NFC
New York (2-0, 2-0, 2-0) Beating Dallas in their new stadium was big.
San Francisco (2-0, 2-0, 2-0) Two division games. Two wins. Watch out!
New Orleans (2-0, 2-0, 0-0) So far, the most explosive offense in football.
Atlanta (2-0, 1-0, 1-0) They've embarrassed two 2008 playoff teams.
Minnesota (2-0, 1-0, 1-0) Two dud 1st halves; two dominant 2nd halves.
Green Bay (1-1, 1-0, 1-0) Well, maybe they will have to adjust to the 3-4.
Seattle (1-1, 1-1, 1-1) Hasselbeck's injury may be worse than the loss.
Philadelphia (1-1, 1-1, 0-0) Most questions surround defense, not Kolb.
Dallas (1-1, 1-1, 0-1) How will Tony Romo respond to a bad home outing?
Washington (1-1, 1-1, 0-1) They barely beat the Rams, but 1-1 is 1-1.
Arizona (1-1, 0-1, 0-1) Ah, the Cards that went to the Super Bowl.
Chicago (1-1, 0-1, 0-1) It's early, but that win against Pittsburgh was huge.
Tampa Bay (0-2, 0-1, 0-0) The Bucs will have a top 5 pick next April.
Carolina (0-2, 0-2, 0-1) They looked better in Week 2, but 0-2? Uh-oh.
Detroit (0-2, 0-2, 0-1) An improved team that won Sunday's 1st half.
St. Louis (0-2, 0-2, 0-1) Elated to be in the Sam Bradford sweepstakes.
AFC
Indianapolis (2-0, 2-0, 1-0) Peyton will win with any group of receivers.
New York (2-0, 2-0, 1-0) M-M-M-Mark and the Jets 1st in the AFC East.
Baltimore (2-0, 2-0, 0-0) Two close calls in offensive shootouts. Wierd.
Denver (2-0, 2-0, 0-0) They've beaten two poor teams, but 2-0 is 2-0.
Houston (1-1, 1-1, 1-0) Are these the Texans we've been waiting to see?
San Diego (1-1, 1-1, 1-0) San Diego is behind...Denver...in the AFC West.
New England (1-1, 1-1, 1-1) Repeat of 2007 record is officially impossible.
Oakland (1-1, 1-1, 1-1) Is there a stifling defense living in Oakland.
Pittsburgh (1-1, 1-0, 0-0) Plenty of chances to beat the Bears. But didn't.
Cincinnati (1-1, 0-1, 0-0) Way to bounce back from Week 1's debacle.
Buffalo (1-1, 0-1, 0-1) Buffalo may be significantly better than advertised.
Cleveland (0-2, 0-1, 0-0) Maybe the Browns can draft a defense in April.
Miami (0-2, 0-1, 0-0) They owned the ball on Monday and still lost. Ouch!
Jacksonville (0-2, 0-1, 0-1) 3 months to update your resume, Jack.
Kansas City (0-2, 0-2, 0-1) Almost earned a 2-0 record. Instead? 0-2.
Tennessee (0-2, 0-2, 0-1) The orchestra has fallen silent in the Music City.
Post Week 1 Conference Standings/Short Slants
NFC
Green Bay (1-0, 1-0, 1-0) - So much for a transition to the 3-4 defense.
New York (1-0, 1-0, 1-0) - Steve Smith seems to be their new Plaxico.
San Francisco (1-0, 1-0, 1-0) - Jump on the wagon. They're for real.
Seattle (1-0, 1-0, 1-0) - 28-0? Wow! Against St. Louis? Oh.
Dallas (1-0, 1-0, 0-0) - Dallas is entering a T.O.-less Pax Romo-ana!
Philadelphia (1-0, 1-0, 0-0) - A big win with a big loss. Vick time? Ugh!
New Orleans (1-0, 1-0, 0-0) - Brees' stats should be measured in AUs.
Atlanta (1-0, 0-0, 0-0) - Don't expect any kind of slump for Mr. Ryan.
Minnesota (1-0, 0-0, 0-0) - Favre - gunslinger to bullet distribution.
Carolina (0-1, 0-1, 0-0) - Jake is not le (Del)homme in Carolina right now.
Detroit (0-1, 0-1, 0-0) - 0-1's not 0-16. This team has improved.
Tampa Bay (0-1, 0-1, 0-0) - Bucs fans should start thinking draft.
Arizona (0-1, 0-1, 0-1) - Was it just me or did Kurt look old on Sunday?
Chicago (0-1, 0-1, 0-1) - Bears' 1st half: Cutler's worst, Urlacher's '09 last.
St. Louis (0-1, 0-1, 0-1) - The Gateway to the West is at the bottom of it.
Washington (0-1, 0-1, 0-1) - Are the chemistry lacking Skins torn on Zorn?
AFC
Indianapolis (1-0, 1-0, 1-0) - They won, but didn't look like the Indy of old.
New England (1-0, 1-0, 1-0) - At least Brady was Brady in the end.
San Diego (1-0, 1-0, 1-0) - They can't be satisfied with that Monday win.
Baltimore (1-0, 1-0, 0-0) - The Chiefs scaring them has to scare them.
