NFL 2009 Predictions

Simple predictions for the 2009 NFL Season. No research, simply my thoughts using the little bit of information I picked up during the offseason.

NFC North-Minnesota, Green Bay, Chicago, Detroit

Minnesota should win this division, because of the 2 headed monster at tailback, and the dominate left side of their offensive line. The Vikings also have a standout run defense with a strong interior, and the pass defense should improve with the addition of Jared Allen from KC providing quarterback pressure. Tavaris Jackson and the passing game is the key to consistent offensive success. Green Bay should finish second, even with the departure of Brett Favre. I strongly believe Minnesota is a stronger team, but Green Bay should give them a nice run. Chicago and Detroit both have too many weaknesses to contend. The Bears defense was not as strong last season, and the running game took a hit when Thomas Jones left 2 seasons ago. Good new is Rex Grossman is no longer the starter, and even an average Kyle Orton should be an upgrade. Detroit has a few good pieces, especially at receiver (Calvin Johnson/Roy Williams), but a journeyman at qb(Jon Kitna), and huge questions at running back. The defense took a big hit with the loss of Shaun Rogers, and we will see how that impacts the playmaking ability of LB Ernie Sims. Bottom line is, Chicago and Detroit will be battling for the cellar.

NFC South-New Orleans, Tampa, Carolina, Atlanta

New Orleans should easily win the NFC South based on their high powered offense. The defense will do just enough not to hurt the team success. The only weakness on the offense is the running game with Duece Mcallister recovering from major knee surgery again, and the ineffectiveness of Reggie Bush between the tackles, but the high powered passing game should be enough. The defense is led by a strong defensive line, and the addition of Jonathan Vilma at linebacker will help strengthen the run defense. The secondary is still a work in progress, but again it's all about the offense. Tampa is aging, but still should be better than the rest of the division. Garcia is a solid qb, and the addition of Antonio Bryant (if he has his head on straight) should help the passing game. Carolina has upgraded their running game simply by letting Deshaun Foster walk. He only had about 5 good games in his entire career, and 4 of them came against the Atlanta Falcons. Carolina drafted Jonathan Stewart to team with DeAngelo Williams. Even with Steve Smith, I believe the passing game and defensive line will be the weak links on this team. Atlanta is rebuilding, but I don't believe they are doomed to win 1 game like some of the experts. I would not be shocked to see them win 5-6 games, especially playing in an overall weak division.