TopNotchPlays
07-19-2004, 01:05 PM
These are basic write-ups taken from my Pre-Season Newsletter, which hit at a decent 64% last year in the NFL.
ARIZONA CARDINALS: HC Dennis Green has gone on record stating that it will be very difficult to achieve his goal of making the Play Offs. The Roster is young, the Coaching Staff new and the Schedule appears a bit too tough. The talent level did improve during the Off-Season and Green will bring a fresh approach, which is a good thing for Cards fans. If McCown proves worthy and some young Defensive Linemen gel, the Cardinals will show improvement - though not nearly enough to make the Play Offs.
ATLANTA FALCONS: If Vick can stay healthy, the Falcons will challenge for a Play Off spot. If he somehow gets re-injured, they must avoid another meltdown by relying on the short passing game and consistency from Dunn & Duckett. Most of the Defensive performance will depend on the play of DeAngelo Hall. If the Rookie struggles, opponents will immediately begin attacking with their passing game. If he thrives, he's talented enough to close off the left side of the field and lift the play of the entire Defense.
BALTIMORE RAVENS: The Ravens have a highly talented, veteran team and are a good bet to advance to the Conference Semi-Finals and possibly the AFC Championship game. Basically, it all boils down to the development of QB Boller.
BUFFALO BILLS: Considering the Bills lost 10 games in '03, you would think expectations would be modest at best. But this is the "NO EXCUSES" year from Ralph Wilson, the Owner. However, with NE ruling the AFC East, a Wild-Card berth seems to be the most the Bills can even hope for.
CAROLINA PANTHERS: A return to the Super Bowl will not be easy due to the Free Agency losses, a tough schedule and the fact no team will take these Panthers lightly. They have shown they can handle a challenge and the core of this team is intact. A return to the Play Offs seems very likely.
CHICAGO BEARS: For Da' Bears to succeed in their aggressive, attacking style of Defense, the Offensive Unit must put points on the scoreboard while forcing their opponents to pass. There are a few crucial holes on the Roster yet---LT and Edge Pass Rusher. If bodies can be found to fill them, this could be a much improved Unit. If not, problems will derail an inexperienced Coaching Staff.
CINNCINATI BENGALS: The bad attitudes are gone and overachievers have joined talented veterans to form a tight-knit family under Lewis' "One Heartbeat" philosophy. Of the 22 Projected Starters, 18 are 1st or 2nd Round Draft Picks. The Bungles should be ready to step it up this season.
CLEVELAND BROWNS: The news in Cleveland is major acquisitions---Garcia at QB, Winslow at TE and Smith at FB. However, the Offensive Line is still a concern. Also, questions surround the Run Defense, Secondary and Punting. Davis must solve these problems----his job depends on it.
DALLAS COWBOYS: Parcell's team is not quite ready to take the next step. They are still unsettled at too many key positions. There is definitely more talent now than in '03, but it won't show up in the Standings until next year. They'll make some noise, but it won't be enough---just yet.
DENVER BRONCOS: Here's a team that still needs to find their new Backfield "stud," a reliable 3rd Receiver and Foster has yet to fulfill his promise at Right Tackle. More importantly, the Bronco's need to feature a "Big Play" type Defense---'03's lack of INT's and forced Fumbles landed them near the bottom of the pile, 22nd, in the Turn Over category. However, Denver should still be considered a Super Bowl contender.
DETROIT LIONS: For all the speed and talent on this team, the Lions just have too many holes to fill. Also, they cannot win games in the 4th Quarter. There is no QB in the league who can get it done alone, but the reality in Detroit is that their season hinges on Harrington. They'll fair better than last year, but not by much.
GREEN BAY PACKERS: ALL the ingredients are in place to repeat as Division Champs. The Offense should really light things up in the NFC, but the Defense lacks the game-changing difference makers to go very deep into the Play Offs.
HOUSTON TEXANS: For the very first time the Texans don't have any glaring weaknesses that can be exploited. They have an honest shot at winning every time they take the field in '04. This is no longer an expansion team folks!
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS: Time is quickly running out on a team that will face significant Free Agency questions at the end of this season. The Defense also remains as a serious question mark in the wake of so many Off-Season departures. But, as long as Manning is at the helm, a deep Play Off run should be/is expected.
