all this talk about the jets closing a 5 game gap is interesting, whether they do or not, i don't know that they'd be the next team in line behind new england. buffalo or even miami could be that 2nd place team..likely buffalo should be a close division though for all 4 teams
I'd say: Giants Broncos Ravens Lions Saints All the people saying the Bengals were a fluke, I don't see it. They got there last year partly because of a great draft, and had what looks like another great draft this year. Plus the Ravens will lose a step with Suggs out, no question about it.
I don't think it's going to be five teams this year. But if I had to take a stab at that number, I'd guess: Atlanta - Regular season, they're usually fine, but will the lack of playoff success start creeping into their heads? NYG - Tough schedule, tough division. They could end up in a tie-breaker scenario where they miss out entirely. Detroit - A "stretch" pick, I know, and to me that team right now is as talented as any team... but hasn't really shown it yet. Cincinnati - I don't think they were a "fluke" team last year but I do think they snuck up on some opponents and that won't happen in 2012. Pittsburgh - This is the pick I'm the least confident in. I know they're aging, but the Steelers have a way of hanging around, and seem to be stronger in alternating years.
A lot of 49er/Giant hate in this thread.... I'm sure many on here have penciled in September 30th as a win for the Jets...lol. Good luck!
My 5: Giants (tough season; plus they just won a Super Bowl) Bengals (this is a tough one... they could either get better or way worse. I think the latter) Broncos (unless I'm wrong about Peyton...) Falcons (a slew of tough finishes in a row will harm this team and their qb's sanity) ...I really want to stop there. I think only 4 will change this year. But if I have to.. Lions (they know how to lose better than they know how to win)
This is pretty much my thinking also, and I agree, I dont see it being 5 teams this year, or even close to it.
