With the NFL rosters cut down to the 53-man team, the Lions have kept the players that they feel will help the team win. A few players were surprisingly cut, but football is a numbers game, and those who don't fill those numbers wind up unemployed.
But with the full roster set, it is now time to grade each position by who is on the roster, the strength of the position and how important those players are to the team.
Quarterbacks: Matthew Stafford, Shaun Hill, Kellen Moore
The quarterbacks are very well set and are strength of the team, starting with franchise quarterback Matthew Stafford. Stafford played for the entire season for the first time in his career last season, and showed what he can do with over 5,000 yards and 41 touchdowns last season. Shaun Hill is an excellent backup, and has been called the best backup in the league. Many were surprised to see Kellen Moore make the roster, but he is the future backup quarterback for the team, and he needs to develop. He probably wouldn't pass through waivers to make the practice squad, so he remains the third quarterback.
Grade: A
Running Backs: Jahvid Best, Mikel Leshoure, Kevin Smith, Joique Bell, Keiland Williams, Stefon Logan
The running back position has been one of the positions highly scrutinized. The injury to Jahvid Best hurts the offense by taking his speed and catching ability out for at least the first six weeks of the season while on the PUP list. Mikel Leshoure is second in line, and he has looked good in his two preseason games, but he has durability questions after missing all of last year with an Achilles tendon tear. Leshoure will also miss the first two games due to league suspension. The Lions will lean on Kevin Smith, Keiland Williams, Stefan Logan and Joique Bell to tote the rock for the time being. Logan will see more of a role in the offense, but is still the kick returner. Smith has been consistent in his play, and I expect him to perform highly. Consistency with his health is another story, and that will be key for the running game.
Grade: C
Receivers: Calvin Johnson, Nate Burleson, Titus Young, Ryan Broyles, Kassim Osgood, Brandon Pettigrew, Tony Scheffler, Will Heller
By far the strength of the team. But it should when you have the best wide receiver in the game in Calvin Johnson. Burleson quietly made 73 catches last season, and Titus Young got hot down the stretch in his rookie year with five of his six touchdowns in the second half of the season. Ryan Broyles was the surprise of the draft, taken in the second round, but he is the leading receiver in NCAA history at Oklahoma and would have been a top-ten pick had he not torn his ACL in his senior season. Osgood is mostly a special-teamer. The Lions are set at tight end with big body pass catchers in Brandon Pettigrew and Tony Scheffler. Will Heller is a good reserve.
Grade: A++
Offensive Lineman: Jeff Backus, Rob Sims, Dominic Raiola, Stephen Peterman, Gosder Cherilus, Riley Reiff, Jason Fox, Corey Hilliard, Dylan Gandy
The offensive line returns all five starters for the third straight year. They protected Matthew Stafford very well last season. However, the line does have to take some responsibility for the anemic running game. The depth at tackle is excellent with first round pick Riley Reiff along with Jason Fox and Corey Hilliard as reserves. With Reiff waiting in the wings to take over at left tackle in the future, expect him to see playing time at tackle and guard this season. With Reiff having the ability to play guard, the Lions only kept one reserve interior lineman in Dylan Gandy.
Grade: C+
Defensive Lineman: Cliff Avril, Ndamukong Suh, Corey Williams, Nick Fairley, Kyle Vanden Bosch, Lawrence Jackson, Willie Young, Ronnell Lewis
Another strength of the team, but inconsistency down the stretch hurt the team and was the culprit of the poor defensive performances the last game of the regular season at Green Bay and the wildcard game at New Orleans. Suh is the face of the defense, and he will need to return to the form of his rookie year where he dominated opposing offensive lines. Nick Fairley hasn't lived up to his 13th overall pick status yet due to injuries, but he came into camp overweight and with plenty of off-field issues and has plenty to prove. Corey Williams will likely start next to Suh, and is a very solid player, but the Lions will need to put Suh and Fairley on the line at the same time. Sammie Hill is also a solid reserve at tackle. At end, Cliff Avril was the MVP for this defense last season, but this may be his last season in Detroit with contract issues, but overall he needs to record more sacks to get the money he wants. This may also be Kyle Vanden Bosch's last season due to his age, but will start. Expect big seasons from Willie Young and Lawrence Jackson. Lewis will be a reserve and get a limited role his rookie season. The Lions will need to increase their sack numbers this season to be successful.
Grade: B+
Linebackers: Stephen Tulloch, DeAndre Levy, Justin Durant, Doug Hogue, Ashlee Palmer, Travis Lewis, Tahir Whitehead
The linebackers are solid, but there are no stars in the corps. Tulloch and Levy are studs and will get the job done, but there needs to be a speed linebacker to complete the front seven. But with the front line the Lions have, it will be easier for everyone behind them, including the backers. Durant is fine for the most part at the outside linebacking spot, but will need to stay healthy and tackle better this season. Hogue, Palmer, Lewis and Whitehead are viable backups, but their impact will be more on special teams.
