NFC South Preview

The NFC South might just be the most unpredictable division in the league. There are no dominant teams and the division title is always up for grabs. The phrase “worst to first” was crowned by the NFC South, where going from last in the division one year to first in the division the very next year is almost commonplace. Again this year, we may see another changing of the guard.

 

1) New Orleans Saints

Record last year: 7-9 / Projected: 10-6

The Saints made some improvements to their defense this offseason that should help get them back on the right track after a very bumpy 2007 season. Acquiring LB Jonathan Vilma via trade and DT Sedrick Ellis via the draft were clear examples of how the Saints look to bolster their defense. They have great offensive weapons with QB Drew Brees, RB Reggie Bush, WR Marques Colston, and newly acquired TE Jeremy Shockey who was acquired from the Giants for two draft picks. The health of Deuce McAllister should be a big concern for them as they struggled last year without the bruising back. New Orleans can put up points in a hurry and are very dangerous when Brees gets in his rhythm. The only problem with the Saints is their dismal secondary which ranked 25th in points allowed and 30th in pass yards allowed last season. Not much was done to develop that secondary this offseason and that could be a potential hazard for them in close games.    

 

2) Carolina Panthers

Record last year: 7-9 / Projected: 10-6

The Panthers had a lot to endure last season with their starting quarterback missing most of the season due to injury and poor performances from the QBs that followed. Carolina could not get into a rhythm on offense or defense. Despite all their mishaps they only missed the playoffs by one game. This year their starter Jake Delhomme is back healthy after a successful surgery and rehab. Several free agent offensive guards and tackles were acquired in an effort to strengthen the protection up front. The Panthers drafted RB Jonathan Stewart and OT Jeff Otah in the first round to augment their running game. They also added veteran WR Muhsin Muhammed and a dependable WR DJ Hackett to provide support for perennial playmaker Steve Smith. On defense they rearranged their defensive line and added youth in the trenches after a lackluster performance from the 2007 group. Despite having a rough season last year, Julius Peppers should re-establish himself as a premier probowl caliber DE once again. The Panthers added depth in their secondary as well as their linebacking core via the draft and free agency. They are solid in every category except defensive line and Julius Peppers can certainly change that with an impressive showing this year. Here is a wildcard team that can definitely make some noise in the playoffs.

 

3) Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Record last year: 9-7 / Projected: 7-9

There are several issues surrounding the Buccaneers this season including aging playmakers Ronde Barber, Derrick Brooks, Jeff Garcia, Warrick Dunn and Joey Galloway most notably. The loss of their ultimate sledgehammer Mike Alstott has got to hurt, not to mention the uncertainty of the health of Cadillac Williams. Tampa did, however, sign Earnest Graham to a 3 year extension as well as drafting CB Aquib Talib and WR Dexter Jackson who has explosive potential. They still have a good veteran team even though they are a bit aged. The Bucs will still be a tough match-up for any team and should not to be taken lightly, but their chances of making the playoffs in 2008 are slim.

 

4) Atlanta Falcons

Record last year: 4-12 / Projected: 1-15

The Atlanta Falcons have gone through quite a bit of turmoil lately. Their entire identity was overhauled when they drafted QB Matt Ryan with their first pick in the draft, giving the franchise a new look. Trading DeAngelo Hall to Oakland makes a huge difference in the Falcons secondary. However, they did acquire a future phenom in RB Michael Turner from San Diego to add some needed firepower to a stagnant offense. In 2008, this team will have a lot to overcome in order to have a successful season. A young and inexperienced secondary, below average defensive line, linebackers, and wide receivers. Not to mention a quarterback situation that is unenviable. This appears to be a classic rebuilding year for Atlanta as their new franchise QB gets welcomed to the NFL.

 

Here is the NFC South picture as we see it, feel free to share your input.

    

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NFC North Preview

The NFC North has undergone quite a makeover with the retirement of the legendary Brett Favre. He was the anchor of the Packers offense for 15 years. Without him in the division things will have a different feel in 2008. Here is a peak at the 2008 division forecast.

