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2026 NFL Power Rankings Week 9: Are The Bears Now The Team To Beat In The NFC?

The NFC landscape has shifted dramatically after Week 8, as the Chicago Bears now stand out as the most formidable team in the division. With the Minnesota Vikings finally falling from their undefeated perch, the Bears have seized the opportunity to assert dominance.

Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Chargers continue their historic collapse, now sitting at 0-7 and facing an existential crisis. Their 27-game scoring drought and 11-game losing streak—spanning both the regular season and playoffs—have left fans questioning the future of the franchise, with the upcoming trade deadline looming as a potential turning point.

The team’s next game against the Texans offers little hope, but their Nov. 22 showdown with the Jets may be their last meaningful contest before a full rebuild begins in 2027.

The New York Jets, despite flashes of promise, remain mired in inconsistency. Geno Smith and Braelon Allen showed glimpses of their potential, with Smith throwing for 290 yards and Allen rushing for a career-high 147 yards in a loss to the Raiders.

Yet, the Jets still managed to lose despite scoring on their first six possessions—a feat not seen in 18 years. Their upcoming matchup with the Kansas City Chiefs will test their resilience further, as young stars like Adonai Mitchell (who set career highs with seven catches and 142 yards) look to build momentum.

Meanwhile, the Miami Dolphins have defied expectations with two straight wins, including a hard-fought effort against the Patriots, where they led 13-3 at halftime. Though they ultimately fell short, their improved play suggests they could still contend for two more victories in November, with key matchups against the Lions and Jets on the horizon.

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