NFL Preview: Part II

NFC North:

Green Bay Packers: This team has traditionally been the class of the division. They still possess a top-tier RB in Ahman Green, a decent receiving core and an aging Brett Favre. Their DL isn't too bad with KGB, but the age of this team along with their porous secondary is going to catch up with them. I don't see the playoffs in their future. Prediction: 7-9

Minnesota Vikings: The Vikings finished 8-8 last year, which was good enough to make the playoffs and advance to play the Eagles in the 2nd round. Culpepper had an unbelievably effective year that was overshadowed by Manning's record-shattering year. Unfortunately, they have lost Randy Moss, although they are trying to replace him with 1st round pick Troy Williamson. The Vikings, ultimately, will be undone this year with their total lack of a running game. Tice will lose his job after this disappointing season. Prediction: 5-11

Chicago Bears: The Bears have been one of the worst teams in the NFL for the past several years. The reason for this is pretty simple: they couldn't score any points. Their defense is solid, but when they are constantly on the field because the offense can't manage to get more than one first down every two possessions or so, they are doomed. Rex Grossman was an elite QB at Florida, but has acomplished little as a pro mostly due to his inept teammates and injuries. This year the Bears drafted offense in the first four rounds, highlighted with their first round pick of Cedric Benson 4th overall. I think they screwed up by not taking Cadilac Williams but apparently the Bears think Benson is going to be their workhorse. I think the Bears are about due for a turnaround and this year they will make some nice strides. Prediction: 9-7

Detroit Lions: The Lions started strong last year, going 4-2 to start the season, including an embarrasing (for me and the city) road win at the Georgia Dome where many annoying Detroit fans were talking about how they hoped to see us in the playoffs and other such crap. A 2-8 end of their season negated all of that nonsense and placed both Harrington and Mariucci on the hot seat. The Lions are absolutely loaded on offense with a great receiving core of Charlie Rogers, Mike Williams, and Roy WIlliams. Injuries to Rogers and WIlliams last year limited the effectiveness of their passing attack, but I think they are going to put up some big numbers this year regardless if its Harrington or "fruity" Jeff Garcia leading them. Their running game should be similarly impressive as Kevin Jones has been showcasing his blazing speed (what is it with the Virginia Tech players, must be something in the water), and he averaged well over 100 yards a game throughout the last games of the season. Detroit will be dangerous this year. Prediction: 11-5