The NFC South sent two teams to the playoffs last year for the first time since 2005. The "worst to first" trend ended last year after 5 years of the division champion being the worst team in the division the previous year. The trend ended because of the last-second field goal that gave the Panthers the crown (the Falcons went 11-5). Does that mean the Saints will have a great season? Here's what I think about the NFC South division for the 2009 season.
Team On the Rise: New Orleans Saints
I like what Drew Brees did last year. I don't think he can repeat last years incredible season, but I think he can lead this team. Making the playoffs will be tough in this difficult division, but I think they can hop up in the NFC South standings.
Team On the Decline: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Bucs ended last year with four straight losses, and I think that is going to be what this season might look like. Tampa Bay is in the rebuilding process: they have a first year coach and a quarterback battle underway. I think they can be better in a couple years, but with a new coach and insecurity at the QB position, I think they are declining this year.
Biggest Impact Players: Matt Ryan and Steve Smith
Matt Ryan is now a sophomore in the NFL, and he is ready to lead this team to make a run. Yes they have Michael Turner, but they need him on his game if they want their offense to excel this season. It does helps having a Pro Bowl wide receiver and tight end. Steve Smith is the difference maker for Carolina. At age 30, Smith is a little past the prime of his career, and the Panthers need him to come up big. The wide receiver core starts with him, and after Jake Delhomme's 5 interceptions in the playoffs last year, number 89 needs to help him regain confidence. A focused Steve Smith could really make an impact for Carolina.
Best Offense: Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons are loaded with talent on offense. With Matt Ryan coming off a great rookie season, this team has all the pieces to the puzzle. Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez give Matt Ryan two great targets any quarterback would love to play with, and you cannot forget Michael Turner, the Pro Bowl running back last year in his first season as a starter.
Best Defense: Carolina Panthers
The Panthers return numerous defensive play makers from last year, including Julius Peppers, who received the franchise tag over the off season. Middle linebacker Jon Beason is a player who I think will have a phenomenal season this year. Chris Gamble is a good piece to the solid secondary that Carolina has as well.
Best Division Game: Saints at Panthers
January 3, 2010, Week 17. This is a must-win game for both teams. I think Carolina will come out on top, but the Saints will make this game interesting right before the playoffs begin.
Division Winner: Carolina Panthers
I think the Panthers have a great balance with there offense and defense that will crown them division champs. They have what it takes to put up points and make big stops.
In the picture: Atlanta Falcons - Matt Ryan and the powerful offense should contend in this division. Their defense is what I think will hold them back from winning the NFC South.
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