*Record in parentheses indicates record within the division*
AFC NORTH
Baltimore Ravens
2019 Record/Season Result: 14-2 / Lost Div. Round vs TEN
2020 Prediction: 12-4 (4-2) / AFC North Champs / #2 Seed
Biggest Matchups: Wk 3 vs. KC (MNF), Wk 11 vs. TEN, Wk 12 @ PIT (Thanksgiving)
The Ravens look to rebound from a disappointing Divisional Round loss after a franchise record 14-win season, led by reigning MVP Lamar Jackson. While former Heisman winner and current Madden 21 cover athlete is reportedly looking to run less in 2020, he still remains one of the most dynamic threats in the game, and leads a team returning with most of it’s starters from the previous year. Rookies Patrick Queen and J.K. Dobbins have made early impressions with the organization, despite a shortened offseason, and look poised for big roles this season. Baltimore boasts a favorable schedule, traveling just 6,310 miles this season, which is the fewest among all NFL teams. The only time they will leave the Eastern time zone will be when they travel to take on the Texans in Week 2. The shocking fallout following the release of perennial Pro Bowler Earl Thomas looks to be a decision that may not affect the team in the long run, as fellow former Longhorn DeShon Elliott has given the Ravens confidence he could be a viable replacement, despite two injury-riddled seasons to start his career. Baltimore’s balance, on both sides of the ball, along with a favorable schedule will keep the team in prime position to capitalize off of a strong 2019.
Pittsburgh Steelers
2019 Record/Season Result: 8-8 / Missed Playoffs
2020 Prediction: 10-6 (4-2) / Wild Card / #6 Seed
Biggest Matchups: Wk 9 @ DAL, Wk 12 vs. BAL (Thanksgiving), Wk 16 vs. IND, Wk 17 @ CLE
No team looks to be happier about the addition of a 7th seed to the NFL playoffs. In fact, Pittsburgh finished seventh in the AFC four times in the last decade, including the previous two years. The biggest question surrounding the Steelers in 2020 will be whether or not Ben Roethlisberger can return to form after missing essentially the entire 2019 season due to an elbow injury. Even with a defense that finished the year at or near the top in sacks, points allowed, and turnovers, a limited offense led by an underwhelming combination of Mason Rudolph and Duck Hodges could not propel the Steelers to a 32nd playoff appearance. Pittsburgh will have a huge advantage in with their schedule, as their strength of schedule ranks second in the NFL (.457). Although the percentage is skewed due to factoring in a Bengals 2-14 record twice, seven of their final nine games after the bye week consist of non-playoff teams in 2019. The return of Big Ben, as well as a healthy James Conner and JuJu Smith-Schuster, could give the offense enough potency to return to postseason contention.
Cleveland Browns
2019 Record/Season Result: 6-10 / Missed Playoffs
2020 Prediction: 10-6 (4-2) / Wild Card / #5 Seed
Biggest Matchups: Wk 10 vs. HOU, Wk 14 vs. BAL (MNF), Wk 17 vs. PIT
Perhaps one of the biggest disappointments of 2019, the Browns will attempt to put together a campaign deemed worthy of playoff consideration. A new offense system put in place by former Vikings offensive coordinator Kevin Stefanski could ease the burden of Baker Mayfield and provide a balanced approach to handle their plethora of offensive weapons. A blond-haired Odell Beckham Jr. looks to get back to his form after struggling to produce consistently in his first year in Cleveland. Multiple injuries among the defensive side of the during training camp, including losing promising rookie Grant Delpit for the year, do give concerns moving forward, however. Filling the holes on the offensive line, as well as the return of newly extended pass rusher Myles Garrett will fill out a new identity to a Browns team looking to crack the postseason for the first time since 2002.
Cincinnati Bengals
2019 Record/Season Result: 2-14 / Missed Playoffs
2020 Prediction: 5-11 (1-5) / Miss Playoffs
Biggest Matchups: Wk 2 @ CLE (TNF), Wk 13 @ MIA, Wk 15 vs. PIT (MNF)
Plenty of hype surrounds the number one pick of this year’s draft after a story book ending to a record-setting 2019 campaign with LSU. The high expectations of the Ohio native only raise the concerns of a season that could be filled with growing pains, even with a relatively solid set of skill players, led by the newly extended running back Joe Mixon. Even with this offensive talent, the Bengals still possess one of the NFL’s worst offensive lines, which is ranked 31st going into 2020, according to PFF. That hurdle, coupled with plenty of elite pass rushers sprinkled throughout their schedule gives me plenty of cause to pause to think there will be a quick turnaround to the Bengals recent woes. Cincinnati may become much more competitive, perhaps even upset a team or two down the stretch, but they are still at least a year away from becoming a viable playoff threat.
