NFL Power Rankings: Falcons, Packers drop in Week 9

Nov 1, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) throws a pass during the second half against the Green Bay Packers at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos won 29-10. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

3. DENVER BRONCOS (7-0)

Last week: 6
Change: +3

This Denver defense might be better than Seattle’s during the run to the Super Bowl in 2013. There are a number of similarities between the two defenses. They are fast to the football, apply consistent pressure on the quarterback and dominate in the secondary.

Despite starting the season 6-0, there were a number of doubts over the Broncos. Not any more. Limiting Aaron Rodgers to 77 passing yards is incredible, and they did it by taking away his receivers. Time and again, Rodgers would scan the field and see nobody open, and that’s a huge testament to the Broncos secondary.

Fresh off the bye, Peyton Manning looked sharp and more like the Manning of old. He didn’t throw a touchdown pass and was picked off once, but that doesn’t matter when C.J. Anderson and Ronnie Hillman combine for 160 rushing yards and three touchdowns. The Broncos remain undefeated, and it’s going to take a lot to change that.

Next: No. 2