20. Carolina Panthers, 3-4 (19)
They gave the Saints all they could handle, and are overmatched on paper every week, but they keep fighting and Teddy Bridgewater is playing well. This team’s arrow is on the way up — if not this season, over the next few as they add talent to the roster.
19. Detroit Lions, 3-3 (22)
They have a 3-3 record, which isn’t bad at all, but they sure do seem pretty bad when you watch them play. They got fortunate because they allowed a touchdown to Todd Gurley with enough time to come back and score on the final play of the game. Weird, weird team.
18. Los Angeles Chargers, 2-4 (21)
They beat Jacksonville, giving Justin Herbert his first win as a starter, and I believe he has a ton more coming his way as his career continues forth. Again, this team is snake bit, particularly with injuries and special teams, but they have their quarterback. That helps.
17. Miami Dolphins, 3-3 (17)
They had their bye week, giving their new starting quarterback Tua Tagovailola a better opportunity to take over the offense. It’s a gutsy call when you’re sitting at 3-3 and division dominator New England is struggling, but it’s a long-term call. I like it.