AFC SOUTH
Houston Texans
2019 Record/Season Result: 10-6 / Lost Div. Round @ KC
2020 Prediction: 7-9 (3-3) / Miss Playoffs
Biggest Matchups: Wk 1 @ KC (TNF), Wk 3 @ PIT, Wk 10 @ CLE, Wk 15 @ IND
The Texans enter the 2020 season in a peculiar situation after an offseason filled with questionable moves, notably the fallout of trading franchise cornerstone DeAndre Hopkins for merely a box of cookies, though that is a story told for another day. Even with the NFL’s youngest franchise claiming four division crowns in the last half-decade, Houston could start the year facing an uphill climb with a brutal gauntlet of Kansas City, Baltimore, and Pittsburgh. While the team has quality pieces, and a much improved offensive line, holes throughout the roster give plenty of concern for the team to keep pace with a division including an improve Colts and a Titans team that was a game away from the Super Bowl this past January. A favorable schedule in the back half of the year, along with Deshaun Watson at the helm could keep the team in contention late, however there may not enough talent to put stock in the Texans claiming a third straight playoff appearance.
Tennessee Titans
2019 Record/Season Result: 9-7 / Lost AFC Championship @ KC
2020 Prediction: 9-7 (3-3) / Miss Playoffs
Biggest Matchups: Wk 5 vs BUF, Wk 10 vs. IND (TNF), Wk 11 @ BAL, Wk 17 @ HOU
After a remarkable finish to a season that included a midseason quarterback change, Tennessee now finds themselves facing a new hype to live up to high expectations set following an AFC championship appearance that saw the team at one point up 10 on the eventual Super Bowl champion Chiefs. Looking to run it back could look to be a tall task at hand, even with reupping Tannehill and Henry, considering all the pieces lost this offseason. A Clowney addition could help mask those losses in the short term, although his inconsistency as a pass rusher could add even more question marks. One thing that could save a potential falloff will be head coach Mike Vrabel, who has become one of the brightest upcoming coaches in the NFL. Five of the Titans’ last seven games will be on the road, so it will be essential to jump off to a strong start to the season. Successfully playing from behind could ultimately become the biggest factor in determining their success in 2020.
Indianapolis Colts
2019 Record/Season Result: 7-9 / Missed Playoffs
2020 Prediction: 10-6 (5-1) / AFC South Champs / #3 Seed
Biggest Matchups: Wk 9 vs. BAL, Wk 15 vs. HOU, Wk 16 @ PIT
The Colts ended the 2019 season on a low note after losing seven of their final nine games to finish the season. Indy addressed multiple areas this offseason, including bringing in veteran Philip Rivers on a one-year deal. The 38 year old is coming off a year where he struggled protecting the football, however being under center behind the top ranked offensive line, according to PFF, will lessen the burden and could allow the veteran quarterback to succeed. The duo of Marlon Mack and rookie running back Jonathan Taylor will be asked to carry the load on an offense that was starving for offensive playmakers last year. A strong start could be in play, as their first six opponents had a combined record of 39-57 (.406) in 2019. A balanced offense and defense have potential to lead the Colts to their first postseason birth in the Luck-less era.
Jacksonville Jaguars
2019 Record/Season Result: 6-10 / Missed Playoffs
2020 Prediction: 2-14 (1-5) / Miss Playoffs
Biggest Matchups: Wk 4 @ CIN, Wk 14 vs. TEN, Wk 16 vs. CHI
Here is a full outlook for the 2020 Jags: Trevor Trevor Trevor Trevor Lawerence. Clemson quarterback, Trevor Lawerence. Trade everybody. No, Fournette. No, Campbell. No, Ngakoue. No, Ramsey. No, Bouye. No, Harrison. No, no, no. Trevor Trevor Trevor Trevor. Yes yes yes! April 29th. Number one pick. We are on the clock! Less than eight months…. I can’t wait for Trevor!
Nothing else to see here. Anything else will be a colossal failure for a franchise that looks to land their franchise savior. On to 2021….
AFC EAST
New England Patriots
2019 Record/Season Result: 12-4 / Lost Wild Card vs. TEN
2020 Prediction: 7-9 (4-2) / Miss Playoffs
Biggest Matchups: Wk 10 vs. BAL, Wk 14 @ LAR (TNF), Wk 16 vs. BUF
The NFL’s model of consistency is bound to show off the makeover of a franchise donning a new quarterback for the first time since Drew Bledsoe lost the gig early in the 2001 season. While the Patriots are still led by Coach Belichick, they remain the biggest wild card leading up to the new league year. New England had a league-high eight players, including three starters opt out of the 2020 season due to the coronavirus. Combine that with losing several key players to free agency give plenty of reason to believe the Patriots will take a step back. Cam Newton, who was recently named the Week 1 starter, looks to rejuvenate his career in Foxborough, even if it looks to be a one year stop. Holding the toughest strength of schedule (.537) will not help matters, though. With all these factors working against them, New England should be viewed as a complete wild card, though a slow start could ultimately cause the franchise to turn in early. One thing I have learned over the years, is to never count the Patriots out.
