Ryan’s NFL Preview: NFC South

This is one of those divisions that I am glad Steve got to first, because otherwise I would really have no idea where to go here. All four teams seem to teem with inconsistency, which makes it difficult to figure out. In truth, I think this division will come down to who has the fewest injuries.

New Orleans Saints: Based strictly on current talent, I guess the Saints are the best in this division. The problem is, the receiving corps isn’t very good, and if one of the running backs gets hurt, they won’t be able to run. For whatever reason, neither Bush nor McAllister can carry the offense on their own. The defense is average, which, of course, means that they shouldn’t lose any games for them, but they won’t win any either. And Gustav didn’t do enough to instill a fire in the Saints to run away with this division, so, I guess what I’m trying to say is, don’t listen to anything I’m saying.

Carolina Panthers: The Panthers could have an electric defense this season, with the likes of Julius Peppers and Jon Beason roaming around in Charlotte. I expect the offense to sputter until Steve Smith gets in there regularly, but with two first round draft picks in the backfield, they should be able to give Delhomme some time in the backfield to find one of his mediocre receivers (D.J. Hackett? Really?). But hey, barring injury, they should flutter around .500.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jeff Garcia always surprises. The surprise this year? He’s like 47! Also, Earnest Graham will not be this year’s Earnest Graham, especially if Cadillac Williams can come back and move the ball well. It’s going to be an arduous 7-9 year in Tampa, especially since their defense should still be good. Tough year to watch football. But I think first round draft pick Aqib Talib is on a mix tape with Nas and Mos Def.

Atlanta Falcons: Oh the Falcons are going to be bad. Really, really bad. The best thing about the Falcons is that, um… they are one of the top two football teams in Georgia. This won’t end well.