Missed
the Playoffs? Not Again
By Jake Bailey,
TheSportsStand.com (8/3/07)
Every year in the NFL, there are teams that barely miss the playoffs even though they deserve to be there. On the flip side of that, there teams that don't deserve to be in the playoffs but as a result of an easy schedule, a weak division, and some luck, they make it anyway. There are certain teams that I feel missed the playoffs last year and are going to make it this year.
Now, every team is going to fight to make it to the
playoffs. Every team tries to improve to make it there. Certain
teams that are of the highest caliber are disappointed when they miss the
playoffs. Of course, teams like the Raiders or Browns aren't going to
make the playoffs
this year, they were just dismal last year. Barring a miracle, a team
like that won't make it. The teams I'm talking about are the ones that
came close but just couldn't get over the hump.
AFC:
Denver Broncos (2006 Record: 9-7): The Broncos were an early contender last year and barely missed the playoffs. If they didn't lose to the 49ers they would have made it. That was on a last second field goal to rip the hopes and dreams of Broncos fans out. Why did they lose? They proved time and time again that they could not close games out. This year they fixed that. They got better defensive line talent and a new defensive coach who has a clue. With all that and an offense that is improved from last year, they are a favorite for the Super Bowl.
Cincinnati Bengals (2006 Record 8-8): This was one of the most talented teams last year. I have a feeling that the innocent members of the team will finally mesh together. The offense will continue to impress and they will be the main reason do well. Whether or not they make the playoffs will depend mainly on the defense. If the defense plays well, the team will do well. The offense will have no problem keeping them in games.
Maybes:
Jacksonville: A strong defense is the reason this team is good.
Maurice Jones-Drew will continue to be a touchdown machine. Now if
only the rest of the offense could keep up...
NFC:
San Francisco 49ers (2006 Record: 7-9): Last year, Mike Nolan helped the team improve greatly. They came on strong at the end of the year. Frank Gore has shown that he is a top RB in the league. Alex Smith's development has come along fine. With an athletic freak in Vernon Davis, Smith will have a big target to get the ball to. The defense will continue to be strong. They are in a very weak division and a weak conference. They shouldn't have a problem.
Maybes:
Carolina Panthers: They have a good defense, but the offense is another story. Teams will focus on Steve Smith forcing other players to step it up. If they step up, they can get to the playoffs, if not, look for another disappointing year.
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