Buffalo Bills
2019 Record/Season Result: 10-6 / Lost Wild Card @ HOU
2020 Prediction: 9-7 (5-1) / AFC East Champs / #4 Seed
Biggest Matchups: Wk 6 vs. KC (TNF), Wk 8 vs. NE, Wk 13 @ SF (MNF), Wk 16 @ NE (MNF)
Logic would state that Buffalo should be the next man up to dethrone the Patriots atop the AFC East for the first time since a 2008 campaign that included a Brady-less squad that still managed to go 11-5. Sean McDermott has done a fantastic job in the draft over the last few years, which has resulted in possessing one of the top defenses heading into the new season. A trade for former Vikings wideout Stefon Diggs adds a threat on the outside that Josh Allen could look exploit moving into his third season as the Bills’ quarterback. The signal caller made significant strides in his sophomore season, but he must continue to develop in order to become a major threat in a conference including Baltimore and Kansas City. A novice schedule will allow them to get off to a strong start, however road games against San Francisco, Denver, and New England in December could put them in a dangerous spot should another division foe keep pace throughout the duration of the year.
New York Jets
2019 Record/Season Result: 7-9 / Missed Playoffs
2020 Prediction: 4-12 (2-4) / Miss Playoffs
Biggest Matchups: Wk 7 vs BUF, Wk 9 vs. NE (MNF), Wk 13 vs. LV
A bright outlook following a busy free agency in 2019 gave optimism that Gang Green could put quality pieces around a young Sam Darnold, but fast forward 18 months, and this team looks just as dysfunctional as they have since their pair of AFC Title appearances in 2009 and 2010. The Le’Veon Bell and C.J. Mosley deals look regrettable at best now, the latter of which who opted out of the season due to COVID-19. Dealing All-Pro safety Jamal Adams did not help the Jets improve this year either, but the two firsts received in return should be building blocks to developing a young core moving forward. Head coach Adam Gase looks to be on thin ice leading into the year, and with a potential last place in the division looming, it is not farfetched that a midseason coaching change could take place with yet another slow start. The lack of ‘gimme wins’ throughout the duration of their schedule very well could lead to New York becoming bottom feeders in a conference that will have several talented teams finish with middling records.
Miami Dolphins
2019 Record/Season Result: 5-11 / Missed Playoffs
2020 Prediction: 5-11 (2-4) / Miss Playoffs
Biggest Matchups: Wk 2 vs. BUF, Wk 4 vs. SEA, Wk 7 vs. LAC
Just one year removed from the NFL’s most recent tank job finds Miami on the heels of reestablishing a winning culture once again. The Dolphins started the 2019 season being outscored their first four games 163-26, but instead of conceding, the team rallied to finish the year 5-4, including playing spoiler to the Patriots in Week 17. The momentum to start strong is there, however it remains to be seen how soon the revamped roster full of free agency signings and 2020 draft picks with translate into fighting for a playoff spot. Ryan Fitzpatrick will likely hold down the fort at quarterback for the foreseeable future, but slow start could find Miami making a change early. The lack of firepower offensively could ultimately cost them games when they face a slew of offensive juggernauts that jump out early. My belief is that the Dolphins are a year away from contending for a winning record, though playing the spoiler to playoff contenders is a distinct possibility throughout the year.
AFC WEST
Kansas City Chiefs
2019 Record/Season Result: 12-4 / Won Super Bowl vs SF
2020 Prediction: 13-3 (5-1) / AFC West Champs / #1 Seed
Biggest Matchups: Wk 3 vs. BAL (MNF), Wk 12 @ TB, Wk 15 @ NO
It has been a long time since a team had this good of an opportunity to run it back as the Chiefs do, who look to become the first team since the 2004 Patriots to become back-to-back Super Bowl champions. The amount of parity that exists in the NFL in recent years has largely been overshadowed by the Patriots’ dominance over the last 20 years, but in a pandemic that provided a shortened offseason activities and cancellation of preseason will become advantageous to veteran teams with quality coaches. With the exception of respected opt outs of offensive starters Laurent Duvernay-Tardif and Damien Williams, Kansas City returns in 2020 with the majority of their roster, along with contract extensions to Chris Jones, Travis Kelce, and reigning Super Bowl MVP Patrick Mahomes. The target on their backs being atop the hill will warrant competition from all contenders looking to make a statement, so trailing in every playoff game may not be so easy to overcome this season. Nevertheless, the Chiefs begin the year in the driver’s seat to make it to Tampa Bay in February.