Denver (1-0, 1-0, 0-0) - Mile High Miracle. McDaniels has to feel relieved.
New York (1-0, 1-0, 0-0) - Mark looked good. Not Ryan-esque, but good.
Pittsburgh (1-0, 1-0, 0-0) - No doubt. Big Ben's got some Elway in him.
Cleveland (0-1, 0-0, 0-0) - An offensive TD. The Mighty Quinn is here.
Cincinnati (0-1, 0-1, 0-0) - Only the Bengals could meet that doom.
Houston (0-1, 0-1, 0-0) - The Texans again divorce big expectations.
Miami (0-1, 0-0, 0-0) - More pretender than contender in 2008?
Kansas City (0-1, 0-1, 0-0) - Keep your eyes on the 'maybe ok' Chiefs.
Tennessee (0-1, 0-1, 0-0) - 'Titan' egos subdued by the Terrible Towel.
Buffalo (0-1, 0-1, 0-1) - Cue the opening theme song for the T.O. Show.
Jacksonville (0-1, 0-1, 0-1) - Is there hope in Jaguaruia after a near-win?
Oakland (0-1, 0-1, 0-1) - Is Davis' pact with Satan finally paying off?
Green Bay (1-0, 1-0, 1-0) - So much for a transition to the 3-4 defense.
New York (1-0, 1-0, 1-0) - Steve Smith seems to be their new Plaxico.
San Francisco (1-0, 1-0, 1-0) - Jump on the wagon. They're for real.
Seattle (1-0, 1-0, 1-0) - 28-0? Wow! Against St. Louis? Oh.
Dallas (1-0, 1-0, 0-0) - Dallas is entering a T.O.-less Pax Romo-ana!
Philadelphia (1-0, 1-0, 0-0) - A big win with a big loss. Vick time? Ugh!
New Orleans (1-0, 1-0, 0-0) - Brees' stats should be measured in AUs.
Atlanta (1-0, 0-0, 0-0) - Don't expect any kind of slump for Mr. Ryan.
Minnesota (1-0, 0-0, 0-0) - Favre - gunslinger to bullet distribution.
Carolina (0-1, 0-1, 0-0) - Jake is not le (Del)homme in Carolina right now.
Detroit (0-1, 0-1, 0-0) - 0-1's not 0-16. This team has improved.
Tampa Bay (0-1, 0-1, 0-0) - Bucs fans should start thinking draft.
Arizona (0-1, 0-1, 0-1) - Was it just me or did Kurt look old on Sunday?
Chicago (0-1, 0-1, 0-1) - Bears' 1st half: Cutler's worst, Urlacher's '09 last.
St. Louis (0-1, 0-1, 0-1) - The Gateway to the West is at the bottom of it.
Washington (0-1, 0-1, 0-1) - Are the chemistry lacking Skins torn on Zorn?
AFC
Indianapolis (1-0, 1-0, 1-0) - They won, but didn't look like the Indy of old.
New England (1-0, 1-0, 1-0) - At least Brady was Brady in the end.
San Diego (1-0, 1-0, 1-0) - They can't be satisfied with that Monday win.
Baltimore (1-0, 1-0, 0-0) - The Chiefs scaring them has to scare them.
Denver (1-0, 1-0, 0-0) - Mile High Miracle. McDaniels has to feel relieved.
New York (1-0, 1-0, 0-0) - Mark looked good. Not Ryan-esque, but good.
Pittsburgh (1-0, 1-0, 0-0) - No doubt. Big Ben's got some Elway in him.
Cleveland (0-1, 0-0, 0-0) - An offensive TD. The Mighty Quinn is here.
Cincinnati (0-1, 0-1, 0-0) - Only the Bengals could meet that doom.
Houston (0-1, 0-1, 0-0) - The Texans again divorce big expectations.
Miami (0-1, 0-0, 0-0) - More pretender than contender in 2008?
Kansas City (0-1, 0-1, 0-0) - Keep your eyes on the 'maybe ok' Chiefs.
Tennessee (0-1, 0-1, 0-0) - 'Titan' egos subdued by the Terrible Towel.
Buffalo (0-1, 0-1, 0-1) - Cue the opening theme song for the T.O. Show.
Jacksonville (0-1, 0-1, 0-1) - Is there hope in Jaguaruia after a near-win?
Oakland (0-1, 0-1, 0-1) - Is Davis' pact with Satan finally paying off?
2009-2010 NFL Preview - Episode VIII: AFC West
I know, I know. This is cheating. Week 1 is already in the books and there should be federal laws prohibiting fans from offering up friendly season predictions so late in the season. However, I promise I will not take opening weekend's results into account in the following paragraphs. After all, I've pretty much prepared what I'm going to write. I just haven't written it yet. So, here it goes:
1st: San Diego Chargers
The Best They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
Super Bowl. This team is supremely talented. They've just never quite put it together. If LaDainian Tomlinson can bounce back for a healthy season, San Diego's chances increase exponentially. Also, Phillip Rivers' development will continue to be key in the Chargers' success. He is an emerging star and, while being the only top pick at quarterback taken in the 2004 NFL Draft without a Super Bowl ring, may be the best of the trio (Eli Manning and Ben Roethlisberger). On defense, Shawne Merriman's health will play a huge role. If he's healthy and can get pressure on opposing quarterbacks, there will not be nearly as much pressure on an inconsistent secondary to keep receivers covered for long periods of time. Ultimately, the Chargers should set their sights very high. They have an excellent squad, a lot of talent and experience playing with one another. In the AFC West, I don't think 12 or 13 wins is out of the question.
