Hard to believe, but another NFL season is almost upon us. I might be doing this a tad early, but I'd rather do it now when I have time. Anyway, I will go division by division, predicting win/loss records and then the playoffs for each conference. Normally, I'd go further in detail to my Seahawks, but I don't think I will this time. I don't know what it is; I'm not particularly excited about this upcoming season. I feel like we outperformed last year, so I'm expecting some regression this year. Also, I'm going to make some very surprising picks, because I feel we get surprised by the NFL every year, and there are always a few teams that are almost the complete opposite of what we expect. Anyway, here are my predicted NFL standings! Wild cards will have asterisks.
AFC East
1. Buffalo Bills: 11-6
2. Miami Dolphins: 10-7*
3. New York Jets: 9-8
4. New England Patriots: 7-10
The Bills still have the most talented roster in the AFC East, but it's tightening fast. I wouldn't be surprised if they had to fight for a wild card, but I still put them as division winners because Miami and the Jets are still missing a few pieces. The Patriots remain competitive under Belichick, but remain mediocre at best.
AFC North
1. Baltimore Ravens: 10-7
2. Cincinnati Bengals: 10-7*
3. Pittsburgh Steelers: 8-9
4. Cleveland Browns: 6-11
Call this the battered and blue division because these teams are going to beat each other up this season. I don't see any team losing or winning more than 4 in-division games. And I hate predicting injuries, but I have a bad feeling about Joe Burrow. His pre-season calf injury worries me and makes me think that might linger or he might suffer a different minor injury that knocks him out for a few games and costs the Bengals the division. The Steelers and Browns remain competitive, but it's hard to do much better in a very tough AFC. And yes, I have Mike Tomlin suffer his first losing season as head coach.
AFC South
1. Indianapolis Colts: 9-8
2. Jacksonville Jaguars: 8-9
3. Tennessee Titans: 8-9
4. Houston Texans: 5-12
Here's one of my surprising predictions: The Colts winning the AFC South. Anthony Richardson has a solid/borderline rookie of the year campaign and leads the Colts to the playoffs. The Jags return back to Earth a bit and realize they've still got a few holes. The Titans are just... there. The Texans still have a ways to go, but surprise some people. Ha! Try all of us. What I thought would be the Colts ended up being the Texans.
AFC West
1. Kansas City Chiefs: 12-5
2. Denver Broncos: 11-6*
3. Los Angeles Chargers: 7-10
4. Las Vegas Raiders: 2-15
The Chiefs are good, as expected, and retain the AFC's #1 seed. It's only with a record of 12-5, though, due to the competitiveness of the AFC. The Broncos are another of my surprise teams, and they claim the top wild-card spot. Russell Wilson mostly returns to form thanks to the help of new head coach Sean Payton. The Chargers get outcoached in many games and Brandon Staley likely loses his job at the end of the season. The Raiders stink with Jimmy G (who likely gets hurt, again) and Josh Jacobs shows his displeasure. If they can afford it, they fire McDaniels.
NFC East
1. Philadelphia Eagles: 11-6
2. New York Giants: 10-7*
3. Washington Commanders: 9-8
4. Dallas Cowboys: 6-11
Hard to believe that we haven't had a repeat NFC East champion in almost 20 years. I think that ends here. The Eagles are too talented. The Giants will make it close, however. The Commanders, no longer having the worst owner in professional sports, play inspired football and almost make the postseason. The Cowboys have a down year, due to not having much depth behind skill players Ceedee Lamb and Tony Pollard.
NFC North
1. Minnesota Vikings: 13-4
2. Detroit Lions: 10-7*
3. Chicago Bears: 8-9
4. Green Bay Packers: 6-11
The Vikings with the best record in the NFL? You heard it here first. Kirk Cousins is now the best QB in his division (although Goff is close). The Vikings will put together a 7 or 8 game win streak, and go 6-4 or 5-4 in their other 10 or 9 games. The Lions don't win the division, but they do snag a wild-card playoff spot. The Bears are slightly improved, but Fields can only do so much. The Packers regress heavily after losing Aaron Rodgers, and Jordan Love leads the Packers' front office to quickly try to find the next heir apparent.
NFC South
1. New Orleans Saints: 10-7
2. Carolina Panthers: 7-10
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 6-11
4. Atlanta Falcons: 5-12
Derek Carr and the Saints claim the division title, thanks to Carr easily being the best QB in the division. The Panthers surprise a bit, and Bryce Young does enough to win rookie of the year. The Bucco's switch to Kyle Trask after Mayfield struggles. The Falcons are just there.
NFC West
1. San Francisco 49ers: 12-5
2. Los Angeles Rams: 11-6*
3. Seattle Seahawks: 8-9
4. Arizona Cardinals: 3-14
The Niners repeat as division champs, likely with multiple QB's starting games for them. The Rams bounce back and claim the top wild card spot thanks to Matthew Stafford's resurgence. My Seahawks do okay for most of the year, but they lose too many close games, due to either the defense allowing a late score or Geno Smith not being able to engineer a game-winning drive. The Cardinals are expected to not be very good, and they won't be.
Here are the playoff seedings:
AFC
1. Kansas City (12-5)
2. Buffalo (11-6)
3. Baltimore (10-7)
4. Indianapolis (9-8)
5. Denver (11-6)
6. Cincinnati (10-7)
7. Miami (10-7)
NFC
1. Minnesota (13-4)
2. San Francisco (12-5)
3. Philadelphia (11-6)
4. New Orleans (10-7)
5. Los Angeles Rams (11-6)
6. New York Giants (10-7)
7. Detroit (10-7)
Here's how I think the playoffs would go:
AFC Wild Card
(7) Dolphins at (2) Bills: Dolphins win
In a rematch of last year's wild card, the Dolphins get the upper hand this time.
(6) Bengals at (3) Ravens: Bengals win
Another rematch, this time with the Ravens as the higher seed, but it still doesn't matter.
(5) Broncos at (4) Colts: Broncos win
The Broncos' leadership (Payton/Wilson) has plenty of playoff experience, and it proves valuable.
NFC Wild Card
(7) Lions at (2) 49ers: 49ers win
I'd be rooting for the Lions like crazy, but it would just be too tough for them, just like it was for my Seahawks last season.
(6) Giants at (3) Eagles: Eagles win
Divisional showdown! Eagles come out on top easily.
(5) Rams at (4) Saints: Rams win
The Rams prove too much for Carr and the Saints.
AFC Divisional Round:
(7) Dolphins at (1) Chiefs: Chiefs win
Tyreke Hill returns to Kansas City! But he loses, due to the KC pressure being too much for Tua.
(6) Bengals at (5) Broncos: Bengals win
The Bengals have a more well-rounded roster in terms of talent and experience, which proves to be the difference.
NFC Divisional Round:
(5) Rams at (1) Vikings: Vikings win
The home field advantage proves too much for the Rams, who also cannot figure out a way to shutdown Justin Jefferson.
(3) Eagles at (2) 49ers: 49ers win
In a rematch of last year's NFC Championship game, the 49ers get the upper hand due to home field advantage, but also having a healthy quarterback this time.
Conference Championships:
(6) Bengals at (1) Chiefs: Bengals win
For the third year in a row, this is the AFC Championship game matchup. And it goes back to Cincy. The Bengals have an up and down season, but they catch fire at the end of the season, which is all that matters.
(2) 49ers at (1) Vikings: Vikings win
Whoever is under center for the 49ers is going to struggle under the lights and noise, and the Vikings win a close, hard-fought game.
Super Bowl LVIII: Vikings vs. Bengals: Bengals win
The Bengals enter as very slight underdogs but emerge victorious. In a matchup of two teams, each who has yet to win a Super Bowl, the Bengals come out on top. It's an electrifying Super Bowl, filled with plenty of lead changes. Joe Burrow wins Super Bowl MVP.
