Lions Skyrocket Up Power Rankings: Still Considered SB Contenders

Here is a look at Week 3 NFL power rankings.

As a result of a dominant performance and win against the Chicago Bears, the Detroit Lions moved up in the majority of polls this week.

Sports Illustrated

Power ranking: 5th
Last ranking: 12th

The Lions came back from a down Week 1 to log the most efficient afternoon in team history. A stunning 8.8 yards per play have drastically cleared the skepticism around Ben Johnson’s replacement, John Morton. While we live in a week-to-week world held prisoner by the moment, understanding that Morton can completely undress a team run by Johnson himself—and that Lions players are rallying relentlessly around Morton—means a great deal. 

ESPN

Power ranking: 5th
Last ranking: 8th

It goes without saying that the Lions struggled at Green Bay, but Week 2 reminded the world that Goff and the Lions can still be dominant. Goff became the first quarterback in Lions history with an 80% completion percentage and five passing touchdowns in a game, while also passing Bobby Layne (118) for the second-most passing touchdowns in franchise history. If he receives solid protection from an offensive line that's still adjusting to new players, there shouldn't be a drop-off for Goff in his 10th NFL season.

The Athletic

Power ranking: 6th
Last ranking: 14th

We were all a little worried when the Lions scored 13 points in Week 1 without Johnson coordinating the offense, but Detroit made a statement by putting 511 yards and 52 points on Johnson’s new team, the Chicago Bears. Jared Goff had five passing touchdowns and a passer rating of 156, his second highest as a Lion. It’s the fifth time a Goff-quarterbacked team has topped 50 points.

CBS Sports

Power ranking: 12th
Last ranking: 11th

The Lions offense we saw against the Bears is the one we saw last year. Jared Goff was outstanding. Ben who?