The Worst They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
A division title. Even if the Chargers stumble, I can't see any other team winning the AFC West. I think they'll go 6-0 or 5-1 in the division, making their floor around 8 or 9 wins. Even with an ineffective Merriman and a rapidly declining Tomlinson, San Diego should win the West and find themselves in the Divisional Playoff round in 2009.
Prediction
Even with their fortunate divisional placement and abundance of talent, I don't think the San Diego Chargers are Super Bowl bound. With questions surrounding Tomlinson and Merriman, the Chargers' championship window seems to be closing quickly - even with one of the league's young, emerging stars at quarterback in Rivers. Ultimately, San Diego will win 10 or 11 games and depart the NFL playoffs in the divisional round.
2nd: Kansas City Chiefs
The Best They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
A lot of changes in Kansas City over the offseason could lead to surprising results in 2009. With new G.M. Scott Pioli and new head coach Todd Haley and new franchise quarterback Matt Cassel, the Chiefs are reborn anew. Whether or not the dramatic changes in Kansas City translate to wins in the short-term remains to be seen, but the Chiefs have some good young talent on both offense and defense. I don't think the Chiefs can be a playoff team in 2009, but I think they can have a positive year. In my estimation, their ceiling is 2nd place in the AFC West and 7 or 8 wins.
The Worst They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
The Chiefs could very easily win only 3 or 4 games and earn a top 5 draft pick. Excitement or not, they're still a rebuilding team in flux. As far as their new, shiny franchise quarterback, both injury concerns and experience concerns surround him. Also surrounding him is a young, nondescript supporting cast. As a result, the Chiefs' floor is so low, it may very well be in the basement.
Prediction
With between 5 and 7 wins, Kansas City will take advantage of playing in the worst overall division in football. Their 2009 season will serve as a positive step toward more successful future season. Their playoff chances in 2009 are virtually nil, but I like where this team is going and I expect them to be a bubble playoff team by 2010 or 2011.
3rd: Oakland Raiders
The Best They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
There is no question that the Oakland Raider franchise looks like a complete and utter mess. Head coaches assaulting coordinators and trading 1st round picks for aging and declining football players going into contract years (especially for a team whose future prospects are better than their present prospects) is not the way to inspire optimism in your fan base. With all that said, however, the Raiders do have some undeniable talent on both sides of the ball. Their ceiling is probably 6 or 7 wins based on talent alone, but a lot of things will have to go well for them to near their ceiling.
The Worst They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
Awful. I wouldn't be surprised if Oakland owned a top 3 draft pick in next year's draft after winning only 2 or 3 games in 2009. If the Raiders continue their "Commitment to Excrement", Oakland will be out of playoff contention by the middle of October.
Prediction
For years, this franchise has been in shambles in terms of managerial decisions, chemistry and on-field production. Especially with the way their offseason unfolded, I see no reason to believe things will change in the East Bay in 2009. On the plus side, Oakland should earn for Al Davis the opportunity to make another questionable decision at the top of the first round of the draft - this time likely in the top 5.
4th: Denver Broncos
The Best They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
Things aren't looking so good in Denver after the departure of Jay Cutler and the temper tantrums thrown by Brandon Marshall. However, new head coach Josh McDaniels was groomed under Bill Belichek and likely knows how to build a winning franchise. Plus, he still has good talent on both offense and defense in Denver and a new quarterback in Kyle Orton who looked very good in 2008 before he went down to injury. Nevertheless, the Broncos franchise has the words 'starting over' written all over its insignia and I will be shocked if it wins more than 5 games in 2009. I put the Broncos' ceiling around 4 or 5 games.
The Worst They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
If Denver's regular season resembles, in any way, their offseason, the Broncos could find themselves winning only 2 or 3 games in 2009 (they've already won 1, proving that I'm not taking Week 1's results into consideration one iota). If Kyle Orton doesn't look vastly better than he did in the preseason and McDaniels' young defense doesn't emerge quickly as a solid defense, I see no reason why the Denver Broncos won't be 3rd or 4th place in the worst division in the NFL. On the plus side, Josh McDaniels should have a shot at a franchise quarterback early in the 2010 NFL Draft - assuming, of course, he doesn't think Kyle Orton is the long-term answer at the position for the Broncos. For his sake, I hope he doesn't.
Prediction
Unfortunately for the Mile High City, I see a 2009 season more similar to their floor than their ceiling. Josh McDaniels and his new squad will have a bumpy year and a lot of questions to answer next offseason. I think they'll earn 3 or 4 wins and be virtually out of playoff contention by late October. On the plus side, there is some good, youthful talent in Denver for McDaniels and the Broncos to build around for the future.