Grade: B-
Defensive Backs: Chris Houston, Dwight "Bill" Bentley, Jacob Lacey, Jonte Green, Kevin Barnes, Louis Delmas, Erik Coleman, Amari Spievey, John Wendling, Ricardo Silva
The position that took much criticism and was blamed for the performance down the stretch last season, but the secondary is not as bad as many think. Depth was a problem for the secondary last season as injuries to Houston and Delmas hurt the defense. That new depth will be tested with Delmas on the shelf again after knee surgery. John Wendling and Erik Coleman have played very well this preseason while Amari Spievey has fallen on the depth chart. The Lions hope they found a consistent starter in third round pick Bill Bentley. Jacob Lacey, rookie Jonte Green and Kevin Barnes, who came over in a trade with the Redskins this week, are expected to be the better depth this season.
Grade: C+
The Lions have the pieces to win this season. They have found their franchise quarterback in Matthew Stafford. They also have a franchise offensive player in Calvin Johnson and franchise defensive player in Ndamukong Suh. There are also very solid players around them in Titus Young, Brandon Pettigrew, Willie Young, Stephen Tulloch and DeAndre Levy. With the corps group of players, a double digit win season and a second straight trip to the playoffs are by far not out of the question.
Friday, August 31, 2012
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Final Predictions: Playoffs and Super Bowl
Now that I have completed my regular season predictions, it is now time to give my predictions for who will hold up the Lombardi Trophy at the end of the season. If you missed my playoff seedings for each conference, here they are:
NFC: AFC:
1. Packers 1. Ravens
2. Eagles 2. Texans
3. 49ers 3. Patriots
4. Saints 4. Chiefs
5. Giants 5. Steelers
6. Lions 6. Titans
Now that we have the teams set up, we begin with the wild card round. Obviously, the Packers, Eagles, Ravens and Texans get the bye week with having the top spots.
NFC: AFC:
-Lions over 49ers - Patriots over Titans
- Saints over Giants - Chiefs over Steelers
The wildcard sees a couple of wild games where the Lions-49ers new rivalry gets a playoff game added to the pot where the Lions defeat San Fran on the road. The Saints also take down the Super Bowl champs in the Big Easy, but the Giants will play tough even though there is no threat to fire Tom Coughlin. On the AFC side, the Patriots handle the Titans easily and Romeo Crennel gets his first victory against the Steelers with his Chiefs knocking off the Steelers at home and ending Kansas City's playoff drought.
Next up, the divisional round of the playoffs:
NFC: AFC:
-Packers over Lions - Ravens over Chiefs
- Eagles over Saints - Texans over Patriots
The divisional round sees high scoring affairs in Green Bay and Philadelphia, where the top two teams win and make it one game to the Super Bowl with Green Bay topping Detroit and Philadelphia defeating New Orleans. The AFC also has the top two teams making it to the conference championship with Baltimore shutting down Kansas City and Houston stunning New England to make their first ever conference championship game.
Next up, the game that decides the Super Bowl contenders:
NFC: AFC:
- Eagles over Packers -Ravens over Texans
And the Super Bowl is set with the Eagles stunning the Packers in Lambeau Field and the Ravens finally making a Super Bowl with Harbaugh and Flacco by taking down the Texans.
And finally, now that the stage is set, the Super Bowl between the Baltimore Ravens and the Philadelphia Eagles will be won by (drum roll please):
Super Bowl:
- Eagles over Ravens
That's right, I have the Eagles defeating the Ravens in a wild Super Bowl. Andy Reid finally wins one for the fans, leaving Flacco another year of listening to the critics. The Super Bowl that pits two of the most talented teams comes down whoever has more heart and the age factor helps the Eagles win over the aging Ravens. Eagles fans can now rest easy, at least for eight months.
NFC: AFC:
1. Packers 1. Ravens
2. Eagles 2. Texans
3. 49ers 3. Patriots
4. Saints 4. Chiefs
5. Giants 5. Steelers
6. Lions 6. Titans
Now that we have the teams set up, we begin with the wild card round. Obviously, the Packers, Eagles, Ravens and Texans get the bye week with having the top spots.
NFC: AFC:
-Lions over 49ers - Patriots over Titans
- Saints over Giants - Chiefs over Steelers
The wildcard sees a couple of wild games where the Lions-49ers new rivalry gets a playoff game added to the pot where the Lions defeat San Fran on the road. The Saints also take down the Super Bowl champs in the Big Easy, but the Giants will play tough even though there is no threat to fire Tom Coughlin. On the AFC side, the Patriots handle the Titans easily and Romeo Crennel gets his first victory against the Steelers with his Chiefs knocking off the Steelers at home and ending Kansas City's playoff drought.
Next up, the divisional round of the playoffs:
NFC: AFC:
-Packers over Lions - Ravens over Chiefs
- Eagles over Saints - Texans over Patriots
The divisional round sees high scoring affairs in Green Bay and Philadelphia, where the top two teams win and make it one game to the Super Bowl with Green Bay topping Detroit and Philadelphia defeating New Orleans. The AFC also has the top two teams making it to the conference championship with Baltimore shutting down Kansas City and Houston stunning New England to make their first ever conference championship game.
