7 months of no football… no professional football at
least… It’s been a grueling, long wait for the boys of fall to show up for
training camp once again. Another opportunity to play for the most coveted
trophy in American sports, the 48th season to fight for such trophy.
32 teams, 17 weeks, 3 playoff rounds, and 1 magical night in New York to play
for the biggest prize in America’s most covenant championship; Super Bowl
XLVIII.
I picked the winner in all 256 games of the NFL
Regular season along with picking the 10 playoff games and eventual Super Bowl
XLVIII champion. It took a little over 3 hours at my night shift rehabilitation
job where I usually do paper work in about 40 minutes and sit and read the rest
of the time till about 6 am when I slowly have to start waking up kids to get
their daily breakfast before I leave and hand off my duties to morning shift
people. I looked at each team and what I had seen in the first couple of
preseason games to get an idea of what each team had to offer. I also decided
to base my judgments on what I had seen when it came to offseason acquisitions
when it came to the draft and free agency and how those teams improved their
chances heading into the 2013 regular season. Obviously, these are all rough estimates
and clearly I’m no expert. But with my expertise and watching this sport since
I was 9 years old (now 22 years old) with the amount of attention to detail as
I have, I believe I have a pretty keen view of what I have to offer when it
comes to giving you an idea of how the season will play out.
Nothing is handed to anybody. Nothing will be easily
attained. It takes hard work, no days off (as Wale would say it), and a spirit
that only the fiercest warriors can aspire to achieve. This is all on paper. These
predictions are clearly from analysis by a very amateur sports prognosticator
like myself. But I digress, and get you my 2 cents of sports knowledge that I
do out of my labor of love, a love that doesn’t plan on dying anytime soon. So
sit back, relax, and enjoy this research and backing that I call my NFL
preseason predictions. Enjoy the regular season, and bask in the warmth of
every hangover filled, fireside friendly, and spiritual Sunday these next 5
months will bring.
Let’s start off with the AFC and we’ll promptly
begin with the East. We’ll go from bottom to top so that we can start with the
cellar of each division and end with the winner of each division.
AFC
EAST
New York Jets:
This team is simply the worst thing since sliced
bread and I don’t see any way this team can get out of the cellar any time
soon. The only thing this team has going for them is a constant Friday
highlight of a play called “the butt-fumble” replaying every single week since
last thanksgiving. The amount of angst for this team will finally hit it’s peak
this season as the New York Jet’s only have one key name player on their
offense, and his name is Nick Mangold. Everybody else is expendable and I don’t
see any way this team wins 5 games this season. With the loss of Revis Island
and only having Antonio Cromartie anchor the secondary, winning will come very
difficult for this Franchise. If Rex Ryan can put together a less than 10 loss
team this season, it would simply be a miracle.
Prediction:
2-14
Miami Dolphins:
I honestly could see this team doing much better
than I have picked them to do this upcoming season. Ryan Tannehill is a player
that makes me weary when it comes to his ability to adjust in his second full
season. He is a great talent and I think he will eventually become a good
quarterback in the league, but it’s still too early to determine his ability.
The key to the success of this team really relies upon the clock management the
offensive line can provide for their newly inserted full time starter in Lamar
Miller. He will be the key that could open up deep opportunities for Ryan
Tannehill when throwing to new teammate Mike Wallace and savvy veteran Brian
Hartline who has only recently started becoming a household name. When it comes
to their defense, the only key players I see is Cameron Wake (15 sacks) who is
probably one of the best front four players in the league, and Dannell Ellerbe
who last season helped out the Baltimore Ravens get to the Super Bowl. He could
be a key figure in providing some leadership on that defense which could be a
spark they need to breakout this season as a potential sleeper team. I
personally don’t see it happening, and considering they play in the same
division as the Tom Brady Patriots, they shouldn’t be relevant for another year
or so. But don’t be surprised if they make a leap this season and show signs of
things to come.
Prediction:
6-10
Buffalo Bills:
This team is a legitimate contender and could be a
serious threat this season to contend with the Patriots for the division.
Reason being: C.J. Spiller and Fred Jackson. Kevin Kolb and E.J. Manuel will be
the story all season but I think with #1 receiver Stevie Johnson and the combo
rookie receivers in Robert Woods & Marquise Goodwin along with blanket
tight end Scott Chandler, there is no way this team is getting left out of the
playoffs when it comes to this potentially dangerous attack in upstate New
York. The only thing stopping them is inconsistent play at the offensive line.
If they can get anything up front, this team will make the playoffs on
ground-and-pound alone. Their defense also has a bunch of no names similar to
the Dolphins. Kiko Alonso is the only recognizable name because he played for
the Oregon Ducks the past 4 seasons and got drafted in the 2nd
round. He should be able to do some things this season and make a serious run
at the defensive player of the year award, especially if the Bills are to do
anything this season. I think they will, even if Kiko doesn’t do anything
because the time management of C.J. Spiller can carry this team to a potential
playoff spot.
Prediction:
10-6
New England Patriots:
With the obvious loss of Aaron Hernandez to murder
charges and Rob Gronkowski partying till the cows come home and treating his
body with reckless abandon, the New England Patriots will be a little less
powerful at the “blanket position” (Tight end). They also lost Wes Welker and
replaced him with little-little-Danny Amendola and are placing more emphasis on
Julian Edelman instead of relying on his special teams abilities. Ridley and
Vereen are going to more than likely split time in the backfield as they will
just be blocking for the franchise in Tom Brady. If Tom Brady gets hurt this
season, you might as well throw away their season because this team can
seriously do nothing without him at the helm. The Patriots do come into this
season with possibly one of the best linebacker cores in all of football with
Mayo, Spikes, and Hightower, at least that’s what it looks like on paper. The
Patriots actually may be a force on defense this season unlike in past seasons
where they banked on Brady to take them to the promise land (which he can still
do). They still have a strong secondary with McCourty, Talib and Dennard
leading the way and really shouldn’t have much of a problem stopping opposing
teams and allow Tom Brady to build on his already hall of fame legacy. They win
the division easily if Brady is healthy.
Prediction:
13-3
The AFC North will take a dramatic turn based upon
the predictions I had throughout the regular season. I really don’t see an
obvious team taking over the division this season and honestly, anybody could
win it this season.
AFC
NORTH
Baltimore Ravens:
If you haven’t turned off the blog by now, you
probably will after I tell you the Ravens have a legitimate shot at finishing
last within the AFC North this season. Reasons being pretty obvious, they have
completely annihilated their Super Bowl Championship roster and are now banking
on Joe Flacco to pull a Tom Brady within this division. Do you really think
this guy (with his track record) is going to make Torrey Smith a viable #1 receiver
option for the next coupe seasons and expect to be successful with their only
major weapon as Ray Rice in the backfield? If you said yes, get into the
treatment and I might see you some day. This team is a shell of itself and to
be honest was on a hot streak in the postseason and it was the only reason they
won the Super Bowl. It also doesn’t help their #1 tight end Dennis Pitta is
also out for a lengthy amount of time putting Ed Dickson in the 1 spot. Last
season, the Ravens squeezed everything they had out of their wily veterans and
put together a run that will go down in Baltimore lore as one of the most
dominant defensive performances led by one of the greatest linebackers to ever
play the game. That is all gone now. It also didn’t help they let go of
EVERYTHING (Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, and more) when it came to defensive talent.