1st: San Diego Chargers
The Best They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
Super Bowl. This team is supremely talented. They've just never quite put it together. If LaDainian Tomlinson can bounce back for a healthy season, San Diego's chances increase exponentially. Also, Phillip Rivers' development will continue to be key in the Chargers' success. He is an emerging star and, while being the only top pick at quarterback taken in the 2004 NFL Draft without a Super Bowl ring, may be the best of the trio (Eli Manning and Ben Roethlisberger). On defense, Shawne Merriman's health will play a huge role. If he's healthy and can get pressure on opposing quarterbacks, there will not be nearly as much pressure on an inconsistent secondary to keep receivers covered for long periods of time. Ultimately, the Chargers should set their sights very high. They have an excellent squad, a lot of talent and experience playing with one another. In the AFC West, I don't think 12 or 13 wins is out of the question.
The Worst They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
A division title. Even if the Chargers stumble, I can't see any other team winning the AFC West. I think they'll go 6-0 or 5-1 in the division, making their floor around 8 or 9 wins. Even with an ineffective Merriman and a rapidly declining Tomlinson, San Diego should win the West and find themselves in the Divisional Playoff round in 2009.
Prediction
Even with their fortunate divisional placement and abundance of talent, I don't think the San Diego Chargers are Super Bowl bound. With questions surrounding Tomlinson and Merriman, the Chargers' championship window seems to be closing quickly - even with one of the league's young, emerging stars at quarterback in Rivers. Ultimately, San Diego will win 10 or 11 games and depart the NFL playoffs in the divisional round.
2nd: Kansas City Chiefs
The Best They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
A lot of changes in Kansas City over the offseason could lead to surprising results in 2009. With new G.M. Scott Pioli and new head coach Todd Haley and new franchise quarterback Matt Cassel, the Chiefs are reborn anew. Whether or not the dramatic changes in Kansas City translate to wins in the short-term remains to be seen, but the Chiefs have some good young talent on both offense and defense. I don't think the Chiefs can be a playoff team in 2009, but I think they can have a positive year. In my estimation, their ceiling is 2nd place in the AFC West and 7 or 8 wins.
The Worst They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
The Chiefs could very easily win only 3 or 4 games and earn a top 5 draft pick. Excitement or not, they're still a rebuilding team in flux. As far as their new, shiny franchise quarterback, both injury concerns and experience concerns surround him. Also surrounding him is a young, nondescript supporting cast. As a result, the Chiefs' floor is so low, it may very well be in the basement.
Prediction
With between 5 and 7 wins, Kansas City will take advantage of playing in the worst overall division in football. Their 2009 season will serve as a positive step toward more successful future season. Their playoff chances in 2009 are virtually nil, but I like where this team is going and I expect them to be a bubble playoff team by 2010 or 2011.
3rd: Oakland Raiders
The Best They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
There is no question that the Oakland Raider franchise looks like a complete and utter mess. Head coaches assaulting coordinators and trading 1st round picks for aging and declining football players going into contract years (especially for a team whose future prospects are better than their present prospects) is not the way to inspire optimism in your fan base. With all that said, however, the Raiders do have some undeniable talent on both sides of the ball. Their ceiling is probably 6 or 7 wins based on talent alone, but a lot of things will have to go well for them to near their ceiling.
The Worst They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
Awful. I wouldn't be surprised if Oakland owned a top 3 draft pick in next year's draft after winning only 2 or 3 games in 2009. If the Raiders continue their "Commitment to Excrement", Oakland will be out of playoff contention by the middle of October.
Prediction
For years, this franchise has been in shambles in terms of managerial decisions, chemistry and on-field production. Especially with the way their offseason unfolded, I see no reason to believe things will change in the East Bay in 2009. On the plus side, Oakland should earn for Al Davis the opportunity to make another questionable decision at the top of the first round of the draft - this time likely in the top 5.
4th: Denver Broncos
The Best They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
Things aren't looking so good in Denver after the departure of Jay Cutler and the temper tantrums thrown by Brandon Marshall. However, new head coach Josh McDaniels was groomed under Bill Belichek and likely knows how to build a winning franchise. Plus, he still has good talent on both offense and defense in Denver and a new quarterback in Kyle Orton who looked very good in 2008 before he went down to injury. Nevertheless, the Broncos franchise has the words 'starting over' written all over its insignia and I will be shocked if it wins more than 5 games in 2009. I put the Broncos' ceiling around 4 or 5 games.
The Worst They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
If Denver's regular season resembles, in any way, their offseason, the Broncos could find themselves winning only 2 or 3 games in 2009 (they've already won 1, proving that I'm not taking Week 1's results into consideration one iota). If Kyle Orton doesn't look vastly better than he did in the preseason and McDaniels' young defense doesn't emerge quickly as a solid defense, I see no reason why the Denver Broncos won't be 3rd or 4th place in the worst division in the NFL. On the plus side, Josh McDaniels should have a shot at a franchise quarterback early in the 2010 NFL Draft - assuming, of course, he doesn't think Kyle Orton is the long-term answer at the position for the Broncos. For his sake, I hope he doesn't.
Prediction
Unfortunately for the Mile High City, I see a 2009 season more similar to their floor than their ceiling. Josh McDaniels and his new squad will have a bumpy year and a lot of questions to answer next offseason. I think they'll earn 3 or 4 wins and be virtually out of playoff contention by late October. On the plus side, there is some good, youthful talent in Denver for McDaniels and the Broncos to build around for the future.