Next up, the game that decides the Super Bowl contenders:
NFC: AFC:
- Eagles over Packers -Ravens over Texans
And the Super Bowl is set with the Eagles stunning the Packers in Lambeau Field and the Ravens finally making a Super Bowl with Harbaugh and Flacco by taking down the Texans.
And finally, now that the stage is set, the Super Bowl between the Baltimore Ravens and the Philadelphia Eagles will be won by (drum roll please):
Super Bowl:
- Eagles over Ravens
That's right, I have the Eagles defeating the Ravens in a wild Super Bowl. Andy Reid finally wins one for the fans, leaving Flacco another year of listening to the critics. The Super Bowl that pits two of the most talented teams comes down whoever has more heart and the age factor helps the Eagles win over the aging Ravens. Eagles fans can now rest easy, at least for eight months.
Monday, August 6, 2012
NFL Predictions 2012: NFC
Now it is time to predict the NFC and which six teams will make the playoffs and why. The next post after this one will be the official playoff predictions.
NFC East:
1. Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles are past the whole "dream-team" drama. Vince Young is gone, and so is all the super-hype in Philadelphia. The Eagles didn't make that much of a splash in free agency like last year, but made excellent moves this offseason acquiring linebacker DeMeco Ryans via trade with Houston, and having an excellent draft to further improve the defense with first round pick defensive tackle Fletcher Cox and second picks in linebacker Mychal Kendricks and defensive end Vinny Curry. The key is the health of quarterback Micheal Vick and the rest of the offense. Record: 13-3
2. New York Giants*: It is very hard to put the defending Super Bowl champions not winning their division, but the Eagles I believe are just that much better. It also hurts the Giants cause when they made the run based off they got hot at the right time, at the end of the year. But that doesn't mean you should count out New York. The Giants are still a very good team and improved in the draft. The Giants just need to play more consistently and not lose to teams such as the Redskins like they did last year. Also be on a lookout for the players Big Blue drafted last year. None had much of impact due to injuries and look to make one now. Record: 12-4
3. Dallas Cowboys: Much has been made about the Cowboys being aggressive in the offseason. The Cowboys did improve in the secondary by signing free agents Brandon Carr and Brodney Pool and then trading their second round pick to move up eight slots to grab LSU corner Morris Claiborne in the first round. However, with those moves, the Cowboys don't seem to be the stacked team they say they are. The Cowboys are lacking in the offensive line, along with consistency in the offense as a whole, and there is no answer for a pass rusher opposite DeMarcus Ware. Those are key holes that they have not filled, and it will cost them when it comes to a playoff run. Record: 9-7
4. Washington Redskins: The Redskins are still in rebuilding mode. Even though that is hard to think about since they made the bold move to mortgage their drafts for the next two years to move up and select Baylor quarterback Robert Griffin III, but it will most likely be a tough season for RG3. The defense is excellent, as it has stars such as Brian Orakpo, London Fletcher and DeAngelo Hall, along with an up-and-comer star in Ryan Kerrigan, but the supporting cast on offense is very...bland. 5'10" Santana Moss remains to be Washington's only good receiver, and even though tight end Fred Davis is coming into his own, there isn't much for RG3 to throw to, and he must throw to these guys with a suspect offensive line. Redskins fans should probably prepare for another tough season unless Griffin does what Cam Newton did for Carolina last year. Record: 6-10
NFC North:
1. Green Bay Packers: The Packers are still one of the best teams in the NFL. They still have Aaron Rodgers. The still have their good receivers. And they still have their good defensive players on defense with Clay Matthews and Charles Woodson. Now the Packers greatly improve the defense that finished last in the NFL where they always improve, the draft. Adding USC pass rusher Nick Perry along with Michigan State defensive lineman Jerel Worthy should help the defense improve on their embarrassing year last year. Now the only questions are are can the defense come together and can the offense find a running game. Record: 13-3
2. Detroit Lions*: For the first time in a long time, the Lions have expectations to live up to. Coming off of their first playoff appearance in over a decade gives the motor city some optimism, and rightfully so, the Lions are a very talented team. Even though a majority of the fans disagree with the moves the Lions made this offseason, they were all the right ones. The Lions have question marks in the secondary, but a more consistent pass rush along with more depth should help in that department for another year. The biggest question is the running game on offense and if it can be effective with the passing game. If Jahvid Best, Mikel Leshoure and Kevin Smith can all stay healthy, along with the acquisition of Iowa offensive lineman Riley Reiff with their first round pick, the Lions should have a formidable run game and compete in the NFC. Record: 11-5
3. Chicago Bears: The Bears are another team that has made a splash this offseason, acquiring weapons around Jay Cutler in receiver Brandon Marshall via trade, running back Micheal Bush via free agency, and receiver Alshon Jeffery via the draft. However, although the Bears should win a bunch of games this year, I think they miss the playoffs by not addressing their bad offensive line at all and not doing enough to rebuild an aging defense. First round pick Shea McClellin is a start, but it should also be interesting how they make pass rushing packages around him. Record: 10-6
