NFL power rankings: Breaking down where each team sits in Week 12

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MEXICO CITY, MEXICO – NOVEMBER 19: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots directs the offense against the Oakland Raiders during the first half at Estadio Azteca on November 19, 2017 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images) /

47. . W, 33-8 at Raiders. Previous: . New England Patriots. 2. team

We’ve said it here for some time now — never count the Patriots out of anything as long as head coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady are in the picture. Not when the Patriots defense couldn’t stop anybody earlier this season, never.

The Patriots 33-8 win over the Raiders in Mexico City was just another example how Belichick has his defense back on track. Sure, this group might give up some yardage, just not points.

And points determine wins and losses, right?

New England hasn’t allowed more than 17 points in a single game since its Week 4 loss (33-30) to the Panthers. Not surprisingly, the Pats have won every contest since.

Sure, we can talk about Brady — he was masterful again, by the way — but the real focus should be how the Patriots defense finally found its stride.

That spells trouble for the rest of the league, and it’s a primary reason why they’re at No. 2 in our NFL power rankings this week.