NFL Power Rankings: Panthers rise, Patriots fall in Week 13

Nov 29, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Brock Osweiler (17) after the game against the New England Patriots at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos won 30-24. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

3. DENVER BRONCOS (9-2)

Last week: 4
Change: +1

Step aside, Peyton Manning. It’s the Brock Osweiler show now. Well, maybe not quite, but Osweiler has now gone 2-0 in starts, and that includes an impressive overtime victory over the previously undefeated Patriots.

We’re not sure how long Manning will be out for. Initial reports suggested it may just be a week or so, but now the outlook appears much cloudier. Maybe this is a good thing for the Broncos, as they aren’t faced with the tough decision of picking a starting quarterback. Osweiler hasn’t been outstanding, but he’s done some nice things.

Whether it’s Manning or Osweiler, this team is built for a Super Bowl run. This defense is dominant, and we will see just how important that is as the weather continues to get colder and tougher to play in. You also need to be able to run the ball, and C.J. Anderson looked close to his 2014 form in this win.

Next: No. 2