Except for the addition of Elvis Dumerville, this team will take a huge step
back this season and Joe Flacco will be viewed as a joke considering he signed
the NFL’s most overrated contract this off-season.
Prediction:
4-12
Cleveland Browns:
Ok, I know what you’re thinking, this team has been
known as a cellar team since forever, but why am I placing them higher than the
Ravens? Simple answer, they have way more potential and have possibly one of
the most potent backs in the division. Trent Richardson will take a massive
step forward this season especially if he stays healthy. Other than that,
Weeden has to prove himself, this receiver core has to prove themselves, and
everyone on the offensive line other than Joe Thomas have to prove themselves.
In this situation, no pressure is good and this team has some serious room to
grow on the offensive side of the ball and having a great running back will
help everybody’s cause (Just look at the Vikings). Again, the Browns have
another no name defense but they also picked up another former Baltimore Raven
from a year ago in Paul Kruger, and he is expected to give them a boost when it
comes to experience and what it takes to put together an acceptable defense.
Other than that, the Browns look like a team built to grow or built to wilt. I
think they can grow, my prediction might be a tad low. I’m a poet, I should
stop.
Prediction:
4-12
Cincinnati Bengals:
I don’t understand why I have this team
underperforming this season to mightily with the weapons they have on offense.
This team is clearly better than what I have them predicted at. Oh wait, let’s
take a look at their schedule shall we? Starting from week 1: @CHI, vsPIT,
vsGB, @CLE (rivalry game), vsNE, @BUF, @DET, vsNYJ, and that’s only their first
half of the season. If there is a harder first half the season you let me know.
I can only count 1…2… maybe 3 wins in the first 8 games of that schedule which
is absolutely brutal for a team on the brink of becoming an elite team. Their
offense has the Red Rocket (Andy Dalton) who could explode this season with AJ
Green, Greshem at the tight end position, and Sanu who needs to step it up this
season if the Bengals are going to do anything relevant this season. Their
running back position has a mass of potential with Benjarvus Green-Ellis and
rookie Giovani Bernard their second round pick out of North Carolina. If their
offensive line can hold up, points should come in bunches for them this season
but considering those first 8 games, I see that being a real struggle for
Cincinnati. Geno Atkins and Michael Johnson are both double digit sack guys
that will need to perform the same way this season for them to have any shot at
getting back to the post season, and Rey Maualuga will have to get some help
(besides from Vontaze Burfict) if the Bengals are going to stop anybody on
defense. I really don’t see it happening with the schedule they have lined up
and I see a very disappointing season of them this year.
Prediction:
5-11
Pittsburgh Steelers:
With the type of weapons the Steelers have coming
into this season and Big Ben running the show, this team has got to be in the
running for winning the division. Ben Roethlisberger finally has some
legitimate weapons on the outside with Emmanuel Sanders and Antonio Brown to
give their plethora of running back talent room to run making them a legit
threat since their Super Bowl 45 threat and if Heath Miller gets back playing
sometime in September, look out. Hopefully this season Troy Polamalu can stay
healthy and reconnect this defense back into its championship form we all know
it can be. Their secondary should be stout this season, but hopefully guys like
LaMarr Woodley can step it up and take the place of James Harrison and Larry
Foote can improve upon his stellar 2012 campaign. This team has all the pieces
of getting into the playoffs, but also knowing they have been hit by the injury
bug the past couple of seasons, they still give me questions on whether they
can stay consistent enough to make the postseason. Either way, this division is
wide open, but with how the schedules line up for the Steelers, I see them
squeaking out a division title and making an appearance in the postseason at
best. But on the whole, this division is up in the air.
Prediction:
8-8
On to the AFC South now where there are really only
2 teams worth mentioning while the other teams get fat and happy on draft picks
the next 4-5 years.
AFC
SOUTH
Tennessee Titans:
Since Jeff Fisher left, I have had no hope and I think
this team is in the same position as the New York Jets when it comes the sight
of needing to implode the current system in place. The only real new toy they
picked up this offseason is Delanie Walker who, let’s be honest, was a sneeze
at tight end compared to Vernon Davis of the 49ers. Jake Locker, I wish him the
best of luck but I think by the end of this season he will be a washed up
project and won’t be relevant in the NFL (unless he proves me wrong, which I
hope he does). He has Nate Washington and Kenny Britt to throw too who
hopefully can make Jake look good unlike the now washed up Chris Johnson. CJ2K
hasn’t really done anything spectacular since putting pen to paper when it came
to his new mega deal he sign last offseason. I don’t see him changing anytime
soon and if anything, falling off even more. There’s a reason they signed Shonn
Greene this offseason because of the lack of consistency by CJ2K. Do I really
have to talk about the Titans defense? All they have is Jason McCourty and new
Baltimore Raven Bernard Pollard. Other than that, Akeem Ayers is the only other
name that rings a bell, nobody really strikes me as worthy candidates to get
this team out of the Top 5 draft picks in the 2014 draft. It’ll be a long year
Tennessee.
Prediction:
2-14
Jacksonville Jaguars:
MJD will be healthy… Luke Joeckel will probably be
one of the best rookie tackles in the league this season… But the QB position
is still holding this team back. Blaine Gabbert needs to make some serious
strides this season if Jacksonville decides to make their jerseys relevant on
anything four letter related. Marcedes Lewis should provide Gabbert with a
decent blanket this season and hopefully Justin Blackmon can get back to the
way he played at Oklahoma State a couple years ago because if not, another
couple years of Top 5 picks are in the running for the Jaguars. The only real
defensive threats on the Jaguars last season were Paul Posluszny, Jason Babin
(who joined mid-season from the Eagles), and Derek Cox (who had 4
interceptions). Derek Cox is now on the Chargers and Babin will be entering his
first full season in Jacksonville. I don’t see much happening for this team
defensively but do not be surprised if they snuck up on some teams this year
especially with their ability to run the ball and blitz the QB. If Blaine
Gabbert can give them anything to chew on, they will be competitive, but that
won’t be this season.
Prediction:
4-12
Indianapolis Colts:
I see the Colts coming back this season and having
another legitimate shot at making a playoff run. Their offense this season is
set up to be very lethal especially in the passing game as veterans Reggie
Wayne, long time Colt, and Darrius Heyward-Bay, former speed demon of the
Oakland Raiders, lead the way for this team to throw darts down the field. T.Y.
