NFL power rankings: Arizona Cardinals soar after Week 1 upset win

Jess Root, Cardinals WireWed, September 16, 2026 at 2:16 AM UTC

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The Arizona Cardinals knocked off the LA Chargers on Sunday, beating them 26-14 when they were the biggest underdogs of the week. They looked good on offense, defense and special teams.

As as result, people are taking notice and they are getting a little love.

In new NFL power rankings from NFL.com's Nick Shook, they flew up six spots, moving from No. 25 to No. 19.

The upset of the week belongs to Arizona, a team most everyone counted out in the opener at Los Angeles. As it turns out, we were all wrong; Mike LaFleur's group played inspired, fearless football, taking the fight to the Chargers and outplaying them in every facet. Enjoy the triumphant debut, Cardinals fans.

It was a good enough performance to perhaps change expectations for the season. The offensive performance was believable. The play of the defense was surprising.

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They have a huge test with the defending champion Seattle Seahawks in Week 2, but it will be against Seattle's backup quarterback Drew Lock.

Will they come to earth against a known great opponent, or will they show they can be competitive again?

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This article originally appeared on Cards Wire: NFL power rankings: Arizona Cardinals soar after Week 1 upset win

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Source: “AOL Sports”