There you have it. The Cincinnati Bengals are my Super Bowl pick. Yikes! Couldn't have done worse, lol. However, my conference championship losers ended up being the Super Bowl, so there's that. Despite me thinking they'll have a down regular season, I think they'll do well late and in the playoffs. They were so close last year to returning to the Super Bowl, and this year I think they do and win it. Before I go, here are the coaches who I think get fired or leave by season's end:
Bill Belichick, Patriots (retires) Didn't retire, but he's done anyway
Mike Vrabel, Titans Yep
Brandon Staley, Chargers Yep
Josh McDaniels, Raiders Yep
Todd Bowles, Buccaneers Nope
Other possibilities: Jonathan Gannon (Cardinals), Arthur Smith (Falcons) Yep, Matt LaFleur (Packers), Pete Carroll (Seahawks, retire?) Yep, Ron Rivera, Commanders (retire?) Yep
The firing I did not consider: Frank Reich (first year!)
Showing posts with label Standings. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Standings. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 9, 2023
2023 NFL Predictions
Monday, March 6, 2023
My 2023 MLB Predictions
It's about that time of year! The MLB season officially gets underway later this month, so I got to get my predictions out.
Like last year, I'm going to predict the order of each division (no win or loss totals), the wild card teams, and I'll run through the playoffs. Last year, I correctly picked the Mariners to end their playoff drought, and I even got their playoff seeding right (#5)! I'll also pick the team leaders for statistical categories and All-Stars. Let's hope I do better in that department this year. Just a refresher: I had Frazier leading in average, JP leading in stolen bases, Ray leading in ERA, and Winker, Haniger, and Ray as All-Stars. Oops! Without further ado, the 2023 MLB predicted standings:
NL EAST
1. Atlanta Braves
2. Philadelphia Phillies*
3. New York Mets*
4. Miami Marlins
5. Washington Nationals
Comment: In the highly competitive NL East (at least with the first three teams), I have the Braves winning the division. They lost Dansby Swanson but still have a great core with Riley, Acuna, and Harris. The Phillies will be a strong wild-card team after acquiring Trea Turner. The Mets did get Verlander, but he shows his age, and the Mets take a small step back.
NL CENTRAL
1. St. Louis Cardinals
2. Milwaukee Brewers
3. Chicago Cubs
4. Cincinnati Reds
5. Pittsburgh Pirates
Comment: This is likely the worst division in baseball. The Brewers and Cardinals will fight for the division, but the Cards have too much firepower with Goldschmidt and Arenado. The retirements of Pujols and Yadi will open up spots for younger players to emerge. The Cubs will be slightly better, and could possibly challenge for a wild card spot.
NL WEST
1. San Diego Padres
2. Los Angeles Dodgers*
3. San Francisco Giants
4. Arizona Diamondbacks
5. Colorado Rockies
Comment: My biggest surprise pick (standing-wise) is the Padres winning the NL West over the Dodgers. The Dodgers will hold the division for most of the season, but a combination of a late Padres run and a Dodgers late collapse results in the Padres winning the division. The Dodgers will still get a wild card. The Giants will be decent again, but like the Cubs may still be a year away.
AL EAST
1. New York Yankees
2. Toronto Blue Jays*
3. Baltimore Orioles*
4. Tampa Bay Rays
5. Boston Red Sox
Comment: The Yankees win the division... again. The Blue Jays again claim the top wild-card seed. The Orioles leapfrog the Rays and claim the final wild-card spot. The Orioles have a young core that will only get better. The Red Sox lost Bogearts and well... they need to rebuild.
AL CENTRAL
1. Cleveland Guardians
2. Minnesota Twins
3. Chicago White Sox
4. Kansas City Royals
5. Detroit Tigers
Comment: The Guardians have a solid young core and aren't going anywhere. The Twins should compete and will challenge for a wild card spot, but it won't be enough. The White Sox will feel the loss of Jose Abreu.
AL WEST
1. Houston Astros
2. Texas Rangers*
3. Seattle Mariners
4. Los Angeles Angels
5. Oakland Athletics
Comment: I hate to say it, but the Mariners are missing the playoffs. I hope I'm wrong. I think the Rangers signing DeGrom and getting Bruce Bochy as manager were huge. I don't think the Mariners did enough this offseason, and it will come back to bite them. Of course, the Astros aren't going anywhere, unfortunately.
So, the 2023 playoffs! Perhaps a few surprise teams? No Mariners... let's hope if they miss the playoffs (like I'm predicting) that it doesn't start a new drought for the team.
NL WILD CARD
(6) Mets at (3) Cardinals: Cardinals win
(5) Phillies at (4) Dodgers: Phillies win
AL WILD CARD
(6) Orioles at (3) Guardians: Guardians win
(5) Rangers at (4) Blue Jays: Blue Jays win
NL DIVISIONAL ROUND
(5) Phillies at (1) Braves: Braves win
(3) Cardinals at (2) Padres: Padres win
AL DIVISIONAL ROUND
(4) Blue Jays at (1) Astros: Astros win
(3) Guardians at (2) Yankees: Guardians win
CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
Padres vs. Braves: Braves win
Guardians vs. Astros: Guardians win
WORLD SERIES
Guardians vs. Braves: Braves win in 7
Yep, a rematch of the 1995 World Series, 28 years later. The Braves win again. Now, who I think will lead certain categories for the M's:
Average: JP Crawford (resurgent season)
Home Runs: Julio Rodriguez
RBI: Ty France
Stolen Bases: Julio Rodriguez
Wins: Luis Castillo
Strikeouts: Robbie Ray
ERA: George Kirby
Saves: Paul Sewald
All-Stars: Julio Rodriguez, George Kirby
I'm going to do a further look at the M's, what I expect from each player, and perhaps go in depth as to why I think they'll miss the playoffs (barely). Look for that soon!
So this is Brian from late 2023, the MLB season is now in the playoffs and I wanted to point out the biggest things I got right and the biggest things I got wrong:
Biggest things I got right:
- Mariners missing the playoffs. I wish I wasn't right on this...! Sigh.
- The Texas Rangers finishing 2nd to the Astros and snagging a wild card, along with two other AL East teams.
- The Baltimore Orioles making the playoffs--although I did not see them winning the East!
- The Dodgers losing their first playoff series--again. Although, I had them losing the wild card instead of losing in the divisional round.
Biggest things I got wrong:
- Guardians winning their division and the AL Pennant--Whoops!
- Cardinals winning the NL Central--but I wasn't the only one to get this wrong
- The Padres winning the NL West over the Dodgers. Hey, they lost a lot of close games, if you switch those, you basically get what I predicted.
- The Yankees winning the AL East while the Rays finish 4th. Basically switch those two.
Sunday, April 4, 2021
My late MLB and Mariners prediction post
It's April 4, we're three games (plus) into the MLB regular season, and I did not do any post about the upcoming season. Eh, better late than never, right? Anyway, I'll still make some predictions for the MLB season. Similarly to how I do my NFL predictions, I'll talk about each division instead of each team. Afterwards, I'll talk about the Mariners and make some predictions. Here we go!
* = Wild Card
NL East
1. Atlanta Braves
2. Washington Nationals*
3. Philadelphia Phillies
4. Miami Marlins
5. New York Mets
The NL East has got some good teams and it was hard to decide what order to put them. I think the Braves have some of the best players in Albies, Acuna, and Freeman, plus a pretty good pitching staff. The Nationals are only a year removed from winning it all and still boast some great players, most notably Juan Soto. The Phillies are about an average team for me. The Marlins are slowly getting better from the rebuild. The Mets... well... are the Mets. They have Pete Alonso, but I don't think they have many other notable players.
NL Central
1. Milwaukee Brewers
2. St. Louis Cardinals
3. Chicago Cubs
4. Cincinnati Reds
5. Pittsburgh Pirates
This might be the division I pay the least attention to. I had a tough time blindly trying go figure out the order. I just have a gut feeling the Brewers are about to have a magical season. The Cardinals just got Nolan Arenado, so they should be improved. The Cubs still have some decent players, but aren't on the upswing. The Reds aren't awful, but there's just always too much competition in the NL Central for them. The Pirates, I know, are rebuilding and have gotten rid of a lot of great players in recent years, most notably Andrew McCutcheon and Garritt Cole.