Hilton has also made a name for himself playing very well this off season in
the slot, which could provide the 2nd year QB in Andrew Luck an
opportunity to have a third weapon down the field. Luck still has his side-kick
in Colby Fleener on his team, but Luck’s blanket is more than likely going to
be Dwayne Allen, a second year guy out of Clemson who caught 45 balls a year
ago. The Indianapolis backfield is stacked of potential drag ‘em out runners
such as Vick Ballard, Donald Brown, and the new acquisition in Ahmad Bradshaw
who, when healthy, could be a huge goal line option for them when they need a
big 3rd down conversion. Their defense has a couple names could give
other teams fits this season. Undrafted Jerrell Freeman had 145 tackles last
year in his rookie season and Antoine Bethea (a safety) had 100 tackles. You
are not going to win a ton of games if your safety has 100 tackles again this
season. Robert Mathis had 8 sacks last season, and hopefully, he can keep that
up going into his 11th season. Dwight Freeney was let go to the San
Diego Chargers and only had about 5 sacks last season for the Colts, so losing
his productivity is not going to kill the team. What I think is going to kill
the team this year and prevent them from getting back to the postseason is the
ability to maintain their point differential. Last season they were the only
team to have a negative point differential (-30) out of all 12 teams in the
post season. This year, that will not get it done, and honestly I see them just
missing out on the postseason because Andrew Luck has an entire year of film on
him now. Tendencies will be exposed and I see the Colts having a successful
season, but just missing out on the postseason.
Prediction:
10-6
Houston Texans:
This Texans team has no excuses this season to put
together one of the best seasons in NFL History. They have the tools to do so
in their 4,000 yard QB in Matt Schaub, they have one of the best receivers in
the NFL when he’s healthy in Andre Johnson, a talented young flashy receiver in
De’Andre Hopkins, a top five runner in Arian Foster, and a tight end in Owen
Daniels who is one of the most clutch tight ends in football. Add all that up
and it almost feels like the 1998 Vikings (an offense ready to breakout). Their
defense is almost unstoppable and this year who’s going to get past them? With
J.J. Watt and Antonio Smith up front (27.5 sacks combined), the best secondary
in the AFC (Jackson, Manning, Reed, Joseph) and a young linebacker crew ready
to erupt in the middle of that defense? They have a legit shot at getting their
team into the Super Bowl this season. They did lose some guys on the defensive
side in Glover Quinn (Detriot Lions) and Bradie James (released), but they
didn’t lose much when adding a guy in Ed Reed who is on the last few seasons of
his Hall of Fame career. He’ll bring that same leadership that Ray Lewis
brought to his defense and everybody will step up their game to make this
defense one of the most vaunted in the NFL. I see this team grabbing the a top
slot in the AFC and waiting for their opponent in the Divisional Playoffs in
the AFC Playoffs.
Prediction:
15-1
The AFC West is a division that has some serious
dark horses who could erupt this season and give the Broncos a run for their
money. But let’s be honest, if the Broncos stay healthy, there is nothing to
worry about in Denver.
AFC
WEST
Oakland Raiders:
O.K really, do I have to break down this team? O.K I
know, they picked up Matt Flynn which I think will be a fantastic fit for him
and he can help this offense tremendously. The only thing that makes me laugh
is their backfield which has felt to always be injury prone with Darren
McFadden leading the way. When healthy he is a top ten back in this league, but
when he’s injured, he’s as useless as dog giving birth. Denarious Moore should
be a legit threat again this season and should be more involved considering the
loss of Brandon Myers to the Giants and Darrius Heyward-Bey going to the Colts,
he’ll have to step up his game as a #1 guy. Let’s get away from that mess and
talk about an actual mess in the Raiders Defense. The only cool story about
this team will be the return of Charles Woodson returning back to where he
started. Except, this time, instead of being the young stud he was when drafted
by the team back in the late 90’s, he’ll be the old guy surveying the field as
every opposing offensive player heads his way because nobody else can do anything
on the Raiders defense. Phillip Wheeler, their leading tackler last season (who
is that guy?) with 109 tackles is now on the Dolphins. Other than that can we
give the black hole something to cheer about on defense? Oh yeah, Charles
Woodson, I already said that. It’s a new day in Oakland, and they might be top
ten in the draft for a couple years before they become relevant again, or Matt
Flynn can play like he did when he replaced Aaron Rodgers a couple years ago
for the entire season and lead the Raiders to the promise laaann…. Let’s not
get carried away.
Prediction:
5-11
San Diego Chargers:
The Chargers are another one of those teams that has
some serious dark horse potential similar to what the Miami Dolphins have to
offer. Phillip Rivers has proven to be Tony Romo 2.0 but without the national
spot light. Antonio Gates is moving up in the age scale and is practically a
shell of his former Hall of Fame self. The Chargers also have some questionable
receivers that could go either way when it comes to their ability in guys like
Malcom Floyd, Eddie Royal, and Vincent Brown. Rookie Keenan Allen can hopefully
hop on I-5 south and show up in San Diego performing similar to how he did at
CAL, because San Diego will need it. Ryan Mathews is also another one of those
players that could bust out this season with his collar bone breaking days
behind him (hopefully), but he could also fizzle like many of the threats on
that San Diego offense. Now the Chargers defense… a washed up Dwight Freeney,
an imaginary girlfriend in Manti Te’o, Eric Weddle who is probably one of the
best Safety’s in the league after his performance last season (97 tackles, 1
sack, 2 forced fumbles, and 3 picks)… this team is very average on the
defensive side of the ball right now, but they definitely have room to improve.
And with no expectations right now, they could come out with no worries and
absolutely shock us all… but I highly doubt it.
Prediction:
6-10
Kansas City Chiefs:
This team is the definition of dark horse and their
stock is just waiting to bounce off the stove ready to pounce on whoever they
face. Andy Reed, coming over from the Eagles, will be in a new environment and
will be handed the most talented team he’s seen since the Eagles went on that
great run playing in all those NFC championship games. The Chiefs stock is so
high right now people need to seriously start thinking about this team on the
offensive side of the ball. Don’t be shocked if this team breaks 450 points
this season and sniffs 500 points in the next couple of season. People forget
this team had 2 offensive linemen in the Probowl a year ago, they have Dwayne
Bowe and Donnie Avery who are ready to explode onto the scene with an efficient
Alex Smith ready to deliver them the ball. Alex Smith also has 2 solid blanket
tight ends ready to throw to in Anthony Fasano and Tony Moeaki who have been
staples in the KC offense the past 2 season and who are also ready to pounce on
some red-zone TD’s this season. And how could I forget the beast in the
backfield, Jamaal Charles. The man who has literally carried this team to the
cellar of the AFC West the past two season is ready to take this Kansas City
team into contention for the AFC West title and a shot at competing in the
playoffs this season. Don’t sleep on this team. Their defense might not be up
to snuff on what the offense has done on the offseason but they do have some
weapons on the defensive side of the ball. Justin Houston and Tamba Hali had 19
sacks combined last year, breaking out as legit forces to rush the QB this
season and wreak havoc from the linebacker position. Derrick Johnson is the
same old story with his 125 tackles a year ago, a perfect guy to anchor the KC
defense this season once again. And the KC secondary is up their with one of
the best in the League with Flowers (3 Interceptions), Eric Berry (86 tackles),
Sean Smith (59 tackles, 3 forced fumbles, & 2 interceptions), and Dunta
Robinson (acquired from Atlanta, 80 tackles) who can still get it done going
into his 10th year of his NFL Career and has the experience this
secondary can use to help shut down top receivers in the AFC all season. This
team is geared up to make some noise this season and I would not be shocked if
they battled for the AFC West division this season.