4. Minnesota Vikings: The Vikings had one of the best drafts in the NFL this past April. However, that won't affect their position in the standings, as their is still much more needs on this talent-starved roster. Quarterback Christian Ponder took a beating in his rookie year last season, and should see some help in fourth overall pick USC left tackle Matt Kalil, but there is still many holes on the offensive line. The defense will get a boost with the Vikings second first round draft pick in Notre Dame safety Harrison Smith, but the rest of the secondary is very poor and the linebacking corps is not in very good shape. Minnesota has a long way to go before they make another run. Record: 4-12
AFC South:
1. New Orleans Saints: The Saints have taken a huge hit with the bounty allegations, losing head coach/offensive coordinator Sean Payton and star linebacker Jonathan Vilma. However, New Orleans still have their MVP in Drew Brees, after getting a nice pay-day, along with the majority of their offense. The defense should also get a boost from new coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, who was the Giants defensive coordinator when they won the Super Bowl in 2007 and was a very formidable defense then. The team is looking at major adversity, but they have been facing adversity since Brees arrived in 2006, and they have a record of 63-33 in that span. No change in this year. Record: 11-5
NFC West:
1. San Francisco 49ers: Although the quaterback position is still suspect for the 49ers, the team is still a very solid team. The defense doesn't need to be talked about because they have too many studs. Again, the quarterback situation is one you would not want to look at if you are a 49er fan. Alex Smith did lead the team to the NFC Championship game with a 13-3 season, but San Fran played more of a ball control offense that worked well with their defense. Now it will be interesting to see how the 49ers handle a more down field offense where they actually throw the ball with new acquisitions Randy Moss, Mario Manningham and first round pick A.J. Jenkins at wide receiver. Record: 11-5
2. Arizona Cardinals: The quarterback battle that takes place in Arizona is shaping out to be a boring one if you ask me. Kevin Kolb is probably their best one, and he is inconsistent and has the injury bug. John Skelton won games for the team in 2011, but he had the second worst completion percentage in the NFL too. However, the rest of the team is pretty solid. Offensive line is a weakness, and that affects the play of the quaterbacks. But, the defense is solid and the weapons around whoever is under center are pretty solid. Still a weak division even with all the improvements around, so the Cards are fortunate there. But the play at quarterback unfortunately takes them down and out of playoff contention. Record: 8-8
3. Seattle Seahawks: Yet another boring quarterback battle taking place here. The Seahawks are going to give the keys to either incumbent Tarvaris Jackson, free agent pickup Matt Flynn who has put up numbers in his two career starts, but they are only two career starts, and third round pick (probably the best one) Russell Wilson. Add that sleeping pill of a quarterback battle with a terrible draft, and you got yourselves another 7-9 record in Seattle. The Seahawks used the 15th overall pick on a pass rusher that is only good in passing situations, and then they signed washed up receivers for whoever wins the battle to throw to. Seattle is lucky the Rams are still rebuilding, or they would be in the basement. Record: 7-9
4. St. Louis Rams: I like what the Rams have done. Hiring Jeff Fisher, not panicking after the Jaguars jumped them and took Justin Blackmon and still had a great draft. But the Rams are still rebuilding and I would expect them to take the big step next year after they acquire more talent. They can compete with Sam Bradford, Chris Long, Steven Jackson and their rookies, but their development will be key for them moving forward. Record: 6-10
*denotes wildcard winners
Playoff Seedings:
1. Packers
2. Eagles
3. 49ers
4. Saints
5. Giants
6. Lions
Finally, coming soon, the entire playoff predictions for each round and Super Bowl match-up and winner.
NFC East:
1. Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles are past the whole "dream-team" drama. Vince Young is gone, and so is all the super-hype in Philadelphia. The Eagles didn't make that much of a splash in free agency like last year, but made excellent moves this offseason acquiring linebacker DeMeco Ryans via trade with Houston, and having an excellent draft to further improve the defense with first round pick defensive tackle Fletcher Cox and second picks in linebacker Mychal Kendricks and defensive end Vinny Curry. The key is the health of quarterback Micheal Vick and the rest of the offense. Record: 13-3
2. New York Giants*: It is very hard to put the defending Super Bowl champions not winning their division, but the Eagles I believe are just that much better. It also hurts the Giants cause when they made the run based off they got hot at the right time, at the end of the year. But that doesn't mean you should count out New York. The Giants are still a very good team and improved in the draft. The Giants just need to play more consistently and not lose to teams such as the Redskins like they did last year. Also be on a lookout for the players Big Blue drafted last year. None had much of impact due to injuries and look to make one now. Record: 12-4
3. Dallas Cowboys: Much has been made about the Cowboys being aggressive in the offseason. The Cowboys did improve in the secondary by signing free agents Brandon Carr and Brodney Pool and then trading their second round pick to move up eight slots to grab LSU corner Morris Claiborne in the first round. However, with those moves, the Cowboys don't seem to be the stacked team they say they are. The Cowboys are lacking in the offensive line, along with consistency in the offense as a whole, and there is no answer for a pass rusher opposite DeMarcus Ware. Those are key holes that they have not filled, and it will cost them when it comes to a playoff run. Record: 9-7
