NFL Power Rankings List Patriots in Top 10 Despite Defensive Concerns

Just about every Joe, Bobby and Sue in America thinks the Patriots' defense is pretty bad, but that's not keeping them out of the top 10 of most NFL power rankings.

Not yet, at least.

A scan through eight different NFL power rankings have the Patriots ranked, on average, at 9.75, just barely keeping them in the top 10.

Fanhouse had the Patriots ranked as high as sixth, while FoxSports and NBCSports had them at 13th.

Below is a look at where they rank on certain sites, with some details that went into the ranking.

ESPN
Patriots ranked 10th
"With a defense giving up an average of 27.3 points a game, Bill Belichick isn't afraid to bench anyone."

CBSSports
Patriots ranked eighth
"It looks like they will play their fair share of shootouts."

USA Today
Patriots ranked 11th
"Surrendering 30 points to the Bills didn't answer any questions."

FoxSports
Patriots ranked 13th
"When the Buffalo passing game is finding success against you, then you know there are problems."

NBCSports
Patriots ranked 13th

Fanhouse
Patriots ranked sixth
"A defense that allows 30 points to the Bills' former backup QB isn't one I'm investing in."

Bleacher Report
Patriots ranked 10th

Gambling 911
Patriots ranked seventh