 

1) Minnesota Vikings

Record last year: 8-8 / Projected: 11-5

The Vikings will have a great chance to be the front runner in this division in 2008. They have an impressive offensive line and the best running attack in the NFC. This season they should benefit from an improved wide receiver core with the addition of Bernard Berrian and future phenom Sidney Rice in his 2nd year. Quarterback Tarvaris Jackson has a year under his belt and he should improve this year as he becomes more familiar with the offense. He isn’t the best QB in the division by any means but he is in a promising situation with the best offensive line and running game in the division surrounding him. Minnesota should continue to have the best defense in the NFC. With the addition of Jared Allen at defensive end (2007 sack leader), the Vikings now have the best defensive line in the NFL and should enjoy plenty of sacks and turnovers this year. The signing of Madieu Williams at safety and drafting John David Booty in the 5th round were great additions to the team and should prove beneficial throughout the season. Look for the Vikings to have an impressive showing this year. 

 

2) Green Bay

Record last year: 13-3 / Projected: 9-7

With the obvious retirement of the legendary Brett Favre, all hope lies on the shoulder of 24 year old Aaron Rodgers. For extra security the Packers drafted Brian Brohm with their 2nd round pick. The impressive emergence of Ryan Grant was a pleasant surprise for the Pack as well as the great season that Greg Jennings had last year. Green Bay has a good offensive line, running game, wide receivers, and defense. They are a still a good team, even without No. 4 slinging the football downfield. However, veteran leadership is crucial at the NFL level especially at the quarterback position and the Pack is lacking that this year. They should still have a winning record and a playoff appearance is probable but it will be tough in Rodgers’ first year at the helm.  

 

3) Chicago Bears

Record last year: 7-9 / Projected: 6-10

In the first round of this year’s draft the Bears made it clear that they needed improvement in their running game. Drafting OT Chris Williams and RB Matt Forte were clear signs that the Bears look to strengthen their running game. The departure of Muhsin Muhammed and Bernard Berrian to Carolina and Minnesota respectively will have adverse effects on the Bear’s passing game. Their QB situation leaves a lot to be desired and their new WR core is probably the worst in that division. They may have trouble putting up points this season but their defense should get a shot in the arm when safety Mike Brown and cornerback Nathan Vasher return healthy this year. Both DBs missed at least 12 games last year and the defense really took a back seat as their interceptions decreased and they allowed 22 points per game. With Vasher and Brown both back healthy they will benefit from improved secondary play. However, they will not be able to put up enough points to be an above .500 team in 2008.

 

4) Detroit Lions

Record last year: 7-9 / Projected: 4-12

This appears to be a long season for the Lions. Former offensive coordinator Mike Martz is now with the 49ers and stout DT Shaun Rogers was traded to Cleveland for CB Leigh Bodden. Even though they have a solid receiver core and are capable of putting up points, they are also prone to allowing plenty of points. With Rogers in Cleveland, this could spell trouble for the Lions run defense. A poor run defense could have RBs like Adrian Peterson (twice), Ryan Grant (twice), Clinton Portis, Jones-Drew, Fred Taylor, and Frank Gore running wild on the defense while the offensive playmakers are rendered to observing from the bench. If the Lions don’t drastically improve their defense somehow this could be a rough season for Detroit.

 

Please feel free to share your thoughts on the NFC North. What’s your call? 

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NFC East Preview

The NFC East is the most competitive and consistent division in the NFC bar none. Home of the most bitter rivalries in the league. This division is a perennial powerhouse that always has a playoff atmosphere during division match-ups. Always a joy watching this division go at it.

 

1) Dallas Cowboys

Record last year: 13-3 / Projected: 12-4

Dallas added Felix Jones (RB, Arkansas) in the first round of the draft as well as Tashard Choice (RB, Georgia Tech) in the fourth round for extra running back depth due to the departure of Julius Jones. I think they will have more success running the ball this year and may have an even better offense this year than in 2007. Their schedule this season is a little tougher than it was last year but they are still the class of the division. They have a top five QB, WR, TE, and Defense. With the additions of Zach Thomas and possibly Adam “Don’t call me Pacman” Jones, the Cowboys should easily win the division again this year.  