NL West
1. Los Angeles Dodgers
2. San Diego Padres*
3. San Francisco Giants
4. Arizona Diamondbacks
5. Colorado Rockies
The NL West remains a very tough division. The Dodgers are the most stacked team in all of baseball, and now boast a pitching staff that can compete with anyone's. The Padres are young and up and coming and will give the Dodgers fits. The Giants will not be an easy out for most teams as they have a few good, young players plus notable vets like Crawford, Belt, and Posey. The D-Backs will be decent, but not great. The Rockies only real good player is Nolan Arenado, who may want out of town, despite signing a contract extension.
AL East
1. New York Yankees
2. Toronto Blue Jays*
3. Boston Red Sox
4. Tampa Bay Rays
5. Baltimore Orioles
The Yankees remain a top team and are the favorites to win the division. The Blue Jays signed George Springer and have a lot of really good young players like Guerrero and Biggio. The Red Sox are usually at least somewhat competitive. The Rays and Orioles won't be awful, but won't be that good, either.
AL Central
1. Chicago White Sox
2. Minnesota Twins
3. Cleveland Indians
4. Kansas City Royals
5. Detroit Tigers
The White Sox are an up and coming team and I think they take a big jump this season. The Twinkies remain a solid team, but not solid enough to make the playoffs. The Indians still have some good pieces, but have also lost a few, most notably Trevor Bauer. The Royals remain below average, and the Tigers are still rebuilding.
AL West
1. Houston Astros
2. Oakland Athletics*
3. Seattle Mariners
4. Los Angeles Angels
5. Texas Rangers
I hate to say it, but the Astros are probably winning the division again. They lost Springer, but still have a lot of good players. Let's just hope fans boo and ridicule them. The A's are always pesky and competitive. As for my Mariners, I think they surprise people and remain competitive. But they fall short of the playoffs for the 20th straight season. The Angels aren't awful, but the Rangers kind of are.
I haven't said yet, but I believe they're going back to the playoff format they had in 2019 (not using the 2020 expanded playoffs), which would be a one-game playoff for the wild card spot. Anyway, I'll sim the playoffs below real quick.
NL Wild Card: Padres over Nationals
AL Wild Card: Blue Jays over Athletics
NL Divisional Round
Dodgers over Padres in 5 games
Braves over Brewers in 4 games
AL Divisional Round
Yankees over Blue Jays in 4 games
White Sox over Astros in 5 games
NL Championship Series
Dodgers over Braves in 6 games
AL Championship Series
Yankees over White Sox in 5 games
World Series
Dodgers over Yankees in 7 games
The Dodgers repeat as champions, and they beat the Yankees at their own game of spending a lot to assemble a super team.
Now, onto the Mariners. I think they'll win somewhere between 75-85 games, with some ups and downs along the way. They could maybe even break the .500 mark for the first time since 2018.
I'm just going to predict who I think will lead the team in each category. Some may surprise you.
Batting average: Ty France
Home Runs: Kyle Lewis
RBI's: Kyle Seager
Stolen Bases: Dylan Moore
Hits: Ty France
Wins: Marco Gonzales
ERA: Marco Gonzales
Saves: Rafael Montero
K's: Yusei Kikuchi
I'm going to tune into Mariners games all summer long to check on the progress of some players. I'm looking forward to the debuts of some of the youngsters, such as Kelenic and Gilbert, hopefully. I really do think this team could remain competitive and perhaps in the race going into middle to late September. Could make for an interesting summer. Let's hope it is!
* = Wild Card
NL East
1. Atlanta Braves
2. Washington Nationals*
3. Philadelphia Phillies
4. Miami Marlins
5. New York Mets
The NL East has got some good teams and it was hard to decide what order to put them. I think the Braves have some of the best players in Albies, Acuna, and Freeman, plus a pretty good pitching staff. The Nationals are only a year removed from winning it all and still boast some great players, most notably Juan Soto. The Phillies are about an average team for me. The Marlins are slowly getting better from the rebuild. The Mets... well... are the Mets. They have Pete Alonso, but I don't think they have many other notable players.
NL Central
1. Milwaukee Brewers
2. St. Louis Cardinals
3. Chicago Cubs
4. Cincinnati Reds
5. Pittsburgh Pirates
This might be the division I pay the least attention to. I had a tough time blindly trying go figure out the order. I just have a gut feeling the Brewers are about to have a magical season. The Cardinals just got Nolan Arenado, so they should be improved. The Cubs still have some decent players, but aren't on the upswing. The Reds aren't awful, but there's just always too much competition in the NL Central for them. The Pirates, I know, are rebuilding and have gotten rid of a lot of great players in recent years, most notably Andrew McCutcheon and Garritt Cole.
NL West
1. Los Angeles Dodgers
2. San Diego Padres*
3. San Francisco Giants
4. Arizona Diamondbacks
5. Colorado Rockies
The NL West remains a very tough division. The Dodgers are the most stacked team in all of baseball, and now boast a pitching staff that can compete with anyone's. The Padres are young and up and coming and will give the Dodgers fits. The Giants will not be an easy out for most teams as they have a few good, young players plus notable vets like Crawford, Belt, and Posey. The D-Backs will be decent, but not great. The Rockies only real good player is Nolan Arenado, who may want out of town, despite signing a contract extension.
AL East
1. New York Yankees
2. Toronto Blue Jays*
3. Boston Red Sox
4. Tampa Bay Rays
5. Baltimore Orioles
The Yankees remain a top team and are the favorites to win the division. The Blue Jays signed George Springer and have a lot of really good young players like Guerrero and Biggio. The Red Sox are usually at least somewhat competitive. The Rays and Orioles won't be awful, but won't be that good, either.
AL Central
1. Chicago White Sox
2. Minnesota Twins
3. Cleveland Indians
4. Kansas City Royals
5. Detroit Tigers
The White Sox are an up and coming team and I think they take a big jump this season. The Twinkies remain a solid team, but not solid enough to make the playoffs. The Indians still have some good pieces, but have also lost a few, most notably Trevor Bauer. The Royals remain below average, and the Tigers are still rebuilding.
AL West
1. Houston Astros
2. Oakland Athletics*
3. Seattle Mariners
4. Los Angeles Angels
5. Texas Rangers
I hate to say it, but the Astros are probably winning the division again. They lost Springer, but still have a lot of good players. Let's just hope fans boo and ridicule them. The A's are always pesky and competitive. As for my Mariners, I think they surprise people and remain competitive. But they fall short of the playoffs for the 20th straight season. The Angels aren't awful, but the Rangers kind of are.
I haven't said yet, but I believe they're going back to the playoff format they had in 2019 (not using the 2020 expanded playoffs), which would be a one-game playoff for the wild card spot. Anyway, I'll sim the playoffs below real quick.
NL Wild Card: Padres over Nationals
AL Wild Card: Blue Jays over Athletics
NL Divisional Round
Dodgers over Padres in 5 games
Braves over Brewers in 4 games
AL Divisional Round
Yankees over Blue Jays in 4 games
White Sox over Astros in 5 games
NL Championship Series
Dodgers over Braves in 6 games
AL Championship Series
Yankees over White Sox in 5 games
World Series
Dodgers over Yankees in 7 games
The Dodgers repeat as champions, and they beat the Yankees at their own game of spending a lot to assemble a super team.
Now, onto the Mariners. I think they'll win somewhere between 75-85 games, with some ups and downs along the way. They could maybe even break the .500 mark for the first time since 2018.
I'm just going to predict who I think will lead the team in each category. Some may surprise you.
Batting average: Ty France
Home Runs: Kyle Lewis
RBI's: Kyle Seager
Stolen Bases: Dylan Moore
Hits: Ty France
Wins: Marco Gonzales
ERA: Marco Gonzales
Saves: Rafael Montero
K's: Yusei Kikuchi
I'm going to tune into Mariners games all summer long to check on the progress of some players. I'm looking forward to the debuts of some of the youngsters, such as Kelenic and Gilbert, hopefully. I really do think this team could remain competitive and perhaps in the race going into middle to late September. Could make for an interesting summer. Let's hope it is!
