Packers just outside of top 10 in latest NFL power rankings

The Green Bay Packers are up to No. 11 in the latest NFL Spin Zone power rankings.

We’re just nine days away from the Green Bay Packers‘ first regular season game, and there’s optimism for this team making a playoff push in 2019.

With just one preseason game remaining, Randy Gurzi of NFL Spin Zone has the Packers at No. 11 in his latest power rankings, which is second among NFC North teams. They moved ahead of the Vikings in these rankings.

Another team the Packers jumped ahead of is the Indianapolis Colts. The Colts were at No. 10 in last week’s rankings, but have fallen to No. 30 after Andrew Luck‘s decision to retire.

Being at No. 11 puts the Packers right in the mix among potential playoff contenders. This again highlights the confidence that this team can return to form after two difficult seasons.

They’ll need to stay relatively healthy to have a chance of competing in a tough division, especially when it comes to offensive starters Aaron Rodgers, David Bakhtiari and Davante Adams. It’s hardly surprising that head coach Matt LaFleur decided not to play any of the starters in last week’s preseason game in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada once a decision was made to shorten the field to 80 yards.

The Packers will also need to improve in two areas to minimize the risk of injury to Rodgers — run the football better, and improve in pass protection. The second point might be considered a little harsh as the offensive line features a couple of elite pass-protectors in Bakhtiari and Bryan Bulaga.

But the improvements made at the interior positions of the offensive line should help this season.

In little over a week, we’ll learn a lot about the 2019 Packers. How will they perform up against a very good Bears team? A season isn’t won or lost in Week 1, but it’ll be a good chance to see how this Packers team compares to last year’s.

And the result could determine whether they move into the top 10 of the power rankings or not.