These power rankings won’t change after a disappointing week for the NFC South. Outside of the Saints, none of the other teams in the division were able to win their Week 10 matchups. Here are my power rankings for the NFC South heading into Week 11.
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 shockingly upset the Panthers in Carolina behind a strong performance from rookie QB Tyler Shough. The rookie threw for 282 yards and two touchdowns, and established strong connections with WR Chris Olave and TE Juwan Johnson. At 2-8, the Saints are still really bad, but may have something good brewing with Shough in Kellen Moore’s offense.
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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
For the second straight week, Atlanta lost by one possession, and this time it was in overtime. The offense scored 25 points but struggled with consistency, and the defense recorded seven sacks and two turnovers but could not stop the Colts’ running game at all. The 3-6 Falcons are now on the outside of the NFC playoff picture.
2. Carolina Panthers
Nov 9, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young (9) looks to pass during the third quarter against the New Orleans Saints at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
The Panthers are hard to figure out. How on earth do you lose at home to the lowly Saints following a road victory over the Packers, one of the NFC’s top dogs? Bryce Young (124 yards, one interception) continues to struggle, and the defense couldn’t stop Tyler Shough from carving them up. This team needs to figure out how to stay consistent, or they will fail to reach the playoffs.
1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Oct 5, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) passes the ball against the Seattle Seahawks during the second half at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images
It may have been against the red-hot Patriots, but Tampa Bay will still be disappointed they couldn’t secure the win at home. While the offense looked great through the air, they struggled to run the football, totaling just 113 rushing yards. And the defense was weak against both the run and the pass, allowing 28 points and 435 total yards.
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Conclusion
Tampa Bay is still a strong NFC contender despite the loss. The Panthers and Falcons are probably not playoff contenders unless something changes dramatically. The Saints will be happy with their win, but are still among the league’s worst teams. This division is, simply put, not very good.
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