2014 Division Winners, Who You Got? (1 Viewer)

[fantasycurse42]

Seahawks

Packers

Saints

Eagles

Broncos

Colts

2 Surprise Picks:

Dolphins

I feel like we are nearing the end of the Patriots dominance of the AFC - TB isn't getting younger, their offense isn't that pretty, & if Gronk isn't healthy, I have zero faith. While I don't think Miami will be the perennial AFC East powerhouse, I feel like opportunity knocks this year and they answer.

Browns

If Gordon plays 8 games this year, I like the Browns to surprise the division. I'm not a huge JFF fan, but I think he has a decent rookie outing. They're in the process of building a nice defense and if Gilbert turns out to be a playmaker, they could have the second best secondary in the NFL

 

[Phenix]

Redskins

Lions

Saints

Seahawks

Patriots

Steelers

Broncos

Texans

 

[Borden]

Packers

Saints

49ers

Eagles

*Hawks

*Bears

Bills: I'm a Bills fan and in May this is where they go. :IBTL:

Colts

Broncos

Cincy

*Chargers

*Chiefs

 

[daveR]

Cards, 9ers, Seahawks, Rams (Sea schedule got a lot tougher.)

Bears, Lions, Packers, Vikes (Going with Chi-town on the basis of revamped D.)

Saints, Bucs, Panthers, Falcons (Saints look improved. Panthers don't.)

Eagles, Redskins, Giants, Cowboys (Make your guess. This is mine.)

Broncos, Raiders, Chargers, Chiefs (Broncos look incredible. Raiders vastly improved.)

Ravens, Bengals, Browns, Steelers (Who knows? I like the Ravens offseason.)

Colts, Titans, Texans, Jags (Colts & everyone else. Texans still talented, but prefer Titans SOS)

Pats, Bills, Jets, Dolphins (Everybody got better, Pats just started higher.)

 

[Danish Bengal]

Bengals

Pats

Broncos

Colts

Vikings

Eagles

Saints

Seahawks

 

[Khy]

AFC

Patriots

Bengals

Colts

Broncos

WC1: Chiefs

WC2: Chargers

I think the AFC is more or less set in stone this season. Patriots and Broncos made way to many big name moves to fall from grace. Pretty sure things should shape up the same as last season. The Texans just aren't quite back there yet in my eyes. The QB play is what doomed them all of last season and they made no attempt to improve upon that situation. I understand the draw to get Clowney but he isn't going to help them win another 8 games vs the 2 they won last year.

NFC

Redskins

Packers

Saints

Cardinals

WC1: Seahawks

WC2: Saints

Yes, you're reading this right. I think the Redskins will win the East. If you thought RG3's rookie year was his 'breakout' season, you were kidding yourself. I think the kid might break some records this season. Jay Gruden will know how to use him, he finally has a real receiving core with Jackson/Garcon/Roberts/Reed. I think they're going to shock people this year, in fact they just might be the real 'breakout offense' that Bloom keeps discussing. Also, yes, I'm saying the Cardinals win the West and the 49ers don't even make the playoffs. They were 10-6 last season with one of the worst offensive lines in the game. This year, they should be much improved on that front, their defense is every bit as good to match the others in the division and I love Andre Ellington in this offensive scheme. As for the 49ers dropping out of the playoffs... I think they missed their boat at a Super Bowl win the last two seasons. Kaepernick is not who they thought he was, a lot of the defense is getting older and will start regressing soon (Willis already has started) and the offensive still just isn't there for me. Gore has to age at some point and they don't have a big WR that can go up and really snatch the ball. I honestly wouldn't be surprised to see the 49ers at the bottom of this division this season. I really think the Rams and Cardinals have a lot more going for them at this point, similar to the 2012 49ers (you know before they benched Alex Smith for no reason and likely lost themselves a Super Bowl because of it).

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

AFC:

Pats

Ravens

Colts

Broncos

Wilcards: Bengals, Chargers

NFC:

Philly

GB

Atlanta

SF

wilcards: Seahawks, Bucs

BTW the NFC is loaded and the AFC is 2 teams then 14 chumps.

 

[Noah Davis]

I think the Panthers are a bit underrated again this year.

Thier Offense was 26th last year...which limits their downside to six spots. Is anyone projecting them to have the worst offense in the NFL this year? The main loss is Gross which is big - but the interior line is better with Turner. I look at it like Chess where CAR will establish a strong presence in the center of the board...the edges are weak but Cam is mobile and the pocket should be clean to climb.

Their Defense was 2nd their front 7 has improved with Ealy - does anyone think their secondary is markedly worse?

Now I don't think they win the division but I think it is between them and the Saints. I think a lot of the projections of doom and gloom are entirely media fabricated just by sheer coverage.

