At this time, the Tampa Bay Bucs are the experts choice to be the surprise team this year. I think there is some merit in that argument, but I think the real sleeping giant is the Houston Texans. They are now practicing with the Patriots and about to play a preseason game against them. From what I have been hearing, this team is for real and is taking no prisoners. They have frustrated Brady during drills and the Patriots are finding out the hard way that this team is for real. They are physical and if they get a decent QB play this year, watch out! Ok Maybe I am wrong and the Raiders will be even better. Maybe the Steelers and the Ravens have something to say. In the NFC it could be the Giants year this year. Maybe Philly is another sleeper. Who knows the Vikings could be the sleeping Giant. Oops I shouldn't forget the Lions either. But for now, I am going with the Texans.
Texans gave Brady a good fight last year. And I'm a believer in Bill O'Brien I am not a believer in DeShaun Watson though (or Tom Savage). I don't like his arm strength, his wonderlic, he stares down his primary, accuracy isn't great. Just reminds me of a slightly better Vince Young. He can play in the league but he'll never be anything special
Its not like the Texans need a great QB. If they can get someone who can simply manage the offense without making dumb mistakes, I think they have a chance. They sort of remind me of the old Jets that gave the Patriots fits by being good on defense and physical on offense.
Good point I forgot about them. Yes Mariotta was impressive last year. Hopefully he will not have the sophomore jinx when defenses game plan for him better.
They'll plan for him, no doubt. I just think with his new toys he will be able to overcome the planning.