NFL Power Rankings: Top 10 Through Week Three

Sep 22, 2013; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals running back Giovani Bernard (25) runs the ball during the third quarter against the Green Bay Packers at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

9. Cincinnati Bengals (2-1)

For the first time this year, the Bengals make an appearance on this list, after they had an incredibly impressive win over the Green Bay Packers. The Bengals right now in my opinion, are the class of the AFC North, even ahead of the Baltimore Ravens, and this win proved that. Big plays were the story of this game, and the Bengals brought the most. This included a fumble recovery by the Bengals on a kickoff, and ended with a fumble recovery for a touchdown that sealed the game for the Bengals at the end of the game. Andy Dalton tossed two touchdowns to go along with 235 yards, including two touchdowns to Marvin Jones and AJ Green. The running backs were also very good, especially Giovanni Bernard who had 10 carries for 50 yards and a touchdown, who’s making a serious case to be the feature back. While the defense did give up 30 points, I was still impressed because they didn’t allow Rodgers to shred them, as he only went 26/43 for 244 yards, a touchdown and two interceptions as well. This Bengals team is incredibly well rounded, finally getting some big plays from the running game, finding a second guys to place opposite AJ Green, and the defense has improved to be one of the leagues finest. The Bengals are for real, and will be making some noise this year.