2009-2010 NFL Preview - Episode VII: AFC South
1st: Indianapolis Colts
The Best They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
Tony Dungy may be gone, but I think we'll see a seamless transition into the Jim Caldwell era. Mr. Peyton Manning, the Colts' field general, is still on the team and gives the offense all the field leadership they need. On defense, there are questions surrounding Bob Sanders' health and, when Sanders isn't healthy, neither are the Colts' Super Bowl prospects. However, I look for Manning to give the Colts a lot of early leads this season, allowing Dwight Freeney and the defense to pin their ears back and come after opposing quarterbacks. Nonetheless, while a Super Bowl is not out of the question, I just don't see a Super Bowl appearance. The most Indy can expect is about 11 or 12 wins and an AFC Championship defeat (either to Pittsburgh, San Diego or New England).
The Worst They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
I may not like the Colts' Super Bowl chances, but I don't think they have a very low floor either. Their offense is intact (Marvin Harrison is gone, but he hadn't been himself for a season or two, anyway) and the defense is, at worst, average (with Bob Sanders healthy, of course). I don't see Indianapolis winning fewer than 9 or 10 games and not making the playoffs.
Prediction
The Colts should win 10 or 11 games, capture the AFC South crown, and find themselves still playing football in early January. I see the Colts being put out to pasture sometime during divisional weekend.
2nd: Tennessee Titans
The Best They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
2008. Other than the loss of Albert Haynesworth, the Titans look virtually identical to last season's squad that earned the NFL's best regular season record last season. But for some reason, I have a feeling that Tennessee will come falling back to Earth in 2009. Regardless, there's no reason the Titans shouldn't believe they have the talent to win a championship; they do. This team has a realistic chance to win 12 or 13 games and a Vince Lombardi Trophy.
The Worst They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
As I stated before, I see the 2009 Titans being much less impressive than 2008 Titans. As the old adage goes, it all starts up front, and the loss of Haynesworth could be a costly one. Additionally, quarterback Kerry Collins is a year older and Vince Young seems a frighteningly unstable backup. Plus, Tennessee could be playing in a surprisingly difficult division with an always-good Indianapolis team, an improving Houston squad and a better-than-their-record Jacksonville bunch with which to contend. Should things go the wrong way in 2009, I wouldn't be surprised if Tennessee only wins 8 or 9 games and miss the playoffs this season.
Prediction
First, I still think the Titans are a playoff team. Their defense good enough to keep them in games even when their offense isn't moving the ball and putting points on the board. Second, however, I don't think that last season was indicative of future results. Tennessee will win 9 or 10 games, earn a Wild Card spot and lose in the Wild Card or Divisional Round.
3rd: Houston Texans
The Best They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
If Matt Schaub can stay healthy and Mario Williams can continue to befuddle offensive tackles with his combination of size and quickness, the Texans could do a lot of damage in 2009. Houston has been a team on the rise, and has been for awhile it seems, and I think this could be the year they catapult themselves into playoff contention. I think winning 9 or 10 games and earning a 2nd place finish and a Wild Card spot is well within the realm of possibility for this year's Texans. I don't think they're ready to win the division, but I do think they're getting closer.
The Worst They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
Over the last couple seasons, Houston has been considered a moderate underachiever. Expectations in Houston rise significantly each offseason and, by late October or early November, the Texans are an afterthought in playoff-related conversations. This season could be no different, especially if Matt Schaub continues to struggle to stay healthy. Another 5 or 6-win season and top 10 draft pick isn't out of the question.
Prediction
I don't see the Texans fulfilling expectations in 2009, but I do see them being dramatically improved. They'll still be a bubble playoff team in mid December, finishing the 2009 season with 8 or 9 wins. Ultimately they won't be a playoff team, but they'll flirt more seriously with playoff contention than they ever have in their short existence.
4th: Jacksonville Jaguars
The Best They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
The Jaguars are up one year and down the next. Should this annual undulation continue, 2009 should be a good season. If David Garrard can bounce back after a disappointing 2008 and the defense can stiffen and return to the form from previous years, Jacksonville could improve. Playing in a fairly difficult AFC South, however, I don't see a great improvement. A maximum of 7 or 8 wins is plausible, which would most likely result in missing the playoffs by a game or two.
The Worst They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
Similar to the best Tennessee can reasonably expect in 2009, a repeat of 2008. Jacksonville followed an impressive 2007 season with an extremely disappointing 2008 season. If the Jaguars aren't able to rediscover their identity, a stingy defense and a strong, physical running game, they'll again find themselves in the cellar of the division and Jack Del Rio will likely find his way out of town. A big key this season will be whether or not Maurice Jones-Drew can handle the load as the Jaguars' lone rusher with Fred Taylor in New England. If he struggles with his new, larger role in the offense and Jacksonville can't resurrect their defense, the Jaguars could be in for a very long season. I don't consider only 3 or 4 wins and a top 5 draft pick out of the picture.
Prediction
I don't like Jacksvonville's chances of finding some level of upward mobility in the AFC South this season. Simply put, they're the worst team in the division and I fully expect their record to demonstrate that. The odds are slim that the Jaguars will win more than 5 or 6 games this season. At least they should have another top 10 draft pick next April.