Denver Broncos
2019 Record/Season Result: 7-9 / Missed Playoffs
2020 Prediction: 7-9 (2-4) / Miss Playoffs
Biggest Matchups: Wk 1 vs. TEN (MNF), Wk 7 vs. KC, Wk 15 vs. BUF
The Broncos ended 2019 on a strong note to a middling season after giving rookie Drew Lock the reigns, going 4-1 in the month of December. A second year as a Head Coach, along with more certainty regarding their roster compared to seasons prior give plenty of reason for optimism to return to the playoffs for the first time since their Super Bowl 50 win over the Panthers in 2015. The addition of Melvin Gordon could provide stability to a skills group flooded with young talent such as Phillip Lindsay, Pro Bowler Courtland Sutton, and recent draftees such as Jerry Jeudy, KJ Hamler and Noah Fant. Though there are some concerns on the offensive line, the return of pass rusher Bradley Chubb now feels bittersweet after news that Von Miller could miss the entirety of the season with an ankle injury. The team has enough talent to be formidable defensively, but their success will be predicated on Drew Lock’s development and ability to close out games, something they struggled with before the former Missouri Tiger took over.
Las Vegas Raiders
2019 Record/Season Result: 7-9 / Missed Playoffs
2020 Prediction: 6-10 (2-4) / Miss Playoffs
Biggest Matchups: Wk 2 vs. NO (MNF), Wk 7 vs. TB, Wk 14 vs. IND, Wk 15 vs. LAC (TNF)
Las Vegas enters 2020 with a new name and stadium after moving to Sin City in the offseason. A leap into playoff contention will be the biggest question surrounding Jon Gruden, who is entering year three after returning to coaching in 2018. The offseason was refreshing largely due to a lack of Antonio Brown-like drama, but a rather tough schedule to begin the year could raise plenty of questions of Derek Carr’s job security, which will add to the tension for a franchise looking for a long term solution. There is plenty of turnover in terms of talent over the last two drafts, though the quality of those drafts are what give plenty of cause for concern, especially after trading third round pick Lynn Bowden to Miami before he was able to play a snap for the team. Quality pieces like Joshua Jacobs, Corey Littleton, and Maxx Crosby show that they will be able to compete on a weekly basis, but uncertainty in several areas make it difficult for me to place them in front of any of their divisional counterparts.
Los Angeles Chargers
2019 Record/Season Result: 5-11 / Missed Playoffs
2020 Prediction: 9-7 (4-2) / #7 Seed
Biggest Matchups: Wk 7 @ MIA, Wk 11 @ DEN, Wk 17 @ KC
There are not many non-quarterbacks in this league that can significantly change the trajectory of a team, but Derwin James is one of those few. I was very high on the Chargers entering the season, but losing James for the year make me very weary about their season going forward. Several quality additions such as Trai Turner, Bryan Bulaga, and Chris Harris strengthen several areas along their roster, but if veteran Tyrod Taylor can carry the plethora of talent Los Angeles possesses remains to be seen. We have seen Taylor in years prior lead a Bills team to the postseason, however his most recent stint as a starter with the Browns saw him benched in favor of rookie Baker Mayfield after a few pedestrian performances. The fight for the last playoff spot will come down to several teams jockeying for position down the stretch, but I would give the Chargers a slight edge based on the balance surrounding their roster.
NFC NORTH
Green Bay Packers
2019 Record/Season Result: 13-3 / Lost NFC Championship @ SF
2020 Prediction: 11-5 (4-2) / NFC NORTH CHAMPS / #4 Seed
Biggest Matchups: Wk 6 @ TB, WK 9 @ SF (TNF), Wk 13 vs. PHI
The Packers certainly do not enter 2020 with the feeling of a team that just went 13-3 with an NFC Championship experience. Concerns about this team’s future was further amplified after the decision to trade up and draft quarterback Jordan Love, even with a Hall of Fame caliber player such as Aaron Rodgers at their disposal for four more seasons. The inability to add talent in the passing game was a surprise to everyone, and Rodgers will now have to carry the load offensively, yet again. Pro Bowlers Aaron Jones and Davante Adams have the capability to help dampen the load, but the biggest key to success will be the defense. The additions of Preston and Za’Darius Smith last offseason proved to be one the NFL’s best investments, as the pair each set career highs and combined for 25.5 sacks to set the tone in the passing game. The Kenny Clark extension set up a defensive core to be together long term, which will allow Rodgers to do more with less and not be forced to win shootouts, like we have seen in recent years. With the regressions of the Vikings and Bears in the division, the Packers remain in the driver’s seat to win a second straight division crown, though winning key games like those listed above will be essential in a conference that is filled with plenty of playoff contenders.
