After two thirds of the year without the sport, America's game is back, with week 1 of the season tonight. Here's a quick run-down of my tips for the long-term.
To Make The Playoffs
DETROIT LIONS @ 6/5
After what would be seen by many as a successful season last year, Detroit are looking only to improve. This won't be an easy task, but from what was shown last year and the squad they have on paper, they are more than capable of slipping into the NFC's top 6.
Boasting a young quarterback that screams both talent and potential, the Panthers finished last season with impressive flashes of offensive flare. Last season's display was a perfect example of a team with the best yet to come; the question is how soon that day will arrive. Making the playoffs is by no means an easy feat, but establishing consistency and making a good run in could see Carolina slip into a wild-card spot.
To Win The Divison
NFC EAST - Philadelphia Eagles @ 9/5
The division can truly go three ways, which justifies the fairly long odds for the Eagles. In context, last year was a failure of a season for Philadelphia, with their more than capable squad never quite pulling it together with any consistency. If they can maintain a good record within the division, I can see the Eagles topping the Giants and Cowboys come January.
Ditching the unorthadox flare of young Tebow for a quarterback that churned consistency before his injury, the Broncos can mount a serious run providing Peyton Manning has recovered well. Denver's home advantage and solid defense can make the Broncos a team no-one looks forward to on the schedule.
To Win The Superbowl
Houston Texans @ 12/1
Last season, the Texans were riding a third string quarterback in the playoffs, beating the Bengals and only one score away from beating the Ravens. The beauty of the superbowl is that it's wide open, and a good run of form can work wonders to a team heading into the post season; last year there was questions of the Giants even making the playoffs. Houston has the pieces, if they're put together I can see them pipping the Patriots, Ravens and Steelers for that night in New Orleans.
San Francisco 49ers @ 15/1
The team I truly thought would win the NFC last year. I felt so right when they beat the Saints, then so wrong when the ball got dropped in overtime. Again the same questions rise with the 49ers; is their quarterback good enough? Their offense lost the game against the Giants last year, Smith played a safe game that a killer pass from a Rodgers or Brady would have won. Their defense was formidable last season, and I can only see improvement from the offense this year. Perhaps it was because of their heartbreaking elimination last year, but I truly can see the 49ers with a ring in New Orleans.
Week 1 Picks to follow.
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