NFL Power Rankings, Week 8: Eagles collapse in fourth quarter during loss to Panthers

16. Detroit Lions

When looking at the lack of support Matthew Stafford received in the backfield over the years, it’s amazing to see the Detroit Lions continue to have the kind of success they have in the ground game in recent weeks, especially when it comes to rookie Kerryon Johnson. Despite the crowded backfield, the Lions felt confident in the rookie running back playing a major role during his first NFL season, and that was exactly the case once again during Sunday’s win over the Miami Dolphins.

Johnson seemed like the type of running back that could quickly move his way into the No. 1 role on offense, and watching him rush for 158 yards on 19 carries to help Detroit take down the Miami Dolphins shows the kind of impact he’s already making. Thanks to strong games like this, Johnson helps take a ton of pressure off Stafford under center, and what’s even more exciting is the Lions are back at .500 after losing three of their first four games.

Detroit still has a long way to go since the NFC North is turning out to be quite competitive, but at least they deserve consideration to be part of the conversation. And if they can defeat the Seattle Seahawks at home on Sunday to make it three wins in a row, it will only continue building a strong case for the Lions.