 

2) Philadelphia Eagles

Record last year: 8-8 / Projected: 10-6

The Eagles have a slightly easier schedule this year and enjoyed a deep draft this offseason. They did well in the second round by selecting defensive tackle Trevor Laws and wide receiver Deshaun Jackson. McNabb is the key to the success of this team. He has suffered several injury plagued seasons in the last few years but if he can manage to stay healthy, the Eagles will certainly enjoy a playoff appearance. When Asante Samuel was added to the secondary this offseason, that signaled an immediate improvement to a defense that had some issues last year. Philly showed some flashes of brilliance last season and they can surely capitalize on that momentum going forward, and I think they will. A wildcard spot seems likely for this hard working, well coached squad.   

 

3) Washington Redskins

Record last year: 9-7 / Projected: 9-7

The Redskins used their first three picks in the draft on three receivers. New head coach Jim Zorn is making it quite clear what direction he wants the team to go in. He plans on opening up the offense for young quarterback Jason Campbell. This will be Campbell’s third offense he’s had to learn in three years. That can be tough on a young player, or any player, especially a quarterback. The skins have a harder schedule this season on top of playing in the most competitive division in the NFC. This will be a rebuilding year for the Skins that will feature a lot of chance taking and excitement in the offense. The recent trade for Jason Taylor from the Dolphins will definitely add a spark to the defense. The Skins D should be able to cause plenty of turnovers and be fairly dominant in most contests.

 

4) New York Giants

Record last year: 10-6 / Projected: 8-8

 The Giants had a difficult offseason with the loss of Gibril Wilson, Reggie Torbor, Kawika Mitchell, and William Joseph to free agency. Not to mention the retirement of Michael Strahan, the cornerstone of their defensive line and emotional leader on defense. These key losses will be very tough for the Giants to overcome. Even though they still have Osi Umenyiora and Justin Tuck, their 2007 league lead in sacks will certainly be hard to repeat without Strahan out there. Eli Manning is a good quarterback but there is no doubt that there success last year was in large part due to the exceptional play of their defense. With a tougher schedule and more off-the-field distractions, New York will be hard pressed to duplicate their 2007 success. They will also miss the offensive leadership of Jeremy Shockey. The Pro Bowl TE was traded to the Saints for two draft picks.

 

  

This is the 2008-2009 outlook of the NFC East from our perspective. What is your call?

 

Feel Free to share your thoughts. 

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AFC West Preview

This division encompasses some classic rivalries and intense match-ups. Each home team benefits from an extremely loyal fan base and an electric atmosphere that makes the home field advantage clearly evident. Lets examine the outlook for this division which appears to be a fierce competition this season.

1) San Diego Chargers

Record last year: 11-5 / Projected: 11-5

The Chargers have a lot of firepower and can put up points in a hurry. This team will go as far as Ladainian takes them and the loss of Lorenzo Neal could be a tough adjustment. They did draft full back Jacob Hester to replace him, but there is not a replacement for a warrior like Neal. They also lost Michael Turner to Atlanta and their running game probably will take a step back this season. Even though they still have Darren Sproles it will be a real challenge for LT this season. With that said they still have an easy schedule and their defense is still solid, especially the secondary, which is filled with quality playmakers. They are still the class of the division but their level of dominance may be softened this season.

 

2) Kansas City Chiefs

Record last year: 4-12 / Projected: 8-8

Kansas City made a splash in the NFL draft by selecting first round draft picks Glenn Dorsey (DT, LSU) and Branden Albert (G, Virginia) with their first two selections. The Chiefs also acquired cornerback Brandon Flowers and one of the better safeties in the draft, Dajuan Morgan. In addition to those stud selections they also acquired 2 WRs, 2 TEs, RB, CB, T, and a DE. They were able to get these picks because they traded Jared Allen to the Vikings in return for several of these picks. Despite missing the services of Allen, the Chiefs have a lot going in their favor. Larry Johnson is poised to have a strong comeback after dealing with contract setbacks and injuries last season. Dwayne Bowe is emerging as the best wide receiver in that division and running back Kolby Smith showed much potential late last season. As long as Brodie Croyle performs well and the team can stay healthy they could possibly be a .500 team. 

 

3) Denver Broncos

Record last year: 7-9 / Projected: 6-10

One thing that is for certain is that the Broncos will have a productive running game, no secret there. Adding first round tackle, Ryan Clady from Boise State will surely bolster Denver’s already effective offensive line. Travis Henry (RB) was cut this offseason, which leaves the starting running back job up for grabs. Fifth round pick, Ryan Torain (RB) and Selvin Young should get lots of touches this season. Selvin Young is a versatile and skilled back with great hands and always seems to get the extra yardage. He averaged 5.2 yards a carry last season and is a rising star that will be a key element in the offense and very productive in the run and pass game. Denver still has a good defense but other than Brandon Marshall and possibly Tony Scheffler their pass attack may struggle with the lack of depth at the receiver position.    