Prediction:
10-6
Denver Broncos:
Do any Broncos fans still think they are dreaming
with Peyton Manning at the helm? They should be. He’s got another 2-3 years of
solid football left in him especially if that offensive line can keep him
clean. The backfield with Ronnie Hillman and the rookie Monte Ball and Knowshon
Moreno, if needed, should be a terrifying backfield considering defenses will
be worried about those dangerous receivers Denver has on the outside. Let’s
name them shall we? Demaryius Thomas, Wes Welker, and Eric Decker. Straight up
lethal. All they have to do is have a foot of opening and Manning will find
them. Not to mention the token pass to Joel Dreessen and Jacob Tamme at the
tight end positions. If there is a better offense heading into the season,
please let me know. The only one I can think of to be honest is the other team
within their division who only has dark horse potential unlike Denver who has
legitimate beef as the #1 offense for this season. The Defense is no slack job
either. Their front line with Wolfe (6 sacks) leading the way, their linebacker
core with Von Miller who is suspended the first 6 games, but still have Wesley
Woodyard (117 tackles, 5.5 sacks, 3 interceptions, 1 forced fumble), are
nothing to sneeze at heading into the season. Speaking of nothing to sneeze at,
Champ Bailey (the future Hall of Famer) is still looking for that elusive Super
Bowl championship to sew up his legendary career. Not just Champ Bailey, but
Mike Adams (80 tackles, 1 sack, 2 forced fumbles), Rahim Moore (72 tackles, 1
sack, 1 interception), and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (51 tackles, 3
interceptions) will all help this very fluid defense of the Denver Broncos
reach the promise land, which is what the expectations are for this 2013
season. Other than KC’s potential dark horse abilities, this team should win
the division with flying colors and ride into the post season with ease.
Prediction:
12-4
Summary of my AFC Standings
|
AFC EAST
|
AFC NORTH
|
AFC SOUTH
|
AFC WEST
|
|
Patriots 13-3
|
Steelers 8-8
|
Texans 15-1
|
Broncos 12-4
|
|
Bills 10-6*
|
Bengals 5-11
|
Colts 10-6
|
Chiefs 10-6*
|
|
Dolphins 6-10
|
Browns 4-12
|
Jaguars 4-12
|
Chargers 6-10
|
|
Jets 2-14
|
Ravens 4-12
|
Titans 2-14
|
Raiders 5-11
|
|
AFC Playoff
Seeds
|
Reason for Seeding
|
||
|
1.
Texans 15-1
|
|
||
|
2.
Patriots
13-3
|
|
||
|
3.
Broncos 12-4
|
|
||
|
4.
Steelers
8-8
|
|
||
|
5.
Bills
10-6
|
Win
over Chiefs; Week 9
|
||
|
6.
Chiefs
10-6
|
Win
over Colts; Week 16
|
||
The playoff predictions will be after I discuss the
NFC predictions, which are next! We’ll start in the East once again because
that is where the entire world revolves around. Also can we be honest?
Predicting the NFC East is practically impossible considering how even all of
the teams are, especially this season.
NFC
EAST
Philadelphia Eagles:
I really don’t know how the new Chip Kelly era is
going to work in Philadelphia especially with the Eagles playing in such an
even NFC East. Mike Vick is another year older, LeSean McCoy is only adding
more pounding onto his body. They seem to be the key to this new formula of
“success” in Philadelphia. They still have DeSean Jackson who will have to be
the key weapon down the field with Jeremy Maclin out for the year. Brent Celek
will do be a huge factor within the offense, and even more so if the Chip Kelly
project goes to waste. The defense has a couple big name players in Cary
Williams (75 tackles, 4 interceptions), Fletcher Cox (5.5 sacks), DeMeco Ryans
(113 tackles), and the well renowned Patrick Chung should help keep this
defense in games in the tough NFC East. Overall, I think this is a one year
project, and hopefully it is better than I expect for fellow Eagle fans. I say
next year they take the big jump, but this year… not yet.
Prediction:
5-11
Dallas Cowboys:
Again, this division is so difficult to determine. I
honestly could see this team winning 10+ games and winning the division in
flying colors with the amount of talent they have especially on the offensive
side of the ball. If Tony Romo lives up to anything his contract he signed this
offseason entails, they will win the division. But, with the history of Tony
Romo, I cannot pull that trigger just yet, especially in this division with its
unpredictability. But let’s talk about the toys Tony has anyways. You got Dez
Bryant (top 3 wide receiver in the NFL), DaMarco Murray (who when healthy is a
top 10 back in the NFL), Miles Austin (Probably one of the best deep route
runners in the league), and Jason Witten (Who is the toughest, and coolest,
tight ends in the national football league). Tony Romo has the Cadillac to drive,
he just needs to deliver the goods. The Defense is solid too with DeMarcus Ware
(The best defensive player in football), Anthony Spencer (the biggest
compliment to DeMarcus Ware, and possibly a top twenty defensive player in
football), recent newly signed Sean Lee (who runs the linebacking crew
relatively well with Justin Durant [103 tackles] as his sidekick), and their
secondary with Brandon Carr (3 interceptions), and second year man Morris
Claiborne who should light up other receivers this upcoming NFL Season. So much
talent, yet so many years wasted with terrible offensive line play and poor
coaching decisions. It doesn’t help that the spotlight is solely on this team
to perform at such a high level and every year they choke under the immense pressure.
This year, they can rise above it, but again, the driver of the ship will more
than likely let them down again (Tony Romo).
Prediction:
6-10
Washington Redskins:
This team is all predicated on its health of RGIII,
and even if he doesn’t perform to expectations or gets hurt, Kurt Cousins can
come in and provide enough offense to give this team a shot to make the
postseason again. But let’s assume RGIII will stay healthy this season and
Alfred Morris improves upon his fantastic (underrated) rookie season, this team
has a legit shot of making noise in the postseason once again. They still have
Pierre Garcon running deep patterns in Washington (Where I think he is the best
deep route runner in the NFL), and they have a very powerful offensive line
ready to keep RGIII in the game. Fred Davis will be heavily utilized this
season if RGIII cannot find targets down field. The defense will also come back
this season ready to pounce on another postseason chance. London Fletcher will
not fall down this season as his 38 year old (16 year career) body will hold it
together another season hopefully leading this season to great heights this
year. Ryan Kerrigan should also become the primary defensive threat especially
after his performance a year ago (8.5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 1 interception),
and Perry Riley should continue to be a steady force in the middle with London
Fletcher (129 tackles, 3.5 sacks). Brian Orakpo will also be coming off the
injury list and should bring another dynamic force to this already stout
linebacking core in Washington. Their secondary is also set up to be a top five
crew in the league. DeAngelo Hall (95 tackles, 4 interceptions) and Josh Wilson
(74 tackles, 2 interceptions) should anchor this really good secondary and
raise guys like David Amerson to become legitimate defensive standouts for
years to come. Again, with how tough this division is, and the fear of RGIII
and his knee, I can see this team missing the playoffs this season, or shooting
out of the gate quickly and making a serious playoff push with their great
defense. Either way, I have them missing the playoffs strictly because of how
difficult this division is.
