1. 49ers (1 last week): There isn't much not to like about the 49ers. At this point, the only question is who is No. 2?
2. Packers (4): Cut them some slack for losing to 49ers. They still are one fine football team.
3. Falcons (5): The defense is rejuvenated under Mike Nolan, and the offense looks pretty good too.
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4. Eagles (18): Beating the Ravens showed they are for real. But unless they stop giving the ball away they won't keep winning.
5. Ravens (3): Joe Flacco thinks they would be 2-0 if not for the replacement officials.
6. Texans (6): It's difficult to get too excited about victories over the Jaguars and Dolphins. They will be tested Sunday against the Broncos though.
7. Patriots (2): Bill Belichick hasn't lost too many games the way the Patriots lost Sunday, and he won't lose too many more.
8. Chargers (16): They are 2-0 now; imagine how good they could be when they get Ryan Mathews and Antonio Gates back.
9. Cardinals (25): Given their quarterback issues, the Cardinals have plenty of doubters. But they could be one of those teams that finds ways to win.
10. Giants (10): Eli Manning derailed the Giants Sunday. And he saved them. Luckily for them, it was in that order.
11. Steelers (11): They didn't seem like the Steelers without James Harrison, Troy Polamalu and much of a running game, but they still won.
12. Bears (7): If the Bears can't play with the Packers, they won't get where they want to go.
13. Broncos (8): Let's not cut Peyton Manning or give up on the Broncos after one bad quarter.
14. Cowboys (9): If only they could play the defending Super Bowl champions every week.
15. Lions (12): This is a team that has not found its rhythm. When will it?
16. Panthers (21): Cam Newton is getting it cranked up, and that could mean the Panthers are about to take off.
17. Bengals (19): The Bengals can score, but they are going to have to score plenty to keep pace with what opponents are doing against their defense.
18. Redskins (13): Injuries are starting to pile up quickly on the Redskins. Can RGIII compensate?
19. Seahawks (22): Looks like the Seahawks are going to be able to give Russell Wilson some help with a running game and solid D.
20. Buccaneers (20): Get out the blackjacks and brass knuckles the next time an opponent tries the victory formation.