 

4) Oakland Raiders

Record last year: 4-12 / Projected: 5-11

The Raiders are a very young team that is going through a rebuilding stage. Quarterback JaMarcus Russell should get the nod this season and he will be in his first year as the starter. They drafted running back Darren McFadden with their first pick in the draft because they felt he was just too good to pass up. However, they still have some needs on their offensive line which were not addressed in the draft. Even with McFadden’s great potential, he will still need some help from his blockers. Oakland has a terrific secondary with shut-down cornerbacks Nnamdi Asomugha and DeAngelo Hall to make plays back there. However, the Raider’s offense could struggle with the lack of receiving threats and below average offensive line. They did acquire Javon Walker this offseason but he will likely be double teamed most of the time since he is the only real receiving option they have. Defenses will likely stack the box and dare the Raiders to pass which may be a daunting task for McFadden and JaMarcus to overcome, especially in their first seasons starting.

 

Here is how we see the AFC West stacking up, what’s your call?

 

 

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AFC South Preview

Probably the toughest overall division in the AFC, featuring the Colts, Jaguars, Texans, and Titans. The gap between worst to first gets smaller every season and this year will be no exception.

1) Indianapolis Colts

Record last year: 13-3 / Projected: 12-4

The Colts have a tougher schedule this season on top of the fact that they play in one of the toughest divisions in the AFC. Despite that, the Colts should not suffer that greatly. They were 13-3 a season ago without the services of all-pro receiver Marvin Harrison for most of the year. Even with Marvin’s age and off field issues the Colts should still maintain division supremecy. They have the deepest running back group in the league now with the addition of Mike Hart from the draft who will be teamed with fellow running backs Joseph Addai, Dominic Rhodes, & Kenton Keith. Their offense won’t miss a beat and their defense should remain solid especially with Bob Sanders in the mix and healthy. Indy is expected to remain a dominant team, but they will have some company from a rising powerhouse in Jacksonville.

 

2) Jacksonville Jaguars

Record last year: 11-5 / Projected: 12-4

Jacksonville will be a very dangerous team this year, capable of beating anybody in any given game. With their first two picks of this year’s draft they selected Derrick Harvey and Quentin Groves, two solid defensive ends. Making it apparent the type of team they wish to build. Their defense first mentally and clear team objective will have them primed for defensive dominance. They seem to understand how important a superior defensive line will be as evidenced by the outcome of the Superbowl this past February. The loss of Marcus Stroud will be noticed surely but the addition of Joey Porter will serve as a much needed addition to a less than stellar receiving core. With the experience Garrard gained last year and his ability to keep turnovers to a minimum they will make every single game close. This will certainly be a team that nobody will want to face.

 

3) Houston Texans

Record last year: 8-8 / Projected: 9-7

Due to an injury plagued season in 2007, the Houston Texans had trouble getting anything going. This team is going to be under the radar. A little known fact about Houston is that they only lost one game when Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson played a full game together. It is evident that they are trying to improve their run game by drafting Duane Brown (LT, 1st Round) and 3rd round pick Steve Slaton, the electric running back from West Virginia. Also the addition of Chris Brown from the Titans well help out an aging Ahman Green in the backfield. On the defensive side of the ball the Texans drafted Antwaun Molden (CB, 3rd Round) and Xavier Adibi (OLB, 4th Round) to accompany newly signed Rosevelt Colvin and an already impressive young defense. Their schedule is pretty rough but they should still produce a winning season.

 

4) Tennessee Titans

Record last year: 10-6 / Projected: 8-8

Losing Antwan Odom, Travis LaBoy, Ben Troupe, and Chris Brown to free agency will have an impact on the success of the Titans this season. Not to mention losing cornerback and playmaker Mr. Adam Jones to the Cowboys. They selected speedy Chris Johnson (RB, 1st Round) to help stretch the field and keep defenses honest. Tennessee re-signed 31 year old  Jevon Kearse (DE) to add some veteran leadership to the defensive front four. He may have lost a step or two but if he stays out of trouble he should be an effective addition to the D. With Vince Young at quarterback they can win any game at any time, but with no significant improvement to the wide receiver position it will be an uphill battle for VY and the offense. The Titans will have some close contests but it looks like a .500 season is in store for Tennessee.