Prediction:
7-9
New York Giants:
Why do I have the New York Giants winning this tough
division instead of the stout Washington defense taking full control, or the
powerful Dallas offense? That’s an easy answer. Because Eli Manning has won 2
Super Bowls and is due to get back to the post season for another shot. He has
Hakeem Nicks and Victor Cruz on the outside, David Wilson is going to dive into
his role as the lead back on this offense, with Andre Brown coming in for scat
back duties. Brandon Myers will be a huge role in this offense with being a big
time blanket for Eli when Cruz and Nicks are not open. I see the offensive line
holding up especially if the running backs can find holes throughout the second
half. I know this may sound crazy, but the Giants look more balanced then they
did when they won the Super Bowl two years ago. I know Justin Tuck, and Jason
Pierre-Paul have looked flimsy, especially last season. But they should be able
to bounce back and put together some form of their 2011 selves. The linebackers
need time to grow, but with their front four scheme and their secondary in the
top 10 when it comes to potential talent with Corey Webster, Antrel Rolle, and
Prince Amukamara, the Giants should be able to hang with the best of them. I
can see this team winning the division more than they did last season and more
than the teams I mentioned above, but considering their history and how they
have handled themselves the past 5 years, I see them having history on their
side and making a playoff push more so than the other three teams in this
division.
Prediction:
9-7
Next will be the NFC North, which let me tell you I
think will be a bit of a surprise after just showing you the NFC East and their
records. Every team in this division has a shot at making the playoffs with the
talent they possess on both sides of the ball. This is the best division in
football and this year will only be another testament to that. Every team in
this division is stacked on offense and can bust out if they so choose. I see
it potentially happening that way this year.
NFC
NORTH
Detroit Lions:
The Detroit Lions could probably win the AFC North
this season of they played in that division. They are loaded on the offensive
side of the ball and may mimic the Rams “Greatest Show on Turf” from a little
over a decade ago. Matthew Stafford, who was very inconsistent last season,
still had over 10,000 yards passing over the past two seasons and a majority of
them last season were in the direction of Calvin Johnson (who broke the single
season receiving yardage mark a season ago). Brandon Pettigrew will still hold
a popular position for dump off plays when CJ and Nate Burleson are not open
down the field, and the newest key addition in Reggie Bush could become a 1,000
yards rushing, 1,000 yards receiving type back this season. They will need it
if they want to become relevant in this division or at least a topic of
discussion in this powerful division. The front four of Detroit is clearly one
of the most vaunted in all of football with Ndamukong Suh, Nick Fairley, rookie
Ezekiel Ansah, and Jason Jones (3 sacks last season). The real question will be
the guys behind them with DeAndre Levy and Stephen Tulloch who put together
solid seasons a year ago and Safety Glover Quin who came over from Houston to
help this young developing secondary. I don’t see how this team can compete
defensively with the rest of this division other than the fact that their front
four is the most lethal in the division. If teams start to figure out this
defense, which they should considering the lack of talent past the front four,
then there will be games played in the 30+ point range every weekend. They
should still be good though despite these potential defensive woes.
Prediction:
10-6
Minnesota Vikings:
I’m a well renowned Vikings fan and I support this
team whole heartedly, but some of us have to recognize this team over achieved
a little bit even with the team we put together last season. You’re wondering
since I have the Lions at 10-6 where will I have the Vikings, I think they can
win more than 10 games, but will struggle getting into the playoffs because of
how loaded this division is. Every team in this division could win it but I
don’t think the Vikings have the fire power of a say, Detriot or Green Bay or
even the Bears. All the Vikings have is All Day. Adrian Peterson is the face of
the franchise and quite frankly, the face of the NFL. Christian Ponder needs to
prove himself in a division where he frankly is the worst QB in the division. I see him getting it done
because of his new toys in Greg Jennings, Cordarrelle Patterson and returning
guys in Jerome Simpson and Jarius Wright. The loss of Percy Harvin will affect
the team but only really on the special teams side of the ball which will look
different. Kyle Rudolph will become a huge factor into weather this team takes
it to the level I expect on offense with his ability to bail Christian’s lack
of decision making that strikes over him every now and then. On the whole, I
see this offense doing some major things this season. The defense will be very
good and much better than people think. Brian Robison, Kevin Williams, and
Jared Allen are all still absolute beasts on the front line. Erin Henderson and
Chad Greenway will still light it up in the middle of that defense and the
secondary with Harrison Smith leading the way in his second year should make a
huge improvement from last season which wasn’t all that bad. If this team
clicks they could be a serious contender in the NFC especially if Christian
Ponder is anything above average.
Prediction:
11-5
Chicago Bears:
With how the Bears ended the season last year at
10-6, you would have thought they were 3-13 because they didn’t make the
playoffs, let go of their coach, and released face of their franchise. But they
still went 10-6 which is a playoff contender outside of this division and
outside of the NFC which is really tough. This team is going to be much better
this season with guys like Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery running the
outside for Jay Cutler to throw to, Matt Forte and Michael Bush ready to bruise
up the rest of the division with their grind it out style. I also have this
feeling this team is out for blood after last season, and with the amount of
intensity they have come out with this preseason, I see them coming out firing
during the regular season. Their defense is still the same old
smash-mouth/turnover machine that they were a year ago with Charles Tillman
still holding court as a top 10 cornerback in the NFL. Lance Briggs will help
transition this defense into the form they have been at since Brian Urlacher took
over this defense a little over a decade ago. The front four will still have
Julius Peppers running the squad attracting double teams to get other players
involved with the blitz. I don’t see how this team does not finish this year
starving for a Super Bowl run come post season time.
Prediction:
12-4
Green Bay Packers:
The only thing this team doesn’t have is a defense
that can compete with its offense. The Green Bay Packer offense might be the
best offense in the NFL when comes to continuity and the ability to spread it
around at such an even contribution. You can all give the credit to the best QB
in the NFL in Aaron Rodgers. The guy is the best thing since sliced bread and
he proves it year in and year out with receivers having very low name
recognition because of how often Rodgers spreads the ball around. But, by spreading
the ball around, it puts everybody on their toes because they could get the
ball at any given moment. Randall Cobb, Jordy Nelson, and Jacoby Jones are the
receivers I’m talking about. Jermichael Finley is still a guy who gets left out
the equation but still impacts the team on crucial plays when he’s thrown the
ball. The running back situation is still by committee and who knows who is
going to win the starting job with four potential guys in the running. It looks
like right now DuJuan Harris is going to be the starting back come week 1 of
the regular season, but I feel like that could change by week 3 with the talent
they have at that position. Their defense features “Teach me how to” Raji who
is still bumbling and stumbling his way towards opposing QB’s on the front line
of that 3-4 defense. Clay Matthews, A.J. Hawk, and Nick Perry are still major
factors in that middle order of the defense. The secondary is in the same
position as the Lions when it comes to the questions marks, especially since
Charles Woodson is now back in Oakland instead of playing safety like he has
for the Packers the past few years. I see this team still winning the division
because of the dominance of Aaron Rodgers and his ability to run the offense
like it’s a clinic every week. With his precision and presence on this team, he
will be the ultimate factor (similar to Tom Brady) in deciding where this team
goes.
Prediction:
14-2
The NFC South is another division where I could see
anybody winning the division, especially since Sean Payton is back for the
Saints on the sidelines this season post bounty gate suspension. With him
coming back, it puts a whole other perspective on how this division could play
out. And with the growth and development of other teams within the division, this
won’t be an automatic division to predict this season.
