DTTWSB Week 12 NFL Power Rankings

Each week we keep getting closer and closer to the playoffs. This is the best time of the year. We're starting to see the difference between the contenders and the pretenders. With the majority of the favored teams winning last week, the top 7 of these power rankings are identical to the Week 11 edition. The cream always rises to the top. With that said, here are the rankings.

1. New York Jets (8-2): The Jets have a never-say-die mentality which is essential to being a championship team. I like where this team is headed, especially if their offense keeps playing at a high level.

2. Pittsburgh Steelers (7-3): I think the Steelers are the most physical team in the league. They will hit you in the mouth whether it's legal or illegal. This will be the hardest team to eliminate in the playoffs.

3. New England Patriots (8-2): After a close game with the rival Colts, the Pats are now tied for the best record in the league. The youth of this team scares me a little bit but I wouldn't be shocked if they continued their dominate play.

4. Philadelphia Eagles (7-3): The title of "Best team in the NFC" goes to the Eagles in my opinion. When quarterback Michael Vick has been in the starting lineup they have yet to lose a game. They have a tough game this Sunday on the road at Chicago.

5. Green Bay Packers (7-3): Is there a more confident player in the league than quarterback Aaron Rodgers? His swagger is infectious and has the whole Packers team playing with a chip on their shoulders.

6. Atlanta Falcons (8-2): Quietly, this team has emerged as one of the bests in the league. They are virtually unbeatable at home. I still need to see a little more before I say I'm completely sold on them though.

7. Baltimore Ravens (7-3): Last week, the Ravens had an impressive win on the road even though it was only against Carolina. Their defense looks like they're back in form. This is a team that everyone should keep an eye on.

8. New Orleans Saints (7-3): The defending Super Bowl champs are starting to gain their swagger back. Offensively, they look just as explosive as they were last season. They need to step it up if they want to win the division though.

9. New York Giants (6-4): After two straight division losses the Giants are starting to look a lot more normal. They're going to need to bounce back so that they aren't on the outside looking in come January.

10. Indianapolis Colts (6-4): A tough loss last week to a very good Patriots team leaves the Colts looking for more answer. The schedule doesn't get easier as they have a pesky Chargers team coming to town.