The Denver Broncos are 5-5 overall and 4-1 since Tim Tebow took over as the team's starting quarterback. As a result, NFL power rankings have steadily moved the Broncos up over the last several weeks. Last week, the Broncos rose to No. 20 or right around there in most of the major rankings.
At this point, the only AFC West team that deserves to be ranked ahead of the Broncos is the Oakland Raiders, who control the division. The San Diego Chargers are in a free fall after losing to the Chicago Bears, the team's fifth straight loss. And the Kansas City Chiefs are now dealing with life without Matt Cassel, not that things were all that great with him under center before his hand injury ended his season.
Potentially, the Raiders should move into the top 15 of the rankings this week, while the Broncos should slot in anywhere between Nos. 16-20. The Buffalo Bills were humiliated by the Miami Dolphins on Sunday and should fall below the Broncos in those rankings that had them higher last week.
One other thing to look for is how far the New York Jets drop after the loss to the Broncos. They are now on a two-game losing streak and 5-5 overall.
Check out our Broncos blog Mile High Report for more on the team. Be sure to visit SB Nation NFL for more news and notes around the league.