Now that we have established that the Chiefs are in my version of the playoffs, who else can we expect in the post season? I bet that a team from Ohio makes an appearance.As always, teams are listed in their expected order of finish.
Baltimore Ravens – The Ravens still claim ownership to one of the most fearsome defenses in the land, from Ray Lewis to Sackmaster Terrell Suggs to the best DB in the league, Ed Reed. Jamal Lewis now has a full year out of prison and should be back to his old self. Most importantly, the Ravens aren’t starting Kyle Boller at QB, and for the first time in his tenure, Brian Billick is coaching a guy with talent. If he can win a Super Bowl with Trent Dilfer, he should be able to work some magic with Steve McNair. Also, McNair will benefit from having an offensive line as well as a running game. His presence in Baltimore is underrated, but won’t be at the end of the year.
Cincinnati Bengals – I’ve learned that off field distractions, especially when they encompass a large group of players, can be devastating for a team. So with roughly 39 players getting arrested for the Bengals this off-season, it’s going to be tough for this squad to reach the levels they did last year. Nevertheless, they feature many of the same players as they did last year, and Carson Palmer, though on a gimpy knee, has another season of experience under his belt. Don’t be surprised if they start putting up huge offensive numbers again this season, and playing just enough defense to win games. Of course, don’t be surprised if Palmer’s knee gives out or the only stripes half the Bengals see are on their prison uniforms and not on their Bengals uniforms.
Pittsburgh Steelers – I will say it loud and clear, and you may reference this later in the season. THE PITTSBURGH STEELERS, DEFENDING CHAMPIONS, WILL MISS THE PLAYOFFS. Last season, they relied on good defense and surprise. The defense is still there. The element of surprise, however, is gone. Antwaan Randle El, purporter of all the Steelers’ trick plays last year, now resides in Washington, and defenses can key on Willie Parker without having to worry about Jerome Bettis barrelling downfield. And if the Steelers have to rely on Ben Roethlisberger passing the ball, they’re in a lot of trouble. I doubt he can interpret zone defenses on passing downs if he can’t pick out sedans on city streets.
Cleveland Browns – I continue to be at a loss for words when describing the Browns. At least they have a bye week.
This, while decent, is also not the best division in the AFC. Probably the second best, top to bottom, but two of the 6 best teams are here. Baltimore and Cincinnati are in the playoffs.
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