 

[Khy]

I think the Panthers are a bit underrated again this year.

Thier Offense was 26th last year...which limits their downside to six spots. Is anyone projecting them to have the worst offense in the NFL this year? The main loss is Gross which is big - but the interior line is better with Turner. I look at it like Chess where CAR will establish a strong presence in the center of the board...the edges are weak but Cam is mobile and the pocket should be clean to climb.

Their Defense was 2nd their front 7 has improved with Ealy - does anyone think their secondary is markedly worse?

Now I don't think they win the division but I think it is between them and the Saints. I think a lot of the projections of doom and gloom are entirely media fabricated just by sheer coverage.

Cam lost his favorite target in Steve Smith, he has an incredibly raw rookie as his #1 in Kelvin Benjamin with nobody to even mentor him and as you said they lost Gross. Not to mention Stewart and Williams are yet another year old and still we keep hoping. Honestly? Yeah, I can see the offense being worse than it was last year, EASILY.

 

[IHEARTFF]

I don't think both SD and KC are making the playoffs this year. The AFC West faces NFC West, and I think both will struggle in those games. Maybe SD sneaks in, but KC is probably facing an 8-8 type season despite being just as good as last year.

 

[IHEARTFF]

I would say

Seattle

Carolina

Chicago

Washington

New Orleans

San Fran

Denver

Indianapolis

Baltimore

New England

Cincy

Jets

AFC is going to be tough to predict. The Bills, Jets, & Dolphins are all improved. The Ravens are reloaded. Cleveland is better on paper. Oakland and Jax are both better on paper as well. AFC is basically Denver + 15 teams that aren't terrible in various degrees.

 

[Noah Davis]

I think the Panthers are a bit underrated again this year.

Thier Offense was 26th last year...which limits their downside to six spots. Is anyone projecting them to have the worst offense in the NFL this year? The main loss is Gross which is big - but the interior line is better with Turner. I look at it like Chess where CAR will establish a strong presence in the center of the board...the edges are weak but Cam is mobile and the pocket should be clean to climb.

Their Defense was 2nd their front 7 has improved with Ealy - does anyone think their secondary is markedly worse?

Now I don't think they win the division but I think it is between them and the Saints. I think a lot of the projections of doom and gloom are entirely media fabricated just by sheer coverage.

Cam lost his favorite target in Steve Smith, he has an incredibly raw rookie as his #1 in Kelvin Benjamin with nobody to even mentor him and as you said they lost Gross. Not to mention Stewart and Williams are yet another year old and still we keep hoping. Honestly? Yeah, I can see the offense being worse than it was last year, EASILY.

You regurgitated the NFL network....So I'll counter that with evidence to support why I don't think CAR experiences the "free fall" projected.

Cam's favorite target averaged 4.3 catches and 47 yards per game....I personally don't think this is difficult to replace, maybe others do?

The whole WR core (Smith, LaFell, Ginn, Hixon) combined only averaged 9.8 catches and 124 yards per game.

On the topic of mentoring they acquired Jason Avant and Jerricho Cotchery - Granted not great receivers but good mentors. Avant in particular and Cotchery is no slouch at mentoring.

Ricky Proehl wasn't a "great" receiver but ask Steve Smith about him and Smitty would tell you Proehl was one of the best mentors he had...he's now the WRs coach for CAR - between Avant, Cotchery, and Proehl I think this bodes well for the young WRs (Benjamin, King, McNutt). I'm not counting on replicating Dez Bryant/Calvin Johnson output here but I don't think it would be a hard stretch for them to get 10-15 catches and 130-50 yards/game as a group. That would be an improvement over last year.

Williams and Stewart - I'll concede aren't great but between Stewart, Williams, and Tolbert they only averaged 76 yards per game....I don't see this personally getting worse. Supposedly Stewart is coming in as healthy as he has ever been, but I'll believe that when I see it.

Again the offense was pretty bad last year but I don't think matching what they did last year will be difficult. It was the Defense that go them as far as they went last year, not the offense.

I think the argument has to be that either 1) The CAR defense is worse, or 2) the other three teams in the division have dramatically improved more so than the Panthers to drop them all the way to last.

