NFL Power Rankings: Week #14

I’ll save you the drama: If you didn’t move the ball 10 yards on three previous tries, that means you’re flawed. If you’re forced to convert a fourth down opportunity that indicates that you have deficiencies to cover. If you do so on your side of the field, that shows that you’re desperate and if you happen to risk everything more times than your opponent, well, that will probably reveal that you’re headed for a fall.

All season long, the teams that have stayed away from the ultimate scenario in football –the fourth down conversion– are the ones that have set their sights on bigger things; while those that have made a habit of exploring fourth down territory are the ones that have been left behind looking for answers.

Seven teams (Chargers, Packers, Cowboys, Texans, Cardinals, Vikings and Colts) have tried less than 10 fourth down attempts. Their combined record is 65-26. On the other side, four teams (Chiefs, Rams, Lions and Bucs) have made use of a last-down effort more than 20 times and their 7-45 mark is enough proof to say that they’re having some issues. So, if you really don’t need to go for it, you better let conventional wisdom guide you. And I’m looking at you Coach (Sean) Payton.

Saving our boldest moves for a time when they’ll be truly required, we convey the game that methodically advances in the sport of professional football. Enjoy your NFL’s Chutes ‘N Ladders for Week 14:

Chutes ‘N Ladders – Week 14 – (1-16)

Chutes ‘N Ladders – Week 14 – (17-32)