4. Washington Redskins: The Redskins are still in rebuilding mode. Even though that is hard to think about since they made the bold move to mortgage their drafts for the next two years to move up and select Baylor quarterback Robert Griffin III, but it will most likely be a tough season for RG3. The defense is excellent, as it has stars such as Brian Orakpo, London Fletcher and DeAngelo Hall, along with an up-and-comer star in Ryan Kerrigan, but the supporting cast on offense is very...bland. 5'10" Santana Moss remains to be Washington's only good receiver, and even though tight end Fred Davis is coming into his own, there isn't much for RG3 to throw to, and he must throw to these guys with a suspect offensive line. Redskins fans should probably prepare for another tough season unless Griffin does what Cam Newton did for Carolina last year. Record: 6-10
NFC North:
1. Green Bay Packers: The Packers are still one of the best teams in the NFL. They still have Aaron Rodgers. The still have their good receivers. And they still have their good defensive players on defense with Clay Matthews and Charles Woodson. Now the Packers greatly improve the defense that finished last in the NFL where they always improve, the draft. Adding USC pass rusher Nick Perry along with Michigan State defensive lineman Jerel Worthy should help the defense improve on their embarrassing year last year. Now the only questions are are can the defense come together and can the offense find a running game. Record: 13-3
2. Detroit Lions*: For the first time in a long time, the Lions have expectations to live up to. Coming off of their first playoff appearance in over a decade gives the motor city some optimism, and rightfully so, the Lions are a very talented team. Even though a majority of the fans disagree with the moves the Lions made this offseason, they were all the right ones. The Lions have question marks in the secondary, but a more consistent pass rush along with more depth should help in that department for another year. The biggest question is the running game on offense and if it can be effective with the passing game. If Jahvid Best, Mikel Leshoure and Kevin Smith can all stay healthy, along with the acquisition of Iowa offensive lineman Riley Reiff with their first round pick, the Lions should have a formidable run game and compete in the NFC. Record: 11-5
3. Chicago Bears: The Bears are another team that has made a splash this offseason, acquiring weapons around Jay Cutler in receiver Brandon Marshall via trade, running back Micheal Bush via free agency, and receiver Alshon Jeffery via the draft. However, although the Bears should win a bunch of games this year, I think they miss the playoffs by not addressing their bad offensive line at all and not doing enough to rebuild an aging defense. First round pick Shea McClellin is a start, but it should also be interesting how they make pass rushing packages around him. Record: 10-6
4. Minnesota Vikings: The Vikings had one of the best drafts in the NFL this past April. However, that won't affect their position in the standings, as their is still much more needs on this talent-starved roster. Quarterback Christian Ponder took a beating in his rookie year last season, and should see some help in fourth overall pick USC left tackle Matt Kalil, but there is still many holes on the offensive line. The defense will get a boost with the Vikings second first round draft pick in Notre Dame safety Harrison Smith, but the rest of the secondary is very poor and the linebacking corps is not in very good shape. Minnesota has a long way to go before they make another run. Record: 4-12
AFC South:
1. New Orleans Saints: The Saints have taken a huge hit with the bounty allegations, losing head coach/offensive coordinator Sean Payton and star linebacker Jonathan Vilma. However, New Orleans still have their MVP in Drew Brees, after getting a nice pay-day, along with the majority of their offense. The defense should also get a boost from new coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, who was the Giants defensive coordinator when they won the Super Bowl in 2007 and was a very formidable defense then. The team is looking at major adversity, but they have been facing adversity since Brees arrived in 2006, and they have a record of 63-33 in that span. No change in this year. Record: 11-5
2. Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons are a good team. But
they aren't at the elite status they think they are. The offensive did
get a boost with second round pick center Peter Konz out of Wisconsin, but it
is still a weakness when the Falcons want to run the football effectively. Their
rushing total dropped significantly last season, and most of that was the
offense trying to be more explosive with Julio Jones and Roddy White, but their
line is still at the moment suspect. The defense didn't look that much
better when the offense didn't play much ball control last year. The
Falcons must find more consistency on offense and in the pass rush if they want
to win in what is turning into a competitive division. Record: 9-7
3. Carolina Panthers: The Panthers have found their franchise
player. His name is Cam Newton. Their could be a drop-off in
statistics if Newton suffers the sophomore slump, but he should still put up
some numbers. Now the Panthers have a job to do and that is build the
team around him. There has been a little criticism about selecting Boston
College linebacker Luke Kuechly rather than drafting a defensive tackle, but
the Panthers did the right thing and took the best talent on the board.
