NFL power rankings: Stacking up all 32 teams heading into Week 15

Yes, the Chiefs sit only one spot above the Raiders in our NFL power rankings this week despite blowing them out for the better part of four quarters.

But when you consider the Chiefs jumped a number of spots to get here, that negates the argument.

Kansas City still has recent losses to the Giants, Jets and Bills, and it only managed to start the desperate turnaround efforts against a scuffling and inconsistent Raiders team at Arrowhead Stadium. Have we seen enough to suggest the Chiefs have righted the ship and are playoff bound?

No.

Ironically, the Chiefs defense looked good enough without cornerback Marcus Peters (suspension), and this group forced three turnovers in the process. And two of Kansas City’s primary offensive weapons, running back Kareem Hunt and wide receiver Tyreek Hill, also got back on track.

Still, the Chiefs are lucky to be in the AFC West this year, where no one has dominated the division. Despite the win, Kansas City is still in desperation mode.

Biggest Question

It’s safe to say quarterback Alex Smith won’t be the long term answer, eventually giving way to the rookie, Patrick Mahomes, at some point in 2018. But head coach Andy Reid might be opening the door to some added problems, not just with this likely switch, but with his team’s identity heading into next season.

That identity was all but lost in recent weeks. What’s it going to be moving forward?