2014 NFL Power Rankings: Week 7 ESPN.com

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Last week in this space, we sang the praises of the resurgent NFC East. Right on cue, the surprising Cowboys went out and knocked off Seattle on the road.

Does that mean Tony Romo, DeMarco Murray & Co. are now No. 1? No, but they're getting closer. Dallas continued its impressive season-long rise, jumping from No. 6 to No. 3. ESPN's Power Panel (a group of more than 80 writers, editors and TV personalities) put the Broncos on top, followed by the surging Chargers. The Seahawks dropped to No. 5.

Expect the NFC East to remain in the spotlight this week, as the Cowboys and Giants face off Sunday afternoon. Although the Giants (No. 20) lost some luster -- and some key players -- in a lopsided loss at Philadelphia, they would love nothing more than to end Dallas' hot streak.

For the Cowboys, a sixth straight win could pave the way for even more gains in our hierarchy. With Denver facing the formidable 49ers (No. 7) Sunday night, it's not outrageous to think another shake-up awaits.

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