I do think the Saints will be the team to beat in the NFC South but I think Carolina could push for a wildcard.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

New England

Cincinnati

Indianapolis

Kansas City

Pittsburgh, Denver

Washington

Detroit

Atlanta

Seattle

New Orleans, St. Louis

 

[travdogg]

AFC East

New England-3

Buffalo

New York Jets

Miami

AFC North

Pittsburgh-4

Cincinnati

Baltimore

Cleveland

AFC South

Indianapolis-2

Houston

Jacksonville

Tennessee

AFC West

Denver-1

San Diego-5

Kansas City-6

Oakland

NFC East

Dallas-3

Philadelphia

Washington

New York Giants

NFC North

Green Bay-1

Detroit-5

Chicago-6

Minnesota

NFC South

New Orleans-2

Atlanta

Carolina

Tampa Bay

NFC West

Seattle-4

San Francisco

St. Louis

Arizona

Round 1

New England over Kansas City

Pittsburgh over San Diego

Dallas over Chicago

Detroit over Seattle

Round 2

Denver over Pittsburgh

Indianapolis over New England

Green Bay over Detroit

New Orleans over Dallas

Round 3

Denver over Indianapolis

Green Bay over New Orleans

Super Bowl

Denver over Green Bay

 

[jurb26]

AFCE

NE

Mia

Buf

NYJ

AFCN

Cinci

Clev

Balt

Pitt

AFCS

Tenn

Indy

HOU

Jack

AFCW

KC

SD

Den

Oak

NFCE

Wash

Philly

NYG

Dal

NFCN

GB

Det

Minn

Chi

NFCS

Atl

NO

Car

TB

NFCW

Arz

St. L

Sea

SF

 

[Khy]

I think the Panthers are a bit underrated again this year.

Thier Offense was 26th last year...which limits their downside to six spots. Is anyone projecting them to have the worst offense in the NFL this year? The main loss is Gross which is big - but the interior line is better with Turner. I look at it like Chess where CAR will establish a strong presence in the center of the board...the edges are weak but Cam is mobile and the pocket should be clean to climb.

Their Defense was 2nd their front 7 has improved with Ealy - does anyone think their secondary is markedly worse?

Now I don't think they win the division but I think it is between them and the Saints. I think a lot of the projections of doom and gloom are entirely media fabricated just by sheer coverage.

Cam lost his favorite target in Steve Smith, he has an incredibly raw rookie as his #1 in Kelvin Benjamin with nobody to even mentor him and as you said they lost Gross. Not to mention Stewart and Williams are yet another year old and still we keep hoping. Honestly? Yeah, I can see the offense being worse than it was last year, EASILY.

You regurgitated the NFL network....So I'll counter that with evidence to support why I don't think CAR experiences the "free fall" projected.

Cam's favorite target averaged 4.3 catches and 47 yards per game....I personally don't think this is difficult to replace, maybe others do?

The whole WR core (Smith, LaFell, Ginn, Hixon) combined only averaged 9.8 catches and 124 yards per game.

On the topic of mentoring they acquired Jason Avant and Jerricho Cotchery - Granted not great receivers but good mentors. Avant in particular and Cotchery is no slouch at mentoring.

Ricky Proehl wasn't a "great" receiver but ask Steve Smith about him and Smitty would tell you Proehl was one of the best mentors he had...he's now the WRs coach for CAR - between Avant, Cotchery, and Proehl I think this bodes well for the young WRs (Benjamin, King, McNutt). I'm not counting on replicating Dez Bryant/Calvin Johnson output here but I don't think it would be a hard stretch for them to get 10-15 catches and 130-50 yards/game as a group. That would be an improvement over last year.

Williams and Stewart - I'll concede aren't great but between Stewart, Williams, and Tolbert they only averaged 76 yards per game....I don't see this personally getting worse. Supposedly Stewart is coming in as healthy as he has ever been, but I'll believe that when I see it.

Again the offense was pretty bad last year but I don't think matching what they did last year will be difficult. It was the Defense that go them as far as they went last year, not the offense.

I think the argument has to be that either 1) The CAR defense is worse, or 2) the other three teams in the division have dramatically improved more so than the Panthers to drop them all the way to last.

I do think the Saints will be the team to beat in the NFC South but I think Carolina could push for a wildcard.

If I'm being honest, the only time I watch NFL Network is when it's Thursday Night Football. Otherwise I never even go to the channel. So I'm regurgitating nothing but my own thoughts on the subject.

And I'll stand by what I've said already. If not for Cam this might be one of the worst offensive teams in recent memory. Benjamin is either going to be a 10+ TD guy for the next decade and a half or he'll suck and fade into oblivion in a few years. I don't think he'll be that 'decent' journeyman type. I think that thrusting him into the #1 role so early in his career will only hurt him.

 

[jurb26]

You regurgitated the NFL network....So I'll counter that with evidence to support why I don't think CAR experiences the "free fall" projected.

Cam's favorite target averaged 4.3 catches and 47 yards per game....I personally don't think this is difficult to replace, maybe others do?

The whole WR core (Smith, LaFell, Ginn, Hixon) combined only averaged 9.8 catches and 124 yards per game.

On the topic of mentoring they acquired Jason Avant and Jerricho Cotchery - Granted not great receivers but good mentors. Avant in particular and Cotchery is no slouch at mentoring.

