Herd Hierarchy Week 12: Rams Surge to No.1, Chiefs Slip to 5-5
INGLEWOOD, CA – A stunning shift in power has occured in Colin Cowherd’s Week 12 NFL herd Hierarchy, with teh Los Angeles Rams ascending to the top spot while the Kansas City Chiefs experience a concerning slide. The Rams’ notable performance and the Chiefs’ first 5-5 start in the Patrick Mahomes era are driving the significant changes.
This week’s rankings reflect a league increasingly defined by offensive efficiency and consistent performance.The Rams’ rise underscores the importance of a balanced attack and strong coaching, while the Chiefs’ struggles highlight the challenges of maintaining dominance in a competitive NFL landscape.Playoff implications are already taking shape, and these rankings offer a snapshot of teams positioned for postseason success – or potential disappointment.
Cowherd highlighted the Rams’ offensive prowess, stating, “I think the Colts would beat [the Bills] if they played… It’s the No. 1 scoring offense. Only team in the league scoring on 50% of their drives. They have the fewest punts in the NFL.” He further emphasized their efficiency, noting they “led the NFL in offensive touchdowns and they average 6.3 yards per play, which is second in the NFL and I think that matters a lot.” Quarterback Josh Allen is “playing at another level.”
San Francisco’s coaching staff, led by Robert Saleh, earned Cowherd’s Coach of the Year recognition. “I don’t know how Robert Saleh is doing it. Incidentally speaking, they’re 7-0 when they hold their opponents under 25…” He also acknowledged improvements to their offensive line, stating, “the O-line has been better than I’ve given it credit for… They’re now healthy, they’re dangerous.”
The Kansas City Chiefs,now 5-5,have reached this record for the first time in the Patrick Mahomes era. Cowherd acknowledged their offensive capabilities, stating, “They have the second most efficient scoring offense… They’re really good, and they’ve got a good coach… I like their weapons. I like their team. If they beat Indy, I think they’re a playoff team.” Though, he also pointed to their issues with turnovers, noting they “don’t really have a gap in their team apart from the giveaways.” He also highlighted the strong performance of rookie receiver JSN, stating he is “the highest rated receiver, according to PFF,” and praised their offensive line, which has “allowed the fewest sacks on offense.” He concluded, “They make too many mistakes, but they are a great No. 10 team.”
