NFL Power Rankings: Cardinals rise, Packers fall in Week 17

18. CHICAGO BEARS (6-9)

Last week: 17
Change: -1

A solid outing from Jay Cutler helped the Chicago Bears defeat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The general feeling from Bears fans seems to be one of disappointment, as this ‘win’ actually hurts their draft order. Next week is a battle with the Detroit Lions. The team that loses probably wins longer term.

Cutler went 20-of-27 for 156 yards and a touchdown. He certainly didn’t light the Bucs defense up, but he managed the game well and played with control. The Bears biggest success came on the ground with a mixture of Jeremy Langford and Matt Forte. Langford rushed for 83 yards; Forte 54. Ka’Deem Carey found the end zone twice (one rushing, one receiving).

The Bears have shown flashes this season of being a good team this season, and their 5-3 road record is encouraging for the future. The toughness to win on the road can go along way, but they of course need to clean up their home form (1-6 this season).

John Fox has a lot to clean up in the offseason, and while it’s been another slow season, there has been some improvements across the board, particularly on defense. The team should be much more competitive in 2016.

Next: No. 17