Up Next - Episode VIII: AFC West
The Best They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
Tony Dungy may be gone, but I think we'll see a seamless transition into the Jim Caldwell era. Mr. Peyton Manning, the Colts' field general, is still on the team and gives the offense all the field leadership they need. On defense, there are questions surrounding Bob Sanders' health and, when Sanders isn't healthy, neither are the Colts' Super Bowl prospects. However, I look for Manning to give the Colts a lot of early leads this season, allowing Dwight Freeney and the defense to pin their ears back and come after opposing quarterbacks. Nonetheless, while a Super Bowl is not out of the question, I just don't see a Super Bowl appearance. The most Indy can expect is about 11 or 12 wins and an AFC Championship defeat (either to Pittsburgh, San Diego or New England).
The Worst They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
I may not like the Colts' Super Bowl chances, but I don't think they have a very low floor either. Their offense is intact (Marvin Harrison is gone, but he hadn't been himself for a season or two, anyway) and the defense is, at worst, average (with Bob Sanders healthy, of course). I don't see Indianapolis winning fewer than 9 or 10 games and not making the playoffs.
Prediction
The Colts should win 10 or 11 games, capture the AFC South crown, and find themselves still playing football in early January. I see the Colts being put out to pasture sometime during divisional weekend.
2nd: Tennessee Titans
The Best They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
2008. Other than the loss of Albert Haynesworth, the Titans look virtually identical to last season's squad that earned the NFL's best regular season record last season. But for some reason, I have a feeling that Tennessee will come falling back to Earth in 2009. Regardless, there's no reason the Titans shouldn't believe they have the talent to win a championship; they do. This team has a realistic chance to win 12 or 13 games and a Vince Lombardi Trophy.
The Worst They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
As I stated before, I see the 2009 Titans being much less impressive than 2008 Titans. As the old adage goes, it all starts up front, and the loss of Haynesworth could be a costly one. Additionally, quarterback Kerry Collins is a year older and Vince Young seems a frighteningly unstable backup. Plus, Tennessee could be playing in a surprisingly difficult division with an always-good Indianapolis team, an improving Houston squad and a better-than-their-record Jacksonville bunch with which to contend. Should things go the wrong way in 2009, I wouldn't be surprised if Tennessee only wins 8 or 9 games and miss the playoffs this season.
Prediction
First, I still think the Titans are a playoff team. Their defense good enough to keep them in games even when their offense isn't moving the ball and putting points on the board. Second, however, I don't think that last season was indicative of future results. Tennessee will win 9 or 10 games, earn a Wild Card spot and lose in the Wild Card or Divisional Round.
3rd: Houston Texans
The Best They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
If Matt Schaub can stay healthy and Mario Williams can continue to befuddle offensive tackles with his combination of size and quickness, the Texans could do a lot of damage in 2009. Houston has been a team on the rise, and has been for awhile it seems, and I think this could be the year they catapult themselves into playoff contention. I think winning 9 or 10 games and earning a 2nd place finish and a Wild Card spot is well within the realm of possibility for this year's Texans. I don't think they're ready to win the division, but I do think they're getting closer.
The Worst They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
Over the last couple seasons, Houston has been considered a moderate underachiever. Expectations in Houston rise significantly each offseason and, by late October or early November, the Texans are an afterthought in playoff-related conversations. This season could be no different, especially if Matt Schaub continues to struggle to stay healthy. Another 5 or 6-win season and top 10 draft pick isn't out of the question.
Prediction
I don't see the Texans fulfilling expectations in 2009, but I do see them being dramatically improved. They'll still be a bubble playoff team in mid December, finishing the 2009 season with 8 or 9 wins. Ultimately they won't be a playoff team, but they'll flirt more seriously with playoff contention than they ever have in their short existence.
4th: Jacksonville Jaguars
The Best They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
The Jaguars are up one year and down the next. Should this annual undulation continue, 2009 should be a good season. If David Garrard can bounce back after a disappointing 2008 and the defense can stiffen and return to the form from previous years, Jacksonville could improve. Playing in a fairly difficult AFC South, however, I don't see a great improvement. A maximum of 7 or 8 wins is plausible, which would most likely result in missing the playoffs by a game or two.
The Worst They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
Similar to the best Tennessee can reasonably expect in 2009, a repeat of 2008. Jacksonville followed an impressive 2007 season with an extremely disappointing 2008 season. If the Jaguars aren't able to rediscover their identity, a stingy defense and a strong, physical running game, they'll again find themselves in the cellar of the division and Jack Del Rio will likely find his way out of town. A big key this season will be whether or not Maurice Jones-Drew can handle the load as the Jaguars' lone rusher with Fred Taylor in New England. If he struggles with his new, larger role in the offense and Jacksonville can't resurrect their defense, the Jaguars could be in for a very long season. I don't consider only 3 or 4 wins and a top 5 draft pick out of the picture.
Prediction
I don't like Jacksvonville's chances of finding some level of upward mobility in the AFC South this season. Simply put, they're the worst team in the division and I fully expect their record to demonstrate that. The odds are slim that the Jaguars will win more than 5 or 6 games this season. At least they should have another top 10 draft pick next April.
