My 2006 - 2007 NFL predictions

I know it's a little early, but here are my predictions for each division, conference, and super bowl champ. I'll start by saying that I am a little biased, since I think my favorite team, the New England Patriots, has the ability to go all the way. As long as Bill Belichick is coaching and Tom Brady is the QB, they have a shot. Enough ranting about the Pats for now. Here are my predictions:

AFC East: Patriots (no real surprise here)

AFC North: Cincinnati Bengals - As long as his knee stays healthy, this is Carson Palmer's year.

AFC South: Indianapolis Colts - Is it me, or does Peyton Manning remind anyone else of Dan Marino? He'll break all sorts of passing records, have amazing regular seasons, and is probably a shoe in for Canton. His one flaw: He doesn't seem to have what it takes to win the big one.

AFC West: Kansas City Chiefs - I'll guess we'll see if LJ is for real, or if he is a one season wonder.


NFC East: New York Giants - This is the year that Eli starts playing up to his potential. Barber, Shockey, and Burress all have big seasons.

NFC North: Detroit - What the !%#$&??? Yes, Detroit. They have lots of talent and are in a weak division. Some will say Chicago is the right pick here, but I am going out on a limb. I like the Bears defense, but their offense is questionable.

NFC South: Carolina Panthers - I really like their defense, and they have one of the best receivers in the league (no, not Keyshawn) .

NFC West: Seattle Seahawks - by default. I know they went to the Super Bowl last year, but there isn't going to be much competition in their division. The Cardinals will show signs of life, and probably finish 2nd.


AFC Champion: I think the Patriots edge out the Bengals.

NFC Champion: I know a lot of people are picking Dallas or Seattle here, but I like Carolina.

Super bowl Champion: All biases aside, I like Carolina in an upset rematch over the Patriots.

1st Overall pick in the 2007 draft: There are some good candidates for the worst team in the league. Right off the bat, I'm thinking of the Jets, Texans, 49ers, and Titans. I think both the Texans and 49ers start to climb out of their holes this year and show everyone that years of high draft choices really do pay off. My vote for the biggest loser of the year goes to the Buffalo Bills. They have some quality players like McGahee and Lee Evans, but they have too many other holes that will result in losses. They also play in a tough division, where they can count on two losses to the Patriots, two losses to Miami, and probably a split with the Jets.

Comments?