Monday, August 24, 2015
My All Inclusive NFL Predictions!!!
In years past, I've often split my NFL predictions up, but this year I decided
to combine it all into one giant post.
First off will be NFL predictions, then Seahawks. Cannot believe the Seahawks play their first
regular season game in less than 3 weeks.
It will be here before we know it.
First, my predictions (W/L) for each team and short thoughts on each
team:
* = Wild Card
RED = Post-season recap
AFC EAST
1. New England Patriots: 10-6
Even though they're the defending Super Bowl champs, they have a chip on their shoulder. One, they want to prove they can win it all fair and square, and two, they will have to without Tom Brady for four games who some feel was punished too harshly.
This was before the Brady suspension was overturned. Had it not been... who knows
2. Miami Dolphins: 9-7
Their defense will be Top 10 and Tannehill will be in the Top half of starting QB's, but will it be enough? They'll make the AFC East as interesting as it's been in recent years. I just don't think they have enough to get a playoff spot. They're so close, though.
Their defense was not Top 10 (oops)... just a complete letdown from the Fins
3. New York Jets: 6-10
Todd Bowles will help the defense, but how will they score? Fitzpatrick and Geno Smith aren't going to light up scoreboards. Another year of disappointment for Jets fans.
I underestimated their offense, Fitzpatrick certainly is adequate. Just a little short of the playoffs, though.
4. Buffalo Bills: 5-11
I believe that when mediocre teams (at best) get hype like the Bills have been getting, they fall flat on their faces. And that's exactly what I believe the Bills will do. They might get 7 or even 8 wins, but they've got no shot at the playoffs (Now watch them win 10+ games). They just don't have a capable quarterback. That will have to be their focus next offseason.
They did win 8 games like I said they might. Taylor made the pro bowl, but only as a replacement. He's above average, but only slightly. They need a better one to take them to the next level.
AFC NORTH
1. Pittsburgh Steelers: 11-5
The offense may not put up as good of numbers this season, but they'll do almost as good, which is definitely good enough. Their defense has lost Polamalu, but they've got a lot of young talent (plus a new Def. Coordinator) that will surprise.
Just one game worse, despite losing Bell and Big Ben for a few games. But they did not win the AFC North like I thought they would.
2. Cincinnati Bengals: 9-7
Andy Dalton is a serviceable quarterback, but I think Cincy may soon give up on him and he'll be a career backup from that point on. I just don't think the Bengals did enough this offseason to improve.
Dalton is more than serviceable, but his injury killed their chances of any playoff run. They need to solidify his spot and maybe get rid of some knuckleheads.
3. Baltimore Ravens: 8-8
I predict a slightly down year for the birds in black. They'll look good some games but bad in others. Joe Flacco, already on the decline? That's not an impossibility.
Did I say slightly down year? I meant a BIG down year. They just lost a lot of close games and had some tough injuries.
4. Cleveland Browns: 6-10
Another year, another losing record. The Browns MAY surprise this year, but whenever I predict a year to be the Browns' surprise season, they let me down and suck. So prove me wrong again, Browns!
I wasn't really thinking they'd do even worse, but the Browns always find new levels of suckitude.
AFC SOUTH
1. Indianapolis Colts: 12-4
Is there any team you can easily pencil in as the division champs already? If there is one, it's the Colts. Every other team in their division is trying to just improve, but it's slow for each of them. One could surprise and make it tough on the Colts, but I don't see it being that close.
Whoops. Oh well. Who saw this coming, though?
2. Houston Texans: 8-8
Brian Hoyer--while I like his name, I just don't think he's a quality starter in the NFL. The Texans will compete with their defense and running game but if they fall behind it'll be tough for them to come back.
Just one game better... but not having a legit QB hurt them like I knew it would.
3. Tennessee Titans: 7-9
Marcus Mariota will have his ups and downs, but I think for the most part he'll look like a future star. He won't be a star quite yet this year but he'll show signs of promise.
I overestimated Mariota's teammates. The Titans suck.
4. Jacksonville Jaguars: 5-11
I hate to say it (As the Jaguars are my favorite AFC Team), but the Jaguars still won't be able to turn it around. Gus Bradley might get canned. I like Blake Bortles, but the defense is still a bit of a question mark as is their O-Line and running game.
They finished with the record I predicted, Yay....! Their defense was more than a question mark... they just weren't there.
AFC WEST
1. Denver Broncos: 13-3
If the Denver young O-Line can hold it together for Peyton and the running game, Denver will be VERY tough to beat. Their defense will be their best in YEARS. They're going to focus on the run and it should work. I might be overestimating this team, but I'd be shocked if they didn't make the playoffs.
Only one game worse and they won their division again. I was so right about their defense.
2. San Diego Chargers: 10-6*
San Diego always seems to be sneaky good--and they'll be that again this year. Phillip Rivers--it's about time he accomplished something. (Read below for more info)
Oops again. Six games off... yikes.
3. Kansas City Chiefs: 10-6*
Kansas City's defense will be one of the AFC's best, and their offense should be good enough. I don't think Alex Smith is good enough to get them to the promised land, though. But yes, three teams from the AFC West in the playoffs.
Nope, only two AFC West teams but one of them was the Chiefs like I predicted. But after their bad start I was ready to say I was wrong.
4. Oakland Raiders: 7-9
They just can't break through, can they? This year it'll be because of too much competition in their division. You'll see: They'll do MUCH better outside their division than in it. Derek Carr I think is the real deal but they gotta wait until there's a team in the AFC West (Chiefs, Chargers) willing to take their spot in the basement of the AFC West.
Exact record I predicted. KC and Denver are too tough... maybe with Peyton probably retiring Oakland can surge?
NFC EAST
1. New York Giants: 9-7
This division gets a lot of attention, but this season they'll suck. The Giants are a decent team and Eli and Co. will secure a division win. Barely.
They were half-way decent but not good enough to win a bad division, which I knew this would be.
2. Dallas Cowboys: 8-8
Back to going 8-8, haha! Jason Garrett gets fired and Romo has to contemplate retirement. Losing DeMarco Murray will hurt them more than they thought it would.
Romo's injury set them way back. While most others predicted playoffs for the Cowboys (Dummies), I knew they wouldn't. They don't have good back to back seasons.
3. Philadelphia Eagles: 6-10
They sure made a lot of moves/noise in the offseason and it's going to BACKFIRE. Tebow will start a game, I predict (Bradford and/or Sanchez hurt/struggling). Chip Kelley will be another coach on the hot seat.
It did backfire, but Tebow did not start, haha. Kelley was on the hot seat, as he was fired. Pretty solid call here.
4. Washington Redskins: 4-12
You ever going to stop sucking, Redskins? Not this year, I predict. RGIII thinks he's one of the best but he'll be lucky to be all in one piece at season's end with their shaky O-Line. Jay Gruden, goodbye.
Oops. Well, someone had to be halfway decent. RGIII wasn't their focus, Cousins was.
NFC NORTH
1. Green Bay Packers: 12-4
Losing Jordy Nelson certainly doesn't help, but they'll make do without him. I think with Aaron Rodgers as your QB a lot of receivers can have success. They'll be a team on a mission, hungry to make their first Super Bowl in five years.
They did make do without him, but their o-line struggled with injuries.
2. Minnesota Vikings: 10-6*
They should have some entertaining games with the Pack and getting Peterson back will definitely help. I am really liking their improving D, which I think will surprise a lot of people. Teddy Bridgewater, meanwhile, will continue to improve.
Pretty much right about everything. They did just one game better than I thought they would.
3. Detroit Lions: 7-9
What happened? Hard to say. Detroit's not really an organization that's been known for sustaining success, so I see a decline here. Losing Ndamukong Suh will hurt, and their defense will struggle.
Yep, yep yep. 7 and 9 record, yep. Couldn't have been more right.
