The NFC South’s clear hierarchy, in my opinion, deserves a slight revision following Week 8’s NFL action. Here are my power rankings for the NFC South heading into week 9.
4. New Orleans Saints
Oct 5, 2025; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Saints wide receiver Chris Olave (12) walks on the sideline during the second half at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
The Saints were bullied at home by Tampa Bay, struggling to score points and protect the football. Quarterback Spencer Rattler committed two turnovers and was benched, only for rookie backup Tyler Shough to throw an interception in his stead. With a 1-7 record, it’s clear that New Orleans is one of the NFL’s worst teams, if not the worst.
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3. Atlanta Falcons
Jan 5, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson (7) runs for a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers during the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
Let me be frank about Atlanta’s 34-10 loss to the Dolphins at home on Sunday: This was maybe the worst performance by any NFL team this season. And that’s saying a lot. The Falcons were missing important starters, but this coaching staff cannot consistently get the most out of its players on either side of the ball.
2. Carolina Panthers
Oct 19, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young (9) throws the ball in the third quarter against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images
The Panthers lost in a blowout, but still move up a spot on my power rankings due to the nature of that loss. The team was unable to get anything going on either side of the ball against Buffalo, but with Bryce Young expected to return soon, I think that Carolina will be a more difficult team to beat. Their strong running game allows for big plays while still protecting the football.
1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) warms up before a game against the New York Jets at Raymond James Stadium.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) warms up before a game against the New York Jets at Raymond James Stadium – Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
Following a bruising defeat in Detroit, the Buccaneers bounced back nicely with a 23-3 shellacking of the Saints in New Orleans. The Bucs are 6-2, but injuries have begun to take their toll, especially on offense. However, this team is tough, experienced, and well-coached, so expect Tampa Bay to easily win the division and fight hard in the playoffs regardless.
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Conclusion
Tampa Bay is still a contender to win the NFC despite its injuries. The Panthers and Falcons are fading from playoff contention after each suffering a blowout loss. The Saints are terrible, and that won’t change this season. This division is still one of the worst in the league, although it could improve in the future.
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