The NFL gave the fans a lot of exciting contests this past week. On Thursday, the Atlanta Falcons edged the Baltimore Ravens in a matchup of 6-2 squads. In the other great showdown, Tom Brady put on a masterful performance as the New England Patriots went on the road to defeat the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Cleveland Browns lost in heartbreaking fashion to the New York Jets as time was winding down in overtime. The Buffalo Bills won their first game of the season over the Detroit Lions in a low-scoring affair. The Miami Dolphins finally won at home this year, knocking off the Tennessee Titans. The Dallas Cowboys made quick work of last week’s #1 team, the New York Giants, behind interim head coach Jason Garrett. Michael Vick put on a brilliant performance last night as the Philadelphia Eagles trounced the Washington Redskins after Donovan McNabb was extended to a ludicrous contract. There is quite a shake-up in these power rankings, but you can see there are several quality teams.

The Rankings

1. New England Patriots (7-2)

Yes, they’re back after destroying the Pittsburgh Steelers on the road. Their next challenge: Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts, as Tom Brady tries to match Brett Favre’s record of 25 straight home wins.

2. Atlanta Falcons (7-2)

Matty Ice has looked really good after a slow start and looks to be closing in on elite status. Roddy White has had a terrific season, nearing 1000 yards. They’ll be on the road at St. Louis.

3. New York Jets (7-2)

They survived a scare from the Browns via a fumble by a former Jet, Chansi Stuckey. They have an easy home game against the Texans this week.

4. Philadelphia Eagles (6-3)

Michael Vick is making a strong case to be the league’s MVP this year after an incredible performance last night. I never saw this coming. They will take part in a huge Sunday night showdown at home against the Giants.

5. Green Bay Packers (6-3)

They are coming off a bye week, and Aaron Rodgers will have a chance to end Brett Favre’s season and career this weekend in Minnesota.

6. New Orleans Saints (6-3)

They won two in a row before their bye week and now have a relatively easy contest with the Seattle Seahawks.

7. Indianapolis Colts (6-3)

Peyton Manning and the Colts offense struggled to beat the mediocre Cincinnati Bengals, and now they’re off to face the Patriots on the road.

8. Pittsburgh Steelers (6-3)

Injuries played a part in their embarrassing loss at home to the Patriots, but they should have an easier time against the Raiders.

9. Baltimore Ravens (6-3)

Tough loss to the Falcons, but they have been very inconsistent this season. They should crush Carolina this weekend.

10. New York Giants (6-3)

They did slide a bit in my rankings, but they were flat-out embarrassed by a Cowboys team that had one win - at home, no less. Huge game with the Eagles this weekend.

On the Bubble

Chicago Bears, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tennessee Titans, Oakland Raiders, San Diego Chargers