 

Feel free to share your AFC South forecast.  

 

 

  

 

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AFC North Preview

The AFC North should be an interesting battle this season as the talent in that division is fairly equal. The schedule will weigh heavily in the outcome of this division. We feel that the Pittsburgh Steelers would be the front-runner in the division under different circumstances but their schedule is just too tough this year to be considered a top seed.

1) Cleveland Browns

Record last year: 10-6 / Projected: 10-6

It appears that Cleveland is satisfied with the state of their team as it is now because they were content with not having a 1st, 2nd, or 3rd round draft pick. From the looks of things the Browns have quite a team despite not having a very productive draft. They are strong in every offensive category and have sufficient depth at quarterback and the addition of Donte’ Stallworth will add yet another vertical threat to the already potent offense. They have a moderate schedule and should be able to muster ten wins again this year. The Brown’s defense has a solid front 7 including newcomer Shaun Rogers who should fit in nicely to this physical dog pound defense. Kamerion Wimbley will be entering his third year at OLB and will continue to wreak havoc on opponents. Cleveland will need to improve their secondary in order to keep big plays to a minimum. Losing defensive back Leigh Bodden may be tough to overcome but with their ability to rack up points they should be able to prevail in most games.  

 

2) Pittsburgh Steelers

Record last year: 10-6 / Projected: 9-7

This team is a lot better than their projected record would indicate. The Steelers have all the ingredients of a potent and well balanced team. Big Ben Roethlisberger had his contract extended in the offseason and now has even more weapons at his disposal this year. Drafting Rashard Mendenhall and Limas Sweed with their first two picks should prove to be very beneficial in conjunction with Santonio Holmes, Hines Ward, Heath Miller, and Willie Parker. Their defense will remain solid with playmaker James Harrison on patrol and Casey Hampton clogging up the interior. The loss of Alan Faneca should surely be noted and its effect will be evident. Pittsburgh did, however, acquire guard Justin Hartwig from the Panthers to help out in protection, so they should still have an effective ground game. Look for a possible wildcard spot for the Steelers this year despite a tumultuous upcoming schedule.

 

3) Cincinnati Bengals

Record last year: 7-9 / Projected: 5-11

It is plenty of turmoil in Cincy to say the least, from contract disputes to disgruntled players, there is a lot to be desired from Cincy this season. Though they have a talented offense capable of putting up many points, an unhappy superstar (Chad Johnson) can be a detriment to the locker room and on the playing field. Last year’s highly regarded second round draft pick Kenny Irons is still trying to recover from a season ending ACL injury suffered last year. Even though Cincy has a deep backfield they will still have an uphill battle in the division. The Bengals, ranked 27th in total defense last season, have lost its three most productive players from last year on each level of the defense- Justin Smith (DE), Landon Johnson (LB), and Madieu Williams (S). In an attempt to patch up a depleted defense the Bengals drafted Keith Rivers LB,  from USC (1st Rd) to help sure up the linebacking core. Also they added 2 defensive tackles and a defensive back in the draft as well. It won’t be enough, look for Cincy to struggle again this year on the defensive side of the ball in what may prove to be a very long year for them.

 

4) Baltimore Ravens

Record last year: 5-11 / Projected: 4-12

If Joe Flacco doesn’t emerge as a bonafide gunslinger early in the season this may be a very disappointing season for the Ravens. The retirement of Jonathan Ogden &  Steve McNair may indicate that it is time for new offensive talent to step up. The departure of Ogden, 11-time Pro Bowl left tackle, will have adverse effects on the entire offense. Their first two picks Joe Flacco (QB) and Ray Rice (RB) will have an even tougher time adjusting to the game without Ogden protecting the left side. Baltimore’s defense is always going to be stout and stingy, that shouldn’t change. Though stacking up wins could be tough if the Ravens struggle to put points on the board or commit costly turnovers. With the defense aging and the offense getting younger it could be time to rebuild in Baltimore.   

 

What is your take on the AFC North? Its your call.

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