Up Next - Episode VIII: AFC West
2009-2010 NFL Preview - Episode VI: AFC North
1st: Pittsburgh Steelers
The Best They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
A repeat. There's nothing to suggest that the Steelers should take any steps back in 2009. While their offensive line still has some issues and a healthy Tom Brady could make the Patriots again the class of the NFL, the defending champions are frighteningly talented on both sides of the ball and have as good of an opportunity to repeat as Super Bowl champions as anyone in a long time. I wouldn't be surprised in the least if Pittsburgh won 13 or 14 games this season and took home a franchise record 7th Vince Lombardi Trophy.
The Worst They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
If the offensive line struggles again in 2009 and Ben Roethlisberger finds himself on the turf time and time again, the Steelers could be in for a very disappointing season. Also, if the loss of cornerback Bryant McFadden leaves a hole in the secondary, the defense could see a dramatic drop in their defensive production. Even if Roethlisberger gets hurt and the Steelers have a hole in the secondary, this is still a solid team. Regardless of what happens, I just can't see this team winning fewer than 9 or 10 games in 2009.
Prediction
The Steelers are primed for another deep playoff run. They are returning almost their entire roster from last February's Super Bowl and should be on any short list of 2009 Super Bowl favorites. Ben Roethlisberger has never been a fantasy football phenom, but he's turning in to an elite NFL quarterback. On defense, Dick LeBeau scheme continues to befuddle and shut down opposing offenses. I think the Steelers will yet again find themselves in the AFC Championship game this season. Most likely, they'll be playing New England. If that happens, it could be a game for the ages.
2nd: Baltimore Ravens
The Best They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
The Ravens are a very talented team and present a very real threat to the annual divisional champion - the Pittsburgh Steelers. There's no reason to doubt that Baltimore has the ability to unseat the World Champions. They went 0-3 last season against the Steelers, but all 3 games were very close. With Joe Flacco continuing to improve and a dominant defense still mainly intact, I see Baltimore's ceiling being 11 or 12 wins this season and another AFC Championship berth. After that, even if the Ravens wrestle the division crown away from the Steelers, I'm just not sure that this team is good enough to beat New England or San Diego.
The Worst They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
Bart Scott's departure from Baltimore could be difficult to overcome. Ray Lewis may be the leader of the Raven's defense, but Scott's presence and impact cannot be ignored. If his absence causes ripples throughout the Baltimore defense and Joe Flacco becomes a victim of the dreaded Sophomore slump, the Ravens could very well win no more than 8 or 9 games and miss the playoffs in 2009.
Prediction
I like Baltimore to make the playoffs this season, but not win their division. Pittsburgh will, yet again, prove to be too much for the Ravens. I think 9 or 10 wins sounds about right. I also don't think they'll make it past the Divisional Round in this year's playoffs.
3rd: Cincinnati Bengals
The Best They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
If Carson Palmer stays healthy and returns to his form of a few years ago, the Bengals' offense could see big improvement. T.J. Houshmandzadeh is a big loss, but Laverneus Coles should help fill the void left by Housh. On defense, Cincinnati is young, but has a lot of talent. I could see the Bengals surprising some people this year and winning 7 or 8 games and remaining a playoff bubble team until mid December. Any more than that, however, seems like too much to ask for.
The Worst They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
In short, the last two seasons. If Palmer can't stay healthy and the young Cincinnati defense fails to turn a corner (so to speak), the Bengals could be in for yet another long, miserable season. In this scenario, the jail cats could win only 3 or 4 games and hold a top 5 draft pick in April - again.
Prediction
I think the Bengals will, in fact, surprise some people this year and win an impressive (for Cincinnati, of course) 7 or 8 games. They'll be a potential playoff team until late November or early December. This will all be attributed to Carson Palmer finding his groove again, staying healthy and rediscover that which made him an elite quarterback not too long ago. I also like a lot of the youth Cincinnati has on defense. If Palmer and the Bengal offense can get some quick leads on teams, the defense could benefit from desperate offensive play on the part of opponents. Ultimately, this team will shock some fans, including pundits, but find themselves at home again when playoff time rolls around.
4th: Cleveland Browns
The Best They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
Unfortunately, not much. Even if Brady Quinn begins to look like a first round draft choice or Derek Anderson recovers his 2007 form and Braylon Edwards remembers how to catch a football, Cleveland's defense is going to allow too many points for the Browns to stay in games. Overall, I can't see Cleveland winning more than 5 or 6 games in 2009. The playoffs are well out of reach.
The Worst They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009j
Pretty bad. If Quinn or Anderson doesn't look like a franchise quarterback this season and Edwards doesn't step up and be the receiver he's supposed to be, a 2 or 3 win season is very possible. The defense will give up points and a struggling Quinn or Anderson will serve up mistake after mistake. In this scenario, wins would be very difficult to come by. A top 1 or 2 draft pick could result in the selection of Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford if Quinn or Anderson doesn't impress.
Prediction
Unfortunately for Cleveland, I think they'll lie somewhere between the previously mentioned scenarios. Win total? Probably 3 or 4 games. On the plus side, a top 5 draft choice will help Mangini begin yet another rebuilding phase in Browns-land.
