It’s that time of the year when all the so-called national experts and football pundits take their shot at predicting the field of NFL playoff teams for the upcoming season. It’s a pretty mixed bag, with most of the ”predictions sure to go wrong” as ESPN’s Mike & Mike have labeled it. Pretty funny actually.
So with all the know-it-alls giving it a shot here in the last few days of the pre-season, I thought I’d jump into the fray. I spend a lot of brainpower thinking about it anyway, so I just as well share it with the sporting world and make a jerk out of myself like everybody else. So here goes …
*Division winner
**Wildcard team
AFC North – Pittsburgh*, Baltimore**, Cleveland, Cincinnati
Steelers continue their dominance of the Ravens. Both make the playoffs, again.
AFC South – Houston*, Indianapolis, Tennessee, Jacksonville
Texans take advantage of Peyton’s neck and finally break through.
AFC East – New England*, NY Jets**, Buffalo, Miami
The hoodie does it again; Jets continue to back up Rex’s big talk.
AFC West – San Diego*, Kansas City, Oakland, Denver
Chargers get the special teams figured out; Chiefs can’t overcome the tougher schedule.
NFC North – Green Bay*, Detroit**, Chicago, Minnesota
Packers win the division this year while the Lions are the NFC surprise.
NFC South – New Orleans*, Atlanta, Tampa Bay, Carolina
Saints O and D are tough all season while the rest of the division takes a step back.
NFC East – Philadelphia*, Dallas**, NY Giants, Washington
Eagles aren’t as dreamy as everyone expects and Romo leads the ‘Boys back to the playoffs.
NFC West – St. Louis*, Arizona, Seattle, San Francisco
Rams are the class of this weak division; Kolb and Co. are better but not quite there yet.
Super Bowl prediction: Packers v Chargers.
Titletown USA celebrates again because (as a Chiefs fan) I just can’t make myself predict the Chargers winning the championship. I don't see it happening with Norv Turner as coach.
As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Come on … give it a shot. Who do you think will be the surprise and potential flop teams this season?
Until next time, thanks for reading.
Steve
