I enjoy checking out the Power Rankings various websites put out when they're assessing the NFL each week, and I'm sure I'm not the only one. So with that in mind, I thought I'd provide the rankings at a variety of websites with their comments, with my comments to follow. Since I'm only quoting a portion of the rankings I don't see any copyright issue. If someone knows differently, please let me know. Thanks.
Football Outsiders' DVOA Power Rankings - #31 - The comments basically state the low ranking is due to their 3 blowout losses and the Rams win losing relevance. However, Schatz states that Football Outsiders have believed the last few weeks show the team building a talent base and showing signs of a return to relevance.
ESPN.com - #22 - "Whatever the 49ers' defense changed the last two weeks, it's working. In their five previous games the 49ers gave up 188 points. In their last two games they've given up just 16."
CBS.Sportsline.com - #24 - "Break up the 49ers. They're on a two-game winning streak. Frank Gore is having a Pro Bowl season."
FOXSports.com - #18 - Paraphrased: "Don't look now, but after 10 weeks, the 49ers are a game under .500 and in the thick of the NFC playoff hunt...If the 49ers can pull the upset off, they'll be a mere game out of first place in the NFC West. Shocking stuff...Sean Payton, Tony Dungy, or Lovie Smith will more than likely win the NFL Coach of the Year award this season, but Mike Nolan belongs in the conversation as well."
Dr. Z @ SI.com - #25 - Briefly discussed the disparity in rushing vs pass completions and then threw out some names
The various rankings show a definite difference of opinion on the the team's current status, in spite of mostly positive comments. Power Rankings are quite subjective so it's not likely this affects the outcome of anything. However, it's nice when the team gets the shoutouts it deserves. Looking at the NFL, my own opinion is that the 49ers are better than the following teams: Arizona, Oakland, Detroit, Tennessee, Tampa Bay, Houston, Washington (now that Campbell's behind the center), Buffalo, Cleveland, Miami and Green Bay.
So in my own power rankings, that would be put the team at #21. That would indicate a team that hasn't reached average, but is certainly showing some potential. The 49ers are no longer a "bad," "doormat" football team. They've turned the corner from bad to question mark. The next step is turning the corner from question mark to "good," or a "playoff contender." Then you become great. For now I'm happy their just moving forward.
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