Posted on Sept. 5th, 2008NFC East Preview
From top to bottom the NFC East is the toughest division in football. 3 teams can legitimately go to the Superbowl in this division, though I'm picking the defending Champs to do what they usually do after a Superbowl win: Miss the playoffs. As a life-long Giant fan, it pains me to write this column, but I have to go with what I feel is true and be honest with the millions of loyal readers I have. I will not be doing any auto wins in this section so my apologies in advance.
1) Dallas Cowboys (13-3)
I can't believe I'm doing this. However, I think Marion Barber is in for a MONSTER year and Romo is a top 5 QB in the league. T.O. has one more pro-bowl year left and Witten is at the top of his game. The line is above average and all this team really lacks is a 2nd WR to go with Owens. Crayton should be no better than a 3. The defense upgrades tremendously with Adam Jones. This team can legitimately run the table if it wants to, but it won't. I still have little faith in Wade Phillips and the team doesn't seem mentally tough to win in the playoffs. I do predict one win and out in the playoffs, so there will be an upset somewhere down the line.
2) Philadelphia Eagles (9-7)
A shocker, but this team has loads of potential. McNabb, if he can stay healthy, will be a top 5 passer, Westbrook is a top 3 back in the NFC, and the receiving core gets an upgrade with early pick on DeSean Jackson. The defensive unit is underrated and, personal issues aside, Andy Reid is a hell of a coach. If McNabb stays healthy, a 10 win season is not out of the question.
3) New York Giants (7-9)
I believe in history repeating itself and in the last 22 years, every time the Giants made it to the Superbowl, they didn't so much as make the playoffs the following year. Retirements, Free Agency, and injuries have already decimated this team. And let's not forget, this team was a Wildcard last year to make the playoffs. They were never that dominant. The Giants can play with anyone, but they were far from the most talented team each week. The coaching staff does an excellent job and can take much of the credit for the team’s success. However, coaching can only take you so far - you need players. Did the Giants get them this year?? Examine who they lost - Strahan, Umenyora, G. Wilson, Mitchell, Shockey, etc. What have they gained? Kenny Phillips – that’s it. I'm very concerned about this team, but playoffs seem unlikely again this year.
4) Washington Redskins (5-11)
Wow do I think these guys will suck this year. Campbell is not a starting QB, Santana Moss is an injury waiting to happen, Portis is practically past his prime, and the receivers they drafted in the 2nd round are not ready to contribute. This team sucks offensively and defensively. I have no idea what the plan is or if there will ever be a light at the end of their dreadful tunnel.
