Week 15 NFL Power Rankings #32-17

As the playoff race intensifies, the teams positioned at the lower end of the rankings find themselves with limited time to rectify their seasons. Let us examine the bottom half of the league.

32. New York Giants (e)

The Giants experienced a devastating loss, being defeated and shut out by the Vikings with a score of 31-0, and their offense failed to establish any form of rhythm throughout the game. Their defense strived to hold on, yet struggled to contend with Minnesota's formidable passing attack. Having been eliminated from playoff contention, New York is now concentrating solely on assessing its younger players.

31. Las Vegas Raiders (e)

The Raiders faced a disappointing defeat, losing 24-17 to the Broncos, but they exhibited resilience towards the end of the game, with Kenny Pickett igniting a minor comeback effort. Unfortunately, their defense struggled significantly against Denver’s rushing and special teams plays. With playoff aspirations extinguished, Las Vegas is now focused on the aspects of next season.

30. Tennessee Titans (e)

The Titans finally secured their second victory of the season, triumphing over the Browns with a score of 31-29 in an exhilarating back-and-forth contest. Tony Pollard delivered an outstanding performance, scoring two long touchdowns and propelling the offense. However, even with this win, Tennessee has already been eliminated from playoff contention.

29. New York Jets (e)

The Jets suffered a significant defeat, falling 34-10 to the Dolphins, and were unable to contain Miami’s rushing attack. Their offense faltered once again, and the quarterback rotation failed to inject any much-needed energy into the team. After enduring another difficult week, the Jets have been eliminated from playoff consideration.

28. Arizona Cardinals (e)

The Cardinals encountered a substantial loss, falling 45-17 to the Rams, despite starting strong with an early touchdown. Their defense could not effectively address Blake Corum’s breakout performance and allowed numerous big plays throughout the evening. Arizona has been eliminated from playoff contention and will continue to prioritize the development of young talent.

27. Cleveland Browns (e)

Cleveland faced a heartbreaking loss, succumbing 31-29 to the Titans, even though Shedeur Sanders managed to throw for over 360 yards. The Browns struggled to halt Tennessee's rushing game during critical moments of the matchup. With yet another disappointing finish, the Browns have been eliminated from playoff contention.

26. New Orleans Saints (e)

The Saints stunned the Buccaneers with a narrow victory, winning 24-20, largely due to the efforts of rookie Tyler Shough, who contributed two rushing touchdowns and produced clutch plays. Their defense excelled by securing pivotal interceptions that altered the course of the game. Nevertheless, even after this upset, New Orleans has already been eliminated from the playoff race.

25. Washington Commanders (e)

The Commanders were shut out 31-0 by the Vikings, experiencing a dismal performance from beginning to end. Although Jayden Daniels made his return, he endured a hard hit that re-injured the elbow he had previously dislocated, resulting in him being removed from the game again. It remains uncertain whether he will return to play this season in what has turned out to be a lost year. Washington is now eliminated from playoff contention.

24. Atlanta Falcons (e)

The Falcons suffered a crushing defeat, losing 37-9 to the Seahawks, and were unable to generate any significant offensive momentum apart from a few impressive runs by Bijan Robinson. Their defense was overwhelmed in the latter half by explosive returns and substantial passing plays. With the playoffs out of reach, Atlanta has little left to strive for this season.

23. Cincinnati Bengals (e)

The Bengals fell in a thrilling shootout, losing 39-34 to the Bills, which squandered an impressive performance by Joe Burrow until he threw two critical interceptions late in the game. They demonstrated their ability to score, but their defense conceded too many significant plays to Josh Allen. Cincinnati is now eliminated from playoff contention, dropping to a disheartening 4-9 record.

22. Minnesota Vikings

The Vikings excelled in their matchup against the Commanders, achieving a dominating 31-0 victory, with J.J. McCarthy tossing three touchdown passes and the defense forcing multiple turnovers. This represented their most complete victory of the season, preserving their slim playoff hopes. The Vikings have not been eliminated but must continue their winning streak.

21. Miami Dolphins

The Dolphins delivered a decisive victory against the Jets, winning 34-10, fueled by Jaylen Wright’s impressive 107 rushing yards and a robust defensive effort. Their four-game winning streak has momentarily revitalized their chances in the AFC playoff picture. Miami has not been eliminated and remains in contention for a wild-card spot.

20. Indianapolis Colts

The Colts suffered a 36-19 loss to Jacksonville, with an even greater blow being the loss of Daniel Jones due to a torn Achilles after a promising 8-5 start. Although their backup quarterback attempted to energize the offense, the team struggled significantly without Jones and could not contain the Jaguars. While Indianapolis is not eliminated, their playoff aspirations have taken a sizable hit.

19. Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens experienced a tense 27-22 loss against the Steelers after staging a comeback from a significant early deficit. Lamar Jackson showcased his skills both as a passer and a runner; however, turnovers and missed opportunities ultimately cost them the game. Baltimore is still in the hunt but at 6-7, their margin for error is diminishing.

18. Kansas City Chiefs

The Chiefs faced a setback, losing 20-10 to Houston, with Patrick Mahomes having a challenging night, throwing three interceptions in what has been one of his toughest performances of the season. The offense struggled to establish a rhythm, leading to a quiet atmosphere at Arrowhead Stadium. Kansas City remains in contention but their playoff hopes are waning.

17. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Buccaneers suffered a surprising loss, falling 24-20 to the Saints and faced difficulties in executing key plays during the final moments of the game. Baker Mayfield's mistakes and the loss of control over the run game significantly hampered their efforts. Although not eliminated, Tampa Bay now finds themselves at 7-6 and are losing ground in the NFC playoff race.

These teams are either already ousted from playoff contention or clinging to mere glimmers of hope. With only four weeks remaining in the 2025 NFL season, Week 16 will prove pivotal in determining which teams still remain relevant in the playoff picture.