My power rankings from last week appear to have been on the right track. After the Panthers’ shocking upset over the Packers, they’ve clearly established themselves as a solid team and potential playoff contender. Here are my power rankings for the NFC South heading into week 9.
4. New Orleans Saints
New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough
New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough (6) runs in for a touchdown against Denver Broncos linebacker Andrew Farmer (53) during the fourth quarter at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images
The Saints were blown out for the second straight week, losing 34-10 to the Rams in Los Angeles. Tyler Shough was mediocre in his first NFL start, and the defense was gashed by Rams stars Matthew Stafford, Puka Nacua, and Davante Adams. At 1-8, the Saints just might be the worst team in the NFL this season.
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3. Atlanta Falcons
Oct 19, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (9) drops back to pass against the San Francisco 49ers during the second quarter at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
While the Falcons performed much better this week, thanks to the returns of Michael Penix Jr. and Drake London, they still failed to win against the New England Patriots. A missed extra point sank Atlanta in the fourth quarter, and the team lost by that single point. At 3-5, Atlanta needs to go on a run in order to right the ship.
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 deserve a ton of credit for going to Lambeau Field and coming out with a win. Running back Rico Dowdle was monstrous, gaining 130 yards and scoring twice on the ground. And although quarterback Bryce Young struggled, he still led a game-winning drive against the Packers’ strong defense. Combine that with Carolina’s improved defense, and you have a team that is tough to beat, period.
1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Oct 20, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) drops back to pass against the Detroit Lions during the first half at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images
The 6-2 Buccaneers had their bye week in Week 9, and it came at the perfect time. It’s allowed Tampa Bay to heal and potentially improve on some issues they’ve had in the past couple of games. Right tackle Luke Goedeke, wide receiver Emeka Egbuka, and edge rusher Haason Reddick could all be ready to go in Week 10, and Tampa will be much better as a result.
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Conclusion
Baker Mayfield
NFL Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield
Tampa Bay is still the top team in the division after its bye week. The Panthers are a playoff contender, while the Falcons need to bounce back after three straight losses. The Saints are one of the NFL’s worst teams this season, and overall, this is one of the league’s weaker divisions.
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