4. Chicago Bears: 5-11
Good luck John Fox. Bears fans hate Jay Cutler, the defense needs a rebuild (for the most part) and they are a complete shell of a team that made the playoffs a few seasons ago.
Just one game better than I thought. They're getting better, but slowly.
NFC SOUTH
1. New Orleans Saints: 10-6
The Saints will benefit from beating their division (6-0 or 5-1 div. record, probably). I'm not completely enamored with them (They did lose Jimmy Graham, after all), but they still have a capable Drew Brees and a running game that's above average.
Oops. Their defense really struggled, something I didn't even think about happening.
2. Carolina Panthers: 8-8
Losing Kelvin Benjamin hurts for sure. Funny, this year they'll have a better regular season record but no playoffs. Who is there to help Cam and the defense? Not a whole lot.
My bad. Apparently they have a decent o-line, decent receivers without Benjamin, and of course, Greg Olsen.
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 7-9
I think they'll be a fun team to watch with Jameis Winston and a healthy Doug Martin. They are going to upset a few teams that won't think too much of the Bucos.
Overestimated both rookie QB's teams, but the Bucs came close to 7-9.
4. Atlanta Falcons: 5-11
Another former Seahawks defensive coordinator goes to a team that's been struggling and won't be able to lead the team out of the basement. We all wish you luck, Dan Quinn, but outside of a good QB and star receivers your team is lacking talent.
They had a great start but finished with a dud. They just benefited from an extremely easy schedule.
NFC WEST
1. Seattle Seahawks (?-?)
Ha! You're going to have to continue reading to see my Seahawks predicted record! But I do have them repeating, yet again, as NFC West division champs. More below on my thoughts on the team.
2. St. Louis Rams* (9-7)
WHAAAT? No Cardinals here? Nope. The Rams are sneaky good, and Jeff Fisher will find ways to win. I think I've picked them to surprise with a winning record a few times and each time I do they fail, so I'm doing it yet again.
And AGAIN the Rams fail to live up to my prediction for them. They just need a quality QB. And it wasn't Nick Foles.
3. Arizona Cardinals (8-8)
Carson Palmer is fragile and aging. Their defense is good, but they just lost their defensive coordinator. The Cardinals still do not scare me.
My bad. Palmer still has some in the tank. Losing your D coordinator shouldn't hurt that much, I should know, looking at the Hawks losing two of them.
4. San Francisco 49ers (6-10)
They're not going to just roll over, but it's hard to see this team winning 8 or more games. Morale must have taken a hit this offseason.
Pretty much hit the nail on the head with this one.
Before I get to the playoffs predictions, here is are Seahawk predictions, game by game (and team leaders!)
Week 1, @ Rams: Win, 23-21 (1-0)
Time for some payback. The Hawks need a good start, and losing this game going into Green Bay would not be good. Hawks may fall behind at some point but I could see a last minute Hauschka field goal to win it.
Dang Hawks.... but if Chancellor had played who knows?
Week 2, @ Packers: Loss, 31-23 (1-1)
I think the Hawks will more than likely start 1-1, especially with their first two games on the road. Most fans would be ok with that, so long as they can generate a winning streak later. This is a tough matchup and while a win wouldn't shock me, a loss is very possible.
Knew this game would be tough.
Week 3, vs. Bears: Win, 34-13 (2-1)
Every year it seems the Hawks have a fun, easy win against an inferior opponent, and this year it'll be the Bears. Can't wait to see the D feast on Jay Cutler and the Bears offense.
Also they played against Jimmy Clausen.
Week 4, vs. Lions: Win, 33-17 (3-1)
This one won't be too close either. One, the Hawks are virtually unbeatable in home primetime games. Two, I predict the Lions to have a drop off this season so they're not exactly the Packers.
Actually, it was about as close as it gets. Early offensive struggles caused that.
Week 5, @ Bengals: Loss, 23-16 (3-2)
Ever since the Hawks joined the NFC in 2002, they have lost at least one game to an AFC opponent EVERY SINGLE YEAR. Even in their 13-3 Super Bowl seasons. Usually that game's on the road and often it's the first AFC game. So, it's not about the Hawks not being good enough, it's about following tradition!
Yep... always lose to an AFC team. Knew it. Prove me wrong one year, Hawks!
Week 6, vs. Panthers: Win, 20-12 (4-2)
Three kitty mascots in a row, and the Hawks should win a tough "dog" fight here. The Panthers will be seeking revenge for last year's playoff loss but won't get it.
They were seeking revenge and they got it... twice. Ugh.
Week 7, @ 49ers: Win, 28-17 (5-2)
We might make this closer than it should be or not be able to pull away until late, but I think the Hawks end up on top. Can't just assume the Niners will roll over. They remember last year's Thanksgiving scha-lacking we gave them.
Pretty much what I said.
Week 8, @ Cowboys: Loss, 28-27 (5-3)
I can't remember the last time the Hawks won in Big D. It might happen this year, but I can't say it will in my prediction here. Should be a close and fun game to watch, though. A lot of our Hawks will remember the loss at home we suffered to the Cowboys last season.
We played a much worse Cowboys team than I thought we would, and BARELY beat them. But yay, a win in Big D!
Week 9, BYE
Week 10, vs. Cardinals: Win, 16-13 (6-3)
Won't be pretty, but the Hawks should get the job done. Coming off a bye the Hawks should be rested and ready for possibly their biggest test to get the division crown.
More of an offensive game than I thought it'd be.... gave up 39 points rather than 13... ouch.
Week 11, vs. 49ers: Win, 30-10 (7-3)
The few 49ers fans that show up at this game, well I tip my cap to them because they've got guts. These two home games against division foes after a bye are almost both must-wins, regardless of the Hawks record at the time.
Again, 49ers were what I expected.
Week 12, vs. Steelers: Win, 31-24 (8-3)
The Steelers offense with the three B's (Ben, Brown, Bell) will probably give the LOB some fits, but I think the Hawks win this. Hawks haven't beaten the Steelers since 2003, when Russell Wilson was 14! Three home games in a row should mean three wins, but none of the three are pushovers.
Offensive game, yep, win by about a touchdown, yep.
Week 13, @ Vikings: Loss, 27-17 (8-4)
If the Vikings surprise like I predicted, this will be a tough game to win. I think Peterson could run over us. Don't see many good things out of this game.
Haha I love it when the Hawks win when I predict losses, but I love it even more when they blow them out!
Week 14, @ Ravens: Win, 24-16 (9-4)
I think the Hawks will again split the road trip (like Weeks 1 and 2) and you could flip flop which is a win and which is a loss, but I'm gonna say the Hawks beat the Ravens.
They didn't split the road trip, they actually won both.
Week 15, vs. Browns: Win, 42-10 (10-4)
Ok, it probably won't be that lopsided, but I can dream, can't I? It might be that lopsided if the Browns have given up on the season and put Johnny Football in at QB. This game is a must-win, because the Browns should be beatable at CenturyLink.
No, it wasn't that lopsided... Browns put up a fight.
Week 16, vs. Rams: Win, 23-19 (11-4)
Again, can't look past the Rams, and I wouldn't be shocked if the Hawks lost the game looking ahead to Week 17. I'll predict they almost let the game get away, but don't.
They did lose... but not because they were looking ahead. Because the lines (Both D and O) got manhandled.
Week 17, @ Cardinals: Win, 14-10 (12-4)
I think the Hawks will have the division locked up at this point so their offense won't need to be in fourth gear. The Cardinals, meanwhile... who knows. Also, if the Hawks lost this game I'd have them at 3-5 on the road... yikes.
Won in much easier fashion because the Cardinals really had nothing to play for.
We know who will lead the passing and rushing statistics, but what about receiving and defense?
