Herd Hierarchy Week 2 arrived after a volatile opening weekend, bringing sweeping changes to the top 10. The updated ranking, unveiled Tuesday on The Herd with Colin Cowherd, features notable shifts as offenses exploded and several contenders stumbled.
Herd Hierarchy Week 2 rankings
10. Philadelphia Eagles
Cowherd’s view: He called the Eagles frustrating after multiple three-and-out drives, but still labeled their roster the league’s best. With Jalen Hurts leading key downfield passing categories, he expects a broader distribution in the passing game and is not ready to drop a team he picked to win its division based on one poor outing.
9. Cincinnati Bengals
Cowherd’s view: He ranked Cincinnati among the most improved, projecting a playoff return. He praised the Bengals’ upgraded defense for added size, speed and physicality, and said Joe Burrow typically delivers when given adequate support.
8. New York Giants
Cowherd’s view: He argued the Giants’ issues are cultural, not talent-related, pointing to an influx of high-end edge rushers and promising young playmakers. Offensive line protection drew notice, though he noted a need for another cornerback.
7. Kansas City Chiefs
Cowherd’s view: Kansas City impressed with a renewed commitment to the run game and a measured approach with Patrick Mahomes. He credited a smart, intentional plan and reiterated that September under Andy Reid is a tough assignment for opponents.
6. San Francisco 49ers
Cowherd’s view: He highlighted the 49ers’ dominance against the Rams and their star power, while questioning durability over the long haul. For now, he said there was little to dislike in their Week 1 performance.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars
Cowherd’s view: He pointed to Jacksonville’s strong results over their last 10 regular-season games and balance on both sides of the ball, including multiple recent outings allowing 10 points or fewer. He argued the Jaguars are under-discussed despite consistent production.
4. Chicago Bears
Cowherd’s view: Chicago opened with six rushing touchdowns, a feat not seen in a season opener since 1922. He lauded the pairing of a dynamic young quarterback with offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and called the offense special, while acknowledging questions about the pass rush against elite quarterbacks.
3. Baltimore Ravens
Cowherd’s view: After Baltimore piled up a large yardage advantage, he praised the impact of the new defensive coordinator and noted how often early-season health for Lamar Jackson propels the Ravens near the top.
2. Seattle Seahawks
Cowherd’s view: He considered Seattle for the top spot but cited quarterback health as the differentiator. Despite penalties and turnovers, he said their coaching, roster depth and speed allow them to beat quality teams even on off days.
1. Buffalo Bills
Cowherd’s view: He placed Buffalo as the best team he saw in Week 1 relative to the opponent and kept the Bills as his Super Bowl pick. He praised offensive coaching synergy with Josh Allen and noted long touchdown drives as a statement against a respected defense.
Rams fall out of the top 10
The Los Angeles Rams slipped from the rankings after losing to San Francisco, followed by news that star pass rusher Myles Garrett is headed to injured reserve. Cowherd said he still likes the Rams’ long-term outlook, but without Garrett he could not justify keeping them in the top tier.
With Week 1 delivering surprises, Cowherd said there is ample time for teams on the outside to climb back into the Herd Hierarchy Week 2 conversation as the early season picture comes into focus.