NFC South Early Predictions
Over the offseason, a division that has kept quiet is the NFC South. The Carolina Panthers went out and shocked the world by first getting to the playoffs, and then winning a playoff game against the Arizona Cardinals. Will this be the year another team takes over?
The Saints acquired cornerback Brandon Browner in the offseason, who has proved himself as a physical defensive back in the NFL. The team struggles at the running back position, but did go out and sign C.J. Spiller to help out Mark Ingram. The Saints could win the NFC South this year, but with the lose of Jimmy Graham, the battle will be tougher than ever.
I believe the Panthers have a good chance at the NFC wild card this season. In 2014, Cam Newton showed up and was able to be “Superman” in the second-half of the regular season. Their offseason was mild to say the least, only adding Michael Oher, Tedd Ginn and Jonathan Martin to the roster. The Panther could finish with a winning record, but they made no real improvements this offseason.
The Bucs may be a surprise team this year. With Jameis Winston under center, the team seems confident with letting the rookie call the shots. The Bucs struggle with the backfield situation, as Doug Martin has been less than impressive the last few seasons. Wide Receiver Mike Evans proved himself last year as a rookie, and I expect his statistics to increase in 2015.
The Falcons are a wreck. With a team that contains Julio Jones and Roddy White, the Falcons once again have a slim chance at the playoffs. The team did bring in Dan Quinn, the former Seattle Seahawks’ defensive coordinator. Will this launch the team into the playoffs? It may take a few years before the Falcons can be serious about a Super Bowl run.
