NFL: The 2006 NFC Preseason Rankings
The NFC conference has been on the bottom of the totem pole for the past three seasons when it comes to the Super Bowl. Every year, it seems as if the AFC conference has the best talent and more competitive teams. For the first time in a while, it looks as if the NFC conference has enough talent to challenge the AFC this year. The NFC teams should be more competitive in 2006 that my result in a stronger team representing the conference for Super Bowl XLI.
Here are my early preseason rankings for the top six teams in the NFC Conference for 2006:
1.) In Super Bowl XL, the Seattle Seahawks put up a valiant effort to win, but were no match for the Pittsburgh Steelers and the officials. However, they are still the team to beat in the NFC and deserve the top spot until someone knocks them off. The addition of wide receiver Nate Burleson will add to the numerous weapons that quarterback Matt Hasselback already has. Shawn Alexander is one of the best Running Backs in the league.
2.) In our nation’s capital, Head coach Joe Gibbs has his Washington Redskins poised for a big season in 2006. The free agent signings of wide receivers Brandon Lloyd and Antwaan Randle-El will make quarterback Mark Brunell’s job much easier. The defense is still strong and the additions of Andre Carter and Adam Archuleta could put this unit at the top. The NFC East Division will be tough, but I expect the Redskins to do big things in the 2006 season.
3.) The Carolina Panthers made it to the NFC Championship in 2005 but came up 20 points short, losing to the Seattle Seahawks 34-14. In 2006, the core players are still in tact and the addition of wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson, will compliment pro bowler Steve Smith very well.
4.) Every NFL expert expects the Dallas Cowboys to be an instant super bowl contender because of the signing of Wide Terrell Owens. There is no doubt that his presence on the football field makes the Cowboys a better team, but Drew Bledsode still has to get the ball to him. There may be too many holes and question marks along the offensive line for Bledsode to be as affective as he would like.
5.) The Chicago Bears may have the best defense in the NFL, but the same thing can’t be said for their offense. If Rex Grossman can stay healthy for the entire season, the Bears have a shot at making the playoffs.
6.) The NFC East divisional crown belonged to the New York Giants in 2005. However, they were booted out of the playoffs in the first round by the Carolina Panthers. Things don’t get any easier for the Giants in 2006. The NFC east division looks as tough as it has ever been. Eli Manning will have to step it up big time for the Giants to be competitive. The addition of linebacker Lavar Arrington is a good compliment to Michael Strahan and Osi Umenyiora. The defense should be pretty good this upcoming season.
The rest of the Conference:
7.) Tampa Bay Buccaneers – it will all depend on how fast Chris Simms develops as a NFL quarterback.
8.) Philadelphia Eagles – It was good while it lasted, but it looks as if Philly’s favorite birds may get beat up on once again in the NFC east.
9.) Atlanta Falcons – Michael Vick is not the typical system Quarterback. Jim Mora Jr. needs to let Michael Vick be himself.
10.) Minnesota Vikings – Brad Johnson is a good quarterback. However, he will be 38 years old soon and may not be able to play an entire season.
11.) Arizona Cardinals – The reason why the Cardinals are ranked so low is because Kurt Warner is the starting quarterback for 2006. However, running back Edgerrin James will make Warner’s job much easier.
12.) New Orleans Saints – I don’t know about you all, but I just can’t wait to see Reggie Bush play.
13.) St. Lois Rams – Who is their quarterback? Where is Marshall Faulk? Torry Holt is the best thing going for the Rams right now.
14.) Green Bay Packers – I sure hope that Brett Farve doesn’t have a season like he had in 2005. 29 interceptions were too painful to watch.
15.) Detroit Lions – Step one: Fire the GM. Step Two: Find a legitimate Quarterback. It is a shame to see those talented wide receivers on the team with no one to throw them the ball.
16.) San Francisco 49ners – I truly think that Alex Smith will be a great quarterback one day. It is just going to take more time. Looks like 2006 will be another growing pain season for the 49ners.