NFC
SOUTH
Carolina Panthers:
I could seriously see this team playing much better
than a bottom dweller for another season in this division. The only way they
could do so is if someone other than Steve Smith steps up on the offensive side
of the ball to balance out the throwing attack for Cam Newton. They have a
plethora of running backs to carry the load in-case somebody gets hurt
especially after they picked up Kenjon Barner in the 6th round in
the 2013 draft and he is 3rd on the depth chart behind Jonathan
Stewart and DeAngelo Williams. Greg Olson will still be a top 10 tight end with
his importance to improving the short route throwing of Cam Newton in the
middle of the field. Greg Olson may be a very important key to improving the
other receivers on the team. The Panthers defense is also nothing to sneeze at
for the upcoming season. They have a top 5 front four with Greg Hardy (11 sacks
in 2012), 2013 first round draft pick rookie Star Lotulelei from Utah, Dwan
Edwards (6 sacks), and Charles Johnson (12.5 sacks) who can seriously put
pressure on opposing QB’s and allow the rest of Luke Kuechly’s crew. Kuechly
(164 tackles, 1 sack, 3 fumble recoveries, 2 interceptions) is coming into this
season as a top 10 linebacker and could be top 5 by the end of the season. Thomas
Davis (105 tackles, 2 forced fumbles) is also another threat on that
linebacking core and could put together an even more stout season as (Batman)
Kuechly’s new Robin. The only real question the Panthers have on the defensive
side of the ball revolves around the secondary which be the only drawback of
this team besides the lack luster offense. I see this team falling short of being
anything prevalent for this season because of the lack of offensive fire power,
but their defense will keep them in games and next season they should be a
legit contender.
Prediction:
5-11
Tampa Bay Buccaneers:
This team is not your run of the mill greatest
defenses in NFL history anymore like they used to be in the previous decade.
The Buccaneers offense is actually decent now and is a formidable threat to do
some serious damage if they put everything together. It’s all up to Josh
Freeman if he can take this team to the next level or not. He has the tools
around him with a now top 5 back in Doug Martin holding court in backfield
along with Vincent Jackson and Mike Williams on the outside, both big receivers
who can go up and get the ball with the rest of them. They are a little thin at
tight end, but Luke Stocker should be able to provide some type of compensation
on short throws over the middle. The defense isn’t too shabby, even though
Ronde Barber retired this offseason. They have a front lined anchored by Gerald
McCoy (5 sacks) that has its work cut out for them if they are going to make
any noise this season. Mason Foster (105 tackles) will anchor that linebacker
core to the best of his ability this season hopefully improving on an average
2012 campaign. That secondary will improve though, especially with the addition
of Dashon Goldson and Revis Island to wreak havoc on opposing receiving corps.
2nd year men Leonard Johnson (3 interceptions) and Mark Barron (88
tackles) should also have improved seasons with guys like Revis and Goldson
anchoring the defensive backfield for the Bucs this season. If the consistency
of Freeman picks up this season and he goes back to playing the way he did a
2-3 years ago, I could see this team making a huge leap in this division, but
with the teams in front of them, that could be a huge challenge, but the
potential is there.
Prediction:
5-11
Atlanta Falcons:
What the Falcons did last year was not fluke, in
fact, it should be an expectation as they have the best receiving duo in the
game in Julio Jones and Roddy White catching passes from the man they deem
Matty Ice (Matt Ryan). They reached their first NFC Championship birth this
season and fell short against a vaunted 49ers team that they really, never
should have played. In one of the best playoff games of the year last season
with the Division week matchup against the Seahawks, they were lucky to advance
in the fashion they did. Their regular season was no fluke though as they stormed
through the league with their high powered offense with Michael Turner
stumbling through the backfield. Now they have a wily veteran in Stephen
Jackson who’s work load should be hampered by the great play of 17 year man
Tony Gonzalez, along with the best passing threat in the NFL. Don’t be shocked
either if Jacquizz Rodgers has his coming out party this season as he will do
back up duty for Stephen Jackson this season in case something were to happen
to Jackson. I feel as though their defense under achieved last season which
makes me curious heading into this season; can they improve upon last season’s
level of success? They picked up Osi Umenyiora (6 sacks) from the Giants this
offseason who should give them more of a legitimate threat on the inside when
it comes to front four pressure on opposing QB’s. Sean Weatherspoon (95
tackles, 3 sacks) and Stephen Nicholas (97 tackles, 2 sacks) should be able to
keep the middle of the defense afloat if the Falcons are to do anything when it
comes to their front seven this season. Their secondary will be a tad suspect
as well especially since they drafted a guy in Desmond Trufant, who will be
able to catch any receiver in the league, but won’t be able to tackle them.
Overall, the secondary will be led by Asante Samuel who this year will need to
bounce back after a silent 2012. If the Falcons can get their defense into the
middle rung of the NFL this team has a legit shot at being a Super Bowl
contender, if they cannot achieve that possibility, then it will be arena
football in every game they play in this season, which they can do with the
best of them. It just won’t be conducive to winning big time games in the
playoffs.
Prediction:
12-4
New Orleans Saints:
I believe this team had a setback in 2012 with the
loss of Sean Payton and the cloud of Bounty gate hovering over the team all
season. I think now this team will come out hungrier than ever and should be at
the top of the league once again like they were in 2011. Drew Brees is still a
5,000 yard passing machine and he still has Marques Colston and Lance Moore on
the outside to throw too along with a top 3 tight end in Jimmy Graham who’s
abilities rival an “in his prime” Antonio Gates. The crew of Pierre Thomas,
Mark Ingram, and Darren Sproles in the back field should be able to switch it
up enough to keep run defenses in check as they attempt to keep Drew Brees from
destroying them. Their defense will also have Jonathan Vilma for the entire
season which will do wonders for that defense as they hopefully can bring back
the intensity they had from 2009 to 2011. They also have Curtis Lofton (123
tackles) who could help Vilma get this team back into contention with the rest
of the NFC. Cameron Jordan (8 sacks, 3 forced fumbles) will also be a huge
threat on the inside of that 3-4 defensive scheme the Saints will play this
season, freeing up the linebackers to all focus on other offensive weapons
other than the offensive line. Malcolm Jenkins (94 tackles) should be the
leader of the secondary which should make some serious strides this season if
they want to win this division and take it away from the Falcons. I see them
doing it, people quickly forget about this team and how good they were before
the bounty gate scandal hit them last season. They will get back to form and
somehow get back to the playoffs this season although it wouldn’t shock me if
they flip-flopped with Atlanta this season quite often.
Prediction:
13-3
I think this is the division we have all been
waiting for as potentially two of the best teams in the NFL sit in this
division stewing over one another’s presence and want to destroy each other at
one another’s craft. People do forget though, that the Rams were quite a
difficult task this past season within the division and that the Cardinals
finally have a QB to call their own.