JACKSONVILLE JAQUARS: They are loaded with promising young talent at critical positions on both Offense and Defense as well as having a very favorable schedule. Still, they have a few more holes than one might expect, especially at Kicker and DE. An 8-8 year isn't out of the question and would be welcomed after 3 consecutive seasons of double-digit losses.
KANSAS CITY CHIEFS: They will definitely have trouble matching last years 13-3 record due to their very difficult schedule. Although, they should still contend for the AFC West Title. A dangerous Offensive Unit will keep the Chiefs in the Super Bowl hunt, but that window is slowly closing as 8 players are 30+ years old now.
MIAMI DOLPHINS: Once again, just like last year, Miami should be a Play Off and Super Bowl caliber team. They're certainly good enough on both sides of the ball to make the season intriguing, but fatally flawed at the same time.
MINNESOTA VIKINGS: Tice will either lead an improved team into the Play Offs or a very talented team will have a brand new Coach next year. The Offensive Unit is elite and the Defense has enough talent to be considered "solid."
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS: This team's talent is superior to any other team in the league. If they stay smart, tough and healthy, they will be Super Bowl contenders again for '04. As Brady is fond of saying, "My favorite ring is the next one."
NEW ORLEAN SAINTS: A fast start out of the gates is crucial for this teams success. If they can gain some confidence and momentum they will be in the Play Off hunt. Talent is not an issue for this club---attitude and maturity are. '04 should be the year everything clicks---a Wild card slot at the very least.
NEW YORK GIANTS: Whether they'll admit it or not, the Giants are "regrouping" after a 4-12 season. Anything above 6 victories would be a great accomplishment. The true test of the Manning decision will come in '05 and beyond.
NEW YORK JETS: A younger, faster Defensive unit should help improve their biggest problem in '03---stopping and shutting down the Run. In the end however, the most important thing is keeping Pennington healthy. As the Jets have learned, life without their QB is no picnic.
OAKLAND RAIDERS: Davis refused to even consider rebuilding, even though the Roster is stocked with aging players at key positions. There has been a significant Defensive makeover and Collins should fit this Offensive style of play like a good leather glove. Look for them to improve, but the Play Offs are not in this year's picture.
PHILADELPHIA EAGLES: Kearse and Owens were signed to keep the Eagles on top and get them to the Super Bowl. The first goal is certainly doable, but the loss of leaders such as Vincent and Staley will take their toll in the Play Offs---no Super Bowl this year either.
PITTSBURGH STEELERS: They must get back to controlling the Line of Scrimmage so they can return to what they do best---ramming the ball down their opponents throats. If LeBeau is smart enough to bring back the blitz and restore the tenacity to the Defense, we'll see the Black & Gold in the Play Offs.
SAN DIEGO CHARGERS: Only 4 winning seasons in the past 20 years!!! Unfortunately for fans, things look to continue in that direction for SD. They lack proven players on both Lines, have questions at QB and Wideout and must rely on a Kicker and Punter with NO NFL experience. The Defensive Unit gets a new Coach which means new schemes to learn---4 wins aren't even a certainty this year.
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS: Here is an Offensive Unit that has averaged 385 yards and 25+ points per game over the past 22 games. Thus, the Off-Season was spent trying to shore up the Defense. Despite a tougher schedule, the 'Hawks should earn a Play Off spot and challenge for the "Big Dance" in '04.
SAN FRANCISCO 49ER'S: They would appear to be heading for their 4th losing season in the last 6 years. The Offense is both young and inexperienced---especially at QB, LT and WR. The Defensive Unit is respectable but has no real depth if injuries occur.
ST LOUIS RAMS: Since 1999, the Rams have won more games than any other team in the league. Bulger is poised to take the reins, though it will not be a seamless transition. The biggest question is the Defensive Line---a schedule that includes BOTH Super Bowl teams, plus GB and Philly won't make life any easier either.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS: If the newcomers produce and remain healthy, TB should contend for the Division Title and just may even reach the Super Bowl. If not, they'll be eyeing up their 2nd consecutive sub-.500 finish.
TENNESSEE TITANS: Even with all the player losses the Tits should still battle the Colts for the AFC South Title. The biggest key will be slowing down the multiple-receiver Offenses they'll encounter along the way---and of course, keep mcNair healthy.
WASHINGTON REDSKINS: They made a HUGE RB upgrade and have a veteran QB. The biggest difference---the return of Gibbs gives Washington a very good chance at winning more games than they lose. One trademark of a Gibbs coached team---they always get better as the season goes on.