Minnesota Vikings
2019 Record/Season Result: 10-6 / Lost Divisional Round @ SF
2019 Prediction: 7-9 (3-3) / Miss Playoffs
Biggest Matchups: Wk 1 vs GB, Wk 10 @ CHI (MNF), Wk 11 vs DAL, Wk 16 @ NO (Christmas)
Minnesota, to me, is one of the most difficult teams to assess this season. There is plenty of turnover within their roster with the losses of veterans Stefon Diggs, Linval Joseph, Everson Griffen, and Xavier Rhodes leaves the team rather thin in multiple areas. Though the team had a league-high 15 draft picks, it is tough to envision any of them individually having enough of an impact to keep them in the thick of things within a tough conference. Trading for Yannick Ngakoue gives them a strong duo across all three levels of the defense, and with a defensive-oriented coach with the likes of Mike Zimmer, it gives the impression the Vikings will not be as porous as they were in 2019. Putting stock in the team could ultimately come down to whether you trust Kirk Cousins in big spots and Dalvin Cook’s health. While I like both players, that is too much risk to put them in contention as of this moment.
Chicago Bears
2019 Record/Season Result: 8-8 / Missed Playoffs
2020 Prediction: 5-11 (2-4) / Miss Playoffs
Biggest Matchups: Wk 1 @ DET, Wk 8 vs. NO, Wk 10 vs. MIN (MNF)
The Bears had one of the most disappointing year’s following a NFC North crown in 2018 that ended on the wrong side of a double doink. Though they declined his 5th year option, a feat you seldom see for first round quarterbacks, Chicago named Mitch Trubisky the starting quarterback, despite trading for Nick Foles in the offseason. There will be an immediate need to show some offensive firepower after finishing 29th in the NFL in scoring last year. David Montgomery entering the season hampered by a groin injury will force the Bears to face their limitations and beat teams through the air. The defense has undergone plenty of changes since it’s historic 2018 run. They will rely on stalwarts Khalil Mack, Eddie Jackson, and a return of Akiem Hicks to bring the defense back to form. Even if they are able to return to the upper echelon of the league defensively, it is tough to have faith in the team keeping up with the competition in the North.
Detroit Lions
2019 Record/Season Result: 3-12-1 / Missed Playoffs
2020 Prediction: 8-8 (4-2) / Miss Playoffs
Biggest Matchups: Wk 1 vs. CHI, Wk 14 vs. GB, Wk 17 vs. MIN
No team improved more in the NFC North, that is certain. The biggest question will be whether that will be enough to leap the Bears and Vikings to compete for a playoff spot for the first time since 2016. 2019 saw Matthew Stafford play at an MVP-caliber level through the first few months of the season, before a fracture in his back forced him to miss the remainder of the season. Though the loss of Darius Slay does not signal improvement in a defense that was a liability throughout the year, quality acquisitions of Jamie Collins, Desmond Trufant and top draft pick Jeff Okudah should provide stability to the unit. A tough four game stretch followed by a quick bye week could result in a strong run the middle of the season that could make for an interesting run come January. Detroit finishes six of their final nine games at home, which will ultimately put them in a position to be right in the thick of things. Their success, however, will be predicated on the elite play of number 9 under center.
NFC SOUTH
New Orleans Saints
2019 Record/Season Result: 13-3 / Lost Wild Card vs MIN
2020 Prediction: 11-5 (4-2) / #5 Seed
Biggest Matchups: Wk 9 @ TB (SNF), Wk 10 vs. SF, Wk 15 vs KC
After a third consecutive season culminating in heart breaking fashion, the Saints look to retool for what could be Drew Brees’ best, and possibly final run at a Super Bowl. The upset in the Wild Card round against the Vikings may deter the public from giving New Orleans the nod as the best team in the NFC as of this moment, but coming off back-to-back 13 win seasons and no significant losses from last season’s squad should be enough reason to keep them at or near the top of the conference. The additions of Malcolm Jenkins and Emmanuel Sanders give the Saints experience on both sides of the ball. With five combined Super Bowl appearances between the two, their presence in the locker room will be just as crucial, if not more, than their production on the field to get the team over the hump. The key to New Orleans’ success come fall will not be based on talent, but rather if they can get through the regular season unscathed and not shoot themselves in the foot along the way. Now that the Buccaneers are legitimate threats in the South, it is important to get off to a fast start and not play from behind. It will be tough to imagine the Saints becoming Super Bowl contenders come post season should their path to it be played on the road entirely.