NFC
WEST
Arizona Cardinals:
Just because they picked up Carson Palmer doesn’t
make me think they will run train this season. In fact, I still think they are
a top 5 draft pick in the making. Other than Larry Fitzgerald, who do they have
as weapons on the offensive side of the ball? A shaky Michael Floyd and an
injury stricken Rashard Mendenhall? No thanks. Especially when it comes to the
power of this division. They don’t even have a tight end worth mentioning, so
no breath will be wasted here. Their defense has Calais Campbell (6.5 sacks), and,
when healthy, a lethal Darnell Docket who could stir up some front line havoc
for the 3-4 defense of the Cardinals. Kaslos Dansby (134 tackles) is not a name
to sneeze at in this defensive scheme as he has been a steady force throughout
his whole career, but the rest of the linebackers in this group (Sam Acho,
Lorenzo Alexander, and Jasper Brinkley) all have a lot of catching up to do. Tyrann
Mathieu could end up being a huge steal for this team down the road, especially
if Patrick Peterson (Both former LSU Cornerbacks) can keep this him in check.
If not, the rest of the division will pounce on them like pit bulls at a prize
fight. Nothing special here, just a team with potential in the wrong division,
and if you think they have a shot at doing anything, I’d really like to hear
your opinion.
Prediction:
2-14
St. Louis Rams:
This is the year the Rams could make a serious leap,
or land flat on their faces once again. I could see them ending somewhere in
the middle, especially with the way they played within the division last
season. They are a serious dark horse in a division with 2 kings at the top and
have the opportunity to sneak into the playoffs if everything goes perfectly.
But come on, do you really think Sam Bradford can pull it off? I hope so for
their sake because he has all the tools to get this team to respectability this
season. Tavon Austin is his new speed demon weapon out of West Virginia and he
is Percy Harvin 2.0. He also has Chris Givens, Austin Pettis and Jared Cook to
throw to which should give him plenty of options when they throw the ball. They
have a running back by committee this season as the new era without Stephen Jackson
begins as Daryl Richardson and Isaiah Pead will split time in St. Louis behind
Sam Bradford in the backfield. The St. Louis defense has 2 twof the best
defensive ends in the game in Chris Long (11.5 sacks) who is just entering the
prime of his career, and Robert Quinn (10.5 sacks) who is going into his third
year off a breakout 2012 campaign. If they could just help the rest of their
defensive line pick up the rest of their play, then they would be a top 5 force
to be reckoned with. James Laurinaitis (142 tackles) and Jo-Lonn Dunbar (115
tackles, 4.5 sacks, 2 interceptions) are both excellent linebackers who have
gone completely unnoticed within this division and could help get Alec Ogletree
the Defensive Rookie of the Year. The Rams clearly have a top 10 defensive
front 7 in the NFL and could scare the top two teams in this division with
their under the radar abilities. Cortland Finnegan (101 tackles, 3
interceptions) is another player under the radar as he had over 100 tackles as
a cornerback which is unheard of in the NFL. Janoris Jenkins (73 tackles, 4
interceptions) and the rest of that secondary will need to step up this season
especially if they want to compete for a shot at a playoff opportunity within
this conference. I just don’t see how the offense can keep it going this season
as they still have some holes to fix. I think their defense is way ahead of
their offense when it comes to talent and they can hang in there with anybody
next season, but with what they have to compete with at the top of the
division, I see it being a struggle this year.
Prediction:
5-11
San Francisco 49ers:
Ok, now we can finally talk about these two teams.
You may be shocked by where I put this team when it comes to their chances this
season of making the playoffs. I think Kaepernick will have an amazing season
and he’ll blow us all away when it comes to his abilities. At the same time, I
think he will be held back based upon the talent he has at the receiver
position. Yes he has Anquan Boldin and Vernon Davis to throw to, but other than
that, he’s going to have to pull an Aaron Rodgers to get everybody else involved
and make a name for themselves. He still has Frank Gore in the backfield and
LaMichael James who will see more playing time this season, and an offensive
line that may be the best in the NFL. I just don’t think they were as good as
last season though especially with Crabtree out for a long time, and Randy Moss
now gone and out of the league. Yes I see Boldin filling some shoes, but he
didn’t really become a huge name until the playoffs last season and that’s not
what the 49ers expect out of him. The defense is going to be stout still, but I
wonder how much will they drop off with Deshon Goldson now in Tampa Bay? They
still have Aldon and Justin (the Smith Brothers) playing on the right side, but
I feel that Justin Smith is getting up there in age and that may affect his
play this season and since the 49ers play a 3-4, their linebacker core will be
a huge part of their success this season with a very poor front three. Yes they
have Ahmad Brooks, Navaro Bowman, Patrick Willis, and Aldon Smith, the best
linebacker core in the NFL. There is no question, but how important will they
be if their front three can’t get pressure? I think they will be fine, but I
worry and think they may not play to the level they did a year ago. The loss of
Deshon Goldson in my eyes is going to be huge for this team. Yes they have
Carlos Rogers, and Donte Whitner, but they still drafted Eric Reid from LSU
because they were scared of the loss of Goldson. Don’t forget, teams who lost
the Super Bowl the year before generally don’t so as well as the year before,
or rarely improve. I see this 49ers team being competitive but there is no way
they can compete with the team who I have winning the division this season,
especially with the loss of Goldson and the injuries hampering the offense.
Prediction:
11-5
Seattle Seahawks:
The time is now. This is the best team on paper in
the National Football League and they have every single position covered when
it comes to needs on the offensive, defensive, and special teams side of the
ball. The way they finished out the year last season along with the way they
clicked on offense down the stretch, if they mimic anything similar to that
this season, the sky will be the limit. Russell Wilson will win MVP’s if he
stay’s healthy, the guy has nothing but upside and this will be the year he
gets this team to the next level. Marshawn Lynch is a top 5 running back, and
his backups are nothing but ground eaters in Robert Turbin and Christine
Michael who have similar running abilities and could start for other teams in
the league. The receiving core is one of the most deadly in the NFL with Sidney
Rice, Golden Tate, Doug Baldwin, and (when healthy later on in the season)
their new addition Percy Harvin. Early on in the year Percy won’t be around,
but he won’t necessarily be needed. Look at how this team played last season
without Harvin and then compare the team to what they will look like come
December when he’s back out on the field playing the slot, catching screen
passes, and returning kickoffs with Golden Tate. This team’s offense is going
to be beyond explosive for the upcoming season and once Zack Miller becomes
healthy, they will have 4 legitimate threats to throw too and that’s before
Percy Harvin touches the field. Obviously the Defense is stacked with talent.
Red Bryant, Brandon Mebane (56 tackles, 3 sacks), Chris Clemons (11.5 sacks)
and Cliff Avril (9.5 sacks, on the Lions last season) all can bring the heat on
opposing QB’s. Bobby Wagner (140 tackles, 2 sacks, 3 interceptions) is only in
his second season and all he can do is improve, Bruce Irvin (8 sacks) can still
improve on a season where all he did was light up QB’s in which will be his
second year out of West Virginia, and K.J. Wright (98 tackles, 1 sack) has only
more room to improve in this being his third season. Last but not least, the
Legion of Boom, which only got better this offseason by adding another
secondary stud (even though he is on the tail end of his career) Antoine
Winfield. Richard Sherman, Kam Chancellor, Earl Thomas, Brandon Browner, Walter
Thurmond, and now Antoine Winfield? Stop it. This is a fantasy secondary that
may only get better, which should make you pee your pants if you’re an opposing
offense. Have fun going up against that juggernaut this season because the best
secondary in the league only plans on getting better this time around. The only
real question for this team will be if they can improve on rushing the passer
and if their offensive line can hold up like they did last season. With adding
Cliff Avril and their offensive line only adding an extra year of experience to
the youth they already possess, it’s a done deal. It’s Super Bowl or Bust.
