2016 NFL Power Rankings Week 9: Arizona Cardinals

Oct 30, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers defensive back Leonard Johnson (23) breaks up a two point conversion pass during the fourth quarter intended for Arizona Cardinals wide receiver John Brown (12) at Bank of America Stadium. The Panthers defeated the Cardinals 30-20. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 30, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers defensive back Leonard Johnson (23) breaks up a two point conversion pass during the fourth quarter intended for Arizona Cardinals wide receiver John Brown (12) at Bank of America Stadium. The Panthers defeated the Cardinals 30-20. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 30, 2016; Orchard Park, NY, USA; New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) tries to break a tackle by Buffalo Bills cornerback Stephon Gilmore (24) during the second half at New Era Field. The Patriots beat the Bills 41-25. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 30, 2016; Orchard Park, NY, USA; New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) tries to break a tackle by Buffalo Bills cornerback Stephon Gilmore (24) during the second half at New Era Field. The Patriots beat the Bills 41-25. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports /

1. New England Patriots (7-1)

Then there was one.  One quarterback better than the rest.  Tom Brady.  He’s been nothing short of great since returning following his four-game suspension to start the season.

He took care of the Bills last Sunday to revenge the loss they suffered to them without him in September. The Patriots get a bye this week, a week which saw linebacker Jamie Collins traded to the Browns. After the bye, they face the Seahawks at home.

The Patriots victory over the Steelers in week seven 27-16 was the closest game they’ve had since Brady returned to the lineup.  They may have some closer ones over the next few weeks given the opponent.

This is clear though, the Patriots are the NFL’s best team.  At this point the only way they likely lose is by beating themselves. Their toughest second half road test will be in Denver in December on the 18th.