So that happened.
After their six-point overtime loss in Pittsburgh, the Atlanta Falcons dropped six spots - from seventh to thirteenth - in the latest NFL Power Rankings from ESPN.
The ESPN-provided analysis follows and be sure to follow the jump after the poll for more details on this week's rankings.
The Falcons must keep eye on Cardinals in Week 2 even though trip to Superdome awaits the next week.
The six-point drop in the rankings was the second-largest behind only the San Francisco 49ers, who fell seven spots after losing 31-6 in Seattle. I understand slipping in the rankings after a loss, but to plummet six spots after an overtime road loss to the Steelers seems a bit harsh.
The Falcons Week 2 opponent, the Arizona Cardinals, are 19th after moving up one spot with their win against the St. Louis Rams. The rest of the NFC South shakes out as such:
1. New Orleans Saints
13. Atlanta Falcons
26. Carolina Panthers
28. Tampa Bay Buccaneers