Receptions: Baldwin YEP
Receiving Yards: Lockett Nope it was Baldwin again, but Lockett was almost 2nd, right behind Kearse
Receiving TD's: Graham Maybe if he hadn't gotten injured... he did get injured right as Russell was finding his groove
Sacks: Bennett YEP
Tackles: Wagner Actually was KJ Wright, but Wagner was just FOUR behind him
Interceptions: Sherman Actually was Thomas, but Sherm was tied for 2nd
Offensive unsung hero: Tyler Lockett Well it was either him or Rawls... good call
Defensive unsung hero: DeShawn Shead He did have a good seeason... but I'd give that award to Lane coming back from injury
So 12-4 is what I predict the record to be! And based on my predicted records, here are the playoff seedings!
Oh well. Could've won either St. Louis game, or Carolina/Cincy games. Coulda shoulda woulda.
afc
1. broncos, 13-3
2. Colts, 12-4
3. Steelers, 11-5
4. Patriots, 10-6
5. Chargers, 10-6
6. Chiefs, 10-6
NFC
1. Packers, 12-4
2. Seahawks, 12-4
3. Saints, 10-6
4. Giants, 9-7
5. Vikings, 10-6
6. Rams, 9-7
And of course you want me to do it! Playoff predictions!
AFC Wild Card:
(6) Chiefs at (3) Steelers: Steelers win
The Chiefs STILL cannot win a playoff game. Poor Chiefs.
The Chiefs DID win a playoff game... over the 9-7 Texans. Steelers won their first game, though.
(5) Chargers at (4) Patriots: Chargers win
UPSET ALERT! Also... karma's a bitch
Haha my bad.
NFC Wild Card:
(6) Rams at (3) Saints: Rams win
I feel like the better I predict the Rams to do, the worse they'll ACTUALLY do. I see the Rams as a tougher and more physical team and for that reason I give them the edge.
Two teams who were eliminated from the playoffs in November. Again, my bad.
(5) Vikings at (4) Giants: Giants win
The last time I recall the Vikings and Giants playing a playoff game at the Giant's home stadium, it was the 2000 NFC Championship Game and the Giants CRUSHED the Vikings, 41-0. It'll be the same result, but not as lopsided.
Vikings lost their only playoff game like I predicted. The NFC East winner did not win a playoff game. I should've known.
AFC Divisional:
(5) Chargers at (1) Broncos: Chargers win
UPSET ALERT AGAIN! WHAAAAAAT? Peyton Manning contemplates retirement after this game. Chargers all the way.
My bad, ok?!
(3) Steelers at (2) Colts: Colts win
Tough pick here, but I give the edge to the Colts in what would probably be a shootout.
Sigh
NFC Divisional:
(6) Rams at (1) Packers: Packers win
Yeah, this is a no-brainer. I don't see the Packers losing their first playoff game.
Packers did win a playoff game
(4) Giants at (2) Seahawks: Seahawks win
Giants will make it interesting... at first. Eli Manning has a history of winning road playoff games so the Hawks would have to be careful.
As did the Seahawks...
AFC Championship Game:
(5) Chargers at (2) Colts: Colts win
Phillip Rivers and the Chargers dream run ends.
Man way to let me down Chargers and Colts
NFC Championship Game:
(2) Seahawks at (1) Packers: Packers win
I hate to say it. I really do. But the Packers will want this game more, I think. Aaron Rodgers won't lose on his home turf. Hawks will put up a fight but come up short. :'(
Seahawks lose on the road... yep. Lost to a team starting with the letters PA who they beat last year in the playoffs... yep. Haha.
Super Bowl 50:
Packers over Colts, 31-28
This would be a dream matchup for the NFL. Two of the faces of the NFL, Rodgers and Luck, facing off in a fun, exciting game. Packers won the first Super Bowl and they'll win the 50th.
My bad.
So there you have it, folks. I know, I really wanted to pick the Hawks to win the Super Bowl but it was too hard for me to do. I was trying to be right more than hoping I would be right. Before I go, lastly is my picks for NFL Awards:
NFL MVP: Aaron Rodgers, Packers Nope, Newton
NFL Offensive POY: Andrew Luck, Colts Newton again
NFL Defensive POY: Luke Kuechly, Panthers How could I forget about JJ Watt?
NFL Offensive ROY: Tyler Lockett, Seahawks He was in the running...
NFL Defensive ROY: Trae Waynes, Vikings I knew it'd be a D-back... good job to Peters
NFL Pepsi ROY: Todd Gurley, Rams He actually got the other ROY award... this one went to Winston
That is all for now, but before I go, two last words:
GO HAWKS!!!
* = Wild Card
RED = Post-season recap
AFC EAST
1. New England Patriots: 10-6
Even though they're the defending Super Bowl champs, they have a chip on their shoulder. One, they want to prove they can win it all fair and square, and two, they will have to without Tom Brady for four games who some feel was punished too harshly.
This was before the Brady suspension was overturned. Had it not been... who knows
2. Miami Dolphins: 9-7
Their defense will be Top 10 and Tannehill will be in the Top half of starting QB's, but will it be enough? They'll make the AFC East as interesting as it's been in recent years. I just don't think they have enough to get a playoff spot. They're so close, though.
Their defense was not Top 10 (oops)... just a complete letdown from the Fins
3. New York Jets: 6-10
Todd Bowles will help the defense, but how will they score? Fitzpatrick and Geno Smith aren't going to light up scoreboards. Another year of disappointment for Jets fans.
I underestimated their offense, Fitzpatrick certainly is adequate. Just a little short of the playoffs, though.
4. Buffalo Bills: 5-11
I believe that when mediocre teams (at best) get hype like the Bills have been getting, they fall flat on their faces. And that's exactly what I believe the Bills will do. They might get 7 or even 8 wins, but they've got no shot at the playoffs (Now watch them win 10+ games). They just don't have a capable quarterback. That will have to be their focus next offseason.
They did win 8 games like I said they might. Taylor made the pro bowl, but only as a replacement. He's above average, but only slightly. They need a better one to take them to the next level.
AFC NORTH
1. Pittsburgh Steelers: 11-5
The offense may not put up as good of numbers this season, but they'll do almost as good, which is definitely good enough. Their defense has lost Polamalu, but they've got a lot of young talent (plus a new Def. Coordinator) that will surprise.
Just one game worse, despite losing Bell and Big Ben for a few games. But they did not win the AFC North like I thought they would.
2. Cincinnati Bengals: 9-7
Andy Dalton is a serviceable quarterback, but I think Cincy may soon give up on him and he'll be a career backup from that point on. I just don't think the Bengals did enough this offseason to improve.
Dalton is more than serviceable, but his injury killed their chances of any playoff run. They need to solidify his spot and maybe get rid of some knuckleheads.
3. Baltimore Ravens: 8-8
I predict a slightly down year for the birds in black. They'll look good some games but bad in others. Joe Flacco, already on the decline? That's not an impossibility.
Did I say slightly down year? I meant a BIG down year. They just lost a lot of close games and had some tough injuries.
4. Cleveland Browns: 6-10
Another year, another losing record. The Browns MAY surprise this year, but whenever I predict a year to be the Browns' surprise season, they let me down and suck. So prove me wrong again, Browns!
I wasn't really thinking they'd do even worse, but the Browns always find new levels of suckitude.
AFC SOUTH
1. Indianapolis Colts: 12-4
Is there any team you can easily pencil in as the division champs already? If there is one, it's the Colts. Every other team in their division is trying to just improve, but it's slow for each of them. One could surprise and make it tough on the Colts, but I don't see it being that close.
Whoops. Oh well. Who saw this coming, though?
2. Houston Texans: 8-8
Brian Hoyer--while I like his name, I just don't think he's a quality starter in the NFL. The Texans will compete with their defense and running game but if they fall behind it'll be tough for them to come back.
Just one game better... but not having a legit QB hurt them like I knew it would.
3. Tennessee Titans: 7-9
Marcus Mariota will have his ups and downs, but I think for the most part he'll look like a future star. He won't be a star quite yet this year but he'll show signs of promise.
I overestimated Mariota's teammates. The Titans suck.
4. Jacksonville Jaguars: 5-11
I hate to say it (As the Jaguars are my favorite AFC Team), but the Jaguars still won't be able to turn it around. Gus Bradley might get canned. I like Blake Bortles, but the defense is still a bit of a question mark as is their O-Line and running game.