The Panthers should see more improvements this season, but it is a
process. Record: 8-8
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: After ending the 2012 campaign on a ten game losing streak after a 4-2 start, the Bucs look to a new direction after hiring Rutgers coach Greg Schiano. The Bucs did acquire some nice talent this offseason with wide receiver Vincent Jackson and guard Carl Nicks via free agency and also acquired talent via the draft with safety Mark Barron (7th overall), running Back Doug Martin (31st overall), and linebacker Lavonte David (58th overall). However, with a new coach and the need to make chemistry, there may be growing pains. Plus it doesn't help that the NFC South is fairly tough. Tampa Bay should make some strides in improvement, but it is a work in progress with gathering more talent. Record: 6-10NFC West:
1. San Francisco 49ers: Although the quaterback position is still suspect for the 49ers, the team is still a very solid team. The defense doesn't need to be talked about because they have too many studs. Again, the quarterback situation is one you would not want to look at if you are a 49er fan. Alex Smith did lead the team to the NFC Championship game with a 13-3 season, but San Fran played more of a ball control offense that worked well with their defense. Now it will be interesting to see how the 49ers handle a more down field offense where they actually throw the ball with new acquisitions Randy Moss, Mario Manningham and first round pick A.J. Jenkins at wide receiver. Record: 11-5
2. Arizona Cardinals: The quarterback battle that takes place in Arizona is shaping out to be a boring one if you ask me. Kevin Kolb is probably their best one, and he is inconsistent and has the injury bug. John Skelton won games for the team in 2011, but he had the second worst completion percentage in the NFL too. However, the rest of the team is pretty solid. Offensive line is a weakness, and that affects the play of the quaterbacks. But, the defense is solid and the weapons around whoever is under center are pretty solid. Still a weak division even with all the improvements around, so the Cards are fortunate there. But the play at quarterback unfortunately takes them down and out of playoff contention. Record: 8-8
3. Seattle Seahawks: Yet another boring quarterback battle taking place here. The Seahawks are going to give the keys to either incumbent Tarvaris Jackson, free agent pickup Matt Flynn who has put up numbers in his two career starts, but they are only two career starts, and third round pick (probably the best one) Russell Wilson. Add that sleeping pill of a quarterback battle with a terrible draft, and you got yourselves another 7-9 record in Seattle. The Seahawks used the 15th overall pick on a pass rusher that is only good in passing situations, and then they signed washed up receivers for whoever wins the battle to throw to. Seattle is lucky the Rams are still rebuilding, or they would be in the basement. Record: 7-9
4. St. Louis Rams: I like what the Rams have done. Hiring Jeff Fisher, not panicking after the Jaguars jumped them and took Justin Blackmon and still had a great draft. But the Rams are still rebuilding and I would expect them to take the big step next year after they acquire more talent. They can compete with Sam Bradford, Chris Long, Steven Jackson and their rookies, but their development will be key for them moving forward. Record: 6-10
*denotes wildcard winners
Playoff Seedings:
1. Packers
2. Eagles
3. 49ers
4. Saints
5. Giants
6. Lions
Finally, coming soon, the entire playoff predictions for each round and Super Bowl match-up and winner.
Friday, August 3, 2012
NFL Predictions 2012: AFC
Well everyone, it is almost that time, football season is just around the corner. Just can't wait huh? Well, it is now time for my NFL predictions. I will split up each conference into two different posts and then do a third for my playoff predictions, starting with the AFC in this post. I will break down each division and tell why each team will make or miss the playoffs and give playoff seeding to the six spots.
AFC North:
1. Baltimore Ravens: Even though the Ravens will miss star pass-rusher Terrell Suggs for a significant amount of time, along with inconsistencies in the offense, I still pick the Ravens to win the North and make another run at a title. Baltimore is probably the most talented team in the AFC, but have underachieved greatly the last four years. Record: 13-3
2. Pittsburgh Steelers*: The Steelers could easily overtake the Ravens with improvements along their offensive line with guard David Decastro and tackle Mike Adams with their first two draft picks. But question marks with an older defense with key veterans release in the offseason along with a question mark on whether Ben Roethlisberger and new offensive coordinator Todd Haley can get on the same page puts Pittsburgh in question for the division title. Record: 11-5
3. Cincinnati Bengals: The Bengals were the surprise team last year when they made the playoffs with a rookie quarterback in Andy Dalton and rookie wide receiver A.J. Green. Now they come in more experienced and with a very good draft, but it is still a tough job to win in a division with Baltimore and Pittsburgh in it, but this is still a young team that will be very good. Record: 10-6
4. Cleveland Browns: The Browns have new faces of the franchise with their first round picks running back Trent Richardson and quarterback Brandon Weeden. How they perform will be what the Browns season will be like, and it is going to be tough when the Browns are a very weak team in a tough division.