Prediction:
13-3
Summary of my NFC Standings
|
NFC EAST
|
NFC NORTH
|
NFC SOUTH
|
NFC WEST
|
|
Giants 9-7
|
Packers 14-2
|
Saints 13-3
|
Seahawks 13-3
|
|
Redskins 7-9
|
Bears 12-4*
|
Falcons 12-4*
|
49ers 11-5
|
|
Cowboys 6-10
|
Vikings 11-5
|
Buccaneers 5-11
|
Rams 5-11
|
|
Eagles 5-11
|
Lions 10-6
|
Panthers 5-11
|
Cardinals 2-14
|
|
NFC Playoff
Seeds
|
Reason for Seeding
|
||
|
1.
Packers 14-2
|
|
||
|
2.
Seahawks 13-3
|
Win
over Saints; Week 13
|
||
|
3.
Saints
13-3
|
|
||
|
4.
Giants 9-7
|
|
||
|
5.
Falcons
12-4
|
NFC
Record 9-3
|
||
|
6.
Bears 12-4
|
NFC
Record 8-4
|
||
Are we ready to break down the Playoffs that I have
projected into January 2014? Who is going to make it to Super Bowl XLVIII? I
have it below for you, all 10 playoff games, and the Super Bowl XLVIII
prediction! First off, the reason why I have the Chiefs and Bills in the playoffs is because over the past 5+ seasons, the NFL has had new teams make the playoffs every year, hence why the consistency is off and you're probably wondering, why those teams? It's simple! Unexpected teams enter the playoffs every year!
Wild
Card Weekend
AFC
#6 Kansas City Chiefs 17 @ #3 Denver Broncos 27
I could see Kansas City coming into this game and
having a legit shot at beating the Broncos. But with the way Peyton Manning is
wired, and with the amount of hunger the Broncos will have coming into this
game, a home game in the mile-high stadium, Kansas City will have a tough time
keeping up by the end of the game.
#5
Buffalo Bills 17 @ #4 Pittsburgh Steelers 14
This will be a knockdown, drag ‘em out game and I
see the team with the best running game in the cold weather at Pittsburgh
winning the showdown. The Bills have the better running team and should be
built for the cold by this time of the year. I would not be surprised if the
Steelers put something together and won though, considering the home crowd in
Pittsburgh is very difficult.
NFC
#6
Chicago Bears 34 @ #3 New Orleans Saints 23
The Bears have a lethal offensive attack and the
Saints do not have the defense to matchup, while the Saints also have a lethal
attack, the Bears do have a defense to match them. I think this game will be
much more even than the score indicates with the Bears putting together a game
winning drive to put it out of reach for the Saints.
#5
Atlanta Falcons 35 @ #4 New York Giants 31
In the stadium that the Super Bowl will be played,
the Falcons will get an early preview playing a team they can outmatch on offense.
The Giants with their inconsistency will show once again, even though they
normally perk up come postseason time. This game could go either way, but I see
the steadier offense taking the victory.
Divisional
Playoffs
AFC
#3
Denver Broncos 45 @ #2 New England Patriots 27
This will be another classic with Brady and Manning
facing each other once again in the ultimate showdown. Peyton will get it done
though because of his better offensive threats around him and a more balanced
defensive attack. The Patriots should make it a game, but the lack of talent
will catch up to them in this one.
#5 Buffalo Bills 13 @ #1 Houston Texans 31
The Bills simply do not have the type of team the
Texans have, in fact, whoever plays this team in the playoffs in the second
round should lose, especially since the Texans are so powerful on the offensive
and defensive side of the ball. The Bills just don’t have the talent, plain and
simple.
NFC
#5 Atlanta Falcons 7 @ #2 Seattle Seahawks 48
All you need to know is that the Seahawks don’t lose
when it comes to playoff football, and adding more to their plate, the team
they lost too in the playoffs last year will have the Seahawks wanting to
destroy them even more. The Falcons simply stand no chance in this environment.
#6 Chicago Bears 24 @ #1 Green Bay Packers 28
A classic rivalry meets again in the postseason as a
rematch of the 2011 NFC Championship game squares off once again in the 2014
playoffs. This will be a close one and could honestly go either way, especially
since this will be the third time these teams will have seen each other. I see
the Packers squeaking out a win and heading to the NFC Championship game.
Championship
Sunday
AFC
Championship
#3
Denver Broncos 31 @ #1 Houston Texans 14
This Denver team is on a mission and they do not
intend on leaving the playoffs without some kind of hardware to their name. The
Texans will put up a fight and show they are worthy of a Super Bowl bid, but
this is Peyton Manning people. He will not go denied on his way to his third
Super Bowl appearance of his hall of fame career.
NFC
Championship
#2
Seattle Seahawks 31 @ #1 Green Bay Packers 30
There will be so much smack talking before this game
they may need to sensor the previous weeks banter. This is the official “Fail
Mary” rematch, post-season style and on the home field of the team who got
robbed in the 2012 regular season. This would be an instant classic if it
happened and I could honestly see either team winning, but you got to go with
the team that has the better defense, and clearly the Seahawks have the better
defense in this game and the Legion of Boom will lead the Seahawks to their
second Super Bowl appearance in franchise history.
Super
Bowl XLVIII
Denver Broncos 23
Seattle Seahawks 24
I honestly have no clue who wins this game and the
only reason I pick Seattle is because of their stout secondary and
multi-faceted offense that could stifle the Denver Broncos defense into a
tizzy. I don’t see how these teams do not meet up in the Super Bowl with the amount
of talent they both have and honestly I don’t know who would win. Unfortunately
I have to pick a team, and I think the Seahawks have all the pieces to put
together an unforgettable year. The Broncos could easily take it this season as
well, but I think the dynamic ability of the Broncos offense is a tad off from
what the Seahawks can provide which makes picking the Seahawks too good not to
pass up. Knock on wood, because if everything goes to plan, both these teams
are championship contenders.
NFL Playoff Prediction Summary
|
Wildcard Weekend
|
Divisional Playoffs
|
Championship Sunday
|
Super Bowl XLVIII
|
Super Bowl Champions
|
|
#6 Chiefs 17
#3 Broncos 27
|
#3 Broncos 45
#2 Patriots 27
|
AFC Championship
|
Broncos 23
Seahawks 24
|
Seattle Seahawks
|
|
#5 Bills 17
#4 Steelers 14
|
#5 Bills 13
#1 Texans 31
|
#3 Broncos 31
#1 Texans 14
|
|
|
|
#6 Bears 34
#3 Saints 23
|
#5 Falcons 7
#2 Seahawks 48
|
NFC Championship
|
|
|
|
#5 Falcons 35
#4 Giants 31
|
#6 Bears 24
#1 Packers 28
|
#2 Seahawks 31
#1 Packers 30
|
|
|
Enjoy the 2013 NFL Regular Season everybody! It
should be a doozy!
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