NFL: Power Rankings at the quarter-mark of the 2018 NFL season

24. Cleveland Browns (1-2-1)

Let me start by saying this – these Browns are such a different team to what they’ve been over the last two years, it’s not even funny. In the same sentence, they should be much higher on this list because they could easily be 4-0 and they are doing their best to keep me from moving them up in my rankings.

I thought Baker Mayfield was one of three absolute franchise quarterbacks in the draft, I liked the weapons around him and I thought this defense was definitely ready to compete. However, they couldn’t take advantage of several extra chances the Steelers gave them in week one, their kicker just screwed everything up in New Orleans the following week, then the concussion to Tyrod Taylor finally forced the QB change and then on Sunday they somehow let the Raiders come back in that game.

I know Browns fans are probably still hot about some of those calls by the officials later on in the game, but they could have closed the deal earlier. Keeping all those things in mind that they have going for them, I have no doubt they can win games and make a run for the playoffs. My question is – are they ready for it?

25. Detroit Lions (1-3)

I don’t understand it. Why would the Lions not let Kerryon Johnson touch the ball 20 times a game? I get that the coaches want to hand it off to LeGarrette Blount and that Theo Riddick is their best pass-catcher out of the group and I think that there are situations – short-yardage and third downs – in which you can take advantage of their skill-sets, but the rookie has finally broken the 100-yard rusher drought and he is clearly the most talented guy.

Matt Patricia has come in and fundamentally changed the offensive philosophy. Detroit had Matthew Stafford go into shotgun and just fling it all over the place for most of the game in recent years and he has produced some magical moments. But this new regime wants to run the ball and play situational football. That’s completely new to their QB and I think that’s why he is only now starting to find his rhythm.

With what potentially is the best trio of wide receivers and a much-improved offensive line, I really like what they have on that side of the ball. However, the defense can not stop the run and they have produced just three takeaways all season. I think the Lions are better than what their record indicates, but once again – how long will it take until things really start clicking?