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The preseason is upon us. Dan Pompei put together his preseason Power Rankings and the Green Bay Packers sit atop his initial rankings. Pompei has the Bears ranked 9th overall, with the 5th best team in the NFC behind the aforementioned Packers (1), Giants (2), 49ers (5) and Saints (7).
Overall, Pompei has the Patriots, Ravens, Steelers and Texans sprinkled in representing the AFC. Here’s the thumbnail on the Bears:
"9. Bears: They won only eight games a year ago, but they are a much better team than they were at the end of last year."
The Lions and Falcons are ranked right behind the Bears, nipping at their heels.
For what it’s worth, I think the Saints take a big step back this season while Sean Payton sits in the penalty box. I also think the 49ers could come back to Earth a little bit with some added competition in the NFC West. And while we’re speaking of competition, the NFC East is always anyone’s division, so let’s not get too far ahead of ourselves on the Giants. They might not even be the best team in their division.
That’s not to say the Bears should suddenly skyrocket up the charts. I’m as excited about this Bears team as any team I can recall since 1986, but those are lofty expectations for a team that finished 8-8, no matter who got hurt to end the season.
What do you think of Pompei’s rankings? Our guy Keith took a swipe at some preseason power rankings of his own. If you think it’s so easy, give it a shot and post your rankings in the Comments.