Ricky Proehl wasn't a "great" receiver but ask Steve Smith about him and Smitty would tell you Proehl was one of the best mentors he had...he's now the WRs coach for CAR - between Avant, Cotchery, and Proehl I think this bodes well for the young WRs (Benjamin, King, McNutt). I'm not counting on replicating Dez Bryant/Calvin Johnson output here but I don't think it would be a hard stretch for them to get 10-15 catches and 130-50 yards/game as a group. That would be an improvement over last year.

Williams and Stewart - I'll concede aren't great but between Stewart, Williams, and Tolbert they only averaged 76 yards per game....I don't see this personally getting worse. Supposedly Stewart is coming in as healthy as he has ever been, but I'll believe that when I see it.

Again the offense was pretty bad last year but I don't think matching what they did last year will be difficult. It was the Defense that go them as far as they went last year, not the offense.

I think the argument has to be that either 1) The CAR defense is worse, or 2) the other three teams in the division have dramatically improved more so than the Panthers to drop them all the way to last.

I do think the Saints will be the team to beat in the NFC South but I think Carolina could push for a wildcard.

Nowhere in here do you mention the oline, which got considerably worse. I'd be shocked if the Car offense wasn't worse this year.

 

[Noah Davis]

You regurgitated the NFL network....So I'll counter that with evidence to support why I don't think CAR experiences the "free fall" projected.

Cam's favorite target averaged 4.3 catches and 47 yards per game....I personally don't think this is difficult to replace, maybe others do?

The whole WR core (Smith, LaFell, Ginn, Hixon) combined only averaged 9.8 catches and 124 yards per game.

On the topic of mentoring they acquired Jason Avant and Jerricho Cotchery - Granted not great receivers but good mentors. Avant in particular and Cotchery is no slouch at mentoring.

Ricky Proehl wasn't a "great" receiver but ask Steve Smith about him and Smitty would tell you Proehl was one of the best mentors he had...he's now the WRs coach for CAR - between Avant, Cotchery, and Proehl I think this bodes well for the young WRs (Benjamin, King, McNutt). I'm not counting on replicating Dez Bryant/Calvin Johnson output here but I don't think it would be a hard stretch for them to get 10-15 catches and 130-50 yards/game as a group. That would be an improvement over last year.

Williams and Stewart - I'll concede aren't great but between Stewart, Williams, and Tolbert they only averaged 76 yards per game....I don't see this personally getting worse. Supposedly Stewart is coming in as healthy as he has ever been, but I'll believe that when I see it.

Again the offense was pretty bad last year but I don't think matching what they did last year will be difficult. It was the Defense that go them as far as they went last year, not the offense.

I think the argument has to be that either 1) The CAR defense is worse, or 2) the other three teams in the division have dramatically improved more so than the Panthers to drop them all the way to last.

I do think the Saints will be the team to beat in the NFC South but I think Carolina could push for a wildcard.

Nowhere in here do you mention the oline, which got considerably worse. I'd be shocked if the Car offense wasn't worse this year.

O-line was mentioned in original post - weaker at tackle - strong at center an guard. My projection is 10-6 so technically that would be worse but I think they overachieved last year. I think 10-6 puts them in the hunt for a wild card.

 

[jurb26]

You regurgitated the NFL network....So I'll counter that with evidence to support why I don't think CAR experiences the "free fall" projected.

Cam's favorite target averaged 4.3 catches and 47 yards per game....I personally don't think this is difficult to replace, maybe others do?

The whole WR core (Smith, LaFell, Ginn, Hixon) combined only averaged 9.8 catches and 124 yards per game.

On the topic of mentoring they acquired Jason Avant and Jerricho Cotchery - Granted not great receivers but good mentors. Avant in particular and Cotchery is no slouch at mentoring.

Ricky Proehl wasn't a "great" receiver but ask Steve Smith about him and Smitty would tell you Proehl was one of the best mentors he had...he's now the WRs coach for CAR - between Avant, Cotchery, and Proehl I think this bodes well for the young WRs (Benjamin, King, McNutt). I'm not counting on replicating Dez Bryant/Calvin Johnson output here but I don't think it would be a hard stretch for them to get 10-15 catches and 130-50 yards/game as a group. That would be an improvement over last year.

Williams and Stewart - I'll concede aren't great but between Stewart, Williams, and Tolbert they only averaged 76 yards per game....I don't see this personally getting worse. Supposedly Stewart is coming in as healthy as he has ever been, but I'll believe that when I see it.

Again the offense was pretty bad last year but I don't think matching what they did last year will be difficult. It was the Defense that go them as far as they went last year, not the offense.

I think the argument has to be that either 1) The CAR defense is worse, or 2) the other three teams in the division have dramatically improved more so than the Panthers to drop them all the way to last.

