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The Atlanta Falcons wowed few around the country with a two-score loss to the Green Bay Packers, but at least it was the Green Bay Packers. Pretty much everybody loses to them. Don't expect this week's NFL power rankings to be too severe on the Birds, no matter how bad that second half was.
As always, Fox Sports' Brian Billick is high on his brother-in-law Mike Smith's team, slotting them No. 14 (Panthers No. 22):
The Falcons can't seem to put it all together offensively. They are built to be balanced and are not strong enough to lose the time of possession battle. QB Matt Ryan doesn't look right, and he won't until the offensive line can keep defenders out of his face.
CBS Sports' Pete Prisco deposits the Birds at No. 16 and adds a grim forecast (Panthers No. 22):
At 2-3, they have to be upset with their start. Now they get a chance to deal with Cam Newton.
For more NFL power rankings, head to SB Nation's NFL news hub and many fine NFL team blogs.