-2 (3)
They made it through a grueling three-game stretch with wins against the Packers and Saints and a narrow loss in Baltimore. The 49ers shocked the Saints in a 48-46 victory Sunday at the Superdome as quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo passed for 349 yards and four touchdowns. The victory came with a high cost, though. Center Weston Richburg was lost for the remainder of the season after suffering a torn tendon in his right knee. Defensive end Dee Ford and cornerback Richard Sherman also went out with hamstring injuries that could sideline them for multiple weeks. Still, the Niners have to feel very good about where they are.
3. Saints 10-3 (4)
The offensive output against the vaunted 49ers defense was something to behold. The Saints put up 46 points, but their defense that has played so well all season absolutely collapsed in a 48-46 loss. It's fair to wonder what Saints coach Sean Payton was thinking calling for a fake punt on fourth-and-18. Intended receiver Tre'Quan Smith was mugged on the play, but there is no pass interference on plays when the offense lines up in a punt formation. Payton should know better.
4. Chiefs 9-4 (9)
The Chiefs will be a scary playoff opponent if they can play defense like they have during the last two weeks in wins against the Patriots (23-16) and Raiders (40-9). The victory clinched the Chiefs' fourth