They finished with the record I predicted, Yay....! Their defense was more than a question mark... they just weren't there.
AFC WEST
1. Denver Broncos: 13-3
If the Denver young O-Line can hold it together for Peyton and the running game, Denver will be VERY tough to beat. Their defense will be their best in YEARS. They're going to focus on the run and it should work. I might be overestimating this team, but I'd be shocked if they didn't make the playoffs.
Only one game worse and they won their division again. I was so right about their defense.
2. San Diego Chargers: 10-6*
San Diego always seems to be sneaky good--and they'll be that again this year. Phillip Rivers--it's about time he accomplished something. (Read below for more info)
Oops again. Six games off... yikes.
3. Kansas City Chiefs: 10-6*
Kansas City's defense will be one of the AFC's best, and their offense should be good enough. I don't think Alex Smith is good enough to get them to the promised land, though. But yes, three teams from the AFC West in the playoffs.
Nope, only two AFC West teams but one of them was the Chiefs like I predicted. But after their bad start I was ready to say I was wrong.
4. Oakland Raiders: 7-9
They just can't break through, can they? This year it'll be because of too much competition in their division. You'll see: They'll do MUCH better outside their division than in it. Derek Carr I think is the real deal but they gotta wait until there's a team in the AFC West (Chiefs, Chargers) willing to take their spot in the basement of the AFC West.
Exact record I predicted. KC and Denver are too tough... maybe with Peyton probably retiring Oakland can surge?
NFC EAST
1. New York Giants: 9-7
This division gets a lot of attention, but this season they'll suck. The Giants are a decent team and Eli and Co. will secure a division win. Barely.
They were half-way decent but not good enough to win a bad division, which I knew this would be.
2. Dallas Cowboys: 8-8
Back to going 8-8, haha! Jason Garrett gets fired and Romo has to contemplate retirement. Losing DeMarco Murray will hurt them more than they thought it would.
Romo's injury set them way back. While most others predicted playoffs for the Cowboys (Dummies), I knew they wouldn't. They don't have good back to back seasons.
3. Philadelphia Eagles: 6-10
They sure made a lot of moves/noise in the offseason and it's going to BACKFIRE. Tebow will start a game, I predict (Bradford and/or Sanchez hurt/struggling). Chip Kelley will be another coach on the hot seat.
It did backfire, but Tebow did not start, haha. Kelley was on the hot seat, as he was fired. Pretty solid call here.
4. Washington Redskins: 4-12
You ever going to stop sucking, Redskins? Not this year, I predict. RGIII thinks he's one of the best but he'll be lucky to be all in one piece at season's end with their shaky O-Line. Jay Gruden, goodbye.
Oops. Well, someone had to be halfway decent. RGIII wasn't their focus, Cousins was.
NFC NORTH
1. Green Bay Packers: 12-4
Losing Jordy Nelson certainly doesn't help, but they'll make do without him. I think with Aaron Rodgers as your QB a lot of receivers can have success. They'll be a team on a mission, hungry to make their first Super Bowl in five years.
They did make do without him, but their o-line struggled with injuries.
2. Minnesota Vikings: 10-6*
They should have some entertaining games with the Pack and getting Peterson back will definitely help. I am really liking their improving D, which I think will surprise a lot of people. Teddy Bridgewater, meanwhile, will continue to improve.
Pretty much right about everything. They did just one game better than I thought they would.
3. Detroit Lions: 7-9
What happened? Hard to say. Detroit's not really an organization that's been known for sustaining success, so I see a decline here. Losing Ndamukong Suh will hurt, and their defense will struggle.
Yep, yep yep. 7 and 9 record, yep. Couldn't have been more right.
4. Chicago Bears: 5-11
Good luck John Fox. Bears fans hate Jay Cutler, the defense needs a rebuild (for the most part) and they are a complete shell of a team that made the playoffs a few seasons ago.
Just one game better than I thought. They're getting better, but slowly.
NFC SOUTH
1. New Orleans Saints: 10-6
The Saints will benefit from beating their division (6-0 or 5-1 div. record, probably). I'm not completely enamored with them (They did lose Jimmy Graham, after all), but they still have a capable Drew Brees and a running game that's above average.
Oops. Their defense really struggled, something I didn't even think about happening.
2. Carolina Panthers: 8-8
Losing Kelvin Benjamin hurts for sure. Funny, this year they'll have a better regular season record but no playoffs. Who is there to help Cam and the defense? Not a whole lot.
My bad. Apparently they have a decent o-line, decent receivers without Benjamin, and of course, Greg Olsen.
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 7-9
I think they'll be a fun team to watch with Jameis Winston and a healthy Doug Martin. They are going to upset a few teams that won't think too much of the Bucos.
Overestimated both rookie QB's teams, but the Bucs came close to 7-9.
4. Atlanta Falcons: 5-11
Another former Seahawks defensive coordinator goes to a team that's been struggling and won't be able to lead the team out of the basement. We all wish you luck, Dan Quinn, but outside of a good QB and star receivers your team is lacking talent.
They had a great start but finished with a dud. They just benefited from an extremely easy schedule.
NFC WEST
1. Seattle Seahawks (?-?)
Ha! You're going to have to continue reading to see my Seahawks predicted record! But I do have them repeating, yet again, as NFC West division champs. More below on my thoughts on the team.
2. St. Louis Rams* (9-7)
WHAAAT? No Cardinals here? Nope. The Rams are sneaky good, and Jeff Fisher will find ways to win. I think I've picked them to surprise with a winning record a few times and each time I do they fail, so I'm doing it yet again.
And AGAIN the Rams fail to live up to my prediction for them. They just need a quality QB. And it wasn't Nick Foles.
3. Arizona Cardinals (8-8)
Carson Palmer is fragile and aging. Their defense is good, but they just lost their defensive coordinator. The Cardinals still do not scare me.
My bad. Palmer still has some in the tank. Losing your D coordinator shouldn't hurt that much, I should know, looking at the Hawks losing two of them.
4. San Francisco 49ers (6-10)
They're not going to just roll over, but it's hard to see this team winning 8 or more games. Morale must have taken a hit this offseason.
Pretty much hit the nail on the head with this one.
Before I get to the playoffs predictions, here is are Seahawk predictions, game by game (and team leaders!)
Week 1, @ Rams: Win, 23-21 (1-0)
Time for some payback. The Hawks need a good start, and losing this game going into Green Bay would not be good. Hawks may fall behind at some point but I could see a last minute Hauschka field goal to win it.
Dang Hawks.... but if Chancellor had played who knows?
Week 2, @ Packers: Loss, 31-23 (1-1)
I think the Hawks will more than likely start 1-1, especially with their first two games on the road. Most fans would be ok with that, so long as they can generate a winning streak later. This is a tough matchup and while a win wouldn't shock me, a loss is very possible.
Knew this game would be tough.
Week 3, vs. Bears: Win, 34-13 (2-1)
Every year it seems the Hawks have a fun, easy win against an inferior opponent, and this year it'll be the Bears. Can't wait to see the D feast on Jay Cutler and the Bears offense.
Also they played against Jimmy Clausen.
Week 4, vs. Lions: Win, 33-17 (3-1)
This one won't be too close either. One, the Hawks are virtually unbeatable in home primetime games. Two, I predict the Lions to have a drop off this season so they're not exactly the Packers.
Actually, it was about as close as it gets. Early offensive struggles caused that.
Week 5, @ Bengals: Loss, 23-16 (3-2)
Ever since the Hawks joined the NFC in 2002, they have lost at least one game to an AFC opponent EVERY SINGLE YEAR. Even in their 13-3 Super Bowl seasons. Usually that game's on the road and often it's the first AFC game. So, it's not about the Hawks not being good enough, it's about following tradition!
Yep... always lose to an AFC team. Knew it. Prove me wrong one year, Hawks!