I do think the Saints will be the team to beat in the NFC South but I think Carolina could push for a wildcard.

Nowhere in here do you mention the oline, which got considerably worse. I'd be shocked if the Car offense wasn't worse this year.

O-line was mentioned in original post - weaker at tackle - strong at center an guard. My projection is 10-6 so technically that would be worse but I think they overachieved last year. I think 10-6 puts them in the hunt for a wild card.

Missed that earlier one. Thanks.

 

[Borden]

After 11 poster (12 but I didn't count my vote) here are the first place votes;

NFC

West

Seattle - 6

Arizona - 4

San Fran - 1

St. Louis - 0

East

Washington - 5

Philly - 4

Dallas - 1

NYG - 1

North

Green Bay - 6

Chicago - 2

Detroit - 2

Minn - 1

South

New Orleans - 7

Atlanta - 3

Carolina - 1

Tampa - 0

AFC

West

Denver - 9

KC - 2

San Diego - 0

Oakland - 0

East

New England - 10

Miami - 1

Buffalo - 0

NYJ - 0

North

Cincy - 4

Baltimore - 3

Pitt - 3

Cleveland - 1

South

Indy - 9

Houston - 1

Tennessee - 1

Jacksonville - 0

 

[yumpinyoda]

Patriots Eagles

Jets Redskins

Bills Cowboys

Dolphins Giants

Ravens Bears

Bengals Packers

Steelers Vikings

Browns Lions

Colts Saints

Texans Bucs

Jaguars Panthers

Titans Falcons

Broncos Seahawks

Chargers Cardinals

Chiefs 49ers

Raiders Rams

 

[Stewy]

Ravens

Patriots

Texans

Broncos

Packers

Giants

Falcons

Seahawks

 

[cloppbeast]

Seattle Seahawks

Green Bay Packers

Atlanta Falcons

Dallas Cowboys

Pittsburgh Steelers

New England Patriots

Denver Broncos

Indianapolis Colts

 

[socrates]

Seattle Seahawks

Green Bay Packers

New Orleans Saints

Philadelphia Eagles

Denver Broncos

Baltimore Ravens

Indianapolis Colts

New England Patriots

 

[msudaisy26]

Patriots - pretty easy call

Broncos - same as above

Bengals - I think Dalton takes the next step, and they actually get a bye in the playoffs this year

Colts - seems like an easy call as well

Packers - This one is tough but I don't trust the Bears, the Vikings are too inexperienced at quarterback, and the Lions are the Lions

Cowboys - I think they finally break the 8 - 8 streak

Saints - I think they beat of the Panthers this year

Seahawks - I want to pick against them but it is hard when you know they are going at least 7 - 1 at home this year.

 

[Casting Couch]

New England

Pittsburgh

Indianapolis

Denver

New York Giants

Green Bay

New Orleans

Seattle

 

[RJS113]

New England

Cincinnati

Indianapolis

Denver

WC: Houston, Kansas City

Philadelphia

Green Bay

Tampa Bay

Seattle

WC: San Fran, New Orleans

 

[doowain]

Unfortunately not surprised at people predicting Pittsburgh to win the AFC North. I have them finishing 3rd in the division and would not be surprised to see them finish dead last, as the Browns are an intriguing team. Pittsburgh is just not that good. They've been trending towards awful for the last couple years. I don't think Mike Tomlin is as good of a coach as some think he is (including himself). They are getting old on defense and the young guys don't seem ready to take over. The offensive line, while it improved last year, is still below average.

How this team won in the past is great defense, running the ball, and the o-line giving Ben enough time to make some big plays. That's just not their identity any more and the reason they are .500 the last two seasons is because they can't find that new identity.

 

[daveR]

Unfortunately not surprised at people predicting Pittsburgh to win the AFC North. I have them finishing 3rd in the division and would not be surprised to see them finish dead last, as the Browns are an intriguing team. Pittsburgh is just not that good. They've been trending towards awful for the last couple years. I don't think Mike Tomlin is as good of a coach as some think he is (including himself). They are getting old on defense and the young guys don't seem ready to take over. The offensive line, while it improved last year, is still below average.

How this team won in the past is great defense, running the ball, and the o-line giving Ben enough time to make some big plays. That's just not their identity any more and the reason they are .500 the last two seasons is because they can't find that new identity.

The AFC-N has changed dramatically with the aging of the two HOF safeties -- Polamalu and Reed.

 

[Donnybrook]

I am a surprised by all the love for underdogs Arizona and Atlanta. I suspect both will finish last in their respective divisions.

St Louis has accumulated too much talent especially on defense not to eclipse Arizona IMO. I think Arizona will compete down to the wire but still come in fourth in the group of death.