Atlanta Falcons
2019 Record/Season Result: 7-9 / Missed Playoffs
2020 Prediction: 8-8 (4-2) / Miss Playoffs
Biggest Matchups: Wk 1 vs. SEA, Wk 6 @ MIN, Wk 13 vs. NO, Wk 15 vs. TB
The Falcons look to regroup following a pair of 7-9 records over the past two seasons. With the additions of Todd Gurley and Hayden Hurst give the Falcons a whopping 10 former first round picks among their offensive starters. There is no question they have the offensive firepower to win games, but one must wonder if the defensive side can hold their own to put together a run towards the postseason. Following releases of cornerback Desmond Trufant and Vic Beasley Jr., the Falcons will rely on several young players to make significant strides in 2020. Head Coach Dan Quinn could very well become a hot topic of conversation should Atlanta get off to a slow start, as the brutal finish to their schedule include games against New Orleans, LA Chargers, Kansas City, and Tampa Bay twice. Former MVP Matt Ryan will need another career-caliber year to keep this team afloat in the NFC playoff race.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
2019 Record/Season Result: 7-9 / Missed Playoffs
2020 Prediction: 12-4 (4-2) / NFC South Champs / #1 Seed
Biggest Matchups: Wk 9 vs. NO (SNF), Wk 6 vs. GB, Wk 12 vs. KC
The Buccaneers enter 2020 with an offseason filled will additions to the offensive side of the ball. Headlined by the Tom Brady signing, Tampa did a great job of adding veteran talent around him such as Leonard Fournette, LeSean McCoy, and former Patriot teammate and recent unretiree Rob Gronkowski. Followed by a strong draft, the Buccaneers have all the pieces to vault to the top of the NFC. It will be a tall task at hand to dethrone the Saints, who have won the South three years running, but a statement win in New Orleans in the opener could be the deciding factor in a tight race. Bruce Arians and Todd Bowles have done a miraculous job changing the culture since they arrived in 2019, which could end up leading to the franchise’s first division crown since 2007 and first playoff win since their lone Super Bowl title in 2002 with a quarterback that has grown all too familiar with games in January.
Carolina Panthers
2019 Record/Season Result: 5-11 / Missed Playoffs
2020 Prediction: 4-12 (0-6) / Miss Playoffs
Biggest Matchups: Wk 5 @ ATL, Wk 10 vs. TB, Wk 15 @ GB
The Panthers opted to change signal-callers for the first time in nine years after swapping former MVP Cam Newton for Teddy Bridgewater this offseason. Though the offense will presumably run through do-it-all running back Christian McCaffrey, who is fresh off becoming the third player in NFL history to join the 1,000-1,000 club in one season. The franchise is in a transition, however, and bringing up Head Coach Matt Rhule from the college ranks could provide him with a tough start, especially after the surprising retirement of All-Pro linebacker Luke Kuechly in the offseason. In addition to the loss of Kuechly and Newton, Carolina find themselves looking to replace 10 starters on offense and defense, respectively. That many moving pieces for a team that could only muster five wins in 2019 could lead to a pretty rocky start to a new area of Panther football. Should McCaffrey take a marginal step back in terms of production, Carolina could be vying for a top five pick in the 2021 draft.
NFC EAST
Philadelphia Eagles
2019 Record/Season Result: 9-7 / Lost Wild Card vs. SEA
2020 Prediction: 9-7 (5-1) / NFC East Champs / #7 Seed
Biggest Matchups: Wk 4 @ SF, Wk 13 @ GB, Wk 14 vs. NO, Wk 16 @ DAL
Following a miraculous effort by Carson Wentz to wheel the Eagles into the postseason following a plethora of injuries, the quarterback enters his fifth season with hopes of finally being able to make a postseason run with him at the helm. The injury bug unfortunately continued into the offseason, as the Eagles lost two starting offensive lineman before the season could even begin. Combine that with the nagging injuries that are hampering skill players such as Miles Sanders, Alshon Jeffery, and Jalen Reagor suddenly bring a déjà vu feel to a rather strong team. Dealing for Darius Slay will certainly improve their secondary woes from last season, though the front seven looks the thinnest it has been since before their Super Bowl run in 2017. Despite a tough three week stretch in October consisting of games against the 49ers, Steelers, and Ravens, Philadelphia holds a relatively manageable schedule, which bodes well for their quest to become the first NFC East team to win back-to-back division titles since 2004. It is tough to imagine keeping pace with Dallas if Mike McCarthy has them playing up to their potential.
