1. Steelers (7-1): They rose to top old-fashioned way.
2. Patriots (7-1): The AFC title game should be great.
3. Eagles (7-1): There is no other NFC team in sight.
4. Colts (5-3): If they only had the Bears’ defense.
5. Chargers (6-3): Hoping to switch to NFC in January.
6. Jets (6-2): Losing Pennington again is not good.
7. Giants (5-3): At a crossroads without Strahan.
8. Falcons (6-2): Record still looks better than team.
9. Ravens (5-3): Defense looks better than record.
10. Broncos (6-3): AFC dark horse coming around.
11. Vikings (5-3): Until Moss is healthy, a crapshoot.
12. Packers (4-4): A chance to pull even with Vikes.
13. Seahawks (5-3): Looking for payback in St. Louis.
14. Jaguars (5-3): Look left out without Leftwich.
15. Texans (4-4): Planning for big surprise in Indy.
16. Rams (4-4): Martz isn’t happy after Patriots.
17. Chiefs (3-5): Seeking flag league for defense.
18. Buccaneers (3-5): Defense likes to chase Vick.
19. Browns (3-5): They could trap hot Steelers.
20. Lions (4-4): Road warriors hit Jacksonville.
21. Titans (3-5): Beat up but coming off rest.
22. Cardinals (3-5): Winning two in row a problem.
23. Bengals (3-5): Palmer looking for more rhythm.
24. Redskins (3-5): Still trying to score 20 points.
25. Bears (3-5): That 3-5 record is mighty popular.
26. Bills (3-5): Two steps forward, then Patriots.
27. Raiders (3-6): Get to rest up for Chargers’ visit.
28. Cowboys (3-5): Foxy Parcells labels team dumb.
29. Saints (3-5): Is every 3-5 team still in it?
30. Panthers (1-7): Best of worst no consolation.
31. Dolphins (1-8): Welcome to Jim Bates motel.
32. 49ers (1-7): Get to play Miami on Nov. 28.