Atlanta can come up with creative ways to create a pass rush but it won't be enough. They just don't have enough talent in their defensive front 7 to stop their divisional opponents.

 

[Khy]

I am a surprised by all the love for underdogs Arizona and Atlanta. I suspect both will finish last in their respective divisions.

St Louis has accumulated too much talent especially on defense not to eclipse Arizona IMO. I think Arizona will compete down to the wire but still come in fourth in the group of death.

Atlanta can come up with creative ways to create a pass rush but it won't be enough. They just don't have enough talent in their defensive front 7 to stop their divisional opponents.

Honestly, STL I feel has a slightly better defense but a significantly worse offense than Arizona. Arizona has a top notch defense and they top it off with probably the best all around offense in that division. That's the reason I have them on top. STL won't have a chance in that division until Shotty is fired.

 

[jurb26]

I am a surprised by all the love for underdogs Arizona and Atlanta. I suspect both will finish last in their respective divisions.

St Louis has accumulated too much talent especially on defense not to eclipse Arizona IMO. I think Arizona will compete down to the wire but still come in fourth in the group of death.

Atlanta can come up with creative ways to create a pass rush but it won't be enough. They just don't have enough talent in their defensive front 7 to stop their divisional opponents.

Arz was a 10 win team last year and had one of the best off seasons of any team this year. They added the best T in FA, a glaring need of massive proportions. They also get back a healthy Cooper, top draft pick and maybe best G to come out in a few years. Their offensive line was a major problem last year and it should be the most improved unit in the NFL this year. Quite frankly, I'm not sure how there is anything to not like about Arz this year.

 

[Spin]

I am a surprised by all the love for underdogs Arizona and Atlanta. I suspect both will finish last in their respective divisions.

St Louis has accumulated too much talent especially on defense not to eclipse Arizona IMO. I think Arizona will compete down to the wire but still come in fourth in the group of death.

Atlanta can come up with creative ways to create a pass rush but it won't be enough. They just don't have enough talent in their defensive front 7 to stop their divisional opponents.

Arz was a 10 win team last year and had one of the best off seasons of any team this year. They added the best T in FA, a glaring need of massive proportions. They also get back a healthy Cooper, top draft pick and maybe best G to come out in a few years. Their offensive line was a major problem last year and it should be the most improved unit in the NFL this year. Quite frankly, I'm not sure how there is anything to not like about Arz this year.

No concern about Washington missing the season?

 

[Spin]

Why is everyone so down on SF this year? Last in the division by some posters.

SF was clearly the 2nd best team last year, and were an under thrown fade away from making it to the super bowl. They lost Bowman for the first half of the season, but still have arguably the best LB in the game in Willis to help cover while he's out. Who knows what's going to happen with Aldon Smith, but Lemonier showed he will be a legit threat. Is the lack of faith in Kaep? I just don't see the drop off that a lot of people are projecting, and curious what it is based on.

 

[dhockster]

I am surprised at the love for the Redskins with a rookie head coach. A rookie head coach could never win the NFC East. Why it's never been done since.....since.....oh.....last year.

 

[Spin]

As for the 49ers dropping out of the playoffs... I think they missed their boat at a Super Bowl win the last two seasons. Kaepernick is not who they thought he was, a lot of the defense is getting older and will start regressing soon (Willis already has started) and the offensive still just isn't there for me. Gore has to age at some point and they don't have a big WR that can go up and really snatch the ball. I honestly wouldn't be surprised to see the 49ers at the bottom of this division this season. I really think the Rams and Cardinals have a lot more going for them at this point, similar to the 2012 49ers (you know before they benched Alex Smith for no reason and likely lost themselves a Super Bowl because of it).

Um... what?

[SIZE=medium]Patrick Willis, LB, San Francisco 49ers[/SIZE]

Newer inside linebackers may catch the attention but old reliable continues to deliver the goods. Once again finishing highest of all at his position Willis overcame missing two games to put forward another strong season that featured 11 games graded in the green. Remains a do it all kind of player where others fails overcompensating, still capable of doing the old school linebacker work in the run game while standing toe to toe with the speedy tight ends who have become more commonplace.

Best Performance: Divisional Playoff, SF @ CAR, +3.4

Key Stat: The six time All-Pro linebacker picked up just three negatively graded games all year and only one worse than a -0.4. The model of consistency.

 

[Bob Magaw]

I am a surprised by all the love for underdogs Arizona and Atlanta. I suspect both will finish last in their respective divisions.

St Louis has accumulated too much talent especially on defense not to eclipse Arizona IMO. I think Arizona will compete down to the wire but still come in fourth in the group of death.

Atlanta can come up with creative ways to create a pass rush but it won't be enough. They just don't have enough talent in their defensive front 7 to stop their divisional opponents.

