Minnesota Vikings
The Minnesota Vikings' #20 ranking with a 3-4 record reflects a team that has underperformed expectations despite having competitive pieces, particularly with their inconsistent play in close games and lack of signature victories against quality opponents. Their primary weaknesses appear to be in crucial game situations and maintaining consistency on both sides of the ball, as evidenced by their inability to secure wins in what should be winnable matchups. The Vikings' ranking is justified when compared to similarly struggling teams like the Cowboys (3-3) and Bengals (3-4), as all three franchises entered the season with playoff aspirations but have failed to establish themselves as reliable contenders through the first half of the season. To climb back into playoff contention, Minnesota needs to capitalize on their remaining divisional games, improve their performance in high-leverage situations, and string together consecutive wins against teams in their competitive range - starting with the teams currently ranked just above and below them in the power rankings.
| Rank | Team | Record | Rating | Point Diff |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #18 |
Dallas Cowboys
|
3-3 | 12.89 | +16 |
| #19 |
Cincinnati Bengals
|
3-4 | 9.26 | -78 |
| #20 |
Minnesota Vikings
|
3-4 | 8.92 | -7 |
| #21 |
Atlanta Falcons
|
3-3 | 8.48 | -10 |
| #22 |
Houston Texans
|
2-4 | 8.47 | +39 |