Dallas Cowboys
2019 Record/Season Result: 8-8 / Missed Playoffs
2020 Prediction: 11-5 (4-2) / NFC East Champs / #3 Seed
Biggest Matchups: Wk 3 @ SEA, Wk 9 vs. PIT, Wk 15 vs. SF (SNF), Wk 16 vs. PHI
A late season collapse by the Cowboys that saw a season-long division lead squandered in the final six weeks led to the long-awaited departure of Head Coach Jason Garrett. An offseason filled with constant Dak contract drama went unsolved, and Dallas will enter the 2020 season with chatter surrounding contract talk, the Earl Thomas-saga, and questions regarding tension between Jerry Jones and players kneeling during the national anthem. Despite the losses of Travis Frederick and Gerald McCoy, as well as several key contributors to free agency, the Cowboys possess one of the most prolific offenses and fierce front sevens in football. On paper, they have the making of a playoff team, but getting in their own way is a problem fans have known all too well in recent years. Mike McCarthy’s championship pedigree could provide stability and a rather refreshing nature that has not been seen in years. A jump into Super Bowl contention seems a bit farfetched in year one, but all the tools are there for the team to become a legitimate threat, should they play up to their potential.
New York Giants
2019 Record/Season Result: 4-12 / Missed Playoffs
2020 Prediction: 3-13 (1-5) / Miss Playoffs
Biggest Matchups: Wk 2 @ CHI, Wk 6 vs. WAS, Wk 12 @ CIN
The Giants enter 2020 with plenty of youth and uncertainty following a lackluster offseason. The first offseason in 16 years sans two-time Super Bowl MVP Eli Manning saw several coaching changes, notably bringing in long time Patriots special teams coach Joe Judge to replace the underachieving Pat Shurmur. New York has already been forced to deal with losses to key assets before the season could even begin. Blindside blocker Nate Solder opted out due to COVID-19 and promising 2nd round safety Xavier McKinney broke his foot during training camp, which will keep him sidelined for the foreseeable future. The most notable however, was being forced to sever ties with former Georgia Bulldog and 2019 first round pick DeAndre Baker after an arrest that could have him facing prison time. Nevertheless, the young backfield tandem of Daniel Jones and Saquon Barkley will provide fantasy relevance on a game-by-game basis, but the Giants have a long road ahead to start winning games consistently. Hard to see anything but a last place finish in a division that is filled with uncertainty.
Washington Football Team
2019 Record/Season Result: 3-13 / Missed Playoffs
2020 Prediction: 5-11 (2-4) / Miss Playoffs
Biggest Matchups: Wk 1 vs. PHI, Wk 7 vs. DAL, Wk 11 vs. CIN, Wk 16 vs. CAR
Can Washington pull a San Francisco and draft an elite pass rusher from Ohio State with the second overall pick and vault themselves instantly into Super Bowl contention? Probably not. But I am much more optimistic about their ability to play well week-to-week with the ability to develop one of the toughest defenses in the future. Amid the name change turmoil, as well as sexual harassment allegations, bringing in Ron Rivera to help right the ship was one of the best decisions made in years by the organization. After a midseason firing last year, the former Panthers coach dons a massive chip on his shoulder to prove he is one of the best coaches in the NFL. The offense does have major cause for concern, but if Haskins continues to show flashes, Washington can continue to add talent in time to become formidable. On the other side, the team has six first rounders to make up their defensive front and can be a matchup nightmare for teams with ailing offensive lines. Landon Collins could be due for a bounce-back year after adding Kendall Fuller and Ronald Darby to help his cover deficiencies. It is tough to imagine Washington as a playoff contender right now but expect them to be a thorn in the side of many quality teams as the season wanes on.
NFC WEST
San Francisco 49ers
2019 Record/Season Result: 13-3 / Lost Super Bowl vs. KC
2020 Prediction: 10-6 (3-3) / #6 Seed
Biggest Matchups: Wk 8 @ SEA, Wk 10 @ NO, Wk 15 @ DAL, Wk 17 vs. SEA
San Fran enters 2020 attempting to run back what was a near-perfect breakout campaign, winning more games (13) than they did the three seasons prior (12). 11:57 was all that remained in Miami after what looked to be a game-clinching interception, yet lackluster time management sprinkled with a pinch of Mahomes magic ended the 49ers’ quest for a sixth title. While that was just over seven months ago, the biggest challenge standing in the way of San Francisco is the ability to continue the dominance displayed throughout the majority of 2019. Logic would state that the ability to run the football as consistently and as often as the 49ers were able to last year will not be repeated on that level. Long gone are the days that will allow Jimmy Garoppolo to throw for a combined 27 passing attempts over two games en route to a Super Bowl appearance. While I believe he can carry the load, I think some growing pains will be on the way, especially with a depleted receiving core to start the year. In the loaded NFC, every game will count, which could lead to a couple of slip-ups leaving them on the road come playoff time.