ARIZONA CARDINALS: HC Dennis Green has gone on record stating that it will be very difficult to achieve his goal of making the Play Offs. The Roster is young, the Coaching Staff new and the Schedule appears a bit too tough. The talent level did improve during the Off-Season and Green will bring a fresh approach, which is a good thing for Cards fans. If McCown proves worthy and some young Defensive Linemen gel, the Cardinals will show improvement - though not nearly enough to make the Play Offs.
ATLANTA FALCONS: If Vick can stay healthy, the Falcons will challenge for a Play Off spot. If he somehow gets re-injured, they must avoid another meltdown by relying on the short passing game and consistency from Dunn & Duckett. Most of the Defensive performance will depend on the play of DeAngelo Hall. If the Rookie struggles, opponents will immediately begin attacking with their passing game. If he thrives, he's talented enough to close off the left side of the field and lift the play of the entire Defense.
BALTIMORE RAVENS: The Ravens have a highly talented, veteran team and are a good bet to advance to the Conference Semi-Finals and possibly the AFC Championship game. Basically, it all boils down to the development of QB Boller.
BUFFALO BILLS: Considering the Bills lost 10 games in '03, you would think expectations would be modest at best. But this is the "NO EXCUSES" year from Ralph Wilson, the Owner. However, with NE ruling the AFC East, a Wild-Card berth seems to be the most the Bills can even hope for.
CAROLINA PANTHERS: A return to the Super Bowl will not be easy due to the Free Agency losses, a tough schedule and the fact no team will take these Panthers lightly. They have shown they can handle a challenge and the core of this team is intact. A return to the Play Offs seems very likely.
CHICAGO BEARS: For Da' Bears to succeed in their aggressive, attacking style of Defense, the Offensive Unit must put points on the scoreboard while forcing their opponents to pass. There are a few crucial holes on the Roster yet---LT and Edge Pass Rusher. If bodies can be found to fill them, this could be a much improved Unit. If not, problems will derail an inexperienced Coaching Staff.
CINNCINATI BENGALS: The bad attitudes are gone and overachievers have joined talented veterans to form a tight-knit family under Lewis' "One Heartbeat" philosophy. Of the 22 Projected Starters, 18 are 1st or 2nd Round Draft Picks. The Bungles should be ready to step it up this season.
CLEVELAND BROWNS: The news in Cleveland is major acquisitions---Garcia at QB, Winslow at TE and Smith at FB. However, the Offensive Line is still a concern. Also, questions surround the Run Defense, Secondary and Punting. Davis must solve these problems----his job depends on it.
DALLAS COWBOYS: Parcell's team is not quite ready to take the next step. They are still unsettled at too many key positions. There is definitely more talent now than in '03, but it won't show up in the Standings until next year. They'll make some noise, but it won't be enough---just yet.
DENVER BRONCOS: Here's a team that still needs to find their new Backfield "stud," a reliable 3rd Receiver and Foster has yet to fulfill his promise at Right Tackle. More importantly, the Bronco's need to feature a "Big Play" type Defense---'03's lack of INT's and forced Fumbles landed them near the bottom of the pile, 22nd, in the Turn Over category. However, Denver should still be considered a Super Bowl contender.
DETROIT LIONS: For all the speed and talent on this team, the Lions just have too many holes to fill. Also, they cannot win games in the 4th Quarter. There is no QB in the league who can get it done alone, but the reality in Detroit is that their season hinges on Harrington. They'll fair better than last year, but not by much.
GREEN BAY PACKERS: ALL the ingredients are in place to repeat as Division Champs. The Offense should really light things up in the NFC, but the Defense lacks the game-changing difference makers to go very deep into the Play Offs.
HOUSTON TEXANS: For the very first time the Texans don't have any glaring weaknesses that can be exploited. They have an honest shot at winning every time they take the field in '04. This is no longer an expansion team folks!
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS: Time is quickly running out on a team that will face significant Free Agency questions at the end of this season. The Defense also remains as a serious question mark in the wake of so many Off-Season departures. But, as long as Manning is at the helm, a deep Play Off run should be/is expected.
JACKSONVILLE JAQUARS: They are loaded with promising young talent at critical positions on both Offense and Defense as well as having a very favorable schedule. Still, they have a few more holes than one might expect, especially at Kicker and DE. An 8-8 year isn't out of the question and would be welcomed after 3 consecutive seasons of double-digit losses.