Arz was a 10 win team last year and had one of the best off seasons of any team this year. They added the best T in FA, a glaring need of massive proportions. They also get back a healthy Cooper, top draft pick and maybe best G to come out in a few years. Their offensive line was a major problem last year and it should be the most improved unit in the NFL this year. Quite frankly, I'm not sure how there is anything to not like about Arz this year.

No concern about Washington missing the season?

Not having Washington AND Dansby is something to not like.

But agree the offense should be better.

STL defense could make a jump, with the addition of DC Gregg Williams, as well as Donald and Joyner, but the franchise has been down so long, they won't earn more respect until AFTER they finish with a winning record and make the playoffs.

 

[jurb26]

I am a surprised by all the love for underdogs Arizona and Atlanta. I suspect both will finish last in their respective divisions.

St Louis has accumulated too much talent especially on defense not to eclipse Arizona IMO. I think Arizona will compete down to the wire but still come in fourth in the group of death.

Atlanta can come up with creative ways to create a pass rush but it won't be enough. They just don't have enough talent in their defensive front 7 to stop their divisional opponents.

Arz was a 10 win team last year and had one of the best off seasons of any team this year. They added the best T in FA, a glaring need of massive proportions. They also get back a healthy Cooper, top draft pick and maybe best G to come out in a few years. Their offensive line was a major problem last year and it should be the most improved unit in the NFL this year. Quite frankly, I'm not sure how there is anything to not like about Arz this year.

No concern about Washington missing the season?

Yeah, there is some concern there. The D will likely take a step back. I expect the offense to take 2 steps forward, though.

 

[Bob Magaw]

As for the 49ers dropping out of the playoffs... I think they missed their boat at a Super Bowl win the last two seasons. Kaepernick is not who they thought he was, a lot of the defense is getting older and will start regressing soon (Willis already has started) and the offensive still just isn't there for me. Gore has to age at some point and they don't have a big WR that can go up and really snatch the ball. I honestly wouldn't be surprised to see the 49ers at the bottom of this division this season. I really think the Rams and Cardinals have a lot more going for them at this point, similar to the 2012 49ers (you know before they benched Alex Smith for no reason and likely lost themselves a Super Bowl because of it).

Um... what?

Patrick Willis, LB, San Francisco 49ers

Newer inside linebackers may catch the attention but old reliable continues to deliver the goods. Once again finishing highest of all at his position Willis overcame missing two games to put forward another strong season that featured 11 games graded in the green. Remains a do it all kind of player where others fails overcompensating, still capable of doing the old school linebacker work in the run game while standing toe to toe with the speedy tight ends who have become more commonplace.

Best Performance: Divisional Playoff, SF @ CAR, +3.4

Key Stat: The six time All-Pro linebacker picked up just three negatively graded games all year and only one worse than a -0.4. The model of consistency.

I'd say that applies most to Justin Smith, who is an integral part of the defense and about 35.

Bigger problem for SF on defense is Bowman out half the year, and Aldon Smith's looming suspension.

SF should be improved in the passing game, for much of the season, Boldin was their only viable WR.

In 2014, they have Crabtree healthy, Boldin, Stevie Johnson, rookie Ellington could bring a speed dimension they have been missing.

 

[Spin]

As for the 49ers dropping out of the playoffs... I think they missed their boat at a Super Bowl win the last two seasons. Kaepernick is not who they thought he was, a lot of the defense is getting older and will start regressing soon (Willis already has started) and the offensive still just isn't there for me. Gore has to age at some point and they don't have a big WR that can go up and really snatch the ball. I honestly wouldn't be surprised to see the 49ers at the bottom of this division this season. I really think the Rams and Cardinals have a lot more going for them at this point, similar to the 2012 49ers (you know before they benched Alex Smith for no reason and likely lost themselves a Super Bowl because of it).

Um... what?

Patrick Willis, LB, San Francisco 49ers

Newer inside linebackers may catch the attention but old reliable continues to deliver the goods. Once again finishing highest of all at his position Willis overcame missing two games to put forward another strong season that featured 11 games graded in the green. Remains a do it all kind of player where others fails overcompensating, still capable of doing the old school linebacker work in the run game while standing toe to toe with the speedy tight ends who have become more commonplace.

Best Performance: Divisional Playoff, SF @ CAR, +3.4

Key Stat: The six time All-Pro linebacker picked up just three negatively graded games all year and only one worse than a -0.4. The model of consistency.

I'd say that applies most to Justin Smith, who is an integral part of the defense and about 35.

Bigger problem for SF on defense is Bowman out half the year, and Aldon Smith's looming suspension.

SF should be improved in the passing game, for much of the season, Boldin was their only viable WR.

