Week 5 NFL Power Rankings

Philip Rivers

13. New England Patriots (Last week: 4)

The Patriots opened Monday night’s game with five straight punts followed by a fumble and an interception, and with each passing week I’m believing less and less in what this team is capable of.

The offseason additions and young pieces maturing had me convinced this team would be the second-best team in the AFC, but so far the offense is anemic and the defense is below average. This is a purely personnel issue.

What to know: For the season, Tom Brady has completed only 43 percent of throws more than five yards downfield this season, second-worst in the league behind only EJ Manuel.

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Sam Spiegelman
Sam Spiegelman is a native New Yorker covering sports in New Orleans. He likes Game of Thrones way too much. Tweet him @samspiegs.