KANSAS CITY CHIEFS: They will definitely have trouble matching last years 13-3 record due to their very difficult schedule. Although, they should still contend for the AFC West Title. A dangerous Offensive Unit will keep the Chiefs in the Super Bowl hunt, but that window is slowly closing as 8 players are 30+ years old now.
MIAMI DOLPHINS: Once again, just like last year, Miami should be a Play Off and Super Bowl caliber team. They're certainly good enough on both sides of the ball to make the season intriguing, but fatally flawed at the same time.
MINNESOTA VIKINGS: Tice will either lead an improved team into the Play Offs or a very talented team will have a brand new Coach next year. The Offensive Unit is elite and the Defense has enough talent to be considered "solid."
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS: This team's talent is superior to any other team in the league. If they stay smart, tough and healthy, they will be Super Bowl contenders again for '04. As Brady is fond of saying, "My favorite ring is the next one."
NEW ORLEAN SAINTS: A fast start out of the gates is crucial for this teams success. If they can gain some confidence and momentum they will be in the Play Off hunt. Talent is not an issue for this club---attitude and maturity are. '04 should be the year everything clicks---a Wild card slot at the very least.
NEW YORK GIANTS: Whether they'll admit it or not, the Giants are "regrouping" after a 4-12 season. Anything above 6 victories would be a great accomplishment. The true test of the Manning decision will come in '05 and beyond.
NEW YORK JETS: A younger, faster Defensive unit should help improve their biggest problem in '03---stopping and shutting down the Run. In the end however, the most important thing is keeping Pennington healthy. As the Jets have learned, life without their QB is no picnic.
OAKLAND RAIDERS: Davis refused to even consider rebuilding, even though the Roster is stocked with aging players at key positions. There has been a significant Defensive makeover and Collins should fit this Offensive style of play like a good leather glove. Look for them to improve, but the Play Offs are not in this year's picture.
PHILADELPHIA EAGLES: Kearse and Owens were signed to keep the Eagles on top and get them to the Super Bowl. The first goal is certainly doable, but the loss of leaders such as Vincent and Staley will take their toll in the Play Offs---no Super Bowl this year either.
PITTSBURGH STEELERS: They must get back to controlling the Line of Scrimmage so they can return to what they do best---ramming the ball down their opponents throats. If LeBeau is smart enough to bring back the blitz and restore the tenacity to the Defense, we'll see the Black & Gold in the Play Offs.
SAN DIEGO CHARGERS: Only 4 winning seasons in the past 20 years!!! Unfortunately for fans, things look to continue in that direction for SD. They lack proven players on both Lines, have questions at QB and Wideout and must rely on a Kicker and Punter with NO NFL experience. The Defensive Unit gets a new Coach which means new schemes to learn---4 wins aren't even a certainty this year.
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS: Here is an Offensive Unit that has averaged 385 yards and 25+ points per game over the past 22 games. Thus, the Off-Season was spent trying to shore up the Defense. Despite a tougher schedule, the 'Hawks should earn a Play Off spot and challenge for the "Big Dance" in '04.
SAN FRANCISCO 49ER'S: They would appear to be heading for their 4th losing season in the last 6 years. The Offense is both young and inexperienced---especially at QB, LT and WR. The Defensive Unit is respectable but has no real depth if injuries occur.
ST LOUIS RAMS: Since 1999, the Rams have won more games than any other team in the league. Bulger is poised to take the reins, though it will not be a seamless transition. The biggest question is the Defensive Line---a schedule that includes BOTH Super Bowl teams, plus GB and Philly won't make life any easier either.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS: If the newcomers produce and remain healthy, TB should contend for the Division Title and just may even reach the Super Bowl. If not, they'll be eyeing up their 2nd consecutive sub-.500 finish.
TENNESSEE TITANS: Even with all the player losses the Tits should still battle the Colts for the AFC South Title. The biggest key will be slowing down the multiple-receiver Offenses they'll encounter along the way---and of course, keep mcNair healthy.
WASHINGTON REDSKINS: They made a HUGE RB upgrade and have a veteran QB. The biggest difference---the return of Gibbs gives Washington a very good chance at winning more games than they lose. One trademark of a Gibbs coached team---they always get better as the season goes on.