Record: 4-12
AFC East:
1. New England Patriots: This is probably one of the last chances for veterans such as Tom Brady and Wes Welker win their Super Bowl, but it shouldn't be very hard to win the division with weak teams. Plus there is a better chance with significant improvements on defense through the draft with first round picks defensive end Chandler Jones and linebacker Donta Hightower. Record: 12-4
2. Buffalo Bills: The Bills spent money in the offseason, grabbing pass rushers Mario Williams and Mark Anderson. Things to watch out for with the Bills are the health of running back Fred Jackson, the consistency of quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick and the rest of the offense, and the development of first round draft pick cornerback Stephon Gilmore. I felt Gilmore was a reach for a first round pick, let alone the tenth overall pick, so it shall be interesting to see his impact in Orchard Park. Record: 8-8
3. New York Jets: The Jets are a bad team. They proved how overrated they are last season. Now they are messing around with the thought of making packages for Tim Tebow on offense, playing cornerback Antonio Cromartie at wide receiver, and trying to make a pass rush with guys that they hope can succeed. No running game and an over arrogant defense and coach puts them in a battle for third place with the Dolphins. Record: 6-10
4. Miami Dolphins: Somehow, the Dolphins find a way to lose that race with the Jets. But a new head coach, new offense, new defensive scheme, and a stopgap at quarterback to develop eighth overall pick Ryan Tannehill put the Dolphins way down in the cellar in 2012. Record: 5-11
AFC South:
1. Houston Texans: The time is now on the up and coming Texans who made their first playoff appearance in their franchise's ten year history. Even though the early parts of training camp has brought upon many early injuries to key players, along with other players coming off injuries, the Texans play in a weak division and should win it easily. The talent on the team should along with a good running game and good defense may help Houston make a run. Record: 12-4
2. Tennessee Titans*: The Titans have many young weapons on both sides of the ball, it all just matters if they can coincide. Another point that could hold the Titans back is the current quarterback battle between incumbent veteran Matt Hasselbeck and former eighth overall pick Jake Locker. Even though the starter should be Locker, it should be an interesting battle. How that competition play out along with Chris Johnson getting back to the 2009 form along with the utilizing of young weapons in tight end Jared Cook and first round pick wide receiver Kendall Wright will be the difference for the Titans in their hunt for the playoffs.
Record: 10-6
3. Jacksonville Jaguars: The Jaguars have gone through many changes with a new owner, new head coach and a new draft strategy. The Jags didn't try and make a diamond in the rough type of draft by taking small school players high, and instead traded up to get the best receiver in the draft in Justin Blackmon to hopefully help second year quarterback Blaine Gabbert, who struggled in his rookie year. However, the Jaguars still need to keep building before they have a legitimate chance of making the playoffs. Record: 4-12
4. Indianapolis Colts: The Colts are in massive rebuild mode. A new head coach in Chuck Pagano, a new quaterback and face of the franchise in Andrew Luck, and a new scheme on defense switching from a 4-3 to a 3-4 defense. Luck is very hyped as the sure thing at quarterback, and the Colts have begun building around him. However, he may struggle during the season. As could the defense where star defensive ends Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis are now outside linebackers in the new scheme. The Colts will probably end up in the basement for the second year in a row, but I expect them to be more competitive in this regime than the old. Record: 3-13
AFC West:
1. Kansas City Chiefs: The Chiefs did have a surprising draft, taking nose tackle Dontari Poe, who was very underachieving in college but is very athletic for a big man, 11th overall. However, Poe will help the defense greatly by taking on blockers and giving their pass rushers more one-on-ones and give more of a rush. There are two keys for Kansas City to win the west: the health and consistency of quarterback Matt Cassel, and the health of stars Jamaal Charles and Eric Berry, who both suffered torn ACLs early last season. Record: 11-5
2. San Diego Chargers: The Chargers window continues closing, and the pressure is on head coach Norv Turner and quarterback Phillip Rivers to win. San Diego did greatly improve their pass rush in the draft with Melvin Ingram, but there are still question marks on the offensive line with the losses of left tackle Marcus McNeil and guard Kris Deilman. Also, the loss of star wide receiver Vincent Jackson could be key as well.
Record: 9-7
3. Denver Broncos: The Broncos made a huge splash by signing star quarterback Peyton Manning in the offseason. Manning should still Manning, but their are still questions to his health that will put the team in question. The Broncos also didn't help themselves in the draft very much, and that could affect the team even more because Denver shouldn't be like Indianapolis and have everything depend on Manning. Record: 9-7
4. Oakland Raiders: The Raiders are still a good team, but having essentially no draft to improve on along a new philosphy and new head coach puts the Raiders back in the basement. Oakland will also need to depend heavily on running back Darren McFadden and his health to have a chance at the division. Record: 9-7
*denotes wildcard winners
Playoff Seedings:
1. Ravens
2. Texans
3. Patriots
4. Chiefs
5. Steelers
6. Titans
Up Next: NFC Predictions coming soon.
AFC North:
1. Baltimore Ravens: Even though the Ravens will miss star pass-rusher Terrell Suggs for a significant amount of time, along with inconsistencies in the offense, I still pick the Ravens to win the North and make another run at a title. Baltimore is probably the most talented team in the AFC, but have underachieved greatly the last four years. Record: 13-3
2. Pittsburgh Steelers*: The Steelers could easily overtake the Ravens with improvements along their offensive line with guard David Decastro and tackle Mike Adams with their first two draft picks. But question marks with an older defense with key veterans release in the offseason along with a question mark on whether Ben Roethlisberger and new offensive coordinator Todd Haley can get on the same page puts Pittsburgh in question for the division title. Record: 11-5
3. Cincinnati Bengals: The Bengals were the surprise team last year when they made the playoffs with a rookie quarterback in Andy Dalton and rookie wide receiver A.J. Green. Now they come in more experienced and with a very good draft, but it is still a tough job to win in a division with Baltimore and Pittsburgh in it, but this is still a young team that will be very good. Record: 10-6
4. Cleveland Browns: The Browns have new faces of the franchise with their first round picks running back Trent Richardson and quarterback Brandon Weeden. How they perform will be what the Browns season will be like, and it is going to be tough when the Browns are a very weak team in a tough division.