Week 6, vs. Panthers: Win, 20-12 (4-2)
Three kitty mascots in a row, and the Hawks should win a tough "dog" fight here. The Panthers will be seeking revenge for last year's playoff loss but won't get it.
They were seeking revenge and they got it... twice. Ugh.
Week 7, @ 49ers: Win, 28-17 (5-2)
We might make this closer than it should be or not be able to pull away until late, but I think the Hawks end up on top. Can't just assume the Niners will roll over. They remember last year's Thanksgiving scha-lacking we gave them.
Pretty much what I said.
Week 8, @ Cowboys: Loss, 28-27 (5-3)
I can't remember the last time the Hawks won in Big D. It might happen this year, but I can't say it will in my prediction here. Should be a close and fun game to watch, though. A lot of our Hawks will remember the loss at home we suffered to the Cowboys last season.
We played a much worse Cowboys team than I thought we would, and BARELY beat them. But yay, a win in Big D!
Week 9, BYE
Week 10, vs. Cardinals: Win, 16-13 (6-3)
Won't be pretty, but the Hawks should get the job done. Coming off a bye the Hawks should be rested and ready for possibly their biggest test to get the division crown.
More of an offensive game than I thought it'd be.... gave up 39 points rather than 13... ouch.
Week 11, vs. 49ers: Win, 30-10 (7-3)
The few 49ers fans that show up at this game, well I tip my cap to them because they've got guts. These two home games against division foes after a bye are almost both must-wins, regardless of the Hawks record at the time.
Again, 49ers were what I expected.
Week 12, vs. Steelers: Win, 31-24 (8-3)
The Steelers offense with the three B's (Ben, Brown, Bell) will probably give the LOB some fits, but I think the Hawks win this. Hawks haven't beaten the Steelers since 2003, when Russell Wilson was 14! Three home games in a row should mean three wins, but none of the three are pushovers.
Offensive game, yep, win by about a touchdown, yep.
Week 13, @ Vikings: Loss, 27-17 (8-4)
If the Vikings surprise like I predicted, this will be a tough game to win. I think Peterson could run over us. Don't see many good things out of this game.
Haha I love it when the Hawks win when I predict losses, but I love it even more when they blow them out!
Week 14, @ Ravens: Win, 24-16 (9-4)
I think the Hawks will again split the road trip (like Weeks 1 and 2) and you could flip flop which is a win and which is a loss, but I'm gonna say the Hawks beat the Ravens.
They didn't split the road trip, they actually won both.
Week 15, vs. Browns: Win, 42-10 (10-4)
Ok, it probably won't be that lopsided, but I can dream, can't I? It might be that lopsided if the Browns have given up on the season and put Johnny Football in at QB. This game is a must-win, because the Browns should be beatable at CenturyLink.
No, it wasn't that lopsided... Browns put up a fight.
Week 16, vs. Rams: Win, 23-19 (11-4)
Again, can't look past the Rams, and I wouldn't be shocked if the Hawks lost the game looking ahead to Week 17. I'll predict they almost let the game get away, but don't.
They did lose... but not because they were looking ahead. Because the lines (Both D and O) got manhandled.
Week 17, @ Cardinals: Win, 14-10 (12-4)
I think the Hawks will have the division locked up at this point so their offense won't need to be in fourth gear. The Cardinals, meanwhile... who knows. Also, if the Hawks lost this game I'd have them at 3-5 on the road... yikes.
Won in much easier fashion because the Cardinals really had nothing to play for.
We know who will lead the passing and rushing statistics, but what about receiving and defense?
Receptions: Baldwin YEP
Receiving Yards: Lockett Nope it was Baldwin again, but Lockett was almost 2nd, right behind Kearse
Receiving TD's: Graham Maybe if he hadn't gotten injured... he did get injured right as Russell was finding his groove
Sacks: Bennett YEP
Tackles: Wagner Actually was KJ Wright, but Wagner was just FOUR behind him
Interceptions: Sherman Actually was Thomas, but Sherm was tied for 2nd
Offensive unsung hero: Tyler Lockett Well it was either him or Rawls... good call
Defensive unsung hero: DeShawn Shead He did have a good seeason... but I'd give that award to Lane coming back from injury
So 12-4 is what I predict the record to be! And based on my predicted records, here are the playoff seedings!
Oh well. Could've won either St. Louis game, or Carolina/Cincy games. Coulda shoulda woulda.
afc
1. broncos, 13-3
2. Colts, 12-4
3. Steelers, 11-5
4. Patriots, 10-6
5. Chargers, 10-6
6. Chiefs, 10-6
NFC
1. Packers, 12-4
2. Seahawks, 12-4
3. Saints, 10-6
4. Giants, 9-7
5. Vikings, 10-6
6. Rams, 9-7
And of course you want me to do it! Playoff predictions!
AFC Wild Card:
(6) Chiefs at (3) Steelers: Steelers win
The Chiefs STILL cannot win a playoff game. Poor Chiefs.
The Chiefs DID win a playoff game... over the 9-7 Texans. Steelers won their first game, though.
(5) Chargers at (4) Patriots: Chargers win
UPSET ALERT! Also... karma's a bitch
Haha my bad.
NFC Wild Card:
(6) Rams at (3) Saints: Rams win
I feel like the better I predict the Rams to do, the worse they'll ACTUALLY do. I see the Rams as a tougher and more physical team and for that reason I give them the edge.
Two teams who were eliminated from the playoffs in November. Again, my bad.
(5) Vikings at (4) Giants: Giants win
The last time I recall the Vikings and Giants playing a playoff game at the Giant's home stadium, it was the 2000 NFC Championship Game and the Giants CRUSHED the Vikings, 41-0. It'll be the same result, but not as lopsided.
Vikings lost their only playoff game like I predicted. The NFC East winner did not win a playoff game. I should've known.
AFC Divisional:
(5) Chargers at (1) Broncos: Chargers win
UPSET ALERT AGAIN! WHAAAAAAT? Peyton Manning contemplates retirement after this game. Chargers all the way.
My bad, ok?!
(3) Steelers at (2) Colts: Colts win
Tough pick here, but I give the edge to the Colts in what would probably be a shootout.
Sigh
NFC Divisional:
(6) Rams at (1) Packers: Packers win
Yeah, this is a no-brainer. I don't see the Packers losing their first playoff game.
Packers did win a playoff game
(4) Giants at (2) Seahawks: Seahawks win
Giants will make it interesting... at first. Eli Manning has a history of winning road playoff games so the Hawks would have to be careful.
As did the Seahawks...
AFC Championship Game:
(5) Chargers at (2) Colts: Colts win
Phillip Rivers and the Chargers dream run ends.
Man way to let me down Chargers and Colts
NFC Championship Game:
(2) Seahawks at (1) Packers: Packers win
I hate to say it. I really do. But the Packers will want this game more, I think. Aaron Rodgers won't lose on his home turf. Hawks will put up a fight but come up short. :'(
Seahawks lose on the road... yep. Lost to a team starting with the letters PA who they beat last year in the playoffs... yep. Haha.
Super Bowl 50:
Packers over Colts, 31-28
This would be a dream matchup for the NFL. Two of the faces of the NFL, Rodgers and Luck, facing off in a fun, exciting game. Packers won the first Super Bowl and they'll win the 50th.
My bad.
So there you have it, folks. I know, I really wanted to pick the Hawks to win the Super Bowl but it was too hard for me to do. I was trying to be right more than hoping I would be right. Before I go, lastly is my picks for NFL Awards:
NFL MVP: Aaron Rodgers, Packers Nope, Newton
NFL Offensive POY: Andrew Luck, Colts Newton again
NFL Defensive POY: Luke Kuechly, Panthers How could I forget about JJ Watt?
NFL Offensive ROY: Tyler Lockett, Seahawks He was in the running...
NFL Defensive ROY: Trae Waynes, Vikings I knew it'd be a D-back... good job to Peters
NFL Pepsi ROY: Todd Gurley, Rams He actually got the other ROY award... this one went to Winston
That is all for now, but before I go, two last words:
GO HAWKS!!!
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