2012 NFL Power Rankings: Seahawks climb in Week 16

The Seattle Seahawks are on a three-game winning streak, and the last two contests have been highlighted by offensive explosions. As a result, pundits across the web are taking notice, and three NFL power rankings have the Seahawks No. 7 in the league.

Joel Thorman of SB Nation moved Pete Carroll's team up four spots from No. 11 last week, and he wonders if he's allowed to rank Seattle that high.

Others have no scruples about doing so. ESPN moved the Seahawks to No. 7 after having them at No. 10 in the Week 15 power rankings. Blogger Mike Sando writes that it's thanks to Russell Wilson Mania, but also points out that running back Marshawn Lynch has an astounding 241 yards on his last 21 carries.

Yahoo!'s Brian McIntyre was ahead of the curve and has the Seahawks steady at No. 7. He points out that Seattle has locked in Carroll's first winning season with the team.

With momentum building, the Seahawks have a date with the NFC West leading San Francisco 49ers next week. A win will clinch a playoff berth.