In 2014, they have Crabtree healthy, Boldin, Stevie Johnson, rookie Ellington could bring a speed dimension they have been missing.

I was replying to his comment that Willis has started to regress, after a season in which PFF ranked him the #1 LB.

 

[Bob Magaw]

I agree with that completely, which is why I mentioned the getting old comment applied to Smith, sorry if that wasn't clear.

 

[SaintsInDome2006]

Just a thought on schedules and changes in value:

AFCW goes from playing the NFCE to NFCW, plus possible cross country games in tough venues on AFCE coast. Tougher defenses mean a possible bump down in value.

NFCS goes from facing the entirety of the NFCW to facing the FF friendly NFCN. Bump up in value.

NFCE gets the AFCW and the NFCN - very nice offensive matchups across the board.

 

[biju]

I'm honestly surprised with the sudden shift in the demise of SF. To me, this is still the Seahawks' greatest challenge to getting back to the post-season. The folks calling for the Cardinals or Rams to be the top team this year I feel is more wishful thinking than anything else, perhaps including Seattle fans.

But to be fair, I do think the window for SF has only a year or two left, but this is still a very talented team; perhaps even the best team in the league.

 

[kwille]

New England
Cincinnati
Indianapolis
Denver

WC: San Diego, NY Jets

Philadelphia
Green Bay
New Orleans
Seattle

WC: Chicago, San Fran

 

[Archer]

Those that are predicting Dallas to win the NFC East, I hope you have them averaging 45 points per game because that defense is going to give up 40 points a week!

 

[SeniorVBDStudent]

Dolphins

I feel like we are nearing the end of the Patriots dominance of the AFC - TB isn't getting younger, their offense isn't that pretty, & if Gronk isn't healthy, I have zero faith. While I don't think Miami will be the perennial AFC East powerhouse, I feel like opportunity knocks this year and they answer.

Look at the starters on defense who will return this year. Then add Browner. Then add Revis.

Gronk auditioning for his next team. Brady being demoted to Tier II. Dobson, Thompkins, Amendola, etc. all being told they are worthless.

White added to Vereen and Ridley.

Conversely, examine the dolphins' o-line. Quarterback in a new offensive system.

If you're going to project someone displacing the Pats this year I could see arguments made for the Jets (but their secondary will remain a problem....why didn't Rex fix this?!?) or the Bills (but there is not a lot of optimism with Manuel's further development).

Pats 13-3 beat the 49ers in the SB

Jets 9-7 wildcard loss to Colts

Bills 7-9 manuel experiment concludes

Fish 6-10 draft a QB next year

 

[butcher boy]

I cant argue against picking any of Seattle, SF, or Arizona to win the NFC West. Arizona is the most improved but who knows? Can Carson Palmer really win that division? SF has great talent but with injuries, suspension and Gore's age, I also see this team as the most likely of the bunch to underachieve. Then there's Seattle who has a much tougher schedule this year.

 

[IHEARTFF]

Dolphins

I feel like we are nearing the end of the Patriots dominance of the AFC - TB isn't getting younger, their offense isn't that pretty, & if Gronk isn't healthy, I have zero faith. While I don't think Miami will be the perennial AFC East powerhouse, I feel like opportunity knocks this year and they answer.

Look at the starters on defense who will return this year. Then add Browner. Then add Revis.

Gronk auditioning for his next team. Brady being demoted to Tier II. Dobson, Thompkins, Amendola, etc. all being told they are worthless.

White added to Vereen and Ridley.

Conversely, examine the dolphins' o-line. Quarterback in a new offensive system.

If you're going to project someone displacing the Pats this year I could see arguments made for the Jets (but their secondary will remain a problem....why didn't Rex fix this?!?) or the Bills (but there is not a lot of optimism with Manuel's further development).

Pats 13-3 beat the 49ers in the SB

Jets 9-7 wildcard loss to Colts

Bills 7-9 manuel experiment concludes

Fish 6-10 draft a QB next year

I guess you missed their 1st and 3rd round draft picks?

 

[32 Counter Pass]

Sticking with the trend of at least 1 team going from worse to first every year for past 7 years...

Redskins*

Eagles

Cowboys

GMen

Bears*

Packers*

Lions

Vikings

Falcons*

Saints*

Panthers

Buccs

Seahawks*

Cardinals

49ers

Rams

**************

Patriots*

Jets*

Fish

Bills

Steelers*

Bengals*

Ravens

Browns

Colts*

Jags

Titans

Texans

Broncos*

Chiefs

Raiders

Chargers

 

[Labrynth]

Eagles

Bears

Saints

Cardinals

Packers

Seahawks

___________________

Patriots

Ravens

Colts

Broncos

Dolphins

Browns (yeah I went there)