ESPN has released its version of the Week 11 NFL Power Rankings, and according to their panel of five writers the Chicago Bears are worthy of a No. 5 overall ranking. Even with the four spot jump from last week, the Bears are still ranked behind the Green Bay Packers, San Francisco 49ers and New Orleans Saints. The good news is that the Bears have moved off the fringe and are firmly in the playoffs in the new update.
John Clayton has this comment on the upward movement of the Bears:
Whenever Devin Hester returns a kick for a score, this team is basically unbeatable. (Clayton)
ESPN's Top 5
1. Green Bay Packers
2. San Francisco 49ers
3. New Orleans Saints
4. Pittsburgh Steelers
5. Chicago Bears
ESPN's Bottom 5
28. Cleveland Browns
29. Miami Dolphins
30. St. Louis Rams
31. Carolina Panthers
32. Indianapolis Colts
Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. Visit SB Nation NFL for more news and notes around the league.