Game of the week

Panthers at Bucs, 11 a.m.
NFC South supremacy is on the line when these two teams meet. It's almost a must-win for the Buccaneers. Carolina has a one-game lead in the division, and Tampa Bay is at home. The Buccaneers need a big performance from quarterback Jeff Garcia, who is making his first start since the opener.

Team on the rise

Falcons
It's amazing what kind of shape this franchise is in now compared to a year ago. Rookie quarterback Matt Ryan is playing with poise. Defensive end John Abraham has been a force, as he's recorded seven sacks. A win over the Bears today would show that this team is a legitimate playoff contender.

Team on the decline

Texans

It's demoralizing to dominate an opponent for 55 minutes and blow a 17-point lead. The Texans had a major meltdown in their 31-27 loss to the Colts, and it was especially due to sloppy play by quarterback Sage Rosenfels. The good news: Rosenfels is back on the bench this week, and Matt Schaub returns as the starter.

NFL Top 10

1. New York Giants
Nothing slowing the champs so far

2. Tennessee Titans
Gutted out tough win over Ravens

3. Washington Redskins
Earned huge division road wins

4. Dallas Cowboys
Team seems out of sync

5. Pittsburgh Steelers
Roethlisberger playing like an MVP

6. Carolina Panthers
Could take two-game lead in division

7. Buffalo Bills
Poor showing in the desert

8. Denver Broncos
Defense showed some life

9. New England Patriots
Could put nail in Chargers' coffin

10. Chicago Bears
Only a few points away from 5-0

TV schedule

Today's Games
Chicago at Atlanta, 11 p.m.
Miami at Houston, 11 p.m.
Detroit at Minnesota, 11 p.m.
Oakland at New Orleans, 11 p.m.