Record: 4-12
AFC East:
1. New England Patriots: This is probably one of the last chances for veterans such as Tom Brady and Wes Welker win their Super Bowl, but it shouldn't be very hard to win the division with weak teams. Plus there is a better chance with significant improvements on defense through the draft with first round picks defensive end Chandler Jones and linebacker Donta Hightower. Record: 12-4
2. Buffalo Bills: The Bills spent money in the offseason, grabbing pass rushers Mario Williams and Mark Anderson. Things to watch out for with the Bills are the health of running back Fred Jackson, the consistency of quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick and the rest of the offense, and the development of first round draft pick cornerback Stephon Gilmore. I felt Gilmore was a reach for a first round pick, let alone the tenth overall pick, so it shall be interesting to see his impact in Orchard Park. Record: 8-8
3. New York Jets: The Jets are a bad team. They proved how overrated they are last season. Now they are messing around with the thought of making packages for Tim Tebow on offense, playing cornerback Antonio Cromartie at wide receiver, and trying to make a pass rush with guys that they hope can succeed. No running game and an over arrogant defense and coach puts them in a battle for third place with the Dolphins. Record: 6-10
4. Miami Dolphins: Somehow, the Dolphins find a way to lose that race with the Jets. But a new head coach, new offense, new defensive scheme, and a stopgap at quarterback to develop eighth overall pick Ryan Tannehill put the Dolphins way down in the cellar in 2012. Record: 5-11
AFC South:
1. Houston Texans: The time is now on the up and coming Texans who made their first playoff appearance in their franchise's ten year history. Even though the early parts of training camp has brought upon many early injuries to key players, along with other players coming off injuries, the Texans play in a weak division and should win it easily. The talent on the team should along with a good running game and good defense may help Houston make a run. Record: 12-4
2. Tennessee Titans*: The Titans have many young weapons on both sides of the ball, it all just matters if they can coincide. Another point that could hold the Titans back is the current quarterback battle between incumbent veteran Matt Hasselbeck and former eighth overall pick Jake Locker. Even though the starter should be Locker, it should be an interesting battle. How that competition play out along with Chris Johnson getting back to the 2009 form along with the utilizing of young weapons in tight end Jared Cook and first round pick wide receiver Kendall Wright will be the difference for the Titans in their hunt for the playoffs.
Record: 10-6
3. Jacksonville Jaguars: The Jaguars have gone through many changes with a new owner, new head coach and a new draft strategy. The Jags didn't try and make a diamond in the rough type of draft by taking small school players high, and instead traded up to get the best receiver in the draft in Justin Blackmon to hopefully help second year quarterback Blaine Gabbert, who struggled in his rookie year. However, the Jaguars still need to keep building before they have a legitimate chance of making the playoffs. Record: 4-12
4. Indianapolis Colts: The Colts are in massive rebuild mode. A new head coach in Chuck Pagano, a new quaterback and face of the franchise in Andrew Luck, and a new scheme on defense switching from a 4-3 to a 3-4 defense. Luck is very hyped as the sure thing at quarterback, and the Colts have begun building around him. However, he may struggle during the season. As could the defense where star defensive ends Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis are now outside linebackers in the new scheme. The Colts will probably end up in the basement for the second year in a row, but I expect them to be more competitive in this regime than the old. Record: 3-13
AFC West:
1. Kansas City Chiefs: The Chiefs did have a surprising draft, taking nose tackle Dontari Poe, who was very underachieving in college but is very athletic for a big man, 11th overall. However, Poe will help the defense greatly by taking on blockers and giving their pass rushers more one-on-ones and give more of a rush. There are two keys for Kansas City to win the west: the health and consistency of quarterback Matt Cassel, and the health of stars Jamaal Charles and Eric Berry, who both suffered torn ACLs early last season. Record: 11-5
2. San Diego Chargers: The Chargers window continues closing, and the pressure is on head coach Norv Turner and quarterback Phillip Rivers to win. San Diego did greatly improve their pass rush in the draft with Melvin Ingram, but there are still question marks on the offensive line with the losses of left tackle Marcus McNeil and guard Kris Deilman. Also, the loss of star wide receiver Vincent Jackson could be key as well.
Record: 9-7
3. Denver Broncos: The Broncos made a huge splash by signing star quarterback Peyton Manning in the offseason. Manning should still Manning, but their are still questions to his health that will put the team in question. The Broncos also didn't help themselves in the draft very much, and that could affect the team even more because Denver shouldn't be like Indianapolis and have everything depend on Manning. Record: 9-7
4. Oakland Raiders: The Raiders are still a good team, but having essentially no draft to improve on along a new philosphy and new head coach puts the Raiders back in the basement. Oakland will also need to depend heavily on running back Darren McFadden and his health to have a chance at the division. Record: 9-7
*denotes wildcard winners
Playoff Seedings:
1. Ravens
2. Texans
3. Patriots
4. Chiefs
5. Steelers
6. Titans
Up Next: NFC Predictions coming soon.
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