Seattle Seahawks
2019 Record/Season Result: 11-5 / Lost Divisional Round @ GB
2020 Prediction: 12-4 (4-2) / NFC West Champs / #2 Seed
Biggest Matchups: Wk 8 vs. SF, Wk 12 @ PHI (MNF), Wk 17 @ SF
It is hard to put stock into a team that has a combination of one of the weakest offensive and defensive lines in the league, but here we are. Russell Wilson has developed from game manager to franchise cornerstone through the latter part of the decade and his play last year vaulted him into top two quarterback in the NFL, in my opinion. On the defensive side, trading for Jamal Adams provides an elite pairing with Bobby Wagner to help mask some of the limitations Seattle has depth-wise, albeit at a sturdy price. I expect an offense to continue buzzing, and a defense doing just enough to become a threat for the top seed, which is even more important now with lack of a bye week the two seed now has. This team has the true making of a boom or bust, though this could end up being Wilson’s best shot in the next season or two, considering the lack of a first round pick in the next two drafts.
Los Angeles Rams
2019 Record/Season Result: 9-7 / Missed Playoffs
2020 Prediction: 9-7 (3-3) / Miss Playoffs
Biggest Matchups: Wk 1 vs. DAL (SNF), Wk 10 vs. SEA, Wk 12 vs. SF, Wk. 14 vs. NE
The Rams begin their first year in Inglewood with a new stadium, a new look, and a revamped roster. The departures of Todd Gurley, Cory Littleton, and Brandin Cooks, along with the team looking financially cap strapped for the foreseeable future gives plenty of cause to pause regarding the success of this year, though Sean McVay will do his part to keep his team competitive. Locking up cornerback Jalen Ramsey was necessary for a team that dealt two first rounders at the trading deadline for him last October. Ramsey and Aaron Donald will hope to continue their elite play to help mask a middling linebacker core. John Johnson and Taylor Rapp also make up what could be the NFL’s most intriguing group of safeties. Jared Goff has been overlooked in recent years and will be out to prove he deserves to be mentioned along with the NFL’s best. Their schedule can be considered manageable enough to jump back atop the NFC West, but the emergence of San Francisco and Arizona in recent years will make it tough. The Rams are one of the toughest teams to gauge entering the new year, I would not be surprised if they exceed expectations.
Arizona Cardinals
2019 Record/Season Result: 5-10-1 / Missed Playoffs
2020 Prediction: 7-9 (3-3) / Miss Playoffs
Biggest Matchups: Wk 6 @ DAL (MNF), Wk 7 vs. SEA, Wk 13 vs. LAR
The Cardinals enter their second year with the pairing of Kliff Kingsbury and Kyler Murray, only this year they will have one of the top receivers on their side. The lopsided deal not only landed DeAndre Hopkins, who recently agreed to an extension, but ridded Arizona of David Johnson’s contract, while still keeping their first round pick, which resulted in taking the do-it-all linebacker Isaiah Simmons in an effort to improve their defense. Adding help on that side of the ball will allow the world to finally see the dominance of pass rusher Chandler Jones, who has garnered 60 sacks and 17 forced fumbles without missing a start in his four years as a Cardinal. The Cardinals desire to play at a fast pace will likely result in plenty of shootouts, which could make them one of the most interesting teams to watch in 2020. We saw Chip Kelly bring in a similar pace in Philadelphia seven years ago, though a pair of 10-6 records was not enough to win any playoff games. While a high-flying offense will make a lot of noise throughout the year, we will need to see an ability to keep the ball during leads and consistent defensive play to take down some of the NFC’s elite.
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*Bold team indicates victory*
Wild Card Round
AFC
#5 Cleveland Browns @ #4 Buffalo Bills
#6 Pittsburgh Steelers @ #3 Indianapolis Colts
#7 Los Angeles Chargers @ #2 Baltimore Ravens
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NFC
#5 New Orleans Saints @ #4 Green Bay Packers
#6 San Francisco 49ers @ #3 Dallas Cowboys
#7 Philadelphia Eagles @ #2 Seattle Seahawks
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Divisional Round
AFC
#6 Pittsburgh Steelers @ #1 Kansas City Chiefs
#4 Buffalo Bills @ #2 Baltimore Ravens
NFC
#6 San Francisco 49ers @ #1 Tampa Bay Buccaneers
#5 New Orleans Saints @ #2 Seattle Seahawks]
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Championship Round
AFC
#2 Baltimore Ravens @ #1 Kansas City Chiefs
NFC
#5 New Orleans Saints @ #1 Tampa Bay Buccaneers
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Super Bowl LV in Tampa
Kansas City Chiefs over New Orleans Saints 34-24
This Just In 