Up Next - Episode VII: AFC South
The Best They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
A repeat. There's nothing to suggest that the Steelers should take any steps back in 2009. While their offensive line still has some issues and a healthy Tom Brady could make the Patriots again the class of the NFL, the defending champions are frighteningly talented on both sides of the ball and have as good of an opportunity to repeat as Super Bowl champions as anyone in a long time. I wouldn't be surprised in the least if Pittsburgh won 13 or 14 games this season and took home a franchise record 7th Vince Lombardi Trophy.
The Worst They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
If the offensive line struggles again in 2009 and Ben Roethlisberger finds himself on the turf time and time again, the Steelers could be in for a very disappointing season. Also, if the loss of cornerback Bryant McFadden leaves a hole in the secondary, the defense could see a dramatic drop in their defensive production. Even if Roethlisberger gets hurt and the Steelers have a hole in the secondary, this is still a solid team. Regardless of what happens, I just can't see this team winning fewer than 9 or 10 games in 2009.
Prediction
The Steelers are primed for another deep playoff run. They are returning almost their entire roster from last February's Super Bowl and should be on any short list of 2009 Super Bowl favorites. Ben Roethlisberger has never been a fantasy football phenom, but he's turning in to an elite NFL quarterback. On defense, Dick LeBeau scheme continues to befuddle and shut down opposing offenses. I think the Steelers will yet again find themselves in the AFC Championship game this season. Most likely, they'll be playing New England. If that happens, it could be a game for the ages.
2nd: Baltimore Ravens
The Best They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
The Ravens are a very talented team and present a very real threat to the annual divisional champion - the Pittsburgh Steelers. There's no reason to doubt that Baltimore has the ability to unseat the World Champions. They went 0-3 last season against the Steelers, but all 3 games were very close. With Joe Flacco continuing to improve and a dominant defense still mainly intact, I see Baltimore's ceiling being 11 or 12 wins this season and another AFC Championship berth. After that, even if the Ravens wrestle the division crown away from the Steelers, I'm just not sure that this team is good enough to beat New England or San Diego.
The Worst They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
Bart Scott's departure from Baltimore could be difficult to overcome. Ray Lewis may be the leader of the Raven's defense, but Scott's presence and impact cannot be ignored. If his absence causes ripples throughout the Baltimore defense and Joe Flacco becomes a victim of the dreaded Sophomore slump, the Ravens could very well win no more than 8 or 9 games and miss the playoffs in 2009.
Prediction
I like Baltimore to make the playoffs this season, but not win their division. Pittsburgh will, yet again, prove to be too much for the Ravens. I think 9 or 10 wins sounds about right. I also don't think they'll make it past the Divisional Round in this year's playoffs.
3rd: Cincinnati Bengals
The Best They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
If Carson Palmer stays healthy and returns to his form of a few years ago, the Bengals' offense could see big improvement. T.J. Houshmandzadeh is a big loss, but Laverneus Coles should help fill the void left by Housh. On defense, Cincinnati is young, but has a lot of talent. I could see the Bengals surprising some people this year and winning 7 or 8 games and remaining a playoff bubble team until mid December. Any more than that, however, seems like too much to ask for.
The Worst They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
In short, the last two seasons. If Palmer can't stay healthy and the young Cincinnati defense fails to turn a corner (so to speak), the Bengals could be in for yet another long, miserable season. In this scenario, the jail cats could win only 3 or 4 games and hold a top 5 draft pick in April - again.
Prediction
I think the Bengals will, in fact, surprise some people this year and win an impressive (for Cincinnati, of course) 7 or 8 games. They'll be a potential playoff team until late November or early December. This will all be attributed to Carson Palmer finding his groove again, staying healthy and rediscover that which made him an elite quarterback not too long ago. I also like a lot of the youth Cincinnati has on defense. If Palmer and the Bengal offense can get some quick leads on teams, the defense could benefit from desperate offensive play on the part of opponents. Ultimately, this team will shock some fans, including pundits, but find themselves at home again when playoff time rolls around.
4th: Cleveland Browns
The Best They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009
Unfortunately, not much. Even if Brady Quinn begins to look like a first round draft choice or Derek Anderson recovers his 2007 form and Braylon Edwards remembers how to catch a football, Cleveland's defense is going to allow too many points for the Browns to stay in games. Overall, I can't see Cleveland winning more than 5 or 6 games in 2009. The playoffs are well out of reach.
The Worst They Can Reasonably Expect in 2009j
Pretty bad. If Quinn or Anderson doesn't look like a franchise quarterback this season and Edwards doesn't step up and be the receiver he's supposed to be, a 2 or 3 win season is very possible. The defense will give up points and a struggling Quinn or Anderson will serve up mistake after mistake. In this scenario, wins would be very difficult to come by. A top 1 or 2 draft pick could result in the selection of Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford if Quinn or Anderson doesn't impress.
Prediction
Unfortunately for Cleveland, I think they'll lie somewhere between the previously mentioned scenarios. Win total? Probably 3 or 4 games. On the plus side, a top 5 draft choice will help Mangini begin yet another rebuilding phase in Browns-land.
Up Next - Episode VII: AFC South
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